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----Study is the First to Demonstrate How the Premature Newborn Gut Microbiome May Lead to the Mucosal Injury Underpinning NEC----
----Results Provide Insights Into Clinical Management of NEC----
DAVIS, Calif., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Results of a study published today in Frontiers in Pediatrics have revealed critical missing information linking potentially pathogenic gut microbes to intestinal injury and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). NEC is one of the leading causes of death and disease in premature newborns. Although studied for decades, the precise cause of NEC remains undefined. This new study heralds a novel understanding of NEC and provides the rationale for potential prevention strategies.
NEC is an inflammatory condition of the newborn gut that can lead to significant intestinal injury. In severe cases, this injury extends through the intestinal wall leading to irreversible tissue death and perforation. Translocation of harmful bacterial contamination through the perforation can cause peritonitis and sepsis, both life-threatening conditions.
The most severe cases of NEC are associated with a significant risk of death (40% - 50%). Babies with NEC are at heightened risk of neurodevelopmental impairment. Those who survive and recover from NEC can face life-long health challenges resulting from inflammation and intestinal malfunction. These in turn decrease the body's ability to absorb nutrients and thus negatively affect the infant's growth, leading to developmental delays.
In the study published today, researchers combined metagenomics and targeted metabolomics with functional in vivo and in vitro assessment to define a novel molecular mechanism of NEC. Analyses of stools in infants with NEC revealed that the short chain fatty acid formate was significantly elevated at disease onset and dissipated during recovery. Formate levels were positively correlated with the degree of intestinal injury. Formate was responsible for dose- and development-dependent cytotoxicity in human cells and intestinal injury in newborn mice, respectively. Enterobacter cloacae and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the most common gut bacteria found in the stools of patients who developed NEC and were determined to be genetically capable of elevated formate production in the study's metagenomic analysis.
"This landmark study released today shows how detrimental bacteria in the preterm infant are linked to the intestinal injury developed in NEC, a disease not only carrying a high risk of infant death but also significant life-long health challenges", explains attending Neonatologist Jennifer Bragg, MD.
This study is the first to demonstrate a significant relationship between infant gut dysbiosis (a negative disruption in the infant gut microbiome), NEC, and a mechanism of intestinal injury caused by microbial fermentation and the overproduction of formate. "Formate production by specific Proteobacteria (the gut bacteria most strongly associated with NEC), including the Enterobacteriaceae family members Enterobacter cloacae and Klebsiella pneumoniae as demonstrated in this study, provides insights into the mediator of intestinal injury resulting from premature newborn gut dysbiosis. The findings implicate aberrant pattern of gut fermentation and metabolism as the pathophysiologic link between Proteobacteria colonization and NEC in newborns born premature," explains study lead author Karl Sylvester, MD.
The metabolic model defined by the researchers is consistent with and extends prior studies suggesting the key role of specific members of the newborn enteric microbial community as a necessary first step toward the development of NEC. The results of this study demonstrate the potential importance of novel therapies to prevent NEC by targeting the newborn gut microbiome to displace the potential pathogens identified in this study and others, with microbes that promote a healthy gut in newborns.
These newly published results bring us closer to understanding the biological underpinnings of NEC while providing information to link mechanisms of action, with clinical observations derived from use of B. infantis EVC001 to alter the preterm infant microbiome," notes neonatologist Brian Scottoline, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). He continues "The OHSU NICU has been using enterally-administered B. infantis EVC001 to address intestinal dysbiosis in very low birth weight infants most at risk for NEC since 2018, and the incidence of NEC in these infants has decreased significantly. We published some of these findings earlier this year using a retrospective chart review and found that infants who had received B. infantis EVC001 had a 73% risk reduction of NEC relative to when our unit hadn't implemented any measures to address dysbiosis; the same result was true for the subgroup of extremely low birth weight infants. Knowing from other studies that infants who receive B. infantis EVC001 have a lower abundance of Enterobacteriaceae capable of producing formate as described in this new study, I am looking forward to seeing future research that connects interventions aimed to address intestinal dysbiosis in preterm infants with the kind of mechanistic observations described in this paper."
"Together with clinical research partners all over the world, Evolve is on a mission to establish an optimal standard of care for all infants leading to an improved lifelong health trajectory," emphasizes Kaile Zagger, CEO of Evolve. She continues "This study provides further scientific evidence of the pioneering science that provides the foundation for Evolve's discovery engine and expanding product pipeline. Our goal is to bring discoveries to market that clinically demonstrate improvement to not only the immediate health of newborns but that can positively impact their life-long health."
To read the study, please visit: doi: 10.3389/fped.2022.893059
Evolve BioSystems, Inc. is a privately held infant health company on a mission to give babies the biggest chance to lifelong health. Dedicated to discovering and marketing microbiome-based products that improve short and long-term health of infants worldwide, Evolve has built substantial science and technology assets focused on the nutrition, biochemistry, physiology, and immunology of the developing infant. Launched at the University of California, Davis, following more than a decade of pioneering research on breast milk at the Food for Health Institute, Evolve continues to expand its pipeline of synbiotic-based solutions that can revolutionize human health. Evolve has a strong foundation of partners and investors such as; Johnson & Johnson Development Corporation, Horizons Ventures, Cargill, Manna Tree Partners, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Spuce, Acre Ventures, Bow Capital, Tate & Lyle Ventures. Since 2014, Evolve has built substantial science and technology assets, focused on the nutrition, biochemistry, and physiology of the developing infant gut microbiome, and has now added strong data science and technology platform capabilities.
References:
Tobias J, Olyaei A, Laraway B, et al. Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis EVC001 Administration Is Associated with a Significant Reduction in the Incidence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Very Low Birth Weight Infants. J Pediatrics. 2022;244:64-71.e2. doi:10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.12.070
Casaburi G, Wei J, Kazi S, et al. Metabolic Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in the Premature Newborn Gut Resulting from Enteric Dysbiosis. Frontiers. Pediatrics.2022; doi: 10.3389/fped.2022.893059
CONTACT: Jennifer Van Aken, Senior Vice President, Marketing, marketingsupport@evolvebiosystems.com
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SOURCE Evolve Biosystems | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/evolve-biosystems-study-demonstrates-novel-biochemical-mechanism-necrotizing-enterocolitis-nec-leading-cause-premature-morbidity-mortality/ | 2022-08-23T19:28:38Z |
Company expands its "Fairness-as-a-Service" solution to reduce algorithmic bias in the
insurance industry
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FairPlay, the world's first "Fairness-as-a-Service" solution for algorithmic decision-making, today announced the launch of Input Intelligence, a bias detection product for insurance carriers. This is an expansion of FairPlay's existing fairness solutions for the financial services industry.
Algorithms are increasingly being used to make high-stakes decisions about people's lives in insurance, lending, employment, and other areas. FairPlay's new Input Intelligence tool will help insurance companies review their data for bias, ensuring they are not proxies for protected characteristics such as race or gender. Insurance companies will benefit from reaching more customers, especially from historically disadvantaged groups, and meeting growing consumer and regulatory demands for greater fairness in insurance.
FairPlay's insurance division will be led by Josh Hershman, former Deputy Commissioner of the State of Connecticut Insurance Department. During his time as Deputy Commissioner, Hershman worked with stakeholders to establish guidelines around the use of big data, AI/ML models for insurance providers in the state of Connecticut.
"Consumers are demanding a better experience from insurance carriers, and the industry is meeting those demands using AI/ML at every stage of the consumer journey," said Hershman. "Data variables used correlate to risk but may cause disparities for historically disadvantaged groups. AI/ML in insurance must be executed fairly and ethically, not only to meet consumer demand but also to give insurers better reach into underserved communities. I am thrilled to team up with FairPlay and work with carriers and regulators to alleviate this problem."
Input Intelligence will also draw on FairPlay's redlining technology, which identifies unfair practices based on where people live so that insurance carriers can ensure their marketing and products are not excluding low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.
"Lenders use FairPlay because it's good for people, profits, and progress. Now, insurers can do the same," said Kareem Saleh, Founder & CEO of FairPlay. "Regulators and consumers are demanding more fairness from insurers than ever before. FairPlay's new Input Intelligence solution helps carriers debias their data and reach more customers in ways that are good for their company and the communities they serve."
The product is available immediately.
FairPlay is the world's first "Fairness-as-a-Service" solution for algorithmic decision-making. The company provides lenders with easy-to-use tools that assess and reduce bias in credit algorithms. FairPlay was founded to combat the threats algorithmic systems pose to the safety of consumers and society, by building fairness infrastructure to de-bias digital decisions on the internet in real-time. The company is based in Venice Beach, California.
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SOURCE Fairplay | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/fairplay-launches-ai-bias-detection-product-insurance-industry/ | 2022-08-23T19:28:45Z |
Worldwide leader in high-volume hiring ranks as one of the top venture-backed startups with the potential to reach a billion-dollar valuation
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fountain, the world's leading all-in-one applicant tracking system for high volume hiring, today announced it was named to the 2022 Forbes' Next Billion-Dollar Startups list, published by Forbes in partnership with TrueBridge Capital and Fidelity Investments.
Fountain was one of only 25 startups selected from hundreds of applicants for its ambitious, steady business success, helping major brands like Stitch Fix, Sweetgreen and Deliveroo find, hire and retain the people they need for open roles.
"Being selected as one of the 2022 Forbes' Next Billion Dollar Startups is a confirmation of the team's hard work and commitment to making the global hiring process smarter, faster and simpler through our innovative platform," said Sean Behr, CEO of Fountain. "Our products drive growth by enabling businesses to streamline hiring processes, automate qualification verification and optimize hiring managers' time, which in turn creates more opportunities for success. It's an honor to be included on this year's list."
The distinguished award is given to 25 companies that are selected by a group of TrueBridge Capital analysts. The analysts factor in valuation, revenue, user/customer count, employee headcount, etc. before determining the final listing.
As one of the nation's fastest-growing private companies, Fountain has proven its long-term growth and continues to exceed expectations. Over the past year, Fountain raised $185 million in funding in a round led by B Capital and launched an international expansion of its services, helping companies automate and optimize where and how they spend their sourcing dollars. In addition, the company brought on several new executives, including COO Joyce Chan and CTO Matt Tucker, to scale and innovate their products for customers.
Fountain is the market leader in high volume hiring because its solutions enable customers to get ahead of their hiring goals. Fountain's all-in-one platform enables companies to find qualified candidates and move them from application to onboarding quicker, reducing time to hire from weeks to days—or even hours. By simplifying the screening, interviewing and hiring experience, Fountain's solutions keep applicants happy while ensuring organizations have pipelines full of hourly talent that are ready to work. Hundreds of customers use Fountain's solutions to hire over 3 million workers annually in more than 75 countries. Learn more on Fountain's website or connect via Twitter, LinkedIn or the Fountain blog.
Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements.
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SOURCE Fountain | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/fountain-named-forbes-next-billion-dollar-startups-list-2022/ | 2022-08-23T19:28:52Z |
GUY PHILLIPS IS THE FORMER GLOBAL HEAD OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCTS & RETAIL GROUP AT UBS
RECENT DEALS FOR THE NEW TEAM INCLUDE ADVISING MAST-JÄGERMEISTER ON ITS TEREMANA TEQUILA PARTNERSHIP WITH DWYANE "THE ROCK" JOHNSON AND ADVISING YELLOW WOOD PARTNERS ON THE ACQUISITION OF THE SCHOLL BRAND FROM RECKITT
MIAMI, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NuOrion Capital, LLC ("NuOrion"), is announcing the official launch of its business, which includes a new website: www.nuorioncapital.com. NuOrion focuses on compilated, high stakes M&A advisory and private capital raising. In the coming months, NuOrion will add additional bankers and expand through several value-added partnerships.
NuOrion is an independent investment bank that solves high stakes business problems by providing M&A advisory services and private capital raising. NuOrion Capital is an affiliate of NuOrion Advisors, a registered investment advisor, focused on alternative investing.
Contact NuOrion:
info@nuorioncapital.com
careers@nuorioncapital.com
www.nuorioncapital.com
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SOURCE NuOrion Capital | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/guy-phillips-launches-nuorion-capital-an-mampa-boutique-focused-high-stakes-mampa-advisory-private-capital-raising/ | 2022-08-23T19:28:58Z |
New Office Space in Vibrant Manhattan West Neighborhood Will Enhance the Workplace Experience of KPMG's 5,500+ NY-based Professionals
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm, today announced plans to relocate its headquarters to Two Manhattan West, a new building in Midtown Manhattan's West Side of New York City.
When construction on KPMG's new space at Two Manhattan West – part of Brookfield Properties' Manhattan West neighborhood – is completed in late 2025, it will provide the firm's 5,500+ New York-based partners and professionals with an enhanced workplace experience through an innovative and sustainable design that fosters collaboration.
"KPMG has been based in New York since our inception on August 2, 1897, and we are proud to show our continuing commitment to this great city with our exciting new headquarters in Two Manhattan West in the vibrant Manhattan West neighborhood," said Paul Knopp, KPMG U.S. Chair and CEO. "As we celebrate our 125th anniversary and think about our firm's future, this is an incredible opportunity to bring our people together in a custom-designed office space that will showcase our firm's commitment to culture, innovation, wellness and sustainability."
KPMG currently occupies space at 345 Park Avenue, its headquarters, as well as 560 Lexington Avenue and 1350 Sixth Avenue. KPMG will lease approximately 450,000 square feet in the new 58-story Two Manhattan West building. Two Manhattan West is connected to Moynihan Train Hall via a protected crosswalk and offers direct access to the High Line, the Shed, Madison Square Garden and Penn Station/Penn District. It is also close to Chelsea Piers and easily accessible to other parts of the city.
"Our new headquarters space will be designed for the evolving needs and expectations of our professionals and clients with a modern, efficient and flexible space that will drive connection, collaboration and innovation," said Yesenia Scheker Izquierdo, KPMG New York Office Managing Partner and Market Hub Leader. "This exciting new building is emblematic of our dedication to New York, and it embodies our New York spirit and the forward momentum of our people as we serve clients in the New York metro area well into the future."
"We are pleased to welcome KPMG to its new headquarters at Two Manhattan West," said Brian Kingston, CEO of Real Estate at Brookfield. "Manhattan West continues to attract leading companies making long-term commitments to New York City and seeking sustainable properties, access to transit and a variety of places to dine and shop."
Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Two Manhattan West is targeting LEED Gold designation and features energy-efficient design, optimization of electrical service performance, sustainable materials, maximization of natural light, stormwater harvesting and recycling and the latest in indoor air quality. The 58-story, 1.9 million square foot skyscraper is currently under construction and slated for completion in early 2023.
KPMG LLP is the U.S. firm of the KPMG global organization of independent professional services firms providing audit, tax and advisory services. The KPMG global organization operates in 144 countries and territories and has more than 236,000 people working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.
KPMG is widely recognized for being a great place to work and build a career. Our people share a sense of purpose in the work we do, and a strong commitment to community service, inclusion and diversity and eradicating childhood illiteracy. Learn more at www.kpmg.com/us.
Brookfield Properties is a leading global developer and operator of high-quality real estate assets. We are active in nearly all real estate sectors, including office, retail, multifamily, hospitality and logistics, operating more than 750 properties and over 325 million square feet of real estate in gateway markets on behalf of Brookfield Asset Management, one of the largest asset managers in the world. With a focus on sustainability, a commitment to excellence, and the drive for relentless innovation in the planning, development and management of buildings and their surroundings, Brookfield Properties is reimagining real estate from the ground up. For more information, visit brookfieldproperties.com.
Media Contacts:
W. Scott Horne, KPMG LLP
wshorne@kpmg.com
M 908 625 5361
Laura Montross, Brookfield Properties
laura.montross@brookfieldproperties.com
M 508 769 5942
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SOURCE KPMG | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/kpmg-relocate-us-headquarters-innovative-space-new-york-city/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:05Z |
The partnership integrates Krisp's best-in-class audio capabilities with Twilio Video best-in-class solution.
BERKELEY, Calif., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, global software company Krisp announced a new partnership with Twilio (Inc.). The new integration partnership will allow Twilio Video customers to achieve high-quality audio when building video experiences through Twilio Video. With Krisp's background noise cancellation capabilities, environmental distractions are no longer a concern for developers building video applications using Twilio Video. Krisp will help Twilio Video customers create an exceptional audio experience, enhancing the video solution they are building through Twilio Video.
"Krisp is a natural technology fit within Twilio's solutions. Twilio customers will now have advanced voice and audio quality with their market-leading Twilio Video for both desktop and mobile devices." Robert Schoenfield
Krisp's technology helps create a distraction-free virtual environment even if your call participants have noisy physical work environments thanks to bi-directional noise cancellation. In a study with over 400 participants, 78% of respondents agreed that background noise from people on the other end of the call distracts them from the conversation taking place in their online meeting. By bringing Krisp to Twilio Video, developers now have the capability to build and launch video solutions for a post-Covid world where remote and hybrid interactions have changed the expectations of virtual communications platforms.
We are thrilled to partner with the Krisp team, who are leading the way in AI-based noise cancellation technology. Together we can provide exceptional audio quality to the billions of conversations on the Twilio Video platform, allowing customers to build engaging and personalized virtual experiences across telehealth, education, remote work, and more. - Gaurav Agarwal, GM at Twilio
Krisp is a global software company that develops audio solutions to empower everyone to communicate with clarity and confidence. Its AI-powered Noise, Voice, and Echo Cancellation technology has been recognized as an industry leader, named one of the Time 100 "Best Inventions of 2020" in the Artificial Intelligence category and one of "America's Most Promising Artificial Intelligence Companies" by Forbes. Krisp supports more than 150 million users across the world and thousands of small businesses, enterprise organizations, contact centers, and business process outsourcers to create clearer communication—regardless of where they work—and is trusted by some of the world's largest and most prominent organizations. Visit krisp.ai to learn more.
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SOURCE Krisp Technologies, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/krisp-partners-with-twilio-video-provide-enhanced-audio-capabilities/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:12Z |
Kroger opens two new spoke facilities expanding service in the South and Midwest
CINCINNATI, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), America's largest grocery retailer, today announced the official opening of two new spoke facilities in Greater Nashville and the Chicago Metro Area. Serving as last-mile cross-dock locations, the new spokes will operate as a seamless extension of regional fulfillment centers, making Kroger Delivery available to more customers in Tennessee and Illinois.
"Kroger Delivery promises an unparalleled shopping and delivery experience, making fresh just one click away at Kroger.com or the Kroger app," said Bill Bennett, Kroger Vice President and Head of E-commerce. "From personalized digital offers to our white glove delivery service, the Kroger seamless ecosystem saves time and money. Kroger Delivery orders are brought to customers in our branded delivery trucks and delivered to their doorstep by our trained and uniformed associates—all with zero compromise."
Local shoppers also have access to the newly launched Boost by Kroger annual membership program. For either $59 or $99 per year, Boost provides customers with benefits like unlimited free delivery on orders of $35 or more and two Fuel Points for every $1 spent on groceries and general merchandise purchases through Delivery, Pickup and in-stores. Kroger estimates the membership can save customers more than $1,000 per year on fuel and grocery delivery.
Nashville, Tennessee
The approximately 40,000-square-foot facility will work in conjunction with the Atlanta fulfillment center, increasing the network's reach to customers up to 200 miles from the hub. The facility is located on Polk Avenue in Nashville, Tennessee and will employ more than 180 associates.
"Tennessee is defined by the brands that call our state home, so we are proud to partner with the Kroger Delivery team as the company establishes and opens its operations in Davidson County. Nashville's pro-business climate and central location will be vital in helping Kroger expand its customer delivery reach across the Southeast for years to come," said Stuart McWhorter, Tennessee Economic & Community Development Commissioner.
Maywood, Illinois (Chicago)
Located approximately 20 miles west of Chicago in Maywood, Illinois, the nearly 80,000-square-foot facility will work concurrently with the fulfillment center in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. The site expects to employ more than 180 associates. "Kroger facility replaces a blighted area while adding new jobs and revenues that aid in the revitalization of our community. We are happy to welcome a partner that works to address our food desert designation and look to evolving collaboration with them," said Maywood Mayor, Nathaniel George Booker.
Kroger Delivery Explained
The expansion in Greater Nashville and the Chicago Metro Area represents an extension of a partnership between Kroger and Ocado Group, a world leader in technology for grocery e-commerce. In 2018, the companies announced a collaboration to establish a delivery network that combines artificial intelligence, advanced robotics, and automation in a bold new way, bringing first-of-its-kind technology to America.
The delivery network relies on highly automated fulfillment centers. At the hub sites, more than 1,000 bots move around giant 3D grids, orchestrated by proprietary control systems. The grid, known as The Hive, contains totes with products and ready-to-deliver customer orders. As customers' orders near delivery times, bots retrieve products from The Hive and present them at pick stations for items to be sorted for delivery, a process governed by algorithms that ensure items are intelligently packed. For example, fragile items are placed on top, bags are evenly weighted, and each order is optimized to fit into the lowest number of bags, reducing plastic use. Bags are also recyclable, reflecting Kroger's commitment to its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste commitment to rid its communities of hunger and waste.
"The continued expansion of the Kroger fulfillment network means improved access to fresh food for customers eager for the variety and value offered by Kroger that once could only be accessed through our stores," said Gabriel Arreaga, Kroger's Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer. "This network enables Kroger to add scale, achieve reliability of experience, gain from the benefits of automation and ultimately widen our customer reach in current operating regions and new parts of the U.S."
Kroger's end-to-end cold solutions keep groceries fresh once loaded into customized refrigerated delivery van, which can store up to 20 orders. Powerful machine learning algorithms optimize delivery routes, considering factors such as road conditions and optimal fuel efficiency. Vans may travel up to 90 miles with orders from the hub and spoke facilities to make deliveries. Associates at the spoke facility will deliver orders within their service area, adding ZIP codes as demand grows.
Kroger currently operates customer fulfillment centers in Monroe, OH, Groveland, FL, Forest Park, GA (Atlanta), Pleasant Prairie, WI, Dallas, TX and Romulus, MI (Detroit), with additional customer fulfillment centers slated for California, Frederick, MD, Phoenix, AZ, Cleveland, OH, Charlotte, NC, Aurora, CO (Denver), as well as South Florida and the Northeast.
Media Assets
To download Kroger Delivery photography and video, visit here.
About Kroger
At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are Fresh for Everyone™ and dedicated to our Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit®. We are, across our family of companies, nearly half a million associates who serve over 11 million customers daily through a seamless shopping experience under a variety of banner names. We are committed to creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site.
About Ocado Group
Ocado Group is a UK based technology company admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange (Ticker OCDO). It provides end-to-end online grocery fulfillment solutions to some of the world's largest grocery retailers and holds a 50% share of Ocado Retail Ltd in the UK in a Joint Venture with Marks & Spencer. Ocado has spent two decades innovating for grocery online, investing in a wide technology estate that includes robotics, AI & machine learning, simulation, forecasting, and edge intelligence.
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SOURCE The Kroger Co. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/kroger-delivery-now-available-greater-nashville-chicago-metro-area/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:19Z |
VADUZ, Liechtenstein, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lirium, a leading licensed provider of B2B2C digital asset access solutions, will begin powering digital currency access and settlement services for Mexican digital wallet Albit, reaching more than 2 million customers. Lirium already partners with financial services companies in Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay.
Lirium's white label solution will give Albit's account holders quick and easy access to a variety of cryptocurrencies. Albit is Lirium's first client in Mexico, a country with significant potential for adoption of alternative payment methods and alternative digital asset investment.
Lirium first launched its turnkey digital assets access solution directed at traditional financial institutions and fintechs in Argentina one year ago. Its clients in Argentina include Grupo Financiero Galicia, Brubank and Prex.
Federico Murrone, Lirium Founder and CEO, commented, "We are extremely pleased to partner with Albit, to provide its clients with easy and convenient access to our crypto-as-a-service regulated and compliant platform. Latin America is ready for mainstream cryptocurrency adoption, and Lirium provides simple, fast and safe channels to support the next wave of adoption by a broader demographic."
With local settlement as a priority, Lirium has entered into agreements with partners in the region to provide a B2B solution for various cryptocurrency use cases. Additional countries can be added rapidly for local currency settlement as Lirium has already developed the tech and regulatory rails needed for swift new market rollout, while US Dollar, EUR and GBP settlement is available immediately after API integration with its client. The company provides bank-level oversight of digital asset transactions, including license controls, stringent risk management and security; with fund safeguarding, data protection and fraud prevention as priorities. Lirium's back-end plug-and-play, fully adaptable API, allows its clients to retain full control of end-customer experience without adding any additional regulatory or operational complexities. Lirium extends its full license functionalities to clients, providing fully operational regulatory, compliance, treasury, liquidity, custodial and insurance coverage.
Lirium AG owns three international licenses: exchange services, qualified custodian and pricing services, enabling it to provide crypto-as-a-service regulated and compliant services globally. Lirium's current focus and expertise is in cryptocurrencies in Latin America. However, it intends to further expand regionally and build the legal and tech rails for local provision, transaction and settlement of current and future locally relevant digital asset ecosystem (DAE) products and services.
Founded in 2020 by former Xapo, Lemon Wallet and Patagon teams, Lirium's founders and senior management have a proven track record in fast-scaling crypto, large volume operations and secure administration, having built one of the most relevant and well-respected bitcoin wallets in the world.
Latin America has significant smartphone and digital wallet penetration, as well as crypto awareness with considerable latent demand. The region's users understand the advantages of a dollar-linked digital asset refuge from macroeconomic inflationary and devaluation headwinds. At least one in three (36%1 vs 8% in September 2021) Latin Americans have purchased crypto and almost one fifth (19%)1 does so regularly.
About Lirium
Lirium is a licensed digital asset technology and infrastructure company which leverages its founders' proven fast-scaling crypto track record to provide a full-coverage turnkey solution for local provision, transaction and settlement of digital financial, tokenized and other DAE assets. The company has three Liechtenstein licenses including crypto buy/sell, custody and pricing, allowing it to be a market maker that can supply best pricing and liquidity to an existing financial institution customer base globally. Lirium's initial focus is Latin America, where it is building the regional infrastructure and local settlement rails for local provision, transaction and settlement of current and future locally relevant DAE products and services beyond its current geographical scope. Its low-cost, rapidly scalable business model optimizes gains through a pricing structure that mitigates risk related to crypto asset price fluctuation exposure. This enables traditional banks, digital wallets and native digital crypto players to quickly and safely offer their clients local, compliant and low risk access to cryptocurrencies and locally relevant financial products while retaining full control of the end-customer experience.
1. Source: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Peru, survey N=520 and 90% confidence at country level, August 2022, AMI, Americas Market Intelligence
To learn more, please visit www.lirium.com.
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SOURCE Lirium AG | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/lirium-power-digital-asset-access-mexican-fintech-expands-footprint-across-latin-america/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:25Z |
MEQUON, Wis., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Medicardia Health (MediCardia) has announced a collaboration agreement with Caerus Strength, inventors of the Caerus Strength Trainer, a unique sensor-embedded chest-worn strengthening vest for patients with sarcopenia of any cause, as well as for cardiovascular health and fitness training for patients recovering from cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and congestive heart failure.
"MediCardia's long term mission is to put the power of health information into the hands of the people. Now we can put that power on them too, collaborating with Caerus Strength. We are excited to work with Adam and his executive team to help realize their vision to reverse a global problem that underpins so many forms of cardiovascular, neurological and musculoskeletal conditions." said Medicardia CEO and Founder, Dr. Indrajit Choudhuri, MD
"Our mission at Caerus Strength is to change people's lives. By combining our revolutionary strength system with Medicardia's game-changing platform and capabilities, we plan on changing the trajectory and improving the lives of patients with sarcopenia across all disease verticals" said Adam Adkins, CEO and Founder, Caerus Strength.
Sarcopenia affects 1 in 4 people above the age of 65, and 2 out of 3 above the age of 80 years, with more than 30M people in the US affected. The rapidly increasing incidence is driven by an aging population and development or progression of acute and chronic conditions, and complicated by common medications and treatments that can degrade muscle.
"Now we can offer patients additional treatment modalities working with Caerus Strength, to improve physical and functional capabilities and lower healthcare costs, while generating new revenue for provider organizations. When integrated with our RPM, CCM, PCM, CEID and telehealth solutions, this new offering further broadens the available virtual care solutions for our provider organizations and service providers through a single point of integration." indicated Dr. Choudhuri.
MediCardia Health is constantly enhancing and evolving their smart digital medicine platform, to drive digital transformation in Cardiology and across healthcare. MediCardia aims to learn from and partner with practices, organizations, and networks dedicated to embracing the global digitalization of healthcare and leverage one of its greatest benefits – the adoption of virtual care – as a paradigm shift on the journey to value-based care.
Tel: 884-30-HEART
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SOURCE MediCardia Health Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/medicardia-health-enters-working-agreement-with-caerus-strength-launch-remote-therapeutic-monitoring-solution-leveraging-first-its-kind-sensor-embedded-strengthening-vest-combat-sarcopenia/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:32Z |
BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SafeHerb, a division of Specialty Program Group, LLC, is introducing a new executive protection insurance program for the cannabis and hemp industry as an expansion to their current property and casualty capacity to meet the growing needs of their customers.
SafeHerb's new program will include Directors & Officers Liability, Employment Practices Liability, Fiduciary Liability, and Crime for privately held cannabis and hemp companies. The coverage is produced and underwritten utilizing Obsidian Specialty Insurance Company ("Obsidian"), a specialty carrier that carries an "A-" (Excellent) A.M. Best rating.
"This is an excellent addition to our property and casualty program, where we also have more than doubled our liability and property capacity available to our exclusive network of producers," says Kramer Hendricks, CIC, CPL, Vice President of SafeHerb.
William Jewett, CEO of Obsidian, stated, "We are proud to partner with SafeHerb on this exciting new product offering to meet a growing market need."
SafeHerb coverage is available in all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C. through the Company's exclusive network of agents backed by the security of Obsidian. For more information about our executive protection program, please contact Kramer Hendricks at KHendricks@AvantIns.com. To become a SafeHerb appointed partner, go to: SafeHerb.com
SafeHerb, division of Specialty Program Group, LLC, provides comprehensive property casualty protection for those involved from seed to sale in the cannabis and hemp industries. SafeHerb offers tailored, comprehensive risk solutions through an "A-" AM Best rated carrier, Obsidian. For more information or to become a SafeHerb appointed partner, go to: SafeHerb.com.
Headquartered in Summit, NJ, Specialty Program Group is a fully licensed holding company established to acquire and scale best-in-class insurance underwriting facilities and specialty businesses throughout North America. SPG has 17 portfolio companies and is over 1.8 billion in premium. For more information, please visit www.specialtyprogramgroup.com.
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SOURCE SafeHerb | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/new-executive-protection-program-cover-cannabis-hemp-business/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:39Z |
Half of respondents say they are saving less money today; 32% say the amount of debt they owe has increased
LEHI, Utah, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MX, a leader in Open Finance, today released a new report on money habits and behaviors among Gen Z and other generations. Findings show that consumers are less confident in their financial futures due to rising costs — with 50% of respondents saying that thinking about money makes them anxious and 47% agreeing that money is their primary source of stress. Across generations, Gen Z may be most optimistic in the face of these economic challenges, while the majority of Baby Boomers are less confident.
"With so many people worried about their financial futures, it's an opportune time for financial institutions and fintechs to step up and assist in ways that only they can," said Shayli Lones, Vice President of Go to Market at MX. "We see Open Finance as the key driver to connecting the dots for consumers by enabling seamless account aggregation and a more complete picture of a consumer's finances so that they can better reach their financial goals. MX can help financial providers deliver the seamless connectivity and enhanced data that consumers need to become financially strong."
- Unprepared for Unexpected Expenses: Only 40% of respondents are confident they can cover any unexpected expenses.
- Retirement Confidence is Low: Only 38% of respondents are confident they will be able to retire comfortably. Additionally, 37% say they do not have retirement savings.
