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The Emmy Awards came back with gusto Monday night in a televised awards ceremony just like the old days before the pandemic.
Critic Glen Weldon of NPR’s “Pop Culture Happy Hour” gives Here & Now‘s Anthony Brooks his take on the Emmys.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/recapping-the-74th-emmy-awards
| 2022-09-13T18:52:56Z
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Should retirement funds invest in risky assets like crypto? It’s reminiscent of an earlier debate, one that involved a fledgling venture capital industry and something known as the “prudent man rule.”
Wailin Wong and Darian Woods of Planet Money’s “The Indicator” report.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/what-would-the-prudent-man-do-about-investing-retirement-funds-in-crypto
| 2022-09-13T18:53:02Z
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In the U.K., prime minister Liz Truss‘s first order of business: Address climbing energy prices.
Here & Now‘s Eric Westervelt speaks with Simon Evans, an editor at U.K. website CarbonBrief about what Truss has done and whether that’s enough as fall and winter approach.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-u-k-s-energy-crisis
| 2022-09-13T18:53:08Z
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Expert online safety tips for kids and teens
Regular check-ins are key to online safety
InvestigateTV - More than half of teens and young adults admit to spending too much time on social media, according to the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI). As a result, experts said it is crucial to regularly check-in to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Stephen Balkham, the CEO of FOSI, said you should be talking to your child about their online activities several times a month.
Balkham shared four tips to nurture good online behavior:
Check in with your children regularly: Set aside 10-15 minutes once a week to chat about their online activities.
Model good online behavior: Kids mimic your behavior. If they see you constantly on Facebook or checking email, they think they are allowed to do the same.
Research your child’s games and online devices: Know if they are using chats and playing age-appropriate games.
Disable credit cards attached to accounts or devices: You do not want surprise charges on your bill.
FOSI has created one-page safety agreements for young children and teens. The agreement has suggested rules for online time and there are even blank lines you and your child to fill out together to create your own rules for online activities.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/expert-online-safety-tips-kids-teens/
| 2022-09-13T19:06:56Z
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Man kills wife before walking in front of semi to take his own life, police say
MADISON, Wis. (WISC) – Police said a man who took his own life by stepping in front of a tractor-trailer in Wisconsin Sunday was a suspect in his wife’s slaying earlier that day.
Chief Shon Barnes with the Madison Police Department said officers were called to a home where they found that the victim had been “violently, physically attacked.”
The attack had ended with one woman dead, but that was far from the end of the case.
Barnes on Monday laid out a wild and tragic series of events that ended with another death.
The events began around 3:15 p.m. Sunday when police received a call reporting someone was dead in a home. Police said the caller wasn’t on the scene.
The responding officers found a woman in her 40s dead inside the home.
As police tried to find the woman’s husband, another call came in just before 3:30 p.m. reporting that a man had left his car and gotten hit by another car.
Police said the man was able to get back into his own car and drive off.
The third and final call came just before 3:50 p.m. This time, the caller reported the same man had again gotten out of his vehicle before running into traffic, where he was hit and killed by a tractor-trailer.
Barnes said the man was identified as the husband of the dead woman. He also said officers had not been called to the home before.
Police still view what happened inside the home as something that should be addressed.
“Domestic violence continues to be an issue that plagues our community, even though it remains sometimes hidden,” Aureille Smith, director of policy planning and evacuation, said.
The couple’s identities have not yet been released. The incident is being investigated as a murder-suicide.
Copyright 2022 WISC via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/man-kills-wife-before-walking-front-semi-take-his-own-life-police-say/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:03Z
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Pro bull rider Ouncie Mitchell killed in Salt Lake City
Published: Sep. 13, 2022 at 2:51 PM EDT|Updated: 15 minutes ago
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A pro bull rider was killed in Utah overnight Monday in what Salt Lake City police are calling a domestic violence homicide.
Police say in a news release that Demetrius Omar Lateef Allen was found shot outside an apartment complex in Salt Lake City after he got into an argument with a woman he had been dating.
Allen died at a hospital. PBR commissioner Sean Gleason says Allen went by the name Ouncie Mitchell as a pro bull rider.
Police arrested LaShawn Denise Bagley, a 21-year-old woman, on suspicion of murder. It’s unknown if Bagley had an attorney.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/pro-bull-rider-ouncie-mitchell-killed-salt-lake-city/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:09Z
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WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2022 Profile of the Electrical Contractor, a contractor-focused breakdown of the electrical construction market conducted and published by ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Magazine, is now available in a 112-page topline report and as a 16-page summary.
The Profile of the Electrical Contractor is a biennial market research project conducted by Renaissance Research and Consulting, New York, for the ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Media Group.
The 2022 Profile reports information from 843 readers who responded to the magazine's comprehensive survey, which was conducted early this year. Questions related to firm size, revenue, age demographics, and confidence in economic growth.
The Profile represents a snapshot of operations over a point in time. The current report depicts how electrical contractors maintained business during the COVID-19 pandemic and dealt with issues in the supply chain.
Despite these obstacles, electrical contractors experienced revenue and company-size growth, marked by a rise in firms with 10-plus employees and an increase in small businesses reporting revenues of more than $1 million. Most businesses were also able to maintain steady staffing levels.
Another pinpoint is the movement toward higher-tech and value-added areas, such as lighting, low-voltage systems and industrial systems and controls. The surge in sustainability work is steady, mainly from more business in electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment and ventures into solar-power projects. Overall, though, electrical contractors continue to work on a wide variety of project types.
Revenue sources also seem to be shifting towards commercial/industrial/institutional and nonbuilding and away from residential. Average revenue from sources such as new construction, modernization/retrofit, and maintenance, service and repair held steady.
Read the full report in the July and August print editions of ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR or read it online at ecmag.com.
The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is the voice of the $202 billion electrical contracting industry that brings power, light, and communication technology to buildings and communities. NECA collectively represents over 4,000 electrical contractor members served by 118 local Chapters across the U.S.
Published by NECA, ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine reaches more than 80,000 subscribers each month through a print publication. The magazine is part of the ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Media Group, a brand that includes ECmag.com, a weekly e-newsletter Line Contractor and Safety Leader magazines, and more.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/2022-profile-electrical-contractor-available-entire-industry-showing-growth-firm-size-diversification-services/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:16Z
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CLARE, Mich., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "There is a solution to the worldwide need for adequate electrical power in all places and at all times," said Dr. Edward Shaffer, Founder and CEO of Advanced Battery Concepts LLC. This statement came at the global European Lead Battery Conference (ELBC) in Lyon, France, last week, as a preview to his company's announcement today of commitment and entry into LONG DURATION ENERGY STORAGE (LDES).
Long Duration Energy Storage refers to energy storage deployed on an electric grid that stores energy for discharge durations anywhere from 2 to 100 hours. For example, energy storage is needed to bridge the intermittency of renewable power sources (solar and wind) to ensure secure, stable electric supply. It is not a backup, in most cases, but an active part of electrical energy generation, transmission and routine use. Such storage can also help during times of peak demand that affects supply grids for unexpected periods of time at unpredicted intervals.
LDES is not new, in fact, the current, 2022 U.S. investment in Long Duration Energy Storage will reach $4 billion by year's end, forecasting a 30 percent CAGR by 2030. It represents a vital component of the global shift to renewable energy sourcing if "decarbonization" goals are to be achieved.
What is new is entry by Michigan's Advanced Battery Concepts into large-format energy storage on today's one year anniversary of their HOME EMERGENCY ENERGY STORAGE™ (HEES™) launch.
"The HEES™ system designed specifically for the residential micro-grid energy storage market gave us a wealth of insight into user wants, needs, expectations and experiences," said ABC's president, Michael Everett. "We have the battery technology, manufacturing capability and environmental priorities to also serve the large-format energy storage marketplace. This is a recognized standard component of sustainable non-fossil fuel electric generation," he stated.
ABC pioneered new lead battery manufacturing technologies and proprietary bipolar architecture to offer energy storage solutions with superior economics and performance compared to lithium-ion, traditional lead batteries and other rival technologies such as flow batteries and gravity systems. Years of battery developments, numerous patents (54 issued, 60 pending; 49 trade secrets; operating in 10 geographies) has led to the invention of EverGreenSeal™ --their energy storage solution breakthrough battery technology.
Here is a battery designed from the inside-out with End-Of-Life "re-manufacturability" as a leading objective within the design and construction of the new EverGreenSeal batteries. This extraordinary battery, after a long service life (25+years), is deconstructed, the primary materials collected and using novel processes, the active materials are efficiently recycled and built into a new EverGreenSeal battery, with full warranty and service life.
"EverGreenSeal™ batteries were designed for easy disassembly rather than traditional battery "wrecking." The three main components are separated, recycled and fed back into the battery production facility to be processed into new batteries. The spent "leady materials" are converted directly back to starting paste elements. There are no lead fumes or external wastes -- slag, for example, little to no energy input and minimal carbon dioxide emissions," ABC's president explained. "At last, a battery that is more efficiently recycled, capable of long and reliable performance in the Long Duration Energy Storage systems that are essential to the operation of a carbon-free electric grid," Mr. Everett stated.
What makes ABC's founder, Edward Shaffer, so confident of his statement about worldwide adoption of LDES and his EverGreenSeal batteries is: "Our bipolar lead battery is built with abundant and safe low-cost domestic materials and low-cost assembly methods resulting in energy storage solutions that cost the end user significantly less than Li-ion or other technologies. Lowest user cost is the key to widespread (global) adoption, one of the three core principles of ABC's mission -- Economically Responsible energy storage that, coupled with two other core principals of Socially Responsible (meaning safe to people and property) and Environmentally Responsible storage, sets ABC apart from competitors in the industry. Carbon reduction from the world's electrical grid is achievable if these principles are included in the solution," Edward Shaffer concluded.
