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Russia recruiting US-trained Afghan commandos, former Afghan generals say
(AP) – Afghan special forces soldiers who fought alongside American troops and then fled to Iran after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal last year are now being recruited by the Russian military to fight in Ukraine, three former Afghan generals told The Associated Press.
They said the Russians want to attract thousands of the former elite Afghan commandos into a “foreign legion” with offers of steady, $1,500-a-month payments and promises of safe havens for themselves and their families so they can avoid deportation home to what many assume would be death at the hands of the Taliban.
“They don’t want to go fight — but they have no choice,” said one of the generals, Abdul Raof Arghandiwal, adding that the dozen or so commandos in Iran with whom he has texted fear deportation most. “They ask me, ‘Give me a solution? What should we do? If we go back to Afghanistan, the Taliban will kill us.’”
Arghandiwal said the recruiting is led by the Russian mercenary force Wagner Group. Another general, Hibatullah Alizai, the last Afghan army chief before the Taliban took over, said the effort is also being helped by a former Afghan special forces commander who lived in Russia and speaks the language.
The Russian recruitment follows months of warnings from U.S. soldiers who fought with Afghan special forces that the Taliban was intent on killing them and that they might join with U.S. enemies to stay alive or out of anger with their former ally.
A GOP congressional report in August specifically warned of the danger that the Afghan commandos — trained by U.S. Navy SEALs and Army Green Berets — could end up giving up information about U.S. tactics to the Islamic State group, Iran or Russia — or fight for them.
“We didn’t get these individuals out as we promised, and now it’s coming home to roost,” said Michael Mulroy, a retired CIA officer who served in Afghanistan, adding that the Afghan commandos are highly skilled, fierce fighters. “I don’t want to see them in any battlefield, frankly, but certainly not fighting the Ukrainians.”
Mulroy was skeptical, however, that Russians would be able to persuade many Afghan commandos to join because most he knew were driven by the desire to make democracy work in their country rather than being guns for hire.
AP was investigating the Afghan recruiting when details of the effort were first reported by Foreign Policy magazine last week based on unnamed Afghan military and security sources. The recruitment comes as Russian forces reel from Ukrainian military advances and Russian President Vladimir Putin pursues a sputtering mobilization effort, which has prompted nearly 200,000 Russian men to flee the country to escape service.
Russia’s Defense Ministry did not respond to a request for comment. A spokesman for Yevgeny Prigozhin, who recently acknowledged being the founder of the Wagner Group, dismissed the idea of an ongoing effort to recruit former Afghan soldiers as “crazy nonsense.”
The U.S. Defense Department also didn’t reply to a request for comment, but a senior official suggested the recruiting is not surprising given that Wagner has been trying to sign up soldiers in several other countries.
It’s unclear how many Afghan special forces members who fled to Iran have been courted by the Russians, but one told the AP he is communicating through the WhatsApp chat service with about 400 other commandos who are considering offers.
He said many like him fear deportation and are angry at the U.S. for abandoning them.
“We thought they might create a special program for us, but no one even thought about us,” said the former commando, who requested anonymity because he fears for himself and his family. “They just left us all in the hands of the Taliban.”
The commando said his offer included Russian visas for himself as well as his three children and wife who are still in Afghanistan. Others have been offered extensions of their visas in Iran. He said he is waiting to see what others in the WhatsApp groups decide but thinks many will take the deal.
U.S. veterans who fought with Afghan special forces have described to the AP nearly a dozen cases, none confirmed independently, of the Taliban going house to house looking for commandos still in the country, torturing or killing them, or doing the same to family members if they are nowhere to be found.
Human Rights Watch has said more than 100 former Afghan soldiers, intelligence officers and police were killed or forcibly “disappeared” just three months after the Taliban took over despite promises of amnesty. The United Nations in a report in mid-October documented 160 extrajudicial killings and 178 arrests of former government and military officials.
The brother of an Afghan commando in Iran who has accepted the Russian offer said Taliban threats make it difficult to refuse. He said his brother had to hide for three months after the fall of Kabul, shuttling between relatives’ houses while the Taliban searched his home.
“My brother had no other choice other than accepting the offer,” said the commando’s brother, Murad, who would only give his first name because of fear the Taliban might track him down. “This was not an easy decision for him.”
Former Afghan army chief Alizai said much of the Russian recruiting effort is focused on Tehran and Mashhad, a city near the Afghan border where many have fled. None of the generals who spoke to the AP, including a third, Abdul Jabar Wafa, said their contacts in Iran know how many have taken up the offer.
“You get military training in Russia for two months, and then you go to the battle lines,” read one text message a former Afghan soldier in Iran sent to Arghandiwal. “A number of personnel have gone, but they have lost contact with their families and friends altogether. The exact statistics are unclear.”
An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 Afghan special forces fought with the Americans during the two-decade war, and only a few hundred senior officers were airlifted out when the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan. Since many of the Afghan commandos did not work directly for the U.S. military, they were not eligible for special U.S. visas.
“They were the ones who fought to the really last minute. And they never, never, never talked to the Taliban. They never negotiated,” Alizai said. “Leaving them behind is the biggest mistake.”
___
Condon reported from New York. AP writers Rahim Faiez in Islamabad and Tara Copp in Washington contributed to this report.
___
Contact AP’s global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wflx.com/2022/10/31/russia-recruiting-us-trained-afghan-commandos-former-afghan-generals-say/ | 2022-10-31 17:34:56 | 0 | https://www.wflx.com/2022/10/31/russia-recruiting-us-trained-afghan-commandos-former-afghan-generals-say/ |
ELKING,
Sister Virgine, CPPS
Elking, Sister Mary Virgine, 92, died peacefully on June 21 at Maria Joseph Center in Dayton. She was born to Fred and Rosa (Schmalstig) Elking in April 1930 in Dayton, Ohio, and
entered the Sisters of the
Precious Blood, Dayton, Ohio, in 1948. For 74 years she faithfully served God and His people. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Salem Heights chapel, 4960 Salem
Avenue, Dayton, Ohio, on Friday, June 24, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. with burial following in Salem Heights Memorial Garden.
Visitation begins in chapel at 9:00 a.m. followed by Sharing of Memories at 10:00 a.m. To attend services one must be vaccinated or wear a mask.
Sister Virgine attended Holy Trinity Grade School and Julienne High School in Dayton. During high school, she was a member of the Knights of St. John Ladies Auxiliary and Drill Team #79. She also helped organize the Dominicanettes in Dayton. Sister received degrees from the University of Dayton, Xavier
University and Boston College. She spent 32 years in Catholic education and administration. After completing her clinical pastoral education at Kettering Medical Center in 1990, she ministered as the Catholic chaplain at Miami Valley Hospital. She was involved in parish work especially RCIA at Ascension Church in Kettering and Precious Blood Parish in Trotwood. She spent her retirement years volunteering, writing, tutoring, and lecturing.
Sister Virgine joins her parents, five siblings and their spouses, Esther and Bob Lutz, Ralph and Helen Elking, Agnes and
Martin Wehner, Wilfred and Hazel Elking and Sister Paulette Elking MMS in heaven. She is survived by her Precious Blood Community of Sisters and four generations of nieces and nephews. She is loved and will be missed. Online memories and condolences may be left for the family at
Funeral Home Information
Baker-Hazel & Snider Funeral Home | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/obituaries/elking-virgine/445ZINM76NFSPEDOEGNYP7AIX4/ | 2022-06-23 05:55:54 | 1 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/obituaries/elking-virgine/445ZINM76NFSPEDOEGNYP7AIX4/ |
Amber Alert issued for missing Minnesota boy
Published: Feb. 24, 2023 at 2:25 PM EST|Updated: 1 hour ago
LAKEVILLE, Minn. (KEYC/Gray News) - An Amber Alert has been issued for a missing child in Minnesota.
Leon Ramsarran is described as 3-feet tall, weighing 35-40 pounds, with very short brown hair and brown eyes.
The Lakeville Police Department is attempting to locate the missing 3-year-old boy, who was taken from his residence in Lakeville, Minnesota.
He might be wearing black sweatpants, a black long-sleeved shirt with three black buttons on top, a dark gray or black jacket with tan fur on the hood, and tan and black boots.
If you see Leon, you’re asked to please call the Lakeville Police Department at 952-985-4812 or dial 911.
Copyright 2023 KEYC via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wflx.com/2023/02/24/amber-alert-issued-missing-minnesota-boy/ | 2023-02-24 20:29:23 | 1 | https://www.wflx.com/2023/02/24/amber-alert-issued-missing-minnesota-boy/ |
Percentages: FG .424, FT .583.
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3-Point Goals: 6-19, .316 (Collins 4-13, Mosley 1-1, Brown 1-2, Ivory 0-1, Minton 0-1, Washington 0-1).
Team Rebounds: 4. Team Turnovers: 1.
Blocked Shots: 5 (Collins 2, Brown, Hamilton, Umoh).
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Turnovers: 19 (Mosley 6, Collins 3, Brown 2, Gipson 2, Washington 2, Barber, Hamilton, Minton, Waller).
Steals: 3 (Brown, Collins, Waller).
Technical Fouls: None.
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Percentages: FG .491, FT .719.
3-Point Goals: 7-18, .389 (Forbes 3-7, Cook 2-3, James 1-2, T.Williams 1-2, Bowman 0-1, Cross 0-1, McGee 0-1, Pope 0-1).
Team Rebounds: 3. Team Turnovers: 1.
Blocked Shots: 3 (Daniels, Pope, T.Williams).
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Turnovers: 8 (Daniels 2, Forbes 2, T.Williams 2, Albert, Days).
Steals: 15 (Forbes 6, James 3, Pope 2, Albert, Cook, McGee, T.Williams).
Technical Fouls: None.
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. | https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/TULANE-84-MISSISSIPPI-VALLEY-STATE-63-17670783.php | 2022-12-22 05:11:19 | 0 | https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/TULANE-84-MISSISSIPPI-VALLEY-STATE-63-17670783.php |
WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI officials repeatedly violated their own standards when they searched a vast repository of foreign intelligence for information related to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U..S. Capitol and racial justice protests in 2020, according to a heavily blacked-out court order released Friday.
FBI officials said the thousands of violations, which also include improper searches of donors to a congressional campaign, predated a series of corrective measures that started in the summer of 2021 and continued last year. But the problems could nonetheless complicate FBI and Justice Department efforts to receive congressional reauthorization of a warrantless surveillance program that law enforcement officials say is needed to counter terrorism, espionage and international cybercrime.
The violations were detailed in a secret court order issued last year by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, which has legal oversight of the U.S. government’s spy powers. The Office of the Director of the National Intelligence released a redacted version on Friday in what officials said was the interest of transparency. Members of Congress received the order when it was issued last year.
“Today’s disclosures underscore the need for Congress to rein in the FBI’s egregious abuses of this law, including warrantless searches using the names of people who donated to a congressional candidate,” said Patrick Toomey, deputy director of the ACLU’s National Security Project. “These unlawful searches undermine our core constitutional rights and threaten the bedrock of our democracy. It’s clear the FBI can’t be left to police itself.”
At issue are improper queries of foreign intelligence information collected under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which enables the government to gather the communications of targeted foreigners outside the U.S. That program expires at the end of the year unless it is renewed.
The program creates a database of intelligence that U.S. agencies can search. FBI searches must have a foreign intelligence purpose or be aimed at finding evidence of a crime. But congressional critics of the program have long raised alarm about what they say are unjustified searches of the database for information about Americans, along with more general concerns about perceived abuses of surveillance.
Concerns about the program have aligned staunch liberal defenders of civil liberties with supporters of former President Donald Trump who have seized on FBI surveillance errors during an investigation into his 2016 campaign. The issue has flared as the Republican-led House has been targeting the FBI, creating a committee to investigate the “weaponization” of government.
In repeated episodes disclosed Friday, the FBI’s own standards were not followed. The April 2022 order, for instances, details how the FBI queried the Section 702 repository using the name of someone who was believed to have been at the Capitol during the Jan. 6 riot. Officials obtained the information despite it not having any “analytical, investigative or evidentiary purpose,” the order said.
The court order also says that an FBI analyst ran 13 queries of people suspected of being involved in the Capitol riot to determine if they had any foreign ties, but the Justice Department later determined that the searches were not likely to find foreign intelligence information or evidence of a crime.
Other violations occurred when FBI officials in June 2020 ran searches related to more than 100 people arrested in connection with civil unrest and racial justice protests that had occurred in the U.S. over the preceding weeks. The order says the FBI had maintained that the queries were likely to return foreign intelligence, though the reasons given for that assessment are mostly redacted.
In addition, the FBI conducted what’s known as a batch query for 19,000 donors to an unnamed congressional campaign. An analyst doing the search cited concern that the campaign was a target of foreign influence, but the Justice Department said only “eight identifiers used in the query had sufficient ties to foreign influence activities to comply with the querying standard.”
Officials said the case involved a candidate who ran unsuccessfully and is not a sitting member of Congress, and is unrelated to an episode described in March by Rep. Darin LaHood, an Illinois Republican, who accused the FBI of wrongly searching for his name in foreign surveillance data.
Senior FBI officials, speaking on condition of anonymity to reporters under ground rules set by the government, attributed the majority of the violations to confusion among the workforce and a lack of common understanding about the querying standards.
They said the bureau has made significant changes since then, including mandating training and overhauling its computer system so that FBI officials must now enter a justification for the search in their own words than relying on a drop-down menu with pre-populated options.
One of the officials said an internal audit of a representative sample of searches showed an increased compliance rate from 82% before the reforms were implemented to 96% afterward.
The newly public order also shows that the National Security Agency won the surveillance court’s approval last year to use a novel and sensitive intelligence collection technique, though the details of it remain redacted. A second unsealed order shows that the court in 2021 approved a request by the FBI to use a particular surveillance technique for the first time against “non-U.S. persons,” though the details are again redacted.
_____
Follow Eric Tucker on Twitter: | https://wgntv.com/news/national/ap-fbi-broke-rules-in-scouring-foreign-intelligence-on-jan-6-riot-racial-justice-protests-court-says/ | 2023-05-20 13:57:50 | 0 | https://wgntv.com/news/national/ap-fbi-broke-rules-in-scouring-foreign-intelligence-on-jan-6-riot-racial-justice-protests-court-says/ |
For kids of all ages, riding a bike is a little taste of freedom. But for many in South Florida, it’s not a safe way to get to school. Some students and advocates are trying to change that.
Bright and early on a recent school day in Miami Beach, dozens of kids and their parents milled around on their bikes and scooters at Flamingo Park, getting ready to ride to Fienberg-Fisher K-8 Center down the street.
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Eight year old Curi Deppen was proudly sporting a pink beach cruiser with blue handlebars.
“I like that it has lights and in the night they glow and make figures,” she said.
Deppen loves to ride her bike to the pool and to the beach — and sometimes she even rides to school, where she’s finishing out second grade.
When asked what’s more fun — riding in a car to school or biking — she was quick to reply, “I think the bicycle because I can see all the things.”
The University of Miami’s BikeSafe Program organized the ride to school event, with support from the Miami Beach Police Department, which handed out helmets and reflector bands.
As it got closer to 8 am, the kids clambered onto their razor scooters and bikes, some still using training wheels. With parents and police officers leading the way, the group took off down 14th St. Some neighbors walking by couldn’t help but smile at the sight of a caravan of dozens of kids riding to school.
With its dense street network and dedicated bike lanes, much of Miami Beach is safer and easier to bike than other parts of Miami-Dade County. On many South Florida streets, this sight would be almost unimaginable.
The event is part of an effort to educate students on cycling safety and to draw attention to local policies and civil engineering that can make riding a bike in South Florida so dangerous.
“Bike safety, especially for kids — and anybody riding of any ability — really requires safe infrastructure. And that safe infrastructure are protected bike lanes,” said Kurt Kaminer, the social marketing manager of BikeSafe. “Bike safety starts with a safe place to ride.”
Across the country, the number of students who ride their bikes to school has dropped dramatically in the past 50 years, according to the National Center for Safe Routes to School. In 1969, nearly half of children ages 5 to 14 usually walked or bicycled to school. By 2009, that number had dropped to 13%.
Urban sprawl, interstate expansion, the development of car-oriented neighborhoods, and a shift away from the neighborhood school model have all made it more difficult for kids to walk or bike to school.
South Florida continues to rank as one of the deadliest places in the country for cyclists, according to the Dangerous By Design report compiled by the group Smart Growth America.
Whether kids can bike to school says a lot about overall pedestrian safety, said Matthew Gultanoff, founder of the advocacy group Better Streets Miami Beach.
“Basically, if your child isn’t comfortable riding on the street, whether it’s a painted bike lane or some other sort of facility, then we’ve failed,” Gultanoff said.
For cyclists and pedestrians, Gultanoff said street safety largely comes down to speed: how fast a car is traveling determines how severe a crash will be.
According to a study by AAA, a pedestrian hit by a car going 23 miles per hour has a 10% chance of dying. At 50 miles per hour, the risk of death jumps to 75%.
“We have streets that are designed for speed,” Gultanoff said. “Enforcement is not really the answer. You have to design the streets so that people will drive slowly, drive courteously and respect everyone out there.”
Gultanoff and other advocates say building protected bike lanes and slowing down cars will save lives — and make cycling safer for all ages. | https://www.wlrn.org/education/2022-05-30/south-florida-is-a-dangerous-place-to-bike-some-students-and-advocates-are-trying-to-change-that | 2022-05-30 16:18:28 | 0 | https://www.wlrn.org/education/2022-05-30/south-florida-is-a-dangerous-place-to-bike-some-students-and-advocates-are-trying-to-change-that |
Texas Sen. Ted Cruz to introduce motion to delay GOP leadership elections
Cruz pushes for delay after Florida Sen. Rick Scott announces challenge to Minority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell
- After several Republican senators urged Minority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., to delay GOP leadership elections, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, has said he will put forward a motion to do so on Wednesday.
"Tomorrow, I will offer a motion to delay the Republican Senate leadership elections until AFTER the Georgia runoffs so we know who will be in our conference. We owe this to the American people," Cruz tweeted Tuesday evening.
"Republican leadership needs a plan to fight the disastrous policies from the Biden admin," he added. "After a disappointing election, it's ridiculous for Republicans to immediately rubber stamp the same leadership without having this discussion."
RICK SCOTT AND MCCONNELL BATTLE FOR GOP LEADER AS SENATORS STEW AFTER MIDTERMS: 'LOTS OF FRUSTRATION
The Senate Republican conference is divided heading into Wednesday's leadership elections, and Cruz speaks for multiple conservative lawmakers who are dissatisfied with the status quo. Some have said current leadership needs to be re-evaluated in the wake of the GOP's disappointing midterm losses, while others have stated the undecided Georgia runoff between Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., and Republican Herschel Walker needs to be resolved first.
Outside conservative groups have also come out against "rushed leadership elections." Fifty-nine people representing high-profile conservative groups signed a letter joining eight Senate Republicans in demanding a delay in their leadership elections, scheduled for Wednesday. The signatories include Conservative Political Action Conference chairman Matt Schlapp; FreedomWorks president Adam Brandon; Heritage Foundation president Kevin Roberts; former Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C.; Club for Growth president David McIntosh; and former Trump administration Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought.
TRUMP IGNORES GOP RIVALS AND STOLEN ELECTION CLAIMS IN 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Cruz and Sens. Rick Scott,.R-Fla., Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., Mike Lee, R-Utah,, Ron Johnson, R-Wis., and Josh Hawley, R-Mo., are the Republicans who have called to delay the Senate GOP elections.
Cruz's motion to delay the election would need majority support to pass.
WHAT TO EXPECT AS DEMOCRATS RETAIN THE SENATE FOR THE NEXT TWO YEARS
Senate Republicans met for their conference meeting Tuesday, when as many as 20 senators spoke up and more than half pressed for "something different," according to Sen. Mike Braun, R-Ind., who was present.
The meeting was reportedly tense, and at times heated, as McConnell and Scott got into an argument in front of the conference over who was to blame for failing to recapture the Senate majority. Scott, who leads the Senate GOP's campaign arm, is challenging McConnell for leadership and has accused the minority leader of neglecting to tell voters what Republicans stand for.
"I do not believe we can simply continue to say the Democrats are radical, which they are. Republican voters expect and deserve to know our plan to promote and advance conservative values," Scott wrote in a letter to GOP colleagues Tuesday, announcing his candidacy for leadership.
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While Scott may have some support from the handful of lawmakers calling for change, McConnell has several allies who feel confident he will be re-elected leader on Wednesday.
"We're still going to vote tomorrow. I think it's important to get these leadership elections behind us, so we can focus on being unified and winning the runoff," Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said Tuesday. "I think he will [stay on]. … He's willing to suffer the slings and arrows."
Fox News' Tyler Olson contributed to this report. | https://www.foxnews.com/politics/texas-sen-ted-cruz-introduce-motion-delay-gop-leadership-elections | 2022-11-16 14:18:25 | 1 | https://www.foxnews.com/politics/texas-sen-ted-cruz-introduce-motion-delay-gop-leadership-elections |
C3STROM announces their new e-bike ASTRO, which provides a smooth, versatile riding experience tailored for convenience in the modern world
ALBANY, N.Y., May 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The ASTRO is an e-bike belonging to the CLASS 3 of e-bikes, which have a higher speed than ordinary models. It has been designed with a special emphasis on innovative aesthetics; it subverts the conventional design of e-bikes, As can be seen from the impressive illustrations showcasing the design process below, taken from the company's Instagram page, the ASTRO is a far cry from conventional e-bikes.
The e-bike is rapidly becoming a very important fashion item, a must-have chic accessory to be donned by contemporary city commuters and urban explorers alike. As the image below of the man traversing through the urban jungle illustrates, the ASTRO is the perfect accessory for navigating the modern city. With ASTRO, the e-bike is no longer that unusual, quirky little gadget — the preserve of Eco-conscious eccentrics. It is an elegant addition to one's style in its own right.
Notably, C3STROM didn't have to sacrifice professionalism with this emphasis on first-class exterior design. Rather, the ASTRO is like a brilliant all-rounder, performing well in all categories — it truly achieves the goal of providing city riders with maximum versatility. This unique combination of style and practicality makes it a powerful new competitor to the traditional car.
The following is a part of the configuration parameter table released by C3STROM:
A close inspection of the parameter table reveals that ASTRO PRO's configuration is outstanding. The C3STROM team considered common pain points of city riders when selecting the components for ASTRO PRO. It is equipped with a 1040Wh long-life battery, using the latest Samsung 21700 cell, which ideally delivers a staggering 78 miles riding range. In addition, ASTRO PRO has developed a 4A fast charger to achieve quicker charging — it only takes 4-5 hours to fully charge the battery. The lighting system resembles that of a car, with ultra-bright headlights, making the bike very safe to ride in all conditions. All in all, this means that a lot of the understandable concerns of traditional bicycle owners about e-bikes have been well addressed by the company and should not cause any serious concerns for ASTRO's prospective customers.
The C3STROM team has been working hard to keep the riders and their needs in mind during the design of ASTRO. The bike's size is suitable for the height of most riders and allows for comfortable riding. What's more, two different riding modes can be accessed through the app: the Class 3 standard mode (28 mph) and the Off-road mode (32 mph). It feels very smooth and comfortable when riding at 32 mph. For this reason, the engineers have carried out many adjustments to meet the rider's need for comfort and speed. It has a USB port for charging the smartphone at any time. With the app, you can also view vehicle information, monitor battery usage, report any faults, and record the routes you have used throughout the day. Truly, the ASTRO is more than just an e-bike.
The C3STROM team will launch crowdfunding on Indiegogo in the second quarter of 2022, which means that the first batch of customers can buy at an early bird price. The company has promised a specific delivery date before summer. On Indiegogo, the company will offer a special ASTRO at a lower price of $1699 to celebrate the launch of crowdfunding, along with the ASTRO PRO at $1899. When the product is officially released later, only the ASTRO PRO will be available to buy at $2699.
It is also reported that the C3STROM team has confirmed the direction of its second-generation of products. The team welcomes e-bike enthusiasts to contribute ideas for this upcoming bike model.
For more information please visit https://c3strom.com/
Press Contact
Leo Z
media@c3strom.com
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SOURCE C3STROM ENTERPRISES, INC. | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/05/08/c3stroms-ultra-modern-super-fast-e-bike-astro-delivers-style-sophistication/ | 2022-05-09 00:35:07 | 0 | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/05/08/c3stroms-ultra-modern-super-fast-e-bike-astro-delivers-style-sophistication/ |
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the New Mexico Lottery's "Pick 3 Day" game were:
3-6-9
(three, six, nine)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the New Mexico Lottery's "Pick 3 Day" game were:
3-6-9
(three, six, nine) | https://www.sfchronicle.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Day-game-17384971.php | 2022-08-19 20:26:47 | 1 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Day-game-17384971.php |
Ukraine says it wants to keep exporting grain from its ports in the Black Sea, saying it needs partners to keep those exports flowing. in the port city of Odesa, the U.S. offered additional help.
Copyright 2023 NPR
Ukraine says it wants to keep exporting grain from its ports in the Black Sea, saying it needs partners to keep those exports flowing. in the port city of Odesa, the U.S. offered additional help.
Copyright 2023 NPR | https://www.wbaa.org/2023-07-18/the-latest-on-the-ukraine-grain-deal-that-collapsed-after-russia-backed-out | 2023-07-18 21:05:39 | 1 | https://www.wbaa.org/2023-07-18/the-latest-on-the-ukraine-grain-deal-that-collapsed-after-russia-backed-out |
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — HCI Group Inc. (HCI) on Thursday reported fourth-quarter earnings of $1.5 million.
On a per-share basis, the Tampa, Florida-based company said it had net income of 18 cents. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring gains, were 6 cents per share.
The property and casualty insurance holding company posted revenue of $119.9 million in the period.
For the year, the company reported a loss of $58.5 million, or $6.24 per share, swinging to a loss in the period. Revenue was reported as $499.6 million.
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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 HCI at https://www.zacks.com/ap/HCI | https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/hci-group-q4-earnings-snapshot-17830472.php | 2023-03-10 00:42:27 | 1 | https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/hci-group-q4-earnings-snapshot-17830472.php |
Corruption, deep disparity mark Iraq’s oil legacy post-2003
By SAMYA KULLAB
Associated Press
NAHRAN OMAR, Iraq (AP) — The oil is pumped 24 hours a day several meters from Raghed Jasim’s home in Iraq’s crude-rich southern heartland. Gas flares from the field light the night sky bright orange, spewing acrid smoke; when the wind picks up, the 40-year old’s clothes are coated black.
For Iraq’s poorest, evidence of the country’s monumental oil wealth is inescapable. So is the knowledge that very little of it trickles down to them.
Jasim’s savings were depleted when he was diagnosed with cancer last year, a disease he is convinced was caused by the toxic plumes. Twenty years since the U.S.-led invasion toppled Saddam Hussein and remade Iraq’s political order with the promise of democracy and freedom, he has one wish: To find a way to leave.
“There is no future here for my children,” he said.
Basra province, which boasts most of Iraq’s oil reserves, is symbolic of the deep disparities that have endured since the 2003 invasion. Basra continually bewilders experts, envoys and residents: How can a relatively stable province so rich in resources rank among the poorest and most under-developed in the country?
“Of course, I blame the corrupt Iraqi government,” said Jasim, a policeman, echoing a widespread view in the region. “But I blame the Americans too. They replaced our leaders with thieves.”
Local leaders in Basra talk of the oil reserves as both a blessing and a curse. They say resources bring affluence but have also given rise to vicious competition between political elites and armed groups at the expense of the Iraqi people.
The power-sharing system in place since 2003, which divides the state and its institutions along ethnic and sectarian lines, sucks oil wealth into a pool of corruption and patronage. The higher the oil price, the more entrenched this system becomes as sectarian-based parties claim lucrative ministry portfolios, appoint loyalists in key positions and dole out public jobs to ensure support. According to the International Monetary Fund, public sector employment tripled from 2004 to 2013, but service delivery in health, education and power sectors remained inadequate.
The result is that elections keep establishment parties in power. Voter turnout has dropped to record lows.
Apart from institutional failures, air pollution is extensive in Basra, and salinity levels arising from a severe fresh water crisis are leading causes of illness, according to local researchers. Unemployment is rampant, with more than half the population below the age of 25.
Public anger gave rise to violent protests in 2018, the precursor to mass anti-government protests in the capital a year later. But a swift crackdown by security forces and assassinations by armed groups have created a climate of fear.
“The killings silenced many activists,” said Basra activist Ammar Sarhan. “Business continues as usual.”
The 2003 toppling of Saddam propelled the oil-rich country into the global economy, opening the doors to foreign investment. In pre-invasion planning, U.S. advisors and their Iraqi opposition allies in exile had envisioned a shock system of reforms that would revamp Iraq’s oil industry and fund post-war reconstruction.
Instead, violence hobbled oil production for years. A charm offensive by then-Oil Minister Hussein al-Shahrestani paved the way for major oil contracts to be awarded in 2007 and 2009. Today exports reach over 3 million barrels a day, double the rate in the early 2000s. The state budget, which in 2021 reached up to $90 billion, is financed almost entirely by oil revenues. Still, the government fails to deliver essential services, including water and electricity.
In Basra, conditions rank amongst the worst in the country. Unemployment stands at 21%, above the national average of 16% according to a 2022 study by the International Labor Organization. Statistics for poverty rates vary from 10-20% according to various studies and local economists. Meanwhile, the province boasts around 70% of the country’s oil production capacity.
The road leading to Jasim’s humble home is rocky and unpaved.
In 2003, he was a young man bewitched by the Bush administration’s rhetoric of building a democratic Iraq, he said. “We were full of hope,” he recalled. Twenty years on, he is middle-aged, tired of rampant government corruption and recovering from cancer.
The loan he had taken out to build a home was used up to pay for $30,000 in private medical bills. Basra’s decrepit public hospitals were overwhelmed and unable to provide treatment, he said.
His is a common story in Nahran Omar, a village of fewer than 2,000 people adjacent to a state-run oil field where cancer rates are disproportionately high. Every family here has a story of illness and debt, said Bashir Jabir, the mayor.
“After 2003, more and more oil was exported, and we expected to benefit from this,” he said. “Instead, it hurt us.”
The government long played down the link between cancer rates in the south and oil production activity, saying cases are only marginally higher than the rest of the country. This changed in 2022, when then-Environment Minister Jassim al-Falahi acknowledged that pollution from the fields was the main reason for the rise in sickness.
Nahran Omar highlights a tragic irony: The natural gas burned from the oil fields, if captured, could solve Iraq’s perennial electricity shortages and reduce pollution. But securing investment to do this has been set back by protracted contract negotiations, a common headache for most major foreign investors.
The entry of foreign investors also exacerbated competition between tribes, said Sheikh Muhammed al-Zaidawi, who leads an assembly of southern tribal elders. Tribes, which often wield more influence than government institutions in the south, pressure foreign companies for jobs, compensation, training for youth and development of their villages.
“Most of the problems between tribes today are caused by the presence of oil companies,” he said, “All of them want to benefit.” Tribal disputes often turn into deadly gun battles.
Reliance on the oil industry has stifled private sector development. Nearly every prime minister since the invasion has repeated calls to diversify the economy and boost incentives for Iraqi businesses.
Nidhal Musa is one success story.
She grew up in a poor suburb of Basra city and was 35 when the U.S. invaded Iraq. She spent subsequent years taking care of her sick and disabled husband. Desperate to earn money, she began sewing clothes to sell in the local market.
By 2013, she had gathered a group of women just like herself, beleaguered and in need of money to support their families. She pooled together enough funds to open a garment factory and became known for employing the poor.
But not everyone welcomed her success.
In 2022, Musa received a slew of death threats. “Be very careful,” one message read. She believes she is being targeted because she refused to use her local fame to back a powerful political party that asked her to promote their campaign in 2021 elections.
“They try to keep us weak,” she said. “They know perfectly well, if the people are hungry, they will be preoccupied only by their hunger.” | https://localnews8.com/news/2023/03/23/corruption-deep-disparity-mark-iraqs-oil-legacy-post-2003-2/ | 2023-03-24 06:48:49 | 1 | https://localnews8.com/news/2023/03/23/corruption-deep-disparity-mark-iraqs-oil-legacy-post-2003-2/ |
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — Former Theranos executive Ramesh “Sunny” Balwani returned to federal court Friday in a last-ditch attempt to stay out of prison while appealing a jury’s verdict convicting him of orchestrating a blood-testing hoax with his former boss and lover, Elizabeth Holmes.
Besides overseeing arguments about Balwani’s attempt to delay the start of his nearly 13-year prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Edward Davila also heard a vigorous debate about how much money Balwani should pay investors and patients duped by the Theranos blood tests that never worked as promised. The deceit resulted in Balwani’s conviction on 12 counts of fraud and conspiracy.
Davila didn’t issue any rulings at the end of the 90-minute hearing. His decision on whether Balwani can remain free on bail while he appeals his conviction, however, is likely to come soon. That’s because Balwani, 57, is scheduled to report to prison in Lompoc, California, on March 15.
The judge said he doesn’t expect to decide on the question of how much Balwani should pay in restitution until another hearing on the same issues is held for Holmes, Theranos’ disgraced CEO, on March 17.
Holmes, 38, also is seeking to remain free on bail while she appeals her conviction on four counts of fraud and conspiracy. She is scheduled to report to a prison in Bryon, Texas, on April 27 to begin a sentence of more than 11 years.
In Friday’s hearing, one of Balwani’s lawyers sought to deflect the blame for Theranos’ eventual collapse to Holmes. In her presentation, Amy Walsh asserted Theranos still had $350 million in cash and intellectual property worth about $100 million in May 2016 when Holmes fired Balwani as the company’s chief operating officer and ended their romantic relationship.
“When he walked out the door, the company was extremely valuable,” Walsh said in Balwani’s defense.
Davila seemed skeptical of that rationale, asking Walsh: “Are you saying his conduct was completely divorced from Theranos’ demise?”
Federal prosecutors are seeking a court order that would saddle Balwani with a restitution bill of nearly $900 million — a figure that would likely be largely symbolic. It would also be far larger that than the $120 million loss estimate that Davila used in calculating Balwani’s prison sentence.
Prosecutor Robert Leach openly scoffed at Walsh’s contention that Balwani should owe nothing, calling it a “remarkable position.”
The two sides also painted radically different pictures in their arguments about whether Balwani should be allowed to remain free during his appeal.
Balwani attorney Mark Davies alleged that government misconduct in the presentation of evidence during Balwani’s trial makes it likely he will prevail in the appeal of his convictions. But federal prosecutor Kelly Volkar repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
Davies also stressed Balwani’s compliance with all bail requirements since he was indicted in 2018 as evidence that he isn’t a flight risk. The lawyer also pointed to Balwani’s non-violent history and past charity work in India as evidence he poses no danger to the community.
Volkar suggested Balwani may have more incentive to flee with his lengthy prison sentence now less than a month away and argued he remains a potential menace.
“Damage can come in the form of economic harms as much as it can come in the form of violent harm,” Volkar said. | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/business/ap-former-theranos-exec-seeks-to-avoid-lengthy-prison-sentence/ | 2023-02-18 20:31:59 | 0 | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/business/ap-former-theranos-exec-seeks-to-avoid-lengthy-prison-sentence/ |
Honoring the activists, advocates, and accomplices driving change and championing diversity, equity and inclusion across the public relations and communications industry
Featuring keynote speakers Delano Massey, CNN Race and Equality Beat Leader; Nicole Cardoza, award-winning serial social entrepreneur, investor and author; and Chandran Nair, founder of The Global Institute for Tomorrow
NEW YORK, June 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Diversity Action Alliance (DAA), a coalition of public relations and communications leaders, will host its second annual Diversity Gala, presented by Omnicom Public Relations Group on June 15, 2022 from 5-10 p.m. ET. at Gotham Hall, New York. The event will be centered on the theme of Activists, Advocates, and Accomplices: Communicators Convening for Change.