- Trust in Financial Providers: A full 67% trust their financial providers to protect them from fraud and other security risks. However, 26% of respondents have been victims of fraudulent transactions on a financial account in the past two years.
- Unrecognized Transactions are Frequent: When asked if they have seen a transaction on their financial accounts that they didn't recognize at first glance in the past two years, 27% of respondents said it happens sometimes or more frequently. This rises to 40% among Gen Z respondents.
- Gen Z Less Likely to Use Credit: Less than half of Gen Z respondents have a credit card (49%) — the only generation to drop below a majority. When asked what payment method they prefer when shopping online, debit cards are preferred 2:1 over credit cards (50% vs. 22%).
- Account Aggregation Still Needs Work: Nearly 1 in 10 respondents (8%) said no when asked if connecting an app to a financial account went smoothly the first time they attempted it. Forty-five percent of those who have been disconnected also say that their connected financial accounts and money-related apps regularly get disconnected.
The full report gives detailed insights into financial stress, spending and saving habits, and how consumers leverage mobile banking apps. It also shows a growing opportunity to build trust through the right proactive support, safeguarding personal data, and providing context to transaction data.
To access the full report, please visit:
https://www.mx.com/whitepapers/consumer-money-matters-debt-on-the-rise-savings-on-the-decline/
MX, a leader in Open Finance, helps organizations everywhere connect to the world's financial data and turn raw, unstructured data into their most valuable asset to deliver intelligent and personalized money experiences. MX connects more than 16,000 financial institutions and fintechs providing the industry's most reliable and secure data connectivity network. Additionally, MX powers 85% of digital banking providers, as well as thousands of banks, credit unions, and fintechs, with a combined reach of over 200 million consumers. To learn more follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn @MX or visit www.mx.com.
This survey of 1,000 American adults was conducted by MX in June 2022. Results included responses across each generation, with 25% of respondents identifying as Baby Boomers, 21% as Gen X, 21% as Millennials, and 33% as Gen Z. The respondents were evenly split between male (49%) and female (51%).
Contact:
Tom Cook
tom.cook@mx.com
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SOURCE MX | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/new-mx-research-shows-40-consumers-believe-current-financial-situation-has-changed-worse-due-rising-costs/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:45Z |
TORONTO, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Info-Tech Research Group, a global information technology research and advisory firm, has published a new research blueprint, Identify and Manage Strategic Risk Impacts on Your Organization, designed to assist organizations in building adaptive resiliency into their strategic plans. The pandemic has shed light on how fast the world can change in a short amount of time. As a result, organizations and their vendors need to be able to adapt their strategic plans to accommodate risk on an unprecedented level. Other unexpected global changes may impact an organization's strategy at any given time, so plans should be flexible enough to manage the inevitable consequences.
"Pandemics, extreme weather, and wars that affect global supply chains are a current reality, not unlikely scenarios," says Frank Sewell, Research Director of Vendor Management at Info-Tech Research Group. "Like most people, organizations are poor at assessing the likelihood of risk. As a result, almost none realistically plan to monitor, manage, and adapt their strategies to those risks."
The IT market is constantly reacting to global influences. By anticipating risks, leaders can set expectations and work with their vendors to accommodate changes. When the unexpected happens, being able to adapt quickly to new priorities ensures continued long-term business success. In terms of the unforeseen events that have occurred in the past few years, Info-Tech's 2022 Tech Trends Survey found the following data points:
- 62% of IT professionals are more concerned about being a victim of ransomware now than they were a year ago.
- 82% of Microsoft non-essential employees shifted to working from home in 2020, joining the 18% already working remotely.
- 89% of organizations invested in web conferencing technology to facilitate collaboration.
"If the past few years have taught us anything, it is that the probability of a risk occurring is far more flexible in the formula 'Risk = Likelihood x Impact' than we ever thought possible," adds Sewell. "The impacts of these risks can be catastrophic, and organizations must be more adaptive in managing them to strengthen their strategic plans."
Strategic risk impacts are often unanticipated, causing unforeseen downstream effects. Anticipating the potential changes in the global IT market and continuously monitoring vendors' risk levels can help organizations modify their strategic alignment with the new norms.
IT leaders must review their strategic risk plans, considering the likelihood of incidents in the global market. The new research blueprint outlines Info-Tech's approach to preparing strategic risk management for success:
- Review Organization's Strategy – Understand the organizational strategy to prepare for the "What If" game exercise.
- Identify and Understand Potential Strategic Risks – Play the "What If" game with the right people at the table.
- Create a Risk Profile Packet for Leadership – Pull all the information together in a presentation document.
- Validate the Risks – Work with leadership to ensure that the proposed risks are in line with their thoughts.
- Plan to Manage the Risks – Lower the overall risk potential by implementing mitigations.
- Communicate the Plan – It is essential to not only have a plan but to also socialize it in the organization for awareness.
- Enact the Plan – Once the plan is finalized and socialized, implement and monitor it for success.
Identifying and managing a vendor's potential strategic impact on an organization requires multiple people across several functions such as IT, HR, and executive leadership. Coaching on the possible changes in the market and how these changes affect strategic plans will also be required. According to the newly published research, organizational leadership is often taken unaware during crises, and their plans lack the flexibility needed to adjust to significant market upheavals.
The complete Identify and Manage Strategic Risk Impacts on Your Organization blueprint can be downloaded and viewed now.
To learn more about Info-Tech Research Group and to download the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
- Identify and Manage Financial Risk Impacts on Your Organization
- Identify and Reduce Agile Contract Risk
- Build an IT Risk Management Program
Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading information technology research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT professionals. The company produces unbiased and highly relevant research to help CIOs and IT leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For 25 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with IT teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.
Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and over 200 IT and Industry analysts through the ITRG Media Insiders Program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.
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SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/organizations-need-identify-manage-strategic-risks-now-before-another-global-event-arises-says-info-tech-research-group/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:52Z |
- Pilot Company makes a strategic investment in Kodiak and will join Kodiak's Board of Directors.
- The companies are working together to bring autonomous truck inspections, maintenance, refueling, data offloading and load pick-up and drop-offs to commercial trucking customers.
- The partnership furthers Pilot Company's commitment to providing best-in-class service to its customers both today and in the future.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. and MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pilot Company, the largest operator of travel centers in North America, announced today a strategic partnership with Kodiak Robotics, Inc., a leading self-driving trucking company. Through this partnership, Pilot Company and Kodiak are collaborating to develop autonomous truck services at Pilot and Flying J travel centers.
Pilot Company and Kodiak are in the process of creating an autonomous truckport in the Atlanta area to evaluate potential service offerings and explore scalable solutions. These services will include spaces to pick-up and drop-off autonomous trucking loads; conduct inspections; maintain and refuel trucks; and the ability to transfer data for processing, such as feature development and mapping. To strengthen the ability to work together to develop a solution that works best for its customers, Pilot Company has made a strategic investment in Kodiak and will join the company's Board of Directors.
"Pilot Company is committed to providing best in class service to its customers today and going forward," said John Tully, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at Pilot Company. "In making this strategic investment, we understand that our customers have a need for real solutions that help address the growing demand to move goods and Kodiak is a strong leader in the autonomous trucking space. As we explore the future of autonomous trucks and how we can best support these customers, we will continue to be the travel center network that the trucking industry and professional drivers can count on for the services and care they need."
Combining Pilot Company's nationwide network of travel centers and services with Kodiak's technology will play a crucial role in the deployment of autonomous trucks. Kodiak will lend its expertise as Pilot Company looks to integrate autonomous truck services into its operations. The partnership will further define service and maintenance requirements, operational necessities, facilities planning, and more to meet the needs of autonomous trucks.
"Pilot Company's industry-leading network of highway-adjacent travel centers provides unprecedented geographic reach for the launch and scale of Kodiak's fast-growing network of autonomous trucking lanes," said Don Burnette, Founder and CEO of Kodiak Robotics. "Their customer first approach, with a focus on technology, scale, and infrastructure, makes Pilot Company an ideal partner to support the service and maintenance of self-driving trucks nationwide. We are honored to have Pilot Company as an investor, strategic partner, and supporter of our continued commercial footprint growth."
Kodiak entered a hyper-growth phase in 2022, significantly expanding its service footprint and partner network. In July, the company announced a partnership with 10 Roads Express, a provider of time sensitive surface transportation for the U.S. Postal Service, expanding the company's service to Florida. Earlier this year, Kodiak announced a new route between Dallas and Oklahoma City with CEVA Logistics and a route between Dallas and Atlanta with U.S. Xpress. The company has been delivering freight commercially since 2019 and currently has six routes that run regularly between Dallas and Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Atlanta, Oklahoma City and Jacksonville, Florida.
About Kodiak Robotics, Inc.
Kodiak Robotics, Inc. was founded in 2018 to develop autonomous technology that carries freight forward — so people, partners, and the planet thrive. The company is developing an industry-leading technology stack purpose-built specifically for long-haul trucks, making the freight industry safer and more efficient. Kodiak's unique modular hardware approach integrates sensors into a streamlined sensor-pod structure that optimizes for perception, scalability, and maintainability. The company delivers freight daily for its customers along six routes in Texas and Oklahoma, operating autonomously on the highway portions of the routes. Learn more about Kodiak on the web at kodiak.ai, and on LinkedIn and Twitter. You can find the company press kit HERE.
About Pilot Company
Pilot Travel Centers LLC ("Pilot Company") keeps North America's drivers moving as one of the leading suppliers of fuel and the largest operator of travel centers. Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Pilot Company has grown its network to more than 800 retail and fueling locations and supplies more than 14 billion gallons of fuel per year to the market. Pilot Company has the fourth largest tanker fleet with more than 1,600 trucks that supply DEF, bio and renewable fuels, and provides hauling and disposal services to the oil field sector. Pilot Company serves 1.3 million guests per day and provides over 70,000 fleet customers with solutions for fuel, credit, factoring, services and rewards. Its Pilot and Flying J travel center network includes over 750 locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces with more than 790 restaurants, 75,000 truck parking spaces, 5,300 deluxe showers, 6,200 diesel lanes and offers truck maintenance and tire service with Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J. The One9 Fuel Network connects a variety of fueling locations to provide smaller fleets and independent professional drivers with everyday value, convenience, credit and perks. More information on locations and rewards are available in the myRewards Plus™ app.
Pilot Company is currently ranked No. 7 on Forbes' list of America's Largest Private Companies. For additional information about Pilot Company, its 30,000 team members and commitment to giving back, visit www.pilotcompany.com.
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SOURCE Pilot Company | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/pilot-company-kodiak-robotics-partner-bring-self-driving-truck-services-pilot-flying-j-travel-centers/ | 2022-08-23T19:29:59Z |
DENVER, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Plume, the market-leading provider of virtual care services purposefully designed for the health care needs of the transgender community, today announced their Series B funding round of $24 million, led by Transformation Capital with participation from General Catalyst and Townhall Ventures. The growth investment in Plume will support the company in fulfilling its mission to transform health care for every trans life by creating access to high quality, safe gender-affirming care. As the world's leading virtual care provider for gender-affirming care, Plume will use these resources to expand coverage nationwide and into virtual primary care, ensure Plume is covered by insurance, and provide support that trans and gender diverse people and their families deserve.
"As a trans woman and physician, I started Plume to offer a supportive space for trans Americans as they navigate our nation's broken health care system," said Dr. Jerrica Kirkley, Plume's Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer. "With today's announcement, we are on track to reach our goal of increasing access to high-quality, gender-affirming care to patients across the U.S. in both urban areas and coverage deserts. Knowing the hurdles trans Americans face when accessing care, I'm encouraged to reach this benchmark and I look forward to Plume's growth in the future. I want to thank Transformation Capital, General Catalyst, and Townhall Ventures for their partnership in transforming health care for every trans life."
The visibility of the trans community is growing at an exponential rate as younger generations more readily openly identify as trans and gender diverse. Gen Z identifies as trans at nearly four times the rate of baby boomers and is statistically the queerest generation in history. Trans individuals have unique medical, legal, and socio-emotional needs distinct from those of the broader cisgender LGBQ+ population that are commonly unmet by the status quo. Plume is the only digital-health company entirely dedicated to services for trans and gender diverse individuals and their families and is uncompromisingly focused on providing the best care experience available.
"Since launching in 2019, Plume has strived to bring the trans community the deeply personalized health care they deserve," said Dr. Matthew Wetschler, Plume's Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. "Amidst growing anti-trans rhetoric nationwide, Plume's model offers unmatched access to health care for trans Americans. Today's announcement only reinforces our goal of expanding that coverage and eliminating barriers to quality care."
Access to safe health care is woefully inadequate across the ~2 million Americans that constitute the trans community. More than 30% of trans people avoid health care for fear of discrimination and more than 60% of trans people in urban areas have had to access medications outside of the clinical system. Plume has a clinical care model purposefully designed by a trans-led clinical team to ensure a positive, high-quality health care experience.
"We are thrilled to partner with Plume's Co-Founders, Dr. Matthew Wetschler & Dr. Jerrica Kirkley, and their incredible team. Our firm has deep empathy and compassion for underserved communities – we believe the trans community deserves a better, more accessible care experience that is unfortunately not available to many in our health care system today. Plume is positioned to be a medical home for this important and growing community," said Jenna Ciotti, Vice President at Transformation Capital.
While Plume continues to work towards gender-affirming care being covered by insurance, no insurance is necessary to become a member and receive care. Members pay $99 a month and receive 24/7 access to gender-affirming care, personal consultations, lab testing, facilitated support groups, medical letters of support for surgery and name and gender marker changes, and home delivery of prescriptions and gender-affirming medication as medically appropriate. Plume eliminates these barriers by making gender-affirming care accessible for anyone who needs it without ever having to step into a doctor's office.
The research shows that gender-affirming care is life-saving and a clinical imperative. As anti-trans rhetoric and sentiment continues, guaranteeing access to trans-specific care is more important now than ever. This funding will support Plume's expansion that is critically important to addressing the unique needs of the trans community. To learn more visit www.getplume.co.
Plume is a comprehensive, virtual care provider built by and for the health care needs of the transgender community. The company seeks to radically increase access to care, medication, and products for the trans community, supporting a bold, authentic, and healthy lifestyle. Its vision is to make gender-affirming care available to anyone, anywhere, until it transforms health care for every trans life. Plume is available to over 90% of the trans population across the United States.
Transformation Capital is a digital health growth equity firm dedicated to supporting commercial stage companies focused on improving people's health and the sustainability of the health care system. The firm was founded on the premise that investing in health care requires both a sophisticated understanding of the health care system, including the prevailing market forces and resulting opportunities, as well as deep connections with decision makers across key providers, payers and digital health innovators. Transformation Capital has invested in digital health companies across the ecosystem, including Health Catalyst, Datavant, Vera Whole Health, Headspace Health, Sword, CareRev, and DexCare.
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SOURCE Plume | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/plume-leading-gender-affirming-virtual-care-provider-announces-24m-series-b-funding-expand-coverage-nationwide/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:06Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Julie & Holleman is investigating the proposed acquisition of Pzena Investment Management, Inc. (NYSE: PZN) by its controlling shareholders. The deal was announced on July 27, 2022, offers PZN shareholders just $9.60 per share, and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2022.
To learn more about the investigation, click here.
According to SEC filings, PZN was formed in 2007 to manage the operations of Pzena Investment Management, LLC (PIM), an investment management company that was originally founded in 1995 by Richard S. Pzena, John P. Goetz, and William L. Lipsey. Shortly after its formation, the founders took PZN public through an IPO. But even after the IPO, the founders retained control over PZN through their ownership of super-voting "Class B" shares of stock. Based on PZN's most recent proxy statement, Pzena, Goetz, and Lipsey own more than 60% of the company's overall voting power.
Julie & Holleman is investigating potential legal claims available to PZN's shareholders regarding the proposed acquisition, including claims relating to potential conflicts resulting from the fact that Pzena, Goetz, and Lipsey control the company they now want to buy. Julie & Holleman is also concerned about the adequacy of the $9.60 per share acquisition price, as one analyst recently established a price target of $18 per share, nearly double the price agreed to by PZN's board of directors.
If you would like more information about Julie & Holleman's investigation, or about the acquisition in general, please contact W. Scott Holleman by email at scott@julieholleman.com or by telephone at (929) 415-1020. You may also visit the firm's website by clicking here.
Julie & Holleman is a boutique law firm that focuses on shareholder litigation, including derivative actions, mergers and acquisitions cases, securities fraud class actions, and corporate investigations. The firm's attorneys litigate in state and federal courts across the nation. For more information about the firm, please visit https://www.julieholleman.com/. This notice may constitute attorney advertising.
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SOURCE Julie & Holleman LLP | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/pzn-special-alert-julie-amp-holleman-investigates-potential-legal-claims-related-take-private-acquisition-pzena-investment-management-inc/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:12Z |
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Environmental and land use law firm The Sohagi Law Group announced that Managing Partner Margaret Sohagi is recognized in the 2023 edition of Best Lawyers in America. Best Lawyer awards are compiled by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers and honor only the top 5.3% of elite lawyers in the nation across 150 practice areas.
Margaret Sohagi, recognized since 2007, developed her practice over the last 30 years focusing on assisting cities, counties, and other public agencies navigate the legal complexities of land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Climate Change and housing. Sohagi provides constructive, practical legal advice, working directly with lead agency counsel, staff, appointed elected officials. When necessary, she zealously defends lead agencies' land use approvals and environmental determinations in judicial proceedings, and frequently heads mediation teams in settlement discussions.
As a longstanding CEQA instructor for California's Continuing Judicial Studies Program, Sohagi has the unique opportunity to instruct Superior Court judges, appellate justices and court attorneys. Her land use and environmental law expertise, and ability to keep public agencies informed about the latest legal developments and trends, is also demonstrated through her frequent planning and legal conference presentations, extensive UCLA and USC teaching experience, and publications such as the Solano Press book Exactions and Impact Fees in California. Sohagi's prior career as a city planner gives her invaluable insight into the intricacies of complex project development and review.
Sohagi currently serves as the Chair of the Santa Monica College Foundation Board. In 2022 Sohagi was recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as a "Woman of Influence" and last year she was selected for the Los Angeles Times' "Inspirational Women Award" and the Los Angeles Business Journal "Community Impact Advocate Award."
The Sohagi Law Group handles complex transactional and litigation matters for public agencies, including cities, counties, townships, state agencies, special districts, commissions and authorities. Its attorneys draw upon their extensive expertise in all areas of environmental and land use law to advise clients navigate existing laws and regulations and keep them up to date on emerging environmental issues such as climate change and greenhouse gas regulation.
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SOURCE The Sohagi Law Group | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/sohagi-law-groups-margaret-sohagi-named-best-lawyer-america/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:19Z |
Bennett's win earns him exemptions into next year's Masters and U.S. Open
BATAVIA, Ill., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Suncast Corporation is pleased to announce that Sam Bennett, Suncast sponsored golfer, has won the 122nd U.S. Amateur Championship. Bennett's name will now join the ranks of golf legends including Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Arnold Palmer, and Jack Nicklaus on the revered Havemeyer Trophy. The win also cements Bennett's place in next year's Masters, U.S. Open Championship, and Open Championship.
About his win, Bennett says "Winning the U.S. Amateur is a dream come true for me. To put my name on a trophy with so many other greats, it's a very humbling yet rewarding accomplishment. I want to thank Suncast in particular for their support this week in winning this prestigious event."
Suncast has a long history of supporting young adults in pursuing their dreams. From its strong apprenticeship program with local colleges, to supplying school supplies to community members in need, Suncast understands that supporting the next generation of leaders and innovators is the best way to ensure a bright future. When asked about the sponsorship, Bennett says "Suncast represents quality, innovation and sustainability in the way they conduct business. These are all traits that I identify with. Together we make a great team."
Sam Bennett was raised in Madisonville, Texas before joining the team at Texas A&M, where he is currently a senior. The road to success has not been an easy one for Bennett, who tragically lost his father in June 2021 after a seven-year battle with Early-Onset Alzheimer's. His father's last words of advice, "don't wait to do something," are tattooed on Bennett's left forearm where he looks at them daily for motivation.
To follow Sam Bennett's impressive golf career, check out his Instagram @sambennettgolf.
Suncast Corporation is a privately held designer, manufacturer and distributor of consumer and commercial products for the home and industrial markets. The scope of the extensive product range includes innovative items in several categories encompassing: Outdoor Storage, Lawn and Garden, planters, Snow Tools, Deck and Patio Accessories, Outdoor Furniture, and several others.
Suncast continues to be a leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality resin products made in the U.S.A. for over 35 years. The Suncast brand is the market share leader in hose reels, outdoor storage and snow tools. These products are sold through over 25,000 retail outlets in the United States and Canada, primarily through Big Box, Hardware, Clubs and Specialty Retail chains as well as major e-commerce providers.
To learn more about the full line of Suncast and Suncast Commercial® products, visit our websites: Suncast.com and suncastcommercial.com.
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SOURCE Suncast Corporation | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/suncast-sponsored-golfer-sam-bennett-wins-122nd-us-amateur-championship/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:25Z |
Space Camp Dudes Landing Fall 2022 – Subscribe to TDSC Waitlist
TORONTO, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- a revolutionary new PFP NFT called Throwing Dude Space Camp (TDSC) is launching in the Fall. 10,000 NFTs will be available. TDSC features next level art, astonishing rarity, and a ground-breaking road map. Click here to join the waitlist.
Gyro Plasmic (pseudonym), Founder of TDSC says; "we wanted to expand the boundaries of our character art to include action and a sports element, so we decided on the throwing motion and the abundance of throwing sports. We did not limit ourselves to earth or even our own galaxy. We expanded what is possible to be thrown and what it takes to do that. We built all of that into our avatars." https://throwingdudespacecamp.com/
Creative team members Gyroplasmic Overlord (Canada) and Velocity Man (South Africa) have been iterating the concept and art for a long time (with daily creative sprints) and have achieved over 650 traits with over 220 on the clothing alone. We discovered how to create different gender identities within our universe of Dudes.
Since our Dudes are from across our Universe, some of their capabilities go way beyond just throwing mere earthly objects and include galactic and even mythical throwing.
TDSC is about living the creative inspired life and pursuing the joy of throwing and the joy of exploring. No matter your skill level, or where you come from in our universe, Throwing Dude Space Camp galactically celebrates the comradery of Space Camp and throwing.
We are in it for the long haul and as TDCS gets resourced through revenue, we plan to introduce many benefits to the Throwing Dude Space Camp membership, which may include: our 57 planets art reveal, exclusive member merchandise, space camping festival under our aurora borealis, release of space camp song anthem and more. TDSC will push the boundaries of what is possible for a PFP NFT and will have a lot of fun doing it.
Click here to join the Throwing Dude's waitlist.
Throwing Dude Space Camp (TDSC) is owned and operated by QaQaQ Inc.
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SOURCE Throwing Dude Space Camp | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/throwing-dude-expanding-whats-possible-avatar-nfts/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:32Z |
Bank hires Denver-based CRE leader Todd Grover as part of Mountain West growth strategy
PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Umpqua Bank, a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: UMPQ), announced today the expansion of its commercial real estate (CRE) division into Colorado with the hiring of Todd Grover as senior vice president and market leader to lead and build the bank's Denver-based CRE team. Grover is one of Colorado's top commercial real estate leaders with more than 25 years of industry experience.
According to Neil Hodge, executive vice president and head of commercial real estate at Umpqua Bank, Grover's addition reflects Umpqua's continued strategic priority to grow its presence in Denver and build a best-in-class banking experience for companies across the Mountain West region.
"Todd is a tremendous CRE professional with a strong reputation for his leadership, customer-focused service and experience as a trusted advisor to his clients," said Hodge. "As one of the West's strongest banks, Umpqua is thrilled to hire Todd to lead our expansion and leverage our size, resources, and expertise for property owners and development companies seeking to support the vitality and growth in Denver, Phoenix and other Mountain West communities."
Grover brings to Umpqua a record of leadership success that includes building teams generating annual loan originations in excess of $1 billion. Most recently, Grover served as market executive for BBVA USA, leading teams that structured commercial real estate financing transactions in major markets including Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco. Volume included transactions for apartments, industrial, retail, office, medical office, and triple-net leased properties. Throughout his career, Grover has applied his expertise to create custom financing solutions for clients, with financing typically ranging from $15 million to $70 million per project for a variety of needs, including construction, acquisition, bridge and term loans.
Today's announcement marks the growth of Umpqua's expansion into Colorado that includes the hire of Shawn Thompson earlier this year to head its middle market banking division in the region.
"Umpqua is excited to be a part of Denver's vibrant business community and economy. We look forward to contributing to the prosperity of communities across the Western U.S.," said Umpqua Bank President Tory Nixon. "We're focused on attracting top banking talent passionate about providing high-growth, commercial enterprises an exceptional relationship banking experience. Our recent leadership hires in the region and the expansion of both our middle market banking and commercial real estate divisions in Colorado reflect our commitment to do just that."
Grover holds an MBA in finance from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business and a bachelor's degree in marketing from Michigan State University. He also has participated in the executive development program at the University of Texas at Austin.
About Umpqua Bank
Umpqua Bank, headquartered in Roseburg, Ore., is a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation, and operates across Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado. Umpqua Bank has been recognized for its innovative customer experience and banking strategy by national publications including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, BusinessWeek, Fast Company and CNBC. The company has been recognized for eight years in a row on FORTUNE magazine's list of the country's "100 Best Companies to Work For," and was recently named by The Portland Business Journal the Most Admired Financial Services Company in Oregon for the 17th consecutive year. In addition to its retail banking presence, Umpqua Bank owns Financial Pacific Leasing, Inc., a nationally recognized commercial finance company that provides equipment leases to small businesses.
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SOURCE Umpqua Bank | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/umpqua-bank-expands-commercial-real-estate-division-colorado/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:38Z |
MOULTRIE, Ga., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- After nearly 10 years as an emergency room physician, Jay S. Feldstein, DO '81, President and CEO of PCOM, knew he had to make a career change for his mental health.
"Part of the reason I'm at PCOM is because I burned out as an emergency room physician," he said. "I got to the point where I dreaded going to work. I dreaded seeing patients, and I didn't want to go to the ER. Between shift work, loss of control and pressure, it just became too much. I am a living example of experiencing a career burnout in emergency medicine."
Coined in the 1970s, burnout–a psychopathological syndrome–is used to describe the consequences of severe stress and high ideals in "helping" careers. In 2019 the World Health Organization officially classified burnout as a medical diagnosis.
Medical professionals fall under that "helping" category with 60-70% of medical students saying they experience burnout during their education.
Jason Walker, PhD, associate professor of physiology at PCOM South Georgia, has seen first-hand the effect of burnout in medical students during his time as a professor and as a researcher on the topic.
According to Dr. Walker, medical students, especially those from underrepresented communities, face an overwhelming amount of pressure and expectations from themselves, families and communities who want to see them succeed. An additional pressure point comes from the student debt, which averages around $300,000. He added that COVID-19 exponentially increased burnout due to the lack of group settings and in-person socialization.
Symptoms of burnout include lack of motivation, emotional detachment, withdrawal and feelings of hopelessness along with mental and physical exhaustion. Dr. Walker said he's personally seen an increase in burnout in medical students, which can easily lead to depression.
He said its crucial for someone experiencing burnout is to see a counselor. Then, take time to meditate, engage in physical activity and take a break from studying.
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) extended its commitment to the Southeast by establishing PCOM South Georgia, an additional teaching location in Moultrie, Georgia. PCOM South Georgia offers both a full, four-year medical program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences degree.
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SOURCE Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/understanding-combatting-student-burnout/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:45Z |
MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Westwood Professional Services, Inc. (Westwood) welcomed Jennifer (Jenn) Bradbury, CPA, to its executive team as the company's new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) this week. Westwood is a leader in multidiscipline engineering solutions for public infrastructure, land development, renewable energy, and power delivery and serves clients from offices across the U.S.
Bradbury will oversee Westwood's finance team and provide financial support to the firm's business units through financial planning and analysis, cash flow management, profitability enhancements, and more. She will concentrate heavily on Westwood's next evolution of financial processes, reporting, and systems.
As CFO, she will play a key role as the organization enters its next stage of growth. "What drew me to Westwood is its strong culture and insatiable desire to be the best in the industry. I look forward to being a part of a team that has the people and proven ability to succeed," says Bradbury.
Bradbury brings 22 years of financial leadership experience to Westwood, which includes 12 years as an executive and CFO in the construction industry. "We couldn't be more pleased that Jenn has chosen to join Westwood," says Chief Executive Officer, Paul Greenhagen, PS. "We anticipate her wealth of financial and business leadership experience will be valuable to Westwood as we focus on achieving our vision for the future."
Chief Operations Officer, Bryan Powell, PE, looks forward to leveraging Bradbury's experience collaborating with industry business leaders and her perspective from other industries. Powell says, "Jenn has proven to be a critical strategic partner throughout her career, and we can't wait to start working with her." Bradbury will succeed Executive Vice President of Finance, Steve Paradise, who retires this month. Paradise will support the transition as needed through September.
Bradbury has served as a board member, treasurer, and finance committee chair on several non-profit organizations. She received her B.S. in Finance and Accounting from Indiana University – Kelly School of Business and is a certified public accountant.
Westwood is a leading, award-winning, full-service, multidiscipline professional civil engineering firm specializing in public infrastructure, private development, wind, solar, and power delivery projects. Westwood was established in 1972 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Through a focus on its people, culture, and clients, Westwood has quickly expanded to serve clients across the nation from multiple U.S. offices. View more Westwood facts.
In 2022, Westwood placed #13 and #26 respectively on Zweig Group's national Hot Firms and Best Firms to Work for lists and received a first place Zweig Marketing Excellence award. Westwood also ranked consistently higher for five consecutive years on the Engineering News Record (ENR) 500 as one of the country's leading design firms. The firm regularly ranks on industry top 25 lists and receives recognition for its involvement on award-winning projects nationwide.
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SOURCE Westwood Professional Services | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/westwood-announces-new-cfo-jenn-bradbury/ | 2022-08-23T19:30:52Z |
Woman attacked by bear saved when her dog barks, lures it away from her, officials say
STRAFFORD, Vt. (WCAX/Gray News) - A Vermont woman who was attacked by a bear on her property was saved by one of her dogs when it lured the animal away from her, according to wildlife officials.
Game wardens said 61-year-old Susan Lee was walking on Saturday with her two dogs when she heard a loud noise and realized a bear was charging her.
Lee tripped and fell and felt pain in her upper left leg, and realized the bear was on top of her and had bitten her, WCAX reported.
That’s when her Jack Russell terrier intervened by barking at the bear and drawing its attention away from Lee. Officials said the bear got off her and focused on the dog instead.
Lee was able to return home with her dogs without seeing the bear again.
She was treated at the hospital for a bite wound on her upper left leg and multiple scratches between 2- and 9-inches long on both her sides. Her wounds were not life-threatening.
Fish and Wildlife biologists investigated the attack site but did not find the bear. They believe the bear was a female with cubs, and the attack was likely provoked when Lee and her dogs surprised them.
Jaclyn Conmeau, a bear biologist with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, said in a statement there are records of only three prior bear attacks in the state.
“Bear attacks are extremely rare in Vermont,” she said. “However, at this time of year black bears are moving in family units and mothers will be protective of their cubs. If confronted by a bear it is essential to remain calm and back away slowly, and to fight back immediately if attacked.”
Copyright 2022 WCAX via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/woman-attacked-by-bear-saved-when-her-dog-barks-lures-it-away-her-officials-say/ | 2022-08-23T19:44:06Z |
The city of Cheyenne has detected the first pools, or group, of mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus this year in Laramie County, according to a news release.
The test was confirmed by technicians at the Wyoming State Veterinary Lab.
