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Japan's legacy carrier taps BMF to reinvigorate the brand through dynamic narrative and content across its global Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn channels and through earned media results
LOS ANGELES, June 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BMF is pleased to announce the latest addition to its growing Engagement and Earned practices with the addition of Japan Airlines (JAL). Appointed as global Social Media and Public Relations Agency of Record, BMF will serve as a strategic partner in smartly evolving the legacy carrier's brand narrative – the transformative and restorative power of travel – across its owned global social channels (Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn) and via eaned media results.
Getting to the heart of what motivates global travelers, BMF is poised to reinvigorate JAL's social content to be more relevant, inspiring, magnetic, and elevated. The agency will help JAL grow brand relevance through increased social following, engagement, and reach; improve customer retention; build preference from new customers; share valuable consumer insights in real time; and keep the JAL in the global media conversation through its unique experience-led PR tactics. BMF will also spearhead Tokyo-based content ideation and production for the airline.
"It is an honor and privilege to welcome Japan Airlines to the BMF roster," says Bruce Starr, CEO and Co-Founder of BMF. "With global travel recovery accelerating each day, the timing for a refreshed social and PR strategy couldn't be more auspicious. We're thrilled to draw on our 20 year legacy of creating brand narratives that inspire action to offer global travelers a coveted window seat to the world with JAL."
Underscoring the brand's commitment to safety & comfort, sustainability, innovation, and the unique cultures of the 52 countries and regions JAL services, BMF's social content and PR efforts will spotlight the international airlines' signature experience: the art of omotenashi, a distinctive style of Japanese hospitality rooted in intuitive service and the anticipation of customers needs.
"The industry has been disrupted, not only by the pandemic, but also by the urgent need for more sustainaible and thoughtful travel. Travelers are yearning for physical reconnetion and piece of mind that their safety and well-being are top priority," says Akira Mitsumasu, Vice President, CX, Data Analytics & Marketing at Japan Airlines. "We look forward to partnering with BMF at this critical juncture to breathe new energy into our social feeds and secure meaningful results with top-tier media, inspiring brand loyalists and new customers alike to choose JAL to be a part of their journey."
About Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines (JAL) was founded in 1951 and became the first international airline in Japan. A member of the oneworld® alliance, the airline now reaches 349 airports in 52 countries and regions together with its codeshare partners with a modern fleet of 229 aircraft. JAL Mileage Bank (JMB), the airline's loyalty program, is one of the largest mileage programs in Asia. Awarded as one of the most punctual major international airlines and a 5-Star Airline by Skytrax, JAL is committed to providing customers with the highest levels of flight safety and quality in every aspect of its service and one of the most preferred airlines in the world. For more information, visit: www.jal.com
About BMF
BMF is an award-winning global integrated creative marketing agency with expertise in brand strategy, experiential, digital, influencer, talent, and PR. The agency conceptualizes and executes multi-channel programs that earn attention from key opinion leaders, engage with our clients' target audiences, and create unforgettable brand experiences with lasting impact. BMF does this for brands who seek to have a meaningful role in the current cultural conversation. With teams working around the world, BMF recently produced 350 programs of which 50 were in 19 countries outside the US . Each of the programs we develop are unique — the red thread is our commitment to delivering ROI by humanizing brands in unexpected and impactful ways that are made to inspire. BMF is an LGBT owned business certified by the NGLCC (nglcc.org) with diversity & inclusion as part of the agency's core DNA. For more information, visit: www.wearebmf.com.
Media Contact: BMF
T: 323.807.7333
E: JAL@wearebmf.com
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SOURCE BMF | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/21/bmf-named-global-social-media-public-relations-agency-record-japan-airlines-jal/ | 2022-06-21T19:57:53Z |
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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SOURCE Melio | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/31/melio-launches-international-payments-over-70-countries/ | 2022-05-31T12:25:06Z |
NEW YORK, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Blockworks, a leading digital asset and financial media brand, today announced the launch of Blockworks Research, a powerful crypto research platform for investors, executives and builders. As the asset class grows, there is a huge need for better research and data than what is currently available to investors. Blockworks Research will fill this gap, providing much needed research, data, governance updates, tokenomics, and asset models all in one place.
Blockwork Research was first unveiled at Permissionless, Blockworks' 7,000+ person flagship conference, with holders of Blockworks' NFT project, Permies, receiving special access to the tool.
"As this asset class grows, investors will demand better research and data than what currently exists. Our goal is to make Blockworks Research the most powerful research and data platform in crypto," said Blockworks Co-founder Jason Yanowitz. "Most importantly, Blockworks Research is a community – a place to learn about crypto with other crypto power users."
With the extraordinary growth in the crypto industry, the Blockworks Research platform consolidates the essential information in one place. The Blockworks Research team is composed of protocol and sector specific analysts who will leverage real-time data and protocol-level governance to bring world-class insights to help investors build their strategies. Members will get premier access to a comprehensive data and research platform with features including a morning briefing, exclusive corporate access into key companies, governance updates, tokenomics analysis, analyst calls, fund overviews, and more.
"Blockworks is the only crypto-native information source that also speaks to traditional investors." said Matt Hougan, Chief Investment Officer at Bitwise. "It's in-depth insights without the jargon. As CIO of a crypto asset manager, I find it invaluable."
Blockworks Research marks the latest step in Blockworks' continued growth, with the company doubling in size in the first half of 2022. To learn more about Blockworks Research, visit blockworks.co/get-research .
About Blockworks
Blockworks is a global financial media brand that delivers breaking news and premium insights about digital assets and web3 to millions of investors. Blockwork's editorial content, research, newsletters and podcasts provide expert analysis to help investors navigate the markets. With events like Permissionless and the Digital Asset Summit, Blockworks creates space for innovators to build the future of the global economy.
Contact: researchsupport@blockwork.co
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SOURCE Blockworks | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/blockworks-unveils-blockworks-research-crypto-research-data-platform-investors/ | 2022-05-18T20:15:48Z |
Acquisition Further Expands and Differentiates Micross' High-Reliability Product Manufacturing Capabilities
MELVILLE, N.Y., May 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Micross Components, Inc. ("Micross" or the "Company"), a leading provider of high-reliability microelectronic product and service solutions for aerospace, defense, space, medical and industrial applications and a portfolio company of Behrman Capital, today announced the acquisition of the High-Reliability Discrete Diodes and Assemblies business of Semtech Corporation (Nasdaq: SMTC), a leading global supplier of high performance analog and mixed-signal semiconductors and advanced algorithms.
Headquartered in Reynosa, Mexico, the business provides semiconductor solutions, including Qualified Product List ("QPL") and non-QPL diodes, rectifiers and transient voltage suppression products to aerospace, defense, medical and other high-reliability customers. The business manufactures products designed to operate across a wide range of temperatures, vibrations and other harsh environments.
Micross' acquisition – the fifth under Behrman Capital's ownership and first since consummating a continuation fund transaction in February of 2022 – addresses a number of strategic priorities for the Company. The addition of Semtech's High-Reliability Discrete Diodes and Assemblies Product portfolio provides Micross with power management components that are supported by a high degree of intellectual property. The acquisition also expands Micross' footprint with a manufacturing presence in Mexico, offering a new beachhead for future growth and expansion opportunities.
Simon Lonergan, Managing Partner of Behrman Capital, said, "This acquisition represents an extremely strong strategic fit for Micross, as the Company continues to build out its product portfolio to better serve its customer base. Adding Semtech's high-reliability discrete products to Micross' platform further differentiates the Company's leading position as a one-stop source of supply for high-reliability electronic products and services. We look forward to continuing to work with management to identify additional opportunities to drive growth at Micross."
Vince Buffa, Chairman and CEO of Micross, said, "We are delighted to partner with this team through the acquisition, to further expands Micross' capabilities. With the addition of significant manufacturing capacity, we will be better positioned to produce an even wider range of high-quality products for our customers. Together, we plan to pursue a number of compelling opportunities to further realize our exciting growth prospects, all while upholding excellent quality and service to our customers."
About Micross
Micross (https://www.micross.com) is a leading global provider of mission-critical microelectronic components and services for high-reliability markets. Micross provides a wide range of product and service solutions to customers, including Die & Wafer services, Advanced Interconnect Technology, Custom Packaging & Assembly, Component Modification Services, Electrical & Environmental Testing and other high-reliability products and services. In business for more than 40 years, Micross' extensive high-reliability capabilities serve the Aerospace & Defense, Space, Medical and Industrial markets, among others. Micross possesses the sourcing, packaging, assembly, engineering, test and logistics expertise needed to support applications throughout their entire program life cycles. For more information about Micross, please visit www.micross.com.
About Behrman Capital
Based in New York City, Behrman Capital was founded in 1991 by Grant G. and Darryl G. Behrman. The firm invests in management buyouts, leveraged buildups and recapitalizations of established growth businesses. The company's investments are focused in three industries: defense and aerospace, healthcare services, and specialty manufacturing and distribution. Since its inception, the firm has raised $4.0 billion and is currently investing out of its sixth fund.
About Semtech
Semtech Corporation is a leading global supplier of high-performance analog and mixed-signal semiconductors and advanced algorithms for infrastructure, high-end consumer and industrial equipment. Products are designed to benefit the engineering community as well as the global community. The Company is dedicated to reducing the impact it, and its products, have on the environment. Internal green programs seek to reduce waste through material and manufacturing control, use of green technology and designing for resource reduction. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol SMTC. For more information, visit www.semtech.com.
Contact
Ross Lovern / Daniel Hoadley
Kekst CNC
ross.lovern@kekstcnc.com / daniel.hoadley@kekstcnc.com
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SOURCE Micross | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/03/micross-acquires-high-reliability-discrete-diodes-assemblies-business-semtech-corporation/ | 2022-05-04T02:17:14Z |
Regenative Labs CEO predicts this will have significant implications to advance multiple fields.
PENSACOLA, Fla., July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Regenative Labs, a leading FDA-registered and HTC/P manufacturer, confirms that the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Institute of Regenerative and Cellular Medicine (IRCM), an independent body which facilitates and validates regenerative and cellular medicine through collaborative and translational research, has approved its protocol for observational data of homologous use applications for Regenative's products.
In noting receipt of the IRCM IRB letter, CEO Tyler Barrett observed that this is a key step in facilitating other studies for use of Regenative's products. "We believe this will allow clinicians to explore new homologous use applications and make it easy to follow their patient outcomes," he said, adding, "We are committed to advancing this field of research."
The IRB letter confirms a key classification, known as 361, allowing Regenative to further studies for the use of its products.
"We are excited that this will allow us and our partner physicians to look for new uses," said Barrett, pointing out that connective tissue is found throughout the body and that while the current use is heavily concentrated in addressing defects in the knee and specialties like orthopedics, Regenative has received queries and reports from specialties like podiatry and urology for cases of wound care and urinary incontinence.
In confirming receipt of the IRB's letter, Regenative Labs confirmed their continued adherence to applicable state, local and federal regulations and requirements. They also look forward to a strong relationship with regulators.
The specific observational data collection approved is through MedngineTM of homologous use applications using ProTextTM, CryoTextTM,SecreTextTM, CoreTextTM and AmnioText.
Protocol number: RL-ME-002
IRB approval number: IRCM-2022-311
About Regenative Labs : Regenative Labs produces regenerative medicine products to address the root cause of a patient's conditions using Wharton's Jelly innovations rather than masking the pain with other treatments. Regenative Labs works closely with scientists, physicians, hospitals, and surgery centers to constantly monitor and improve patient progress and outcomes for new product development. Formed by veteran industry professionals familiar with the daily challenges of innovations in healthcare, the company provides effective, non-addictive, non-invasive options for patients. Regenative Labs has a laser-focused, expert product research and development team which follows FDA guidelines of minimal manipulation for homologous use. The company adheres to AATB and FDA guidelines. Learn more at: https://regenativelabs.com.
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SOURCE Regenative Labs | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/08/institutional-review-board-approves-regenative-labs-protocol-key-data-collection/ | 2022-07-08T14:14:13Z |
Brittney Griner’s trial resumes amid intensified diplomacy
MOSCOW (AP) — Since Brittney Griner last appeared in her trial for cannabis possession, the question of her fate expanded from a tiny and cramped courtroom on Moscow’s outskirts to the highest level of Russia-US diplomacy.
The WNBA star and two-time Olympic gold medalist is to return to court on Tuesday, a month after the beginning of the trial in which she could face 10 years in prison if convicted. As the trial has progressed, the Biden Administration has faced rising calls for action to win her release.
In an extraordinary move, Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week spoke to Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, urging him to accept a deal under which Griner and Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia on an espionage conviction would go free.
Although details of the offer remain shrouded, Blinken’s public announcement of a proposal was at odds with the convention of keeping prisoner-release negotiations tightly under wraps. When American Trevor Reed, serving time for assaulting a police officer, was freed in April in exchange for a Russian drug trafficker, no clues of an imminent swap had emerged.
The Lavrov-Blinken call also was the highest-level known contact between Washington and Moscow since Russia sent troops into Ukraine more than five months ago. The direct outreach risks undermining a core message to US allies that isolating Russia could force the eventual withdrawal of troops from Ukraine.
It also underlines the public pressure that the White House has faced to get Griner released, which has brought some backlash. Former president Donald Trump strongly criticized the proposal that people familiar with it have said envisions trading Griner and Whelan for notorious arms trader Viktor Bout.
“He’s absolutely one of the worst in the world, and he’s going to be given his freedom because a potentially spoiled person goes into Russia loaded up with drugs,” Trump said.
Griner, speaking from the defendant’s cage in a courtroom that barely holds a dozen people, has acknowledged that there were vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage when she was arrested at a Moscow airport in February. But she says she had no criminal intent and that the canisters ended up in her luggage because she was packing hastily. Griner played for a Russian women’s basketball team in the WNBA off-season.
To bolster her case, her defense lawyers have called character witnesses from her Russian team, UMMC Ekaterinburg, and presented testimony from doctors that she was prescribed cannabis as a treatment for pain. Medical marijuana treatment is not legal in Russia.
Her lawyers say they hope such testimony will bring lenience from the judge, who they say under Russian law has leeway to consider mitigating factors.
Acquittals are rare in Russian criminal prosecutions — less than 1% of cases. Sentences can be suspended.
If conviction is a foregone conclusion, it would also potentially be a step forward. Russian officials have said no release of Griner could occur until the judicial process is completed.
However, a Washington attorney who formerly was resident legal adviser at the US Embassy in Moscow, said there is no formal requirement for a conviction before an exchange.
“It seems that she is in fact being used as a political bargaining chip — and the administration has already designated her as wrongfully detained presumably because they think she is being used as a political pawn,” Tom Firestone told The Associated Press.
“Given the administration’s very strong public commitment to getting Whelan and Griner out, (Russia) may want to let this play out a little bit longer and try to get more extract more concessions from the administration.” he said. “They may impose a very significant sanctions as a way to maximize their leverage in negotiations going forward.”
Russian officials have given no public hint of whether Blinken made headway in his call with Lavrov. It only issued a statement urging the Americans to pursue the matter though “quiet diplomacy without releases of speculative information.”
Russia has repeatedly expressed annoyance with American statements on the case, saying they show a disrespect for Russian laws.
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Eric Tucker in Washington DC contributed to this story.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/01/brittney-griners-trial-resumes-amid-intensified-diplomacy/ | 2022-08-01T17:51:15Z |
TOKYO (AP) — A top police official on Saturday acknowledged possible security lapses that allowed an assassin to fire his gun into former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe while he was addressing a campaign rally, raising questions how could the attacker get so close behind him.
Abe was shot in the western city of Nara on Friday and airlifted to a hospital but died of blood loss. Police arrested the attacker, a former member of Japan’s navy, at the scene. Police confiscated his homemade gun and several others were later found at his apartment.
The attacker, Tetsuya Yamagami, told investigators he acted because he believed rumors that Abe was connected to an organization that he resents, police said. Japanese media reported that the man had developed hatred toward a religious group that his mother was obsessed about and that caused his family financial problems. The reports did not specify the group.
On Saturday, a black hearse carrying Abe’s body and accompanied by his wife, Akie, arrived at his home in Tokyo’s upscale residential area of Shibuya. Many mourners, including top party officials, waited for his remains and lowered their heads as the vehicle passed.
Nara prefectural police chief Tomoaki Onizuka said Abe’s assassination was his “greatest regret” in a 27-year career.
“I cannot deny there were problems with our security,” Onizuka said. “Whether it was a setup, emergency response, or ability of individuals, we still have to find out. Overall, there was a problem and we will review it from every perspective.”
Abe’s assassination ahead of Sunday’s parliamentary election shocked the nation and raised questions over whether security for the former prime minister was adequate.
Some observers who watched videos of the attack noted a lack of attention in the open space behind Abe as he spoke.
A former Kyoto prefectural police investigator, Fumikazu Higuchi, said the footage suggested security was sparse at the event and insufficient for a former prime minister.
“It is necessary to investigate why security allowed Yamagami to freely move and go behind Mr. Abe,” Higuchi told a Nippon TV talk show.
Experts also said Abe was more vulnerable standing on the ground level, instead of atop a campaign vehicle, which is usually the case but was reportedly unavailable due to his hastily arranged visit to Nara.
“Looks like police were mainly focusing on frontward, while paying little attention to what’s behind Mr. Abe, and nobody stopped the suspect approaching him,” said Mitsuru Fukuda, a crisis management professor at Nihon University. “Clearly there were problems.”
Fukuda said that election campaigns provide a chance for voters and politicians to interact because “political terrorism” was extremely rare in postwar Japan. But Abe’s assassination could prompt stricter security at crowded events like campaigns, sports games and others.
During a parliamentary debate in 2015, Abe resisted suggestions by an opposition lawmaker to beef up his security, insisting that “Japan is a safe country.”
In videos circulating on social media, the 41-year-old Yamagami can be seen standing only a few meters (yards) behind Abe across a busy street, and continuously glancing around.
A few minutes after Abe stood at the podium and started his speech — as a local party candidate and their supporters stood and waved to the crowd — Yamagami can be seen taking his gun out of a bag, walking toward Abe and firing the first shot, which released a cloud of smoke, but the projectile apparently missed Abe.
As Abe turned to see where the noise came from, a second shot went off. That bullet apparently hit Abe’s left arm, missing a bulletproof briefcase raised by a security guard who stood behind him.
Abe fell to the ground, with his left arm tucked in as if to cover his chest. Campaign organizers shouted through loudspeakers asking for medical experts to provide first-aid to Abe. His heart and breathing had stopped by the time he was airlifted to a hospital, where he later pronounced dead.
Police on Saturday said autopsy results showed that a bullet that entered Abe’s upper left arm damaged arteries beneath both collar bones, causing fatal massive bleeding.
According to the Asahi newspaper, Yamagami was a contract worker at a warehouse in Kyoto, operating a forklift. He was described as a quiet person who did not mingle with colleagues. A next-door neighbor at his apartment told Asahi he never met Yamagami, though he recalled hearing noises like a saw being used several times late at night over the past month.
Japan is particularly known for its strict gun laws. With a population of 125 million, it had only 10 gun-related criminal cases last year, eight of then gang-related.
Even though he was out of office, Abe was still highly influential in the governing Liberal Democratic Party and headed its largest faction. But his ultra-nationalist views made him a divisive figure to many.
Abe stepped down two years ago blaming a recurrence of the ulcerative colitis he’d had since he was a teenager. He said he regretted leave many of his goals unfinished, especially his failure to resolve the issue of Japanese abducted years ago by North Korea, a territorial dispute with Russia, and a revision of Japan’s war-renouncing constitution.
That ultra-nationalism riled the Koreas and China, and his push to create what he saw as a more normal defense posture angered many Japanese liberals. Abe failed to achieve his cherished goal of formally rewriting the U.S.-drafted pacifist constitution because of poor public support.
Loyalists said his legacy was a stronger U.S.-Japan relationship that was meant to bolster Japan’s defense capability. Abe divided the public by forcing his defense goals and other contentious issues through parliament.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who early on had a frosty relationship with Abe, sent a condolence message to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday, a day after most other world leaders issued their statements.
Xi credited Abe with making efforts to improve China-Japan relations and said he and Abe had reached an important understanding on building better ties, according to a statement posted on China’s Foreign Ministry website. He also told Kishida he is willing to work with him to continue to develop neighborly and cooperative relations.
Abe was groomed to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, former Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi. His political rhetoric often focused on making Japan a “normal” and “beautiful” nation with a stronger military through security alliance with the United States and bigger role in international affairs.
He became Japan’s youngest prime minister in 2006, at age 52, but his overly nationalistic first stint abruptly ended a year later, also because of his health, prompting six years of annual leadership change.
He returned to office in 2012, vowing to revitalize the nation and getting its economy out of its deflationary doldrums with his “Abenomics” formula, which combines fiscal stimulus, monetary easing and structural reforms. He won six national elections and built a rock-solid grip on power. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/abes-body-arrives-in-tokyo-as-country-mourns-ex-pms-death/ | 2022-07-09T16:28:37Z |
Montana bars birth certificate changes, even with surgery
MATTHEW BROWN
Associated Press
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials say transgender people can’t change their birth certificates even if they undergo gender-confirmation surgery, in defiance of a court order that had blocked the Republican-controlled state’s bid to restrict transgender rights.
The state health department said late Monday in an emergency order that it would no longer record the category of “gender” on people’s birth certificates, replacing that category with a listing for “sex” that can be changed only in rare circumstances.
Sex is “immutable,” according to the order, while gender is a “social…construct” that can change over time.
“Sex is different from gender and an immutable genetic fact, which is not changeable, even by surgery,” said the order from Adam Meier, direct of Public Health and Human Services.
Only Tennessee, Oklahoma and West Virginia have similar sweeping prohibitions against changes to birth certificates, according to the civil rights group Lambda Legal. Bans in Idaho and Ohio were struck down in 2020, according to the group.
The order came a month after a state judge temporarily blocked enforcement of a law that required transgender people to have undergone a “surgical procedure” before being allowed to change their gender on their birth certificates.
Judge Michael Moses ruled the law was unconstitutionally vague because it did not specify what procedure must be performed. The law also required transgender people to obtain a court order indicating they had a surgical procedure.
Moses’ order forced the state to revert back to a process adopted in 2017 that said transgender residents could apply to change the gender on their Montana birth certificate by filing sworn affidavits with the health department.
But state health officials said the April 21 ruling put them in “an ambiguous and uncertain situation” and led them to craft the temporary emergency order.
The new order exceeds the restrictions on transgender rights imposed by the Republican-dominated state Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Greg Gianforte.
Shawn Reagor with the Montana Human Rights Network said the order was “politically motivated and malicious” and would harm transgender people who want to fully participate in civil society, which includes recognition of their gender.
“It’s being validated and seen for who you are. But even more so, it’s being able to navigate society and be active in today’s world without having a threat of violence or discrimination,” Reagor said.
Democratic state lawmakers expressed outrage, calling the order a “blatant abuse of power meant to undermine the checks and balances of our independent courts.”
“While this rule is intended to make the lives of our transgender neighbors harder, it impacts all of us by eroding the rights that let us live our lives free from government overreach,” said House Minority Leader Kim Abbott and Senate Minority Leader Jill Cohenour.
According to the order, the sex listing can be changed only if someone’s sex is misidentified when they’re born or if the sex was wrongly recorded as a result of “a scrivener’s error,” according to the order.
In response to questions about the new rule, the Department of Public Health and Human Services said “all individuals should be treated with dignity and respect..”
“However,” the statement continued, “as noted in the emergency rule, the Department has an obligation to ensure the accuracy of vital records.” The agency said its order is consistent with state law and addresses “a critical regulatory gap” while obeying the April court ruling.
Half of the U.S. states, plus the District of Columbia, allow transgender residents to change gender designation on their birth certificates without surgical requirements or court orders, according to the policy organization Movement Advancement Project that supports transgender rights.
Just over a dozen states require surgical intervention for changing gender on birth certificates and such barriers have been challenged in several states, including in Montana by the ACLU of Montana.
Many transgender people choose not to undergo gender-confirmation surgeries. Such procedures are sometimes deemed unnecessary or too expensive, two transgender Montana residents argued in their July 2021 lawsuit challenging the Montana law.
ACLU representatives did not immediately respond to the Montana health department order.
Over the last several years, legislation in numerous states has been aimed at limiting the rights of transgender people, and the new laws are being challenged in court.
Alabama passed a law making it a felony for doctors to prescribe such treatments as gender-confirming puberty blockers and hormones to transgender minors, but a judge has blocked the law.
In Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott ordered child welfare officials to i nvestigate parents of children receiving puberty blockers and other gender-confirming care as potential abuse. That effort was blocked by a judge.
At least a dozen states have recently passed laws to ban transgender girls and women from participating in female sports, most recently Utah. | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-idaho/2022/05/24/montana-bars-birth-certificate-changes-even-with-surgery/ | 2022-05-24T20:57:47Z |
Dole Boosted Blends® Berry Spark™ is crafted with an intentional blend of nutrient-packed fruits and vitamins to support brain and cognitive health
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., Aug. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Dole Packaged Foods, LLC today released its newest innovation, Dole Boosted Blends® Berry Spark™. Always mindful of the latest consumer tastes and trends, Dole has crafted this smoothie with a specific blend of nutrient-dense, ingredients to support brain and cognitive health.
"Prompted by the pandemic, consumers today are looking to boost their physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing more than ever," commented Orzse Hodi, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Americas, Dole Packaged Foods, LLC. "We've developed Dole Boosted Blends Berry Spark as a nutritious and convenient smoothie that allows individuals to harness the health benefits of a thoughtfully curated combination of plant-based ingredients to help with memory and focus."
Kosher Certified, no sugar added, and non-GMO, Dole Boosted Blends Berry Spark's optimal blend invigorates the palate with a delicious fruity flavor from a unique mix of blueberries, bananas, blackberries, dark cherries, acai, and flax designed to deliver a range of benefits and nutrients, including:
- Brain and cognitive health support
- Memory and focus benefits
- Excellent source of antioxidant Vitamin C
- Good source of dietary fiber
Dole Boosted Blends Berry Spark is simple to make – just add 2 cups of the milk of your choice and blend until smooth. Each pack contains four pre-portioned 8oz individual servings for $10.99. Look for it in the frozen fruit section at select retailers and online in August, followed by wider availability later this year.
For more information on nutrition facts and where to purchase, visit dolesunshine.com.
ABOUT DOLE PACKAGED FOODS, LLC.
Dole Packaged Foods, LLC, is a world leader in growing, sourcing, distributing, and marketing fruit and healthy snacks in four core categories: snacks, ingredients, beverages and fruit bowls. The company sells a full line of packaged shelf stable fruit, frozen fruit, dried fruit, and juices. The company focuses on four pillars of sustainability in all its operations: water management, carbon footprint, soil conservation and waste reduction. For more information, please visit dolesunshine.com.
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SOURCE Dole Packaged Foods, LLC | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/22/dole-packaged-foods-sparks-innovation-with-new-functional-frozen-fruit-smoothie/ | 2022-08-22T14:21:10Z |
VANCOUVER, BC, June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - It seems fitting that a tech start-up headquartered in a city that has seen the highest gas prices in North America this year, is introducing a new technology that allows consumers to optimize electricity usage for their cars, boats and homes right from their phones. As energy demands surge and people opt for more affordable electrical options, VoltSafe has developed a global solution that makes connecting to electricity much safer, greener and cheaper.
An already stressed global supply chain and rising inflation due to the effects of COVID-19, coupled with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, means the world's economy and energy sources are feeling the burn. Russia is one of the biggest oil producers in the world and global sanctions are having a direct impact on demand and gas prices which, in turn, gets passed onto consumers' wallets. Pressures and strong opposition to oil drilling and pipelines are also accelerating decarbonization of the world's economy. Oil and natural gas prices have more than doubled in the last year and inflation rates are currently rivalling those last seen in the 1980's in North America. This all leads to an urgent global interest in discovering and delivering newer, more efficient ways to connect to and manage our daily energy consumption – and VoltSafe is an integral part of the solution.
VoltSafe Inc. has filed patents in over forty countries for the world's first, prongless, high power, electrical connector technology that doesn't incur power losses like other existing prongless charging solutions. By using magnets and an embedded electrical fingerprint, power doesn't turn 'on' until both sides are completely connected. Letting power flow after a connection is made eliminates associated risk of arcs, shocks and fires. VoltSafe outlets are IoT enabled, meaning users are able to control and optimize all of their energy consumption, reducing their electricity bills and lowering GHG emissions.
"Wherever there is high power, VoltSafe can create the prongless magnetic connector and energy management platform to go with it. We're working on solutions that span residential, commercial and industrial applications from home to marine, aviation to autonomous electric vehicles and more. It's not enough to simply shift to electrification, it's also imperative to have smart and efficient ways to monitor, manage and minimize power usage. VoltSafe novel patented tech addresses it all," noted VoltSafe CTO, Sanad Aridah.
An area of particular focus for VoltSafe right now is the company's marine solution for shore power. The electric marine sector is as hot as they come, with record amounts of investment funds flowing into the industry. The move to a fully electric marine sector eliminates greenhouse gases and harmful air emissions, reduces harmful water emissions, and reduces air and water noise pollution. Recently, General Motors committed USD$150 million to Pure Watercraft, a Seattle start-up that makes electric outboard motors for boats. Commenting on the deal, Pure Watercraft's CEO noted, "The boating market is growing like it hasn't since post-World War II."
One of VoltSafe's Strategic Advisors, Jim Gray, commented "VoltSafe is well positioned to be a primary enabler, a key, of this (marine electrification) revolution."
The interest in VoltSafe Marine extends beyond pleasure-craft boaters and marinas and into industrial shipping and national defense too. Learning about VoltSafe's technology and marine solution, Alex Rueben, Executive Director of the Association of British Columbia Marine Industries and former Chief Operating Officer of the Canadian Navy, stated, "This plug will set a new standard for marine electrical safety and adds further 'smart' capabilities that promise to accelerate the electrification of vessel fleets. This is an exciting 'made in Canada' technology addressing a real need."
Elisabeth Charmley, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Vancouver Maritime Centre for Climate, added, "As electrification of assets proliferates, VoltSafe's patented plug and outlet connectors will play a key role in energy management - VoltSafe is ahead of the curve!"
Strong tail-winds (grants, subsidies, carbon credits, investment, etc.) will continue driving significant demand for Cleantech solutions. With its patented, novel technology, VoltSafe unlocks previously unreachable economic value (safety, ease-of-use, advanced smart capabilities) and is able to leverage a blue ocean strategy.
Trevor Burgess, VoltSafe CEO, remarked, "Governments around the world are placing a heightened focus on addressing climate change and VoltSafe's patented tech helps accelerate decarbonization with a safer, simpler and smarter way to connect to high power, with unprecedented levels of safety and sustainable energy management. We know the problem is real and the demand for our tech exists – we continue to receive inbound inquiries almost daily, including Fortune 500 companies who are all seeking different use cases of VoltSafe's patented technology to achieve their desired needs."
VoltSafe has just launched a community-focused equity crowdfunding campaign to raise capital aimed at driving the company further towards its licensing and commercialization goals. The company successfully pitched its innovation to CBC's Dragons' Den in 2018 with multiple Dragons vying to invest. Now, for a limited time, the raise is open to all investors. Learn more at: Frontfundr.com/voltsafe.
Headquartered in Vancouver, BC, this Canadian tech startup has reinvented the electrical plug by eliminating prongs, adding magnets and an "electrical fingerprint" creating the world's safest, simplest, and smartest plug design since electricity came into homes more than 140 years ago. VoltSafe commercialized its first safety-certified product (VoltSafe Winter). The company's product pipeline includes magnetic plug replacement solutions for household, commercial, industrial, marine, electric and autonomous vehicles, emergency services, data centres and more.
FrontFundr is Canada's leading online private markets investing platform and an exempt market dealer. It provides startups and growth companies access to capital, and gives investors access to private companies they believe in and want to support. It provides a community of 25,000+ investors with the ability to review and complete private placements on one digital platform. The company's revolutionary technology allows users across Canada to invest in innovative growth businesses in under 12 minutes, starting from as little as $250. To date it has helped more than 60 companies raise over $60 million.
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SOURCE VoltSafe Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/oil-prices-surge-vancouver-cleantech-startup-introduces-new-electrical-technology-reduce-inflation-effects-marine-automotive-amp-housing-industries/ | 2022-06-02T10:15:02Z |
DENVER, April 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Jodie Comer (Killing Eve) makes her West End debut in the UK premiere of Suzie Miller's award-winning play. Justin Martin directs this solo piece, captured live from the intimate Harold Pinter Theatre in London's West End and released to cinemas nationwide on Thursday, July 21 at 7:00pm local time. Tickets for this exclusive one-day only theatrical event will are on sale NOW at www.FathomEvents.com.
Tessa is a young, brilliant barrister. She has worked her way up from working class origins to be at the top of her game; defending; cross examining and winning. An unexpected event forces her to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of the law, burden of proof and morals diverge. Prima Facie takes us to the heart of where emotion and experience collide with the rules of the game.
"I am delighted that our production of Prima Facie will be available to watch in cinemas across the world. Alongside our ticketing initiatives this is another way that we can make sure that this play is accessible to anyone that would like to see it."
The production is designed by Miriam Buether, with lighting by Natasha Chivers, sound by Ben and Max Ringham, music composed by Rebecca Lucy Taylor and produced by James Bierman for Empire Street Productions.
This performance will be filmed live on stage in London's West End, at the Harold Pinter Theatre.
Sky Arts is the Headline Partner of National Theatre Live in the UK.
Empire Street Productions was set up by James Bierman to develop and produce work across theatre, television and film. Recent Theatre credits include Sam Shepard's TRUE WEST starring Kit Harington and Johnny Flynn at the Vaudeville Theatre; and Tracy Letts' KILLER JOE at the Trafalgar Studio starring Orlando Bloom. With new dates for Martin McDonagh's iconic THE PILLOWMAN , directed by Matthew Dunster to come; Sam Gold's production of MACBETH starring Daniel Craig and Ruth Negga opens on Broadway this Spring.
BALLYWALTER, a BFI, Screen Ireland and NIS supported feature film by Stacey Gregg and directed by Prasanna Puwanarajah is in post-production. THROUGH THE DUNES, a short film starring Ian Hart written & directed by Tim Price is in competition. Documentary THE REAL CHARLIE CHAPLIN, directed by Peter Middleton & James Spinney is on release. ESP are currently developing Television projects with Anonymous Content and Content Superba.
As Executive Producer at the Donmar Warehouse (2006-11), Bierman was involved in over 45 productions which won numerous awards including Tony, Drama Desk, Olivier, Evening Standard, Critics' Circle and South Bank Awards. As a producer at the Michael Grandage Company (MGC), which he founded with Grandage in 2011, he produced a hugely successful season of work at the Noel Coward Theatre, in London's West End: Privates on Parade starring Simon Russell Beale, A Midsummer Night's Dream starring Sheridan Smith and David Walliams, Peter and Alice starring Dame Judi Dench and Ben Whishaw, Henry V starring Jude Law, and The Cripple of Inishmaan starring Daniel Radcliffe. Following on from the success of this season, he produced Photograph 51 starring Nicole Kidman, and The Dazzle with Emily Dobbs, starring Andrew Scott. His first feature film, Genius, written by Academy Award Nominee John Logan and starring Colin Firth, Jude Law, Nicole Kidman and Laura Linney, premiered in competition at the Berlin Film Festival in 2016.
www.empirestreetproductions.com
@estreetprods
The National Theatre's mission is to make world-class theatre, for everyone.
The NT creates and shares unforgettable stories with audiences across the UK and around the world. On its own stages, on tour, in schools, on cinema screens and streaming at home, it strives to be accessible, inclusive, and sustainable.
The National Theatre empowers artists and craftspeople to make world-leading work, investing in talent and developing new productions with a wide range of theatre companies at its New Work Department.
Our nation thrives on fresh talent and new ideas, so the National Theatre works with young people and teachers right across the UK through performance, writing and technical programmes to ignite the creativity of the next generation.
Together with communities, the NT creates ambitious works of participatory theatre in deep partnerships that unite theatres and local organisations – showing that nothing brings us together like theatre.
The National Theatre needs your support to shape a bright, creative future. For more information, please visit nationaltheatre.org.uk.
@NationalTheatre
@NT_PressOffice
Sky Arts exists to bring more art to more people across the UK. In 2020, with the creative industries under serious threat, we threw open our doors to make the channel free for everyone to watch. We've redoubled our mission to increase access to the arts and we're committed to getting everyone involved as the industry recovers. The fact is, we need the arts now like never before, and Sky Arts brings them straight to your living room.
We have something for everyone, championing creative talent by showcasing the best in music, theatre, dance, literature, opera and visual art. From Glyndebourne to Grime and Cézanne to The Style Council, we've got your passions covered. Millions of viewers tune in to hit returning series such as Portrait Artist of the Year, Urban Myths and British cultural institution The South Bank Show, but our acclaimed new programmes might take you anywhere from Pinter's house with Danny Dyer to a Scottish road trip with Samuel Johnson.
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. Sky Arts is the headline sponsor of National Theatre Live in the UK and we work with cultural partners across the country including the
English National Opera, Royal Academy of Arts, Tate, Creative Industries Federation and Coventry City of Culture to name but a few.
You can watch Sky Arts for free on Freeview channel 11 and Freesat channel 147. If you've got Sky or a Now TV entertainment pass, you can also watch over 2,000 hours of shows exclusively on demand.
Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in all the top U.S. markets and to more than 45 countries.
BY Experience, pioneer of global live cinema events, presents the most in-demand arts events in cinemas. Since 2009, BY Experience helped launch and continues to distribute National Theatre Live to cinemas and other venues globally (excluding the UK and China). BY Experience is the Worldwide Distribution Representative of the Metropolitan Opera's award-winning and critically acclaimed Live in HD series (from 2005 to the present).
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SOURCE Fathom Events | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/26/national-theatre-live-partnership-with-empire-street-productions-broadcasts-jodie-comer-her-west-end-debut-prima-facie-harold-pinter-theatre-cinemas-worldwide-presented-by-fathom-events-by-experience/ | 2022-04-26T20:01:51Z |
‘She was so close to death’: Horse forced to ride down highway in 2020 now in recovery
CHICAGO (WLS) - The man known as the ‘Dread Head Cowboy’ gained national attention by riding his horse during protests after the 2020 killing of George Floyd.
But an 8-mile-long ride landed the infamous cowboy behind bars and nearly ended the horse’s life, officials say.
That horse is now getting attention and care from an Illinois horse farm.
Jim Larson, the owner of Forest View Farms, says the 20-year-old black-and-white-painted horse, called Nunu, has a bit of an ego and loves getting attention.
“She’s very comfortable and boy, couldn’t get enough care,” Larson said. “Everyone and their brother and sister, that’s their pet.”