The Gala will showcase the notable work that the public relations and communications industry has enacted to advance diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) in the past year, through keynote speeches from industry influencers, featured presentations and honoree spotlights. The evening's program will recognize the individual communicators and organizations consistently driving action in DE&I and who push for the recruitment, retention and representation in management of top talent within the industry.
"Since its inception, the DAA has been focused on encouraging and facilitating real change around DEI within the PR and communications industry, and this year, we couldn't be prouder to honor those who have been true to our mission of action as activists, advocates and accomplices," said Carmella Glover, President of the DAA. "We are grateful to all of our signatories, sponsors and supporters who know that our collective work is not over as we aim to have the industry reflect the diversity of the U.S. population by 2025."
The following honors are presented in partnership with Hold the PRess, Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA), the Indigenous Peoples Public Relations Association (IPPRA), National Black Public Relations Society (NBPRS) and VOICES for AAPI:
- Notable BIPOC-Owned Agencies
- Distinguished Communicators of Color
Chris Foster, CEO of Omnicom Public Relations Group, stated, "Achieving systemic equity requires each of us to do our part, working together with urgency and intention to make progress. Omnicom Public Relations Group is proud to partner with the DAA to put a necessary spotlight on key issues, recognize our industry's change agents, and propel our field forward."
The event will be emceed by Laura Coates, author, CNN anchor, senior legal analyst and SiriusXM talk show host, and chaired by Azurée Montoute-Lewis, Global Head of Talent Management and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Hill+Knowlton Strategies.
DAA Board Chair and Principal at Charlene Wheeless, LLC & Senior Advisor Equity & Justice APCO Worldwide said, "The DAA has been a strong convener of professionals and companies in the communications industry and plays a key role in building accountability. We strive to help individuals and organizations bring about meaningful shifts in organizational culture that result in equity and belonging for the long-term."
Sponsors include: Accenture, Acuity Brands, APCO Worldwide, BCW, Cision, Enbridge, Glen Echo Group, Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Mars, Omnicom Group, Page, PepsiCo, Prosek Partners, Target, Voya Financial, and Zeno Group. The full list of sponsors is featured on the DAA website.
Funds raised from the event will be used to support the DAA's continued efforts for a diverse, equitable and inclusive PR and communications industry. To become a sponsor of the DAA, visit https://www.diversityactionalliance.org/contact.
About the Diversity Action Alliance
The Diversity Action Alliance (DAA) is a coalition of public relations and communications leaders joining forces to accelerate progress in achieving meaningful and tangible results in diversity, equity, and inclusion across our profession. The DAA's goal is to achieve continuous improvement for professionals of color as measured by recruitment, retention and representation at all levels. For more information about the Diversity Action Alliance, visit the website and follow the DAA on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
About Omnicom Public Relations Group
Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, language strategy, global health strategy and change management. As the largest group of communications professionals in the world, our employees provide expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the Communications Consultancy Network, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC).
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SOURCE Diversity Action Alliance | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/diversity-action-alliance-hosts-second-annual-diversity-gala-sponsored-by-omnicom-public-relations-group/ | 2022-06-09 14:22:09 | 0 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/diversity-action-alliance-hosts-second-annual-diversity-gala-sponsored-by-omnicom-public-relations-group/ |
Results mark record year as advisors continue to seek independence paired with leading resources and support
Cetera business development team continues to expand with eye toward 2023 success
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cetera Financial Group, one of America's largest networks of financial professionals, today announced that it attracted more than $13 billion through organic recruiting in 2022. The results represent a record year for Cetera's business development team, up from approximately $10 billion in 2021. Contributing to the record results, Cetera bolstered its business development team with several key hires and made strategic investments in its onboarding and integration program, Accesslink, in 2022.
"While 2022 was not without its challenges, we are energized and inspired by our results and optimistic about an even better 2023," said John Pierce, head of business development at Cetera. "Strategic investments in our team and programs are reflected in the record numbers, and it is rewarding to see our strategy delivering intended results. We are setting our sights even higher in 2023, doubling down on last year's successes with a laser focus on attracting high-quality financial professionals who value a sense of community and industry-best solutions, resources and support."
Key 2022 recruiting wins include:
- In December 2022, The Patriot Financial Group (TPFG), an independent, registered investment advisor managing more than $2.5 billion for clients, affiliated with the Cetera Financial Specialists community. The firm joined Cetera from Securities America with more than 70 advisors across five northeastern states as well as Nebraska and Florida.
- In September 2022, Burrows Capital Advisors, led by 30-year industry veteran and advisor Don Burrows, affiliated with Cetera Advisors via Totus Wealth Management. Burrows and partners/advisors Clint Auttonberry and Michael Agol assist their clients in overseeing more than $3 billion in assets under advisement.
- In June, the $1 billion Harvest Wealth team joined Cetera Advisor Networks from Merrill Lynch, converting their practice to an independent model to help ensure they can serve their clients in the best manner possible.
- During the third quarter, three teams managing more than $550 million affiliated with Cetera Advisor Networks.
- In May 2022, Skafco, a financial planning team that manages approximately $300 million, left Mass Mutual to join Cetera's branch community, while two teams managing nearly $400 million combined – Sonnenfeld Financial Group and Lincoln Capital – affiliated with regions within Cetera Advisor Networks.
To further bolster its business development team, Cetera recently hired Genevieve Sisco, an 18-year industry veteran with deep experience in matching the cultures of wealth management firms and advisors, as divisional business development director. She has an established track record of embracing change and finding avenues to cultivate transformation of the industry. Prior to Cetera, she worked in business development at SagePoint Financial and held roles at Cambridge Investment Research and ING Advisor Network.
Visit www.Cetera.com for more information.
An at-scale wealth hub, Cetera Financial Group (Cetera) offers financial professionals and institutions the latest solutions, support, and services. Breaking away from a commoditized and homogenous IBD model, Cetera instead creatively addresses advisors' and institutions' unique needs, whether they are seeking to grow, scale, or transition with a merger, sale, investment, or succession plan. Cetera proudly serves independent financial advisors, tax professionals, licensed administrators, large enterprises, as well as institutions, such as banks and credit unions. Cetera has an established history of serving large enterprises and financial institutions, providing an established and repeatable blueprint for scalable growth.
Cetera's approach empowers advisors to affiliate in whichever way they deem most appropriate. During the professional life cycle of their practice, the Cetera wealth hub proactively turns – ensuring each advisor's affiliation model identifies and ignites growth levers, in a way that maximizes the value of their practice, people, and legacy. Cetera delivers independent and unbiased financial advice, customized offerings, growth and succession resources, an enhanced advisor tech stack and importantly, an experience where financial professionals don't feel like a number, but an integral part of Cetera's rich and thriving ecosystem.
Home to more than 8,000 financial professionals and their teams, Cetera oversees approximately $322 billion in assets under administration and $115 billion in assets under management, as of December 31, 2022. In a recent advisor satisfaction survey of more than 14,000 reviews, Cetera's Voice of Customer (VoC) program vigorously measures advisor experience and satisfaction 24/7. Currently, it's ranked 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Visit www.cetera.com, and follow Cetera on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.
"Cetera Financial Group" refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. All firms are FINRA/SIPC members. Located at: 655 W. Broadway, 11th Floor, San Diego, CA 92101.
Individuals affiliated with Cetera firms are either Registered Representatives who offer only brokerage services and receive transaction-based compensation (commissions), Investment Adviser Representatives who offer only investment advisory services and receive fees based on assets, or both Registered Representatives and Investment Adviser Representatives, who can offer both types of services.
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SOURCE Cetera Financial Group | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/02/01/cetera-attracts-more-than-13-billion-through-2022-recruiting/ | 2023-02-01 16:09:31 | 0 | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/02/01/cetera-attracts-more-than-13-billion-through-2022-recruiting/ |
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LONDON (AP) — When a doctor tweeted that she was “sexually assaulted” by a World Health Organization staffer at a Berlin conference in October, the U.N. agency’s director-general assured her that WHO had “zero tolerance” for such misconduct.
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus replied to her, saying he was “horrified” by the accusations of groping and unwelcome sexual advances. He offered his personal assistance, WHO suspended the staffer and the agency opened an investigation that is nearing its conclusion.
But internal documents obtained by The Associated Press show the same WHO staffer, Fijian physician Temo Waqanivalu, was previously accused by another woman of sexually harassing her several years ago. That claim was flagged to senior agency directors and others in 2018, before the accuser was informed that pursuing a formal investigation might not be in her best interests, according to the documents.
A former WHO ombudsman who helped assess the previous allegation against Waqanivalu noted the similarities between the two women’s accusations, several years apart, and suggested the agency had missed a chance to root out bad behavior.
“I felt extremely angry and guilty that the dysfunctional (WHO) justice system has led to another assault that could have been prevented,” said the staffer, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity for fear of losing their job.
The previous allegation didn’t derail Waqanivalu’s career at WHO. As the new accusation surfaced, he was positioning himself for an exceptionally big promotion with a very public role: He was seeking to become WHO’s top official in the western Pacific, with support from Fiji’s prime minister, other Pacific islands and WHO colleagues, messages show.
The regional director would support countries fighting problems including dengue, malaria and heart disease, as well as coordinating the first global response to any new emerging outbreaks — as was the case when the coronavirus was first detected in China in late 2019.
Waqanivalu hung up when the AP contacted him for comment. He didn’t respond to several follow-up requests sent through email and two messaging apps.
Waqanivalu “categorically” denied that he had ever sexually assaulted anyone, including at the Berlin conference, according to correspondence between him and WHO investigators that the AP obtained. He said the accusations were “false” and could “irreparably damage" his career and reputation.
The physician said there may have been “a mutual misunderstanding” in Berlin and that his accuser was possibly “under the influence of alcohol.” He said he was “bewildered” and “confused” by the sexual misconduct allegation.
The U.N. health agency said in an email that it could not comment on individual cases for confidentiality and due process reasons, but that sexual misconduct by anyone working for the agency is “unacceptable.”
WHO said its investigation into the Berlin conference complaint “is in its final stage” and that a report, which will not be publicly released, would soon be submitted to Tedros.
“Perpetrators of sexual misconduct face grave consequences, including dismissal,” WHO said. It added that the names of perpetrators are entered into a U.N. screening database, to avoid their future employment.
In a speech posted to Twitter in December, Tedros said that “sexual misconduct is particularly grave when the perpetrators are our own personnel.” He called sexual misconduct by WHO staffers “a violation of the trust placed in WHO to serve public health.”
The claims against Waqanivalu are the latest in a series of misconduct accusations against people working for WHO, which is mandated to lead the international response to acute crises including COVID-19 and Ebola.
In May 2021, the AP reported that senior WHO managers were informed of sex abuse allegations during a Congo Ebola outbreak but did little to stop it. A panel appointed by WHO later found that more than 80 workers under WHO’s direction sexually abused women. No senior WHO officials tied to the exploitation have been fired.
And WHO’s last regional director in the western Pacific -- the person Waqanivalu was seeking to replace -- was put on leave in August, after AP reported that numerous staffers had accused him of racist and abusive behavior that compromised the U.N. agency’s response to COVID-19.
In the coming weeks, the agency’s highest governing body is meeting to set public health priorities and to address critical administrative concerns, including sexual misconduct. The officials also may discuss how and when the election for the region’s next director might occur.
___
The earlier accusation against Waqanivalu came after a 2017 chronic diseases workshop in Japan, where a WHO employee said that Waqanivalu had harassed her at a post-work dinner and on other occasions. Her report was shared with senior WHO officials, according to documents obtained by the AP.
“Under the table, (Waqanivalu) took off his shoes, lifted one of his legs and toe(s) between my legs,” the woman wrote in the 2018 report. “It took me a while to process what was actually happening.”
She left the restaurant and said Waqanivalu followed her to a nearby train station. That’s where he grabbed her hand, asked if she was seeing anyone and questioned why she was not attracted to him, she reported.
After she said goodbye, Waqanivalu “proceeded to give me a hug, grabbing my buttocks with both of his hands and trying to kiss my lips,” the woman said. She said she turned her head to avoid him and moved his hands.
The woman is identified in the documents, but the AP does not typically name people who say they have been sexually harassed unless they come forward publicly. The AP contacted the woman, but she declined to comment.
According to WHO protocols, her complaint should have been investigated by the organization’s office of internal oversight, following guidance from ombudsmen, who help staff mediate personnel problems.
After submitting her confidential report to WHO’s “integrity hotline” in July 2018, the case was “tossed around in (Geneva) for months” among officials tasked with misconduct claims, an ombudsman wrote to the woman in an email obtained by the AP.
“It seems our internal process is not efficient enough to address such cases,” the ombudsman said.
Months after raising her concerns, the woman was informed by the WHO ombudman’s office that its director had decided to give Waqanivalu a general “informal warning” that didn’t reference the alleged misconduct. Following that discussion, the office of the ombudsman and ethics considered the case closed, the woman wrote in an email to a WHO official.
In a follow-up message to a WHO ombudsman, the woman said the agency’s ethics office told her it would be difficult to prove a sexual harassment case, saying it might “compromise” her name and that she likely lacked “hard evidence.” She said she was also warned that Waqanivalu could file his own complaint against her for “degrading/dishonouring” his name and was told that pressing for an investigation “may not be the best option for me.”
WHO’s human resources director at the time told colleagues in a November 2018 email that the director of the agency’s compliance, risk management and ethics department had been informed of the allegations against Waqanivalu.
“He is aware of the case ... (and has) the matter in hand,” the human resources director said in an email obtained by AP.
It is unclear if any investigation was ever conducted.
___
In October, Waqanivalu sat on a panel at the World Health Summit in Berlin as part of a high-level conference with attendees including WHO chief Tedros, philanthropist Bill Gates, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron.
In a hotel lobby one evening, numerous people were having drinks, including Waqanivalu and Dr. Rosie James, a young British-Canadian physician and former consultant for WHO.
“We were talking about his work at WHO and he just started putting his hand on my bottom and keeping it there,” James told the AP. She said she felt intimidated talking to a senior manager at the organization. “I felt this power dynamic and I was really uncomfortable,” she said, explaining that she moved away to join her friends, who told her Waqanivalu’s actions were inappropriate.
“Somehow I ended up talking to him again and he was literally holding my bum cheek,” she said. James said Waqanivalu “firmly held my buttock in his hand multiple times (and) pressed his groin” into her. Before Waqanivalu left, she says he cornered her and repeatedly asked for her hotel room number.
Later that night, she tweeted about the encounter, saying that she was “sexually assaulted” and that “this was not the first time in the global health sphere that this has occurred.” WHO chief Tedros replied, pledging to do “everything we can to help you.”
James was later interviewed by WHO’s investigators. She said WHO officials told her she would not be entitled to see its final investigation report. James also said Tedros never personally followed up directly but said the agency’s communications director contacted her and that the two had lunch during the Berlin conference. She said WHO also offered to reimburse her for any private therapy costs related to her encounter with Waqanivalu.
Waqanivalu told WHO investigators he greeted James that evening “by tapping her on her left upper arm” and did not believe that was inappropriate, according to a record of the discussion obtained by AP. He acknowledged asking for her hotel room number, saying he made the request “to connect, if need be.”
“I recall that we faced each other the whole time with about an arm’s length distance between us,” Waqanivalu told investigators, adding that the conversation lasted about five minutes. He said he believed people in the group, including James, “were under the influence of alcohol” and that he remembered the event as “a good evening mixing around with everyone.”
___
Waqanivalu is a unit head at WHO’s Geneva headquarters, overseeing a small team in the non-communicable diseases department. He has been featured in several WHO Facebook videos and also sits on the agency’s health, safety and wellbeing committee.
Last fall, he put himself forward as a candidate to be WHO’s next director for the western Pacific, a region that has a quarter of the world’s population.
“The experience and expertise I have gathered over the years … have given me the relevant credentials to lead the Western Pacific,” Waqanivalu wrote in a September letter addressed to Fiji’s then-Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama and other officials.
About a week after the Berlin conference, the chair of WHO’s top governing body in the region told Waqanivalu in a message seen by the AP that his name was mentioned “as a potential candidate” to be the next regional director. The chair messaged him to say that Pacific health ministers planned to push for a candidate from the region.
“That would be an opportunity for you, Dr. Temo,” Waqanivalu was told.
Correspondence obtained by the AP between Waqanivalu and a senior staffer in Bainimarama’s office also show Waqanivalu asked about formalizing his candidacy.
A memo from the prime minister’s office dated Oct. 17 and marked “approved,” confirmed “Fiji’s proposed candidacy” of Waqanivalu to the position. A handwritten note said officials should coordinate with the country’s ministry of health and inform all other Pacific nations of Waqanivalu’s candidacy. Bainimarama, who lost a December election in Fiji, did not respond to multiple requests for comment from the AP.
Waqanivalu’s candidacy also had supporters within WHO itself. A WHO-produced election-style campaign brochure created in September — before the Berlin conference — outlined his vision for the region and was aimed to garner votes from member countries in the region.
“Under my leadership, WHO will empower people to serve within their countries,” the document reads.
Paula Donovan is co-director of the Code Blue campaign, which seeks to hold U.N. personnel accountable for sexual offenses. She said the allegations regarding Waqanivalu were unsurprising but deeply worrying.
She said it was particularly concerning that an official accused of sexual harassment had been potentially in line for such a prominent leadership role and that WHO seemingly had failed to uphold its own “zero tolerance” policy for unprofessional behavior.
“It’s patently false that WHO does not condone sexual misconduct,” Donovan said, calling for its member countries to overhaul the agency’s internal structures so that its officials are held accountable. “When WHO keeps this kind of stuff under wraps, they are giving sexual predators carte blanche to do it again with impunity.”
___
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.sfgate.com/news/article/AP-WHO-knew-of-past-sex-misconduct-claim-against-17709786.php | 2023-01-11 08:33:11 | 0 | https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/AP-WHO-knew-of-past-sex-misconduct-claim-against-17709786.php |
The line consists of 8 new products powered by proprietary Mineral Microbiome Clay Complex™ that is rich in minerals essential to skin health
TORONTO, Feb. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Canadian skincare brand, Back to Earth Skin announces its new line of skincare products, providing the new standard of natural skincare that is 100% natural, vegan, cruelty free and 35-free. Revolutionizing the clean beauty industry, Back to Earth Skin products are all developed with its key proprietary ingredient, Mineral Microbiome Clay Complex™ (MMC Complex™) enriched with a curated blend of natural ingredients and pure essential oils.
Back to Earth Skin is working to provide the new standard in the natural skincare industry, emphasizing the importance of all product details from a curated blend for each product, to how it is packaged and its impact on the environment.
"We are all deserving of clean skincare that can be trusted to not only deliver healthy, beautiful skin but to do so safely and without compromise." says Kiley Routely, Back to Earth Founder. "Back to Earth Skin is committed to challenging the status quo by producing 100% natural products, bringing to market a transparent brand and product line that offers both sustainable products and packaging."
Each product is powered by Back to Earth Skin's proprietary ingredient, Mineral Microbiome Clay Complex™ (MMC Complex™) which is Mineral Microbiome Clay™enriched with a curated selection of nature's finest ingredients. The clay is sustainably harvested from Kisameet Bay Clay Deposit and is free from marine and industrial waste, providing an abundant source of minerals essential to skin health, including iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium and zinc. The line consists of eight products including the GLOW Foaming Facial Cleanser ($30), GLOW Makeup Remover ($30), GLOW Facial Mist ($30), GLOW Exfoliating Scrub ($30), GLOW Facial Mask ($40), GLOW Facial Serum ($45), GLOW Daily Moisturizer ($40), and GLOW Eye Cream ($40). Each product is developed with a blend of clay, pure essential oils, and a curated blend of natural ingredients to target inflammation, dryness, pigmentation, and fine lines.
In addition to the brand's 100% natural products, Back to Earth Skin strives to offer the highest standard of sustainable packaging, with no secondary casing, direct print on primary container, and optimized footprint. All packaging is made from biodegradable materials, Post Consumer Resin (PCR), glass, and sugarcane.
Reservations for Back to Earth Skin are available starting today, February 15th 2023, at www.backtoearthskin.com. The full product line up and quantities will be available in early March.
About Back to Earth Skin:
Back To Earth Skin was created with one simple ethos in mind, we all are deserving of clean skincare that can be trusted to not only deliver healthy, beautiful skin but to do so safely and without compromise. We believe natural beauty comes from natural care. Using the finest natural ingredients, essential oils and powered by our proprietary Mineral Microbiome Clay Complex™, Back to Earth Skin is a 100% natural skincare line working to set the new standard of natural skincare.
Founded by Kiley Routley, Back to Earth Skin is 100% natural, vegan, cruelty free and 35-free. Back to Earth Skin has sourced biodegradable and sustainable packaging, as well as the cleanest ingredients available for their products from start to finish.
For more information head to www.backtoearthskin.com
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SOURCE Back to Earth Skin | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2023/02/15/back-earth-skin-sets-new-natural-skincare-standard-with-100-natural-line-glow/ | 2023-02-15 14:02:43 | 0 | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2023/02/15/back-earth-skin-sets-new-natural-skincare-standard-with-100-natural-line-glow/ |
Partnership will increase accessibility to Tosa certifications through Prometric's vast testing network
PORTLAND, Ore., July 11, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Prometric® announced a new partnership with Isograd to expand their Tosa certifications in Prometric testing centers. The partnership will provide increased accessibility for individuals, companies, academic institutions, and training organizations to Tosa's internationally recognized digital skills assessment and certification.
"Our partnership with Prometric will help many more individuals validate their skills and grow in their career with Tosa certifications," said Mathieu Lillo, CEO of North America for Isograd. "Digital skills are critical in today's marketplace, and together with Prometric, we look forward to expanding access to our standard for digital skills assessment and certification. Prometric provides high-quality proctoring services that perfectly align with our exam requirements. Their test center network is a great addition to the existing 2,000 testing locations offered by our partners. Students, employees, and job seekers from all over the world will now be able to register directly on our website with the option to take their exam in one of Prometric's centers or remotely with our online proctoring solution."
Tosa certifications are available across desktop and graphics design applications, digital literacy, cybersecurity, coding, and web development skills including Google, Microsoft and Adobe products, as well as Python. The certifications increase employability by identifying and validating digital skillsets.
"We are excited to partner with Isograd to expand Tosa certifications through our global network of test centers across more than 180 countries," said Stuart Udell, CEO of Prometric. "As job growth continues, it is important for new and experienced workers to differentiate their skills. This partnership will greatly expand access to Tosa certifications, making it easier for those looking to expand and certify their expertise."
Tosa certifications are now available at all Prometric testing centers.
About Prometric
Prometric is a global leader in test development, test delivery, and assessment services and enables test sponsors worldwide to advance their credentialing programs through test development and delivery solutions that set the standard in quality and service excellence. Prometric offers a comprehensive and reliable approach to advising, developing, managing and delivering programs in an integrated, technology-enabled environment across the world's most secure testing network in more than 180 countries. For more information, visit www.prometric.com.
About Isograd
Isograd is the developer of Tosa certifications, an industry-recognized digital skills certification brand with international accreditation, which enables candidates to measure and attest to their digital skills by eliminating the pass or fail outcome of a traditional test or certification. Tosa certification exams deliver a score out of 1,000 points that learners can put on their resume or share with their professional network.
Tosa is used by 8,000+ schools, training organizations, and companies in 58 countries around the world. For more than 12 years, Tosa's certifications have been offered to students, trainees, and employees as a professionally recognized method to validate their digital skills for desktop and graphic design applications, digital literacy, cyber security, and coding languages. Visit www.tosa.org to learn more.
Media contact:
Brooke Smith
Brooke.Smith@Prometric.com
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SOURCE Prometric | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/07/11/prometric-partners-with-isograd-expand-tosa-certifications/ | 2023-07-11 13:01:55 | 0 | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/07/11/prometric-partners-with-isograd-expand-tosa-certifications/ |
US officials: Biden to expand migrant access to health plans
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Joe Biden is set to announce that his administration is expanding eligibility for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance exchanges to hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children, according to two U.S. officials briefed on the matter.
The action will allow participants in the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, to access government-funded health insurance programs. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter before the formal announcement on Thursday.
The 2012 DACA initiative was meant to shield from deportation immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally by their parents as young children and to allow them to work legally in the country. However, the immigrants were still ineligible for government-subsidized health insurance programs because they did not meet the definition for having “lawful presence” in the U.S. That’s what Biden’s Department of Health and Human Services will aim to change by the end of the month.
The White House action comes as the DACA program is in legal peril and the number of people eligible under the program is shrinking.
An estimated 580,000 people were still enrolled in DACA at the end of last year, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. That number is down from previous years. Court orders currently prevent the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from processing new applications. The DACA program has been mired in legal challenges for years, while Congress has been unable to reach consensus on broader immigration reforms.
DACA recipients can work legally and pay taxes, but they don’t have legal status and are denied many benefits available to U.S. citizens and foreigners living in the U.S.
In recent years, millions of people in the U.S. signed up for Medicaid, the program that provides health care coverage for the poorest Americans, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government increased federal subsidies to drive down the cost of plans on the Affordable Care Act’s marketplace. As of last year, just 8% of Americans were without health insurance, according to HHS.
But DACA recipients, as well as those in the country without documentation, are barred from joining those federally funded programs. About half of the roughly 20 million immigrants who are living in the U.S. without documentation are uninsured, according to research from the Kaiser Family Foundation.
While there’s bipartisan support to enact some sort of protections for the immigrants, negotiations have often broken down over debates about border security and whether an expansion of protections might induce others to try to enter the U.S. without permission. Biden, a Democrat, has repeatedly called on Congress to provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children.
Other classes of immigrants — including asylum seekers and people with temporary protected status — are already eligible to purchase insurance through the marketplaces of the ACA, former President Barack Obama’s 2010 health care law, often called “Obamacare.”
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wlbt.com/2023/04/13/us-officials-biden-expand-migrant-access-health-plans/ | 2023-04-13 10:59:03 | 1 | https://www.wlbt.com/2023/04/13/us-officials-biden-expand-migrant-access-health-plans/ |
BRADENTON, Fla., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Lubricant Container Recycling Coalition (NLCRC) is launching an industry-first collaborative recycling pilot program that focuses on consumer plastic packaging for engine oil and other petroleum-based products.
The NLCRC, comprised of members Castrol, Valvoline, Pennzoil - Quaker State, Graham Packaging, Plastipak Packaging, Berry Global, Chevron, and the Petroleum Packaging Council, is an industry-led technical coalition focused on developing a national market-sustaining program that drives the recovery and recycling of plastic packaging used to transport lubricants and related products for commercial and consumer use.
The recycling pilot is a one-year project involving over 40 locations in Atlanta, including retail stores and auto care centers, instant oil change locations, and several commercial facilities. The pilot aims to assess and measure the economic and market drivers for post-consumer recovery and recycling, better understand consumer waste disposal behaviors, and define parameters for model development and future scalability. Project partners include retail companies, commercial entities, Safety-Kleen, and Nexus Circular.
"One of the biggest waste management challenges facing the US is our ability to collect, sort, and process plastic packaging and return it to productive use. For contaminated packaging from petroleum and related materials, this isn't really happening. The pilot focuses on the heart of the problem – collection -- to find the most efficient ways to aggregate and transport the materials to processors that want them, creating value in a waste material that doesn't exist today." ~ Tristan Steichen, Director of NLCRC
Addressing a challenge as complex as this is not feasible for most individual companies, particularly given the complexities of distribution, supply chains, and competition. Transforming an industry requires collaboration with all stakeholders focusing on a common goal. The NLCRC seeks to represent a single voice of the industry. We aim to make an impact on the communities where our products are disposed while delivering meaningful results to the industry, its customers, and its member companies by reducing environmental and social risk and improving sustainability performance.
The National Lubricant Container Recycling Coalition or "NLCRC" is an industry-led technical coalition established in 2021 by a committed consortium of lubricant manufacturers and associated plastic packaging manufacturers, focused on establishing solutions for post-consumer recovery and recycling of plastic lubricant containers.
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SOURCE NLCRC | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/national-lubricant-container-recycling-coalition-announces-atlanta-lubricant-container-recycling-pilot/ | 2022-08-23 10:23:43 | 0 | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/national-lubricant-container-recycling-coalition-announces-atlanta-lubricant-container-recycling-pilot/ |
NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Village Group, Inc., and its affiliated companies ("Big Village") announced today they have secured purchasers for their Agency, Insights, and Balihoo businesses, as well as the managed services platform of its EMX business line. Big Village has executed asset purchase agreements to sell the Agency, Insights, and Balihoo business lines to Refuel Agency, and a second agreement to sell the managed services business of EMX to a publicly traded strategic buyer.
Both of the sales will be effectuated through a coordinated chapter 11 bankruptcy process filed in Delaware and supported by Big Village's senior secured lending group. Concurrent with the chapter 11 filing, Big Village filed a series of "first day motions" that, when approved, will ensure minimal operational impact to Big Village and the EMX managed services business. Both sales will be subject to higher or better offers and final approval by the bankruptcy court.
[Big Village is advised by Young Conaway as its legal advisors (Joe Barry, jbarry@ycst.com), Stephens, Inc. as its investment banker (Sachin Lulla, sachin.lulla@stephens.com) and Portage Point Partners (Matt Ray, mray@pppllc.com) as its Chief Restructuring Officer and restructuring advisors.]
Media Contacts:
Portage Point Partners
Zach Rose
zrose@pppllc.com
Matthew Ray
mray@pppllc.com
Young Conaway
Joe Barry
jbarry@ycst.com
Stephens, Inc.
Sachin Lulla
sachin.lulla@stephens.com
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SOURCE Big Village | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2023/02/10/big-village-group-inc-announces-purchasers-agency-insights-balihoo-businesses-its-emxs-managed-services-platform/ | 2023-02-11 02:11:02 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2023/02/10/big-village-group-inc-announces-purchasers-agency-insights-balihoo-businesses-its-emxs-managed-services-platform/ |
On April 3, 1973, Martin Cooper stood on a sidewalk on 6th Avenue in Manhattan with a device the size of a brick and made the first public call from a cell phone to one of the men he'd been competing with to develop the device."I'm calling you on a cell phone, but a real cell phone, a personal, handheld, portable cell phone," Cooper, then an engineer at Motorola, said on the phone to Joel Engel, head of AT&T-owned Bell Labs.While cell phones would not be available to the average consumer for another decade, anyone walking by Cooper on the street that day could have seen history being made. In the 50 years since that first call, Cooper's bulky device has evolved and been replaced by a wide range of thinner, faster phones that are now ubiquitous and reshaping industries, culture and the way we relate to one another and ourselves. But while the vast reach and impact of cell phones may have caught some off guard, Cooper said the possibility that mobile phones would one day be deemed essential to much of mankind was clear from the start."I was not surprised that everybody has a cell phone," Cooper, now 94, told CNN. "We used to tell the story then that someday when you're born you would be assigned a phone number. If you didn't answer the phone, you would die."The rise of the cell phoneFor months before that first call, Motorola was racing to build a cell phone against Bell Labs, the legendary research arm of AT&T that had developed the transistor and other innovations."They were the biggest company in the world, and we were a little company in Chicago," Cooper recalled. "They just didn't think we were very important."As he recalls it, his rival wasn't quite as excited to get the call as Cooper was to call him."You could tell I was not averse to rubbing his nose in this thing. He was polite to me," Cooper told CNN. "To this day, Joel does not remember that phone call, and I guess I don't blame him." (CNN was unable to contact Engel.)After Cooper's first call, manufacturing issues and government regulation slowed the progress bringing the phone to the public, he said. For example, Cooper recalls the Federal Communications Commission, an agency at which he now serves as an adviser, struggling to sort out how to split up radio channels to ensure competition.It would take a decade for a version of that DynaTAC (Dynamic Adaptive Total Area Coverage) phone to hit the market, for a hefty $3,900. The phone, similar to the one Gordon Gekko wielded in the movie "Wall Street," weighed 2.5 pounds and was about a foot tall.Compare that to the iPhone 14, which weighs 6 ounces and is just under six inches, or to any number of Android budget smartphones that cost $200-$300."Trying to improve the human experience"It wasn't until the 1990s that the modern cell phone took off, as it shrunk way down in size and became much more user-friendly. Today, 97% of Americans own a cell phone of some kind, according to a 2021 study by Pew Research Center.In the years since that first call, Cooper has written a book on the transformational power of the cell phone, started companies and done speaking tours and media appearances. But he doesn't necessarily embrace every aspect of modern tech advancements."Too many engineers are wrapped up in what they call technology and the gadgets, the hardware, and they forget that the whole purpose of technology is to make peoples' lives better," said Cooper. "People forget that, and I have to keep reminding them. We are trying to improve the human experience. That's what technology is all about."Looking back on the past 50 years, however, Cooper is largely approving of where the phone has taken us. An iPhone user himself (and a Samsung user before that), he loves using his Apple Watch to track his swimming activity and connect his hearing aids to his phone. And Cooper said he sees the technology's advancement as being net positive for society."I'm an optimist. I know there are disadvantages to the cell phone. We do have people that get addicted to it. We have people walking across the street talking on their cell phones," said Cooper. "Overall, I think the cell phone has changed humanity for the better and that will continue in the future."
On April 3, 1973, Martin Cooper stood on a sidewalk on 6th Avenue in Manhattan with a device the size of a brick and made the first public call from a cell phone to one of the men he'd been competing with to develop the device.
"I'm calling you on a cell phone, but a real cell phone, a personal, handheld, portable cell phone," Cooper, then an engineer at Motorola, said on the phone to Joel Engel, head of AT&T-owned Bell Labs.
While cell phones would not be available to the average consumer for another decade, anyone walking by Cooper on the street that day could have seen history being made.
In the 50 years since that first call, Cooper's bulky device has evolved and been replaced by a wide range of thinner, faster phones that are now ubiquitous and reshaping industries, culture and the way we relate to one another and ourselves. But while the vast reach and impact of cell phones may have caught some off guard, Cooper said the possibility that mobile phones would one day be deemed essential to much of mankind was clear from the start.
Bettmann
Motorola vice president John F. Mitchell shows how easily company’s newest product-Dyna T-A-C Portable Radio Telephone System can be used in New York, on April 03, 1973.
"I was not surprised that everybody has a cell phone," Cooper, now 94, told CNN. "We used to tell the story then that someday when you're born you would be assigned a phone number. If you didn't answer the phone, you would die."
The rise of the cell phone
For months before that first call, Motorola was racing to build a cell phone against Bell Labs, the legendary research arm of AT&T that had developed the transistor and other innovations.
"They were the biggest company in the world, and we were a little company in Chicago," Cooper recalled. "They just didn't think we were very important."
As he recalls it, his rival wasn't quite as excited to get the call as Cooper was to call him.
"You could tell I was not averse to rubbing his nose in this thing. He was polite to me," Cooper told CNN. "To this day, Joel does not remember that phone call, and I guess I don't blame him." (CNN was unable to contact Engel.)
Sandy Huffaker
Martin Cooper, who developed the first portable cellphone, is seen here.
After Cooper's first call, manufacturing issues and government regulation slowed the progress bringing the phone to the public, he said. For example, Cooper recalls the Federal Communications Commission, an agency at which he now serves as an adviser, struggling to sort out how to split up radio channels to ensure competition.
It would take a decade for a version of that DynaTAC (Dynamic Adaptive Total Area Coverage) phone to hit the market, for a hefty $3,900. The phone, similar to the one Gordon Gekko wielded in the movie "Wall Street," weighed 2.5 pounds and was about a foot tall.
Compare that to the iPhone 14, which weighs 6 ounces and is just under six inches, or to any number of Android budget smartphones that cost $200-$300.
"Trying to improve the human experience"
It wasn't until the 1990s that the modern cell phone took off, as it shrunk way down in size and became much more user-friendly. Today, 97% of Americans own a cell phone of some kind, according to a 2021 study by Pew Research Center.