The infected mosquitoes were collected from traps near the Sun Valley area and Laramie County Community College during the week of Aug. 8 as part of the city’s ongoing mosquito surveillance efforts, the release said. Precautions should be taken across the Capital City, however, as infected birds can carry the virus over long distances.
No human cases have been reported this season. The last human case of West Nile virus reported in Cheyenne was in 2017, according to the city’s release.
“This is typically the time of the year we expect to see a rise in West Nile virus activity, and these positive mosquito pools confirm that,” said Jennifer Escobedo, supervisor of the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department, in the release.
Most mosquitoes do not test positive for disease-causing viruses. However, a bite from a West Nile virus-infected mosquito can cause serious illness, and, in some cases, death. Although a person’s chances of getting sick are small, those 50 and older are at the highest risk for serious illness.
Not everyone infected with West Nile virus will become ill. However, West Nile can cause serious complications, including neurological diseases, and can also cause a milder flu-like illness, including fever, headache and body aches, nausea, and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. If you think you have symptoms of West Nile virus, see your doctor right away.
Reducing mosquito population
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. The eggs hatch into larvae that develop in the water for seven to 10 days before emerging as adult mosquitoes that fly and bite.
Many types of mosquitoes, including those that can spread disease, lay their eggs in items around the home, such as in birdbaths, unused flowerpots, discarded tires and even bottle caps, as well as in small ponds or other bodies of stagnant water.
“The Health Department, along with Cheyenne Weed and Pest, will continue to visit all known mosquito breeding sites, including sites near these positive mosquito pools. Larval control activities will continue throughout the summer,” Escobedo said.
Cheyenne Weed and Pest has initiated Ultra Low Volume (ULV) truck spraying in areas with elevated numbers of mosquitoes that can transmit West Nile virus. These trucks will pass through neighborhoods and recreation areas after sunset. You may see a strobe light and hear a small equipment motor as they pass, but there is no reason to be alarmed. More information on ULV truck spraying can be found at cdc.gov/mosquitoes/mosquito-control/community/truck-spraying.html.
The best and most effective mosquito control begins in your yard. Eliminating standing water is the first step in reducing mosquito breeding:
- Check your property for any items that can hold water. Anything you choose to keep outside, such as kids’ toys, buckets, wading pools, canoes and wheelbarrows, should be flipped over when not used to prevent them from collecting any water.
- Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers and remove any discarded tires.
- If you have a swimming pool or spa that is not in use, drain the water off the cover or treat the standing water with mosquito briquettes, and post accordingly. The briquettes are available from the Health Department, at 100 Central Ave., Monday through Friday while supplies last. Call 307-633-4090 or email envhlth@laramiecounty.com to arrange a pickup.
- Tightly cover water storage containers (buckets, cisterns, rain barrels) so that mosquitoes cannot get inside to lay eggs. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito for containers without lids.
- Use an outdoor flying insect spray where mosquitoes rest. Mosquitoes rest in dark, humid areas like under patio furniture or under the carport or garage. When using insecticides, always follow label instructions.
- If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps. Cover open vent or plumbing pipes. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.
- Make sure that roof gutters drain properly, clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds, and remove leaf debris from yards and gardens.
To reduce your risk of being bitten, use the 5D method by following these steps:
- DUSK and DAWN – Stay indoors when mosquitoes are more active.
- DRESS – Cover up as completely as possible. Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods or when mosquitoes are more active.
- DRAIN – Reduce the amount of standing water in or near your property by draining and/or removing it. Mosquitoes may lay eggs in areas with standing water.
- DEET – Use mosquito repellent, which should always be applied according to label directions. Do not use repellent on babies younger than 2 months old. Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children younger than 3 years old.
- To learn more, call the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department at 307-633-4090 or visit the West Nile page at
. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/mosquitoes-carrying-west-nile-virus-found-in-southern-wyo/article_96b981c0-223e-11ed-8068-db1762bb5a5f.html | 2022-08-23T20:06:29Z |
CHEYENNE – Caitlin Garcia was named Cheyenne Frontier Days Lady-In-Waiting 2023 after a selection process including submitting a written application, an accomplishment book, a horsemanship skills demonstration, and an interview.
She is the daughter of Cesar and Denise Garcia. She is a 2017 graduate of Cheyenne Central High School. After high school she was a full-time student at Laramie County Community College where she achieved her associates degrees in Animal Science, Equine Science, and Equine Training. Currently, she is attending the University of Wyoming, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Animal and Veterinary Sciences.
Garcia's first time in the CFD Arena was at the age of eight, competing in junior barrel racing. She represented CFD across Wyoming and surrounding states for five years as a Dandy. The accomplishments she is most proud of include: Reserve National Champion Veterinary Science Team, Top 20 National Veterinary Science Individual, and multiple local, regional, and national wins showing horses in versatility ranch horse competitions and horsemanship.
“It is a true honor to be selected as the 2023 Lady-in-Waiting! I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to represent Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo and the western way of life," Garcia said in a press release. "To become my own childhood hero is an indescribable feeling! To know I have been chosen to represent the 3000+ volunteers who are Cheyenne Frontier Days and continue the legacy of Cheyenne Frontier Days royalty is truly humbling. I hope to make each person proud and fill the boots of those who rode before me."
She will work with Miss Frontier, Jordan Johnson, in 2023 to represent Cheyenne Frontier Days. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/cfd-general-committee-names-caitlin-garcia-2023-lady-in-waiting/article_48428a0c-2304-11ed-a2de-c3b487781b7a.html | 2022-08-23T20:06:35Z |
CHEYENNE – A man was arrested after hitting a pedestrian with his vehicle early Monday evening, according to Tuesday news release from the Cheyenne Police Department.
Bryan Ciccone, 45, of Cheyenne is accused of driving under the influence and striking a man who was walking along the side of East Lincolnway, severely injuring the pedestrian.
Ciccone was contacted at the scene by responding officers. He was initially taken to Cheyenne Regional Medical Center for evaluation, but upon his release was booked into the Laramie County jail on charged of driving under the influence with serious bodily injury, leaving the roadway and possession of marijuana.
The pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported by ambulance to CRMC.
Ciccone was the sole occupant of the vehicle and did not sustain injuries.
At about 5 p.m. Monday, CPD officers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle incident involving a pedestrian near the intersection of East Lincolnway and Pinion Drive. The preliminary investigation shows the incident occurred when Ciccone, driving a Lincoln MKZ, was traveling west on Lincolnway and veered off of the roadway. He struck the man, who was walking along the shoulder of the road.
Due to the severity of the pedestrian’s injuries, CPD's Major Crash Unit has taken over the investigation, which is ongoing. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/driver-arrested-after-hitting-pedestrian-on-east-lincolnway/article_6d27b39e-2307-11ed-9cee-7f7c7cfddd18.html | 2022-08-23T20:06:41Z |
Wyoming is no longer the only state in the nation to not have a case of monkeypox.
The Wyoming Department of Health announced Monday that the state’s first case of the monkeypox virus has been identified in Laramie County.
Wyoming is no longer the only state in the nation to not have a case of monkeypox.
The Wyoming Department of Health announced Monday that the state’s first case of the monkeypox virus has been identified in Laramie County.
Dr. Alexia Harrist, state health officer and state epidemiologist with WDH, said public health representatives are following up with the person to see if more residents are at higher risk of contracting monkeypox because of direct contact with the adult man, who was tested within the last week.
“Because monkeypox spreads through close, intimate contact we do not believe the risk for the virus is now a higher concern for the local community or for most people in Wyoming,” she said in a Monday press release. “Monkeypox does not spread easily like familiar viruses such as influenza or COVID-19.”
Monkeypox is characterized by a rash with other symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and tiredness. Monkeypox is rarely fatal but is unpleasant and painful and can cause serious illness in some people. Experts have been tracking a growing outbreak of monkeypox in areas that don’t normally report the disease, including across the United States.
Detailed facts, including rash photos, data and prevention recommendations are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html.
“We do want to prevent further spread within our state as much as possible. That’s why we will recommend vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and also for people who may be more likely to get monkeypox based on the current outbreak and how it has been spreading,” Harrist said.
The following people are eligible for pre-exposure vaccination if they live or work in Wyoming:
“While anyone can become ill with monkeypox, vaccine eligibility is currently limited to people who are at highest risk in connection with this outbreak and how its spreading,” Harrist said. “The goal is to put available vaccine supplies to the best possible use.”
Eligible people interested in vaccination appointments should contact the public health office in their area. Contact information for county public health offices can be found at https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/nursing/phn-co-offices/.Wyoming residents also may call WDH at 307-777-6004 for help finding the closest local public health office.
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A receipt was sent to your email. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/wdh-monkeypox-found-in-laramie-county-resident/article_2f923f52-224b-11ed-abed-6709015fb111.html | 2022-08-23T20:06:47Z |
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Ameteur 2D winners include Brooke Anderson, 1st place and Mariah McDowell, 2nd place during the 17th Annual Art on the Green on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Expedition Island.
Semi-Professional 2D winners include Mary Parker, 1st place, Ben Nathan, 2nd place and Bryce Castillon, 3rd place for the 2022 Art on the Green competition at Expedition Island in Green River.
Artist Chad Spalding won the Rudy Gunter Memorial Award during the 17th annual Art on the Green at Expedition Island in Green River on Saturday, Aug. 20.
Ameteur 2D winners include Brooke Anderson, 1st place and Mariah McDowell, 2nd place during the 17th Annual Art on the Green on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Expedition Island.
Photo Courtesy of Green River Recreation Center
Professional 2D winners for the annual Art on the Green include Michael Parker, Jill Hartley and Scott Blume.
Photo Courtesy of Green River Recreational Center
Semi-Professional 2D winners include Mary Parker, 1st place, Ben Nathan, 2nd place and Bryce Castillon, 3rd place for the 2022 Art on the Green competition at Expedition Island in Green River.
Photo Courtesy of Green River Recreational Center
Artist Chad Spalding won the Rudy Gunter Memorial Award during the 17th annual Art on the Green at Expedition Island in Green River on Saturday, Aug. 20.
GREEN RIVER -- The 17th Annual Art on the Green was held Aug. 19 and 20, 2022. The event was well received by the community. Forty-Five artists from Utah and Wyoming competed in the 2D and 3D Art competition for 24 hours straight. The weekend began with a bang at 11 a.m. on Friday. All competitors began the creative process in a variety of mediums including, watercolor, oil, clay, airbrush and more. The following are the results from this weekend’s Art on the Green event.
Artists’ Choice:
(Professional 2D)
1st place - Jill Hartley
2nd place: Tyrell Jasperson
3rd place: Michael Parker
Semi-Professional 2D:
1st place - Mary Parker
2nd place - Ben Nathan
3rd place - Bryce Castillon
Professional 3D:
1st place - Jeff Rudolph
2nd place - Mont Crosland
3rd place - Mary Shaw
Non-Professional 3D:
1st place - Wayne Kertz
2nd place - Aiden Shultz
Mayor’s Choice Awards:
Mia Rosas
Bryce Castillon
Andrew Kneeland
People’s Choice:
2D - Jamie Green
3D - Mary Shaw
Judges’ Choice Results
High School 2D:
1st place - Tyler Castillon
2nd place - Natalie Parker
High School 3D:
1st place - Maya Wiekhorst
2nd place - Mia Rosas
Amateur 2D:
1st place - Brooke Andreasen
2nd place - Mariah McDowell
Semi-Professional 2D:
1st place - Ben Nathan
2nd place - Amanda Romero
3rd place - Bryce Castillon
Non-Professional 3D:
1st place - Aiden Schultz
2nd place - Wayne Kertz
Professional 2D:
1st place - Michael Parker
2nd place - Jill Hartley
3rd place - Scott Blume
Professional 3D:
1st place - Mary Shaw
2nd place - Mont Crosland
3rd place - Jeff Rudolph
Rudy Gunter Memorial Award:
Chad Spalding
Other associated events included the 7th Annual Battle on the Green competition which kicked off on Friday at 4:30 p.m. with nine competitors painting head to head. A theme for each battle round was drawn by a member of the Green River Arts Council and competitors had only five minutes to prepare. After the five minutes of preparation, they had 30 minutes to create a work of art that was then judged by the community and a panel of judges. The judges’ choice for Battle on the Green was Brooke Andreasen and the People’s Choice went to Andrew Kneeland. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyomingbusinessreport/industry_news/advertising_and_marketing/art-on-the-green-competitors-drum-up-masterpieces-in-24-hours/article_02da01f8-231c-11ed-af39-e73d3f4f5e20.html | 2022-08-23T20:07:00Z |
ROCK SPRINGS -- Many students are facing food insecurities in Sweetwater County School District No. 1.
“When your stomach is growling, you're not thinking about multiplication,” said Eric Ulacher, community director for Knights of Columbus.
ROCK SPRINGS -- Many students are facing food insecurities in Sweetwater County School District No. 1.
“When your stomach is growling, you're not thinking about multiplication,” said Eric Ulacher, community director for Knights of Columbus.
The 5th annual Coats for Kids Trail Run takes place on Saturday, Aug. 27, 8 a.m. at Stagecoach Elementary School in Rock Springs.
Urlacher is a physical education instructor at Stagecoach Elementary and the head coach for the RSHS Tiger cross country team.
According to Urlacher, the entry fee for adults is $25. Students, 19 and under, can participate for free with a food or clothing donation. Additional donations are appreciated.
Priority items include:
- Lightly used winter clothing
- Peanut Butter
- Pasta Sauce
- Rice meals
Physical donations will go to the Stagecoach Backpack Program.
50% of profits Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids and Food for Families program
50% of profits go to Rock Springs Tigers Cross Country team to support student-athletes.
Participants will meet on the morning of registration from 8 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. at Stagecoach Elementary in the rear bus loop. Spectators are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to cheer on their families and friends. The 5K and 10K trail races will begin at 9 a.m. sharp.
Both races will start at the rear Stagecoach parking lot. For small children, there is a dirt road that would be ideal for off-road strollers. Baby-backpacks or children walking is another option.
For 5K participants, they will follow the single track as well as a dirt–road from Stagecoach to the base of White Mountain and back.
The 10K challengers will continue uphill on a single track to the first shelf of White Mountain after the 5K turnoff. They will go north and then move down on a two-track back towards the school. Courses will be flagged.
“White Mountain has great trails on it and I thought that this community has a fair amount of road races but not a lot of trail races so I wanted to utilize the White Mountain areas,” Urlacher shared. “I hope that the participants would help foster a love for moving 60 minutes a day as well as offer a charitable contribution for the kids in our town.”
He added, “If you're not fed and you don't have your needs met, you can't learn.”
“The greatest thing I could do as a teacher is in order to help kids learn is to make sure that their basic needs are met. They can't achieve anything until these needs are met so I guess I feel that I'm helping them learn as best as they can.”
He noted that anyone at any fitness level can participate and that “anybody can get a prize from a community sponsor.”
Anyone who has any questions about the event, may contact Urlacher at urlachere@sw1.k12.wy.us.
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A receipt was sent to your email. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyomingbusinessreport/industry_news/economy_and_labor/feeding-the-mind-annual-trail-run-conquers-hunger-and-keep-kids-warm/article_23a4255e-2302-11ed-8146-f7b19f6fd11c.html | 2022-08-23T20:07:06Z |
For the owners of Wyonics, success literally comes down to the tiniest details.
The business, which focuses on creating complex, sustainable technologies, has received a $1.15 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to continue its work in micro- and nanoparticle manipulation.
The money will allow the company to get closer to commercializing its technology while also presenting a chance to grow and make an impact on the local community.
“It really helps small companies get started, because you really need that infrastructure to even do anything,” Wyonics owner Kristin Di Bona said about the grant.
Di Bona started Wyonics in 2018 with husband Caleb Hill, father Robin Rodgers and her aunt, Gabriela Gurau, all of whom studied at University of Alabama and hold doctorate degrees in scientific fields.
The business sprung from a desire to take knowledge from the realm of academia and give it real-world applications, Di Bona said. No matter where this mission took them, the family has maintained a focus on sustainability.
“I didn’t want to do something that was going to cause a bigger problem,” she said. “I wanted to do something that I felt good about.”
An emphasis on sustainability isn’t the only aspect that makes Wyonics stand out in Wyoming. It also is the first women-led business in the state to receive the grant, known as the Small Business Innovation Research award. Nationwide, only 5% of businesses that receive this type of funding are owned by women, according to a press release announcing the Wyonics award.
The grant is the second in a multi-stage process that offers money to companies creating new, innovative technologies that are of interest to federal government agencies.
Wyonics received $200,000 from the Department of Energy in 2021 to complete the first phase of the project, which included proving the feasibility of an instrument platform meant to move and pattern micro- and nanoparticles.
While the platform is still under development, the technology has broad implications and could one day be used in the areas of nuclear forensics, pharmaceuticals, microelectronics, microplastics and semiconductors, Di Bona said.
“We think it’s an enabling technology,” she said. “You will use it in many advanced industries, so you could have local industries that emerge from it.”
Big applications
The second phase of the project, which is slated to last two years, will include creating a commercial prototype of the technology and exploring its applications.
The project will create work for one full-time employee, one graduate student, two to three undergraduate students and one intern at Wyonics over the course of the next two years, Di Bona said.
The company is collaborating with University of Wyoming, meaning it also sill open research opportunities for local students.
The SBIR program is central to helping early-stage technologies like what Wyonics is developing get off the ground before they are flashy enough to catch the eye of investors, said Kelly Haigler Cornish, who works with the program through the Wyoming Small Business Development Center Network.
“It’s important for people to understand that these are early-stage technologies and no one’s really willing to invest in them,” Cornish said. “This grant is some of the only money available for people to get started.”
It also is one of the only ways new companies can secure the money needed for research while still maintaining control over their business rather than having to answer to investors, Cornish said.
For Di Bona and her team, collaborating with groups like the Department of Energy, the Small Business Development Center and Wyoming Business Council has helped the group start their business strong.
Having these connections helped the team learn more about the business side of marketing their work and talking to the right people.
“When you’re starting up there’s ups and downs,” Di Bona said. “It’s been new.”
As her work continues, Di Bona said she hopes to support future employees by providing them with high-paying jobs that will have an impact throughout the state.
“We plan on manufacturing in Wyoming,” Di Bona said. “Though we’re starting small, we’re looking for partners in Wyoming.” | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyomingbusinessreport/industry_news/energy_production/particular-success-wyonics-technology-could-have-broad-impact/article_04404602-2302-11ed-9876-0baf1919f30e.html | 2022-08-23T20:07:12Z |
CASPER — A week after one of the most discussed elections in Wyoming’s history, a panel of lawmakers will consider changes to the state’s voting system.
The Legislature’s Joint Corporations Committee will discuss a ranked-choice voting system and whether to implement special elections if one of the state’s top elected officials departs.
The committee will also consider two other important issues in Wyoming: housing and liquor licenses. The meeting, which is open to the public and will be streamed online, will take place in Casper on Thursday and Friday.
As has become the norm over the last couple of years, the corporations committee will consider election reform legislation. That includes implementing a ranked-choice voting system similar to the one used last week in Alaska’s primary.
Ranked-choice usually work like this: The number of votes a candidate gets are determined by how many residents rank the candidate in the top spot. If no one candidate gets more than 50% of the vote, it will trigger the lowest vote-getter to be cut.
Then, on every ballot that had the lowest vote getter ranked first, the No. 2 candidate will move into the No. 1 spot and earns more votes. This process continues until one candidate achieves a majority.
As the bill is currently written, it would permit voters to rank any candidate “without regard to political party affiliation.”
In other words, a voter could rank a Republican first and a Democrat second and not be bound by party.
But the current bill draft will likely be workshopped extensively, said Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, and Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne.
For example, it’s possible that a ranked-choice system could exist within partisan primaries, so voters would only be able to rank Democrats or Republicans depending on their registration.
Ranked-choice opponents often point to the recent New York City mayoral race as an example of why Wyoming should not implement it — getting the results took days as opposed to hours.
“I think [favorability for] ranked choice has dimmed a little bit,” Case said.
The committee will also be reviewing a bill that would trigger a special election if there’s a vacancy in some of the state’s elected offices.
As it stands, the state Republican or Democratic central committee (depending on the politician being replaced) is responsible for nominating three candidates. The governor then picks one of those three.
Case suspects the state GOP will lobby against this bill.
“They’ll come down with steel-toed boots,” he said.
In recent years, the state party and a large portion of its central committee has become increasingly hard-line and MAGA-minded, putting the group at odds with more traditional, big tent Republicans.
The central committee passed over Megan Degenfelder when choosing nominees for schools superintendent earlier this year, although she had administrative experience in the Wyoming Department of Education.
Instead, the group nominated three far-right candidates, including the eventual appointee, Brian Schroeder. Voters, however, picked Degenfelder in last week’s primary.
Sen. John Barrasso, who has since been reelected, also first assumed office through the nomination process.
As Wyoming grapples with housing shortages and rising prices, the committee will begin to look at remedies. The committee does not have any bill drafts slated on housing, but the group will review some memos from the Legislative Service Office, including one on housing trust funds.
Housing trust funds are earmarked pools of money for addressing community housing needs, which could include anything from affordable housing developments to home restoration projects.
Wyoming only has one trust fund — located in Jackson. It is one of three states that does not have a state run trust fund.
Zwonitzer said that the committee will mainly be asking questions about housing and listening to stakeholders.
“What is the government’s role? Can we be doing anything and should we be doing anything?” Zwonitzer asked. “A lot of people want action on cheap housing and affordable housing.”
The Legislative Service Office, however, wrote that there may be some constitutional barriers to implementing a state funded housing trust. The Wyoming Constitution currently has “prohibitions against the State or its political subdivisions loaning or giving credit or making donations to people or entities in certain situations, as well as a prohibition against legislative appropriations for charitable or industrial purposes unless the recipient is under the control of the State,” the LSO wrote.
Constitutional amendments are notoriously hard to pass in Wyoming.
“I’m always skeptical of the government getting involved in markets that by and large work pretty darn well,” said Case, who’s a libertarian-leaning Republican and an economist.
The committee will tackle the liquor license landscape in Wyoming this week as well. The focus of the liquor license discussion will likely center around “tavern and entertainment liquor licenses.”
As it stands, venues that serve food and liquor must make at least 60% of the revenue off of food to satisfy the requirements of the liquor license.
The proposed bill would allow venues that don’t serve food — like arcades, for one — to serve alcohol while still collecting 60% of their revenue from the “entertainment” and no more than 40% from alcohol.
“Whether that 40% is the right number, I’m not sure,” Zwonitzer said.
Zwonitzer said he has concerns — and believes others do as well— over how broad the term “entertainment” could be construed. He expects the committee to try to define it in statute.
One of the main pushes behind this bill was the advent of indoor sport simulation venues, like the SandTrap in Casper, where patrons can go play virtual golf.
“What if the other part of our business is not food? What if the other part of our business is video games?” Case explained.
If the tavern and entertainment bill passed, it would join a long list of different types of liquor licenses in the state covering everything from golf courses to airports.
“We just keep marching towards liquor freedom,” Zwonitzer said. “Every session we have another [liquor license bill]. It never ends.”
This story was published on August 23, 2022. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyomingbusinessreport/industry_news/government_and_politics/panel-mulls-election-reform/article_347a9baa-231c-11ed-afeb-ef27ab3c6ee2.html | 2022-08-23T20:07:18Z |
Moose resident Marian Meyers admitted that she didn’t do all of her homework ahead of showing up to the polls Tuesday at the Teton County Recreation Center.
Meyers, who had been in the books as a Democrat, changed her registration to Republican so she could vote for U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney, who she admired for having the “guts to stand up for our country in the face of a lot of opposition.”
She was less certain, however, about which other Republicans on her ballot had values and stances that best aligned with her own – and so she left some bubbles unfilled.
“I did not want to vote for somebody who I was not familiar with and educated about,” Meyers said.
Meyers wasn’t alone – and it wasn’t just crossover voters who didn’t make it down the ballot.
There were more than 182,000 ballots cast across Wyoming during early and in-person voting, which is the highest raw count in a midterm primary election on record and the highest rate of turnout since 1994. Roughly 40% of Wyoming’s voting age population put a ballot in the mail or showed up to the polls. There was a 31% increase in Wyoming residents who voted compared to 2018, the last primary election halfway through a U.S. president’s term.
“To some degree, this was a referendum of where people stood on Trump, as much as anything else,” former Gov. Dave Freudenthal told WyoFile.
Largely, Wyoming voters motivated to come out sided with Trump in the highest-profile race: Cheney versus Harriet Hageman, the former president’s hand-picked proxy, who topped the incumbent by a 37% margin.
More than 99.5% of the nearly 172,000 ballots cast in the Republican primary marked either Cheney, Hageman or another candidate. Not so for candidates in races farther down the ballot. It’s nothing new, but there were several races – statewide, legislative, county, municipal and others – in which a significant portion of voters didn’t select a candidate.
In the competitive statewide race for the superintendent of public instruction, there were more than 25,000 fewer votes cast – called undervotes – than there were total ballots submitted. That’s about 14% of all the voters who turned out, and in that race, Megan Degenfelder topped incumbent appointed superintendent Brian Schroeder by a relatively slim margin, only 3,555 votes.
Notably, the undervote rate for the superintendent of public instruction improved compared to the 2018 primary, when 21% of Republicans didn’t select a superintendent candidate.
There were 14,000 undervotes in the race for secretary of state, a position that oversees Wyoming’s elections. State Rep. Chuck Gray, R-Casper, who campaigned on the premise that the 2020 election was rigged, won with 75,938 votes. Second-place finisher, state Sen. Tara Nethercott, garnered 63,044 votes. Still, the undervote very likely played no role in the outcome – it would only have swung the race to Nethercott if more than 90% of the would-be voters filled her bubble.
But undervotes might have played a role in the outcomes of some Wyoming Legislature races. In Albany County’s House District 14, Julie McCallister lost by just 125 votes to Bryan Shuster in a race with 487 fewer votes placed than total ballots cast in the district. Albany County houses Laramie, a liberal-for-Wyoming city where voters were more apt to cross over. Based on who donated to the candidates – far-right mega-donors Dan and Carleen Brophys backed Shuster – a higher percentage of down-ballot voting might have swung the race to McCallister.
Shuster will face incumbent Rep. Trey Sherwood, D-Laramie, in November’s general election.
Cheyenne resident Jeff Oliver is an example of a Wyoming voter who weighed in on statewide races in the primary, but didn’t vote all the way down the ballot. Usually a Democrat, his disapproval of Trump and the former president’s endorsed candidates motivated him to change party affiliation.
“With the age of Trump, democracy is in peril,” Oliver said.
Oliver voted against three Trump picks: Hageman, Schroeder and Gray. He didn’t vote on state House or Senate races, and personally knew of five or six other people in his circle who did something similar.
“You know, in some of those races, they’re either like a Republican that’s unopposed or they are like two or three Republicans, who pretty much are equally very hardcore conservative,” Oliver said. “So, there’s not a viable one that I would see as much better than the other in terms of what they’re going to do for Wyoming.”
The general election, where Wyoming voters can choose between Republicans and often long-shot independents, Democrats and minor-party candidates, is Nov. 8.
WyoFile is an independent nonprofit news organization focused on Wyoming people, places and policy. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyomingbusinessreport/industry_news/government_and_politics/voters-turned-out-for-wyo-primary-but-left-some-bubbles-empty/article_e66b7d94-231b-11ed-9038-6beeb5a7be1f.html | 2022-08-23T20:07:25Z |
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As of 9:30 a.m., HECO says there are about 15,000 customers in Upcountry, East Maui, including Paia and Haiku, still without power.
This is down significantly from the 65,000 first reported to be without power when the outage first occurred around 2:45 a.m. HECO says its crews will continue to work to restore power to the remaining customers.
As estimated time for full restoration has not been given.
920a #MauiOutage update: Crews continue to restore power to remaining ~15,000 customers in Upcountry, East Maui, Paia, Haiku, and pockets in Central and West Maui. The cause of the outage is being assessed. Currently, there is no estimated restore time. Mahalo for your patience.
— Hawaiian Electric - Maui County (@MauiElectric) August 23, 2022
UPDATE, 8 A.M.
8a #MauiOutage update: Crews continue to respond to outages. Resources are being dedicated to restoring power and the cause is being assessed. This includes having to check equipment and lines before we can safely restore power. Mahalo for your patience.
— Hawaiian Electric - Maui County (@MauiElectric) August 23, 2022
UPDATE, 7:30 A.M.
Crews continue power restorations on Maui.
According to Hawaiian Electric, power has been restored to affected customers in parts of Lahaina and a majority of Central Maui and South Maui areas. Crews are working to restore power to remaining areas of West Maui, Upcountry, East Maui, including Paia and Haiku and remaining pockets.
UPDATE, 6 A.M.
Hawaiian Electric says crews have restored power to parts of Central Maui, including Wailuku and a majority of Kahului and South Maui areas.
Crews are still working to bring back online remaining affected customers in parts of Upcountry, West Maui and East Maui, including Paia and Haiku.
Total number of customers affected and the cause of the outage is still being assessed.
UPDATE, 4:27 A.M.
According to Hawaiian Electric, crews are currently working to restore power to parts of South Maui, West Maui, Kahului, Wailuku, Waihee and Waiehu, Upcountry and East Maui.
The cause is being assessed.
MAUI, Hawai'i (KITV4) -- Maui residents are waking up without power Tuesday, Aug. 23.
As of 3:30 a.m., nearly 10,000 residents spanning the entire island are with out electricity.
After nearly 10-years away, this local girl is home! In November 2021, Lia started at KITV as the weekend GMH anchor and a weekday reporter. The 2011 Kamehameha Kapālama graduate worked all across the country and even overseas before finding her way home. | https://www.kitv.com/news/local/about-15-000-heco-customers-still-without-power-on-maui-update/article_40515a0a-22e9-11ed-a98e-c3fe863ebdab.html | 2022-08-23T20:12:47Z |
HONOLULU (KITV4) -- Honolulu Little League did it again! The boys from Hawaii on Monday won their third game of the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
The game was supposed to start at 1 p.m. Hawaii time, but was delayed because of the weather and extra innings from previous games, and didn't get underway until 2:30 p.m. Hawaii time.
Honolulu Little League, representing the West Region, shutout the Southwest champs from Pearland Little League of Texas 6-0.
Honolulu Little League now moves on to US semifinals on Wednesday at 9 a.m. Hawaii time. It will be televised on ESPN.
Honolulu will play the Southeast Region champs, Nolensville Little League of Tennessee, for a chance to secure a spot in the US finals. Both teams have a record of 3-0.
Honolulu Little League's first two games of the World Series ended early, in the bottom of the 5th inning because of the 10-run mercy rule.
Honolulu beat Texas last Friday 12-0 in a no-hitter, and also beat Washington State 11-1 last Wednesday.
The Little League Baseball World Series goes through Sunday, August 28.
Marisa Yamane joined KITV4 in January 2022 as an anchor and executive producer. She is an award-winning veteran journalist, who’s spent most of her career in Hawaii. She’s a proud graduate of Iolani School and UCLA. | https://www.kitv.com/news/local/honolulu-beats-texas-in-little-league-world-series-moves-on-to-us-semifinals/article_d7767764-227e-11ed-9711-dff4b270a97d.html | 2022-08-23T20:12:53Z |
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When Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s TV film “Cinderella” debuted on ABC in 1997, millions were enraptured by the iconic performances of Whitney Houston as the fairy godmother and Brandy Norwood in the title role.
Now, 25 years later, the film remains a cultural mainstay. To commemorate the anniversary, ABC will rebroadcast the film along with a cast reunion Tuesday.
“To see a Black woman in this fairy tale story and just knowing that you as a Black girl could also live your own kind of fairy tale and fantasy, and you could have a really beautiful life and fall in love and be adored by the world, that’s the message that I got as a little young girl watching this,” says Here & Now senior editor Ciku Theuri.
Others like Theuri were also enchanted to see Disney’s first Black princess on screen, long before Tiana of “The Princess and the Frog” in 2009.