The horse’s condition is a big deal now because when she first arrived at the farm, she required 24-hour care for weeks.
“I mean, she was so close to death,” Larson said. “It was wrenching, really, because this horse was really in sad shape.”
Nunu was ridden for eight miles on the Dan Ryan Expressway for a political stunt by Adam Hollingsworth two years ago.
Hollingsworth would plead guilty to aggravated cruelty to animals and was sentenced to a year in jail. He also relinquished custody of Nunu.
“She was cold and clammy, couldn’t get up,” Terry Wenninger, the Forest View Farm facilities manager, said. “My first thought was to call the vet because I don’t even know if she was going to stay up in the trailer.”
Forest View Farms formally took possession of Nunu earlier this year.
“Remarkable, what’s happened,” Larson said. “But she’s come back pretty gosh darn good.”
Nunu still has some stiffness in her back legs, but her owners say she is moving well.
“I love her. She’s a good girl,” Wenninger said. “To trust people as much as she does after everything she went through it amazes me.”
With all the rehabilitation, rest and care, it is possible Nunu could be ridden. But most likely, the rest of her days will be filled with gentle walks with friends and visitors.
Copyright 2022 WLS via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/05/24/she-was-so-close-death-horse-forced-ride-down-highway-2020-now-recovery/ | 2022-05-24T20:56:11Z |
FORT MYERS, Fla., Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chico's FAS, Inc. (NYSE: CHS) (the "Company" or "Chico's FAS") today announced it will be participating in the Wells Fargo 5th Annual Consumer Conference, to be held in Dana Point, CA.
Molly Langenstein, Chief Executive Officer and President, and Patrick J. Guido, Executive Vice President – Chief Financial Officer, are scheduled to participate in a fireside chat on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at 8:40 AM PDT, which will be webcast live and available following the event in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.chicosfas.com.
ABOUT CHICO'S FAS, INC.
Chico's FAS is a Florida-based fashion company founded in 1983 on Sanibel Island, Fla. The Company reinvented the fashion retail experience by creating fashion communities anchored by service, which put the customer at the center of everything we do. As one of the leading fashion retailers in North America, Chico's FAS is a company of three unique brands - Chico's, White House Black Market and Soma - each thriving in their own white space, founded by women, led by women, providing solutions that millions of women say give them confidence and joy.
Our Company has a passion for fashion, and each day, we provide clothing, shoes and accessories, intimate apparel and expert styling in our brick-and-mortar boutiques, digital online boutiques and through StyleConnect®, the Company's customized, branded, digital styling tool that enables customers to conveniently shop wherever, whenever and however they prefer.
As of July 30, 2022, the Company operated 1,258 stores in the U.S. and sold merchandise through 58 international franchise locations in Mexico and 2 domestic franchise airport locations. The Company's merchandise is also available at www.chicos.com, www.chicosofftherack.com, www.whbm.com and www.soma.com.
To learn more about Chico's FAS, please visit our corporate website at www.chicosfas.com. The information on our corporate website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this press release or incorporated into our federal securities law filings.
Investor Relations Contact:
Michelle Miller
Director, Investor Relations
Chico's FAS, Inc.
(239) 346-3156
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SOURCE Chico's FAS, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/chicos-fas-inc-participate-wells-fargo-5th-annual-consumer-conference/ | 2022-09-12T12:00:50Z |
FAIRFAX, Va., July 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Freedom Financial Holdings (OTCQX: FDVA), (the "Company" or "Freedom"), the holding company for The Freedom Bank of Virginia (the "Bank") today announced net income of $2,227,385 or $0.30 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2022. This compares to net income of $2,784,296 or $0.38 per diluted share, for the linked quarter and net income of $2,626,381 or $0.36 per diluted share for the three months ending June 30, 2021.
Joseph J. Thomas, President, and CEO, commented, "We experienced the full impact of cyclical changes in the economy in the second quarter of 2022 as fee-based revenue fell meaningfully, but the decline was largely offset by very strong core income from loan growth and net interest margin expansion. As interest rates increased, the residential real estate market began to cool, with mortgage banking revenues declining by $1.04 million or 51.29%. Likewise, as the federal government's Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") wound down, the Bank's income from PPP loan forgiveness decreased by $364,438 or 244.42%, in the second quarter of 2022, compared to the same period in 2021. Our banking team was able to offset these expected declines in fee-based revenue with growth in net interest income (excluding the impact of PPP loans) of 18.24% in the second quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. This was driven by strong growth in loans held for investment (excluding PPP loans) of 28.72% annualized and 23.50% annualized growth in deposits, relative to the prior quarter. In response to the increase in interest rates, the Bank's net interest margin expanded by 27-basis points to 3.65% in the second quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. Consequently, our pre-tax, pre-provision net income declined by 11.5% to $3.24 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. Notably, the allowance for loan losses at 1.13% (excluding PPP loans) and Tier 1 Capital Ratio at 13.84% puts us in a very strong position to manage through a potentially more challenging economic environment and continue to focus on proactively serving and innovatively growing with our clients."
Second Quarter 2022 Highlights include:
- Net income for the second quarter was $2,227,385 or $0.30 per diluted share compared to net income of $2,784,297 or $0.38 per diluted share in the linked quarter and net income of $2,626,381 or $0.36 per diluted share for the three months ending June 30, 2021.
- Return on Average Assets ("ROAA") was 1.01% for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared to 1.29% for the linked quarter and 1.24% for the three months ended June 30, 2021.
- Return on Average Equity ("ROAE") was 11.44% for the three months ended June 30, 2022, compared to 13.53% for the linked quarter and 13.65% for the three months ended June 30, 2021.
- Total assets were $895.52 million on June 30, 2022, an increase of $32.40 million or 3.75% from the end of the prior quarter and an increase of 2.15% from total assets on December 31, 2021.
- Loans held-for-investment (excluding PPP loans) increased by $41.60 million or 7.16% during the quarter.
- PPP loan balances decreased by $3.66 million during the second quarter on loan forgiveness and mortgage loans held for sale decreased by $4.49 million during the same period, on a decline in mortgage activity.
- Cash balances at the Federal Reserve decreased by $5.40 million during the second quarter.
- Available for sale investment securities increased by $1.28 million during the second quarter.
- Total deposits increased by $41.90 million or by 5.86% in the second quarter. Non-interest-bearing demand deposits increased by $8.04 million from the linked quarter to $216.21 million and represented 28.58% of total deposits on June 30, 2022.
- Excluding income from PPP loans, net interest income in the second quarter of 2022 increased by $1.68 million or by 29.17% compared to the same period in 2021. Excluding PPP loans, the net interest margin for the second quarter of 2022 was 3.62%, higher by 9 basis points compared to the prior quarter and was higher by 49 basis points compared to the same period in 2021. The net interest margin for the second quarter of 2022 was 3.65% if the income from PPP loans was included.
- The cost of funds was 0.45% for the second quarter, higher by 9 basis points compared to the linked quarter and higher by 3 basis points compared to the same period in 2021, as deposit and borrowing costs increased during the quarter.
- Non-interest income decreased by 8.84% compared to the linked quarter and decreased by 27.72% compared to the same period in 2021. The decrease in non-interest income compared to the linked quarter was primarily due to lower mortgage revenue and other fee income. The decrease in non-interest income compared to the calendar quarter was primarily due to lower mortgage revenue stemming from a slowdown in mortgage activity, partially offset by higher revenue from SBA loan sales and other fee income.
- Non-interest expense in the second quarter increased by 3.72% compared to the linked quarter and was higher by 6.09% compared to the same period in 2021. The increase in non-interest expense in linked quarters was primarily due to higher professional fees and an increase in data processing expenses. Higher expenses compared to the calendar quarter were primarily related to an increase in compensation costs in the second quarter of 2022.
- The Efficiency Ratio was 65.10% for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared to 61.70% for the linked quarter and 62.38% for the same period in 2021.
- Non-accrual loans were relatively unchanged in the second quarter from the prior period, and the ratio of non-performing assets to total assets was 0.97% on June 30, 2022, compared to 0.11% on June 30, 2021.
- As a result of an increase in loans held-for-investment during the quarter and an assessment of the risks in the held-for-investment loan portfolio, the Company recognized a $375,000 provision for loan losses during the second quarter and the ratio of the allowance for loan and lease losses ("ALLL") to loans held-for-investment was 1.11% (or 1.13% excluding PPP loans, which carry a full faith and credit guarantee of the US Government) compared to 1.12% in the linked quarter (or 1.15% excluding PPP loans);
- The Bank continues to be well capitalized and capital ratios continue to be strong with a Leverage ratio of 11.95%, Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 13.84%, Tier 1 Risk Based Capital ratio of 13.84% and a Total Capital ratio of 14.77%.
Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") Activity
For the first six months of 2022, 103 PPP loans with balances of $13.35 million were forgiven by the SBA, and the Company recognized $608,952 of income from acceleration of processing fees associated with these loans. This compares with 354 PPP loans with balances of $55.08 million forgiven by the SBA in the first six months of 2021 with $1.09 million of income from acceleration of processing fees.
Net Interest Income
The Company recorded net interest income of $7.61 million for the second quarter of 2022, relatively unchanged compared to the linked quarter, and 11.53% higher than the same period in 2021.
Income from PPP loans during the second quarter of 2022 was $166,582 (including $149,105 from forgiveness of $3.15 million of PPP loans), compared to PPP loan income of $504,177 (including $459,847 from forgiveness of $14.42 million of PPP loans) during the first quarter of 2022, and $1,061,442 (including $513,343 from forgiveness of $30.25 million of PPP loans) during the second quarter of 2021. Excluding income from PPP loans, net interest income in the second quarter of 2022 increased by $338,597 or 4.76%, and by $1.68 million or 29.17% compared to the same period in 2021.
The net interest margin in the second quarter of 2022 was 3.65%, lower by 3 basis points compared to the linked quarter and higher by 27 basis points compared to the same period in 2021. Excluding PPP loans, the net interest margin increased by 9 basis points compared to the prior quarter and was higher by 49 basis points compared to the same period in 2021.
The following factors contributed to the changes in net interest margin during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the linked quarter:
- Yields on average earning assets increased by 7 basis points to 4.08% compared to 4.01% in the linked quarter, driven by higher yields on investments and deposits at the Federal Reserve, offset partially by lower yields on loans during the quarter.
- Loan yields decreased by 8 basis points to 4.67% from 4.75% in the linked quarter, while yields on investment securities increased by 33 basis points to 2.78% from 2.45% in the linked quarter. Excluding PPP loans, loan yields would have increased by 5 bp from the prior quarter.
- Cost of funds increased by 9 basis points to 0.45%, from 0.36% in the linked quarter, on higher deposit and borrowing costs.
- Excluding the impact of PPP loans from the second and prior quarter, the net interest margin increased by 9 basis points across linked quarters.
The following factors contributed to the changes in net interest margin during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the calendar quarter:
- Yields on average earning assets increased by 30 basis points to 4.08% compared to 3.78% in the calendar quarter, driven by higher yields on loans, investments, and deposits at the Federal Reserve.
- Loan yields increased by 19 basis points to 4.67% from 4.48% in the calendar quarter, while yields on investment securities increased by 56 basis points to 2.78% from 2.22% in the calendar quarter.
- Cost of funds increased by 3 basis points to 0.45%, from 0.42% in the calendar quarter, on higher deposit and borrowing costs.
- Excluding the impact of PPP loans from the second and calendar quarter, the net interest margin increased by 49 basis points across quarters.
Non-interest Income
Non-interest income was $1.66 million for the second quarter, lower by 8.84% compared to the linked quarter and lower by 27.72% compared to the same period in 2021. The lower non-interest income across linked quarters was primarily due to a decline in mortgage revenue and lower fee income from other sources, while the decline in non-interest income compared to the calendar quarter was largely due to lower mortgage gain-on-sale and fee revenue, stemming from a decline in mortgage activity, partially offset by higher SBA income and fee income from other sources.
Total Revenue
Total revenue, defined as the sum of net interest income, before provision for loan losses, and non-interest income, was lower by 1.69% compared to the linked quarter, primarily due to lower non-interest income, and higher by 1.66% compared to the same period in 2021, primarily due to net margin expansion and loan growth.
Non-interest Expenses
Non-interest expenses in the second quarter of 2022 were higher by 3.72% compared to the linked quarter and increased by 6.09% compared to the same period in 2021. The increase in non-interest expenses in the second quarter compared to the prior quarter was largely due to higher professional fees and an increase in data processing expenses. Higher expenses compared to the calendar quarter were largely due to an increase in compensation costs in the second quarter of 2022.
The Efficiency Ratio was 65.10% for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared to 61.70% for the prior quarter and 62.38% for the same period in 2021.
Asset Quality
Non-accrual loans were $8,712,326 or 1.38% of loans held-for-investment as of June 30, 2022, compared to $8,770,552 or 1.48% of loans held-for-investment at the end of the linked quarter. There were no troubled debt restructurings ("TDRs") as June 30, 2022. On June 30, 2022, there were no loans that were 90 days or more past due and accruing. There was no Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO") on the balance sheet as of June 30, 2022. Total non-performing assets (defined as the sum of loans on non-accrual, loans greater than 90 days past due and accruing, loans that are TDRs but not on non-accrual, and OREO assets) were $8,712,326 or 0.97% of total assets on June 30, 2022, compared to $8,770,552 or 1.02% of assets, at the end of the linked quarter.
Following an assessment of the collectability of the loans held-for-investment at the end of the second quarter, it was determined that a $375,000 provision for loan losses was necessary to account for loan growth and changes to environmental factors. The Company booked a provision of $191,000 in the first quarter of 2022. The Company's ALLL ratio was 1.11% of loans held-for-investment (or 1.13% of loans held-for investment excluding PPP loans) as of June 30, 2022, compared to an ALLL ratio of 1.12% on March 31, 2022 (or 1.15% of loans held-for-investment excluding PPP loans).
Total Assets
Total assets on June 30, 2022, were $895.52 million compared to $863.12 million on March 31, 2022. Changes in major asset categories during linked quarters were as follows:
- Cash balances at the Federal Reserve decreased by $5.40 million
- Available for sale investment balances increased by $1.28 million
- PPP loan balances decreased by $3.66 million on loan forgiveness by the SBA
- Other loans held-for investment grew by $41.60 million
- Mortgage loans held-for-sale declined by $4.49 million
Total Liabilities
Total liabilities on June 30, 2022, were $820.05 million compared to total liabilities of $783.33 million on March 31, 2022. Total deposits were $756.58 million compared to total deposits of $714.69 million on March 31, 2022. Non-interest-bearing demand deposits increased by $8.04 million during the quarter and comprised 28.58% of total deposits at the end of the quarter, compared to 31.66% of total deposits on December 31, 2021. Other interest-bearing demand deposits increased by $9.02 million, savings deposits decreased by $730,576 and time deposits increased by $25.56 million during the quarter. Federal Home Loan Bank advances decreased by $10.75 million during the quarter, while Federal Reserve borrowings increased by $6.28 million.
Stockholders' Equity and Capital
Stockholders' equity on June 30, 2022, was $75.47 million compared to $79.79 million on March 31, 2022. Additional paid-in capital was $58.82 million on June 30, 2022, compared to $58.66 million on March 31, 2022. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ("AOCI"), which generally comprises unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities and derivative positions, decreased by $6.71 million on net unrealized losses during the second quarter of 2022. Retained earnings were $28.56 million on June 30, 2022, compared to $26.33 million at the end of the prior quarter. Total shares issued and outstanding were 7,319,006 on June 30, 2022, compared to 7,286,915 shares on March 31, 2022. The tangible book value of the Company's common stock on June 30, 2022, was $10.29 per share compared to $10.95 per share on March 31, 2022, and $10.81 per share on June 30, 2021.
As of June 30, 2022, the Bank's capital ratios were well above regulatory minimum capital ratios for well-capitalized bank holding companies. The Bank's capital ratios on June 30, 2022, and March 31, 2022, were as follows:
About Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc.
Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc. is the holding company of The Freedom Bank of Virginia, a community bank with locations in Fairfax, Reston, Chantilly, Vienna, and Manassas, Virginia. The Freedom Bank of Virginia also has a mortgage division headquartered in Chantilly. For information about deposit, loan and other services, visit the website at www.freedom.bank.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements, including our expectations with respect to future events that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from management's projections, forecasts, estimates, and expectations include: fluctuation in market rates of interest and loan and deposit pricing; general economic and financial market conditions, in the United States generally and particularly in the markets in which the Company operates and which its loans are concentrated, including the effects of declines in real estate values, increases in unemployment levels, inflation, recessions and slowdowns in economic growth, including as a result of COVID-19 and the impact of the geopolitical conflict between Russia and Ukraine; maintenance and development of well-established and valued client relationships and referral source relationships; the adequacy or inadequacy of our allowance for loan and lease losses; acquisition or loss of key production personnel; and the potential adverse effects of unusual and infrequently occurring events, such as weather-related disasters, wars, terrorist acts or public health events (such as COVID-19), and of governmental and societal responses thereto; these potential adverse effects may include, without limitation, adverse effects on the ability of the Company's borrowers to satisfy their obligations to the Company, on the value of collateral securing loans, on the demand for the Company's loans or its other products and services, on incidents of cyberattack and fraud, on the Company's liquidity or capital positions, on risks posed by reliance on third-party service providers, on other aspects of the Company's business operations and on financial markets and economic growth. The Company cautions readers that the list of factors above is not exclusive. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release, and the Company may not undertake steps to update the forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of any circumstances or events that arise after the date the forward-looking statements are made. In addition, our past results of operations are not necessarily indicative of future performance. Some of the financial tables in this document reflect classifications to accounts to improve consistency in financial reporting.
Contact:
Joseph J. Thomas
President & Chief Executive Officer
703-667-4161: Phone
jthomas@freedom.bank: Email
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SOURCE Freedom Financial Holdings | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/29/freedom-financial-holdings-announces-earnings-second-quarter-2022/ | 2022-07-29T12:57:14Z |
CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A prosecutor said Tuesday that a commercial truck driver charged in the deaths in 2019 of seven members of a Marine motorcycle club told police he caused the crash and wasn’t looking, while his lawyer said it was the fault of the lead biker, who looked over his shoulder at his fellow riders moments before the collision.
Volodymyr Zhukovskyy, 26, had taken heroin, fentanyl and cocaine on June 21, 2019, and “weaved back and forth repeatedly” before the head-on crash along U.S. Route 2 in Randolph, New Hampshire, prosecutor John McCormick said in his opening statement in Zhukovskyy’s trial in state superior court in Lancaster.
He said multiple witnesses would testify that Zhukovskyy, who said he was reaching down to get a drink before the crash, was seen going over the center line.
McCormick said Zhukovskyy knew how dangerous heroin was because on May 5 that year, he had overdosed on the drug while on a fishing trip with his family and was revived by police, who administered an overdose reversal drug.
Zhukovskyy’s lawyer, Steve Mirkin, said Zhukovskyy had taken the drugs on June 21, but he said there is no evidence that he was impaired at the time of the crash and that police did not make any observations in the hours afterward suggesting that he was impaired.
He said the president of the Jarheads Motorcycle Club, Albert “Woody” Mazza, who led the pack of riders, came into contact with Zhukovskyy’s truck first and caused the crash. Mirkin said Mazza had been drinking and his blood-alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit of .08 in New Hampshire.
He asked the jury to listen to witness accounts of what they saw and said a lot of the testimony would be inconsistent.
The first witnesses who testified were drivers who approached the crash scene from both directions. They described seeing dead bodies, including one that was under a wheel of a flatbed trailer towed by the truck, debris from the motorcycles and the truck on fire.
“It felt almost like coming upon a plane crash,” testified James Anderson. He also saw a brief confrontation with a motorcyclist and the person whom he believed to be the truck driver, yelling, ‘I’m going to kill you,’ before others came over to lead him away.
One driver who was traveling a distance behind the truck, with at least one car in between, saw it swerving and come close to the center line, but couldn’t see if the truck touched or crossed the line. Corrine Jennings testified at one point she saw smoke and reached for her phone to call 911. As she was making her way around another car that had stopped, she saw the truck hitting motorcyclists.
Jurors visited the crash scene Monday and traced Zhukovskyy’s route from an auto dealership in Gorham along the crash site, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away.
The motorcyclists who died were from New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island and ranged in age from 42 to 62. They were part of a larger group that had just left a motel along the highway and were headed to an American Legion Post in Gorham for a fundraiser.
They were traveling east when they collided with the westbound truck, which was towing the empty trailer.
Killed were Edward and Jo-Ann Corr, a couple from Lakeville, Massachusetts; Michael Ferazzi, of Contoocook, New Hampshire; Albert Mazza, of Lee, New Hampshire; Desma Oakes, of Concord, New Hampshire; Daniel Pereira, of Riverside, Rhode Island; and Aaron Perry, of Farmington, New Hampshire.
In addition to the deaths, several bikers were injured.
Zhukovskyy, of West Springfield, Massachusetts, has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of negligent homicide, manslaughter, driving under the influence and reckless conduct. He has been in jail since then.
Federal investigators said Zhukovskyy, who was returning from delivering vehicles for a Massachusetts transport company, regularly used drugs.
Zhukovskyy himself told police that he had used both heroin and cocaine that morning, but that he was “fine and OK to drive” later that evening, authorities said.
His lawyers have argued an independent analysis showed Mazza was drunk and was the one who hit the truck and caused the crash. Federal investigators found that some of the bikers and passengers were impaired by alcohol, but that it wasn’t the reason for the crash.
The National Transportation Safety Board approved a report in December 2020 that concluded that Zhukovskyy’s impairment from the drugs was the “probable cause” for him crossing the center line on the highway and sparking the fiery crash.
Prosecutors said Zhukovskyy should never have been on the road in the first place. His commercial driving license should have been revoked in Massachusetts because of a drunken driving arrest in Connecticut about two months earlier, they said. | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-us-headlines/truck-drivers-trial-to-start-in-death-of-7-motorcyclists/ | 2022-07-26T18:02:47Z |
TOKYO, Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
- Despite some unfavorable factors such as a decrease in automobile unit sales due to the semiconductor supply shortage and the lockdown of Shanghai, and an increase in the cost of raw materials, consolidated operating profit for the fiscal first quarter ended June 30, 2022, amounted to 222.2 billion yen (a year-on-year decrease by 20.9 billion yen), securing operating profit margin equivalent to that of the same period last year. This was due primarily to the effect of changes in sales prices and costs, a reduction of incentives and favorable currency effects.
- Consolidated profit for the fiscal first quarter attributable to owners of the parent amounted to 149.2 billion yen (a year-on-year decrease by 73.2 billion yen), due primarily to a decrease in the share of profit of investments accounted for using the equity method in China.
- The previously announced forecast for consolidated operating profit for the current fiscal year (April 1, 2022 through March 31, 2023) was revised upward by 20 billion yen to 830 billion yen. The previously announced forecast for profit for the fiscal year attributable to owners of the parent remains the same, 710 billion yen.
- Honda will acquire its own shares, with the maximum acquisition amount of 100 billion yen, with the purposes including improving efficiency of its capital structure and implementing a flexible capital strategy.
I. Consolidated financial summary and business-by-business results for the fiscal first quarter (3 months) ended June 30, 2022
- Sales revenue: 3,829.5 billion yen (a year-on-year increase of 6.9%)
Although automobile sales decreased, consolidated sales revenue experienced a year-on-year increase due primarily to an increase in motorcycle sales and favorable currency effects. - Operating profit: 222.2 billion yen (a year-on-year decrease of 8.6%)
- Profit for the period attributable to owners of the parent: 149.2 billion yen (a year-on-year decrease of 32.9%)
1) Motorcycle business
Sales revenue: 676.0 billion yen (a year-on-year increase of 30.5%)
Increase due primarily to a sales increase in Asia and favorable currency effects.
Operating profit: 97.8 billion yen (a year-on-year increase of 21.2%)
Increase due primarily to an increase in profit related to changes in sales prices and costs and favorable currency effects.
2) Automobile business
Sales revenue: 2,328.1 billion yen (a year-on-year increase of 3.4%)
Although sales decreased mainly in North America, sales revenue experienced a year-on-year increase due primarily to favorable currency effects.
Operating profit: 38.2 billion yen (a year-on-year decrease of 45.9%)
Decrease due primarily to a decrease in profit attributable to sales impacts.
Combined with operating profit from financial services business related to automobile sales, the estimated operating profit for automobile business is 113.9 billion yen.
3) Financial Services business
Operating profit: 78.8 billion yen (a year-on-year decrease of 14.5%)
Decrease due primarily to a decrease in profit due to lower revenue.
4) Power Product and Other businesses
Operating profit: 7.3 billion yen (a year-on-year increase of 7.7 billion yen)
Aircraft/aircraft engine business, which is included in "Other businesses," accounted for an operating loss of 3.8 billion yen.
II. Forecasts for the Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2023 (FY23)
- Sales revenue: 16,750 billion yen
(upward revision of the previously announced forecast by 500 billion yen)
- Operating profit: 830 billion yen
(upward revision of the previously announced forecast by 20 billion yen)
- Profit for the fiscal year attributable to owners of the parent: 710 billion yen
(no change from the previously announced forecast)
III. Acquisition of the Company's Own Shares
For the purpose of improving efficiency of its capital structure and implementing a flexible capital strategy, among others, Honda resolved the following details regarding the acquisition of its own shares at the Board of Directors meeting held today.
Consolidated Financial Results for the Fiscal 1st Quarter ended June 30, 2022
Forecasts for the Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2023 (FY23)
For Additional Information, please visit;
https://global.honda/investors/library/financialresult.html
SOURCE: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
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SOURCE Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/honda-motor-co-ltd-hmcnyse-announced-its-consolidated-financial-summary-fiscal-1st-quarter-ended-june-30-2022-forecasts-fiscal-year-ending-march-31-2023/ | 2022-08-10T11:45:18Z |
Burn permit system scheduled for maintenance this Sunday
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - On Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. MT, Idaho Department of Land’s (IDL) burn permit website will undergo maintenance and burn permits will not be available during this time.
Since the permits are valid 10 days from the date of issue, those who have plans to burn this weekend should apply for a permit now. Permits are free, applying only takes a few minutes, and the permit is issued immediately.
During closed burning season from May 10 to October 20, Idahoans living in unincorporated areas are required to obtain a free burn permit from IDL prior to burning debris. Permits are available online through a self-serve application.
The burn permit system reduces the number of false alarms and allowing fire crews to respond only when truly needed. Having a burn permit on record means fire managers can also respond more quickly to fires that escape. | https://localnews8.com/news/idaho/2022/05/20/burn-permit-system-scheduled-for-maintenance-this-sunday/ | 2022-05-20T17:58:49Z |
Secret Service recovers $286M in stolen pandemic loans
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Secret Service said Friday that it has recovered $286 million in fraudulently obtained pandemic loans and is returning the money to the Small Business Administration.
The Secret Service said an investigation initiated by its Orlando office found that alleged conspirators submitted Economic Injury Disaster Loan applications by using fake or stolen employment and personal information and used an online bank, Green Dot, to conceal and move their criminal proceeds.
The agency worked with Green Dot to identify roughly 15,000 accounts and seize $286 million connected to the accounts.
“This forfeiture effort and those to come are a direct and necessary response to the unprecedented size and scope of pandemic relief fraud,” said Kevin Chambers, director for COVID-19 fraud enforcement at the Justice Department.
Billions have been fraudulently claimed through various pandemic relief programs — including Paycheck Protection Program loans, unemployment insurance and others that were rolled out in the midst of the worldwide pandemic that shutdown global economies for months.
In March, the Government Accountability Office reported that while agencies were able to distribute COVID-19 relief funds quickly, “the tradeoff was that they did not have systems in place to prevent and identify payment errors and fraud” due in part to “financial management weaknesses.”
As a result, the GAO has recommended several measures for agencies to prevent pandemic program fraud in the future, including better reporting on their fraud risk management efforts.
Since 2020, the Secret Service initiated more than 3,850 pandemic related fraud investigations, seized over $1.4 billion in fraudulently obtained funds and helped to return $2.3 billion to state unemployment insurance programs.
The latest seizure included a collaboration of efforts between Secret Service, the SBA’s Inspector General, DOJ and other offices.
Hannibal “Mike” Ware, the Small Business Administration’s inspector general, said the joint investigations will continue “to ensure that taxpayer dollars obtained through fraudulent means will be returned to taxpayers and fraudsters involved face justice.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/08/26/secret-service-recovers-286m-stolen-pandemic-loans/ | 2022-08-26T14:58:07Z |
RIO DE JANEIRO, April 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Shell Brasil Petróleo Ltda.(Shell Brasil), a subsidiary of Shell plc, signed the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) to formally acquire a 25 percent stake of the Atapu field. Shell paid $ 1.1 billion to Petrobras for the increased stake in the field. With the contract now signed, Shell will start receiving its additional share of oil from the field.
"This transaction is the latest proof point of our commitment to further strengthening our advantaged deep-water positions in Brazil," said Zoe Yujnovich, Shell Upstream Director. "With a leading global deep-water portfolio, this stake in the Atapu field directly supports our Powering Progress strategy to deliver the stable, secure energy resources the world needs today while investing in the energy of the future."
Shell's Powering Progress strategy includes increasing investment in lower carbon energy solutions, while continuing to pursue the most resilient, competitive, and highest return Upstream investments to sustain material cash delivery into the 2030s, to support our dividend and fund Shell's transformation. Our global deep-water portfolio represents two core positions in our Upstream business with prolific basins in the US and Brazil, along with an exciting frontier exploration portfolio in Mexico, Suriname, Argentina, and West Africa.
- Shell Brasil Petroleo is a subsidiary of Shell plc.
- In December 2021 in the Transfer of Rights auction, Shell along with partners Petrobras (52.5%, operator) and TotalEnergies (22.5%) acquired the rights to volumes from the Atapu field.
- Atapu is a pre-salt oil field in the Santos Basin located in waters depths of about 2,000 meters. Production started in 2020 through the P-70 Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading unit (FPSO) which has the capacity to produce 150,000 barrels of oil equivalent (boe) per day.
- For more details on Shell's Powering Progress strategy, please visit www.shell.com/poweringprogress.
The companies in which Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this press release, "Shell", "Shell Group" and "Group" are sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" are also used to refer to Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These terms are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular entity or entities. ''Subsidiaries'', "Shell subsidiaries" and "Shell companies" as used in this press release refer to entities over which Shell plc either directly or indirectly has control. Entities and unincorporated arrangements over which Shell has joint control are generally referred to as "joint ventures" and "joint operations", respectively. "Joint ventures" and "joint operations" are collectively referred to as "joint arrangements". Entities over which Shell has significant influence but neither control nor joint control are referred to as "associates". The term "Shell interest" is used for convenience to indicate the direct and/or indirect ownership interest held by Shell in an entity or unincorporated joint arrangement, after exclusion of all third-party interest.
This press release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Shell. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning the potential exposure of Shell to market risks and statements expressing management's expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as "aim", "ambition", ''anticipate'', ''believe'', ''could'', ''estimate'', ''expect'', ''goals'', ''intend'', ''may'', "milestones", ''objectives'', ''outlook'', ''plan'', ''probably'', ''project'', ''risks'', "schedule", ''seek'', ''should'', ''target'', ''will'' and similar terms and phrases. There are a number of factors that could affect the future operations of Shell and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this [report], including (without limitation): (a) price fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas; (b) changes in demand for Shell's products; (c) currency fluctuations; (d) drilling and production results; (e) reserves estimates; (f) loss of market share and industry competition; (g) environmental and physical risks; (h) risks associated with the identification of suitable potential acquisition properties and targets, and successful negotiation and completion of such transactions; (i) the risk of doing business in developing countries and countries subject to international sanctions; (j) legislative, judicial, fiscal and regulatory developments including regulatory measures addressing climate change; (k) economic and financial market conditions in various countries and regions; (l) political risks, including the risks of expropriation and renegotiation of the terms of contracts with governmental entities, delays or advancements in the approval of projects and delays in the reimbursement for shared costs; (m) risks associated with the impact of pandemics, such as the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak; and (n) changes in trading conditions. No assurance is provided that future dividend payments will match or exceed previous dividend payments. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors that may affect future results are contained in Shell plc's Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2021 (available at www.shell.com/investor and www.sec.gov). These risk factors also expressly qualify all forward-looking statements contained in this press release and should be considered by the reader. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, April 27, 2022. Neither Shell plc nor any of its subsidiaries undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. In light of these risks, results could differ materially from those stated, implied or inferred from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.
Also, in this press release we may refer to Shell's "Net Carbon Footprint" or "Net Carbon Intensity", which include Shell's carbon emissions from the production of our energy products, our suppliers' carbon emissions in supplying energy for that production and our customers' carbon emissions associated with their use of the energy products we sell. Shell only controls its own emissions. The use of the term Shell's "Net Carbon Footprint" or "Net Carbon Intensity" are for convenience only and not intended to suggest these emissions are those of Shell plc or its subsidiaries.
Shell's operating plan, outlook and budgets are forecasted for a ten-year period and are updated every year. They reflect the current economic environment and what we can reasonably expect to see over the next ten years. Accordingly, they reflect our Scope 1, Scope 2 and Net Carbon Footprint (NCF) targets over the next ten years. However, Shell's operating plans cannot reflect our 2050 net-zero emissions target and 2035 NCF target, as these targets are currently outside our planning period. In the future, as society moves towards net-zero emissions, we expect Shell's operating plans to reflect this movement.
This press release may contain certain forward-looking non-GAAP measures such as cash capital expenditure and divestments. We are unable to provide a reconciliation of these forward-looking Non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures because certain information needed to reconcile those Non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures is dependent on future events some of which are outside the control of Shell, such as oil and gas prices, interest rates and exchange rates. Moreover, estimating such GAAP measures with the required precision necessary to provide a meaningful reconciliation is extremely difficult and could not be accomplished without unreasonable effort. Non-GAAP measures in respect of future periods which cannot be reconciled to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are calculated in a manner which is consistent with the accounting policies applied in Shell plc's consolidated financial statements.
The contents of websites referred to in this press release do not form part of this press release.
We may have used certain terms, such as resources, in this press release that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC. Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Form 20-F, File No 1-32575, available on the SEC website www.sec.gov.
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SOURCE Shell Brasil | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/28/shell-signs-production-sharing-contract-atapu-field-brazil/ | 2022-04-28T02:44:10Z |
$80 million ‘Field of Dreams’ movie site expansion unveiled
DYERSVILLE, Iowa (KCRG/Gray News) - The “Field of Dreams” movie site will soon feature more baseball fields, team dormitories, a hotel and an outdoor concert amphitheater.
The new owners of the “Field of Dreams” movie site, Go the Distance Baseball, LLC, unveiled their master plan to expand the site after buying it in September.
The $80 million expansion will add nearly 100 acres to the original 190-acre site. That additional land will provide space for nine new baseball fields, dormitories for youth teams, and a hotel to be completed in phases by the end of 2023.
Other additions include a 100,000-square-foot field house, an outdoor concert amphitheater, an RV park, jogging trails and a large park inclusive for children and adults with disabilities. These additions will be completed in phases through 2025.
In a news release, Go the Distance Baseball said the plan will create a youth baseball and softball oasis while maintaining the property as a working farm.
“I am grateful for all that the game of baseball gave me throughout my career, and now I am proud and excited to lead a team that is building opportunities for players, fans and families to enjoy our national pastime and for teams to train and compete,” said Frank Thomas, CEO of Go the Distance Baseball and a first-ballot member of the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Go the Distance Baseball also said the development will create about 170 new full-time equivalent jobs.
Copyright 2022 KCRG via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/14/80-million-field-dreams-movie-site-expansion-unveiled/ | 2022-04-16T02:34:13Z |
Runaway inflation took a breather in July, with consumer prices increasing by 8.5% year over year, a slower pace than the 9.1% increase in June, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday.
On a month-to-month basis, inflation was 0%, compared to the 1.3% increase in June. Prices began rising sharply in early 2021, with the rate of inflation almost doubling over the past year.
"I think inflation probably has peaked in year-over-year terms," said Bill Adams, chief economist at Comerica Bank.
Still, Americans have found themselves paying more -- sometimes much more -- for everyday items like gas and eggs, as well as larger purchases like vehicles. While consumer spending has yet to tumble, there is growing evidence that rising prices are eroding confidence and altering behavior.
The Consumer Price Index is an aggregated snapshot of a wide array of goods and services Americans buy. In July, lower gas prices effectively canceled out higher prices for food and housing. Core inflation, which does not include volatile food and fuel components, rose 5.9% year-over-year, matching the increase seen in June.
The months' worth of increases in the CPI poses a growing challenge for the Federal Reserve, which has committed to reining in soaring prices while trying to avoid plunging the economy into a recession.
Expectations that the Fed will yet again raise its benchmark interest rate by 75 basis points at its next monetary policy making meeting have fallen since Wednesday's inflation data came out. More analysts now expect the central bank to raise rates by 50 basis points.
"The Fed is already committed to a rate hike path," said Ross Mayfield, investment strategy analyst at Baird. "The market is saying the Fed is closer to finished than they are to the beginning, [but] I'm not sure we're quite there yet."
What Americans are paying more for
Energy costs slowed for the month of July, falling 4.6%, although they remained 32.9% higher than a year before. Gasoline prices dropped by 7.7% month over month, providing some relief for drivers, but they were still 44% higher than the year before.
However, food costs continue to jump sharply, increasing by 1.1% over the month and rising 10.9% on a year-over-year basis, the largest increase since May 1979. Food at home spiked by 13.1% on a year-over-year basis. The run-up in food prices was a surprise, as lower energy prices were expected to help ease the sticker shock Americans have experienced at the supermarket over the past several months.
Price increases for new vehicles slowed a bit, rising 0.6% following last month's rise of 0.7%. Used car and truck prices ticked down by 0.4%, and airline fares dropped by 7.8%.
The rate of increase in housing costs also moderated slightly, with the rise in overall shelter costs, rent and owners' equivalent rent each down by a fraction of a percentage point from the previous month. However, shelter costs are still up 5.7% year over year.
The rising amount Americans have to spend to keep a roof over their heads worries economists.
"It's stickier and it's harder to fix than some of the other pressures," Mayfield said.
Housing is also a big component of the CPI, given that mortgage or rent payments are often a family's biggest monthly expense. Housing makes up roughly a third of CPI and comprises about 40% of core CPI.
Although rising mortgage rates have cooled housing sales, a lack of supply has driven prices to new highs.
"There's such a substantial, and almost structural, mismatch between supply and demand," Mayfield said.
Dawit Kebede, senior economist at the Credit Union National Association, said the long lag time between when housing prices rise and when they are fully reflected in the CPI means that housing could continue to put pressure on both headline and core inflation metrics for a year or more. "It is difficult to estimate how high this peak will be," he said.