In the years since that first call, Cooper has written a book on the transformational power of the cell phone, started companies and done speaking tours and media appearances. But he doesn't necessarily embrace every aspect of modern tech advancements.
"Too many engineers are wrapped up in what they call technology and the gadgets, the hardware, and they forget that the whole purpose of technology is to make peoples' lives better," said Cooper. "People forget that, and I have to keep reminding them. We are trying to improve the human experience. That's what technology is all about."
Looking back on the past 50 years, however, Cooper is largely approving of where the phone has taken us. An iPhone user himself (and a Samsung user before that), he loves using his Apple Watch to track his swimming activity and connect his hearing aids to his phone. And Cooper said he sees the technology's advancement as being net positive for society.
"I'm an optimist. I know there are disadvantages to the cell phone. We do have people that get addicted to it. We have people walking across the street talking on their cell phones," said Cooper. "Overall, I think the cell phone has changed humanity for the better and that will continue in the future." | https://www.wbaltv.com/article/first-cell-phone-call-was-made-50-years-ago/43493853 | 2023-04-04 05:34:46 | 1 | https://www.wbaltv.com/article/first-cell-phone-call-was-made-50-years-ago/43493853 |
- Gary Rome Hyundai Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Local Dignitaries and Community Members in Holyoke, Massachusetts
HOLYOKE, Mass., May 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America's corporate social responsibility initiative, Hyundai Hope, and Gary Rome Hyundai recently donated a total of $25,000 to two local food banks in Holyoke, Massachusetts to combat food insecurity in the surrounding communities during Gary Rome Hyundai's 25th anniversary celebration. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts received $10,000 and the Thrive Center of Holyoke Community College received a $5,000 donation from Hyundai Hope. Gary Rome Hyundai donated an additional $5,000 dollars to the Thrive Center of Holyoke Community College and two lucky guests received $2,500 each to donate towards the charity of their choice.
"This is by far one of my proudest moments as a Hyundai dealer," said Gary Rome, dealer principal, Gary Rome Hyundai. "Providing financial support to Holyoke and its surrounding communities with the assistance from Hyundai Motor America reassures us there are institutions willing to give back. I look forward to another 25 years in providing high quality, beautiful and safe products for our community."
The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts' independent pantries, meal sites and shelters are on the front lines of emergency food assistance to individuals, families, seniors, children and people with disabilities (including veterans) to lead healthy and meaningful lives. With this donation, the Food Bank will be able to provide 40,000 nutritious meals to neighbors facing food insecurity in Western Massachusetts.
The Thrive Center and Food Pantry at Holyoke Community College (HCC) provide necessities to students experiencing food insecurity, housing insecurity and other financial needs. They supply, at no charge, food staples, toiletries and much more including baby food, diapers and wipes to students raising families while getting an education. This donation will give access to resources to help students overcome these barriers so they can focus on their studies and find success.
"Hyundai recognizes the impact and comfort a guaranteed meal can provide," said Brandon Ramirez, director, corporate social responsibility and external relations, Hyundai Motor North America. "We are inspired by our generous dealer partners like Gary Rome who also share this mission with Hyundai Hope to support the health and well-being of our local communities."
Hyundai Hope is a corporate social responsibility initiative from Hyundai Motor North America, committed to the principal of Progress for Humanity and the goal of improving the wellbeing of society. Hyundai Hope dedicates time and supplies resources to nonprofit organizations that support the health and safety of individuals and foster positive growth in communities.
Hyundai Motor America focuses on 'Progress for Humanity' and smart mobility solutions. Hyundai offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs and electrified vehicles. Our 820 dealers sold more than 738,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2021, and nearly half were built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. For more information, visit www.HyundaiNews.com.
Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hyundai-hope-and-gary-rome-hyundai-donate-25-000-to-combat-hunger-at-dealerships-25th-anniversary-celebration-301548173.html
SOURCE Hyundai Motor America | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_automotive/hyundai-hope-and-gary-rome-hyundai-donate-25-000-to-combat-hunger-at-dealerships-25th/article_cc382e88-8094-5941-8ab4-7dadc1dfd44e.html | 2022-05-16 19:08:39 | 1 | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_automotive/hyundai-hope-and-gary-rome-hyundai-donate-25-000-to-combat-hunger-at-dealerships-25th/article_cc382e88-8094-5941-8ab4-7dadc1dfd44e.html |
Allen Outlets Shooting: Flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide
President Joe Biden ordered all flags to be flown at half-staff in memory of the victims of the tragic shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday.
8 victims were killed, and 7 others were injured on Saturday when a gunman fired on a crowd at the outdoor mall.
The US flag on the White House is seen flown at half-mast in Washington DC, as a mark of respect for the victims of the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas on May 24, 2022. (Photo by Stefani Reynolds / AFP) (Photo by STEFANI REYNOLDS/
The President ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at the White House, all public buildings and at all military posts and naval stations until sunset on May 11, 2023.
He also directed the flag to be lowered at embassies and other US-owned areas overseas.
The President was briefed on the shooting on Saturday.
A vigil will be held at Cottonwood Baptist Church in Allen on Sunday evening to remember the victims and help the community heal. | https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/allen-mall-shooting-flags-to-be-flown-at-half-staff-nationwide | 2023-05-07 17:21:15 | 1 | https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/allen-mall-shooting-flags-to-be-flown-at-half-staff-nationwide |
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Rain that lashed the Bay Area on Tuesday morning could signal the wettest end of the year for the region in nearly two decades, according to meteorologists from the National Weather Service.
Citing five- and seven-day forecasts that stretch to late afternoon on New Year’s Eve and Jan. 2, respectively, the agency predicted rainfall that exceeds the “30 year normal,” rivaling the moderate La Niña storms that battered the Bay Area and Central Coast in 2005 and 2006.
As rain sloshes coastal cities, snow will likely pound the Sierra. The National Weather Service’s Sacramento office issued a winter storm warning on Tuesday, saying people driving to Tahoe could face hazardous conditions and should anticipate delays on the mountain passes, where motorists will be directed to chain their tires.
Meanwhile, the Sierra Avalanche Center in Truckee warned that backcountry avalanches could pummel the Central Sierra Nevada Mountains, endangering people in the Lake Tahoe area from Yuba Pass on Highway 49 at the north, to Ebbetts Pass on Highway 4 at the south. That advisory remains in effect until 4 a.m. on Wednesday.
Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com, Twitter: @rachelswan | https://www.sfchronicle.com/weather/article/Rain-pounding-the-Bay-Area-could-signal-the-17679316.php | 2022-12-27 17:30:09 | 1 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/weather/article/Rain-pounding-the-Bay-Area-could-signal-the-17679316.php |
DAVISON, MI - Davison Mayor Tim Bishop has a lot on his plate handling his day-to-day duties.
But as the owner of B-Dogs Specialty Hot Dog Cart, located inside of the Flint Farmers’ Market, Bishop will soon become busier, planning to expand into Davison by the middle of November.
B-Dogs is set to open a brick and mortar location at a new plaza, 415 N. State Road., on the west side of the road between Third and Fourth streets.
Currently open three days a week in line with the market’s business hours, the new location will be open six days a week.
“A lot of people have asked when will I open up in town, and there just haven’t been too many places available,” Bishop said. “We don’t have any vacant businesses right now. After the plans were drawn up for the plaza, we saw the ability to break down the one end into a smaller takeout by needs. So it just fit.”
As of now, the Flint location will remain, if Bishop finds the right employees to run both businesses.
There is a major advantage the Davison location will have as opposed to Flint.
“It’s more convenient,” Bishop said. “They can hit me up for dinner, lunch, a snack. Instead of coming down to the market, finding parking which can sometimes be an issue. The Davison store will have easy access where people can come in and out.”
Developer Jim Joubran owns the new plaza -- which will include the High Society Wellness dispensary -- as well as the city’s only medical marijuana license.
Joubran bought the property in 2018 and demolished a few of the older homes. The total cost of the plaza project cost him $2.5 million.
“Right now, I’m not sure what else will go inside the plaza besides Mayor Bishop’s hot dogs,” Joubran said. “I want to first see how (the) parking situation will be with the marijuana dispensary because it will attract a lot of people.”
Bishop, who started the business in 2013, uses Koegel’s hot dogs, a major meat fixture in Flint and has created a spinoff of the Flint Coney.
He offers items including the Flint’s Original Coney – a Flint style Coney topped with mustard and onions, a Stadium Dog with ketchup, mustard, onions and relish and the Coney Crunch – a Flint style Coney topped with melted cheese, crushed Fritos and jalapenos.
B-Dogs is Bishop’s passion.
“I realized that there was just a need for it and there’s nobody else in the county that does it or that has attempted to do it,” he said.
Read more at The Flint Journal:
The Soothing Tunes Room brings lively jazz music to the Flint area
SS Media Productions looking to put media stamp into Flint area
Albert J. Koegel, CEO of Koegel Meats, remembered for community impact | https://www.mlive.com/news/flint/2022/09/davison-mayor-inching-closer-to-opening-new-hot-dog-restaurant.html | 2022-09-12 21:26:08 | 0 | https://www.mlive.com/news/flint/2022/09/davison-mayor-inching-closer-to-opening-new-hot-dog-restaurant.html |
Skydiver rescued after parachute gets entangled in live power lines in Lake Elsinore
A woman training to skydive solo released her parachute at the right time and in a good location Monday but somehow missed the planned landing spot, becoming entangled in power lines in Lake Elsinore, said Skydive Elsinore general manager and co-owner Josh Hall.
“She basically overflew the entire airport,” Hall said Monday afternoon. “Luckily she’s fine; obviously it could have been a lot worse.”
Riverside County firefighters rescued the woman dangling from power lines on Corydon Road — not far from Cereal Street and the Skydive Elsinore business — just before noon Monday, according to a tweet from the Fire Department.
The power lines were live when the woman became stuck, but Southern California Edison officials turned off the electricity in that area while firefighters worked to untangle the woman, said Maggie De La Rosa, a spokesperson for Riverside County Fire. No one was injured in the rescue.
A skydiver who plummeted after his parachute failed to completely open survived a fall in which he also struck the roof of a two-story home.
Hall said the woman, whom he declined to identify, was part of the business’ Accelerated Free Fall program, which trains students to become certified to skydive without a tandem instructor. As the woman attempted her first solo training dive Monday, something went wrong after she released the parachute.
Hall said she “could not have been in a better spot,” but something went awry when she needed to steer herself toward an open area to land. He said the parachute “opened properly and was in perfect working order.”
“From what it sounds like, she just got confused,” Hall said. “She basically flew her parachute into an area where she shouldn’t.”
She’s “very lucky she walked away basically without a scratch,” he added.
Hall said the student skydiver was in good spirits.
He called the incident “very rare,” noting that the business makes more than 100,000 flights a year.
Hall said the incident is under investigation and that the company will release additional information when possible.
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BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — More than a year after the Taliban takeover that saw thousands of Afghans rushing to Kabul’s international airport amid the chaotic U.S. withdrawal, Afghans at risk who failed to get on evacuation flights say they are still struggling to find safe and legal ways out of the country.
Among those left behind is a 49-year-old interpreter who worked for a NATO contractor in 2010 accompanying convoys in Kandahar. Only six days after the Taliban reached the capital last August, they came looking for him.
“They come to my house and they threatened my son and my wife (when) I was not at home. They (then) destroy my office,” he told AP via WhatsApp referring to the place where he taught English. He asked that his name not be revealed for security reasons.
This month, he was interrogated by the Taliban again for more than two hours.
During the chaotic days of the U.S. pullout, he had tried several times to reach Kabul Airport but, like many, failed to get through massive crowds made even more dangerous by attacks around the airport that killed dozens. He then tried to leave Afghanistan by crossing the land border with Pakistan but was stopped by the Taliban who demanded $700 per person to cross — money he did not have. To make matters worse, his passport is no longer valid.
Like millions of Afghans, he’s also been impacted by the country’s economic freefall, caused in part by international sanctions and vanishing foreign aid.
“We eat once a day,” the interpreter said. Still, he continues hoping he and his family will leave Afghanistan at some point.
“I never give up because of my future and my children future,” he said.
Since their return to rule, the Taliban have been trying to transition from insurgency and war to governing, with the hard-liners increasingly at odds with the pragmatists on how to run a country in the midst of a humanitarian and economic crisis. But a year on they have so far failed to gain international recognition. Initial promises to allow girls to return to school and women to continue working have been broken.
Those who have failed to evacuate include interpreters and drivers but also women journalists, activists and athletes who say they cannot live freely under a Taliban-led government.
The U.S., together with other Western nations, hastily evacuated more than 120,000 people, both foreign nationals and Afghan citizens, in August last year.
Some 46,000 Afghans who remained in the country after Aug. 31 have since applied for U.S. humanitarian parole, according to the Migration Policy Institute. But only 297 have been approved so far.
Because there is no longer a U.S. consulate in Afghanistan, asylum-seekers must make their way to other countries with consular services for in-person interviews.
The list of obstacles to getting out of Afghanistan is extensive, starting with the difficulty in obtaining passports as offices repeatedly close due to technical problems.
“Today, the vast majority of Afghans don’t have access to legal identity, meaning if they need tomorrow to be able to get to safety legally, they can’t,” said Nassim Majidi, co-founder and executive director of Samuel Hall, an independent think tank that conducts research on migration and displacement. Majidi was speaking at a seminar organized by the Migration Policy Institute looking at the situation of Afghans in Afghanistan and abroad a year after the withdrawal.
Around 2,000 Afghans and their families who worked with NATO, its agencies, and member countries were among those evacuated from Kabul according to the military alliance. But the evacuations were organized by individual member countries. NATO, as an organization, had no repatriation plan.
Evacuations from third countries are still happening, although sporadically. Earlier this month a plane carrying nearly 300 Afghans who had collaborated with the Spanish government landed in Madrid. Germany and France also have continued to work on evacuation cases, Majidi said.
But thousands of Afghans are still living in limbo in third countries including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kosovo and Albania while they wait for their applications to be processed for resettlement to the United States and Canada.
Though life-saving for many, the evacuations also fractured families. Among them is that of an Afghan journalist who asked to remain anonymous, fearing for the safety of her relatives in Kabul.
“It was really difficult to leave everything behind in an hour,” she told the Associated Press in a phone interview from her new home in Nijmegen, in the Netherlands, which she moved into after months of living in a temporary refugee shelter.
The government of the Netherlands had called her on Aug. 26 offering a single spot on an evacuation flight. Her relatives told her she needed to save herself first if she wanted to help them.
A year later, three of her family members have recently managed to get evacuated to France, she said. But despite repeated family reunification requests to the Netherlands and other European countries, the majority of her siblings remain in Kabul, living across the street from a police station now in Taliban hands.
On June 17 one of her older brothers was allegedly beaten to death by Taliban forces on the street after he was found carrying a photo of Ahmad Shah Massoud, the leader of the Northern Alliance that fought the Taliban, she said.
Days later, she said, the men showed up at the family’s home and forced them to sign a death certificate that stated he had died of “natural causes.” The AP was unable to independently verify her claims.
With most of her family still in Afghanistan and many bureaucratic hurdles to face in the Netherlands, it has been difficult to start a new life, she said.
“Until now it is just darkness.”
___
Associated Press reporter Rahim Faiez in Islamabad and Lorne Cook in Brussels contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/ap-one-year-on-afghans-at-risk-await-evacuation-relocation/ | 2022-08-25 17:51:15 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/ap-one-year-on-afghans-at-risk-await-evacuation-relocation/ |
TAMPA, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Education are facing renewed criticism over the state's new academic standards for Black history.
Teachers tell 10 Tampa Bay they're concerned over what the changes could mean for them, their students and the state's future.
"It's sort of a slap in the face to history and to the stories," David Calhoun, who has been teaching social studies in Florida for more than two decades, said. "I teach history, and history is not for anybody's political gain. It's ugly, but it's the truth."
In Calhoun's view, the state's new social studies standards stray from the truth, particularly a portion that says African Americans received some "personal benefit" from slavery, a matter DeSantis defended in a recent press conference.
DeSantis said, "I think that they're probably going to show some of the folks who eventually parlayed being a blacksmith into doing things later in life."
Calhoun said the matter is centered on inaccuracies and distracts from the atrocities of slavery.
"They make this sound like it's some kind of job corps thing where the people get off the boat and there was like somebody sitting there and saying, "Hey, you want to be a carpenter or a blacksmith? That's not how it worked," Calhoun said.
With the new school year now weeks away, leaders of the Hillsborough Teacher's Union want the school board to step up to help guide teachers.
Wendy Carey is the co-chair of Human and Civil Rights/Ethnic and Minority Affairs HCR/EMAC at HCTA.
"We want to work directly with the School Board members," Carey said, "and make sure they understand what's what needs to be taught, and that we have a clear understanding and input on that."
At the core of her concerns is what's best for Florida students.
"I think our students will fall behind not having that correct education and proper quality education," Carey said. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/education/new-florida-standards-black-history/67-7b8e2697-f6d7-4954-9e2b-e2c7c07259af | 2023-07-25 04:03:01 | 0 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/education/new-florida-standards-black-history/67-7b8e2697-f6d7-4954-9e2b-e2c7c07259af |
Tiger Woods returns to golf with the same belief he can win
By DOUG FERGUSON
AP Golf Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Tiger Woods feels good enough to play at Riviera, his first tournament with a cut and without a cart since the British Open last July. He already is looking ahead to the Masters. And yes, he thinks he can win.
“I would not have put myself out here if I didn’t think I could beat these guys,” Woods said Tuesday ahead of the Genesis Invitational, which has attracted 19 of the top 20 players in the world.
He also is well aware that he has not won since October 2019, and that at age 47 and with more surgeries than major titles (15), time is running out. He knows that. He’s just not quite ready to accept it.
He marvels at how long Tom Brady lasted. He remembers when John Elway retired from the Denver Broncos because his body could no longer recover the way it once did. Golf is not a contact sport, but it has become a young man’s game. Only two of the top 10 players in golf are in their 30s. The oldest is Rory McIlroy at 33.
Woods can play. The question is whether he can compete, whether he can win. He remains at 82 career PGA Tour titles, a record he shares with Sam Snead, who was 67 when he made the cut at a PGA Championship.
Part of Woods was annoyed that he was celebrated for making the cut in the Masters last year, his first competition since a February 2021 car crash outside Los Angeles shattered bones in his right leg and ankle.
“I’m there to get a W, OK? So I don’t understand that making the cut is a great thing,” Woods said. “If I entered the event, it’s always to get a W. There will come a point in time when my body will not allow me to do that anymore, and it’s probably sooner rather than later. But wrapping my ahead around that transition and being the ambassador role and just trying to be out here with the guys, no, that’s not in my DNA.”
He played that ambassador role last year at the Genesis Invitational as the tournament host. He also is leading the private player meetings geared toward building a new PGA Tour model of elite tournaments as a response to Saudi-funded LIV Golf.
His announcement Friday that he was playing led to a scramble for media credentials. The back of the press room in the Riviera clubhouse was lined with some two dozen photographers waiting for him to show up for his news conference.
Justin Rose watched in December as Woods played with his son at the PNC Championship, riding in a cart. Woods has been saying he can hit all the shots, that it’s walking to them that makes it difficult.
“In terms of the important part of can you hit a golf ball, can you get a ball in the hole, all of that seemed to be really in order,” Rose said. “But we know that’s definitely not the thing he struggles with, right? It’s obviously the physical side of putting together four rounds of golf. (It’s) a really good sign to see him in the field and feeling willing and able to get out here.”
Woods had planned to play in his Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas the first week of December, but in accelerating his practice he developed plantar fasciitis that kept him from walking. He said he still copes with plantar fasciitis, only it has become manageable. The ankle is what gives him problems.
He prepared for Riviera — and the Masters, and whatever else can follow — with a more graduated practice of hitting golf balls, walking the course until he became tired, and then walking a little more until he could get in 18 holes.
What to expect? Not even Woods knows.
Expectations have run the gamut during his incomparable career. He once went two whole months in 2001 without winning, and the cover of a golf magazine said, “What’s wrong with Tiger?” He went on to win his next three starts, including the Masters.
Now it’s whether he’s kidding himself about winning.
Woods no longer is motivated by naysayers, a product of age and maturity, with a dose of reality. He knows his last win was the Zozo Championship in Japan in 2019, which was six months after he won the Masters.
Before his back fusion surgery in 2017, when it was a struggle just to walk, Woods had reason to wonder if he would ever play. He thinks he can beat McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, the new No. 1 in golf. But there is more gratitude about simply playing.
“Those back operations were tough,” he said. “That proved to myself more than anything that I could still do it. … Ultimately, it’s within me and whether or not I believe I can do it. It’s not the motivating factor of outside.”
As for the rest of the year, Woods only knows it will be a limited schedule of the majors and maybe a few more. That’s a good forecast. He was at Los Angeles Country Club on Monday riding around in a cart to look at the North course ahead of the U.S. Open.
The end is sooner rather than later, but it’s not now.
___
AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://kion546.com/news/ap-california/2023/02/14/tiger-woods-returns-to-golf-with-the-same-belief-he-can-win/ | 2023-02-14 23:03:35 | 0 | https://kion546.com/news/ap-california/2023/02/14/tiger-woods-returns-to-golf-with-the-same-belief-he-can-win/ |
Lordstown Motors files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
(AP) - Commercial electric vehicle startup Lordstown Motors Corp. has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection nearly two months after it warned that it was in danger of failing.
In early May electronics company Foxconn wavered on a $170 million investment in Lordstown. The Ohio company said in a regulatory filing at the time that it had received notice from Foxconn on April 21 that it was in breach of their investment agreement because it had received a delisting warning from Nasdaq two days earlier.
Lordstown said at the time that given the uncertainties, there was substantial doubt it could continue as a going concern.
Lordstown was in danger of being delisted from the Nasdaq because its share price closed below $1 on March 7 and continued to falter after that.
Foxconn told Lordstown at the time that it may unwind their agreement if Lordstown did not resolve its listing issues. Lordstown said in May that it had notified Foxconn that, among other things, it believed the breach allegations were without merit and that the terms of the investment agreement didn’t allow Foxconn to end the deal following the initial closing.
Lordstown said Tuesday that it was filing a lawsuit against technology company Hon Hai Technology Group and certain affiliates, including Foxconn. Lordstown said the lawsuit “details Foxconn’s fraud and willful and consistent failure to live up to its commercial and financial commitments to the company.” It claims Foxconn’s actions led to material damage to Lordstown and its future prospects.
Lordstown said it’s also looking to sell its Endurance vehicle and related assets. The company said that restructuring under Chapter 11 will help with the sale process of Endurance and speed up the timeline for hearing its lawsuit against Foxconn.
In November Lordstown had announced that it had received approval to ship the first batch of its first model, the Endurance pickup.
The trucks were built in an old General Motors small-car assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio, near Cleveland, that was purchased in 2021 by Taiwan’s Foxconn Technology Group, the world’s largest electronics maker.
Lordstown said that it is entering Chapter 11 with significant cash on hand and is debt-free.
The company’s stock plunged more than 65% before the market open.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.azfamily.com/2023/06/27/lordstown-motors-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protection/ | 2023-06-27 12:17:48 | 0 | https://www.azfamily.com/2023/06/27/lordstown-motors-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protection/ |
HOUSTON, March 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- KBR (NYSE: KBR) announced today that its ammonia technology has been selected for a large-scale one million tons per annum low-carbon ammonia facility in the Middle East GCC region.
Under the terms of the contract, KBR will provide the technology license, basic engineering design, proprietary equipment and catalyst for the low-carbon ammonia plant. The project reinforces the region's focus to emerge as a leader in low-carbon fuels by capitalizing on ammonia as a vector for clean hydrogen.
"We are honored that our leading low-carbon ammonia technology has been selected for this world-scale energy transition project," said Doug Kelly, KBR President, Technology. "This project will be amongst the first large energy transition projects to come onstream in the world and we are excited to be part of this journey with several global industry leaders."
KBR is the world leader in ammonia technology with approximately 50% market share of licensed capacity. Since 1943, KBR has licensed, engineered, or constructed over 250 grassroot ammonia plants worldwide.
About KBR
We deliver science, technology and engineering solutions to governments and companies around the world. KBR employs approximately 30,000 people performing diverse, complex and mission-critical roles in 34 countries.
KBR is proud to work with its customers across the globe to provide technology, value-added services, and long-term operations and maintenance services to ensure consistent delivery with predictable results. At KBR, We Deliver.
Visit www.kbr.com
Forward Looking Statement
The statements in this press release that are not historical statements, including statements regarding future financial performance, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the company's control that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the related impacts on our business as we wind down our business operations in Russia; the potential adverse economic and market conditions, such as interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations, including as a result of pandemics such as COVID-19; the recent dislocation of the global energy market; the company's ability to manage its liquidity; the outcome of and the publicity surrounding audits and investigations by domestic and foreign government agencies and legislative bodies; potential adverse proceedings by such agencies and potential adverse results and consequences from such proceedings; changes in capital spending by the company's customers; the company's ability to obtain contracts from existing and new customers and perform under those contracts; structural changes in the industries in which the company operates; escalating costs associated with and the performance of fixed-fee projects and the company's ability to control its cost under its contracts; claims negotiations and contract disputes with the company's customers; changes in the demand for or price of oil and/or natural gas; protection of intellectual property rights; compliance with environmental laws; changes in government regulations and regulatory requirements; compliance with laws related to income taxes; unsettled political conditions, war and the effects of terrorism; foreign operations and foreign exchange rates and controls; the development and installation of financial systems; the possibility of cyber and malware attacks; increased competition for employees; the ability to successfully complete and integrate acquisitions; and operations of joint ventures, including joint ventures that are not controlled by the company.
The company's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, any subsequent Form 10-Qs and 8-Ks, and other U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that the company has identified that may affect its business, results of operations and financial condition. Except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason.
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SOURCE KBR, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2023/03/01/kbr-wins-ammonia-technology-large-scale-low-carbon-ammonia-project/ | 2023-03-01 12:27:06 | 1 | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2023/03/01/kbr-wins-ammonia-technology-large-scale-low-carbon-ammonia-project/ |
Expect to see a large increase in holiday sales this year
Published: Oct. 10, 2022 at 11:43 AM CDT|Updated: 22 minutes ago
(CNN) - If you are looking for a good deal leading into the holidays, you are in luck.
According to Adobe Analytics, consumers are going to see a sharp increase in discounting this holiday season due to inventory growth and a decrease in supply chain issues.
The company predicts the biggest discounts in electronics at 27%, up from 7% last year.
The average toy discount will be 22%.
Adobe said you will find the biggest discounts right around Thanksgiving with Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
The company is also forecasting a stark slowdown in consumer spending for the remainder of the year, from over 8% in growth in 2021 to 2.5% in 2022, making it the slowest growth on record.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.kbtx.com/2022/10/10/expect-see-large-increase-holiday-sales-this-year/ | 2022-10-10 17:06:45 | 1 | https://www.kbtx.com/2022/10/10/expect-see-large-increase-holiday-sales-this-year/ |
A 1% decrease in fatalities is no cause for celebration, the Council warns
ITASCA, Ill., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Safety Council releases today preliminary estimates revealing 21,340 people died in preventable crashes on U.S. roads during the first six months of 2022, a 1% decrease as compared to the same time period in 2021.
The first quarter of 2022 was grim; the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a report, which showed a discouraging 7% increase in deaths during that time period. The good news: beginning in April, or the start of the second quarter, U.S. roads have experienced less loss of life. Newly released NSC data show June 2022 was the third consecutive month with deaths below 2021 levels and the first month below 2020 levels.
While this 1% decrease in deaths for the first half of 2022 as compared to 2021 may indicate a positive trend, NSC data show 2022 is up 15% as compared to 2020–proving U.S. roadways are still supremely dangerous, especially for those walking, biking, and rolling. Some states experienced fewer preventable deaths on the roads, while others saw frightening increases of 19% or more in the first six months of 2022, including:
- Maine (+52%, 28 more deaths)
- Vermont (+43%, 12 more deaths)
- Delaware (+43%, 23 more deaths)
- Alaska (+41%, 9 more deaths)
- Hawaii (+36%, 16 more deaths)
- Washington (+31%, 78 more deaths)
- Connecticut (+29%, 43 more deaths)
- New Jersey (+27%, 14 more deaths)
- New Hampshire (+27%, 14 more deaths)
- Nebraska (+19%, 20 more deaths)
"We must not become complacent," said Mark Chung, executive vice president of roadway practice at NSC. "Traffic violence plagues our communities, and thousands of lives lost each month is simply unacceptable. A one percent decrease only symbolizes a glimmer of hope and serves as confirmation that now is the time to combine proven countermeasures with innovative solutions so we can save lives. The work is far from over."
These semi-annual estimates come less than two weeks following the announcement of Steve Cliff's resignation as NHTSA administrator, leaving the agency without a nominated and confirmed leader once again. NSC calls on President Biden to quickly nominate a safety-focused replacement and urges the Senate to prioritize the confirmation process of the person selected. This leadership is essential to shepherding safety improvements through the U.S. Department of Transportation, overseeing millions of dollars in funding for local and state programs and setting the tone for how these programs will be administered.
"It's deeply concerning we are without a confirmed NHTSA administrator at a time of so much death on our roadways and when NHTSA has much work to do, such as advancing safety requirements on vehicles and implementing the Safe System approach," said Jane Terry, vice president of government affairs at NSC. "These preliminary figures are no cause for celebration and support the case, once again, for a designated leader at the federal level who will put the safety of all road users first. This is a significant setback in the shared efforts to improve roadway safety, and NSC stands ready to support NHTSA as they navigate through this time."
NSC estimates are subject to slight increases and decreases as the data mature. NSC collects fatality data every month from all 50 states and the District of Columbia and uses data from the National Center for Health Statistics, so that deaths occurring within one year of the crash and on both public and private roadways—such as parking lots and driveways—are included in the estimates. NSC motor vehicle fatality estimates and supplemental estimate information, including estimates for each state, can be found here.
About the National Safety Council
The National Safety Council is America's leading nonprofit safety advocate—and has been for more than 100 years. As a mission-based organization, we work to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing our efforts on the workplace, roadway and impairment. We create a culture of safety to not only keep people safer at work, but also beyond the workplace so they can live their fullest lives.
Connect with NSC:
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SOURCE National Safety Council | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/nsc-preliminary-estimates-21340-people-died-traffic-crashes-first-half-2022/ | 2022-08-23 11:33:30 | 0 | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/nsc-preliminary-estimates-21340-people-died-traffic-crashes-first-half-2022/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — The late Stephen Sondheim’s last stage musical — an adaptation of two films by Spanish surrealist director Luis Buñuel — will be given an off-Broadway stage this year, offering theatergoers a chance to see a new work by musical theater’s most venerated composer.
“Here We Are” — once known as “Square One” — will begin performances this September at The Shed’s Griffin Theater with a book by David Ives, best known for the play “Venus in Fur.” Joe Mantello, who helmed “Wicked” and Sondheim’s “Assassins,” will direct.
The show — based on the films “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie” and “The Exterminating Angel” — was initially workshopped in 2016 with plans for a production at The Public Theater, which did not happen.
The two source films have a connective tissue: In “The Exterminating Angel,” a group of guests arrive for a dinner party and cannot leave, while “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie” is about guests who constantly arrive for dinner but are never able to eat.
Ticket information and casting will be announced soon.
Sondheim, who died in 2021, influenced several generations of songwriters, particularly with such landmark musicals as “Company,” “Follies” and “Sweeney Todd.”
Six of Sondheim’s musicals won Tony Awards for best score, and he also received a Pulitzer Prize (“Sunday in the Park”), an Academy Award (for the song “Sooner or Later” from the film “Dick Tracy”), five Olivier Awards and the Presidential Medal of Honor. In 2008, he received a Tony Award for lifetime achievement.
His last new musical to be produced was “Road Show,” which reunited Sondheim and writer John Weidman and spent years being worked on. This tale of the Mizner brothers, who embarked on get-rich schemes in the early part of the 20th century, finally made it to the Public Theater in 2008 with poor reviews after going through several different titles, directors and casts.
Several Sondheim musicals have been mounted on Broadway since the master’s death, including a Tony-award winning revival of “Company” and a current revival of his “Sweeney Todd,” starring Josh Groban.
___
Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits | https://www.wric.com/entertainment-news/stephen-sondheims-last-musical-finds-a-new-york-city-stage/ | 2023-03-17 12:24:24 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/entertainment-news/stephen-sondheims-last-musical-finds-a-new-york-city-stage/ |
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland (AP)Sean Crocker’s chip-in eagle on the par-5 18th hole gave him a two-stroke lead headed into the final round at the Hero Open.
The American, bidding for his first European tour title, finished at 3-under 69 on Saturday to keep Jens Dantorp of Sweden two shots behind after three rounds at Fairmont St. Andrews.
Crocker, who started the day with a one-shot lead, moved to 18 under for the tournament as he goes for a wire-to-wire win.
”That was a nice little bonus on 18. I was trying to get it up and down for (birdie) but to see that ball drop was pretty cool,” said Crocker, who was born in Zimbabwe and raised in California.
He ran into trouble on the par-4 13th when he was in the thick rough after two shots and near a wall. He took a drop and settled for a double bogey.
He thought about playing it, though.
”Every time I got near that ball I just could see bad things happening,” he said. ”We made the right decision there by taking the drop.”
Dantorp is alone in second after a bogey-free 69.
Adrian Otaegui (64) and David Law (65) are both three shots off the lead.
”It’s nice to have a little bit of room but I also know those gaps can be closed very quickly,” Crocker said. ”It’s been a long time since I’ve held something shiny. It would be a nice little present.”
—
More AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP-Sports | https://www.kark.com/sports/golf/crocker-eagles-last-to-take-2-shot-lead-at-hero-open-2/ | 2022-07-31 00:45:15 | 0 | https://www.kark.com/sports/golf/crocker-eagles-last-to-take-2-shot-lead-at-hero-open-2/ |
LONDON – A car collided Thursday with the gates of Downing Street in central London, where the British prime minister's home and offices are located, setting off a rapid, intense security response at one of London's most-fortified sites.
No one was injured and police said they were not treating the incident as terror-related. Police arrested a man on suspicion of criminal damage and dangerous driving, and local officers, rather than counterterrorism detectives, were handling the investigation.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was in his office at the time of the crash, which revived memories of attacks on London's government district.
It was not immediately clear whether the crash was deliberate. Video footage posted on social media showed a silver hatchback car heading straight for the gates at low speed across Whitehall, the main thoroughfare in London's government district.
"I heard a bang and looked up and saw loads of police with taser guns shouting at the man,” said witness Simon Parry, 44. “A lot of police vehicles came very quickly and were very quick to evacuate the area.”
The BBC showed a photo of officers leading away a man with handcuffed hands behind his back.
Footage shot soon after showed a car with its trunk open up against the tall metal gates. Several police officers minutely inspected the vehicle, removing items from the trunk and inside the car and placing them in evidence bags.
About two hours after the crash, a car transporter arrived to take the vehicle away.
Officers cordoned off a wide area of London’s government district, but lifted the barriers less than two hours after the collision took place, allowing people back into Whitehall. The street normally teems with civil servants and tourists keen to see the nearby Houses of Parliament and other historic buildings.
"A small cordon remains in place outside Downing Street after a car collided with the gates earlier this afternoon," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. “The incident is being dealt with by local officers in Westminster and isn’t currently being treated as terror-related."
Downing Street is a narrow street with a row of Georgian houses that includes the prime minister's official residence at No. 10.
Public access to the street is restricted and the heavy steel gates are protected at all times by armed police officers. Bollards and metal crowd barriers also help keep threats at bay.
The gates were erected in 1989 in response to threats from Irish Republican Army militants. In 1991 the IRA fired three mortars at the street, one of which exploded in the backyard of No. 10 while Prime Minister John Major was leading a Cabinet meeting inside. Three police officers and a civil servant suffered minor injuries.