Advanced Battery Concepts manufactures and sells the most economically, socially, and environmentally responsible energy storage solutions available today. The business focuses on residential and long duration energy storage systems, built on a foundation of proprietary technology termed EverGreenSeal™ Technology. ABC's energy storage provides longest life, lowest installation costs, truly safe operation and a 100% evergreen recycling process.
Better Batteries, Better World® https://advancedbatteryconcepts.com
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/advanced-battery-concepts-launches-batteries-long-duration-storage-vital-solution-critical-energy-demand/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:23Z
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TORONTO, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - SoftwareReviews, a leading source for insights on the software provider landscape, has published its 2022 Virtual Assistants Emotional Footprint, with four providers identified as Champions.
Virtual assistants (VAs) are interactive applications that simulate human interaction by employing natural language processing for input and feedback using text or voice. These AI-powered applications can automate customer interactions, reduce response times, and eliminate time-consuming processes.
As organizations become more digital and move their services online, there is a growing need for virtual assistants to automate the increasing number of interactions and improve the overall digital customer experience. VA software can be a cost-efficient way to offload everyday tasks while getting more done and reaching more customers.
To aid organizations searching for the best solution for automating and streamlining operations, SoftwareReviews has identified the top VA software providers for the year based on verified survey data collected from 164 end-user reviews. These providers have received high scores on SoftwareReviews' Emotional Footprint.
The net emotional footprint (NEF) of each software provider is a result of aggregated emotional response ratings across the areas of service, negotiation, product impact, conflict resolution, strategy, and innovation. The NEF is a powerful indicator of overall user sentiment toward the provider and its product from the software user's point of view.
The 2022 Virtual Assistants Software Champions are as follows:
- Kore.ai Experience Optimization Platform, 100 NEF, ranked high for saving time.
- Ada, 97 NEF, ranked high for over-delivering.
- Qualified, 96 NEF, ranked high for being respectful.
- Mindsay, 93 NEF, ranked high for providing client-friendly policies.
SoftwareReviews' comprehensive software reviews provide the most accurate and detailed view of a complicated and ever-changing market. The data comes from real end users who use the software day in and day out and IT professionals who have worked with it intimately through procurement, implementation, and maintenance.
To compare and evaluate the software providers using the most in-depth and unbiased analyst reports available, visit SoftwareReviews' dedicated virtual assistants category page.
For more information about SoftwareReviews, the Data Quadrant, or Emotional Footprint, or to access resources to support the software selection process, visit softwarereviews.com and connect via LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
SoftwareReviews is the most in-depth source of buyer data and insights for the enterprise software market. By collecting customer experience data from business and IT professionals, the SoftwareReviews methodology produces detailed and authentic insights into the experience of evaluating and purchasing enterprise software.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/amid-growing-need-virtual-assistants-improve-online-experiences-softwarereviews-names-top-four-va-software-providers-2022/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:29Z
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Animal and human heroes from across the nation to be honored for their outstanding contributions to animal welfare at luncheon in New York City
NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Every year, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) honors animal and human heroes who have gone above and beyond to make significant strides to improve animal welfare and make a difference in the lives of others. Exemplifying the ASPCA's humane mission in their communities and around the world, this year's 2022 ASPCA Humane Award recipients will be celebrated at the Humane Awards Luncheon, hosted by ASPCA supporter and NBC New York's Chuck Scarborough, on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022, in New York City.
"Our 2022 ASPCA Humane Award winners demonstrate the impact of combining compassion and commitment to assist animals in need, as well as the power of the human-animal bond," said Matt Bershadker, president and CEO of the ASPCA. "We're proud to honor these outstanding and inspiring animals, people, and organizations who share our mission to support vulnerable animals and those who care for them."
Following a nationwide public call for nominations, an expert ASPCA committee selected winners in six categories, including Kid of the Year, Dog of the Year, Cat Advocate of the Year, the Equine Welfare Award, the Public Service Award, and the Henry Bergh Award, which is given to an individual or institution exhibiting exceptional leadership, compassion, and commitment to animal welfare.
This year's honorees include:
- KID OF THE YEAR: Delanie Dennis (Tampa, FL)
In 2019, at the age of seven, Delanie Dennis founded Delanie's Lemonade Stand in her parents' restaurant, Cafe Delanie. Inspired by an animal welfare organization commercial that moved her and a book about a girl who ran a lemonade stand to benefit pediatric cancer patients, Delanie made a personal commitment to help animals in her community. Each month, Delanie chooses a new local animal rescue organization to receive 100% of the sales of designated items at the stand and restaurant. In three years, Delanie, now ten, has helped raise and donate more than $43,000 to these rescues. In 2021, Delanie went further by hosting her first adoption fair, which featured 29 local animal rescues and resulted in the adoption of more than 30 animals. She also frequently volunteers at rescue organizations caring for a range of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and exotic animals. Delanie believes—and proves—that there's no limit to what a kid can do to support animals in need. - CAT ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR: F.O.R.W.A.R.D. (Indianapolis, IN)
The Feline and Offenders Rehabilitation with Affection, Reformation, and Dedication (F.O.R.W.A.R.D.) program was established in 2015 by former Pendleton Correctional Facility employee Michelle Rains in coordination with the Animal Protection League (APL) of Indiana. In this innovative program, cats of various ages, colors, and personalities—some with behavioral and medical challenges—travel from the APL to customized living spaces at the Pendleton Correctional Facility, a medium-maximum security prison. There, the cats are cared for by selected incarcerated individuals who provide daily care as well as medical care and companionship to the cats. The caretakers also learn important responsibility and pet care skills. In these cat-caretaker relationships, each gains a new companion to appreciate, assist, learn from, and enjoy. Since the F.O.R.W.A.R.D. program began, approximately 60 cats and kittens have spent time at the facility. Many were later adopted into safe and loving homes, thanks in part to the love and socialization experiences they received at the facility. - DOG OF THE YEAR: Clementine (Cedar Hill, TX)
Clementine, a three-year-old Catahoula/hound mix dropped off in May 2021 at an animal shelter in southeastern Louisiana, was one of many animals relocated by the ASPCA Animal Relocation team to Texas when Hurricane Ida headed for the Louisianan coast that August. During her time at the Tri-City Animal Shelter in Cedar Hill, Texas, Clementine was adopted twice but returned each time due to her challenges adapting to her adopted families' lifestyles and other pets.
Around the same time, Captain Robert Moree of the Cedar Hill Fire Department wrote a letter to his Fire Chief proposing they adopt a dog to help the firefighters cope with their stressful jobs. In October, Clementine was adopted by Cedar Hill Fire Department's Fire Station #212 and formed a strong bond with the station's five-man crew. Living full-time inside Fire Station #212—which now includes a custom-built outdoor play yard—Clementine serves not only as a beloved pet but also as a valuable source of therapeutic support and comfort for firefighters coping with traumatic calls. - EQUINE WELFARE AWARD: Detroit Horse Power (Detroit, MI)
Since 2015, Detroit Horse Power—founded by local elementary school teacher and horse enthusiast David Silver—has connected hundreds of Detroit students with horse barns outside the city for free summer camp and after-school experiences. These impactful experiences, including riding and caring for the horses, teach the students valuable lessons about perseverance, empathy, responsible risk-taking, confidence, and self-control that set them up for academic, career, and life success. The organization also hosts a range of community events in Detroit and is advancing toward its 2024 goal of constructing a new urban equestrian center on 14 acres of vacant land inside Detroit that will elevate and improve the accessibility of its programs for young people and help revitalize the surrounding neighborhood. - PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD: Islip, New York Firefighters (Islip, NY)
On the morning of July 17, 2022, firefighters from Islip Terrace Fire Department, Islip Fire Department, and East Islip Fire Department bravely rescued three trapped dogs (two Siberian Huskies and an Alaskan Malamute) and a 19-year-old woman from a house fire in Long Island. Discovering two of the dogs were unconscious and barely breathing, the firefighters immediately began chest compressions and cooled off the dogs with a fire hose. The dramatic rescue was captured on video, inspiring people nationwide.
The rescued woman and all three dogs survived their ordeal thanks to these heroic firefighters' skill and quick thinking. The collaborating departments—who serve more than 14,000 residents combined— acted not only on their duty but also on their deep compassion for people and animals in need. - HENRY BERGH AWARD: Dr. Jon Geller (Fort Collins, CO)
In March 2022, Dr. Jon Geller, an emergency veterinary clinician in Colorado for 20 years, was alarmed by the number of Ukrainians he saw fleeing the country with their pets due to the war with Russia. Inspired to volunteer his skills and resources, Dr. Geller traveled to Romania and spent weeks there setting up and operating a veterinary clinic at the Romanian-Ukraine border that provided veterinary care and pet passport services to the pets of Ukraine refugees. Dr. Geller's team of volunteer student veterinarians from across Europe also supports local animal welfare organizations operating at or near the border. Dr. Geller's Ukrainian clinic is an extension of The Street Dog Coalition, an organization he founded in 2015 to provide free veterinary care to pets of people with housing challenges in nearly 50 U.S. cities. Named Veterinarian of the Year by the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association in 2019, Geller says he will immediately return to the war-torn area if he is needed.
For more information on the 2022 Humane Awards Luncheon or to make a donation to the ASPCA, visit www.ASPCA.org/2022HAL. Your support will help the ASPCA continue to provide local and national leadership in three key areas: caring for pet parents and pets, providing positive outcomes for at-risk animals, and serving victims of animal cruelty.
About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation's leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/aspca-announces-recipients-2022-humane-awards/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:36Z
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HATBORO, Pa., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Azzur Group, a leader in GxP solutions and advisory services for the life science industry, announces the appointment of Adri Osman to Vice President of Corporate Quality and Compliance.