The jump in home prices has largely locked out many young adults and other would-be buyers who don't have existing home equity to put toward the purchase of a new house.
"There's a fair amount of folks that are staying renters longer than planned," said Jeffrey Roach, chief economist for LPL Financial, which drives up demand for homes to rent.
Although robust wage growth has helped mitigate some of the higher expenses American families are facing, experts warned that this also can contribute to inflation lasting even longer.
"I think there's going to be a little bit more pressure based on the labor market alone," Mayfield said.
Demand for workers right now is very high: The unemployment rate fell to 3.5% in July on the strength of 528,000 new jobs, while wages rose at an annual rate of 5.2%.
"I think in the near term, the labor scarcity kind of puts a bottom on how far inflation can fall," Adams said.
He noted that the labor market has begun to show signs of fatigue, with initial weekly jobless claims rising and reports of layoffs in some sectors.
"By next year, I expect labor scarcity and wage pressures to be less of a factor for inflation than they are right now," Adams said.
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‘A stalwart’: World mourns Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II
LONDON (AP) — Condolences poured in from around the world Thursday after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, whose rule saw Britain through decades of change.
Elizabeth had been on the throne since 1952, when the nation was still rebuilding from the destruction of World War II, and became a global icon of calmness and fortitude through years of upheaval.
“She lived history, she made history, and with her passing she leaves a magnificent, inspirational legacy,” Israeli President Isaac Herzog said.
In India, once a British colony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called her “a stalwart of our times.”
“She personified dignity and decency in public life,” Modi tweeted.
In Washington, U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ordered the flags lowered to half-staff at the U.S. Capitol, her office said.
Caribbean leaders from Bermuda to Dominica and beyond mourned the queen’s death.
“Her passing ends an iconic 70-year reign and is a profound loss for the commonwealth of nations and the world,” tweeted Roosevelt Skerrit, Dominica’s prime minister.
Minutes later, Bermuda Premier David Burt issued a statement noting that her reign “has spanned decades of such immense change for the United Kingdom and the world.”
Elizabeth died at age 96 at Balmoral Castle, her summer residence in Scotland, where members of the royal family had rushed after her health worsened.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/09/08/stalwart-world-mourns-britains-queen-elizabeth-ii/ | 2022-09-08T19:47:41Z |
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A 21-year-old Russian soldier facing the first war crimes trial since Moscow invaded Ukraine pleaded guilty Wednesday to killing an unarmed civilian.
Sgt. Vadim Shishimarin could get life in prison for shooting a a 62-year-old Ukrainian man in the head through an open car window in the northeastern Sumy region on Feb. 28, four days into the invasion.
Shishimarin, a captured member of a Russian tank unit, was prosecuted under a section of the Ukrainian criminal code that addresses the laws and customs of war.
Ukrainian Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova previously said her office was readying war crimes cases against 41 Russian soldiers for offenses that included bombing civilian infrastructure, killing civilians, rape and looting.
It was not immediately clear how many of the suspects are in Ukrainian hands and how many would be tried in absentia.
Prosecutors plan to continue presenting evidence against Shishimarin following his guilty plea, although the trial is like to be shorter.
As the inaugural war-crimes case in Ukraine, Shishimarin’s prosecution was being watched closely. Investigators have been collecting evidence of possible war crimes to bring before the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
Venediktova’s office has said it was looking into more than 10,700 potential war crimes involving more than 600 suspects, including Russian soldiers and government officials.
With help from foreign experts, prosecutors are investigating allegations that Russian troops violated Ukrainian and international law by killing, torturing and abusing possibly thousands of Ukrainian civilians.
Shishimarin’s trial opened Friday, when he made a brief court appearance while lawyers and judges discussed prosecedural matters. After his plea on Wednesday, the proceedings were continued until Thursday, when the trial is expecgted to resume in a large courtroom to accomodate more journalists.
Ukrainian authorities posted a few details on social media last week from their investigation in his case.
Shishimarin was among a group of Russian troops that fled Ukrainian forces on Feb. 28, according to Venediktova’s Facebook account. The Russians allegedly fired at a private car and seized the vehicle, then drove to Chupakhivka, a village about 200 miles east of Kyiv.
On the way, the prosecutor-general alleged, the Russian soldiers saw a man walking on the sidewalk and talking on his phone. Shyshimarin was ordered to kill the man so he wouldn’t be able to report them to Ukrainian military authorities. Venediktova did not identify who gave the order.
Shyshimarin fired his Kalashnikov rifle through the open window and hit the victim in the head, Venediktova wrote.
“The man died on the spot just a few dozen meters from his house,” she said.
The Security Service of Ukraine, known as the SBU, posted a short video on May 4 of Shyshimarin speaking in front of camera and briefly describing how he shot the man. The SBU described the video as “one of the first confessions of the enemy invaders.”
“I was ordered to shoot,” Shyshimarin said. “I shot one (round) at him. He falls. And we kept on going.”
Russia is believed to be preparing war crime trials for Ukrainian soldiers.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/russian-soldier-pleads-guilty-at-ukraine-war-crimes-trial/ | 2022-05-19T08:46:11Z |
Solution will help company attain greater supply chain transparency, boost operational efficiency and continue to improve customer satisfaction
NEW YORK, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Infor®, the industry cloud company, today announced that Mount Franklin Foods – a leading manufacturer of branded, contract and private-label confectionary, nuts, snacks, and food service products – has chosen Infor's CloudSuite Food & Beverage solution to support rapid business growth and help accelerate its digital transformation efforts.
Mount Franklin Foods, headquartered in El Paso, Texas, serves major retailers, wholesalers, co-manufacturing customers and food service distributors through its Sunrise Confections & Azar Nut divisions and affiliates.
As Mount Franklin Foods emerged from the pandemic and continued to grow at an exponential rate, the company recognized that it needed more agility to respond to a rapidly changing market and take advantage of new opportunities.
The company chose to partner with Infor and plans to deploy its CloudSuite Food & Beverage solution, supply chain planning, Infor Factory Track, dynamic Enterprise Performance Management (dEPM), and warehouse mobility to attain greater supply chain transparency, boost logistical and operational efficiency, meet and exceed quality and compliance requirements, and continue to improve customer satisfaction.
According to Mayela Soto, chief financial officer at Mount Franklin Foods, "Infor's cloud solutions will help us be more proactive in the way that we serve internal and external customer needs and accelerate our larger, organizational transformation initiatives. We now have the tools and insights to make better decisions faster."
"Infor is providing us with the tools and resources to help take our company to the next level," she said.
With Infor CloudSuite Food & Beverage, Mount Franklin Foods will integrate its systems into one platform – a single source of truth for real-time, reliable data. As the company continues to grow, and supplement its organic growth with acquisitions, this will minimize the time and costs associated with system integrations. The company also will have access to near real-time financial data for business insights and financial reporting.
Infor's cloud solution will help the company maintain higher levels of security and risk management. And with higher levels of supply chain visibility and transparency, the company can continually improve food safety and minimize waste.
Learn more about Infor's solutions for food & beverage manufacturers: https://www.infor.com/industries/food-beverage
Mount Franklin Foods, LLC is a leading North American manufacturer of high-quality confections, nut products, mints, culinary plant-based proteins, bake mixes, powdered beverages and ingredients headquartered in El Paso, Texas. The company proudly serves major retailers, wholesalers, co-manufacturing customers and food service distributors through its Sunrise Confections & Azar Nut divisions, as well as through affiliates: Hospitality Mints and Element Food Solutions. For more information, please visit www.mountfranklinfoods.com.
Infor is a global leader in business cloud software specialized by industry. Infor's mission-critical enterprise applications and services are designed to deliver sustainable operational advantages with security and faster time to value. We are obsessed with delivering successful business outcomes for customers. Over 60,000 organizations in more than 175 countries rely on Infor's 17,000 employees to help achieve their business goals. As a Koch company, our financial strength, ownership structure, and long-term view empower us to foster enduring, mutually beneficial relationships with our customers. Visit www.infor.com.
Media contact:
Steve Bauer
Infor
steven.bauer@infor.com
(650) 670-7135
Copyright ©2022 Infor. All rights reserved. The word and design marks set forth herein are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Infor and/or related affiliates and subsidiaries. All other trademarks listed herein are the property of their respective owners. www.infor.com
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SOURCE Infor | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/mount-franklin-foods-selects-infor-cloudsuite-food-amp-beverage-solution-meet-its-appetite-business-growth-amp-digital-transformation/ | 2022-06-28T16:02:42Z |
LOS ANGELES, July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Didi Hirsch to Host Press Conference at the Suicide Prevention Center to Declare the Acquisition of Teen Line and the Expansion of Youth Related Services
On Thursday, July 14th, 2022, Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services (Didi Hirsch) will host a press conference to announce its acquisition of Teen Line. Teen Line provides support, resources, and hope to youth through a hotline of professionally trained teen counselors and works to de-stigmatize and normalize mental health through outreach programs.
The acquisition of Teen Line will allow Didi Hirsch to expand their services to youth, one of the most heavily impacted and vulnerable groups to face our nation's mental health crisis and further strengthen its role as a leader in the mental health space.
The news media are invited to attend in person at the Didi Hirsch SPC Center located at 10277 W Olympic Blvd.
- DATE: July 14th, 2022
- TIME: 10:00am (PST)
- LOCATION: Didi Hirsch Suicide Prevention Center (SPC) | 10277 W. Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90067 (parking lot area)
- WHO: Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services CEO Lyn Morris will be joined by the COO of Teen Line, Cheryl Eskin and Vice President of Community Engagement at Cedars-Sinai, Jonathan Schreiber, to officially announce the acquisition of Teen Line, an accredited Crisis Center by the American Association of Suicidology, Didi Hirsch Board Chair Michael Wierwille, Teen Line/Didi Hirsch Board Chair Andy Riemer, as well as two teens who have shown exceptional leadership as volunteers of Teen Line.
- WHAT: Press conference to announce Didi Hirsch's acquisition of Teen Line. Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services (Didi Hirsch), home of the nation's premier Suicide Prevention Center and a leading whole-person mental health and crisis care provider, announces its acquisition of Teen Line, the leading global teen-to-teen peer support line and youth-centered mental health organization. Teen Line provides support, resources, and hope to youth through a hotline of professionally trained teen counselors and works to de-stigmatize and normalize mental health through outreach programs. The acquisition bridges two leading organizations to more holistically support our most vulnerable demographic when mental health challenges among our youth are reaching crisis levels. Didi Hirsch will have the opportunity to combine its mental health crisis care capabilities with Teen Line's successful track record and youth-support services to enhance the organization's whole-person care model further.
- WHY: Some of the most vulnerable age groups impacted by today's unprecedented mental health crisis are children, adolescents and young adults, with suicide being the second leading cause of death for 10 to 24-year-olds. Each day in our nation, there are an average of over 5,400 suicide attempts by young people in grades 7-12. In 2021, Teen Line de-escalated almost one thousand suicidal crises; other frequent reasons for contact were anxiety, stress, depression, loneliness and family relationship issues. During Didi Hirsch's long-standing relationship with Teen Line of over 20 years, Didi Hirsch has answered calls outside of when Teen Line's high school volunteers run the hotline between 6-10 pm PST. Didi Hirsch will enhance Teen Line's impact and reach during this critical time in our nation's youth mental health crisis. Didi Hirsch will have the opportunity to combine its mental health crisis care capabilities with Teen Line's successful track record and youth-support services to expand its mission.
- NOTABLE ATTENDEES:
- MEDIA PARKING: Available on-site
- Photo and video footage of the aforementioned event will be provided by Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services.
- Access to the press conference is reserved for media representatives with confirmation.
- Media representatives who want to attend the press conference but do not have confirmation need to contact didihirsch@disrptpr.com as soon as possible.
Media Contact:
didihirsch@DISRPTPR.com
310.849.0304
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SOURCE Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/13/didi-hirsch-announces-acquisition-teen-to-teen-peer-support-line-teen-line/ | 2022-07-13T18:39:04Z |
Lawrence man for rape of young girl he lured through social media
OSAGE Co., Kan. (WIBW) - Osage Co. authorities arrested a Lawrence man for the rape of an 11-year-old girl.
The Osage Co. Sheriff’s Office says Dominic Knapp, 18, arranged through social media to take the girl to Osage County. The girl was reported missing Sunday night. The Sheriff’s Office says Knapp was contacted while with the girl Monday, and agreed to bring her back to her Shawnee County home.
Knapp was booked into the Osage Co. Jail for rape of a child under 14 and aggravated criminal sodomy. The case remains under investigation.
Osage and Shawnee Co. authorities urge parents to speak with their children about the danger present online.
“Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells, along with Shawnee County Sheriff Brian Hill, encourage parents to openly speak to their children about internet safety, and the dangers of sharing information online and through social media platforms.”
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/15/lawrence-man-rape-young-girl-he-lured-through-social-media/ | 2022-06-15T01:25:53Z |
NEW YORK, June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Levi & Korsinsky, LLP notifies investors in Spero Therapeutics, Inc. ("Spero" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SPRO) of a class action securities lawsuit.
CLASS DEFINITION: The lawsuit seeks to recover losses on behalf of Spero investors who were adversely affected by alleged securities fraud between October 28, 2021 and May 2, 2022. Follow the link below to get more information and be contacted by a member of our team:
SPRO investors may also contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. via email at jlevi@levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212) 363-7500.
CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that defendants made false statements and/or concealed that: (i) the data submitted in support of the New Drug Application ("NDA") for the Company's product candidate, Tebipenem HBr, were insufficient to obtain approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA"); (ii) accordingly, it was unlikely that the FDA would approve the Tebipenem HBr NDA in its current form; (iii) the foregoing would necessitate a significant workforce reduction and restructuring of Spero's operations; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
WHAT'S NEXT? If you suffered a loss in Spero during the relevant time frame, you have until July 25, 2022 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
NO COST TO YOU: If you are a class member, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket costs or fees. There is no cost or obligation to participate.
WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, the team at Levi & Korsinsky has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. Our firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States.
CONTACT:
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
Ed Korsinsky, Esq.
55 Broadway, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10006
jlevi@levikorsinsky.com
Tel: (212) 363-7500
Fax: (212) 363-7171
www.zlk.com
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SOURCE Levi & Korsinsky, LLP | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/spro-lawsuit-alert-levi-amp-korsinsky-notifies-spero-therapeutics-inc-investors-class-action-lawsuit-upcoming-deadline/ | 2022-06-16T11:06:47Z |
Bill Barr subpoenaed by voting tech company Smartmatic in company’s defamation lawsuit against Fox News
By Oliver Darcy, CNN Business
Voting technology company Smartmatic on Thursday subpoenaed former Attorney General Bill Barr in its $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News, demanding he turn over any communications with the right-wing television channel’s personalities, executives, and owners.
Specifically, the subpoena from Smartmatic seeks by September 16 any communication Barr had with Fox News employees about the 2020 election, Trump campaign, or Smartmatic after January 1, 2020.
The subpoena also requires Barr to produce similar communication he may have had with Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch, whom own the channel’s parent company, and Rudy Giuliani, who previously represented former President Donald Trump. Giuliani is co-defendant in the same lawsuit.
And finally, the subpoena demands any documents or communication Barr provided to the House committee investigating the January 6 attack on the US Capitol.
Representatives for Smartmatic and Barr did not respond to requests for comment about the subpoena on Friday.
But the information from Barr, who publicly contradicted Trump’s claims of voter fraud, could further help Smartmatic prove in court that Fox News knew it was broadcasting false information about the company, but continued to do so anyway. Fox has vigorously denied defaming Smartmatic, arguing that the First Amendment protects its decision to air newsworthy remarks by Trump surrogates questioning the integrity of election results.
A New York judge earlier this year rejected Fox News’ motion to dismiss Smartmatic’s defamation lawsuit, allowing the case to move forward to discovery.
The move to subpoena Barr comes just weeks after Dominion Voting Systems, another election technology company, subpoenaed him in its separate case against Fox News.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
CNN’s Evan Perez contributed to this report. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/07/29/bill-barr-subpoenaed-by-voting-tech-company-smartmatic-in-companys-defamation-lawsuit-against-fox-news/ | 2022-07-29T20:41:17Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs determined that certain claims made by WaterWipes regarding the type and purity of ingredients used in its infant cleansing wipes were supported in context. For example, NAD found claims that simply underscore the advertiser's claimed benefit of its wipes or distinguish the number of ingredients in it wipes as compared to other competitor's wipes were properly limited and not falsely disparaging. However, NAD found that other claims that expressly or impliedly convey that competing baby wipes with more ingredients are harmful or can "cause or exacerbate diaper rash" were unsupported and recommended that they be discontinued.
NAD also recommended that WaterWipes discontinue:
- Efficacy claims that were based on the results of its "Baby Skin Integrity Comparison Survey" (BaSICS Study), including that babies cleansed with WaterWipes have a lower incidence and shorter duration of diaper rash compared to babies cleansed with other leading brands;
- "New independent clinical study reveals use of WaterWipes reduces incidence and shortens duration of diaper dermatitis in premature babies"; and
- "95% of healthcare professionals said they recommend WaterWipes."
These claims were challenged by Proctor & Gamble Company, maker of competing cleansing wipes for infants.
In a case decision issued in March, NAD determined that the BaSICS Study, which was designed to compare three different brands of baby wipes using parental observations of the incidence of diaper rash in infants from birth to eight weeks of age, does not provide adequate substantiation for WaterWipes' broad superiority claims ("#1 wipe against the causes of diaper rash" and "#1 cleansing wipes helping against the cause of diaper rash") or the establishment claim ("clinically proven as the #1 wipe against the causes of diaper rash") at issue in that challenge. Those same claims were also at issue in this challenge.
In the March decision, NAD recommended that the challenged claims be discontinued given its concerns with the reliability of the BaSICS Study. In its advertiser's statement, the advertiser agreed to abide by NAD's recommendation and discontinue its "#1" and clinically proven claims.
In the present matter, NAD determined that the BaSICS Study also does not provide adequate substantiation for the remaining BaSICS Study claims at issue in this challenge, each of which convey that WaterWipes outperformed the other wipes included in the study with respect to the incidence and shorter duration of diaper rash. Therefore, NAD recommended that WaterWipes discontinue certain claims, including:
- "New clinical study highlights how different baby wipe products can impact skin integrity of infants."
- "Baby Skin Integrity Comparison Survey reveals babies cleansed with WaterWipes had a lower incidence and shorter duration of diaper rash compared to other leading brands."
- "The [BaSICS] study of 698 mothers, showed babies cleansed with WaterWipes (brand three in the study; with the fewest ingredients) are less likely to get moderate to severe nappy rash, and if they do, it lasts fewer days compared to other leading brands."
- "For each day of nappy rash experienced by the WaterWipes babies, the rash would have lasted approximately 50% longer had mothers used the other brands – 1.69 days with brand two (p<0.001) and 1.48 days with brand one (p=0.002)."
In support of its claim "New independent clinical study reveals use of WaterWipes reduces incidence and shortens duration of diaper dermatitis in premature babies," the advertiser relied on the results of the Rogers Study, which evaluated the skin care of NICU babies by testing the implementation of particular skin care guidelines, including the use of WaterWipes.
NAD determined that the challenged claim reasonably conveys that the WaterWipes product itself helps shorter the duration of diaper dermatitis – a message not supported by the Rogers Study. NAD noted that the central finding of the Rogers Study is with respect to the study's Perineal Skin Care Guidelines and not the causal effect of using WaterWipes. Therefore, NAD recommended that the claim be discontinued.
NAD determined that the claims that simply underscore the advertiser's claimed benefit of its product (i.e., only two ingredients and 99.9% purified water) or distinguish the number of ingredients in WaterWipes as compared to other products were properly limited and not falsely disparaging to competing products. Those claims include:
- "WaterWipes baby wipes do not contain any chemicals or preservatives like other wet wipes"
- Whereas other baby wipes contain up to 16 ingredients, WaterWipes baby wipes have just two: Water (99.9%) – specially purified to clean babies' skin. A drop of fruit extract (0.1%) – to condition the skin and protect its integrity."
NAD also determined the claim "We recommend that HCPs are aware of the ingredients contained in baby wipe products being used on the delicate skin of babies. Given the minimal ingredients and purity credentials of WaterWipes, they are an ideal choice" to be supported in the context presented on the advertiser's website.
Further, NAD found the advertiser's "world's purest baby wipes" claim to be supported in context, which defined the message reasonably conveyed, that WaterWipes are the "world's purest baby wipes" because they contain only "99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract."
In contrast, NAD determined that certain other claims that expressly or impliedly convey that competing baby wipe products with more ingredients are harmful or can "cause or exacerbate diaper rash" were unsupported and recommended that they be discontinued including the claims:
- "WaterWipes baby wipes . . . don't contain the ingredients that can cause or exacerbate diaper rash,"
- "Other wipes can have up to 16 different ingredients that can irritate skin and could potentially cause or irritate diaper rash, even if they are labeled natural' or 'sensitive.'"
- "With WaterWipes, you never have to worry about what you're putting on your baby's delicate, sensitive skin because we have just two ingredients,"
- "WaterWipes are 99.9% water, which actually makes a huge difference because you can hide a lot of additional ingredients in .9%."
- Visual depiction of the number of ingredients (i.e., 2) in WaterWipes in a blue-colored heart in contrast to the number of ingredients in competing products depicted in a red circle or stop sign-like shape.
- Visual images of WaterWipes and "other wipes," each depicted as one droplet of water that convey there is something "less pure" or possibly unsafe, or harmful about the "other wipes."
NAD recommended that the claim "95% of healthcare professionals said they recommend WaterWipes" be discontinued due to a concern that use of the term "healthcare professionals" could convey the message to consumers that some pediatricians were included in the survey (which was limited to health, obstetric, and neonatal nurses). NAD also noted that healthcare professionals could include nurses, physician's assistants, and others.
In its advertiser statement, WaterWipes stated that it "agrees to comply with NAD's recommendations" although it "respectfully disagrees with certain findings related to implied takeaways of some claims."
All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive.
BBB National Programs is where businesses turn to enhance consumer trust and consumers are heard. The non-profit organization creates a fairer playing field for businesses and a better experience for consumers through the development and delivery of effective third-party accountability and dispute resolution programs. Embracing its role as an independent organization since the restructuring of the Council of Better Business Bureaus in June 2019, BBB National Programs today oversees more than a dozen leading national industry self-regulation programs, and continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-directed marketing, and privacy. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.
The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. NAD reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and leveling the playing field for business.
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SOURCE BBB National Programs | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/national-advertising-division-finds-certain-waterwipes-claims-infant-cleansing-wipes-supported-recommends-others-be-discontinued/ | 2022-08-03T13:47:12Z |
As the Iran nuclear deal nears, Saudi Arabia is rebuilding its stake in Lebanon
By Nadeen Ebrahim, CNN
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati is due to visit Saudi Arabia in the next two weeks, a first trip by a Lebanese premier to the Arab powerhouse in almost four years following an unprecedented rupture in relations.
The last visit was in 2018 by then-Prime Minister Saad Hariri, who in 2021 stepped down nearly nine months after he was tasked with forming the country’s government.
One of Lebanon’s biggest benefactors, Saudi Arabia’s ties with Beirut had been progressively deteriorating over the past decade, a split fueled by Iran-backed Hezbollah’s growing influence in the country. This came to head in 2017 when Hariri, once Saudi Arabia’s main ally in Lebanon , resigned in a televised statement from Riyadh. Lebanese politicians said he was forced to take the decision after being detained in the kingdom. Hariri and Saudi Arabia denied those claims.
The tensions culminated in a break in relations in October following Lebanese information minister George Kordahi’s open criticism of the Saudi-led coalition’s war in Yemen. The comments were made before Kordahi took office, but Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states withdrew their envoys from Beirut after recordings of the criticism resurfaced. The minister subsequently resigned.
Lebanon has for more than two years been suffering from a financial crisis the World Bank says is one of the world’s worst since the nineteenth century. The Levantine country’s woes have been further exacerbated by political wrangling, corruption and disputes over a delicate power-sharing system.
Ties with Riyadh seem to be on the mend, however. Saudi Arabia and its Arab allies Kuwait and Yemen have said they’ll re-instate their ambassadors in Beirut. The Saudi ambassador to Lebanon also hosted a Ramadan iftar banquet, which was attended by Lebanese leaders and former officials.
Do Saudi and Arab overtures to Lebanon point to a change of heart? And why now?
Michael Young, senior editor at the Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut, told CNN what this means for the Saudi-Lebanese relationship and for the region altogether.
How much had Lebanon’s relationship with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states deteriorated since 2017, and especially over the past year?
The relationship for a number of years has been problematic because the Saudis had a sensible belief that Hezbollah is the dominant political force in the country. In part this has also been exacerbated by the fact that Hezbollah has sided with the Houthis in Yemen, and of course is a close ally of Iran. This has generated Saudi ill-will toward Lebanon. This situation has also been made worse by the fact that the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Hariri has not really been very good in recent years.
At the same time, I think Saudi interests had shifted elsewhere. The Saudis’ eye is of course on Iran, but the relationship with the United States and the war in Yemen have been a major preoccupation.
What do you make of the recent overtures from Gulf states? Are ties on the mend?
There is a new way that the Arab countries in general are dealing both with Syria and Lebanon… The opening toward Lebanon is something along the lines of the opening toward the regime of Bashar al-Assad. These two aren’t completely separate.
The Arab attitude today is that they need to engage more with Syria and Lebanon. If they want to contain Iran in the region, they need to reopen ties, [and] rebuild their stakes in countries like Syria and Lebanon. And therefore it makes sense for them at this time, particularly if the JCPOA [the collapsed 2015 Iran nuclear agreement currently in renegotiation] is going to be signed, to take a new position — no longer a policy of isolation, but a policy of building up their stakes in both countries.
How does Lebanon benefit from improved relations with Saudi Arabia? Could they help it get out of economic turmoil?
I don’t think anyone wants to give money to Lebanon until there are economic reforms in the country. No one wants to lose money in Lebanon as they did before. If in the future Lebanon is going to benefit from economic aid, obviously this has to come mainly from the Arab world, particularly the Gulf Arab countries. Any Sunni prime minister in Lebanon, and particularly the present Sunni Prime Minister Mikati, has an interest and is very keen to have good relations with the Gulf countries. And they don’t want to allow Hezbollah to undermine such relations.
I don’t see money coming from the Gulf states until reforms are introduced … The Gulf is going to look at things like the progress of Lebanon’s deal with the IMF (International Monetary Fund). If Lebanon introduces reforms and the IMF deal goes through, then there is a good possibility they will help Lebanon. But until then, the most they are willing to do is to help Lebanon on humanitarian grounds, which basically means that they won’t work through the Lebanese state.
The transcript has been edited for length and clarity
Other top Middle East news
Iran president says it will target heart of Israel at ‘slightest move’ against country
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi told a military parade on Monday that Iran will target the heart of Israel at the “slightest move” against the Islamic Republic.
- Background: Israel and Iran are longtime foes, and Tehran still refuses to recognize the state of Israel. When talks between Iran and Western powers to revive a 2015 nuclear pact appeared to be nearing a conclusion, progress was stalled over a number of final sticking points, including Iran’s demand that the United States remove its elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from a list of designated foreign terrorist organizations. Israel is among a number of regional states — mainly Gulf monarchies — who have expressed concern over Iran’s burgeoning clout if sanctions are lifted following a nuclear pact.
- Why it matters: Israel has previously said that it is not bound by any deal, and that it could eventually proceed to take unilateral action against Iran’s nuclear sites. As the two states continue to target one another’s interests across the region, the US continues to reassure Israel and its Gulf allies that it will prevent a nuclear-armed Iran and that its attacks will be curbed.
Putin and Saudi crown prince discuss OPEC+, Ukraine in phone call — Kremlin
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Saturday discussed “joint work in the OPEC+” aimed at “ensuring the stability of the oil market,” said the Kremlin in a statement. The leaders also exchanged thoughts on “the situation around Ukraine and Yemen settlement.”
- Background: OPEC+, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, including Russia, have thus far refused to heed US calls to increase oil production after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, causing grave supply shortage and a hike in crude prices. In March, OPEC+ also decided to drop the International Energy Agency’s data when assessing the state of the oil market.
- Why it matters: Saudi Arabia and Russia have over the last two years seen stronger ties, manifested in higher investment and a boost in bilateral trade. Amid fears of weakened American military presence in the Middle East, US-Saudi relations have been further strained by Gulf concerns over a renegotiated nuclear deal with Iran, as well as US President Joe Biden’s refusal to deal directly with the crown prince, the kingdom’s de facto ruler.
Libya oil company warns of closures as operations halt
Libya’s National Oil Company declared force majeure at Zueitina port and Al-Sharara oilfield on Monday and warned of a “painful wave of closures.”
- Background: On Sunday, Libya halted oil production from its El Feel field after protesters calling for Tripoli-based Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah to resign took over oil fields. Libya has had two competing governments since March when the eastern-based parliament appointed Fathi Bashagha to replace Dbeibah, renewing a standoff between the east and west of the country.
- Why it matters: Halting operations in El Feel and Zueitina would cripple Libya’s oil production which averaged 1.21 million barrels per day before the latest outages.
What to watch
As tensions between Israel and Palestinians rose in Jerusalem over the weekend, Palestinian politician Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, told CNN’s Becky Anderson that Palestinians are angry at the international community’s “double standards” when it comes to Israel.
“Russia receives more than 6,000 punitive acts and sanctions, [whereas there is] not a single sanction against Israeli occupation,” he said.
Watch the interview here.
Around the region
‘Suits Arabia,’ the Arabic adaptation of the hit American series ‘Suits,’ is being sued by an Egypt-based fashion brand, which claims that the show’s producers failed to pay for the suits worn on the show.
‘Suits Arabia’ was a highly anticipated show this Ramadan with some high-profile cast members such as Saba Mubarak and Asser Yasin starring in the legal drama.
The OSN originals show almost mirrors the sequence of events of its American counterpart. The core cast has been given Arabic names such as Zain Thabet for Harvey, Adam Mansour for Mike and Laila Radwan for Rachel.
The story follows a lawyer with a photographic memory but no law degree who is taken under the wing of a skilled, well-dressed attorney with a penchant for winning cases. It’s the US show that introduced the now Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, to viewers and the world.
Keeping true to the original series, the characters in “Suits Arabia” are decked out in couture suits supplied by the fashion brand Orange Square. The fashion house, which is suing the show’s production company TVision Media for about $145,000 for the price of the clothes and over $540,000 for damages, told CNN that the show failed to pay for any clothing provided for the show and called for the series to be taken off the air until the money is paid.
In a statement to CNN, Orange Square says it is entitled to damages “as a result of the exploitation of its products and the non-payment of its price.”
TVision expressed shock at the claims in a statement posted on its Facebook page, saying it has a 20-year reputation in the industry for honoring all financial commitments. The production house has since filed a counter lawsuit for civil reimbursement of upwards of $1 million for damages, according to the statement.
“It is important for the company to assure that it owes nothing to anyone,” reads the statement.
Orange Square told CNN that a court date has been set for May 7 in Egypt and a motion has been filed to stop the broadcast of the show till the full amount has been paid.
By Mohammed Abdelbary
Photo of the day
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/04/18/as-the-iran-nuclear-deal-nears-saudi-arabia-is-rebuilding-its-stake-in-lebanon/ | 2022-04-18T15:11:13Z |
Biden administration expected to release new COVID-19 booster guidelines
(CNN) - Next month, Americans will have access to new COVID-19 boosters to fight off two of the omicron strains.
The Biden administration is expected to issue “operational guidelines” to prepare for the rollout of the updated boosters, according to a source close to the administration’s planning discussions.
According to the source, the Department of Health and Human Services will release the guidelines to public health departments in the next week or two. The guidelines will include information about ordering vaccines and what to expect in terms of the logistical plan.
On Tuesday, the White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator shared that the new boosters will be available in early to mid-September.
The shots are meant to give protection from the BA.4 and BA.5 coronavirus subvariants.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/17/biden-administration-expected-release-new-covid-19-booster-guidelines/ | 2022-08-17T16:34:36Z |
McDonald’s, Qualcomm rise; Ford, Domino’s fall
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Thursday: McDonald’s, Qualcomm rise; Ford, Domino’s fall.
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Thursday: McDonald’s, Qualcomm rise; Ford, Domino’s fall. | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national-business/2022/04/28/mcdonalds-qualcomm-rise-ford-dominos-fall/ | 2022-04-28T22:15:31Z |
Residents shocked over Memorial Day shooting on Siesta Key
SIESTA KEY, Fla. (WWSB) - Gunshots in different parts of Siesta Key Village and around Sunset Point Beach on Monday stunning people who live and work here.
“I’m really shocked that this happened here at that time of day,” said Catherine Luckner, President of the Siesta Key Association. “Families were out with their children walking around, coming in from the beach, very scary.”
Michael Holderness owns the property near Beach Access 3, that’s where deputies say the fighting and gunfire started. He is also owner of two resort hotels nearby. He says he’s been pushing for lifeguards at this part of the beach and more security here for a long time. Holderness says the problem is this part of Siesta Key is privately and publicly owned.
“It’s just become a known lawless place, private property with no rules and no regulations,” said Holderness. “It’s very sad to see what’s happening on Siesta Key.”
Many people say it’s the young people who have been bringing on a lot of these problems, including Monday’s gunshots.
“When you have 1500 high school kids coming from the beaches together, and fighting and everything else and moving through the village, it’s very disruptive,” said Holderness. “These are not law abiding, tax paying citizens that have any business of being out there on private land.”
Residents say shootings don’t happen here, and there is hope that this quiet and quaint island won’t see anything like this again.
“The last thing in the world any of us want is for people to come here and be afraid,” said Luckner. “We have such a relaxed atmosphere here, that’s one of the reasons why we like to keep it a low key, family-oriented kind of place.”
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/06/01/residents-shocked-over-memorial-day-shooting-siesta-key/ | 2022-06-01T02:30:14Z |
Fast casual innovator offers sustainably-sourced, freshly sauteed shrimp in a tangy lime sauce for guests to enjoy at participating locations throughout summer
SAN DIEGO, June 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading fast-casual Mexican restaurant QDOBA today announced the introduction of Citrus Lime Shrimp, a new limited-time protein now available at participating QDOBA locations across the U.S. and Canada. QDOBA's new Citrus Lime Shrimp features sustainably sourced and BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) rated shrimp, all freshly sauteed in-house in a tangy citrus lime sauce. Seafood lovers, rejoice!
"In our successful market test, we learned that our guests want a lighter protein alternative they can feel good about eating," said QDOBA's Chief Marketing Officer Karin Silk. "Our Citrus Lime Shrimp is tossed in a tangy lime sauce and sauteed right in our kitchens. It delivers all the vibrant, fresh flavors you would expect from QDOBA and is a great choice for summertime. Guests can add our new shrimp to any entrée or indulge in our Surf & Turf Bowl or Burrito which feature Citrus Lime Shrimp and Grilled Adobo Steak. Because why choose only one when you can have double the protein AND double the flavor!"
QDOBA guests can create their own flavor masterpiece with Citrus Lime Shrimp or choose from two exclusive new chef-crafted Signature Eats:
- Surf & Turf Burrito or Bowl—Freshly sauteed Citrus Lime Shrimp and Grilled Adobo Steak are paired with hand-crafted guacamole (at no extra charge), smoky chile crema, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese served over a bowl of cilantro lime rice and black beans.
- Citrus Lime Shrimp Burrito or Bowl (online exclusive)—Freshly sauteed Citrus Lime Shrimp, smoky chile crema, pico de gallo, cilantro lime rice, black beans, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese are wrapped in a warm flour tortilla or served in a bowl.
QDOBA's Citrus Lime Shrimp is available to order in-restaurant, online or through the QDOBA app for pick-up or delivery at participating locations in the U.S. and Canada. For more information about QDOBA and its flavorful chef-crafted menu, visit www.QDOBA.com.
About QDOBA Mexican Eats
QDOBA is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant with more than 740 locations in the U.S. and Canada. Committed to bringing flavor to people's lives, QDOBA uses ingredients freshly prepared in-house by hand throughout the day to create a variety of flavorful menu options. Guests can experience QDOBA's delicious offerings by enjoying one of its chef-crafted signature eats for convenience and ease, or by customizing their own burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and salads to suit their personal tastes and cravings. For four years running, QDOBA has been voted the "Best Fast Casual Restaurant" as part of the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.
Backed by 25 years of proven success in the United States, and recently Canada and Puerto Rico, QDOBA is prioritizing franchise growth in key markets such as Arizona, Georgia, Ohio, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Texas and Pennsylvania. For additional information about the QDOBA franchise opportunity, visit www.qdobafranchise.com.
Discover more at www.QDOBA.com or on the QDOBA app, which is available for download on the iTunes App Store or Google Play. Fans can also connect with QDOBA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and TikTok.
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SOURCE QDOBA | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/23/qdoba-mexican-eats-introduces-new-limited-time-protein-its-flavor-packed-menu-with-citrus-lime-shrimp/ | 2022-06-23T13:13:15Z |
Industry experts will gather to discuss the most cutting edge topics at the cross section of finance, open source and technology, revealing recent developments and the direction of open source in financial services.
SAN FRANCISCO, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Linux Foundation, the nonprofit organization enabling mass innovation through open source, and co-host Fintech Open Source Foundation (FINOS), a nonprofit whose mission is to accelerate adoption of open source software, standards and best practices in financial services, today announced the conference schedule for Open Source in Finance Forum London 2022 (OSFF). The event takes place July 13 in London, UK. The schedule can be viewed here.
OSFF is the only conference dedicated to driving collaboration and innovation in financial services through open source and this year, will be held as part of Fintech Week London, a partnership emphasizing the importance of open source software and open collaboration in the financial services industry.
The event will feature 30+ sessions, gathering senior leaders and technologists from financial services, technology and open source to deepen collaboration and drive innovation across the industry in order to deliver better code, faster.
Conference Session Highlights:
- Managing OSS Risks in Finance - Pradeep Jadhav, Bank of New York Mellon
- FDC3 in the Wild - Real World Use Cases That Help Evolve the Standard - Kris West, Cosaic & Dimiter Georgiev, Symphony
- Safe to Fail Open Source Culture - Sylvia Lobo, Digital14
- When Open Source & Finance Collide - Keith Bergelt, Open Invention Network
- The Challenges of Deploying Real-time AI for Finance and How Open Source Can Help - Nava Levy, Redis
- Extending SBOMs to Describe AI Systems - Kate Stewart, The Linux Foundation & Karen Bennet, Technical Consultant
With Additional Talks By These Companies:
- Accenture
- Canonical
- EPAM
- Goldman Sachs
- PwC
- Red Hat
- VMWare
Confirmed keynote speakers include Kim Prado, CIO, US Capital Markets, I&CB and Office of the COO at BMO Capital Markets, Gabriele Columbro, Executive Director at FINOS, Hilary Carter, VP of Research at The Linux Foundation, and Jim Zemlin, Executive Director at The Linux Foundation. Additional keynotes will be announced in the coming weeks.