“It very much was such a groundbreaking thing to see as a little Black girl when Disney had plenty of princesses, but none of them had been Black up until that point,” says Aisha Harris, co-host of Pop Culture Happy Hour.
The cast of “Cinderella” (1997) (Disney)
Harris was 8 years old when the film came out and remembers watching it with her mother on VHS. The film was a huge deal back then and still is today, Harris says.
A pivotal aspect of the film is that Norwood wore braids. Houston had voluminous honey-brown curls. In the 90s, Norwood often wore her hair in braids, most notably as the lead in her sitcom “Moesha.” For “Cinderella,” producers let her wear her hair the way she liked to, which Harris says made a huge difference.
Across media, Black girls often wear their hair straightened. While Harris points out there’s nothing wrong with that, there’s something to be said for how the film’s hairstyles — intrinsically tied to Black culture — were allowed to flourish.
Houston’s role in the film, though small, is a deeply memorable performance. Also serving as executive producer, Houston’s presence loomed over the film. Houston also pushed to cast Norwood in the lead role. The duo shares an apparent connection both on and offscreen.
“It’s just really magical to watch that and see just how gracious and generous Whitney was in allowing Brandy to shine in this role,” Harris says.
The film also featured an interracial romance, with Filipino-American actor Paolo Montalban playing Prince Christopher. Oftentimes when interracial romances are discussed today, Harris says, it’s usually a person of color and a white person.
Seeing two non-white people in “Cinderella” who weren’t of the same ethnicity fall in love was a big deal, Harris says, adding that Montalban and Norwood also shared a lot of chemistry together, making it believable that they could actually fall in love in a single night.
“Just enjoy it, open mind, open heart and let the music and the performances just wash over you.”
Kalyani Saxena produced and edited this interview for broadcast with Catherine Welch. Jeannette Muhammad adapted it for the web.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-23/25-years-ago-rodgers-hammerstein-brought-black-cinderella-to-life | 2022-08-23T20:15:10Z |
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A former Louisville police detective who helped write the warrant that led to the deadly police raid at Breonna Taylor's apartment has pleaded guilty to a federal conspiracy charge.
Federal investigators said Kelly Goodlett added a false line to the warrant and later conspired with another detective to create a cover story when Taylor's March 13, 2020, shooting death by police began gaining national attention.
Taylor, a 26-year-old Black woman, was shot to death by officers who knocked down her door while executing a drug search warrant. Taylor's boyfriend fired a shot that hit one of the officers as they came through the door and they returned fire, striking Taylor multiple times.
Goodlett, 35, appeared in a federal courtroom in Louisville on Tuesday afternoon and admitted to conspiring with another Louisville police officer to falsify the warrant. Goodlett briefly answered several questions from federal judge Rebecca Jennings Grady.
Three former Louisville officers were indicted on criminal civil rights charges earlier this month by a federal grand jury. Goodlett was not indicted, but charged in a federal information filing, which likely means the former detective is cooperating with investigators.
Goodlett will be sentenced Nov. 22. Grady said there may be "extenuating circumstances" that may move the court to push back the sentencing date. Part of the plea hearing was also kept under seal and was not discussed in open court Tuesday. She faces up to five years in prison for the conviction.
She resigned from the department Aug. 5, a day after U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced new federal charges in the Taylor case.
Former officers Joshua Jaynes and Kyle Meany were indicted on charges related to the warrant used to search Taylor's home. A third former officer, Brett Hankison, was charged with using excessive force when he retreated from Taylor's door, turned a corner and fired 10 shots into the side of her two-bedroom apartment. He was acquitted by a jury on similar state charges earlier this year. Jaynes, Meany and Hankison have all been fired.
The three former officers face a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted on the civil rights charges.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-23/a-former-cop-pleads-guilty-to-falsifying-warrant-that-led-to-breonna-taylors-death | 2022-08-23T20:15:17Z |
Maryland has seen a slew of racist incidents over the last year — including targeted bomb threats at three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and vandals writing messages of hate on the doors of a church. Now, the state has launched an alert system to flag racist incidents and acts of hate.
The Emmett Till Alerts system, named in honor of the 14-year-old who was abducted, tortured and killed in 1955 after being accused of whistling at a white woman, will act as a warning system if credible threats are made.
"When the FBI director said often that the greatest domestic terrorism threat is white supremacists, we have to take hate crimes and terrorist threats seriously," said Carl Snowden of the Caucus of African American Leaders of Anne Arundel County, Md., during a news conference announcing the system.
The new warning system, which went into effect this week, will notify Black leaders across Maryland of any credible racist incidents or hate crimes that take place anywhere in the state.
Once a hate crime or racist incident is reported, a team of people will determine if an alert should be sent out.
The Emmett Till Alerts will be sent to 167 Black elected statewide officials in Maryland along with national civil rights organizations, clergy members and other leaders.
"The Emmett Till Alert system is a step in the right direction for our community to govern itself and to heal itself," said Antonio Palmer, senior pastor of Kingdom Celebration Center in Gambrills, Md.
The new alert system aims to increase awareness of hate crimes
The new alert system will consist of three levels: low, medium and high — the highest alert signals a great likelihood of violence or death, Snowden told local TV station WJZ.
"Not all hate crimes are investigated. Not all hate crimes are reported, for a variety of reasons. What we are going to do is make sure every hate crime that we're made aware of goes out on this alert system," Snowden said.
AlertMedia, the company behind the system, told local TV station WBAL that it will deliver alerts via text message and email.
"Once they're able to identify the incidents, they'll really be able to rally and raise that awareness and communicate with different community leaders, activists and politicians," Sara Pratley, AlertMedia's vice president of global intelligence, told WBAL.
"According to the FBI, hate crimes are on the rise across the entirety of the United States, according to the most recent data, and it seems like a trend that will continue to see," she added.
Representatives from Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan's office did not immediately respond to NPR's request for comment on the new alert system.
News of Maryland's Emmett Till Alert system comes after a Mississippi grand jury announced its decision not to indict the white woman whose accusation fueled the lynching of Till nearly 70 years ago.
Earlier this month, a grand jury in Leflore County, Miss., determined there was insufficient evidence to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, according to The Associated Press.
Till was abducted, tortured and killed after he was accused of whistling at and grabbing Donham, a white woman, while visiting relatives in Mississippi.
Roy Bryant, Donham's then-husband, and J.W. Milam, Roy Bryant's half-brother, were tried for Till's murder but were quickly acquitted by an all-white jury.
Donham, who currently resides in North Carolina, has not yet commented publicly on the recent discovery of the arrest warrant.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-23/a-new-system-to-flag-racist-incidents-and-acts-of-hate-is-named-after-emmett-till | 2022-08-23T20:15:23Z |
MORROW, Ga. — A specially appointed prosecutor announced Tuesday that he will not pursue charges against the two white Atlanta police officers who clashed with Rayshard Brooks during a 2020 encounter that ended with the 27-year-old Black man's fatal shooting.
Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia, said he believes Officer Garrett Rolfe, who shot and killed Brooks in June 2020, acted appropriately. He also said the second officer involved in the encounter, Officer Devin Brosnan, will not be charged.
"Given the quickly changing circumstances, was it objectively reasonable that he used deadly force? And we conclude it was," Skandalakis said.
Skandalakis was appointed last year to take over the case after a judge allowed Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to recuse herself and her office. Willis had cited concerns about the actions of her predecessor, who announced a murder charge against Rolfe less than a week after the shooting.
Police responded on June 12, 2020, to complaints of a man sleeping in a car in the drive-thru lane of a Wendy's restaurant. Police body camera video shows the two officers having a calm conversation with Brooks for nearly 40 minutes.
Then, when the officers told Brooks he'd had too much to drink to be driving and tried to arrest him, Brooks resisted in a struggle caught on dash camera video. Brooks grabbed a Taser from one of the officers and fled, firing it at Rolfe as he ran. Rolfe fired his gun, and an autopsy found that Brooks was shot twice in the back.
The two officers' lawyers have said their actions were justified and both were released on bond.
The shooting happened against the backdrop of heightened tensions and protests nationwide in wake of the death of George Floyd under the knee of a police officer in Minneapolis less than three weeks earlier.
Sometimes-violent protests over Floyd's death had largely subsided in Atlanta, but Brooks' killing set off a new round of demonstrations against police brutality. Police Chief Erika Shields resigned less than 24 hours after Brooks died. Protesters set fire to the Wendy's restaurant, which was later demolished.
Skandalakis said he believes that context had an impact on how the events unfolded and acknowledged that encounters between police and the African American community are sometimes "very volatile," but he said he doesn't believe race played a role in this instance.
"This isn't one of those cases," he said. "This is a case in which the officers were willing to give Mr. Brooks every benefit of the doubt and, you know, unfortunately, by his actions, this is what happened."
Skandalakis and former Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter, who was co-counsel in the case, spent about an hour during the news conference walking through the details of the encounter between Brooks and the two officers. Porter showed still images taken from videos to break down what happened once things turned violent.
Skandalakis called it "a peaceful encounter that all of a sudden becomes a violent encounter," saying that once Brooks took the Taser from Brosnan, he assumed an offensive position.
Porter said Brooks had already overpowered two officers and violently brought them to the ground and Rolfe acted in accordance with Georgia law and Atlanta Police Department policy given the facts of the situation.
Rolfe was fired a day after the shooting, but his dismissal was overturned in May 2021 by the Atlanta Civil Service Board. The board found that the city failed to follow its own procedures for disciplinary actions.
Five days after Brooks was killed, then-Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard held a dramatic news conference to announce warrants had been taken out against Rolfe and Brosnan. Rolfe's charges included felony murder, aggravated assault and violation of his oath. Brosnan was charged with aggravated assault and violating his oath.
Skandalakis said Tuesday that he would file paperwork to dismiss those warrants.
Two months after he announced the charges, Howard lost the Democratic primary in his bid for reelection. Just weeks after taking office in January 2021, his successor, Fani Willis, asked Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr to reassign the case.
Willis, who has since gained national attention for her ongoing investigation into whether former President Donald Trump and others illegally tried to influence the outcome of the 2020 election in Georgia, cited concerns about Howard's actions.
Noah Pines, an attorney for Rolfe, had also filed a motion to disqualify the Fulton County district attorney's office from the case.
Carr initially refused to reassign the case, but in July 2021 appointed Skandalakis to take it over after Fulton County Superior Court Chief Judge Christopher Brasher found there was a conflict of interest and granted a request from Willis to recuse her office.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-23/atlanta-police-officers-wont-face-any-charges-in-rayshard-brooks-shooting | 2022-08-23T20:15:30Z |
WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week marks two months since the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision reversed decades of precedent guaranteeing abortion rights, and the effects of the decision are continuing to unfold as abortion bans take effect around the country.
Well before the opinion was issued on June 24, more than a dozen states had so-called "trigger bans" in place – laws written to prohibit abortion as soon as Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that had legalized the procedure for nearly 50 years, was overturned.
Some took effect almost immediately; at least eight states have implemented total or near-total abortion bans, according to the Center for Reproductive Rights.
Others were at least temporarily delayed by litigation, or by brief waiting periods written into the laws. This week, a new round of bans — in Tennessee, Texas, Idaho, and North Dakota – is set to take effect, barring intervention from the courts.
A cascade of "trigger bans" around the country
To a large degree, the impact of these laws already is a reality – even before they're officially implemented – due to multiple layers of restrictions.
In Texas, where abortion has been prohibited after about six weeks of pregnancy since last September under a law that allowed private citizens to sue abortion providers, the shift was already well under way before the Dobbs decision. The state's trigger ban – which prohibits the procedure almost entirely – takes effect this week. But already, there are no clinics providing abortions in Texas, and some have made plans to move out of state to places like New Mexico.
Idaho, too, has an abortion ban in place that relies on civil enforcement, where individuals can sue people accused of illegally providing abortions after about six weeks. The U.S. Department of Justice has sued in an effort to block another, even more restrictive law — Idaho's trigger ban, which is set to take effect Aug. 25.
North Dakota's only remaining clinic has – at least for now – moved its abortion services to Minnesota, where abortion remains legal. Lawyers for the clinic have asked a judge to block the law from taking effect on Friday.
In Tennessee, which already has very limited abortion access because of a ban on abortion after about six weeks of pregnancy, the law scheduled to take effect this week goes even farther, essentially banning all abortions, with no exceptions for rape or incest. The law also lacks explicit exceptions for medical emergencies, although it includes a provision that would allow doctors to mount a defense against felony abortion charges by arguing they intervened to save a pregnant woman's life or avoid the "serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function."
Battles continue in state, federal courts
Abortion rights groups have been trying to argue that many state constitutions offer protections for abortion rights.
For groups opposed to abortion rights, like Alliance Defending Freedom, efforts are under way to push states to enforce abortion restrictions.
Erin Hawley, the group's senior counsel, said she hopes to see courts in Wyoming, Arizona, and elsewhere allow abortion bans to take effect.
"I think we'll see in a number of other states, that these laws will come online -– that intermediate courts of appeals and the state supreme courts will hopefully find that there is no state constitutional right to abortion," Hawley said.
There are also federal court challenges. A federal judge is expected to take action this week in response to the Department of Justice suit, which challenges Idaho's trigger ban under a federal labor law.
Post-Roe, state lawmakers consider new abortion laws
The Dobbs decision has prompted some Republican state officials to look at passing new laws. In early August, Indiana lawmakers approved a near-total abortion ban, which takes effect in mid-September.
Elisabeth Smith, state policy and advocacy director with the Center for Reproductive Rights, notes that some abortion rights opponents have proposed legislation designed to prevent people from seeking abortions in other states.
"I think it's important to talk about the fact that we will also likely see novel criminal penalties for abortion providers and helpers, and some states trying to prevent people from crossing state lines," Smith said.
That said, abortion rights advocates are encouraged by the results of a ballot initiative in Kansas earlier this month, in which voters strongly rejected a constitutional amendment that would have opened the door to allow state lawmakers to ban abortion. Smith notes that ballot questions related to abortion are slated to go before voters in several states — among them California, Vermont, Kentucky, and Michigan – in November.
Jennifer Driver is senior director of reproductive rights for the State Innovation Exchange, a group that works with lawmakers trying to increase abortion access, even in a post-Roe environment.
As new restrictions continue to take effect, Driver said more patients who have the means will rely on out-of-state travel or use abortion pills at home. She says doctors and other healthcare providers in many states will continue to face dilemmas when helping patients through medical crises.
"The chipping away at abortion rights didn't happen overnight, and the fight to get them back won't as well," Driver said.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-23/two-months-after-the-dobbs-ruling-new-abortion-bans-are-taking-hold | 2022-08-23T20:15:36Z |
Luke Foering
Digital Media SpecialistLuke graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in Environmental Systems Science and minors in Graphic Design, Honors, and Environment & Natural Resources. The Haub School alumn has design, marketing, and communications experience within the non-profit world working as an intern for Climate Central and the UW Campus Sustainability Committee during undergrad.
Luke looks forward to being a part of the WPM community and helping to create a more informed Wyoming. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/people/luke-foering | 2022-08-23T20:15:42Z |
Deborah Parker heads the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, and she's a trusted confidant for Indigenous elders who attended federal Indian boarding schools in their youth.
“We’re talking about institutions, prison systems, that were buildings you put children in as young as 3 years old, and many children didn’t return home at all,” said Parker, who also goes by her traditional name tsicyaltsa. “Others they believe their sibling was murdered or they say could smell the incinerator. They could smell children.”
Parker says she hears such stories of abuse and neglect frequently. They're the stories the Interior Department is bearing witness to on its “The Road to Healing” tour. Colorado is also looking into what happened at some of these schools, as part of the Native American Boarding School Research Program Act that became law in May.
Over the next year, History Colorado, a nonprofit and an agency under the state’s department of higher education, will investigate the experiences, abuse and deaths of students at the former Fort Lewis Indian School near Durango. It will also identify potential burial sites.
During a recent webinar hosted by the International Center for MultiGenerational Legacies of Trauma, Parker shared the story of a tribal elder who attended a boarding school in California.
At age 16, the elder and a group of other girls were taken to the school’s clinic.
“All she knew was at the end of this visit from the doctor, she remembered asking her mom, ‘Why do I burn inside? Why did all the girls walk away hurting?’” Parker said. “She said that she understood later on that they sterilized her.”
Parker explains to kids these days that the schools weren’t places of education, but more like prison camps.
“These stories are secretive. They carry the shame and this guilt, and often they wonder ‘Well, if I share it, nothing is going to happen,’” she said.
But the stories are important.
“We need to hear these stories, as painful as it is to share, we need to know these stories because...we don't need this to happen again," Parker said. “These are lessons."
Earlier this year the Interior Department released its first report from the agency's investigation into the boarding school era. It shows that the United States operated or supported 408 boarding schools in 37 states between 1819 and 1969, including 127 in the Mountain West. The schools' goals were to assimilate an untold number of Indigenous children into white society and eradicate their cultures.
As that investigation continues, Congress is considering a bill that would establish a "Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies."
This story was produced by the Mountain West News Bureau, a collaboration between Wyoming Public Media, Nevada Public Radio, Boise State Public Radio in Idaho, KUNR in Nevada, the O'Connor Center for the Rocky Mountain West in Montana, KUNC in Colorado, KUNM in New Mexico, with support from affiliate stations across the region. Funding for the Mountain West News Bureau is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Copyright 2022 KUNM. To see more, visit KUNM. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/tribal-news/2022-08-23/we-need-to-hear-these-stories-colorado-begins-investigating-a-former-indian-boarding-school | 2022-08-23T20:15:48Z |
Biden administration forecasts $1.03T deficit, down $400B
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is forecasting that this year’s budget deficit will be nearly $400 billion lower than it estimated back in March, due in part to stronger than expected revenues, reduced spending, and an economy that has recovered all of the jobs lost during the multi-year pandemic.
In full, this year’s deficit will decline by $1.7 trillion, representing the single largest decline in the federal deficit in American history, the Office of Management and Budget says.
Despite the gains, the administration said Tuesday that it is forecasting a deficit of $1.03 trillion for the budget year that ends Sept. 30. That number signifies a movement away from the record deficit in 2020, which reached $3.13 trillion.
The administration’s Mid-Session Review said much of the improvement in the deficit forecast for this year stemmed from the economy “transitioning from a historic and rapid recovery to stable and steady growth.”
The administration sees inflation pressures remaining into 2023, however.
“The President’s top economic priority continues to be tackling the challenge of inflation, without giving up the historic economic gains we’ve made over the past 18 months,” said Shalanda Young, director of the Office of Management and Budget in a statement.
“While costs are still too high for too many families, the President’s economic plan is working and we’re on the right track,” she said.
Because the projections of the Mid-Session Review were finalized in June, it does not include the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act and estimated $740 billion climate, healthcare and tax measure.
And while the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office in July said, that fast economic growth and higher tax revenues have caused the federal debt this year to be lower than forecast, the organization warns in its 30-year outlook that debt will soon spiral upward to new highs that could ultimately imperil the U.S. economy.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/biden-administration-forecasts-103t-deficit-down-400b/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:18Z |
Drought conditions uncover 113-million-year-old dinosaur tracks
Published: Aug. 23, 2022 at 3:55 PM EDT|Updated: 24 minutes ago
(CNN) - The severe drought in Texas has uncovered a little piece of history.
Dinosaur tracks from about 113 million years ago can be seen in a dried-out river in Dinosaur Valley State Park.
A park official said these tracks likely came from an Acrocanthosaurus, weighed seven tons and reached 15 feet tall.
The tracks in Dinosaur Valley State Park are expected to be covered up again with river water as local forecasters are calling for rain.
Park officials say that is a good thing because the water helps protect the prints from natural weathering and erosion.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/drought-conditions-uncover-113-million-year-old-dinosaur-tracks/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:24Z |
Elementary school principal found shot, killed in South Carolina
DILLON COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF/Gray News) – An elementary school principal was shot and killed in South Carolina over the weekend, according to officials.
Dillon County Sheriff Douglas Pernell said Dr. Wendy Cook, 54, died on Aug. 20. She was the principal of Stewart Heights Elementary School in the Dillon County School District 4.
Pernell said deputies were called Saturday night for a report of a woman found dead inside a car. When deputies arrived, they found Cook dead inside the vehicle.
Deputies arrested Kyle Church at the scene. Officials have not said what information led to his arrest, but the sheriff said Church and Cook were “acquaintances.”
Authorities said Church was charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is being held at the Dillon County Detention Center.
The Dillon County School District posted a memorial photo of Cook on Facebook Monday morning.
Officials have not released any further immediate details.
Copyright 2022 WMBF via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/elementary-school-principal-found-shot-killed-south-carolina/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:31Z |
Former Louisville cop pleads guilty in Breonna Taylor case
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — A former Louisville police detective who helped falsify the warrant that led to the deadly police raid at Breonna Taylor’s apartment has pleaded guilty to a federal conspiracy charge.
Federal investigators said Kelly Goodlett added a false line to the warrant and later conspired with another detective to create a cover story when Taylor’s March 13, 2020, shooting death by police began gaining national attention.
Taylor, a 26-year-old Black woman, was shot to death by officers who knocked down her door while executing a drug search warrant. Taylor’s boyfriend fired a shot that hit one of the officers as they came through the door and they returned fire, striking Taylor multiple times.
Goodlett, 35, appeared in a federal courtroom in Louisville on Tuesday afternoon and admitted to conspiring with another Louisville police officer to falsify the warrant. Goodlett briefly answered several questions from federal judge Rebecca Jennings Grady.
Taylor’s mother, Tamika Palmer, was in the courtroom Tuesday but did not speak after the proceedings.
Three former Louisville officers were indicted on criminal civil rights charges earlier this month by a federal grand jury. Goodlett was not indicted, but charged in a federal information filing, which likely means the former detective is cooperating with investigators.
Goodlett will be sentenced Nov. 22. Grady said there may be “extenuating circumstances” that may move the court to push back the sentencing date. Part of the plea hearing was also kept under seal and was not discussed in open court Tuesday. She faces up to five years in prison for the conviction.
She resigned from the department Aug. 5, a day after U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced new federal charges in the Taylor case.
Former officers Joshua Jaynes and Kyle Meany were indicted on charges related to the warrant used to search Taylor’s home. A third former officer, Brett Hankison, was charged with using excessive force when he retreated from Taylor’s door, turned a corner and fired 10 shots into the side of her two-bedroom apartment. He was acquitted by a jury on similar state charges earlier this year. Jaynes, Meany and Hankison have all been fired.
The three former officers face a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted on the civil rights charges.
Federal prosecutors said in court records that Jaynes, who drew up the Taylor warrant, had claimed to Goodlett days before the warrant was served that he had “verified” from a postal inspector that a suspected drug dealer was receiving packages at Taylor’s apartment. But Goodlett knew this was false and told Jaynes the warrant did not yet have enough information connecting Taylor to criminal activity, prosecutors said. She added a paragraph saying the suspected drug dealer, Jamarcus Glover, was using Taylor’s apartment as his current address, according to the court records.
Two months later, when the Taylor shooting was attracting national headlines, the postal inspector told a media outlet he had not verified packages for Glover were going to Taylor’s apartment. Jaynes and Goodlett then met in Jaynes’ garage to “get on the same page” before Jaynes talked to investigators about the Taylor warrant, court records said.
They decided to say Sgt. John Mattingly, who is identified in the court records as J.M., told them Glover was receiving packages at Taylor’s home, according to prosecutors. Mattingly was shot in the leg during the raid at Taylor’s apartment.
Meany, who signed off on the Taylor warrant and was still a Louisville police sergeant when he was indicted on Aug. 4, was fired by Louisville Police Chief Erika Shields on Friday.
Shields said in a statement that Meany has not yet had his case heard by a jury, but “he is facing multiple federal charges after a lengthy investigation by the DOJ” and should not “expect continued employment under such conditions.”
Hankison was the only officer charged who was on the scene the night of the killing.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/former-louisville-cop-pleads-guilty-breonna-taylor-case/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:37Z |
Housing market sees rise in canceled contracts
In June 55% of houses sold above asking price
InvestigateTV - The number of sale agreements on existing homes canceled by Americans was just under 15% in June compared to 11% last year, according to a new report from Redfin.
Josh Stech, the CEO of Sundae, a real estate marketplace for investors, said inflation and higher mortgage rates are playing a role in what is happening in the market.
“The two main ones are inventory starts spiking and then mortgage rate volatility causes buyers to say, ‘you know what, I’m going to play this game a little bit and if rates drop, I’m going to cancel my contract to get out of the rate lock,’” Stech said.
He said in June, over 55% of homes across the country still sold above the asking price, which generally means there’s multiple offers. So regardless of the uptick in cancellations, Stech said it’s still a seller’s market.
To get the best price for your property, He urged sellers to look local and interview several agents in your area.
Stech said working with real estate agents and brokers that know your local market is the top way to make sure you get the best price for your property.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/housing-market-sees-rise-canceled-contracts/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:44Z |
‘I’m still kind of mind-blown’: Man finds 90-million-year-old fossil during fishing tournament
OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT/Gray News) - A Nebraska man made a once-in-a-lifetime discovery in the Missouri River: a fossil of what appears to be a 90-million-year-old fish.
Fishing is more than a sport for Andy Moore.
“It’s the feeling you get when that fish bites your line,” Moore said. “It’s that primordial jolt you get in your spine, and it goes right to your brain.”
Moore got a jolt like no other from his catch at a tournament in mid-August. He was fishing just west of Yankton, South Dakota, located about 160 miles northwest of Omaha.
At first, Moore wasn’t doing very well in the tournament.
“I pitched my jig, and it’s horrible,” he said. “It’s, like, way left, and I’m like ‘Oh, man.’”
Moore had snagged the back of a rock and couldn’t get it off his line. So, he paddled his kayak up to the rock.
“I get up to it, and I’m like, ‘Oh wow! That’s kind of cool.’ I thought it was a big catfish skeleton or a deer skeleton,” he said. “Something told me to take a picture of this.”
Moore later posted the pictures online. Within minutes, texts and phone calls started flooding in.
“It was like, ‘Uh, dude. Did you know that’s a 90-million-year-old fossil that’s in that picture?’ I’m like, ‘What?’” he said.
Moore then contacted a biologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He and the biologist went back out and found the rock, using the coordinates from pictures on Moore’s cell phone.
“The geologist guy saw it, and ... he just jumped out of the boat in his boots, goes up to it, and he goes, ‘Oh my god,’” Moore said.
The biologist confirmed with WOWT that the fossil does appear to be that of a prehistoric predator fish that’s up to 90 million years old.
“I’m still kind of mind-blown about the whole thing,” Moore said.
As for the tournament, Moore said he didn’t do very well but that this time he doesn’t mind, “because I have the discovery of a lifetime.”
The fossil will be on display at the Lewis and Clark Visitor’s Center, on the Nebraska side.
Copyright 2022 WOWT via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/im-still-kind-mind-blown-man-finds-90-million-year-old-fossil-during-fishing-tournament/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:51Z |
‘Leah’s Lemonade’ serves up support for kids with cancer
Daniels, W.Va. (WVVA) - As kids return to school this week, there are plenty who have spent the Summer taking it easy or playing on that Nintendo Switch. But one little girl in Daniels spent her time hard at work on a business.
‘Leah’s Lemonade’ isn’t your typical lemonade stand. It has a twist. 11-year-old Leah Price is raising money for kids with cancer at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“It’s fun making money and squeezing the lemonade,” she told WVVA News on Tuesday.
She has a special recipe for the classic summertime refresher, but it is her heart that really sets her brew apart.
“It’s hard for them. You’re family is worried and you think about being sick all of your life.”
St. Jude treats the toughest childhood cancers and pediatric diseases, helping families with medical expenses while working toward a cure.
Price’s mother, Natasha Price, could not be more proud of her little girl who helped create everything from the recipe to the signage.
“I’m just overwhelmed with happiness and joy. She’s a great little girl and has a big heart.
Price said her daughter could not have done it without her community’s support and business.
Price has raised more than $500, but there is still one day left for the Lemonade Stand on Wednesday. Is is located at 1726 Ritter Drive in Daniels, W.Va.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/leahs-lemonade-serves-up-support-kids-with-cancer/ | 2022-08-23T20:20:57Z |
Officers won’t face any charges in Rayshard Brooks shooting
MORROW, Ga. (AP) — Two white Atlanta police officers who clashed with Rayshard Brooks during a 2020 encounter that ended with the 27-year-old Black man’s fatal shooting acted reasonably, a specially appointed prosecutor said Tuesday in announcing his decision not to pursue charges against the pair.
Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, said Officer Garrett Rolfe, who shot and killed Brooks in June 2020, and Officer Devin Brosnan would not face any charges, saying they faced a “dynamic situation” that was “quickly evolving.”
“Given the quickly changing circumstances, was it objectively reasonable that he used deadly force? And we conclude it was,” Skandalakis said of Rolfe.
The shooting happened against the backdrop of heightened tensions and protests nationwide in wake of the death of George Floyd under the knee of a police officer in Minneapolis less than three weeks earlier. Sometimes-violent protests over Floyd’s death had largely subsided in Atlanta, but Brooks’ killing set off a new round of demonstrations against police brutality.
Skandalakis said he believes that context is important and acknowledged that encounters between police and the African American community are sometimes “very volatile,” but he said he doesn’t believe race played a role in this instance.
“This isn’t one of those cases,” he said. “This is a case in which the officers were willing to give Mr. Brooks every benefit of the doubt and, you know, unfortunately, by his actions, this is what happened.”
On June 12, 2020, police responded to complaints of a man sleeping in a car in the drive-thru lane of a Wendy’s restaurant. Police body camera video shows the two officers having a calm conversation with Brooks for nearly 40 minutes.
Then, when the officers told Brooks he’d had too much to drink to be driving and tried to arrest him, Brooks resisted in a struggle caught on dash camera video. Brooks grabbed a Taser from one of the officers and fled, firing it at Rolfe as he ran. Rolfe fired his gun, and an autopsy found that Brooks was shot twice in the back.
Police Chief Erika Shields resigned less than 24 hours after Brooks died, and protesters set fire to the Wendy’s, which was later demolished.
The two officers’ lawyers have said their actions were justified and both were released on bond.
“This was the proper and only decision that could be reached based upon the evidence and Georgia law,” Brosnan attorneys Don Samuel and Amanda Clark Palmer said in an emailed statement.
A lawyer for Rolfe did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Skandalakis and former Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter, who was co-counsel in the case, spent about an hour during the news conference walking through the details of the encounter between Brooks and the two officers. Porter showed still images taken from videos to break down what happened once things turned violent.
Skandalakis called it “a peaceful encounter that all of a sudden becomes a violent encounter,” saying that once Brooks took the Taser from Brosnan, he assumed an offensive position.
Porter said Brooks had already overpowered two officers and violently brought them to the ground and Rolfe acted in accordance with Georgia law and Atlanta Police Department policy given the facts of the situation.
Rolfe was fired a day after the shooting, but his dismissal was overturned in May 2021 by the Atlanta Civil Service Board. The board found that the city failed to follow its own procedures for disciplinary actions.
Five days after Brooks was killed, then-Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard held a dramatic news conference to announce warrants had been taken out against Rolfe and Brosnan. Rolfe’s charges included felony murder, aggravated assault and violation of his oath. Brosnan was charged with aggravated assault and violating his oath.
Skandalakis said Tuesday that he would file paperwork to dismiss those warrants.
Two months after he announced the charges, Howard lost the Democratic primary in his bid for reelection. Just weeks after taking office in January 2021, his successor, Fani Willis, asked Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr to reassign the case.
Willis, who has since gained national attention for her ongoing investigation into whether former President Donald Trump and others illegally tried to influence the outcome of the 2020 election in Georgia, cited concerns about Howard’s actions.
Noah Pines, an attorney for Rolfe, had also filed a motion to disqualify the Fulton County district attorney’s office from the case.