As Vice President of Corporate Quality and Compliance, Adri brings more than two decades of experience from the life sciences industry, focusing on quality and manufacturing operations across biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and consumer healthcare, ensuring product quality and adherence to regulatory requirements to create long-term, transformational results. A Pennsylvania native, Adri will work out of the company's headquarters in Hatboro, Pa.
"I look forward to fostering a best-in-class quality culture throughout all of Azzur Group," said Adri. "I'm excited to work alongside my fellow Azzurians to ensure we continue to be rooted in quality as we work to expand our offerings."
Prior to joining Azzur Group, Adri founded a life sciences consulting firm and was Head of Quality Strategy and Portfolio Management at Teva Pharmaceuticals, a global leader in generics and biopharmaceuticals. During his time at Teva, Adri focused on performance excellence, minimizing quality and compliance risk, and inspection preparedness at the sites. He also led the offshoring program and established the Global Quality strategy which focused on compliance, performance, and capabilities.
"We're delighted to welcome Adri to Azzur Group," said Ryan Ott, Chief Operating Officer. "Adri's experience in both life sciences and professional services to industry will prove incredibly valuable for our organization."
For more information, visit Azzur.com.
From Discovery to Delivery™, Azzur Group provides the life science community full life-cycle solutions for all their GxP needs. From Azzur Cleanrooms on Demand™ facilities to our labs, training centers, and consulting offices across the nation, Azzur Group helps organizations start, scale, and sustain their growing enterprises. With nearly four decades of service to the life science community, we have become a trusted partner to the world's leading pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, and healthcare companies, as well as their supply chain. Follow us on LinkedIn. For more information, visit Azzur.com.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/azzur-group-appoints-life-sciences-leader-adri-osman-vice-president-corporate-quality-amp-compliance/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:43Z
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Community blood centers across the U.S. align to provide mutual support in times of crisis
OKLAHOMA CITY, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Blood centers across the U.S. are celebrating the one-year anniversary of the nation's first emergency blood reserve. The Blood Emergency Readiness Corps (BERC) was founded in 2021 as a partnership by a group of blood centers who joined together to keep the blood supply stocked during emergencies when blood needs are high, such as during a mass-casualty event or natural disaster.
Prior to the founding of BERC, many local centers faced widespread blood shortages during COVID. By creating BERC, these blood centers helped ensure blood will always be ready and available if needed nationwide, without delays and uncertainty.
Originally made up of seven partner blood centers, in the last year BERC has grown to 33 blood centers in 41 states that have committed to reserving additional units of blood on a rotating, "on call" schedule. During a blood center's on-call weeks, the additional blood units are held in reserve, ready to be shipped in response if a critical-need scenario should arise within the BERC network.
"Our members are committed to helping save lives within their own communities, but we know emergencies can arise at any time and outstrip the local blood supply," said Nelson Hellwig, CEO of the Alliance for Community Transfusion Services and Administrator of the BERC Program. "BERC provides an emergency reserve of blood units, available to be shipped at a moment's notice. This allows our members to respond to the needs of their communities and provides essential support whenever a crisis might occur."
Over the last 12 months, BERC activations have been called in response to shootings with multiple victims in Memphis, Tennessee (Sept. 27, 2021); Oxford, Michigan (Dec. 1, 2021); and Uvalde, Texas (May 26, 2022), and in response to widespread damage from tornadoes in Kentucky (Dec. 11, 2021). In each instance, blood units shipped by BERC members around the country helped supplement the local blood supply in the affected region. To learn more about BERC activations see www.bloodemergencyreadinesscorps.org/activations.
For additional information on the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps and its members, see www.bloodemergencyreadinesscorps.org.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/blood-emergency-readiness-corps-marks-one-year-anniversary/
| 2022-09-13T19:07:49Z
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Starting on September 14 in Shakopee, Minnesota, the tour will stop at 52 CASE Construction Equipment dealer locations across the U.S. and Canada
RACINE, Wis., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fans across North America need not wait any longer. Starting September 14, the industry-first CASE Minotaur DL550 will be making its way across the United States and Canada on The Groundbreaker Roadshow — showcased at more than 50 CASE dealer locations.
"Minotaur has a massive fan following and we're giving it the rock star treatment by sending it on a cross-continent tour into 2023," says Terry Dolan, vice president, North America, CASE Construction Equipment. "It's a machine that people have to see to believe — and the common response from people who see it is that it's even bigger, stronger and more versatile than they imagined it would be. It really has that ability to change the industry and how people work."
The CASE Minotaur DL550 compact dozer loader creates a new equipment category. This industry-exclusive machine holds 29 patents, has pushed through more than 12,000 field test hours, countless customer clinics, and typical lab and engineering testing. Attendees of The Groundbreaker Roadshow will get to experience the Minotaur compact dozer loader firsthand, while enjoying a day on the lot with plenty of chances for prizes and giveaways.
The Groundbreaker Roadshow kicks off on Wednesday, September 14 at Titan Machinery of Shakopee, Minnesota. For the full tour schedule, visit CaseCE.com/Roadshow.
More about The CASE Minotaur DL550 Compact Dozer Loader
Weighing in at more than 18,000 pounds and working with 114 horsepower, the new CASE Minotaur DL550 compact dozer loader delivers true dozing and grading performance, as well as powerful site loading capabilities and compatibility with hundreds of attachments. A single platform has never delivered this level of versatility, power and precision — all culminating in an entirely new product category created by CASE: the compact dozer loader.
The hallmark advancement of the CASE Minotaur DL550 is the chassis-integrated C-frame with six-way dozer blade. The C-frame hydraulically couples into both the chassis of the machine, as well as the attachment coupler. This design provides the stability and smooth operating plane of a small dozer while ensuring that all operating power is channeled through the whole body of the machine. This establishes greater performance and long-term reliability than the simple combination of a dozer blade attachment to a traditional compact track loader.
It also comes standard with CASE Universal Machine Control, which makes the machine ready for any of the three major providers of machine control technology, which are sold separately. It's also available with an optional, industry-exclusive fully integrated ripper for tearing up tough terrain to simplify dozing and earthmoving operations.
The C-frame is then easily detached, within minutes, to allow the operator to use it as a loader with a heavy-duty 1.25-cubic-yard bucket, or with hundreds of common loader attachments many equipment owners already have in their fleet.
"The Minotaur is truly a fleet of one, that is second to none," says Jeff Jacobsmeyer, product manager, CASE. "Business owners and fleet managers looking for a compact solution that delivers countless benefits in a single footprint will immediately see the versatility this exciting new machine brings to their fleets and will quickly understand what a 'compact dozer loader' is capable of accomplishing. We are excited to share it with the world."
For more information on the all-new industry-first, groundbreaking CASE Minotaur DL550 compact dozer loader, contact your local CASE dealer, and learn more at http://casece.com/Roadshow.
CASE Construction Equipment is a global full-line manufacturer of construction equipment that combines generations of manufacturing expertise with practical innovation. CASE is dedicated to improving productivity, simplifying operation and maintenance while achieving lower total cost of ownership for fleets around the world. The CASE dealer network sells and supports this world-class equipment, by offering customized aftermarket support packages, hundreds of attachments, genuine parts and fluids as well as industry-leading warranties and flexible financing. More than a manufacturer, CASE is committed to giving back by dedicating time, resources and equipment to building communities. This includes supporting disaster response, infrastructure investment, and non-profit organizations that provide housing and resources for those in need.
CASE Construction Equipment is a brand of CNH Industrial N.V., a World leader in Capital Goods listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CNHI) and on the Mercato Telematico Azionario of the Borsa Italiana (MI: CNHI). More information about CNH Industrial can be found online at http://www.cnhindustrial.com/.
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| 2022-09-13T19:07:56Z
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Original Source: https://www.collegefashionista.com/deiji-accessories-nyfw-debut/
NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Apart from their household names, what do Lady Gaga, Jackie Kennedy, Oprah, Madonna, and J. Lo have in common? They've each worn the unique work of legendary designer, Mark Schwartz. Now, as Creative Director of luxury accessories brand, DEIJI.com, Schwartz continues to create collections worthy of esteem. This time, for NYFW.
In collaboration with fashion cooperative, Flying Solo, DEIJI made its New York Fashion Week debut on Saturday, September 10. The brand was showcased as part of Flying Solo's seasonal, 'Ones to Watch' runway event — and DEIJI certainly proved itself as one to watch.
Aligning with Flying Solo's mission of collaboration over competition, DEIJI featured looks with swimwear by The De La Cruz Collection, and jewelry by Saulé Label. De La Cruz's glittery swim statements and Saulé's bold, layered designs made for the ideal companions to the original DEIJI collection. The unusual yet complementary coupling of elevated resort-wear and structured, leather accessories fostered a memorable runway experience. I've never considered pairing a belt with a bikini, but when DEIJI did it, it worked.
The luxury Italian brand showcased original bag designs, the Elizabeth I, the Rosa, and the Cleopatra. Additionally, the Iris, and the Veronica belts, and the Nefertiti, Black Rose, Arrow, and Black Dahlia sneakers hit the runway among other pieces. Here are the major style takeaways from DEIJI's NYFW runway show:
Structured Silhouettes
The silhouettes of DEIJI's signature leather totes evidence the timelessness of classic shape. Both the Cleopatra and the Elizabeth I hold simple yet striking structures. To elevate any look (even a swimsuit, as proved by the show), add a bag with a strong, timeless silhouette to your wardrobe.
Natural Tones
Creative Director, Mark Schwartz and DEIJI President and designer, Riva Wilkins both stress that the foundation of the brand is their love of natural beauty. Named after the Korean and Japanese word for daisy, DEIJI is intended to capture the essence of the natural world through its design.
