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OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Two neglected tigers rescued from a long-shuttered roadside tourist attraction in Oklahoma are beginning new lives more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) away at California’s Oakland Zoo after receiving much-needed medical treatment.
The female tigers, now named Lola and Mia, were rescued in June from an Oklahoma attraction that was closed in 2008 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for multiple animal safety and welfare violations.
Lola had a facial deformity caused by an untreated infected tooth and underwent dental surgery on Thursday at the Oakland Zoo.
Mia had been declawed as a cub, a painful process that removes part of the animal’s paws and it is believed the big cat was used for taking pictures with tourists.
A concerned citizen alerted the Oakland Zoo that there were underfed big cats still living in small cages at the Oklahoma drive-thru zoo that were not receiving proper care. The Oakland Zoo did not disclose the name of the roadside attraction business because it said doing so could reveal the name of the tipster.
The tigers were kept in enclosures that were probably about 10 feet (3 meters) by about 15 feet (4.5 meters) and lived among piles of feces and dirty water dishes, said Colleen Kinzley, Director of Animal Care, Conservation and Research, at the Oakland Zoo.
“These are just atrocious conditions for an animal to live in and receive no medical care,” she said. “We’re very happy to be able to provide them with a forever home and a good quality of life.”
The animals are now receiving medical care and regaining their strength before they move to Oakland Zoo’s newly remodeled tiger exhibit, which had been empty since their previous rescued tiger passed away last year.
“It will be very heartwarming to see them be able to walk out on grass for probably the first time ever. Tigers love water. The moment they get to jump into the pool, I think there’s going to be so many times when we really will be so happy about this work that we’re doing,” Kinzley said.
The owner of the Oklahoma attraction was known to trade tigers with Joe Exotic from the Netflix series “Tiger King,” according to the Oakland Zoo. But since there were no records of the big cats’ history, it’s not known if either were bred or raised by Joe Exotic.
Joe Exotic — whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage — is serving a 21-year prison sentence after being convicted of hiring two different men to kill animal welfare activist Carole Baskin.
The former private zookeeper was sentenced in January 2020 to 22 years in prison but after an appeal on his murder-for-hire conviction, a judge this year lowered his sentence to 21 years.
The Oakland Zoo says the treatment the tigers need points to the need to pass the federal Big Cat Public Safety Act, which would regulate the possession, exhibition, or breeding of the animals and restrict direct contact between the public and the big cats.
The bill has stalled since being introduced in the House last year. Currently, the ownership and breeding of exotic animals is controlled by state laws.
California has strict laws protecting big cats but other states like Oklahoma are more lenient.
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https://www.pahomepage.com/news/national/rescued-oklahoma-tigers-get-care-in-california-and-new-home/
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Which Atkins bar is best?
Eating right is more challenging than it may seem, as there isn’t always time to cook and prepare healthy meals. Getting enough nutrients and vitamins is essential, but it can be difficult if you live a busy life.
Atkins bars are excellent for those looking for a convenient way to get enough essential vitamins and protein. They’re a bit pricier than other snack bars, but the best ones, such as the Atkins Peanut Butter Granola Protein Meal Bar, are suitable meal replacements and contain plenty of protein and minimal sugars.
What to know before you buy an Atkins bar
Meal replacement bar vs. snack bar
There are two types of Atkins bars: meal replacement and snack bars.
- Meal replacement bars are more filling, designed for those looking to lose weight. They’re acceptable as meal replacements, as they contain several key nutrients and vitamins.
- Snack bars are more suitable for those who want a healthy snack between meals. They’re less filling than meal replacement bars, but they still pack plenty of protein and other nutrients and are great for reducing carb and caloric intake.
Do you need an Atkins bar?
Atkins bars are great for losing weight, but they’re also high in protein, so it’s best to analyze your health goals before buying them. If you already get enough protein from whole foods as part of your regular diet, protein bars might be unnecessary. They can lead to weight gain if you’re not burning off the excess calories with exercise.
Daily recommended protein intake varies depending on each person, but those who live a more active lifestyle need more. Atkins bars are a great way to bolster your protein intake if you’re not getting enough in your diet, and they help keep your weight down if that aligns with your health goals.
Dietary considerations
Almost all Atkins bars are keto-friendly, and some are gluten-free, but they can also contain allergens such as wheat, soy, milk, peanuts and tree nuts. Be sure to check the label for these allergens before consuming one, as they can cause allergic reactions.
What to look for in a quality Atkins bar
Nutritional value
All Atkins bars are low in calories, sugar and net carbs, making them great for weight loss. Also, they’re an excellent source of fiber, with most offering 5 to 8 grams. Snack bars usually pack 10-12 grams of protein, while meal replacement bars contain 15 to 18 grams.
Flavor
Atkins bars come in many flavors, and although their nutritional value varies, most offer a similar amount of nutrients and vitamins. The most popular flavors include chocolate chip granola and cookie dough, but other, less-traditional flavors include s’more and chocolate peanut butter pretzel.
Taste and texture
Atkins bars are not to be confused with candy bars, so they don’t have the same sweet taste and rich texture. That said, although taste is personal, Atkins bars contain high-quality, delicious ingredients and make healthy but enjoyable snacks. Some Atkins bars have lots of protein, so you might experience an earthy texture or an unpleasant aftertaste, but this depends on the individual and the kind of bar.
How much you can expect to spend on an Atkins bar
Atkins bars are usually sold in boxes of five that cost $7-$10 for the snack bars and $7-$12 for the meal replacement protein bars. However, some retailers sell multiple packages in bulk at a discounted price so you can get more bang for your buck.
Atkins bar FAQ
Are Atkins bars better than protein shakes?
A. Atkins bars are more convenient, and there’s no need to worry about keeping them cool. Ultimately, it’s a matter of preference, but it’s also worth noting that most shakes have more protein.
Do Atkins bars contain caffeine?
A. No. There is no caffeine in these bars.
What’s the best Atkins bar to buy?
Top Atkins bar
Atkins Peanut Butter Granola Protein Meal Bar
What you need to know: This bar packs the protein and is suitable as a snack and meal replacement.
What you’ll love: It has a delicious peanut butter flavor and is loaded with 16 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. It has just 1 gram of sugar, 11 grams of total fat, and 4 grams of net carbs, all in just 220 calories, making it an excellent meal replacement for those looking to lose weight.
What you should consider: It’s unsuitable for those who have nut allergies, and some customers report a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Atkins bar for the money
Atkins Cranberry Almond Snack Bar
What you need to know: These delicious snack bars are packed with flavor and enough nutrients to curb your appetite until your next meal.
What you’ll love: This keto-friendly, low-carb bar contains 11 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. It’s made with sweet-tart cranberries, almonds, whole-grain oats and sunflower seeds. Also, it has just 3 grams of net carbs and 2 grams of sugar.
What you should consider: It’s sweet but has a hint of sour flavor that may be a turnoff for some.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Atkins Chocolate Chip Granola Protein Meal Bar
What you need to know: This bar has a traditional granola flavor and is perfect for those who want to maximize their protein intake.
What you’ll love: Each bar is dipped in chocolate for a rich coat topped with delicious chocolate chips. You’ll get 17 grams of high-quality protein, and it’s also rich in fiber, with each bar containing 7 grams. There are no artificial flavors or preservatives and no chalky protein powder taste.
What you should consider: Some customers report a coffee-like or unpleasant artificial sweetener aftertaste.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/food-br/best-atkins-bar/
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(The Hill) – Darren Bailey, an Illinois state senator and the Republican nominee for governor, apologized Monday after saying that people should “move on” from the deadly Highland Park shooting earlier in the day.
Bailey spoke after a July Fourth parade in the town of Skokie was canceled in the wake of the shooting, which left at least six dead and injured at least 24 others.
“Let’s pray for justice to prevail, and then let’s move on and let’s celebrate the independence of this nation,” he said.
Bailey said in a statement released after his comments that he apologizes if he “diminished the pain” being felt across Illinois.
“I am heartbroken by today’s tragic events and the pain and loss felt by so many,” he said. “My intent was to pray for the victims and those affected by today’s tragedy and for the shooter to be caught and prosecuted without further loss.”
Bailey said he hopes people can come together in prayer and to take action to address “rampant” crime and mental health issues to ensure tragedies like the shooting do not happen again.
He posted a tweet on Monday afternoon saying he sends his “heartfelt prayers” to the victims of the shooting.
“July 4th is supposed to be a holiday for families, for parades, for celebrating the American Dream, but when people dont feel safe in their own community, they are deprived of that dream,” he said.
During his earlier comments, Bailey led a prayer for the families of those affected and law enforcement. He said canceling the parade was the right choice because safety needs to come first.
Police have arrested a person of interest in connection with the shooting.
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https://www.kron4.com/news/gop-nominee-for-illinois-governor-apologizes-after-calling-for-people-to-move-on-after-shooting/
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LAS VEGAS, July 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pandamonium is the Kanpai Pandas' signature annual entertainment event. This year's Pandamonium will be held on August 13th in downtown Las Vegas at the Events Center from 6 PM to 1 AM, where the Kanpai Panda team will welcome thousands of Pandas, celebrities, artists, and athletes from around the world!
Tyga, Rich The Kid, Keyboard Monkey, Wenzday, Bijou, DJ E-ROCK, DJ Romeo, and DJ Ignite will be performing! We can't wait for the Kanpai Panda community to indulge in exclusive real-world experiences that the NFT space scarcely provides. In addition to the artists performing, there will be crypto social media influencers, athletes, and other big names attending Pandamonium to dance the night away! The venue is 120,000 sq ft. with a 30 ft x 80 ft stage, with full sound and lighting. Food and beverages will be sold at the event. Come join us for an NFT experience you will never forget.
There are 2 tiers for access to the event. If you are already holding a panda you can mint a free GA ticket on our website, or buy one on OpenSea. If you have a VIP pass (airdropped to Genesis Panda holders in April and available on OpenSea), you will get access to the Pandamonium VIP lounge and will receive other exclusive perks and benefits for future events. If you don't have a VIP pass, you can acquire one here (OpenSea). As a bonus, VIP holders will also get FREE entrance to the afterparty at Drais from 1 AM-7 AM.
This event will be gated by TokenProof, instructions on how to set up your wallet for a QR scan at the event can be found here or on Pandamonium.live under 'Tickets'! For additional details regarding the event, go to Pandamonium.live!
Since our launch in April 2022, the Kanpai Panda team has provided holders access to more than 30 events, including Crypto Bahamas, UFC 276 (Adesanya fight) 🥊, UFC 277, Imagine Dragons 🐲, Bad Bunny 🐰, season tickets to the upcoming Raiders season (10 games) 🏈, and more! The Kanpai Panda team is planning to launch over 40 projects in 2023, with 10+ being international. This is only the beginning.
Kanpai Pandas is building a family of like-minded people, creating a vast network effect where holders can have fun and grow together. The team strongly believes in community feedback and encourages holders to have a say in what events are hosted and where. Kanpai Pandas believe in building a sustainable long-term foundation through providing real-world utility and on-chain innovation. This is merely the tip of the iceberg for what the Kanpai Panda team aims to offer holders.
You can buy a Kanpai Panda from our website (kanpaipandas.io) or secondary marketplaces like OpenSea.
Kanpai! 🍻
MINTING OPEN 🐼 at kanpaipandas.io ✨
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KanpaiPandas
Discord: discord.gg/kanpaipandas
OpenSea: https://opensea.io/collection/kanpai-pandas
Media Contact: info@kanpaipandas.io
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Kanpai Pandas
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https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2022/07/15/pandamonium-tyga-rich-kid-las-vegas-august-13th/
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NEW YORK, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The City College of New York and Braven, a national nonprofit organization helping promising college students on a path to economic mobility, partnered for a college-to-career pipeline that will serve 3,750 students over the first five years.
"Our collaboration with Braven is an important step in our efforts to elevate student success at CCNY. Proactive advising linked directly to career preparedness and internship work is clearly where higher education is going these days," said CCNY President Vincent Boudreau. "Braven's work will help us ensure that our students connect the work they do on campus to powerful career trajectories, and that will help them succeed on this campus and beyond."
Supported, in part, by the Foundation for City College, the Braven experience begins with a 3-credit course (The Braven Leadership Accelerator), housed within the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership. Students, who Braven calls Fellows, complete weekly online modules on Braven's online platform and then apply that content through weekly virtual Learning Labs in a cohort of 5-8 peers led by a volunteer professional, called a Leadership Coach.
In New York, Braven's partners include Brooks Brothers, Credit Suisse, Deloitte, Montefiore Medical Center, and Salesforce. Fellows complete assignments to grow their leadership in five professional competencies: operating and managing, problem solving, working in teams, networking and communicating, and self-driven leading.
Upon completion, Fellows receive additional opportunities to develop leadership and career-readiness skills, engage in an enduring professional network, and stay on track to securing strong internships and jobs. These optional post-course activities include engagements such as: 1) the Professional Mentor Program, which provides some students a 15-week 1:1 mentor in their desired field as they get closer to the time of the job search; 2) access to Braven's bi-weekly jobs blast which shares internship and job opportunities; and 3) one-off professional development and networking events.
In Spring 2023, about 250 CCNY students are expected to take the course, joining a growing network of over 4,500 Braven alumni nationwide. In a partnership with Lehman College in the Bronx since 2020, CCNY is Braven's second site within the CUNY college system and in New York City, demonstrating the potential for creating a systemic, local solution to the college-to-career pipeline.
"We're so proud to partner with CCNY to complement their career services and help students develop deeper networks and career-readiness skills that are required for the 21st-century workplace," says Kilsys Payamps-Roure, executive director at Braven NYC. "As a lifelong New Yorker, I take pride in this partnership and believe it will help to close the wealth and opportunity gaps right here in our backyard. Braven partners with employers looking to expand networks for students and who want to hire diverse talent, and we are helping to establish those connections."
Nationwide, Braven shows promising results. Braven Fellows outpace the national average for strong job attainment both before and amid the pandemic. Within six months of graduation, 61% of Braven's 2021 graduates secured quality full-time jobs worthy of their bachelor's degree, or enrolled in graduate school compared to 54% of all graduates and 45% of students from similar backgrounds. Furthermore, 62% of Braven college graduates have at least one internship during college compared with 55% of all college graduates and 53% of students from similar backgrounds.
For more information about Braven, visit bebraven.org. If you're interested in getting involved, sign up to be a founding Leadership Coach.
Ashley Arocho
p: 212.650.6460
e: aarocho@ccny.cuny.edu
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE City College of New York, Office of Institutional Advancement and Communications
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https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/braven-launches-city-college-new-york/
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It's had all the hallmarks of a Zoom meeting gone awry.
People muted and unmuted at the wrong times. Interlopers joining under pseudonyms. Rogue additions to a screen share.
But it wasn't just any Zoom meeting. It was a typical day in the marathon National Labor Relations Board's hearing that's considering Amazon's objections to the historic union election win at a Staten Island warehouse. The NLRB will ultimately rule on whether a do-over election is warranted.
In the opening week and a half of the hearing, there's been the kind of sparring and haggling between lawyers that one would expect in any legal case.
But the proceedings have also been punctuated by an array of problems that any Zoom user would find familiar: a witness unable to connect to the Zoom meeting; lawyers unable to unmute; the hearing officer's camera suddenly freezing.
And of course, whenever there's a large number of people congregating on Zoom, there are opportunities for antics. On Tuesday, the hearing grew to more than 300 participants, many of them apparently joining at the invitation of Amazon Labor Union leaders Chris Smalls, Derrick Palmer and Angelika Maldonado, who tweeted out the Zoom link.
Good Morning ☀️ Labor let’s show em how we show up for one another we’re in court today log on 10am est ✊🏽‼️🔥#Hotlaborsummer https://t.co/4AhP15GZ32
— Christian Smalls (@Shut_downAmazon) June 21, 2022
Someone grabbed control of the screen share and scrawled "UNION" across a video being presented as evidence by Amazon's lawyers. Some participants turned on their cameras to display union swag in signature red while others changed their screen names to messages like "RECOGNIZE ALU."
That led to repeated warnings delivered by the baliff via the chat box, asking participants to "please provide just your first and last name to be admitted. Turn off your video, mute yourself, and do not use emojis or any other distractions."
Members of other unions are joining the hearing in a show of support
During the lunch break, members of other unions took advantage of the lull in the proceedings to shout out support for their comrades at Amazon, with cries of "Teamsters in the house!" "UAW in the house!" "When we fight, we win!" briefly taking over the Zoom call.
There have also been more serious issues. While the NLRB has made abundantly clear that any kind of recording, live-streaming or photos of the Zoom hearing are strictly prohibited, screenshots of the hearing have popped up on Twitter. On Tuesday, a lawyer representing Amazon stopped witness testimony to report a breach, leading to yet another delay as parties investigated.
Lisa Dunn, the NLRB attorney presiding over the hearing from her home in Phoenix, has handled the stream of technical and other issues with calm and patience, allowing herself the occasional exasperated chuckle after yet another problem is dispensed with.
Amazon had sought to close the hearing to the public
The virtual hearing is taking place four months after the election in which warehouse workers voted 2,654 to 2,131 to join the Amazon Labor Union. Following the tally of ballots on April 1, Amazon filed 25 objections to the election, including charges that the regional office of the NLRB overseeing the election favored the union, and that union leaders bribed workers with marijuana and threatened and harassed those who did not support the union.
Prior to the start of the hearing on June 13, Amazon sought to close the proceedings to the public. NLRB hearings, normally held in-person, have been conducted online since the early in the pandemic. Amazon's lawyers, who are participating from a hotel conference room on Staten Island, argued that there was no way to police who was watching the proceedings, including potential witnesses who should not have access to other witnesses' testimony. Amazon also warned there would be no way to stop unauthorized recording and sharing of the proceedings.
The NLRB denied Amazon's request, citing the importance of public access to a case that has garnered national and international attention.
The future of an 8,000-member union is at stake
Amid the distractions, it's important to remember that at stake is the future of a union that stands to gain more than 8,000 members. The Staten Island warehouse known as JFK8 is the first and only Amazon facility in the U.S. to vote to unionize so far. The outcome of this hearing could well determine where the labor movement at Amazon goes from here — how much momentum it can maintain as it seeks to organize workers at other warehouses across the country.
Last year, the NLRB invalidated the results of the union election and ordered a do-over election at an Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, Alabama, after finding that Amazon had improperly interfered by installing a mailbox near the facility. In Bessemer, workers voted more than 2 to 1 against joining the union. Amazon is arguing that the improper actions perpetrated by the NLRB regional office and the Amazon Labor Union in the Staten Island election warrant "at least the same result."
The hearing could last months, as Amazon plans to call dozens and dozens of witnesses
While the NLRB first indicated that the Zoom hearing could last "several days," it now appears that it could go for months. Amazon has said that it plans to call "dozens and dozens" of witnesses, many of them hourly warehouse workers whose jobs include picking items off shelves for orders and loading and unloading trucks. So far, it's been slow going. Every day, the hearing has heard from just a few witnesses.
On Wednesday morning, a lawyer for the Amazon Labor Union asked that Amazon speed things up and discontinue witness testimony on topics that had been well-covered, such as the long lines at the voting tent on the first day of voting or the proximity of media to the tent. Hearing Officer Dunn initially rejected the request, noting that Amazon should have the opportunity to build its case, but later acknowledged that some of the testimony was beginning to feel repetitive.
Still, the NLRB seems prepared for the long haul. It has scheduled Zoom meetings every day through the end of July.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.kbia.org/2022-06-22/inside-the-marathon-zoom-call-where-amazon-seeks-to-overturn-historic-union-victory
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MANILA, Philippines (AP) — A psychiatrist who helped fellow Cambodians recover from trauma resulting from the Khmer Rouge’s genocidal rule and a Japanese ophthalmologist who led an effort to treat thousands of Vietnamese villagers were among those selected for this year’s Ramon Magsaysay Awards, regarded as Asia’s version of the Nobel Prize.
The other winners were a Filipina pediatrician who has provided medical, legal and social help to thousands of abused children and their families, and a Frenchman who battles plastic pollution in Indonesian rivers.
The annual awards, announced Wednesday, are named after a Philippine president who died in a 1957 plane crash, and honor “greatness of spirit in selfless service to the peoples of Asia.” They are to be presented in Manila on Nov. 30.
The winners “have all challenged the invisible societal lines that cause separation and have drawn innovative and inspiring ones that build connections,” said Aurelio Montinola III, chairperson of the award foundation.
Cambodian Sotheara Chhim, 54, has led the treatment of thousands of traumatized survivors of the Khmer Rouge’s brutal rule and other patients in his country since becoming executive director of its Transcultural Psychosocial Organization in 2002, the foundation said.
As a child, he was forced to work in Khmer Rouge camps for more than three years until their rule ended in 1979. He became one of Cambodia’s first psychiatrists after years of war and devoted his life to treating people, especially in rural communities, where he said “the mental health worker should be.”
Japanese ophthalmologist Tadashi Hattori, 58, was awarded the prize for training local doctors who have treated thousands of Vietnamese. He decided to become a doctor at age 15 when he witnessed the rude treatment that his cancer-stricken father received in a hospital, the award foundation said.
In a 2002 visit to Vietnam’s capital of Hanoi, he was deeply moved when he saw how villagers had become blind because of an acute lack of eye specialists and treatment facilities, and started raising funds, training experts and donating equipment to local hospitals, it said.
“Even just healing one eye may make it possible for someone to attend a school or go back to work,” Hattori said. “I can’t turn my back on people who are on the verge of losing their sight just because they lack the money to pay for treatment.”
In the Philippines, where child abuse has been a longstanding problem because of poverty, child labor and trafficking, pediatrician Bernadette Madrid, 64, drew attention by providing treatment, raising awareness and engaging policymakers and civic groups to address the issue, award officials said.
Since 1997, she has led the country’s first child protection center at the Philippine General Hospital in Manila. It has served more than 27,000 children as of last year.
Madrid won the award for “her leadership in running a multisectoral, multidisciplinary effort in child protection that is admired in Asia, and her competence and compassion in devoting herself to seeing that every abused child lives in a healing, safe and nurturing society,” the award foundation said.
It said Gary Bencheghib from France became a “warrior” against plastic pollution on the Indonesian resort island of Bali, where his parents relocated years ago, when he discovered the extent of plastic clogging its waterways. At 14, he started a weekly beach cleanup with his sister, brother and friends in a project that led him to environmental protection advocacy.
Bencheghib, 27, later took up filmmaking in New York and produced more than a hundred videos on plastic pollution and environmental protection that millions have watched on YouTube, Facebook and other social media platforms. A 2017 documentary on the polluted Citarum River in West Java helped prompt President Joko Widodo’s administration to begin a seven-year rehabilitation program, award officials said.
He and his siblings have led the deployment of about 170 trash barriers in polluted rivers and plan to install hundreds more in Bali and Java.
He won the award for “his inspiring fight against marine plastic pollution … his youthful energies in combining nature, adventure, video and technology as weapons for social advocacy and his creative, risk-taking passion that is truly a shining example for the youth and the world,” the award foundation said.
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https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/cambodian-japanese-among-winners-of-magsaysay-awards/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_nation-world
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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — The final phase of jury selection in the penalty trial of Florida school shooter Nikolas Cruz began Wednesday with prosecutors and defense attorneys asking candidates about their job histories, opinions on law enforcement and racial minorities, whether they own guns and if they could handle viewing gruesome crime scene photos.
The final 83 candidates remaining from about 1,800 who began the three-step process back on April 4 are being brought back to Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer’s courtroom in four groups over two days, the first two undergoing questioning Wednesday.
The 23 men and 15 women in the groups come from diverse backgrounds. An airline pilot. Bankers. A circus fire eater and stilt walker. A city councilwoman. Grocery store and Walmart workers. A loading dock supervisor, a human resources manager, a special education teacher, a new self-help author, a librarian, computer techs, a longshoreman and retirees. They appeared to range from their 20s through their 60s and at least 17 appeared to be racial minorities. Two volunteered they are gay. About a third said they own guns. Some are U.S. military veterans.
Cruz, 23, pleaded guilty in October to murdering 14 students and three staff members at Parkland’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. After the finalists are questioned, 12 jurors and eight alternates will be selected on Tuesday by the attorneys and judge for the four-month trial that will decide if Cruz is sentenced to death or life in prison without parole. The trial is scheduled to start July 6.
While lead prosecutor Mike Satz mostly asked straight-forward questions Wednesday about the panelists’ backgrounds, assistant public defenders Nawal Bashimam and Tamara Curtis followed with more wide-ranging and open questions, their motivation not always obvious. About half the men raised their hands when Bashimam asked if any panelists play violent video games and most panelists said they have strong animosity toward people who torture animals — both something Cruz did in the years before the shooting.
When Bashimam asked the first group if any believed in the existence of “white privilege” — the assertion that white people in the U.S. have societal advantages over minorities — about half raised their hands, including some of the white ones. The pilot, an Air Force veteran, interjected to strongly disagree, saying this country provides opportunities to all who work for it. The book author, who is Black, agreed with him.
All said they could remain fair toward Cruz even after they see crime scene and autopsy photos and walk the still blood-stained and bullet-pocked Stoneman Douglas classroom building where the massacre occurred. A retired U.S. Customs agent said he did recovery work at the World Trade Center in 2001 after the 9-11 terrorist attack, so he’s already experienced something similarly horrific. A firefighter and nurse agreed when asked if some people aren’t cut out to see such photos.
The jury selection process was expected to take only about a month, but turned into a slog because of attorneys’ illnesses and controversies.
Those included a threat by Cruz’s lead public defender, Melisa McNeill, to withdraw if Scherer proceeded when a member of her team became ill. Scherer resumed the trial the following day, the ailing attorney sitting at the defense table. That resulted in a defense motion that the judge remove herself from the case as biased. Scherer rejected that motion..
Still undecided is a motion by the defense to delay the trial because of the recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, that left 21 dead. The defense argues that the shooting has again raised emotions in Broward County and makes it impossible for him to get a fair trial currently.
During Tuesday’s final selection, each side can try to convince Scherer that certain candidates are biased and ask her to dismiss them. If she refuses, they will each also have at least 10 peremptory challenges where they can dismiss a potential juror for any reason except race or gender.
When a jury is finally seated, it will have to decide whether the aggravating factors such as Cruz’s multiple victims, his planning, the terror he created and the cruelty he showed outweigh such mitigating circumstances as his long history of mental and emotional problems, his possible sexual abuse and the death of his parents. For Cruz to get death, the jurors must unanimously agree. If one or more vote for life, that will be his sentence.
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https://www.koin.com/news/national/school-shooters-jury-selection-enters-final-stretch/
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New York City declares monkeypox a public health emergency
NEW YORK (AP) — Officials in New York City declared a public health emergency due to the spread of the monkeypox virus Saturday, calling the city “the epicenter” of the outbreak.
The announcement Saturday by Mayor Eric Adams and health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan said as many as 150,000 city residents could be at risk of infection. The declaration will allow officials to issue emergency orders under the city health code and amend code provisions to implement measures to help slow the spread.
In the last two days, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency declaration and the state health department called monkeypox an “imminent threat to public health.”
New York had recorded 1,345 cases as of Friday, according to data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. California had the second-most, with 799.
“We will continue to work with our federal partners to secure more doses as soon as they become available,” Adams and Vasan said in the statement. “This outbreak must be met with urgency, action, and resources, both nationally and globally, and this declaration of a public health emergency reflects the seriousness of the moment.”
The World Health Organization declared monkeypox a global health emergency on July 23. The once-rare disease has been established in parts of central and west Africa for decades but was not known to spark large outbreaks beyond the continent or to spread widely among people until May, when authorities detected dozens of epidemics in Europe, North America and elsewhere.
To date, there have been more than 22,000 monkeypox cases reported in nearly 80 countries since May, with about 75 suspected deaths in Africa, mostly in Nigeria and Congo. On Friday, Brazil and Spain reported deaths linked to monkeypox, the first reported outside Africa. Spain reported a second monkeypox death Saturday.
The virus spreads through prolonged and close skin-to-skin contact as well as sharing bedding, towels and clothing. In Europe and North America, it has spread primarily among men who have sex with men, though health officials emphasize that the virus can infect anyone.
The type of monkeypox virus identified in this outbreak is rarely fatal, and people usually recover within weeks. But the lesions and blisters caused by the virus are painful.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.kxii.com/2022/07/31/new-york-city-declares-monkeypox-public-health-emergency/
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Two residence halls at Towson University will be renamed after the school’s first Black graduates — Marvis Barnes and Myra Harris.
The University System of Maryland Board of Regents voted Friday in support of a request by Kim Schatzel, Towson University president, to rename residence halls West Village 1 and West Village 2 after the University’s first Black students, who graduated from the university in 1959 after segregation was outlawed five years prior.
West Village 1 and West Village 2 were previously named Paca House and Carroll Hall after William Paca and Charles Carroll, both elected officials who enslaved hundreds of people. The university removed the dormitory names in 2021 after years of pressure from students and approval from the board of regents to rename school buildings.
Towson University, originally named Maryland Normal School when it was founded in 1866, was racially segregated until the United States Supreme Court ruled in the 1954 case Brown vs. The Board of Education that segregation is unconstitutional.
At the time, Towson was the state’s largest teachers’ college. Both Marvis Barnes and Myra Harris were aspiring teachers and were accepted to other historically Black colleges and universities. But they decided to enroll at Towson and its state teachers college and became the first Black students in their classes, according to the university. Harris graduated with a degree in elementary education, and Barnes graduated with a degree in secondary and middle school education.
The Morning Sun
Both women became public school teachers.
“As the nation pauses to celebrate Juneteenth this weekend, I can think of no better time to honor Ms. Barnes and Ms. Harris, and reflect on our collective role in combating racial inequality and inequity,” Schatzel said in a statement. “I am so proud of our students, faculty, staff and countless members of the TU family for enacting this inspiring change for our community and honoring these two remarkable alumnae.”
Juneteenth is an Emancipation Day celebration that recognizes the end of slavery. The holiday, which started in Texas, became a federal holiday last year.
Members of the 10-person University Naming Committee recommended that the school replace the dormitories named after Paca and Carroll with alumni Barnes and Harris to honor their contributions as school trailblazers and celebrate their successful careers as educators and administrators. Harris became a principal at Harlem Park Elementary and Madison Square Elementary in Baltimore. She also earned a master’s degree from Columbia Unversity and took postgraduate classes at Johns Hopkins and Loyola, according to Towson University.
Barnes also earned a master’s degree from Loyola University Maryland. She became a department chair at Northwestern Senior High School and an assistant to the principal.
A ceremony to honor the residence halls renamed Barnes and Harris halls is scheduled for the fall. For the past 20 years, Towson has also awarded freshman students with a minimum $500 yearly scholarship called the “Barnes-Harris Scholarship Endowment.”
“This is yet another important step forward in our institution-wide mission to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive campus community,” Schatzel said in a statement. “As an anchor institution that reflects the diverse population of our great state, we must continue this momentum to ensure a more equitable future for the next generation of Tigers and Marylanders.”
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https://www.baltimoresun.com/maryland/baltimore-county/bs-md-co-towson-residence-hall-rename-20220619-27v2pfpxknenferl45p3npahiy-story.html
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MENDON, Mo. — Investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board were in Missouri Tuesday trying to determine how an Amtrak train carrying more than 200 people slammed into a dump truck, killing two train passengers and the truck driver.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the train was carrying about 207 passengers and crew, but Amtrak said in a statement there were 275 passengers and 12 crew. The disparity could not immediately be resolved.
The collision derailed seven cars, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The truck was broken into pieces.
The crossing in a rural area about 84 miles (135 kilometers) northeast of Kansas City has no lights or other signals to warn of an approaching train, and local residents have complained that the overgrowth of brush and the steep incline from the road to the tracks makes it hard to see oncoming trains from either direction.
Rob Nightingale of Taos, New Mexico, said he was dozing off in his sleeper compartment when the lights flickered and the train rocked back and forth.
“It was like slow motion. Then all of a sudden I felt it tip my way. I saw the ground coming toward my window, and all the debris and dust,” Nightingale told The Associated Press. “Then it sat on its side and it was complete silence. I sat there and didn’t hear anything. Then I heard a little girl next door crying.”
Nightingale was unhurt and he and other passengers were able to climb out of the overturned train car through a window.
It’s too early to speculate on why the truck was on the tracks, NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said. Trains won’t be able to run on the track for “a matter of days” while they gather evidence, she said.
Mike Spencer, who grows corn and soybeans on the land surrounding the intersection a couple of miles southwest of Mendon, said everyone in the small community understands the intersection is dangerous, especially for those driving heavy, slow farm equipment.
Spencer said he had contacted state transportation officials, Chariton County commissioners and BNSF Railway, which owns the track, about the potential danger. Spencer, who is on the board of a local levy district, said the dump truck driver was hauling rock for a levy on a local creek, a project that had been ongoing for a couple days.
Messages left Tuesday with Chariton County commissioners were not immediately returned.
Passenger Dian Couture was in the dining car with her husband celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary when she heard a loud noise and the train wobbled and then crashed onto its side.
“The people on our left-hand side flew across and hit us, and then we were standing on the windows on the right-hand side of the car,” Couture told WDAF-TV. “Two gentlemen in the front came up, stacked a bunch of things and popped out the window and literally pulled us out by our hands.”
Passengers included 16 youths and eight adults from two Boy Scout troops who were traveling home to Appleton, Wisconsin, as well as high school students from Pleasant Ridge High School in Easton, Kansas, who were headed to a Future Business Leaders of America conference in Chicago.
It was the second Amtrak collision in as many days. Three people in a car were killed Sunday afternoon when an Amtrak commuter train smashed into it in Northern California, authorities said.
People have been injured or killed in at least six other accidents involving Amtrak trains since 2015. Last year, three people died and others were injured when an Amtrak derailed in north-central Montana as it traveled from Chicago to Seattle.
Amtrak is a federally supported company that operates more than 300 passenger trains daily in nearly every contiguous U.S. state and parts of Canada. The Southwest Chief takes about two days to travel from Los Angeles to Chicago, picking up passengers at stops in between.
___
Associated Press reporters Margaret Stafford in Liberty, Missouri; Stephen Groves in Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Grant Schulte in Omaha, Nebraska; Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis; and Jim Salter in O’Fallon, Missouri, contributed to this report.
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/ntsb-investigators-look-into-fatal-missouri-amtrak-accident/2022/06/28/b0b84f42-f6f2-11ec-81db-ac07a394a86b_story.html
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HONOLULU (KHON) — Passengers aboard Sunday’s Hawaiian Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu got more than complimentary lunch — they were treated to a familiar, and famous, face behind the flight attendant cart.
“Aloha Kakahiaka. Good morning guests, this is Jason Momoa.”
Momoa, star of ‘Aquaman’ and a beloved Hawaii native, handed out bottles of Mananalu water on the flight, as part of the partnership with the airline. A viral Tiktok shared the moment, showing the “hottest steward” pulling the beverage cart and handing out water while sporting a flower tucked behind his ear.
The concept of Mananalu, Momoa’s water brand, came to him on a flight where he noticed water bottles in single-use plastic bottles but other beverages in aluminum cans, his website explains. He took that moment and turned it into Mananalu, which distributes its water in recyclable, aluminum bottles.
Hawaiian Airlines started serving the 16-ounce bottles to Premium Cabin guests in April and replaced single-use plastic water bottles in the Pau Hana snack cart on continental U.S. flights.
Guests on the flight were also given 10,000 Hawaiian miles.
“I started Mananalu to give people a better option than single-use plastic and create a wave of positive change,” Momoa shared. “For every bottle of Mananalu sold, we remove one bottle of plastic from ocean-going waste.”
The partnership has eliminated 35,000 items of plastic in the first two months and anticipates the yearly average to be hundreds of thousands.
Momoa is back in Hawaii after being involved in a collision with a motorcyclist in California last week.
Authorities say the motorcyclist crossed the centerline and went “directly into the path of Jason Momoa’s vehicle,” a 1970 Oldsmobile. The man was ejected but suffered only minor, non-life-threatening injuries.
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https://www.wfla.com/nextstar-news-wire/jason-momoa-surprises-passengers-aboard-flight-to-hawaii/
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Knoxville company recalls beef jerky products due to possible listeria concerns
(Gray News) - The United States Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday that the Magnolia Provision Company, Inc. issued a recall regarding its beef jerky products, due to possible contamination of listeria monocytogenes.
The Knoxville company recalled all beef jerky items that were produced on Aug. 25.