Carr initially refused to reassign the case, but in July 2021 appointed Skandalakis to take it over after Fulton County Superior Court Chief Judge Christopher Brasher found there was a conflict of interest and granted a request from Willis to recuse her office.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/officer-wont-face-any-charges-rayshard-brooks-shooting/ | 2022-08-23T20:21:04Z |
Police: 3 arrested after brawl at Chuck E. Cheese during children’s birthday party
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC/Gray News) - Police in South Carolina are investigating a violent incident that happened over the weekend at a popular children’s restaurant.
The North Charleston Police Department reports officers responded to a large fight that broke out at a Chuck E. Cheese restaurant on Aug. 20, where three people were arrested.
According to WCSC, Lizeller Dixon, Dashawn Malik Grant and Jasmine Ciera Judge were each charged with one count of breach of peace.
A mother at the party said the incident started when two 12-year-olds began to fight, which led to parents getting involved before the police were called.
“Chuck E. Cheese is not the brawl spot. You can’t just come into a Chuck E. Cheese, have a brawl, go home and make a Facebook post about it. You have to stand accountable for what you did,” Elvin Speights, a community activist, said.
Police said a large crowd was inside the restaurant, arguing and attacking one another when they arrived.
According to authorities, a fourth person was briefly detained for allegedly hitting a security guard but released after not being positively identified.
Police cleared out the business and asked everyone to leave, but the groups involved continued to threaten and attack one another.
Police said multiple witnesses did not work with them in providing further information about what happened.
“This isn’t Chuck E. Cheese’s fault, or the North Charleston Police Department’s fault or the security guard’s fault,” Speights said. “We, as adults, must learn how to behave in an establishment. Chuck E. Cheese is a place for kids.”
Police said they were called to the restaurant previously for reports of a shooting and a burglary in 2016.
Copyright 2022 WCSC via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/police-3-arrested-after-brawl-chuck-e-cheese-during-childrens-birthday-party/ | 2022-08-23T20:21:10Z |
Tamarack to debut exhibition focused on West Virginia’s scenic beauty
BECKLEY, W.Va. (WVVA) - A new exhibit coming to Tamarack is all about the scenery of The Mountain State.
“Head Over Hills” is a collection of art depicting rural life in West Virginia. The exhibit includes photography and paintings, but also blown glass, embroidery and even felted wool. The works have been submitted by artists all across the state.
Mandy Lash, Tamarack’s Gallery Director, says she hopes the gallery rekindles an appreciation for West Virginia and its natural beauty.
“It’s really easy as West Virginians who are surrounded by it every day to get jaded by the beauty of our state, so I like to have an exhibit at least once a year that really celebrates that and highlights how gorgeous our state is...”
The exhibit will be debuted to the public this Friday, August 26, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The artwork can also be viewed anytime during Tamarack’s business hours or online through their virtual gallery.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/tamarack-debut-exhibition-focused-west-virginias-scenic-beauty/ | 2022-08-23T20:21:17Z |
US, Iran inch closer to nuke deal but high hurdles remain
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is expected to weigh in this week on Iran’s latest offer to resume its compliance with the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, but neither side is offering a definitive path to revive the agreement, which has been on life-support since former President Donald Trump withdrew from it in 2018.
U.S. officials say they expect to respond to Iran’s comments on a European draft proposal by Wednesday, after which another round of negotiations in Vienna to finalize the details of a potential deal will likely be needed. New developments, including stepped-up public messaging campaigns by both Tehran and Washington, suggest that an agreement could be near.
Despite the forward movement, numerous hurdles remain. And key sticking points could still unravel efforts to bring back the 2015 deal under which Iran received billions of dollars in sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program intended to prevent it from developing an atomic weapon.
Even U.S. supporters of an agreement are no longer referring to the “longer and stronger” deal that they had initially set out to win when indirect negotiations with Iran began last spring. And, on the Iranian side, demands for greater U.S. sanctions relief than the administration appears willing or able to promise could undercut the push to revive the agreement.
In Washington, the Biden administration faces considerable political opposition to returning to the 2015 deal from both Democrats and Republicans in Congress who remain unconvinced that it is in U.S. national security interests.
The recent indictment of an Iranian for plotting to murder Trump’s former national security adviser John Bolton and the attack by an apparent Iran sympathizer on the author Salman Rushdie have further contributed to doubts that Iran can be trusted.
The latest draft does not include Tehran’s demand that the U.S. lift the terrorism designation of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, and Iran has stepped back from a demand that the International Atomic Energy Agency close its investigation into unexplained traces of uranium at three undeclared sites, according to a senior administration official who requested anonymity to discuss ongoing efforts to resurrect the deal.
But, rescinding the terrorism designation imposed by Trump was never a realistic demand. Not only does it fall outside the scope of the nuclear deal, it was made virtually impossible since the Bolton plot indictment, ongoing Iranian threats to other former U.S. officials, and the Rushdie attack.
And, while Iran may have agreed to a mechanism to eventually return to the deal without the IAEA investigation being closed up front, it has said that its actual compliance with an agreement remains contingent on getting a clean bill of health from the agency.
The senior administration official said a “deal is closer than it was two weeks ago,” but cautioned that the outcome remains uncertain “as some gaps remain.”
And, Iranian officials on Tuesday bristled at the suggestion that they’ve stepped back from their demands to re-enter the deal.
Seyed Mohammad Marandi, an Iranian adviser to the indirect talks in Vienna, took to Twitter on Tuesday to assert that removing the IRGC from the State Department’s foreign terrorism list was never a precondition and insisted that “no deal will be implemented before the IAEA Board of Directors PERMANENTLY closes the false accusations file.”
Meanwhile, America’s top ally in the Middle East, Israel, has become increasingly alarmed at the apparent movement toward a deal. Israel’s alternate prime minister Naftali Bennett on Tuesday called on the Biden administration to resist forging ahead with a deal with the Iranians.
“I call on President Biden and the American administration to refrain, even now at this last minute, from signing the agreement with Iran,” Bennett said in a statement.
He noted that Israel is not party to the 2015 agreement signed by the five permanent members of the United Nations Security — the U.S., the United Kingdom, Russia, France, and China as well as Germany — but that Israel would be directly affected and reserved all rights to its self-defense.
“One way or another, the State of Israel is not a party to the agreement,” Bennett said. “Israel is not committed to any of the restrictions stemming from the agreement and will utilize all available tools to prevent the Iranian nuclear program from advancing.”
At the direction of current Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, Israel’s national security adviser Eyal Hulata is in Washington this week for talks with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and possibly Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman. Iran’s nuclear program will be at the center of those talks.
The White House insists that the terms under discussion include the key underpinnings of the 2015 deal. The U.S. would lift hundreds of sanctions the Trump administration re-imposed when it withdrew from the deal in 2018. And Iran would roll back its nuclear program to the limits set by the original nuclear deal, including caps on enrichment, how much material it can stockpile and the operation of advanced centrifuges needed to enrich.
However, it remains unclear what exactly would happen to Iran’s current stockpile of highly enriched uranium and what it would be required to do with the advanced centrifuges it has been spinning. The White House has said both would be “removed” but has not offered details.
As of the last public count, Iran has a stockpile of some 3,800 kilograms (8,370 pounds) of enriched uranium. Under the deal, Tehran could enrich uranium to 3.67% purity, while maintaining a stockpile of uranium of 300 kilograms (660 pounds) under constant scrutiny of surveillance cameras and international inspectors.
In terms of sanctions relief, Iran has been demanding that the administration pledge that a future president not be allowed to re-impose the lifted penalties as Trump did and promise that Congress will repeal statutory sanctions legislation passed initially to force Iran back to the negotiating table. The administration is in no position to guarantee either.
“Reports that we have accepted or are considering new concessions to Iran as part of reentering the 2015 nuclear deal are categorically false,” National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said.
—
Associated Press writer Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed reporting.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/us-iran-inch-closer-nuke-deal-high-hurdles-remain/ | 2022-08-23T20:21:24Z |
Woman attacked by bear saved when her dog barks, lures it away from her, officials say
STRAFFORD, Vt. (WCAX/Gray News) - A Vermont woman who was attacked by a bear on her property was saved by one of her dogs when it lured the animal away from her, according to wildlife officials.
Game wardens said 61-year-old Susan Lee was walking on Saturday with her two dogs when she heard a loud noise and realized a bear was charging her.
Lee tripped and fell and felt pain in her upper left leg, and realized the bear was on top of her and had bitten her, WCAX reported.
That’s when her Jack Russell terrier intervened by barking at the bear and drawing its attention away from Lee. Officials said the bear got off her and focused on the dog instead.
Lee was able to return home with her dogs without seeing the bear again.
She was treated at the hospital for a bite wound on her upper left leg and multiple scratches between 2- and 9-inches long on both her sides. Her wounds were not life-threatening.
Fish and Wildlife biologists investigated the attack site but did not find the bear. They believe the bear was a female with cubs, and the attack was likely provoked when Lee and her dogs surprised them.
Jaclyn Conmeau, a bear biologist with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, said in a statement there are records of only three prior bear attacks in the state.
“Bear attacks are extremely rare in Vermont,” she said. “However, at this time of year black bears are moving in family units and mothers will be protective of their cubs. If confronted by a bear it is essential to remain calm and back away slowly, and to fight back immediately if attacked.”
Copyright 2022 WCAX via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/woman-attacked-by-bear-saved-when-her-dog-barks-lures-it-away-her-officials-say/ | 2022-08-23T20:21:31Z |
Yelp to add more flags to anti-abortion pregnancy centers
(AP) – The online reviews site Yelp said Tuesday it is rolling out a new feature to protect users seeking abortions from being misled about anti-abortion pregnancy centers listed on its platform.
Such centers are typically religiously affiliated and deter clients from having an abortion. On Tuesday, Yelp said it will place a consumer notice on the listings informing users that the centers “typically provide limited medical services and may not have licensed medical professionals onsite.”
In 2018, moderators for the San Francisco-based company began recategorizing listings for such organizations as “crisis pregnancy centers” or “faith-based crisis pregnancy centers.” The organizations had previously categorized themselves as reproductive health services, medical centers and other health and medical categories.
“It’s well-reported that crisis pregnancy centers do not offer abortion services, and it’s been shown that many provide misleading information in an attempt to steer people seeking abortion care to other options,” the company said in a post on its website detailing the change.
Yelp’s move might put more pressure on Google to do something similar with listings on its site. Last week, hundreds of Google employees released a petition calling on the company to fix misleading search results for abortion services by removing “fake abortion providers” and halt its business with “publishers of disinformation related to abortion services.”
In June, Democratic lawmakers in Congress also urged the company to curb the appearance of the anti-abortion pregnancy centers for certain search results. But Republicans pushed back last month, warning the tech giant not to do so in a letter sent by 17 conservative attorney generals to Google CEO Sundar Pichai.
Google did not immediately reply to a request for comment on Tuesday.
In the past several months, Yelp said it has also been picking up on efforts to better match users searching for abortion clinics with those services and make it less likely those users will see anti-abortion pregnancy centers in search results. The company said it has evaluated roughly 33,500 listings this year and recategorized nearly 470 pages for the centers.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wvva.com/2022/08/23/yelp-add-more-flags-anti-abortion-pregnancy-centers/ | 2022-08-23T20:21:37Z |
Updated August 22, 2022 at 9:28 AM ET
Firebaugh, Calif., sitting right on the San Joaquin River, is a great place to raise a family, says city manager Ben Gallegos. He's lived in this Central Valley community for most of his life.
But now he's preparing the city for a force of nature potentially more destructive than the fires and drought Californians are used to — a megastorm.
They form out at sea as plumes of water vapor thousands of miles long. As they reach land, they dump rain and snow for weeks at a time, causing devastating flooding.
The last megastorm to hit the West Coast was the Great Flood of 1862. It temporarily turned much of the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys into a giant inland sea, 300 miles long.
Gallegos is in no doubt about what a megastorm would mean for Firebaugh.
"A lot of water. Flooding for many days. [A] potential hazard to really wiping out the city," he told NPR's Leila Fadel.
Climate scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles say that climate change will increase the frequency of these megastorms.
While they used to occur every 100-200 years on average, rising temperatures mean we'll now see them as often as every 50 years.
Xingying Huang and Daniel Swain, who co-authored the research, say a megastorm could mean millions of people displaced by flooding, major transportation links severed, and damage totaling nearly $1 trillion.
Gallegos is worried that bigger cities will be the focus of flood-prevention spending before a megastorm, rather than his city of around 8,500 people.
"You think about San Francisco, Los Angeles. Is the state really going to say — or the feds — let me give Firebaugh $50 to $60 million to upgrade the levee, or should we give it to somebody else?" he said. "They say, 'Oh if we lose that town, what impact is it going to have to the state?' Well, it's going to have a lot of impact to the state."
Firebaugh is an agricultural community, growing tomatoes that are processed into sauces for the restaurant industry. Farmers also grow cantaloupes. Gallegos says the loss of those businesses would have a knock-on impact on California's economy.
Residents of Firebaugh are worried by the prospect of a megastorm hitting, especially after a previous evacuation due to a flood in 1997 didn't go well.
"The city wasn't prepared at that time for an evacuation. They evacuated all the residents to our community center. But the community center was right next to the river, so there was a levee that was washing out," Gallegos said. "So they went and sent them out to our neighboring cities. But those cities were not ready for our residents, so then they had to get them back. And then they put them up in a warehouse just west of the city."
Gallegos knows that state and federal officials have a choice: Pay for flood prevention measures now, or pay much, much more later to help Firebaugh recover from a megastorm.
"We need help. I always tell our leaders, we can fix it now, which would cost less than when we have an emergency, and you have people trying to fix it, which would cost a lot more than being proactive," he said.
If nothing is done, the alternative doesn't bear thinking about for Gallegos, he said.
"I think Firebaugh would be wiped out."
The audio for this story was produced by Chad Campbell and edited by Simone Popperl and Adam Bearne.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-19/this-city-manager-wants-california-to-prepare-for-a-megastorm-before-its-too-late | 2022-08-23T20:49:39Z |
Updated August 23, 2022 at 5:11 AM ET
Long before the pandemic forced many office workers to depend on their home internet, Jared Mauch had been working from home for about two decades.
When he moved to Scio Township in 2002, an area in rural Michigan not far from Ann Arbor, his employer set him up with a great home internet connection — many of his neighbors at the time were still stuck with sluggish dial-up.
After a while, though, his bandwidth couldn't keep up with his tech job and his growing family.
But when he started shopping around, he wasn't happy with his options. The internet speeds from AT&T were painfully slow. Comcast wanted to charge him an up-front fee of $50,000 to expand service to his home. He opted for a third route.
Rather than shell out that kind of money only to depend on the whims of an internet service provider, the 46-year-old decided to create his own fiber ISP.
"I had every reason to believe that I would be able to execute and perform a lot of these pieces of it, and most likely be more able to bring the service to the community than, you know, a large company," he told NPR. "I saw it as an excellent opportunity both to expand service and something I'm passionate about."
He created the company in 2017 and secured permits in 2019 to start construction the following year. In August of 2020, he was officially in business. Just in time for his kids to start virtual school during the pandemic.
"It was great," he recalled. "I had a home fiber that I controlled, and the ability to kind of control my own fate in the future."
Along the way, he also hooked up his neighbors to his high-speed fiber lines. His business has grown to service 71 customers with reliable internet.
With the help of contractors, he's already laid down 14 miles of cable across the county. Sometimes it takes half a mile of cable to hook up a single house in the rural area.
Now, Mauch is getting $2.6 million in federal funds to continue his work. Last year, a COVID-19 relief package allocated $15 million to Washtenaw County, where Mauch lives and where many residents lack internet service.
He was one of four ISPs awarded federal money to expand fiber internet service in the county.
With that money, Mauch plans to get 600 more homes connected. He told Ars Technica, which first reported on Mauch's ISP venture, that he plans to lay down another 38 miles of cable for the project.
The first step to wiring up the neighborhood: mapping out where service is missing
That's about a quarter of the work that needs to be done to get Washtenaw County to 100% reliable internet, says Chris Scharrer, the founder and CEO of DCS Technology Design, the telecommunications engineering firm contracted by the county to oversee its broadband gap-filling project.
Scharrer has taken inventory of broadband access in underserved areas as part of a countywide mapping project required to secure federal funding. He identified some 8,000 households in Washtenaw County that lacked reliable broadband in 2020.
About 2,800 of those homes that Scharrer identified were previously misreported as having service coverage. It's a known issue due to inaccurate FCC mapping throughout the country.
"I actually find a lot of gaps, where they think that they have service when they actually don't," he said. "We find that that error rate can be as high as 50% overstated in some areas where it's supposed to be served by a major ISP."
In reality, he said, cable companies stop down the road, where the connection might not reach past long driveways, for example, or it could be cost-prohibitive for the homeowner to pay installation fees.
"It takes people like us to go out that aren't restricted by anything and can go out and just visually map everything out, find out where it's at and put it on paper," he said.
Scharrer is hopeful that, by the end of 2024, the entire county will be served by high-speed broadband.
Fiber "mavericks" are helping close the broadband gap
The federal government has been pouring billions into fiber infrastructure in recent years, especially in unserved rural areas — where experts say that the major telecom companies such as Comcast and AT&T often aren't expanding because they don't see a return on investment. With many rural homes separated by acres of land, Scharrer said, "there's a fairly large cost-per-mile to build these systems and we just have to find ways to make it work."
About 42 million Americans lack broadband access, according to BroadbandNow. And the pandemic brought the critical need for broadband to the forefront, says Gary Bolton, CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, a trade organization that advocates for the deployment of fiber networks in North and South America.
"Broadband means jobs, economic development. It's the ability for online schooling and remote health care, public safety," he said.
He says people like Mauch aren't waiting around for governments to get the money needed to get decent internet.
"We certainly see some people that I call mavericks that are taking measures in their own hands," Bolton said. "A lot of the private citizens, they've actually been able to do it without a whole lot of federal funding."
Now that government funds are starting to trickle in, Bolton said, there will be a lot more opportunities for smaller outfits and community co-ops to bridge the digital divide. Rural electric cooperatives, which operate as nonprofits and are owned by their members, are the largest and fastest growing segment in broadband.
But during this fiber gold rush, Bolton said the bar will be set high for which businesses will get the money to expand broadband services.
"We want to make sure that the funding goes to sustainable networks," Bolton said, and "that any provider that gets money has the wherewithal to be in it for the long term. We wouldn't want, you know, networks to be funded that are just going to be flipped by people just trying to make money."
Building your own ISP isn't easy
In a presentation he uploaded to YouTube, Mauch offers a how-to guide of sorts on how he built an ISP for his community. But he warns that not everyone is cut out to do it.
"This is totally something that people can do. But I have a really unique set of skills that I think would make it incredibly challenging for somebody else to do this without having two or three different people," he said.
Before starting on this DIY venture, Mauch was already familiar with the inner-workings of ISPs. By day, he's a network architect at Akamai Technologies, where he helps companies get content like video streaming to their customers faster.
Building an ISP that would allow him those same services in his own home was an ambitious side project — an expensive one at that.
In all, Mauch says he's spent about $300,000 out of his own pocket building his service. But he says that he's signed up enough customers at this point that he's breaking even.
"My goal wasn't necessarily to make a lot of money doing this — but be able to connect people that really needed it," he said.
At the national level, access is still the first challenge. The FBA's Bolton says the next hurdle is making good internet affordable across the U.S.
As for Mauch, he usually charges about $200 for installation, with monthly rates starting at $65, according to his company website. Although inflation has hiked up the cost of materials, he says he tries to keep his prices fair. For now, he seems to be keeping his neighbors happy.
"I have so far lost zero customers," he said.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-22/fed-up-with-poor-broadband-access-he-started-his-own-fiber-internet-service-provider | 2022-08-23T20:49:42Z |
STEVE INSKEEP, HOST:
A special election for the House may give us clues to what's coming this fall.
RACHEL MARTIN, HOST:
You may know the closely divided House and Senate are at stake. Republicans are favored to gain, as the party out of power often does, but they are feeling a little bit less optimistic these days. Last week, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell acknowledged what the experts say - it's getting harder to see how his party captures the Senate. It's a little hard to hear this, but listen closely to this clip.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
MITCH MCCONNELL: There's probably a greater likelihood the House flips than the Senate. Senate races are just different. They're statewide. Candidate quality has a lot to do with the outcome.
MARTIN: He said, candidate quality. Republicans have been struggling in states like Pennsylvania and Georgia.
INSKEEP: Where their nominees have been much criticized. McConnell also said Republicans have a better chance to win the House. And that special election in New York state this week gives us more information. NPR senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro is here. Domenico, good morning.
DOMENICO MONTANARO, BYLINE: Hey there, Steve.
INSKEEP: OK, just to be clear - not a primary, although we have some more primaries coming up this week. This is not a primary. It's an open seat. It gets decided. It's the final-final in New York state, outside of New York City, in the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, rural areas and some urban areas. What should we know about it?
MONTANARO: Well, this is a race between Democrat Pat Ryan and Republican Marc Molinaro, both local county executives. It's to fill out a term for Anthony (ph) Delgado, who left Congress to become lieutenant governor of the state. It's a measure, really, of which party has the enthusiasm right now in a fairly even-divided district. You know, Trump won it in 2016. Biden won it in 2020. And I often like to look at candidates' ads to see what they're focusing on. These give you a pretty good idea. First, here's an ad from Ryan, who's an Army veteran.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #1: He fought for our families, for our freedom.
PAT RYAN: And freedom includes a woman's right to choose. How can we be a free country if the government tries to control women's bodies?
MONTANARO: Meanwhile, Molinaro is focusing on something entirely different.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Sky-high gas prices.
(SOUNDBITE OF SCREAMING)
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Rising crime.
(SOUNDBITE OF SCREAMING)
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Runaway inflation.
(SOUNDBITE OF SCREAMING)
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi are to blame.
MONTANARO: (Laughter) So very dramatic there. But you can hear how this has become a proxy fight in the messaging wars on abortion rights versus inflation, the two big issues that both parties really want to focus on nationally.
INSKEEP: Well, how big an indicator could a special election like this be?
MONTANARO: Well, you never want to overread special elections, but they have been indicators in recent years of which party is most fired up and which way elections that are upcoming are headed. You know, Republicans did well in special elections earlier this cycle, but after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, Democrats have overperformed in places like Minnesota and Nebraska, and Democrats are looking to build on their momentum after a big win in Kansas on an abortion-related ballot measure.
INSKEEP: With all that said, we should be clear - Republicans still have a good chance to win a lot of seats this fall, and we'll see how things turn out. But they've had some difficulty recently. So what is Donald Trump saying about this, particularly given that so many Republican candidates have pledged fealty to him?
MONTANARO: Well, we heard that clip from McConnell, and Trump unloaded on McConnell on his social media platform. He called him a broken-down hack, criticized his wife, Elaine Chao, who you might remember was Trump's labor secretary but resigned over Trump's conduct on January 6. And he said that he thought McConnell should spend more time and money helping Republican Senate candidates get elected. Ironically, though, it's McConnell's outside group that's tied to him, the Senate Leadership Fund, that's spending some quarter-billion dollars in these elections, and Trump is the one who's spending pretty much nothing to support them. And McConnell-backed aides really feel like Trump has handed them a slate of candidates who are weaker, who they need to now try to push over the finish line.
INSKEEP: NPR's Domenico Montanaro. Thanks.
MONTANARO: You're welcome.
(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)
INSKEEP: Authorities in Pakistan have filed terrorism charges against a former prime minister.
MARTIN: The Prime Minister is Imran Khan. He was ousted last spring in a no-confidence vote, and he's refused to accept his defeat. He gave a speech over the weekend criticizing police and a judge, and that is what has triggered the criminal charges.
INSKEEP: NPR's Diaa Hadid is in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad. Hey there, Diaa.
DIAA HADID, BYLINE: Good morning.
INSKEEP: Exact words would matter here. What did Imran Khan seem to say?
HADID: He had actually threatened to file cases against two senior police officers and a female judge. But in terms of the judge, he also said she should prepare herself, as actions would be taken against her. This coming from a man whose supporters are quite notorious for taking action into their own hands and threatening people online, at the very least. So it could have been interpreted as a threat against this woman.
INSKEEP: OK. So he makes this statement. The police file this thing called a first information report, which is part of the criminal process in Pakistan. He hasn't been arrested yet, but there is a law enforcement activity against a former national leader. How have his supporters taken this news?
HADID: Well, his supporters have rushed to his palatial home in Islamabad. They've formed a human barrier around it. And his lawyers have successfully appealed to the court to prevent his arrest until at least Thursday. I should add that it's not unusual in Pakistan for former prime ministers to have these sorts of actions taken against them once they fall out of favor.
INSKEEP: Certainly there are some former prime ministers who've ended up in prison over the years, but why would the authorities, the current authorities, the coalition government that took over, go after him now if, in fact, that's the way that we should think of this?
HADID: It seems that he is losing the patience of Pakistan's security establishment, which is the country's most powerful institution. If I can step back a bit, you see; he was in power and was widely seen as being propelled to power with the military support, but he was ousted in April when he lost a no-confidence motion. And that was seen as coming around because the military had signaled that it no longer supported him. But Khan, like many civilian leaders in Pakistan, hasn't accepted that result. He's been staging large rallies around the country, where he's been critical of the military for not supporting his party. And that's key because that's pushed him into dangerous political territory here.
And it came around - in mid August, things really seemed to escalate. Authorities arrested his chief aide, whom they accuse of inciting against the military, calling on soldiers to disobey orders. They've shut down pro-Khan TV stations. And by Saturday, the government seemed to have had enough. Authorities blocked the live transmission of his speech at a rally. And when his supporters said they'd carry it on dozens of YouTube channels live, the government blocked YouTube. And then he was charged.
INSKEEP: It sounds like he still has a lot of supporters around the country.
HADID: Khan does have a lot of supporters around the country, and this crisis, which has gone on for months, has really elevated him even more. He's winning by-elections across Pakistan right now. But he's also bitterly polarized the country. He's painted the opposition as traitors. He's even claimed that he was ousted from power because of a coup that was orchestrated by Washington. There's no evidence to support that, but again, he's used that grievance to fuel his popularity even more. And now what comes next? Well, if he is arrested, that could lead to street violence between security forces and Khan loyalists.
Could it do more than that? I spoke to one seasoned analyst here, Mosharraf Zaidi. He says broad unrest is unlikely, but taking action against Khan won't help this government.
MOSHARRAF ZAIDI: What it is doing is enhancing Imran Khan's brand. Every act of desperation on the part of the military high command further reinforces the anti-status-quo brand that Imran Khan has very carefully and very fortuitously honed.
HADID: So the challenge facing the government and the military now is how they silence Khan without making him more popular.
INSKEEP: NPR's Diaa Hadid. Thanks so much.
HADID: Thank you, Steve.
(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)
INSKEEP: Some other news now. A car bomb in Moscow has killed the daughter of a far-right Russian ideologue who was an ally of President Vladimir Putin.
MARTIN: Aleksandr Dugin's ideas and writing influenced the Kremlin's narrative for the invasion of Ukraine. His daughter, Darya Dugina, shared his views and spread disinformation and conspiracy theories about the war in Ukraine as a commentator on Russian nationalist TV. Russia's investigative committee has opened a criminal murder case. It is unknown whether she, her father or both were the target of the attack.
INSKEEP: Let's turn now to Max Seddon. He is the Moscow bureau chief for the Financial Times. He is in Riga, Latvia, at the moment. Welcome.
MAX SEDDON: Good morning.
INSKEEP: I don't want to be flip about this, but normally, it's people who criticize Vladimir Putin who get mysteriously killed. What does it mean that someone who seems to be in Putin's orbit was assassinated?
SEDDON: Well, this is the first time that there has been any real serious blowback for supporters of the war within Moscow itself. Something Putin's been very successful at throughout the war is maintaining a sense of normalcy in Moscow, not just for ordinary people but also for the elite who are, you know, part of the state TV and propaganda apparatus. Life is largely going on as normal. There isn't wartime mobilization that you would have if they, you know, officially declared a war, which they haven't done.
So this is the first time that the war has come home to them. And it's certainly a shock to a lot of the people, you know, who knew Darya Dugina, who know Aleksandr Dugin, who move in these circles. The editor of Russia Today, Margarita Simonyan, where Darya Dugina occasionally appeared as a guest, wrote that she has been followed around by bodyguards everywhere for the last few months because of threats to her own life. And certainly there is a sense that they are having to deal with some blowback finally here, six months into the war.
INSKEEP: Granting that authorities have said they're going to investigate, are we likely to get what we would accept as credible information about what happened here?
SEDDON: I would expect not. I think what's really going to be significant here is - so you could compare it to the murder of one of Stalin's top aides, Sergei Kirov, in 1934, where it was, yeah, decades before there was any clue from evidence as to who really was behind it, but what was important was how it was used. And I think that would be the most important thing to watch here. So if they blame this on Ukraine, will this be used as justification for further attacks on Ukraine? If they blame this on some sort of Russian dissident movement, like the one that has apparently claimed responsibility, will that be used to justify further repression inside Russia? And I think that will be the best indication of how Russia is treating this, is a - who is the victim of reprisals for this attack?
INSKEEP: I guess we should note that Ukraine has denied any involvement here. But is the Kremlin signaling who they are intending to blame?
SEDDON: The Kremlin has - from state propaganda, has obviously already blamed Ukraine. It certainly seems that professionals were involved in doing this. It was a remote-detonating bomb, according to the investigators. There's also a Russian partisan group that has claimed responsibility, but there is a lot of suspicion about whether they really exist. You know, could they be a front for Ukrainian special ops? Could they be a front for the FSB? Really, nobody knows. And what's certain is this seems like professionals were behind this, and the consequences are going to be felt for some time.
INSKEEP: Max Seddon of the Financial Times. Thanks so much.
SEDDON: Thank you. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR. | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-08-22/news-brief-primary-election-are-winding-down-imran-khan-russia-car-bomb | 2022-08-23T20:49:45Z |
At this point, control of the U.S. Senate next year looks like a jump ball.
Four months ago — the last time we wrote about the top 10 seats most likely to change hands — Republicans were growing confident they would win the chamber.
But a lot has changed in that time.
The Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade has boosted Democratic enthusiasm (and fundraising); a handful of hardline or untested Republican challengers won their primaries; and the Jan. 6 committee hearings and the FBI search of former President Donald Trump's Florida home have put him front and center yet again, threatening to make the election a choice rather than a referendum on President Biden and Democratic governance.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell noted last week that "candidate quality" could hamper Republicans' ability to win the chamber.
"I think there's probably a greater likelihood the House flips than the Senate," the Kentucky senator said in his home state. "Senate races are just different, they're statewide. Candidate quality has a lot to do with the outcome."
It's all giving Democrats hope of retaining the 50-50 Senate, which they narrowly control with Vice President Harris casting tie-breaking votes. But inflation remains the top concern for many voters, especially independents, and Biden continues to be unpopular — though many Democratic candidates are outperforming his approval.
Here's where things stand in the key races, in order of most likely to flip:
1. Pennsylvania (R-Open)
Democrat John Fetterman has held up well so far against Trump-backed TV doctor Mehmet Oz, despite suffering a stroke that kept him off the campaign trail for months. Fetterman is better liked, and he's pounded Oz's residency and wealth on social media. Oz, on the other hand, is coming off a bruising primary and hasn't quite found his footing.
Still, Oz is in striking distance. For him to improve his odds, he will need to pierce Fetterman's brand, as Republicans try to figure out the best issue set to stick to Fetterman. Some operatives believe it's not tying the tough-talking, burly former mayor to left-wing politics, like Medicare for All or the democratic socialism of Sen. Bernie Sanders, but fracking and crime. So far, that message hasn't taken hold.
2. Georgia (D-Warnock)
Very little separates the next four races, which are all expected to be extremely tight.