Natural tones are not always associated with major statements. This DEIJI collection however, truly popped on the runway thanks to its use of pumpkin, clay, and beige toned patterns. As fall swiftly approaches and you start grabbing for different pieces in your closet, bear in mind that simple, warm shades can definitely still be exciting.
Playful Metallics
The DEIJI Rosa backpack speaks for itself. Metallics are and always will be the best way to make any look more interesting. Isn't that what accessories are all about? Schwartz's use of metallic elements in this runway collection channels the pieces' royal namesakes. From subtle bag and shoe details to full-blown silver patterned backpacks, the metallics in DEIJI's NYFW collection exude a playful sense of luxury.
Shop the unique DEIJI pieces, or incorporate these elevated style elements into your own wardrobe beyond the NYFW runway.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/everything-you-need-know-about-nyfw-debut-emerging-accessories-brand-deijicom/
| 2022-09-13T19:08:02Z
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LANDSKRONA, Sweden, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Extraordinary General Meeting in Haldex Aktiebolag ("Haldex") will not be held on 14 September 2022. Notice of a new Extraordinary General Meeting will be issued as soon as SAF-HOLLAND SE ("SAF-HOLLAND") has received competition law clearance in Poland.
SAF-HOLLAND which, following its public tender offer holds more than nine-tenths of the shares in Haldex, has informed Haldex that it has decided to withdraw its proposals to the Extraordinary General Meeting on 14 September 2022. The proposals concerned the election of new Board members and a new Chairman of the Board, as well as the related matters of determining the number of Board members and the remuneration of the Board.
The reason for the withdrawal of the proposals is that SAF-HOLLAND has not yet received merger control clearance in Poland. As long as SAF-HOLLAND has not received clearance in Poland, SAF-HOLLAND may not exercise the voting rights in respect of the shares that SAF-HOLLAND acquired in the public offer. Like in many other countries, Polish law permits a public tender offer to be completed pending merger control clearance, provided that the offeror does not exercise the voting rights of the shares acquired in the offer. The completed public tender offer, and the transfers of Haldex shares that have taken place pursuant to the offer, are not affected by the fact that clearance in Poland is still pending.
As a result of SAF-HOLLAND having withdrawn its proposals, the Extraordinary General Meeting which should have been held by advance voting only (postal voting) in accordance with the Act on temporary exceptions to facilitate the execution of general meetings in companies and other associations, cannot be held.
Haldex will convene a new Extraordinary General Meeting as soon as SAF-HOLLAND has received merger control clearance in Poland.
The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out below, at 20:00 CEST on 13 September 2022.
CONTACT:
For further information, please contact:
Linda Carlsson, Head of Legal
Phone: +46 768 85 1507
E-mail: ir@haldex.com
About Haldex
Over 100 years of powerful innovation gives Haldex unsurpassed expertise when it comes to braking systems and air suspension systems for heavy trucks, trailers, and buses. We live and breathe our business with the goal to deliver robust and technically superior solutions which is founded in a deep insight in our customer's reality. Through focusing on our core competences and the passion we all share, we achieve the agility and flexibility that the market demands. Innovative collaborations aren't only the core of our products, but our philosophy. Our 2 000 employees, spread out across four continents, challenge the conventional on a daily basis in order to secure that the products we deliver create a unique value to our customers and the end users. We are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and have a turnover of approx. 4.6 billion SEK.
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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| 2022-09-13T19:08:08Z
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TORONTO, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Fengate Asset Management (Fengate) is pleased to announce that Nina Yoo has been appointed Chief Financial Officer effective September 1, 2022.
Nina brings a wealth of experience and an exceptional track record to her new role. Joining Fengate 13 years ago, she progressed steadily to reach her most recent role as Managing Director and Head of Asset Management for Fengate Infrastructure. She managed a team of more than 50 skilled professionals and was responsible for fund and portfolio management for more than 40 assets representing $15 billion of value across P3 projects, wind and solar renewable power projects, combined heat and power plants, data centres and mobile cell towers. Nina also oversaw infrastructure funds with more than $2.5 billion in equity capital from investors around the world, including Canada, the U.S., Asia, and Europe, and was instrumental in the product development of these funds.
As a leader at Fengate and within her industry, Nina is a mentor for many at her firm and within the financial and infrastructure sectors. She leads by example and is an active supporter of up-and-coming women leaders in the firm through mentorship, individual guidance, public speaking, and support to help women advance in their professional careers. At Fengate, Nina continues to bring innovative improvements and solutions to the forefront, including our firm's flexible work policy which she spearheaded during the onset of the pandemic and her leadership with our ESG program.
"Congratulations to Nina on this well-deserved appointment," said Lou Serafini Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, Fengate. "Nina's expertise in finance, asset management and people management has had significant impact with excellent results for our investors and Fengate's overall growth, and I am excited about her leadership as Chief Financial Officer and a member of our Executive team."
About Fengate Asset Management
Fengate is a leading alternative investment manager focused on infrastructure, private equity and real estate strategies. With offices in Ontario and Texas and team members across North America, Fengate invests in long-life, high-quality assets and businesses on behalf of our clients. With more than 45 years of experience, we are proud of our proven track record and trusted reputation across the sectors we work in. Learn more at www.fengate.com
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/fengate-appoints-nina-yoo-chief-financial-officer/
| 2022-09-13T19:08:14Z
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Data Used to Support Solutions for Ongoing Industry Challenges, Such as Battery Range and Payload
Capacity, to Enable Faster Conversion to Environmentally Friendly Options
NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ferguson Enterprises, LLC (NYSE: FERG) (LSE: FERG) today announced a collaboration with Ford Motor Company to place a first-of-its-kind F550 Fuel Cell Prototype Chassis Work Truck in service within Ferguson's daily fleet operations for six months. Participation in Ford's F550 Fuel Cell Prototype Work Truck, a DOE SuperTruck 3 Initiative, complements Ferguson's overall sustainability strategy to reduce a sizable proportion of Scope 1 emissions from its fleet.
This pilot program aims to evaluate how fuel cell technology will operate within the Ferguson fleet while providing real-world usage data to Ford. Ferguson will provide Ford with vehicle data and feedback about the technology to help Ford better define the engineering requirements for commercial vehicle duty cycles. This data will be used to address ongoing industry challenges within the medium-duty and heavy-duty segments, like battery range and payload capacity, that have prevented faster conversion to environmentally friendlier options. As part of this collaboration, Ferguson will also prepare a location in Charlotte, NC for the installation of temporary infrastructure equipment for the duration of the pilot.
"We are taking a proactive approach to meeting the challenge for a more sustainable future, recognizing the critical role fuel-efficient trucks play to keep American businesses running," said Kevin Murphy, Ferguson CEO. "We are pleased to announce this innovative collaboration with Ford to help improve alternative fuel options in their medium-duty fleet, in line with our overall corporate sustainability strategy to reduce our Scope 1 and 2 emissions."
This pilot program with Ford complements Ferguson's previously announced pilot program to launch 30 class 6 through 8 all-electric delivery trucks in its fleet in collaboration with Holman and Electrada. The turnkey fleet management and electrification solutions enable Ferguson to deploy medium- and heavy-duty all-electric vehicles throughout California while streamlining the development of the necessary charging and energy management infrastructure. Together, these investments in new technologies will help inform Ferguson's strategy for a more environmentally friendly fleet.
"As we reviewed emissions from our fleet, we realized our scale in the industry provided us with an opportunity to invest in and test new technologies. Participation in Ford's F550 Fuel Cell Prototype Work Truck pilot program will provide further learnings as we work to convert Ferguson's fleet more efficiently," said Denise Vaughn, Ferguson Vice President - Environmental, Social and Governance. "Ultimately Ferguson's investment in new technologies will set the industry standard for private fleet conversion, driving an expansion of the country's refueling infrastructure."
"Ford's strategy to reduce carbon emissions across the globe includes investigating multiple technologies that will help us achieve these goals across a broad spectrum of applications," said Jim Buczkowski, executive director, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering. "This collaboration with Ferguson is a strong example of where our Ford Pro business and the potential of fuel cell propulsion systems might address the application gaps that battery electric vehicles just can't fulfill. The potential of hydrogen, the most plentiful element on the planet, coupled with fuel cell technology has tremendous potential to power larger, heavier commercial vehicles while still delivering zero tailpipe emissions."
"While the industry continues to evolve and has made great strides, there remain critical challenges that require urgent consideration to facilitate real progress," said Thurman Register III, Ferguson's Senior Fleet Manager. "Fleets cannot delay deployment of cleaner fuel technology based on their current vehicle retention and replacement strategies. Future industry success is driven by companies like Ferguson investing and collaborating with OEM partners to build solutions that improve the environment without disrupting business. Our collective work addresses multiple industry issues and drives the commercial fleet industry quickly towards a more sustainable future."
The story can be found online here: https://www.fergusonpressroom.com/ferguson-announces-collaboration-with-ford-to-explore-alternative-fuel-sources-for-a-more-sustainable-transportation-future-in-commercial-fleets
More information about Ferguson's sustainability priorities can be found on its sustainability page, available at fergusonplc.com and visit Ferguson's press room for more news.
Ferguson plc (NYSE: FERG) (LSE: FERG) is a leading value-added distributor in North America providing expertise, solutions and products from infrastructure, plumbing and appliances to HVAC, fire, fabrication and more. We exist to make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable. Ferguson is headquartered in the U.K., with its operations and associates solely focused on North America and managed from Newport News, Virginia. For more information, please visit www.fergusonplc.com or follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ferguson-enterprises.
SuperTruck 3 is an initiative jointly funded by the DOE Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Technologies Office and the Vehicle Technologies Office within the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Office, and under DOE Cooperative Agreement No. DE-EE0009858.