Registration is offered at the early price of 149 GBP through May 25. Members of The Linux Foundation receive a 20 percent discount - members can contact events@linuxfoundation.org to request a member discount code. Members of FINOS can attend at no cost - members can contact osff@finos.org to request the FINOS Member registration code.
Health and Safety
Attendees will be required to be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus and will need to comply with all on-site health measures, in accordance with The Linux Foundation Code of Conduct. To learn more, visit the Health & Safety webpage.
Diversity & Need-Based Scholarships and Travel Funding
Applications for diversity and need-based scholarships are currently being accepted here. The Linux Foundation's Travel Fund is also accepting applications, with the goal of enabling open source developers and community members to attend events that they would otherwise be unable to attend due to a lack of funding. We place an emphasis on funding applicants who are from historically underrepresented or untapped groups and/or those of lower socioeconomic status. To learn more and apply, click here.
Sponsor
For information on becoming an event sponsor, click here or email us for more information and to speak to our team.
Press
Members of the press who would like to request a press pass to attend should contact Kristin O'Connell.
About FINOS
FINOS (The Fintech Open Source Foundation) is a nonprofit whose mission is to foster adoption of open source, open standards and collaborative software development practices in financial services. It is the center for open source developers and the financial services industry to build new technology projects that have a lasting impact on business operations. As a regulatory compliant platform, the foundation enables developers from these competing organizations to collaborate on projects with a strong propensity for mutualization. It has enabled codebase contributions from both the buy- and sell-side firms and counts over 40 major financial institutions, fintechs and technology consultancies as part of its membership. FINOS is also part of the Linux Foundation, the largest shared technology organization in the world.
About the Linux Foundation
Founded in 2000, the Linux Foundation is supported by more than 2,000 members and is the world's leading home for collaboration on open source software, open standards, open data, and open hardware. Linux Foundation's projects are critical to the world's infrastructure including Linux, Kubernetes, Node.js, and more. The Linux Foundation's methodology focuses on leveraging best practices and addressing the needs of contributors, users and solution providers to create sustainable models for open collaboration. For more information, please visit linuxfoundation.org.
The Linux Foundation Events are where the world's leading technologists meet, collaborate, learn and network in order to advance innovations that support the world's largest shared technologies.
Visit our website and follow us on Twitter, Linkedin, and Facebook for all the latest event updates and announcements.
The Linux Foundation has registered trademarks and uses trademarks. For a list of trademarks of The Linux Foundation, please see its trademark usage page: www.linuxfoundation.org/trademark-usage. Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.
Media Contact
Kristin O'Connell
The Linux Foundation
koconnell@linuxfoundation.org
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SOURCE The Linux Foundation | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/linux-foundation-fintech-open-source-foundation-announce-schedule-open-source-finance-forum-london-2022-july-13/ | 2022-05-19T08:23:21Z |
STERLING, Va., July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- National Cyber Group, seeking to address the critical shortage of cybersecurity personnel with the appropriate blue team skills, reports that traditionally underserved populations now have access to training that transforms lives – from stay-at-home moms to veterans to Uber drivers to high school graduates and everyone in between.
No matter which reference source, the cybersecurity workforce gap is significant and growing, cited at nearly 2 million cybersecurity defenders needed to put a stop to the exploitation of sensitive data, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
"If this gap persists, we'll lose the war," says Philip Niedermair, Senior Advisor to the Cyberspace Solarium Commission and National Cyber Group Board Director. "We're finally getting the support to prioritize people skills in the equation of arming our nation properly, and at the same time, helping anyone who seeks a career change." This proven solution is attracting more than 45% women in the academy cohorts, where learners get trained as a Cybersecurity Analyst in order to become one. "Inclusion ensures we have more holistic critical thinking, and we need everyone at the table," Niedermair emphasizes.
With a median annual salary of $99,000 USD, depending on experience according to ZipRecruiter, how does one obtain experience for the Cybersecurity Analyst role, which is foundational and yet job listings seem to require multiple years of experience? Answer: an 'un'bootcamp program that ensures graduates hit the ground running day one on the job because they are trained in an actual SOC, using real networks, real technologies, and real attacks, according to Omer Arslan, co-founder of National Cyber Group's CyberNow Labs division. Why the term unbootcamp? "Because we're not just preparing people to cram for a test in a week, and we don't have time to wait years for expensive, theoretical degrees to solve this gap," says Arslan.
Elena Popova, CyberNow Labs (CNL) cohort 8 graduate and now Cybersecurity Analyst Incident Responder with General Electrics, states that "even the Tek recruiter said the CNL program is awesome, and she recommends it to her friends." Elena also interviewed with Georgetown University, whose IT Director told her she was "the only person who described exactly how the SOC should operate."
"Working directly with trainees when they reach the career services phase of the program is completely gratifying," says Alexandria Bushrod, Director of Career Services at National Cyber Group. "Helping anyone get that first job is a win for everyone – the certified graduates who eagerly want to put their training to use, the hiring employers who anxiously need qualified staff, our nation that needs protecting. When they work the plan, the plan works," Bushrod reports.
Hardworking former stay-at-home mom to 4 children, who struggled to leverage her Engineering background and started down a path toward a Master's in Public Education when she came to the U.S., Pinar Bahceci gained interest in this field when one of her kids got involved in a Cyber Patriot Program teaching kids basic security rules while online. A CyberNow Labs graduate, Pinar is now a Cybersecurity Specialist at Deloitte, which has the largest SOC globally. Watch her story>
Pre-applications are being accepted for the Cohort starting July 23, 2022
For more information, view the Recorded June Q&A Session, go to https://cybernowlabs.com/application.php or contact us at: enrollment@cybernowlabs.com.
National Cyber Group (NCG) has taken the high road to engineer a national cybersecurity workforce accelerator that is affordable, accessible, and outcome oriented. With the acquisition of Total Seminars and CyberNow Labs in 2022, NCG brings scaled outreach, job placement, community development, and thought leadership to the pressing need for developing an elite corps of cybersecurity professionals to arm our nation against growing threats present in our economy.
Learn more at NationalCyber.com.
Media Contact: Tricia Sacchetti, tsacchetti@nationalcyber.com
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SOURCE National Cyber Group | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/accessible-affordable-soc-based-cybersecurity-analyst-training-step-forward-inclusion-amp-solving-gap/ | 2022-07-06T16:30:17Z |
KID FROST, YO-YO, SPICE 1, DJ BATTLECAT, ARABIAN PRINCE, LIL EAZY E, AND MORE
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS TO DEATH ROW RECORDS, RUTHLESS RECORDS, AND OTHERS
THE BRONX, N.Y., June 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Universal Hip Hop Museum (UHHM) today announced a private, industry-only event, HIP HOP ROADSHOW, LOS ANGELES, Thursday, June 23, 2022, 7 PM – 10 PM, at the Petersen Automotive Museum, kicking off BET Weekend. The event will recognize the significant contributions of west coast artists and serve as a means of engaging the music industry and local Hip Hop icons. Special recognition awards will be presented to Eazy E (posthumously) and Ruthless Records, Death Row Records, Kid Frost, DJ Battle Cat, Yo-Yo, Spice 1, and Arabian Prince for their significant contributions to global Hip Hop Culture. The program will also include an overview of west coast Hip Hop history and discussions on how to best curate exhibits that accurately reflect the rich history of the west.
"Now that the museum's structure has been completed, we must engage the Hip Hop community across the country to ensure that we preserve the culture's most treasured artifacts, and the history of its respective regions. This event is the just beginning of a national road trip to do just that," stated Rocky Bucano, President and Executive Director, Universal Hip Hop Museum."The significance of the west coast's contribution to Hip Hop is undeniable. We want to share the museum's progress and build relationships with our global Hip Hop community. The first stop is Los Angeles."
Tina Marie Tyler, Vice-Chair, Artist Relations Committee, and Event Producer, echoes that sentiment adding, "The music, artists, and culture drive everything we do at the museum. This is an opportunity to not only acknowledge the rich west coast Hip Hop history but also engage artists so that their journey is accurately immortalized through museum exhibition, educational programs, and historical entries."
DJ Silky D, DJ Cli-N-Tel, Klass One, David Rivera, LaTonya "Zblkharte" Allen, Tasha "Diamond" Stills, Nahnii A, Chris "The Glove" Taylor, DJ Domino, Flex 1, Jackie Silva, and Sonya Pruneda.
Universal Music Group, Sony Music, The Orchard, Rite1 Entertainment, Hip Hop 4 Peace, Legendaire Peach Tea Rum, Boombox Junkie, Bass Boss, and Ladylike Entertainment.
5:30 PM – Media set-up
6 PM - Red Carpet Arrivals
Tina Marie Tyler, Vice-Chair, Artist Relations, and Executive Producer, Universal Hip Hop Museum
Anchored in the birthplace of Hip Hop culture, the Universal Hip Hop Museum broke ground in the Bronx in 2021. Built as a space for audiences, artists, and technology to converge and create unparalleled educational and entertainment experiences, the museum is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024. The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future.
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SOURCE The Universal Hip Hop Museum | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/03/universal-hip-hop-museum-jump-starts-bet-weekend-with-hip-hop-roadshow-los-angeles/ | 2022-06-03T12:23:32Z |
US warns monkeypox could mutate to resist antiviral drug
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials are warning against overuse of the lone drug available to treat monkeypox, saying that even a small mutation in the virus could render the pills ineffective.
The Food and Drug Administration updated its guidance this week for Tpoxx, which has been prescribed to tens of thousands of patients afflicted with the virus.
In an online update, FDA officials cautioned that a single molecular change to monkeypox “could have a large impact on the antiviral activity of Tpoxx.” Since viruses are constantly evolving to overcome obstacles to infection, including drugs, regulators stressed that doctors should be “judicious” in prescribing the medication.
The call to scale back Tpoxx’s use follows weeks of criticism from HIV advocates and other patient groups who have urged the Biden administration to make the antiviral drug more widely available. Tpoxx is approved for the related smallpox virus, and its use against monkeypox is considered experimental and tightly controlled by federal officials.
Doctors wishing to prescribe the drug must submit an application to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, documenting their patient’s need and agreeing to track their results and any side effects. Officials have shipped 37,000 courses of the drug to physicians.
Tpoxx works by targeting a single protein found on monkeypox, smallpox and similar viruses. The FDA said this week that multiple reports in laboratory, animal and human settings suggests multiple ways in which monkeypox could develop resistance to the therapy.
The update came as federal officials on Thursday expressed cautious optimism about the trajectory of the outbreak, noting that new cases have fallen about 50% since their peak in August.
During a White House briefing, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky attributed the decline to vaccinations, educational outreach and individuals reducing behaviors linked to spread. The vast majority of U.S. cases have been in men who have sex with men, though officials emphasize that the virus can infect anyone.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease official, noted that resistance is always a risk when using antiviral drugs.
“That’s why we’re uncomfortable when you only have a single drug,” Fauci told reporters. He added that a recently launched study of Tpoxx supported by the National Institutes of Health will track signs of mutation that could lead to resistance. The study is expected to enroll more than 500 patients across 60 U.S. sites.
Last month, the Biden administration invoked rare emergency powers to stretch the nation’s limited supply of monkeypox vaccines. And last week a separate declaration expedited the use of experimental tests for the virus.
But no changes were made to allow emergency use of Tpoxx, stoking complaints from groups representing gay and bisexual men.
The U.S. government’s national stockpile contains has more than 1.7 million courses of Tpoxx, originally manufactured for use during a potential bioterrorism attack.
The FDA approved the medication in 2018 under its “animal rule,” which allows approval based on animal data when human testing is unethical or unfeasible. Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980 by the World Health Organization, ruling out the possibility for human studies.
Even though the drug was approved for smallpox, its effectiveness was measured in monkeys infected with monkeypox, considered a reasonable predictor of smallpox’s effect on humans. Animals receiving Tpoxx survived at higher rates than those on a placebo. But FDA officials have cautioned that results in animals must be confirmed in human testing.
“Without human trials, we don’t know if Tpoxx is beneficial for humans with monkeypox,” FDA commissioner Dr. Robert Califf told Senate lawmakers at a hearing this week.
The CDC reported last week that 3.5% of patients tracked through its Tpoxx program reported side effects, mainly headache and nausea.
The agency has only gotten back about 200 forms from physicians documenting patient’s initial symptoms and results, accounting for less than 1% of the doses shipped since the start of the outbreak.
___
Stobbe reported from New York
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/09/15/us-warns-monkeypox-could-mutate-resist-antiviral-drug/ | 2022-09-15T19:02:26Z |
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ex Populus, the Web3 game developer, has announced the addition of two prominent creators in the NFT space, Deeze and Farokh, as key members of the Ex Populus advisory board. DeezFi and Farokh have both been long-time collaborators with Ex Populus co-founder Soban Saqib (@Sobylife) and have kept a close eye on Ex Populus developments over the past year.
"I'm excited to help Ex Populus become the best Web3 game developer possible. We've been talking closely throughout the last year of building and I've been impressed. Tobias, Soby, and the rest of the team have a grand vision for the space and the team to pull it off. I believe gaming + social applications are what will bring the next 10,000,000+ people to the web3 space and I'm stoked to help in this mission," said Deeze, Director of Vibes at Fractional
Farokh and Deeze will provide additional guidance and insight to the Ex Populus team on all of their projects moving forward to maximize the potential that Web3 communities will play Ex Populus games and embrace the related NFT collections. Ex Populus has continued to attract A-list talent to its Advisory Board throughout 2022, a clear signal that the company is quickly climbing the ranks of elite Web3 game companies.
"As someone who is passionate about onboarding people into Web3 and building communities, I am looking forward to helping Ex Populus onboard gamers into space. I am happy to provide my insights to this amazing team, who has shown that they are capable to attract world-class game and animated film talent to their growing team," said Farokh, co-creator of Rug Radio
"Thanks to my co-founder, Soby, we are privileged and delighted to have Deeze and Farokh join our counsel of key industry talent to provide their insights and influence the direction of the company and its games," said Tobias Batton, co-founder and CEO of Ex Populus.
Ex Populus is backed by Animoca, Com2US, CMS, CitizenX and several other prominent game and Web3 investors. The company has sold out multiple collectible drops over the past year including LAMO action figures, The Decentralized Autonomous GigaUnits trading cards and is expected to drop Mike Tyson's Iron Pigeons trading card set when their first game, Final Form, hits early access later this year.
About Ex Populus
The Ex Populus Vision is to bring joy to people around the globe with the world's most compelling games and entertainment at the highest level possible. Ex Populus' mission is to work with the next generation of elite content creators and bring their games to Web3 and the Metaverse.
Socials
Web: https://expopulus.com/
Discord: https://discord.gg/expopulus
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ExPopulus
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SOURCE Ex Populus | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/ex-populus-web3-game-studio-join-forces-with-deeze-farokh-nft-thought-leaders/ | 2022-08-15T14:29:23Z |
Law officers testifying for committee on Uvalde shooting
UVALDE, Texas (AP) — A legislative committee investigating the deadly shooting at a Texas elementary school last month is set to hear more testimony from law enforcement officers on Monday.
State Rep. Dustin Burrows, who is chairing the committee investigating the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, said they would hear more witness testimony from the Uvalde Police Department, in addition to speaking with another officer from the school district police and a member of the Department of Public Safety.
“We want to at least compliment all the law enforcement agencies for being cooperative and providing the witnesses we have asked for,” said Burrows, a Republican from Lubbock.
After Burrows’ opening statements during the committee hearing in Uvalde, the committee went into executive session, blocking the public from hearing witness testimony.
Last Thursday, Burrows signaled impatience with the Uvalde Police Department, saying it was unclear whether they would testify voluntarily before the panel. But he said Friday that Uvalde police officials had agreed to speak with the committee.
Burrows said that testimony would continue on Tuesday in Austin. He said he hoped to provide information on when at least a preliminary report would be released to the public.
An 18-year-old gunman killed 19 students and two teachers at the school on May 24. Questions about why police did not confront and kill the gunman for more than an hour, even as anguished parents outside the school urged officers to go in and panicked children called 911 from inside.
Law enforcement officials have provided little or conflicting information since the shooting, sometimes withdrawing statements hours after making them. Officials have declined to offer details, citing ongoing investigation.
Some are concerned that Texas officials will use a legal loophole to block records from being released — even to the victims’ families — once the case is closed. The law’s exception protects information from being released in crimes for which no one has been convicted. The Texas Attorney General’s Office has ruled that it applies when a suspect is dead.
Officials also haven’t released records sought under public information laws to media outlets, including The Associated Press, often citing broad exemptions and the ongoing investigation. It has raised concerns about whether such records will be released, even to victims’ families.
Others interviewed behind closed doors by the committee include school staff.
Burrows has defended the committee interviewing witnesses in private and not revealing their findings so far, saying its members want an accurate account before issuing a report.
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Find more AP coverage of the Uvalde school shooting: https://apnews.com/hub/uvalde-school-shooting
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/06/20/law-officers-testifying-committee-uvalde-shooting/ | 2022-06-20T22:33:03Z |
MIAMI, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- To continue our mission, CBT Technology Institute, the accredited trade and vocational school located in South Florida, announced the launch of a more robust website and the new courses offered within their division of Continuing education and professional development division.
"We continue to seek various resources for our students, alumni, and community to train the skills needed to decrease the gap and labor shortage found within the trade industry. Our employers and our faculty at CBT continuously speak toward new ideas for curricula that make the highest impact," said Luis Llerena, President & CEO of CBT Technology Institute.
CBT Technology Institute launched the website nds.cbt.edu to allow the community to access the most current courses. As of today, CBT has been able to offer these courses mostly to their potential graduates and alumni, but since the website has launched, it has been a valuable resource to increase awareness. In an effort to support employment readiness of students, it has been the mission of the organization to add essential certificate courses so that students can continue to build their confidence and increase their earning potential.
Two of the most recent additions that have been added are the HVAC Estimating and Electrical Estimating courses. These studies will allow the candidate to estimate projects and cover topics like the estimating process, types of estimates, direct and indirect costs, and bidding strategies. These types of courses also support the candidate in utilizing relevant software related to their industry. CBT focuses on providing the best quality outcomes in their programs and affording students and alumni to continue to Begin. Belong. BeMore.
For more information, please visit the website nds.cbt.edu
About CBT Technology Institute
CBT Technology Institute provides career training through a hands-on learning approach within the construction, technology, and allied health fields at its three locations across Miami-Dade County (Cutler Bay, Flagler, and Hialeah.) Over the past 32 years, the organization has graduated thousands of students into the Miami-Dade County workforce through more than 73 graduation ceremonies. The College's involvement with employers, local organizations, and strategic business initiatives has opened up plenty of opportunities for our current students and graduates.
CBT Technology Institute is also listed as a Military-friendly school and participates in the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program; and is approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to participate in the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to enroll International F-1 Visa students. The College is nationally accredited by ACICS, licensed by the Commission of Independent Education (CIE), and certified by the US Department of Education to receive Title IV funding.
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SOURCE CBT Technology Institute | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/08/cbt-technology-institute-launches-new-website-division-continuing-education-professional-development/ | 2022-04-08T17:29:21Z |
48 million Americans have hearing loss, many still don't have accessible communications required by ADA
ROCKVILLE, Md., July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) – the leading voice for the growing number of Americans with hearing loss – marks the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), with a call for more progress on accessible communication. HLAA participated in the passage of the landmark 1990 civil rights legislation, requiring equal access for people with disabilities in public spaces, jobs, schools, transportation, and government services.
HLAA was instrumental in getting accessible communications, such as captioning and assistive listening systems, included in the ADA over three decades ago, and still advocates on behalf of the 48 million Americans who have hearing loss. HLAA wants people with hearing loss to understand their rights by visiting hearingloss.org/KnowYourRights.
"There's no question that accessibility has improved over the last 32 years, but there's a long way to go, especially when it comes to accessibility for invisible disabilities like hearing loss," says Barbara Kelley, executive director of HLAA. "We've become accustomed to looking for curb cutouts and wheelchair-accessible elevators, but many people don't know that those same public places are also required to have assistive listening systems for people with hearing loss," she explains.
Public places like movie theatres, lecture halls, stadiums — and anywhere with a public address system — are required to provide access to special listening systems and devices for patrons with hearing loss, but according to HLAA, equipment is often missing, broken or non-existent.
Another area that often lacks accessibility is the workplace. A recent survey of people with hearing loss conducted by HLAA found 44% reported accessibility issues on the job, which can lead to frustration, isolation, and job loss. Accessible communication in health care is also a common and serious problem, according to HLAA.
"The ADA requires both employers and health care providers to provide accessible listening systems or captioning to people with hearing loss on request, but these systems are often missing or inadequate," says Lise Hamlin, HLAA's director of public policy. "You can imagine the dangers of not fully understanding your doctor's instructions because your telehealth appointment doesn't have captions available, or you were unable to get the proper listening device in the emergency room to know what's happening to a loved one," adds Hamlin.
HLAA notes that accessibility doesn't always mean providing a sign language interpreter, since many who have hearing loss don't use American Sign Language (ASL). Accessible technology — like hearing loop systems that feed into hearing aids or amplifying receivers, or real-time captioning that provides the text of the spoken word — may be needed instead.
HLAA is urging people to learn what accommodations are available, by visiting hearingloss.org/KnowYourRights, and taking steps to file a complaint if they're not provided.
"After 32 years, it's time to demand more. People with hearing loss, and all people with disabilities, deserve to have equal access to public spaces, work, school, and health care. It's up to people with disabilities themselves to know their rights and file complaints if they don't get access," says Barbara Kelley.
HLAA also urges all Americans to get their hearing checked, and not to wait to get treated. Untreated hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline, depression, dementia, and falls. HLAA provides ongoing employment and health care access resources, to empower people to live full lives with hearing loss.
The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) is the nation's leading organization representing the growing number of people with hearing loss in the U.S. Its mission is to open the world of communication to people with hearing loss through information, education, support, and advocacy.
HLAA was instrumental in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) more than 30 years ago, and still fights for the rights of people with hearing loss at local and national levels and offers support online and in chapters across the country.
HLAA's Walk4Hearing events raise awareness and funds in cities across the country and offer support to families dealing with hearing loss. HLAA also publishes Hearing Life magazine and other news and important resources at hearingloss.org.
Carrie Johnson
cjohnson@hearingloss.org
301.657.2248 ext. 109
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SOURCE Hearing Loss Association of America | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/hlaa-marks-32nd-anniversary-americans-with-disabilities-act-ada-calls-more-progress-accessible-listening/ | 2022-07-25T11:05:03Z |
Dolly Parton among Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy winners
NEW YORK (AP) — Country superstar Dolly Parton, who made a big donation to help fund coronavirus vaccine research in 2020, is among this year’s Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy recipients.
Also being honored are Dallas entrepreneur Lyda Hill, Kenyan industrialist Manu Chandaria, and Lynn and Stacy Schusterman, from the Oklahoma investment family.
The award, presented by the international family of Carnegie institutions to honor innovative philanthropists, debuted in 2001 and is normally awarded every two years. It was not issued in 2021 due to the pandemic.
The 2022 honorees will receive their medals in a private ceremony in New York on Oct. 13. A priority of the ceremony is fostering personal meetings to encourage the exchange of ideas and spur potential collaboration — something this year’s honorees have already done, said Eric Isaacs, president of the Carnegie Institution for Science and a member of the medal selection committee.
Parton’s $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University Medical Center has received plenty of attention. But her fellow honoree Hill, through her Lyda Hill Philanthropies, was also an early donor to the work that would yield the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
“I invested before it was anything,” Hill told The Associated Press. “One of the things that Warren Buffett said that stuck with me was, ‘Don’t do what other people can do and will do. Do what other people can’t do and won’t do. And take risks.’ I have had to apply that to my philanthropic investments.”
Hill, who focuses her funding on advances in science and nature conservancy, as well as supporting women in those careers, said she never did get a Moderna shot.
“Unfortunately,” Hill said, “when I went to get my vaccine, I rolled my sleeves up and said, ‘What do you got?’ And she said, ‘Pfizer.’ I said, ‘OK.’”
Parton, in a statement, said she was honored to receive the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy.
“I’ve always believed that if you are in a position to help, you should help, and I truly hope that I can be an inspiration for others to lift up those around them,” said Parton, who will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in November, and makes most of her donations through her Dollywood Foundation. “Whether through my Imagination Library or giving to COVID-19 research, I try to support things that have a special meaning for me. I hope everyone can find something they’re passionate about supporting and do what they can to help make this world a better place.”
Considering the intense need created by COVID-19, the pandemic was top of mind while the selection committee was making its decisions, Isaacs said.
“Obviously, this is a very difficult time with the pandemic,” he said. “But we think environmental issues are probably equally, if not more, impactful in the sense that pandemics like COVID-19 are likely to become more frequent as the atmosphere heats up. I think we take the long view in terms of our selections.”
The Schustermans exemplify philanthropists whose donations have made a long-lasting impact, in addition to making timely grants to address current needs.
The Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation was established in 1987 to invest in systemic change in the United States and Israel on matters of justice and equity. When Charles died in 2000, Lynn Schusterman took over the foundation, expanding its work and becoming an outspoken advocate for inclusion, especially for the LGBTQ community. In 2018, their daughter Stacy Schusterman took over the foundation, which changed its name last year to Schusterman Family Philanthropies and now also includes work in reproductive equity, voting rights and criminal justice — all hot-button issues this summer.
“I hope that work like this will inspire other people to give more now,” Stacy Schusterman told the AP. “It’s important for people to give a meaningful percentage of their family’s assets. And I think the partnership that can exist between philanthropy and the communities that we’re seeking to help is vital. Government can’t address all problems.”
She said she’s thrilled to be carrying on her parents’ work and that she will be celebrated with her mom.
“I’m really excited that we’re being honored together,” she said. “It’s fun to have it happen as a mother-daughter team.”
The Chandaria Foundation had its start as a family enterprise in the 1950s, though the Kenyan-born industrialist of Indian descent had to do some convincing before it began.
When he first brought up the issue, Chandaria remembers his father asking if something was wrong with him and whether he had lived in the United States too long. “We are not the Rockefellers,” Chandaria’s father told him. “You better get to work. There’s a big hole over there.”
But by 1956, they had established a charitable organization providing scholarships in Kenya and, decades later, its work has expanded into building education and healthcare infrastructure in Africa.
“It’s a basic principle of the Gandhian philosophy: If you have wealth, you are not owners of the wealth,” said Chandaria, who also attributes generosity to being a follower of the Indian religion Jainism. “You really should go and help others who cannot help themselves.”
Isaacs said the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy is meant to recognize the work of the honorees in their various fields and locations. This year, the Carnegie institutions will also launch the Carnegie Catalyst award to “celebrate the transformative power of human kindness,” which will go to World Central Kitchen, the anti-hunger nonprofit founded by chef Jose Andres.
That award was inspired by the late Vartan Gregorian, the president of the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the co-founder of the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy, who died in 2021.
“World Central Kitchen is an outstanding model of how humankind can respond in times of dire need by activating the inherent goodness in others — an ideal that was embodied through the life and work of Vartan Gregorian,” Thomas H. Kean, chairman of Carnegie Corporation of New York’s board of trustees and former governor of New Jersey, said in a statement.
____
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.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/08/03/dolly-parton-among-carnegie-medal-philanthropy-winners/ | 2022-08-03T13:01:45Z |
DETROIT, June 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- WirelessCar, a leading connected car services provider, today announced an expansion of applications built on the Android Automotive Operating System (Android Auto OS), paving the way for automakers to develop new, truly digital services for their customers in a fraction of the traditional development time.
WirelessCar is since this spring featuring these new applications globally in cars from Polestar, the Sweden-based premium electric vehicle manufacturer. WirelessCar made the announcement today at AutoTech: Detroit, an influential trade show hosted by Informa and WardsAuto.
Currently, automakers are locked into long development cycles. It can take 12 to 24 months in order to bring hardware, software and new in-vehicle logic to market. Using WirelessCar's new Android Auto OS applications, automakers will be able to offer new connected car services with little or no lead time and dramatically reduced expense. It will also be easier to update in-vehicle apps with over-the-air updates.
One of WirelessCar's new applications, Journey Log, collates and tracks details about each ride taken in a vehicle, securely storing the data in the WirelessCar cloud. This application benefits consumers and businesses who need to track mileage and energy consumption and allows for the categorization of trips. The service can also be extended for Usage Based Insurance (UBI) applications.
Another new WirelessCar Android Auto OS application for larger businesses gathers this same kind of trip information for fleets, such as rental car companies. Fleet owners will be able to monitor the usage and availability of fleet vehicles in real time and on a system level. For example, they'll be able to get alerts based on the number of hours each vehicle is used or when it goes out of specified geographical boundaries.
"Automakers will be one of the big winners with WirelessCar's next-generation technology," said Niklas Florén, CEO of WirelessCar. "Car companies using WirelessCar's applications will be able to analyze real-world vehicle data that will drive better decisions about features and engineering."
Another advantage for automakers will be smoother integration of new apps and services, including third-party apps. Any data collected in the WirelessCar cloud can be anonymized, removing any personally identifiable information that would compromise consumer privacy. Instead of merely maintaining their existing systems with a digital veneer, automakers will be able to offer truly digital services.
WirelessCar forecasts that 70 percent of automakers will introduce Android Auto OS on new models by 2025. WirelessCar is already working extensively on Android Auto OS, developing new in-vehicle applications to connect the latest vehicles with WirelessCar's products and services, which it has designed, evolved, and operated for numerous global car brands over the past 20 years. By leveraging Android Auto OS, WirelessCar will bring automakers new ways to interact with both their B2C and B2B customers; seamless, real-time access to vehicle data; and built-in privacy settings. WirelessCar's solutions allow auto companies to maintain full control and ownership of the information generated by their vehicles.
CONTACT:
Main Contact:
Noemi Kubiak
WirelessCar
noemi.kubiak@wirelesscar.com
+46 765 200 727
U.S. Contact:
Scott Fosgard
Scott Fosgard Communications
scott@fosgardpr.com
+1 734 272 7440
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE WirelessCar | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/08/wirelesscar-expands-connected-vehicle-services-with-new-android-automotive-os-based-applications-featured-polestar-cars/ | 2022-06-08T13:15:32Z |
Use conscious spending to plan for both your future and fun
By Kristen Rogers, CNN
When you think of money, do you feel like living in the moment and being responsible are mutually exclusive? Does guilt eat at you when you go out for lunch or a $7 oat milk latte?
You don’t have to think or feel this way, thanks to a flexible personal finance approach called conscious spending.
“Unlike a budget, which looks backward, a conscious spending plan allows you to look forward,” said Ramit Sethi, author of best-selling “I Will Teach You To Be Rich” and CEO of the eponymous blog. “Conscious spending is all about spending extravagantly on the things you love, as long as you cut costs mercilessly on the things you don’t. It’s not about restriction. It’s about being intentional with your money, and then spending on the things you love guilt-free.”
That doesn’t mean that some age-old, general guidelines for saving aren’t valid — such as saving 5% to 10% of your income and having a three- to six-month emergency fund, Sethi said.
But a conscious spending plan allows you to say, “Yes, I want to go on vacation. Yes, I like nice clothes. Yes, I’m going to spend on these things guilt-free. I’m also going to invest, save, and make sure I can cover my rent,” Sethi said.
Whether wanting to save money, squash debts or have a little more fun is making you want to try conscious spending, you can apply this approach as soon as today. Here’s how.
Rewiring your spending habits
The term “conscious spending” implies that people experience unconscious spending, said Bradley Klontz, a financial psychologist and associate professor of practice at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business in Omaha, Nebraska.
“It’s almost like unconscious eating,” he said. “We’re just without a plan, we’re not really paying much attention, especially using credit cards.”
What’s most important in undoing unconscious spending is asking yourself specific questions about your financial goals and life desires: Where has my money been going? What do I love spending money on and why? How much do I need for fixed expenses, such as bills and rent? How much do I want to invest and save, and why? How much do I want to set aside for impulse buys or charges, such as drinks with a friend or a parking ticket?
Your answers need to be very clear, Klontz and Sethi said. Saying you want to be able to do what you want when you want is abstract. But stating that you and your partner want to fly to Italy with extended legroom, visit for three weeks and watch the sun set over Rome while drinking wine? Now that’s a vision that’s vivid, specific, emotional and meaningful, Sethi said. “What’s not meaningful is just some spreadsheet with numbers in it. Truthfully, nobody cares.”
Answering these questions can help you feel excitement and clarity about your finances, identify what you care less about and live in alignment with what’s important to you. “Then, it’s a lot easier to cut in areas that don’t matter as much,” Klontz said.
Your answers to these questions make up what Sethi calls your “rich life” — your life and financial goals that are unique to you, not influenced by what anyone else thinks you should do.
A personal example: I recently decided that on workdays, I’d drink the office complimentary instant coffee instead of spending several dollars on lattes a few times per week. Weekends would be when I allow myself to indulge at coffee shops with friends. I decided this because on weekdays, needing more energy was my only reason for wanting coffee — whereas having money to enjoy better coffee and quality time at my favorite coffee shops on the weekends was more important to me. In this way, I get what I want out of my coffee-drinking by consciously focusing on what’s most valuable to me, rather than restricting all coffee purchases.
When you’ve already intentionally thought about what you value, you don’t have to feel anxious, obsessed, doubtful or guilty. When Sethi was a child, his family couldn’t afford to buy appetizers while eating out, he said. These days, one of his “money rules” is to never question spending money on appetizers because “it gives me great joy to be able to buy any appetizer that I see looks good,” he added. “I don’t have to decide, ‘Should I pay this much? Or should I not?'”
If you want to give conscious spending a shot, try it for a month. Then, using your bank statements or a budgeting app, review what happened, what worked and what didn’t.
“It’s not going to work perfectly the first time. It’s a system that you’re going to continually tweak,” Sethi said. “But overall, you’re going to start to get a sense for how it works and what you need to change. And then you just make the change each month after that.”
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™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/05/03/use-conscious-spending-to-plan-for-both-your-future-and-fun/ | 2022-05-03T16:31:45Z |
Nominees Announced by the Texas Restaurant Association Represent Some of Texas' Best Restaurateurs
AUSTIN, Texas , June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) announced the nominees for its coveted Texas Restaurant Awards today, highlighting some of the state's most exciting leaders in hospitality. Winners will be revealed during the 2022 Texas Restaurant Awards ceremony, slated for Sunday, July 10, 2022. The anticipated celebration kicks off the Texas Restaurant Foundation's annual Lone Star Bash during the Texas Restaurant Show (formerly TRA Marketplace), which takes place July 9-11, 2022, at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, in Dallas, Texas.
"We are thrilled to recognize the 2022 Award nominees and celebrate their outstanding achievements," said Emily Williams Knight, Ed.D., President & CEO of the TRA and TRF. "Nominees represent restaurants from across the state of Texas, and each have demonstrated inspiring levels of dedication and excellence in their work. All of us at the Texas Restaurant Association cannot wait to recognize these industry pioneers and leaders at the Texas Restaurant Awards in Dallas."
Major award categories include:
This award recognizes the hard work that goes into opening a restaurant. This person or concept is an up-and-comer with ambitious goals and the grit to achieve them.
Texas is massive and filled with amazing talent. This award is designed to highlight those successful and creative restaurant owners and chefs with concepts not located in one of the big four metro areas (Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, or Austin).
Every year, restaurateurs around the state are honored for work in their communities, leadership success, and entrepreneurial spirit. The finalists for this award come from the pool of winners of the Outstanding Restaurateur Awards, chosen by the individual 23 chapters that comprise the Texas Restaurant Association.
A long-standing Texas Restaurant Association tradition, outstanding individuals are inducted to the Hall of Honor each year to recognize their significant contribution to the Texas restaurant industry and to the association. This honor is the highest that the Association can bestow. To qualify, nominees must have a minimum of 15 years of TRA membership and exemplify superior business ethics.
Texas ProStart instructors who demonstrate leadership and excellence in culinary education are eligible to contend for the annual Educator Excellence Award. Teachers must be advocates of the Texas ProStart program and dedicated to helping students achieve success. Awarded to educators who have made significant contributions in the classroom and beyond.
The Carmelo Mauro Award is annual recognition, given by the Texas Restaurant Foundation (TRF), for outstanding achievement by an individual philanthropist who has demonstrated the highest ethical standards, commitment, dedication, and talent towards the future of the restaurant and foodservice industry.
RISING STAR AWARD presented by SYSCO
Christian Dortch, Georgie by Curtis Stone, Dallas
Edgar Rico, Nixta Taqueria, Austin
Tiffany Derry, Roots Southern Table, Farmers Branch
Christina Ha & Tony J. Nguyen, Xin Chao, Houston
DEEP IN THE HEART AWARD presented by BEN E. KEITH
Bernard Gautier, Bernard Mediterranean Restaurant, Tyler
Sarah Heard & Nathan Lemley, Commerce Café, Lockhart
Orlando Quintanilla, Mesquite BBQ, Corpus Christi
Norma Frances "Tootsie" Tomanetz, Snow's BBQ, Lexington
COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD presented by JP ENTERPRISES
Alex Au-Yeung, Phat Eatery
Reggie Martin, Lemond Kitchen
Ruth Thompson, Hugs Café
The Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year is selected from the list of local TRA Chapter Restaurateur of the Year winners. Each winner and subsequent nominee demonstrate leadership at both the local and state level of the Texas Restaurant Association; they are involved in their local community; personify the values of fair and equal treatment of their employees and are highly regarded by their industry peers.
Congratulations to the following 2022 TRA Chapter Restaurateur of the Year recipients:
Abilene Chapter — Lindsay Flores, Lytle Land & Cattle Company
Brazos Valley Chapter — Clayton Rhoades, Chicken Express
Coastal Bend Chapter — Sam Canavati, Brewsters Street Ice House
El Paso Chapter — Jim Diaz, Pelican's Steak & Seafood
Galveston Chapter — Dennis Byrd, Island Famous
Greater Austin Chapter — Alex Eagle, Freebirds World Burrito
Greater Dallas Chapter — Christopher Aslam, Rock Strategic Restaurant Group
Greater Houston Chapter — Alli Jarrett, Harold's Restaurant
Lubbock Chapter — Jerol Fanta, Orlando's Italian Restaurant
Montgomery County Chapter — Darin McKenzie, McKenzie's Barbecue & Burgers
North Texas Chapter — Bob Bratcher, Daddy Bob's Smokewagon
Panhandle Chapter — Dallas Hager, Joe Taco
Permian Basin Chapter — Michael Ramirez, 10 Sports Bar & Grill
Rio Grande Valley Chapter — Sony Rego, Santa Fe Steakhouse
Sabine Area Chapter — Frankie Randazzo, Madison's Group
San Angelo Chapter — Ronnie Cajas, Street Eats
San Antonio Chapter — Dave Saylor, Acadiana Café
Waco Chapter — Massimo Di Campli, Di Campli's Italian Ristorante
In addition to these nominees, inductees to the TRA Hall of Honor and recipient of the Chef Tim Kelly Educator Excellence Award have already been announced. These outstanding individuals are:
Lisa Perini – Perini Ranch Steakhouse
Sammy Citrano – George's Restaurant
"Chef TKO" Tyler Kent Osburn – Waller High School
Learn more about the Texas Restaurant Awards here.