Georgia has remained close, and incumbent Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has done well so far. Republicans acknowledge that earlier efforts to try and paint Warnock as a "radical" were a mistake. It's tough to make the pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church — the same post once held by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — whose ads have featured him smiling with a beagle, look like a bad guy. Instead, the attacks to come are more likely to be simply making Warnock out to be a Democrat whose votes are out of step with Georgia.
But Georgia is about as purple as it comes now, and Warnock's Trump-backed opponent, Herschel Walker, has his issues as a candidate. Still, the former NFL and University of Georgia running back has high name ID and appeal among Republicans. And Walker will likely benefit from the gubernatorial race of Republican Brian Kemp, who is currently favored to win reelection. This one will likely be a nail-biter.
3. Arizona (D-Kelly)
Incumbent Democrat Mark Kelly has a lead in the polls and has struck a moderate profile in this state Biden won narrowly. Plus, Trump-endorsed Republican Blake Masters won his primary and backs Trump's election lies. But this is Arizona, and operatives in both parties expect this race to tighten. Masters has landed in controversy on multiple topics, but Democrats have chosen to focus on his hardline stance on abortion. In fact, one of the first ads run against him after the primary was on that, showing what a salient issue Democrats think it is, especially with independents, which are so crucial in this state.
But Republicans see inflation and immigration as the two most important issues. Plus, Masters is already making a tonal shift now that he's in the general election. Republicans also outnumber Democrats in the state by about 147,000, and with a third of the state not identifying with either party, independents are key for Kelly. Democrats have been able to win over independents in recent Senate elections in the state, but it's a tougher task in the first midterm of an unpopular Democratic president.
4. Nevada (D-Cortez Masto)
Nevada's political leaning and demographics — with substantial Latino and Asian American populations — tend to favor Democrats. But Republicans continue to doubt the strength of incumbent freshman Catherine Cortez Masto's candidacy.
Democrats, on the other hand, think Cortez Masto, the first Latina elected senator, has run a good campaign so far, focusing on local issues, like helping get drought funding in the Democratic-passed Inflation Reduction Act.
Democrats outnumber Republicans in Nevada by tens of thousands of voters, and Democrats think abortion will fire up their voters to head to the polls. Republican Adam Laxalt is a controversial candidate who has backed Trump's election lies, but he is a former attorney general who is also a political scion in the state. (His grandfather, Paul Laxalt, was a senator and governor.)
5. Wisconsin (R-Johnson)
Incumbent Republican Sen. Ron Johnson is not very well liked in the state and has landed in numerous controversies related to the coronavirus vaccine and his ties to Trump and the Jan. 6 insurrection. Johnson hardly cuts the image of the vanilla businessman that helped him first win his seat in 2010. An early poll shows he could be in trouble, but Republicans are feeling positive about his chances. They say Johnson is doing a good job raising money and running a strong campaign, doing the groundwork, even reaching out to the small share of Latinos in the state.
The Democrat here is Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who is less well known, though he has won statewide. While Democrats want to make this about Johnson, Republicans will seek to paint Barnes as progressive as anyone in the state, particularly on crime and ties to the "defund the police" and "defund ICE" movements, which he has tried to distance himself from in recent months.
6. New Hampshire (D-Hassan)
This is the one key Senate race that doesn't have its general election matchup set. That would be thought of as an advantage for incumbent Sen. Maggie Hassan, but New Hampshire is a purple state with a strong independent and libertarian streak, and Hassan's numbers have lagged. Biden may have won New Hampshire in 2020 by 7 points, but he's now very unpopular in the state. That makes it a tough place for a Democrat up for reelection.
The GOP primary will be decided Sept. 13, and no candidate has really stood out from the pack. So far, Don Bolduc, a retired Army general who has backed Trump's election lies and whom Trump has praised, has a lead in polls over the more staid state Senate President Chuck Morse and others. Primary polls have moved quickly this year closer to elections, and this race hasn't gotten a lot of attention yet, but Republicans likely would rather make this a campaign between a more generic Republican and Hassan rather than with an election denier.
7. North Carolina (R-Open)
These next two are close, but still lean in Republicans' direction.
Democrats like what they've seen out of their nominee in North Carolina, Cheri Beasley, the first Black chief justice of the state Supreme Court. That's a statewide elected position, one she lost by just 401 votes out of more than five million in 2020. (Biden lost the state by more than 100,000 votes.)
Notably, she has more than doubled the amount of money raised by Republican Rep. Ted Budd, the Trump-endorsed candidate, as of June 30. North Carolina has a Democratic governor, as well, but this has been something of a Lucy-and-the-football state for the party. Democrats have been close, but won no presidential or Senate races since Barack Obama (and former Sen. Kay Hagan) won in 2008.
There are more Democrats in the state than Republicans, but independents here are more GOP-leaning, which has given Republicans the advantage in recent federal elections. What's more, while Republicans have seen their ranks stay about the same since 2020, Democratic registrations have shrunk since then, when Biden lost by 1.4 points.
8. Ohio (R-Open)
Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan has run a strong, middle-of-the-road campaign so far, Democrats say. And it's showing in the polls against Republican J.D. Vance, who has landed in controversies with his remarks on women and family. Vance has a lot of work to do to right his campaign's ship. He's been seen as running a weak campaign and Ryan has raised seven times the amount of money as Vance.
But there's a long way to go. And the cavalry is about to come to Vance's aid. The Senate Leadership Fund is planning to plunk down $28 million to boost Vance, more than quadrupling what Republicans have already spent on his candidacy. Plus, this is a Republican-leaning state that Biden lost by 8 points. The president's approval rating is underwater in the state, and Ryan has distanced himself from Biden.
9. Florida (R-Rubio)
Rounding out the top 10 are two states that are stretches for both parties, but where they are competing strongly.
In Florida, Republican incumbent Marco Rubio has veered a long way from his 2016 anti-Trump days that won him the pejorative "Little Marco" from Trump. Since then, he's shrunk into the former president's shadow, denouncing the search at Trump's Florida home, for example, as a "Third World Act."
The fact is: Rubio needs Trump's supporters in a state Trump won twice and where conservative Ron DeSantis is governor. Challenging him is Democratic Rep. Val Demings. Demings, a former Orlando chief of police, was a Trump impeachment manager and has actually outraised Rubio, highly unusual for a sitting senator. At the end of the day, though, this is still Florida, and Republicans outnumber Democrats by more than 200,000 voters.
10. Colorado (D-Bennet)
The incumbent here is Democrat Michael Bennet. Republicans are happy their candidate Joe O'Dea, a more moderate construction company executive who supports abortion rights in the early months of a pregnancy, made it through the primary against an election denier who did not believe in any exceptions for abortion. (Trying to get through the primary, O'Dea touted on his website that "pro-lifers" had endorsed him.)
Democrats aim to use abortion to fire up their voters in this state, where Democrats outnumber Republicans by about 100,000 voters. They'll paint O'Dea as a vote for McConnell for majority leader and the 51st vote to ban abortion — despite the fact that O'Dea has said he would vote to codify early-term abortion rights and later with exceptions. (He has likened himself to a "Republican Joe Manchin.")
Republicans don't believe Bennet has been pushed and think he's potentially vulnerable. He won in 2016 with just 50% and by 6 points. (Republicans also believe they can give Sen. Patty Murray in Washington state a run for her money, but that hasn't borne out so far and is an even more left-leaning state than Colorado.)
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-22/the-senate-looks-like-a-jump-ball-here-are-the-10-seats-that-will-decide-the-majority | 2022-08-23T20:52:59Z |
Because of redistricting, U.S. Reps. Carolyn Maloney and Jerrold Nadler, Democrats who have each served 30 years, will face one another in New York's new 12th district, based entirely in Manhattan.
Copyright 2022 NPR
Because of redistricting, U.S. Reps. Carolyn Maloney and Jerrold Nadler, Democrats who have each served 30 years, will face one another in New York's new 12th district, based entirely in Manhattan.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/2-top-democrats-face-off-in-house-primary-thanks-to-redistricting-in-new-york | 2022-08-23T20:53:05Z |
NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks with Dr. Anthony Fauci about his decision to retire after nearly 40 years as the head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease.
Copyright 2022 NPR
NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks with Dr. Anthony Fauci about his decision to retire after nearly 40 years as the head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/dr-anthony-fauci-looks-back-on-his-long-lasting-career-in-healthcare | 2022-08-23T20:53:12Z |
For months, French shoppers have been complaining about a lack of mustard on the shelves. The shortages have largely been caused by a drought in Canada, the world's largest exporter of mustard seeds.
Copyright 2022 NPR
For months, French shoppers have been complaining about a lack of mustard on the shelves. The shortages have largely been caused by a drought in Canada, the world's largest exporter of mustard seeds.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/french-supermarkets-have-been-low-on-mustard-the-main-cause-stems-from-canada | 2022-08-23T20:53:18Z |
NPR's Juana Summers speaks with Ali Vitali, an NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent, about her new book Electable: Why America Hasn't Put a Woman in the White House... Yet.
Copyright 2022 NPR
NPR's Juana Summers speaks with Ali Vitali, an NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent, about her new book Electable: Why America Hasn't Put a Woman in the White House... Yet.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/new-book-electable-explores-why-a-woman-still-hasnt-won-the-presidency-yet | 2022-08-23T20:53:24Z |
The skyline of the Chinese city Shanghai will not be lit up for two nights. It's part of a string of measures nationwide as China deals with power shortages caused by its worst heat wave on record.
Copyright 2022 NPR
The skyline of the Chinese city Shanghai will not be lit up for two nights. It's part of a string of measures nationwide as China deals with power shortages caused by its worst heat wave on record.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/shanghais-skyline-will-be-dark-for-2-days-due-to-power-shortages-caused-by-heat-wave | 2022-08-23T20:53:30Z |
After being on pause throughout the pandemic, student loan payments are expected to restart on Aug. 31, devastating household budgets across the country.
Copyright 2022 NPR
After being on pause throughout the pandemic, student loan payments are expected to restart on Aug. 31, devastating household budgets across the country.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/student-loan-payments-are-about-to-restart-can-american-families-afford-them | 2022-08-23T20:53:36Z |
Ukrainians who have sought refuge in Russia often face a fundamental choice: accept Russian hospitality and the Kremlin's vision for Ukraine under Russian rule or risk an uncertain road out.
Copyright 2022 NPR
Ukrainians who have sought refuge in Russia often face a fundamental choice: accept Russian hospitality and the Kremlin's vision for Ukraine under Russian rule or risk an uncertain road out.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/ukrainian-refugees-who-ended-up-in-russia-must-now-decide-what-comes-next | 2022-08-23T20:53:42Z |
NPR's Ari Shapiro speaks with Washington Post's Joseph Menn, one of the reporters to break the story about Twitter's former security chief accusing the company of security and privacy vulnerabilities.
Copyright 2022 NPR
NPR's Ari Shapiro speaks with Washington Post's Joseph Menn, one of the reporters to break the story about Twitter's former security chief accusing the company of security and privacy vulnerabilities.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.keranews.org/2022-08-23/whistleblower-says-twitters-security-flaws-are-a-risk-to-users-and-national-security | 2022-08-23T20:53:48Z |
After a day of heavy rainfall and flooding, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said North Texas faced an "extraordinary challenge."
By noon on Monday, the region saw more than 9 inches of rain in 24 hours. The downpour flooded streets, damaged homes and resulted in at least one fatality.
Sitting alongside Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson at Dallas City Hall Tuesday, Governor Abbott signed a disaster declaration for 23 counties.
“We need to aggregate the damages across the entire region," Abbott said. "Our goal would be to try to have an early assessment of all of those damages by the end of this week.”
Abbott said residents can report any property damage to the Texas Division of Emergency Management's website.
He says a statewide task force, which includes first responders with state and local agencies, will determine if some areas need federal assistance.
Mayor Johnson, who called the storm a once-in-a-thousand-year event, says its effects will linger for some time.
"These impacts are going to be felt all over and throughout our economy," Johnson said. "For those who are just struggling to get by, who are trying to scrimp and save and do everything they can, this flood could be a significant setback for them."
Got a tip? Email Pablo Arauz Peña at parauzpena@kera.org
KERA News is made possible through the generosity of our members. If you find this reporting valuable, consider making a tax-deductible gift today. Thank you. | https://www.keranews.org/texas-news/2022-08-23/gov-abbott-declares-disaster-in-23-counties-after-widespread-flooding | 2022-08-23T20:53:54Z |
Biden administration forecasts $1.03T deficit, down $400B
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is forecasting that this year’s budget deficit will be nearly $400 billion lower than it estimated back in March, due in part to stronger than expected revenues, reduced spending, and an economy that has recovered all of the jobs lost during the multi-year pandemic.
In full, this year’s deficit will decline by $1.7 trillion, representing the single largest decline in the federal deficit in American history, the Office of Management and Budget says.
Despite the gains, the administration said Tuesday that it is forecasting a deficit of $1.03 trillion for the budget year that ends Sept. 30. That number signifies a movement away from the record deficit in 2020, which reached $3.13 trillion.
The administration’s Mid-Session Review said much of the improvement in the deficit forecast for this year stemmed from the economy “transitioning from a historic and rapid recovery to stable and steady growth.”
The administration sees inflation pressures remaining into 2023, however.
“The President’s top economic priority continues to be tackling the challenge of inflation, without giving up the historic economic gains we’ve made over the past 18 months,” said Shalanda Young, director of the Office of Management and Budget in a statement.
“While costs are still too high for too many families, the President’s economic plan is working and we’re on the right track,” she said.
Because the projections of the Mid-Session Review were finalized in June, it does not include the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act and estimated $740 billion climate, healthcare and tax measure.
And while the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office in July said, that fast economic growth and higher tax revenues have caused the federal debt this year to be lower than forecast, the organization warns in its 30-year outlook that debt will soon spiral upward to new highs that could ultimately imperil the U.S. economy.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/biden-administration-forecasts-103t-deficit-down-400b/ | 2022-08-23T20:58:46Z |
Biden leaning toward canceling $10,000 in student loan debt for borrowers
(Gray News) - President Joe Biden is expected to announce a decision Wednesday on canceling student loan debts, according to multiple reports.
The White House is leaning toward forgiving up to $10,000 in federal student loans per borrower if they earn less than $125,000 per year, CNN said based on multiple sources.
The Washington Post reported Tuesday there also could be another pause on those payments, which are set to start back after Aug. 31. People familiar with the discussions told The Post that no final decision had been communicated by the president.
Biden has previously advocated for the $10,000 amount, including during his 2020 campaign. The decision could affect up to 45 million borrowers.
The Biden administration had promised a decision would be announced by the end of the month, and Biden is set to return from Delaware to the White House on Wednesday.
President Donald Trump first paused loan payments in March 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and Biden has extended it four times so far.
Through targeted cancellation for specific groups of borrowers, the White House says it has now approved nearly $32 billion in student debt for 1.6 million borrowers. They included public service workers, students who were defrauded and people who are permanently disabled.
“We know August 31 is a date that many people are waiting to hear something from,” said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona on “Meet the Press” on Sunday. “We’ve been talking daily about this, and I can tell you that the American people will will hear within the next week or so.”
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. The Associated Press contributed to the report. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/biden-leaning-toward-canceling-10000-student-loan-debt-borrowers/ | 2022-08-23T20:58:53Z |
Drought conditions uncover 113-million-year-old dinosaur tracks
Published: Aug. 23, 2022 at 3:55 PM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
(CNN) - The severe drought in Texas has uncovered a little piece of history.
Dinosaur tracks from about 113 million years ago can be seen in a dried-out river in Dinosaur Valley State Park.
A park official said these tracks likely came from an Acrocanthosaurus, weighed seven tons and reached 15 feet tall.
The tracks in Dinosaur Valley State Park are expected to be covered up again with river water as local forecasters are calling for rain.
Park officials say that is a good thing because the water helps protect the prints from natural weathering and erosion.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/drought-conditions-uncover-113-million-year-old-dinosaur-tracks/ | 2022-08-23T20:58:59Z |
Elementary school principal found shot, killed in South Carolina
DILLON COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF/Gray News) – An elementary school principal was shot and killed in South Carolina over the weekend, according to officials.
Dillon County Sheriff Douglas Pernell said Dr. Wendy Cook, 54, died on Aug. 20. She was the principal of Stewart Heights Elementary School in the Dillon County School District 4.
Pernell said deputies were called Saturday night for a report of a woman found dead inside a car. When deputies arrived, they found Cook dead inside the vehicle.
Deputies arrested Kyle Church at the scene. Officials have not said what information led to his arrest, but the sheriff said Church and Cook were “acquaintances.”
Authorities said Church was charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is being held at the Dillon County Detention Center.
The Dillon County School District posted a memorial photo of Cook on Facebook Monday morning.
Officials have not released any further immediate details.
Copyright 2022 WMBF via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/elementary-school-principal-found-shot-killed-south-carolina/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:05Z |
‘I’m still kind of mind-blown’: Man finds 90-million-year-old fossil during fishing tournament
OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT/Gray News) - A Nebraska man made a once-in-a-lifetime discovery in the Missouri River: a fossil of what appears to be a 90-million-year-old fish.
Fishing is more than a sport for Andy Moore.
“It’s the feeling you get when that fish bites your line,” Moore said. “It’s that primordial jolt you get in your spine, and it goes right to your brain.”
Moore got a jolt like no other from his catch at a tournament in mid-August. He was fishing just west of Yankton, South Dakota, located about 160 miles northwest of Omaha.
At first, Moore wasn’t doing very well in the tournament.
“I pitched my jig, and it’s horrible,” he said. “It’s, like, way left, and I’m like ‘Oh, man.’”
Moore had snagged the back of a rock and couldn’t get it off his line. So, he paddled his kayak up to the rock.
“I get up to it, and I’m like, ‘Oh wow! That’s kind of cool.’ I thought it was a big catfish skeleton or a deer skeleton,” he said. “Something told me to take a picture of this.”
Moore later posted the pictures online. Within minutes, texts and phone calls started flooding in.
“It was like, ‘Uh, dude. Did you know that’s a 90-million-year-old fossil that’s in that picture?’ I’m like, ‘What?’” he said.
Moore then contacted a biologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He and the biologist went back out and found the rock, using the coordinates from pictures on Moore’s cell phone.
“The geologist guy saw it, and ... he just jumped out of the boat in his boots, goes up to it, and he goes, ‘Oh my god,’” Moore said.
The biologist confirmed with WOWT that the fossil does appear to be that of a prehistoric predator fish that’s up to 90 million years old.
“I’m still kind of mind-blown about the whole thing,” Moore said.
As for the tournament, Moore said he didn’t do very well but that this time he doesn’t mind, “because I have the discovery of a lifetime.”
The fossil will be on display at the Lewis and Clark Visitor’s Center, on the Nebraska side.
Copyright 2022 WOWT via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/im-still-kind-mind-blown-man-finds-90-million-year-old-fossil-during-fishing-tournament/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:12Z |
Police: 3 arrested after brawl at Chuck E. Cheese during children’s birthday party
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC/Gray News) - Police in South Carolina are investigating a violent incident that happened over the weekend at a popular children’s restaurant.
The North Charleston Police Department reports officers responded to a large fight that broke out at a Chuck E. Cheese restaurant on Aug. 20, where three people were arrested.
According to WCSC, Lizeller Dixon, Dashawn Malik Grant and Jasmine Ciera Judge were each charged with one count of breach of peace.
A mother at the party said the incident started when two 12-year-olds began to fight, which led to parents getting involved before the police were called.
“Chuck E. Cheese is not the brawl spot. You can’t just come into a Chuck E. Cheese, have a brawl, go home and make a Facebook post about it. You have to stand accountable for what you did,” Elvin Speights, a community activist, said.
Police said a large crowd was inside the restaurant, arguing and attacking one another when they arrived.
According to authorities, a fourth person was briefly detained for allegedly hitting a security guard but released after not being positively identified.
Police cleared out the business and asked everyone to leave, but the groups involved continued to threaten and attack one another.
Police said multiple witnesses did not work with them in providing further information about what happened.
“This isn’t Chuck E. Cheese’s fault, or the North Charleston Police Department’s fault or the security guard’s fault,” Speights said. “We, as adults, must learn how to behave in an establishment. Chuck E. Cheese is a place for kids.”
Police said they were called to the restaurant previously for reports of a shooting and a burglary in 2016.
Copyright 2022 WCSC via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/police-3-arrested-after-brawl-chuck-e-cheese-during-childrens-birthday-party/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:19Z |
US, Iran inch closer to nuke deal but high hurdles remain
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is expected to weigh in this week on Iran’s latest offer to resume its compliance with the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, but neither side is offering a definitive path to revive the agreement, which has been on life-support since former President Donald Trump withdrew from it in 2018.
U.S. officials say they expect to respond to Iran’s comments on a European draft proposal by Wednesday, after which another round of negotiations in Vienna to finalize the details of a potential deal will likely be needed. New developments, including stepped-up public messaging campaigns by both Tehran and Washington, suggest that an agreement could be near.
Despite the forward movement, numerous hurdles remain. And key sticking points could still unravel efforts to bring back the 2015 deal under which Iran received billions of dollars in sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program intended to prevent it from developing an atomic weapon.
Even U.S. supporters of an agreement are no longer referring to the “longer and stronger” deal that they had initially set out to win when indirect negotiations with Iran began last spring. And, on the Iranian side, demands for greater U.S. sanctions relief than the administration appears willing or able to promise could undercut the push to revive the agreement.
In Washington, the Biden administration faces considerable political opposition to returning to the 2015 deal from both Democrats and Republicans in Congress who remain unconvinced that it is in U.S. national security interests.
The recent indictment of an Iranian for plotting to murder Trump’s former national security adviser John Bolton and the attack by an apparent Iran sympathizer on the author Salman Rushdie have further contributed to doubts that Iran can be trusted.
The latest draft does not include Tehran’s demand that the U.S. lift the terrorism designation of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps, and Iran has stepped back from a demand that the International Atomic Energy Agency close its investigation into unexplained traces of uranium at three undeclared sites, according to a senior administration official who requested anonymity to discuss ongoing efforts to resurrect the deal.
But, rescinding the terrorism designation imposed by Trump was never a realistic demand. Not only does it fall outside the scope of the nuclear deal, it was made virtually impossible since the Bolton plot indictment, ongoing Iranian threats to other former U.S. officials, and the Rushdie attack.
And, while Iran may have agreed to a mechanism to eventually return to the deal without the IAEA investigation being closed up front, it has said that its actual compliance with an agreement remains contingent on getting a clean bill of health from the agency.
The senior administration official said a “deal is closer than it was two weeks ago,” but cautioned that the outcome remains uncertain “as some gaps remain.”
And, Iranian officials on Tuesday bristled at the suggestion that they’ve stepped back from their demands to re-enter the deal.
Seyed Mohammad Marandi, an Iranian adviser to the indirect talks in Vienna, took to Twitter on Tuesday to assert that removing the IRGC from the State Department’s foreign terrorism list was never a precondition and insisted that “no deal will be implemented before the IAEA Board of Directors PERMANENTLY closes the false accusations file.”
Meanwhile, America’s top ally in the Middle East, Israel, has become increasingly alarmed at the apparent movement toward a deal. Israel’s alternate prime minister Naftali Bennett on Tuesday called on the Biden administration to resist forging ahead with a deal with the Iranians.
“I call on President Biden and the American administration to refrain, even now at this last minute, from signing the agreement with Iran,” Bennett said in a statement.
He noted that Israel is not party to the 2015 agreement signed by the five permanent members of the United Nations Security — the U.S., the United Kingdom, Russia, France, and China as well as Germany — but that Israel would be directly affected and reserved all rights to its self-defense.
“One way or another, the State of Israel is not a party to the agreement,” Bennett said. “Israel is not committed to any of the restrictions stemming from the agreement and will utilize all available tools to prevent the Iranian nuclear program from advancing.”
At the direction of current Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, Israel’s national security adviser Eyal Hulata is in Washington this week for talks with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and possibly Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman. Iran’s nuclear program will be at the center of those talks.
The White House insists that the terms under discussion include the key underpinnings of the 2015 deal. The U.S. would lift hundreds of sanctions the Trump administration re-imposed when it withdrew from the deal in 2018. And Iran would roll back its nuclear program to the limits set by the original nuclear deal, including caps on enrichment, how much material it can stockpile and the operation of advanced centrifuges needed to enrich.
However, it remains unclear what exactly would happen to Iran’s current stockpile of highly enriched uranium and what it would be required to do with the advanced centrifuges it has been spinning. The White House has said both would be “removed” but has not offered details.
As of the last public count, Iran has a stockpile of some 3,800 kilograms (8,370 pounds) of enriched uranium. Under the deal, Tehran could enrich uranium to 3.67% purity, while maintaining a stockpile of uranium of 300 kilograms (660 pounds) under constant scrutiny of surveillance cameras and international inspectors.
In terms of sanctions relief, Iran has been demanding that the administration pledge that a future president not be allowed to re-impose the lifted penalties as Trump did and promise that Congress will repeal statutory sanctions legislation passed initially to force Iran back to the negotiating table. The administration is in no position to guarantee either.
“Reports that we have accepted or are considering new concessions to Iran as part of reentering the 2015 nuclear deal are categorically false,” National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said.
—
Associated Press writer Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed reporting.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/08/23/us-iran-inch-closer-nuke-deal-high-hurdles-remain/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:26Z |
LAS VEGAS, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ahern Rentals, Inc. ("Ahern") elected to terminate, effective immediately, its previously announced offer to eligible holders to exchange (the "Exchange Offer") its 7.375% Second Priority Senior Secured Notes (CUSIP: 008674AH6 / U0085GAD1; ISIN US008674AH66 / USU0085GAD17) (the "Notes") and solicitation of consents from holders of the Notes (the "Consent Solicitation") to amend the indenture governing the Notes, each as set forth in and subject to the terms and conditions of the Confidential Offering Memorandum and Consent Solicitation Statement dated June 30, 2022 ("Confidential Offering Memorandum").
As a result of the termination of the Exchange Offer, Notes previously tendered in the Exchange Offer, if any, will not be accepted for exchange for new notes, no exchange consideration will be delivered or become payable to holders who have properly tendered their Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer, and any Notes previously tendered pursuant to the Exchange Offer will be promptly returned to the tendering holders.
As a result of the termination of the Consent Solicitation, the proposed amendments to the indenture governing the Notes will not become effective, the Notes will remain outstanding and subject to the terms of the existing indenture currently governing the Notes, and consents previously delivered pursuant to the Consent Solicitation, if any, will be deemed voided.
D.F. King & Co. is serving as the information agent for the Exchange Offer. You should direct questions and requests for assistance by sending an e-mail to ahern@dfking.com, or calling (800) 669- 5550 (toll-free) or (212) 269-5550 (for banks and brokers).
This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell the Notes or any security.
The Exchange Offer was made, and new notes were offered, only (a) in the United States to holders of Notes who are reasonably believed to be "qualified institutional buyers" (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act")) in reliance upon the exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, and (b) outside the United States to holders of Notes who are persons other than "U.S. persons" (as defined in Rule 902 under the Securities Act) in reliance upon Regulation S under the Securities Act and who are non-U.S. qualified offerees and eligible purchasers in other jurisdictions as set forth in the Confidential Offering Memorandum. Holders who have returned a duly completed eligibility letter certifying that they were within one of the categories described in the immediately preceding sentences were authorized to receive and review the Confidential Offering Memorandum and to participate in the Exchange Offer and the Consent Solicitation.
About Ahern
Ahern is the largest independently owned equipment rental company in the United States. With $906 million in fiscal year 2021 revenue, the company is ranked as the eighth largest U.S. equipment rental company by Rental Equipment Register. Founded in 1953 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Ahern has expanded through organic growth to develop a national platform with 112 branch locations in 31 states as of March 31, 2022. Ahern focuses on the aerial market segment of the $50 billion equipment rental industry with an extensive fleet of "high reach" equipment, which is supplemented by a fleet of ground engaging, general rental, and specialty equipment to provide customers with a "one-stop" solution for their equipment needs. Serving a large and diverse customer base comprised of commercial and residential construction companies, specialty contractors, industrial companies, utility companies, governmental entities, and homeowners, Ahern provides a comprehensive range of equipment and solutions, including renting and selling used/new equipment, parts, supplies, and related merchandise, as well as providing maintenance, repair, and other services that supplement rental and sales activities.
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SOURCE Ahern Rentals, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/ahern-rentals-elects-terminate-previously-announced-exchange-offer-its-7375-second-priority-senior-secured-notes/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:33Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The AllianceBernstein Closed-End Funds declared the following distributions today:
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SOURCE AllianceBernstein Closed-End Funds
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The AllianceBernstein Closed-End Funds declared the following distributions today:
View original content:
SOURCE AllianceBernstein Closed-End Funds
The above press release was provided courtesy of PRNewswire. The views, opinions and statements in the press release are not endorsed by Gray Media Group nor do they necessarily state or reflect those of Gray Media Group, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/alliancebernstein-closed-end-funds-announce-distribution-rates/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:39Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AllianceBernstein National Municipal Income Fund, Inc. [NYSE: AFB] (the "Fund") today released its monthly portfolio update as of July 31, 2022.
AllianceBernstein National Municipal Income Fund, Inc.
Top 10 Fixed-Income Holdings
Portfolio %
1) Metropolitan Transportation Authority Series 2016-2 5.25%, 11/15/35
2.50 %
2) State of Connecticut Special Tax Revenue Series 2012-A 5.00%, 01/01/29
2.23 %
3) Central Plains Energy Project Series 2017-A 5.00%, 09/01/42
1.77 %
4) Jefferson County Board of Education/AL Series 2018 5.00%, 02/01/46
1.74 %
5) Wisconsin Public Finance Authority Series 2018 5.00%, 07/01/58
1.67 %
6) Detroit Downtown Development Authority Series 2018-A 5.00%, 07/01/48
1.66 %
7) Wisconsin Public Finance Authority Series 2022 5.00%, 02/01/62
1.65 %
8) Los Angeles Department of Water & Power Power System Revenue Series 2013-B 5.00%, 07/01/30
1.63 %
9) Virginia Small Business Financing Authority Series 2022 3.00%, 01/01/41
1.58 %
10) Miami Beach Health Facilities Authority Series 2014 5.00%, 11/15/39
1.51 %
Sector/Industry Breakdown
Revenue
Health Care - Not-for-Profit
21.64 %
Toll Roads/Transit
8.14 %
Airport
7.78 %
Revenue - Miscellaneous
5.78 %
Electric Utility
5.27 %
Higher Education - Private
2.94 %
Industrial Development - Industry
2.86 %
Tobacco Securitization
2.80 %
Prepay Energy
2.60 %
Water & Sewer
Port
1.52 %
Primary/Secondary Ed. - Public
1.41 %
Industrial Development - Utility
0.49 %
Higher Education - Public
0.47 %
Senior Living
0.23 %
SUBTOTAL
66.16 %
Tax Supported
Special Tax
16.68 %
State G.O.
7.89 %
Local G.O.