The company advises avoiding consumption of the Beef Jerky Experience Chop House Style Prime Rib flavored beef jerky that displays an expiration date of Aug. 25, 2023.
The products recalled have an establishment number of “8091″ inside the USDA mark of inspection.
USDA says the items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.
The problem was discovered when the establishment reported that it received confirmation from its third-party lab that a product contact surface sample returned positive for listeria.
There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.weau.com/2022/09/06/knoxville-company-recalls-beef-jerky-products-due-possible-listeria-concerns/
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Don't expect a text back from Pauline Chalamet in the morning.
The Sex Lives of College Girls star shared some of her life hacks in Paris during an exclusive interview with E! News at Elle's Hollywood Rising Event on May 18, where she was honored as one of the rising actresses.
The has made strict rules surrounding about how she chooses to spend her days—including never looking at her phone before noon. She sticks to this, "Always, even when I'm working."
Pauline added that she doesn't have her phone in her room "ever" when she's working. "I wake up with an alarm clock…I set an alarm."
The actress — who grew up in an artist colony in New York City with her younger brother Timothée Chalamet — plays Kimberly Finkle on the popular HBO Max series created by Mindy Kaling. The show has proved to be a hit among audiences and Pauline is gearing up to take on the recently greenlit season two.
But the actress says she's happy to be a bit anonymous for now.
"I spend a lot of time in Paris and the show has not come out in Paris yet," she said. "So my life is great!"
As for her daily routine, the actress says, "When I don't have anything to do, like on a Sunday… I make myself tea in my apartment and read. I turn on my phone at around noon."
Then, Pauline said she'll check to see if one of her friends "who is not on tour with a show is available for lunch." In the afternoon, she usually goes on a walk or meets up with "very close friends who are like family" for an aperitif.
Previously, Pauline said that her own college experience helped her prepare for the nude sex scenes in The Sex Lives of College Girls.
"I would take my clothes off a lot," Pauline told guest host Julie Bowen on the March 11 episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. "It was like, part of who I am…so it wasn't that hard."
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https://www.eonline.com/ca/news/1331877/pauline-chalamet-s-morning-routine-includes-not-looking-at-her-phone-until-noon
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LORAIN COUNTY, Ohio (WJW) – New video shows a massive fire that shut down a Turnpike in Ohio for hours overnight.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said two tractor-trailers became engulfed in flames following an incident in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 80 in Lorain County just after 8 p.m. on Wednesday night. When troopers got to the scene, one truck was on the left shoulder and another was on the right shoulder, and both were already on fire.
One of the trucks was carrying a highly flammable resin or glue, officials said.
Video from the Ohio Department of Transportation shows one of the engulfed trucks continuously bursting with flames later that night.
Video taken by WJW shows the damage left behind after the fires were extinguished. Earlier video shared by WJW also shows both trucks on fire, shortly after the incident.
The Turnpike reopened early Thursday morning, but the road was damaged by the fire. The left lanes on both the eastbound and westbound sides of I-80 remained closed.
There were no reported injuries. Crews are working to determine what caused the trucks to catch fire.
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https://www.cenlanow.com/national/truck-carrying-highly-flammable-material-catches-fire-on-ohio-turnpike-video-shows/
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Management will host a conference call at 5:00 p.m. ET on the same day
LAVAL, QC, June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Neptune Wellness Solutions Inc. ("Neptune" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: NEPT) (TSX: NEPT), a diversified and fully integrated health and wellness company focused on plant-based, sustainable and purpose-driven lifestyle brands, announced today that it will report its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2022 after the market closes on Wednesday, June 29, 2022.
Following the release of its financial results, the Company will host a conference call at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, to discuss these results. The conference call will be webcast live and can be accessed by registering on the Events and Presentations portion of Neptune's Investor Relations website at www.investors.neptunewellness.com. The webcast will be archived for approximately 90 days.
About Neptune Wellness Solutions Inc.
Headquartered in Laval, Quebec, Neptune is a diversified health and wellness company with a mission to redefine health and wellness. Neptune is focused on building a portfolio of high quality, affordable consumer products in response to long-term secular trends and market demand for natural, plant-based, sustainable and purpose-driven lifestyle brands. The Company utilizes a highly flexible, cost-efficient manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure that can be scaled to quickly adapt to consumer demand and bring new products to market through its mass retail partners and e-commerce channels. For additional information, please visit: https://neptunewellness.com/.
Disclaimer – Safe Harbor Forward–Looking Statements
Forward-looking statements contained in this press release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance and achievements of Neptune Wellness Solutions to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the said forward-looking statements.
Neither NASDAQ nor the Toronto Stock Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Neptune Wellness Solutions Inc.
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https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/neptune-report-fourth-quarter-fiscal-2022-financial-results-june-29-2022/
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NORCO, Calif. (KTLA) – A would-be robber was critically injured after being shot by a store owner in California early Sunday in a dramatic incident that was captured on surveillance video, authorities said.
An employee who reached out to KTLA said the video shows a man armed with an assault-style rifle walk into the Norco Market in Norco around 2:45 a.m., point the weapon at the owner, and order him to put his “hands in the air.”
Within seconds, the owner steps behind a glass display and fires a shotgun at the suspect, who immediately runs out of the store screaming and shouting, “He shot my arm off!”
Officials later indicated that three men entered the store armed with long guns and wearing facial coverings and hoods.
A second camera in the parking lot shows the suspect jumping into a dark-colored BMW SUV with at least three accomplices and then driving away.
Four suspects were later found at a hospital. One of the men “was suffering from a gunshot wound consistent with a shotgun blast,” according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. The 23-year-old remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition and will be booked into jail after being released, officials said.
The suspect vehicle, which had been reported stolen, was also found at the hospital. Inside the dark-colored BMW SUV authorities found numerous stolen firearms.
Three suspects were taken into custody in the hospital parking lot and were booked for robbery and conspiracy. They are being held on $500,000 bail.
The men were identified as Justin Johnson, 22, of, Inglewood; Jamar Williams, 27, of Los Angeles, and Davon Broadus, 24, of Las Vegas.
“In this case, a lawfully armed member of our community prevented a violent crime and ensured their own safety, while being confronted with multiple armed suspects,” the Sheriff’s Department said in a statement.
The employee told KTLA that the store owner called 911 and was later transported to a hospital with a possible heart condition, but he is expected to be OK.
The shooting remains under investigation.
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https://www.localsyr.com/news/national/he-shot-my-arm-off-store-owner-blasts-would-be-robber-with-shotgun-police-say/
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Published
Updated
EDITOR'S NOTE: This page is part of a comprehensive guide to voting rights across the U.S. and in Puerto Rico.
After the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867, a civil government slowly came into being from 1884 as mining activities expanded there. In 1872, gold was discovered near Sitka, and thousands of people settled there during the Klondike Gold Rush.
In 1912, Congress established the Territory of Alaska, with an elected Legislature. Alaska became a state on Jan. 3, 1959. Settlers pre-statehood could vote — but voting rights were conferred initially only to men if they were over 21, an Alaska resident for a year and a U.S. citizen.
Due to an intense suffragette movement in Alaska, the territory granted full voting rights to women in 1913, seven years before the 19th Amendment was ratified in 1920. Alaska Natives and Native Americans were not considered American citizens at the time.
Native American voter suppression
In 1924, Congress passed the Indian Citizenship Act that allowed citizenship for Native Americans. However, in 1925, the Alaska Territorial Legislature passed the Alaska Voters Literacy Act that required voters to speak and read English, automatically excluding non-English-speaking Alaska Natives and Native Americans.
The 1965 Voting Rights Act eliminated poll taxes, literacy tests, and other barriers, and was a step forward for Native Americans, as well as Asian Americans, African Americans and Latinos.
But voter suppression continued in Alaska despite federal laws. For example, in 2011, the Alaska Redistricting Board — an independent body of five members appointed by the governor, Supreme Court justice, and presiding officers of the Senate and the House — merged two southeast Alaska districts, diminishing rural Native voter impact. In 2012, Alaska Native state Sen. Albert Kookesh lost due to this redistricting.
A major federal court judgment in the Toyukak v. Treadwell case in 2014 was a step forward for tribal communities. In 2013, the Native Americans Rights Fund, representing two tribal councils and two Alaska Native voters, filed suit in federal court alleging that state elections officials violated the federal Voting Rights Act and the 14th and 15th amendments of the U.S. Constitution by failing to provide oral language assistance to citizens whose first language is Yup’ik, the primary language of many Alaska Natives in the Dillingham and Wade Hampton regions.
In Alaska, there are 14 census areas that are covered jurisdictions, and each must provide language assistance in at least one Alaska Native language.
As per section 203 of the Voting Rights Act, which was extended in 1975 for covered jurisdictions, election information and materials must also come in the minority languages. In September 2014, the federal court found the state violated the law.
Despite the ruling, bilingual and translation services for tribal members in Alaska were not uniformly provided. In 2019, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights released a study that showed language assistance and bilingual voting programs were not implemented in full by the state government in the 2016 primary and general elections; to wit, no translated voting materials were available in six of the 19 villages for the primaries.
Other changes since the 2020 election
On June 22, the U.S. Justice Department secured an agreement with Alaska and its officials to ensure that updating of addresses on driver's licenses would sufficiently update voter registration addresses, too.
As per Section 5 of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, a driver's license application or updating an address on it must simultaneously serve as a voter ID application or update the voter ID, respectively. The Justice Department's investigation found that this was not done consistently in Alaska.
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https://www.azcentral.com/in-depth/news/politics/elections/2022/08/23/alaska-voting-rights-history/10238579002/
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Ministry Marks the Successful Start of Global Sales and Marketing Missions
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sept. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) this week, 7 September, hosted the first in a series of Global Sales and Marketing Missions at venues across Fort Lauderdale designed to further promote The Bahamas as a leading tourism destination and paved a path towards continued tourism recovery.
A delegation led by the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, participated in a lineup of productive meetings with key stakeholders from across the tourism industry, culminating in a culturally-inspired evening event at the Broward Center for The Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale.
During a tour of the newly named Little Bahamas of Coconut Grove, DPM Cooper was presented with a key to the City of Miami by Congresswoman Fredricka Wilson — a Bahamian descendent leading the charge to preserve the history and contribution of Bahamians, who were the city's first settlers.
Joined by destination representatives, hotel partners and BMOTIA executives, DPM Cooper and Acting Director General, Latia Duncombe, hosted 150 sales representatives and industry partners and some 20 media and influencers at the evening event. Guests were transported to The Bahamas via picturesque digital displays of the beautiful Bahama islands, promotional videos highlighting the offerings of the 16 island destinations, a three-course sit down dinner featuring a Bahamian inspired menu, and an electrifying Junkanoo performance. A live Q+A panel highlighted The Bahamas' steadily growing tourism numbers for key industry leaders, sales and trade representatives, stakeholders and media in attendance.
"All of our markets are critical to our success as we strive to reach pre-pandemic tourism arrivals," said Duncombe.
"We have daily airlift coming from Florida and it's extremely important for us to show how easy it is to get to and through the islands of The Bahamas. Whether it's boating fishing, diving, or the MICE market, there are significant opportunities here in Florida — just 50 miles away. We are reengaging our trade and media partners as part of our strategy to double stopover visitors across our 16 island destinations.
"We know it's not always possible for key industry sales and media representatives to visit our beautiful islands -- so it is important for us to bring a taste of The Bahamas directly to them to ensure the destination remains top of mind in a very competitive landscape."
The series of events will continue onto Orlando, Florida, 8 Sept., followed by New York City, New York, later this month. Further stops in North America include Atlanta, Georgia; Houston, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Los Angeles, California, followed by cities across Canada.
In addition to major travel hubs throughout the U.S. and Canada, the delegation will be heading to Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates to bring a taste of Bahamian culture directly to key international markets across the globe to inspire travel to the destination.
ABOUT THE BAHAMAS
The Bahamas has over 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it offers a quick and easy way for travellers to escape their everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth's most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram.
PRESS INQUIRIES
Anita Johnson-Patty
Director, Global Communications
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation
ajohnson@bahamas.com
Weber Shandwick
Public Relations
Bahamas@webershandwick.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA)
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https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2022/09/10/bahamas-ministry-tourism-investments-amp-aviation-brings-bahamas-fort-lauderdale-fla-first-series-tourism-focused-events/
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“A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” These are the words of the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1791.
They made some sense then. The framers wanted to make sure the newly created federal government would not run roughshod over the colonies that would become the states. State militias were thought to be a safeguard against that, although they were often more aspirational than real. To form militias, men needed arms. In addition, guns were a necessity to people who used them to hunt for their food, as well as for protection in an often lawless frontier.
That was then; this is now. Most of the rationale for the Second Amendment no longer applies. All states acknowledge our federalist system, which has been stable for more than 200 years. People still hunt, but not usually for food, and all parts of the country have enforceable laws.
Yet we now have more guns in this country than people, and they aren’t muskets that fire one cartridge at a time. Instead, modern Americans are acquiring semi-automatic assault weapons like the AR-15, which can spray 45 rounds a minute. These are the weapons used in mass school shootings like the one in Uvalde, Texas.
Incredibly, firearms are now the leading cause of death in American children, killing more of them than car crashes, accidental poisoning or cancer. No other advanced country has anything close to this level of slaughter of its children.
Still, Americans are devoted to their guns, ironically as a means to defend themselves against guns. People feel they have to have them because other people do. So we’re in a deadly spiral. Guns beget guns and paranoia begets paranoia. Even as children, boys learn to be enthralled with guns as a symbol of manhood, a message skillfully propagated by arms manufacturers. No surprise that mass shooters in recent years have been young men between the ages of 18 and 21. Some gun owners are almost religious in their zeal. I heard one refer to his “God-given” right to own guns. (One could only imagine what Jesus of Nazareth would make of that form of religiosity.)
Despite repeated mass shootings and obligatory presidential lamentations, nothing changes significantly as the deaths mount. There are repeated proposals to raise the minimum age to buy firearms and to implement universal background checks, and some states have curtailed the purchase of assault weapons (although weapons can easily be transported from state to state). But all the current proposals are merely nibbling at the edges of the problem, and none of them has been enacted by Congress.
Many gun enthusiasts, such as Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas in the wake of the Uvalde school shooting, claim the problem is mental illness, not guns. But no matter how psychotic you are, you can’t carry out a mass shooting without the weapons to do it. Moreover, there is no way to screen every young man for mental illness, even if we knew how to do that, much less pick out the ones likely to commit mass murders. It simply can’t be done. Emphasizing mental illness is a distraction from focusing on guns — which is exactly what it is intended to be.
The truth is that ending gun violence will require going to the head of the snake — the anachronistic Second Amendment. We need to repeal it, a process spelled out in Article 5 of the Constitution, for which there is precedent (Amendment 18 was repealed by Amendment 21). The late Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens called for its repeal in the New York Times four years ago. Without repeal, any serious attempt to control the proliferation of weapons will run into endless constitutional challenges in the courts.
Some who might like to see the Second Amendment repealed or greatly modified are unwilling to say that. When they call for reforms, they usually begin by ritually acknowledging their support for the Second Amendment. It’s reminiscent of the early 1950s when Sen. Joseph McCarthy was conducting his anti-communist witch hunt. Anyone criticizing him had to begin by saying, “I’m no communist, but …”
Now members of Congress who want to regulate firearms say, “I’m a supporter of the Second Amendment, but …” It will take time and courage to change that political calculus.
Repeal would permit us to regulate guns through the political process, just as we regulate alcohol and cigarettes. By eliminating the constitutional issue, which now deflects all serious attempts to reduce gun violence, we could regulate any aspect of the problem. Nothing would be off the table. For example, Congress could legislate what categories of weapons to permit and under what circumstances.
It’s time to act, instead of engaging in more hand-wringing after each mass shooting. There is nothing sacred about the Second Amendment. Let’s get rid of it.
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https://www.santafenewmexican.com/opinion/commentary/we-dont-need-the-second-amendment/article_e32d2f76-eb33-11ec-a248-3b54736f4466.html
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Also Welcomes Sports & Entertainment Agency, Rubicon Talent, to its Growing Client Roster
WEST CHESTER, Pa., May 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LifeBrand welcomes Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers as their newest professional athlete brand ambassador and equity stakeholder and continues to expand its client roster with the addition of Rubicon Talent. Ekeler, a celebrated running back for the Los Angeles Chargers, will hold equity in the tech startup and use his influence to further promote LifeBrand's solutions. Rubicon Talent, a specialized sports marketing and sales agency representing dozens of professional and NCAA athletes, sports broadcasters, and Olympians, will offer LifeBrand's social media audit and brand management technology to their staff and client base. Rubicon is the first talent agency to fully onboard LifeBrand's solutions
"I'm so excited to partner with LifeBrand, especially since emerging social media technology is one of my passions," said Ekeler. "I believe LifeBrand's platform is an incredibly valuable resource and its technology will only continue to grow and evolve to allow for future applications. I'm also excited to help amplify their partnership with the Chargers in the upcoming season."
Founded in 2018, LifeBrand focuses on strengthening both individual and corporate brands by leveraging artificial intelligence to quickly detect potentially harmful social media content with the option to edit or delete. Ekeler joins LifeBrand's impressive brand ambassador lineup which includes Heisman Trophy winner and current Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver DeVonta Smith, PGA Tour Pro Golfer Dylan Frittelli, and NCAA standout Haley Jones who is currently a guard/forward for Stanford University.
"We are thrilled to work with LifeBrand, both as a brand partner and social media solution," said Brett Polinsky, Rubicon Talent's Director, Talent Marketing. "Social media is a public reflection of an individual as well as a corporation and LifeBrand's product ensures that the social media channels of our clients, agency, and employees display the highest quality content."
With roots on the East Coast, LifeBrand initially built strategic sports partnerships in the Philadelphia and Boston markets and is now focused on expanding into new markets across the country. In December, LifeBrand formed a partnership with the Los Angeles Chargers and plan to further their impact on the West Coast through Ekeler, a popular player with an active and engaged social media following.
"We are so happy to welcome Austin Ekeler and Rubicon Talent to the LifeBrand family," said Thomas J. Colaiezzi, LifeBrand's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Austin has incredible talent and is energized to introduce LifeBrand's technology to his fans. We are thankful for the team at Rubicon for the connection, for their trust and recognizing the benefits of our product."
To kick off the partnership, LifeBrand is offering individuals 30% off their basic access plan with promo code WELCOME30, a tribute to Ekeler who wears a number 30 jersey. This offer is running throughout the month of June at www.lifebrand.life.
For more information about LifeBrand, including their individual and business solutions or to schedule a product demo, please visit www.lifebrand.life.
ABOUT LIFEBRAND:
LifeBrand believes in the value of a strong personal brand on social media. LifeBrand has and will continue to develop the most advanced technology to detect and remove potentially harmful content from users' social media pages with secure AI-powered solutions for both individuals and businesses. With their patent-pending FCRA and EEOC compliant technology, they have built a safer, more compliant way to perform social media health checks and risk mitigation to protect the privacy and rights of employees and employers, and also provide a secure way for individuals to scan and analyze their social media accounts from the point of inception with a simple click.
ABOUT RUBICON TALENT:
Rubicon Talent is a specialized sports & entertainment management & marketing agency working at the intersection of talent representation, media, property sales and more. Rubicon works in concert with its clients to define, develop, and achieve meaningful partnerships.
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https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/05/31/lifebrand-adds-los-angeles-charger-austin-ekeler-new-equity-stakeholder-brand-ambassador/
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(NewsNation) — If you’ve recently been out to eat during the day, you may have noticed that your lunch costs more.
Although it has shown signs of moderating, inflation, which has plagued industries from fuel to agriculture, is still likely to remain far above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Consumer prices have seen an 8.3% leap in the last year. Now, some economists have come up with a new term — “Lunchflation” — to describe the effect inflation is having on the cost of people’s mid-day meals.
Food prices were up by 9.4% last month, according to the Labor Department. The food index saw its seventeenth consecutive monthly increase in April as well, going up by 0.9%.
Popular salad maker SweetGreen raised its prices back in January by 6%, while sandwich restaurant Potbelly raised its prices in February by 5.4%.
The payment company Square in March calculated the price of some popular lunch items in major cities.
It found prices went up between March 1, 2020 to March 1, 2022 for the following foods:
- Wraps by 13%
- Sandwiches by 15%
- Tacos by 19%
- Salads by 9%
- Burgers by 9%
- Soup by 28%
Square attributed the increased price of lunch for consumers to rising costs restaurants are facing, as they’ve seen labor and ingredient costs go up.
According to Business Insider, a national labor shortage means restaurants have raised wages to attract more staff after record resignations during the COVID-19 pandemic because of the industry’s low pay, lack of benefits and poor working condition. As Insider reported, supply chain shortages in the U.S. and major droughts in countries such as Brazil and Argentina haven’t helped matters.
“Restaurants have been among the hardest-hit businesses over the past few years, and now they’re facing rising costs across all parts of their business due to labor shortages and supply chain constraints,” said Bryan Solar, Head of Restaurants at Square, said the company’s report. “While technology offers many solutions, business from and relationships with the customer continue to be key to restaurants’ survival.”
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https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/national/lunchflation-means-the-cost-of-your-meal-is-going-up/
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NEW YORK, Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SportsGrid announced today Warren Sharp has signed a multi-year agreement to join the network as a lead pro football analyst. Sharp will provide live reports featuring his statistical insights and actionable analytics across the SportsGrid weekday and weekend live programming. Now with master control operating at its headquarters at Bell Works in Holmdel, NJ, SportsGrid's audience has more than doubled to 496,000 average daily impressions on CTV and OTT platforms over the past quarter. Live reports will include his expert commentary, breaking news, and game-specific odds and lines opportunities. Sharp, previously with NBC Sports, will be a regular contributor across the SportsGrid live programming line-up, along with providing insights and analysis to SportsGrid's content, social media efforts, and more.
The Sharp reports will cover the NFL regular season and playoffs appearing on Ferrall Coast to Coast, Pro Football Today, and In-Game Live All Access. Sharp will now headline SportsGrid's talent roster including Scott Ferrall, Craig Mish, Gabe Morency, Ben Stevens, Kevin Walsh, Andrew Andersson, and more.
"We are elated to welcome Warren Sharp to the SportsGrid team just in time for the start of the NFL season. Warren's well-known insights and deep analysis of the NFL teams, players, and betting markets have developed his reputation as one of the foremost experts in the sports betting industry. We are extremely pleased and excited to add him to our NFL coverage for multiple years," said Adam Kaplan, Chief Operating Officer at SportsGrid.
Sharp, a national media personality and leader in advanced analytics for professional football said, "When I look at the future of sports gambling coverage, I see SportsGrid as an outstanding place to reach the fans who want the NFL insight I provide on a regular basis. SportsGrid's content strategy gives me the freedom to provide that information with the personality and style that I believe resonates with NFL fans and particularly NFL fans who gamble. I'd like to thank Adam Kaplan and the rest of the team at SportsGrid for giving me that opportunity."
In addition to his hosting and network appearances, Sharp will contribute to SportsGrid's new app launch and be a contributor to the SportsGrid social media strategy, amplifying content, making picks and posting betting-related video content on his and SportsGrid's social media channels.
SportsGrid, Inc. is the multimedia content and technology platform providing innovative digital solutions for the convergence of sports content, gaming, and NextGen technology. The SportsGrid multimedia destinations include SportsGrid Streaming Video Network, SportsGrid Radio, SportsGrid.com, DailyRoto, and SportsGrid Studios. SportsGrid statistics and data sourced from Sportradar enables the network to integrate real-time delivery of news, storylines, data, odds, statistics, and betting intelligence across the daily original program schedule. For more information, please visit sportsgrid.com.
Media Contact
Charles Theiss
SportsGrid, Inc.
charles@sportsgrid.com
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https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/warren-sharp-joins-sportsgrid-lead-pro-football-analyst/
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In the days after the FBI searched former President Donald Trump's residence at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, his political action committees raised millions of dollars from supporters.
That haul, which was reported by The Washington Post, is a major boost to Trump's PAC fundraising, which was sagging in July. Still, at the end of last month, the Save America PAC, Trump's largest PAC, had a whopping $99.1 million on hand — and the millions raised after the Aug. 8 FBI search added to the former president's massive war chest.
Regulations from the Federal Election Commission and experts on finance law say that there are almost no restrictions on how Trump spends the PAC money while he is not a candidate for president. However, the money raised can't be used for a potential 2024 campaign if Trump decides he'll run again, experts say.
But Trump doesn't exactly have a history of following FEC guidelines, and there hasn't been much enforcement despite dozens of campaign finance complaints.
Since 2016, there have been upward of 40 complaints against the former president — the FEC hasn't acted on any of them, including the case of Trump's lawyer Michael Cohen paying off Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. It's bringing up questions on whether Trump could be held accountable for any potential violations in the future.
The commission is often split along party lines
The FEC comprises three Democratic commissioners and three Republican ones, all of whom are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Four votes are required to move any finance violation claim forward, but in recent years the commission has been deadlocked along party lines, particularly in cases that involve Trump.
"The stalemate on significant enforcement matters has been an ongoing concern for quite a long time," Democratic FEC Commissioner Ellen Weintraub told NPR. "I don't think we are doing the job that Congress set us up to do. I don't think we're doing an appropriate job of enforcing the law."
Several former FEC officials who are now working at the Campaign Legal Center have also said current FEC guidelines are "ineffective" and they are advocating for legislative change.
In some recent complaints that have not been pursued by the FEC, Republican commissioners argued that moving forward would not be "the best use of agency resources." Democratic commissioners, including Weintraub, argued their Republican counterparts are "damaging" the campaign finance process.
"We used to work better at finding four votes to pursue enforcement matters. ... Commissioners used to work harder at finding a path forward," Weintraub said, adding that the commission didn't always act in a partisan manner. "I do worry there is now a new partisan tinge."
Trump is teasing a 2024 run but not officially announcing
Since Trump has not formally announced whether he will run for president in 2024, his PACs are not subject to campaign finance restrictions — though they still have to disclose things like donor information.
"There's almost no restriction on it, because it's not campaign money. He cannot put it into his campaign, that's one thing he can't do with it ... but there's no rule, law, or regulation restricting the use of those funds," Ken Gross, a former associate general counsel at the FEC, told NPR.
In other words, the PAC money can be used for Trump's rallies around the country and other business expenditures. But if Trump announces he's running and spends $5,000 in furtherance of his campaign for office, restrictions kick in. Trump would then have to start raising campaign money in a campaign account, and the FEC says he would not be able to use that money for personal use.
"If in fact he goes out there and says, 'I'm going to be next president of the United States,' or 'I'm running for president,' or 'vote for me' ... he is now furthering his candidacy," Gross said.
At that point, any money that Trump spends, whether it's on travel or TV ads for his campaign, would then be considered a campaign expenditure and would have to come out of his campaign account.
But Trump is being somewhat ambiguous about a potential run for president. He hasn't announced a campaign, but he's hinted at it.
Gross said Trump's vagueness could be intentional in order to avoid campaign finance restrictions, but he added, Trump "can't have it both ways. He can't be claiming he's not a candidate for FEC purposes and then talk about being a candidate."
There is a bit of a loophole, though, where Trump could say he is "testing the waters." In other words, he's making expenditures from his existing PACs to determine his viability as a candidate, but hasn't officially announced. Gross notes that if Trump did announce he was running, he'd have to go back and file those specific expenses used from his PAC as campaign expenditures.
A spokesperson for Trump and for the Save America PAC did not immediately respond to request for comment.
The DOJ could take criminal action, but it's not a usual move
Gross points out that even if the FEC doesn't end up acting to enforce any campaign finance violations, there's a back-and-forth process that could take place, which can be laborious.
For example, a complainant could sue the FEC for failing to act on a violation. If a judge thinks there's a clear violation, they could take the case back to the FEC and tell them to find a violation. If the FEC still doesn't act, a judge could give a private right to action, which would mean that the complainant could sue the violator directly, without the commission's involvement.
It's a difficult and rare process, Gross said, but the Campaign Legal Center has filed several lawsuits. And a pro-Democratic PAC, American Bridge, did recently file a lawsuit against the FEC for failing to act over Trump teasing a 2024 bid for the White House.
Another option is for the Department of Justice to take criminal action.
"They could bring a criminal case against Trump and it's a felony statute. But those are rare. But if it was absolute knowing and willing violation of the law, that is a potential as a possibility," Gross said.
The problem, Gross points out, is that the DOJ stepping in to take criminal action may come across as a direct political attack on Trump during an election.
"Whether the DOJ would go there ... I don't know. Plus, this would go right to the heart of his candidacy," Gross said. "It's possible legally but politically, probably not likely."
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.kcbx.org/npr-top-news/npr-top-news/2022-08-24/trump-has-raised-millions-he-may-run-in-2024-so-where-will-all-that-money-go
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SINGAPORE (AP) — China's defense minister accused the United States on Sunday of trying to “hijack” the support of countries in the Asia-Pacific region to turn them against Beijing, saying Washington is seeking to advance its own interests “under the guise of multilateralism.”
Defense Minister Gen. Wei Fenghe lashed out at U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, rejecting his “smearing accusation” the day before at the Shangri-La Dialogue that China was causing instability with its claim to the self-governing island of Taiwan and its “destabilizing military activity” in the area.
Austin had stressed the need for multilateral partnerships with nations in the Indo-Pacific, which Wei suggested was an attempt to back China into a corner.
“No country should impose its will on others or bully others under the guise of multilateralism,” he said. “The strategy is an attempt to build an exclusive small group in the name of a free and open Indo-Pacific to hijack countries in our region and target one specific country — it is a strategy to create conflict and confrontation to contain and encircle others.”
China has been rapidly modernizing its military and seeking to expand its influence and ambitions in the region, recently signing a security agreement with the Solomon Islands that many fear could lead to a Chinese naval base in the Pacific, and breaking ground this past week on a naval port expansion project in Cambodia that could give Beijing a foothold in the Gulf of Thailand.
Last year U.S. officials accused China of testing a hypersonic missile, a weapon harder for missile defense systems to counter, but China insisted it had been a “routine test of a spacecraft.”
Answering a question about the test on Sunday, Wei came the closest so far to acknowledging it was, indeed, a hypersonic missile, saying, “As for hypersonic weapons, many countries are developing weapons and I think there's no surprise that China is doing so.”
“China will develop its military,” he added. “I think it's natural.”
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month said China represented the “most serious long-term challenge to the international order” for the United States, with its claims to Taiwan and efforts to dominate the strategic South China Sea.
The U.S. and its allies have responded with so-called freedom of navigation patrols in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, sometimes encountering a pushback from China’s military.
Wei accused the U.S. of “meddling in the affairs of our region” with the patrols, and “flexing the muscles by sending warships and warplanes on a rampage in the South China Sea.”
China has squared off with the Philippines and Vietnam, among others, over maritime claims and Wei said it was up to the countries in the region to find their own solutions.
“China calls for turning the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation,” he said. “This is the shared wish and responsibility of countries in the region.”
Taiwan and China split during a civil war in 1949, but China claims the island as its own territory, and has not ruled out the use of military force to take it, while maintaining it is a domestic political issue.
Washington follows a “one-China” policy, which recognizes Beijing but allows informal relations and defense ties with Taipei. It provides arms to Taiwan and follows a “strategic ambiguity” policy about how far it would be willing to go to defend Taiwan in the face of a Chinese invasion. At the same time, it does not support Taiwanese independence.
President Joe Biden raised eyebrows and China's pique last month saying that the U.S. would intervene militarily if Taiwan were attacked, though the White House later said the comments did not reflect a policy shift.
Austin on Saturday accused China of threatening to change the status quo on Taiwan with a “steady increase in provocative and destabilizing military activity” near the island.
Wei fired back Sunday that the U.S. was not adhering to its “one-China” policy, saying “it keeps playing the Taiwan card against China."
He said China’s “greatest wish” was “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan, but also made clear Beijing was willing to do whatever it took to realize its goals.
“China will definitely realize its reunification,” he said. “China's reunification is a great cause of the Chinese nation, and it is a historical trend that no one and no force can stop.”
He added that China would “resolutely crush any attempt to pursue Taiwan independence.”
“We will not hesitate to fight, we will fight at all costs and we will fight to the very end,” he said.
“This is the only choice for China.”
_____
Rising reported from Bangkok. Zen Soo in Hong Kong and Caroline Chen in Beijing contributed to this report.
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https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/China-accuses-US-of-trying-to-hijack-support-in-17235912.php
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Melio Continues To Expand Its Product Offering, Enabling Users To Pay Suppliers Internationally
NEW YORK, May 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Melio, a leading B2B payments platform for small businesses, today announced the launch of international payments, enabling U.S. small businesses to make payments abroad with ease and build resiliency in their supply chains. By July 1, Melio customers will be able to pay suppliers in over 70 countries, including main import markets.
Small businesses are withstanding the brunt of supply chain disruptions with 63% saying they have had to alter their supply chains in the past six months. Cross-border payments made by small businesses have been growing sharply but many small businesses lack the infrastructure to process complex international payments. Melio's international payments solution widens the number of vendors that its customers can conduct business with, enabling them to better compete in the global marketplace.
"As Melio continues to scale rapidly we are growing our product and R&D team in order to expand our product offering for small businesses," said Ilan Atias, Melio's co-founder and CTO. "I am pleased that Melio has reached this milestone of enabling payments to over 70 countries, which will provide small businesses with more flexibility to expand their pool of suppliers abroad and with room to innovate."
Melio provides a single, integrated payments solution that allows small businesses to quickly and seamlessly transfer and receive payments – helping with cash flow needs, eliminating late payment costs, and giving businesses back valuable time.
About Melio:
Melio's mission is to keep small business in business, helping them improve their cash flow and workflow, gain more control over their finances, and optimize their business's financial health. Melio was founded by CEO Matan Bar, CTO Ilan Atias, and Ziv Paz in 2018, with headquarters in New York, an R&D center in Tel Aviv, and western U.S. headquarters in Colorado. The company has raised $506 million to date. Melio's smart B2B online payment solution is tailor-made for small businesses' needs. It is a free, simple, and secure solution that allows small businesses and their suppliers to transfer and receive payments quickly and easily.
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https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/31/melio-launches-international-payments-over-70-countries/
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LONDON (AP) — An alleged member of an Islamic State group cell nicknamed “The Beatles” that tortured and killed Western hostages was charged with terrorism offenses in Britain on Thursday after being deported from Turkey.
The militants dubbed “The Beatles” by their captives because of their British accents, held about two dozen Westerners a decade ago, when IS controlled a large swath of Syria and Iraq. Several of the captives were killed in gruesome beheadings that were broadcast online, including Americans James Foley and Steven Sotloff and Britons David Haines and Alan Henning.
Aine Davis, 38, was arrested at Luton Airport north of London on Wednesday night after arriving on a flight from Turkey and charged with offenses under the Terrorism Act, the Metropolitan Police Service said.
Davis is due to appear in a London court on Thursday. The Crown Prosecution Service said the charges relate to terrorism offences in 2014 and possession of a firearm for a purpose connected with terrorism.
Davis was arrested in Turley in 2015 and convicted in 2017 of belonging to the Islamic State group. During his trial there, he denied being one of “The Beatles.”
The group’s four alleged members knew one another in West London before traveling to the Middle East and joining IS. Mohammed Emwazi, who carried out the executions and was nicknamed “Jihadi John,” was killed in a drone strike in 2015.
Two others, Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh, were captured by U.S.-backed Kurdish forces in 2018 and are imprisoned in the U.S. Kotey has been given a life sentence and Elsheikh is expected to get life when he is formally sentenced later this month.
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https://www.localsyr.com/news/international/alleged-member-of-is-beatles-charged-in-uk-with-terrorism/
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Photo: Aleksandr Grosmov - Getty Images
Stethoscope on money
If your physician graduated from medical school with a C average, you might not want him or her to treat you. The good news is that such a low score would never happen. Medical schools, as a rule, require at least a 3.5 (or B+/A-) average for students to graduate into the residency phase of their training. Only the very best practitioners proceed and ultimately become licensed to care for patients.
The bad news is that health care delivery systems are altogether different beasts. They may stumble or break down due lack of personnel, absence of appropriate federal and state funding and legislation, or a misalignment between patient communities and the providers and resources that should be serving them. According to the 2021 Wisconsin Population Health and Equity Report Card issued by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, part of the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, the state last year earned a paltry C based on key healthcare measures like length and quality of life for its citizens.