Formed in 1937, the Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) serves as the advocate and indispensable resource for the foodservice industry in Texas. As a leading business association, the TRA represents the state's $70 billion restaurant industry, which comprises approximately 50,000 locations and a workforce of 1.3 million employees. Along with the Texas Restaurant Foundation, the workforce development arm of the TRA, the association proudly continues to protect, advance, and educate a growing industry as the TRA enters its 85th anniversary year. For more information, please visit www.txrestaurant.org.
Established in 1994 by the Texas Restaurant Association, the Texas Restaurant Foundation (TRF) is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization* focused on providing the necessary resources to help restaurateurs confront educational and labor challenges with the latest innovations in education, technology, and training as the workforce development arm of the TRA. The organization's flagship program is Texas ProStart, an industry-based, two-year high school culinary arts and restaurant management curriculum. Texas ProStart is currently in more than 185 Texas high schools, reaching more than 15,000 students annually. In 2020, the TRF established the TX Restaurant Relief Fund in response to the COVID-19 crisis to provide immediate financial support to independent restaurants, raising more than $3.5 million and distributing more than 800 grants.
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SOURCE Texas Restaurant Association | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/restaurant-industrys-brightest-stars-take-center-stage-2022-texas-restaurant-awards/ | 2022-06-30T18:39:28Z |
- Service Territory Growth
- Operational Highlights
- Base Rate Review Update
DALLAS, Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC ("Oncor") today reported three months ended June 30, 2022 net income of $229 million compared to net income of $169 million in the three months ended June 30, 2021. Oncor's $60 million quarter-over-quarter net income improvement was driven by increases in revenues from higher customer consumption attributable primarily to significantly warmer weather in the second quarter of 2022, updates to base transmission and distribution rates to reflect increases in invested capital, customer growth and a gain on a sale of certain non-utility property, partially offset by increases in costs associated with additional investments (primarily depreciation, property taxes and borrowing costs) and increases in operation and maintenance expense.
"It has been a great quarter, and I am so proud of our financial and operational performance. The second quarter brought on record heat, beginning one of the hottest summers here in Texas in recent memory. That heat has led to several new peak demand records, with ERCOT peak demand of nearly 80,000 megawatts for the first time in July. Our vibrant and growing market will require new generation, transmission and distribution resources, and Oncor stands ready to make the investments necessary to support the needs of our market and our growing State. I am also very proud of our employees who continue to execute on our record capital plan and operational objectives, even in the midst of daunting summer heat. Because of their hard work, and the strength of the Texas economy, we added 19,000 additional premises and saw a 73% increase in new transmission point-of-interconnection requests in the second quarter. This represents an all-time record for new transmission interconnection requests," said Oncor CEO Allen Nye. "In June, Governor Abbott announced a new estimated $5 billion silicon wafer manufacturing facility to be built in Sherman. When you couple that with the 2021 announcements of an estimated $30 billion semiconductor wafer manufacturing facility, also in Sherman, and an estimated $17 billion chip manufacturing facility in Taylor, one quickly sees how the Oncor service territory has become a powerhouse for advanced, highly-skilled manufacturing, critical to the future economic and national security of the United States."
Oncor's reported net income of $423 million in the six months ended June 30, 2022 compared favorably to net income of $337 million in the six months ended June 30, 2021. Oncor's $86 million period-over-period net income improvement was driven by increases in revenues from updates to base transmission and distribution rates to reflect increases in invested capital, higher customer consumption attributable primarily to significantly warmer weather in the second quarter of 2022 as compared to the second quarter of 2021, customer growth and a gain on a sale of certain non-utility property, partially offset by increases in costs associated with additional investment (primarily depreciation and amortization, property taxes and borrowing costs) and increases in operation and maintenance expense.
Oncor's total distribution base revenues in the three months ended June 30, 2022 as compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021 increased 16.1% (7.2% increase on a weather normalized basis). The change in Oncor's total distribution base revenues in the second quarter of 2022 included a 23.9% increase in distribution base revenues from residential customers (5.3% increase on a weather normalized basis) and an 11.2% increase in distribution base revenues from large commercial and industrial customers. Oncor's total distribution base revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2022 as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2021 increased 11.3% (7.3% increase on a weather normalized basis). The change in Oncor's total distribution base revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2022 included a 15.6% increase in distribution base revenues from residential customers (7.2% increase on a weather normalized basis) and an 8.2% increase in distribution base revenues from large commercial and industrial customers. Financial and operational results are provided in Tables A, B, C and D below.
Oncor Service Territory Growth
Oncor's execution of its record capital plan continues to support the strong economic growth, increased need for reliability and system expansion in its service territory and transmission footprint. During the six months ended June 30, 2022, Oncor spent $1.4 billion of its $3.0 billion 2022 capital plan.
At June 30, 2022, Oncor had approximately 525 active transmission point-of-interconnection ("POI") requests in queue, representing an approximately 62% increase in active POI requests compared to June 30, 2021. Of the active generation requests in queue, approximately 51% are solar, 35% are storage, 9% are wind and 4% are gas. Additionally, during the three months ended June 30, 2022, Oncor had approximately 90 new POI requests, representing an approximately 73% increase compared to the prior year period. If new requests continue at this pace, Oncor projects it will set a company record for new annual transmission interconnection requests in 2022.
In the second quarter of 2022, Oncor maintained a strong operational tempo constructing new projects that support growth across the state of Texas and increase reliability for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. ("ERCOT") market. Oncor experienced solid premise growth in its service territory, connecting approximately 19,000 additional premises to the grid in the second quarter of 2022 despite global supply chain issues and the impacts on the residential and commercial construction markets from limited construction material availability, higher interest rates and inflation. Based on its recent experience, Oncor remains confident in the diverse and dynamic strength of its service territory and its ability to continue to add strong new premise growth in 2022. Notably, in June 2022, Oncor received interconnection requests for 110 new housing subdivisions, the most ever received by Oncor in any one month. Additionally, the continued growth across Oncor's service territory required the construction or upgrading of approximately 480 miles of power lines and included seven switching stations being placed in service in the second quarter of 2022. Oncor also placed $239 million of transmission projects into service.
Operational Highlights
During the past few months, Texas has experienced significantly higher than normal temperatures. ERCOT first passed its all-time record peak demand on June 12, 2022, reaching 74,997 megawatts. That record peak demand has since been broken several times. Weather in Oncor's service territory in the second quarter of 2022 was the warmest since 1990 with 208 more cooling degree days than normal based on 20-year averages. Throughout the heat wave, Oncor's system has performed well and remains on pace to meet its reliability goals for 2022.
Improved reliability of service continues to be a major focus for Oncor. For the industry's primary benchmark for reliability, System Average Interruption Duration Index (nonstorm), Oncor continued to improve in the 12 months ended June 30, 2022 compared to the 12 months ended June 30, 2021. On average, Oncor's customers experienced nearly two and a half fewer minutes of outage over the period – an improvement of approximately 3%.
In June 2022, Oncor released its expanded, third annual Corporate Sustainability Overview, which is available on Oncor's website at oncor.com under the Investor Relations section. Building on its first-in-Texas electric utility social bond issuance in 2020 and sustainability-linked credit facility in 2021, Oncor continued its sustainable finance efforts by issuing $400 million of green bonds in May 2022. Proceeds from the green bonds are intended to be used to finance and/or refinance eligible green projects, which include transmission and distribution projects connecting renewable energy sources to the ERCOT grid, customer energy efficiency programs and deployment of automated metering infrastructure and smart grid technology.
Base Rate Review
On May 13, 2022, Oncor filed its base rate case with the Public Utility Commission of Texas. The rate review includes a request for an annual revenue requirement increase over current adjusted rates of 4.5%, and, if approved as requested, would result in an aggregate annual revenue requirement increase of approximately $251 million. The rate review also requests a revised regulatory capital structure ratio of 55% debt to 45% equity and an authorized return on equity of 10.30%. Oncor's current authorized regulatory capital structure ratio is 57.5% debt to 42.5% equity and its current authorized return on equity is 9.8%. A procedural schedule has been established that would result in a hearing on the merits being held from September 26, 2022 to October 5, 2022, if a settlement is not reached among the parties. Oncor anticipates new rates would go into effect by the end of the first quarter of 2023.
Liquidity
As of August 4, 2022, Oncor's available liquidity, consisting of cash on hand, borrowing capacity under its term loans and available credit facility and commercial paper program capacity, totaled approximately $2.7 billion. Oncor expects cash flows from operations combined with long-term debt issuances as well as availability under its credit facility, term loans and commercial paper program to be sufficient to fund current obligations, projected working capital requirements, maturities of long-term debt and capital expenditures for at least the next 12 months.
Sempra Internet Broadcast Today
Sempra (NYSE: SRE) (BMV: SRE) will broadcast a live discussion of its earnings results over the Internet today at 12 p.m. ET, which will include discussion of second quarter 2022 results and other information relating to Oncor. Oncor Chief Executive Allen Nye will also participate in the broadcast. Access is available by logging onto Sempra's website, sempra.com. An accompanying slide presentation will also be posted at sempra.com. For those unable to participate in the live webcast, a replay of Sempra's teleconference will be available a few hours after its conclusion on Sempra's website or by dialing (888) 203-1112 and entering passcode 1507557.
Oncor's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2022 will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission after Sempra's conference call and once filed, will be available on Oncor's website, oncor.com.
Headquartered in Dallas, Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC is a regulated electricity distribution and transmission business that uses superior asset management skills to provide reliable electricity delivery to consumers. Oncor (together with its subsidiaries) operates the largest distribution and transmission system in Texas, delivering power to more than 3.8 million homes and businesses and operating more than 140,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines in Texas. While Oncor is owned by two investors (indirect majority owner, Sempra, and minority owner, Texas Transmission Investment LLC), Oncor is managed by its Board of Directors, which is comprised of a majority of disinterested directors.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to Oncor within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, that are included in this news release, or made in presentations, in response to questions or otherwise, that address activities, events or developments that Oncor expects or anticipates to occur in the future, including such matters as projections, capital allocation, future capital expenditures, business strategy, competitive strengths, goals, future acquisitions or dispositions, development or operation of facilities, market and industry developments and the growth of our business and operations (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "intends," "plans," "will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimated," "should," "projection," "target," "goal," "objective" and "outlook"), are forward-looking statements. Although Oncor believes that in making any such forward-looking statement its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, any such forward-looking statement involves risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements include: legislation, governmental policies and orders, and regulatory actions; legal and administrative proceedings and settlements, including the exercise of equitable powers by courts; weather conditions and other natural phenomena, including any weather impacts due to climate change; acts of sabotage, wars or terrorist or cyber security threats or activities; health epidemics and pandemics, including the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and its variants and its impact on Oncor's business and the economy in general; loss of key technology platforms; economic conditions, including the impact of a recessionary environment, inflation, supply chain shortages, and labor availability and cost; unanticipated population growth or decline, or changes in market demand and demographic patterns; Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. grid needs; changes in business strategy, development plans or vendor relationships; changes in interest rates or rates of inflation; unanticipated changes in operating expenses, liquidity needs and capital expenditures; inability of various counterparties to meet their financial obligations to Oncor, including failure of counterparties to perform under agreements; general industry trends; significant decreases in demand or consumption of electricity delivered by Oncor, including as a result of increased consumer use of third-party non-wires alternatives or other technologies; hazards customary to the industry and the possibility that Oncor may not have adequate insurance to cover losses resulting from such hazards; changes in technology used by and services offered by Oncor; significant changes in Oncor's relationship with its employees, including the availability of qualified personnel, and the potential adverse effects if labor disputes or grievances were to occur; changes in assumptions used to estimate costs of providing employee benefits, including pension and retiree benefits, and future funding requirements related thereto; significant changes in accounting policies or critical accounting estimates material to Oncor; commercial bank and financial market conditions, access to capital, the cost of such capital, and the results of financing and refinancing efforts, including availability of funds in the capital markets and the potential impact of any disruptions in U.S. credit markets; circumstances which may contribute to future impairment of goodwill, intangible or other long-lived assets; financial and other restrictions under Oncor's debt agreements; Oncor's ability to generate sufficient cash flow to make interest payments on its debt instruments; actions by credit rating agencies; and Oncor's ability to effectively execute its operational strategy.
Further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from management's current projections, forecasts, estimates and expectations is contained in filings made by Oncor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Specifically, Oncor makes reference to the section entitled "Risk Factors" in its annual and quarterly reports. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and, except as may be required by law, Oncor undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Oncor to predict all of them; nor can it assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. As such, you should not unduly rely on such forward-looking statements.
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SOURCE Oncor Electric Delivery Company, LLC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/oncor-reports-solid-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-08-04T12:42:49Z |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Along with highly classified government documents, the FBI agents who searched former President Donald Trump’s Florida estate found dozens of empty folders marked classified but with nothing inside and no explanation of what might have been there, according to a more detailed inventory of the seized material made public on Friday.
The agents also found more than 10,000 other government documents kept by Trump with no classification marked.
The inventory compiled by the Justice Department reveals in general terms the contents of 33 boxes and containers taken from Trump’s office and a storage room at Mar-a-Lago during the Aug. 8 search. Though the inventory does not describe the content of the documents, it shows the extent to which classified information — including material at the top-secret level — was stashed in boxes at the home and mixed among newspapers, magazines, clothing and other personal items.
And the empty folders raise the question of whether the government has recovered all of the classified papers that Trump kept after leaving the White House.
The inventory makes clear for the first time the volume of unclassified government documents at the home even though presidential records were to have been turned over to the National Archives and Records Administration. The Archives had tried unsuccessfully for months to secure their return from Trump and then contacted the FBI after locating classified information in a batch of 15 boxes it received in January.
The Justice Department has said there was no secure space at Mar-a-Lago for sensitive government secrets, and has opened a criminal investigation focused on their retention there and on what it says were efforts in the past several months to obstruct the probe. It is also investigating potential violations of a law that criminalizes the mutilation or concealment of government records, classified or not.
Lawyers for Trump did not immediately return an email seeking comment Friday. Trump spokesman Taylor Budowich asserted that the FBI search was a “SMASH AND GRAB” — though the Justice Department had received court-authorized permission to search specific locations in the home.
The inventory was released as the Justice Department undertakes its criminal investigation, as intelligence agencies assess any risk to national security caused by mishandling of classified information and as a judge weighs whether to appoint a special master — essentially an outside legal expert — to review the records.
The inventory had been filed earlier under seal, but the Justice Department had said that given the “extraordinary circumstances,” it did not object to making it public. Trump himself has previously called for the disclosure of documents related to the search. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon said on Thursday that she planned to unseal the inventory and did so on Friday.
All told, the inventory shows, the FBI seized more than 100 documents with classification markings in August, including 18 marked top secret, 54 secret and 31 confidential. The FBI had identified 184 documents marked as classified in 15 boxes recovered by the Archives in January, and received additional classified documents in a single Redweld envelope during a June visit to Mar-a-Lago.
The Justice Department has said that it searched the property in August after developing evidence that documents were likely “concealed and removed” from the storage room as part of an effort to obstruct its probe.
The court filings have not offered an explanation for why Trump had kept the classified documents, and why he and his representatives did not return them when requested.
The inventory shows that 48 empty folders with classified banners were taken either from the storage room or office, along with additional empty folders labeled as “Return to Staff Secretary” or military aide.
It is not clear from the inventory list what might have happened to any of the documents that apparently had been inside.
Separately Friday, the Justice Department said in a court filing that it had reviewed the records seized during the recent search and had segregated those with classified markings to ensure that they were being stored according to proper protocol and procedure.
“The seized materials will continue to be used to further the government’s investigation, and the investigative team will continue to use and evaluate the seized materials as it takes further investigative steps, such as through additional witness interviews and grand jury practice,” the department said.
It added that “additional evidence pertaining to the seized items,” including the manner in which they were stored, “will inform the government’s investigation.”
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More on Donald Trump-related investigations: https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump
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Follow Eric Tucker on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/etuckerAP | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-empty-folders-among-items-found-in-fbi-search-of-trump-home/ | 2022-09-03T02:55:31Z |
NEW YORK, June 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Welcome to MWverse, McCann Worldgroup's Web3 experience unveiled to coincide with the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. The experience was created with Journee, Meta and the agency's production agency, Craft Worldwide, and is open to the general public, accessible via desktop, phone or tablet.
There are countless important events and experiences that people across the world would like to participate in, but only a lucky few are afforded that IRL experience. The MWverse experience is designed to change that lack of accessibility and experience, with the first application being this year's Cannes Lions festival, where a selection of the agency's top campaigns are explored in virtual, branded rooms and experienced through the eyes of the agency teams that created them and the clients that supported them. While only a select few people will enjoy the privilege of being on the ground in Cannes, the general public is invited to access a multi-dimensional virtual world that immerses them in the full experience of the work screened at Cannes.
Elav Horwitz, SVP, Global Innovation and Creative Partnerships, McCann Worldgroup, said, "Creativity from around the world is abundant and deserves to be shared, to inspire and to be celebrated at scale. Democratizing the experience, bringing the work to the masses and creating a space where everyone can join the judging panels is a valuable realization of Web3's potential. Everyone should have the opportunity to learn from the best of the best and each other."
Users will be taken through the entire campaign journey from inception to execution and will also be provided with an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at how the very best work at the agency comes together. Visitors can also join fireside chats with clients and Web3 creators to hear what the future of the metaverse and Web3 might look like for their brands. As part of the shared experience, visitors would be able to meet for happy hour and interact with creative people from around the world. Among the many compelling content features of the MWVerse, acclaimed actress, director, producer, philanthropist and activist Eva Longoria will participate as an avatar, sharing her point of view on the L'Oreal Paris "Lessons of Worth" campaign in which she was featured.
"Creativity is about overcoming hurdles, testing new things, applying the mindset of 'what if' and 'let's try' to every business, culture and human problem out there. It's time for our industry tentpole moments to reflect this spirit," said Alex Lopez, President & Global Chief Creative Officer, McCann Worldgroup. "We're all in the business of creativity – designers, writers, finance experts, business leaders, operations people, producers, editors, talent management, HR, strategists. And this year for the first time, from the most junior to the most senior, everyone is invited to the Cannes experience."
While the metaverse and Web3 are still evolving and the technologies being created to leverage the virtual world are constantly improving, the core elements of Web3 are collaboration and interoperability. To ensure McCann Worldgroup created a robust, advanced and meaningful experience, the network partnered with Journee and Meta, who brought a symbiotic mix of best-in-class technologies to bear on MWverse.
Thomas Johann Lorenz, Founder & CEO, Journee - The Metaverse CompanyÔ, said, "We were excited to partner with McCann Worldgroup and Meta and bring ideas to life in this immersive metaverse. It can be accessed in the highest possible quality to everyone through the Journee metaverse technology. Cannes Lions is a celebration of creativity and, thanks to the metaverse, more people can be part of this celebration, explore and connect."
"We're incredibly excited by the opportunities that the metaverse will ultimately unlock for people, businesses, and communities," said Amy Peloquin, Meta's Director of Global Agency Team. "Cannes has long been recognized as the most prestigious industry awards event in the world, and this new experience by McCann provides an innovative glimpse into what the metaverse will bring to creativity."
The MWverse can be accessed here.
About McCann Worldgroup
McCann Worldgroup, part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG), is the irrefutable leader in the business of a creativity. The company is united across 100+ countries by a single mission: To help brands earn a meaningful role in people's lives. McCann Worldgroup was named the world's most creatively-effective marketing services company by The Effie Awards for three consecutive years. The network comprises McCann (advertising), MRM (science/technology/relationship marketing), Momentum Worldwide (total brand experience), McCann Health (professional/dtc communications), CRAFT (production), Weber Shandwick (public relations) and FutureBrand (consulting/design).
About Journee
JOURNEE - The Metaverse Company™ is a premium platform that enables brands and creators to build hyper-realistic metaverses directly accessible to the world. Using the JOURNEE leading technology that allows for a seamless experience on any browser and device, a team of 50 experts design and build stunning, customised virtual experiences tailored to fulfil client goals. JOURNEE has delivered resoundingly successful campaigns, events, and platforms for numerous enterprise-level companies and leading brands across industries around the world. https://journee.live
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SOURCE McCann Worldgroup | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/welcome-mccann-worldgroups-mwverse-an-inclusive-accessible-sustainable-web3-experience-networks-most-impactful-campaigns-clients-across-its-portfolio/ | 2022-06-20T13:08:17Z |
Leading Senior Care Franchise Advancing Care, Support and Research Efforts with National Team Fundraising for Walk to End Alzheimer's Nationwide
ROSEVILLE, Calif., Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Always Best Care Senior Services, the leading senior care franchise system in the United States, today announced its 12th anniversary as a Walk to End Alzheimer's® National Team. Over the past 11 years, participating Always Best Care teams around the country have raised $785,986, earning the National Team Longevity Award for more than a decade of support and the Lifetime Achievement Level for raising over half a million dollars. This year, the company is on track to raise another $100,000 at Walks nationwide and continues to share helpful tips for caring for Alzheimer's patients in honor of World Alzheimer's Month in September.
"As a leader in senior care, Always Best Care is proud to partner with the Walk to End Alzheimer's every year on behalf of the more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer's disease," said Jake Brown, President & CEO of Always Best Care. "We know that extra attention and tender compassionate care must accompany every service we provide. This is especially true for our clients who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's."
As a Silver National Team, Always Best Care offices form teams for Walks across the country and raise funds that advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. Each team's donations play an important role in improving the lives of people living with Alzheimer's, their families and caregivers.
Two teams that have continually rallied together for the cause are Always Best Care of Delaware and Always Best Care of Philadelphia, which are both owned by Bryant Greene. His work on behalf of the cause has landed him in the Top 25 of national fundraisers and the top fundraiser in the Delaware Valley for the past eight years. Greene, who has also been named to the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer's Association's Delaware Valley chapter, has raised more than half a million dollars in his markets over the past 10 years.
"It is my honor to build awareness of and promote the important resources the Alzheimer's Association provides and to help connect my audiences with those resources," said Bryant Greene, who also hosts popular television and radio programs in the Philadelphia market. "I grew up with a beloved babysitter who lost her battle with Alzheimer's. Through my Always Best Care businesses, I've made many more personal connections with individuals and families impacted by this disease, and I see the struggles they endure. That's why this cause is near and dear to my heart."
Always Best Care is one of the nation's leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services, with skilled home health care in limited markets. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 225 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada. By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client's particular physical or social needs.
About Always Best Care
Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 25 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year.
Always Best Care also offers exclusive programs such as Always in Touch, Balance Tracking System and remote patient monitoring. For more information regarding Always Best Care's solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com.
CONTACT:
Nicole Hunnicutt
Fish Consulting
404-558-4108
nhunnicutt@fish-consulting.com
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SOURCE Always Best Care | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/always-best-care-reaches-new-milestone-support-alzheimers-association-tops-785k-raised-over-11-years/ | 2022-09-07T16:26:38Z |
Apple to add ‘lockdown’ safeguard on iPhones, iPads, Macs
CUPERTINO, Calif. (AP) — Apple said it will roll out a “lockdown” option for iPhones, iPads and Mac computers intended to protect against spyware unleashed by state-sponsored hackers — although enabling that protection will also make these devices less useful.
The safeguard announced Wednesday is a tacit acknowledgement that not even Apple — the world’s most valuable company — has been able to adequately shield the iPhone and its other products against intrusions from state-backed hackers and commercial spyware. Governments have used these tools to violate the privacy of journalists, political dissidents and human rights activists.
The new feature, called “lockdown mode,” will initially be offered as a test version so that security researchers can help Apple identify any bugs or weaknesses. Apple usually releases its major updates to its device operating systems in late September.
While only a handful of countries appear to have the resources to develop in-house mobile phone hacking tools, private companies like Israel’s NSO Group have been selling phone hacking software to government agencies around the world for years.
The growing hacker-for-hire problem prompted Apple to file a federal lawsuit late last year against NSO Group for breaking into iPhones and other Apple products. In its complaint, Apple accused NSO Group employees of being “amoral 21st century mercenaries who have created highly sophisticated cyber-surveillance machinery that invites routine and flagrant abuse.”
NSO, which has been blacklisted by the U.S. Commerce Department, has denied any wrongdoing and said its products have been used to thwart child abusers and terrorists.
Unlike the security features that Apple builds into most of its software, the company’s lockdown feature is meant to serve as an emergency button that Apple expects will only be needed by a small number of its users.
The lockdown measure is considered a last resort for people targeted by spyware, since activating lockdown will disable many popular features. That includes sending attachments and links in texts, as well as the ability to receive FaceTime calls from new numbers. Web browsing will also be limited.
But Apple believes the extra layer of protection will be valuable to activists, journalists and other targets of hacking attacks launched by well-funded groups. Users will be able to activate and deactivate lockdown mode at will.
The growing use of encrypted communications through phone apps like WhatsApp and Signal have prompted governments to turn to commercial spyware vendors to gather information on targets.
Such mobile phone spyware vacuums up text messages, emails and photos while secretly controlling a smartphone’s microphones and cameras. Some of the more advanced tools can infect a phone using so-called “zero click” exploits that don’t depend on the user inadvertently activating them, such as by clicking on a malicious link.
Google, whose Android mobile phone platform is used by iPhone competitors, has also been targeted by commercial spyware vendors. The company’s Threat Analysis Group says it’s tracking more than 30 such companies and routinely publishes reports on exploits used to hack into phones, making them far less effective.
Google also offers an “Advanced Protection Program” that uses a special security key hardware to make user accounts harder to hack. The company said it strongly recommends the program for “journalists, activists, business executives, and people involved in elections.”
Separately, Apple also provided more details about a $10 million grant it pledged last November to help counter large-scale hacking attacks. The money will go to the Dignity and Justice Fund, a philanthropic arm of the Ford Foundation.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/06/apple-add-lockdown-safeguard-iphones-ipads-macs/ | 2022-07-06T18:13:39Z |
SAN ANTONIO (KFDX/KJTL) — A growing trend among bars in Texas has a lot of people talking, especially those old enough to remember the 1990’s.
Bentley’s on Broadway, a craft beer and cocktail bar in San Antonio, recently raised the minimum age of entry, becoming an establishment for those 25-and-up.
The announcement came via a social media post made on their official account on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
The post has since gained nearly 1,000 shares, over 800 reactions and over 400 comments, most of which support the move.
Several comments suggested the bar should raise their age of entry even higher, with some commenters suggesting making the bar an establishment for patrons 30-and-up.
But, they wouldn’t be the first 30-plus bar in the city.
Horizons & More also has a higher age policy, but instead of 25-and-up, guests must be 30 and older to enter their bar.
But, how are bars able to do this?
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 forbids discrimination, including refusing service, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
However, the act does not mention age, nor does the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, which forbids disabilities as grounds for discriminations or refusal of services.
Although the age adults can legally consume alcohol without a parent or a legal guardian present is 21, there is no law that states patrons 21-and-up must be allowed entry into establishments that serve spirits.
In fact, bars are able to lower their age of entry to 18-and-up, though those under 21 who enter are not allowed to purchase or consume alcohol without a spouse or parent present. | https://cw33.com/news/texas/some-texas-bars-are-raising-the-minimum-entry-age/ | 2022-05-20T22:39:27Z |
FINDLAY, Ohio, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MPLX LP (NYSE: MPLX) will host a conference call on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. ET to discuss 2022 third-quarter financial results.
Interested parties may listen to the conference call by visiting MPLX's website at www.mplx.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on MPLX's website for two weeks. Financial information, including the earnings release and other investor-related material, will also be available online prior to the conference call and webcast at www.mplx.com.
MPLX is a diversified, large-cap master limited partnership that owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and logistics assets, and provides fuels distribution services. MPLX's assets include a network of crude oil and refined product pipelines; an inland marine business; light-product terminals; storage caverns; refinery tanks, docks, loading racks, and associated piping; and crude and light-product marine terminals. The company also owns crude oil and natural gas gathering systems and pipelines as well as natural gas and NGL processing and fractionation facilities in key U.S. supply basins. More information is available at www.MPLX.com.
Investor Relations Contacts: (419) 421-2071
Kristina Kazarian, Vice President
Isaac Feeney, Supervisor
Media Contact: (419) 421-3312
Jamal Kheiry, Communications Manager
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SOURCE MPLX LP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/mplx-lp-report-third-quarter-financial-results-november-1-2022/ | 2022-09-14T20:39:24Z |
GRAPHIC: Louisville Police release bodycam video of deadly shooting involving US Marshal
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE/Gray News) — The Louisville Metro Police Department released body camera footage from an LMPD officer that shows what happened when Omari Cryer was shot by a U.S. Marshal on May 20.
According to an arrest warrant, Cryer was being sought for many domestic violence offences, including strangulation and assault.
Officers from the U.S. Marshals Task Force, which includes LMPD officers, were trying to serve a felony warrant on Cryer when the shooting happened. Cryer was armed and ran from officers trying to serve the warrant, LMPD Chief Erika Shields revealed at a press conference after the shooting.
Shields said that Cryer was shot by an officer after being stopped by a fence. The video from the officer’s body camera, which was made public Thursday, shows that Cryer jumped over a chain-linked fence after pulling a handgun out of his shorts; officers were yelling at him to put the gun down.
Cryer can be seen holding the gun in his left hand as he jumps the fence, landing on his back behind a bush, and crouching before being shot.
Cryer is then shot by a U.S. Marshal and falls to the ground. There were no shots fired by LMPD officers.
The remaining footage shows police officers coming to his aid, questioning where on Cryer’s body he was shot, and calling for an ambulance.
“Where are you hit, buddy, where are you hit?” one officer can be heard saying as they pull up Cryer’s shirt, looking for his wounds.
“Omari, stay with us, buddy,” another officer says.
As officers tried to stop the bleeding, it was discovered that Cryer had been shot twice in the upper left shoulder.
Shields said Cryer died before EMS arrived.
WARNING: The video below contains graphic content that could be disturbing to certain audiences.
According to Cryer’s arrest warrant, he hit a sleeping female victim in the face and head on Jan 23.
The victim was also allegedly pushed against a wall as Cryer threatened to “kill” her. The document says Cryer then hit the victim in the face with a semi-automatic weapon and choked her as she began to lose consciousness, according to the warrant.
Cryer was charged with strangulation, domestic violence assault, assault, and terroristic threatening. According to court records, he was also wanted for breaking his parole in a 2019 case for the second time.
Dozens of Cryer’s family members, friends, and other community members have questioned why Cryer was shot on May 20.
Antiya Parker, Cryer’s ex-girlfriend, said on May 23 that she found out about the shooting when she got a phone call while she was asleep.
“I was shocked, because why was he shot?” Parker said. “Why did this happen?”
Parker and Cryer shared a two-year-old son, KJ.
In January, Parker said she reported Cryer to the police for allegedly stealing her car. When asked about the charges of domestic violence against Cryer and if he had ever “laid hands” on her in any way, Parker said, “Yes, he did. He did.”
LMPD provided the redacted version of Cryer’s warrants, which can be viewed below.
Copyright 2022 WAVE via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/05/27/graphic-louisville-police-release-bodycam-video-deadly-shooting-involving-us-marshal/ | 2022-05-27T03:55:04Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — Filip Chytil has found his scoring touch and it’s helping the New York Rangers get on quite a roll.
Chytil scored twice in the second period and the Rangers routed the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning 6-2 on Wednesday night in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.
After scoring eight goals in 67 games during the regular season, the 22-year-old center has seven in 15 playoff games — including five goals in the last three.
“I was working hard for the whole season,” Chytil said. “There were tough moments, so many chances but I couldn’t put it in the net. … When you’re not putting pucks to the net you’re not helping the team that much and maybe start to be a little frustrated. But now it’s finally going in, I am so happy I can help the team like this in winning the games.”
Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin and Frank Vatrano each had a goal and an assist, Chris Kreider also scored and Alexis Lafrenière and Adam Fox each had two assists to help New York win its franchise-record seventh straight home playoff game. Igor Shesterkin stopped 37 shots to improve to 8-3 in the last 11 games.
The Rangers have totaled 17 goals while winning their last three games after scoring nine over the previous five.
“There was a lot of sharpness,” Rangers coach Gerard Gallant said. “Obviously, (the Lightning) were a little bit rusty tonight, they weren’t the same after nine days off. … Our game’s good, we’re playing well, we’re doing the right things now. We just got to continue to do that.”
Steven Stamkos had a goal and an assist, and Ondrej Palat also scored for Tampa Bay, which had won six straight and was playing for the first time since completing its second-round sweep of Florida on May 23. Andrei Vasilevskiy, who gave up just three goals in four games against the Panthers, had 28 saves.
“You’ve got to give them credit. They are a really good hockey team,” Stamkos said. “We certainly didn’t have our best. I think we know what we have to do better. Been in this position before. I am confident we will have a better effort next game. It’s Game 1 of a long series.”
Game 2 is Friday night at Madison Square Garden.
The score was tied 1-1 after 20 minutes before the Rangers took control in the second period.
Vatrano gave the Rangers a 2-1 lead at 7:50 of the second as he fired a shot from the left circle past Vasilevskiy high on the blocker side for his fourth of the postseason.
Palat tied it at 8:32, backhanding the rebound of a shot by Stamkos past Shesterkin for his fifth of the playoffs.
The Rangers regained the lead 1:19 later. Kaapo Kakko brought the puck from behind the Lightning net to the goalie’s right and sent a pass to Chytil in slot that he fired past Vasilevskiy. It marked the third straight game Chytil scored.
Chytil made it 4-2 with 4:17 left as he got a cross-ice pass from K’Andre Miller and fired a one-timer past Vasilevskiy for his seventh of the postseason — and fifth in three games.
Panarin got a cross-ice pass from Andrew Copp in the left circle on a 2-on-1 and fired it past Vasilevskiy to give the Rangers a three-goal lead 30 seconds into the third. It was his fifth of the playoffs.
Less than two minutes later, Shesterkin made two big saves during a Lightning power play, and was down on the ice for several minutes after getting hit in the head by Stamkos after the second save.
Zibanejad made it 6-2 at 6:06 after extended time in the offensive zone on a power play, firing a one-timer from the left circle off a pass from Panarin for his eighth of the playoffs. It gave the Rangers a goal with the man advantage for the sixth straight game, tying a franchise playoff record, previously accomplished in 1986 and 1990.
“You just try to be ready for any pass,” Zibanejad said. “It worked out today, so it’s good. Biggest thing was it went in.”
With much of the focus coming into this series centered on the goalies, the Madison Square Garden crowd began chants of “I-gor’s bet-ter! I-gor’s bet-ter!” midway through the third period.
“They played a good game,” Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman said. “They are rolling. We expected that … You never want to lose two in a row. To bounce back is going to be huge.”
Tempers flared with less than two minutes remaining as several skirmishes broke out in one corner. Ten players received penalties — including two on the Rangers’ Barclay Goodrow — to put Tampa Bay on a power play to finish the game.
Kreider got the Rangers on the scoreboard first 1:11 into the game on the game’s first shot on goal, scoring off a cross-ice pass from Zibanejad on a 2-on-1 from the inside edge of the left circle for his ninth goal of the postseason.
Stamkos tied it at 7:19 as he fired a slap shot from the high slot just under the crossbar for his fifth of the playoffs.
STATS
Zibanejad extended his points streak to six games with five goals and five assists in the stretch. … The Rangers have scored six goals in consecutive playoff games for the first time since their Cup-winning run in 1994.
CLIMBING LISTS
Kreider has 51 postseason points, tying Walt Tkaczuk for the fifth place in New York franchise history. His 33rd postseason goal moved one behind Rod Gilbert for the most in franchise history.
___
Follow Vin Cherwoo at http://www.twitter.com/VinCherwooAP
___
More AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/chytil-scores-twice-rangers-rout-lightning-6-2-in-game-1/ | 2022-06-02T16:52:59Z |
A tractor trailer coming into the US from Mexico was caught Friday carrying 427 pounds of alleged cocaine, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said Sunday.
An officer stationed at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas, encountered a truck hauling papier-mâché handicrafts and sent it for a secondary examination, according to a CBP news release.
Officials used nonintrusive inspection equipment and found 101 packages containing 427 pounds of alleged cocaine with an estimated street value of $3.2 million.
The Office of Field Operations seized the drugs, and special agents with US Homeland Security Investigations are investigating, according to CBP.
"Our frontline officers continue to maintain strict vigilance in the commercial truck environment," said Albert Flores, Port Director at the Laredo Port of Entry. "Their effective utilization of training, inspections experience and technology successfully prevented a significant load of cocaine from ever reaching US streets."
In January, the CPB warned of a significant uptick in cocaine and fentanyl being seized at ports across south Texas.
During fiscal year 2021, the CPB said it seized 87,652 pounds of narcotics at ports comprising the Laredo Field Office with a street value of around $786 million, including 8,592 pounds of cocaine, up 98% from fiscal year 2020.
They seized 588 pounds of fentanyl, up 1,066% from FY 2020, according to CPB.
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Judge weighing verdict in Mario Batali sexual misconduct case
BOSTON (AP) — Celebrity chef Mario Batali’s fate in his Boston sexual misconduct trial now rests in a judge’s hands.
Lawyers for both the defense and prosecution rested their cases on Tuesday, the second day of the swiftly moving trial in which the former Food Network star waived his right to have a jury decide the verdict.
The case being heard in Boston Municipal Court is centered on a woman who says Batali kissed and groped her while she attempted to take a selfie at a Boston bar in 2017.
In his closing statements, Batali’s lawyer Antony Fuller portrayed the victim as an “admitted liar” who is financially motivated, as she’s seeking more than $50,000 in damages from Batali in a separate lawsuit.
“In her world, truth is a flexible concept,” he said, referencing the woman’s recent admission of attempting to avoid jury service by claiming to be clairvoyant, which was a focus on Monday’s hearing.
Fuller also said the multiple photos the woman took with Batali suggest an “entirely consensual encounter” in which she doesn’t appear to show any unease.