Contact: Christine Dwyer, christine.dwyer@ferguson.com
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/ferguson-announces-collaboration-with-ford-explore-alternative-fuel-sources-more-sustainable-transportation-future-commercial-fleets/
| 2022-09-13T19:08:21Z
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Nation's Fastest-Growing Superfoods Franchise Introduces New Bases, Bowls, Smoothies and Toasts with Exciting Build-Your-Own Options
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Frutta Bowls, a WOWorks brand and the nation's fastest-growing superfoods franchise, is expanding its menu to allow for more customization and increase its offerings for multiple dayparts. The newly developed menu, with on-trend ingredients and flavors, includes an updated line-up of signature bowls to provide guests more options to fit their unique palates, as well as customize their meals. The brand also introduced new smoothies, smoothie sizes, and toasts.
The updated Signature Bowl menu includes 9 unique and customizable bowls. The new bowls were added to diversify the flavor profile options and provide indulgent eating experiences with healthy and nutrient-rich ingredients. The Rainbowl is filled with naturally sweet, tropical fruits that are a great source of magnesium and potassium, while the Peanutella is a protein-rich, creamy, and filling bowl that is chocolatey and decadent. Additionally, the brand is now offering 5 base options that include Acai, Pitaya, Green, Greek Yogurt, or Oatmeal. Guests now have more options for customization and a choice of a lighter morning or mid-day boost. The oatmeal base provides the choice of a warm, hearty option and the Greek yogurt base offers a creamy, protein-rich selection to expand guests' choices for breakfast for all bowls.
The 9 Signature Smoothie options now come in two sizes: Small and Regular. The new smoothies were created to provide guests with fresh, light, and healthier choices for an on-the-go refreshment. The Very Berry is filled with antioxidant-rich fruits that can boost immunity, while the Glow Up offers a dairy-free alternative to an indulgent superfood, protein and potassium-rich drink with its organic acai, banana, coconut milk, peanut butter and Nutella ingredients.
Rounding out the new menu items are Frutta Bowl's Signature Toast offerings. The new toast options are an exciting addition to the expanded menu that provide guests with heartier ingredients full of rich nutrients and even more delicious flavors. The Everything AVO offers healthy fats from avocados, on-trend "everything bagel" seasoning, and Vitamin C from roasted peppers. The Strawbrie is a sweet and savory toast with a creamy mouthful of brie, chock full of Vitamin B12 and naturally sweetened with strawberries.
"These new menu items focus on nutritious flavor profiles and versatility that aim to satisfy the unique dietary, health and lifestyle considerations of Frutta Bowls' guests," said Lauriena Borstein, Chief Brand Officer of Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, and Zoup! Eatery. "We are excited to roll out these fresh and delicious new options and give guests the freedom to create their own meals based on their personal palates and on-trend ingredients."
Frutta Bowls goes beyond providing flavorful snacks and meals – it provides guests with nutritious and healthy ingredients intended to fuel the mind and body so guests leave feeling reenergized to accomplish their goals for the day. Packed with vitamin-rich ingredients and superfoods like acai, pitaya, kale and a multitude of grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, the menu of customizable bowls, smoothies, toast, and protein bites also help boost your immunity levels and provide necessary nutrients.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Frutta Bowls restaurants offers online ordering and delivery through Frutta Bowls or their rewards program as well as third-party delivery services such as Uber Eats, GrubHub and Door Dash. Guests can join the Frutta Bowls Rewards program and download the app for exclusive, members-only rewards, special offers and guest perks. In addition, a full array of catering options are available to feed any size group with fresh, flavorful and nutritious menu items – from in-home gatherings to office parties or special events.
Founded in 2016 to fulfill a need for fresh and flavorful plant-centric dining options, Frutta Bowls has since grown from its original location in Freehold, New Jersey to 39 locations across 16 states. From Acai to Zinc, Frutta Bowls uses only the freshest, ripest and most flavorful plant-based, whole-food ingredients featured in customizable bowls and smoothies, as well as toasts and protein bites. Frutta Bowls is part of WOWorks, a parent company family of restaurant brands that also includes Saladworks, Barberitos Southwestern Grille and Cantina, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh The Simple Greek and Zoup! Eatery. For more information, visit www.fruttabowls.com.
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| 2022-09-13T19:08:28Z
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The independent lender cracks into the top 5 exceptional workplace experience in financial services
TUSTIN, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- How we work has changed. So has the financial landscape. New American Funding has embraced it and provided a caring, nurturing environment for its employees to thrive – from the individual work they do down to their connected workplace experience.
For these reasons, New American Funding has now been recognized as one of the five best workplaces in the industry on the Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance 2022 list. This is on the heels of Great Place to Work also recognizing the company as #16 on the PEOPLE Companies that Care list for 2022. In fact, 93% of employees agree it's a great place to work.
Since its inception in 2003, New American Funding has grown with one mission in mind: to make the American dream of homeownership a reality for all individuals and families, regardless of their backgrounds.
This extends to its employees having the freedom and flexibility to live and work anywhere—whether working remotely from home, commuting to the company's Southern California headquarters, or working at one of its 160+ branches throughout the United States.
This empowering culture has resulted in one of the most diverse workforces in the country with possibilities for growth and advancement. The company's workforce is comprised of 55% women, 44% minorities, and 41% millennials. These satisfied employees, in turn, create satisfied customers, as New American Funding is #1 in Customer Satisfaction among Mortgage Servicers in this J.D. Power study in 2022.
Privately-owned and the largest independent Latina-owned business, New American Funding marches to its own drumbeat, doing the right thing for employees and the business without answering to shareholders. It's a perspective focused on driving lifelong customer relationships and delivering rewarding employee experiences.
"We are humbled by these rankings, especially coming from our own employees," said CEO Rick Arvielo. "It reinforces the cornerstones of our company: exceptional team effort, understanding our customers, and treating them how we would like to be treated."
To learn more about New American Funding employment opportunities, visit their careers page today.
New American Funding is an independent mortgage lender with a servicing portfolio of 237,000+ loans for approximately $62.8 billion and 163 nationwide locations. The company is #18 on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2022 and has made Inc. 5000's list of Fastest-Growing Companies in America eight times. It also offers state-of-the-art career training and provides its branch Loan Officers with innovative technologies to streamline the mortgage process.
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| 2022-09-13T19:08:35Z
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NORTHBROOK, Ill., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amsterdam-based Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V., an operating company of U.S.-based Hilco Global, announced today the sale of all assets at ThyssenKrupp Heavy Plate Rolling Mill facility located in Duisburg-Hüttenheim, Germany to an Asian Steel Producer. The sale comes only six months after Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V. first acquired the Heavy Plate Mill from Thyssen Krupp Steel Europe.
Europe's second largest steel producer, ThyssenKrupp, shuttered the German facility in September 2021. During its operation, the heavy plate rolling mill facility produced approximately 850,000 metric tons of steel which was used for shipbuilding, offshore and heavy fabrication construction production. In addition to the very large Hot Rolling Mill, other items for sale included late model furnaces, hot- and cold-levelers, hot- and cold shears, quenches, inline ultrasonic inspection, shotblasting/priming, and numerous flame and plasma cutting machines.
Information about the assets and more details on the project can be read here hilcohia.com
Relocation work will start after this summer and approximately 22,000 metric tons of machinery and equipment will be removed from its location in Duisburg-Hüttenheim, Germany to Asia.
Robert Bouland, Managing Partner at Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V., stated, "We knew the acquisition represented an outstanding opportunity for buyers seeking to purchase high-quality, late model machinery used in a combined roughing and finishing mill." Bouland added, "We are pleased to have had such strong interest in the mill, allowing us to close the sale of ThyssenKrupp in just six months."
Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V. continues to expand their acquisition portfolio in the mill equipment space. This sale is the second Heavy Plate Mill sold by the company in the last 2 years. Hilco Industrial Acquisition recently sold the 2 million ton per year Dongkuk Steel Heavy Plate Mill from Korea in February 2021, as well as the 2015 Danieli Rebar Mill at Posco SS Vina in Vietnam in September 2021. Most recently, Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. (CAP ACERO) from Chile has engaged the company to sell steel and rolling mill equipment no longer needed in CAP ACERO's continuing operations.
Enabling record breaking solutions such as the Thyssen Krupp project is Hilco Global's strong commercial industrial platform that merges our Valuation, Advisory, and Monetization practices to create next-level capital solutions for its customers, providing creative and customized solutions to fit every situation.
About Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V.: Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V. (www.hilcohia.com) is based in Amsterdam in the Netherlands and provides industrial asset acquisition and disposition services, specializing in machinery, equipment and inventory auctions and negotiated sales. It sells the broad range of industrial assets found in manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution companies. The company buys and sells assets through on-site, online and combination webcast auction sale events as well as negotiated (private treaty) sales. In addition to providing services on a fee or commission basis, Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V. puts capital at risk and often acquires assets or provides guarantees.
Hilco Industrial Acquisitions, B.V. is part of Northbrook, Illinois based Hilco Global (www.hilcoglobal.com), the world's leading authority on maximizing the value of business assets by delivering valuation, monetization, advisory, and capital solutions to an international marketplace. Hilco Global operates more than twenty specialized business units offering services that include asset valuation and appraisal, retail and commercial industrial inventory acquisition and disposition, real estate repositioning and renegotiation, strategic advisory, operational consulting, and strategic capital solutions.
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| 2022-09-13T19:08:41Z
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NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO ANY JURISDICTION INTO WHICH SUCH DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. THIS NOTICE IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT AN OFFER TO PURCHASE OR SELL SECURITIES. THE CASH OFFERS DISCUSSED BELOW ARE BEING MADE SOLELY PURSUANT TO THE OFFER TO PURCHASE.