Granted, Wisconsin is not the worst state and shares the middle ground with neighbors Iowa and Illinois, which also earned Cs, but falls behind Minnesota. At the top end sit Hawaii (length of life) and Colorado (quality of life) both graded A, while at the bottom are Mississippi (length) and West Virginia (quality), each earning an F grade. You can probably guess which population segments and educational levels tilt the scale either upward or downward in each of the states.
One trait the Badger State does share with one of the F states (Mississippi and West Virginia) is that it’s also one of 13 states (including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming ) that refused expanded Medicare funds as part of the Affordable Care Act. Even very conservative states like Mike Pence’s Indiana and Mitch McConnell’s Kentucky have chosen the Medicaid expansion, but not Wisconsin. In other words, rather than increase services to reach underserved populations, Wisconsin’s Republican legislature went its own way, leaving various population groups to suffer under C-grade care, or worse, depending on who they are and where they live.
If we’re grading state legislatures on the healthcare decisions they make, Wisconsin’s may deserve a D or perhaps less.
Gone in 60 Seconds
The idea of turning down additional federal health care funding of more than $1.3 billion for just 2022 in the midst of a worldwide pandemic seems thoughtless at best, but it’s also a political move that can be especially destructive to low-income communities and individuals—both urban and rural—who could most benefit from the additional care such funding would support. Most of these very red rural counties would benefit greatly. It would help keep rural hospitals from going under. Wisconsin’s Republican legislature on May 25, 2021, not only deftly dismissed Gov. Tony Evers’ recommendation, but did so in record time just to add an extra little sting to their legislative slap.
Acceptance of the funding, which reaches back to 2014, would have extended healthcare benefits to an additional 91,000 Wisconsin residents by raising the income gap from 100 percent of the poverty level, then $26,500 for a family of four, to 138 percent, or $36,570. Evers’ proposals offered various ways to spend the money, including broadband expansion, lead pipe replacement and other public needs. No thank you, the state assembly and senate said, both convening and adjourning their sessions in less than a minute between the two groups without holding any debate or counting votes. Instead of joining 38 other states and Washington, D.C. who already have benefited from such funding, Wisconsin found itself relegated to a group of more conservative states not necessarily known for their progressive public service policies.
Moreover, health care providers have noted that BadgerCare Plus, the state’s Medicaid program, is not as foolproof as its Republican supporters claim. “Many of our friends, family and neighbors are falling through the cracks and going without adequate coverage through no fault of their own,” Dr. Madelaine Tully, a family physician in Milwaukee County, told Wisconsin Public Radio in the wake of the legislative decision. “As a doctor, I’ve seen what happens when people go without coverage.”
Tully also argued that expanded Medicaid coverage would allow for more preventive care, saving taxpayer money by avoiding more costly and invasive procedures down the line.
Medicaid money not only provides health care and save lives of low-income Wisconsinites, but also saves money for all of us. How? When individuals without health insurance begin to get ill, they wait before going to a doctor or hospital because medical care is costly. Their conditions get worse. They may resort to emergency rooms often with conditions that have worsened from lack of care, such as a stage four cancer instead of stage one or stage two cancer. Emergency rooms are much more expensive.
So, who ends up paying the bill? The hospitals must initially eat the expense. Then they cost shift and spread much of the “charity care” expenses to those who have insurance or are paying out of their pockets. Insurance companies then raise their rates to cover the costs of the care that has been shifted. This means higher rates for employers who provide health insurance to their employees or those who are paying out of their pockets. Some employers then lower the percent of the premium they pay for their employees. Basically, we are all paying for these higher costs because Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and the Republican majority in the legislature are willing to let people get seriously ill, and in some cases die, so they can try to gain political points with the extreme wing of their base. At the same time, Wisconsin legislators have excellent health insurance for themselves and their families.
So What Does This All Mean?
According to a report by independent healthcare analyst KFF – the firm’s preferred acronym to its full name of Kaiser Family Foundation – states that accepted expanded Medicaid funds saw positive results in many medically related areas. Needless to say, Wisconsin wasn’t part of its positive reporting.
Results from KFF’s study, Building on the Evidence Base: Studies on the Effects of Medicaid Expansion, February 2020 to March 2021, indicated that Medicaid effectively has served as a safety net especially during the pandemic and resulting economic crisis. Coverage options for adults from low-income areas are limited in states that turned down the expanded funds. Think Wisconsin’s C grade at this point.
The report analyzed data culled from 200 different studies of various states’ programs, which built on a prior report which analyzed earlier results from 400 different studies. Analysts concluded that Medicaid funding expansion is linked to gains in health care coverage, including improvements in access, financial security, and some measures of health status/outcomes, and economic benefits for states and providers. Specific highlights include the following:
• Medicaid expansion has led to a 3.6 percent reduction in overall mortality, and a 1.93 percent improvement in mortality rates connected to specific health conditions.
• Fund expansion has led to largely positive results in treating people with cancer, chronic diseases and disabilities. Cancer patients, especially, seem to have benefitted from earlier and improved diagnoses, treatments and outcomes.
• Increased funding also led to better outcomes for adults and teens with diabetes, including increased affordability for preventive care and treatment.
• Access to care for substance abuse disorders also improved under increased funding.
• Additional funding also helped improve access to health care in rural areas, where providers and facilities are fewer and farther between.
• Surprisingly, perhaps, expanded Medicaid funding had a net positive impact on financial expenditures, including net savings in costs of other areas, such as substance abuse initiatives, mortality reductions, and significant annual health and welfare gains.
In the end, the KFF study points out positive results from its analysis of nearly 600 studies, which may help states who still haven’t accepted Medicaid expansion funds take another look at the possibilities. With any luck even states like Wisconsin—with grade D health care and, apparently, a grade D legislature—might learn something useful about improving health and saving lives of its citizens.
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https://shepherdexpress.com/news/features/medicaid-expansion-funds-could-help-raise-the-quality-of-wis/
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OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma — Across the country, there is an increase of homeless LGBTQ+ teens, and some of the biggest reasons are relationship problems between the parents and the kids. One organization has joined the movement to help parents navigate the world if their child happens to be part of the LGBTQ community.
The organization is called Free Mom Hugs and it’s solely dedicated to supporting and empowering those in the LGBTQ community and helping parents who need education on raising an LGBT child.
“Not only empower the community to have confidence and peace and live authentically on who they are but also to live authentically with their parents,” said Sarah Cunningham, the founder of Free Mom Hugs.
The nonprofit was created out of the relationship between Cunnigham and her son, Parker, after he came out to his mom as gay.
“It’s personal for me because I have a gay son, and I didn’t know what that meant and how to love him and celebrate his identity,” Cunnigham said.
“There was no reality where anyone in my neighborhood or anyone in my church, anyone in my community that would say, ‘Sarah, you’re doing fine. All you need to do is celebrate him,’" Parker said. “She didn’t have that.”
Research from The Trevor Project shows that mental health in LGBTQ teens can relate to the amount of support they get from their family members.
In 2022, the study shows that 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Youth who felt high social support from their family reported attempting suicide at less than half the rate of those who felt low or moderate social support.
That same study found that 28% of LGBTQ youth reported experiencing homelessness, which is why Free Mom Hugs exists to help educate other families about the importance of support for their kids.
“I would have done things different back then when Parker came out,” Cunnigham said. “I would have invited him to sit down beside me, and I would have let him talk for as long as he wanted to. I would have hugged him and tell him how brave he was to share that with me and that we were going to figure it out and everything is fine. I would have told him we are going to learn about what it means to be gay and celebrate him.”
Free Mom Hugs started in Oklahoma, and now a chapter in every state has been established to provide a network of resources to help people from all walks of life. Families all over the country are providing the necessary tools to help parents build strong bonds with their children.
“My oldest daughter, Nora, grew up understanding who you are attracted to, your gender or who you were, isn’t really relative,” said Ben Ezzell, a father who is part of Free Mom Hugs. “We tried to build that in from the outset. It can be a hard world, and a lot of the things makes me angry. But I found a way to channel that anger into something productive and being part of Free Mom Hugs to help others and help my daughter is that outlet.”
“I’ve had a lot of parents reach out to me when they found out their child was queer in some way,” said Stephanie Ezzell, Ben’s wife. “I think the best advice I give these parents are just listening. That’s a major thing and helping them know and giving them the language to talk to their child. Not to misgender them, not to deadname them, which is words that I don’t think everyone has in their vocabulary. But you must allow them to have that space to figure out who they are.”
Some of the major tools all these families have provided to others are education, respect for identity, communication, and trust. Research from The Trevor Project shows that 35% of LGBTQ youth reported that their parents educated them about LGBTQ people and issues.
“I see relationships restored. I see members of the community who have internalized homophobia and they have more confidence,” Cunningham said. “They’re at peace and they’re really to be themselves and have healthy relationships.”
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https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/national/free-mom-hugs-help-guide-parents-through-lgbtq-world
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HARRISBURG, Pa., May 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LINKBANCORP, Inc. (OTC Pink: LNKB) (the "Company"), the parent company of The Gratz Bank, including its LINKBANK division (the "Bank") reported net income of $1.524 million, or $0.15 per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2022.
First Quarter Highlights
- The Company crossed $1 billion in total assets
- First quarter organic loan growth of $29 million, exclusive of PPP loans
- Noninterest bearing deposits grew $36 million since December 31, 2021
- Net interest margin expands to 3.40%
Andrew Samuel, Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are very pleased by the results of our first quarter free of merger-related charges related to the combination with GNB Financial Services, Inc., crossing over the $1 billion threshold and demonstrating growing earnings potential as we begin to recognize economies of scale and increasing operating leverage." He continued, "Key additions within areas experiencing varying levels of market disruption, including the York and Delaware Valley markets, are expected to help fuel further loan and earnings growth and complement the strong performance of our core Capital, Lancaster and Gratz Regions."
Total assets were $1.036 billion at March 31, 2022 compared to $932.8 million at December 31, 2021 and $443.8 million at March 31, 2021.1 Deposits and net loans as of March 31, 2022 totaled $862.2 million and $727.6 million, respectively, compared to deposits and net loans of $771.7 million and $711.7 million, respectively, at December 31, 2021 and $388.8 million and $233.1 million, respectively, at March 31, 2021. The $15.8 million increase in net loans from December 31, 2021 includes $29 million in primarily commercial organic loan growth including the impact of forgiven loans under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which declined $13.2 million to $10.6 million at March 31, 2022. The $90.5 million increase in deposits from December 31, 2021 was driven largely by a $20 million increase in brokered deposits and $35.9 million increase in noninterest bearing demand accounts. Technology enhancements, such as digital account opening, continue to provide increased opportunities for the Bank to acquire new client relationships that service clients in a more efficient and cost effective manner.
As of March 31, 2022, the Company's non-performing assets were $1.2 million, representing 0.12% of total assets. Non-performing assets at March 31, 2022 excluded purchased credit impaired loans with a balance of $5.6 million, inclusive of $4.1 million in loans held for sale. The allowance for loan losses measured 0.47% of total loans, or approximately 0.91% of the non-purchased portfolio, at March 31, 2022. The total reserve when including the allowance for loan losses and the credit fair value adjustment made to loans acquired in the merger totaled $10.1 million or approximately 1.38% of the combined portfolio at March 31, 2022.
Net interest income for the first quarter of 2022 increased to $7.5 million compared to $7.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 primarily as a result of average asset growth. Net interest income does not include recognition of any fees from SBA PPP loans, which were included in purchase accounting adjustments in connection with the GNB Financial merger. Net interest margin increased to 3.40% in the first quarter of 2022 from 3.30% in the fourth quarter of 2021. The increase in net interest margin was primarily a result of an increase in yield on loans. Non-interest income increased from $581 thousand in the fourth quarter of 2021 to $711 thousand in the first quarter of 2022, driven largely by a gain on the sale of an SBA loan.
Noninterest expense for the first quarter of 2022 totaled $6.1 million, compared to $6.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2021, primarily due to the absence of merger related expenses. Salaries and employee benefits expense remained relatively steady quarter over quarter, with a slight increase to $3.7 million for the first quarter of 2022 compared to $3.6 million for the prior quarter. This increase reflected compensation costs related to the Bank's expansion in the Delaware Valley and York markets in addition to certain strategic hires to support continued growth.
Shareholders' equity decreased from $109.6 million at December 31, 2021 to $106.3 million at March 31, 2022 due to a $4.1 million decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a result of unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities due to the increase in interest rates. The unrealized loss was partially offset by net income less dividends declared.
On April 8, 2022, the Company completed a $20.0 million private placement of Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2032, structured to qualify as Tier 2 capital for regulatory capital purposes. The Company subsequently contributed $15 million of the proceeds to the Bank as additional capital.
ABOUT LINKBANCORP, Inc.
LINKBANCORP, Inc. was formed in 2018 with a mission to positively impact lives through community banking. Its subsidiary bank, The Gratz Bank, is a Pennsylvania state-chartered bank serving individuals, families, nonprofits and business clients throughout Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania through 10 client solutions centers of The Gratz Bank and LINKBANK, a division of The Gratz Bank. LINKBANCORP, Inc. common stock is traded over the counter (OTC Pink) under the symbol "LNKB". For further company information, visit ir.linkbancorp.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of current or historical fact and involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Words such as "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts," "intends," "plans," "projects," "may," "will," "should," and other similar expressions can be used to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results. Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the following: costs or difficulties associated with newly developed or acquired operations; changes in general economic trends, including inflation and changes in interest rates; increased competition; changes in consumer demand for financial services; our ability to control costs and expenses; adverse developments in borrower industries and, in particular, declines in real estate values; changes in and compliance with federal and state laws that regulate our business and capital levels; our ability to raise capital as needed; and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and actions taken by governments, businesses and individuals in response. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to publicly revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements, except as required by law. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Contact:
Nicole Ulmer
Corporate and Investor Relations Officer
717.803.8895
IR@linkbancorp.com
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https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/02/linkbancorp-inc-announces-first-quarter-2022-financial-results/
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MOSCOW (AP) — Moving quickly to assign blame, Russia on Monday declared Ukrainian intelligence responsible for the brazen car bombing that killed the daughter of a leading right-wing Russian political thinker over the weekend. Ukraine denied involvement.
Darya Dugina, a 29-year-old commentator with a nationalist Russian TV channel, died when a remotely controlled explosive device planted in her SUV blew up on Saturday night as she was driving on the outskirts of Moscow, ripping the vehicle apart and killing her on the spot, authorities said.
Her father, Alexander Dugin, a philosopher, writer and political theorist who ardently supports Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to send troops into Ukraine, was widely believed to be the intended target. Russian media quoted witnesses as saying that the SUV belonged to Dugin and that he had decided at the last minute to travel in another vehicle.
Russia’s Federal Security Service, or FSB, the main successor to the KGB, said Dugina’s killing was “prepared and perpetrated by the Ukrainian special services.”
The FSB said a Ukrainian citizen, Natalya Vovk, carried out the killing and then fled to Estonia.
In Estonia, the prosecutor general’s office said in a statement carried by the Baltic News Services that it “has not received any requests or inquiries from the Russian authorities on this topic.”
The FSB said Vovk arrived in Russia in July with her 12-year-old daughter and rented an apartment in the building where Dugina lived in order to shadow her. It said that Vovk and her daughter were at a nationalist festival that Dugin and his daughter attended just before the killing.
The agency released video of the suspect from surveillance cameras at the border crossings and at the entrance to the Moscow apartment building.
The FSB said Vovk used a license plate for Ukraine’s Russian-backed separatist Donetsk region to enter Russia and a Kazakhstan plate in Moscow before switching to a Ukrainian one to cross into Estonia.
Ukraine’s presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak denied any Ukrainian involvement in the bombing. In a tweet, he dismissed the FSB claims as fiction, casting them as part of infighting between Russian security agencies.
In a letter extending condolences to Dugin and his wife, Putin denounced the “cruel and treacherous” killing and added that Dugina “honestly served people and the Fatherland, proving what it means to be a patriot of Russia with her deeds.” He posthumously awarded Dugina the Order of Courage, one of Russia’s highest medals.
Russian Foreign Minisry spokeswoman Maria Zakharov said Dugina’s killing reflected Kyiv’s reliance on “terrorism as an instrument of its criminal ideology.”
In a statement, Dugin described his daughter as a “rising star” who was “treacherously killed by enemies of Russia.”
“Our hearts are longing not just for revenge and retaliation. It would be too petty, not in Russia style,” Dugin wrote. “We need only victory.”
The car bombing, unusual for Moscow since the gang wars of the turbulent 1990s, triggered calls from Russian nationalists to respond by ramping up strikes on Ukraine.
Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin political analyst, argued that the perpetrators of Dugina’s killing might have hoped to encourage a split between those in the Russian elite who advocate a political compromise to end the hostilities in Ukraine and proponents of even tougher military action.
Dugin, dubbed “Putin’s brain” and “Putin’s Rasputin” by some in the West, has been a prominent proponent of the “Russian world” concept, a spiritual and political ideology that emphasizes traditional values, the restoration of Russia’s global influence and the unity of all ethnic Russians throughout the world.
Dugin helped popularize the “Novorossiya,” or “New Russia” concept that Russia used to justify the 2014 annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula and its support of separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine. He has urged the Kremlin to step up its operations in Ukraine.
Dugin has also promoted authoritarian leadership in Russia and spoken with disdain of liberal Western values. He has been slapped with U.S. and European Union sanctions.
His daughter expressed similar views and had appeared as a commentator on the TV channel Tsargrad, where Dugin had served as chief editor.
Dugina herself was sanctioned by the U.S. in March for her work as chief editor of United World International, a website that Washington has described as a source of disinformation.
In an appearance on Russian television last week, Dugina called America “a zombie society” where people oppose Russia but cannot find it on a map.
U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price said Monday that Washington “unequivocally” condemns the targeting of civilians.
“We condemn the targeting of civilians, whether that’s in Kiev, whether that’s in Bucha, whether that’s in Kharkiv, whether that’s in Kramatorsk, whether that’s in Mariupol, or whether that’s in Moscow. That principle applies around the world,” Price said.
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https://www.koin.com/news/ap-top-headlines/russias-fsb-blames-ukrainian-intelligence-for-car-bombing/
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Infants among 22 worshippers killed in Nigeria church attack
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Two infants are among the 22 worshippers killed in an attack on a church in southwestern Nigeria that has shocked the West African nation, an emergency official told The Associated Press on Tuesday.
The dead have been taken to the morgue while about 50 wounded people are still being treated in hospital following the attack at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo town in Ondo state, said Kadiri Olanrewaju, head of Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Services in Ondo.
The exact number of those killed is not known as some of the dead were taken away by family members for private burials, said residents.
“It is only those at the hospital morgue that I am giving you, not the ones in the church taken home for burial. I don’t have that record,” Olanrewaju with the emergency relief services said.
Ogunmolasuyi Oluwole and Adelegbe Timileyin, both of whom represent Owo at the state and federal legislative houses, told AP earlier that more than 50 were killed in the attack.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with 206 million people, has grappled for more than a decade with an insurgency in the northeast by the Islamic extremist rebels of Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province. The country now is confronted by growing insecurity problems as separatists and pirates are blamed for attacks in the country’s south while armed groups frequently launch deadly attacks in the northwest.
Before the church attack, Ondo had been considered one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states. But now Owo, a small town of traders and government workers located 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the state capital of Akure, is reeling from the violence of the church attack.
Schools and public gathering spots remained closed on Tuesday and many residents stayed at home, residents said.
The Ondo Police Command has not made any arrests yet nor have they confirmed the identities of the attackers, said to be at least five in number, a spokeswoman said.
“We can only confirm that explosives were used and we found three undetonated IEDs (improvised explosive devices) at the scene,” police spokeswoman Odunlami Funmilayo told the AP.
The attackers “sneaked into” the church premises, said the police. Some of them were “disguised as congregants while other armed men who had positioned themselves around the church premises from different directions, fired into the church,” the police added.
The attackers opened fire on the worshippers just as the Pentecost Mass was ending, survivors said.
“There was no warning, no threat, this place has been peaceful,” said Sunday Adewale, who works in the palace of the local chief. “They just looked for people’s soft spot when people are relaxed.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wistv.com/2022/06/07/infants-among-22-worshippers-killed-nigeria-church-attack/
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DALLAS (AP) — There is little evidence that gasoline prices, which hit a record $5 a gallon on Saturday, will drop anytime soon.
Rising prices at the pump are a key driver in the highest inflation that Americans have seen in 40 years.
Everyone seems to have a favorite villain for the high cost of filling up.
Some blame President Joe Biden. Others say it’s because Russian President Vladimir Putin recklessly invaded Ukraine. It’s not hard to find people, including Democrats in Congress, who accuse the oil companies of price gouging.
As with many things in life, the answer is complicated.
WHAT IS HAPPENING?
Gasoline prices have been surging since April 2020, when the initial shock of the pandemic drove prices under $1.80 a gallon, according to government figures. They hit $3 in May 2021 and cruised past $4 this March.
On Saturday, the nationwide average for a gallon ticked just above $5, a record, according to auto club AAA, which has tracked prices for years. The average price jumped 18 cents in the previous week, and was $1.92 higher than this time last year.
State averages ranged from $6.43 a gallon in California to $4.52 in Mississippi.
WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?
Several factors are coming together to push gasoline prices higher.
Global oil prices have been rising — unevenly, but sharply overall — since December. The price of international crude has roughly doubled in that time, with the U.S. benchmark rising nearly as much, closing Friday at more than $120 a barrel.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting sanctions by the United States and its allies have contributed to the rise. Russia is a leading oil producer.
The United States is the world’s largest oil producer, but U.S. capacity to turn oil into gasoline is down 900,000 barrels of oil per day since the end of 2019, according to the Energy Department.
Tighter oil and gasoline supplies are hitting as energy consumption rises because of the economic recovery.
Finally, Americans typically drive more starting around Memorial Day, adding to the demand for gasoline.
WHAT CAN BE DONE TO GET MORE OIL?
Analysts say there are no quick fixes; it’s a matter of supply and demand, and supply can’t be ramped up overnight.
If anything, the global oil supply will grow tighter as sanctions against Russia take hold. European Union leaders have vowed to ban most Russian oil by the end of this year.
The U.S. has already imposed a ban even as Biden acknowledged it would affect American consumers. He said the ban was necessary so that the U.S. does not subsidize Russia’s war in Ukraine. “Defending freedom is going to cost,” he declared.
The U.S. could ask Saudi Arabia, Venezuela or Iran to help pick up the slack for the expected drop in Russian oil production, but each of those options carries its own moral and political calculations.
Republicans have called on Biden to help increase domestic oil production — for example, by allowing drilling on more federal lands and offshore, or reversing his decision to revoke a permit for a pipeline that could carry Canadian oil to Gulf Coast refineries.
However, many Democrats and environmentalists would howl if Biden took those steps, which they say would undercut efforts to limit climate change. Even if Biden ignored a big faction of his own party, it would be months or years before those measures could lead to more gasoline at U.S. service stations.
At the end of March, Biden announced another tapping of the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve to bring down gasoline prices. The average price per gallon has jumped 77 cents since then, which analysts say is partly because of a refining squeeze.
WHY IS U.S. REFINING DOWN?
Some refineries that produce gasoline, jet fuel, diesel and other petroleum products shut down during the first year of the pandemic, when demand collapsed. While a few are expected to boost capacity in the next year or so, others are reluctant to invest in new facilities because the transition to electric vehicles will reduce demand for gasoline over the long run.
The owner of one of the nation’s largest refineries, in Houston, announced in April that it will close the facility by the end of next year.
WHO IS HURTING?
Higher energy prices hit lower-income families the hardest. Workers in retail and the fast-food industry can’t work from home — they must commute by car or public transportation.
The National Energy Assistance Directors Association estimates that the 20% of families with the lowest income could be spending 38% of their income on energy including gasoline this year, up from 27% in 2020.
WHEN WILL IT END?
It could be up to motorists themselves — by driving less, they would reduce demand and put downward pressure on prices.
“There has got to be some point where people start cutting back, I just don’t know what the magic point is,” said Patrick De Haan, an analyst for the gas-shopping app GasBuddy. “Is it going to be $5? Is it going to be $6, or $7? That’s the million-dollar question that nobody knows.”
HOW ARE DRIVERS COPING?
On Saturday morning at a BP station in Brooklyn, New York, computer worker Nick Schaffzin blamed Putin for the $5.45 per gallon he was shelling out and said he will make sacrifices to pay the price.
“You just cut back on some other things — vacations, discretionary stuff, stuff that’s nice to have but you don’t need,” he said. “Gas you need.”
At the same station, George Chen said he will have to raise the prices he charges his customers for film production to cover the gas he burns driving around New York City. He acknowledged that others aren’t so fortunate.
“It’s going to be painful for people who don’t get pay increases right away,” he said. ”I can only imagine the families who can’t afford it.”
___
Julie Walker in Brooklyn, New York, contributed to this report.
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https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/business/several-factors-are-converging-to-push-gas-prices-higher/
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White sox first. Elvis Andrus grounds out to third base, Vimael Machin to Seth Brown. Andrew Vaughn walks. Jose Abreu doubles to deep left field. Andrew Vaughn scores. Eloy Jimenez strikes out swinging. AJ Pollock grounds out to shortstop, Nick Allen to Seth Brown.
1 run, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1 left on. White sox 1, Athletics 0.
Athletics first. Tony Kemp hit by pitch. Vimael Machin flies out to deep left center field to Adam Engel. Tony Kemp to second. Sean Murphy grounds out to shortstop, Leury Garcia to Jose Abreu. Seth Brown doubles to shallow center field. Tony Kemp scores. Chad Pinder strikes out swinging.
1 run, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1 left on. White sox 1, Athletics 1.
White sox fourth. Jose Abreu hit by pitch. Eloy Jimenez singles to deep right field. Jose Abreu to third. AJ Pollock out on a sacrifice fly to deep center field to Cristian Pache. Jose Abreu scores. Romy Gonzalez strikes out swinging. Yasmani Grandal flies out to deep right field to Ramon Laureano.
1 run, 1 hit, 0 errors, 1 left on. White sox 2, Athletics 1.
Athletics fifth. Cody Thomas singles to right field. Cristian Pache singles to right field. Cody Thomas to second. Nick Allen out on a sacrifice bunt to shallow infield, Yasmani Grandal to Romy Gonzalez. Cristian Pache to second. Cody Thomas to third. Tony Kemp singles to right center field. Cristian Pache to third. Cody Thomas scores. Vimael Machin doubles to deep right center field. Tony Kemp scores. Cristian Pache scores. Sean Murphy doubles to deep left field. Vimael Machin scores. Seth Brown lines out to deep center field to Adam Engel. Sean Murphy to third. Ramon Laureano homers to center field. Sean Murphy scores. Stephen Vogt walks. Cody Thomas grounds out to shallow right field, Romy Gonzalez to Jose Abreu.
6 runs, 6 hits, 1 error, 1 left on. Athletics 7, White sox 2.
White sox sixth. Andrew Vaughn lines out to deep right field to Ramon Laureano. Jose Abreu grounds out to third base, Vimael Machin to Seth Brown. Eloy Jimenez doubles to deep left center field. AJ Pollock singles to shortstop, advances to 2nd. Eloy Jimenez scores. Throwing error by Vimael Machin. Romy Gonzalez flies out to deep left field to Cody Thomas.
1 run, 2 hits, 1 error, 1 left on. Athletics 7, White sox 3.
Athletics sixth. Cristian Pache strikes out swinging. Nick Allen grounds out to shortstop, Elvis Andrus to Jose Abreu. Tony Kemp homers to center field. Vimael Machin singles to shallow right field. Sean Murphy singles to left field. Vimael Machin to second. Seth Brown grounds out to shallow right field, Romy Gonzalez to Jose Abreu.
1 run, 3 hits, 0 errors, 2 left on. Athletics 8, White sox 3.
Athletics eighth. Nick Allen singles to third base. Tony Kemp triples to right field. Nick Allen scores. Vimael Machin singles to shallow center field. Tony Kemp scores. Sean Murphy strikes out swinging. Seth Brown reaches on a fielder's choice to second base. Vimael Machin out at second. Ramon Laureano lines out to center field to Adam Engel.
2 runs, 3 hits, 0 errors, 1 left on. Athletics 10, White sox 3.
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https://www.expressnews.com/sports/article/Chicago-White-Sox-Oakland-Runs-17434606.php
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The Storied Fintech Company Debuts New Suite of Tools to Help People Win Financially
CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Doubling down on its legacy of empowering consumers to make smarter, more informed financial decisions, LendingTree, the largest, most experienced financial marketplace for loans, credit cards and insurance, today announced a new commitment to a completely reimagined customer experience for anyone actively involved in improving their personal finances. To support the new experience and re-introduce the LendingTree brand to American consumers, the company is launching an omni-channel marketing campaign, refreshing the brand's ubiquitous tagline that was originally inspired by the words of a customer over two decades ago: "When banks compete, you win!" The new tagline is now updated to better reflect the full suite of financial services offered through the expanded marketplace, but keeps the emphasis on giving consumers the power to win financially.
Having facilitated $260 billion in loan funding and helped more than 111 million customers obtain financing, save money and improve their financial health, LendingTree has been a pioneer in online financial services since the company served its first customer in July 1998, almost exactly 24 years ago. The new brand positioning and redesigned experience comes after months of extensive research and listening to tens of thousands of consumers about their experiences to better understand and address the financial needs of Americans today. According to LendingTree research, 83% of credit cardholders are feeling the negative effects of inflation on their monthly budgets and expenses, forcing many to rely on financing to make ends meet. Nationally, rising APRs are causing new mortgage payments to increase by an average of over $250 per month, or more than $100,000 in interest over the lifetime of the loans. In a new survey by LendingTree, 70% of Americans believe a recession is looming, yet more than two-thirds (68%) of Americans don't feel financially prepared for one.
However, it's not all bad news. LendingTree also found that shopping around for a mortgage and choosing the lowest offer could save borrowers an average of $63,151 over the lifetime of the loan, as offered interest rates can vary greatly by lender – even more so in a rising rate environment. A separate analysis found that using a personal loan to pay down credit card debt can boost one's credit score substantially - an average of 38 points between the month before the loan was originated and when it first appeared on their credit report.
"In this new post-pandemic environment of inflation and economic uncertainty, making smart financial decisions has become increasingly complex. Through our research, we know people are facing unprecedented anxiety about their money and want guidance from established brands they can trust, which is why LendingTree is recommitting to its brand promise," said Shiv Singh, LendingTree Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer. "Consumers aren't simply looking for a loan, new insurance policy or a savings account — they want a trusted, dependable advisor who is there from start to finish, empowering them with the right advice, the right tools and the right resources needed to make financially sound decisions in every stage of their life."
The enhanced customer experience sets up customers for financial success through:
- Redesigned homepage: The website's all-new homepage places rates at the forefront and makes it easier to see LendingTree's product offerings, while also emphasizing the hundreds of guides and expertise published by the company's trusted editorial team.
- Tailor-made journey: Using real-time customer feedback within the experience helps to customize the journey based on customer needs. Featuring easily digestible language centered around transparency, educational content and support throughout the journey, the new customer experience highlights offers based on needs and presents the information that is most relevant to the user in easily digestible formats.
- All-new Insurance Check-up: LendingTree is offering all Americans free Insurance Check-Ups to ensure they have the best rates and policies available during this tougher economic environment, as part of LendingTree's commitment to being the ultimate consumer champion. Homeowners can simply call 1-800-555-TREE to see if there are opportunities to save on insurance based on real-time market data.
- Humanized approach to building customer relationships: With all-new customer journey segmentation and personalized email communication strategies, LendingTree can remain alongside customers even after they hit "submit" on their loan request by offering continued support throughout the process.
- Monthly Newsletter, The Vine: LendingTree is launching The Vine, a monthly newsletter with expert advice, guides and proprietary reports to make sense of the news that affects your wallet.
"I started LendingTree because I wanted to create a simple way to shop and compare financing options based on my needs," said Doug Lebda, LendingTree founder and CEO. "Over the past two decades, we've significantly expanded our product offerings to cover nearly every consumer finance category from loans to credit cards to insurance. The personal finance industry has evolved as well, bringing consumers more options, and in many cases, more confusion. LendingTree is committed to making it easy to win financially by offering more support to our customers through all stages of their financial lives. We're executing on our strategic plan we shared earlier this year. The new experience and new brand direction, supported by an all-new campaign ushers in a new era for LendingTree and are the transformative first steps in a multi-year journey of becoming the ultimate consumer champion in financial services."
Kicking off a new era for the brand, LendingTree has launched an all-new, omni-channel marketing campaign featuring award-winning comedic actress, "Saturday Night Live" alum, and best-selling author, Molly Shannon. In collaboration with Mekanism, the award-winning creative agency that intersects technology, design, culture, and brand stories, the campaign leverages Shannon's comedic genius to deliver a simple message: LendingTree makes it easy to win financially.
Watch the new ad campaign here or here,
About LendingTree, Inc.
LendingTree (NASDAQ: TREE) is the nation's largest, most experienced online marketplace, created to give power to consumers so more people can win financially. LendingTree provides consumers with easy access to the best offers on home loans, personal loans, credit cards, student loans, business loans, home equity loans/lines of credit, auto loans and more, through its network of over 700 partners. Founded in 1996 and launched nationally in 1998, LendingTree has helped over 111 million customers obtain financing, save money, and improve their financial and credit health with transparency, education and support throughout their financial journey.
LendingTree, Inc. is headquartered in Charlotte, NC. For more information, please visit www.lendingtree.com
MEDIA CONTACT:
Megan Greuling
megan@lendingtreenews.com
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SOURCE LendingTree, Inc.
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https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/07/12/lendingtree-unveils-reimagined-customer-experience/
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Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donated $38.8 million to Junior Achievement USA and 26 local operations — the largest single gift in its 103-year history — the national education nonprofit announced Tuesday.
Like all of Scott’s nearly $12 billion in donations since 2019, her gift to Junior Achievement USA is unrestricted, meaning the Colorado-based nonprofit, which prepares students for adulthood by teaching them financial literacy, career skills and business ownership training, can use the funds for any project it wants.
Jack E. Kosakowski, Junior Achievement USA’s president and CEO, said the gift was “a huge, pleasant surprise” and raised morale throughout the organization. Junior Achievement USA will receive $10 million, while 26 local Junior Achievement operations will split $28.8 million based on the evaluation of Scott and her team.
It is not clear whether the gift to Junior Achievement marks a new run of donations from Scott and her husband, Dan Jewett. The author and philanthropist does not comment on her donations beyond her Medium blog, which has not been updated since March. Her gifts are only announced if and when the groups receiving them confirm the donations.
Kosakowski said he is thrilled by Scott’s unrestricted gift because it can be used to modernize the group’s technology infrastructure, a need that is rarely high on most donors’ priority lists. The $10 million will also help expand the nonprofit’s digital educational offerings and add volunteers in currently underserved areas.
“We support all 102 of our local offices across the country, so this is going to really help us streamline our operations,” Kosakowski told The Associated Press. “Ultimately, as we get more efficient, it’s gonna allow us to use more of our traditional donor dollars for directly serving the young people that we work with.”
Scott, currently worth about $42 billion according to Forbes, has signed the Giving Pledge, a promise from many billionaires to donate more than half their wealth. As part of her 2019 divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who was then the richest person in the world, Scott received 4% of Amazon’s shares.
Since then, she has worked diligently to make unrestricted donations quickly. Initially, Scott focused on funding that would generate more racial and gender equity, with substantial donations to numerous HBCUs and groups like the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, which received $275 million from her in March.
However, in recent donations, Scott has also singled out long-established nonprofits with a focus on their communities – including Habitat for Humanity and The Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “Communities with a habit of removing obstacles for different subsets of people tend to get better for everyone,” she wrote in her March blog post.
And now, she is supporting Junior Achievement, which educates more than 12.5 million students in 115 countries around the world.
“It’s given our board, given our staff, just a huge boost in confidence,” Kosakowski said. “People are seeing and acknowledging what we do to get these young people prepared to be successful in life.”
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Associated Press coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. For all of AP’s philanthropy coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.
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https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/news/business/mackenzie-scott-gives-39-million-to-junior-achievement-usa/
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LEHI, Utah, Aug. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Project Solar, the leading e-commerce brand for solar installations, today announced the close of a $23M Series A financing round led by Left Lane Capital, with additional support from strategics within the industry.