The area was targeted in 2017, when an extremist inspired by the Islamic State group killed four people with a vehicle on Westminster Bridge before stabbing a police officer to death outside Parliament.
Seats of power around the world are often magnets for protest, and sometimes violent attack. The incident came three days after a man crashed a rented truck into a security barrier outside the White House in Washington, got out and began waving around a Nazi flag. Sai Varshith Kandula, 19, has been charged with damaging U.S. property. | https://www.wsls.com/news/world/2023/05/25/police-say-car-collides-with-gates-of-downing-street-where-uk-prime-minister-lives/ | 2023-05-25 17:44:47 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/world/2023/05/25/police-say-car-collides-with-gates-of-downing-street-where-uk-prime-minister-lives/ |
A superyacht once belonging to a Russian billionaire went to auction Tuesday in the British territory of Gibraltar. The vessel, estimated to have a value in the tens of millions of dollars, was seized in March as part of Western sanctions against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
Gibraltar's Admiralty Marshal was tasked with appraising and selling the yacht, which received 63 bids, according to court documents. Its official appraised value is "a confidential matter which cannot be disclosed," although outside estimates reportedly place it anywhere from $42 million to $75 million. Details about who ultimately purchases the vessel and for what price will be made public when the transaction is complete.
Measuring 236 feet long and weighing over 1,600 tons, the Axioma is a sight to behold. It can accommodate 12 guests in six cabins — along with a 20-person crew in 12 other rooms — and features a gymnasium, full-service spa, infinity pool and luxury cinema, as stated on the Howe Robinson Partners auction site.
The cost to charter the Axioma for a week runs an average of roughly $500,000, not including other operating costs, according to Yacht Charter Fleet.
The former owner of the ship is Dmitrievich Pumpyansky, once Russia's largest steel pipe manufacturer and currently worth $2 billion, according to Forbes. Unfortunately for Pumpyansky, he was sanctioned by Britain and the European Union after the invasion.
Other superyachts owned by Russian oligarchs have been detained as a result of the sanctions, but the Axioma is the first to be sold off, the Guardian reported.
Despite calls for the proceeds of the sale to benefit Ukraine, the funds will instead be paid to JP Morgan Chase. According to the Guardian, the international bank had a loan agreement with Pumpyansky's holding company, Pyrene Investments.
However, the sanctions against Russia prevented JP Morgan Chase from accepting payments from the holding company, breaching the agreement, and the bank filed a legal claim to have the vessel seized and sold at auction.
Other superyachts belonging to Russian elites have been detained all over the world — including the Amadea, which was seized in Fiji at the request of the United States in May. That $300 million yacht belonged to Suleiman Kerimov, a Russian gold producer worth over $12 billion, according to Forbes.
The fate of the Amadea is uncertain, however; it, too, could be sold to the highest bidder, which would be in line with President Biden's aims to hold Russian oligarchs accountable for their role in the invasion and, potentially, use the proceeds to aid Ukraine.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/news-from-npr/2022-08-23/a-multimillion-dollar-superyacht-once-owned-by-a-russian-oligarch-has-gone-to-auction | 2022-08-23 22:48:41 | 1 | https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/news-from-npr/2022-08-23/a-multimillion-dollar-superyacht-once-owned-by-a-russian-oligarch-has-gone-to-auction |
NEW YORK (AP) — Brooklyn Nets suspend Kyrie Irving for at least five games without pay over "harmful impact of his conduct."
- Horoscope for Thursday, 11/03/22 by Christopher Renstrom
- Star high school athlete shot dead in Southern California
- Kyrie's antisemitism non-apology is as empty as that stupid movie
- The historic California pit stop known for its legendary doughnut
- The best kept secrets for flying out of SFO
- Magnitude 6 earthquake strikes far off California coast
- Bay Area Safeway evacuated after customers start coughing
- 73-year-old man beaten to death at 7-Eleven in SF, police say
- Horoscope for Wednesday, 11/02/22 by Christopher Renstrom
- ‘No end in sight’ to businesses leaving California, report says
- Infamous beach murder linked to former California radio host
- Massive bust takes down national catalytic converter theft ring | https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Alert-Brooklyn-Nets-suspend-Kyrie-Irving-for-at-17557221.php | 2022-11-04 00:14:43 | 1 | https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Alert-Brooklyn-Nets-suspend-Kyrie-Irving-for-at-17557221.php |
WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden on Tuesday formally announced that he is running for reelection in 2024, asking voters to give him more time to “finish the job” he began when he was sworn into office and to set aside their concerns about extending the run of America’s oldest president for another four years.
Biden, who would be 86 at the end of a second term, is betting his first-term legislative achievements and more than 50 years of experience in Washington will count for more than concerns over his age. He faces a smooth path to winning his party’s nomination, with no serious Democratic rivals. But he’s still set for a hard-fought struggle to retain the presidency in a bitterly divided nation.
The announcement, in a three-minute video, comes on the four-year anniversary of when Biden declared for the White House in 2019, promising to heal the “soul of the nation” amid the turbulent presidency of Donald Trump — a goal that has remained elusive.
“I said we are in a battle for the soul of America, and we still are,” Biden said. “The question we are facing is whether in the years ahead we have more freedom or less freedom. More rights or fewer.”
While the prospect of seeking reelection has been a given for most modern presidents, that’s not always been the case for Biden. A notable swath of Democratic voters have indicated they would prefer he not run, in part because of his age — concerns Biden has called “totally legitimate” but ones he did not address head-on in the launch video.
Yet few things have unified Democratic voters like the prospect of Trump returning to power. And Biden’s political standing within his party stabilized after Democrats notched a stronger-than-expected performance in last year’s midterm elections. The president is set to run again on the same themes that buoyed his party last fall, particularly on preserving access to abortion.
“Freedom. Personal freedom is fundamental to who we are as Americans. There’s nothing more important. Nothing more sacred,” Biden said in the launch video, depicting Republican extremists as trying to roll back access to abortion, cut Social Security, limit voting rights and ban books they disagree with. “Around the country, MAGA extremists are lining up to take those bedrock freedoms away.”
“This is not a time to be complacent,” Biden added. “That’s why I’m running for reelection.”
As the contours of the campaign begin to take shape, Biden plans to campaign on his record. He spent his first two years as president combating the coronavirus pandemic and pushing through major bills such as the bipartisan infrastructure package and legislation to promote high-tech manufacturing and climate measures. With Republicans now in control of the House, Biden has shifted his focus to implementing those massive laws and making sure voters credit him for the improvements.
The president also has multiple policy goals and unmet promises from his first campaign that he’s asking voters on giving him another chance to fulfill.
“Let’s finish this job. I know we can,” Biden said in the video, repeating a mantra he said a dozen times during his State of the Union address in February, listing everything from passing a ban on assault-style weapons and lowering the cost of prescription drugs to codifying a national right to abortion after the Supreme Court’s ruling last year overturning Roe v. Wade.
Buoyed by the midterm results, Biden plans to continue to cast all Republicans as embracing what he calls “ultra-MAGA” politics — a reference to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan — regardless of whether his predecessor ends up on the 2024 ballot.
In the video, Biden speaks over brief clips and photographs of key moments in his presidency, snapshots of diverse Americans and flashes of outspoken Republican foes, including Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia. He exhorts supporters that “this is our moment” to “defend democracy. Stand up for our personal freedoms. Stand up for the right to vote and our civil rights.”
Biden also plans to point to his work over the past two years shoring up American alliances, leading a global coalition to support Ukraine’s defenses against Russia’s invasion and returning the U.S. to the Paris climate accord. But public support in the U.S. for Ukraine has softened in recent months, and some voters question the tens of billions of dollars in military and economic assistance flowing to Kyiv.
The president faces lingering criticism over his administration’s chaotic 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan after nearly 20 years of war, which undercut the image of competence he aimed to portray, and he’s the target of GOP attacks over his immigration and economic policies.
As a candidate in 2020, Biden pitched voters on his familiarity with the halls of power in Washington and his relationships around the world. But even back then, he was acutely aware of voters’ concerns about his age.
“Look, I view myself as a bridge, not as anything else,” Biden said in March 2020, as he campaigned in Michigan with younger Democrats, including now-Vice President Kamala Harris, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “There’s an entire generation of leaders you saw stand behind me. They are the future of this country.”
Three years later, the president now 80, Biden allies say his time in office has demonstrated that he saw himself as more of a transformational than a transitional leader.
Still, many Democrats would prefer that Biden didn’t run again. A recent poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows just 47% of Democrats say they want him to seek a second term, up from 37% in February. And Biden’s verbal — and occasional physical — stumbles have become fodder for critics trying to cast him as unfit for office.
Biden, on multiple occasions, has brushed back concerns about his age, saying simply, “Watch me.”
During a routine physical in February, his physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, declared him “healthy, vigorous” and “fit” to handle his White House responsibilities.
Aides acknowledge that while some in his party might prefer an alternative to Biden, there is anything but consensus within their diverse coalition on who that might be. And they insist that when Biden is compared with whomever the GOP nominates, Democrats and independents will rally around Biden.
For now, the 76-year-old Trump is the favorite to emerge as the Republican nominee, creating the potential of a historic sequel to the bitterly fought 2020 campaign. But Trump faces significant hurdles of his own, including the designation of being the first former president to face criminal charges. The remaining GOP field is volatile, with DeSantis emerging as an early alternative to Trump. DeSantis’ stature is also in question, however, amid questions about his readiness to campaign outside of his increasingly Republican-leaning state.
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To prevail again, Biden will need the alliance of young voters and Black voters — particularly women — along with blue-collar Midwesterners, moderates and disaffected Republicans who helped him win in 2020. He’ll have to again carry the so-called “blue wall” in the Upper Midwest, while protecting his position in Georgia and Arizona, longtime GOP strongholds he narrowly won last time.
Biden’s reelection bid comes as the nation weathers uncertain economic crosscurrents. Inflation is ticking down after hitting the highest rate in a generation, but unemployment is at a 50-year low, and the economy is showing signs of resilience despite Federal Reserve interest rate hikes.
Presidents typically try to delay their reelection announcements to maintain the advantages of incumbency and skate above the political fray for as long as possible while their rivals trade jabs. But the leg up offered by being in the White House can be rickety — three of the last seven presidents have lost reelection, most recently Trump in 2020.
Biden’s announcement is roughly consistent with the timeline followed by then-President Barack Obama, who waited until April 2011 to declare for a second term and didn’t hold a reelection rally until May 2012. Trump launched his reelection bid on the day he was sworn in in 2017.
Biden is not expected to dramatically alter his day-to-day schedule as a candidate — at least not immediately — with aides believing his strongest political asset is showing the American people that he is governing. And if he follows the Obama playbook, he may not hold any formal campaign rallies until well into 2024.
On Tuesday, Biden named White House adviser Julie Chávez Rodríguez to serve as campaign manager and Quentin Fulks, who ran Sen. Raphael Warnock’s reelection campaign in Georgia last year, to serve as principal deputy campaign manager. The campaign co-chairs will be Reps. Lisa Blunt-Rochester, Jim Clyburn and Veronica Escobar; Sens. Chris Coons and Tammy Duckworth; entertainment mogul and Democratic mega-donor Jeffrey Katzenberg; and Whitmer.
On the heels of the announcement Tuesday, Biden was set to deliver remarks to union members before hosting South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for a state visit at the White House. He plans to meet with party donors in Washington later this week. | https://www.capitalgazette.com/news/nation-world/ct-aud-nw-biden-reelection-bid-20230425-4gb3yyajvbarbpbcwuacsinxvu-story.html | 2023-04-25 11:18:44 | 0 | https://www.capitalgazette.com/news/nation-world/ct-aud-nw-biden-reelection-bid-20230425-4gb3yyajvbarbpbcwuacsinxvu-story.html |
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Zocdoc appointment booking trends, and user and provider surveys, show how healthcare has evolved in the two years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and shed light on the highs and lows of delivering and receiving care during an unprecedented time
Data points to a pronounced preference, with the exception of mental health, for in-person care, and for the use of telehealth as one part of the overall continuity of care
NEW YORK, June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Zocdoc, the leading healthcare marketplace that makes it easy for people to find and book in-person or virtual care across +200 specialties and +12k insurance plans, today announced "The Healthcare Experience: 2022", a comprehensive report that includes data from Zocdoc user and provider surveys, and an analysis of healthcare appointment booking trends beginning in May 2020 – the first full month Zocdoc facilitated video visit bookings – through May 2022.
To uncover insights regarding how users' booking choices, and the perspectives of providers and users, evolved throughout the pandemic, Zocdoc conducted provider and user ("patient") surveys, and analyzed aggregated appointment booking data. The results show four key insights, detailed below.
Prior to the pandemic, telehealth represented just ~1% of care. At its onset, amid stay-at-home orders and concerns about contracting COVID-19, many Americans turned to telehealth to safely get the care they needed; at telehealth's peak, between March and August 2020, 13% of outpatient visits were conducted via telehealth. As Americans have emerged from the acute beginnings of the pandemic and adapted to a new normal, an overwhelming majority of patients are choosing to see their doctors in-person again.
In May 2020, 33% of all appointments booked via Zocdoc were telehealth visits. By May 2022, that number had declined significantly, to 17%. Excluding mental health, the only specialty which skews toward virtual care, just 9% of appointments in May 2022 were conducted virtually.
By specialty, the percentage of in-person appointments in May 2020, May 2021, and May 2022 was as follows:
- Primary Care Physician: 58% → 87% → 83%
- OB-GYN: 85% → 97% → 98%
- Dermatologist: 62% → 91% → 95%
- Dentist: 96% → 99% → 99%
- Optometrist: 92% → 100% → 100%
- Orthopedic Surgeon: 77% → 96% → 98%
- Podiatrist: 82% → 96% → 98%
- Chiropractor: 98% → 100% → 100%
- ENT: 64% → 95% → 98%
- Psychiatrist: 25% → 15% → 15%
- Ophthalmologist: 89% → 97% → 99%
- Gastroenterologist: 60% → 79% → 86%
- Urologist: 74% → 94% → 96%
- Pediatrician: 75% → 89% → 92%
- Allergist: 64% → 91% → 96%
- Cardiologist: 75% → 92% → 96%
- Neurologist: 52% → 86% → 92%
- Psychologist: 20% → 13% → 18%
Additionally, within this minority of virtual appointments, it is clear that patients using telehealth understand they may someday want or need to visit their provider's office in person. Between May 2020 and May 2022, across all specialties excluding mental health, 81% of in-person appointments and 61% of virtual appointments were located less than 20 miles from the patient's home address.
This is further evidenced when examining rebooking trends during the same timeframe. While 82% of first-time appointments with a new provider take place in person, those who meet a provider for the first time virtually often make an in-person follow-up appointment: a significant portion of the 18% of virtual appointments with a new provider eventually result in an in-person rebooking.
For patients who booked a virtual visit with a new provider via Zocdoc, and then rebooked an in-person appointment at the same practice using Zocdoc, there were three distinct groups of specialties with similar patterns of offline-online continuity of care:
- High likelihood of in-person rebooking: OB-GYN, Eye Doctors, and Dentists. 50-60% of people who booked a virtual visit with a new provider in these specialties booked a second, in-person appointment with that same practice.
- Medium likelihood of in-person rebooking: Dermatologists, Specialists, PCPs, and the average of all specialties excluding mental health. 30-45% of people who booked a virtual visit with a new provider in these specialties booked a second, in-person appointment with that same practice.
- Lower likelihood of in-person rebooking: Mental Health. Less than 5% of people who booked a virtual visit with a new mental health provider booked a second, in-person appointment with that same practice.
This use of telehealth as a singular component of the overall care experience, which includes a combination of virtual and in-person interactions with providers, was also reflected in the Zocdoc user survey.
In response to the statement, "I believe I will utilize a combination of telehealth and in-person care in the future," 77% of patient survey respondents indicated they either "agree" or "strongly agree." An even greater majority of providers agreed that the future includes an interconnected on- and offline care experience: 83% of survey respondents said they "agree" or "strongly agree" that the future of healthcare will include a combination of telehealth and in-person visits for most patients and providers.
Despite the return to in-person care across every other healthcare specialty, mental health – which represents more than half of Zocdoc's top 10 fastest-rising appointment booking reasons year over year – is an anomaly. It remains the only specialty in which the percentage of virtual care bookings remains higher than peak pandemic booking levels. In May 2020, 74% of mental health bookings were virtual. In May 2021, 85% of mental health bookings were virtual, and, in May 2022, that number rose to 87%.
Patients surveyed noted convenience, the comforts of home and a perception of increased intimacy as reasons they appreciate virtual visits with mental health providers. With regard to convenience, one patient said, "It is convenient, requiring less time off work and [it is] less expensive because I don't need to pay for transportation," while another stated, "I'm more likely to fit it in my schedule than if I need to travel for an appointment." A third said, "I had already seen my doctor in person, and I simply needed a new prescription for the same issue, so I didn't need to see her in person again."
Addressing the benefits of at-home comforts and the perception of increased intimacy, one patient said, "Having my pet there made me feel calmer and I loved it," and another stated, "My healthcare provider got to see how I truly look on a typical day – in bed with an IV hooked up. I think this helped her see the reality of my illness instead of the put together image I try to portray when I go in person."
This ease of access to care for patients, and the ability for providers to deliver high-quality virtual care, has been crucial during a time when more than 40% of U.S. adults are reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression and providers are reporting a 93% increase in patients seeking anxiety resources.
By surfacing appointment availability in real-time, Zocdoc significantly accelerates access to care. The average U.S. patient seeking mental health care waits an average of 25 days to see a psychiatrist, with some waiting more than 90 days, and wait times for mental practitioners are growing overall.
This delay of access has significant consequences. According to National Council for Behavioral Health (NCBH) President and CEO Linda Rosenberg, referencing a recent study from the NCBH and the Cohen Veterans Network, "For every one day of wait time, you lose 1 percent of the patients — so if you have a 21-day wait, 21 percent of the patients seeking care just will give up and not show up." On Zocdoc, the median number of days between a Zocdoc user booking a mental health appointment and attending that appointment is between 4-5 days for an in-person visit and 5-6 days for a virtual visit.
Since the onset of the pandemic, 30% of patient survey respondents indicated they'd had 6+ telehealth appointments, 50% have had 2-5, and 20% have had just 1 telehealth appointment. Of these respondents, 50% described their location as urban, 41% as suburban, and 9% as rural.
Convenience topped the list of reasons patients chose to use telehealth during the pandemic. When asked to pick up to three reasons virtual care had been useful since March 2020, 60% of patient survey respondents noted quick and easy access to providers; 56% enjoyed not having to take time off work or responsibilities to travel to appointments; 31% were able to access providers who are far away; and 30% said they could more easily have a follow-up or introductory appointment. Additionally, 15% of respondents said telehealth made managing their chronic illness easier, and 8% said they felt more comfortable sharing personal details via video than in-person. For those who specified another reason, avoiding exposure to COVID-19 was by far the most common write-in answer, cost savings was a close second, and the comfort offered by being able to interact with pets to reduce stress was third.
As one survey respondent said, "Having online appointments requires only an hour of time versus multiple hours, gas costs, and travel time and there's no contact with the population so as to prevent possible covid infection."
Providers agreed with convenience as a benefit of telehealth, with 57% appreciating ease of access to patients; 19% noting they could more easily fill their day with patient visits; 55% appreciating the flexibility to work remotely; 15% saying they can more easily conduct a follow-up or introductory appointment; and 43% noting they could serve patients in more rural or remote areas.
While convenience is an important benefit, differences between provider and patient perceptions of care surfaced in the survey results. For example, 31% of patient survey respondents indicated it was "easier" or "much easier" to build a relationship with their provider via telehealth versus in-person. A number of patients indicated that the decreased level of formality in provider interactions, and the increased level of relatability that resulted, provided comfort. As one patient said, "I saw my provider's dog in the background during our first session, which was fun and I think helped me connect with her."
However, just 7% of providers agreed. In fact, 37% of providers surveyed said it was "more difficult" or "much more difficult" to build a relationship with patients via telehealth.
Questions of the ability to deliver quality care via telehealth also arose, with 58% of providers indicating it was "more difficult" or "much more difficult" to examine patients via telehealth compared to in-person. Just 3% said it was "easier" or "much easier" to do so. 25% of providers surveyed said it wasn't possible to provide the type of care the patient expected via telehealth, while 15% of patients experienced the same.
As one provider said, "As a specialist, I am unable to do much for my patients [virtually]. We cannot take x-rays, perform ultrasound studies, do gait analysis, etc. We cannot dispense any of the durable medical equipment (DME) necessary to get the patient better. We are unable to take samples for pathology reports, apply casts, scan for orthotics, and many other things."
Another said, "During the pre-vaccination phase of the pandemic, when in person was too dangerous, was the only time [telehealth] was helpful."
Technology and connectivity issues also played a role in the delivery of virtual care, with differing opinions between providers and patients. While 58% of providers indicated they and/or their patient had connectivity issues or trouble with the tech set-up, just 30% of patients surveyed said they'd experienced these issues.
Many Americans have delayed or canceled health care since the pandemic's onset – and we're still catching up as a nation.
When asked to describe their approach to preventive care since the pandemic began, 63% of patients said they put off preventive care during the early stages of the pandemic. 24% said they put off preventive care during the early stages of the pandemic and have not yet caught up on scheduling those appointments. 22% stated they put off preventive care during the early stages of the pandemic and have made progress in catching up on scheduling preventive care appointments. 17% said they put off preventive care during the early stages of the pandemic and have caught up on preventive care appointments, and 38% of patients surveyed said their approach to preventive care appointments did not change during the pandemic.
But it's not just preventive care that's making a comeback. Across all specialties, the top 10 fastest-rising appointment booking reasons year over year* were:
- Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Testing (+300%)
- Relationship Struggles (+273%)
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) (+266%)
- Confirmation of Pregnancy (+224%)
- Family Therapy/ Marriage Therapy (+216%)
- Flu (+193%)
- Comprehensive Eye Exam (+188%)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (+188%)
- Couples Therapy (+178%)
- Bereavement / Grief Counseling (+175%)
Excluding mental health, the top 10 fastest-rising appointment booking reasons year over year* were:
- Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Testing (+300%)
- Confirmation of Pregnancy (+224%)
- Flu (+193%)
- Comprehensive Eye Exam (+188%)
- Bad breath/Halitosis (+160%)
- COVID-19 RT-PCR Test (+154%)
- Cold (+154%)
- Acne Scarring (+136%)
- Sick Child Visit (+120%)
- Wellness Care (+119%)
Finally, within mental health, a majority of the top 10 fastest-rising appointment booking reasons year over year* are likely related to the ripple effects of the pandemic:
- Relationship Struggles (+273%)
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) (+266%)
- Family Therapy/ Marriage Therapy (+224%)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (+187%)
- Couples Therapy (+177%)
- Bereavement / Grief Counseling (+175%)
- Stress Management (+153%)
- Therapy (+151%)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Counseling (+146%)
- Prescription / Refill (+140%)
With 81% of Americans having used video calling and conferencing during the pandemic, the public has gotten used to friends and colleagues noting, "you're on mute," and seeing or hearing pets, family and friends in the background of video calls. Healthcare appointments are no different.
Of the providers surveyed regarding their experiences while providing telehealth, 36% have seen a patient's pet, 31% have seen a patient's family member or roommate, and 42% have seen patients outside their home.
Of the patients surveyed, 14% said their pet appeared in the background, 6% indicated a family member or roommate appeared in the background, 3% noted a family member or roommate did something distracting or funny on video, and 21% said they joined a call outside their home.
Sometimes, these interactions led to deeper understanding. As one provider said, "As a mental health professional, seeing an individual's home provides great insight into their worldview."
Other times, the circumstances of a virtual visit make it harder to deliver or receive care. Notable situations shared by providers include:
- A patient plucking their eyebrows during an appointment, not realizing the video was on
- Patients taking video calls while using the restroom
- A cat jumping on a client's head during hypnosis
- A patient dialing in while rollerblading on the beach
- Kids interacting with their parents calls, from playing peekaboo, to speaking with the provider, and beyond
Distractions don't just come from patients. Providers are also humans with real lives that don't always lend themselves to perfect video interaction. Notable situations shared by patients include:
- Mistaking a provider's frozen video for an impressively focused, intense gaze
- An unmade bed as a provider's backdrop
- A provider conducting a video appointment from his car
- Seeing a therapist's cat lick itself for 45 minutes straight
- Meeting a provider's "really cute!" pet parrot
The physical limitations of virtual care created issues for many. One patient said, "My telehealth appointment was a failure. I had to go to the clinic, as the doctor couldn't treat me without an exam," and another said, "[Sometimes I] need to talk to the physician or other medical person face-to-face, including taking [blood] pressure, and other physical exams where hands on the patient are involved…for podiatry issues, I want the podiatrist to inspect my foot with his hands."
Many concluded that telehealth was primarily useful as a triage or regular check-in tool when a physical examination wasn't important. One patient said, "[Telehealth should be] triage-only. It's a lot more convenient, since I don't have to physically be somewhere for a doctor's appointment and I can schedule them during my workday during a lunch break or something. I'm not chronically sick and I usually know what's wrong with me when I need to see a doctor (psychiatric check-up, prescription refills, etc.). I probably wouldn't use telehealth for more serious things or if I need a diagnosis."
Insights from Zocdoc appointment booking trends, and user and provider surveys, reveal American patients' desire for choice and connection in their healthcare experience. They do not want telehealth to be the only way they interact with healthcare professionals; they prefer in-person care, and hope to use a combination of virtual and in-person care in the future. They want the convenience of virtual care for narrow, specific circumstances, such as screenings and prescription refills. They also want ongoing relationships with providers, and to get high quality care, whether in-person or virtually. The insights also show the importance of providers offering choice and focusing on creating a seamless continuity of care experience regardless of appointment location.
For more information, contact press@zocdoc.com. If you are interested in working with Zocdoc to streamline scheduling, and improve Americans' access to care — in-person or virtually — you can learn more at zocdoc.com/join.
If you are interested in sharing a story about your healthcare journey, to help Zocdoc drive regulatory and legislative changes that put patients first, please visit https://www.zocdoc.com/about/patient-stories/.
Zocdoc is a leading digital healthcare marketplace for in-person or virtual care. Each month, millions of people use our free service, via Zocdoc.com or the Zocdoc app, to find in-network doctors, instantly book in-person or virtual appointments, read reviews from verified users, get reminders for upcoming appointments and preventive checkups, and more. With a mission to give power to the patient, Zocdoc's platform delivers the accessible and simple experience they expect and deserve.
* The "top 10 fastest-rising appointment booking reasons" reflects the most popular visit reasons booked from January-May 2022, compared to that same time period in 2021.
Contact
Sandra Glading
sandra.glading@zocdoc.com
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SOURCE Zocdoc | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/zocdoc-reports-healthcare-experience-2022/ | 2022-06-22 16:04:27 | 1 | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/zocdoc-reports-healthcare-experience-2022/ |
ROCKY HILL, Conn. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Wednesday evening's drawing of the "Lucky For Life" game were:
02-05-11-13-40, Lucky Ball: 15
(two, five, eleven, thirteen, forty; Lucky Ball: fifteen)
ROCKY HILL, Conn. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Wednesday evening's drawing of the "Lucky For Life" game were:
02-05-11-13-40, Lucky Ball: 15
(two, five, eleven, thirteen, forty; Lucky Ball: fifteen) | https://www.sfgate.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Lucky-For-Life-game-17695608.php | 2023-01-05 05:11:45 | 1 | https://www.sfgate.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Lucky-For-Life-game-17695608.php |
NEW YORK , Oct. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of NIO Inc. (NYSE: NIO) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.
Class Period: August 20, 2020 to July 11, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: October 24, 2022
No obligation or cost to you.
Learn more about your recoverable losses in NIO:
https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/nio-inc-loss-submission-form-2?id=32324&from=4
NIO Inc. NEWS - NIO NEWS
CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that NIO Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) NIO pulled forward revenue by selling batteries to a related party, which owned the batteries and managed users' subscriptions; (2) through the related party, NIO also recognized enormous depreciation savings; (3) as a result of the foregoing, the Company's revenue and net loss were overstated; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in NIO you have until October 24, 2022 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased NIO securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the NIO lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/nio-inc-loss-submission-form-2?id=32324&from=4.
ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM
J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
J. Klein, Esq.
535 Fifth Avenue
4th Floor
New York City, NY 10017
jk@kleinstocklaw.com
Telephone: (212) 616-4899
www.kleinstocklaw.com
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SOURCE The Klein Law Firm | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/10/04/nio-alert-klein-law-firm-announces-lead-plaintiff-deadline-october-24-2022-class-action-filed-behalf-nio-inc-shareholders/ | 2022-10-04 10:09:07 | 0 | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/10/04/nio-alert-klein-law-firm-announces-lead-plaintiff-deadline-october-24-2022-class-action-filed-behalf-nio-inc-shareholders/ |
WASHINGTON — A 58-year-old woman from Pennsylvania was killed Tuesday after she was attacked by a shark while snorkeling in the Bahamas, police said.
The woman and her family were passengers on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas and had booked an independent shore excursion in Nassau.
The local tour company brought the family to go snorkeling in Green Cay, about half a mile from Rose Island, a private island off the coast of Nassau, authorities said in a press conference.
Around 2 p.m., the woman was attacked by a shark while she and her family were snorkeling, police said. Five to seven people were snorkeling when the attack occurred. No other injuries were reported.
"It is further reported that family members observed a bull shark attacking the female," police described.
Family members and workers with the tour company got the woman back in the boat and took her to shore, wher emergency crews pronounced her dead at the scene, police said. They added that the victim suffered injuries to her upper body.
In a statement, Royal Caribbean said it is "providing support and assistance to the guest’s loved ones during this difficult time." The Harmony of the Seas is on a 7-night cruise that left Port Canaveral, Florida, on Sunday.
Authorities have yet to say where in Pennsylvania the woman lived.
The deadly attack comes one month after an eight-year-old British boy was reportedly attacked by several nurse sharks while swimming in a lagoon in the Bahamas.
Overall, shark attacks on humans remain extremely rare. There were just 73 confirmed unprovoked shark attack cases in 2021, including 9 fatalities, according to The Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File. The U.S. had the most out of any country, accounting for 47 of the 73 reported attacks. | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/nation-world/american-tourist-killed-bahamas-shark-attack/507-e32691f1-207b-406d-a84f-cfdc6a6ab133 | 2022-09-07 00:54:22 | 0 | https://www.wnep.com/article/news/nation-world/american-tourist-killed-bahamas-shark-attack/507-e32691f1-207b-406d-a84f-cfdc6a6ab133 |
CARLSBAD, Calif., Jan. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: IONS) today announced that Brett P. Monia, Ph.D., chief executive officer, will present a company overview and participate in a Q&A session at the 41st Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference at 9:45 a.m. PT (12:45 p.m. ET) on Wednesday, January 11, 2023.
A live webcast of the presentation and Q&A session will be available on the Investors & Media section of the Ionis website. The replay will be available within 48 hours and will be archived for a limited time.
For more than 30 years, Ionis has been the leader in RNA-targeted therapy, pioneering new markets and changing standards of care with its novel antisense technology. Ionis currently has three marketed medicines and a premier late-stage pipeline highlighted by industry-leading cardiovascular and neurological franchises. Our scientific innovation began and continues with the knowledge that sick people depend on us, which fuels our vision of becoming a leading, fully integrated biotechnology company.
To learn more about Ionis visit www.ionispharma.com and follow us on Twitter @ionispharma.
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SOURCE Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2023/01/04/ionis-present-41st-annual-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference/ | 2023-01-04 13:31:53 | 0 | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2023/01/04/ionis-present-41st-annual-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference/ |
HOUSTON (AP) — Two teenagers were killed and one man was injured in a shooting at Houston-area apartment complex, authorities said Saturday.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said on Twitter that deputies responded to reports of a shooting in the parking lot of the complex in north Harris County, about 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of downtown Houston, at 10:40 p.m. Friday. They discovered three males had been shot.
Two teenagers were pronounced dead at a hospital and a 20-year-old man who was shot twice is expected to survive, Gonzalez said.
Multiple people were detained, and the sheriff's office was looking through surveillance camera footage to piece together what happened.
Sgt. Dennis Wolfford with Houston County Sheriff's Office Homicide said the confrontation may have started at a pool party and multiple people had discharged weapons.
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“We do not know who was shooting first, we do have possible shooters detained, we are still working to figure out, who exactly fired the shots," Wolfford said. “We will be interviewing them and reviewing surveillance video to determine how this went down.”
Gonzalez said both teens killed were 17, but Wolfford said one was 17 and the other was 18.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/national/2-teenagers-killed-1-man-wounded-in-houston-area-shooting/article_c18d25c6-41d6-524e-b589-119ae610825c.html | 2022-07-02 17:39:34 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/national/2-teenagers-killed-1-man-wounded-in-houston-area-shooting/article_c18d25c6-41d6-524e-b589-119ae610825c.html |
NEW YORK – A completed documentary about the rapper formerly known as Kanye West has been shelved amid his recent slew of antisemitic remarks.
MRC studio executives Modi Wiczyk, Asif Satchu and Scott Tenley announced in a memo Monday: “We cannot support any content that amplifies his platform.”
Ye was recently restricted from posting on Twitter and Instagram over antisemitic posts that the social networks said violated their policies. He has also suggested slavery was a choice and called the COVID-19 vaccine the “mark of the beast.” Earlier this month, Ye was criticized for wearing a “White Lives Matter” T-shirt to the showing of his latest collection at Paris Fashion Week.
Wiczyk and Satchu are co-founders and co-CEOs of MRC Entertainment. Tenley is the chief business officer. Shelving the documentary comes just days after the French fashion house Balenciaga cut ties with Ye, according to Women's Wear Daily.
In their lengthy memo, Wiczyk, Satchu and Tenley reach deep into the history of antisemitism.
“Kanye is a producer and sampler of music. Last week he sampled and remixed a classic tune that has charted for over 3000 years — the lie that Jews are evil and conspire to control the world for their own gain. This song was performed acapella in the time of the Pharaohs, Babylon and Rome, went acoustic with The Spanish Inquisition and Russia’s Pale of Settlement, and Hitler took the song electric. Kanye has now helped mainstream it in the modern era,” they wrote.
Ye's talent agency, CAA, has dropped him as well. That news Monday and the scrapped documentary comes after UTA CEO Jeremy Zimmer condemned Ye in a companywide memo denouncing antisemitism. Ye was briefly a client but returned to CAA after a year.
Others in Hollywood, including Ye's estranged wife, Kim Kardashian, and other members of her family, have also condemned antisemitism. Demonstrators on a Los Angeles overpass Saturday unfurled a banner praising Ye. | https://www.wsls.com/entertainment/2022/10/24/ye-dropped-by-talent-agency-documentary-on-him-scrapped/ | 2022-10-25 02:26:56 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/entertainment/2022/10/24/ye-dropped-by-talent-agency-documentary-on-him-scrapped/ |
House passes same-sex marriage bill in retort to high court
WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has overwhelmingly approved a bill tp protect same-sex and interracial marriages. Tuesday's vote stands as a direct confrontation with the Supreme Court, whose conservative majority in overturning Roe v. Wade abortion access signaled that other rights may be in jeopardy. While the Respect for Marriage Act easily passed the House, it is likely to stall in the Senate, where most Republicans would surely block it. But it's part of a political strategy setting up an election-year roll call that will force all lawmakers to go on the record with their views. Dozens of Republicans joined Democrats in Tuesday's House passage.