LONDON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On 2 August 2022, HSBC Holdings plc (the 'Company,' 'we' or 'us') launched three separate offers to purchase for cash up to a total of U.S.$70,000,000 aggregate principal amount (the 'Maximum Amount') of outstanding notes listed in the table below. We refer to the outstanding notes listed in the table below collectively as the 'Notes' and separately as a 'series' of Notes. We refer to each offer to purchase a series of Notes as a 'Cash Offer', and collectively as the 'Cash Offers.'
The Cash Offers are made upon the terms and are subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase dated 2 August 2022, as amended on 30 August 2022 (the 'Offer to Purchase') relating to the Notes and the related certification instruction letter (together with the Offer to Purchase, the 'Offer Documents'). The Offer Documents are available at the following link: https://www.gbsc-usa.com/hsbc/.
The following are ineligible to participate in these Cash Offers (each, an 'Ineligible Holder'):
- A 'qualified institutional buyer' within the meaning of Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 'Securities Act').
- A holder of an aggregate principal amount of $200,000 or more in the relevant series of the Notes.
All other holders of Notes are eligible to participate in the Cash Offers (such other holders, the 'Cash Offer Qualified Holders'). Holders participating in the Cash Offers are required to certify that they are Cash Offer Qualified Holders.
The Company today announces that on the terms and subject to the conditions in the Offer to Purchase, set forth in the table below is the 'Consideration' for each series of Notes, as calculated at 11:00 am (New York City time) on the date hereof (the 'Price Determination Date') in accordance with the Offer to Purchase. References to '$' are to U.S. dollars.
In addition to the Consideration, holders whose Notes of a given series are accepted for purchase will also be paid a cash amount equal to accrued and unpaid interest on such Notes from, and including, the last interest payment date for such Notes to, but not including, the Settlement Date, rounded to the nearest cent (such amount in respect of a series of Notes, 'Accrued Interest'). Accrued Interest will be payable on the Settlement Date. For the avoidance of doubt, interest will cease to accrue on the Settlement Date for all Notes accepted in the Cash Offers. Under no circumstances will any interest be payable to holders because of any delay on the part of Global Bondholder Services Corporation, as depositary, The Depository Trust Company ('DTC') or any other party in the transmission of funds to holders.
Each Cash Offer will expire at 11:59 pm (New York City time) today, unless extended or earlier terminated by the Company in its sole discretion (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended, the 'Expiration Time'). Notes tendered for purchase may be validly withdrawn at any time at or prior to 11:59 pm (New York City time) today (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended, the 'Withdrawal Date'), but not thereafter, unless the relevant Cash Offer is extended or earlier terminated by the Company in its sole discretion. The settlement date is expected to be the third business day after the Expiration Time, or 16 September 2022, unless extended or earlier terminated in respect of a Cash Offer by the Company in its sole discretion (such date with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended, the 'Settlement Date').
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer Documents, holders who validly tender Notes at or prior to the Expiration Time and whose Notes (i) have not been validly withdrawn at or prior to the Withdrawal Date and (ii) are accepted for purchase by us, will receive the Consideration specified in the table above for each $1,000 principal amount of such Notes, which will be payable in cash on the Settlement Date as described above.
If the Company terminates a Cash Offer, all Notes tendered pursuant to such Cash Offer will be returned promptly to the tendering holders thereof.
The Company reserves the right to (i) delay accepting any Notes, extend any Cash Offer, or, upon failure of a condition to be satisfied or waived prior to the Expiration Time for a Cash Offer, terminate such Cash Offer and not accept any Notes; and (ii) amend, modify or waive the terms of the Cash Offers in any respect, including waiver of any conditions to consummation of the Cash Offers, at any time or from time to time, in its sole discretion, subject to applicable law. If any of the conditions is not satisfied at the Expiration Time with respect to a Cash Offer, the Company may, in its sole discretion and without giving any notice, subject to applicable law, (a) terminate such Cash Offer, (b) extend such Cash Offer, on the same or amended terms, and thereby delay acceptance of any validly tendered Notes, or (c) continue to accept tenders.
Each Cash Offer is independent of the other Cash Offers, and we may terminate, modify or waive the conditions of any Cash Offer without terminating, modifying or waiving the conditions of any other Cash Offer.
Holders of Notes are advised to check with any bank, securities broker or other intermediary through which they hold Notes as to when such intermediary would need to receive instructions from a beneficial owner in order for that beneficial owner to be able to participate in, or withdraw their instruction to participate in, a Cash Offer before the deadline specified herein and in the Offer to Purchase. The deadlines set by any such intermediary and DTC for the submission and withdrawal of tender instructions will be earlier than the relevant deadline specified herein and in the Offer to Purchase.
Holders of Notes are advised to read carefully the Offer to Purchase for full details of and information on the procedures for participating in the Cash Offers.
Holders should consult their own tax, accounting, financial and legal advisers regarding the suitability to themselves of the tax, accounting, financial or legal consequences of participating in the Cash Offers.
HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. is serving as Dealer Manager in connection with the Cash Offers. For additional information regarding the terms of the Cash Offers, please contact: HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. at +1 (888) HSBC-4LM (toll-free) or +1 (212) 525-5552 (collect), Europe: +44 (0)20 7992 6237. Requests for the Offer to Purchase may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation, which is acting as the Depositary and Information Agent for the Cash Offers, at (212) 430-3774 or (855) 654-2014 (toll-free) or contact@gbsc-usa.com.
This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or sell, any security. No offer, solicitation or sale will be made in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. The Cash Offers are only being made pursuant to the Offer to Purchase. Holders of the Notes are urged to carefully read the Offer to Purchase before making any decision with respect to the Cash Offers.
United Kingdom. This announcement and any other documents or materials relating to the Cash Offers are not being made and such documents and/or materials have not been approved by an authorised person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. Accordingly, this announcement and such documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, persons in the United Kingdom other than (i) to those persons who are within Article 43 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the 'Financial Promotion Order'), including existing members or creditors of the Company, or (ii) to any other persons to whom it may otherwise lawfully be made (all such persons together being referred to as 'Relevant Persons') and the transactions contemplated by the Offer to Purchase will be available only to, and engaged in only with, Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person should not act on or rely on this announcement or any of its contents.
Belgium. Neither this announcement nor any other documents or materials relating to the Cash Offers have been submitted to or will be notified to, and neither this announcement nor any other documents or materials relating to the Cash Offers have been or will be approved by, the Belgian Financial Services and Markets Authority ('Autoriteit voor Financiële Diensten en Markten/Autorité des Services et Marchés Financiers'). The Cash Offers may therefore not be made in Belgium by way of a public takeover bid (openbaar overnamebod/offre publique d'acquisition) as defined in Article 3 of the Belgian Law of 1 April 2007 on public takeover bids, as amended (the 'Belgian Takeover Law'), save in those circumstances where a private placement exemption is available.
The Cash Offers are conducted exclusively under applicable private placement exemptions. The Cash Offers may therefore not be advertised and the Cash Offers will not be extended, and neither this announcement nor any other documents or materials relating to the Cash Offers (including any memorandum, information circular, brochure or any similar documents) have been or shall be distributed or made available, directly or indirectly, to any person in Belgium other than (i) to 'qualified investors' within the meaning of Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended and (ii) in any circumstances set out in Article 6, §4 of the Belgian Takeover Law. The Offer to Purchase will be issued only for the personal use of the above-mentioned qualified investors and exclusively for the purpose of the Cash Offers. Accordingly, the information contained in the Offer to Purchase may not be used for any other purpose or disclosed to any other person in Belgium.
Italy. None of the Cash Offers, this announcement or any other document or materials relating to the Cash Offers have been or will be submitted to the clearance procedures of the Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa ('CONSOB') pursuant to Italian laws and regulations. The Cash Offers are being carried out in the Republic of Italy as exempted offers pursuant to article 101-bis, paragraph 3-bis of the Legislative Decree No. 58 of 24 February 1998, as amended (the 'Financial Services Act') and article 35-bis, paragraph 4 of CONSOB Regulation No. 11971 of 14 May 1999, as amended. Holders or beneficial owners of the Notes that are located in Italy can tender the Notes for purchase in the Cash Offers through authorised persons (such as investment firms, banks or financial intermediaries permitted to conduct such activities in the Republic of Italy in accordance with the Financial Services Act, CONSOB Regulation No. 20307 of 15 February 2018, as amended from time to time, and Legislative Decree No. 385 of 1 September 1993, as amended) and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations or with requirements imposed by CONSOB or any other Italian authority.
Each intermediary must comply with the applicable laws and regulations concerning information duties vis-à-vis its clients in connection with the Cash Offers.
Hong Kong. This announcement and any other documents or materials relating to the Cash Offers and/or the Notes is not being made in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (i) in circumstances which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong) (the 'CWUMPO'), or (ii) to 'professional investors' as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) (the 'SFO') and any rules made thereunder, or (iii) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a 'prospectus' as defined in the CWUMPO.
No invitation, advertisement or document relating to the Cash Offers and/or the Notes has been or will be issued, or has been or will be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public in Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to the Cash Offers and/or the Notes which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to 'professional investors' as defined in the SFO and any rules made thereunder.
Canada
Any offer or solicitation in Canada must be made through a dealer that is appropriately registered under the laws of the applicable province or territory of Canada, or pursuant to an exemption from that requirement. Where the Dealer Manager or any affiliate thereof is a registered dealer or able to rely on an exemption from the requirement to be registered in such jurisdiction, the Cash Offers shall be deemed to be made by such Dealer Manager, or such affiliate, on behalf of the relevant company in that jurisdiction.