The investment represents the first institutional capital for the company and will help them scale their digital-first, direct-to-consumer offering in additional markets. The company will also further invest in the development of its solar installation technology stack that sits across the entire solar process - from automated quoting to project management.
Founders Trevor Hiltbrand and Matthew Smith, with backgrounds in e-commerce and tech startups, set out to disrupt the solar industry by cutting out commissioned sales reps from the solar business model and increasing transparency and efficiency in the process. With just a few inputs from customers, Project Solar instantly calculates your needed system size and corresponding price for your home's current electrical usage, all without talking to a sales rep.
Back in 2021 when the company launched, Project Solar targeted do-it-yourselfers with their DIY solar kits, but quickly pivoted their focus to full installation by creating an installer network covering 20 solar-friendly states. The installers within the network are vetted and fully managed by Project Solar, offering the customer the benefit of local labor and serviceability, while maintaining the warranty benefits, scale, and pricing advantages of a large national brand.
"At our pricing, solar is an amazing investment for nearly every homeowner in the United States. Nationally, our customers see an average ROI of 18% in the first year," says Trevor Hiltbrand, CEO and Co-Founder of Project Solar.
By cutting out the commissioned sales representatives, who often make anywhere from $0.30-$1.00/watt, Project Solar is able to offer dramatically lower prices to consumers in a transparent and upfront manner. Project Solar sells at an average of $2.20/watt while the national average sale price for residential solar hovers around $3.90/watt (source NREL).
The Series A funding follows the recent announcement from President Biden about a two year pause on panel import tariffs from Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam, which is a huge win for the solar industry and solar shoppers alike. Federal incentives further drive down the cost of going solar with a current 2022 federal tax credit equal to 26% of the project cost.
"Solar has never been more attractive from an investment perspective, nor more needed from an environmental perspective," says Matthew Smith, President and Co-Founder of Project Solar. "Our online model allows us to offer top tier equipment, with warrantied professional installation, for industry leading low prices," Smith adds.
"We are thrilled to partner with the entire Project Solar team. The company's growth over the last year speaks for itself. With rising energy costs and more awareness of our climate impact, it has never been better for the consumer to consider solar as a complete energy solution for their home. Project Solar has adopted technology across the entire organization which has allowed the business to scale rapidly across the entire country," says Derek Urben, investor at Left Lane Capital.
Project Solar is on track to having 30 megawatts of solar installed this year, with the goal of installing 150 megawatts during 2023. With this additional funding and the continued trust that customers put into the brand, Project Solar is on its way to becoming the most trusted household brand in solar energy.
About Project Solar: Project Solar is a commission free solar sales, design, permitting and procurement company offering a digitally powered automated solar quoting and checkout experience, paired with full installation services through their proprietary network of contractors. With a mission to drive green energy adoption through substantial homeowner financial savings, Project Solar offers top tier solar equipment and installation directly to consumers at a fraction of the average cost. For more information, please visit https://projectsolar.io/.
About Left Lane Capital: Left Lane Capital is a leading New York-based global venture capital firm investing in high-growth internet and consumer technology companies. Left Lane's mission is to partner with extraordinary entrepreneurs creating category-defining businesses fundamental to the human condition and spirit. Previous investments include GoStudent, Masterworks, M1 Finance, Tovala, FightCamp, Wayflyer, Blank Street, and more. For more information, please visit www.leftlanecap.com.
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https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/05/project-solar-raises-23-million-series-expand-its-low-cost-digital-solar-offering/
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TIJUANA, Mexico (AP) — Worsening climate largely from the burning of coal and gas is uprooting millions of people, with wildfires overrunning towns in California, rising seas overtaking island nations and drought exacerbating conflicts in various parts of the world.
Each year, natural disasters force an average of 21.5 million people from their homes around the world, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees. And scientists predict migration will grow as the planet gets hotter. Over the next 30 years, 143 million people are likely to be uprooted by rising seas, drought, searing temperatures and other climate catastrophes, according to the U.N.’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report published this year.
Still, the world has yet to officially recognize climate migrants or come up with formalized ways to assess their needs and help them. Here’s a look at climate migration today.
WHO ARE CLIMATE MIGRANTS?
Most climate migrants move within the borders of their homelands, usually from rural areas to cities after losing their home or livelihood because of drought, rising seas or another weather calamity. Because cities also are facing their own climate-related problems, including soaring temperatures and water scarcity, people are increasingly being forced to flee across international borders to seek refuge.
Yet climate migrants are not afforded refugee status under the 1951 Refugee Convention, which provides legal protection only to people fleeing persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion or particular social group.
DEFINING CLIMATE MIGRATION
Identifying climate migrants is not easy, especially in regions rife with poverty, violence and conflicts.
While worsening weather conditions are exacerbating poverty, crime and political instability, and fueling tensions over dwindling resources from Africa to Latin America, often climate change is overlooked as a contributing factor to people fleeing their homelands. According to the UNHCR, 90% of refugees under its mandate are from countries “on the front lines of the climate emergency.”
In El Salvador, for example, scores each year leave villages because of crop failure from drought or flooding, and end up in cities where they become victims of gang violence and ultimately flee their countries because of those attacks.
“It’s hard to say that someone moves just because of climate change. Is everyone who leaves Honduras after a hurricane a climate migrant?” Elizabeth Ferris, a research professor at the Institute for the Study of International Migration at Georgetown University, wrote in an email to The Associated Press. “And then there are non-climate related environmental hazards – people flee earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis – should they be treated differently than those displaced by weather-related phenomena?”
Despite the challenges, it’s vital that governments identify climate-displaced people, Ferris added.
“The whole definitional issue isn’t a trivial question – how can you develop a policy for people if you aren’t clear on who it applies to?” she wrote.
INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS
While no nation offers asylum to climate migrants, UNHCR published legal guidance in October 2020 that opens the door for offering protection to people displaced by the effects of global warming. It said that climate change should be taken into consideration in certain scenarios when it intersects with violence, though it stopped short of redefining the 1951 Refugee Convention.
The commission acknowledged that temporary protection may be insufficient if a country cannot remedy the situation from natural disasters, such as rising seas, suggesting that certain climate displaced people could be eligible for resettlement if their place of origin is considered uninhabitable.
An increasing number of countries are laying the groundwork to become safe havens for climate migrants. In May, Argentina created a special humanitarian visa for people from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean displaced by natural disasters to let them stay for three years.
Shortly after taking office, President Joe Biden ordered his national security adviser to conduct a months-long study that included looking at the “options for protection and resettlement of individuals displaced directly or indirectly from climate change.” A task force was set up, but so far the administration has not adopted such a program.
Low-lying Bangladesh, which is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, has been among the first to try to adapt to the new reality of migration. Efforts are underway to identify climate-resilient towns where people displaced by sea level rise, river erosion, cyclonic storms and intrusion of saline water can move to work, and in return help their new locations economically.
TRANSFORMING DEBATES ON MIGRATION
Policy debates on migration have long centered on locking down borders. Climate change is changing that.
With hundreds of millions of people expected to be uprooted by natural disasters, there is growing discussion about how to manage migration flows rather than stop them, as for many people migration will become a survival tool, according to advocates.
“One problem is just the complete lack of understanding as to how climate is forcing people to move,” said Amali Tower, founder and executive director of Climate Refugees, an advocacy group focused on raising awareness about people displaced because of climate change. “There is still this idea in the Global North (industrialized nations) that people come here because they are fleeing poverty and seeking a better life, the American Dream. In Europe, it’s the same spin of the same story. But no one wants to leave their home. We’ve got to approach climate displacement as a human security issue and not a border security issue.”
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Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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https://pix11.com/ap-international/climate-migration-growing-but-not-fully-recognized-by-world/
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The Brazilian National Agency of Supplementary Health recommends SIR-Spheres for the treatment of intermediate- and advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma
WOBURN, Mass., Sept. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sirtex Medical ("Sirtex"), a leading manufacturer of targeted liver cancer therapies, announced that the Brazilian National Agency of Supplementary Health (ANS) approved SIR-Spheres® Y-90 resin microspheres for the treatment of intermediate and advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Brazil.
In an update to its List of Health Procedures and Events, ANS recommends SIR-Spheres for use in selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT), a minimally invasive treatment that delivers high doses of radiation directly to tumors while sparing surrounding healthy liver tissue. Sirtex received product approval from the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) for SIR-Spheres in 2014.
"This milestone represents the close collaboration we have fostered with Brazilian colleagues, interventional radiologists and respected regulatory entities like ANS over the last six years," said Kevin R. Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Sirtex. "We celebrate the recognition of SIR-Spheres to advance care for HCC patients, and we also reaffirm our commitment to global growth and partnership for more effective cancer treatment worldwide."
The proposals for incorporation into the ANS List of Health Procedures and Events underwent broad social participation and careful technical analysis by the ANS, using the methodology of health technology assessment, similar to England, Canada, Australia and Germany. In Brazil, liver cancer has the 11th-highest cancer incidence, representing 2.1% of new cases and 4.7% of total cancer-related deaths, which highlights the burden and severity of this disease.
"The ANS recommendation of SIR-Spheres solidifies it as a valuable treatment option, especially since 76% of HCC patients in Brazil are diagnosed at an advanced stage when treatments of curative intent are no longer an option1," said Dr. Joaquim Maurício da Motta Leal Filho, President of the Brazilian Society of Interventional Radiology and Endovascular Surgery (SOBRICE). "As we continuously strive to improve outcomes for patients, we are proud of this achievement and feel gratitude to the many people who contributed to this decision."
In addition to Brazil, SIR-Spheres are approved for use in Argentina, Australia, Switzerland, Turkey, and several countries in Asia for the treatment of unresectable liver tumors. In the U.S., SIR-Spheres Y-90 resin microspheres have a Pre-Market Approval (PMA) from the FDA and are indicated for the treatment of unresectable metastatic liver tumors from primary colorectal cancer with adjuvant intra-hepatic artery chemotherapy (IHAC) of FUDR (floxuridine).
1 Fernandes GDS et al. Epidemiological and Clinical Patterns of Newly Diagnosed Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Brazil: the Need for Liver Disease Screening Programs Based on Real-World Data. J Gastrointest Cancer. 2021 Sep;52(3):952-958. doi: 10.1007/s12029-020-00508-7. Erratum in: J Gastrointest Cancer. 2020 Oct 26;: PMID: 32918274; PMCID: PMC8376733.
About Sirtex
Sirtex is a global healthcare business with offices in the U.S., Australia, Europe and Asia, working to improve outcomes in people with cancer. Sirtex's current lead product is a targeted radiation therapy for liver cancer called SIR-Spheres® Y-90 resin microspheres. For more information, visit www.sirtex.com. SIR-Spheres® is a registered trademark of Sirtex SIR-Spheres Pty Ltd.
APM-GL-001-09-22
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https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/sirtex-medical-secures-positive-approval-sir-spheres-y-90-resin-microspheres-hcc-treatment-brazil/
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BRUSSELS (AP) — European Union auditors said Monday that the bloc's executive arm should have checked more carefully the restrictions on free movement imposed by EU nations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
EU nations struggled to coordinate travel restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic — which has killed at least 6.3 million people around the world — as they tried to maintain a smooth circulation of people and goods.
But the European Court of Auditors, or ECA, said the supervision of the bloc's internal border controls since March 2020 “did not fully safeguard the Schengen rules."
In March 2020, several EU nations hastily closed their borders in an attempt to stop the spread of the virus, even though the EU’s Schengen agreement allows all EU residents to move freely in the area without border checks.
Under the Schengen Code, nations can introduce border checks at their internal borders on grounds of a serious threat to internal security. The ECA said it reviewed all 150 notifications of internal border controls submitted to the European Commission between March 2020 and June 2021, of which 135 related exclusively to COVID-19.
“Their review clearly shows that notifications did not provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the border controls were indeed a measure of last resort, or that they were proportionate and limited in duration," auditors said. “Moreover, the Commission has not launched infringement procedures in respect of long-term border controls that were introduced before the pandemic."
The Schengen Area includes most EU countries, except for Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania. Non-EU nations Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are also part of the Schengen agreement.
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Follow all AP stories on the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
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https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/EU-Schengen-travel-restrictions-badly-checked-17238279.php
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FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday denounced a Kentucky law designed to impose a near-total ban on abortions as “extremist,” pointing to the lack of exceptions for rape and incest victims as he pushed back on an issue that Republicans have made a policymaking priority.
Beshear plunged into the debate after a state judge temporarily suspended enforcement of the state's so-called trigger law. The 2019 measure took effect — halting abortions in Kentucky — after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled last Friday to end federal constitutional protections for abortions.
The ruling by Jefferson County Circuit Judge Mitch Perry on Thursday allowed abortions to resume in Kentucky. There are two abortion clinics in Kentucky — both in Louisville, the state's largest city.
Beshear, who faces a tough reelection campaign next year, was asked repeatedly about the now-blocked trigger law during his weekly news conference. Several Republicans already running for governor are playing up their opposition to abortion. Beshear supports abortion rights but with “reasonable restrictions,” which he's previously said would apply to late-term abortion procedures.
The governor's criticism of the trigger law was aimed at what's missing from the measure.
“The trigger law is an extremist law that the vast majority of Kentuckians disagree with," he said. "It provides zero exceptions for victims of rape and incest, giving them no options despite the fact that they have been harmed and what they’re going through is ... absolutely zero fault of their own.”
The trigger law was enacted when Beshear was the state's attorney general.
Kentucky's current attorney general, Republican Daniel Cameron, is defending the trigger law in court. He said the ruling temporarily blocking the measure had no basis in the state constitution. Later Thursday, Cameron asked the state Court of Appeals to block the lower court ruling that suspended the trigger law and another Kentucky law that attempted to prevent abortions at six weeks of pregnancy. That measure was previously halted by a federal court.
Cameron is among the Republicans vying to challenge Beshear in the 2023 election.
“We will do everything possible to continue defending this law and to ensure that unborn life is protected in the commonwealth,” Cameron said in a statement.
State GOP spokesperson Sean Southard noted Thursday that some Democrats in the Republican-dominated legislature voted for the trigger law. He asked whether Beshear thinks those Democrats are “so-called extremists.”
Beshear said that during his tenure as attorney general, he encountered rape and incest cases involving girls. Under the trigger law, they would have “zero options and that’s wrong,” he said.
“Right's right and wrong's wrong, no matter who voted what way,” the governor said.
In comments directed at his Republican critics, the governor added: “Do they believe that it’s not extremist to remove every option from rape and incest victims? Will they look them in the eye and tell them that?"
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https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Beshear-denounces-near-total-abortion-ban-as-17277773.php
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ATLANTA — An annual ranking of customer service at popular restaurants in the United States has released its latest ranking and a popular Georgia-based eatery made the top of the list yet again.
According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), Chick-fil-A leads the industry for the eighth year in a row with a score of 83. The average rating for fast food restaurants was 76 with McDonald's ranking last at 68 - a drop of 3%.
To score the popular chicken restaurant and others, the study analyzed interviews with 20,143 customers chosen at random and contacted by email.
Overall, it found that full-service restaurants, overall, maintained a rating of 80 while fast-food restaurants saw a score decrease of 2.6% to 76. However, fast food restaurants held steady with a score of 83 for app quality while full-service restaurants saw their score drop 8% to 78.
The drop among smaller full-service restaurants, according to Forrest Morgeson, an assistant professor of marking at Michigan State, was related to the pandemic.
“Amid the pandemic, restaurants needed to quickly up their game in the mobile arena," Morgeson said in a statement provided by ACSI. "With fewer resources, smaller chains and independent restaurants are offering apps that aren’t making the grade per customers."
Morgeson said that several larger chains saw "positive shifts" in their app quality and reliability "to reflect major app updates for these bigger industry players."
Longhorn Steakhouse and Texas Roadhouse took the top spot for the smaller full-service restaurant category with unchanged scores of 80 for both. Applebee's and IHOP are tied for the bottom of the category with scores of 73.
Overall, the report said that customers still prefer full-service restaurants over other options.
The study found that they outperformed fast-food restaurants in food order accuracy, layout and cleanliness, food quality, and food variety.
The study also said that staff in full-service restaurants were more courteous and helpful at full-service restaurants when compared to chains.
And while fast-food restaurants beat full-service in the quality of their mobile apps, full-service restaurants were rated as having more reliable apps.
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https://www.11alive.com/article/life/food/chickfila-top-customer-service-ranking-8th-year/101-a365663e-1a6d-4891-ad08-0b01a5a8f02a
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Releasing on game consoles today, the multiplayer brawler full of brick-bashing fun takes the platform fighter genre to the next level with unique build-and-brawl customization mechanics
SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- September 2, 2022: The new brick-based, team action brawler, LEGO® Brawls, releases today on Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation® 5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Steam, and GeForce NOW. The multiplayer platformer is a first for the genre, combining near-infinite brawler customization, unlockable content, and action-packed, competitive gameplay set in the LEGO universe. With cross-platform play (cross-play) and multiple game modes, LEGO Brawls is a family-friendly video game for players of all ages, skill levels, and play preferences. LEGO Brawls is developed and published by the LEGO Group in partnership with Red Games Co., and is being distributed in physical format for consoles by Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc.
"LEGO Brawls showcases LEGO play in a brand new way with its awesome family friendly fun. Customize your minifigure and team up with your friends for some supercharged action, across all your most loved LEGO themes," said Murray Andrews, Head of Publishing at LEGO Games.
The game's build-and-brawl mechanics are an unprecedented evolution of the traditional platform fighter genre. Players build and compete with custom, one-of-a-kind LEGO minifigure brawlers tailored to their personality, strategy, and play style. With more than 77 trillion customization possibilities, players can choose any combination of minifigure parts, accessories, melee weapons, power-ups, emotes, and names to build their winning brawler. Seasonal events and content create even more possibilities.
"In a uniquely LEGO approach to the genre, imagination, self-expression, and zany humor set the stage for the game's true-to-form, light-hearted competition style," said Brian Lovell, CEO of Red Games Co. "LEGO Brawls breaks into new territory that encourages individuality, team collaboration, and pure competitive fun."
The game features iconic LEGO themed levels, from beloved classic themes like Space and Castle, to fan-favorites such as LEGO Jurassic World™, LEGO NINJAGO®, and LEGO Monkie Kid™. Each level offers different game modes, unique challenges, and win conditions. During multiplayer online play, players can compete 4v4 to control the point, gather collectibles in Collect Mode levels, play a battle royale-style game where it's "every-player-for-themself," or have a free-for-brawl where the last player standing wins. In Party Mode, players can play private games with friends locally or online. With cross-platform support, players everywhere can team up and compete, regardless of their game system.
"LEGO Brawls is a distinct spin on the competitive brawler genre and a game the whole family can enjoy," said Savannah Ho, Associate Brand Manager, Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. "The game provides an amazing range of customizable options and game play features, giving players a platform for endless fun as they compete for bragging rights with friends or go for global glory on online leaderboards."
LEGO Brawls is now available via retailers, Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store for Xbox, Steam, Apple Arcade, and GeForce NOW. For more information, please visit www.legobrawlsgame.com.
Red Games Co. is a game development studio based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Los Angeles, California, focused on creating fun, competitive, and family-friendly games. The studio creates original games that players of all ages and abilities can enjoy based on its own internal IP as well as collaborations with longtime partners (including LEGO®, Hasbro, and Crayola). Red Games Co.'s hit games and apps include LEGO Brawls, Crayola Create and Play, Transformers Tactical Arena, Solitaire Stories, Super Mega Mini Party, and Bold Moves. "Our mission is to create games that multigenerational audiences love to play, friends and families can enjoy together, and parents can endorse," says Red Games Co. CEO Brian Lovell. www.redgames.co.
The LEGO Group's mission is to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through the power of play. The LEGO System in Play, with its foundation in LEGO bricks, allows children and fans to build and rebuild anything they can imagine. The LEGO Group was founded in Billund, Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, its name derived from the two Danish words LEg GOdt, meaning "Play Well". Today, the LEGO Group remains a family-owned company headquartered in Billund. However, its products are now sold in more than 130 countries worldwide.
For more information, please visit: www.LEGO.com.
Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc., part of the Bandai Namco Group, is a leading global publisher and developer of interactive entertainment for major video game consoles, PC, online, and mobile platforms. The company is known for creating many of the industry's beloved classic franchises such as PAC-MAN®, GALAGA®, TEKKEN®, SOULCALIBUR®, and ACE COMBAT®, and publishing the critically acclaimed DARK SOULS™ series and the blockbuster title ELDEN RING™. Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. is also the premier publisher in the Western hemisphere for anime-based video games including GUNDAM™, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN™, DRAGON BALL™, and ONE PIECE®. Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. is headquartered in Irvine, California. More information about the company and its products can be found at http://www.bandainamcoent.com.
LEGO® BRAWLS SOFTWARE ©2022 Red Games Co. Produced by Red Games Co. under license from the LEGO Group. LEGO, the LEGO logo and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2022 The LEGO Group. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.
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https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/09/02/lego-themes-collide-lego-brawls-smashes-onto-consoles/
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SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Efforts to get millions of dollars in funding to treatment centers and related services as part of Oregon's pioneering drug decriminalization have been botched even as drug addictions and overdoses increase, state officials and lawmakers said on Thursday.
Oregonians passed Ballot Measure 110 in 2020 decriminalizing possession of personal amounts of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs — the first in the nation to do so. A person found with drugs receives a citation, like a traffic ticket, with the maximum $100 fine waived if they call a hotline for a health assessment.
But in the first year after the new approach took effect in February 2021, only 1% of people who received citations for possessing controlled substances asked for help via the new hotline.
The ballot measure redirected millions of dollars in tax revenue from the state's legal marijuana industry to treatment. But applications for funding stacked up after state officials underestimated the work required to vet them and get the money out the door, officials testified Thursday before the House Interim Committee on Behavioral Health.
“So clearly, if we were to do it over again, I would have asked for many more staff much quicker in the process," said state Behavioral Health Director Steve Allen. "We were just under-resourced to be able to support this effort, underestimated the work that was involved in supporting something that looked like this and partly we didn’t fully understand it until we were in the middle of it."
Allen, who works for the Oregon Health Authority, told lawmakers in the remote hearing that this $300 million project has never been done before.
Rep. Lily Morgan, a Republican from the southwestern Oregon town of Grants Pass, said lives are being lost while the state waits for the ballot measure to have a positive effect.
“Director, you’ve mentioned a couple of times that you’re waiting to see, and yet we have overdoses increasing at drastic rates, in my community a 700% increase in overdoses and a 120% increase in deaths," Morgan told Allen. "How long do we wait before we have an impact that we’re saving lives?”
Secretary of State Shemia Fagan appeared before the committee, and described her own mother's struggles with heroin and methamphetamine addiction. Fagan said Oregon remains in a drug abuse crisis, despite the ballot measure.
“When the voters of Oregon passed Measure 110, we did so because it was a change of policy in Oregon to improve the lives of people, to improve our communities," Fagan said. “And in the years since, we haven’t seen that play out. ... Instead, in many communities in Oregon, we’ve seen the problem with drug addiction get worse.”
Allen acknowledged there has been a “dramatic” increase in overdoses and overdose deaths statewide and attributed much of the cause to the recent arrival of methamphetamine laced with fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is so powerful that a tiny amount can kill, and illicit pills containing fentanyl.
That adds urgency to the effort to provide treatment services and harm reduction, like medication to treat overdoses and needle exchanges, that the measure also pays for, he said. Advocates point out that the services are available to anyone in Oregon, not just those who were cited for possession.
“Getting these resources out to the community is incredibly important ... not just the harm reduction resources, but people who can support folks who are at risk for overdose," Allen said. "So time is of the essence.”
Ian Green, an audits manager for Fagan, said the text of the ballot measure lacked clarity around roles and responsibilities of the health authority and the Oversight and Accountability Council that the measure established.
That “contributed to delays, confusions and strained relations,” Green said. He also blamed the health authority for not always providing adequate support to the accountability council.
Council co-chair Ron Williams said most of the available funds still haven't been released.
“I feel these challenges can be overcome and corrected with deliberate, intentional, focused effort and courageous, solution-oriented conversations,” Williams said.
The health authority said it has offered a three-month extension to grantees through Oct. 1, who will receive a prorated amount based on their prior award and bringing the total funds disbursed to $40 million.
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https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/Oregon-botched-drug-treatment-plan-tied-to-17215993.php
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MUIRFIELD, Scotland (AP) — After seeing a five-shot lead slip away in the final round, Ashleigh Buhai still managed to secure a first major title at the Women’s British Open.
Buhai kept her composure to beat In Gee Chun — and the setting sun — in a playoff at Muirfield on Sunday for her first career victory in an LPGA Tour event.
With the light fading, the South African golfer made a superb bunker shot on the fourth playoff hole to leave herself with a short par putt, while Chun settled for a bogey.
The 33-year-old Buhai calmly rolled in from less than three feet and then clutched her face in relief, before being drenched in water and other beverages by her entourage.
“I was surprisingly calm,” Buhai said about the clutch bunker shot that secured the victory. “My caddie said to me on the last one, I don’t want to brag, but she said ‘Show them why you’re No. 1 in bunkers this year.’ So, you know, she gave me the confidence. Maybe it’s got something to do with Muirfield and South Africans and bunker shots.”
Ernie Els also won the men’s British Open in a playoff at Muirfield in 2002 after a memorable bunker shot during the final round. This was the first time the Women’s British Open was played at Muirfield, a club that didn’t even allow female members until 2019 following a vote two years earlier.
Buhai made things a lot more difficult than they had to be, though.
She entered the final round with a commanding five-shot lead and was still three strokes ahead before a triple bogey on the par-4 15th that put her level with Chun.
Both players missed long birdie putts on the 18th as they settled for a playoff after finishing on 10-under 274.
“I know there are a lot of people in South Africa with lots of gray hairs right now after that 15th hole,” Buhai said. “But I’m very proud of myself, the way I dug deep and kept myself in it to get into that playoff.”
Buhai shot a 4-over 75 in the final round, while Chun carded a 70.
Hinako Shibuno of Japan, the 2019 champion, finished one shot back in third after missing a chip from just off the green that would have made it a three-way playoff.
Chun was in trouble on the first two playoff holes, but her short game bailed her out both times.
On the first, Chun sent her second shot into a bunker while Buhai found the heart of the green. But the South Korean hit a near-perfect bunker shot to within a few feet of the hole to salvage the par.
On the second, she needed to make an 8-foot bogey putt to stay in it after sending her second shot wide and then barely making it onto the green with a chip from the tall grass.
Buhai nearly won it on the third playoff hole, but her long putt for the win pulled up a few inches away from the hole.
For Buhai, the win more than made up for a near-miss at that 2019 Women’s British Open, when she led the event at the halfway stage at Woburn but finished fifth.
“Forgive me, there will be a few tears,” Buhai said during the trophy presentation. “Obviously there’s a lot of hard work and many years of dedication going into this.”
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https://www.koin.com/sports/ap-sports/ashleigh-buhai-wins-womens-british-open-after-playoff/
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Some businesses experience growth during pandemic
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) - When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many businesses had to close their doors because of social distancing and health concerns. Some industries are still struggling, but a few were able to grow.
Early pandemic concerns pushed people to spend more time outdoors. Due to this, outside activities like golf were able to prosper.
“Since 2020, a lot of people have started golfing more because that’s a sport they can actually do individually,” Kong Chang, Pine Meadow Golf Course Manager, said. “You can still stay six feet apart and still have fun at it.”
Chang said, that interest in golf hasn’t gone anywhere.
“Just since last year, since I started here, I’ve noticed there’s been an increase in golfing as well as younger kids coming out this past summer,” Kong said. “So, there’s probably been about 60-70% increase in youth playing golf.”
Outdoor activities weren’t the only organizations that experienced growth. Prevea Health staff said their app had increased activity.
“Prior to the pandemic, our usage was in totality with our patients and who was an active online portal user. Who was an active MyPrevea user,” Erin Choate, Prevea Health Director of Front Office Revenue and Operations, said. “We hovered between 40 and 50% upon implementation.”
But over two years later with a global pandemic, those numbers rose.
“Now, we hold steady as an organization around almost between 70-73% of our patients are active MyPrevea users,” Choate said. “So, they’ve used and logged in to the functionality recently.”
Prevea staff said the growth comes from how simple the app is to use.
“Patients saw how easy and convenient it was,” Choate said. “so, you continue to use those tools for a smoother and more pleasant health care experience, especially when it comes to appointments, scheduling, or event being able to message a provider.”
Both Chang and Choate said they expect these higher interest levels in golf and the MyPrevea app to continue.
Copyright 2022 WEAU. All rights reserved.
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https://www.weau.com/2022/08/29/some-businesses-experience-growth-during-pandemic/
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WFO MEDFORD Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, June 13, 2022
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FREEZE WARNING
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Medford OR
912 AM PDT Mon Jun 13 2022
...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TO 9 AM PDT
TUESDAY...
* WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 21 expected.
* WHERE...In California, portions of northeast Siskiyou and
Modoc counties, including Macdoel, Dorris, Alturas, Canby, and
Likely. In Oregon, portions of Klamath and Lake counties,
including Klamath Falls, Chiloquin, Modoc Point, Lorella,
Midland, Chemult, Crescent, Silver Lake, Bly, Sprague River,
Christmas Valley, Beatty, and Lakeview.
* WHEN...2 AM to 9 AM PDT Tuesday.
* IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other
sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor
plumbing.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The Freeze warning ending Monday morning
has expired, but another freeze warning remains in effect.
* View the hazard area in detail at
https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/map/?wfo=mfr
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent
freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should
be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have
in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-
ground pipes to protect them from freezing.
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Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
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https://www.ourmidland.com/weather/article/CA-WFO-MEDFORD-Warnings-Watches-and-Advisories-17238204.php
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CHICAGO, Aug. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Coates Group, a global technology company specializing in digital merchandising solutions, was named as McDonald's single global Digital Menu Board (DMB) Content Management System (CMS) provider and one of two approved Digital Menu Board hardware providers alongside Acrelec Group.
While Coates Group has been providing solutions to McDonald's around the world for 50 years, this new appointment is the largest partnership engagement to date and follows an extensive, multiple-round RFP process in which several providers were evaluated.
"After thorough review of best-in-class CMS providers, it was clear that Coates Group was the best positioned technology partner for this critical phase of our digital evolution. Our goal was to find one global provider that could deliver our digital CMS vision, which is to enable a consistent ordering experience to all our customers around the world through a single, cohesive hardware and software solution. We're confident that Coates Group will deliver on that vision, and we look forward to a long-term partnership that empowers our markets with flexibility within a globally standardized framework," said Hashim Amin, Vice President of Global Product & Engineering at McDonald's.
The five-year agreement will enable McDonald's first, globally-standardized DMB solution. The comprehensive solution provides McDonald's markets with Coates' dynamic Switchboard™ CMS to power their content and marketing strategies. While Coates Group will manage the overall partnership and be the sole CMS provider, the total solution offers markets a choice of DMB hardware as well as installation and support services from Coates or Acrelec. This holistic global solution enables McDonald's desired technology standardization while also accommodating individual market's unique requirements for customization, in addition to significant cost efficiencies for markets.
"We couldn't be prouder to continue the great momentum we've built with McDonald's in the digital merchandising space over the last 10 years and to take our partnership to new, innovative heights. As a long-term partner of McDonald's, we are thrilled about the continued growth and success we've seen together and are excited to deliver in this new capacity, beginning with the transition of the US market to the Coates CMS solution," said Leo Coates, CEO of Coates Group.
Coates Group first formed a partnership with McDonald's in Australia in the 1970s as a traditional signage and merchandising provider. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the partnership grew into Asian and European markets with the introduction of new signage technology. Following Coates' evolution into the digital merchandising space in the 2010s, the partnership expanded even further across the world. In 2017, Coates Group was awarded the Outdoor Digital Menu Board hardware rollout for McDonald's US, which was the largest QSR menu board rollout completed to date. Today, Coates is supporting 50 McDonald's markets – including the US, Canada, Australia, France, and the UK – with digital merchandising solutions such as CMS, DMB and self-order kiosk.
Acrelec was founded by two former McDonald's employees in early 2000, Jacques Mangeot and Jalel Souissi, who aimed to reimagine the customer experience through innovative self-order kiosks and drive thru technology and solutions. Acrelec counts over 80,000 installations in 80 countries.
To learn more about the partnership, please contact Emily Loebig – Chief Brand Officer – at emily.loebig@coatesgroup.com.
Coates Group is redefining the way brands engage with their customers. For over 55 years, Coates has been driving constant innovation and delivering unrivaled merchandising solutions – indoor and outdoor digital hardware, traditional signage, and a proprietary content management system, Switchboard™. This is done with one goal in mind – to create immersive brand experiences.
Switchboard™ content management system is a web-based, data-driven, scalable platform created by Coates specifically for QSR environments. It's a key component in Coates' complete digital merchandising solution designed to create, distribute, and display digital media to generate customer engagement. Switchboard™ uses real time data and rich analytics to orchestrate a seamless customer journey by showing the right product, to the right customer, at the right time, all while increasing revenue and driving ROI.
Coates Group
Emily Loebig
+1 630-728-5727
Emily.Loebig@CoatesGroup.com
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https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/11/coates-group-named-mcdonalds-global-provider-digital-menu-board-content-management-system/
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Join WPTV First Alert Weather Spotters team
You can be a part of our WPTV First Alert Weather team and be the eyes and ears in the South Florida community no matter what weather is headed our way.
Everyone loves to talk about weather in South Florida. It's part of what makes this piece of paradise home to so many people.
At WPTV, we want to do more than just talk. We are inviting you to help shape the conversation by joining the WPTV First Alert Weather Spotters team!
Our WPTV First Alert Weather Spotters team is a community of weather enthusiasts, connecting real people to real weather across Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast. Together, we will track weather and share observations from cool, sunny winter days to the severe weather we see throughout the year.
In this community, your insights and observations can be the actual "First Alert" that lets us and other community members know about what's going on in your neighborhood weather-wise.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT AS A WEATHER SPOTTER?
What are we looking for from you? You are our eyes and ears out in South Florida that we cover.
As team members, we invite you to share weather photos and video. We're looking for your best sunrise/sunset, rain totals, severe weather phenomenon or damage — and those are just some of the things we'll be looking for.
Also, your photos may be shown with your name both on-air and online.
If you're interested in participating, please fill out the form below for a chance to take part in a virtual training session hosted by our very own WPTV First Alert Weather team. This training session will take place via Zoom. We will provide a secure link for your participation.
Sign Up To Become WPTV First Alert Weather Spotter
Please complete the form below to register to join the WPTV First Alert Weather Spotter program.
Click here to print license, waiver and release form. Please return form to jonathan.diego@wptv.com. All submissions must be received before you become a WPTV Weather Spotter.
Scripps Only Content 2022
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https://www.wflx.com/2022/07/08/join-wptv-first-alert-weather-spotters-team/
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LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Dodgers will honor Vin Scully in a ceremony before Friday night’s game against the San Diego Padres.
The Hall of Fame broadcaster died Tuesday at age 94. He called games in Brooklyn and Los Angeles for 67 years as the longest tenured broadcaster in any pro sport.
Scully will be commemorated at various locations around Dodger Stadium as well.
Behind the press box named for him, the “I'll Miss You” banner from his last game at the stadium in 2016 will be on display. Some of his World Series rings will be displayed starting Aug. 19.
In the lobby, a tribute to Scully will be added to the display case.
The Dodgers are wearing a black patch featuring a microphone and the name ‘VIN’ on their jerseys for the rest of the season.
The Scully family is suggesting donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and Catholic Athletes for Christ, two charities he supported. Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors Stephen Siller, a Brooklyn firefighter who died in the collapse of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.
The Dodgers shared a statement on Twitter on Tuesday about Scully's death, in which they called him the "heartbeat of the Dodgers -- and in so many ways, the heartbeat of all of Los Angeles."
"We have lost an icon," said Dodger President and CEO Stan Kasten in the Twitter statement. "His voice will always be heard and etched in all of our minds forever. I know he was looking forward to joining the love of his life, Sandi. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this very difficult time. Vin will truly be missed."
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https://www.abc10.com/article/news/nation-world/los-angeles-dodgers-honoring-vin-scully-in-pre-game-ceremony/507-a1129161-fa59-483b-823c-45b1f7bdddea
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Senate Republicans demand answers from Mayorkas on scope of disinformation board, 'misleading' testimony
New documents from DHS whistleblowers reveal DHS 'misrepresented' the nature and scope of the disinformation board, the senators claim
EXCLUSIVE: Republicans on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee are demanding answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, alleging that he misled the committee regarding the "nature and scope" of the agency's controversial disinformation board.