Most major nations lag in acting on climate-fighting goals
WASHINGTON (AP) — Most major countries are finding that it's easier to promise to fight climate change than to actually do it. Experts who track action to reduce carbon emissions say only the European Union is close to doing what's necessary to limit global warming to a few more tenths of a degree. A new report finds that the U.S. is on track to cut emissions by 24% to 30% by 2030, but that's far lower than the country's goal of reducing by 50% to 52%. Experts say other nations, particularly China, are waiting to see what happens in the U.S. But Congress and the Supreme Court have stymied the Biden administration's climate-fighting plan.
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UK breaks record for highest temperature as Europe sizzles
LONDON (AP) — Britain shattered its record for highest temperature ever registered amid a heat wave that has seared swaths of Europe. The national weather forecaster predicted it would get hotter still in a country ill prepared for such extremes. The typically temperate nation is the latest to be walloped by unusually hot, dry weather that has triggered wildfires from Portugal to the Balkans and led to hundreds of heat-related deaths. Images of flames racing toward a French beach and Britons sweltering have driven home concerns about climate change. The U.K. Met Office weather agency registered a provisional reading of 40.3 degrees at Coningsby in eastern England.
Biden holds off — for now — on climate emergency declaration
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will travel to Massachusetts on Wednesday to promote new efforts to combat climate change. However, the White House says the president will not declare an emergency that would unlock federal resources to deal with the issue despite increasing pressure from climate activists and Democratic lawmakers. The White House says it has not ruled out issuing such a declaration later, which would allow the president to reroute funds to climate efforts without congressional approval. On Wednesday, Biden will announce other new climate actions when he visits a former coal-fired power plant in Somerset, Massachusetts, that shuttered in 2017 but has since been reborn as a wind power facility.
Putin, in Tehran, gets strong support from Iran over Ukraine
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin won staunch support from Iran for his country’s military campaign in Ukraine, with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei saying the West opposes an “independent and strong” Russia. Khamenei said that if Russia hadn’t sent troops into Ukraine, it would have faced an attack from NATO later, a statement that echoed Putin’s own rhetoric and reflected increasingly close ties between Moscow and Tehran as they both face crippling Western sanctions. NATO allies have bolstered their military presence in Eastern Europand sent weapons to Ukraine to counter the Russian attack. Putin held talks Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on some of the most pressing issues facing the region.
Georgia fake electors seek to quash election probe subpoenas
ATLANTA (AP) — Eleven Republican fake electors from Georgia are fighting subpoenas to testify before a special grand jury in an investigation into whether former President Donald Trump and others illegally interfered in the 2020 election in the state. All 11 signed a certificate declaring falsely that then-President Donald Trump had won the 2020 presidential election and declaring themselves the state’s “duly elected and qualified” electors even though Joe Biden had won the state and a slate of Democratic electors was certified. They filed a motion Tuesday to quash their subpoenas, calling them “unreasonable and oppressive.”
FDA weighs oversight changes after formula, Juul troubles
WASHINGTON (AP) — The head of the Food and Drug Administration is asking for a review of the agency’s food and tobacco programs. Robert Califf's announcement follows months of criticism over his agency's handling of the baby formula shortage and e-cigarette reviews. Califf is trying to push past several controversies that have dominated his second stint running the agency. Califf says a non-governmental research group will convene experts to deliver the evaluations within 60 business days. The agency has been hammered for the delayed response to contamination problems at the country’s largest infant formula plant. It also has been criticized over its handling of a recent decision to ban all e-cigarettes from Juul.
Abortion doctor signals she'll sue Indiana AG over comments
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — An Indianapolis doctor who performed an abortion on a 10-year-old rape victim from Ohio took the first step Tuesday toward suing Indiana’s attorney general for defamation. Dr. Caitlin Bernard, an Indianapolis obstetrician-gynecologist who gave the girl a medication-induced abortion on June 30, filed a tort claim notice over what she says are false statements that Attorney General Todd Rokita has made about her and her work. Bernard received widespread attention after she gave an interview to the Indianapolis Star about the child, who traveled to Indiana to get the abortion. The claim starts a 90-day period for the state to settle the claim. If it’s not, DeLaney could file a lawsuit. Rokita did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Automakers targeting average households with new crop of EVs
WARREN, Mich. (AP) — In their first rollouts of electric vehicles, America’s automakers targeted people who value short-range economy cars. Then came EVs for luxury buyers and drivers of pickups and delivery vans. Now, the companies are zeroing in at the heart of the market: The compact SUV. In their drive to have EVs dominate vehicle sales in coming years, the automakers are promoting their new models as having the range, price and features to rival their gas-powered competitors. Some are so far proving quite popular. Ford’s $45,000-plus Mustang Mach E is sold out for the model year. General Motors’ Chevrolet brand just introduced an electric version of its Blazer, also starting around $45,000, when it goes on sale next summer.
Netflix Q2 subscriber loss widens, but not as much as feared
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Netflix shed another 970,000 subscribers during the spring amid tougher competition and soaring inflation that’s squeezing household budgets, increasing the urgency behind the video streaming service’s effort to launch a cheaper option with commercial interruptions. The April-June contraction announced Tuesday as part of Netflix’s second-quarter earnings report is by far the largest quarterly subscriber loss in the company’s 25-year history. It could have been far worse, though, considering Netflix management released an April forecast calling for a a loss of 2 million subscribers during the second quarter. The less severe loss in subscribers helped lift Netflix's battered stock by 7% in extended trading. | https://wcfcourier.com/news/national/ap-news-summary-at-7-18-p-m-edt/article_bf86325c-771d-5053-be00-cee52500cd91.html | 2022-07-20 00:10:08 | 1 | https://wcfcourier.com/news/national/ap-news-summary-at-7-18-p-m-edt/article_bf86325c-771d-5053-be00-cee52500cd91.html |
LONDON (AP) — Millions of people in England voted Thursday in local elections that are the first test of electoral opinion since Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took over a fractious and exhausted Conservative Party six months ago.
The Conservatives say they expect to lose ground in elections for more than 8,000 seats on 230 local councils across England as voters punish them for the turmoil that engulfed the party under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. He resigned amid multiple scandals and was replaced by Liz Truss, whose rash tax-cutting plans spooked financial markets, hammered the value of the pound and roiled the wider British economy.
The party chose Sunak, a smooth former banker, to try to restore stability to the economy and the government.
Sunak said Wednesday that his party was expecting the election to be “hard for us,” but vowed the Conservatives were leaving behind the “box set drama” of the Johnson and Truss eras.
“I’ve only been prime minister for six months but I do believe we’re making good progress,” he told a think-tank event. “Just think about where we were then and where we are now.”
The left-of-center main opposition Labour Party hopes the results will confirm its front-runner status for the next national election, due by the end of 2024.
University of Strathclyde polling expert John Curtice said if Labour secured more than a 10% lead in the projected national vote share based on the local results, it would signal a likely general election victory for the party.
The election is the first to be held since the government changed the law to require voters show photo identification at all U.K. polling stations.
The government says ID is required to vote in many democracies, and the move will help prevent voter fraud. Critics say there is little evidence electoral fraud is a problem in Britain.
Acceptable forms of ID include passports, driver’s licenses and senior citizens’ travelcards – but not transit passes for young people.
The government says getting an older person’s travelcard requires proof of age, unlike other transit passes. But the discrepancy has brought allegations the change will disproportionately prevent young people – the group least likely to support the Conservatives – from voting. Poor people are also less likely to have photo ID than the more affluent.
University of Exeter political scientist Rebecca Baker said “there will very likely be voters who turn up on the day unable to use the polling booth.”
“We may also see much longer queues to vote, in light of the extra elements needed and poor tempers, placing additional strain on the already overloaded polling staff.”
The Electoral Reform Society, which opposes the new rules, said it had received “countless examples” of people being turned away from polling stations because they lacked proof of identity. But the Association of Electoral Administrators said that no major problems had been reported by early afternoon.
Polls opened at 7 a.m. (0600GMT) and close at 10 p.m. (2100GMT). Most results are due Friday.
There are no elections in Scotland or Wales, while Northern Ireland will vote May 18. London, the U.K.’s largest city, will not elect its mayor and council until next year. | https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/u-s-world/uk-holds-local-elections-amid-storm-over-new-voter-id-rules/ | 2023-05-05 09:52:27 | 0 | https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/u-s-world/uk-holds-local-elections-amid-storm-over-new-voter-id-rules/ |
New summer rates for DTE, Consumers start this week as temps soar
New summer electricity rates go into effect this week for DTE and Consumers Energy customers across the state, just as temperatures are expected to hit 90 degrees for the first time this year.
The increased summer rates set in on June 1 and last until the end of September, making it more expensive to use electricity during the late afternoon and early evening hours.
This week’s seasonal change is part of a new pricing mechanism, required by Michigan’s utility regulators, known as "time of use” rates.
Under the program, customers of the two utility companies are charged higher prices for the energy they use during peak hours, with an added increase in the summer months, meaning that anyone wanting to crank up their air conditioning during the peak periods will see costs spike.
For DTE customers, electricity will cost $0.2098 cents per kilowatt hour during peak hours, which have been set at 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The rest of the year, from October 1 through May, the peak hour pricing is set at $0.1675. Outside of those weekend peak hours, customers will be charged a lower rate of $0.1545 per kilowatt hour.
Consumers customers will also see the summer rates go into effect on weekdays starting on June 1 between the hours of 2-7 p.m. During those peak hours, users can expect to pay $0.158 per kilowatt hour. The rest of the day and on weekends, the off-peak rates are set at $0.103 per kilowatt hour.
The off-peak rates stay the same year-round for both companies.
“With this rate, when you use electricity can be just as important as how much you use,” Consumers explained on its website, where it breaks down the pricing mechanism for its customers.
“We’re encouraging customers to save money by reducing electricity use during this on-peak time, or shifting use to mornings, nights and weekends.”
The new rate structure for DTE and Consumers customers stem from rulings by the Michigan Public Service Commission mandating that the companies transition to the time-of-day pricing mechanism. The goal is to align rates with the actual cost of producing electricity at different times, according to the Michigan Public Service Commission.
The start of the summer peak period for DTE and Consumers customers will set in just as summer weather has finally arrived in Michigan. So far this week, temperatures have been in the high 80s and could hit 90 degrees tomorrow, according to the 7-day forecast from the National Weather Service in Detroit.
According to the weather service, the area will see afternoon winds, which could help people who want to reduce their air conditioning use during peak hours. By Sunday, temperatures are expected to dip back into the 70s and 80s.
Both utilities have provided tips for customers navigating the peak pricing model and higher summer rates.
According to Consumers, raising your thermostat 5 degrees for 8 hours during the day can help people cut costs on your bill. Turning down the air conditioning during the peak period will maximize those savings, the utility says. Cleaning the filters on an air conditioning unit can allow it to run more efficiently, which in turn can help keep energy bills down.
Users hoping to avoid a jump in their electricity bill are also advised to consider changing when they use major appliances like their dishwasher or laundry machines. Delaying your chores until later in the night, when electricity rates drop, can help keep bills down.
DTE recommends similar lifestyle changes for its customers. The company also offers some tools to help its users. Customers can get more personalized recommendations on the company’s website.
Consumers Energy customers can also find more information and tips on the utility’s website. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2023/05/31/new-summer-electricity-rates-for-dte-consumers-start-as-temps-soar/70273137007/ | 2023-05-31 21:23:30 | 0 | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2023/05/31/new-summer-electricity-rates-for-dte-consumers-start-as-temps-soar/70273137007/ |
BERKELEY, Calif., June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The CARESTAR Foundation today announced that it has awarded four grants totaling $900,000 over two years to several organizations across California in furtherance of its mission to fund and advocate for improvements to emergency and prehospital care in the state.
Approximately $450,000 will go to two nonprofits including EMS Corps and City EMT, both focused on emergency medical technician (EMT) training for young people of color; a $300,000 grant will be used by Interface Children and Family Services to address the challenges of the state's overworked 911 system with a new 211 solution that aims to reduce the number of non-life-threatening calls; and $150,000 in general operating support will go to the Prevention Institute to further their work in building prevention and health equity into policies and actions at the state and local levels.
"We maintain our steadfast commitment to systems change in the name of bringing greater health equity to emergency and prehospital care in California," said Tanir Ami CEO of the CARSTAR Foundation. "With these latest grants, we are supporting grantees whose work moves us towards this goal by addressing critical components that supplement and enhance the work of the state's local infrastructure."
Over 40 million California residents and visitors rely on effective emergency and prehospital care to provide help and save lives whenever a traumatic event or injury occurs, regardless of the precipitating cause (e.g., motor vehicle accident, gun violence, accidental fall, substance use, mental health crisis, wildfire, etc.).
The system responsible for providing this care is made up of a complex web of public and private agencies, independent communications systems, and a range of first responders and health care providers, all governed and influenced by local, state, and federal policies, regulations, and payors. This complexity coupled with California's uniquely diverse population of cultures, languages, and geographies provides both challenges and opportunities to ensure that all Californians receive the most equitable, unified, and compassionate emergency and prehospital care possible.
The CARESTAR Foundation was founded in 2017 as a result of the sale of CALSTAR (California Shock Trauma Air Rescue), an air ambulance company, and honors CALSTAR'S legacy and lifesaving work in the field of emergency and trauma transport and care. CARESTAR's mission is to improve health outcomes for all Californians, by applying a racial equity lens to fund and advocate for improvements to emergency and prehospital care. www.carestarfoundation.org
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SOURCE CARESTAR Foundation | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/carestar-foundation-awards-900000-california-nonprofits-greater-health-equity-emergency-prehospital-care/ | 2022-06-27 14:05:55 | 0 | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/carestar-foundation-awards-900000-california-nonprofits-greater-health-equity-emergency-prehospital-care/ |
Companies combine expertise to deliver innovative technology solutions for arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues
TUCSON, Ariz., July 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Simpleview and ASM Global are pleased to announce a partnership created to provide a unified network of websites and technology solutions for the ASM Global portfolio of venues. The partnership was strategically designed to develop cohesive branding powered by a best-in-class technology stack and ticketing integrations that promote visitors and drive web conversions for arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues.
Simpleview, a leading provider of CRM, CMS, and marketing solutions for destinations worldwide, and ASM Global, the world's leading venue management and services company, will serve the meetings and events ecosystem; by leveraging Simpleview's advanced technology and ASM Global's extensive global network, this partnership will enable clients to create captivating digital experiences that drive engagement and ticket sales and enhance venue marketing efforts.
Highlights of the partnership include:
- Enhanced Website Capabilities: a new generation of website solutions with state-of-the-art features and functionalities equipped with user-friendly content management systems, robust event and ticketing integrations, interactive mapping tools, and seamless integration with social media platforms
- Personalized Experiences: clients can deliver tailored content and offers to individual users, ensuring a highly personalized and engaging journey for every visitor
- Mobile-Optimized Design: prioritization of mobile optimization, ensuring that websites are fully accessible across all screen sizes and platforms
- Data-Driven Insights: comprehensive analytics and reporting gain insights into visitor behavior, marketing performance, and conversion rates so venues can make informed decisions and optimize marketing strategies effectively
"ASM Global is thrilled to work in partnership with Simpleview to create a cohesive, best-in-class website solution for our diverse global portfolio of stadiums, arenas, theaters, and convention centers," said Alex Merchán, chief marketing officer at ASM Global. "From the start of this relationship, Simpleview has impressed us with its tech stack, service offering, data-driven approach, and talented team. We look forward to building and scaling this partnership in the years ahead."
About Simpleview
Simpleview is a worldwide leading provider of CRM, CMS, website design, digital marketing services, and data insights for convention bureaus, venues, tourism boards, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), and attractions. The company employs staff across the globe, serving clients of all sizes, including small towns, world capitals, top meeting destinations, and countries across multiple continents.
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SOURCE SIMPLEVIEW | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/07/31/simpleview-amp-asm-global-partnership-provide-cutting-edge-network-websites-portfolio-venues/ | 2023-07-31 20:41:31 | 0 | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/07/31/simpleview-amp-asm-global-partnership-provide-cutting-edge-network-websites-portfolio-venues/ |
Moon rocket launch looms as NASA evaluates hurricane damage
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — NASA started the countdown Monday for this week’s planned liftoff of its new moon rocket, although hurricane damage could cause yet another delay for the test flight.
Hurricane Nicole’s high winds caused a 10-foot (3-meter) section of caulking to peel away near the crew capsule at the top of the rocket last Thursday. Mission managers want to make sure the narrow strip won’t damage the rocket if it breaks off during liftoff. A final decision was expected Monday evening.
Liftoff is scheduled for the early morning hours of Wednesday from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, with test dummies rather than astronauts on board. It’s the first test flight for the 322-foot (98-meter) rocket, the most powerful ever built by NASA, and will attempt to send the capsule into lunar orbit.
The nearly monthlong $4 billion mission has been grounded since August by fuel leaks and Hurricane Ian, which forced the rocket back into its hangar for shelter at the end of September. The rocket remained at the pad for Nicole; managers said there wasn’t enough time to move it once it became clear the storm was going to be stronger than anticipated.
The space agency plans to send astronauts around the moon in 2024 and land a crew on the lunar surface in 2025.
Astronauts last visited the moon in December 1972, closing out the Apollo program.
A microwave oven-size NASA satellite, meanwhile, arrived Sunday in a special lunar orbit following a summer liftoff from New Zealand. This elongated orbit, stretching as much as tens of thousands of miles (kilometers), is where the space agency plans to build a depot for lunar crews. The way station, known as Gateway, will serve astronauts going to and from the lunar surface.
The satellite, called Capstone, will spend six months testing a navigation system in this orbit.
___
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.azfamily.com/2022/11/14/moon-rocket-launch-looms-nasa-evaluates-hurricane-damage/ | 2022-11-14 18:08:01 | 1 | https://www.azfamily.com/2022/11/14/moon-rocket-launch-looms-nasa-evaluates-hurricane-damage/ |
WESTON, Fla., Jan. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cantex Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing transformative therapies for cancer and other life-threatening medical conditions for which new treatments are urgently needed, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Orphan Drug Designation to Cantex' azeliragon, a well-tolerated once-a-day pill, for the treatment of glioblastoma.
Glioblastoma is a highly malignant primary brain tumor for which current therapeutic options provide a limited life extension benefit. New treatments of glioblastoma are urgently needed.
Azeliragon is an orally administered small molecule, taken once daily, that inhibits the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (known as RAGE) interactions with certain ligands, including HMGB1 and S100 proteins in the glioblastoma microenvironment. By preventing interaction of RAGE with these ligands, azeliragon may inhibit glioblastoma and overcome its resistance to effective treatment. Azeliragon was originally under development for Alzheimer's disease by the company from which Cantex licensed it. Clinical safety data from these trials, involving more than 2000 individuals dosed for periods up to 18 months, indicate that azeliragon is very well tolerated. Cantex is also developing azeliragon for the treatment of other major cancers in need of improved treatments where RAGE has been implicated in disease progression and in complications of cancer treatment.
"Receiving FDA orphan drug status for azeliragon highlights the significant unmet need for novel treatment options for patients with glioblastoma, the most common and lethal primary brain cancer," commented Stephen G. Marcus, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Cantex. "This designation validates our continued commitment to developing new treatment options for patients with glioblastoma, as well as for other cancers and their complications, including breast cancer, cancer chemotherapy related cognitive decline, pancreatic cancer, and cancers, such as breast and lung cancer, that have metastasized to the brain."
FDA Orphan Drug Designation provides Cantex with seven years of azeliragon marketing exclusivity from the time of product launch for the orphan indication, and several other important benefits, including assistance in the drug development process, tax credits for clinical costs, and exemptions from certain FDA fees.
Azeliragon, previously known as TTP488, is an orally active, small molecule, antagonist of the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) licensed by Cantex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. from vTv Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: VTVT). vTv Therapeutics discovered azeliragon and developed it into phase 3 clinical trials. A broad range of evidence suggests that RAGE—ligand interactions play a critical role in cancer and its complications as well as in a range of inflammatory diseases.
Cantex Pharmaceuticals is a privately held, clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing transformative therapies for cancer and other life-threatening medical conditions for which new treatments are urgently needed. For more information, please visit www.cantex.com.
Contact Data
Stephen G. Marcus, M.D.
+1 954-315-3660
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SOURCE Cantex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2023/01/09/cantex-pharmaceuticals-receives-fda-orphan-drug-designation-azeliragon-treatment-glioblastoma/ | 2023-01-09 13:42:13 | 1 | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2023/01/09/cantex-pharmaceuticals-receives-fda-orphan-drug-designation-azeliragon-treatment-glioblastoma/ |
(BCN) — Santa Rosa police are determining if a racist and antisemitic mail received by teachers and administrators of Rincon Valley Middle School was by a student or a random act. A Rincon Valley teacher on Friday contacted the Santa Rosa Police Department after receiving the presentation in PowerPoint.
“We’re trying to see if this was somebody within the school district who was just a student because we cannot tell if there was a reason or a pattern for why these specific teachers or administrators were sent this document or if it is just like a random act,” said police spokesperson Lt. Christopher Mahurin.
Santa Rosa City Schools District superintendent Anna Trunnel has yet to comment. Mahurin says an investigation is still ongoing to determine if there was a crime committed or if hate speech was involved.
“If this was a student who sent this out and there’s no crime, we refer to the school for disciplinary action against the student,” he said. “If we can determine the crime was committed and then identify which individual that sent this out to all the students, the teachers and administrators, they will be held accountable for it.”
Last September, antisemitic flyers were tossed onto lawns and driveways near Congregation Beth Ami and Joseph Weingarten Chabad Jewish Center in Santa Rosa’s Bennett Valley neighborhood. Meanwhile, Mahurin says these cases happen “every once in a while”, and advised residents and Rincon Valley Middle School students, teachers, and administrators to “give the police a call if they see someone suspicious.”
Copyright © 2023 Bay City News, Inc. | https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/racist-antisemitic-mail-at-middle-school-being-investigated-by-santa-rosa-pd/ | 2023-06-06 20:55:04 | 1 | https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/racist-antisemitic-mail-at-middle-school-being-investigated-by-santa-rosa-pd/ |
Review: The 2023 Toyota bZ4X goes beyond zero, but how far?
All-electric SUV has limits
Toyota’s electric vehicle efforts have been getting a fair amount of criticism from some of its investors and environmental groups that don’t think it’s putting enough effort into them.
Instead of going all-in on EVs, the world’s largest automaker has been taking a more balanced approach focused largely on hybrids.
Its argument is that instead of making one pricey electric car, you can build dozens of affordable, fuel efficient hybrids using the same amount of battery materials, which could help speed the reduction in carbon emissions. The company is also big on hydrogen-powered vehicles that can either burn the gas without creating any carbon dioxide, or use it in fuel cells to generate electricity in place of heavy, slow-to-charge battery packs.
It’s a debate that won’t be ending anytime soon, but it kind of overshadows the fact that Toyota has just introduced a new electric model.
HOT CAR: TOYOTA BUILT A HYDROGEN-POWERED CLASSIC
The bZ4X is a compact utility vehicle similar in size to the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The bZ part of the name stands for Beyond Zero, as in zero emissions, but… beyond. There’s something about vehicles that make a positive impact in the marketing mumbo jumbo, but that’s the gist.
If the bZ4X looks familiar, that might be because you’ve seen the same vehicle at your local Subaru dealer, where it’s sold as the Solterra through a partnership between the brands.
Toyota offers the bZ4X in either an XLE or Limited trim and both are available with the choice of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. Prices start at $43,335 for a front-wheel-drive XLE and $45,415 for an all-wheel-drive XLE.
The bZ4X is lower, but a little longer than a Toyota Rav4. It also has a longer wheelbase that gives it more legroom, which is especially noticeable in the roomy second row.
Its 27.7-foot cargo area is spacious, and has a wheelbarrow storage space under the floor for a portable charging cable, but is about 10 cubic feet smaller than the taller Rav4’s.
The interior is a mix of conventional and unconventional styling. The center console has buttons, toggles, touch-sensitive pads and a touchscreen, and the transmission selector is a knob. Toyota’s latest infotainment system interface is a little clumsy, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration are included.
The real oddity is the instrument cluster, which is mounted high up on top of the dashboard. It’s meant to put it in the driver’s line of sight, but is easily blocked by the steering wheel, depending how you sit.
That’s because the bZ4X is also available with a steer-by-wire system in other markets that uses a flat-top yoke-style wheel that doesn’t block the screen. Unlike Tesla’s, it’s calibrated to only require 150 degrees of rotation to turn the wheels from lock to lock. Toyota hasn’t said when U.S. models will get it.
I was able to set things up so that I could just see most of the important information on the screen with just the bottom cut off in the all-wheel-drive Limited I tested. Priced at $50,115 it comes nearly loaded with climate-controlled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, lane centering adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera that provides a virtual view of what’s under the vehicle. An $1,130 option package adds a nifty-looking split rear spoiler, a crystal clear nine-speaker JBL audio system, heated rear seats and radiant heating for the driver and front passenger’s feet.
The floor and the seats are meant to be used instead of the cabin heater, which can really suck the range out of the vehicle on a cold day. And there’s not that much to begin with. The 201 hp front-wheel-drive trims are rated for 252 miles and 242 miles on a full battery, and the 214 hp all-wheel-drive models 228 miles and 222 miles. Those numbers are average to middling for the class, and partly due to a relatively small 71.4 and 72.8 kilowatt-hour battery packs they use, while the Ioniq 5 wrings up to 303 miles per charge in the same price range from its 77.4 kilowatt-hour pack.
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Turning the heat on dropped the indicated range by about 30% whenever I tried it. Not entirely unusual for an EV that doesn’t use an efficient heat pump, but the change is dramatic to see on the screen. Charging at a public DC Fast charging station to 80% takes about 30 minutes with a front-wheel-drive bZ4X, but the all-wheel-drive version runs at a lower rate and needs twice as much time.
In between charges, the bZ4X drives as well as any of its competitors. The power delivery and ride quality are both perfectly smooth and it operates at luxury levels of silence. The fruits of the Subaru connection are also evident if you head down a dirt road. Despite the low roof, the bZ4X has a healthy 8.1 inches of ground clearance and the suspension can soak up some serious ruts. It’s also equipped with Subaru’s X-Mode traction control system and Grip Control low speed cruise control for use on trails.
Overall, the bZ4X feels very much like a Toyota in all the best ways. The range is definitely an issue, but mostly because vehicles with more can be had for a similar price. A lot of EV owners who charge at home every night have proven to be satisfied with 250 miles or less.
HERE'S WHAT THE 2024 TOYOTA TACOMA LOOKS LIKE … OR DOES IT?
Unfortunately, the bZ4X is made in Japan, which means it isn’t eligible for the current federal tax credit for EV purchases that the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Ford Mustang Mach-E and, and some American-made VW ID.4 models, to name a few, qualify for.
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It also costs nearly the same as a Rav4 Prime plug-in hybrid, which can go 42 miles per charge before you go the wrong way beyond zero. It's estimated to cost $950 annually in electric and gas compared to $700 for the bZ4X. Stay close to home in the Rav4, though, and you could end up getting more for less, while spending less time at charging stations on long trips. Maybe Toyota has a point about the hybrid thing.
----------
2023 Toyota bZ4X
Price: $43,335
As tested: $52,468
Type: 5-passenger, 4-door, all-wheel-drive SUV
Motor: dual electric
Power: 214 hp
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
Range: 222 miles
MPGe: 102 | https://www.foxnews.com/auto/review-2023-toyota-bz4x | 2023-02-12 15:45:21 | 0 | https://www.foxnews.com/auto/review-2023-toyota-bz4x |
MINNEAPOLIS, July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers (USW) today proudly endorsed Don Samuels for Congress in Minnesota's Fifth Congressional District.
USW District 11 Director Emil Ramirez said that Samuels will provide strong leadership for coalition building during a time when Minnesota and the nation need it most.
"As a nation, if we want to create good jobs, modernize our crumbling infrastructure and expand the middle class, then we need to elect true public servants like Don Samuels, who know how to bring people together to make it happen," Ramirez said.
"We need reliable leadership to ensure American workers are free to organize and bargain collectively so they can have safe workplaces and long-term economic security," Ramirez said. "Don Samuels will fight for policies based on fairness and justice when tough choices need to be made, and Minnesota workers will be proud to fight for him."
"Samuels' longtime commitment and dedication to Minneapolis proves he cares about people and their families instead of just votes," Ramirez said. "The USW looks forward to helping elect Don Samuels and keeping him in office to deliver on behalf of working Minnesotans."
The USW represents 850,000 men and women employed in manufacturing, metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in tech, public sector and service occupations.
Contact: Tony Montana – (412) 562-2592 or tmontana@usw.org
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SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW) | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/usw-endorses-don-samuels-minnesotas-fifth-congressional-district/ | 2022-07-19 15:14:54 | 0 | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/usw-endorses-don-samuels-minnesotas-fifth-congressional-district/ |
WHL
All Times Local
Western Conference
B.C. Division
U.S. Division
Eastern Conference
East Division
Central Division
Note: Two points for a team winning in overtime or shootout; the team losing in overtime or shootout receives one which is registered in the OTL or SOL columns.
Wednesday's results
Red Deer 5 Calgary 2
Saskatoon 3 Lethbridge 2
Winnipeg 4 Vancouver 3
Brandon 3 Kelowna 0
Thursday's results
Moose Jaw 5 Regina 2
Friday's results
Red Deer 4 Medicine Hat 2
Brandon 2 Lethbridge 1
Prince Albert 2 Edmonton 1
Saskatoon 3 Calgary 0
Winnipeg 5 Kamloops 3
Tri-City 6 Everett 3
Prince George 5 Vancouver 1
Saturday's results
Lethbridge at Swift Current, 7 p.m.
Prince Albert at Red Deer, 7 p.m.
Brandon at Medicine Hat, 7 p.m.
Portland at Tri-City, 6:05 p.m.
Vancouver at Victoria, 6:05 p.m.
Spokane at Seattle, 6:05 p.m.
Prince George at Kamloops, 7 p.m.
Winnipeg at Kelowna, 7:05 p.m.
Sunday's games
Prince Albert at Calgary, 4 p.m.
Moose Jaw at Regina, 4 p.m.
Saskatoon at Edmonton, 4 p.m.
Kamloops at Vancouver, 4 p.m.
Wednesday's games
Lethbridge at Swift Current, 7 p.m.
Victoria at Red Deer, 7 p.m.
Thursday's games
Vancouver at Edmonton, 7 p.m. | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/HKO-WHL-Standings-17527464.php | 2022-10-22 21:11:43 | 1 | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/HKO-WHL-Standings-17527464.php |
NEW YORK (AP) — Rockers Kiss have announced the final shows of their last tour: The band plans to hang up their platform boots after two back-to-back shows at Madison Square Garden in New York at the end of 2023.
The last leg of the band’s 17-date North American tour kicks off in October in Texas and hits California, Washington, Canada, Tennessee, Indiana, Illinois, Maryland and then culminates in their hometown’s famous venue on Dec. 1 and Dec. 2.
“Kiss was born in New York City. On 23rd Street. Half a century ago. It will be a privilege and honor to finish touring at Madison Square Garden, 10 blocks and 50 years from where we first started,” said the band in a statement.
The band is currently made up of original members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons as well as Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer. Their best-known songs include “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” and “Detroit Rock City.”
Tickets will be available to the public on March 10 at livenation.com. | https://who13.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-kiss-reveal-last-dates-of-their-farewell-tour-ending-in-nyc/ | 2023-03-01 23:20:24 | 0 | https://who13.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-kiss-reveal-last-dates-of-their-farewell-tour-ending-in-nyc/ |
GÖTEBORG, Sweden, Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- To meet the growing demand for battery electric heavy-duty vehicles and machines, the Volvo Group has initiated the process to establish a large-scale production plant for battery cells in Sweden.
"We aim to lead the transition to a decarbonized transport system and have the long-term ambition to offer our customers solutions that are 100% fossil free. There is a strong demand from our customers already today, and by 2030, it is our ambition that at least 35% of the products we sell are electric. This ramp-up will require large volumes of high-performing batteries, produced using fossil free energy and it is a logical next step for us to include battery production in our future industrial footprint. We aim to do this together with partners and the journey starts now," says Martin Lundstedt, President and CEO of the Volvo Group.
An extensive site localization study has been done, which indicates that the Skaraborg region in Sweden is an ideal location for the plant. The proposed site in the municipality of Mariestad is situated close to the Volvo Group's current main powertrain plant in Skövde and will benefit from the region's existing industrial and logistics infrastructure and build on a strong heritage and world-class competence in advanced, high-volume manufacturing, while having access to Sweden's rich supply of fossil free energy. The Volvo Group's R&D centers and headquarters in Gothenburg are only two hours away.
The Volvo Group plans to gradually increase capacity and reach large-scale series production by 2030. The battery cells will be designed specifically for commercial vehicle applications, supporting the global roll-out of electric trucks, buses, construction equipment and electric drivelines for different applications.
Establishment of the production site is subject to approvals from relevant authorities. The final localization will be determined after the public consultation has been conducted and operations are subject to environmental permit approvals.
Journalists wanting further information, please contact:
Claes Eliasson
Volvo Group Media Relations
+46765537229
For more information, please visit volvogroup.com
For frequent updates, follow us on Twitter: @volvogroup
About the Volvo Group
The Volvo Group drives prosperity through transport and infrastructure solutions, offering trucks, buses, construction equipment, power solutions for marine and industrial applications, financing and services that increase our customers' uptime and productivity. Founded in 1927, the Volvo Group is committed to shaping the future landscape of sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions. The Volvo Group is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, employs almost 95,000 people and serves customers in more than 190 markets. In 2021, net sales amounted to SEK 372 billion (EUR 37 billion). Volvo shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.
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SOURCE AB Volvo | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/volvo-group-starts-process-establish-plant-battery-production-sweden/ | 2022-08-03 07:53:27 | 1 | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/volvo-group-starts-process-establish-plant-battery-production-sweden/ |
(NEXSTAR) — As Rihanna takes the halftime stage for Sunday’s Super Bowl LVII, it’s the perfect time to take a deep dive into her nearly 20-year discography. (Her first album was released in 2005.) As you come across the superstar’s 2016 single “This Is What You Came For,” with Scottish DJ Calvin Harris, you may be surprised to learn one of pop music’s other biggest superstar women helped pen the song.
But she wasn’t originally listed on the credits for the dance track.
Instead, Harris and someone named “Nils Sjöberg” were credited as the songwriters. The mystery writer went unnoticed for a short while before reports surfaced that Sjöberg was none other than Harris’ former girlfriend, Taylor Swift.
Both Harris and Swift later confirmed it.
Swift, now 33, discussed her reasoning at the time, and then again in a November 2020 conversation with music legend Paul McCartney for Rolling Stone. As Swift explained, she hadn’t wanted her relationship with Harris to overshadow the song.
“I wrote under the name Nils Sjöberg because those are two of the most popular names of Swedish males,” Swift told McCartney. “And nobody knew for a while. I remembered always hearing that when Prince wrote ‘Manic Monday,’ they didn’t reveal it for a couple of months.”
But the story doesn’t stop there. (Warning: Relationship drama ahead.)
By the time “This Is What You Came For” hit radio, both Swift and Harris had broken up after about a year of dating, as timelined by Cosmopolitan and confirmed in 2016 by both stars via Twitter. In a tweet, Harris addressed the split, saying “the only truth is that a relationship came to an end and what remains is a huge amount of love and respect.” Swift retweeted the message.
But several months of tension between the pair would follow, especially after Swift soon began dating actor Tom Hiddleston.
It was widely speculated — though never publicly discussed by any involved — that the Swift-Harris relationship may have ended due to the Swift-Hiddleston relationship.
Long story made short: Harris and Swift scrubbed photos and mentions of each other from social media and unfollowed each other. Then, when news of the Swift’s “This Is What You Came For” penmanship surfaced, Harris seemingly downplayed Swift’s involvement in the song, tweeting: “I wrote the music, produced the song, arranged it and cut the vocals though.”