1.86 %
State Lease
1.14 %
27.57 %
Prerefunded/ETM
4.35 %
Cash & Cash Equivalents
Funds and Investment Trusts
0.85 %
Asset-Backed
Housing - Multi-Family
0.62 %
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities
0.45 %
Total
100.00 %
State Breakdown
Illinois
11.73 %
California
10.41 %
New York
8.31 %
Pennsylvania
7.69 %
New Jersey
6.14 %
Wisconsin
6.08 %
Florida
5.34 %
Connecticut
4.79 %
Texas
3.98 %
South Carolina
3.02 %
Michigan
2.95 %
Alabama
2.66 %
Virginia
2.33 %
Ohio
2.18 %
Colorado
1.83 %
Nebraska
Oklahoma
Georgia
1.69 %
North Carolina
1.56 %
Minnesota
1.47 %
Tennessee
1.43 %
Arizona
Utah
1.18 %
Maryland
1.09 %
District of Columbia
0.98 %
Iowa
Kansas
0.83 %
West Virginia
0.64 %
New Hampshire
0.59 %
Puerto Rico
0.52 %
Indiana
Hawaii
0.41 %
Arkansas
0.33 %
Louisiana
0.18 %
Washington
0.15 %
Massachusetts
0.14 %
South Dakota
0.13 %
Kentucky
0.02 %
Other
Total Investments
Credit Quality Breakdown
AAA
4.69 %
AA
27.72 %
A
35.17 %
BBB
23.26 %
BB
3.00 %
D
0.21 %
Not Rated
0.75 %
Pre-refunded Bonds
Short Term Investments
Bonds by Maturity
Less than 1 Year
1.10 %
1 To 5 Years
6.15 %
5 To 10 Years
15.14 %
10 To 20 Years
31.19 %
20 To 30 Years
36.93 %
More than 30 Years
9.49 %
0.00 %
Total Net Assets
Portfolio Statistics:
AMT Percent:
12.66 %
Average Coupon:
4.59 %
Percentage of Leverage:
Bank Borrowing:
Investment Operations:
Auction Preferred Shares (APS):
Tender Option Bonds:
VMTP Shares:
38.49 %
Total Fund Leverage:
42.84%*
Average Maturity:
7.18 Years
Effective Duration:
5.74 Years
Total Net Assets:
$377.34 Million**
Common Stock Net Asset Value:
$13.13
Total Number of Holdings:
186
Portfolio Turnover:
5.00 %
* The total percentage of leverage constitutes 4.35% through the use of tender option bonds, 38.49% in issued and outstanding VMTPs and 0.00% in investment operations, which may include the use of certain portfolio management techniques such as credit default swaps, dollar rolls, negative cash, reverse repurchase agreements andwhen-issued securities.
** The Fund also had outstanding $232,125,000 of VMTPs at liquidation value, which is not included in Total Net Assets because it is treated as a liability for financialreporting purposes.
The foregoing portfolio characteristics are as of the date indicated and can be expected to change. The Fund is a closed-end U.S.-registered management investmentcompany advised by AllianceBernstein L. P.
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SOURCE AllianceBernstein National Municipal Income Fund, Inc.
The above press release was provided courtesy of PRNewswire. The views, opinions and statements in the press release are not endorsed by Gray Media Group nor do they necessarily state or reflect those of Gray Media Group, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/alliancebernstein-national-municipal-income-fund-inc-releases-monthly-portfolio-update/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:52Z |
Kauffman Foundation, Google.org, The Coca-Cola Company,
Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Grants
Earmarked for Aspen City Action Lab to Accelerate Success for Latino Businesses
WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program (AILAS) announced today it has garnered grants totaling nearly $1.7 million from prestigious partners dedicated to advancing prosperity for under-served business and entrepreneurial communities. Specifically earmarked for the Aspen City Action Lab, the grants included $600,000 from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, $500,000 from Google.org, $375,000 from The Coca-Cola Company and a $100,000 each from the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
"Latinos are launching companies at a faster rate than other groups and accounted for 52% of net job growth in the past decade. This success occurred despite many having little formal business education, nor access to capital and supportive networks enjoyed by other demographics," says AILAS Executive Director Domenika Lynch. "The support of the Kauffman Foundation, Google.org, the Coca-Cola Company, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the U.S. Hispanic of Chamber will make a real difference in helping the City Action Lab unleash the full dynamism of this underserved sector of our nation. The resulting growth will help boost our entire economy."
The Aspen City Action Lab unites Latino small businesses with local entrepreneurial and civic leaders to spur economic growth and share ways to expand business opportunities. The object is to close a wealth and opportunity gap that widened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Issues addressed include how to access private capital, apply for public funding, and leverage digital technology to expand the customer base.
The Aspen City Action Lab launched as a pilot program in 2021 with communities in Chicago; El Paso, Texas; Miami; Phoenix; San Antonio; and San Bernardino, Calif. This innovative initiative is aiding Latino-majority cities in generating long-term, inclusive economic growth through data-driven, community-informed approaches. Having built partnerships with more than 70 cross-sector leaders in these cities, City Action Lab is also building nationwide networks so that more cities can be added when the pilot phase concludes.
The award from the Kauffman Foundation, an organization committed to advancing educational achievement and entrepreneurial success, bolsters efforts to systematize the program's design so that it can benefit future cohorts of participating cities. The funding will also help support the annual Aspen Latino Business & Entrepreneurship Summit, which assembles public and private-sector leaders to uplift policies, practices and programs supporting Latino business owners and entrepreneurs.
The grant from Google.org, the technology giant's philanthropic arm, will boost the lab's action-oriented strategies to prepare the workforce development ecosystem for the challenges and opportunities brought by the increasing digitalization of the economy.
The Coca-Cola Company is a central partner in AILAS' efforts to shift the narrative around Latinos and their contributions to the competitiveness and resilience of the American economy. The company's giving supports City Action Lab's overall initiative as well as efforts to expand the participation of Latino businesses in our nation's supply chain.
The funding from the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, the nation's largest nonprofit supporting Hispanic American higher education, and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the largest Hispanic business organization, representing 4.7M+ Hispanic-owned businesses, are also in support of the overall Aspen City Action Lab initiative.
About Aspen Institute Latinos and Society
The Aspen Institute Latinos and Society's mission is to empower and promote long-term economic growth and resiliency in Latino communities throughout the United States. AILAS leverages the Aspen Institute's unique convening power and deep network of leaders from the public, private, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors to advance needed public and corporate policy that maximizes the economic potential of Latino communities, especially small and medium-sized enterprises. With a focus on equity, workforce upskilling and entrepreneurial ecosystem-building, AILAS sources data-driven, community-informed, and culturally relevant solutions to untap the economic potential of Latino workers, business owners and entrepreneurs, to the benefit of the nation.
MEDIA CONTACT
Mike Valdes-Fauli
Chemistry Cultura
mvaldesfauli@ChemistryAgency.com
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SOURCE The Aspen Institute | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/aspen-institute-latinos-amp-society-program-announces-1675-million-grants/ | 2022-08-23T20:59:59Z |
Total Q4 Revenue of $77.4 million; Up 8.0% Year-over-Year
Q4 GAAP Operating Income of $5.2 million; Up 40.4% Year-over-Year
Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $9.1 million; Up 31.1% compared to Prior Year
AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aviat Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVNW), ("Aviat Networks," "Aviat," or the "Company"), the leading expert in wireless transport solutions, today reported financial results for its fiscal 2022 fourth quarter and twelve months ended July 1, 2022. These results do not include the financial results of Redline Communications Group Inc., whose acquisition by Aviat was completed on July 5, 2022, in Aviat's fiscal 2023 first quarter.
Fourth Quarter Highlights
- Company executed on key long-term strategic objectives resulting in continued year-over-year increase in quarterly revenues and Adjusted EBITDA
- Highest bookings quarter in seven years, and the highest in North America in over a decade
- Highest bookings quarter for multi-band to date, with 60% coming from the EMEA region
- Highest bookings quarter for management software since the Company's inception, including the first SaaS-based Health Assurance Software sale with a large U.S. state government
- Announced collaboration with MaxLinear on next generation System on Chip:
Fourth Quarter Financial Highlights
- Total Revenues: $77.4 million, +8.0% from the same quarter last year
- GAAP Results: Gross Margin 35.5%; Operating Expenses $22.2 million; Operating Income $5.2 million; Net Income $4.5 million; Net Income per diluted share ('Net Income per share") $0.39
- Non-GAAP Results: Adjusted EBITDA $9.1 million; Gross Margin 35.7%; Operating Expenses $19.5 million; Operating Income $8.1 million; Net Income $7.8 million; Net Income per share $0.67
- Net Cash and Marketable securities: $47.8 million; no loans outstanding at quarter-end
- Buy Back: Repurchased $0.75 million of stock in the quarter
Full Year Financial Highlights
- Total Revenues: $303.0 million, +10.2% from the prior year
- GAAP Results: Gross Margin 36.1%; Operating Expenses $80.5 million; Operating Income $28.7 million; Net Income $21.2 million; Net Income per diluted share ('Net Income per share") $1.79
- Non-GAAP Results: Adjusted EBITDA $38.3 million; Gross Margin 36.2%; Operating Expenses $75.8 million; Operating Income $33.9 million; Net Income $32.7 million; Net Income per share $2.76
- Buy Back: Repurchased $5.4 million of stock in the current year
Fiscal 2022 Fourth Quarter and Twelve-Month Comparisons
Revenues
The Company reported total revenues of $77.4 million for its fiscal 2022 fourth quarter, compared to $71.7 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, an increase of $5.7 million or 8.0%. North America revenue of $48.8 million increased by $2.4 million or 5.1%, compared to $46.4 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period. International revenue of $28.6 million increased by $3.4 million or 13.3%, compared to $25.3 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period. The increase in international revenue was high order volumes in the APAC and Europe regions offset by lower spending environment in Africa.
For the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported total revenues of $303.0 million, compared to $274.9 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, an increase of $28.0 million or 10.2%. North America revenue of $199.8 million increased by $16.7 million or 9.1%, compared to $183.1 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period. International revenue of $103.2 million increased by $11.3 million or 12.3%, compared to $91.8 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period.
Gross Margins
In the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter, the Company reported GAAP and non-GAAP gross margin of 35.5% and 35.7%, respectively. This compares to GAAP gross margin of 36.1% and non-GAAP gross margin of 36.2% in the comparable fiscal 2021 period.
For the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported GAAP gross margin of 36.1% and non-GAAP gross margin of 36.2%. This compares to GAAP gross margin of 37.3% and non-GAAP gross margin of 37.5% in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a decline of -120 and -130 basis points, respectively.
Operating Expenses
GAAP total operating expenses for the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter were $22.2 million, compared to $22.1 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, an increase of $0.1 million or 0.3%. Non-GAAP total operating expenses, excluding the impact of restructuring charges and share-based compensation, for the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter were $19.5 million, compared to $20.4 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, an increase of $(0.9) million or (4.2)%.
For the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported GAAP total operating expenses of $80.5 million, compared to $80.4 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, an increase of $0.1 million or 0.1%. On a non-GAAP basis, excluding the impact of restructuring charges and share-based compensation, total operating expenses for the twelve months ended July 1, 2022 were $75.8 million, compared to $75.6 million in the fiscal 2021 period, an increase of $0.2 million or 0.3%.
Operating Income
The Company reported GAAP operating income of $5.2 million for the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter, compared to a GAAP operating income of $3.7 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a $1.5 million year-over-year increase. On a non-GAAP basis, the Company reported operating income of $8.1 million for the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter, compared to a non-GAAP operating income of $5.6 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a $2.5 million year-over-year increase.
For the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported $28.7 million in GAAP operating income, compared to a GAAP operating income of $22.2 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a $6.5 million year-over-year improvement. On a non-GAAP basis, the Company reported operating income of $33.9 million for the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, compared to $27.4 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a $6.5 million year-over-year improvement.
Net Income / Net Income Per Share
The Company reported GAAP net income of $4.5 million in the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter or GAAP net income per share of $0.39. This compared to a GAAP net income of $2.8 million or GAAP net income per share of $0.24 in the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter. On a non-GAAP basis, the Company reported net income of $7.8 million or a non-GAAP net income per share of $0.67, compared to a non-GAAP net income of $5.3 million or non-GAAP net income per share of $0.44 in the comparable fiscal 2021 period.
For the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported GAAP net income of $21.2 million or a GAAP net income per share of $1.79. This compared to GAAP net income of $110.1 million or a GAAP net income per share of $9.42 in the comparable fiscal 2021 period. On a non-GAAP basis, for the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported net income of $32.7 million or a net income per share of $2.76, compared to non-GAAP net income of $26.0 million or $2.23 per share in the comparable fiscal 2021 period.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA") for the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter was $9.1 million, compared to $7.0 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a year-over-year increase of approximately $2.2 million. For the twelve months ended July 1, 2022, the Company reported Adjusted EBITDA of $38.3 million, compared to $32.8 million in the comparable fiscal 2021 period, a year-over-year increase of approximately $5.6 million.
Balance Sheet Highlights
The Company reported cash and marketable securities of $47.8 million as of July 1, 2022, compared to $33.8 million as of April 1, 2022. As of July 1, 2022, the Company has no loans outstanding. During our fiscal 2022 fourth quarter, as part of our stock repurchase program approved by our board of directors in November 2021, we purchased approximately 26,000 shares of our common stock for $0.75 million and classified them as treasury shares, taking total repurchases for fiscal 2022 to 175,000 shares or $5.4 million
Conference Call Details
Aviat Networks will host a conference call at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) today, August 23, 2022, to discuss its financial and operational results for the fiscal 2022 fourth quarter. Participating on the call will be Peter Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer; David M. Gray, Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; and Andrew Fredrickson, Director of Corporate Development and Investor Relations. Following management's remarks, there will be a question and answer period.
Interested parties may access the conference call live via the webcast through Aviat Network's Investor Relations website at https://investors.aviatnetworks.com/events-and-presentations/events, or may participate via telephone by registering using this online form. Once registered, telephone participants will receive the dial-in number along with a unique PIN number that must be used to access the call. A replay of the conference call webcast will be available after the call on the Company's investor relations website.
About Aviat Networks
Aviat Networks, Inc. is the leading expert in wireless transport solutions and works to provide dependable products, services and support to its customers. With more than one million systems sold into 170 countries worldwide, communications service providers and private network operators including state/local government, utility, federal government and defense organizations trust Aviat with their critical applications. Coupled with a long history of microwave innovations, Aviat provides a comprehensive suite of localized professional and support services enabling customers to drastically simplify both their networks and their lives. For more than 70 years, the experts at Aviat have delivered high-performance products, simplified operations, and the best overall customer experience. Aviat Networks is headquartered in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.aviatnetworks.com or connect with Aviat Networks on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information contained in this document includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including Aviat's beliefs and expectations regarding business conditions, new product solutions, customer positioning, revenue, future orders, bookings, new contracts, cost structure, operating income, profitability in fiscal 2023, process improvements, realignment plans and review of strategic alternatives. All statements, trend analyses and other information contained herein regarding the foregoing beliefs and expectations, as well as about the markets for the services and products of Aviat and trends in revenue, and other statements identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "goal," "will," "see," "continue," "delivering," "view," and "intend," or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions, constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, forward-looking statements are based on estimates reflecting the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the senior management of Aviat regarding the future of its business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Such forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should therefore be considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth in this document. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements.
Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates or projections contained in the forward-looking statements include the following: the impact of COVID-19; disruptions relating to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine; continued price and margin erosion in the microwave transmission industry; the impact of the volume, timing, and customer, product, and geographic mix of our product orders; the timing of our receipt of payment; our ability to meet product development dates or cost reductions of products; our suppliers' inability to perform and deliver on time, component shortages, or other supply chain constraints; the effects of inflation; the ability of our subcontractors to timely perform; weakness in the global economy affecting customer spending; retention of our key personnel; our failure to protect our intellectual property rights or defend against intellectual property infringement claims; the results of our restructuring efforts; the ability to preserve and use our net operating loss carryforwards; the effects of currency and interest rate risks; the effects of current and future government regulations; general economic conditions, including uncertainty regarding the timing, pace and extent of an economic recovery in the United States and other countries where we conduct business; the conduct of unethical business practices in developing countries; the impact of political turmoil in countries where we have significant business; our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of any proposed or recent acquisitions; the impact of tariffs, the adoption of trade restrictions affecting our products or suppliers, a United States withdrawal from or significant renegotiation of trade agreements, the occurrence of trade wars, the closing of border crossings, and other changes in trade regulations or relationships.
For more information regarding the risks and uncertainties for Aviat's business, see "Risk Factors" in Aviat's Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on August 25, 2021, as well as other reports filed by Aviat with the SEC from time to time. Aviat undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, for any reason, except as required by law, even as new information becomes available or other events occur in the future.
Investor Relations:
Andrew Fredrickson
Director, Corporate Development & Investor Relations
Phone: (408) 501-6214
Email: andrew.fredrickson@aviatnet.com
AVIAT NETWORKS, INC.
Fiscal Year 2022 Fourth Quarter Summary
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES AND REGULATION G DISCLOSURE
To supplement the consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP), we provide additional measures of gross margin, research and development expenses, selling and administrative expenses, operating income, provision for or benefit from income taxes, net income, diluted net income per share and adjusted income before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (Adjusted EBITDA), adjusted to exclude certain costs, charges, gains and losses, as set forth below. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures, when considered together with the GAAP financial measures, provide information that is useful to investors in understanding period-over-period operating results separate and apart from items that may, or could, have a disproportionate positive or negative impact on results in any particular period. We also believe these non-GAAP measures enhance the ability of investors to analyze trends in our business and to understand our performance. In addition, we may utilize non-GAAP financial measures as a guide in our forecasting, budgeting and long-term planning process and to measure operating performance for some management compensation purposes. Any analysis of non-GAAP financial measures should be used only in conjunction with results presented in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures with the most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP follow.
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SOURCE Aviat Networks, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/aviat-networks-announces-fiscal-2022-fourth-quarter-twelve-months-financial-results/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:05Z |
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Banco BBVA Argentina S.A. (NYSE; BYMA; MAE: BBAR; LATIBEX: XBBAR) ("BBVA Argentina" or "BBVA" or "the Bank") announced today its consolidated results for the second quarter (2Q22), ended on June 30, 2022.
As of January 1, 2020, the Bank started to inform its inflation adjusted results pursuant to IAS 29 reporting. To facilitate comparison, figures of comparable quarters of 2021 and 2022 have been updated according to IAS 29 reporting to reflect the accumulated effect of inflation adjustment for each period up to June 30, 2022.
2Q22 Highlights
- BBVA Argentina's inflation adjusted net income in 2Q22 was $15.9 billion, 235.8% higher than the $4.7 billion reported on the first quarter of 2022 (1Q22), and 34.2% higher than the $11.8 billion reported on the second quarter of 2021 (2Q21). In the first six months of 2022, the accumulated net income was $20.6 billion, 19.6% above the $17.2 billion recorded in the first six months of 2021.
- In 2Q22, BBVA Argentina posted an inflation adjusted average return on assets (ROAA) of 4.6% and an inflation adjusted average return on equity (ROAE) of 28.3%. The six month accumulated ROAA reached 3.0% while the six month accumulated ROAE was 18.9%.
- Operating income in 2Q22 was $32.0 billion, 10.2% above the $29.0 billion recorded in 1Q22 and 51.9% over the $21.1 billion recorded in 2Q21.
- In terms of activity, total consolidated financing to the private sector in 2Q22 totaled $519.3 billion, increasing 7.1% in real terms compared to 1Q22, and falling 1.0% compared to 2Q21. In the quarter, the increase was mainly driven by growth in credit cards, other loans, prefinancing and financing of exports and in overdrafts by 5.3%, 10.7%, 41.5% and 21.2% respectively. BBVA's consolidated market share of private sector loans reached 8.35% as of 2Q22.
- Total consolidated deposits in 2Q22 totaled $974.1 billion, increasing 4.2% in real terms during the quarter, and falling 2.5% in the year. Quarterly increase was mainly explained by sight deposits, which grew 4.4%. The Bank's consolidated market share of private deposits reached 7.15% as of 2Q22.
- As of 2Q22, the non-performing loan ratio (NPL) reached 1.08%, with a 219.39% coverage ratio.
- The accumulated efficiency ratio in 2Q22 was 71.3%, below 1Q22's 72.2%, and 2Q21's 70.1%.
- As of 2Q22, BBVA Argentina reached a regulatory capital ratio of 22.9%, entailing a $124.7 billion or 180.1% excess over minimum regulatory requirement. Tier I ratio was 22.7%.
- Total liquid assets represented 76.9% of the Bank's total deposits as of 2Q22.
2Q22 Conference Call
Tuesday, August 24 - 12:00 p.m. Buenos Aires time (11:00 a.m. EST)
To participate please dial-in:
+ 54-11-3984-5677 (Argentina)
+ 1-844-450-3851 (United States)
+ 1-412-317-6373 (International)
Web Phone: click here
Código de la conferencia: BBVA
Webcast & Replay: click here
To access the full report please click here
To access webcast presentation please click here
About BBVA Argentina
BBVA Argentina (NYSE; BYMA; MAE: BBAR; LATIBEX: XBBAR) is a subsidiary of the BBVA Group, the main shareholder since 1996. In Argentina, it is one of the leading private financial institutions since 1886. Nationwide, BBVA Argentina offers retail and corporate banking to a broad customer base, including: individuals, SME's, and large-sized companies.
BBVA Argentina's purpose is to bring the age of opportunities to everyone, based on our customers' real needs, providing the best solutions, and helping them make the best financial decisions through an easy and convenient experience. The institution relies on solid values: "The customer comes first, We think big and We are one team". At the same time, its responsible banking model aspires to achieve a more inclusive and sustainable society.
Investor Relations Contact
Ernesto Gallardo
Chief Financial Officer
Inés Lanusse
Investor Relations Officer
Belén Fourcade
Investor Relations
investorelations-arg@bbva.com
ir.bbva.com.ar
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SOURCE Banco BBVA Argentina S.A. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/banco-bbva-argentina-sa-announces-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:12Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BNY Mellon will report financial results for the third quarter 2022 on Monday, October 17, 2022. Materials will be posted to BNY Mellon's website at approximately 6:30 a.m. ET, and management will host a conference call and simultaneous live audio webcast at 8 a.m. ET that same day. This conference call and audio webcast will include forward-looking statements and may include other material information.
Conference Call and Audio Webcast Access
Investors and analysts wishing to access the conference call and audio webcast may do so by dialing +1 800-390-5696 (U.S.) or +1 720-452-9082 (International), and using the passcode: 200200, or by logging onto www.bnymellon.com/investorrelations. The company's earnings release along with the quarterly financial highlights and other earnings-related documents will be available at www.bnymellon.com/investorrelations beginning at approximately 6:30 a.m. ET on October 17, 2022.
Conference Call and Audio Webcast Replays
Replays of the third quarter conference call and audio webcast will be available beginning on October 17, 2022, at approximately 2 p.m. ET through November 17, 2022, by dialing +1 888-203-1112 (U.S.) or +1 719-457-0820 (International) and using the passcode: 5049084. The archived version of the conference call and audio webcast will also be available at www.bnymellon.com/investorrelations for the same time period.
About BNY Mellon
BNY Mellon is a global investments company dedicated to helping its clients manage and service their financial assets throughout the investment lifecycle. Whether providing financial services for institutions, corporations or individual investors, BNY Mellon delivers informed investment and wealth management and investment services in 35 countries. As of June 30, 2022, BNY Mellon had $43.0 trillion in assets under custody and/or administration, and $1.9 trillion in assets under management. BNY Mellon can act as a single point of contact for clients looking to create, trade, hold, manage, service, distribute or restructure investments. BNY Mellon is the corporate brand of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (NYSE: BK). Additional information is available on www.bnymellon.com. Follow us on Twitter @BNYMellon or visit our newsroom at www.bnymellon.com/newsroom for the latest company news.
Contacts:
Media
Garrett Marquis
+1 949 683 1503
garrett.marquis@bnymellon.com
Analysts
Marius Merz
+1 212 298 1480
marius.merz@bnymellon.com
SOURCE BNY Mellon
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SOURCE BNY Mellon | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/bny-mellon-report-third-quarter-2022-results-october-17-2022/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:18Z |
New Season Opens with Introduction of the CougarTail Puff Bar
Players to Receive a Bite of Each Bar Sold
AMERICAN FORK, Utah, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BUILT Brands, LLC, celebrates year two of its historic NIL partnership with Brigham Young University athletes, introducing the high protein CougarTail Puff Bar and pledging 15 percent of its sales to the company's continued commitment to Cougar football players. Proceeds from the new CougarTail Bars will be in addition to the commitment BUILT made to athletes last year as part of new NCAA name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules that allowed BUILT to employ all BYU players, which included providing an amount equal to full tuition for walk-ons, or athletes who play without a scholarship.
The BYU CougarTail is a 16-inch maple bar served at major university athletic events, and according to Nick Greer, BUILT Brand's owner and CEO, "BYU fans love them almost as much as they do their athletic teams. Our new CougarTail Puff Bar — with its maple chocolate coating — is the closest a fan can come to putting the legendary CougarTail in your pocket without making a mess. What's more, each sale will directly support Cougar Football and provide an opportunity for every Cougar fan to get involved in NIL. It will also introduce individuals outside of Cougar Nation to the great taste one of Utah's most famous confections."
One year ago, BUILT and BYU rocked the sporting world with an announcement that defined the potential of the NIL, demonstrating how the new rules could benefit the whole team, rather than one or two superstar players, by employing individual athletes. "We especially wanted to focus on those heroic young men who show up and perform every day and are not on scholarships," said Greer. "They are athletes who beyond having to worry about school work, making the team, and spending hours on the field, often have to hold down a job—even two. BYU has a rich legacy of walk-on players whose sacrifice has been the bedrock of a winning tradition."
In a special event for players at LaVell Edwards Stadium, Saturday, August 20, Greer announced the financial support for the 2022-23 season and asked his 123 Royal Blue employees to accept two assignments — the first to serve as ambassadors of the new CougarTail Bar, helping the company introduce it to the world, and the second to "feed millions and millions of kids" by promoting #builtforgood and supporting the Five.12 Foundation.
"Together, we're going to fuel the future," Greer told the players. According to the CEO, "We're going to have every player of one of America's premier collegiate football dynasties out inspiring not only Cougar Nation but the world." The company's long-term vision is to grow the platform for service and engagement.
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake said, "We are grateful for BUILT Brand's continued innovation and support for our Built4Life program that helps empower players to build upon a foundation of love, learning and service. Nick's vision, like our own, focuses on the whole and elevating everyone around us. We look forward to this next chapter of our relationship, providing even more player development opportunities for our entire team as we prepare for life well beyond the football field. We are excited to be part of the new #builtforgood campaign and love how the CougarTail Bar so uniquely reflects a popular tradition of BYU sporting events and the taste of Cougar Nation."
Please visit BUILT.com to find out more about BUILT for Good and how you can help feed/fuel kids.
BUILT Brands, LLC, manufactures the next generation of nutrition bars for high-performance living. As convenient as they are decadent, BUILT Bars are the perfect solution for a balanced diet and those who are counting calories and want to curb their cravings.
CONTACT — Jeff Schrade
202.737.5339 — Phone & Text
jschrade@policyimpact.com
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SOURCE Built Bar | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/built-brands-byu-football-announce-continued-partnership/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:25Z |
SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cancer Insight, an oncology-focused clinical research organization (CRO), today introduced a new corporate identity: LumaBridge. As LumaBridge, the company will continue to build on its legacy of supporting the development of novel immunotherapies in the fight against cancer.
LumaBridge was founded in 2014 as Cancer Insight by veterans Dr. George Peoples and Dan Hargrove, who bring more than 30 years of combined experience in academic and military research. LumaBridge has since grown to serve as a trusted partner in creating innovative clinical trial solutions, committed to providing the guidance, attention, and flexibility needed to advance oncology therapies and benefit patients.
The LumaBridge name change reflects the company's vision for working hand-in-hand with emerging biopharma companies and lighting a path forward to the development of life-changing immunotherapy cancer treatments. With empathetic partners and experienced researchers engaged from beginning to end, LumaBridge delivers full outsourced support for clinical trials, working efficiently to make groundbreaking advancements in immuno-oncology. The company's comprehensive CRO services include clinical data management, regulatory affairs, clinical operations, and special capabilities in government/military contracts and funding.
Building on a legacy of innovation, LumaBridge is advancing novel immunotherapies in the fight against cancer.
Visit the new LumaBridge website and explore their rebranding here.
LumaBridge is a specialty clinical research organization (CRO) focused on creating innovative clinical trial solutions for biopharma companies. Founded in 2014 as Cancer Insight, the company offers customized clinical trial guidance, strategic partnership, and personalized attention to each sponsor, accelerating the development of potential therapies.
LumaBridge builds on the success and experience of a seasoned team, led by Dr. George Peoples, to support drug development, accelerating therapies to patients and guiding biopharma companies through clinical and regulatory pathways. As part of their comprehensive CRO services, LumaBridge offers consultation on trial design and clinical development strategy.
For more information, visit lumabridge.com.
Contact Information:
LumaBridge
contact@lumabridge.com
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SOURCE LumaBridge | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/cancer-insight-is-now-lumabridge/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:31Z |
Less than 15% of Shares Outstanding Supported Aviat's Director Nominees
Excluding Aviat's Stake, Less Than 10% of Shares Outstanding Supported Aviat's Director Nominees
ROSH HA'AYIN, Israel, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ceragon Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: CRNT) (the "Company", "Ceragon", "we", "us", or "our"), a global innovator and leading solutions provider of 5G wireless transport, today announced that shareholders have overwhelmingly rejected ALL proposals set forth by Aviat Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVNW) at the Company's 2022 Extraordinary General Meeting ("EGM").
Ceragon issued the following statement:
We appreciate the significant support that our Board received from our shareholders. While preparing for the EGM, we have had the opportunity to speak directly with many of our shareholders to discuss Aviat's indication of interest as well as Ceragon's strategy and performance. We are pleased that our shareholders rejected Aviat's attempts to take control of our Board. We believe Ceragon has significant business momentum and upside, and we look forward to putting this proxy contest behind us. As we indicated many times, our Board is focused on maximizing value for all shareholders and remains open to any potential transaction that delivers full, fair and certain value to Ceragon shareholders including a combination with Aviat.
At the EGM, at least ~80% of the shares cast on the Company's white proxy card voted AGAINST ALL of Aviat's proposals, and more than 90% voted against most of Aviat's proposals. While the gold proxy card has no legal basis, even combined results, of both the white and gold proxy cards, show that at least ~63% of the shares cast voted AGAINST ALL of Aviat's proposals, and ~75% voted against most of Aviat's proposals. We would also note that Aviat's director nominees received support from less than 15% of total shares outstanding, and less than 10% of total shares outstanding excluding Aviat's stake, on both cards combined.
Today's outcome reinforces that Ceragon shareholders recognize that Aviat's indication of interest significantly undervalues Ceragon and that Aviat's attempts to take control of the Ceragon Board are not in the best interest of Ceragon shareholders.
Evercore is serving as financial advisor and Shibolet & Co. and Latham & Watkins LLP are serving as legal advisors to Ceragon.
About Ceragon Networks
Ceragon Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: CRNT) is the global innovator and leading solutions provider of 5G wireless transport. We help operators and other service providers worldwide increase operational efficiency and enhance end customers' quality of experience with innovative wireless backhaul and fronthaul solutions. Our customers include service providers, public safety organizations, government agencies and utility companies, which use our solutions to deliver 5G & 4G broadband wireless connectivity, mission-critical multimedia services, stabilized communications, and other applications at high reliability and speed.
Ceragon's unique multicore technology and disaggregated approach to wireless transport provides highly reliable, fast to deploy, high-capacity wireless transport for 5G and 4G networks with minimal use of spectrum, power, real estate, and labor resources. It enables increased productivity, as well as simple and quick network modernization, positioning Ceragon as a leading solutions provider for the 5G era. We deliver a complete portfolio of turnkey end-to-end AI-based managed and professional services that ensure efficient network rollout and optimization to achieve the highest value for our customers. Our solutions are deployed by more than 400 service providers, as well as more than 800 private network owners, in more than 150 countries. For more information please visit: www.ceragon.com
Ceragon Networks® and FibeAir® are registered trademarks of Ceragon Networks Ltd. in the United States and other countries. CERAGON ® is a trademark of Ceragon Networks Ltd., registered in various countries. Other names mentioned are owned by their respective holders.