Ranking Member Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, is leading colleagues in requesting that Chairman Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., hold a hearing with Mayorkas regarding his "misleading testimony" before the committee on May 4 on the department's Disinformation Governance Board.
The disclosure of the board ignited a wave of public backlash, forcing the DHS to put the board on pause and its appointed leader, Nina Jankowicz, to resign.
Last week, Fox News Digital first reported on internal DHS documents obtained by Sens. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Josh Hawley, R-Mo., provided through a whistleblower "that illustrate how the DGB was designed to exert a powerful influence over the government’s efforts to crack down on disinformation in areas where there are ‘clear, objective facts.’"
These purported documents, the senators say, further illustrate that DHS was not only focused on foreign disinformation but also on domestic issues like the validity of elections, COVID-19 vaccines and the efficacy of wearing masks.
GRASSLEY, HAWLEY PRESS DHS FOR MORE DETAILS ON DISINFO BOARD AFTER WHISTLEBLOWER PROVIDES DOCS
The lawmakers state that the documents obtained by Grassley and Hawley directly contradict Mayorkas' testimony on the nature and scope of the board and DHS must come back to the Hill in order to "provide the oversight and transparency the American public deserve."
"We write to request you convene a hearing with Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas as soon as possible to answer critical questions about apparently misleading testimony before the Committee on May 4 on the Department of Homeland Security Disinformation Governance Board (the Board)," the senators write in the letter to Peters, first obtained by Fox News Digital.
They cite examples of contradictions, including that Mayorkas testified on May 4 that the board "has not yet begun its work."
"Yet the documents indicate the Secretary had stood up the Board on February 24, 2022—more than two months earlier. The Board’s charter, signed by the Secretary, required the Board meet ‘regularly’ and "no less than once per quarter,'" the senators reveal.
In addition, the lawmakers reference Mayorkas' response to a question from a reporter asking if American citizens would be monitored by the board. The secretary responded "No," also elaborating that "We at the Department of Homeland Security don’t monitor American citizens" and detailing that the board would only concentrate of "foreign threats."
The Republicans point out the contradiction with talking points prepared by the board's then-director.
"Yet talking points prepared by Ms. Jankowicz, the Board’s then–Executive Director appear to show that the Department does in fact monitor American citizens and that the Board’s work is concentrated on domestic threats. She writes that the Board’s initial work plan includes working with ‘industry on countering MDM [mis-, dis-, or mal-information] related to domestic violent extremism’ further noting that the Department recently established a ‘domestic terrorism branch’ within the Department’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis—the Department’s office responsible for collecting and analyzing intelligence."
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They conclude: "The American public deserves transparency and honest answers to important questions about the true nature and purpose of the Disinformation Governance Board and it is clear that Secretary Mayorkas has not provided them—to the public or this Committee. Therefore, we request you hold a hearing with Secretary Mayorkas and join us in insisting that all records related to the Board be provided to the Committee prior to the hearing."
DHS did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
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https://www.foxnews.com/politics/senate-republicans-demand-answers-mayorkas-disinformation-board-misleading-testimony
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RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Markel Corporation (NYSE: MKL) announced today that Jed Rhoads, President and Chief Underwriting Officer of Markel's Global Reinsurance Division, is retiring at the end of 2022.
"Markel is fortunate to have benefited from Jed's industry knowledge, leadership experience, and relationships throughout the industry," said Richie Whitt, Co-CEO of Markel. "He has helped us build a strong team with deep underwriting and leadership talent. We are thankful for his contributions and leadership in positioning us for the future."
Rhoads has been in the industry for more than 40 years, and throughout his career has held executive positions with several organizations. He joined Markel in 2013 as part of its acquisition of Alterra Capital Holdings Limited. Prior to Markel, he was President and Chief Underwriting Officer of Alterra. He also recently served as chair of the board of directors of the Reinsurance Association of America (RAA).
Markel also announced that upon Rhoads' retirement, Don Bahr will be promoted to President, Global Reinsurance, and Tod Costikyan will be promoted to Chief Underwriting Officer, Global Reinsurance. Both Bahr and Costikyan joined Markel as part of the Alterra acquisition in 2013, and bring many years of experience and knowledge of the reinsurance segment.
"With Don and Tod's deep expertise and knowledge of our business, our reinsurance team will be well positioned to help Markel build the leading global specialty insurer, with the broadest array of tools to address insureds' most complex risk management and risk transfer needs," said Whitt.
In Bahr's new role, he will oversee annual and long-term business and financial planning for the division and will lead the execution of the Global Reinsurance business strategy. Costikyan will report to Bahr and will work with the team on underwriting strategy and business strategy.
Rhoads added, "I'm honored, privileged, and grateful to have had the opportunity to spend my entire career in this wonderful industry. Having worked with Don and Tod for nearly two decades, I am confident they are well prepared to lead the reinsurance operations forward."
Rhoads, Bahr, and Costikyan will work closely to ensure a smooth transition and relationship continuity with Markel's business partners.
About Markel
Markel Corporation is a diverse financial holding company serving a variety of niche markets. The Company's principal business markets and underwrites specialty insurance products. In each of the Company's businesses, it seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting and operating profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value. Markel® is a registered trademark of the Markel Corporation. Visit Markel on the web at markel.com.
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https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/markel-announces-jed-rhoads-retire-president-chief-underwriting-officer-global-reinsurance-division/
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LOS ANGELES (AP) — Gareth Bale wants the world to know Los Angeles FC is not the 18th hole of his soccer career.
The golf-loving Welsh forward intends to keep playing for club and country for several more seasons, and he hopes to fill those years winning trophies with his new stateside team.
“I’m up for everything here,” Bale said Monday. “I still have many years to come. I haven’t come here to just be here for six months, 12 months. I’ve come here to try and be here for as long as possible. I want to do as well as I can. I want to try to make my mark on this league, on this team. I look forward to the future.”
Bale’s declaration of his long-term intentions undoubtedly will please his new LAFC fans, who were hoping the longtime Real Madrid forward wasn’t simply using the team atop the Major League Soccer standings as a place to get fit for Wales’ landmark return to the World Cup in Qatar this fall after a 64-year absence.
The 32-year-old Bale also gave a thrill to his home nation when he confirmed his intention to play in the 2024 European Championships, keeping his place among the greatest group of Welsh football talent in decades.
“It’s not just a short-term thing,” Bale said. “(LAFC) also gives me the best opportunity to go to the next Euros, maybe further. So my plan is to really work hard. … We’ve got a great plan going forward to get me up to speed, and hopefully it lasts as long as possible.”
LAFC formally introduced Bale to an extensive media gathering inside Banc of California Stadium, but the club’s fans already met Bale outside on the field three days earlier. He got a standing ovation hours after getting off the plane from Europe last Friday, and he watched LAFC’s 3-2 victory over the archrival LA Galaxy from a suite before joining the on-field postgame celebrations with his new teammates.
Bale went through his first training session with LAFC on Monday morning. While the club isn’t projecting when he will suit up in their pursuit of the MLS title, the goal-scoring dynamo should be fresh: He played in only five matches for Madrid last season while battling injuries.
After winning five Champions League titles while spending eight of the past nine seasons in Madrid, Bale explored playing options closer to home before choosing Los Angeles, where he can be a midseason addition to a trophy-contending team. Southern California’s ideal weather also puts him in the perfect spot to ramp up physically for Qatar.
If LAFC makes it to the league title game, the MLS Cup Final is scheduled for Nov. 5, just 16 days before the start of the World Cup. While bigger clubs undoubtedly will come calling afterward, Bale insists he doesn’t intend to leave after the MLS season.
“I haven’t come here for the short term,” Bale said. “I want to make my mark on this league, and I think being here gives me the best possible chance to make it to the Euros, and you never know, maybe one more (World Cup). That’s my goal.”
The expiration of his massive contract finally ended the love-hate relationship between the superstar and the Madrid fans and media. While Bale repeatedly showed off his big-game scoring ability, he was criticized for everything from his frequent injury absences to his passion for golf amid suggestions he wasn’t fully committed to Madrid’s success.
Bale began his U.S. tenure by repeatedly reaffirming his desire to play regularly, even with the demanding travel schedule of the vast North American league.
Bale is joining longtime Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini in making a midseason move to LAFC, and general manager John Thorrington hailed their decisions as evidence LAFC has become “a destination of choice for star players.”
Bale said he spent a few weeks every summer in Los Angeles before the coronavirus pandemic, and his family is already comfortable in the city where soccer greats from David Beckham and Robbie Keane to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Carlos Vela have embraced the combination of sporting challenge and good living in the second halves of their careers.
But as those superstars did before him, Bale rejects the concept of joining MLS and slowing down. LAFC has been the league’s top team throughout its fifth season of existence, and a motivated Bale’s addition to an already potent attack could be a nightmare for the competition between now and November.
“The standard here is really increasing,” Bale said. “I think it’s a lot better than people in Europe really think.”
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More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
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https://www.wfla.com/sports/ap-sports/gareth-bale-says-hes-at-lafc-to-win-trophies-not-to-retire/
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Mission-driven affordable housing group acquires Wyndham Pointe Apartments to maintain quality, affordable homes for Columbia residents and incorporate new sustainability features.
COLUMBIA, S.C., July 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lincoln Avenue Capital ("LAC"), a mission-driven acquirer and developer of affordable housing, announced this week that it acquired Wyndham Pointe Apartments and will continue to reserve 100% of the units for low-income residents in the Columbia community.
"Lincoln Avenue Capital is proud to continue growing our nationwide affordable housing portfolio in communities where quality, sustainable homes are needed," said LAC CEO Jeremy Bronfman. "This acquisition preserves affordable residences and improves the environmental profile of Wyndham Pointe."
Columbia has limited affordable housing options for individuals and families. The statewide affordable housing crisis has created long waiting lists for housing relief and a financial burden for residents whose wages have not kept pace with escalating rents in South Carolina. Data shows that the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Columbia increased 21% over the course of a year.
"Our investment will preserve the affordability of Wyndham Pointe for generations of Columbia residents to come," said LAC Associate Brian Moloney. "We are excited to use this opportunity to create a more sustainable property."
As part of Lincoln Avenue Capital's commitment to sustainability and green building practices, the team is incorporating water saving fixtures into Wyndham Pointe. The upgraded water fixtures will reduce water usage on the property by up to 40%.
LAC worked with the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing) to ensure a safe transfer of ownership for long-term quality homes. The acquisition was financed through a loan from the National Equity Fund, which has supported previous LAC acquisitions across a wide range of national markets.
The property, originally built in 2007, includes 180 units and offers community amenities including an exercise room, clubhouse, business center with computer access, playground, and swimming pool.
About LAC: Lincoln Avenue Capital is one of the nation's fastest-growing developers, investors, and operators of affordable and workforce housing, providing high-quality, sustainable homes for lower- and moderate-income individuals, seniors, and families nationwide. LAC is a mission-driven organization that serves residents across 21 states, with a portfolio of 109 properties comprising 20,000+ units.
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/07/27/lincoln-avenue-capital-acquires-affordable-housing-property-columbia-south-carolina-plans-sustainable-upgrades/
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CARLISLE, Pa. (AP) — For more than a century they were buried far from home, in a small cemetery on the grounds of the U.S. Army War College. Now they’re heading home.
The Army began disinterring the remains of eight Native American children who died at a government-run boarding school at the Carlisle Barracks, with the children’s closest living relatives poised to take custody.
The disinterment process, which began over the weekend, is the fifth at Carlisle since 2017. More than 20 sets of Native remains were transferred to family members in earlier rounds.
The children had lived at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, where thousands of Native children were taken from their families and forced to assimilate to white society as a matter of U.S. policy — their hair cut and their clothing, language and culture stripped. More than 10,000 children from more than 140 tribes passed through the school between 1879 and 1918, including famous Olympian Jim Thorpe.
“If you survived this experience and were able to go back home, you were a stranger. You couldn’t even speak the language your parents spoke,” said Rae Skenandore, of the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin. She is a relative of Paul Wheelock, one of the children whose remains will be disinterred.
The off-reservation government boarding schools — Carlisle was the first, with 24 more that followed — “ripped apart tribes and communities and families,” said Skenandore, adding she lost part of her own culture and language as a result. “I don’t know if we can ever forgive.”
She and her mother, 83-year-old Loretta Webster, plan to make the trip to Carlisle later this month. Webster said her own father ran away from a similar boarding school in Wisconsin when he was 12.
“It was like a a prison camp, what they were putting these little kids in,” Webster said. “It’s a part of our history that’s really traumatic and still affects the community today.”
The children to be disinterred came from the Washoe, Catawba, Umpqua, Ute, Oneida and Aleut tribes. The sex and approximate age of each child will be verified, according to Renea Yates, director of the Office of Army Cemeteries, with archeological and anthropological support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
“We conduct a very dignified disinterment of each child … and then we do a very dignified transfer ceremony, sending the children back with their families,” Yates said.
The small cemetery has been enclosed with privacy fencing during the disinterment process, which is expected to conclude in July.
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https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/native-childrens-remains-to-be-moved-from-army-cemetery/
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ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Zynex, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZYXI), an innovative medical technology company specializing in the manufacture and sale of non-invasive medical devices for pain management, rehabilitation, and patient monitoring, today announced it has started enrollments in an ongoing apheresis clinical trial with its second-generation fluid monitoring system, the CM-1600.
The study monitors subjects during an apheresis procedure with the predicate device, the CM-1500, and now also the CM-1600, to refine the system's patented Relative Index in a wide array of patient circumstances. To date, 53 subjects have been enrolled in the study. Zynex's second generation blood and fluid monitoring device has been introduced to the study to evaluate its sensitivity and accuracy in the same environment. The CM-1500 was cleared by the FDA in February of 2020 while the CM-1600 is still awaiting FDA clearance.
"The data collected with the CM-1500 in the earlier phases of the apheresis trial was encouraging and incredibly valuable for improving accuracy of the CM-1600 Relative Index," said Donald Gregg, VP of Zynex Monitoring Systems. "We are excited to continue data acquisition with the CM-1600 and be able to demonstrate how the device performs in a variety of clinical settings such as apheresis donation."
The study is expected to complete enrollments in the fourth quarter of 2022.
"We remain committed to prioritizing data collection through clinical studies," commented Thomas Sandgaard, CEO of Zynex. "We believe the addition of the CM-1600 to this trial will expand the scenarios in which this device provides novel patient monitoring capabilities and will demonstrate its anticipated value in the marketplace."
Zynex, founded in 1996, develops, manufactures, markets and sells medical devices used for pain management and rehabilitation as well as non-invasive fluid, sepsis and laser-based pulse oximetry monitoring systems for use in hospitals. For additional information, please visit: www.zynex.com
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. The Company makes no express or implied representation or warranty as to the completeness of forward-looking statements or, in the case of projections, as to their attainability or the accuracy and completeness of the assumptions from which they are derived. Factors that could cause actual results to materially differ from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the need to obtain CE marking of new products, the acceptance of new products as well as existing products by doctors and hospitals, larger competitors with greater financial resources, the need to keep pace with technological changes, our dependence on the reimbursement for our products from health insurance companies, our dependence on third party manufacturers to produce our products on time and to our specifications, implementation of our sales strategy including a strong direct sales force, the impact of COVID-19 on the global economy and other risks described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including but not limited to, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 as well as our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.
Any forward-looking statement made by us in this release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.
Investor Contact
Gilmartin Group
650 Fifth Ave., Suite 2720
New York, NY 10019
IR@zynex.com
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https://www.wsaz.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/zynex-announces-first-enrollments-apheresis-donation-clinical-trial-with-second-generation-fluid-monitoring-system/
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USC beat reporter, Chris Treviño, from 247Sports discusses USC, and UCLA’s plans to join the Big Ten in 2024.
Andrew Clay: The news came as a surprise here in PA was it a surprise out there in L.A..
Chris Treviño: Only a little bit shocking, but I wouldn’t say it was super surprising because USC had had all these conversations about should they go independent, should they be looking at a different league just because they weren’t getting the cut or attention or rape treatment that they felt like they deserved in a lower tier power five conference? That was the Power five.You know, they are blueblood program. They’re up there with the Alabamas, the Ohio States in terms of their tradition and history. And they weren’t being sort of treated that way that, you know, you saw how Ohio State was being treated in the Big Ten, or Alabama being treated the SEC. So this was always sort of a conversation among fans, among talking heads in the off-season. So it wasn’t that shocking that it happened, but it is a very big earthquake across across college football and how it changes pretty much everything moving forward.
AC: What is the reaction from people around the program?
CT: Everyone pretty much in terms of, you know, admin and stuff, obviously they’re very fired up about this change and what it means for the future in terms of the money that they will be bringing into the program, and other programs across the athletic department in terms of facility upgrades and all that kind of stuff. But in terms of fans, early on, I was very surprised. It was very split. We did a poll on Twitter among, you know, sort of social media with the USC fans that follow me and people that I that I cover the team with. And it was pretty much like 54 percent were for it. And about the rest about that 40, 46 percent or whatever, didn’t like the move. And, you know, we did a poll on our site and it was more 74% were about it and the rest were sort of unsure or not about it. So it was very split early on, which I was kind of surprised about. I thought more people would be all for, maybe 90 percent. But I think a lot of people are holding on to that tradition of USC in the PAC-12 conference. They’ve been a part of it for over, or close to 100 years or more than 100 years. So there is a lot of tradition, obviously, in college football, but obviously things are changing fast with the way money is and TV deals, history and tradition is sort of being moved to the side for these super conferences. So I can understand why some people are maybe hesitant to jump on board, just, you know, with those traditions being washed away and moved away. But this is the way that college football is moving. So USC had to jump on on the train quickly.
AC: I know there’s a lot of question about the fit in the Big Ten. Penn State played a November game in East Lansing (MI) this past year in a quite literal whiteout snowstorm. How do you think L.A. fans would react to those cold Midwestern winters?
CT: It’s definitely going to be a transition. I feel like someone on social media pointed out that USC’s only played in two snow games and they lost both of them. So that record is going to be tested a little bit more in the coming years. But I know USC is going to have to order a lot of cold gear for their athletes moving forward as they make those trips back home. And it’s going to be interesting. You know, USC has battled some Big Ten teams. They have favorable records against those guys. But it is going to be interesting when they get into those elements of the cold. USC has been scheduling Notre Dame at a time where there isn’t snow, so they can avoid that, but they’re not going to be able to avoid that in the Big Ten play. So that first USC snow game for them, I’m interested to see how they hold up, you know, being so cal natives and a lot of people used to like 60 degree Decembers out here. So it’s going to be a very big adjustment for sure.
AC: From a football perspective, Chris, do you think these two PAC-12 schools joining the Big Ten think is a good fit?
CT: I mean, it’s just sort of interesting just because Big Ten now has representatives on both sides of the coast. It makes sense from a monetary standpoint, you know, getting that L.A. market. From a football perspective, USC does have and UCLA with the West Coast, they have all those skill players, they have a quarterback. So I don’t think offensively, you know, you’re going to see USC come in and try to put up points. Defensively is where I begin to question what it’s going to look. They need to recruit bigger linemen because the linemen out here on the West Coast in the PAC-12 are a lot smaller than you’re seeing in the Midwest, those corn fed boys. So it’s going to be interesting. They need to get back to recruiting bigger guys in the trenches, which USC has struggled with, UCLA as well. So they need to have a turnaround when it comes to offensive line recruiting and defensive line recruiting. That’s the biggest thing I think is going to separate USC having a smooth transition in the Big Ten. They need guys in the trenches that can handle all of those big uglies out there in the Big Ten country.
AC: What’s a new rivalry you would love to see come out of this?
CT: As a Maryland fan, I would have to say USC, Maryland, but that’s just me being from Maryland. But in terms of actuality, I think a lot of fans are excited for Ohio State. You know, USC has gone to the to the Horseshoe and they beat the Buckeyes there. So I think a lot of people want to see that one. Also, Michigan, you know, having their historic Big House. I think a lot of fans are excited about making that trip. And then I think Penn State even has a little bit of a beef with USC in terms of that Rose Bowl from a few years back. I know they still want payback for that. So that could end up being turning into a great rivalry as well between these two coast to coast programs.
AC: From a grand scheme of things, what do you think is next in college football? Obviously, realignment is not over.
CT: I mean, I think we’re just trending towards the two superpowers being a two superpower league, sort of an AFC, NFC kind of deal where you have the SEC and all their teams and then the Big Ten’s with Big Ten with all their teams and they kind of battle it out in the end for those playoff spots. Now there is probably room for a third team, you know, with the Big 12, whatever happens with them, if they can poach the remaining PAC-12 schools that they want, maybe the ACC gets involved, maybe, you know, a Florida state, a Clemson, a miami, a USC, those guys as bigger brands find homes in the SCC or Big Ten or Big 12. So I think we’re looking at most definitely at least a two Super League conference and possibly even a third one. So these conferences, the power five is going to be no more. It’s going to be either a power two or a power three.
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https://phl17.com/national-news/1on1-chris-trevino-on-usc-ucla-joining-the-big-ten/
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Which Merrell hiking boots are best?
For those who love the great outdoors, a quality pair of hiking boots helps you stay comfortable on the trails and protects your feet. The highest-quality boots combine materials that can resist tearing, are ventilated to reduce foot fatigue and offer support to your joints and feet. If you want a boot that provides arch support and can be worn with minimal break-in time, the Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is the best.
What to know before you buy Merrell hiking boots
Size
Merrell makes hiking boots and shoes in full and half sizes for men, women and kids. Most also have wide-fit models with more space in the upper shoe. While sizing is listed in American sizes, Merrell includes a size conversion chart that shows the equivalent in U.K., European and Japanese sizes.
If you aren’t happy with the size or need to exchange your shoes, you can do so within 30 days. You may also want to take advantage of Merrell’s try-before-you-buy program to make sure you get the right size.
Durability
Merrell shoes are some of the most durable, one of the reasons the company makes such great hiking boots. If you’re going to be trekking through the woods and encountering things such as rocks and branches, it’s important your shoes do not break down too quickly.
Leather uppers are the most durable. Merrell hiking boots are all made with quality leather and some include breathable mesh webbing as well. Thick rubber soles are also important to make sure nothing punctures your boot. Merrell boots have a rubberized toe cap, since this is an area often prone to holes and tears.
Care
Hiking boots are used in rougher conditions than many other shoes. Merrell boots are made with materials that can be cleaned with soap and water. Conditioners and cleaners are good for dirt and mud embedded in the mesh parts.
What to look for in quality Merrell hiking boots
Fit
Making sure your boots fit is the number one thing you can do to stay comfortable on a hike. Look for boots that are the right length and width. Most have an adjustable lace closure to snug around the ankle. When measuring your foot, make sure you account for thick hiking socks. If your boots feel too tight, consider going up a half size or changing the type of socks you use.
Breathability
Consider if you want maximum airflow when hiking. Some of the most popular Merrell hiking boots and shoes have mesh and leather uppers that are breathable. Boots with a waterproof barrier are generally less breathable and hold heat.
Merrell offers many of its most popular styles with built-in ventilation. This includes the Moab 2 Hiking Shoe as well as the Moab 2 Mid Boot. Look for a boot with a mesh lining and upper. They are often labeled “Ventilated.”
Support
Think about how much support your foot needs. Most hiking boots have inserts that can be removed and replaced you wear the boots to ensure adequate arch support. This makes them more comfortable and prevents injuries. Ankle support is also important if you plan to hike in rocky or rough places.
How much you can expect to spend on Merrell hiking boots
They cost $50-$200. Larger boots are typically more expensive than hiking shoes. The price can also vary by color.
Merrell hiking boots FAQ
What is the difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes?
A. Hiking boots typically have higher ankle support to protect your joints when climbing over rocks, branches and other rough terrain. Hiking shoes do not extend over the ankle and are shaped similar to running or leisure shoes. However, they have more durable materials and arch support.
Are Merrell boots waterproof?
A. Some are. Look for those with a membrane to keep out moisture. Boots with mesh can still be waterproof as long as they have the added membrane. Thick rubber soles are also important to keep moisture out of the boot.
What are the best Merrell hiking boots to buy?
Top Merrell hiking boots
What you need to know: You can hit the trails right away in these popular hiking boots that don’t require a break-in period.
What you’ll love: They’re lightweight and perfect for day hikes. They have a ventilated shoe form made of leather and mesh. This is also a good shoe for those with wide feet, since every size is also offered wide.
What you should consider: This shoe does not provide significant ankle support.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Merrell hiking boots for the money
What you need to know: A flexible rubber sole makes these perfect for trail running.
What you’ll love: The upper is made of leather and breathable mesh. There are four on-trend colors, half sizes and wide fits. The included insert works for those with arch issues or those who want extra support. They are casual enough for everyday wear and durable enough for trails.
What you should consider: There isn’t much support in the ankle for rough terrain.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
What you need to know: These boots provide ankle support and stability even in wet conditions.
What you’ll love: The leather-and-mesh upper lets moderate airflow in, but the waterproof membrane keeps moisture out. A removable insert with a reinforced heel offers medium support. Along with the protective toe cap, this makes this boot ideal for backcountry rugged hiking.
What you should consider: The price varies by color and size.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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https://www.myarklamiss.com/reviews/br/camping-outdoors-br/gear-br/best-merrell-hiking-boots/
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SEATTLE (AP) — A man has pleaded not guilty to rape and voyeurism charges in Seattle after completing a prison sentence in New Mexico for raping a Washington woman there in 2017.
Redwolf Pope, who leased apartments in Seattle and Santa Fe, was arrested in 2018 after his house guests gave police videos from his iPad that allegedly showed him raping several women who appeared to be unconscious, court documents said.
A Santa Fe jury in 2020 found Pope guilty of rape and voyeurism, and a judge sentenced him to four years in prison, with credit for over two years already served. Pope claimed the incident was consensual.
Pope was booked May 19 into King County Jail, where he remains in custody in lieu of $500,000 bail, The Seattle Times reported. He pleaded not guilty Wednesday.
Pope was charged in 2018 with two counts of second-degree rape against two women inside his Seattle apartment in 2016 and 2017, charging papers say.
King County Senior Deputy Prosecutor Aubony Burns told Chief Criminal Judge Karen Donohue Wednesday that based on additional video evidence he now faces three counts of second-degree rape and three counts of first-degree voyeurism.
Pope, who has claimed Western Shoshone and Tlingit heritage, is an activist who last Thanksgiving appeared as a spokesperson for the Seattle-based United Indians of All Tribes Foundation to discuss Native-American perspectives on Thanksgiving.
Pope’s LinkedIn page describes him as a co-founder for tech startups and lists him as an attorney who has worked for the Tulalip Tribal Court for over a decade.
But Pope’s heritage and resume have come under scrutiny since his arrest. While he received a law degree from Seattle University, the Washington State Bar Association previously confirmed he was not a licensed lawyer, and the Tulalip Tribes said he never worked as an attorney there.
Several tribes with Tlingit and Shoshone members also have said they’ve found no record of Pope’s enrollment, though it’s unclear whether he has claimed membership to any particular tribe.
Abigail Echo-Hawk, the executive vice president of the Seattle Indian Health Board and an advocate for Native women’s rights, has said Pope created a “false identity and posed as a Native man to infiltrate Native communities and prey upon our Indigenous women.”
Echo-Hawk said Wednesday she stands by that 2019 statement and that she’s grateful police thoroughly investigated his alleged conduct.
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https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Convicted-rapist-pleads-not-guilty-to-rapes-in-17214944.php
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Some Texas lawmakers claim immigration amounts to an ‘invasion’
Constitutional questions of protection against invasion at issue
WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - Some Texas lawmakers are calling on Gov. Greg Abbott (R) to take deportation out of the federal government’s hands and authorize state officials to return migrants to Mexico.
This comes as the number of migrants crossing the border is setting records, although the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agency noted numbers were down slightly in June. Also that more, more than 50 migrants died from heat exposure in a smuggling incident.
Rep. Jodi Arrington (R-Texas) said the state should declare the situation at the border an invasion.
“While it’s not an armed attack, it is nonetheless an invasion,” Arrington said. “Nonetheless, disastrous. Nonetheless costing us in many ways.”
The term “invasion” is key because the U.S. Constitution guarantees the federal government will protect states from invasion and prohibits states from engaging in war without Congressional approval unless “actually invaded.”
Arrington argues Texas now has authority to deport migrants because the clause has been breached.
He says it was, “a promise, a covenant, to all of the states to provide a protection, and repel an invasion.”
In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down an Arizona immigration law and declared the federal government had “broad” and “undoubted” immigration law authority over the states.
Texas immigration attorney Denise Gilman says Texas deporting migrants would clearly be unconstitutional based on precedent. But Gilman noted the Supreme Court is changing.
“We’re going to see some states and other parties trying to make arguments that were previously rejected in the hope that they might get a different result with a very different Supreme Court.”
So far Abbott has cited the so-called “guarantee” clause of the constitution in his state orders, but he has only arrested migrants as opposed to deporting them.
Immigration advocacy group American Gateways said state action is missing the point.
“What we need is comprehensive immigration reform that recognizes the humanity of those individuals who are coming across the border, and their reasons for leaving their home country,” Co-Executive Director Edna Yang said.
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) was not sure invoking the invasion clause would be possible, but he said the federal government has left the state with few options to address issues at the border.
Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) said he is concerned about the reputation of the area could lead to more migrants, as people are now flying from other countries in an attempt to enter the U.S. via the southern border.
Copyright 2022 Gray DC. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wbtv.com/2022/07/26/some-texas-lawmakers-claim-immigration-amounts-an-invasion/
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ROANOKE, Va. – Wednesday was the hottest day in nearly two years in the Roanoke Valley, while storms continued to bubble up in the heat of the day.
Thursday will be quite hot as well, though probably not as brutal as what we saw Wednesday. Even still, the heat index approaches triple digits outside of the mountains.
Storms Thursday will be fewer than what we’ve seen in recent days.
That said, they’ll become strong-to-severe where they do develop. That chance is slightly higher east of the Blue Ridge Parkway during the afternoon and evening.
Scattered storms remain in the forecast both Friday and Saturday.
Humidity levels finally drop Sunday and Monday. It won’t feel like fall out there, but it will at least provide some relief from the soupiness we’ve felt recently.
Heat, humidity and some storms return by the middle of next week.
To keep up to date with the storms in the area, make sure you download our app for alerts and radar.
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https://www.wsls.com/weather/2022/07/07/heat-scattered-storms-continue-through-end-of-the-week/
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Tick Population Explodes This Year: Here’s How Mainers Should Protect Themselves
Maine woman Rita Boutaugh had a pretty busy weekend picking an entire family of ticks out of her father's beard.
Say what? I guess it makes sense though because ticks grapple onto anything, even facial hair.
She posted this in the Maine Wildlife Facebook Group to make others aware that the ticks are out and popping.
Her post said the following,
This is just from my father's beard.. be prepared for a hard summer with these nasty things!
Rita Boutaugh
This happened in Ellsworth, Maine.
Every year we talk about this. But this time, I am going to prepare you for the inevitable and let you know, they are unavoidable, like that wedgy you always get when you wear those yoga pants.
You will most likely see a tick or have one burrow under your skin this summer because they have increased in Maine, according to Pine State Pest.
They say,
In more than one spot on the web, researchers have noted climate change and an increase in deer population could be to blame for an ever-increasing tick problem in Maine as well.
Maine has always had a tick problem and Gateway Maine lets us know which diseases you can get from being bit by a tick,
According to Gateway Maine,
Maine has high rates of tickborne diseases. The Maine Tracking Network uses data from case reports, surveys, and tick submissions to help understand the spread of tickborne diseases. Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis are the most reported tickborne diseases in Maine. People become infected from the bite of an infected deer tick.
Normally, when most of us see a tick, we scream and grab a lighter. But there are other ways to deal with this increasing issue!
Below is a list of how to prevent and manage the tick problem in Maine, according to information from Maine.gov.
Tick Population Explodes this Year, Here's How to Protect Yourself
Dozens of Adorable Dogs Arrive in Maine From Bahamas, Need Homes Now
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https://q961.com/tick-population-explodes-this-year-heres-how-mainers-should-protect-themselves/
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Johnny Depp's popularity dips after trial especially among older Americans, poll says
After a sensational six-week trial closely followed by millions on social media, a jury sided with Johnny Depp in his defamation lawsuit against ex-wife Amber Heard. But according to a recent poll of U.S. adults, Depp’s popularity may have actually dipped — despite what seemed to be a barrage of support online for the "Pirates of the Caribbean" actor.
A poll of roughly 2,200 U.S. adults conducted by the data intelligence company Morning Consult found that Depp’s popularity dropped after the defamation trial concluded, particularly among men and baby boomers — or those born between 1946 and 1964.
From April 8-10 (before the trial began) to June 4-5 (days after the verdict), the share of U.S. adults with a "very" or "somewhat" favorable view of Depp dropped 12 percentage points from 68% in an April survey to 56%, according to the survey.
Among all the generations surveyed, the baby boomer opinion of Depp worsened the most: His favorability rating stood at 59% in April, compared to 37% by June. Depp’s popularity rating also dropped among men, from 67% to 52%, compared to a 9-point drop among women in the same time frame.
Johnny Depp smiles during a recess outside court during the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard civil trial at Fairfax County Circuit Court on May 27, 2022, in Fairfax, Virginia. (Photo by Cliff Owen/Consolidated News Pictures/Getty Images)
Earlier this month, the jury found that Depp had been defamed by three statements in a 2018 op-ed written by Heard in which she said she was an abuse victim. Depp was awarded more than $10 million. Jurors also concluded Heard was defamed, by a lawyer for Depp who accused her of creating a hoax surrounding the abuse allegations. She was awarded $2 million.
The case, which captivated viewers who watched gavel-to-gavel television coverage, attracted millions of followers on social media — specifically TikTok — who dissected the actors’ mannerisms, their wardrobe choices, and their use of alcohol and drugs. The hashtag #JusticeForJohnnyDepp has amassed over 20.5 billion views on TikTok, compared to just 91 million views for the #JusticeForAmberHeard tag.
Elaine Bredehoft, one of Heard's lead attorneys during the trial, said she believes the jury was influenced by a relentless barrage of online posts condemning her and supporting Depp.
Interestingly, younger respondents of the poll found Depp much more likable following the trial, compared to their older peers. Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) viewed Depp better than any other generation, with 78% viewing him as favorable in April and down to 72% by June.
Depp’s popularity among Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) remained the most unchanged throughout the six-week trial, dropping just 2 percentage points to 70% between April and June.
After the conclusion of the drawn-out trial, both Depp and Heard each face the task of trying to rebuild their images and careers. Most of the trial testimony focused on whether Heard had been physically and sexually abused by Depp, as she claimed.
Heard testified about more than a dozen alleged assaults, including a fight in Australia — where Depp was shooting a "Pirates of the Caribbean" sequel and lost the tip of his middle finger. Heard said she was sexually assaulted with a liquor bottle.
Depp said he never hit Heard and that she was the abuser, though Heard’s attorneys highlighted years-old text messages Depp sent apologizing to Heard for his behavior as well as profane texts he sent to a friend in which Depp said he wanted to kill Heard and defile her dead body.
And while Depp may already have a head start, with a jury verdict largely favoring his narrative, experts say he will still face challenges.
"Depp has a hill to climb. Heard has a mountain to climb," Eric Dezenhall, a crisis mitigator in Washington with no involvement in the case, told the Associated Press. "If Depp keeps his expectations proportional and understands that he’s unlikely to hit his former heights, he can have a solid career if he takes things slowly. After all, he was vindicated in court, not declared a saint."
This story was reported from Cincinnati. The Associated Press contributed.
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https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/johnny-depp-popularity-dips-amber-heard-trial-baby-boomers-poll
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The Department of Health and Human Services issued clarifying guidance Monday that says federal law preempts state abortion bans in emergency situations.
The new guidance is in response to states enacting strict anti-abortion laws following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
In a letter to healthcare providers, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra says, "As frontline health care providers, the federal EMTALA statute protects your clinical judgment and the action that you take to provide stabilizing medical treatment to your pregnant patients, regardless of the restrictions in the state where you practice."
Becerra adds that the course of treatment is up to the physician or other qualified medical personnel.
"Stabilizing treatment could include medical and/or surgical interventions (e.g., abortion, removal of one or both fallopian tubes, anti-hypertensive therapy, methotrexate therapy etc.), irrespective of any state laws or mandates that apply to specific procedures," he said.