As Vanity Fair explains, after Harris’ assumed slight, a Swift representative responded with a seeming implication that Swift alone was responsible for the hit, saying: “Taylor Swift wrote ‘This Is What You Came For’ under the pseudonym Nils Sjöberg.”
In yet another (now deleted) tweet, Harris responded to the statement by saying, “I figure if you’re happy in your new relationship, you should focus on that instead of trying to tear your ex bf down for something to do.”
While both Harris and Swift would follow up the social media barbs with songs that appearing to take jabs at each other (Swift’s 2017 album “Reputation” is believed to contain many references), the drama over “This Is What You Came For” appeared to die here.
Coincidentally, “Nils Sjöberg” was killed off in the video for Swift’s 2017 single “Look What You Made Me Do.” Shortly after, Harris addressed the song’s aftermath, telling British GQ the online drama was “completely the wrong instinct. I was protecting what I see as my one talent in the world being belittled. … Now I see that Twitter thing as a result of me succumbing to pressure. It took me a minute to realize that none of that matters.”
Ultimately, “This Is What You Came For” reached No. 3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, though it was No. 1 on two other Billboard dance charts. It reached Nno. 1 chart status in 12 other countries, including Harris’ native Scotland.
Official credits for the song have since been updated with Swift’s real name.
Though it just missed the top spot in the U.S., the song nevertheless helped continue Rihanna’s long stretch of chart smashes. Altogether, Rihanna has won nine Grammy Awards and dozens of other industry accolades. Come March 12, she could earn her first Academy Award, with her song “Lift Me Up” from 2022’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” nominated for Best Original Song at the 95th annual ceremony.
Super Bowl LVII kicks off Sunday, Feb. 12 at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. | https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/u-s-world/whos-nils-sjoberg-one-of-rihannas-big-hits-was-written-by-this-pop-star-under-a-fake-name/ | 2023-02-11 22:31:02 | 0 | https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/u-s-world/whos-nils-sjoberg-one-of-rihannas-big-hits-was-written-by-this-pop-star-under-a-fake-name/ |
Shonda Rhimes wants to bring back ‘Private Practice’ to TV, says it had “endless possibility”
Posted/updated on: October 25, 2022 at 2:01 pmShonda Rhimes, along with her producing partner, Betsy Beers, has created some of the most memorable TV shows of the 21st century, but which of the ones that have ended does she most want to see return?
Though Shondaland shows like Grey's Anatomy, Station 19 and Bridgerton are still delighting fans, the pair told Good Morning America that she'd most like to see Private Practice, which ran on ABC from 2007-2013, make a comeback.
"I miss my Scandal family so badly that I would come back with them at any point, but I actually feel like we didn't finish telling our stories on Private Practice," Rhimes said. "We had so many more stories we could tell."
She continued, "I just felt like we had so much more to say with those characters and so much further to go, and that also felt like a show that had endless possibility."
Private Practice starred Kate Walsh, reprising her character Dr. Addison Montgomery from Grey's Anatomy, alongside a cast which included Tim Daly, Audra McDonald, Paul Adelstein, KaDee Strickland, Chris Lowell, Taye Diggs and Amy Brenneman.
The show also introduced viewers to Caterina Scorsone's Amelia Shepherd, now a mainstay on Grey's Anatomy.
Walsh, for her part, was introduced in the season 1 finale of Grey's Anatomy before she departed in the season 3 finale to star in the spin-off, Private Practice, with her character in the lead.
Though she would pop up for guest spots and crossover events between the two shows, Walsh didn't return to Grey's Anatomy after Private Practice ended until season 18, when she appeared for a few episodes. Walsh is back in a recurring role for Grey's Anatomy season 19.
Rhimes also revealed that for all her success, there's another genre she's looking to tackle: science fiction.
Copyright © 2022, ABC Audio. All rights reserved. | https://ktbb.com/post/?p=1174587 | 2022-10-25 19:45:46 | 1 | https://ktbb.com/post/?p=1174587 |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Steve Bannon, viejo aliado del expresidente Trump, es sentenciado a 4 meses de cárcel por desacatar orden de comparecer.
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- Bay Area cities with biggest declines in home prices as mortgage rates riseBay Area home values continue to fall, and the declines are outpacing the national average — in one part of the region in particular.By Kellie Hwang | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Steve-Bannon-viejo-aliado-del-expresidente-17524952.php | 2022-10-21 15:39:54 | 0 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Steve-Bannon-viejo-aliado-del-expresidente-17524952.php |
Rémy Martin & Usher Reunite with New Campaign Celebrating the Harmonious Blend of Music, Culture and Cognac Fine Champagne
NEW YORK, July 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rémy Martin, Cognac Fine Champagne, and Grammy award-winning global superstar Usher team up to debut a new global campaign, "Life is a Melody." Featuring a track from Usher's highly anticipated new album, the campaign invites music and spirits enthusiasts alike to embark on a harmonious journey where the notes of Rémy Martin and the melodies of life intertwine in perfect harmony.
The campaign is inspired by the idea that a beautiful melody is created through the harmony of ideas, influences, encounters and experiences – the visuals and movements in "Life is a Melody" capture everyday elements reminiscent of music notes. Teasing fans with a preview of a new song, Comin' Home, from his highly-anticipated album, Usher takes center stage in the creative, sitting at the piano and enveloped in the embrace of Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and XO bottles. Every element, from the captivating visuals to the curated soundscapes, showcases the deep connection between Rémy Martin, Usher and the world of music.
"As an artist, I've always drawn creative inspiration from different facets of life that are expressed through my music," says Usher. "I'm incredibly excited to continue my partnership with Rémy Martin, representing their exceptional cognac expressions of 1738 Accord Royal and now, for the first time Rémy Martin XO, sharing an exclusive preview of my new music in a campaign that captures the breadth and endless possibilities of beautiful composition and marvelous melody."
Alongside Usher, the campaign brings together exceptional creative talents including Director Fleur Fortune, Chief Strategist Partner Aakomon Jones and Choreographer Cathy Ematchoua. With their expertise, these creatives contribute to the symphony of artistic expression, infusing the campaign with fresh energy and elevating the concept that every note, every pour, and every bottle is about more than just taste, it is the culmination of history, place, and people converging to create something truly remarkable.
"Through this partnership, we continue to draw inspiration from music as a timeless source," said Jean-Philippe Hecquet, Chief Executive Officer of the House of Rémy Martin. "The 'Life is a Melody' campaign, in collaboration with Usher, embodies the artistic synergy between Cognac, music, and life itself. This harmony is reflected in the diverse range of tasting notes that blend together to create refined expressions"
"The 'Life is a Melody' campaign embodies the fusion of Rémy Martin's exquisite cognac, the enchantment of music, and the art of roller skating," says Tina Reejsinghani, Vice President of Luxury Brands at Rémy Cointreau Americas. "This campaign, and the introduction of the Rémy Après Skate and cocktail experience underscores our timeless dedication to the culture of music and to our consumers who value exceptional experiences and the unparalleled craftsmanship of Rémy Martin."
As an extension of the campaign, Rémy Martin and Usher will embark on a nationwide tour across the US that embraces Usher's deep connection to skate culture. With its roots intertwined in Usher's love for music and the vibrant skate communities, the "4 on the Floor" pop-up skate experiences will come to life in cities including New York City, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Atlanta. Each skating experience will be accompanied by an immersive Rémy Après Skate speakeasy for a noteworthy cocktail experience, featuring a selection of specialty cocktails where Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and XO take center stage, including the UR Way, which spotlights Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal in a fresh, light and refreshing way and a trio of Rémy XO Old Fashion variations that each feature a spicy, fruity and bitter profile.
To showcase the campaign, Rémy Martin will also unveil a captivating out-of-home (OOH) experience in New York and Chicago. The innovative experience will immerse passersby in a sensory feat of sights through projection mural mapping, transporting them into a world where music and cognac harmoniously converge. Music notes, the heart of the campaign, take center stage in this OOH concept, captivating passersby with a visual experience that brings the harmony of music and cognac to vibrant life. The murals will be live in NYC from July 24 - August 20, 2023 and in Chicago from September 18 - October 22, 2023.
For more information, please see HERE and follow along on social media at:
Instagram @RemyMartinUS | Twitter @RemyMartinUS | Facebook RemyMartinUSA |#LifeIsAMelody #TeamUpForExcellence
ABOUT RÉMY MARTIN
Since 1724, the House of Rémy Martin has produced premium spirits that consistently appeal to the world's most discerning connoisseurs. A profound love of the land, a continuity of family ownership and a passionate commitment to excellence has sustained Rémy Martin for nearly three centuries. As a result of its masterful production and generations of tradition in Cognac, the House of Rémy Martin today produces Cognacs Fine Champagne, including Rémy Martin® XO, Rémy Martin® Tercet®, Rémy Martin® 1738 Accord Royal and Rémy Martin® V.S.O.P. For additional information, visit www.RemyMartin.com
ABOUT RÉMY MARTIN 1738 ACCORD ROYAL
Born from the cask and named after a royal approval, Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal is a truly distinctive cognac. Its exceptional smoothness and rounded oakiness starts with the toasting of the casks, before the eaux–de–vie even begin to mature. This unique aromatic profile is then revealed through a rigorous selection of eaux–de–vie. Recognized for its outstanding quality year after year in international competitions, including winning The Cognac Masters 2023 gold medal, Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal celebrates true depth of character and the sheer indulgence of sharing good moments.
ABOUT RÉMY MARTIN XO
Rémy Martin XO, which was named Cognac of the Year 2022 by USA Spirits Ratings, is the signature of our Cellar Master who with his expertise blends hundreds of eaux-de-vie. An opulent, radiant blend of eaux-de-vie sourced in Petite and Grande Champagne. Exceptionally smooth and full-bodied, it reveals its aromas progressively, starting with plum, mature fig and candied orange, opening on spicy notes with a hint of nutmeg and freshly crushed hazelnuts and finishing on gourmet notes of roasted cocoa beans, honey and ginger. It is the icon of Rémy Martin, the reference of the House, the Cognac par excellence for excellent moments.
ABOUT USHER
Usher has changed music, culture, and countless lives. Beyond selling over 80 million records worldwide and collecting dozens of awards, he has simultaneously lit up the small screen on NBC's The Voice and the big screen in blockbusters such as Hustlers. He has also tirelessly distinguished himself as a devout humanitarian, raising tens of millions of dollars for various causes and uplifting youth via his New Look Foundation since 1999. A true outlier, he was equally at home on the stage of his blockbuster 2021 Las Vegas residency as he was on a 2016 government cultural mission to Cuba as part of President Barack Obama's Presidential Committee for Arts and Humanities. The multiple GRAMMY® Award-winning diamond-selling international megastar, actor, dancer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and proud Atlanta resident inspires change yet again in 2023 and beyond.
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SOURCE Rémy Martin | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/07/12/rmy-martin-grammy-award-winning-global-superstar-usher-team-up-celebrate-notes-life-music-cognac-life-is-melody-campaign/ | 2023-07-12 13:12:59 | 0 | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/07/12/rmy-martin-grammy-award-winning-global-superstar-usher-team-up-celebrate-notes-life-music-cognac-life-is-melody-campaign/ |
Maryland banning use of TikTok in state's executive branch
US armed forces have also prohibited TikTok on military devices
Maryland is banning the use of TikTok and certain China and Russia-based platforms in the state’s executive branch of government, Gov. Larry Hogan said Tuesday, the latest state to address cybersecurity risks presented by the platforms.
The Republican governor announced an emergency cybersecurity directive to prohibit the platforms' use, saying they could be involved in cyberespionage, government surveillance and inappropriate collection of sensitive personal information.
"There may be no greater threat to our personal safety and our national security than the cyber vulnerabilities that support our daily lives," Hogan said in a statement, adding: "To further protect our systems, we are issuing this emergency directive against foreign actors and organizations that seek to weaken and divide us."
The Maryland directive comes a week after South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, also a Republican, banned state employees and contractors from accessing TikTok on state-owned devices, citing its ties to China. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, also a Republican, on Monday asked the state’s Department of Administration to ban TikTok from all state government devices it manages. Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts blocked TikTok on state electronic devices in August 2020.
The U.S. armed forces also have prohibited the app on military devices.
TIKTOK IS CHINA'S 'DIGITAL FENTANYL,' FCC COMMISSIONER SAYS
"It is a risk that most governments are starting to realize it’s not worth taking," said Trenchcoat Advisors co-founder Holden Triplett, a former FBI government official who worked in Beijing and counterintelligence.
While there has been much debate about whether the Chinese government is actively collecting TikTok data, Triplett said the app poses a clear vulnerability. Because TikTok's owner, ByteDance, is a Chinese company, it would have to comply with any potential requests from Chinese security and intelligence requests to hand over data, which could include employee’s location and contacts, he said.
ByteDance moved its headquarters to Singapore in 2020.
TikTok has struggled to detect ads that contain blatant misinformation about U.S. elections, according to a recent report from nonprofit Global Witness and the Cybersecurity for Democracy team at New York University.
But TikTok spokesperson Jamal Brown said the concerns driving bans "are largely fueled by misinformation about our company."
"We are always happy to meet with state policymakers to discuss our privacy and security practices," Brown said. "We are disappointed that the many state agencies, offices, and universities that have been using TikTok to build communities and connect with constituents will no longer have access to our platform."
TikTok Chief Operating Officer Vanessa Pappas, based in Los Angeles, has said the company protects all American users’ data and that Chinese government officials have no access to it.
Also Tuesday, Wisconsin’s Republican representatives in Congress called on Democratic Gov. Tony Evers to delete the video platform TikTok from all state government devices, calling it a national security threat.
"Wisconsinites expect their governor to be aware of the dangerous national security threats TikTok poses and to protect them from this avenue for CCP intelligence operations," U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson and U.S. Reps. Mike Gallagher, Tom Tiffany, Glenn Grothman, Bryan Steil and Scott Fitzgerald said in a letter.
Gallagher last month joined with U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, of Florida, in writing an opinion piece calling for governments to ban TikTok.
Evers’ spokesperson Britt Cudaback said the administration takes cybersecurity threats "very seriously" and regularly consults with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, and counterintelligence specialists when making decisions about state government devices.
"We will continue to defer to the judgment and advice of law enforcement, cybersecurity, and counterintelligence experts regarding this and other evolving cybersecurity issues," Cudaback said.
Former President Donald Trump issued blanket-style orders against Chinese tech companies, but the White House under President Joe Biden has replaced them with a narrower approach. U.S. officials and the company are now in talks over a possible agreement that would resolve American security concerns.
A researcher with the conservative Heritage Foundation last month called on government officials to ban TikTok from operating entirely in the United States. And last week, FBI Director Chris Wray said China could use the app to collect data on its users that could be used for traditional espionage operations.
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Still, some experts say the threat is overstated. In a Nov. 14 commentary for the Strategic Technologies Program, former diplomat and cybersecurity expert James A. Lewis said TikTok’s national security risk is "easily exaggerated."
"Intelligence agencies routinely scrape social media to collect biographical information and do not need ownership of TikTok (or any other social media platform) to do this," Lewis wrote. "The question is, how much more does China obtain by having access to TikTok data that is not publicly available? There is probably some benefit, but it is likely small." | https://www.foxnews.com/us/maryland-banning-tiktok-states-executive-branch | 2022-12-07 17:37:18 | 1 | https://www.foxnews.com/us/maryland-banning-tiktok-states-executive-branch |
Carrie Kahn is NPR's International Correspondent based in Mexico City, Mexico. She covers Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. Kahn's reports can be heard on NPR's award-winning news programs including All Things Considered, Morning Edition and Weekend Edition, and on NPR.org. | https://www.nprillinois.org/2023-04-27/argentinas-peso-continues-its-slide-to-lows-not-seen-for-decades | 2023-04-27 10:32:54 | 1 | https://www.nprillinois.org/2023-04-27/argentinas-peso-continues-its-slide-to-lows-not-seen-for-decades |
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — The heavily armed men appeared around the small farming village in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, frightening residents already on edge after recent clashes between government troops and rebels.
“The militants assured us that they will not touch us. They said they are not after us,” resident Nur Hussein Abdi told The Associated Press. “But in reality, they were surrounding our whole village for a deadly massacre. What happened the next day was a total bloodbath.”
Abdi escaped by hiding on a rooftop, a horrified witness to one of the worst mass killings in Ethiopia in recent years. Hundreds of people, mostly ethnic Amhara, were slaughtered in Tole village and the surroundings on June 18 in the latest explosion of ethnic violence in Africa’s second most populous nation.
Multiple witnesses told the AP they are still discovering bodies, with some put in mass graves containing scores of people. The Amhara Association of America said it has confirmed 503 civilians killed. Ethiopian authorities have not released figures. One witness, Mohammed Kemal, said he has witnessed 430 bodies buried, and others are still exposed and decomposing.
Kemal begged Ethiopia’s government to relocate the survivors, saying the armed men had threatened to return.
“They killed infants, children, women and the elderly,” resident Ahmed Kasim said. The Amhara Association of America said the dead include a 100-year-old and a one-month-old baby, and some people were killed in a mosque where they had tried to hide.
Residents and Oromia regional officials have blamed the Oromo Liberation Army, an armed group that Ethiopia’s government has declared a terrorist organization. An OLA spokesman denied it, alleging that federal troops and regional militia attacked the villagers for their perceived support of the OLA as they retreated from an OLA offensive.
Again, Ethiopians are left wondering why the federal government failed to protect them from the violent side of the country’s ethnic tensions — and why ethnic minorities in a federal system based on identity are left so vulnerable.
Teddy Afro, Ethiopia’s much celebrated pop star, released two songs this week highlighting the crisis that has worsened in the past four years and dedicating his songs to civilians who have lost their lives.
“It’s never an option to keep quiet when a mountain of death comes in front of me,” one of his lyrics says.
On Friday, thousands of students at Gondar University in the neighboring Amhara region protested the killings and demanded justice.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, has said security forces have launched a military operation against the OLA, but many Ethiopians appear skeptical after seeing the deadly cycle play out in the past.
The president of the Oromia region, Shimelis Abdisa, on Thursday acknowledged that it will be difficult to arrange security in every location, but said the current operation “will cripple the enemy’s ability to move from place to place.”
Ethnic Amhara are Ethiopia’s second-largest ethnic group but have found themselves under attack in some areas where they are in the minority. Several dozen were killed in attacks in the Benishangul Gumuz and Oromia regions over the past three years alone.
“Ethnic Amharas who live outside of their region do not have legal and political representation, which results in no protection,” said Muluken Tesfaw, a community activist who tracks abuses against the Amhara. “There were even speeches by Oromia region government officials that seek to reduce Amharic-speaking people.”
“An anti-Amhara narrative has been spreading for over 50 years now,” said Belete Molla, chairman of the opposition NaMA party. “The Amhara living in Oromia and Benishangul are hence being targeted.” He also accused some members of the Oromia region’s ruling party of “working for or sympathizing with the Oromo Liberation Army.”
The latest mass killings brought international alarm. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, has urged Ethiopian authorities to hold “prompt, impartial and through” investigations. The U.S. State Department called on Ethiopians to “reject violence and pursue peace.”
Ethiopia continues to struggle with ethnic tensions in several parts of the country and a deadly conflict in the northern Tigray region that has severely affected the once rapidly growing economy, but the prime minister is adamant that better days are ahead.
“There is no doubt that Ethiopia is on the path of prosperity,” he declared in a parliament address this month.
But Ethiopians who escaped the latest attack seek answers.
Nur Hussein said he and other Tole villagers had called nearby officials about the appearance of the armed men shortly before the violence exploded. “Their response was muted. They said there were no specific threats to respond to. But look at what unfolded,” he said. “God willing, we will get past this, but it is a scar that will live with us forever.” | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Total-bloodbath-Witnesses-describe-Ethiopia-17265128.php | 2022-06-25 08:20:57 | 1 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Total-bloodbath-Witnesses-describe-Ethiopia-17265128.php |
Dear Abby: My 15-year-old daughter, "Nadia," has been friends with another girl, "Kelly," since they were 8. Over the years, I have had my concerns about Kelly because she lies. She can also be very manipulative, and she hasn't always treated Nadia well.
Nadia and I have had numerous conversations about this friend over the years, and I have expressed my feelings about Kelly's behavior. Sometimes Nadia would acknowledge Kelly's wrongdoings; other times she'd get upset and insist I was wrong. Either way, she seemed to have great loyalty to Kelly.
Over the years, Kelly's mother, "Brittany," and I became friends and, over the last two or three, we have grown very close. I allowed it to happen because I thought Kelly had matured. Unfortunately, I was wrong. Meanwhile, Nadia has been seeing more clearly what a difficult person Kelly is and is pulling away from her.
While I'm happy Nadia has found healthier friendships, I am worried about how this may affect my friendship with Brittany. She tends to be defensive about her kids and will probably not be able to see how much her daughter has hurt Nadia over the years. Advice? -- MOM PROBLEM IN MASSACHUSETTS
Dear Mom: I do have some. STAY OUT OF IT. It's common for childhood friendships to wane. By now you should have realized friendships cannot be forced. All it does is breed resentment. Unless Brittany raises the subject, avoid discussing it. Cross your fingers and hope that Kelly might not even realize Nadia is less available. However, if Brittany asks, simply say that the girls' friendship, like other teen relationships, seems to have run its course.
Dear Abby: My ex-husband has been incarcerated off and on for the last several years. The kids adore him and want nothing more than to spend time with him, even though I am the responsible parent who cares for them and provides for their needs.
I'm glad the kids are not angry with him, and I'm trying to be understanding about their need for love and acceptance from him (even though they are no longer young children). However, I can't help feeling anxious, angry and jealous because, in spite of his many poor choices, they prefer spending time with him more than with me.
He has always been an irresponsible parent, and it crushes them each time he goes back to jail. No matter what, they run to his rescue whenever he needs something, be it money, transportation, etc. How can I handle this in the best way for the sake of my children without causing stress on them and our relationship? -- STABLE PARENT IN CALIFORNIA
Dear Parent: Please accept my sympathy. You have been forced into the role of the authoritarian parent, while your husband has adopted the role of loosey-goosey fun parent, which is how your children still regard him. It isn't fair, and I feel for you. But until they wise up on their own, there's nothing you can do about it. So try not to spend too much time dwelling on it. Live your life. When faced with a circumstance that's not likely to change soon, that's all anyone can do.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. | https://pantagraph.com/blogs/dear-abby/dear-abby-childhood-friendship-begins-breaking-down-for-teenagers/article_de5f930a-077e-11ed-aac6-dbda19a828d4.html | 2022-07-21 11:34:22 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/blogs/dear-abby/dear-abby-childhood-friendship-begins-breaking-down-for-teenagers/article_de5f930a-077e-11ed-aac6-dbda19a828d4.html |
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A Utah man who police say fatally shot his wife, her mother and their five kids before turning the gun on himself had been investigated two years prior for child abuse, but local police and prosecutors decided not to criminally charge him, new records released Tuesday show.
Police records obtained by The Associated Press shed light on warning signs and a previous police investigation into a violent pattern of behavior Michael Haight exhibited toward his family.
Authorities said they were aware of previous problems in the home but didn’t elaborate during a news conference following the Jan. 4 killings in the small town of Enoch, citing an ongoing investigation.
In a 2020 interview with authorities, Macie Haight, the family’s eldest daughter, detailed multiple assaults, including one where she was choked by her father and “very afraid that he was going to keep her from breathing and kill her.”
The child abuse investigation followed an Aug. 27, 2020, police call from a non-family member reporting potential child abuse. Macie, then 14, told investigators that her father’s violence started in 2017 and had included choking and shaking, including a recent incident where he grabbed her by the shoulders and banged her into a wooden piece along the back of the couch.
Two years later, police found eight bodies at the family’s home, including Macie’s. The murder-suicide rocked Enoch, an 8,000-person, southern Utah town on the outskirts of Cedar City where neighbors and members of the local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints described the Haights as a loving family.
An obituary published in the St. George Spectrum last week described Michael Haight in glowing terms as an Eagle Scout, businessman and father who “made it a point to spend quality time with each and every one of his children.” The obituary made no mention of the killings and was taken offline after backlash.
Police believe Haight, 42, carried out the shootings two weeks after his wife had filed for divorce and just days after her relatives say he took guns from the house that could have been used to stop him.
Two years before, in his interview with investigators, Haight denied assaulting his daughter and said the report was a misunderstanding. He said Macie was “mouthy” and admitted to getting angry, attributing some struggles to his father’s death and brother’s divorce.
The investigator’s notes also shed light on Haight’s treatment of his wife, Tausha Haight. Macie told investigators that her father would often belittle her mother, a charge he denied. In his interview, however, Michael Haight said he had taken his wife’s iPad and cellphone to surveil her text messages to check if she had spoken negatively about his family.
Tausha Haight told authorities she didn’t want criminal charges filed against her husband and hoped the incident would be “a wake-up call” for him.
Though an investigator told Michael Haight that his behavior was “close to assaultive,” Enoch Police and the Iron County Attorney decided not to file criminal charges against him.
Enoch Police didn’t respond Tuesday to a request for comment about why charges were not filed. The Iron County Attorney’s office said in a statement Tuesday that their office had been called in 2020 and determined there was insufficient evidence to pursue charges against Haight.
“Although specifics are not articulated, this conclusion was likely based on an inability to prove each element of the offense(s) beyond reasonable doubt and/or statute of limitations barriers,” the statement said.
It added that prosecutors were not sent interview transcripts or police reports from the Enoch Police to review.
Matt Munson, the attorney representing Michael Haight’s family, was not immediately available to comment.
Police found the Haight family’s bodies after conducting a welfare check based on a call from a friend who said Tausha Haight had missed an appointment earlier in the week.
Officials said last week that law enforcement is continuing to investigate the Haight family deaths. The murder-suicide drew national attention and words of condolence from Utah officials and President Joe Biden. It underscored how family mass killings have become a disturbingly common tragedy across the United States, occurring on average every 3.5 weeks for the last two decades. | https://www.fox16.com/news/national/ap-police-investigated-utah-man-for-abuse-before-murder-suicide/ | 2023-01-18 12:40:12 | 1 | https://www.fox16.com/news/national/ap-police-investigated-utah-man-for-abuse-before-murder-suicide/ |
Mary Ehrsam, Gettysburg College Class of '90, received the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest and most prestigious award given by the institution for professional and civic achievement.
ATLANTA , June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mary Hagerty Ehrsam, President of Partnerships at Operation HOPE, received the Gettysburg College Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest and most prestigious award given by the college for professional and civic achievement. Ehrsam is a graduate of Gettysburg College's class of 1990. She was presented the award by the President of Gettysburg, Bob Luliano during a private ceremony.
Gettysburg College is a highly selective four-year private college of liberal arts and sciences located in Pennsylvania. Ehrsam received a degree in economics and political science and graduated with honors. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Art & Soul, and the Alumni Board of Directors of Gettysburg College.
Ehrsam has been an innovative leader and worked with Operation HOPE, the nation's leading financial literacy non-profit, for over two decades. As President of HOPE Partnerships, she drives the cultivation of revenue streams and avenues for growth and sustainability while furthering the organization's overall mission. Operation HOPE's goal is to make free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved — disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation.
"I am deeply honored to receive this award and be a part of an organization, like Operation HOPE, that is constantly raising the bar on what it means to serve communities in need," Ehrsam said. "As a student at Gettysburg, I learned the value of civic engagement as a powerful tool to help others cultivate positive change— in a bold and unapologetic way. This is truly a full-circle moment."
Ehrsam developed and executed the launch of the HOPE youth programs, expanded the HOPE Inside model nationwide, and led its global expansion in South Africa and the Middle East. Working with the Global Dignity co-founders, Ehrsam developed the "Course in Dignity" curriculum that was delivered in partnership with the World Economic Forum of Young Global Leaders in 100 countries on four continents. She currently serves as the co-lead of the Financial Literacy for All (FL4A) initiative.
Ehrsam has been instrumental in the growth of Operation HOPE's offerings, working to drive annual revenue to $50M, and expand its reach to more than 300 cities on three continents while serving more than 2.8 million individuals. Notably, her efforts have also directed $3.5 billion in private investment into low-wealth communities through national programming and outreach.
"Mary has been with me almost since the founding of Operation HOPE and remains one of my go-to leaders for strategic initiatives and partnership growth. We proudly celebrate her Distinguished Alumni Award and applaud her contributions to Operation HOPE's progressive culture," said John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE. "Mary's confidence, competence, and consistency have been instrumental to stewarding our mission of empowering underserved communities through financial literacy. This honor is well-deserved indeed."
In addition to her role at Operation HOPE, Ehrsam serves as the Vice President of the Gettysburg Executive Board and Chair of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice Committee. She is an Advisor for the Save The Arts Foundation, a member of the Advisory Board of the BXS Community Fund, LLC, Fifth Third Bank's National Community Advisory Forum, and is a member of the ODE National Economics Society.
About Operation HOPE, Inc..
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to "silver rights," with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Operation HOPE has received seven consecutive 4-star charity ratings for fiscal management and commitment to transparency and accountability by the prestigious non-profit evaluator, Charity Navigator. For more information visit OperationHOPE.org. Follow the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Media Contacts:
Lalohni Campbell, Operation HOPE
404-593-7145
la@persemediagroup.com
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SOURCE Operation HOPE, Inc. | https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/operation-hope-executive-mary-ehrsam-receives-highest-award-gettysburg-college/ | 2022-06-16 11:42:01 | 0 | https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/operation-hope-executive-mary-ehrsam-receives-highest-award-gettysburg-college/ |
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) — A jury found a Wisconsin man guilty Wednesday in a second trial for killing his wife with antifreeze and by suffocation in 1998.
The verdict of first-degree intentional homicide against Mark Jensen was announced in a Kenosha County courtroom.
Jensen, 63, first was convicted in 2008 in the slaying of Julie Jensen inside their Pleasant Prairie home.
Prosecutors alleged he began poisoning her with antifreeze in December 1998, drugged her with a sleeping medication and later suffocated her to death over a three-day period.
Jensen had maintained his innocence, with his attorneys arguing that Julie Jensen was depressed and killed herself after framing her husband.
He was sentenced then to life without parole, but a Kenosha County judge vacated Jensen's first conviction in April 2021 after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled he deserved a new trial. The court found that a letter his wife wrote incriminating him in the event something should happen to her could not be used by the prosecution.
Jensen is scheduled to be sentenced on April 14. | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/second-jury-finds-wisconsin-man-guilty-in-wife-s-17757441.php | 2023-02-01 21:34:19 | 1 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/second-jury-finds-wisconsin-man-guilty-in-wife-s-17757441.php |
To reach the prompter's box at the home of the San Francisco Opera, Matthew Piatt heads under the stage and walks down a long, narrow passageway.
Then he shimmies up a metal ladder.
"I always have to be careful not to rip my pants," Piatt says, as he hoists himself into a seat and pushes a button to propel himself upward several feet, using a hydraulic lift. From this vantage point, Piatt can view the entire stage through an opening that's about the size of the average suitcase.
Piatt is the prompter for the company's production of Antony and Cleopatra, a new opera adapted from the Shakespeare play by John Adams, who is considered to be one of the world's greatest living composers. Like the play, it's about the star-crossed romance of the Roman general and the Egyptian queen.
The prompter is invisible to the audience, and he may be only one person among the roughly 250-strong cast and crew, but he plays a major role in keeping everything from flying off the rails.
Inside his box, it's bare bones. There's a wooden stand to hold a musical score, monitors to view the conductor, a fan to deal with the heat, a phone to call stage management in case the audio or video feed goes out, and a small electronic keyboard, conveniently Velcroed to the side of the box, to help the prompter give pitches — though Piatt said this is rarely needed, as most people who do this job have perfect pitch.
"We always joke about putting in a wet bar, but we haven't done that yet," he says, with a chuckle.
Piatt will spend the entirety of every performance during the run concealed under a hood in this stuffy little enclosure, located right on the edge of the stage, front and center.
Not all opera productions use prompters. But performers don't wear earpieces, and it can be tough to hear the orchestra properly from the stage; it's likewise challenging to see the conductor under the glaring lights. The prompter helps with cues in difficult moments by speaking, shouting or waving his arms in their direction.
Piatt has been studying Adams's rhythmically and tonally complex score for months in preparation ("Basically, you have to have the score memorized," he says), so that he can help the performers hit all the right notes in all the right places. He also attends every rehearsal, and makes notes about what cues to give in his score, and meets with each cast member individually to develop a prompting strategy tailored specifically for that person.
"When I tell people what I do for a living, most people are not even aware that there's this box," says Piatt. "And if they are aware, they think it conceals lights or something."
A brittle performance — or a sense of comfort?
The operas of John Adams employ massive forces, driving rhythms and vocal lines that mimic human speech patterns. However, the world premiere productions of works like Dr. Atomic and Girls of the Golden West — which both took place under the auspices of San Francisco Opera — didn't use prompters for performances. That's largely because director Peter Sellars, who collaborated with the composer on these productions, says prompters can distract performers from being in the moment.
"With a prompter, you don't get any emotional grounding, you're just desperately trying to save your skin," he says. "And so it creates a rather brittle performance."
Sellars says he'd rather the performers' improvise if they bungle something until they can get back on track.
But Adams says his latest work is especially complex and disorienting for the performers. There are few melodic arias and the scenes are packed with fast-paced, back-and-forth between characters.
"The idea of actually learning all these entrances and bringing them in exactly where they belong is really a treacherous thing," Adams says. "All I care about is that the singers are secure and comfortable."
Prompting in action
Adams originally wrote the role of Cleopatra for someone else (Julia Bullock, who had to pull out of the production around six months ago owing to pregnancy.) So when soprano Amina Edris stepped in, he had to start changing notes during rehearsals to better suit the timbre and range of her voice.
"I'm not gonna lie," says Edris, who had never sung an Adams opera before. "It's a little bit overwhelming to be, like, 'Okay, just after I memorized this part, now I have to reprogram how I think of it again and learn a different version of it.'"
That's why she's grateful for the safety net that is Matthew Piatt.
"Matt is the glue that holds this show together," she says.
In audio captured in the prompter's box during a recent rehearsal, you can hear Piatt cueing Edris as she sings a scene. He sounds loud. But it's directed toward the stage, so the audience doesn't hear the prompter feeding pitches, lines and rhythms to the Queen of Egypt.
Even seasoned performers of Adams' operas are relieved there's a prompter. Baritone Gerald Finley starred in the world premiere production of Adams' Dr. Atomic in 2005. Now he's playing Antony — a Roman general with a tricky death scene. He has to sing while face down on a staircase upstage. From that position, he can't see the conductor or a monitor.
"I can hear [Piatt] counting and giving me literally the beats," Finley says. "I don't know what I would do in fact if Matt wasn't there. Without Matt, I couldn't die."
Taking pride in private thanks
Every now and again, during curtain call, a conductor, director or cast member will lean down to the hood at the edge of the stage and shake the prompter's hand in gratitude for mishaps quietly solved or prevented.
Piatt, who's been doing this job for more than a decade, says he gets the greatest satisfaction from more private acknowledgements of his talents.
"The thing that I take the most pride in is when a singer says, 'I feel really safe when you're at the prompt box,'" he says. "It is my goal so that they can give the best performance possible. After all, that's why people go to the opera."
San Francisco Opera's Antony and Cleopatra runs at the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco through Oct. 5, 2022.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.kcbx.org/2022-09-14/the-hidden-world-of-an-opera-prompter | 2022-09-14 20:46:44 | 0 | https://www.kcbx.org/2022-09-14/the-hidden-world-of-an-opera-prompter |
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Monday:
Oneok Inc., down $ to $5.77 to $57.95.
The natural gas company is buying Magellan Midstream Partners.
Newmont Corp., up $1.15 to $47.09.
The gold mining company is buying Australia's Newcrest Mining.
Western Digital Corp., up $3.72 to $36.75.
The maker of computer hard drives is reportedly in talks about a potential deal with Kioxia Holdings.
Shake Shack Inc., up $5.09 to $70.30.