“Photos and video don’t lie. They don’t have a financial motivation,” he said. “But she does. "
Prosecutor Nina Bonelli countered in her closing statement that Batali’s lawyers were trying to “demonize” the woman, when it was in fact their client on trial over his conduct.
She argued it was “absolutely undeniable” from the photos that Batali was drunk and aggressively kissing the woman’s face. What’s not shown, she said, is what was happening off camera as he also grabbed her private areas.
Bonelli said the woman had tried to “de-escalate” the unwanted touching from the powerful celebrity by simply “smiling it off.”
“The kissing, the groping. She never asked for it. She never consented to it,” she said. “She just wanted a selfie.”
The court session is expected to resume in the afternoon, when Judge James Stanton could potentially deliver his verdict.
The accuser, a 32-year-old software company worker, testified Monday that she’d felt confused, powerless and embarrassed to share her story until other women stepped forward to share similar encounters with Batali.
Batali, who pleaded not guilty to indecent assault and battery, could face up to 2 1/2 years in jail and be required to register as a sex offender if convicted.
The 61-year-old, who was once a fixture on shows like “Molto Mario” and “Iron Chef America,” is among a number of high-profile men who have faced a public reckoning during the #MeToo social movement against sexual abuse and harassment in recent years.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/05/10/judge-weighing-verdict-mario-batali-sexual-misconduct-case/ | 2022-05-10T18:09:04Z |
FAU also Climbs in Nursing, Business Rankings
BOCA RATON, Fla., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Atlantic University moved up in the U.S. News & World Report list of "Top Public Schools," to No. 132 from No. 140 in this year's ranking of the nation's best universities. This marks the largest rise out of all public universities in the state of Florida.
"Florida Atlantic is a top-choice public university and we are thrilled to see that reflected in the national rankings," said FAU President John Kelly. "Our commitment to ensure success for all has helped elevate FAU on all fronts. I am proud to see the hard work of our faculty, staff and students paying off."
FAU also ranked No. 41 in the U.S. News & World Report "Social Mobility" ranking, which is computed using graduation rates of students receiving Pell grants and includes public and private national universities. At FAU, Pell-eligible students, African American students, and Hispanic students outpace the university's overall retention and graduation rates.
FAU is the No. 1 public university in Florida for campus ethnic diversity, according to U.S. News & World Report, making it the most racially, culturally and ethnically diverse university in the state. FAU has been designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education since 2017.
In other rankings, FAU moved up 27 spots to No. 93 from No. 120 last year in the U.S. News & World Report list of undergraduate nursing programs. Its undergraduate business programs also moved up to No. 164 from No. 190 last year.
This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise™. For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com.
Media Contacts:
Lisa Metcalf
Senior Media Relations Director, University News
Phone: 561-297-2676
lmetcalf@fau.edu
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SOURCE Florida Atlantic University | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/fau-moves-up-us-news-amp-world-reports-list-top-universities/ | 2022-09-14T16:04:23Z |
Railroad photo cars are a great mystery, yet evidence of their existence is tucked away in thousands of family scrapbooks, antique stores and online sites.
Stories about their creation and their creators are mostly lost except within the pages of vintage newspapers.
The Temple Times in August 1893 excitedly announced arrivals of the specially equipped rolling photo studios to the delight of many living on the edges of the hard-scrabble frontier who welcomed a chance to have their photos taken.
Photo cars were frequently specially equipped Pullman Palace cars. Other photo cars were converted cabooses.
No matter which, they all had small living spaces and top-of-the-line rolling photography studios with onboard restroom, dark room, photo equipment and a glass skylight to allow for maximum natural lighting.
The privately owned rail cars were brightly painted with their names and, often, images of cameras or portraits. The interior was lush with velvet backdrops and rows of photos on the walls. A dressing room was usually reserved for female subjects.
Records of photo cars are difficult to find. A January 1885 issue of the National Car Builder trade magazine describes a car “built for photographic purposes. Is 47-feet long, 10-feet high and 10-feet-4 inches wide. Has a reception room, ladies room, and a dark room. Carries its own track parts under the car for making temporary sidings to set the car out.”
Other than smatterings of photos and newspaper mentions, railroad photo cars and the photographers remain a historical mystery. The owners of these cars, who made their livings capturing light and shadows for family scrapbooks, ironically left few traces of their own lives and careers in 19th century photography.
With their keen eye and snappy camera skills, the photographers captured many images of frontier life and people that otherwise would have been lost. This was especially true in Texas where many towns spaced miles apart along rail lines had no professional photography studios.
Because Temple was a major Central Texas junction of two rail lines and a busy commercial center, the city also became a convenient stop for itinerant photographers willing to ply their trade. The rolling photo studios could piggy-back onto passing trains when business cooled. Then, they would chug into the next burg and set up shop.
The peripatetic photographers were also masterful promoters of themselves. The Times eagerly announced the photo cars’ arrivals.
Depending on the developing and printing processes used, the photos could be black-and-white or a warm sepia tone. All were cherished by their owners and handed down through generations.
Photos produced in the traveling studios were then transformed into prints, cabinet cards and, after 1900, photographic postcards. Cabinet cards, popular from the mid-19th century to the early 1900s, consisted of photographs on thin papers mounted on heavy-duty 4-by-6-inch cards.
Another appeal of the photo car was the photographers’ ability to undercut existing studios in town. “The low price and fine work are attracting crowds of people daily at the Railroad Photo Car,” the Times reported. “The finest work done in Texas can be had at this car in less than one-third of the usual price.”
The photo car advertised a dozen cabinet cards for 99 cents. The Times added that more than 1,800 already have patronized the traveling photographers.
Another Times blurb announced, “The Railroad Photo Car from St. Louis arrived yesterday. It has five fine artists employed and the work seen at the car is very fine.”
This was likely the Parsons Palace Car Photo Co. operated by Frederick R. Parsons (1859-1928) and Andrew B. Duncan (1850-1924). Parsons maintained a St. Louis studio for many years, while Duncan was the official photographer for the Frisco line for more than a decade. (Frisco was a partner line with the Santa Fe Railway.)
Both Parsons and Duncan listed their occupations as “artists” on census forms and city directories. Other itinerant photographers advertised themselves “viewists.”
The Santa Fe Railway was especially deft at promotions and creating romantic images of beautiful people leisurely traveling along scenic vistas. To attract more ridership, traveling photo studios would snap (for a fee) passengers boarding trains heading to exotic climes. Thus, the photo became the first of a treasure trove of cross-country trip souvenirs.
What made the traveling photographers so popular was their reported artistry in finishing and retouching photos. “We were particularly struck by the graceful poses of so many pretty children and women,” reported one account of a photo car’s product. “Those who patronized this car will be well pleased, we believe, and will also tell their friends about it.”
While the mobile businesses were in town, they would also drag tripods to photograph buildings, local scenes and the railway’s rolling stock for future promotional enterprises. An enterprising photographer could make $100 daily (in 1890 dollars).
Life on a rail photo car could be challenging. In July 1912, fire partially destroyed a photo car parked in Belton. In 1908, the Texas Railroad Commission was forced to take up the matter of an abandoned photo car on the Cotton Belt side tracks in Waco, when owners could not be found.
The popularity of rail photo cars waned as Kodak introduced its Brownie camera in 1900 to help sell the company’s film rolls. This quick-snap cardboard box with a convex-concave lens was easy to use. In its first year, Kodak sold 15,000.
Thus, photography moved into the realm of the everyday and everywhere. | https://www.tdtnews.com/news/central_texas_news/article_765f4972-1c59-11ed-a9a0-ef68cf5ef0e4.html | 2022-08-15T07:16:40Z |
InnerClean Quick Detailer Car Wipes and Total Interior Car Cleaning Wipes Make it Fast, Fun and Effortless to Restore Auto Interiors to That Factory-Fresh Shine in Seconds
LOS ANGELES, July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Top car care enthusiast brand Chemical Guys makes interior detailing effortless and enjoyable with the debut of its latest innovations, InnerClean Quick Detailer Car Wipes and Total Interior Car Cleaning Wipes. Engineered using the same fan-favorite formulas Chemical Guys customers know and love in 50-count resealable packs, these disposable wipes are designed to make maintenance in-between deep cleans easier than ever.
InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer Car Wipes are convenient and versatile, made to wipe away dirt, light grime, debris, fingerprints, grease, and oils from your vehicle's interior surface in seconds. They can be used on anything from dashboards to door panels, steering wheels to shift knobs, seats, glass, LCD screens and even center consoles to quickly restore that OEM sheen. Like Chemical Guys' best-selling InnerClean Quick Detailer bottled spray, InnerClean Wipes feature an anti-static and zero-residue formula that repels light dust and dirt to maintain a crisp, clean feel across surfaces, keeping interiors cleaner for longer.
Total Interior Car Cleaning Wipes are the perfect all-in-one solution to clean, maintain and protect virtually all surfaces inside your car. They finish streak-free, leaving no greasy or oily look behind. The unique formula is also blended with durable UV blockers that help shield interior car parts from harsh sunlight, preventing cracking and fading on dashboard plastics, door panels, cup holders, center consoles and sun visors. Like InnerClean Wipes, Total Interior Wipes are easily transportable for unexpected messes on-the-go, made to fit in your glove box or center console, with each package containing 50 ready-to-use wipes.
"One of the great strengths at Chemical Guys is the direct connection we have with the enthusiasts and professionals using our products to help keep their rides shining. Through that connection we are constantly listening, brainstorming, and developing solutions to meet their needs," said John Mansfield, Chemical Guys' Chief Revenue Officer. "The launch of our new wipes product line is a result of that connection, as one of the most frequent requests we've received is for on-the-go adaptations of our most popular bottled formulations."
InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Total Interior Car Cleaning Wipes are available starting today on ChemicalGuys.com and at Detail Garage locations nationwide. Both products will also be available on Amazon Friday, July 8.
Chemical Guys is a worldwide leader in automotive detailing products for car care enthusiasts and professionals. From exclusive small-batch waxes to cutting edge ceramic coatings, and specialty cleaners for exteriors and interiors, Chemical Guys sets the industry standard when it comes to product innovation, technological advancement and education. Based in Southern California, Chemical Guys has evolved from a handful of passionate car fanatics to a global lifestyle brand with the largest digital library of automotive detailing "how to" content available. Learn more and join the Chemical Guys family at ChemicalGuys.com.
Detail Garage is the country's fastest-growing car care superstore. The nationwide retail franchise is the ultimate destination for auto detailing supplies, equipment, car care accessories and training. By combining the highest-quality products with educational detailing classes, Detail Garage has become the country's go-to retail store for car care enthusiasts, passionate car owners, and detailing professionals. After launching its initial location in Southern California, the brand has quickly expanded to over 90 locations over the last 6 years throughout the US, UK and Canada. To find a Detail Garage near you or for more information on products, training or franchising opportunities visit www.detailgarage.com.
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SOURCE Chemical Guys | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/leading-car-care-enthusiast-brand-chemical-guys-debuts-fan-favorite-products-total-interior-cleaner-protectant-innerclean-quick-detailer-new-convenient-wipe-form/ | 2022-07-06T15:03:35Z |
WASHINGTON, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA will hold a media teleconference at 11 a.m. EDT Thursday, Sept. 8, to discuss next steps for the Artemis I mission to launch the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Audio of the call will livestream on NASA's website at:
Artemis I is an uncrewed flight test. It is the first in a series of increasingly complex missions to provide a foundation for human exploration in deep space and demonstrate our commitment and capability to extend human existence to the Moon and beyond.
Teleconference participants include:
- Jim Free, associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters
- Mike Bolger, Exploration Ground Systems program manager, Kennedy
- John Blevins, SLS chief engineer, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center
To participate by telephone, media must RSVP no later than two hours prior to the start of the event to: ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov.
After standing down on the Sept. 3 launch attempt due to a hydrogen leak, teams have decided to replace the seal on an interface, called the quick disconnect, between the liquid hydrogen fuel feed line on the mobile launcher and the rocket while at the launch pad.
Through Artemis missions, NASA will land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon, paving the way for a long-term lunar presence and serving as a steppingstone to send astronauts to Mars.
For updates, follow along on NASA's Artemis blog at:
https://blogs.nasa.gov/artemis
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SOURCE NASA | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/nasa-discuss-status-next-artemis-i-moon-mission-launch-attempt/ | 2022-09-07T22:30:28Z |
TAIPEI, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Global market value of stablecoins is over 150 billion USD, according to CoinMarketCap, and international businesses are interested in exploring digital currencies for payments. As the interest in stablecoins increases, global digital currency market awareness is growing with it. OwlTing Group is filling the need of stablecoin settlements for international businesses by tapping Circle's payment solutions to power one of the cross-border payment solutions offered through OwlPay. This payment integration allows businesses to make payouts in USD Coin (USDC) while using secure digital wallets for both the business and their vendors. Through blockchain technology, payment clearance and settlement can be completed within a few seconds. This creates a seamless flow of funds across geopolitical borders and throughout the world. To start, OwlPay will target businesses in the U.S. that have international payout needs.
USDC is a fully-reserved dollar digital currency with over $55 billion in circulation as of July 12, 2022, and has supported more than $5 trillion in on-chain transactions to date. OwlPay will enable businesses to pay their vendors with USDC, regardless of business or vendor location. These transactions can occur on different blockchains, including Algorand, Avalanche, Ethereum, Flow, Hedera, Polygon, Solana, Stellar and Tron to help improve payment times and reduce costs. OwlPay will provide the business and vendors with a secure wallet to exchange their fiat currency for USDC to easily send and receive payments.
"We are excited about the potential of USDC as a digital currency with high liquidity, so we are very pleased to work with Circle. As the digital currency market continues to expand quickly, the congruent use of stablecoins and fiat currencies is what will certainly happen. It is likely that fiat currencies may be replaced by leading digital currencies like USDC in the future." Andrew Carpenter, Senior Sales Manager of OwlTing Group, explains. "With OwlPay, payments in USDC sent and received are all completed on the blockchain. Users can enjoy all the advantages of digital currencies utilizing OwlPay: fast transactions, affordable fees, transparency, and no worries about the business hours of financial institutions. We recommend that our business users initiate and receive payments in USDC to get the full benefits of our next generation payment service. We are initially focusing on businesses in the U.S. market."
Darren Wang, Founder and CEO of OwlTing Group, shares, "When the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced that regulated financial institutions are allowed to use stablecoins, we discovered new business opportunities. After in-depth research, we chose to work with Circle. We think USDC is the most reliable and transparent dollar digital currency to date, and we believe stablecoins will play an important role in the FinTech industry and a crucial step to changing global finance. OwlTing strives to solve business pain points and upgrade various industries with innovative technologies, and OwlPay is our new solution for the FinTech industry. With global cross-border transactions using stablecoins, OwlPay is well-prepared to set a milestone in the global payment industry. On top of that, for the 1.4 billion adults who remain unbanked, hopefully new FinTech services, like OwlPay, will help solve that problem and contribute to inclusive financing."
"The regulations concerning financial and payment services in the U.S. are relatively stringent. Before OwlTing's integration with USDC, we consulted our U.S. counsels to ensure that we comply with the requirements to obtain the relevant licenses. We completed Circle's prudent KYC process as well and we look forward to future developments." Jackal Ting, Chief Compliance Officer for OwlTing Group, adds. "Despite being a new FinTech service, OwlPay meets the regulatory requirements in various countries. We implement measures including KYC, AML and CFT. With assistance from Chainalysis, the blockchain data platform, we are able to track transactions and perform risk assessments. Listed in the "RegTech 100" in 2022, Chainalysis is a trusted partner for international organizations and government agencies such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). We are committed to prevent illicit funds transfers, comply with relevant regulations, and ensure the safety of users' funds."
About OwlPay
OwlPay provides a one-stop integration payment service for global enterprises. Through developer-friendly APIs, OwlPay integrates functions including reconciliation, mass transfers, auto payouts and supports multiple payment options, fiat currencies, and a stablecoin USDC to innovate B2B cross-border transactions for real-time settlement and clearance. OwlPay significantly enhances efficiency and transparency to offer a faster and cheaper payment solution tailored to the needs of global enterprises. OwlPay aims to create a new FinTech experience to help enterprises enhance operational efficiency and save labor cost.
Website: https://owlpay.com
About OwlTing Group
Founded in 2010, OwlTing Group covers B2B, B2B2C, and B2C services. As a Taiwan-based company, OwlTing has branch offices in the U.S., Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, and seeks to expand globally. In 2018, OwlTing announced an eight-figure USD investment from the Japanese financial giant SBI Group. In recent years, OwlTing has formed partnerships with government agencies, industry, and academia globally and applied the blockchain technology to the FinTech industry, medical industry, automotive industry, defense industry, food industry, forestry, agriculture, etc. OwlTing aims to build blockchain services for various industries to solve pain points and improve industry ecosystems.
Website: https://www.owlting.com
Contacts
OwlTing Group - PR Office
pr_office@owlting.com
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SOURCE OwlTing Group | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/owlting-group-taps-circle-support-owlpays-b2b-real-time-cross-border-payment-service/ | 2022-07-14T13:47:11Z |
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As the summer turns toward back-to-school time, one National Heritage Academies (NHA) educator and leader offers advice on creating a summer learning program that works for your family situation.
Dean of Special Education and Intervention at NHA's Plymouth Scholars Charter Academy, Megan Dziedzic coordinates a summer learning program for students. She has advice for parents who need guidance in keeping their children engaged in basic math and reading skills over the summer months.
"Families need to make summer learning work for them. It should not be overwhelming," Dziedzic said. "Set a schedule, make it a part of the routine. Maybe it's right after breakfast. Read for 20 minutes, so it's anticipated and consistent. Be sure to set attainable goals, so that everyone feels successful. Most importantly, make it fun."
- Practice math fast facts, fluency is needed at all levels. Have your student practice quick facts while driving, or waiting in line.
- Pair reading and writing. After your student is done reading, have them write about their favorite part. Writing is an important skill in every grade.
- Play board or card games as a family. Many games require not only some kind of computation but critical thinking and strategizing that are important to development of math skills.
- To make sure your student is understanding what they are reading ask questions. Ask about the characters, problem, solution, setting, and encourage details. If your student is having trouble answering these, suggest reading the book together and finding a more "just right" book for independent reading.
Summer learning, or learning in general, can be worked into everyday things you do together.
"Like when you are sorting clothes for washing have your kids help, sort by color, count how many items to wash," Dziedzic said. "When you are cooking, have your kids help measure things out. If you are outside, sort rocks by color, or if you see ants, count them. If you are shopping and an item has a 10% discount, ask your student, 'how much is that?'. Just add it into your everyday activities and casual conversations."
Local libraries are great resources for summer learning ideas and programs. So many things are available online, as well. Dziedzic suggests to Google math games for whatever grade your child is, and many possibilities will pop up, most of them free.
A few last reminders from Dziedzic, "Make summer learning work for your family's schedule and your student's needs. Make it simple. Make it fun. Any time spent on summer learning is awesome!"
National Heritage Academies (NHA) is a network of 98 tuition-free, public charter schools across nine states, serving more than 60,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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SOURCE National Heritage Academies | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/create-summer-learning-program-that-works-your-family-one-national-heritage-academies-educator-offers-advice/ | 2022-07-28T20:37:09Z |
NEW YORK, June 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Arqit Quantum Inc. f/k/a Centricus Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: ARQQ) (NASDAQ: ARQQW) (NASDAQ: CENH) (NASDAQ: CENHU) (NASDAQ: CENHW): (i) between September 7, 2021 and April 18, 2022, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"); and/or (ii) all holders of Centricus securities as of the record date for the special meeting of shareholders held on August 31, 2021 to consider approval of the merger between Arqit and Centricus (the "Merger") and entitled to vote on the Merger, of the important July 5, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action commenced by the Firm.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Arqit securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Arqit class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=5481 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than July 5, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period and in the Proxy Statement issued in connection to the Merger made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose: (1) Arqit's proposed encryption technology would require widespread adoption of new protocols and standards of for telecommunications; (2) British cybersecurity officials questioned the viability of Arqit's proposed encryption technology in a meeting in 2020; (3) the British government was not an Arqit customer but, rather, providing grants to Arqit; (4) Arqit had little more than an early-stage prototype of its encryption system at the time of the Merger; and (5) as a result, defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Arqit class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=5481 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
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Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/17/rosen-highly-recognized-law-firm-encourages-arqit-quantum-inc-fka-centricus-acquisition-corp-investors-with-losses-secure-counsel-before-important-deadline-securities-class-action-filed-by-firm-arqq-arqqw-cenh-cenhu-cenhw/ | 2022-06-17T22:13:07Z |
Official: Biden to meet Friday with families of Brittney Griner, Paul Whelan
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden plans to meet at the White House on Friday with family members of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Michigan corporate security executive Paul Whelan, both of whom remain jailed in Russia, senior administration officials told The Associated Press.
The separate meetings are to be the first in-person encounter between Biden and the families and are taking place amid sustained but so far unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans’ release. The administration said in July that it had made a “substantial proposal” to get them home, but despite plans for the White House meetings, there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent.
Griner has been held in Russia since February on drug-related charges. She was sentenced last month to nine years in prison after pleading guilty and has appealed the punishment. Whelan is serving a 16-year sentence on espionage-related charges that he and his family say are false. The U.S. government regards both as wrongfully detained, placing their cases with the office of its top hostage negotiator.
Friday’s meetings, which both families have long sought, are intended to underscore the administration’s commitment to bringing home Griner, Whelan and other Americans jailed abroad, as well as to “connect with them on a human level as they undergo an ordeal that the Russian government has imposed on them,” said one of the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity as the meetings had not yet been publicly announced.
Negotiations have been complicated by the tense relations between Washington and Moscow over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken took the unusual step of announcing two months ago that the administration had made a substantial proposal to Russia. Since then, the administration has followed up in multiple ways to press its offer and get serious negotiations underway, one of the administration officials said Thursday.
The Russians, who have indicated that they are open to negotiations but have chided the Americans to conduct them in private, have come back with suggestions that are not within the administration’s ability to deliver, said the official, declining to elaborate. But the U.S. has been following up through the same channels that produced an April prisoner swap that brought Marine veteran Trevor Reed home from Russia, the official said.
The administration has not provided specifics about its proposal, but a person familiar with the matter previously confirmed it had offered to release Viktor Bout, a convicted Russian arms dealer now imprisoned in the U.S. It is also possible that, in the interests of symmetry, Russia might insist on having two of its citizens released from prison.
Biden spoke by phone in July with Griner’s wife, Cherelle, and with Whelan’s sister, Elizabeth, but both families have also requested in-person meetings. On Friday, Biden plans to speak at the White House with Cherelle Griner and with the player’s agent in one meeting and with Elizabeth Whelan in the other.
The meetings are being done separately so as to ensure that each family has private time with the president. But the fact that they are happening on the same day shows the extent to which the two cases have become intertwined since the only deal that is presumably palatable to the U.S. is one that gets both Americans — a famous WNBA player and a Michigan man who until recently was little known to the public — home together at the same time,
In the past several months, representatives of both families have expressed frustration over what they perceived as a lack of aggressive action and coordination from the administration.
Cherelle Griner, for instance, told The Associated Press in an interview in June that she was dismayed after the failure of a phone call from her wife that was supposed to have been patched through by the American Embassy in Moscow left the couple unable to connect on their fourth anniversary.
Whelan’s relatives have sought to keep attention on his case, anxious that it has been overshadowed in the public eye by the focus on the far more prominent Griner — a two-time Olympic gold medalist and seven-time WNBA all-star. They also conveyed disappointment when Whelan, despite having been held in Russia since December 2018, was not included in a prisoner swap last April that brought home another detained American, Reed.
Friday’s meeting was scheduled before news broke this week of an unconnected trip to Russia by Bill Richardson, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations who has been a veteran emissary in hostage and detainee cases. Administration officials reacted coolly to that trip, with State Department spokesman Ned Price saying Wednesday that dialogue with Russia outside the “established channel” risks hindering efforts to get Griner and Whelan home.
Administration officials say work on hostage and detainee cases persist regardless of whether a family receives a meeting with the president, though there is also no question that such an encounter can help establish a connection. Biden met in the Oval Office in March with Reed’s parents after the Texas couple stood with a large sign outside the White House calling for their son’s release.
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Follow Eric Tucker at http://www.twitter/com/etuckerAP
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/09/15/official-biden-meet-friday-with-families-brittney-griner-paul-whelan/ | 2022-09-15T17:40:52Z |
Guinness World Records: 100-year-old man has longest career of 84 years at same company
(Gray News) - A man in Brazil is setting records for staying at the same company for over eight decades.
Last month, Walter Orthmann turned 100 years old and celebrated with his co-workers, friends, and family. He also celebrated being honored as one of the latest Guinness World Record holders.
Officials with the Guinness World Records said Orthmann has set the record for working at the same company for 84 years and nine days, as the team verified back on Jan 6.
He started working as a shipping assistant when he was fifteen years old in January 1938 at a textile company in Santa Catarina, Brazil, called Industrias Renaux S.A. The company is now known as ReneauxView.
Due to financial problems at home, Orthmann told officials he began to work to help his family. He went with his mom to apply for a job, and because of his strong proficiency in German, he was hired. And the new record holder has worked at the same company ever since.
“Back in 1938, kids were expected to work to help support the family. As the oldest son of five, my mother took me to find a job at the age of 14,” Orthmann said.
Officials said after getting his first position as a shipping assistant, Orthmann showed outstanding skills and a willingness to learn. So, he was promoted to a position in sales and became a successful sales manager.
“I was given the opportunity to work as a salesperson. I traveled to Sao Paulo, and in less than one week, I filled the production with orders equivalent to three months of work,” Orthmann said.
The 100-year-old said he believes that the best part about having a job is that it gives you a sense of purpose, commitment and a routine.
Throughout his 84 years of work, Orthmann said he has seen many things. He said one of the most important parts of the business is constantly being up-to-date and adapting to different contexts.
Officials said he is in good health, with excellent mental clarity and memory. Orthmann enjoys a calm life and exercises every day. As a result, he has maintained enough vitality and energy to drive to his favorite place every day, the office.
“You need to get busy with the present, not the past or the future. Here and now is what counts. So, let’s go to work!” Orthmann said.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/05/04/guinness-world-records-100-year-old-man-has-longest-career-84-years-same-company/ | 2022-05-04T02:08:22Z |
PITTSBURGH, June 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a face mask to counteract stale or unpleasant smells," said an inventor, from Rowlett, Texas, "so I invented STIMULATING SCENTS. My design could also provide wearers with peace of mind and an improved mood."
The patent-pending invention provides an improved design for a protective face mask. In doing so, it helps to combat foul odors. It also could enhance comfort, relaxation and mood and it could help to relieve stress. The invention features a unique design that is easy to wear and use so it is ideal for the general population. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.
The original design was submitted to the Dallas sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-DAL-185, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/06/inventhelp-inventor-develops-face-mask-combat-odors-amp-improve-mood-dal-185/ | 2022-06-06T19:39:49Z |
VENICE, Italy (AP) — Martin McDonagh has returned to the Venice International Film Festival with “The Banshees of Inisherin,” which is having its world premiere Monday night in competition.
It’s his first film since “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” and a reunion with his “In Bruges” stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson.
Farrell on Monday said that he and McDonagh have talked about working together again, and they have a “mature agreement” where they’ll accept if the other wants to pass.
And yet, Farrell said, he also can’t imagine “ever passing on anything (McDonagh) writes because he’s such an extraordinary writer and I’m always so deeply moved emotionally and psychologically by the worlds he creates and the characters that he designs.”
The film is set in 1923 on a remote island off Ireland’s west coast. It tells a story about longtime friends Padraic (Farrell) and Colm (Gleeson) at a fraught moment when Colm suddenly decides to end the relationship. He’s decided that Padraic is dull, and Padraic, in turn, is shattered.
“It’s hard to ghost someone on an island,” Farrell laughed. His character, he said, is the “human manifestation of a little donkey.”
Kerry Condon plays Padraic’s sister Siobhan and Barry Keoghan is the tormented young Dominic, who try to help Padraic mend things.
“He has an innocence where he can’t comprehend why his friend of so many years has cut him out,” Farrell said. “It shakes him to his core … He lives in a beautiful life and that beauty is taken away by Brendan’s Colm.”
Gleeson liked how the film examined male friendship in a different way. But, he said, despite the time that it’s set in, it is a “modern film” in how it presents these two friends.
“The way the idea that these men would talk to each other in a natural way about feelings is debatable if it would transpire at that point,” Gleeson said.
The film also marks McDonagh’s first production in Ireland, which he said was “a dream of mine.” They shot mostly in Inishmore, where his father was from. And before production started, they had several weeks of rehearsals in Galway. Farrell said it “felt so beautiful to be back where Martin’s plays had been performed.”
Venice is a bit of a good luck charm for McDonagh, who in 2017 received the festival’s top screenwriting prize for “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” which would go on to be a box office smash, get him a best picture and screenplay nomination at the Oscars and win two acting Oscars for Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell.
“The Banshees of Inisherin” is competing for the Golden Lion and other top awards this year, against films like Todd Field’s “TÁR” and Darren Aronofsky’s “The Whale,” before it opens in theaters on Oct. 21.
The 79th edition of the Venice Film Festival runs through Sept. 10.
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Follow AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ldbahr
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For more on the Venice Film Festival, visit: www.apnews.com/VeniceFilmFestival | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-farrell-and-gleeson-reunite-with-martin-mcdonagh-in-venice/ | 2022-09-05T17:34:38Z |
Wastewater monitoring for Covid-19 is picking up steam across the US
By Deidre McPhillips, CNN
Interest in using wastewater surveillance to monitor Covid-19 continues to grow in the United States, as the values of the early detection tool come into clearer focus.
In September 2020, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched the National Wastewater Surveillance System, investing millions of dollars in an effort to coordinate and build upon programs that track coronavirus in samples collected in sewage systems.
Participation in the program has risen steadily since launch. But what’s driving interest now — and has led to the biggest bump yet — is the change in clinical testing strategies across the US, said Amy Kirby, a microbiologist who leads the CDC’s wastewater program.
With the growing prevalence of at-home Covid-19 tests and the public’s waning interest in testing in general, less case data is being officially reported. Local health departments are “recognizing that clinical surveillance isn’t going to have as much information about what’s going on in the community,” she said.
“Wastewater is a non-intrusive way to still have that early and reliable information of what’s going on in your community,” Kirby said.
The CDC launched a national public dashboard tracking Covid-19 wastewater data in February, and the number of participating sites has risen from about 400 to nearly 700 sites in the two months since.
In that same time, the daily average of reported Covid-19 tests dropped by two-thirds, according to data from the US Department of Health and Human Services.
The CDC’s wastewater program has enough money to sufficiently cover programs for all 50 states and 14 additional jurisdictions, with funding guaranteed through 2025.
There are 33 states currently funded through the agency’s epidemiology and laboratory capacity cooperative agreement — and another 14 that have a commercial testing contract — but the CDC hopes that all 50 states will be represented in the network by next year. Grant applications are now in process for 2023 funding.
Wastewater surveillance is not a new public health tool, but it was far from mainstream before Covid-19.
Local health departments are still figuring out how to best make use of this tool. They have questions about how to partner with utility companies to collect samples in the first place, as well as the best way to analyze and interpret the resulting data and more, said Deise Galan, lead analyst for the National Association of County and City Health Officials’ public health preparedness program.
Enough questions from members have poured in that NACCHO recently launched a mentorship program that has so far matched one local jurisdiction with lots of experience in wastewater surveillance to a couple of others that are just getting started.
About a dozen local health departments applied to be part of this mentorship program, and it has sparked the interest of many more that have reached out to learn more.
“It’s become something that has not only caught the desire of the local health officials, but also their elected officials as something that they can really implement and use not only for SARS-CoV-2, but for other pathogens as well,” Galan said.
Wastewater is a hyper-local surveillance tool, which only provides information about the specific community that is served by the participating wastewater treatment plant. But experts say there is clear value in bringing as many sites on board as possible.
“It’s both a strength that we get really good information about that community, but also a weakness because we need to get as many wastewater systems as we can doing this testing so that we get a more complete picture,” Kirby said.
It took the CDC about a year and a half — from the launch of the program in September 2020 until February 2022 — to work through how to best standardize and present the data they’d been collecting into a national dashboard.
Right now, data on the dashboard is limited. A map shows the relative change in coronavirus detection levels over a single 15-day period, with earlier trends in percent change only available through downloading a large data set.
But in the coming weeks, the CDC plans to update their national wastewater dashboard with more information about not just how levels change week-to-week, but how the absolute level of coronavirus detected in a sewershed compares to other points in the pandemic. They also plan to include an option to visualize trends over time for each site.
“Our focus is on using this system as an early warning of increases in the community. And we want that early warning system to be as early and as sensitive as it can be,” Kirby said.
This high-sensitivity can create “noise” in the system, she said. But with variants such as BA.2 picking in the US and others potentially looming over the horizon, they’d rather play it extra safe.
“We are working closely with our state and local public health officials to make sure that they are interpreting the data correctly to answer their questions. We’re monitoring those increases until we are either convinced they are just noise or see that they are real increases and we need to move on them.”
More participants bring more opportunities to share knowledge about a public health tool that many are just starting to become familiar with, too.
“Why are we going to reinvent the wheel, if there are other places that have been able to successfully implement this program?” Galan said. “At the local level, we can have that peer-to peer-sharing and collection of best practice.”
Putting it all on a national dashboard allows local health departments to explore what’s happening in similar places, said Chelsea Gridley-Smith, director of environmental health at NACCHO.
“Local health departments know who they see as peers. So, a rural county may look to Chicago for guidance, but not for similarities. But if they can compare themselves to another rural county, they might be able to find more and more programs like themselves,” she said.
“Those are the places where having everything compiled in a CDC location allows us to explore the possibility for expanding partnership outside of just one state with the similarities around county size and jurisdiction size and population type and infrastructure set-up.”
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/health/cnn-health/2022/04/04/wastewater-monitoring-for-covid-19-is-picking-up-steam-across-the-us-3/ | 2022-04-04T20:20:55Z |
SAO PAULO, Sept. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Intersolar South America 2022, one of the largest and most influential PV trade fairs in South America, was held in Sao Paulo, Brazil from August 23 to 25, 2022. Talesun, a world-leading solar module manufacturer in China, attended the exhibition with three high-efficiency modules, in a move to expand into the South American market by establishing more relationships, and by doing so, creating a low-carbon future together with the region.
At the exhibition, Talesun's booth received close attention from all parties and was inundated with visitors. Based on the special needs of the South American market, three high-efficiency modules -- BISTAR_TP7F72M, BIPRO-TD8G66M and FEATHER_TP7F54 (lightweight) were on display.
BISTAR_TP7F72M 144-cell monocrystalline module and FEATHER_TP7F54 (lightweight module)'s unique circuit design significantly reduces hot spot temperature and power loss, while increasing power generation. BIPRO-TD8G66M bifacial dual glass module features a maximum power of 670W on the front side and an additional yield of up to 30% on the back. All three modules have the capability of being suitable for different application scenarios across South America, making possible an extremely low cost of electricity in Brazil where solar resources are abundant.
Due to the scarcity of coal, Brazil is short of electricity supply, but its location and climate mean that the country has one of the highest levels of insolation in the world. This, combined with the promotion of Brazil's "Energy Plan", indicates a PV market with great potential. Talesun foresees a significant opportunity to provide green energy to the South American market with its excellent products and strong market support.
Talesun is committed to boosting the development of clean energy worldwide by playing an active role in building an ecological "Grand Alliance", as part of a global movement to develop low-carbon resources and implement low-carbon solutions everywhere.
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SOURCE Talesun Solar | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/02/talesun-exhibits-high-efficiency-modules-south-american-market/ | 2022-09-02T05:40:33Z |
Launches NFT Collection Designed by Renowned Brazilian Visual Artist Rubem Robierb
Each NFT Includes an Invitation for Two to Exclusive Naming Ceremony for New Ship, Celebrity Beyond, this November in Fort Lauderdale
MIAMI, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrity Cruises®, known for next generation ships at the intersection of architecture and design, is riding the wave of the future of art with its first foray into non-fungible tokens (NFT).
In partnership with acclaimed artist Rubem Robierb, a longstanding featured artist with the cruise line, Celebrity has launched the Peacemakers Sunset NFT collection, complementing Robierb's powerful Peacemakers sculpture featured on its brand new ship, Celebrity Beyond. Each NFT includes two money-can't-buy invitations to the ship's exclusive naming ceremony and sailing in Fort Lauderdale, November 4–6.
The new NFT collection consists of an edition of five motion art pieces, one of which is currently on display at the Cube Art Fair in Times Square from May 18 - 22. On June 1, the NFTs will then become available for purchase via the OpenSea platform. Proceeds from the sales will go to the artist.
Additionally, a variation of these NFTs titled "Peacemakers, Blue Sky" can be found on board Celebrity Beyond, making it the very first NFT at Sea.
"Innovation is a pillar of the Celebrity Cruises experience and a distinguishing characteristic of our ships, so it's only fitting to bring this heritage into the new digital revolution of NFTs and the metaverse," said Celebrity Cruises Chief Marketing Officer Michael Scheiner. "The scale and scope of what's possible in this space, and the way we can connect our guests with new immersive and accessible experiences, is really endless. It's exciting to take this first step with the talents and artistry of Rubem."
"Peacemakers represents two interlaced doves, a tribute to the peacemakers of the world, and the NFTs bring to life the idea that peace is a collaborative act that can never be taken for granted," said Rubem Robierb. "Yin and Yang, masculine and feminine, me and you. If we want to end all battles and conflicts, there is only one solution, and that solution is peace. It has been an honor to continue my collaboration with Celebrity Cruises, and to push the boundaries of our artistic work together to new frontiers, from the metaverse to displaying the first NFT at sea."
Once the NFTs go on sale, they can be resold and exchanged an unlimited number of times. At 5p.m. ET on July 1, each owner of a Peacemakers Sunset NFT will be deemed the recipient of the invitations to join the ship's naming ceremony, including domestic roundtrip airfare for two, to the Celebrity Beyond naming ceremony and sailing, November 4-6, 2022.
Originally from Brazil, Rubem Robierb lives and works in NYC and Miami. Rubem's art has been recognized worldwide as timely and influential, and has been displayed at exhibits and acclaimed art festivals across the globe. In addition to Robierb's "Peacemakers" design on board Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Cruises also features his thought-provoking "Dream Machine" on Celebrity Edge, exploring the desire for a fair and just society; and "Empower Flower" on Celebrity Apex, celebrating women's rights and empowerment.
Onboard Celebrity Beyond, fans of Robierb's art will also enjoy the incorporation of Peacemakers into the live production show Arte, the first-time a work of art displayed onboard a Celebrity cruise ship bas been integrated into a theater-show experience; and the ability to purchase from a limited-edition Peacemakers jewelry collection, a collaboration between Robierb and Effy jewelry, featuring necklaces in a variety of precious metals and gems.