Becerra said that hospitals that don't comply with the guidance could lose their Medicare provider agreement or face civil monetary penalties.
According to the Associated Press, abortions are banned or restricted in more than 20 states.
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https://www.ksby.com/news/national/biden-administration-says-federal-law-preempts-state-abortion-bans-during-emergencies
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Charles Kernaghan, a labor activist who helped revitalize the anti-sweatshop movement in the late 20th century, targeting American companies such as Disney — as well as a clothing line backed by Kathie Lee Gifford — while waging a dogged campaign to expose mistreatment at overseas factories, died June 1 at his home in Manhattan. He was 74.
His sister, Maryellen Kernaghan, confirmed the death but did not give a cause.
For two decades, Mr. Kernaghan spearheaded a string of highly publicized campaigns against child labor, corporate greed and sweatshop conditions, taking on companies including Nike, Target and Walmart. Using video footage and worker testimonials, he revealed dismal conditions at factories in Central America, China, Bangladesh and Jordan, where workers were subjugated to physical abuse and often labored for a few cents an hour.
Apparel industry executives questioned his facts and branded him a relentless self-promoter. But his work was credited with spurring workplace reforms including improved wages, ventilation and access to factory bathrooms, and was backed in some cases by independent human rights monitors who sought to ensure safe conditions.
With his wire-rimmed glasses, carefully trimmed beard and slicked-back silver hair, Mr. Kernaghan could have passed for an academic — indeed, he had once pursued a PhD in psychology and anthropology. But he was also a gifted athlete, a former boxer and high school football star who gave off a fidgety energy while talking nonstop to audiences at union halls, college auditoriums and houses of worship.
Reaching into a bag of clothes during a speech, he would display a Walmart shirt made by Vietnamese women who were allegedly beaten at a factory in American Samoa, or would hold up a Nike jersey that retailed for $140 in the United States but was made for 29 cents in El Salvador. “There is blood on this garment” he would shout, with an almost religious intensity.
“Charles Kernaghan is the labor movement’s mouse that roared,” wrote New York Times reporter Steven Greenhouse. In a 2003 profile in Mother Jones, journalist Charles Bowden declared that the activist seemed “born to make the back pages of the global economy suddenly leap onto front pages.”
Mr. Kernaghan spent most of his advocacy career as the director of a small New York City organization called the National Labor Committee, later known as the Institute for Global Labour and Human Rights. Their investigations were cited by publications including The Washington Post and featured on TV shows like NBC’s “Dateline,” which used footage that Mr. Kernaghan had taken inside a Bangladeshi factory via a hidden camera embedded in his glasses.
He and his group were vaulted to national prominence in 1996, after Mr. Kernaghan embarrassed Gifford, the cheery co-host of “Live With Regis and Kathie Lee,” by revealing at a congressional hearing that her clothing line was made in part by 13-year-old girls in Honduras, who worked 13 hours a day for 31 cents an hour.
Mr. Kernaghan said he found some of her brand’s clothing at a sweatshop, although at the time he had no idea who she was: For years, he had avoided television and scorned modern technology, refusing to use a computer and relying on his colleagues to type memos.
During a tearful appearance on her syndicated talk show, Gifford denied wrongdoing and said she knew nothing about the labor practices behind her clothing line, which was manufactured by contractors for Walmart. “I started my clothing line to help children,” she said, condemning what she described as “a vicious attack” by Mr. Kernaghan.
Mr. Kernaghan became known as “the man who made Kathie Lee cry,” as The Post put it in a headline. Continuing to press for labor reforms, he brought one of the factory’s former employees to the United States so that she could share her story. Walmart canceled its contract with the plant — Mr. Kernaghan was not exactly pleased, having tried instead to improve wages and working conditions — and Gifford became something of an ally, speaking out against sweatshops and vowing that independent monitors would inspect her clothing line’s plants.
The episode drew attention to a cause that was increasingly embraced by college students and President Bill Clinton, who announced an anti-sweatshop plan with Gifford by his side. Noam Chomsky and other activists credited Mr. Kernaghan as a primary catalyst for the movement, as did publications like Women’s Wear Daily, which wrote that he was “shaking up the issue of labor abuses in the apparel industry like nothing since the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire.”
“The Kathie Lee Gifford thing literally changed the way people do business,” Mr. Kernaghan told The Post in 2005. Kevin Burke, the head of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, seemed to agree, saying the episode spurred a reckoning in the industry. “We remember that every day,” he told The Post, “and that’s a lesson to us, the fact that we don’t want that to happen again.”
Even as he sought out high-profile targets for his campaigns, Mr. Kernaghan said he was often uncomfortable in the spotlight. He had spent years bouncing among jobs before turning to advocacy, and struggled with shyness while trying to network on behalf of his cause. “It was torture in the beginning,” he told Mother Jones. “I had to dress up; I had no clothes. A friend in my building had a suit I’d borrow, a size 42. I’d look like a clown. I was all right sitting down but when I stood up, it was like I was in a bag.
“I feel better around working people,” he continued. “I don’t feel comfortable around professional people — I have no small talk.”
The second of three children, Charles Patrick Kernaghan was born in Brooklyn on April 2, 1948, and grew up in the borough’s Williamsburg section and in the Long Island community of Valley Stream. His Scottish-born father worked in construction, specializing in acoustical tiles; his mother was a homemaker from a Czech-Austrian family and later volunteered for the New York Foundling, a child welfare agency.
Mr. Kernaghan attributed his interest in social justice to his parents, who helped raise more than 20 foster children. He had their backing when he went against the wishes of their parish priest, starting a petition to oppose the installation of a church air conditioner. How could the church justify the cost, he argued, when the sick and poor needed help?
Mr. Kernaghan considered joining the priesthood but instead studied psychology, receiving a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago and a master’s in 1975 from the New School for Social Research in New York. He taught at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh before leaving the school to read and wander, traveling around Europe and the Middle East in between stints as a taxi driver, furniture mover, union steward and carpenter.
Photography became an abiding interest. He took pictures of street scenes in Manhattan and landscapes in Maine, and brought his camera along when he was invited to join a religious peace march through Central America in 1985. The marchers were rallying behind labor leaders in the region who had been threatened, murdered or disappeared.
Mr. Kernaghan spent three days with impoverished workers occupying a cathedral in El Salvador and, although he spoke no Spanish, began to learn about the plight of laborers in the region. The experience “opened his eyes,” his sister said in a phone interview, “and they could never be closed again.”
When he returned home to Manhattan, he began organizing a one-man labor campaign with financing from his parents’ Social Security checks. He connected with the National Labor Committee and became a protege of one of the group’s original leaders, the Rev. David Dyson, who helped shape his early campaigns.
Those efforts included a 1995 protest targeting Gap, which agreed to independent monitoring at its contractors’ Central American factories. Labor Secretary Robert Reich later described the agreement as a “watershed.”
Mr. Kernaghan became the committee’s director in 1990, and ran the organization with help from Barbara Briggs, who for many years was his personal and professional partner. To promote their campaigns, they often used guerrilla tactics: During the Academy Awards in 1997, the group rented an airplane to fly a banner reading, “Disney Uses Sweatshops.”
They also turned to schoolchildren and religious groups for help. “The companies really, really hate it when the nuns get involved and start writing letters,” Mr. Kernaghan told the Times. “I mean, what are they going to say against nuns, right?”
Mr. Kernaghan eventually moved the organization to Pittsburgh. The group disbanded after he retired in his mid-60s and returned to New York, where he went on long walks across Manhattan with his Tibetan terrier. He also frequented the opera and symphony, which his sister described as “the one indulgence that he allowed himself” during his activist years.
She is his only immediate survivor.
“Not to sound Pollyannish, but I believe there is a basic decency in the American people that these companies don’t understand,” Mr. Kernaghan told the Times in 1996, looking back on his early campaigns. “We have to try to tap this decency. When we do that, we get a tremendous response.”
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/obituaries/2022/06/08/labor-activist-charles-kernaghan-dead/
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Which small computer desks are best?
You need a great computer desk, whether you are watching YouTube videos, checking your emails or playing video games. But with so many computer desk options out there, it can be difficult to choose. It’s important to learn everything you can about the best features to look for in a computer desk, as well as the pricing and the best computer desk options on the market.
What to know before you buy a small computer desk
There are a few things to consider when purchasing a small computer desk.
Choose the right style of desk for you
A lot of computer desks have a more traditional or classic wood style, while other computer desks look more modern or slick when it comes to aesthetics. It’s important to consider the style of the room where you are placing your small computer desk, and to choose your desk style based on the style of the room. For instance, you might like the appearance of a super modern computer desk, but the desk will look out of place if it’s placed in a room with traditional vintage decor.
Select the best shape for your needs
Straight rectangular computer desks tend to be the most popular shape, but there are small computer desks in a wide variety of shapes. Other popular desk shape options include L-shaped corner desks and U-shaped computer desks. These desk shapes are perfect for users who need more surface space on their computer desk.
Look for an ergonomic computer desk
You should think about finding an ergonomic computer desk if you spend plenty of time at your computer. This ergonomic desk can be adjusted to your height and help reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries, joint issues and back pain.
What to look for in a quality small computer desk
Size and weight
Think about how much space you have available and take any measurements if needed. You should also think about how much work surface space you will need. If you are actually working at your desk, you will probably need more surface space than someone who is just using the desk recreationally.
Material
The most popular options for computer desk materials are glass, metal, real wood and laminate. Some of these materials are more expensive than other materials. For instance, a real wood desk will probably cost at least twice as much as a laminate desk, but it will also be more long-lasting and durable.
Storage space
Think about how much storage space you need. For example, you might be okay with just a plain computer desk with little to no storage, or you might need a lot of different cubby holes and drawers. Keep in mind that you will most likely need to assemble the computer desk on your own, and desks with extra drawers and storage will be harder to assemble than plain and simple desks.
How much you can expect to spend on a small computer desk
There are a couple of different kinds of small computer desks out there, including compact computer desks and wall-mounted computer desks. Wall-mounted computer desks range in price from $60-$200, while compact computer desks go for anywhere from $30-$300.
Small computer desk FAQ
Where do you place a desktop computer on a desk?
A. The computer monitor usually sits on top of the desk, but the computer itself doesn’t necessarily need to sit on the desk as well. There are some computer desks out there that have compartments or shelves where you can place the computer.
Do you need any special tools to assemble your computer desk?
A. Most small computer desks come with the tools you need for proper assembly, but if you purchase a wall-mounted desk, you will most likely need an electric drill with a masonry drill bit to attach the desk to the wall.
Which computer desk materials are the most durable?
A. Solid wood desks tend to be the most durable, which makes them an especially attractive option if you have a larger budget. Wood veneer is also a good choice if you want something durable that’s not too expensive. Metal computer desks are also fairly durable.
What’s the best small computer desk to buy?
Top small computer desk
Prepac Wall Mounted Floating Desk
What you need to know: This well-made computer desk is not too expensive, and it’s available in a wide range of color options.
What you’ll love: This small computer desk is composed of modern wood with laminate surfaces. This incredible computer desk is a work of art and a clever, wall-mounted solution.
What you should consider: Keep in mind that the working area on this small computer desk is fairly limited.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top small computer desk for the money
Techni Mobili Compact Computer Desk
What you need to know: This compact computer desk provides the best value for an affordable value with plenty of flexibility.
What you’ll love: This budget-friendly and compact computer desk provides lots of flexibility and space, and both the working surfaces and the frame of the desk are built to last.
What you should consider: This computer desk is not industrial grade, so it’s not quite as durable as the Prepac desk.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
OneSpace Regallo Computer Desk
What you need to know: This highly versatile computer desk from OneSpace is a great desk option for an affordable price.
What you’ll love: This small computer desk features a swing-out section that doubles your working environment when needed and tucks away under the main desk when you don’t need it.
What you should consider: It’s important to consider that the lower shelf is not deep enough to support a computer.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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https://www.fox16.com/reviews/br/office-br/furniture-br/best-small-computer-desk/
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- Opera's crypto-centric browser (Win, Mac, Android, iOS) evolves the user experience to be truly Web3-ready ahead of the Ethereum Merge
- It's adding seamless support for major third party wallets including Metamask and others
- The industry-first Web3 wallet selector allows users to seamlessly choose which wallet they want to interact with a given dApp - without having to manage conflicting extensions, go deep into settings or deal with annoying pop ups
- The browser partners with DappRadar for better dApps access
OSLO, Norway, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Opera (NASDAQ: OPRA), the company behind the world's first multi-platform Web3 browser, today announces one of the most significant updates since its genesis that will make the lives of crypto users much easier: The Opera Crypto Browser now supports MetaMask and other leading wallets. To match this development, the browser is also shipping the innovative "Wallet Selector," an industry-first multi-wallet management tool. This feature allows users to seamlessly pick which one of their wallets they want to interact with a particular dApp or website. They can now choose between their wallets directly in the browser address bar, without needing to go into settings or having to deal with competing extensions. Beyond Opera Crypto Browser's native wallet, the wallets supported in the Wallet Selector include Metamask and hundreds more, as long as they are available as Opera or Chrome extensions (yes, these work in Opera too).
Browser wallet extensions are essential tools for exploring Web3. They allow users to explore and interact with various decentralized apps (dApps) and services. However, not all wallet extensions are created equal. Many only support specific networks, and some offer different features such as in-app swaps and staking. To explore multiple networks, crypto users tend to need several browser wallets which creates an unnecessary barrier to adoption and impairs the user experience. Opera is changing this with today's update and the innovative Wallet Selector feature in the browser address bar.
Opera's new Wallet Selector – which automates the precarious process of switching between crypto wallets while swapping tokens or transacting with dApps – is a gamechanger for the broader Web3 ecosystem. "We created the Wallet Selector based on the feedback we got from our users. It saves them a lot of pain as they no longer have to constantly go into settings or to navigate between competing wallet extensions," said Tomasz Stawarz, Engineering Director at Opera.
Opera's industry-first Web3 Wallet Selector solves this issue by aggregating compatible wallet extensions and automating the connection process. The selector remembers users' preferences for different websites, allowing them to connect to dApps effortlessly. This update brings Web3 one step closer to the experience we know from Web2 ahead of the Ethereum Merge.
"The upcoming Merge is the most important technological update in the history of crypto that will move Ethereum from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake, thus making it more scalable, secure, sustainable, and ready to be used by the mainstream user. Opera is the only browser truly ready for this shift and the only one offering web users all the tools they need to give Web3 a try in a safe environment," said Susie Batt, Crypto Ecosystem Lead at Opera.
On top of the ease of use of multiple wallets, Opera Crypto Browser also provides security enhancements that protects its users from hacks and phishing. The phishing detection feature blocks the users from entering blacklisted phishing sites. The browser's secure clipboard protects users from scary clipboard hacks, making sure the wallet address or account number they copied is the same one they are pasting.
To make the Web3 experience more accessible and fun, the Opera Crypto Browser now resolves human-readable wallet handles for YAT, FIO Crypto Handles e.g Jane@opera and ENS domains like iamtesting.eth. These features allow users to make cryptocurrency transactions using simple-to-memorize domain and wallet addresses consisting of words or even strings of emojis as well as Handshake domain resolution.
The Opera Crypto Browser has also partnered with DappRadar to provide its users with access to more than 11,000 dApps. The platform also gives them unique insight into valuable metrics. All of the dApps are accessible as easily as any website on web2, from the browser address bar. The users identify themselves using one of their wallets, picked via the Wallet Selector.
The upgrade also overhauls the Crypto Corner feature, including a new Hot Tweets section including the latest trending tweets around crypto. Additionally, the popular BNB Chain Decentralized Finance (DeFi) app, PancakeSwap, has been integrated with the Crypto Browser and is available in the browser's native crypto wallet. This allows users to trade tokens directly from within the wallet without the hassle of connecting to an external dApp first.
Opera is also updating the mobile version of its Crypto Browser with a new navigation and added private mode.
The updated Crypto Browser by Opera from Norway comes amid a downturn in the global crypto market, yet institutional interest in cryptocurrencies continues to thrive. A recent independent analysis by Messari revealed that almost twice as much ($35B) investment capital flowed into crypto projects in 2022 than in 2021 ($19B).
Susie Batt, Crypto Ecosystem Lead at Opera, said: "The development of the world's first Crypto Browser is a realization of our aims to provide the tools that enable open access to Web3. Not only have we provided a gateway into Web3, but we've also simplified many everyday processes native to the crypto space that may previously have confused the average web user. The Opera Crypto Browser is currently the best, most comprehensive portal into Web3 for new and experienced users alike."
The Opera Crypto Browser is Opera's all-encompassing browser product offering a window into the world of cryptocurrency, blockchain, and Web3. The Crypto Browser now delivers access to multiple blockchain networks including Ethereum, Bitcoin, BNB, Polygon, and others, as well as tens of thousands of dApps and protocols built on top of them. The browser also includes a built-in crypto wallet, as well as a series of privacy-enhancing features including a secure clipboard, a built-in browser VPN and ad blocker. It also gives users direct access to key platforms and messengers, including Twitter, Telegram and Discord directly in the sidebar, which means they don't have to reach for separate apps. The development of the Crypto Browser signals Opera's intent to offer internet users a simplified, one-stop window for interacting with the blockchains and protocols that make up the Web3 space.
To download the Opera Crypto Browser, click here.
The Wallet Selector is available in the desktop version of the Opera Crypto Browser and currently supports standard EVM web3 interface-based wallets (EIP-1193).
Join Opera's Crypto communities at:
Opera Crypto Twitter
Opera Crypto Discord
Opera Crypto Telegram
Opera is a global web innovator with an engaged and growing base of hundreds of millions of monthly active users who seek a better internet experience. Building on over 25 years of innovation that started with browser products, Opera is now leveraging its brand and highly engaged user base in order to expand its business into new segments. Today, Opera offers users around the world a range of products and services that include PC and mobile browsers, the newsreader Opera News, and apps dedicated to gaming, crypto, e-commerce and classifieds. In 2018, Opera introduced the first browser with a built-in crypto wallet and Web3 support. Opera is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange (OPRA). In January 2022, Opera released the first version of its Crypto Browser, a dedicated web browser tweaked to crypto-enthusiasts and the crypto-curious.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Opera Limited
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https://www.wsaz.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/opera-crypto-browser-integrates-metamask-other-wallets-unveils-industry-first-web3-wallet-selector-ahead-merge/
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Maryland Sen. Van Hollen hospitalized after stroke but says no long-term damage
By Eva McKend, CNN
Sen. Chris Van Hollen announced Sunday that he suffered a “minor stroke” over the weekend and is hospitalized.
The Maryland Democrat said in a statement that his doctors have told him “there are no long-term effects or damage as a result of this incident” but that he will remain in the hospital for observation in the coming days. He said in the statement that he plans to return to work later this week.
The lawmaker was admitted to George Washington University Hospital over the weekend after he had been “experiencing lightheadedness and acute neck pain” while delivering a speech in his home state, according to his statement. He said he sought medical help upon returning home at a doctor’s recommendation.
His announcement came as a reminder of Democrats’ perilously thin majority in the 50-50 Senate, where they cannot afford to lose any votes.
Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico returned to work in March after suffering a stroke earlier this year.
The health news from Van Hollen, who is up for reelection this year, came the same day Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, the front-runner for the Democratic Senate nomination in his state on Tuesday, announced he’s recovering after a stroke.
This story has been updated with additional information.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
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https://localnews8.com/politics/cnn-us-politics/2022/05/15/maryland-sen-van-hollen-hospitalized-after-stroke-but-says-no-long-term-damage/
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Booth #1743
TEMECULA, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pasturebird, a company on a mission to revolutionize agriculture by applying modern technology to ancient farming methods and make pasture raised poultry more accessible for everyone, is today unveiling bold new packaging and celebrating its launch into retail at 2022 Natural Products Expo East. Exhibiting at the show for the first time and a NEXTY Award finalist, attendees are invited to stop by booth #1743 to learn more about the brand.
Pasturebird's new packaging, designed by Pearlfisher NYC, pays homage to the company's regenerative roots, focusing on the adage "you are what you eat eats." But what's truly unique about the packaging and what sets it apart from other brands in the meat case is the flip-up sleeve, which allows Pasturebird to tell the story of who the brand is and what pasture raised is in more detail. This special sleeve includes bold callouts to Pasturebird's revolutionary production system, where birds are raised on fresh grass in a "beautiful dance" - or the daily rotation of chickens to fresh pasture daily to graze through the company's ARC and other mobile coops.
Pasturebird's chicken is also rolling out into a selection of natural and traditional grocers across the country for the first time, though with a focus on the East and West Coasts. These stores include Sprouts Farmers Market (in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida, Alabama, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland and New Jersey), Jimbo's...Naturally!, Raley's O-N-E Market, Nugget Market, Oliver's Market, Lassens, Vicente Foods and Frazier Farms Market. Pasturebird will also be expanding into several other retailers through the end of 2022.
"I spent a lot of time on the East Coast in the Marine Corps, so it's a dream come true to exhibit at Expo East this year and launch into the retail world on this side of the country with fresh packaging that truly embodies our mission and values," said Paul Greive, co-founder of Pasturebird. "So much of the meat aisle is about confusing labels, certifications and claims, so it's hard for consumers to know what to buy. We are bringing that big, regenerative story front and center on our packaging through beautiful imagery and messaging that helps consumers understand that our chicken is very different and even better than traditional free range and organic poultry."
To learn more about Pasturebird, please visit www.pasturebird.com.
Pasturebird is on a mission to revolutionize agriculture by applying modern technology to ancient farming methods and making pasture-raised more accessible for everyone. Believing in the regenerative power of pasture-raised chicken for land, animal and community, its goal is to improve the standard for raising animals and revolutionize farming from a man-made system of depletion back to a natural ecosystem of perpetual regeneration and replenishment. The company offers a variety of chicken products, from whole and spatchock chickens to chicken wings, drumsticks and breasts. Pasturebird is available direct-to-consumer nationwide, in regional Sprouts Farmers Market locations, Jimbo's...Naturally!, Raley's O-N-E Market, Nugget Markets, Oliver's Market, Lassens, Vicente Foods and Frazier Farms Market, and in select restaurants and butcheries in Southern California. To learn more, please visit www.pasturebird.com.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Pasturebird
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https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/pasturebird-unveils-new-packaging-launches-into-retail-2022-natural-products-expo-east/
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Former U.S. ambassador is ‘optimistic’ on Griner, Whelan prisoner exchange
Posted/updated on: August 16, 2022 at 1:09 pm(NEW YORK) -- The saga of WNBA star Brittney Griner continued Monday after her attorneys filed an appeal over her conviction and nine-year Russian prison sentence for drug possession.
The move comes as U.S. officials continue to seek a prisoner transfer for her and fellow captive American Paul Whelan.
ABC News Live spoke with Bill Richardson, a former U.S. ambassador to the U.N., who has been a frequent emissary in hostage negotiations through the Richardson Center for Global Engagement, about the latest developments.
ABC NEWS LIVE: Let's start with the news of Griner's team filing an appeal. I'm curious, does that have any impact, you think, on diplomatic talks for a prisoner exchange to bring Griner and fellow detained American Paul Whelan home?
RICHARDSON: Well, indirectly, it basically says the legal process is over except for the appeal, and it's reasonable to have this appeal [for a] nine-year sentence in a penal conflict. Now, there can be negotiations between the United States and Russia. Both seem disposed.
There's been a prisoner exchange about two months ago, Trevor Reed, that I was indirectly involved in. I think the legal team of Brittney Griner has been effective [in] showing contrition, acknowledgment of the mistake and now the appeal. And I think…this potential return date from the American side is very important to [Russian President Vladimir] Putin. So I think both sides are moving in the right direction and I'm optimistic.
ABC NEWS LIVE: All right. You've just described yourself as a catalyst in these talks that are taking place at a government-to-government level between the U.S. and Russia. We know you traveled to Russia ahead of the release, as you mentioned, of American Trevor Reed earlier this spring. Have you or can you say or will you be traveling to Russia ahead of any release, potential release of Griner and Whelan?
RICHARDSON: Well, no, I can't get into that information. But what I can tell you is that I talked to both sides. I talked to the White House. I talked to the Russians. I have contacts in the Russian government. When I was U.N. ambassador, for instance, the foreign minister [Sergey] Lavrov was my counterpart. I have others that I dealt with as secretary of energy. So I'm not a replacement for the negotiations, [or] some kind of an interlocutor indirectly.
So I don't want to get into too many of these facets, but I've had experience. And I think…both sides are moving in the right direction because they've done it before, despite the fact that the relationship between the United States and Russia is toxic. Totally toxic.
ABC NEWS LIVE: Yeah, we understand that, and of course, appreciate it and would not want to jeopardize any future release. But I am curious about this. Russian officials have criticized the U.S. for openly discussing the offers on the table, but they did confirm this weekend that detained Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout is the name at the center of negotiations. You spoke to our George Stephanopoulos about this a little bit -- a week or so ago. [Is there] any concern here that these talks could break down for any reason, including the U.S. being too public with that information? In other words, would you [have] preferred that America didn't throw his name out there?
RICHARDSON: Well, I question that because I think private diplomacy is a lot better, but obviously the negotiations weren't going too well. So what the U.S. did was when things aren't going well, you kind of throw a little bit of a bomb. And so far, I think it's moved in the right direction. Now, eventually, I think it's not going to be a two-for-one deal. I think it's going to be a two-for-two.
The Russians obviously probably will want more, but you never know. Again, humanitarian issues like prisoner exchanges, like this agreement on grain and fertilizer that the U.N. broke…are steps in the right direction on the humanitarian front that eventually might help in a very toxic relationship between us and the Russians.
ABC NEWS LIVE: So you just used the word optimistic. I'm going to see if I can push a little bit further. Are you confident that a deal can get done here? And if so, any idea about a timeline without giving anything away? Or are we talking weeks, months, [a] year?
RICHARDSON: Well, you don't want to get into a timeline. I know the families are suffering. I think it was a great effort to combine them. An American Marine, a basketball star. We want both, but I think the Russians will want parity. So I'm optimistic because it was done before.
And I think Brittney Griner's attorneys have handled this well. And lastly, I think both sides want it. Obviously, the president wants to get his prisoners back and Putin wants to get his prisoner back, especially Bout, who was politically very important. So there's [a] political reality here. So I'm optimistic.
ABC NEWS LIVE: You mentioned the families. Let's touch on that a little bit. I think when people talk about situations like this, they want to know what each government is doing. But I think sometimes lost in the translation are the families that have been dealing with this for however long they have been in each individual case. You've written books on it. Obviously, there's an empathy there that you have. How do you tell the families to have patience in any kind of meaningful way during these negotiations?
RICHARDSON: Well, first, Mickey Bergman, who specializes in dealing with the families, handles that for our foundation.
We worked for the families, my foundation. We don't work for the government. We don't take orders from the government, either. The families work closely with us. We help them. We advise them. We don't try to lift their spirits when there's little, but then we move in directly into negotiation.
So that's different from other groups that do very excellent in hostage diplomacy. But we get right in there and try to make things happen. We're not replacing the government. Eventually, the U.S. government has to make the decision. The president, who I think [is] handling this well for a prisoner exchange. And as you know, prisoner exchanges have been criticized in the media and in the public.
ABC NEWS LIVE: You mentioned this a little earlier on that, of course, this is happening with the backdrop of this Russia-Ukraine war. How does that complicate negotiations? You've done this time and time again, but now there's a war involved in this one, [and] Russia is not happy with America for supplying aid and weapons to Ukraine. So how does that complicate this?
RICHARDSON: Well, it complicates things a lot because the relationship between our leaders or secretary of states or presidents is almost nonexistent. But there are channels like our private channels, like our embassy in Moscow. So there are ways that we talk, but it complicates things. But usually, governments before, they better the relationship.
In this case [it's] a very toxic relationship. Sometimes humanitarian efforts like a prisoner exchange, like the release of human rights prisoners, like the spring deal, the fertilizer deal between Russia [and] Ukraine brokered by the U.N., are steps that might lessen the tension and improve a very bad relationship.
Copyright © 2022, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
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https://ktbb.com/post/?p=1154173
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ALBANY, Ga., July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HCI Equity Partners, a leading lower middle-market private equity firm, today announced the sale of SouthernAg Carriers, Inc. on July 8, 2022.
Headquartered in Albany, Georgia, SouthernAg is a transportation and logistics service provider for agricultural and related processed food manufacturers, specializing in peanuts, cotton, pecans and other agricultural products to large consumer packaged goods customers including Mars, P&G and ConAgra. SouthernAg has five facilities in Georgia, North Carolina and Texas.
"HCI was an incredible partner for our company," said SouthernAg CEO John Kenneally. "They had a sense of care and appreciation to our family-style business which we think makes SouthernAg unique. The ability to align with our team's values sets HCI apart as a private equity firm. We're very thankful for the support they lent to our team over the years."
Dan Dickinson, HCI's Managing Partner commented, "John Kenneally and the entire management team at SouthernAg have been a pleasure to partner with as they developed the Company into a leading transportation provider for the agricultural industry. We are confident they will continue to be successful and have an excellent partner to support the future growth of the business."
Republic Partners served as the financial advisor and Vedder Price served as legal counsel to SouthernAg.
HCI Equity Partners is a lower market private equity firm focused on partnering with family and founder-owned distribution, manufacturing and service companies. HCI is headquartered in Washington, DC. For more information, please visit www.hciequity.com.
Contacts:
Kelsey Clute, VP, Director of Communications, HCI
kclute@hciequity.com
Megan Bowman, Lambert
mbowman@lambert.com
View original content:
SOURCE HCI Equity Partners
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https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/hci-equity-partners-announces-sale-southernag-carriers/
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HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — NASA is asking for help analyzing the phenomenal photos taken of Jupiter by the Juno spacecraft.
Juno launched in August 2011 and made the 1,740-million-mile journey in only five years. Nine years later, Juno has taken thousands of pictures of the largest planet in our solar system and will continue to study the planet and its moons through September 2025 or the spacecraft’s end of life.
The Jovian Vortex Hunter is one of NASA’s citizen science projects where anyone can help find vortices, which are spiral wind patterns, in photos taken by a spacecraft. The vortices are formed in a similar way to hurricanes on Earth except these storms can be 30 miles high and several hundred miles across.
“There are so many images that it would take several years for our small team to examine all of them,” said Dr. Ramanakumar Sankar, who leads the project. “We need help from the public to identify which images have vortices, where they are, and how they appear.”
Helpers look at a photo from Junocam and determine if there is a vortex. If there is, they then circle it. Examining these images will help scientists understand the fluid dynamics, cloud chemistry and atmosphere on Jupiter.
Jovian Vortex Hunters are in the process of examining pictures taken in early 2019.
The project, hosted on Zooniverse, allows anyone to help with real research being conducted by teams across the world on a variety of subjects.
Those who would like to help with the image processing for Junocam can do so by visiting the project’s website. From there, helpers can download images to realistically enhance or turn into works of art.
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https://www.cbs42.com/news/national/help-nasa-hunt-for-storms-on-jupiter/
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LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) — A man was arrested in Lafayette over the weekend for illegally possessing over a dozen firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and several illegal narcotics, according to the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO).
Dustin McCullough, 41, is facing the following charges:
- Possession or dealing in unregistered or illegally transferred weapons (8 counts)
- Handling of machine guns unlawful
- Possession of unidentifiable firearm (2 counts)
- Possession with intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substances (2 counts)
- Possession with intent to distribute Schedule II controlled dangerous substances (3 counts)
- Possession with intent to distribute Schedule III controlled dangerous substances
- Possession with intent to distribute Schedule IV controlled dangerous substances (3 counts)
- Sale, distribution, or possession of legend drug without prescription
- Firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance (14 counts)
- Possession of or dealing in firearms with obliterated numbers or marks
- Possession of firearm by a person convicted of certain felonies (14 counts)
The Violent Offender Task Force (VOTF), staffed by LPSO and the Lafayette Police Department (LPD), made a traffic stop on McCullough Saturday, May 7 around 10:45 p.m. in the 100 block of W. Second St. in Lafayette.
In total, 14 firearms were seized during the search. McCullough was found to be in possession of seven handguns, four machine pistols, and three short-barreled rifles as well as more than 2,200 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Additionally, approximately 334 grams of methamphetamine, 14.3 grams of cocaine, 120 Carbamazepine tablets, 81 Clonazepam tablets, 76 MDMA tablets, 12.6 grams of marijuana, 15 Oxycodone tablets, and smaller quantities of Buprenorphine, Diazepam, and Alprazolam.
McCullough was arrested and booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center.
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https://www.cenlanow.com/crime/14-firearms-2k-rounds-of-ammunition-drugs-seized-during-traffic-stop-in-lafayette/
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TSX-V: MKO; OTCQX: MAKOF
VANCOUVER, BC, July 5th, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Mako Mining Corp. (TSXV: MKO) (OTCQX: MAKOF) ("Mako" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on its first anniversary since declaring commercial production at its San Albino mine in Northern Nicaragua. All $ references in this press release are expressed in United States dollars.
Akiba Leisman, CEO of Mako states that "this past year has been transformative for the Company. Mako has now been in commercial production for 1 year. Since that time, the Company has profitably produced in excess of 36,000 ounces of gold, reached nameplate capacity of 500 tpd in December of last year, invested over $6 million in growth exploration, repaid approximately $10 million in principal, and began a capital return program to shareholders. This has set the stage for an expansion of our operations to 1,000 tpd, while beginning a $17.2 million exploration program which has already led to additional discoveries on our property. We are especially proud that our resource model has positively reconciled by over 10% in terms of Au ounces despite 28% of the material mined being from the inferred category. There are still aspects of the mine and plant that need further optimization, which are currently being addressed, but the first year of commercial production has been a success, and our team should be proud of their accomplishments."
A detailed operating update for Q2 2022 will be released later in July. Having just finished Q2 2022, some of the production statistics below are estimates as they have not been fully reconciled. Additional details and commentary will also be made available in that forthcoming update.
Mining – Over the past 12 months of mining, the grade of the diluted vein has averaged greater than 16 g/t Au, and blended with historical dump and other material, mining has been able to deliver over 500 tonnes per day of greater than 7.5 g/t Au to the mill.
The resource model is proving to be excellent, with mine reconciliation being positive 10.5% during this period in term of Au ounces. The comparable material from the mineral resource estimate prepared by Mine Development Associates, a division of RESPEC, out of Reno, Nevada was categorized as 42% measured, 30% indicated and 28% inferred material.
A technical report for the mineral resource is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com and is also available on the Company's website at www.makominingcorp.com (see press release dated October 19, 2020)
The processes and procedures our team have implemented for grade control have been outstanding. Mining dilution is generally kept to levels below 30 cm on either side of the vein. Furthermore, as we are now mining more difficult material to process, our ability to selectively mine is a benefit as we can sample, separate and stockpile difficult to process material. Fortunately, the material that has been more difficult to process tends to be from the foot-wall and hanging-wall of the vein rather than the high-grade vein itself.
Processing – The mill throughput was fully debottlenecked beginning in December 2021, after a series of adjustments were made to the plant, and as our employees became fully trained. The processing facility has been operating at above nameplate capacity of 500 tpd since late last year.
The plant transitioned to almost exclusively fresh material in March of this year. The fresh material contains naturally occurring carbon which can interfere with the gold recovery process. Eliminating free cyanide in the grinding circuit and only adding cyanide to the slurry in the CIL is essential in order to achieve optimal recoveries. Reducing cyanide concentrations from recycled water to optimal levels required a change in reagents. We were previously using the standard INCO/SO2 process (sodium metabisulfite and copper sulfate) but the results weren`t consistent and reliable. To adjust, we are now detoxing with sodium hypochlorite (common bleach), but the logistics needed to obtain necessary quantities will take some time to develop. Additionally, there are minor plant modifications being implemented to automate the detoxification process that will require de minimis levels of additional capex which are expected to be completed in Q3 2022. Despite these challenges, the Company sold just over 9,000 ounces of gold for the quarter, similar to the last 2 quarters.
In the meantime, we have developed robust sampling mechanisms and processes to make sure particularly problematic material is kept away from the mill as well as other initiatives such as: i) blending stockpiled oxide material from historical waste dumps to the mill feed, ii) increasing carbon to CIL tanks to reduce metal loss, iii) regenerating carbon more frequently, iv) making minor adjustments to the Knelson concentrator to increase capacity and availability of our gravity circuit.