The burger chain is reportedly heading for a proxy fight with investor Engaged Capital.
Sarepta Therapeutics Inc., up $36.99 to $157.19.
The drugmaker gave investors an encouraging update on a potential treatment for a genetic disorder.
Monday.com Ltd., up $21.70 to $152.80.
The project management software developer beat analysts' first-quarter earnings and revenue forecasts.
H&R Block Inc., down 91 cents to $31.13.
The U.S. is reportedly considering developing a free tax preparation program.
TPG Inc., up 60 cents to $27.79.
The asset management firm is buying Angelo Gordon for about $2.7 billion in cash and stock. | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/business/article/shake-shack-western-digital-rise-oneok-h-r-18100661.php | 2023-05-15 21:03:39 | 0 | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/business/article/shake-shack-western-digital-rise-oneok-h-r-18100661.php |
Super Sunday in Portsmouth
Jump starting River Days
Published: Aug. 29, 2022 at 9:00 PM EDT|Updated: 59 minutes ago
PORTSMOUTH, OH (WSAZ) -River Days “Super Sunday”
There is a tradition in Portsmouth Ohio known as “Super Sunday”. It’s where the miss contestants for all the pageants leading up to River Days gather to rehearse their roles come competition night. Imagine 80 of the county’s cutest girls (ages 9 months to 5 years), brightest (ages 6-12) and most driven young ladies (ages 13-17) coming together to kick start a week of fun. It’s all part if the biggest celebration of the year in P-town. Tony was on hand this informally fun day as he previews what’s the come.
Copyright 2022 WSAZ. All rights reserved. | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/08/30/super-sunday-portsmouth/ | 2022-08-30 02:00:53 | 0 | https://www.wsaz.com/2022/08/30/super-sunday-portsmouth/ |
MOSCOW, Idaho — The man accused of killing four University of Idaho college students received a new license plate for his car five days after the deaths, according to records released Wednesday.
The licensing documents in Washington state show that the vehicle driven by the suspect, Bryan Kohberger, was a white Hyundai Elantra, the type of vehicle that investigators had been seeking in recent weeks.
Police in Moscow, Idaho, had said that a white Hyundai Elantra from between 2011 and 2013 had been seen near the scene of the crimes on Nov. 13, the night of the killings. Kohberger’s car was a 2015 model registered Nov. 18, according to the licensing document. A vehicle history report shows the car had previously been registered in Pennsylvania, where Kohberger is from.
Kohberger, 28, had moved to Pullman in recent months and began studying criminology in a doctoral program at Washington State University in August. He has said through a lawyer that he expects to be exonerated in the case. Kohberger’s new lawyer did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the license plate records.
Kohberger was flown to Idaho on Wednesday evening and was expected to be booked into the Latah County Jail.
Also on Wednesday, police in Indiana released new body camera footage showing that, two weeks before Kohberger was arrested, the police there had pulled him over twice in a 10-minute stretch for tailgating. The traffic stops, on Dec. 15, came as Kohberger was driving across the country with his father for winter break in the same car for which he had obtained the new license plate.
Kohberger’s father, Michael Kohberger, visited him in December, and they drove across the country from the WSU campus in Pullman to their home in eastern Pennsylvania for the holidays. In both traffic stops, the officers let the men off with a warning.
There is no indication that the police in Indiana had any idea that Bryan Kohberger would be arrested in the killings, or that they were aware of the police in Moscow, saying that a white Hyundai Elantra had been seen near the crime scene on the night of the slayings.
Two weeks later, on Dec. 30, police in Pennsylvania carried out a predawn raid of Kohberger’s parents’ home, arresting Kohberger on suspicion of carrying out the Idaho killings. | https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/law-justice/suspect-got-new-license-plate-days-after-idaho-killings/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_seattle-news | 2023-01-05 04:27:51 | 1 | https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/law-justice/suspect-got-new-license-plate-days-after-idaho-killings/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_seattle-news |
Giants legend Buster Posey joins San Francisco’s ownership group
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (KION-TV)- The San Francisco Giants that former catcher and franchise legend Buster Posey had joined the team's ownership group. Posey is the first former player who has joined the club as a principal partner and member of the board of directors, according to the Giants.
He is the 31st principal partner to join the San Francisco Baseball Associates LLC ownership group.
"Upon his retirement last year, Buster said that he would always stay involved with the organization, and when he approached us to express his interest in joining the ownership group, we were thrilled that he wanted to make this type of commitment. It is rare for a former player to join his own team's ownership with the desire to have an active role," Giants Chairman Greg Johnson said in a statement released by the team.
Posey retired following the 2021 season after helping the Giants win a franchise-best 107 games and an NL West title. He spent 12 seasons in the majors and with the Giants, who originally drafted him in 2008 with the No. 5 overall pick out of Florida State.
In his 12 seasons, he won the Rookie of the Year and an NL MVP, made seven All-Star teams, won a batting title and a Gold Glove, and five Silver Slugger awards, on top, of three World Series Championships in 2010, 2012 and 2014.
"I feel deeply connected to the Giants and the San Francisco Bay Area and hope that my perspective as a former player will be beneficial in growing the game and assisting the organization to build the next championship team both on and off the field," Posey said in that same statement. "I have always had such great respect for the ownership group, many of whom I've gotten to know through the years, who provided the support for me and my teammates to achieve the successes we did. I also believe that I can learn so much by surrounding myself with business leaders who have been at the top of their respective industries."
Posey holds a career WAR of 44.8 and stood as one of the best all-around catchers of his generation and is a sure lock for the Baseball Hall of Fame. | https://kion546.com/news/2022/09/21/giants-legend-buster-posey-joins-san-franciscos-ownership-group/ | 2022-09-21 17:43:33 | 0 | https://kion546.com/news/2022/09/21/giants-legend-buster-posey-joins-san-franciscos-ownership-group/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — A combative man approaches, moving quickly toward a police officer who pulls out a Taser. The man is wearing a heavy jacket, which could mean the prongs that would generate an electronic current and send him to the ground might not work.
It’s a scenario that’s played out over and over for police officers across the U.S., sometimes with fatal consequences. The scenario was highlighted recently with the police shooting death of Patrick Lyoya, who was shot in the back of the head by an officer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, during a struggle after the officer tried to fire his Taser twice at Lyoya. Both times it was ineffective.
Axon, the company that is best known for developing the Taser, is expanding a virtual reality and immersive training program that is aimed at increasing training for officers with Tasers in life-like scenarios and making them comfortable with split second decisions, including where to fire the weapon’s prongs to incapacitate a suspect without needing to turn to deadly force.
Axon has grown to become one of the largest technology companies for police agencies in the U.S. and supplies departments large and small – including a majority of the largest forces in the nation – with Tasers and body cameras. The new training, being formally rolled out Tuesday, is the latest in the company’s virtual reality programs and is coupled with other real-life training simulations, including responding to calls with people with Autism and domestic violence calls.
The virtual reality training, which uses headsets, wrist controllers, and an officer’s actual Taser with a special virtual reality cartridge, is assembled in a small duffel bag, giving police departments the ability to implement the training during roll calls or for officers at a police station, between calls. It also means officers can go through training all the time, instead of being called out to a training center or a police academy.
“The level of repetition and really kind of training for things that are more realistic, that they don’t necessarily have time or resources for, it just enables them to do that in a much better way, a more immersive way,” said Chris Chin, the vice president of immersive technologies at Axon.
The portable setup and constant access have been lauded by departments that have been piloting the program. For many police departments, training simulators have proved costly and required two-dimension displays being built in a police academy or other building. With Axon’s new equipment, an officer only needs a few feet around them and the program can be done remotely, with a trainer at another location or working from home.
The training also offers the officers the ability to train at a virtual firing range, in addition to the three-dimensional room where multiple suspects approach. The training is aimed at having officers quickly identify when and how to fire their weapon – including whether to use a closer or wider spread for the prongs and wires that carry the electrical current to override the person’s central nervous system and temporarily incapacitate them.
The training program will be expanded, and Axon has already started creating another scenario that incorporates the Taser training in a scenario of a call for domestic abuse.
“We want to actually have something that’s very fluidly deployable, mobile, and can be kind of thrown in the back of a vehicle, can be done before roll call or after roll call,” Chin said. “It can be done in a way where you can actually have trainers and trainees in different locations.”
In New Castle, Delaware, nearly every police officer has gone through Axon’s community training programs and the department is expanding with the new Taser training program.
The virtual reality simulations now mean officers in the force of about 350 can train during every shift, including overnight, said Master Corporal Michel Eckerd.
“We’re always doing new and innovative things,” Eckerd said. “The big thing with this is the convenience and the portability.”
Axon already offers police departments virtual reality community engagement training, which were developed with the help of mental health experts, community advocates and other experts, and are designed to put officers in real-life scenarios to de-escalate a situation and deal with victims or suspects during a call. The company partnered with Phoenix police to put officers through nine training modules. A report from the National League of Cities found that more than 80% of officers who went through the training said it had prepared them to adapt their approach to a related call and nearly 60% said the training encouraged them to see a situation from another perspective.
“This virtual reality training gives the officer a chance to experience an incident from multiple perspectives,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in an interview. “So an officer could go to a domestic violence call from the perspective of an officer and then have a chance to go to the same incident from the perspective of a victim.”
Gallego also highlighted the portability as a major benefit in a city like Phoenix, where going to the police academy could mean a nearly one-hour ride for an officer. With the virtual reality headsets, officers could just train in their precincts and wouldn’t need to be pulled away from patrol for a full day.
“The more we can have tools that are nimble and allow us flexible training, the less time we take officers off the streets and the more we can get real results,” she said. | https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/political-news/virtual-reality-brings-portable-taser-training-to-police/ | 2022-05-24 14:53:24 | 1 | https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/political-news/virtual-reality-brings-portable-taser-training-to-police/ |
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Daylight Saving Time ended early morning Sunday and East Tennessee is set to change its clocks back an hour, according to the Time and Date website.
The Standard Time started this weekend at about 2 a.m. Sunday. The time change means the sun will set earlier in the evenings and rise earlier in the mornings. It’s set to last until March 12.
Some people have different opinions about the time changes in East Tennessee like whether to stay on Daylight Savings year around.
In March 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act of 2021 allowing permanent Daylight Saving Time in every state. However, the bill is waiting for approval in the House of Representatives.
If the bill passes in the House, the President will be next to sign the bill into law.
If the bill becomes a law, the states will not fall back to Standard Time but remain on Daylight Saving Time permanently starting on Nov. 5, 2023. The move was originally set to happen in November 2022 but the airlines and travel industries needed time to prepare for the change.
Tennessee was one of the states that enacted legislation or passed regulations for permanent Daylight Saving Time, according to the Time and Date website.
Historically, some areas in East Tennessee changed their time zones due to daylight saving time.
According to The Associated Press, Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and most of Arizona do not observe Daylight Saving Time. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/daylight-saving-time-ends-standard-time-starts-in-east-tennessee/ | 2022-11-06 19:04:16 | 1 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/daylight-saving-time-ends-standard-time-starts-in-east-tennessee/ |
CHINO HILLS, Calif., June 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- California Regional MLS, the largest multiple listing service in the United States, has reached an agreement to enable reciprocal access between its MLS systems and Mexico's newly launched Omni MLS.
Under the terms of the agreement, over 110,000 real estate professionals in California will gain unprecedented visibility into the Mexican real estate market. CRMLS users can now find a link to access the Omni MLS Matrix system from CRMLS Matrix, with plans for access from Paragon and Flex in progress. The Omni MLS Matrix system is fully available in both English and Spanish.
"When Omni MLS achieves its goal of a Mexican nationwide multiple listing service, agents, brokers, buyers, and sellers in Mexico will all benefit," said CRMLS CEO Art Carter, now a member of the Omni MLS Board of Directors. "We're pleased to provide our users new visibility into a market that is gathering interest from their clients and to spread the value of the MLS in the process."
Omni MLS is working to unite agents and brokers in Mexico to create the most expansive listing database in the country's history. Despite the substantial size of its national real estate sector, most local real estate markets in Mexico feature limited or zero cooperation among brokers. Growing Omni's database will improve the accuracy and reliability of sales comparables, offer practitioners more of the listing data they need for comprehensive market analysis, and give all parties involved in real estate transactions a more complete view of the Mexican real estate marketplace than ever before.
According to Omni MLS CEO Ross Buck, the move to offer reciprocal access to CRMLS comes in part as a response to changing attitudes and oversight within the Mexican real estate community. "Not long ago, it was possible for agents in California to drive a client to Mexico, help them buy a property, and collect a commission, all with minimal attention to government regulations," said Buck. "We think it's important to enable and incentivize the many American real estate professionals who work hard to respect the rules."
"Since we've used CRMLS as a model for our operations, I especially appreciate Art's help and interest in making our dream a reality," Buck added.
Both organizations are building a mechanism to offer agents referrals on either side of the border whenever they close a transaction. Leadership for both MLSs will announce updates as they arrive.
About California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS)
California Regional MLS is the nation's largest and most recognized subscriber-based MLS, dedicated to servicing more than 110,000 real estate professionals from 41 Associations, Boards, and MLS organizations. CRMLS is the industry powerhouse and thrives on providing the most relevant products and services to its subscribers. For more information on CRMLS, visit www.crmls.org.
About Omni MLS
Omni Multiple Listing Service (Omni MLS) will be Mexico's largest and most recognized subscriber-based multiple listing service. We are dedicated to serving more than 100,000 real estate professionals from every state of Mexico. www.omnimls.com
View original content:
SOURCE California Regional MLS | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/06/13/crmls-reaches-agreement-with-omni-mls-grow-listing-access-across-us-mexico-border/ | 2022-06-13 19:33:58 | 1 | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/06/13/crmls-reaches-agreement-with-omni-mls-grow-listing-access-across-us-mexico-border/ |
8 booked into Noble County Jail
ALBION — Eight people were booked into the Noble County Jail from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning, according to jail records.
Jonathon R. Bixby, 32, of the 100 block of Harding Street, Kendallville, was arrested at 4:33 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant. No charging information provided. Bixby was held on $354.15 cash bond.
Jeremy D. Boyer, 46, of the 9200 block of East C.R. 200S, LaGrange, was booked at 1:06 p.m. Tuesday to serve a sentence relating to a court order on a Level 6 felony charge. No further charging information provided.
Ellen E. Diffendarfer, 37, of the 4400 block of South U.S. 33, Albion, was arrested at 8:14 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant. No charging information provided. Diffendarfer was held without bond.
Peter M. Parisi Jr., 27, of the 6900 block of South C.R. 145E, Wolcottville, was arrested at 7:41 p.m. Tuesday by Noble County police on two warrants. No charging information provided. Parisi was held on $3,500 bond.
Roger D. Patrick, 43, of the 100 block of Winchester Trail, Goshen, was arrested at 2:30 a.m. Wednesday by Noble County police on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a prior conviction for that offense, a Level 6 felony; operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.15% or more, a Class A misdemeanor; driving while suspended with a prior suspension within 10 years, a Class A misdemeanor; operating while intoxicated-endangerment, a Class C misdemeanor; and operating while intoxicated, a Class C misdemeanor. Patrick was held without bond.
Ashley N. Roberts, 35, of the 700 block of Phillips Street, Auburn, was arrested at 10:58 a.m. Tuesday by Noble County police on a warrant. No charging information provided. Roberts was held without bond.
Jeremy Slone, 42, of the 5700 block of C.R. 327, Garrett, was arrested at 11:54 a.m. Tuesday on a warrant charging a Level 6 felony. No further charging information provided. Slone was held without bond.
Stephanie M. Tikkanen, 41, of the 800 block of Lions Drive, Rome City, was arrested at 3:21 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant charging a Level 6 felony. No further charging information provided. Tikkanen was held without bond.
3 booked into LaGrange County Jail
LAGRANGE — Three people were booked into the LaGrange County Jail on Tuesday, according to jail records.
Judy Moore, 59, of the 6600 block of South C.R. 550E, Wolcottville, was arrested at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday by LaGrange County police on a failure to appear warrant relating to original charges of resisting law enforcement and disorderly conduct. No bond information provided.
Kenneth Yoder, 46, of the 400 block of South Detroit Street, LaGrange, was arrested at 2:09 p.m. Tuesday by LaGrange County police on a domestic charge. No bond information provided.
Austin Gilbert, 31, of the 1300 block of Hiawatha Place, Auburn, was arrested at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday by Wolcottville police on a temporary custody order. No charging information provided. No bond information provided. | https://www.kpcnews.com/newssun/article_28b83147-5383-5c43-bce1-13ab83b8e4b8.html | 2023-07-13 14:21:54 | 0 | https://www.kpcnews.com/newssun/article_28b83147-5383-5c43-bce1-13ab83b8e4b8.html |
Eloy Jiménez stood near home plate and waited. And waited.
He watched to see if his towering fly ball to left in the fourth inning Wednesday would stay fair.
It did, resulting in a game-tying, two-run home run for the Chicago White Sox against the Minnesota Twins at Guaranteed Rate Field.
“I thought it was foul the first time,” Jiménez said. “And then good job.”
More than good for the Sox, who are hoping to receive an offensive boost with Jiménez’s return from the injured list. He came through again in the seventh with an RBI single to tie the game once more.
“It was one of the days you feel like, ‘Yeah, I’m back,’” Jiménez said.
Clutch hitting was on display throughout the day for the Sox, who rallied four times to force extra innings. And in the 10th, Leury García drove in Adam Engel with a single to left against reliever Jovani Moran to give the Sox a thrilling 9-8 victory in front of 18,393.
“Every day is going to be different — this is baseball,” Jiménez said. “Sometimes you are going to score a lot of runs and sometimes you don’t. But this is a team we can do what we did (Wednesday).
“We come out, compete and do our best and see what happens. Everybody knows that we had that team that can score runs. And to see that (Wednesday), it was good.”
The Sox avoided being swept by taking the finale of a crucial three-game series. They are in third place in the American League Central, 5½ games behind the division-leading Twins.
“(Playing) it at home, three-game series, you don’t want to get swept,” Sox manager Tony La Russa said. “We lost a couple heartbreakers in that series over there (April 22-24 in Minnesota). So it’s good to get on the right side for a lot of reasons. Mostly because it was inspirational to watch the guys refuse to quit.”
Jiménez, who went 2-for-5 with three RBIs, hit one of three home runs for the Sox.
Luis Robert’s two-run homer in the fifth tied the game at 5. Andrew Vaughn’s two-run homer in the eighth tied it at 8.
“We swung it well,” Vaughn said. “It went our way a couple times, and it was awesome.”
Jiménez has waited a long time to contribute again. The left fielder had been on the IL since April 24 with a torn right hamstring tendon suffered the previous day while trying to beat a throw to first base against the Twins at Target Field.
“When we got the results, I said, ‘It’s bad, but the good thing is I’m going to be back,’” Jiménez said. “So I tried to do my best and now I’m here. Back to the game.”
Wednesday’s game was Jiménez’s 12th of the season. He entered the day slashing .222/.256/.333 with one home run and seven RBIs.
He slashed .246/.317/.351 with two homers and seven RBIs in 17 games during a rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte. There was a short pause during the assignment when he experienced what the team called “normal leg soreness.”
He displayed solid timing at the plate Wednesday.
“That smile lights everything up. It was great to get him back,” La Russa said. “But when he’s productive like that, that’s exactly what we need, that thump in the middle to produce runs. That’s what inspires us.”
Jiménez also made a nice play defensively, running to foul territory to track down Luis Arraez’s fly ball with two outs and two on in the seventh.
“I feel finally I can run,” he said.
But this game was largely about offense. The slugfest, featuring a combined six home runs, went to extra innings tied at 8.
José Ruiz induced a double play in the top of the 10th to get out of the inning without allowing a run.
Engel began the bottom of the 10th on second and moved to third on a passed ball as Josh Harrison walked. The Twins brought in the infield, and García hit a grounder past diving third baseman Gio Urshela, setting up a Sox celebration near first base after Engel scored.
It was the second time in less than a week that García came through late. He drove in the go-ahead run with a single in the ninth inning of Friday’s 1-0 victory against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park.
“The game was on the line there and it was very good to be able to contribute,” García said through an interpreter.
After dropping the first two in the series, the Sox didn’t shy away from the meaning of Wednesday’s victory.
“It was huge,” said catcher Seby Zavala, who had two hits and scored once. “Anytime we can get a game from anyone who’s ahead of us in the standings, it’s big.”
Yoán Moncada day to day with bruised right foot
Third baseman Yoán Moncada exited before the seventh with a bruised right foot. X-rays were negative, the Sox said, and he is day to day.
Moncada fouled a pitch off his foot in the fourth.
Before the game, the Sox placed infielder Jake Burger (bone bruise in his right hand) on the 10-day IL and right-hander Vince Velasquez (blister on his right index finger) on the 15-day IL. Pitcher Jimmy Lambert was recalled from Charlotte.
Infielder Danny Mendick, who tore his right ACL last month, was transferred to the 60-day IL.
() | https://www.bostonherald.com/2022/07/06/eloy-jimnez-homers-in-his-return-from-the-il-and-the-chicago-white-sox-rally-4-times-to-beat-the-minnesota-twins-in-10-innings/ | 2022-07-07 02:47:57 | 0 | https://www.bostonherald.com/2022/07/06/eloy-jimnez-homers-in-his-return-from-the-il-and-the-chicago-white-sox-rally-4-times-to-beat-the-minnesota-twins-in-10-innings/ |
UK promises more arms for Ukraine as Zelenskyy meets Sunak on European tour
LONDON (AP) — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Britain Monday on his whirlwind European tour, as the staunch ally of Kyiv promised to give Ukraine hundreds more missiles and attack drones in an effort to change the course of the war.
Zelenskyy landed by helicopter at Chequers, the British leader’s official country retreat, and was greeted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. It’s Zelenskyy’s second trip to the U.K. since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
This is the fourth European country Zelenskky has visited in the past few days. He is seeking more aid as Ukraine prepares a long-anticipated spring offensive to retake territory seized by Russia.
Ukraine’s leader made an unannounced visit to Paris on Sunday evening to meet French President Emmanuel Macron, after trips to Germany and Italy, where he met those countries’ leaders and Pope Francis.
A message posted Monday on Zelenskyy’s official Telegram Channel said: “Today — London. The UK is leading the way when it comes to expanding our capabilities on the ground and in the air. This cooperation will continue today. I will meet my friend Rishi. We will conduct substantive negotiations face-to-face and in delegations.”
The U.K. has become one of Ukraine’s major military allies, sending Kyiv short-range missiles and Challenger tanks and training 15,000 Ukrainian troops on British soil. Last week Britain announced it had sent Ukraine Storm Shadow cruise missiles, which have a range of more than 250 kilometers (150 miles) — the first known shipment of the weaponry that Kyiv has long sought from its allies.
Sunak’s office said that on Monday Britain will confirm it is giving Ukraine hundreds more air defense missiles, as well as “long-range attack drones” with a range of more than 200 kilometers (120 miles).
“This is a crucial moment in Ukraine’s resistance to a terrible war of aggression they did not choose or provoke,” Sunak said. “They need the sustained support of the international community to defend against the barrage of unrelenting and indiscriminate attacks that have been their daily reality for over a year.
“We must not let them down.”
Sunak will also push allies to deliver more support to Ukraine at a meeting of Group of Seven leaders in Japan later this week, Downing Street said.
As Zelenskyy visited European capitals, Russia stepped up attacks across Ukraine with drones and missiles over the weekend. On Sunday, Russia shelled two communities in the northern border region of Sumy, the region’s military administration said in a statement on its official Telegram channel. It said 109 explosions were recorded.
Zelenskyy and Macron met for about three hours on Sunday at the French presidential Elysee Palace — an encounter kept under wraps until shortly before the Ukrainian leader’s arrival in Paris.
Macron’s office said France will supply dozens of light tanks and armored vehicles “in the weeks ahead,” without giving specific numbers. Also promised were more air defense systems, but again details weren’t made public.
More Ukrainians will also be made battle-ready, with France aiming to train about 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers in France this year and nearly 4,000 others in Poland as part of a wider European effort, Macron’s office said.
France has supplied Ukraine with an array of weaponry, include air defense systems, light tanks, howitzers and other arms and equipment and fuel.
France had dispatched a plane to pick up Zelenskyy in Germany, where he met with Chancellor Olaf Scholz earlier Sunday and discussed his country’s planned counteroffensive.
It was his first visit to Berlin since the start of the invasion and came a day after the German government announced a new package of military aid for Ukraine worth more than 2.7 billion euros ($3 billion), including tanks, anti-aircraft systems and ammunition.
After initially hesitating to provide Ukraine with lethal weapons, Germany has become one of the biggest suppliers of arms to Ukraine, including Leopard 1 and 2 battle tanks, and the sophisticated IRIS-T SLM air defense system. Modern Western hardware is considered crucial if Ukraine is to succeed in its planned counteroffensive.
In the western German city of Aachen, Zelenskyy also received the prestigious International Charlemagne Prize, awarded to him and the people of Ukraine.
On Saturday. he met Francis and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni in Rome.
On the European trip, Zelenskyy said Ukraine will aim to liberate Russian-occupied areas within Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, and not attack Russian territory.
The Washington Post cited previously undisclosed documents from a trove of U.S. intelligence leaks suggesting that Zelenskyy has considered trying to capture areas in Russia proper for possible use as bargaining chips in peace negotiations to end the war launched by Moscow in February 2022. This would put him at odds with Western governments that have insisted that weapons they provide must not be used to attack targets in Russia.
Asked about the report, Zelenskyy said: “We don’t attack Russian territory, we liberate our own legitimate territory.”
“We have neither the time nor the strength (to attack Russia),” he said, according to an official interpreter. “And we also don’t have weapons to spare with which we could do this.”
“We are preparing a counterattack for the illegally occupied areas based on our constitutionally defined legitimate borders, which are recognized internationally,” Zelenskyy said.
Among areas still occupied by Russia are the Crimean peninsula and parts of eastern Ukraine with mainly Russian-speaking populations.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.kaaltv.com/news/us-world-news/uk-promises-more-arms-for-ukraine-as-zelenskyy-meets-sunak-on-european-tour/ | 2023-05-15 08:49:07 | 0 | https://www.kaaltv.com/news/us-world-news/uk-promises-more-arms-for-ukraine-as-zelenskyy-meets-sunak-on-european-tour/ |
LEHI, Utah, June 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- RainFocus™, provider of the next-generation enterprise event marketing platform, today announced that it has been included as a Representative Vendor in the 2023 Gartner "Market Guide for Event Technology Platforms" report.
The Gartner report stated that "marketers rely on events to achieve brand awareness and demand generation goals, accelerate deals in the pipeline, and strengthen customer relationships."
The RainFocus platform easily integrates with existing tech stacks, combining valuable zero- and first-party events, marketing, and sales data to accelerate marketing conversions and close sales deals.
The report also stated that "using comprehensive event technology is a must for product marketers to effectively reach audiences and deliver engaging experiences." We believe that this finding aligns with RainFocus' continued effort to support clients in simplifying event management, unifying event programs, and optimizing omnichannel marketing.
Finally, the report stated, "The ability to follow an attendee's engagement across all hosted events and experiences is often a driver when deciding on a single solution."
RainFocus enables organizations to access data across multiple events and formats under a single platform. This approach creates a streamlined view of data that allows marketers to keep customers at the core of their strategies and meet them where they are in their journey.
In January 2023, RainFocus announced a groundbreaking partnership with Adobe. The partnership leverages data from both technologies to allow organizations to further focus on the customer journey, enabling personalized omnichannel experiences and making each customer touchpoint more effective and memorable.
"Our ongoing commitment to clients is to provide a trusted platform that exceeds event marketing goals, delivers personalization at scale, and drives results with immediate data and insights throughout the event lifecycle," says Doug Baird, president of RainFocus. "For us, the recent Adobe partnership and inclusion in the Gartner Market Guide for a third consecutive year are testaments to that. We're excited about the direction of the industry and the strides we're making as a company to keep pace."
To learn more about RainFocus and read the complete Market Guide for Event Technology Platforms, click here (access available to Gartner subscribers).
Gartner, "Market Guide for Event Technology Platforms", Christy Ferguson, Amy Jenkins, Jenifer Silverstein, Precious Ozokpo, 5 June 2023.
Gartner Disclaimer
GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in our research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
About RainFocus
RainFocus is the next-generation event marketing platform built to capture and analyze unprecedented amounts of first-party data for exceptional events and optimized engagement throughout the customer journey. RainFocus powers flawless experiences with secure, scalable solutions to support the entire event lifecycle. The platform integrates with sales and marketing technologies, simplifying event registration, content management, and exhibitor activation across in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences, all from a single dashboard. Leveraging real-time data, RainFocus provides actionable insights to drive personalization, accelerate qualification and lead conversion, and close deals. For more information, visit www.rainfocus.com.
Additional Resources
- Join the conversation with RainFocus on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
- Visit RainFocus.com to learn more about our event marketing and management platform. If you're ready to get started, request a demo.
- Discover powerful insights and solutions for event delivery and network with peers, thought leaders, and industry experts at RainFocus INSIGHT. Learn more.
- Are you interested in joining the RainFocus Partner Program? Apply today.
- Grow your career and help reshape the events industry at RainFocus. Apply here.
Media Contact:
Sheena Lakhani
sheena.lakhani@rainfocus.com
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SOURCE RainFocus | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/06/29/rainfocus-listed-representative-vendor-2023-gartner-market-guide-event-technology-platforms-third-consecutive-year/ | 2023-06-29 14:53:25 | 0 | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/06/29/rainfocus-listed-representative-vendor-2023-gartner-market-guide-event-technology-platforms-third-consecutive-year/ |
BOSTON (AP) — The daughter of U.S. Rep. Katherine Clark of Massachusetts was arrested during a protest Saturday night on Boston Common and later charged with assault after a police officer was injured.
In a statement on its website, the Boston Police Department said the 23-year-old was expected to be arraigned in Boston Municipal Court.
Clark, the House Democratic whip, said in a tweet that her daughter, Riley Dowell, had been arrested. “I love Riley, and this is a very difficult time in the cycle of joy and pain in parenting,” Clark wrote. “This will be evaluated by the legal system, and I am confident in that process.”
Clark has spoken publicly about the fears of her own nonbinary child amid bigotry targeting transgender people.
Police said officers responded to a report at the Parkman Bandstand Monument located within the Boston Common. They found a person, identified as Dowell, a resident of Melrose, defacing the monument with spray paint and anti-police phrases, according to police.
During the arrest, “a group of about 20 protesters began to surround officers while screaming profanities though megaphones on the public street causing traffic to come to a standstill,” police said, adding that “an officer was hit in the face and could be seen bleeding from the nose and mouth.”
Dowell was charged with assault by means of a dangerous weapon, destruction or injury of personal property, and damage of property by graffiti/tagging, police said.
A fatal police shooting earlier this month in nearby Cambridge sparked protests over use of force. A 20-year-old student at the University of Massachusetts Boston, Sayed Faisal, was shot and killed by Cambridge police. He had advanced on officers with what police described as a kukri, a type of sword, and a less-than-lethal “sponge round” had failed to stop him, police said.
Clark is in her sixth term in the House and represents the state’s 5th Congressional District. | https://fox59.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-child-of-rep-katherine-clark-is-arrested-in-police-assault/ | 2023-01-23 09:43:20 | 1 | https://fox59.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-child-of-rep-katherine-clark-is-arrested-in-police-assault/ |
The best products to lower your electric bill
The cost of living is at an all-time high, especially in major metropolitan cities. There’s no need to pay more for things than you need to — including electricity. If your electric bill is alarmingly high every month, there are a few ways you can keep costs down.
Energy-saving products can help lower your electric bill. While some are expensive, they’re worth it in the long run. They range in functionality, but they can all help you monitor your monthly energy usage.
What are the best energy-saving products?
Air filters
A clean air filter can help lower your electric bill because it improves airflow in your heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit. Dirty filters make it difficult for air to circulate efficiently. You might feel more inclined to leave the heater or air conditioner on for extended periods.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping gap seals are excellent for keeping warm or cool air within a room. Some windows and doors have spaces where drafts can flow in and out. This means the cool or warm air you’ve worked hard to contain escapes easily. Weatherstripping is easy to attach to any door or window and works well at drowning out external noise.
LED light bulbs
LED light bulbs use less power and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. You don’t have to replace them as often as standard light bulbs. Because their wattage is lower, you should see a noticeable reduction in energy consumption over extended periods.
Smart power strips and plugs
Smart power strips and plugs connect to the internet and let you manage your connected appliances and devices remotely. For example, if you have a lamp plugged into a smart plug, you can program a schedule for when it powers on and off by using the corresponding app. You can also monitor how much energy each device uses.
Smart devices
Electric bills are often driven up because of unnecessary power usage. For example, there’s no need to water your lawn if it’s going to rain, but sprinkler systems are programmed to run no matter the weather. A smart sprinkler controller lets you program your sprinkler system, but it also tweaks it based on the weather and eliminates unnecessary watering.
Smart thermostats and energy monitors are the most popular smart devices for reducing energy consumption. Smart thermostats can be managed remotely, and an energy monitor provides you with reports and insights on your power usage to determine the best way to keep it down.
The 12 best energy-saving products
Best filters and weatherstripping for doors and windows
Aerostar MERV 13 Six-pack Pleated Air Filter
These air filters are easy to install and are an excellent, cost-effective way to trap lint, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, smoke and bacteria. They improve the efficiency of your HVAC unit and help keep utility costs low. Sold by Amazon
Filtrete Clean Living Basic Dust Filter
These air filters are electrostatically charged and super-effective at capturing lint, dust mite debris and household dust. They have a 300 Microparticle Performance Rating for trapping unwanted air particles through your heating and cooling system. Sold by Amazon
This weatherstripping gap sealer can help prevent heat and cold from escaping the rooms in your home in winter and summer. It sticks firmly, helps block out external noise and works on interior and exterior doors. Sold by Amazon
Cikkiio Self Adhesive Seal Strip
This weatherstripping seal is 32.8 feet long, 0.2 inches thick and versatile enough to use on windows and doors. It’s excellent for windproofing, dustproofing, weatherproofing and soundproof insulation, and you can use scissors to cut it to the desired length. Sold by Amazon
Best LED light bulbs and power strips
Philips LED Frosted Light Bulbs
These light bulbs use 80% less energy and last 10 times longer than standard 60-watt light bulbs. They deliver comfortable ambient light, fit in any E26 medium screw base and don’t contain mercury, making them eco-friendly. Sold by Amazon
TCP 60-Watt Equivalent LED Light Bulbs
These energy-efficient 9-watt light bulbs can help you save up to 85% on your light bill and last up to 18 years with moderate usage. They offer soft white light and are versatile enough for lamps and ceiling fixtures. Sold by Amazon
This power strip offers surge protection certified by the Electrical Testing Laboratories standards and has six independently controlled outlets and three built-in USB ports. You can use the Kasa smartphone app to monitor energy usage and power on and off your devices. Sold by Amazon
Bestek 2,000 Joules Surge Protector
This power strip has eight outlets and four USB ports that offer fast charging speeds and self-adjust electric currents to charge multiple devices without complications. It has an alloy plastic and flame-retardant construction with a lighted on/off switch for overload protection. Sold by Amazon
With the Amazon Smart Plug, you can use Alexa-enabled devices to control your lights and appliances. You can turn lights on and off through the Alexa app and set an energy-efficient routine for your devices. Sold by Amazon
Best smart devices and plugs
The Google Nest Thermostat is Energy-Star certified and automatically turns itself down when there’s no one home. You can program an energy-efficient schedule on the Google Home app, change the temperature from any device, and HVAC monitoring alerts you if things aren’t running optimally. Sold by Amazon
Sense Flex Home Energy Monitor
This energy monitor is expensive but can help you significantly reduce your electric bill in the long run. You can monitor your generator and up to two circuits and get real-time insights and energy usage reports. Sold by Amazon
The Rachio 3 smart sprinkler keeps tabs on the weather and automatically creates schedules, so your lawn only gets the necessary watering. You can manage your watering schedules through the Rachio smartphone app, and installation is simple, taking less than half an hour. Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://pix11.com/reviews/br/home-br/heating-cooling-air-quality-br/these-energy-saving-products-help-lower-your-electric-bill/ | 2022-09-02 21:20:30 | 0 | https://pix11.com/reviews/br/home-br/heating-cooling-air-quality-br/these-energy-saving-products-help-lower-your-electric-bill/ |
NEW YORK, Feb. 23, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Unlock Technologies Inc. (Unlock), a leading home equity investment technology company, and Saluda Grade, a private alternative real estate investment firm, today announced that they have secured a $300 million revolving credit facility from Barclays Bank PLC (Barclays). The revolving credit facility will provide Unlock with access to significant capital to serve its growing customer base.