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This document contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of Ceragon's management about Ceragon's business, financial condition, results of operations, micro and macro market trends and other issues addressed or reflected therein. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: projections of demand, revenues, net income, gross margin, capital expenditures and liquidity, competitive pressures, order timing, supply chain and shipping, components availability, growth prospects, product development, financial resources, cost savings and other financial and market matters. You may identify these and other forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "may", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "targets", "expects", "intends", "potential" or the negative of such terms, or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words.
Although we believe that the projections reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be obtained or that any deviations therefrom will not be material. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause Ceragon's future results or performance to differ materially from those anticipated, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, any ongoing actions taken and future actions that may be taken by Aviat Networks Inc. or other stockholders or others; the continuing impact of the components shortage due to the global shortage in semiconductors, chipsets, components and other commodities, on our supply chain, manufacturing capacity and ability to timely deliver our products, which have caused, and could continue to cause delays in deliveries of our products and in the deployment of projects by our customers, risk of penalties and orders cancellation created thereby, as well as profit erosion due to constant price increase, payment of expedite fees and costs of inventory pre-ordering and procurement acceleration of such inventory, and the risk of becoming a deadstock if not consumed; the continued effect of the global increase in shipping costs and decrease in shipping slots availability on us, our supply chain and customers, which have resulted, and may continue to result in, price erosion, late deliveries and the risk of penalties and orders cancellation due to late deliveries; the impact of the transition to 5G technologies on our revenues if such transition is developed differently than we anticipated; the risks relating to the concentration of a major portion of our business on large mobile operators around the world from which we derive a significant portion of our ordering, that due to their relative effect on the overall ordering coupled with inconsistent ordering pattern and volume of business directed to us, creates high volatility with respect to our financial results and results of operations; the effect of the competition from other wireless transport equipment providers and from other communication solutions that compete with our high-capacity point-to-point wireless products; the continued effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy and markets and on us and on the markets in which we operate and our and our customers, providers, business partners and contractors business and operations; the risks relating to increased breaches of network or information technology security along with increase in cyber-attack activities, growing cyber-crime threats, and changes in privacy and data protection laws, that could have an adverse effect on our business; risks associated with any failure to meet our product development timetable, including delay in the commercialization of our new chipset; imposition of additional sanctions and global trade limitations in connection with Russia's invasion to Ukraine, the effects of general economic conditions and trends on the global and local markets in which we operate and such other risks, uncertainties and other factors that could affect our results, as further detailed in Ceragon's most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and in Ceragon's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors that could affect our results, represent our views only as of the date they are made and should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any subsequent date. Such forward-looking statements do not purport to be predictions of future events or results and there can be no assurance that it will prove to be accurate. Ceragon may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future but the company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so except as may be required by law.
Ceragon's public filings are available on the Securities and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov and may also be obtained from Ceragon's website at www.ceragon.com.
Ceragon Investor & Media Contact:
Maya Lustig
Ceragon Networks
Tel. +972-54-677-8100
mayal@ceragon.com
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SOURCE Ceragon Networks Ltd. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/ceragon-shareholders-overwhelmingly-reject-aviats-attempt-take-control-company-by-voting-against-all-aviats-proposals-2022-extraordinary-general-meeting/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:41Z |
COVINGTON, Ky., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Commonwealth Hotels announced today that Jamie Baker has been appointed the general manager of the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Canton South. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cvgca-courtyard-cincinnati-airport/ Ms. Baker brings over 10 years of hospitality experience to her new role as general manager having previously served as the general manager for the Hampton Inn Akron, Ohio.
As general manager, Baker is responsible for overseeing and executing the hotel and property operations, including staff management, guest satisfaction, and community relations.
Prior to joining Baker served in various leadership roles in diverse markets. Most recently Baker moved to Ohio from Oregon where she served as general manager at the Home2 Suites and the Candlewood Suites Eugene, Oregon. Baker studied Accounting and Business Administration at the University of South Alabama and is certified in Hilton GM program training as well as IHG RMEC and GM training. Jamie and her family reside in Canton, Ohio.
Commonwealth Hotels, LLC was founded in 1986 and is a proven partner in providing hotel management services with superior financial results. The company has extensive experience managing premium branded full service and select service hotels. Commonwealth Hotels currently manages 61 properties with nearly 7,600 rooms. Additional information may be found at www.commonwealthhotels.com.
Contact
Barbara E. Willen
Commonwealth Hotels, LLC
bwillen@commonwealthhotels.com
859.392-2254
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SOURCE Commonwealth Hotels, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/commonwealth-hotels-appoints-jamie-baker-general-manager-fairfield-inn-amp-suites-by-marriott-canton-south/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:47Z |
BRAINTREE, Mass., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Crews & co. (formerly Crews Consulting Group) has officially secured a spot on the Inc. 5000 2022 Exclusive Guide to America's Top Private Companies, a listing of fast-growth, privately-held US businesses demonstrating significant annual growth. Since its first publication in 1982, the prestigious Inc. 5000 list has become a well-known indicator of entrepreneurial success.
The Inc. 5000 list measures revenue over three fiscal years and reflects the top 0.07% of all companies in growth. Crews & co. has landed at number 2156 on this year's list, having grown 275% in revenue from 2019 to 2021.
During that time, the firm has added 11 business consultants, built out its finance services division, and developed critical infrastructure to prepare for significant growth. The firm also launched the Growth Method (previously known as GROWTH), a comprehensive business operating system built by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, in April of 2021.
"We have worked tirelessly over the last few years, and investing in our team has significantly expanded our capacity to help more businesses scale" says Founder and CEO Eric Crews. "It's been a privilege to help nearly 100 incredible clients achieve the business success they are looking for. I am so proud of our company for everything we have accomplished and grateful for every opportunity we have had to get where we are today."
Crews & co. is proud to be making its debut on the Inc. 5000 list in the top 50% of honorees. The company also came in at #48 in Boston, #57 in Massachusetts, and #204 in the Business Products and Services category.
The firm, which was formerly known as Crews Consulting Group, is in good company. Fellow Inc. 5000 honorees include an impressive census of dauntless organizations whose growth defies the pandemic-era impacts on labor, supply chains, sales and marketing initiatives, and global connectivity.
"Despite the many challenges posed by a global pandemic, we maintained our focus on helping seven-figure businesses achieve their first $10M, $20M, or $50M year," says Crews. "We prioritized developing our Growth Method, strengthening our team, and doubling down on our commitment to client success. It's extremely humbling to be on this list among so many excellent organizations."
Media Contact:
info@crewsandco.com
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SOURCE Crews & co. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/crews-amp-co-recognized-inc-5000-2022-exclusive-guide-fast-growth-us-companies/ | 2022-08-23T21:00:54Z |
ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Darden Restaurants, Inc., (NYSE:DRI) plans to release its fiscal 2023 first quarter financial results before the market opens on Thursday, September 22, 2022, with a conference call to follow at 8:30 am ET. Rick Cardenas, CEO, and other senior management will discuss first quarter results, and conduct a question and answer session. For those who cannot listen to the live broadcast, a replay will be available shortly after the call.
About Darden
Darden is a restaurant company featuring a portfolio of differentiated brands that include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze and Eddie V's. For more information, please visit www.darden.com.
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SOURCE Darden Restaurants, Inc.: Financial | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/darden-restaurants-host-fiscal-2023-first-quarter-conference-call-september-22/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:01Z |
Datadog has now achieved nine AWS competencies across use cases, industries and technologies
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Datadog, Inc. (NASDAQ: DDOG), the monitoring and security platform for cloud applications, announced today that it has achieved Amazon Web Services (AWS) Security, Networking and Retail competencies. In total, Datadog has now received nine competencies—the most of any integrated observability company supporting AWS to date. This reaffirms Datadog's commitment to AWS and its position as a global partner across multiple industries and use cases.
The competencies announced today include:
- AWS Security Competency, which recognizes Datadog's deep technical expertise and proven customer success in securing every stage of cloud adoption, from initial migration through day-to-day management.
- AWS Networking Competency, which recognizes Datadog as a software partner that enables customers to get deep visibility into networked services and applications across complex native, cloud and hybrid environments.
- AWS Retail Competency, which certifies that Datadog provides solutions to monitor and fully understand user experiences and pain points in order to improve operational efficiency and customer engagement for retail customers.
"We are proud to support our customers as they migrate to the cloud and manage their AWS environments," said Yrieix Garnier, VP of Product at Datadog. "Our extensive history with AWS and our technical depth across use cases, industries and technologies—as evidenced by our nine AWS competencies—allows our customers to leverage AWS seamlessly and with confidence."
These latest competencies add to an already significant level of deep expertise with AWS that includes:
- AWS Microsoft Workloads Competency
- AWS DevOps Competency
- AWS Government Competency
- AWS Container Competency
- AWS Migration and Modernization Competency
- AWS Education Competency
AWS established the AWS Competency Program to help customers identify consulting and technology partners with deep industry experience and expertise. Achieving the AWS Security Competency, AWS Networking Competency and AWS Retail Competency speaks to Datadog's place within the AWS Partner Network (APN) as a member with a history of success in providing customers with specialized solutions that align to AWS architectural best practices. To receive these designations, Datadog underwent an assessment of the security, performance and reliability of its solutions and validated its deep AWS expertise.
For more information about Datadog's solutions for AWS, visit: https://www.datadoghq.com/solutions/aws/.
Datadog is the monitoring and security platform for cloud applications. Our SaaS platform integrates and automates infrastructure monitoring, application performance monitoring and log management to provide unified, real-time observability of our customers' entire technology stack. Datadog is used by organizations of all sizes and across a wide range of industries to enable digital transformation and cloud migration, drive collaboration among development, operations, security and business teams, accelerate time to market for applications, reduce time to problem resolution, secure applications and infrastructure, understand user behavior and track key business metrics.
This press release may include certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended including statements on the benefits of new products and features. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views about our plans, intentions, expectations, strategies and prospects, which are based on the information currently available to us and on assumptions we have made. Actual results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements and are subject to a variety of assumptions, uncertainties, risks and factors that are beyond our control, including those risks detailed under the caption "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports, including the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 8, 2022, as well as future filings and reports by us. Except as required by law, we undertake no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events, changes in expectations or otherwise.
Contact
Dan Haggerty
press@datadoghq.com
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SOURCE Datadog, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/datadog-achieves-aws-security-networking-retail-competencies/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:07Z |
CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- David's Bridal, the nation's leading bridal and special occasion authority, has been recognized as one of Forbes Best Employers for Women of 2022. This renowned award is presented by Forbes and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
Forbes and Statista's methodology ensures the highest quality and validity of rankings. These results are based an independent survey of 50,000 employees currently employed at companies with at least 1,000 employees. The survey is based on a variety of criteria including working conditions, diversity, and how likely employees are to recommend their employer. Statista also asked female respondents to rate their employers on criteria such as parental leave, discrimination and pay equity. Representation at the executive and board levels were also factored into the final score.
"We are incredibly proud and honored to be recognized as one of the best employers for women among many other notable brands," said Jim Marcum, Chief Executive Officer of David's Bridal. "Our workforce, comprised of over 90% women, emulates our brand values of Celebrate, Innovate, Design, Personalize, and Kindness daily and represent the very best of who we are and what we believe in. We have the privilege of serving millions every year for life's magical moments and we are who we serve."
David's Bridal has responded to the evolving needs of the modern bride by offering unparalleled customer service and the most expansive product offerings in the industry, resulting in world class Net Promoter Scores month over month. Vowing to walk alongside her throughout the entire planning experience, David's has unveiled innovative solutions to enhance the customer shopping journey, both in-store and online. In the past year alone, David's launched Guaranteed in Stock Bridesmaids collection, a comprehensive mobile planning app, 24/7 customer service, a first-of-its-kind loyalty program, Diamond Loyalty with exclusive member pricing, an exclusive limited-time collaboration with celebrity fashion designer DanielXDiamond and announced the asset acquisitions of premier online wedding destinations, Forever Bride and Anomalie to better serve its customer at every touchpoint and continue to rapidly disrupt the bridal and special event space.
With 70 years of experience dressing customers for all of life's special occasions, David's Bridal is built on the idea everyone deserves to have the attire of their dreams regardless of style preference, shape, size, or budget. We believe in: CELEBRATING all life's magical moments, INNOVATING so we are always serving her, PERSONALIZING everything so it's all done her way, DESIGNING the most luxurious dresses, and finally, KINDNESS - so she doesn't have to worry about anything. It is our mission to help anyone and everyone find the look that will allow them to be the best, most genuine version of themselves on their wedding day or any special occasion. David's Bridal is dedicated to helping each customer, with the assistance of online planning tools and resources powered by Blueprint Registry and Rustic Wedding Chic, and Forever Bride, knowledgeable stylists, and expert alteration artisans who will guide them through the entire purchasing journey. With more than 300 stores located across the US, Canada, UK, and franchise locations in Mexico, we offer the convenience of one-stop shopping for every magical event in her life including weddings, Quinceañera, graduations, prom, communions, or simply making the world her runway and beyond. Additionally, David's recently launched #frontlinefierce Philanthropy Program dedicated to amplifying the heroism, fearlessness, and bravery of those who serve others in their community. To learn more about David's Bridal, visit www.DavidsBridal.com, download the Planning App, and connect on social media through Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact:
David's Bridal
mediarequests@dbi.com
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SOURCE David's Bridal, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/davids-bridal-named-forbes-best-employers-women-2022-list/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:14Z |
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Emilia Mehrabian is a top attorney at DLaw (aka Davtyan Law Firm), a specialty law firm that has protected the rights of hundreds of thousands of workers and recovered over a quarter of $1 billion for California's blue-collar community.
Mehrabian – a fellow Southwestern Law School Alumni like DLaw founder Emil Davtyan – specializes in a broad range of employment disputes that impact California's working class, highlighted by her expert knowledge of California's Fair Employment and Housing Act.
To reinforce DLaw's mission of "Champion for California's working class," Mehrabian shared valuable tips to help victims of workplace retaliation.
What is the principal piece of advice you offer someone who needs counsel regarding a potential workplace retaliation?
My principal piece of advice is that retaliation cases focus on what we can reasonably prove happened. The law places the burden on the employee to prove a causal connection between a negative employment action taken by the employer as a response to the employee's engagement in a legally protected activity.
What are common examples of workplace retaliation that workers deal with? How can a worker know if they have a workplace retaliation case?
Common examples of workplace retaliation include: suffering an adverse employment action due to reporting unlawful harassment (particularly by upper management); taking protected medical leave; suffering a workplace injury and filing for or requesting worker's compensation benefits; taking protected family medical leave to care for a family member; complaining or reporting about unpaid wages (including working off-the-clock and unpaid overtime); and complaining about missed meal and rest breaks. To properly assess their situation, workers should contact an attorney immediately after they feel they have suffered any adverse employment action by their employer.
How can a worker prove that retaliation took place?
A worker can prove retaliation took place by showing they engaged in a protected activity, and suffered an adverse employment action, and the reason for that adverse employment action was the protected activity itself. Protected activities are protected and governed by law; timing is often the key in these cases. The closer in time the adverse employment action is to the protected activity, the more likely it will prove the adverse reaction was because of the employee's engagement in that protected activity. There are many factors and circumstances to consider for each retaliation case. Therefore, it is crucial for employees to reach out to an attorney immediately for proper assessment.
Can an employer retaliate against a worker if they refuse to do something that they believe is discriminatory?
The answer to this question depends on whether or not the employee reasonably believes that the refused act violates discrimination law. The act does not necessarily have to violate the law, so long as a reasonable person would find that it does. At the very least, an employer should engage with the worker to address the worker's concerns regarding potential discrimination in the workplace.
How does a worker report retaliation in the workplace? How do you prove it?
An employee can report retaliation in the workplace by communicating with human resources and/or upper management. It is best to memorialize complaints and reports of retaliation in documents, such as emails, to serve as evidence in a legal proceeding, should there be the need for one. A worker can prove retaliation by connecting their engagement in a protected activity to an adverse employment action taken by their employer in response to that activity.
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SOURCE Davtyan Law Firm, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/dlaws-emilia-mehrabian-shares-top-tips-helping-california-workers-deal-with-workplace-retaliation/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:21Z |
The deal brings the myFitment companies' proven, leading technology in-house to help customers increase sales, satisfaction
SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY), a global commerce leader that connects millions of sellers and buyers around the world, and the myFitment group of companies ("myFitment"), a leader in delivering the tools and support to help online automotive and powersports parts and accessories sellers thrive, today announced that eBay has acquired myFitment. myFitment's technology and platform provides powerful, easy-to-use, and affordable solutions that help sellers drive sales and avoid costly returns.
This acquisition is an important step in growing eBay's key parts and accessories category and advancing its tech-led reimagination by bringing a valuable, tech-based tool in-house and ensuring continued benefits for eBay sellers and buyers. myFitment's tools help sellers by optimizing fitment data for their listings, ensuring customers order the right parts and accessories for their vehicle, reducing returns and increasing buyer satisfaction.
"eBay is home to more than half a billion parts and accessories globally, ranging from brand new replacement parts to the vintage and hard to find. As we look to elevate the user experience within this category, it is critical we provide innovative tools to help shoppers find the right parts at the right price," said Chris Prill, VP, eBay Motors. "The integration of myFitment's proven technology marks an important step in eBay's tech-led reimagination. Not only will we optimize the listing process for sellers, but we will offer an added layer of confidence for buyers by simplifying how they navigate inventory to find parts that fit their vehicle."
"We founded myFitment to help online parts and accessory sellers use technology to better connect with their customers, increase their sales, and grow their businesses," said Brian Williams, chief operating officer, myFitment. "eBay is one of the leading platforms in the world for people looking to start or grow their online business, and I can think of no better partner to help bring our technology to more of the vehicle and motorsport businesses and enthusiasts we have served for nearly ten years."
eBay has acquired the myFitment group of companies, which includes, among others, myFitment, LLC and Illumaware, LLC and the parties have signed and closed the deal as of August 23, 2022. Further details were not disclosed.
eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY) is a global commerce leader that connects people and builds communities to create economic opportunity for all. Our technology empowers millions of buyers and sellers in more than 190 markets around the world, providing everyone the opportunity to grow and thrive. Founded in 1995 in San Jose, California, eBay is one of the world's largest and most vibrant marketplaces for discovering great value and unique selection. In 2021, eBay enabled over $87 billion of gross merchandise volume. For more information about the company and its global portfolio of online brands, visit www.ebayinc.com.
Certain statements herein are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Such forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as "anticipate," "approximate," "believe," "commit," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "hope," "intend," "may," "outlook," "plan," "project," "potential," "should," "would," "will" and other similar words or expressions. Such forward-looking statements reflect eBay's current expectations or beliefs concerning future events and actual events may differ materially from historical results or current expectations. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance and are subject to a number of uncertainties, risks, assumptions and other factors, many of which are outside the control of eBay. The forward-looking statements in this document address a variety of subjects including, for example, the potential benefits of the acquisition, including maintaining eBay's position in the collectibles category and bringing new audiences to the NFT market. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements: the possibility that eBay may not fully realize the projected benefits of the acquisition and business disruption following the transaction. In addition, actual results are subject to other risks and uncertainties that relate more broadly to eBay's overall business, including those more fully described in eBay's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this document speak only as of this date. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement, except as required by law.
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SOURCE eBay Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/ebay-acquires-myfitment-group-companies-enhance-part-accessories-listing-experience/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:27Z |
Featuring NYPD Boxing, FDNY Boxing, National Grid and other first responders, fighting to raise money for NYC Cops and Kids, along with Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Have you ever wondered who is tougher, a cop or a firefighter? This may be your chance to find out! New York City Cops and Kids Boxing along with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation announced today they will be co-hosting a 6pm boxing event on Saturday, September 10th at the Ferry Hawks Ballpark in Staten Island NY. The event commemorates all first responders and the sacrifices made during 9/11.
Over the past five years, NYC Cops & Kids has served over 3,000 inner city teens, offering free fitness, mentorship, tutoring and coaching. In 2021, the program collaborated with the UFC to offer brand new equipment in their three separate gym locations. With a completely new fourth location in Jamaica Queens set to open this September 1st, 2022, many more teens are sure to be reached. These free gyms and tutoring locations are a safe haven for kids aged 12-21 after school and over the weekends, offering an attractive alternative to hanging out on the streets. "Cops and kids boxing is the best policing because real policing happens in partnership with the community" notes retired Lieutenant Dave Siev, Coach and Trainer of NYPD Boxing. Kids in this program are more likely to stay in school, graduate and become engaging, productive citizens of the city. "We get to the kids that no one else can get to. That school can't get to, cops in the streets can't get to. We can get to them through boxing," adds Founder and Executive Director Russo. The program has also produced Olympic and professional boxing champions, "If it wasn't for this gym, I would have never experienced the Olympics or signed my deal with Floyd Mayweather," noted program participant Richardson "Africa" Hitchins.
Started as a crime fighting initiative in 1987, the NYC Cops & Kids gyms provide positive opportunities for young people and police officers to work with each other, improving academic outcomes as well as mutual respect. This program builds and strengthens bonds of community understanding. "NYC Cops & Kids is the real deal. Kids are motivated to become better people, cops learn to understand and empathize with current problems these kids face, and the outcomes speak for themselves. What other program creates Olympians, outstanding citizens, and professional money making athletes, that is so low cost, servicing hundreds of kids per year with their annual budget of $150,000? It's incredible." says Julia Etra, NYC Cops & Kids Board member and donor. As this program continues to expand, its ultimate goal is to have a free gym, along with an internal tutoring center per location, in every borough of NYC.
Having touched the lives of so many people, it is time to come out and celebrate the hard work of these boxing teams. Endlessly entertaining and at the same time challenging, boxing has a hook no other sport can offer. Sponsored by and in collaboration with Ford, The United States Marine Corps, the NY Giants and USA Boxing Metro, this large scale boxing event is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Tickets for the 6pm September 10th event are available online through the website https://www.copsandkidsboxing.com/our-work or directly https://bit.ly/3boDe3x, the QR code in this release, as well as in person on the day of the event at the stadium. Premium Fight Night Experience Box Suites along with sponsorship packages are also available by emailing NYPD's Fighting Finest, nypdboxing@aol.com.
For more than 30 years, New York City Cops and Kids Boxing, a nonprofit organization, has been providing inner city teens with an alternative to the street by offering free access to fitness, mentorship, tutoring and coaching at three training locations, two in Staten Island and one in Brooklyn. Started as a crime fighting initiative in 1987, NYC Cops and Kids has grown through leaps and bounds. In 2010 former NYPD Sergeant Pat Russo from Staten Island took charge of the program, leading the NYPD Boxing Team, NYPD Fighting Finest 501 C3, to reopen the Cops and Kids Boxing program in Staten Island and Brooklyn. The program's gyms serve youth ages 12-21, and are run on a day to day basis by certified USA Boxing coaches. Learn more at CopsandKidsBoxing.org, NYPDBoxing.com as well as connect with us on Instagram: NYCCopsAndKids.
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SOURCE New York City Cops and Kids Boxing | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/first-responders-unite-do-good-never-forget-fight-night-coming-ferry-hawks-ballpark-staten-island-new-york-september-10-2022/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:33Z |
Workers Join Thousands of Existing Members at School Bus Carrier
SOUTH BEND, Ind., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- First Student workers in South Bend, Ind. have voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 364. The drivers and monitors provide student transportation services for the South Bend Community School Corporation.
"Congratulations to these men and women for standing together and securing a landslide victory," said Bob Warnock, Local 364 President. "We're looking forward to negotiating a contract that gets these men and women wages and benefits that reflect their immeasurable value to the community."
The workers will immediately be covered under the First Student National Master Agreement, which guarantees a number of important benefits. These include provisions on safety, occupational hygiene, seniority, compensation for training and much more.
Thomas Johnson works at First Student South Bend and has been a school bus driver for over 23 years.
"I've been a union man all my life and I think everyone needs a union," Johnson said. "We're looking forward to negotiating on issues like paid time off, health insurance, guaranteed hours and much more."
Teamsters Local 364 represents workers in a wide variety of industries throughout South Bend, Ind. and the surrounding communities.
Contact:
Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877
mmcquaid@teamster.org
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SOURCE Teamsters Local 364 | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/first-student-south-bend-joins-teamsters/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:40Z |
DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Yalla Group Limited ("Yalla" or the "Company") (NYSE: YALA), the leading voice-centric social networking and entertainment platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), today announced that the Group's president, Mr. Saifi Ismail, has published an article on Forbes.com, one of the best-known business authorities in the world.
Mr. Ismail is a respected voice in the technology industry and widely regarded as an expert in the MENA region. His Forbes.com article, which focuses on growth opportunities for digital entertainment startups in MENA, highlights his deep experience in MENA and his comprehensive understanding of the region's unique culture, traditions and values. Furthermore, Mr. Ismail shares his astute perception of the macro landscape and investing trends among both local and international players in MENA's online entertainment sector.
Since joining Yalla in 2019, Mr. Ismail has worked to advance Yalla's vision of building the most popular destination for online social networking and entertainment activities in MENA. In 2022, Mr. Ismail was also selected to the Forbes Business Council, an invitation-only, professional organization for CEOs and other entrepreneurs. As a member of the Forbes Business Council, Mr. Ismail will work with Forbes' professional editorial team to share his expert insights in original business articles on Forbes.com and contribute to published Q&A panels with other respected industry leaders.
About Yalla Group Limited
Yalla Group Limited is the largest voice-centric social networking and entertainment platform in the Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA). The Company operates two flagship mobile applications, Yalla, a voice-centric group chat platform, and Yalla Ludo, a casual gaming application featuring online versions of board games, popular in MENA, with in-game voice chat and localized Majlis functionality. Building on the success of Yalla and Yalla Ludo, the Company has expanded its content, creating a regionally-focused, integrated ecosystem dedicated to fulfilling MENA users' evolving online social networking and entertainment needs. The ecosystem includes YallaChat, an IM product tailored for Arabic users; Waha, a social networking product designed for the metaverse; and games such as Yalla Baloot and 101 Okey Yalla, developed to sustain vibrant local gaming communities in the region. Yalla is also actively exploring outside of MENA, having launched Yalla Parchis, a Ludo game designed for the South American markets. Yalla's mobile applications deliver a seamless experience that fosters a sense of loyalty and belonging, establishing highly devoted and engaged user communities through close attention to detail and localized appeal that profoundly resonates with its users. In addition, through its holding subsidiary, Yalla Game Limited, the Company has expanded its capabilities in mid-core and hard-core game distribution in the MENA region, leveraging its local expertise to bring exciting new content to its users.
For more information, please visit: https://ir.yallagroup.com.
For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
Yalla Group Limited
Investor Relations
Kerry Gao – IR Director
Tel: +86-571-8980-7962
Email: ir@yallatech.ae
The Piacente Group, Inc.
Yang Song
Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
Email: yalla@tpg-ir.com
In the United States:
The Piacente Group, Inc.
Brandi Piacente
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
Email: yalla@tpg-ir.com
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SOURCE Yalla Group Limited | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/forbes-publishes-yalla-presidents-opinion-digital-entertainment-startups-mena/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:47Z |
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Huntington Bancshares Incorporated (Nasdaq: HBAN) expects to report its 2022 third quarter earnings on Friday, October 21, 2022, prior to the market opening. A news release and supporting financial data will be available at that time on the Investor Relations section of the company's website.
Conference Call / Webcast Information
Huntington's management will host an earnings conference call the same day at 9:00 a.m. ET. The call, along with slides, may be accessed via a live Internet webcast in the Investor Relations section of Huntington's website or through a dial-in telephone number at (877) 407-8029 conference ID #13732539.
A replay of the webcast will be archived in the Investor Relations section of Huntington's website. A telephone replay will be available approximately two hours after the completion of the call through Friday, October 28, 2022, at (877) 660-6853 or (201) 612-7415; conference ID #13732539.
About Huntington
Huntington Bancshares Incorporated (Nasdaq: HBAN) is a $179 billion asset regional bank holding company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 1866, The Huntington National Bank and its affiliates provide consumers, small and middle‐market businesses, corporations, municipalities, and other organizations with a comprehensive suite of banking, payments, wealth management, and risk management products and services. Huntington operates more than 1,000 branches in 11 states, with certain businesses operating in extended geographies. Visit Huntington.com for more information.
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SOURCE Huntington Bancshares Incorporated | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/huntington-bancshares-incorporated-announce-2022-third-quarter-earnings-hold-earnings-conference-call-october-21-2022/ | 2022-08-23T21:01:53Z |
MILPITAS, Calif., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- KLA Corporation (NASDAQ: KLAC) today announced webcasts for upcoming investor conferences:
- Thursday, Sept. 8, 2022 – 2nd Annual Evercore ISI Technology Conference at 11:00 a.m. ET
- Friday, Sept. 9, 2022 – Citi's 2022 Global Technology Conference at 10:30 a.m. ET
- Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022 – Goldman Sachs Communacopia + Technology Conference at 10:45 a.m. PT
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/806571/KLA_Corporation_Logo.jpg
The live webcast will be available on the Investor Relations page of KLA's website at http://ir.kla.com/ and a replay of the webcast will be posted after the event.
About KLA:
KLA Corporation ("KLA") develops industry-leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry. We provide advanced process control and process-enabling solutions for manufacturing wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. In close collaboration with leading customers across the globe, our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers design solutions that move the world forward. Investors and others should note that KLA announces material financial information including SEC filings, press releases, public earnings calls and conference webcasts using an investor relations website (ir.kla.com). Additional information may be found at: www.kla.com (KLAC-F).
View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kla-announces-upcoming-investor-webcasts-301365278.html
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SOURCE KLA Corporation | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/kla-announces-upcoming-investor-webcasts/ | 2022-08-23T21:02:00Z |
HENDERSON, Nev., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LookSmart Group (OTCMARKETS SYMBOL: LKST) (https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/LKST/overview), LookSmart Group Inc. ("LookSmart" or the "Company") is making this announcement in compliance with SEC regulation 14e-2 in order to inform shareholders of the Company's position with respect to the following tender offer. LookSmart is in no way associated with Alternative Liquidity Capital and recommends stockholders reject the unsolicited mini-tender offer by Alternative Liquidity for the purchase of up to 21,000 shares which represent 37% of the shares at $2 per share.
- Alternative Liquidity Capital's Tender Offer is Below LookSmart's Last Share Price: Alternative Liquidity's offer price of $2.00 per share is Ninety Two and 3/100 (92.3%) Percent below the last traded price of $26.00 per share and is also Twenty-two Percent (22%) below the bid price of $2.55 in the stock price quotation at otcmarkets.com https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/LKST/overview. Therefore, we recommend rejecting the bidder's tender offer per SEC regulation 14e-2(a)(1).
- LookSmart is in no way associated with Alternative Liquidity Capital.
Accordingly, please exercise extreme caution and undertake due diligence when reviewing Alternative Liquidity's offer.
LookSmart is an online advertising solutions company. LookSmart is based in Henderson, Nevada. For more information, contact us at: ir@looksmart.net or call (702) 625-2269.
This Statement may contain statements that are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on potentially inaccurate assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected or implied by the forward-looking statements. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements are (1) the risk of failing to complete any strategic transaction contemplated by any indications of interest for any reason, including the risk that third parties withdraw such indications of interest, (2) LookSmart's ability to maintain the value of its assets, operations and prospects (3) LookSmart's ability to deliver high quality traffic to advertisers and high value advertising opportunities to publishers (4) LookSmart's ability to capture market opportunities, and achieve growth and value based on its investments and growth opportunities (5) business disruptions associated with the tender offer commenced by Alternative Liquidity and (6) other factors detailed in LookSmart's filings with the OTCMarkets.com
Disclosure: If any material change occurs in the disclosure required by this section, the subject company shall promptly publish or send or give a statement disclosing such material change to security holders.
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SOURCE LOOKSMART | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/looksmart-group-recommends-shareholders-reject-unsolicited-tender-offer-by-alternative-liquidity-capital/ | 2022-08-23T21:02:06Z |
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