The mill head grade has averaged greater than 7.5 g/t Au for the past year, ranking San Albino amongst the highest-grade open pit operations in the world. To the extent possible, high-grade material was deferred until the middle of June while some of the metallurgical issues were addressed; however, head grades have exceeded 10 g/t Au since June 16th, 2022.
Our tailings are filtered and stacked dry (at approximately 18% moisture) and stored on a geomembrane-lined tailings storage facility ("TSF"). There is no discharge of water throughout our facility. Compaction of the tails at our TSF is better than planned, which bodes well for the life of mine capacity of the TSF. Rainy season commenced in May, and the various water management systems we've implemented have been working above specifications. Mako is the only company in Nicaragua that uses a dry-stack TSF, and we are especially proud of our environmental stewardship at San Albino.
Exploration results continue to be strong and justified the expansion of our exploration program to $17.2 million (see press release dated March 9, 2022) which we expect to spend over the next 18 months.
The Company recently announced a new discovery at Las Conchitas North (see press release dated June 1, 2022) and expanded the area around the San Albino SW Pit from 50m x 50m to 530m x 470m (see press release dated June 21, 2022).
At Las Conchitas, we expanded the Mango Zone to 213m down dip by intersecting 138.29 g/t over 1.3m estimated true width (see press release dated March 17, 2022) and demonstrated up to 850m of strike potential at Las Conchitas with drilling (see press release dated August 18, 2021).
Regionally, channel sampling at La Segoviana has yielded up to 105.7 g/t over 1.5m estimated true width (see press release dated March 24, 2022), and drilling for the first time in history has commenced at Potrerillos.
Safety and Health – The Company views safety as a cornerstone of our operations. We have made significant investments in safety training and facilities. Mako didn't register any lost time accidents this past year.
COVID still poses some challenges; however, our protocols and corrective measures avoided production slowdowns even during 2021 when the impact of the pandemic was more severe. Mako registered 195 positive cases in the past 12 months and 88.4% of our employees are vaccinated.
Community & Permits – We are very fortunate to have a community that supports responsible mining. Mako is heavily invested in improving the community in which we operate, contributing to infrastructure projects such as bridges and road maintenance, and supporting institutions such as the local police and schools. Mako also prioritizes local employment, with 97% of our workforce from Nicaragua and 70% from the local Nueva Segovia region. Over the past year, two separate community consultations passed with unanimous consent, which led to the approval of our regional Potrerillos and La Segoviana drilling permits. Over the course of the next 6-9 months, we expect to receive additional permits to begin mining at Las Conchitas and develop the associated infrastructure (e.g. roads, waste dumps, etc.) in order to justify the expansion of our plant to 1,000 tpd for which we received an expansion permit in 2021.
Financial – Over the past 12 months approximately $10 million of principal has been repaid to Wexford and Sailfish and 1.4 million shares have been repurchased. The last equity raise the Company did was nearly 2 years ago (see press releases dated June 26 and July 17, 2020) and no additional debt capital has been raised since February 2021 (see press release dated February 22, 2021) 1.
Operating cash flow from the mine has allowed us to spend over $6 million on growth exploration since declaring commercial production, and to commence a $17.2 million exploration program beginning in March.
John Rust, a metallurgical engineer, and qualified person (as defined under NI 43-101) has read and approved the technical information contained in this press release with the exception of the mine reconciliation figures. Mr. Rust is a senior metallurgist and a consultant to the Company.
John M. Kowalchuk, P.Geo, a geologist and qualified person (as defined under National Instrument 43-101) has read and approved the mine reconciliation figures contained in this press release. Mr. Kowalchuk is a senior geologist and a consultant to the Company.
On behalf of the Board,
Akiba Leisman
CEO
Mako Mining Corp. is a publicly listed gold mining, development and exploration company. The Company operates the high-grade San Albino gold mine in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, which ranks as one of the highest-grade open pit gold mines globally. Mako's primary objective is to operate San Albino profitably and fund exploration of prospective targets on its district-scale land package.
Statements contained herein, other than historical fact, may be considered "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained herein is based on the Company's reasonable assumptions and current plans and expectations, and forward-looking statements contained herein include, without limitation, that a detailed operating update for Q2 2022 will be released later in July; that minor plant modifications being implemented to automate the detoxification process are expected to be completed in Q3 2022; that over the course of the next 6-9 months, we expect to receive additional permits to begin mining at Las Conchitas and develop the associated infrastructure (e.g. roads, waste dumps, etc.) in order to justify the expansion of our plant to 1,000 tpd; and that the Company can operate San Albino profitably in order to fund exploration of prospective targets on its district-scale land package. Such forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, the risk that the estimated production statistics do not prove to be accurate; the ongoing results of the Company's drilling programs do not produce the positive results expected; the minor plant modifications are not completed on the timeline expected; that the Company does not obtain the necessary additional permits to begin mining at Las Conchitas and development the associated infrastructure on the timeline expected or at all; political risks and uncertainties involving the Company's exploration properties; the inherent uncertainty of cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expense; commodity price fluctuations and other risks and uncertainties as disclosed in the Company's public disclosure filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof, based on information currently available and is included for the purposes of providing investors with the Company's expectations regarding the Company's operations, financial health and proposed exploration programs, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Mako does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
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NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Bourbon Street Extravaganza, a free concert held in New Orleans amid Southern Decadence — one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ events — has been canceled over monkeypox concerns, organizers said Wednesday.
The concert was scheduled to return Sept. 3 for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic shut down Decadence in 2020. It normally attracts up to 20,000 people to the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann streets in New Orleans’ French Quarter outside the bar Napoleon’s Itch.
The concert’s producer, Chuck Robinson, called off the concert in light of the rapidly spreading monkeypox virus, news outlets reported. The virus, which seems to disproportionately affect gay and bisexual men, is spread by prolonged skin-to-skin contact.
“I regret that we can’t do the show, but monkeypox just came out of the blue, and quickly,” Robinson told The Associated Press in a telephone interview. “My concerns have to be the safety of the artists and the production team.”
He added there were plans to bring in stars from Australia and England and yet the virus has “stats that frighten me.”
“It’s spread by touch and closeness, not by droplets like COVID and I did not feel, in all good conscious, that I could be responsible for an event that could become a mass spreader,” he said.
The Washington Post first reported on the Bourbon Street Extravaganza’s cancelation as part of a story about the growing threat of monkeypox. There have been concerns about the lack of availability of the monkeypox vaccine in Louisiana, which has 120 confirmed cases, state health officials said.
Earlier this month, the Louisiana Department of Health said it was in contact with Southern Decadence organizers to get people vaccinated before the event scheduled to run Sept. 1-5 over the extended Labor Day holiday weekend.
Since 1972, Southern Decadence has grown from an informal gathering to an annual blowout that draws thousands of revelers to New Orleans over the long holiday weekend. In 2019, an estimated 225,000 people attended various events and the wide-ranging street party. An even larger crowd was expected this year.
The Bourbon Street Extravaganza has been part of Southern Decadence since 2004, the year Robinson and co-founder Ron Julian opened Napoleon’s Itch at 734 Bourbon. Robinson and Julian launched the concert on an outdoor stage in part as a way to promote their new bar, The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate reported. Over the years, Jeanie Tracy became a frequent, and favorite, performer at the concert.
“It has grown into the largest event of Southern Decadence,” Robinson said. “It’s our gift to the city.”
Robinson said the concert will return in 2023.
“I pray for everyone’s safety, but this is what I had to do,” he said of the decision to cancel.
Other Southern Decadence events and promotions are still on as scheduled.
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https://www.pahomepage.com/entertainment-news/monkeypox-cancels-free-concert-held-at-southern-decadence/
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Prosecutors in Texas announced that former NFL player Kevin Ware was indicted Thursday by a grand jury for the 2021 murder of his girlfriend.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced the news of Ware's indictment in a statement.
Prosecutors said Ware was also charged with tampering with evidence, specifically a corpse, in the death of Taylor Pomaski.
CBS News reported that the 29-year-old was last seen at a party at her home in Spring, Texas, on April 25, 2021.
ABC affiliate ABC13 reported that Pomaski's family reported her missing on May 11, 2021.
Harris County Sheriff's Office Senior Deputy Thomas Gilliland told NBC News that her remains were found on Dec. 10, 2021.
On April 30, her remains were positively identified by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, People reported.
NBC affiliate KPRC reported that Ware was arrested in Montgomery County in April 2021 on unrelated drug and weapon charges
According to People, he was released on a $23,000 bond five days before Pomaski was last seen.
On June 11, Ware was picked up for failure to appear in court and has been in jail ever since, KPRC reported.
Ware played tight end for Washington and the San Francisco 49ers in 2003 and 2004.
Prosecutors said that Ware faces a possible sentence of 15 years to life in prison if convicted of murder.
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https://www.wtvr.com/news/national/former-nfl-player-kevin-ware-indicted-for-2021-murder-of-girlfriend
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BERLIN (AP) — U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned Tuesday of a “dangerous disconnect” between what scientists and citizens are demanding to curb climate change, and what governments are actually doing about it.
Guterres said global greenhouse gas emissions need to drop by 45% this decade, but are currently forecast to increase by 14%.
“We are witnessing a historic and dangerous disconnect: science and citizens are demanding ambitious and transformative climate action,” he said at a climate conference in Austria. “Meanwhile many governments are dragging their feet. This inaction has grave consequences.”
Guterres said Russia's war in Ukraine risked worsening the crisis, because major economies were “doubling down on fossil fuels” that are to blame for much of the emissions stoking global warming.
“New funding for fossil fuel exploration and production infrastructure is delusional,” he said in a video message to the Austrian World Summit, initiated by former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. “It will only further feed the scourge of war, pollution and climate catastrophe.”
Guterres urged countries to instead end all coal use by 2040, with rich nations doing so by 2030, and focus on replacing fossil fuels with renewable sources of energy, such as solar and wind power.
“Renewables are the peace plan of the 21st century,” he said.
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Follow AP’s climate coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate
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https://www.mrt.com/news/article/UN-chief-Governments-inaction-on-climate-is-17239902.php
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LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) – Thousands of people will be making their way to Downtown Lafayette this weekend. Thirty vendors will be on site too as the annual Taste of Tippecanoe is set for Saturday night.
This year's Taste will include the usual lineup of food and drink vendors. It will also put more focus on the work and mission of the event's host, The Arts Federation. Twenty percent of the money these vendors make is given to TAF.
While many of this year’s 30 vendors are returning, some like Brokerage Brewing Company are making their first appearance at the Taste. Brokerage is a West Lafayette brewery. It will be serving two of its most popular beers at the Taste.
Brokerage Brewing Company General Manager Seth Martin says the Taste is a chance to showcase fan favorites with a few twists.
"We'll definitely have our Walking Ashland on tap and then we're going to go with at least one more beer,” Martin said. “We'll figure that out. We may have some surprises in there as well."
What Martin says likely won't be surprising, however, is seeing the tap room turned full service restaurant at many more Tastes in the future.
"We're happy to probably move on with our relationship with the Taste going forward because we're local, and we want to participate in local events,” Martin said. “That's something that's important to us."
The Taste's new director and TAF Chief Operating Officer, Ann Fields Monical, says Brokerage is not the only new vendor for people to try.
"We are excited to have Nom Nom Tacos and Tequila, which is a new restaurant that opened up downtown on the square earlier this year,” Fields Monical said. “We also are working with Big Woods Brewery. They're bringing some food. Their beer component of their business, Quaff On, will also be serving beer in our local artisan beer and wine garden."
The Taste of Tippecanoe runs Saturday evening from 6 to midnight. News 18 will be live from Downtown Lafayette when the gates open at 6 to bring you all the latest from this year's event. To learn more about the 2022 Taste of Tippecanoe, including information about discounted presale tickets, visit the Taste’s main page here.
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https://www.wlfi.com/news/new-vendors-new-event-director-for-2022-taste-of-tippecanoe/article_3097713a-eb58-11ec-a009-6f48b13f2a29.html
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WASHINGTON, June 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff hosted an evening of NASA STEM activities Friday at the Naval Observatory for military families and local students and their families, which included a special screening of Disney Pixar's Lightyear.
NASA provided three hands-on STEM activities to inspire students from 4th to 8th grade to engage with the science, technology, engineering and math behind NASA's missions. Former astronaut and former NASA Associate Administrator of Education Leland Melvin and astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli, Stephanie Wilson, and Tom Marshburn answered questions about their time in space. Marshburn recently returned with NASA's SpaceX Crew-3 from the International Space Station and was the NASA technical consultant on the film. Also in attendance were Lightyear actors Keke Palmer and Uzo Aduba.
"It was wonderful to work on these STEM activities with a bright young group of future leaders showcasing the exciting work we're doing at NASA in STEM and in space," said NASA Astronaut Thomas Marshburn. "This next generation – the Artemis Generation – will build on the work we're doing today to get us to the Moon and Mars, and it all starts here with inspiring young people on Earth."
Through NASA's Office of STEM engagement, the agency makes investments in engaging students, educators, and educational institutions to attract diverse groups of students to STEM for a diverse set of students to contribute to NASA's work and build a diverse future STEM workforce. OSTEM's Next Gen STEM project focuses on NASA's efforts to engage K-12 students, including those traditionally underrepresented and underserved, and provides support to informal educational institutions.
NASA also engages and inspires the next generation through STEM collaborations as the country prepares for human exploration of the Moon. NASA's Artemis program will land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon, using innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before. NASA will then use what they learn to take the next giant leap: sending the first astronauts to Mars.
U.S. leadership in science and technology depends on increasing student STEM engagement and as Chair of the National Space Council, the Vice President has made it a priority to ensure the Administration is inspiring future scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and explorers.
For more information about NASA's STEM Engagement, visit:
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SOURCE NASA
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Latinos are a superpower in every sector and industry but barriers remain; new program launching during Hispanic Heritage Month to unlock the full potential of the changing workforce
DENVER, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Latino Leadership Institute (LLI) announced today the launch of Ignite. Designed by Latino leaders for Latino professionals, Ignite is the only Latino leadership development program in the country to combine the unique professional journey of Latinos with a transformative neuroscience-based approach to workplace problem-solving. Ignite provides the technical and social capital to help Latino professionals overcome barriers and challenges to unlock their full leadership potential. Enrollment for the upcoming Fall 2022 programs is now open here.
"We are training leaders for advancement and success by preparing them to bring their full value, talents, and confidence as Latinos to the table. Ignite is based on years of experience and research with Latino leaders, including the barriers we navigate and the leadership strategies we can use to overcome them. Ignite strengthens the social capital among participants by providing opportunities to connect with other Latinos who can relate to their experiences," says Joelle Martinez, president and CEO of the Latino Leadership Institute. "Ignite is a game-changer for the Latino community because it opens access to transformational leadership development to Latinos across the country and in every sector."
Latinos account for nearly 20% of the workforce but only 4% of all executive leadership positions because Latino professionals face unique barriers and challenges in the workplace. According to the Harvard Business Review, 60% of Latino professionals aged 18-34 feel they have been overlooked or intentionally passed by for career advancement opportunities and 76% report that they repress or hide part of their identity and culture because they believe that it will help them advance in their careers.
"I have participated in several leadership programs, but none as rewarding as Ignite. This was the first time my cultural identity was a primary factor. Too often I have felt invisible as a Latino professional but now I feel included, respected, and valued," said Mark Delgado, National Accounts Relationship Manager at Lumen.
National enterprise companies already offer Ignite to their Latino employees. Now Ignite is available both for organizations and individuals. For more information, visit the website here. Registration is now open.
To learn more about Ignite, contact Timi Aguilar at timiaguilar@aguilarpr.com
About the Latino Leadership Institute
The Latino Leadership Institute advances Latinos to positions of influence through cross-sector leadership development, entrepreneurship support, and the activation of our national Latino professional network to build power, drive change, and generate wealth. Learn more at Latinoslead.org
For more information, contact:
Timi Aguilar
For Latino Leadership Institute
303.946.8835 mobile
timiaguilar@aguilarpr.com
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FAIRFAX, Va. (AP) — There’s not much room for middle ground in the testimony thus far from Johnny Depp and Amber Heard in Depp’s libel suit against his ex-wife.
One of them is lying.
Heard has not yet finished telling the jury her side of things. Her testimony will continue May 16 once the trial — which has already stretched on for four weeks — resumes after a one-week break. Then she will face what one can safely assume will be an aggressive cross-examination in a case where both sides have employed scorched-earth tactics going back years to when the suit was first filed.
Depp is suing Heard in Virginia for libel over an op-ed she wrote in December 2018 in The Washington Post describing herself as “a public figure representing domestic abuse.” The article doesn’t mention Depp by name, but his lawyers say the article defames him nevertheless because it’s a clear reference to the highly publicized allegations Heard made when she filed for divorce in 2016 and obtained a temporary restraining order against him.
Depp says he never physically abused Heard, while Heard says she was assaulted on more than a dozen occasions.
Below are synopses of a few incidents and their divergent accounts.
THE FIRST TIME
Heard says the first time Depp ever struck her was in 2013, when she made the mistake of laughing at one of his tattoos. Heard said there was an older tattoo she couldn’t make out, and Depp told her it said “Wino.”
In fact, it used to say “Winona Forever,” a tattoo that Depp got when he was dating actor Winona Ryder. He had it altered to “Wino Forever” when they broke up.
Heard said she laughed, and Depp responded by slapping her. Thinking the slap must be a joke, she laughed. Depp responded by slapping her twice more, with the third slap knocking Heard off balance.
“It was so stupid, so insignificant,” Heard told the jury. “I thought it must be a joke.”
Depp, while he was on the stand, flatly denied it occurred.
“It didn’t happen,” he said. “Why would I take such great offense to someone making fun of a tattoo on my body? That allegation never made any sense to me.”
THE FINGER AND THE BOURBON BOTTLE
Both sides say the worst violence occurred in March 2015 in Australia, when Depp was shooting the fifth “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie.
Heard said Depp sexually assaulted her with a liquor bottle — for the first time Thursday she identified a bottle of Maker’s Mark bourbon as the offending instrument after she said she saw a photo of the distinctively square bottle — as part of an alcohol-fueled rage. Heard came to Australia after shooting her own film and Depp immediately accused her of sleeping with her co-stars, she said.
Depp, for his part, says he was the victim of the violence. He testified that Heard was irate over efforts by Depp’s lawyers to have her sign a post-nuptial agreement, as well as the fact that Depp wasn’t adhering to pledges of sobriety to Heard’s satisfaction.
He said he escaped the argument by pouring himself a drink, at which point Heard threw a vodka bottle at him. Depp said he responded by pouring another drink, and this time Heard threw another vodka bottle at him that smashed against his hand while it rested on a counter and severed the tip of his middle finger.
Photos of the aftermath show Depp wrote vulgar messages to his wife in blood on the walls of the house. Jurors have also seen contemporaneous text messages Depp sent to others in which he said he cut off his own finger. Depp said he made up that story to protect Heard and avoid police involvement.
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
While not a specific incident, Depp and Heard painted very different portraits of Depp’s drug and alcohol use.
Heard said drugs and alcohol — along with paranoid jealousy — is what turned him from the man she loved into the “monster” who made her fear for her life. She said he hid his drug and alcohol use from her and from his family but his behavior made it clear he was high or drunk, often to the point of incoherence.
”Johnny on speed is very different from Johnny on opiates. Johnny on opiates is very different from Adderall and cocaine Johnny, which is very different from Quaaludes Johnny, but I had to get good at paying attention to the different versions of him,” Heard said.
Indeed, Heard sys Depp’s denials of physical abuse lack credibility in part because he would black out and forget what he’d done.
Depp, for his part, admitted that he’d become addicted at one point to oxycodone and underwent a detox process in 2014. But he said the allegations of uncontrolled drug and alcohol use are grossly embellished.
“I’ve always had a pretty big tolerance for alcohol,” he testified. “I’ve never had a physical addiction to alcohol.”
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https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/he-said-she-said-accounts-from-depp-and-heard-rarely-match/
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Pilot dies after small plane crashes in Washington state forest
Pilot reportedly crashed a single-engine Cirrus SR22 in Jefferson County, Washington
A pilot was found dead after a plane crashed in a dense forest in Washington state on Wednesday, authorities said.
Rescue crews were alerted after a resident on Diamond Point Road in Sequim reported hearing a low-flying aircraft, possible engine sputtering and then a crash, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office said.
However, a fog bank created limited visibility and prevented rescuers on the ground from immediately locating the crash site, according to the sheriff's office.
Deputies called U.S. Navy Whidbey Island Search and Rescue to assist in the search the area by air via helicopter.
NEW FOOTAGE REVEALS TENSE MOMENTS WHEN PLANE CRASHED ON CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY
The helicopter crew located the crash site in a dense forest and rescuers recovered the body of a single pilot from the scene, according to authorities.
The pilot was flying a single-engine Cirrus SR22, KING-TV reported.
No flight plan for the pilot was immediately known, deputies said.
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Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash.
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https://www.foxnews.com/us/pilot-dies-small-plane-crashes-washington-state-forest
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PORT ANGELES, Wash. (AP) — Golden Tate is trading his wide receiver gloves for an outfielder's mitt.
The former NFL wide receiver with the Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants, is rekindling his former baseball career after signing to play for the Port Angeles Lefties of the West Coast League, a summer league for college players.
Tate, who played baseball for two years at Notre Dame, hasn’t played in the NFL since 2020. He was twice drafted in the Major League Baseball amateur draft — in 2007 by Arizona in the 42nd round, and 2010 by San Francisco in the 50th round.
During his sophomore season at Notre Dame, Tate batted .329 in 55 games.
“As a child, my first love was baseball, so I’m excited about the opportunity to compete against some of the best young players in the league,” Tate said in a statement. “I look forward to having a lot of fun and exploring baseball more.”
Tate, 33, was a second-round pick of the Seahawks in 2010 and was part of their Super Bowl championship roster in 2013.
The Lefties announced that Tate was expected to start in center field against the Bend Elks on Tuesday night.
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More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://apnews.com/hub/pro-32 and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL
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https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Ex-NFL-WR-Golden-Tate-signs-with-summer-baseball-17241908.php
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CENTENNIAL, Colo., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- DHI Group, Inc. (NYSE: DHX) today announced that it has been invited to present at the following investor conferences:
Sidoti Micro-Cap Virtual Conference
- Thursday, August 18 at 9:15AM ET
- Virtual Event
- Formal presentation and one-on-one meetings
Lake Street 6th Annual Best Ideas Growth (BIG6) Conference
- Wednesday, September 14
- The Yale Club, 50 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10007
- One-on-one meetings
Art Zeile, Chief Executive Officer, and Kevin Bostick, Chief Financial Officer, will hold one-on-one and small group meetings with institutional investors at both conferences. The formal presentation at the Sidoti conference will be webcast live and available for replay via the investor relations section of the Company's website at www.dhigroupinc.com.
To schedule a one-on-one meeting with management, please contact the firm hosting each conference or MKR Investor Relations, DHI's investor relations firm, at ir@dhigroupinc.com.
Investor Contact
Todd Kehrli or Jim Byers
MKR Investor Relations, Inc.
212-448-4181
ir@dhigroupinc.com
Media Contact
Rachel Ceccarelli
VP of Engagement
212-448-8288
media@dhigroupinc.com
About DHI Group, Inc.
DHI Group, Inc (NYSE: DHX) is a provider of AI-powered career marketplaces that focus on technology roles. DHI's two brands, Dice and ClearanceJobs, enable recruiters and hiring managers to efficiently search for and connect with highly skilled technologists based on the skills requested. The Company's patented algorithm manages over 100,000 unique technology skills. Additionally, our marketplaces allow technology professionals to find their ideal next career opportunity, with relevant advice and personalized insights. Learn more at www.dhigroupinc.com.
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SOURCE DHI Group, Inc.
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https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/dhi-group-inc-present-upcoming-investor-conferences/
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NEW YORK (AP) — In addition to opening this month’s Venice Film Festival, Noah Baumbach’s adaptation of Don DeLillo’s “White Noise” will also kick off the 60th New York Film Festival.
Film at Lincoln Center, which puts on the annual New York festival, announced Tuesday that “White Noise” will launch this year’s edition on Sept. 30 at Alice Tully Hall. Baumbach’s film, starring Adam Driver and Greta Gerwig, adapts DeLillo’s classic 1985 novel about a toxic event in a suburban college town.
The Netflix release is already slated to open the 79th Venice Film Festival on Aug. 31. But Baumbach, a New York native, has a long history with the New York Film Festival, which he regularly attended as a kid. Six of his previous films have played in NYFF’s main slate, from 1995’s “Kicking and Screaming” to 2019’s “Marriage Story,” which was the festival’s centerpiece selection that year.
“In 1985 my father and I drove from Brooklyn to see Kurosawa’s ‘Ran’ open the 23rd NYFF, the same year that he brought home the hardback of Don DeLillo’s ‘White Noise,’” said Baumbach in a statement. “Opening the 60th NYFF with ‘White Noise’ is truly special for me. This festival was part of my film education and has been a home for me and many of my movies over the years.”
Dennis Lim, the festival’s artistic director, called Baumbach’s adaptation “an unequivocal triumph: a wildly entertaining and morbidly funny meditation on the way we live now that is also the director’s most ambitious and expansive film.”
The New York Film Festival runs Sept. 30-Oct. 16.
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https://phl17.com/national-news/noah-baumbachs-white-noise-to-open-new-york-film-festival/
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Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal has labeled the ban on Russian and Belarusian players from this year's Wimbledon over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as unfair, saying they are not responsible for the war.
The All England Lawn Tennis Club has barred the two countries' players from competing at this year's grasscourt major in response to what Russia calls a "special military operation" in Ukraine. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.
"I think it's very unfair to my Russian tennis mates, my colleagues. In that sense it's not their fault what's happening in this moment with the war," 21-time major winner Nadal told reporters at the Madrid Open on Sunday.
"Let's see what happens in the next weeks, if the players will take some kind of decision ... well, there is one thing that's negative, there are things that are clear. When the government imposes some restrictions, you just have to follow them."
The decision has been condemned by both the men's and women's tours as well as several other players.
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, who has also criticized the ban, said on Sunday that he had spoken to Russian players during last week's Serbia Open and it was tough for them to be excluded from the biggest tournament in the world.
"It's hard. I understand that there is frustration. ATP is going to, I guess, analyze the whole situation and understand what can be done," said the Serbian.
"I still stand by my position that I don't support the decision. I think it's just not fair, it's not right ... now I guess it's on player council, the tour management, to really decide along with the players what is the best solution in this situation."
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https://www.unionleader.com/sports/nadal-calls-wimbledon-ban-on-russian-and-belarusian-players-unfair/article_370be346-6de2-54d0-a254-f699adf65f79.html
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(The Hill) — R&B singer Solange Knowles has become the first Black woman to compose a score for the New York City Ballet.
In a news release on Monday, the famed company announced that the “Cranes in the Sky” singer has written a score for work from choreographer Gianna Reisen that will premiere at the company’s fall fashion gala next month.
The New York Times reported that Knowles’s score was written for a chamber ensemble made up of some of the artist’s music collaborators and members of the company’s orchestra.
“Very excited to announce i’ve composed an original score for the New York City Ballet choreography by Gianna Reisen , score performed by the City Ballet Orchestra + soloist from my ensemble,” the 36-year-old singer wrote in a tweet on Tuesday.
Knowles also shared in her tweet that the production of her show will be staged on Oct. 1, 8, 11 and 16, as well as on May 2, 11, 13, 17 and 18 of next year at the city’s Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Singer-songwriter Anita Baker was among those who praised the news on social media, writing, “Like we Always say… create. Create! CREATE,” while adding how proud she was.
Knowles, the younger sister of pop star Beyoncé, has established herself as an innovative interdisciplinary artist in the past years, drawing acclaim for albums including 2016’s “Seat at the Table” and 2019’s “When I Get Home.”
The Houston, Texas, native also uses her platform to amplify societal issues such as the Black Lives Matter movement.
NYC Ballet’s Fall Fashion Gala, which began in 2012 and plans to honor ballet vice chair and actress Sarah Jessica Parker and designers and choreographers who unveiled their creations at the annual event, is set for Sept. 28
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https://www.localsyr.com/news/national/solange-knowles-becomes-first-black-woman-to-compose-score-for-nyc-ballet/
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CINCINNATI, July 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Meridian Bioscience, Inc. ("Meridian" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: VIVO), a leading global provider of diagnostic testing solutions and life science raw materials, today provided preliminary results for its third quarter of fiscal 2022.
For the third quarter of fiscal 2022, preliminary unaudited net revenues are expected to be between $66 million and $69 million. The Diagnostics segment net revenues are expected to be between $41 million and $43 million. The Life Science segment net revenues are expected to be between $25 million and $26 million, of which sales of immunological reagents accounted for approximately 69% and molecular reagents contributed approximately 31%.
Meridian has not yet completed preparation of its interim financial statements for the third quarter of fiscal 2022 and the information presented herein is a preliminary estimate, subject to change.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor from civil litigation for forward-looking statements accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements. Except for historical information, this press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which may be identified by words such as "continues", "estimates", "anticipates", "projects", "plans", "seeks", "may", "will", "expects", "intends", "believes", "signals", "should", "can", "guidance" and similar expressions or the negative versions thereof and which also may be identified by their context. All statements that address operating performance or events or developments that Meridian Bioscience, Inc. ("Meridian" or "the Company") expects or anticipates will occur in the future, including, but not limited to, statements relating to per share diluted net earnings, sales, product demand, net revenues, operating margin, other guidance and the impact of COVID-19 on its business and prospects, are forward-looking statements. Such statements, whether expressed or implied, are based upon current expectations of the Company and speak only as of the date made. Specifically, Meridian's forward-looking statements are, and will be, based on management's then-current views and assumptions regarding future events and operating performance. Meridian assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized. These statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including, without limitation, the following:
Meridian's operating results, financial condition and continued growth depends, in part, on its ability to introduce into the marketplace enhancements of existing products or new products that incorporate technological advances, meet customer requirements and respond to products developed by Meridian's competition, its ability to effectively sell such products and its ability to successfully expand and effectively manage increased sales and marketing operations. While Meridian has introduced a number of internally developed products and acquired products, there can be no assurance that it will be successful in the future in introducing such products on a timely basis or in protecting its intellectual property, and unexpected or costly manufacturing costs associated with its introduction of new products or acquired products could cause actual results to differ from expectations. Meridian relies on proprietary, patented and licensed technologies. As such, the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property rights, as well as the potential for intellectual property litigation, would impact its results. Ongoing consolidations of reference laboratories and formation of multi-hospital alliances may cause adverse changes to pricing and distribution. Recessionary pressures on the economy and the markets in which the Company's customers operate, as well as adverse trends in buying patterns from customers, can change expected results. Costs and difficulties in complying with laws and regulations, including those administered by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and in complying with the ongoing investigation of the Department of Justice described in Meridian's reports filed with the SEC, can result in unanticipated expenses and delays and interruptions to the sale of new and existing products, as can the uncertainty of regulatory approvals and the regulatory process. The international scope of Meridian's operations, including changes in the relative strength or weakness of the U.S. dollar and general economic conditions in foreign countries, can impact results and make them difficult to predict. One of Meridian's growth strategies is the acquisition of companies and product lines. There can be no assurance that additional acquisitions will be consummated or that, if consummated, will be successful and that the acquired businesses will be successfully integrated into Meridian's operations.
There may be risks that acquisitions may disrupt operations and may pose potential difficulties in employee retention, and there may be additional risks with respect to Meridian's ability to recognize the benefits of acquisitions, including potential synergies and cost savings or the failure of acquisitions to achieve their plans and objectives. Meridian cannot predict the outcome of future goodwill impairment testing and the impact of possible goodwill impairments on Meridian's earnings and financial results. Meridian cannot predict the possible impact of any modification or repeal of any of the provisions of current U.S. health care legislation, and any similar initiatives in other countries on Meridian's results of operations. Efforts to reduce the U.S. federal deficit, breaches of Meridian's information technology systems, trade wars, increased tariffs, and natural disasters and other events could have a materially adverse effect on Meridian's results of operations and net revenues. The Company can make no assurances that a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting will not be identified in the future, which if identified and not properly corrected, could materially and adversely affect its operations and result in material misstatements in its consolidated financial statements. Meridian also is subject to risks and uncertainties related to disruptions to or reductions in business operations or prospects due to pandemics, epidemics, widespread health emergencies, or outbreaks of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, including, without limitation, related supply chain interruptions. In addition to the factors described in this paragraph, as well as those factors identified from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Part I, Item 1A Risk Factors of the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K contains a list and description of uncertainties, risks and other matters that may affect the Company. Readers should carefully review these forward-looking statements and risk factors, and not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements.
About Meridian Bioscience, Inc.
Meridian is a fully integrated life science company that develops, manufactures, markets, and distributes a broad range of innovative diagnostic products. We are dedicated to developing and delivering better solutions that give answers with speed, accuracy, and simplicity that are redefining the possibilities of life from discovery to diagnosis. Through discovery and development, we provide critical life science raw materials used in immunological and molecular tests for human, animal, plant, and environmental applications. Through diagnosis, we provide diagnostic solutions in areas including gastrointestinal and upper respiratory infections and blood lead level testing. We build relationships and provide solutions to hospitals, reference laboratories, research centers, veterinary testing centers, physician offices, diagnostics manufacturers, and biotech companies in more than 70 countries around the world.
Meridian's shares are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, symbol VIVO. Meridian's website address is www.meridianbioscience.com.
Investor Contact:
Charlie Wood
Vice President – Investor Relations
Meridian Bioscience, Inc.
Phone: +1 513.271.3700
Email: mbi@meridianbioscience.com
Media Contact:
Bryan Locke / Monique Sidhom
FGS Global
Email: MeridianBioscience-FGS@sardverb.com
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SOURCE Meridian Bioscience, Inc.
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https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/07/meridian-bioscience-announces-preliminary-results-fiscal-2022-third-quarter/
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Which air fryers or Instant Pots are best?
If you want to cook food quickly, you might be looking for a cooking device, like an air fryer or an Instant Pot, to speed up the cooking process. It’s important to understand the benefits and disadvantages of these cooking tools as well as the best models of each device.
Air fryers
Air fryers use superheated air to allow food to cook evenly and thoroughly. It’s important to find easy-to-clean air fryers that are big enough to suit your particular situation and needs, include intuitive controls and provide the option of cooking several different foods simultaneously. Air fryers can serve multiple purposes, including baking brownies and cupcakes, steaming vegetables and creating a less oily version of your favorite fried foods.
Air fryers usually range in price from about $100-$250. However, high-end air fryers make up for their price with easy cleanup and more efficient frying.
Air fryer pros
Cooking with an air fryer has a few benefits. For example, air fryers are usually clean and easier to maintain than traditional deep fryers since the air fryer’s cooking basket can easily be washed in a dishwasher or by hand between each use. Also, air fryers are able to give you moist and crisp food without the huge amounts of oil that traditional deep fryers require, so the food you get from cooking with an air fryer is usually healthier.
Air fryer cons
Conversely, there are a couple of drawbacks to cooking with an air fryer. First, the cooking times in an air fryer can be much longer than the time it takes to cook with a traditional deep fryer. Furthermore, the flow of superheated and dry air around the food in the air fryer can strip the food of moisture, making the food taste dry and flavorless in some cases.
The best air fryers
Philips Premium Digital Air Fryer with Fat Removal Technology
This Philips air fryer is top of the line with a user-friendly design, fast performance and state-of-the-art technology. The air fryer’s fat removal technology extracts and collects extra fat for healthier food.
Sold by Amazon
Dash Tasti Crisp Electric Air Fryer
This affordable 2.6-quart Dash air fryer gives you the best bang for your buck and is an excellent option for small households, couples and singles. The air fryer also features a vivid temperature indicator, fast-heating hot air technology and simple dial control.
Sold by Amazon
This four-quart air fryer accommodates up to three pounds of food, delivers 1,550 watts of power, and heats up and cooks food quickly. The spacious air fryer also features a ceramic-coated crisper plate to give your food more of a crunch.
Sold by Amazon
Cosori CP158-AF Max XL Air Fryer
This award-winning air fryer features a 5.8-quart design that complements many kitchens, easy presets and a removable nonstick basket that is safe for dishwashers and free of PFOA and BPA.