"Fortified and diversified capital sources are instrumental to Unlock's role as one of the leading providers of equity-based home finance products," said Jim Riccitelli, CEO and co-founder of Unlock. "We had tremendous origination growth in 2022, and this credit facility will accelerate our growth in 2023, enabling us to assist thousands of additional consumers to eliminate high-interest debt, restore their damaged credit and solve significant financial problems."
Unlock's home equity agreement (HEA) is an innovative and inclusive financing option for homeowners who want to access the equity they have built in their homes without securing a loan or taking on additional debt. Homeowners typically use the funds to pay down high-interest unsecured debt, make home improvements or boost savings. Unlock is currently operating in 15 states with plans to expand into more states in 2023.
"Unlock's platform creates high-quality assets that provide significant value to homeowners and an attractive return to institutional investors," said Ryan Craft, CEO of Saluda Grade. "It's incredibly exciting to have a global investment bank like Barclays support this innovative financial product. We expect this relationship to be a cornerstone of our growth in 2023 and beyond."
Disclaimer:
This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to any for any other securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale. Any offers will be made only by means of a private offering memorandum.
Forward-looking statements:
Statements in this press release have "forward-looking statements," and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements.
About Unlock Technologies (http://www.unlock.com)
Founded in 2020, Unlock Technologies is a financial technology company providing products and services that help consumers solve financial challenges and improve their financial health. The company's flagship product is its home equity agreement (HEA), a financing option for homeowners who want to access the equity they have built in their homes without taking out a loan.
About Saluda Grade (http://www.saludagrade.com)
About Saluda Grade: Saluda Grade is a synergistic and vertically integrated advisory and asset management platform focused on investments in the alternative non-bank lending sector, real estate debt and equity, and hard-assets sector. Headquartered in New York City, the firm was founded in 2019.
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SOURCE Unlock Technologies | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2023/02/23/unlock-technologies-saluda-grade-secure-300-million-credit-facility-barclays-landmark-deal-home-equity-investment-industry/ | 2023-02-23 22:32:33 | 1 | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2023/02/23/unlock-technologies-saluda-grade-secure-300-million-credit-facility-barclays-landmark-deal-home-equity-investment-industry/ |
TIERRA AMARILLA, N.M. — A New Mexico man could face up to 50 years in prison after being convicted of injecting a woman with heroin and throwing her off a bridge into the Rio Grande in February 2020.
Authorities said the woman survived by floating down the river to get to a riverbank and seeking help at a nearby home.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reported that 47-year-old Brenton Rael was found guilty Thursday a Rio Arriba County jury after a three-day trial in Tierra Amarilla.
He was convicted on charges of kidnapping, attempted murder, battery, assault, robbery, conspiracy and being a felon in possession of a firearm and acquitted of tampering with evidence.
Rael, of Petaca, was one of three suspects accused of kidnapping the woman, drenching her in bleach, drugging her to make her death look like an overdose and then tossing her into the river near Española.
According to the New Mexican, the three suspects allegedly the woman because she was friends with someone who had stolen drugs from Rael.
His sentencing hearing hasn’t been scheduled yet, but prosecutors told the newspaper that Rael could get more than 50 years in prison.
Rael’s two co-defendants both pleaded guilty to reduced charges prior to his trial. One got an eight-year prison term and the other is facing a prison sentence of between four and eight years. | https://www.abqjournal.com/2549301/new-mexico-man-convicted-of-trying-to-kill-a-woman-in-2020.html | 2022-11-14 05:11:46 | 0 | https://www.abqjournal.com/2549301/new-mexico-man-convicted-of-trying-to-kill-a-woman-in-2020.html |
Residents of one Vermont town were left wondering why, after receiving stacks of mailers with a book on the “untold story behind the Vatican’s rising influence in America,” along with a small cross.
WCAX reported that the books, titled “The Great Controversy,” came from a company called Remnant Publications in Coldwater, Michigan.
A resident of Essex Junction, Vermont, Adam Thompson, said, “Some people would pick it up and put it in the trash.”
He said, speaking from his apartment complex, "it’s cluttering up the lobby. So, I don’t think it really had an effect really.”
The cross reportedly came from another organization, called Cross America, based in Kokomo, Indiana, WCAX reported.
Terry Merrell, the chair of the organization, said, “Yeah, no, no correlation,” confirming the book and the cross didn't come from the same organization, it is believed.
Cross America says it wants to have a cross in every household in America, via the mail.
Vermont, Wyoming and Hawaii are at least three of the U.S. states that have reportedly received the religious items.
The crosses cost around 43 cents each to make, according to Merrell.
The organization spent around $113,000 to have them sent to residences in Vermont, Merrell said.
Matthew Dodds, who WCAX spoke to, runs a marketing firm in Burlington, Vermont and said the U.S. Postal Service released data that said 2007 was the peak of these types of mailers there, and said there has been a 40% decrease in the direct mail marketing. | https://www.abc15.com/news/national/a-book-on-vaticans-rising-influence-in-the-us-arriving-in-mailboxes-unsolicited-with-a-cross | 2022-10-29 00:57:40 | 1 | https://www.abc15.com/news/national/a-book-on-vaticans-rising-influence-in-the-us-arriving-in-mailboxes-unsolicited-with-a-cross |
PARIS (AP) — For French authorities, police are protectors ensuring that citizens can peacefully protest President Emmanuel Macron’s contentious retirement age increase. But for human rights advocates and demonstrators who were clubbed or tear-gassed officers have overstepped their mission.
A man in a Paris protest march lost a testicle to an officer’s club, and a police grenade took the thumb of a woman in Rouen. A railroad worker hit by grenade fragments lost an eye.
“Where is your humanity?” a woman shouted at officers who knocked an apparently homeless man to the ground in Paris, kicked him and used vulgar language while ordering him to get up and go. A video posted on Twitter shows another passerby helping the man to his feet in the scene last month near the Place de la Bastille.
The violence adds to anger in the streets and complicates efforts to invite dialogue between the government and labor unions, who are planning an 11th round of nationwide demonstrations Thursday.
The protests, which began in January, gained momentum after Macron’s decision last month to push a bill to raise the retirement age through the lower house of parliament without a vote. The common French reference to law enforcement officers as “forces of order” has been turned on its head. Now the question is whether police represent force or order.
Jarred by the bad publicity, authorities have shifted to damage control by offering accolades for security forces.
“There is no police violence,” Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Wednesday on RTL radio while condemning “individual acts” of officers who use disproportionate force. “Can’t we occasionally thank the forces of order?” he pleaded.
The minister said Sunday in an interview with Le Journal du Dimanche that since the start of the protests, 38 officers and gendarmes are being investigated by internal inspection units.
Concerns about police brutality have reverberated beyond France. Amnesty International, the International Federation of Human Rights and the Council of Europe — the continent’s main human rights body — are among organizations that cited excessive use of force by police during what has been a largely peaceful protest movement.
French police are sent into demonstrations with stun grenades and rubber bullets which are prohibited in most European countries, according to Sebastian Roche, an expert on security forces with France’s National Center for Scientific Research.
Demonstrations and potentially mutilating weapons are a combustible combination, Roche said, because “the temptation will be very big to use these armaments” especially when police come under a cascade of objects hurled at them, including Molotov cocktails.
The strategy is “at once very violent” and in some aspects illegal, Roche said, citing cases in which demonstrators were detained en masse and released without charges the next morning. Lawyers’ and magistrates’ associations have said such practices are an abuse of the law.
Jonas Cardoso, a 20-year-old student, was among more than 100 people detained during a March 23 protest in Paris.
“I spent hours in a cell for four people with nine other protesters. I slept on the floor,” he told The Associated Press. Cardoso denied any wrongdoing and was released without charges.
Worse, Cardoso said, is that violence may beget more violence.
“If the government doesn’t listen to us, the violence will rise. Our worst fear is that someone will die while protesting,” the young man said.
Videos of police brutality posted on social media largely fail to capture violence by black-clad ultra-leftists or anarchists who infiltrate the protest marches, destroy property and attack police officers.
“There are troublemakers, often extreme left, who want to take down the state and kill police and ultimately take over the institutions,” Darmanin said after a protest in March that turned especially violent.
The ranks of these provocateurs have grown, bolstered by opportunists and some leftist students. The intruders work in small, highly mobile groups, appearing and disappearing in formations known as black blocs.
Black blocs are not a new phenomenon, but they represent a danger to police. In one dramatic video posted on social networks, an officer is seen crashing to the ground after being hit with a paving stone. Colleagues dragged him away.
Violence by and against police is not limited to Paris, or to protests over Macron’s retirement plan.
Gendarmes and militants opposed to an artificial water basin recently clashed in rural France. Four people — two gendarmes and two protesters — were hospitalized in serious condition.
According to French policing rules, the use of force “must be absolutely necessary, strictly proportionate and graduated.”
“Of course, the police response is proportionate,” Paris Police Chief Laurent Nunez insisted in a television interview. Police intervene only when black blocs move into action, he said.
“Without police, demonstrations wouldn’t take place,” he said, insisting on their role as guardians of peace.
However, some protesters have found themselves trapped by police tactics such as encirclement, in which officers surround marchers so police can chase down troublemakers. But protesters stuck inside the police bubble can’t escape tear gas fumes.
Roche said the latest tensions show that France has “an accumulation of (police) crises that no other European country has.”
He cited the 2018-2019 Yellow Vest protests for social and economic justice where a brutal police response left two people dead, and multiple protesters lost eyes. Next came a debacle during last year’s Champions League Cup final when British soccer fans were gassed by police at the Stade de France.
Amnesty International’s France chief, Jean-Claude Samouiller, said last week at a news conference that France should improve its policing strategy and cited “a doctrine of de-escalation and dialogue” observed in Germany, Belgium and Sweden.
Compared with other European countries, Samouiller said, the two protest deaths in France in recent years put the nation at the bottom of the class, in the category of “bad student.”
___
Associated Press writers Jade Le Deley and Lori Hinnant in Paris contributed to this report. | https://www.kark.com/news/international/ap-international/pension-protests-raise-tension-between-police-demonstrators/ | 2023-04-03 16:43:10 | 0 | https://www.kark.com/news/international/ap-international/pension-protests-raise-tension-between-police-demonstrators/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — Former Atlanta Braves general manager John Coppolella has been reinstated by Major League Baseball after serving more than five years of a suspension originally announced as permanent.
Now 44, Coppolella began with the Braves in 2006 when he oversaw quantitative analysis and baseball information initiatives. He became general manager following the 2015 season and was suspended on Nov. 21, 2017, after MLB concluded that the team circumvented international signing rules from 2015-17.
Commissioner Rob Manfred said MLB determined that the Braves funneled extra signing bonus money to five players in 2015-16 by giving the funds first to another player considered a foreign professional under baseball’s rules and having the money redistributed to the other five.
His reinstatement was first reported by The Athletic.
“We can confirm that Mr. Coppolella has been reinstated, given the more than five years he spent on the ineligible list, the contrition he expressed and the other steps he took in response to this matter,” MLB said in a statement Monday.
Atlanta was stripped of 13 prospects and was unable to bargain at full strength for a top Latin American prospect until 2021. Under new GM Alex Anthopoulos, the Braves won the 2021 World Series.
___
AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.ourmidland.com/sports/article/Former-Braves-GM-Coppolella-reinstated-after-17705019.php | 2023-01-09 17:58:01 | 0 | https://www.ourmidland.com/sports/article/Former-Braves-GM-Coppolella-reinstated-after-17705019.php |
ATLANTA (AP)Joe Jones III had 18 points and Georgia State beat Toccoa Falls 91-52 on Wednesday.
Jones added 10 rebounds for the Panthers (7-5). Jamall Clyce added 13 points while shooting 6 of 11 from the field, and they also had six rebounds. Evan Johnson recorded 13 points and was 5 of 8 shooting (3 for 6 from distance).
The Screaming Eagles were led in scoring by Josh Parker, who finished with 19 points, four assists and two steals. Chris Chamberlain added eight points for Toccoa Falls. In addition, Tyler Glover had six points.
—
The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. | https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/sports/ncaa/georgia-state-earns-91-52-victory-against-toccoa-falls/ | 2022-12-22 23:15:55 | 1 | https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/sports/ncaa/georgia-state-earns-91-52-victory-against-toccoa-falls/ |
Optical retailer's assistance empowers military veteran, mental health, and cancer research organizations
DALLAS, Nov. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Improving people's lives by helping them see better has been the core mission of national optical retailer Eyemart Express for more than 32 years. The company, known for providing quality prescription eyewear for adults and kids with free same-day service, is expanding its mission beyond the walls of its stores and into the local communities where its customers and employees reside. Eyemart Express' people-centric giving efforts are making a positive impact on military veterans, cancer patients, and those seeking mental health resources.
Eyemart Express is doubling down on this fundamental element of the company's culture, donating nearly $1 million through an array of philanthropic partnerships over the last five years. All organizations selected by the optical retailer directly aid individuals and families at a local level to overcome financial and health challenges. Eyemart Express provides needed support by:
- Helping 20,000 people see clearly by giving frames to Dallas-based nonprofit Cedar Springs Vision. The organization provides vision services and eye care to those who could not otherwise afford it.
- Relieving financial burdens for nearly 60 military families in need by paying rent, buying groceries, and keeping utilities on in their homes through contributions to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Unmet Needs Fund.
- Making mental wellness resources more accessible in local communities in partnership with PeaceLove. The organization hosts virtual workshops that offer easy, low-pressure ways to find emotional relief through simple creative activities that foster a more joyful journey to peace of mind.
- Accelerating cancer research so that all cancer patients can become long-term cancer survivors with donations to Stand Up To Cancer.
"The last two years have emphasized the importance of supporting our local communities, and the impact from giving efforts is eye-opening," says Katy Hanson, Eyemart Express CMO. "We can help improve people's lives by helping them see better, live happier, longer lives, and meet basic needs with the hard work of amazing organizations. We strive to be part of the solution in our stores and the local communities that we serve."
To reinforce its commitment to improving people's lives, Eyemart Express stores are celebrating the company's ninth annual "Let's Give Back" grassroots giving campaign to create the greatest local impact possible. Each store team selects a local charity and works closely with the organization to identify immediate items of need. The optical retailer's store teams then create impressive in-store donation centers to collect contributions from employees, customers, and members of the community who want to help.
Eyemart Express also recognizes those at the heart of local communities who keep other safe and shape future generations. First responders, health care workers, teachers, school staff members, military families, and veterans receive a 20 percent discount on all eyewear purchases with a valid ID.
For more information on Eyemart Express' giving initiatives, visit https://www.eyemartexpress.com/lander/community.
Eyemart Express (EyemartExpress.com) is a national optical retailer known for providing quality prescription eyewear with free same-day service thanks to its local lens labs. Founded in 1990, the company ranks among the top optical retailers in the country with its family of brands: Vision 4 Less, Visionmart Express, and Eyewear Express. Eyemart Express is based in Farmers Branch, Texas, and has 241 stores in 42 states. The optical retailer offers a robust frame selection for adults and kids with more than 2,000 frames from brands such as Ray-Ban, Coach, Versace, and Paw Patrol.
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BEIJING – Asian stock markets were mixed Friday ahead of a United States job market update that traders hope might encourage the Federal Reserve to ease off plans for more interest rate hikes.
Shanghai and Seoul rose while Tokyo declined. Markets in Hong Kong, India and Australia were closed for a holiday.
Traders who worry higher interest rates might tip the global economy into recession looked ahead to U.S. government data that are expected to show the job market is cooling. They hope that might prompt the Fed to decide aggressive rate hikes are no longer needed to extinguish inflation.
Other data have “confirmed a clear trend that a labor market slowdown has begun,” said Edward Moya of Oanda in a report.
The Shanghai Composite Index gained 0.4% to 3,324.39 while the Nikkei 225 in Tokyo lost less than 0.1% to 27,466.88.
The Kospi in Seoul rose 1.3% to 2,490.37. Bangkok also gained.
On Wall Street, the benchmark S&P 500 rose 0.4% on Thursday to 4,105.02 after a U.S. government report showed fewer workers filed for unemployment benefits last week. Economists expect Friday's comprehensive non-farm payrolls report to show the number of jobs added by U.S. employers fell to 240,000 last month from February's 311,000.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged up less than 0.1% to 33,485.29. The Nasdaq composite gained 0.8% to 12,087.96.
The U.S. economy has been slowing under the weight of higher interest rates, but inflation still is higher than the Fed's 2% target. That has led to expectations of at least a brief recession this year.
Fed officials say they plan at least one more increase and then will keep rates elevated through at least the start of 2024. However, some traders expect the U.S. central bank to start cutting rates as early as mid-year to shore up economic growth.
Markets were rattled by last month's high-profile failures of two U.S. banks and one in Switzerland, but regulators appear to have calmed fears by promising more lending to institutions if necessary and other measures to stabilize the global financial system.
There has been more fear in the bond market, where Treasury yields have sunk on worries about a weaker economy and the banking system’s struggles.
The 10-year Treasury yield, or the difference between the market price and the payout at maturity, slipped to 3.29% from 3.31% late Wednesday and from more than 4% last month. The two-year yield is down to 3.82% from more than 5% last month.
On Wall Street, Costco fell 2.2% after the warehouse membership retailer said an important measure of its sales fell in March as consumers pulled back spending on big-ticket items.
Levi Strauss fell 16% despite reporting stronger profit and revenue for the latest quarter than expected. Analysts said some of the sales may have been the result of discounting, pointing to squeezed profit margins.
Benchmark U.S. crude oil for May delivery rose 9 cents to $80.70 a barrel Thursday. Brent crude for June delivery rose 13 cents to $85.12 a barrel.
The dollar edged down to 131.68 yen from Thursday's 131.77 yen. The euro declined to $1.0921 from $1.0930. | https://www.wsls.com/business/2023/04/07/asian-stocks-mixed-ahead-of-us-job-market-update/ | 2023-04-07 06:42:46 | 1 | https://www.wsls.com/business/2023/04/07/asian-stocks-mixed-ahead-of-us-job-market-update/ |
The 2023 PGA Championship Odds & Preview: Max Homa
Max Homa is in 35th place, with a score of +3, following the second round of the PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club.
Looking to wager on Max Homa at the PGA Championship this week? Keep reading for all the stats and odds you can use before you make your picks.
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Max Homa Insights
- Homa has finished below par seven times and carded 13 rounds with a better-than-average score over his last 16 rounds.
- He has carded a top-10 score three times in his last 16 rounds.
- Over his last 16 rounds, Homa has finished within three strokes of the best score of the round once, and within five strokes of the top score of the day on nine occasions.
- Homa has finished in the top 10 twice in his past five appearances.
- He has made the cut in four of his past five events.
- In his past five tournaments, Homa has posted a score better than average in two of them.
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Over the last year
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PGA Championship Insights and Stats
- Homa has one top-20 finish in his past five appearances at this tournament. His average finishing position has been 37th.
- Homa has three made cuts in his past five appearances at this tournament.
- Homa finished 35th when he last played this event, which was in 2023.
- In the past year, the Tour has played courses with an average length of 7,300 yards, 94 yards shorter than the 7,394-yard par 70 for this week's tournament.
- Courses that Homa has played in the past year have measured an average of 7,373 yards, 21 yards shorter than the 7,394-yard Oak Hill Country Club this week.
Homa's Last Time Out
- Homa was good on the 16 par-3 holes at the Wells Fargo Championship, averaging 2.88 strokes to finish in the 84th percentile of competitors.
- His 3.93-stroke average on the 44 par-4 holes at the Wells Fargo Championship was strong, putting him in the 87th percentile of the field.
- On the 12 par-5 holes at the Wells Fargo Championship, Homa shot better than 33% of the field (averaging 4.67 strokes).
- Homa recorded a birdie or better on four of 16 par-3s at the Wells Fargo Championship, better than the field average of 1.5.
- On the 16 par-3s at the Wells Fargo Championship, Homa carded two bogeys or worse (the tournament average was 2.2).
- Homa recorded more birdies or better (eight) than the tournament average of 5.0 on the 44 par-4s at the Wells Fargo Championship.
- In that last outing, Homa had a bogey or worse on five of 44 par-4s (the field averaged 6.9).
- Homa ended the Wells Fargo Championship recording a birdie or better on five par-5 holes, compared to the field average of 4.0 on the 12 par-5s.
- On the 12 par-5s at the Wells Fargo Championship, Homa fell short compared to the tournament average of 0.7 bogeys or worse on those holes by carding one.
PGA Championship Time and Date Info
- Date: May 18-21, 2023
- Course: Oak Hill Country Club
- Location: Rochester, New York
- Par: 70 / 7,394 yards
- Homa Odds to Win: +15000 (Bet now with BetMGM!)
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All statistics in this article reflect Homa's performance prior to the 2023 PGA Championship.
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.wnem.com/sports/betting/2023/05/20/max-homa-pga-championship-pga-odds/ | 2023-05-20 07:33:01 | 1 | https://www.wnem.com/sports/betting/2023/05/20/max-homa-pga-championship-pga-odds/ |
Synchrony's Financing Tools Helped Roto-Rooter Grow Monthly Sales for the Past Decade
STAMFORD, Conn., July 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Synchrony (NYSE: SYF), a leading consumer financing company, today announced an expanded partnership with Roto-Rooter, the leading provider of plumbing and drain cleaning services, to help homeowners with new financing options for their home repair needs. This partnership, which began a decade ago, provides customers with a private label credit card which offers flexible financing options, including promotional financing.
Together, Synchrony and Roto-Rooter developed an innovative in-home digital sales tool for technicians to offer financing. Thanks to the implementation of this tool and new financing strategies, technicians are able to offer customers flexible payment and promotional financing options quickly and easily, making it easier to do necessary repairs on their home. This flexibility led to the negotiation of a new multi-year agreement, which Synchrony is currently rolling out to Roto-Rooter's franchise and contractor locations.
This expanded partnership empowers Roto-Rooter business owners to provide flexible payment options to support immediate and urgent situations that may arise in their customers' homes. Additionally, it offers consumers a dedicated credit card that enables repeat purchases for services or major jobs, further streamlining the payment process and fostering customer loyalty.
"Embracing new digital ways to manage key business processes like financing services allows companies like Roto-Rooter to uncover expanded ways to generate sales and help close more deals," said Curtis Howse, CEO of Home & Auto, Synchrony. "We look forward to continuing our long-standing relationship with Roto-Rooter and helping their business owners increase sales and drive loyalty by offering the financing options that customers need."
About Synchrony
Synchrony (NYSE: SYF) is a premier consumer financial services company delivering one of the industry's most complete digitally enabled product suites. Our experience, expertise and scale encompass a broad spectrum of industries including digital, health and wellness, retail, telecommunications, home, auto, outdoor, pet and more. We have an established and diverse group of national and regional retailers, local merchants, manufacturers, buying groups, industry associations and healthcare service providers, which we refer to as our "partners." We connect our partners and consumers through our dynamic financial ecosystem and provide them with a diverse set of financing solutions and innovative digital capabilities to address their specific needs and deliver seamless, omnichannel experiences. We offer the right financing products to customers in their channel of choice. For more information, visit www.synchrony.com and Twitter: @Synchrony.
Contacts:
Lauren Devilbiss
Synchrony
lauren.devilbiss@syf.com
240-814-5825
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SOURCE Synchrony | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2023/07/28/synchrony-expands-partnership-with-roto-rooter-provide-access-financing-plumbing-services/ | 2023-07-28 13:55:22 | 1 | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2023/07/28/synchrony-expands-partnership-with-roto-rooter-provide-access-financing-plumbing-services/ |
CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This Notice provides information about the sources of the Fund's monthly distributions. You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund's Managed Distribution Plan.
The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with 'yield' or 'income'.
The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. Sources include net investment income (NII), short-term capital gains (ST),long-term capital gains (LT) and paid in capital. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
The following table provides an estimate of the Fund's distribution sources, reflecting the fiscal year-to- date cumulative amount of distributions. The Fund attributes these estimates equally to each regular distribution throughout the year. Consequently, the estimated information as of the specified month-end shown below is for the current distribution, and also represents an updated estimate for all prior months in the year.
The following table provides information regarding distributions and total return performance over various time periods. This information is intended to help you better understand whether returns for the specified time periods were sufficient to meet distributions.
The fund makes distributions in accordance with a managed distribution plan that provides for the declaration of monthly distributions to common shareholders of the fund at an annual minimum fixed rate of 7.0%, based on the fund's average monthly net asset value (NAV) per share over the prior 12 months. Under the managed distribution plan, distributions are sourced from income and also may be sourced from paid-in capital and/or capital gains. The fund's distributions in any period may be more or less than the net return earned by the fund on its investments and therefore should not be used as a measure of performance or confused with yield or income. Distributions in excess of fund returns will cause the fund's NAV to decline. Investors should not draw any conclusions about the fund's investment performance from the amount of its distribution or from the terms of its managed distribution plan.
The quoted distribution rate is a figure that uses the fund's previous distribution to calculate an annualized figure. The distribution rate is calculated by annualizing the last distribution and then dividing by the period-ending NAV or market price. Special distributions, including special capital gains distributions, are not included in the calculation.
The Allspring Utilities and High Income Fund is a closed-end equity and high-yield bond fund. The fund's investment objective is to seek a high level of current income and moderate capital growth with an emphasis on providing tax-advantaged dividend income.
The final determination of the source of all dividend distributions in the current year will be made after year-end. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax-reporting purposes will depend upon a fund's investment experience during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to change based on tax regulations. Each fund will send shareholders a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell shareholders how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
For more information on Allspring's closed-end funds, please visit our website.
This closed-end fund is no longer available as an initial public offering and is only offered through broker-dealers on the secondary market. A closed-end fund is not required to buy its shares back from investors upon request. Shares of the fund may trade at either a premium or discount relative to the fund's net asset value, and there can be no assurance that any discount will decrease. The values of, and/or the income generated by, securities held by the fund may decline due to general market conditions or other factors, including those directly involving the issuers of such securities. Equity securities fluctuate in value in response to factors specific to the issuer of the security. Debt securities are subject to credit risk and interest rate risk, and high yield securities and unrated securities of similar credit quality have a much greater risk of default and their values tend to be more volatile than higher-rated securities with similar maturities. The fund is also subject to risks associated with any concentration of its investments in the utility sector. Funds that concentrate their investments in a single industry or sector may face increased risk of price fluctuation due to adverse developments within that industry or sector. The fund is leveraged through a revolving credit facility and also may incur leverage by issuing preferred shares in the future. The use of leverage results in certain risks, including, among others, the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and the market price of common shares. Foreign investments may contain more risk due to the inherent risks associated with changing political climates, foreign market instability, and foreign currency fluctuations. Derivatives involve additional risks, including interest rate risk, credit risk, the risk of improper valuation, and the risk of noncorrelation to the relevant instruments they are designed to hedge or closely track.
Allspring Global Investments™ is the trade name for the asset management firms of Allspring Global Investments Holdings, LLC, a holding company indirectly owned by certain private funds of GTCR LLC and Reverence Capital Partners, L.P. These firms include but are not limited to Allspring Global Investments, LLC, and Allspring Funds Management, LLC. Certain products managed by Allspring entities are distributed by Allspring Funds Distributor, LLC (a broker-dealer and Member FINRA/SIPC).
This material is for general informational and educational purposes only and is NOT intended to provide investment advice or a recommendation of any kind—including a recommendation for any specific investment, strategy, or plan.
Some of the information contained herein may include forward-looking statements about the expected investment activities of the funds. These statements provide no assurance as to the funds' actual investment activities or results. Readers must make their own assessment of the information contained herein and consider such other factors as they may deem relevant to their individual circumstances.
© 2022 Allspring Global Investments Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved.
PAR-0622-00475
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SOURCE Allspring Global Investments | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_business/allspring-utilities-and-high-income-fund-erh-cusip-94987e109-important-notice-to-shareholders/article_91eff7b8-18b1-5819-94d4-d4248abed833.html | 2022-07-01 14:29:59 | 1 | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_business/allspring-utilities-and-high-income-fund-erh-cusip-94987e109-important-notice-to-shareholders/article_91eff7b8-18b1-5819-94d4-d4248abed833.html |
NEW YORK – A Colorado businessman returns to New York Monday for a retrial on charges that he cheated thousands of donors to a $25 million online crowdfunding “We Build The Wall” campaign to construct a wall along the southern U.S. border.
Timothy Shea’s first trial ended in early June without a verdict when jurors informed the judge that continuing to deliberate would leave them “further entrenched in our opposing views.”
The case once included as a defendant Steve Bannon, a onetime top adviser to former President Donald Trump. Trump pardoned Bannon just before leaving office last year. Two others charged in the case pleaded guilty.
The deadlocked jury came days after 11 jurors sent a note to the judge claiming one juror was politically biased against the government and in favor of Shea after labeling the rest of them as liberals and complaining the trial should have been held in a southern state.
Jury selection in the second trial begins Monday morning in a Manhattan federal court.
Last month, Judge Analisa Torres rejected Shea's request to move the trial to Colorado on the grounds that “political polarization” in New York and publicity about his first trial made it impossible for him to get a fair result in Manhattan.
She wrote that a jury note in his first trial might have indicated that differences in political opinions affected the jury's deliberations, but he had not shown that those differences reflected a prejudice against him. And she said he had not explained why “political polarization” would be less pronounced in Colorado or anywhere else.
Shea, of Castle Rock, Colorado, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and falsification of records charges lodged against him after questions arose over how donations were spent from a campaign that raised about $25 million for a wall. Only a few miles of wall were built.
Prosecutors said Shea and other fund organizers promised investors that all donations would fund a wall, but Shea and the others eventually pocketed hundreds of thousands of dollars for themselves.
Shea’s lawyers said he acted honorably in the fundraising campaign and did not commit a crime.
Shea owns an energy drink company, Winning Energy, whose cans have featured a cartoon superhero image of Trump and claim to contain “12 oz. of liberal tears.” | https://www.wsls.com/news/politics/2022/10/24/colorado-businessman-set-for-retrial-over-border-wall-fund/ | 2022-10-24 10:31:45 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/politics/2022/10/24/colorado-businessman-set-for-retrial-over-border-wall-fund/ |
ST. LOUIS (AP) — Appeals court keeps President Biden's student loan forgiveness plan on hold in program's latest legal setback.
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In addition, independent wealth management firm announces 6 new hires and multiple open positions
MCLEAN, Va., July 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bogart Wealth, an independent, fee-only wealth management and Registered Investment Advisory firm, was recently listed in Financial Advisor Magazine's 2022 RIA Survey and Ranking, listing the top 534 Registered Investment Advisory firms in the U.S. by assets under management (AUM). Bogart Wealth ranked #241 in the list of largest RIAs, with year-end 2021 assets totaling over $1.9B. Bogart Wealth also ranked #34 in their list of the Top 50 Fastest Growing RIA Firms, with a 46.76% growth in assets from 2020 to 2021 and a 22.44% growth in assets per client. Bogart Wealth has been included in the Financial Advisor RIA rankings every year since 2019.
"It's an honor to yet again be featured in Financial Advisor Magazine's RIA rankings," said James Bogart, President and CEO of Bogart Wealth. "We are extremely pleased to also be featured in the list of fastest growing firms, as we're very proud of our growth in the past year and since the start of the pandemic."
To see Financial Advisor Magazine's full RIA rankings, please click here. To see their full list of the fastest growing firms, please click here.
In addition, Bogart Wealth was included in SmartAsset's list of the Top 50 Fastest-Growing Financial Advisor Firms, ranking #2 in their 2022 list. The report notes that Bogart has experienced 3-year growth of 157% and 1-year growth of 47% in AUM, as well as 3-year growth of 135% and 1-year growth of 38% in client accounts.
To identify the fastest-growing financial advisor firms in the U.S., SmartAsset eliminated RIAs that took part in mergers or acquisitions during the time period considered, comparing a total of 729 RIAs across four metrics: one- and three-year percentage change in number of client accounts and one- and three-year percentage change in AUM.
Bogart Wealth recently announced that they surpassed $2B in AUM, sitting at just above $2B as of July 19, 2022 – despite all of the recent market volatility. Bogart Wealth has more than doubled its AUM organically since the start of the pandemic and continues to add new clients and households as the firm experiences rapid growth in all facets of the business (1,131 clients as of July 2022).
"I'm very proud to announce that we are now managing over $2 billion for our clients," said Bogart. "It was only a matter of time, but it's a huge milestone for our firm. It's also a testament to our team, who pride themselves on serving our clients at the highest level. A big thank you to our whole team, as well the many clients who have referred us to friends, family, and colleagues."
In order to properly serve all their new clients, Bogart Wealth continues to hire new employees and add to their team. In Q2 2022, Bogart Wealth hired six new team members:
- Misty Garza, CFP®, MBA, Vice President, Financial Advisor
- Brian Windsor, CFP®, Vice President, Financial Advisor
- Morgan Veth, CFP®, Vice President, Financial Advisor
- Jung Seh, Financial Advisor
- Adam Platt, Junior Portfolio Analyst
- Chaz Billak, Client Service Associate
"We are very excited to welcome these six professionals to the team at Bogart Wealth, all of whom bring their own unique talents and skills to our organization," said Michelle Dubay, Chief Operating Officer at Bogart Wealth. "However, our growth doesn't stop here – we are actively hiring and looking to fill open positions in our offices in McLean, Virginia and The Woodlands, Texas."
Bogart Wealth is currently looking for team players and hard workers that are willing to go above and beyond expectations to fill eight open positions in the McLean office and three open positions in The Woodlands office. Open positions include Financial Advisor, Director of Client Services, Advisory Manager, Associate Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Associate, Client Service Associate, and more.
To learn more about the open positions and careers at Bogart Wealth, please click here. To learn more about all of the employee benefits at Bogart Wealth, please click here.
Bogart Wealth is an independent, fee-only wealth management firm guiding corporate executives, professionals, and families on their paths to and throughout retirement. Led by President and CEO James Bogart, their mission is to help clients achieve financial peace of mind by preserving and maximizing intergenerational wealth. As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), Bogart Wealth is held to a fiduciary standard, which gives clients confidence in knowing that everything the firm does is always in their best interest. Clients of Bogart Wealth enjoy an extremely high level of service, and the firm's boutique size enables multiple advisors to become familiar with each client and their financial plan. At Bogart Wealth, everyone is a part of the team, and they have taken great care to build a collegial and cooperative culture, as well as a diverse set of skills, experience, qualifications, and credentials. The team works together to apply their combined experience, expertise, and knowledge to each client account. To learn more, visit www.BogartWealth.com.
Media Contact:
Jonny Swift
Impact Communications, Inc.
913-649-5009
JonnySwift@ImpactCommunications.org
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SOURCE Bogart Wealth | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/27/bogart-wealth-listed-smartasset-financial-advisor-magazine-2022-ria-rankings-surpasses-2b-aum/ | 2022-07-27 11:19:13 | 1 | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/27/bogart-wealth-listed-smartasset-financial-advisor-magazine-2022-ria-rankings-surpasses-2b-aum/ |
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