Celebrity Beyond showcases the design talents of multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; celebrated American designer Nate Berkus; and lauded Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku; the innovation of British architect Tom Wright; and the culinary gifts of renowned chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud, Celebrity's Global Culinary Ambassador. The ship also features experiences and products from modern lifestyle and wellness brand, goop. The exquisite ship offers a journey filled with what's important to today's discerning traveler: forward-thinking design, culinary excellence, unparalleled well-being and incomparable service.
Celebrity Beyond began her inaugural season on April 27, 2022 with a 10-night sailing from Southampton, England, to Barcelona, Spain, and will now spend the summer sailing nine-to-10-night itineraries in the Mediterranean. In November, Celebrity Beyond will make her way to Fort Lauderdale for the official naming ceremony and a winter season of five-to-nine-night Caribbean sailings.
For more details on Celebrity Beyond offerings and destinations, visit www.celebritycruises.com/cruise-ships/celebrity-beyond. For more information on all Celebrity Cruises offerings, call 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com or speak with a travel advisor.
ABOUT CELEBRITY CRUISES
Celebrity Cruises' iconic "X" is the mark of a fleet of 15 award-winning ships redefining luxury cruise travel with cool, contemporary design and accommodation; dining, spa and entertainment experiences for modern tastes; and culturally rich and diverse destination experiences, all complemented by warm, personalized service. Celebrity has pioneered many industry firsts at sea, including: the first use of solar panels on a cruise ship; the first to eliminate use of plastic water bottles; the first American female Captain of a cruise ship; the first-ever all-female bridge and officer team sailing; the first West African woman to work on the bridge of a cruise ship; and one of the first legal same-sex weddings performed at sea. Driven by wanderlust and a passion for opening the world, Celebrity journeys to all seven continents, visiting nearly 300 destinations in more than 70 countries. Celebrity Cruises is one of five cruise brands owned by global cruise company Royal Caribbean Group. (NYSE: RCL).
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SOURCE Celebrity Cruises | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/celebrity-cruises-sails-into-digital-frontier-with-its-first-ever-nft/ | 2022-05-18T15:03:14Z |
MCLEAN, Va., July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CakeBoxx Technologies, the global leader in specialized, high value, and high consequence cargo transportation platforms – and innovator of the first and only SAFETY Act Qualified intermodal container – today announced the appointment of Sean Tan as Chief Technical Officer (CTO). Tan will join CakeBoxx' corporate headquarters team in McLean and is tasked with leading the company's worldwide R&D, systems engineering, and ongoing product development initiatives. Reporting to Daine Eisold, the Chairman and CEO, and working closely with James Campbell, the Chief Operating Officer, Tan will be focused on scaling CakeBoxx Technologies' industrial manufacturing, high-value, and high-consequence cargo and platform solutions. His particular focus will be on automotive, energy, aerospace, and defense as these industries reimagine their supply chains, shipping, and transportation solutions.
Sean brings a tremendous breadth of knowledge and high-level design engineering expertise from more than 25 years of experience as a senior mechanical design engineer at Caterpillar, JRB, and Pratt & Whitney, among others. As CakeBoxx pioneers the transformation of transportation, freight forwarding, shipping, and 3PL networks into resilient, adaptive, and efficient supply chains that include the optimization of break bulk / ro-ro / intermodal and container shipping interoperability, Sean Tan's advanced supply chain systems engineering experience will be instrumental in expanding and continuing the company's distinguished trend of innovation in both engineered transport solutions and operational efficiency improvements.
"Good things are coming for high-value, high-consequence, and mission-critical intermodal cargo and BCOs," said Daine Eisold, CakeBoxx CEO. "Having collaborated with Sean on several projects over the past six years, we are now extremely pleased to welcome him as our CTO at CakeBoxx Technologies. Sean is a consummate innovator with an astounding breadth of experience and phenomenal design engineering skills, holding multiple patents. Drawing on his deep working knowledge of the heavy equipment sector at Caterpillar, Sean has a unique perspective on both containerization and efficiency of product design to incorporate into new container and platform concepts."
"I am thrilled to be joining the CakeBoxx team and leading the company's design engineering services," said Tan. "The CakeBoxx container is a great product with huge potential for many more applications across various industries. I look forward to helping the company continue to push the boundaries of container engineering and expand into more markets with innovative designs that meet customers' unique needs."
From his experience working with private sector companies and federal agencies in multiple countries, Tan understands the complexities of the business world and how great product and container design can help streamline supply chains and reduce customer costs.
He recalls a particularly challenging project during his time with Caterpillar that underscores the importance of designs like the CakeBoxx container.
"While at Caterpillar, I designed heavy equipment and was managing the design of a wheel loader from concept to production," Tan explained. "I was asked to work with the transportation team to design shipping configurations to fit large, oddly-shaped, heavy machinery onto shipping platforms and containers – while reducing costs, minimizing risk, and maximizing the efficient use of space. I then realized it's not enough just to design the equipment. One must also clearly understand how that equipment gets to customers and how it can best be moved from one place to another safely and cost-effectively. So when I saw CakeBoxx, I was immediately attracted to the concept, and I now eagerly anticipate leading many innovative container design projects to come!"
Today's announcement underscores CakeBoxx Technologies' rapid expansion and advancement of its supply chain and transportation engineering offerings. Over the past decade, the company has built a strong base of customers in the U.S. and worldwide in industries as varied as defense, aerospace, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and other renewable energy systems. Any industry or shipping need that requires specialized containers for high-security, high-value cargo, and that benefits from extreme sustainability, is a candidate CakeBoxx customer.
CakeBoxx Technologies products and advanced supply chain engineering services are available to companies, governments, NGOs, and other organizations worldwide seeking to enhance security, lower total cost of ownership, build resilience and improve sustainability in their supply chain operations.
For more information, visit cakeboxx.com.
CakeBoxx Technologies – Safe, Secure, and Efficient Cargo Solutions:
CakeBoxx Technologies is a global supply chain systems engineering and transportation systems integration solution provider. The company designs and builds cargo shipping containers and platforms to help organizations manage risk, increase resilience, lower total cost of ownership and increase velocity for cargo transportation and specialty manufacturing markets.
CakeBoxx "two-piece" containers with their deck and lid design, are the first innovation in the industry to offer truly safe, secure and efficient containerized transport for the top-loaded, side-loaded, break bulk and general project cargo markets. Advantages of CakeBoxx solutions include increased operational efficiency, reduced risk of cargo theft, and lower operating costs. Using CakeBoxx containers saves money. CakeBoxx Technologies offers these containers in a product line of sizes and specifications to meet individual customer needs.
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SOURCE CakeBoxx Technologies/Bluehouse Consulting Group | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/13/cakeboxx-technologies-expands-systems-engineering-capacity-with-appointment-sean-tan-cto/ | 2022-07-13T20:11:29Z |
BRISTOL, Tenn., May 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpha Metallurgical Resources, Inc. (NYSE: AMR), a leading U.S. supplier of metallurgical products for the steel industry, today issued the following statement regarding a report from an activist short-selling firm containing false and misleading characterizations about Alpha's business.
David Stetson, chair and chief executive officer, stated: "We have worked hard to earn a strong reputation for ethical operations and transparent reporting, and these principles remain critically important to all of us at Alpha. The document released by an activist short seller today is filled with inaccuracies and appears to be fueled by an inadequate understanding of coal mining and our reporting requirements. It is clear to us that this report was designed for the sole purpose of negatively impacting Alpha's share price for the short seller's own benefit. Alpha's management remains focused, as we always are, on safely running the business and continuing to create long-term value for our many stakeholders and investors."
Alpha's board of directors affirmed its confidence in the company's management and strategic direction. Lead independent director, Michael Quillen, stated: "On behalf of the entire board, we stand in support of the exceptional management team running Alpha Metallurgical Resources. Their collective efforts have produced the company's strong recent quarterly results, a significantly deleveraged balanced sheet, and the establishment of robust shareholder return programs – including our newly increased $600 million share repurchase plan and the establishment of a quarterly dividend. Alpha's board believes the short-seller report is the work of a self-interested activist investor hoping to distort the company's record for its own gain. It's our view that Alpha remains well-positioned for long-term success and the board continues to have great confidence in our strategic direction."
Alpha Metallurgical Resources (NYSE: AMR) is a Tennessee-based mining company with operations across Virginia and West Virginia. With customers across the globe, high-quality reserves and significant port capacity, Alpha reliably supplies metallurgical products to the steel industry. For more information, visit www.AlphaMetResources.com.
This press release includes forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on Alpha's expectations and beliefs concerning future events and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. These factors are difficult to predict accurately and may be beyond Alpha's control. Forward-looking statements in this press release or elsewhere speak only as of the date made. New uncertainties and risks arise from time to time, and it is impossible for Alpha to predict these events or how they may affect Alpha. Except as required by law, Alpha has no duty to, and does not intend to, update or revise the forward-looking statements in this press release or elsewhere after the date this release is issued. In light of these risks and uncertainties, investors should keep in mind that results, events or developments discussed in any forward-looking statement made in this press release may not occur.
- ### -
INVESTOR CONTACT: ALEX ROTONEN
InvestorRelations@AlphaMetResources.com
(423) 956-6882
MEDIA CONTACT: EMILY O'QUINN
CorporateCommunications@AlphaMetResources.com
(423) 573-0369
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SOURCE Alpha Metallurgical Resources, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/17/alpha-metallurgical-resources-issues-statement/ | 2022-05-17T20:55:21Z |
COVID-19 asylum limits at US-Mexico border to end May 23
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Friday that it is ending a policy that limited asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The use of public health powers had been widely criticized by Democrats and immigration advocates as an excuse for the United States to shirk its obligations to provide haven to people fleeing persecution. The policy went into effect under President Donald Trump in March 2020. Since then, migrants trying to enter the U.S. have been expelled more than 1.7 million times.
The policy, known as the Title 42 authority, named for a 1944 public health law to prevent communicable disease, will end on paper, but it will not take effect until May 23, to allow border officials time to prepare. The Associated Press first reported the change earlier this week.
The policy was increasingly hard to justify scientifically as restrictions ended across the U.S.
The federal order says efforts by the Department of Homeland Security to provide vaccines to migrants at the border will step up in the next two months.
“After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC director has determined that an order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary,” the CDC said in a statement.
The decision is expected to draw more migrants to the U.S.-Mexico border. Even before it was officially announced, more than a dozen migrants excitedly ran out of their dormitory at the Good Samaritan shelter in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, asking about it.
DHS said this week that about 7,100 migrants were coming daily, compared with an average of about 5,900 a day in February — on pace to match or exceed highs from last year, 2019 and other peak periods. But border officials said they are planning for as many as 18,000 arrivals daily, and that seems certain to cause challenges for border-region Democrats in tight reelection races — with some warning that the Biden administration is unprepared to handle the situation.
Homeland Security said it created a Southwest Border Coordinating Center to respond to any sharp increases, with MaryAnn Tierney, a regional director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as interim leader and a Border Patrol official as deputy.
Officials also are working on additional ground and air transportation options and tents to house the expected influx, and the Border Patrol has already hired on civilians.
Instead of conducting patrols and uncovering smuggling activity, its agents spend about 40% of their time caring for people already in custody and administrative tasks that are unrelated to border security.
The agency hoped to free up agents to go back into the field by hiring civilians for jobs such as making sure that microwaved burritos are served properly, checking holding cells and the time-consuming work of collecting information for immigration court papers.
Still, administration officials acknowledged the fixes are only temporary measures.
“The Biden-Harris administration is committed to pursuing every avenue within our authority to secure our borders, enforce our laws, and stay true to our values,” said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. “Yet a long-term solution can only come from comprehensive legislation that brings lasting reform to a fundamentally broken system.”
The limits went into place in March 2020 under the Trump administration as coronavirus cases soared. While officials said at the time that it was a way to keep COVID-19 out of the United States, there always has been criticism that the restrictions were used as an excuse to seal the border to migrants unwanted by then-President Donald Trump. It was perhaps the broadest of Trump’s actions to restrict crossings and crack down on migrants.
CDC officials lifted part of the order last month, ending the limits for children traveling to the border alone. In August, U.S. border authorities began testing children traveling alone in their busiest areas: Positives fell to 6% in the first week of March from a high of nearly 20% in early February.
Asylum limits have been applied unevenly by nationality, depending largely on costs and diplomatic relations with home countries. Many migrants have been spared from Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua and, more recently, Ukraine. Homeland Security officials wrote border authorities this month that Ukrainians may be exempt, saying Russia’s invasion “created a humanitarian crisis.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/01/covid-19-asylum-limits-us-mexico-border-end-may-23/ | 2022-04-01T17:21:06Z |
KENT, Wash., May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Want to get paid to smoke weed and be creative? Sesh, a newly minted pre-roll cone and cannabis accessory brand, is looking for content creators with an interest in cannabis to create content for the Sesh website, blog, and social media platforms. They are searching for experienced writers, photographers, and social media gurus, who are passionate about cannabis and want to earn money doing something they love - talk about a DREAM JOB!
Sesh is looking for creators of any type of creative content; writers, bloggers, social media influencers, videographers, streamers, graphic designers, brand ambassadors – if you have a passion for cannabis and a creative talent, they want your application!
Selected applicants will receive free Sesh products to use and smoke! They will also be flown out to the Sesh headquarters office in the suburbs of beautiful Seattle in the Pacific Northwest, and have the opportunity to attend one major trade show per year with the Sesh team in cities like Las Vegas, Chicago, New York, and many more!
This is a dream job opportunity for any stoner – getting paid to smoke weed and try out high-quality products, and make some killer creative content while you're at it.
APPLY HERE: https://gotsesh.com/sesh-dream-job/
Contact Email: Contact@GotSesh.com
About Sesh
Sesh is a pre-roll cone and cannabis accessory brand created with one goal in mind: to bring people together to have fun, relax, and enjoy a good smoke sesh. Sesh is committed to offering products made from high-quality ingredients in order to provide the smoothest toke possible. Elevate your smoke sesh with pre-rolled cones, hemp wrap blunt cones, and botanical blunt cones made from real goji berry, cocoa, sage, and hibiscus!
Contact Information:
Sesh – GotSesh.com
Contact@GotSesh.com 206-274-9381
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SOURCE Sesh - GotSesh.com | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/get-paid-smoke-weed-how-land-dream-job-cannabis-content-creator/ | 2022-05-18T16:46:13Z |
NEW YORK, April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In a move toward creating efficiencies and increasing access to vital clinical data, Healthix announced a collaboration with Hixny, two leading public New York HIEs, to launch a new SMART on FHIR enabled capability, developed by Hixny. The application, called Concise, will provide a patient record snapshot that quickly delivers data within the provider's workflow; data that is essential for effective care.
"With increasing demands for comprehensive data and unencumbered access, Healthix reached out to Hixny to leverage a solution that works for busy providers seeking quick, efficient access to vital information," said Todd Rogow, President & CEO of Healthix. "We saw an opportunity to build upon a growing partnership between our organizations and to share best practices, leveraging the expertise each public HIE brings to patients across New York State."
In fact, this collaboration means that providers at half of the hospitals in New York State will have access to data from across the state's healthcare community using the same interface within the workflow of their electronic health record (EHR) system.
The technology being used to power Concise' s patient record snapshot—FHIR—is being more widely used and adopted across healthcare as it facilitates the seamless exchange of data across platforms. Use of the technology also helps Healthix, and providers, align to various directives made by the federal government's Trusted Exchanged Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA) over the past couple of years.
"For years, we [HINs] have been limited by EHRs," said Mark McKinney, Hixny's CEO, referencing a recent blog he posted. "But with FHIR specifications being strongly promoted by the federal government to solve the problem of interoperability nationwide, we are beginning to gain serious traction. This patient record snapshot is just a scratch on the surface of the solutions we can provide using SMART on FHIR to support improvements in healthcare."
"Our providers depend on us to be responsive and to derive value from participating in health information exchange," said Rogow. "Some of the city's largest health systems have demonstrated interest in integrating Healthix Concise." The application is especially advantageous for complex networks that cross multiple hospitals and other facility types sharing the same electronic health record (EHR) for their patients. The ease of integrating within some of the industry's largest and most widely used EHRs makes it especially valuable.
About Healthix
Healthix is among the largest public health information exchanges (HIE) in the nation, bringing together over 8,000 healthcare facilities across New York City and Long Island. Healthix provides secure access to clinical data of more than 20 million patients, for treatment, care coordination and quality improvement. Data available through Healthix includes a broad range of clinical information electronically delivered with each patient encounter from across New York State, 24/7 in real-time. With HITRUST certification as a critical component of its accreditation as a state qualified entity, Healthix affirms their commitment to the highest security standards, ensuring that data from all contributors remains secured and protected. Visit www.healthix.org
About Hixny
Hixny is the nonprofit electronic health information exchange (HIE) serving Eastern New York and parts of Vermont. Its secure technology allows healthcare consumers and providers to access health records in real time, ensuring providers have the details they need to provide high-quality care and empowering patients to become more active participants in their own care. Hixny facilitates collaboration, helping establish the foundation of effective population- and community-level health initiatives. Hixny is a nationally recognized leader in HIE technology innovation.
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SOURCE Healthix | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/11/collaboration-between-healthix-hixny-facilitates-seamless-access-through-concise-fhir-enabled-patient-record-snapshot-drives-interoperability-workflow-efficiencies-new-york-state-providers/ | 2022-04-11T19:18:04Z |
26 JUNE 2022, Start 7.30 AM, 42 KM, 2,540 M elevation gain
ANNECY, France, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- From the centre of Chamonix, European capital of mountaineering at the foot of Mont-Blanc, 2,000 courageous trail runners set off along the route of the Marathon du Mont-Blanc, 2nd round of the Golden World Trail Series, on Sunday 26th June.
Chamonix, the capital of trail running
The speaker made it clear before the start: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more popular for its summer activities than for its winter season. And when you look at the playground unfurling in front the the 2,000 participants in the Marathon du Mont-Blanc 2022, you can understand why. With the effervescent valley vibrating to the rhythms of the runners, sublime mountains with the majestic Mont Blanc as the highest point and balcony trails from which to enjoy these magnificent panoramic views, there's plenty to whet the appetite. And to add to this, for the first time this year, the second round of the Golden Trail World Series offered both a start and finish in the heart of Chamonix itself for a guaranteed thrill. The public was not disappointed on 26th June - there were several tens of thousands of spectators who came to support all these runners, whether at the start and finish in Chamonix, or directly in the Fan Zone set up at kilometre 13 at the Le Tour section of the route.
New champions
At the top of the list of winners of this Marathon du Mont-Blanc 2022, there are two completely new winners, as Jonathan Albon (Team The North Face, Great Britain) came first in the men's race, while Sara Alonso (Team Salomon, Spain) confirmed her great form by winning the race after her third place in Zegama in May. There were also African runners taking part in this second round of the Golden Trail World Series. Elhousine Elazzoui (Team Pini Mountain Racing, Morocco), Robert Pkemboi Matayango (Team Sky Runners Kenya, Kenya) and Petro Mamu (Team Scarpa, Eritrea) maintained great rhythm before slowing down over the final kilometres. They finished the race in 4th, 6th and 13th position respectively.
Next date in Norway
After this second round, the Golden Trail World Series will be heading to Norway for the first time, the with Stranda Fjord Trail Race on 6th August.
Results
Men
1 – JONATHAN ALBON (GBR – THE NORTH FACE): 03:35:20 (+200 pts)
2 – DAVIDE MAGNINI (ITA – SALOMON): 03:39:41 (+176 pts)
3 – RUY UEDA (JAP – RED BULL): 03:40:42 (+156 pts)
4 – ELHOUSINE ELAZZAOUI (MAR – PINI MOUNTAIN RACING): 03:43:19 (+144 pts)
5 – THIBAUT BARONIAN (FRA – SALOMON): 03:47:27 (+136 pts)
Women
1 – SARA ALONSO (ESP – SALOMON): 04:14:49 (+200 pts)
2 – CAITLIN FIELDER (NZL – SALOMON): 04:20:21 (+ 176 pts)
3 – DANI MORENO (USA – HOKA ONE ONE/RABBIT): 04:21:52 (+ 156 pts)
4 – ANAÏS SABRIÉ (FRA – TEAM SIDAS X MATRYX): 04:22:10 (+144 pts)
5 – MARCELA VASINOVA (CZE – SALOMON): 04:24:35 (+136 pts)
Get all the Marathon du Mont-Blanc 2022 rankings here:
https://mbm.livetrail.net
Find the Golden Trail World Series 2022 general ranking here: https://goldentrailseries.com/series/gtws.htm
Available photos and press elements
Password: GTWSpress2022
Please use the copyrights @GoldenTrailSeries | @"name of the race" | @"name of the photographer"
Golden Trail TV: goldentrailseries.com/gttv/
Website: goldentrailseries.com
Facebook: Golden Trail Series
Instagram: Golden Trail Series
YouTube: Golden Trail Series
E-mail: contact@goldentrailseries.com
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1851768/Golden_Trail_Series_1.jpg
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1819208/Golden_Trail_World_Series_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE Golden Trail Series | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/marathon-du-mont-blanc-more-than-2000-runners-slopes-europes-highest-peak/ | 2022-07-01T13:19:50Z |
Newcomers Club
The Newcomers Club, Inc. is looking for new members and extends a warm welcome to ladies that are new (within the past three years) to Bell County and surrounding counties. The group also welcome ladies that have just retired, are recent empty nesters, or have experienced another life change within the past three years and would like to connect with other ladies. Join the fun and check out the Newcomers Club Inc. at www.bellcountynewcomers.com. For information about joining, contact Jan Fisher at 2txgrl@gmail.com or 951-751-4002.
Upcoming group activities are: 6/1 Monthly Luncheon and Popcorn Bridge; 6/6 Chat ‘N’ Canasta; 6/10 TGIF Lunch; 6/11 Couples Night Out; 6/13 Bookworms; 6/15 Popcorn Bridge; 6/17 Trail Blazers; 6/18 Exploring Wines; 6/20 Snack Time Mah Jongg; 6/21 Bunco; 6/22 Fun Lunch; 6/23 Heritage Seekers; 6/25 Sassy Singles; and 6/27 Well-Read Women, Crocket & Knit, and Monday Canasta.
The John Birch Society
Armando Escalante, regional development officer for The John Birch Society, spoke May 10 at the group’s monthly meeting in Temple. The program subject was “How Safe is a Constitutional Convention?”.
Escalante outlined how the Convention of States organization is pushing for the acceptance of various Constitutional amendments at state legislatures across the country in hopes of reaching the 2/3 of states required to call an Article V Constitutional Convention.
Escalante outlined things that can go wrong if a Constitutional Convention comes to fruition, including scrapping the U.S. Constitution. He emphasized the importance of educating ourselves and our state legislators on the dangers of a Constitutional Convention.
The next meeting of The John Birch Society will be on Flag Day, Tuesday, June 14, at 6 p.m. at Dynasty Restaurant, 2501 Airport Road in Temple.
Temple Breakfast Lions Club
The Temple Breakfast Lions Club meets the first and third Thursdays of each month in the Ava room at the Hilton Garden Inn, 1749 Scott Boulevard in Temple. The group gathers at 7 a.m. to order breakfast and the meeting starts at 7:30 a.m.
The group’s next meeting will be June 2.
Meetings also are broadcast by the Zoom online meeting platform. For information email Lmeeker53@gmail. com. Meetings are open to the public and the club is open to anyone with a heart for service.
Rotary Club of Belton
The Rotary Club of Belton will hold a dedication for a bench/tree/Little Library project at 9 a.m. on Tuesday at Jeff Hamilton Park, 1230 W. Ave. J in Belton.
Rotarians and guests are invited. There will be no meeting at noon on Tuesday.
Salado Area Republican Women Fine China Luncheon
The Salado Area Republican Women’s group will celebrate its 15th anniversary Fine China Luncheon and fundraiser on Tuesday, June 7, in the Blue Heron Room at Tenroc Ranch, 5471 Thomas Arnold Road in Salado.
Tables for the luncheon are decorated by local individuals and businesses. Doors will open at 10:45 a.m. for viewing the tables and a silent auction. Participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite table.
The luncheon will start at 11:30 a.m. and will be catered by Classic Events of Texas. During the meal, there will be informal modeling by Susan Marie’s and H and H Décor & Fashions. Both stores have agreed to give a discount to shoppers after the event.
The special guest will be Kit Whitehill, president of the Texas Federation of Republican Women.
Tickets are $40 and can be reserved by mailing a check to: SARW PAC, Barclay McCort, 406 Royal View Road, Salado TX 76571. Because Salado Area Republican is a political action committee, the occupation of the ticket buyer and address is needed. The deadline for ticket sales is June 1. For information contact Barclay McCort at barclaymccort@gmail.com or 254-760-4266.
Proceeds from the event will help support SARW community projects, scholarships, and education and political campaigns.
Bell County Retired School Employee Association
Bell County Retired School Employee Association’s membership drive officially started March 1 for the 2022-2023 year.
The dues are $10 locally and $35 for state dues. The $45 payment can be made with cash, check or with our new PayPal app at PayPal.me/BCRSEA. For information contact Millie Henn, treasurer, at milliehenn4@gmail.com or Membership Chairwoman Karen McGregor at missusa78@aol.com.
Those who register will have their name entered in a drawing for a free membership. Also, any member that brings in two new members, will be entered in a drawing for a $100 gift certificate to Pignettis. The drawing will take place on be Sept. 1. Members must join before June 1 to have their name in the directory. To find the registration form online go to bit.ly/BCRSEA on visit the BCRSEA Facebook page.
An executive board retreat will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon June 2 at Temple ISD administration building located in the Santa Fe Plaza in downtown Temple.
Yearbooks will be mailed to paid members in August. Members are reminded to keep track of all of their volunteer hours for the month and email the total to Paul Parker at pfparker67@gmail.com.
The group would like to thank Dr. Robin Battershell for an excellent job serving as president for two very challenging years and for the group’s monthly newsletter, which will resume in August.
Support groups at Young’s Daughters funeral home
Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center, 4235 E. Business 190 in Temple, is hosting several support groups.
Widows and Widowers Connections meets at 6 p.m. every third Wednesday of the month. Compassionate Friends meets at 6 p.m. every second Thursday of the month. A dementia and Alzheimer’s disease support group meets at 6 p.m. every Friday. Donuts and Discussions are held at 7:30 a.m. every second Wednesday of the month. A Grief Share group meets at 6 p.m. every Monday. | https://www.tdtnews.com/life/article_1194c010-ddc7-11ec-9526-1778025208c7.html | 2022-05-29T08:34:22Z |
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has announced that his Public Safety Office is accepting applications from law enforcement agencies for the Bullet-Resistant Shield Grant Program and for Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training travel assistance.
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Fundraise comes off the heels of Fortune 500 client growth utilizing Teamwork Platform
NEW YORK, May 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Valence, the leading teamwork platform, today announced its $25 million Series A fundraise led by New York-based private equity and venture capital Insight Partners with additional investments from existing investors. This round of funding will be used to meet growing market demand and attract premier talent.
With this funding round, Valence also announced its launch of their Board of Advisors featuring an esteemed group of enterprise-scale experts, including Bill McNabb (former chairman and CEO at Vanguard), Eric Roza (former CEO at CrossFit), Katie Bullard (former president & chief growth officer at ZoomInfo and now Managing Director at Insight Partners), and with more to come.
Valence is changing enterprise companies' approach to talent and development and helps them go beyond bespoke or one-size-fits-all coaching to a more effective approach that addresses the complex dynamics of teamwork. Valence works with leading companies, including Applied Materials, The Coca-Cola Company, Boston Scientific, Illumina, and many others to provide best practices and teams-based coaching at scale through digital tools.
Valence's teamwork platform provides enterprises with:
- Individual and team assessments: Diagnostic tools to uncover working styles of individuals and the patterns and dynamics of the broader team they sit within
- Discussion facilitation: AI-powered coaching prompts, benchmarks, and guides to conduct alignment exercises across individuals and teams
- 360 Learning Journeys: In-depth peer-based reviews with actionable feedback to uncover blind spots and identify areas to improve
- Habits prompts: Automated and customizable reminders on actions to hold one another accountable for the habits that will lead to meaningful change for a team
"Valence saw tremendous growth over the last year, and we are thrilled by the strong validation we are receiving from our incredible clients and the market," said Parker Mitchell, co-founder and CEO at Valence. "As more enterprises embrace the new reality of modern workforces, we will continue to make manager enablement in hybrid environments scale for them, and allow our clients to effortlessly improve team performance and employee retention. This funding will help us attract premier talent and rapidly expand Valence's business."
Katie Bullard, managing director at Insight Partners added, "Insight is thrilled to partner with Valence as the company builds on its category-leading manager enablement platform." She then went on to say that, "Equipping teams to succeed and work well together as organizations get increasingly complex is a top priority for every enterprise. We are excited to support Valence's hyper-growth journey as the company continues to innovate and expand."
"The companies that I've seen excel in recent years recognize that teams are the foundation of employee performance," said Bill McNabb, former chairman and CEO at Vanguard. "In today's workplace, teams provide the foundation for trust, teaching, and learning that is so important for employee fulfillment and success. This has been accelerated by the changing workplace where hybrid and highly distributed teams are the norm. I'm excited to be helping Valence scale to reach an even larger set of clients who recognize that a teams-based focus in their learning and development programs will drive performance."
People thrive when they are on teams that help them learn and grow with their colleagues, and are able to produce creative, meaningful work. These teams combine empathy, understanding and performance and are more than the sum of the parts. They are increasingly the aspiration for every leader, company, and employee.
However, most HR platforms and learning and development (L&D) approaches are focused on individuals, and this holds back a manager's ability to build stronger teams. When a professional development program only focuses on the individual, it ignores the potential friction and nuances of the environment that person is expected to apply those new skills within. When the individual and the broader team are both considered and developed, all of this goes more smoothly.
Valence's clients see meaningful improvements in employee satisfaction and retention when teams-based coaching is deployed, with many focusing on new managers, higher performance employees, hybrid and remote workers, and global distribution.
"We need our teams and leaders to have accessible ways to improve how well they perform together." said Michael Hill Ph.D, director of integrated talent at Applied Materials. "Valence creates a data-driven and well structured way for teams to diagnose their issues, and come up with solutions."
About Valence
Founded in 2017, Valence is the only teamwork platform used by Fortune 500 companies. Valence helps managers leverage data and on-demand industry-leading expertise to accelerate the team health, connectivity, and performance required for today's workplace.
Valence gives every manager the tools and insights they need to understand their team's health in real time, intervene with powerful guided conversations, and set and track shared commitments to team improvements. Valence's easy to use, web-enabled team experience modules eliminate the need for expensive coaches and talent team interventions, putting managers in the driver's seat of their team experience. Managing has never been harder, and Valence eases the burden managers bear by helping them develop and support their teams while also driving performance and improvement. To learn more, visit valence.co
About Insight Partners
Insight Partners is a global software investor partnering with high-growth technology, software, and Internet startup and ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. As of February 24, 2022, the closing of the firm's recent fundraise, Fund XII, brings Insight Partners regulatory assets under management to over $90B. Insight Partners has invested in more than 600 companies worldwide and has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve an IPO. Headquartered in New York City, Insight has offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Palo Alto. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with practical, hands-on software expertise to foster long-term success. Insight Partners meets great software leaders where they are in their growth journey, from their first investment to IPO. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit insightpartners.com or follow us on Twitter @insightpartners.
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SOURCE Valence | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/03/valence-raises-25m-help-enterprises-build-stronger-teams-more-productive-workplaces-scale/ | 2022-05-03T21:12:40Z |
BOCA RATON, Fla., April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Terran Orbital Corporation (NYSE: LLAP), a global leader in satellite solutions, primarily serving the United States aerospace and defense industry, announced today that it will present at the Jefferies Virtual Space Summit at 4:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, April 12, 2022.
Terran Orbital Co-Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer Marc Bell will present alongside Terran Orbital Chief Financial Officer Gary Hobart. Click here to access the presentation.
About Terran Orbital
Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of small satellites primarily serving the United States aerospace and defense industry. Terran Orbital provides end-to-end satellite solutions by combining satellite design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and in-orbit support to meet the needs of the most demanding military, civil, and commercial customers. In addition, Terran Orbital is developing one of the world's largest, most advanced NextGen Earth Observation constellations to provide persistent, real-time earth imagery. Learn more at www.terranorbital.com
Media Contacts:
pr@terranorbital.com
949-508-6404
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SOURCE Terran Orbital | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/08/terran-orbital-present-jefferies-virtual-space-summit/ | 2022-04-08T11:16:35Z |
Reservations now available for unprecedented dining concept in exquisite landmark destination
Click here to download b-roll and high-res photos
LAS VEGAS, July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The iconic Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens unveiled one of Las Vegas' most exclusive dining experiences with the debut of The Garden Table. Available for brunch or dinner, The Garden Table invites guests to enjoy an epicurean adventure at a table set within the spectacular beauty of Bellagio's stunning floral masterpiece. Specialty pre-fixe menus crafted by the award-winning teams at MICHAEL MINA Bellagio and Sadelle's Café feature fare that will delight all the senses.
"The Bellagio Conservatory is one of Las Vegas' most visited and most photographed attractions. We wanted to create an entirely new and immersive way for our guests to experience the beauty of this space, " said Bellagio Vice President of Food & Beverage Josef Wagner. "The sights, sounds, colors, and energy of the Conservatory, combined with chefs Michael Mina and Mario Carbone curating the culinary journey, make for an epic experience that only Bellagio can deliver."
The inaugural Garden Table sits within the Conservatory's summer display, "Jungle of Dreams," and pays homage to the animal kingdom with 28 animal sculptures and close to 10,000 plants and flowers. The stunning work of art takes guests on a journey through a magical place with moments of discovery and whimsy around every corner, as majestic animals gather to celebrate the coronation of the king of the jungle. Highlights include fanciful pink flamingos, ornate blue parrots, monkeys, blue herons, giraffes, and a 20-foot-tall lion, along with a theatrical soundtrack of bird, cricket and wind sounds that add a riveting layer of surprise and delight to the entire experience. "Jungle of Dreams" is on display through September 10, 2022.
Guests indulging in a multi-course feast at The Garden Table can opt for either dinner by MICHAEL MINA Bellagio or brunch from Sadelle's Café. Menu offerings include:
Conservatory Dinner by MICHAEL MINA Bellagio
-$250/pp exclusive of tax, gratuity, and beverages
-Available Wednesday – Sunday from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Amuse Bouche
- Kona Blue Prawn with leche de tigre and coriander
Starter
- Watermelon & Cucumber topped with chili crunch and mint
- Michael Mina's Ahi Tuna Tartare handmade with mint, pine nuts, Asian pear, and habanero-infused sesame oil
Mid-Course
- Crispy Spot Prawns with young coconut, makrut lime, sweet & sour mango, and curry leaf
- Miso-Marinated Hamachi Kama with ginger scallion and sudachi
- Char-Broiled Shellfish served with Maine lobster, Cherrystone clams, Kona abalone and Pacific & Atlantic oysters, all brushed with red miso and lemon
Fresh Catch
- Ginger-Scallion Broiled Whole Fish served with kimchi fried rice and glazed bok choy
Dessert
- Coconut Soufflé made with haupia sorbet, black sesame anglaise, and masago honey crisp
Conservatory Brunch by Sadelle's Café
-$75/pp exclusive of tax, gratuity, and beverages
-Available seven days a week from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
First Course – Family Style Starters
- Brulee Grapefruit Cocktail
- Avocado Toast
- Chef's Selection of Fresh Fruit
- Sadelle's famous Sticky Buns and Cream Cheese Danishes
Second Course – Signature Bagel Tower
- In-House Smoked Salmon
- Selection of Bagels including plain, sesame, everything, cinnamon-raisin, and gluten-free
- Classic Bagel Accoutrements such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and capers
Beverages (choice of one; separate charge for additional beverages)
- Mimosa
- Fresh Orange Juice or Grapefruit Juice
- Dark Roast Coffee or Espresso
- Hot Tea
The Garden Table will be available for all future Bellagio Conservatory displays with menus rotating seasonally to complement the design theme. The experience can accommodate up to six guests and reservation time is limited to two hours. Guests are to check-in at the host stand of selected restaurant. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 702.693.7317 or by visiting Bellagio online.
ABOUT BELLAGIO
Inspired by the beautiful villages of Europe, the AAA Five Diamond Bellagio Resort & Casino overlooks a Mediterranean-blue, 8 ½-acre lake in which fountains perform a magnificent aquatic ballet. Award-winning dining including its newest addition The Mayfair Supper Club, a world-class art gallery, the exquisite Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, the stunning performance of "O" by Cirque du Soleil, a sumptuous spa and salon and exclusive luxury shopping all work together to compose the symphony that is Bellagio. Bellagio is operated by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit bellagio.com, call toll free at (888) 987-6667 or find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Media Contacts:
Ashley Farkas
MGM Resorts International
afarkas@mgmresorts.com
Robert Flicker
Kirvin Doak Communications
rflicker@kirvindoak.com
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SOURCE MGM Resorts International | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/bellagio-debuts-one-kind-immersive-dining-experience-within-iconic-conservatory/ | 2022-07-26T14:52:20Z |
Fired Wamego Police Chief files grievance
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Former Wamego Police Chief Michael Baker has filed a grievance with the city over his firing.
Baker told 13 NEWS he took the action Friday. The city has three days to respond.
Wamego City Manager Stacie Eichem fired Baker Wednesday. She had informed by letter June 14 that he was suspended for one week. The two were supposed to meet Monday, June 20 about his reinstatement. Instead, Baker said he showed up and was told the meeting was postponed to Wednesday.
At the Wamego City Commission meeting Tuesday night, dozens of people packed the room to support Baker, Baker and his wife also addressed the body.
The next morning, Baker said he was given a letter, telling him his employment with the city was over.
Baker said the letter stated the reasons as insubordination, inability to get along with fellow employees, and conduct unbecoming a city employee. However, Baker said he has not been told any specifics as to what he supposedly did wrong.
In an interview Wednesday with 13 NEWS, Baker thanked the community for their support.
13 NEWS has tried to speak to Eichem as the situation has unfolded over the past two weeks, but she has declined comment.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/25/fired-wamego-police-chief-files-grievance/ | 2022-06-25T03:37:17Z |
EPALINGES, Switzerland and MONTPELLIER, France, June 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Onward Therapeutics SA (Onward Therapeutics) and Emercell SAS (Emercell) announced today the recent exercise of Onward Therapeutics' second of three instalments of equity investment in Emercell. With this investment, Onward Therapeutics has become Emercell's majority shareholder.