Sold by Amazon
De’Longhi Livenza Air Fry Digital Convection Oven
Considered one of the most user-friendly air fryers on the market, this De’Longhi model provides nine presets for precision cooking, a unique heat lock system, an LCD screen with digital controls, an internal light and a glass door for improved visibility.
Sold by Amazon
Instant Pots
The Instant Pot performs a wide range of cooking tasks, including slow cooking a roast, sauteing vegetables, cooking rice and making yogurt. Therefore, it’s crucial to select the right size Instant Pot for your household situation and needs. You also need to figure out how much programming control you desire and how many functions you want your Instant Pot to perform. Instant Pots range in price from $50-$200, depending on the size and model.
Instant Pot pros
Many people select the Instant Pot over other multi-cooker options since the cooking pot is 100 percent stainless steel. Stainless steel is considered durable and long-lasting, and there are no potential health dangers. Instant Pots are also easy to use and offer excellent results.
Instant Pot cons
That being said, there are a couple of drawbacks to using an Instant Pot. For example, the Instant Pot is not truly instant. It does take time to build the pressure and properly cook your food. Instant Pots can also take up some of your kitchen real estate since they are large and bulky. They can also be difficult to clean.
The best Instant Pots
Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Air Fryer
Considered the best of the best, this large Instant Pot has all of the features of the base models but with an air fryer function for more convenience and versatility. This 8-quart Instant Pot is perfect for families.
Sold by Amazon
This popular Instant Pot model is an excellent option for mid-sized households and provides plenty of bang for your buck. The Instant Pot comes with a one-year warranty, multiple preset temperatures, 14 smart programs and a 6- or 8-quart capacity.
Sold by Amazon
The Instant Pot Duo Nova is the perfect model for beginners with the ability to cook food quickly, the functionality of several different appliances and 14 food presets. The Instant Pot also comes with a safety lock and nine other built-in safety features.
Sold by Amazon
Being a great choice for large households, this Instant Pot model doesn’t work as a pressure cooker, but it is perfect for low temperature and slow cooking. The slow cooker comes with keep-warm, multigrain, rice, yogurt, roast, sous vide, stew, steam, sear and saute, slow cook and bake functions.
Sold by Amazon
The Instant Pot Pro can perform a number of different functions, including making yogurt and sauteing. Moreover, the multi-purpose pressure cooker comes with multiple safety features, including overheat protection and a safe locking lid.
Sold by Amazon
Should you get an air fryer or an Instant Pot?
Overall, the Instant Pot cooks your food fairly quickly and offers a wide range of different functions and features. On the other hand, air fryers provide fewer functions than Instant Pots and can often strip your food of moisture.
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https://pix11.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/cookware-cooking-tools-br/air-fryer-vs-instant-pot/
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BUENOS AIRES (AP) — A flying museum in honor of soccer great Diego Maradona is set to take to the skies.
The “Tango D10S” plane was introduced Wednesday night before it flies around Argentina for fans of Maradona to visit on the ground.
The plane's exterior is adorned with images of Maradona — who died in 2020 of a heart attack at the age of 60 after having brain surgery — including one where he wears the Argentina jersey and kisses the World Cup trophy he lifted in 1986.
The plane will also visit Barcelona and Naples, where Maradona led Napoli to its only two Italian league titles in 1987 and 1990. Qatar, which hosts the World Cup later this year, will be the aircraft's final stop in the tour.
England fans may not want to visit wherever it goes. Drawings on the wings make reference to the two goals Maradona scored in the quarterfinals against England in the 1986 World Cup — the controversial “Hand of God” goal followed by a sublime individual effort waltzing through the England team.
Inside the plane, there are memorabilia items that belonged to Maradona.
The plane, owned by a fintech company, was on display at El Palomar airport outside Buenos Aires, with Maradona's family and some former Argentina teammates among those attending the ceremony.
“We cannot believe or understand this craziness,” said Dalma Maradona, one of Maradona's daughters. “The love people have for him goes beyond anything you can imagine.”
Dalma and her sister Gianinna were the first to board the plane. Visitors will have the chance to ask some previously selected questions to a Maradona hologram.
“When you are here in Argentina you can't realize what Diego means to the rest of the world," said Sergio Batista, a former teammate. “It is a beautiful tribute that the entire world will experience, the world loved him.”
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More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
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https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Flying-museum-to-honor-Maradona-ahead-of-World-Cup-17201391.php
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Natural gas combustion turbines to provide reliable generation to complement transition to majority renewables portfolio, while reducing carbon emissions
EVANSVILLE, Ind., June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) today announced its Indiana-based electric utility business, CenterPoint Energy Indiana South, received approval for the construction of natural gas generation from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), a key step in the company's long-term electric generation transition plan. CenterPoint Energy intends to construct two natural gas combustion turbines (CTs) to replace portions of its existing coal-fired generation fleet. The company's generation transition plan will significantly evolve the way the company generates power for its 150,000 customers across southwestern Indiana by combining a cleaner portfolio of renewables and complementary natural gas.
The estimated $334 million natural gas facility will provide an output of 460 megawatts (MW), sized appropriately to reliably support the anticipated electric generation needed upon the retirement of A.B. Brown units 1 and 2 in late 2023. The CTs will be constructed at the current site of the power plant in Posey County, Ind., and will assist CenterPoint Energy in delivering on its commitment to provide a cost-effective, well-balanced energy mix.
The company's 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) illustrated a preferred portfolio including nearly two-thirds of energy generated from renewable resources as well as natural gas generation, which is projected to ultimately save electric customers an estimated $320 million over the 20-year planning period. Through the IRP process, CenterPoint Energy performed significant analysis and considered public input to arrive at the most reliable and cost-effective solution for customers.
"Although the majority of the proposed generation outlined in our plan comes from renewable resources, there remains a need for reliable, resilient and fast-ramping generation to operate around-the-clock when the sun and wind are insufficient to power the renewable resources," said Steve Greenley, Senior Vice President, Generation Development. "While the combustion turbines may not run constantly, it is very likely they will operate several hours each day in order to supplement our renewable generation with a lower carbon solution, when renewable facilities are not at peak generating levels."
In addition, the company recently filed for securitization of its A.B. Brown assets, which was contingent on the IURC approval of the natural gas CTs and may result in up to $60 million in additional savings to customers over the same time period.
"Today's approval will have no immediate impact on customer electric bills," added Greenley. "The recovery of the investments associated with the CTs will be requested through a future electric rate case. When combining the savings to be realized through securitization and other bill reductions associated with the added renewable investments, the average residential customer is estimated to see a bill impact of less than $10 per month for the total generation transition."
The replacement of most of the company's coal-fired generation will help mitigate costs associated with compliance of ever-evolving environmental regulations and the higher operating costs of continuing to run the aging units. By replacing much of the coal-fired generation with significantly more efficient technologies like renewables, including a large percentage of universal solar, the replacement will move CenterPoint Energy significantly forward on achieving its goal of net zero on direct carbon emissions by 2035.
For more information on CenterPoint Energy's long-term electric generation transition plan, visit www.centerpointenergy.com/smartenergyfuture.
CenterPoint Energy delivers electricity to approximately 150,000 customers in southwest Indiana in all or portions of Gibson, Dubois, Pike, Posey, Spencer, Vanderburgh and Warrick counties. Programs and services are operated under the brand CenterPoint Energy by Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company d/b/a CenterPoint Energy Indiana South.
Forward Looking Statement:
This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "goal," "intend," "may," "objective," "plan," "potential," "predict," "projection," "should," "target," "will" or other similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events, including anticipated timing, savings and impact to customer bills as a result of the generation transition plan, including the CT facilities, the timing of CenterPoint Energy's generation transition plan, including the anticipated retirement of the A.B. Brown facility and the construction and completion of the CT facilities and the anticipated capacity of such facilities, and the mix of renewable resources and expected financial benefits of such generation transition to customers, and any other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the provided forward-looking information include risks and uncertainties relating to: (1) the impact of disruption to the global supply chain; (2) financial market conditions; (3) general economic conditions; (4) the timing and impact of future regulatory and legislative decisions; (5) effects of competition; (6) weather variations; (7) changes in business plans; and (8) other factors, risks and uncertainties discussed in CenterPoint Energy's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, CenterPoint Energy's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 and other reports CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Net Zero Disclaimer: While CenterPoint Energy believes that it has a clear path towards achieving its net zero emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2) by 2035 goals, its analysis and path forward required it to make a number of assumptions. These goals and underlying assumptions involve risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees. Should one or more of CenterPoint Energy's underlying assumptions prove incorrect, its actual results and ability to achieve net zero emissions by 2035 could differ materially from its expectations. Certain of the assumptions that could impact its ability to meet its net zero emissions goals include, but are not limited to: emission levels, service territory size and capacity needs remaining in line with company expectations (inclusive of changes related to the sale of CenterPoint Energy's Natural Gas businesses in Arkansas and Oklahoma); regulatory approval of Indiana Electric's generation transition plan; impacts of future environmental regulations or legislation; impacts of future carbon pricing regulation or legislation, including a future carbon tax; price, availability and regulation of carbon offsets; price of fuel, such as natural gas; cost of energy generation technologies, such as wind and solar, natural gas and storage solutions; adoption of alternative energy by the public, including adoption of electric vehicles; rate of technology innovation with regards to alternative energy resources; CenterPoint Energy's ability to implement its modernization plans for its pipelines and facilities; the ability to complete and implement generation alternatives to Indiana Electric's coal generation and retirement dates of Indiana Electric's coal facilities by 2035; the ability to construct and/or permit new natural gas pipelines; the ability to procure resources needed to build at a reasonable cost, the lack of or scarcity of resources and labor, the lack of any project cancellations, construction delays or overruns and the ability to appropriately estimate costs of new generation; impact of any supply chain disruptions; changes in applicable standards or methodologies; and enhancement of energy efficiencies. In addition, because Texas is in an unregulated market, CenterPoint Energy's Scope 2 estimates do not take into account Texas electric transmission and distribution assets in the line loss calculation and exclude emissions related to purchased power between 2024E-2026E. CenterPoint Energy's Scope 3 estimates are based on the total natural gas supply delivered to residential and commercial customers as reported in the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Form EIA-176 reports and do not take into account the emissions of transport customers and emissions related to upstream extraction. Please also review other factors, risks and uncertainties discussed in CenterPoint Energy's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, CenterPoint Energy's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, and other reports CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
About CenterPoint Energy
As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio and Texas. As of March 31, 2022, the company owned approximately $35 billion in assets. With approximately 8,900 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
For more information contact
Media Relations
Media.Relations@CenterPointEnergy.com
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SOURCE CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
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https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/key-step-centerpoint-energys-long-term-electric-generation-transition-plan-receives-approval/
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Kids Coding Franchise Helps Kids Enjoy a Fun-Filled Season Ahead of New School Year
HOUSTON, June 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Beat the heat (and the boredom) this summer at Code Ninjas, the world's largest and fastest-growing franchise where kids learn to code. Code Ninjas offers a wide variety of summer camps for kids 5-14 that integrate video games, robotics and a ton of other tools and technologies to ensure that kids have fun and continue to be inspired outside of their regular school year schedule.
"Though summer has just started, it will be time for the new school year before you know it," says Grant Smith, Code Ninjas VP of Education. "Code Ninjas provides opportunities for kids to learn how to code, but we also foster an environment for kids to be creative. A summer filled with moviemaking in Minecraft, making wearable tech, and creating adventures in game design are just a few examples of the camps offered at Code Ninjas that will give kids exciting memories they can take back to school."
Due to a spike in travel, amusement park and family vacation prices have soared, and summer activities are booking up quickly. With that in mind, summer 2022 is already bringing unexpected challenges to parents trying to fill up their schedule. Code Ninjas has parents covered with a wide assortment of camp curriculum over the summer months that offers parents an option for kids to have fun with fellow campers, learn new skills and beat summer boredom.
Each Code Ninjas center – or Dojo – fosters a safe space for kids to socialize and collaborate in new ways. Code Ninjas camps offer more than just STEM learning; kids get an opportunity to become active users of technology. Campers are given the tools to think critically, create new things and problem solve using the coolest tools and tech.
Everything about Code Ninjas is built around fun, which keeps kids coming back. The curriculum is self-paced, but not self-taught; kids get immediate help and encouragement from Code Senseis™ and fellow Ninjas as they advance from white to black belt, on the nine-belt program that makes up Code Ninjas CREATE. Younger kids can take part in Code Ninjas JR, and all ages are able to take part in summer camps instilling the problem solving and critical thinking skills into the innovators of tomorrow.
For more information on Code Ninjas summer camps in your area, please visit www.codeninjas.com/CampInfo.
Founded in 2016, Code Ninjas® is the world's largest and fastest-growing kids coding franchise. In hundreds of Code Ninjas centers, kids ages 7-14 have fun building video games while gaining life-changing skills in coding, robotics, and problem solving. Code Ninjas offers a robust, game-based curriculum made up of nine belts, just like martial arts. The courses are self-paced, but not self-taught; kids get immediate help and encouragement from Code Senseis (teachers) and fellow students as they advance from white to black belt. The program keeps kids motivated with little wins along the way, and "Belt-Up" celebrations where they receive color-coded wristbands to mark their graduation to the next level. By the time a child finishes the program, they will publish their own app, available to the public on an app store.
Media contact: Bailey Feldman, Fishman PR, bfeldman@fishmanpr.com or (847) 945-1300
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https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/code-ninjas-offers-summer-camps-beat-summer-boredom/
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Suit: Brink’s driver was asleep during pricey jewelry heist
LOS ANGELES (AP) — One of the drivers of a Brink’s tractor-trailer was asleep inside the big rig, parked near a remote southern California rest stop earlier this summer, when thieves broke a lock and stole millions of dollars worth of jewelry and gemstones, according to a lawsuit filed by the security company.
While the second driver was getting food inside the rest stop early July 11 — spending nearly 30 minutes away from the vehicle — the thieves stole 22 bags of jewelry from the vehicle and fled.
The heist nabbed a haul that’s been described by some as worth less than $10 million and others as roughly $100 million and the value is now the subject of two lawsuits filed this month. If the latter figure is accurate, it would be one of the largest jewelry thefts in modern history.
But Brink’s, in a federal lawsuit filed Aug. 4 in New York, stated that the pickup manifests signed by the jewelers reported a total of $8.7 million worth of merchandise in the 22 stolen bags.
The security company’s lawsuit alleges that the jewelers under-declared the value of the items that were being transported and the company is only responsible for the declared value.
The theft occurred near the “Flying J” rest stop and gas station in the unincorporated community of Lebec, about 75 miles (120.7 kilometers) north of downtown Los Angeles, as the items were being sent overnight from a jewelry show in the San Francisco Bay Area down to the Los Angeles region for another event.
Brink’s is seeking to limit potential payouts to the jewelers, who say their cargo was worth $100 million and that the security company is trying to deny compensation to its customers for a theft “its drivers practically invited to happen.”
Fourteen jewelers and jewelry companies alleged breach of contract and negligence in a lawsuit filed Monday against Brink’s in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
“Everyone in our group has been emotionally and financially destroyed,” the plaintiffs said in a statement on Tuesday. “We are lost and do not know what comes next in our lives. Whatever plans we all have for the future for our businesses and our families has evaporated in an instant.”
A spokesperson for Brink’s declined to comment to The Associated Press on Tuesday, citing the pending litigation. The Los Angeles County sheriff’s sergeant who is investigating the case did not respond to a request for comment.
The Los Angeles Times first reported the lawsuits on Tuesday.
Brink’s lawsuit states that the driver left his partner in the big rig’s sleeping berth while he went to get food — a move the company says was “per Department of Transportation regulations.”
He was gone for 27 minutes and returned to find the lock broken, though the sleeping driver said he hadn’t seen or heard anything unusual, according to the lawsuit. It was not immediately clear whether the driver was supposed to be gone for so long, and if the sleeping berth is sound-proof.
In their lawsuit, the “mom and pop” jewelers are seeking $100 million in damages and $100 million in restitution from Brink’s. The jewelers allege that a Brink’s employee told them to under-value their merchandise on the pickup manifests “in order to save money, because the cost of shipping would be too expensive if they declared the full value of their goods.”
“We are astounded by Brink’s lack of support for their longtime customers who thought they were in safe hands with Brink’s,” Jerry Kroll, an attorney for the jewelers, said in a statement. “After relying on Brink’s for their guarded transportation services, our clients have lost virtually everything in this theft, including their source of income.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/08/24/suit-brinks-driver-was-asleep-during-pricey-jewelry-heist/
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CHICAGO, Aug. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AArete, a global management and technology consulting firm, has been named to the inaugural list of Forbes World's Best Management Consulting Firms 2022. AArete was awarded in the Healthcare and Life Sciences category based on recommendations from clients and consultants surveyed globally.
"Data-driven strategies to improve financial and operational performance have been the key to successfully delivering results for our clients," said Loren Trimble, CEO of AArete. "It is a great honor to be recognized amongst our peers globally, as AArete continues to help clients navigate business transformation and address their most complex challenges."
This prestigious award is presented by Forbes and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The World's Best Management Consulting Firms 2022 list is the result of Statista's years of experience in evaluating the consulting market in numerous countries. For the analysis, Statista's national top lists of consulting firms, including the recommendations of thousands of consultants and clients, were evaluated.
AArete was named to the Forbes list of America's Best Management Consulting Firms in 2021 and 2022, and was one of two firms featured in a Forbes article for its work with healthcare clients. AArete healthcare consulting expertise includes serving hundreds of health plans and healthcare provider organizations.
AArete is a global management and technology consulting firm specializing in strategic profitability improvement, digital transformation, and advisory solutions. Our cross-industry solutions are powered through modern technology, market intelligence and data-driven strategies to drive purposeful change and actionable outcomes. We work across all industries and business functions to optimize profits in a compressed timeframe. AArete humanizes data by translating numbers into actionable insights, helping clients make better decisions and standing by their side to foster change with confidence, empathy, and purpose. Learn more at AArete.com or follow us @AArete on LinkedIn and Twitter.
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https://www.1011now.com/prnewswire/2022/08/17/forbes-recognizes-aarete-one-worlds-best-management-consulting-firms-2022/
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Which acoustic guitar strap is best?
There is much more that goes into choosing the right guitar strap than meets the eye. Aside from the guitar itself, the perfect guitar strap can mean the difference between comfort and shoulder pain, style and class. Finding the right guitar strap means adding your personal touch to your instrument, while also keeping your precious guitar safely and securely off the ground and not in a million pieces.
What to look for before buying an acoustic guitar strap
Material
Guitar straps come in a large variety of different materials, from nylon to leather to synthetic fibers. Nylon is one of the most inexpensive and common choices for guitar straps, as it is both lightweight and durable. But if you want to add a bit more flair to your instrument, consider a hefty leather or synthetic strap that is generally wider but makes up for it in style.
Length
Most straps will be adjustable somewhere between the range of 40-60 inches in length, but some players may want to find one that exceeds that standard amount. If this is the case, look into a strap that is 60+ inches.
Attachment
There may be a few different ways of attaching the strap to the instrument. Some guitar straps come with strings that you can tie to both the end of the body and the neck, while others have holes that will fit on buttons that exist on both ends of the body. Even more so, there may be security locks instead of strap buttons, which help keep the strap tight against the guitar to ensure stability.
The best acoustic guitar straps
Best of the best acoustic guitar strap
Amazon Basics Adjustable Guitar Strap
Our take: Simple, comfortable and made of soft polyester, the Amazon Basic guitar strap is great for both beginners and seasoned guitar players who want a reliable strap. Works for children and adults.
What we like: The polyester material is soft and comfortable while being strong enough to hold any kind of acoustic guitar.
What we dislike: Only available in four distinct colors, providing nothing flashy if wanting to show off more personal flair.
Where to buy: Sold at Amazon
Best bang for your buck acoustic guitar strap
Ernie Ball Brown Polypro Guitar Strap
Our take: Made from polypropylene webbing, this guitar strap is both comfortable and stylish and great for any kind of acoustic guitar.
What we like: With a variety of colors and the option to add a pick holder to the strap, the Ernie Ball Polypro acoustic strap is one of the most affordable guitar straps.
What we dislike: A thinner strap may be more uncomfortable for larger-bodied acoustic guitars.
Where to buy: Sold at Amazon
Other guitar straps to consider
Our take: An all-in-one deal, the Tifanso guitar strap comes with a pick holder and three picks.
What we like: Adjustable between 36-62 inches, this is a very versatile guitar strap and provides optimal comfort while playing.
What we dislike: There are a few reviews that claim the strap locks slip off the buttons somewhat easily.
Where to buy: Sold at Amazon
TIMBREGEAR Extreme Comfort Acoustic Guitar Strap
Our take: This designer-looking TimbreGear guitar strap is great for showing off a vintage feeling while being still sturdy and comfortable to wear.
What we like: With five styles to choose from and its distinct brown leather edges, this guitar strap is great to show off.
What we dislike: With serious use, the leather ends may degrade over time.
Where to buy: Sold at Amazon
Ernie Ball Imperial Paisley Purple Jacquard Guitar Strap
Our take: Available in over a dozen different styles, this Ernie Ball guitar strap is the perfect guitar strap for showcasing your individual style as a guitarist.
What we like: Has the same durable and premium leather Ernie Ball design while coming in a plethora of different styles and colors.
What we dislike: There is a rougher, sawtooth-like edge along the sides of the strap that may not be comfortable for everyone.
Where to buy: Sold at Amazon
Our take: With its built-in shoulder cushion, this guitar strap is perfect for those who want to take as much of the weight of the instrument off their shoulder as possible and be comfortable playing for long periods of time.
What we like: Customizable with over ten different colors, this strap is still stylish and comfortable.
What we dislike: The regular strap is adjustable from 46-56 inches, and can be short for some.
Where to buy: Sold at Amazon
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https://www.wdtn.com/reviews/br/music-br/string-instruments-br/best-acoustic-guitar-strap/
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Which bagless vacuum is best?
If you use a traditional vacuum frequently, you know the hassle and added cost of replacing the bag when it’s filled with dirt. Bagless vacuum cleaners conveniently cut out the extra step. You can see when the dust bin is full and easily empty it out any time without worrying about replacing the bag.
Bagless vacuums differ in price, power and features, but the best is the Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum.
What to know before you buy a bagless vacuum
Dustbin
Bagless vacuums have a dustbin instead of a bag. It’s often a clear canister that easily detaches and lets you empty the contents into the trash. They vary in size between 1 and 2 liters.
The dustbin is convenient and saves you money in the long run, but it’s also eco-friendly, as you don’t have to worry about constantly throwing away bags.
It’s recommended to empty the bin when it’s 75% full. It’s also good to get in the habit of emptying the bin after every use.
Filters
Some bagless vacuums have disposable filters. Others are washable so that you can reuse them and save more money over time.
Look for vacuums with HEPA air filters because they can remove up to 99.9% of indoor pollutants and allergens — such as pollen, dust mites, smoke and pet dander — that other vacuums can recirculate into the air.
Power
A vacuum is only as good as its suction power, and this is one area where many bagless models are superior. They use cyclonic suction systems that increase airflow by spinning the dirt into the dustbin.
What to look for in a quality bagless vacuum
Cordless vacuums
If you’re looking for a vacuum that is lightweight and easy to store, consider purchasing a cordless vacuum. Cordless vacuums are battery-operated, making them more portable and versatile, but they often don’t have as much power as corded vacuums. Additionally, if you have a large area to clean, the battery might not last.
LED headlight
You might not think you need a vacuum with a headlight until you see how it makes hidden dirt in dark spaces and under furniture so much easier to spot.
Accessories
Given the shape and size of the average vacuum, it can’t reach every area where dust accumulates. That makes vacuum attachments so valuable. You can always purchase attachments separately, but many models have extension rods and separate tools designed explicitly for crevices and delicate upholstery.
How much can you expect to spend on a bagless vacuum
The cost of a bagless vacuum depends on the brand, model and features, but they start at around $50, and the best quality models can cost over $500. However, you can find quality bagless vacuums for $100-$200.
Bagless vacuum FAQ
Why does it smell after I use my bagless vacuum cleaner?
A. When the dust bin is full, or the filter is clogged, the vacuum can release an odor. Emptying the dust bin and cleaning the filter will help eliminate any unfavorable smell, and it will also increase the suction power. If the smell persists, try brushing the air filter and washing the bin with water and white vinegar. Additionally, consider adding a dryer sheet to the dust bin to circulate a fresh smell throughout the room.
How long do bagless vacuum cleaners last?
A. It depends on the brand and the quality of the vacuum, but many come with a five-year warranty. However, if you take care of your vacuum and consistently empty the bin and clean the filter, it can last eight to 10 years with average use.
What’s the best bagless vacuum to buy?
Top bagless vacuum
Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
What you need to know: With advanced swivel steering and lift-away functionality, you can easily clean around and under your furniture while getting all the hard-to-reach places in your home.
What you’ll love: The anti-allergen complete seal technology and HEPA filter trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum. It comes complete with a wide upholstery tool, dusting brush and crevice tool so that you can clean everything from lampshades to delicate surfaces. The powerful LED headlights will ensure that you spot every area that needs cleaning.
What you should consider: Some customers found the cord on this vacuum to be shorter than similar models.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top bagless vacuum for the money
Dirt Devil Endura Light Bagless Vacuum
What you need to know: This vacuum weighs less than 9 pounds but still has power, and the multifloor brush roll works well on both carpet and hardwood floors.
What you’ll love: The onboard quick-release extension rod gives you 6 feet of total reach. It comes with a crevice tool and a dusting brush to help you clean those hard-to-reach spaces. The 1-liter dirt bin can be removed with a button to easily dump out the contents when full without making a mess.
What you should consider: Given how light it is, some customers found this vacuum brittle and unable to stand up on its own.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum
What you need to know: The triple-action brush roll and scatter-free technology help clean your carpet and hardwood floors on the first pass.
What you’ll love: The swivel steering lets you easily maneuver around furniture, while the multicyclonic suction system keeps hair and dirt away from the motor to help it last longer. This vacuum comes with specialized tools to pick up pet hair, and Bissell donates up to $10 to the Bissell Pet Foundation with every product purchased.
What you should consider: Some customers feel the vacuum clogs too quickly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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https://www.cbs42.com/reviews/br/home-br/vacuums-br/best-bagless-vacuum/
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LAS VEGAS (AP) — A Memorial Day weekend shooting on a Las Vegas-area freeway was an apparent ambush by Hells Angels members on rival Vagos biker gang members returning from a veterans cemetery ride, according to a police report made public Tuesday.
Richard John Devries, who police identified as the Las Vegas Hells Angels chapter president, and club recruits Russell Smith and Stephen Alo were arrested late Sunday, several hours after the shooting on U.S. 95, according to Henderson police reports.
At least six of the seven people taken to hospitals with wounds or injuries following the midday Sunday gunfire were Vagos members or affiliates, the report said. They were riding motorcycles back to Las Vegas after stops at Hoover Dam and the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City.
A person whom police identified as an anonymous witness provided video showing three men wearing Hells Angels attire riding up to the Vagos group — including one who appeared to have an object in his left hand — before shots were fired.
Police said “multiple” spent bullet casings were found strewn for more than a mile (1.6 kilometer) along the freeway.
It was not clear from the police narrative if anyone in the Vagos group fired weapons, or if all the people who were reported injured received gunshot wounds.
Two were hospitalized in critical condition, according to a police statement issued Monday that said a seventh person involved in the shooting arrived at a hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Police on Tuesday did not provide an update of the conditions of the injured.
Devries, 66; Smith, 46; and Alo, 26, remained jailed on $380,000 bail pending court appearances on multiple attempted murder, conspiracy, battery and weapon charges.
Jail and court records did not immediately reflect court dates or if the men had attorneys who could speak on their behalf. Several attorneys who have represented Hells Angels and Vagos members in criminal cases in Las Vegas in recent years did not immediately respond to messages from The Associated Press.
The freeway remained closed for more five hours during an investigation also involving Las Vegas and Boulder City police and the Nevada Highway Patrol, according to the Henderson police reports.
Police said video obtained Sunday morning at a coffee shop in Boulder City and later from a dashboard camera of a police vehicle on a highway in Boulder City showed Devries, Smith and Alo among “multiple members of the Hells Angels ... prior to the shooting call.”
Cellphone GPS location data put the three men together on U.S. 95 after the shooting, the reports said.
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https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/Police-report-describes-Vagos-bikers-ambush-by-17210792.php
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With several traditional eight-man powers leading the way, Class D-2 might be the most competitive class in the state this year.
Defending champion: Kenesaw
An undefeated season powered by all-state quarterback Tyson Denkert led Kenesaw to a state title in 2021, but the Blue Devils will need to rebuild this time around. Nick Kuehn is an experienced running back the team can lean on, and he also returns as the leading tackler on defense. Players with previous varsity experience will step into the starting roles along the offensive and defensive lines, so Kenesaw is expecting to be in the playoff mix again.
Other teams to watch
BDS (8-4, D-2 state semifinals, No. 5 final ranking): A perennial state contender, BDS has made the state semifinals in six of the last eight seasons. A veteran group powered a playoff run last season despite a tough schedule, and the same should be true in 2022.
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Elgin/PJ (8-4, D-2 state semifinals, No. 6): Elgin/PJ put it all together for a semifinal run last year, and all but two starters are back. The Wolfpack offense will be among the best in Class D-2.
Falls City SH (8-2, D-2 state second round, No. 3): Three starters are back for Falls City SH, which has some young talent ready to make names for themselves. The Irish will be in the mix as always.
Howells-Dodge (13-0, D-1 state champion, No. 1): Howells-Dodge could very well win back-to-back state titles in different classes. The Jaguars return all-state selections Aandy Dominguez and Jestin Bayer, and have plenty of rising talent, too.
Lourdes CC (10-1, D-1 state quarterfinals, No. 4): No starters return on offense and only two are back on defense, but Lourdes CC still has plenty of play-making ability. Vance Weninger and Nolan Beccard will lead the offense.
Osceola (9-2, D-2 state quarterfinals, No. 8): After two straight quarterfinal exits, Osceola is seeking more in 2022. All-state selections Isaiah Zelasney and Kale Gustafson are game-wreckers are both sides of the ball.
Sandhills/Thedford (12-1, D-2 state runner-up, No. 2): While the Knights will miss their three all-state selections from last year, the roster is just as talented. Kyle Cox will lead a fast-paced offense that has an experienced and strong offensive line in front of him.
Wynot (6-3, D-2 state first round, unranked): A junior-heavy team has plenty to learn, but also plenty of room to grow in 2022. Dylan Heine, Zach Foxhoven and Colin Wieseler will be able to put up some points on offense.
Key games
A26: Sandhills/Thedford at Burwell, Elgin/PJ at Humphrey SF.
S3: Sandhills/Thedford at Hitchcock County.
S9: Wynot at Howells-Dodge, Humphrey SF at Osceola.
S16: Lourdes CC at BDS.
S23: Falls City SH at BDS.
S30: Anselmo-Merna at Sandhills/Thedford.
O7: Hitchcock County at Dundy Co.-Stratton.
O13: Falls City SH at Lourdes CC.
Players to watch
QB/DB Isaiah Zelasney, Osceola (6-0 | 185 | Sr.): A returning all-state quarterback, Zelasney ran for a whopping 1,817 yards and 37 touchdowns a year ago. It'd take an even bigger year than that, but 5,000 career rushing yards is within the realm of possibility.
LB/OL Keegan Schuler, Hitchcock County (5-11 | 210 | Sr.): A straight-up tackling machine, Schuler is a returning all-state selection at linebacker. He totaled 138 tackles and eight sacks a year ago, marks that would be hard for any other player to achieve.
RB/LB Jack Wemhoff, Elgin/PJ (5-9 | 190 | Sr.): Wemhoff ran for just under 2,000 yards last season as an all-state running back while adding 109 tackles on defense. When he's on the field, he's making big plays.
DL/OL Aandy Dominguez, Howells-Dodge (5-10 | 190 | Sr.): A returning all-state defensive lineman, Dominguez will be a four-year starter for the Jaguars. He has over 200 tackles and 20 sacks to his name already, so another big-time season is on the way.
RB/LB Easton Weber, BDS (5-11 | 200 | Sr.): Weber was as dominant as it gets during BDS' playoff run last year, when he totaled more than 1,000 yards in just four games. He ran for over 2,000 yards for his season total, a mark he'll be looking for again this season.
DL/OL Jackson Kerchal, Dundy Co.-Stratton (6-4 | 210 | Jr.): Kerchal is already a professional at blowing up the line of scrimmage defensively, and it's how he recorded 85 tackles a year ago.
WR/DB Carter Nelson, Ainsworth (6-6 | 205 | Jr.): A stellar track season vaulted Nelson into Power Five recruit status, and he's certainly a game-changer for Ainsworth. He's totaled 500 yards and eight touchdown receptions two seasons in a row.
QB/DB Kyle Cox, Sandhills-Thedford (5-9 | 145 | So.): Cox provided an offensive spark in the D-2 title game that showed how important he'll be to this offense in coming years. He's already a top performer on defense after recording 86 tackles as a freshman.
Reach the writer at 402-473-7437 or at LMullin@journalstar.com. On Twitter @lmullin7
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https://journalstar.com/sports/high-school/football/prep-football-preview-the-defending-champions-who-to-watch-and-key-games-in-class-d/article_6f10d0bd-9620-5d55-a9ae-e2ffa5b5a4fe.html
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PRICES CORNER, Del. (AP) — The Greenbank Church of Christ’s drive-thru food pantry was bustling with activity on a recent Thursday evening, as the church carried on its 10-year tradition of providing free weekly meals to local families.
Community residents drove past the entrance of the pantry and exited the Prices Corner property with enough food to last their families through the end of the month.
“The pantry is a blessing,” said Senior Minister Domingo Reyes of the Greenbank Church. “People call us the best food pantry, but we’re not in competition with anybody. We just do it from the heart.”
Volunteers at the church gave away a variety of prepackaged perishable and nonperishable foods, including meats, bread, vegetables and pasta. As a partner of the Food Bank of Delaware, the items at the pantry all meet U.S. Department of Agriculture requirements.
Sue Maynard, a founder of the food pantry who handles orders for the program, said the supplies help families supplement the food that they don’t have at home.
The weekly pantry, located off 511 Greenbank Road, is held every Thursday, from 6 to 6:45 p.m. It has been in operation for almost a decade and has grown significantly over the years.
Maynard and her husband, Ed, have led the program since it was previously known as the Cedars Church of Christ’s food pantry. The name change to Greenbank is in reference to the merger of Cedars Church of Christ and First State Church of Christ.
Reyes previously ministered at First State Church. He said the two churches — one predominantly white and one predominantly Black — became one congregation in 2019.
“Cedars started it and the pantry is now a big part of our history,” Reyes said.
On Nov. 1, the food pantry will celebrate 10 years of service in Wilmington.
“The good Lord has made it possible for us to do it and I give him all the praise,” said Maynard, adding that a young couple who attended the church came up with the idea in 2012.
Since its inception, the community has been very supportive of the pantry throughout the years. Maynard recalled when only four people showed up to their first meeting.
“By the end of 2012 we had 100 people and in the next year, up to 200 families showed up,” Maynard said. “I thought whoa — it’s going to take a lot of volunteers for that many families.”
After the pandemic struck the nation in 2020, the pantry closed and later reopened that year in September in its current drive-thru model.
During the pandemic, Reyes said, it was important to ensure the church pantry reopened to anyone who might need help.
The program now serves 65 families every week. While the church has had to reduce the numbers it serves due to fewer volunteers and social distancing recommendations, the drive-thru model is more efficient, said Maynard.
Meal recipients are required to register on the church website by the letter (A-D first week, E-L second week, M-R third week, S-V fourth week) that corresponds with their family’s last name. The number of family members determines how many bags of food each family receives in the drive-thru, according to Maynard.
“We actually found that we can give out more and offer more services this way because it’s a more organized operation now,” Maynard said. “We don’t plan on going back to distributing from the building.”
In addition to the weekly free food distribution, volunteers at the church also give away essential non-food items that they receive.
“We’re not going to open a closet anytime soon, but there are plenty of other things that come our way that we make sure the homeless get ... such as gloves for the winter,” Maynard said. “We don’t want to waste anything.”
The Greenbank Church of Christ food pantry is one of the largest emergency food distributors in the Wilmington area, according to the Food Bank of Delaware’s website.
Maynard estimates that the food pantry has distributed 6 million pounds of food since it opened.
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https://www.mrt.com/news/article/After-10-years-Delaware-church-still-feeds-the-17432241.php
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