France. This announcement and any other offering material relating to the Cash Offers may not be distributed in the Republic of France except to qualified investors as defined in Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended. Neither this announcement, nor any other such offering material has been or will be submitted for clearance to, nor approved by, the Autorité des Marchés Financiers.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
In this announcement the Company has made forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of terms such as 'believes', 'expects', 'estimate', 'may', 'intends', 'plan', 'will', 'should', 'potential', 'reasonably possible' or 'anticipates' or the negative thereof or similar expressions, or by discussions of strategy. We have based the forward-looking statements on current expectations and projections about future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, as described under 'Risk Factors' in the Offer to Purchase. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed herein might not occur. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.
Note to editors:
HSBC Holdings plc
HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of the HSBC Group, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 63 countries and territories in our geographical regions: Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and Middle East and North Africa. With assets of US$2,985bn at 30 June 2022, HSBC is one of the world's largest banking and financial services organisations.
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| 2022-09-13T19:08:47Z
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HERNDON, Va., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Illuminate, a data solutions company that provides tools and services which collect and analyze information for key decision-makers, announced today it is looking to fill more than 100 open positions company-wide, with the majority of those in the Washington, DC area. The openings include jobs in areas ranging from applications developers to intelligence analysts.
Illuminate needs to hire the additional employees due to the strong growth of the company over the past year. Recently, Illuminate was awarded several large federal government and military data analysis contracts.
"We have a critical need across the board for qualified professionals, from tool developers to the analysts that use them," said Gregg Melanson, Illuminate's Executive Vice President, U.S. Operations. "This is a tremendous opportunity for those with military and government agency experience, and particularly those with security clearances. Illuminate is in a strong growth mode, and we expect that to continue indefinitely."
Illuminate offers a supportive and growth-oriented work environment, with an emphasis on employee quality of life and professional development. Our teams tightly integrate and leverage one another to design, deploy, and maintain best-in-breed solutions for the planet's toughest missions. Employees receive competitive salaries and a benefits package that includes performance bonuses, health and dental coverage beginning on day 1, and a comprehensive safe harbor 401K with employee matching contributions.
Illuminate believes in a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion where all people are valued. We embrace the diversity of the rich backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our global workforce. Different points of view are welcomed and celebrated, as we strive to create an inclusive workplace where all feel empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.
Visit our Careers Page to become a part of our team and check out our organization on LinkedIn.
About Illuminate
Illuminate provides data collection and analysis services and software to clients in the defense, intelligence, and Federal Law Enforcement sectors. The company's innovative capabilities include network monitoring, intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, and data engineering. More information can be found at OneIlluminate.com.
Media contact:
Neal Stein
Technology PR Solutions
Ph: (321) 473-7407
nealjstein@techprsolutions.com
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SOURCE Illuminate
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/illuminate-add-more-than-100-new-employees/
| 2022-09-13T19:08:54Z
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Report provides recognition and proof point of Schneider Electric as a leader of expert capabilities, highlighting flexible, on-site, smart energy generation and storage in microgrid offers.
BOSTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has been recognized by Verdantix as a leader in microgrid technology to enable advancement in the grid-interactive ecosystem for decarbonization and sustainability in the "Schneider Electric Leads The Charge On The Democratization Of Energy" report.
Increasing the grid interactivity of facilities is becoming a key enabler for decarbonization as more renewables are onboarded, stemming from the grid, on-site generation, and as uptake of electric vehicles becomes more widespread. Verdantix recommends that customers required to adapt to a rapidly changing energy landscape and looking to implement on-site renewable generation and storage as part of wider corporate decarbonization goals should consider Schneider Electric's microgrid offerings.
"Schneider Electric offers a comprehensive suite of hardware, software and services for energy management and automation in infrastructure to enable sustainable, reliable and efficient operations," said Verdantix Analyst Ben Hext. "We think that they are well positioned to provide microgrid offerings that meet a variety of needs, including resilience, on-site renewable energy and energy savings."
"Microgrids are a key enabler in the pursuit of a decarbonized environment and a more sustainable energy future, which is why Schneider Electric has built one of the best microgrid portfolios in the market," said Bala Vinayagam, SVP, Microgrid Line of Business at Schneider Electric. "Rising energy prices, the increasing frequency of grid outages, and the requirement to decarbonize have made energy challenges relevant and universal to all. As one of the most reputable global sustainability companies, Schneider has made it so that the benefits of microgrids can transform the energy profiles of a diverse set of infrastructure."
Schneider Electric helps its customers succeed with its microgrids offerings:
- Flexible energy consumption to reduce power costs: Firms must mitigate exposure to fluctuating energy prices by exploring on-site generation and storage. For example, Citycon, a real estate owner and developer, is developing a microgrid-enabled city center in Espoo, Finland in partnership with Schneider Electric. Schneider Electric and Citycon project the program will save $352,000 in energy costs per year with an ROI of 5 years in conjunction with investment aid for new technologies.
- Increased resilience against grid failures: EcoStruxure Microgrid Advisor uses predictive analytics to carefully balance electricity consumption and generation for resilience. The platform can ingest historical data, weather forecasts, energy market pricing and scheduled operations to optimize energy flows in case of grid outages. For example, the US Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego installed a microgrid from Schneider Electric to ensure continued power access during sustained grid outages of up to 14 days.
- On-site renewable generation and storage for corporate decarbonization goals: Many businesses are pursuing net zero goals to align with governmental targets, such as the Paris Agreement. Lidl Finland installed a microgrid from Schneider Electric at a 60,000m2 distribution center. Projections estimate that the facility will reduce energy consumption by 50% and enable 100% renewable energy consumption through on-site generation and clean energy purchase agreements.
- Smarter use of renewable energy and EV charging to decarbonize operations: Governments worldwide are introducing a shift from fossil fuel vehicles toward EVs. Montgomery County is deploying a microgrid for EV charging at the Brookville Smart Energy Bus Depot through an EaaS agreement with Schneider Electric's AlphaStruxure. The microgrid integration will deliver reliable charging to a fleet of 44 electric buses, cutting carbon emissions by 62% and enabling the county to maintain bus services during power outages.
Having installed over 300 microgrids to date, Schneider Electric provides monitoring and predictive controls, comprehensive building automation, and de-risks the investment into microgrids with Energy as a Service joint ventures GreenStruxure and AlphaStruxure.
Schneider's purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On.
Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency.
We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies, end-point to cloud connecting products, controls, software and services, across the entire lifecycle, enabling integrated company management, for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries.
We are the most local of global companies. We are advocates of open standards and partnership ecosystems that are passionate about our shared Meaningful Purpose, Inclusive and Empowered values.
Follow us on: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Blog
Hashtags: #LifeIsOn #Microgrid #Decarbonization #EcoStruxure #Resilience #Electrification #EaaS
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SOURCE Schneider Electric
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/independent-analyst-firm-positions-schneider-electric-leader-industry-advancements-microgrid-technology-sustainability/
| 2022-09-13T19:09:01Z
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PITTSBURGH, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I'm an experienced nurse in a correctional facility and I thought there should be a way to sanitize handcuffs between inmate patients," said an inventor, from Little Rock, Ark., "so I invented the HANDCUFF AUTO CLAVE. My design would help to maintain cleaner health standards in various facilities that serve and treat inmates/prisoners."
The invention provides an effective way to clean and sterilize handcuffs between uses. In doing so, it helps to reduce the spread of disease or infection between inmates/prisoners. As a result, it saves time and effort and it enhances sanitation. The invention features a practical design that is easy to use so it is ideal for correctional facilities, police, etc.
The original design was submitted to the National sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-HTT-7275, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:08Z
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PITTSBURGH, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I thought there should be a way to charge your phone while relaxing in the shade at the beach," said an inventor, from McCarley, Miss., "so I invented the SOLAR BEACH UMBRELLA DOC. My design would provide added protection, comfort and convenience on bright sunny days at the shore."
The invention provides an improved umbrella for beachgoers. In doing so, it offers shade and protection against the sun. It also enables the user to charge a smartphone or other device. As a result, it enhances comfort and convenience. The invention features an innovative design that is easy to use so it is ideal for beachgoers.
The original design was submitted to the Jackson sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-JTK-132, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:14Z
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PITTSBURGH, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a new and versatile grill which would consistently make the best burgers and other grilled foods easily while also adding in the versatility of making amazing pizzas or roasted veggies," said the inventor, from Katy, Texas, "so I invented the HUFF GRILL. My design would enable grilled food to be cooked thoroughly and without the risk of burning food due to constant flareups."
The patent-pending invention provides a unique grill design for barbecuing enthusiasts. In doing so, it offers an alternative to traditional grilling. As a result, it ensures that foods are cooked thoroughly and uniformly. It also prevents fat and grease from dripping into the burners and causing flare-ups. Additionally, the invention features an innovative, versatile, and eye-catching design that is easy to use making it ideal for grilling enthusiasts.
The original design was submitted to the Houston sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-HOF-213, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:20Z
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PITTSBURGH, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a simple product to help clean the skin and clear acne," said an inventor, from Renton, Wash., "so I invented ACNE WIPES. My design could help to leave the skin feeling smooth, clean, fresh, toned and attractive."
The invention provides an effective way to cleanse the skin and kill bacteria. In doing so, it offers a time-saving alternative to traditional skin care routines. It also helps to combat acne issues and it could contribute to a healthier appearance. The invention features an all-natural design that is easy to use so it is ideal for teenagers and individuals with acne. Additionally, it is producible in design variations and a prototype is available.
The original design was submitted to the Seattle sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-FED-2404, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:27Z
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PITTSBURGH, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I'm an auto body worker and it can be difficult to evaluate the extent of body panel damage. I thought there could be an easier way," said an inventor, from Fresno, Calif., "so I invented the CYCLE TIME LASER. My design would take the guesswork out of determining the necessary repairs, costs and time."