Emercell has developed a platform technology to produce off-the-shelf natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are highly potent immune effectors, used alone as a monotherapy, or in combination with therapeutic antibodies, or are genetically engineered to produce Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-NK cells for the treatment of hematological malignancies and solid tumors. NK-001 is an optimized cell therapy product consisting of highly activated and alloreactive allogeneic NK cells. Its patented manufacturing process allows full industrialization using the same batch of NK cells for multiple patients.
"This second equity investment in Emercell confirms that the NK-001 project has been advancing well since our first equity investment in February 2021, and we will be able to scale up and industrialize the production of activated NK cells rapidly, to offer new treatments for cancer patients," said Dr. C. Grace Yeh, Chairman and CEO of Onward Therapeutics.
"We are pleased that the collaboration with Onward Therapeutics has reached another critical milestone. Their investment allows us to pursue the NK-001 project and focus on the production of clinical batches," declared Dr. Patrick Henno, Founder and CEO of Emercell. "We can also start looking at further optimizing our production process for NK cells and exploring other potential new cell therapies," commented Dr. Alain Herrera, Chairman of the board of Emercell.
About Onward Therapeutics
Onward Therapeutics is an oncology company focusing on the identification and development of innovative medicines for the treatment of cancer. The Company, led by an experienced team in translational science and drug development, acquires licenses for potential development candidates and invests in partners with transformative technology platforms. Onward Therapeutics licensed a preclinical stage bispecific antibody (OT-A201) targeting two immune checkpoints from Biomunex Pharmaceuticals SAS, Paris, France; has an exclusive option to a worldwide license agreement for an onco-metabolism program with Institut du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM); and collaborates with Emercell SAS, Montpellier, France, in the development of NK-001, allogenic natural killer cells. In addition, the Company invested in Biomunex Pharmaceuticals SAS for their multi-specific antibody platform, and in Emercell SAS for their NK cell technology. The company is headquartered at Biopôle (a life sciences campus in Epalinges), near Lausanne, Switzerland, has an affiliate in Paris, France, and an office in Taipei, Taiwan.
About Emercell
Emercell is an oncology company developing a platform technology to produce off-the-shelf allogenic natural killer (NK) cells. The company's R&D activities are located at the IRMB (Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapies) at the Saint-Éloi University Hospital Center, Montpellier, France. Emercell's lead drug candidate, NK-001, is intended, among others, for the treatment of lymphoma patients who are refractory to conventional therapies. It is a patented process for pre-activating and amplifying allogeneic NK (Natural Killer) cells. Emercell collaborates with numerous industrial and academic partners. The company has received the support of the Occitanie Region (ADI) and Bpifrance and has obtained a FUI (financing). Emercell is a member of Eurobiomed.
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SOURCE Onward Therapeutics SA; Emercell SAS | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/onward-therapeutics-made-second-strategic-equity-investment-emercell-their-nk-cell-technology-cancer-immunotherapy/ | 2022-06-20T04:20:44Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — A new faith-based thriller movie is getting a limited North American release; with only one North Texas theater showing the film.
Pursuit of Freedom tells the story of a Ukrainian woman who was separated from her three children and sold into trafficking by Russian gangsters. Against all odds, she was reunited with her family thanks to the help of a Dutch nurse, Armenian missionary, and an American pastor.
If that interests you, the film will have a limited theatrical release on Sept. 16. The film will be shown at Galaxy Grandscape 15 in The Colony. For more information about the film, click here. | https://cw33.com/news/local/new-faith-based-thriller-movie-releasing-in-september-to-be-screened-at-north-texas-theater/ | 2022-08-15T21:16:39Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Going viral is a dream of many artists across the world these days whether it be on TikTok, Instagram, music streaming services like Apple Music or Spotify and even nationally televised talent shows like America’s Got Talent.
North Texas’ Drake Milligan is seeing his dreams come true in real-time not only on America’s Got Talent which is the nation’s biggest talent show televised on NBC, but also on iTunes Top 100 Country Songs. The singer-songwriter and actor has found himself in the show’s finals after an amazing semifinal performance this week.
Milligan tweeted, “I am absolutely blown away by all the love and support from you guys on @AGT last night! Y’all just brought #KissGoodbyeAllNight to the top of the @iTunes country chart! See you guys tonight for the results show!”
Born in DFW, Milligan is becoming a country music star in front of our very eyes and is even releasing his debut album this fall, fittingly called, Dallas/Fort Worth. He’s not stopping there, over the weekend he’ll be performing in Royse City at Southern Junction and in Katy at Mo’s Place on August 13.
He won’t be gone long though as he’s also set to perform at Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth and then in San Antonio the day after on Sep. 23-24.
“We did it, guys! We made it to the @AGT finals. This was fan voted, so we truly couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you to every single one of you that voted or cranked up #KissGoodbyeAllNight after the show last night! Love y’all. #AGT,” the singer tweeted Wednesday night.
He got high praise from talent-finding extraordinaire and AGT judge, Simon Cowell, “It’s quite amazing to get your song to number 1 during @AGT and then come back and carry on the competition. You have my absolute respect @DrakeMilligan.”
Drake Milligan’s upcoming album
“It’s been a long time comin’! My debut album Dallas/Fort Worth will be available on September 15th! I am so proud of all 14 songs on this record and I can’t wait to share it with y’all. You can go ahead pre-save/pre-add it right now: https://bit.ly/3Qv5Jf1,” he tweeted on Aug. 8. | https://cw33.com/news/local/north-texas-music-artist-dazzles-americas-got-talent-topping-country-music-charts-set-to-perform-in-2-texas-cities-this-weekend/ | 2022-08-11T20:20:49Z |
Resecurity claims spot on Inc. 5000 for the second year in a row, raking #2477 and reporting 234% revenue growth over the past three years
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Resecurity, Inc., a cybersecurity company based in Los Angeles, California, was recently recognized by Inc. magazine's annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. Ranked as one of the fastest-growing private cybersecurity companies, Resecurity was number 2477 on the list for achieving 234 percent of revenue growth in past three years.
The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy's most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses. Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. Among the 5,000, the average median three-year growth rate soared to 230 percent and total revenue reached $317.2 billion. Together, those companies added more than one million jobs over the past three years.
The recognition comes after a record year for the company, including a recent acquisition of Cybit Sec, a vulnerability assessment and penetration testing company, and the launch of their latest product offering, the Digital Identity Protection Platform. Resecurity has fueled its growth with strategic investments into R&D, expanding its international and channel sales presence, and scaling its industry partnerships.
"The Inc. 5000 list is home to some of the most innovative companies in the market today. Resecurity is proud to have earned a top spot on this prestigious list. This growth is a testament to cybersecurity's critical role in the future. We're committed to accelerating this growth with strategic partnerships and investments in R&D, allowing us to help more individuals and enterprises combat ever-evolving cyber threats," said Gene Yoo, Resecurity CEO.
Resecurity's SaaS solution combines XDR/endpoint protection, cyber threat intelligence and digital risk management, enabling customers ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to governments to protect their ecosystem. The innovative platform allows administrators to reduce potential blind spots and security gaps by quickly seeing in-depth analysis and specific artifacts obtained through the dark web, botnets activity, network intelligence and high-quality threat intelligence data.
"The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated," says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. "Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today."
Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000.
Companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2018 to 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2018. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2021. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2018 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places.
Resecurity is a cybersecurity company that delivers a unified platform for endpoint protection, risk management, and cyber threat intelligence. Known for providing best-of-breed data-driven intelligence solutions, Resecurity's services and platforms focus on early-warning identification of data breaches and comprehensive protection against cybersecurity risks. Founded in 2016, it has been globally recognized as one of the world's most innovative cybersecurity companies with the sole mission of enabling organizations to combat cyber threats regardless of how sophisticated they are. Most recently, Resecurity was named as one of the Top 10 fastest-growing private cybersecurity companies in Los Angeles, California by Inc. Magazine. An Official Member of Infragard, AFCEA, NDIA, SIA, FS-ISAC, the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia (AmChamKSA) and Mexico (AmChamMX). To learn more about Resecurity, visit https://resecurity.com.
The world's most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including web sites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Vision Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.
For more information on the Inc. 5000 Vision Conference, visit http://conference.inc.com/.
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SOURCE Resecurity | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/resecurity-named-one-americas-fastest-growing-private-cybersecurity-companies-by-inc-magazine/ | 2022-08-18T18:46:00Z |
MINEOLA, N.Y. (AP) — The driver in a hit-and-run crash that killed the father of rapper Nicki Minaj last year was sentenced Wednesday to a year in jail, in keeping with a promise the judge made when the man pleaded guilty in May.
Charles Polevich, who pleaded guilty to leaving the scene and tampering with evidence in the crash on New York’s Long Island that killed Robert Maraj, was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine and had his driver’s license suspended for six months.
Polevich’s lawyer, Marc Gann, suggested his client may have had a medical issue at the time of the crash and that he wasn’t fully aware of what had happened when he fled.
Polevich, 72, said in court that he’s “been heartsick since realizing the extent of the tragedy” and that there was “no excuse” for his behavior.
Maraj’s widow, Carol Maraj, said in court that Polevich had left her husband “like a dog on the street” and that sparing him a longer jail sentence was a “slap in the face for the family,” Newsday reported.
Polevich struck Maraj, 64, while Maraj was walking along Roslyn Road in Mineola in February 2021. Polevich stopped briefly to ask Maraj if he was OK, but didn’t call for help, prosecutors said.
Instead, Polevich went home, parked the car — a white, 1992 Volvo station wagon — in his garage and covered it with a tarp, prosecutors said. Maraj was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead the next day.
Prosecutors sought a sentence of one to three years behind bars, but Nassau County Judge Howard Sturim said in May, when Polevich pleaded guilty, that he would get “no more than one year in jail.”
Brendan Brosh, a spokesperson for the Nassau County district attorney’s office, said that “given the severity of the defendant’s conduct,” prosecutors felt a stiffer sentence was warranted.
“We continue to express our condolences to the family of Robert Maraj,” Brosh said.
Gann asked for a 90-day jail sentence, arguing that other factors outside of Polevich’s control were partially to blame for the crash, including road construction, street lights that weren’t working and Maraj’s physical condition.
Maraj’s widow, Carol Maraj, is suing Polevich over the crash.
Polevich, who had been splitting time between Long Island and Guam, where he runs a drilling and water purification business, surrendered to police a few days after the crash.
Detectives said they used pieces of surveillance video to track the Volvo involved in the crash to Polevich’s Mineola home.
Nicki Minaj, the platinum-selling, Grammy-nominated rapper of “Anaconda,” “Super Bass” and other hits, was born Onika Tanya Maraj in Trinidad and was raised in Queens.
In a post on her website, Minaj, 39, called her father’s death “the most devastating loss of my life.” | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/driver-gets-1-year-in-jail-in-death-of-nicki-minajs-father/ | 2022-08-03T21:53:13Z |
Which copper farmhouse sinks are best?
Farmhouse sinks were originally designed to hold very large amounts of water to alleviate the frustration of the lack of running water in farmhouses, and as such can be an incredible boon in the modern era. Using copper in their construction not only adds to their inherent rustic appeal but is also naturally antimicrobial.
The best copper farmhouse sink is the Premier Copper Products Hammered Copper Double Basin Sink. Putting aside the gorgeous design on the front of the sink, this copper farmhouse option is made from recycled 14-gauge copper and features a dual basin design for maximum functionality.
What to know before you buy a copper farmhouse sink
Gauge of copper
Gauge relates the thickness of the copper and is measured in terms of weight per square foot, with larger numbers being thinner metals. Copper is a fairly soft metal, so it must be thick enough to maintain its shape and usefulness over long periods of time. With that in mind, you usually find copper farmhouse sinks between 14 and 18 gauge, though it’s possible to find thinner 20-gauge options.
Purity of copper
The other aspect of copper you should pay attention to is its purity. In fact, if your prospective copper sink doesn’t disclose its purity, you should look for a different option, as that sink is guaranteed to have a great deal of other metals in it. The very best copper farmhouse sinks are 100% pure copper, but a percentage point or two less probably won’t hurt and saves you some money.
What to look for in a quality copper farmhouse sink
Number of basins
Most copper farmhouse sinks only have one very large basin, though several options are available in split two-basin designs. Whether or not you need two basins comes down to your intended use or how variable you want your sink’s functionality to be.
Basin split
Should you opt for a split basin, there are a few different split size options available. The majority are equal 50-50 splits, but you can also find 60-40 and 70-30 options.
Hammered vs. smooth
Copper farmhouse sinks are typically hammered or smooth.
Hammered: Hammered options are typically hammered because they’re crafted by hand. They tend to be more durable and frequently add an extra touch of rustic to your kitchen.
Smooth: Smooth copper farmhouse sinks are usually made with a machine press or mold. They’re more prone to dents and scratches because of that same smoothness.
How much you can expect to spend on a copper farmhouse sink
Copper farmhouse sinks can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, with the main variables being size, configuration, purity and gauge of copper. The most basic copper farmhouse sinks range from $400-$1,000, with mid-range options being available at $700-$1,500. The very best tend to start at $1,500 and can cost double that or more.
Copper farmhouse sink FAQ
Why do copper farmhouse sinks develop patinas, and what are they?
A. A patina is the discoloration of a metal produced by its oxidation process over a certain period of time. Copper is no exception, but unlike most other metals, it doesn’t rust. Instead, it will darken into any shade from browns to rose to a mix of greens and blues. These patinas are actually quite prized in copper sinks and frequently raise their value.
Do copper farmhouse sinks require special cabinets?
A. No, though many copper farmhouse sinks require cabinets which are short enough to leave room for the farmhouse sink’s trademark depth and capacity. There are plenty of cabinets available that are intended for use with farmhouse sinks, or you could have your current cabinets modified, should you wish to install a copper farmhouse sink in an already built kitchen.
Is it necessary to wax a copper farmhouse sink?
A. It isn’t necessary, and it’s even discouraged in certain situations. Wax can help to maintain a shine-like finish to your copper farmhouse sink, but it will also delay the development of its patina, which is rarely desired. Wax can also decrease copper’s natural antimicrobial properties.
What’s the best copper farmhouse sink to buy?
Top copper farmhouse sink
Premier Copper Products Hammered Copper Double Basin Sink
What you need to know: A gorgeous and elegant design embellishes the front of this copper farmhouse sink.
What you’ll love: The copper comes from recycled 14-gauge copper and it has a split basin for added function.
What you should consider: Some cleaners can leave spots on the surface, and it’s also quite expensive.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top copper farmhouse sink for the money
Sinkology Lange Pure Copper Farmhouse Sink
What you need to know: A smart option for anyone trying to save some money without sacrificing quality.
What you’ll love: Sound-dampening pads help to decrease any annoying clatter, and it’s protected by a lifetime warranty.
What you should consider: Some sinks have arrived with a non-copper strainer drain or no strainer drain at all.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair
Worth checking out
Sinkology Courbet Hammered Copper Farmhouse Sink
What you need to know: Another quality low-cost copper farmhouse sink option from a great brand.
What you’ll love: This copper sink is more durable than most, as well as being very easy to install and maintain.
What you should consider: Using a copper cleaner for maintenance on this copper sink will leave some spots on the material.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://cw33.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/sinks-hardware-br/the-best-copper-farmhouse-sink/ | 2022-06-26T12:28:53Z |
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott gives $700K to Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio
Billionaire MacKenzie Scott has donated $700,000 to Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio.
The money will allow the local JA to significantly reach more local students in teaching them how to manage their money and teach them about career opportunities, the local chapter's president said Tuesday.
Lori McCleese, president of Junior Achievement North Central Ohio based in Stark County's Jackson Township, said representatives of Scott contacted her in July. In a communication, her foundation told McCleese that Scott wanted to give the local chapter $700,000. The donation is among a total $38.8 million Scott has given Junior Achievement USA and 26 chapters in the U.S., according to a statement issued Tuesday by Junior Achievement North Central Ohio. It's the largest gift in the national organization's 103-year history.
More:Canton, Akron Goodwill groups get big donations from MacKenzie Scott
More:Habitat for Humanity gets a $4.5 million from MacKenzie Scott
McCleese said that her chapter has already received the funds, and they come with no restrictions on how they might be used. She said it's the largest one-time gift the chapter, which now covers 16 Ohio counties, has received since it was founded in the 1950s. The record before Scott's gift was $270,000 over two years from the Burton D. Morgan Foundation. The donation is a little more than half of the chapter's annual $1.3 million budget.
"We experienced so much growth over the past two years. That can be a little daunting to manage the growth, so the gift came at a great time. I was ecstatic. Because at the end of the day what it means is we’ll be able to reach more students," McCleese said. "It was a wonderful surprise. ... I love the way (Scott) is researching existing nonprofits and investing her philanthropic dollars in organizations that are already doing great work. And she’s clearly focused on youth development and economic empowerment."
Plans for the MacKenzie Scott money for Junior Achievement
McCleese said she and her chapter's board have not yet decided what to do with all of the money. She's working on proposing a new three-year strategic plan.
The chapter likely would use part of the gift to hire an additional program manager to oversee more of the agency's programs at local schools. Scott's gift allows that hiring to take place about a year ahead of schedule. That could allow the local JA's reach to expand from 22,000 students to more than 30,000 per school year.
That would free up McCleese, who has taught some of the programs, to focus more on fundraising and recruiting volunteer career professionals to teach the programs to students who are mainly grades 6 through 12. The programs include in-person instruction, remote instruction and videos shot by local volunteer professionals.
Scott, a novelist, co-founder of Amazon with her ex, Jeff Bezos, has contributed billions of dollars to nonprofit organizations around the U.S. the past two years. That includes $4.5 million to Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio earlier this year. And $10 million for Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio late in 2020.
More:MacKenzie Scott has donated more than $12 billion
Gift comes amid Junior Achievement growth
McCleese said when she became president of the Junior Achievement North Central Ohio in 2019, the former three-county chapter, which that year merged with a 12-county Junior Achievement chapter, had a budget of $700,000 a year and a staff of seven. It's since expanded to a staff of 17, and it now has a network of about 3,000 volunteers.
The chapter covers Ashland, Carroll, Coshocton, Crawford, Holmes, Knox, Marion, Medina, Morrow, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas, Wayne and Wyandot counties.
Junior Achievement had to grapple with the challenges of the pandemic when volunteers could not visit classrooms, employers were reluctant to allow their employees to face infection risks in going into classrooms and now a labor shortage has made it more difficult to recruit volunteers.
Junior Achievement has run financial literacy, entrepreneurship and career literacy programs for years with the school districts of Jackson Local, Plain Local, Canton City, Lake Local, North Canton City, Marlington Local, Perry Local, Massillon City, Minerva Local and Louisville City, said McCleese. It's just started working with Alliance City, Tuslaw Local and Osnaburg Local.
"To be able to roll that out to more schools in the area would be a priority for us,” said McCleese, who added that JA helps school districts comply with the state's new requirement that high schools teach financial literacy as part of a semester-long course. "Our goal is to be in every Canton school."
McCleese said JA programs teach students how much certain careers pay, what a career in the trades is like and how students do not need a college degree to be financially successful.
“A lot of time our students end up in the same career that our JA volunteer was in," McCleese said.
McCleese said grants and donations from foundations, corporations and individuals sustain the program.
Reach Robert at robert.wang@cantonrep.com. On Twitter: @rwangREP. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2022/08/17/mackenzie-scott-gives-700k-to-local-junior-achievement/65406977007/ | 2022-08-17T01:58:57Z |
FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The JRT agency®, a digital advertising agency, has been selected Agency of Record for Clear Rate Communications, a business and residential telecommunications service provider in Troy, Michigan, following a nationwide agency review.
"It was clear right away that JRT understood our business," said Stephen Oyer, Chief Executive Officer at Clear Rate Communications. "It's rare that in a pitch for full rebranding assignment that an agency comes so close to hitting the mark. But that's what happened with JRT. They truly listened to our needs and did their research. We ended up implementing 99% of what they recommended at that first meeting."
After being awarded the business in late February, JRT acted swiftly with project kickoff on March 3, 2022, so they could deliver the many tangibles for Clear Rate's Town Hall, held on April 27, 2022. "I was impressed with how quickly the team worked to finalize the brand identity, create a style guide, mailers, flyers, website re-skin, brand essence video and employee appreciation to make the Town Hall event a huge success," said Julie Kraemer, Director of Marketing at Clear Rate Communications.
JRT will work closely with Clear Rate Communications, launching a complete website restructuring and content overhaul within the next 90 days, then will continue to support Clear Rate with key branding, marketing and messaging initiatives for business and residential sectors.
"What's significant about our relationship with Clear Rate is that our moral compasses are set in tandem. Our businesses are both completely focused around the customer. I think it's why we were able to develop their brand descriptor, 'Service and speed is in our fiber', with such conviction — because we feel the same about our clients," said Mark Bellissimo, Chief Executive Officer at JRT. "We are thrilled to be working alongside Clear Rate Communications as a telecommunications leader and will help position them as such to their present and future clients."
About the JRT agency®
The JRT agency® is a thoroughly modern communications company that moves brands at the speed of the customer. Although 46 years old, JRT always thinks like a start-up, providing a portfolio of digital-first services, including brand strategy, advertising, desktop and mobile platform development, B2B, B2C, multimedia creative, production, data management, environmental image engineering, influencer and experiential marketing, and more. To learn more, visit www.thejrtagency.com.
About Clear Rate
Founded in Michigan over 20 years ago, Clear Rate (CR) is a trusted, innovative technology company providing 25,000 loyal business and residential customers across the country the latest telecommunications solutions designed around their needs, including fiber internet, hosted voice, cloud and managed IT solutions. CR is well positioned to grow and expand with recent investment from Linx partners and a newly hired leadership team made up of experts from across the telecommunications industry. CR continues to invest millions of dollars in our state-of-the-art 100 Gbps fiber network and provide more and more Michigan-based businesses the fastest, most reliable technology in the industry. With 24/7 local, live support, CR customers know they can always reach us. www.clearrate.com.
Media Contact:
Keats Dolgin
The JRT agency®
Account Director
kdolgin@thejrtagency.com
248.553.7483
Life moves fast. JRT is a thoroughly modern marketing communications company moving brands at the speed of the customer.
Website: https://www.thejrtagency.com/
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SOURCE The JRT agency | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/clear-rate-communications-names-jrt-agency-agency-record/ | 2022-05-11T05:36:15Z |
1 hospitalized, 1 arrested after multi-vehicle crash on US 20
LORENZO, Idaho (KIFI) - Idaho State Police is investigating a multi-vehicle collision that occurred Thursday at approximately 12:08 a.m. on east and westbound US 20 at milepost 326 just north of Lorenzo.
Police say a 29-year-old man from Moreno Valley, CA was driving eastbound on US 20 in a Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The driver of the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport rear-ended a Toyota Corolla driven by a 23-year-old woman from Rexburg. The initial collision caused a chain reaction involving the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and four other vehicles.
A ground ambulance transported the driver of the Toyota Corolla to a local area hospital.
The driver of the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport was arrested for felony DUI causing injury to another.
Traffic in both directions on US 20 was stopped for approximately two and a half hours to allow emergency responders to assist those involved.
Idaho State Police was assisted by Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Madison County Sheriff's Office, Madison County EMS, Rexburg Police Department, Idaho Falls EMS, Rigby Police Department and Idaho Transportation Department.
This incident remains under investigation by the Idaho State Police. | https://localnews8.com/news/idaho/2022/05/05/1-hospitalized-1-arrested-after-multi-vehicle-crash-on-us-20/ | 2022-05-05T23:59:44Z |
Giuliani must go to Atlanta for election probe, judge says
ATLANTA (AP) — A judge said Tuesday that Rudy Giuliani must appear in Atlanta in person next week to testify before a special grand jury that’s investigating whether former President Donald Trump and others illegally tried to influence the 2020 election in Georgia.
The former New York mayor and Trump attorney had originally been ordered to appear Tuesday. But Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney, who’s overseeing the special grand jury, excused him after his lawyers filed a motion seeking to delay his appearance.
Giuliani’s lawyers have argued that a recent medical procedure to place two heart stents has left him unable to travel by plane. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her team have rejected Giuliani’s attorneys’ suggestions that he appear virtually, for example by Zoom, or do an interview with prosecutors rather than appearing before the special grand jury.
McBurney set Giuliani’s appearance for Aug. 17. The judge said that would give Giuliani, his legal team and his doctors a chance to raise any concerns and would also allow him more time to figure out how to travel from New York to Atlanta by some method other than by plane.
If a doctor says his health won’t allow it, the date will be changed, McBurney said. But he told Giuliani attorney Bill Thomas that if they plan to ask to bump the date, they should do it sooner rather than later.
Thomas raised concerns during the hearing that Willis’ team had not responded when asked if Giuliani is a target of the investigation, meaning he could face criminal charges. McBurney said that was a fair question and said he “would implore” prosecutors to address that with Giuliani’s lawyers before he gets to Atlanta.
“Don’t leave them hanging on that front,” the judge said, noting that it would affect the questions that Giuliani would be asked and would be willing to answer, as well as the amount of time he’d be likely to spend before the special grand jury.
Willis began the investigation early last year. A special grand jury was seated in May at her request and began hearing from witnesses in June.
She has confirmed from the start that she was interested in a phone call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. During that January 2021 conversation, Trump suggested that Raffensperger could “find” the votes needed to overturn his narrow loss in the state.
It has also become clear that Willis’s team is looking into statements that were made by Trump allies during Georgia legislative committee meetings in December 2020.
Willis last month filed petitions seeking to compel testimony from seven Trump associates and advisers. Because they don’t live in Georgia, she had to use a process that involves asking a judge in the state where they live to order them to appear.
In a petition seeking Giuliani’s testimony, Willis identified him as both a personal attorney for Trump and a lead attorney for his campaign. She wrote that he and others appeared at a state Senate committee meeting and presented a video that Giuliani said showed election workers producing “suitcases” of unlawful ballots from unknown sources, outside the view of election poll watchers.
Within 24 hours of that Dec. 3, 2020, hearing, Raffensperger’s office had debunked the video. But Giuliani continued to make statements to the public and in subsequent legislative hearings claiming widespread voter fraud using that debunked video, Willis wrote.
Evidence shows that Giuliani’s appearance and testimony at the hearing “was part of a multi-state, coordinated plan by the Trump Campaign to influence the results of the November 2020 election in Georgia and elsewhere,” the petition says.
Willis is also seeking testimony from U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican and close Trump ally. He has asked a federal judge to quash his subpoena, and the judge has set a hearing for Wednesday.
Asked about the Fulton County investigation during a news conference in Columbia, South Carolina Tuesday, Graham said he intended to continue his fight.
“I was chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I had to vote on certifying an election. This is ridiculous. This weaponization of the law needs to stop,” he said. “So I will use the courts, and we’ll go as far as we need to go, and do whatever needs to be done, to make sure that people like me can do their job without fear of some county prosecutor coming after you.”
___
Associated Press writer Meg Kinnard contributed reporting.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/08/09/giuliani-must-go-atlanta-election-probe-judge-says/ | 2022-08-09T19:02:13Z |
The cities of Temple and Killeen have partnered in an effort to develop a strategic plan for addressing homelessness and mental health issues in Bell County.
“Both communities have allocated funding to secure a consultant to help with the process,” Nancy Glover, the director of housing and community development with the city of Temple, told the Telegram. “To support these efforts he has asked us to do a survey of the homeless within both our communities and throughout the entire county. So this will also include the cities of Belton and Harker Heights.”
The survey — which will be conducted by local service agencies in Temple through Saturday, May 28 — features 15 questions.
“The idea of this survey is to really get some good solid data,” Glover said. “Where are individuals who are experiencing homelessness from? Were they born and raised here? Were they in the military? Are they taking advantage of local service agencies? Are there services that are not being provided that they can recommend?”
Glover is hopeful for a 50% to 60% participation rate from Bell County’s homeless population.
“For this purpose we’re really looking at finding those individuals within our communities that are experiencing homelessness who are willing to give us the answers to questions that we’ve been asking,” she said. “That data will be provided to the consultant … and we’re hoping that we get enough feedback so that we can have a good array of data to pull from.”
Local service agencies that are administering the survey include Feed My Sheep, the Salvation Army, Impact Church, St. Vincent de Paul and Hilltop Recovery Ministries, according to the city of Temple.
“But we also have volunteers that are actively going out into the encampments and talking to the homeless there as well,” Glover said.
Although the survey will conclude near the end of this month, the director of housing and community development emphasized how homelessness in Bell County will be targeted in an ongoing process.
“We’re not only serving the homeless and reaching out to the homeless, but we’re also doing a series of focus group meetings and individual meetings with stakeholders from throughout the county,” Glover said. “So we really are doing a lot of data gathering at this point.”
Charles Griffin — one of the homeless who was surveyed during a point-in-time count last January — hopes feedback will help organizations like Feed My Sheep get more funds to provide social services.
“They help a lot and they are dedicated, too, by being here rain, sleet or snow,” Griffin, who became homeless a year ago after his car was stolen, said at the time. “I am proud to say that I come here and they help me. They have resources and they will help you find your way (and) they will help you find your birth certificate, your driver’s license and all kinds of things.”
With each one of those meetings scheduled on an ongoing one-on-one basis, Glover encourages interested residents to email her their contact information.
"If anyone in the community has questions or if they have any information that they would like to add, I definitely encourage them to reach out to me by email, (hrc@templetx.gov), or phone (254-298-5997)," she said. | https://www.tdtnews.com/news/central_texas_news/article_46e4adfa-d6fd-11ec-8b97-4b2e678916ba.html | 2022-05-19T02:00:13Z |
The US will give Ukraine an additional $215 million in emergency food assistance to help the country battle the humanitarian crisis brought on by Russia’s invasion, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Wednesday, as he called on other countries to swiftly act in order to tackle the growing global food crisis.
“Today, given the urgency of the crisis, we’re announcing another $215 million in new emergency food assistance, and we’ll do much more,” Blinken said at the United Nations during a ministerial meeting on global food security. “We expect our Congress very soon to approve approximately $5.5 billion in additional funding for humanitarian assistance and food security.”
Blinken also said that the US would be committing $500 million to boost US production of fertilizer. The new assistance comes as there is an increased need for fertilizer in countries that typically got it from Russia, which is the world’s largest exporter of fertilizer. The cost of fertilizer, essential for farmers to hit their production targets for crops, has also risen as output in Europe has plunged due to the surging price of natural gas — a key ingredient in nitrogen-based fertilizers like urea.
Blinken called on other countries that have fertilizer and grain, which is also facing global shortages because of the war in Ukraine, to quickly pitch in to alleviate the effects of the crisis.
“The cost of doing business for vital organizations like the World Food Programme, the Food and Agricultural Organization, UNICEF and others, the cost of doing business is going up. We have to help them continue to do their business,” Blinken said.
“In particular as well, countries with significant grain and fertilizer reserves, as well as those with financial resources, need to step up and do it fast. The United States has announced more than $2.3 billion in new funding for emergency food assistance to meet global humanitarian needs since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” the secretary added.
The US has made it clear it intends to provide long-term support to Ukraine and has already provided the nation with billions of dollars in military and humanitarian assistance.
Earlier this month, President Joe Biden announced an additional $150 million worth of security assistance to Ukraine in the form of “additional artillery munitions, radars, and other equipment.” The new security assistance package follows the President’s $33 billion proposal last month to Congress to support the country.
Last week, the President blamed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine for domestic price hikes and global food supply shortages, citing the millions of tons of Ukrainian crops that are not being exported because of the invasion. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/blinken-announces-215-million-in-new-emergency-food-assistance-for-ukraine/article_1f19b91a-d7a2-53f1-846b-b92c4e4f2cfd.html | 2022-05-18T22:56:43Z |
GM recalls 484K big SUVs to fix problem third-row seat belts
DETROIT (AP) — General Motors is recalling more than 484,000 large SUVs in the U.S. to fix a problem that can cause the third-row seat belts to malfunction.
The recall covers Chevrolet Suburbans and Tahoes, Cadillac Escalades and GMC Yukons from 2021 and 2022.
The automaker says rivets that hold the buckle to the mounting bracket on the left- and right-side third-row seats may have been formed improperly.
The belts may not properly hold a passenger in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The company says it’s not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.
Dealers will inspect the rivet heads and replace buckle assemblies if needed. Owners will be notified starting Sept. 26.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/16/gm-recalls-484k-big-suvs-fix-problem-third-row-seat-belts/ | 2022-08-16T13:02:52Z |
Saturday afternoon and evening thunderstorms!
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Saturday afternoon has a good chance of thunderstorms for the last day of April. Friday storms put down 0.25″ at SRQ, 0.45″ in Bradenton and 0.71 in North Port. Thunderstorms Saturday will start early to mid-afternoon and continue into the early evening, dying down by 10 PM. Sunday’s rain chances are lower, but a few isolated afternoon storms are possible nearly every day. Humidity will be high as we get into May, with dew points in the low 70s by Wednesday.
Love Bug update: Our dry weather in April kept the Love Bug population down. The bugs like heat and moisture. Now with Friday’s rain and more thunderstorms Saturday, we’re likely to see the Love Bugs blossom! They only live 4 days for males, 8 days for females. this first week of May could bring the peak of this year’s Love Bug season.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/30/saturday-afternoon-evening-thunderstorms/ | 2022-04-30T16:41:19Z |
RENO, Nev., Aug. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - i-80 GOLD CORP. (TSX: IAU) (NYSE: IAUX) ("i-80", or the "Company") will announce its unaudited financial and operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 before market open Wednesday, August 10, 2022. The Company will host a live conference call and webcast on that same day, commencing at 10:00 am ET, providing the opportunity for analysts and investors to ask questions of i-80 Gold's executive team.
i-80 Gold Corp. is a well-financed, Nevada-focused, mining company with a goal of achieving mid-tier gold producer status through the development of multiple deposits within the Company's advanced-stage property portfolio anticipated to be processed at the centrally located Lone Tree processing facility and autoclave.
Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to, actual production results and costs, outcomes and timing of updated technical studies and future exploration results. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release.
Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to: material adverse changes, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations.
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SOURCE i-80 Gold Corp | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/05/i-80-gold-announce-second-quarter-financial-results-august-10-2022/ | 2022-08-05T10:40:01Z |
BEIJING, June 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the significance of placing development at the center of the international agenda at Friday's High-level Dialogue on Global Development, stressing China will take pragmatic steps to continue supporting the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including adding $1 billion to a Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund.
It is important that we put development front and center on the international agenda, deliver on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and build political consensus to ensure everyone values development and all countries pursue cooperation together, Xi said while chairing the High-level Dialogue on Global Development in Beijing via video link on Friday evening.
He called on countries to build an open world economy and shape a global governance system and institutional environment that is more just and equitable.
Friday's dialogue was taken after Thursday's BRICS Summit, and leaders from 18 countries attended Friday evening's event.
In addition to BRICS members, leaders from nations including Algeria, Argentina, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Senegal and Uzbekistan also attended the event.
Chinese analysts said the BRICS mechanism represents the future development direction of the world and a fast-emerging force that makes the world more equitable and inclusive.
Cooperation between BRICS nations and developing countries is pushing for a multipolar world, which is the future direction of the world order featuring balance, efficiency, equality and justice, analysts said.
To support the UN 2030 Agenda, Xi put forth the Global Development Initiative (GDI) at last year's UN General Assembly session, and he said China will take pragmatic steps to continue supporting the UN agenda.
China will upgrade the South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund to a Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, and add $1 billion to the fund on top of the $3 billion already committed, the Chinese president said.
Xi said China will advance cooperation with all sides to deepen global cooperation on poverty reduction, build capacity for food production and supply and promote clean energy partnerships.
The Dialogue issued a Chair's Statement saying leaders reached extensive consensus including commitment to multilateralism, development and people-centered approach.
And the Deliverables of the dialogue said China will take measures, such as providing 100,000 training opportunities for other developing countries to facilitate post-COVID economic recovery and social development, establishing an International Vaccines Research, Development and Innovation Alliance and officially launching the China-FAO South-South Cooperation Trust Fund Phase III of$50 million to support global development.
BRICS countries - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - represent 40 percent of the world population, account for 25 percent of the global economy and 18 percent of world trade, and contribute 50 percent to the world's economic growth.
Chinese and foreign analysts believe the BRICS provides developing countries a platform to build consensus on addressing acute development challenges, and the GDI is an accelerator to achieving the UN development goals.
Wang Wen, a professor and executive dean of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China, told the Global Times on Friday that one of the core tasks for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is to end poverty, which is also the common goal for developing countries, and BRICS nations have made remarkable contributions to it. He noted BRICS nations are expected to help the world better achieve the UN 2030 Agenda with their experiences.
Carlos Watson, the Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in China, told the Global Times that BRICS countries, which account for more than 40 percent of the world's population and produce more than one-third of global cereal production, are well-placed to take a leadership role in helping eradicate global hunger and poverty by 2030. He said developing countries look to the success of BRICS countries in economic development over the past few decades as an example to follow.
The GDI has received warm responses from the international community, with more than 100 countries expressing their support. In January 2022, the Group of Friends of the GDI was launched at the UN, and more than 50 countries have joined the group so far, according to the Global Development Report, published by the Center for International Knowledge on Development on Monday.
BRICS Plus
Friday's event was attended by representatives of emerging markets and other developing countries aside from BRICS nations. Wang Wen believes the meeting was a format of "BRICS Plus" which demonstrated BRICS' openness, inclusiveness and flexibility, especially compared with the closed and exclusive G7.
As the BRICS chair country, China actively supports the BRICS in starting the membership expansion process and expanding the "BRICS Plus" cooperation, and China will encourage all BRICS parties to formulate standards and procedures for membership expansion based on consensus, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at Friday's media briefing.
In the past years, each BRICS meeting invited different representatives of developing countries to better target that year's main task, and this year, BRICS invited countries including Indonesia, the G20 presidency, and Argentina, the representative of Latin America, Wang Wen said.
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SOURCE Global Times | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/25/global-times-xi-stresses-placing-devt-center-intl-agenda-global-devt-dialogue/ | 2022-06-25T09:04:00Z |
Letter to the editor: Longtime Cleveland Browns fan ashamed of team
The Repository
I've been a faithful Cleveland Browns fan since I was old enough to remember the sport of football. The Paul Brown years included.
This is the first year I'm actually ashamed to be a fan.
I'm storing all of my hats, shirts and memorabilia until this "fiasco" is over and done with. I just don't feel right rooting for a team that has questionable morals. I'm not a prude … but, I've suffered enough with the good, bad and now the ugly.
Harry Krichbaum, Canton Township | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/opinion/letters/2022/08/12/letter-to-the-editor-longtime-cleveland-browns-fan-ashamed-of-team/65399012007/ | 2022-08-12T10:33:19Z |
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