The invention provides an effective way to map auto body damage. In doing so, it can be used to determine the extent of harm to a door, fender or other panel. It also enables the technician to find hidden damage. As a result, it increases accuracy and convenience. The invention features a reliable design that is easy to use so it is ideal for auto body technicians and repair shops. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.
The original design was submitted to the Fresno sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-FMB-128, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:34Z
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PITTSBURGH, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "We thought there could be an improved receptacle for collecting trash/yard debris," said one of two inventors, from Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., "so we invented the YARD BUDDY. Our design would also reduce the need for continuous bending and working on your knees."
The patent-pending invention provides an easier way to load and unload yard/garden-related debris. In doing so, it offers an improved alternative to traditional trash receptacles. It also ensures that a convenient seat is readily available while gardening and it eliminates the need to continuously bend. The invention features a multi-functional design that is easy to use so it is ideal for homeowners, gardeners, landscaping services, etc. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.
The original design was submitted to the Fort Lauderdale sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-FJK-168, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:40Z
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National Life Becomes One of the First Providers to Offer a Fully Digital Distribution of Indexed Universal Life Insurance Policies via Same-Day Turnaround and Without Human Touch
EXTON, Pa. and MONTPELIER, Vt., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- iPipeline® announces that National Life Group is utilizing its iGO® e-App and Resonant® underwriting solutions to automate and optimize the underwriting and distribution of indexed universal life insurance policies.
iPipeline's technology enables National Life to become one of the first insurance providers to distribute universal life insurance policies via a fully digital process—on the same day the customer applies for coverage and without the need for any human touch. By integrating iPipeline's e-App, new business solutions with underwriting and e-Signature tools, National Life can now fully digitize and automate all processes involved in issuing a complex indexed universal life insurance policy—including electronic application, data transfer, underwriting, policy approval, and sending the policy to the customer.
"Our partnership with National Life spans more than a decade—and it has culminated in an innovative platform which reduces the time it takes to issue an indexed universal life insurance policy from approximately 46 days—to less than one," said Deane Price, Chief Executive Officer of iPipeline. "National Life has been one of the fastest growing life insurers in the U.S.,* and we are proud that our ongoing collaboration has positioned them to grow at scale to meet the expectations of their customers."
"National Life and iPipeline are two companies, yet from the beginning of our strategic partnership, we have been one collaborative and innovative team," said Nimesh Mehta, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer of National Life Group. "We are a purpose-driven organization, and iPipeline shares our commitment of getting the process right—especially for those in Middle America, where a significant percentage of the population is uninsured or underinsured. Our relationship with iPipeline empowers us to transform the way we deliver insurance, so that we are well-positioned to stay one step ahead of customer expectations in today's changing world—and ensure the process will never prevent customers from protecting their financial future."
About iPipeline
iPipeline is building a comprehensive digitized ecosystem for the life insurance and wealth management industries, which will enable millions of uninsured or under-insured Americans to secure their financial futures as part of a holistic financial planning experience. The firm is working to optimize all application and processing workflows—from quote to commission—and consolidating them within one of the most expansive straight-through processing platforms, significantly reducing paper, saving time, and increasing premiums and placements for insurance agents. iPipeline is also committed to offering premier subscription-based tools to help financial institutions and advisors automate and digitize financial transactions, comply with regulations, and seamlessly incorporate life insurance and annuities into client accounts.
The iPipeline digital ecosystem incorporates one of the industry's largest data sets to enable advisors and agents to optimize their businesses. Since its establishment in 1995, iPipeline has facilitated 1.5 billion quote responses, $32 billion in savings on printing and mailing costs, the collection of 55 billion premiums, and the protection of 25 million lives. iPipeline operates as a unit of Roper Technologies (NYSE: ROP), a constituent of the S&P 500® and Fortune 500® indices. For more information, please visit https://www.ipipeline.com/.
About National Life Group
National Life is here to bring you peace of mind. We've been keeping our promises since 1848. Believe in tomorrow, do good today. Learn more at NationalLife.com.
National Life Group® is a trade name of National Life Insurance Company, founded in Montpelier, Vt., in 1848, Life Insurance Company of the Southwest, Addison, Texas, chartered in 1955, and their affiliates. Each company of National Life Group is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. Life Insurance Company of the Southwest is not an authorized insurer in New York and does not conduct insurance business in New York.
Media Contacts:
Laura Simpson
JConnelly for iPipeline
973-713-8834
ipipelinepr@jconnelly.com
Beth Rusnock
Corporate Communications, National Life Group
802-229-7214
brusnock@nationallife.com
* #3 fastest growing life company over the past 5 years (of companies with $50M+ of sales in 2016) – LIMRA Sales Rankings, 4Q2021
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SOURCE iPipeline
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:47Z
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MIAMI, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- JenCare, a leading national provider of primary care to underserved, Medicare-eligible seniors, announced today the appointment of industry veteran Steve Nelson as CEO of JenCare. The newly created role is intended to continue to drive scalable growth, geographic expansion, and consistent performance. Currently, there are 30 JenCare Senior Medical Centers across six cities in Georgia, Virginia, Illinois, Kentucky, and Louisiana. Having an independent leadership team will enable JenCare to accelerate its growth and serve more patients in more markets.
Steve brings more than 30 years of industry experience, with deep expertise at the highest levels of healthcare organizations. He most recently served as the Co-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Duly Health and Care, one of the largest multispecialty independent provider groups in the U.S. with more than 1,000 primary care and specialty care physicians and more than 7,000 team members across 150 locations.
Prior to Duly, Steve spent 15 years at UnitedHealth serving in leadership positions in both the Commercial and Government businesses. He served as the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, making the $190 billion division of UnitedHealth Group number one nationally in Medicare Advantage. He oversaw the commercial and government-subsidized health insurance businesses, including Medicare Advantage, which covered over five million seniors. He drove efforts that resulted in increased growth, employee engagement and customer satisfaction.
Throughout his career, Steve has demonstrated the ability to scale and build strong organizations while staying focused on reimagining healthcare by working closely with physicians and healthcare delivery systems. His leadership has resulted in exceptional patient experiences and better outcomes through access to high-quality, affordable healthcare services and better navigation across the healthcare system.
"Today marks a pivotal moment for JenCare, and we are proud to have Steve on board to further our mission of honoring seniors by delivering better health outcomes with quality and coordinated care through our physician-led organization. We want to fully unlock JenCare's potential and scale the business to serve more of the neediest populations," said Dr. Chris Chen, CEO of ChenMed, the majority owner of JenCare. "Steve will be instrumental as we enter our next phase of growth, and he has a proven track record of growing large, impactful organizations with strong cultures, missions and performance. Additionally, Steve knows how to harness physician leadership to drive tremendous outcomes. During his tenure at UnitedHealthcare, the company became the leader in Medicare, and I'm confident he will create immense value for JenCare."
JenCare is committed to delivering superior healthcare to Medicare-eligible and dual-eligible seniors. The company employs outstanding physicians who are empowered to deliver VIP service, to detect and effectively manage high-risk diseases, and to reduce hospital sick days for seniors, many of whom are living with multiple and major chronic conditions.
"I'm thrilled to be leading JenCare into the next chapter," said Steve Nelson, CEO of JenCare. "Achieving equity in health access has been a passion since starting my career in healthcare. I admire what JenCare and the Chen family have done for the underserved population, and I look forward to scaling this successful model and expanding the business even further."
JenCare Senior Medical Center is a senior-focused primary care practice. Currently, there are 30 JenCare centers across six cities in Georgia, Virginia, Illinois, Kentucky, and Louisiana.
JenCare is part of the Chen family of companies, which operates more than 100 centers in 15 states. The company employs outstanding primary care physicians and specialist doctors who are empowered to do whatever it takes to deliver VIP service; to detect and effectively manage high-risk diseases; and to reduce hospital sick days for Medicare-eligible seniors, many of whom are living with multiple and major chronic conditions.
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SOURCE ChenMed
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:54Z
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Lara N. DiCristina Joins New Orleans Office
NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Jones Walker LLP announced today that Lara N. DiCristina has joined the firm as a partner in its New Orleans office as a member of the firm's maritime litigation, arbitration, and dispute resolution team.
Lara has more than 20 years of trial experience litigating a wide array of matters before juries and judges in state and federal courts in various jurisdictions. She helps clients protect their interests in matters involving maritime and land-based personal injuries and fatalities, complex commercial disputes, toxic exposures, property damage claims, contract and charter party disputes, chemical releases, vessel arrests and attachments, products liability claims, environmental exposures, oil spills, insurance coverage disputes, and subrogation matters.
"It is a pleasure to have Lara join our renowned Maritime Practice Group, and we know that her more than 20 years of litigation experience will boost the capabilities of our litigation, arbitration, and dispute resolution team," said Bill Hines, managing partner of Jones Walker.
Lara brings to the firm some significant experience with incident response investigations and has guided her clients through the aftermath of offshore and land-based catastrophic losses, fatalities, personal injuries, collisions, allisions, groundings, sinkings, fires, explosions, chemical releases, and environmental spills.
Speaking on her move, Lara said, "I am incredibly proud to join the talented group of attorneys at Jones Walker and am honored to be working with the firm's well-established maritime litigation, arbitration, and dispute resolution team.
Lara earned her BA from Louisiana State University and her JD from Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center.
Jones Walker LLP (joneswalker.com) is among the largest 135 law firms in the United States. With offices in Alabama, Arizona, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, and Texas, we serve local, regional, national, and international business interests. The firm is committed to providing a comprehensive range of legal services to major multinational public and private corporations, Fortune® 500 companies, money center banks, worldwide insurers, and emerging companies doing business in the United States and abroad.
Contact:
Savannah Kirk
225.248.3435
skirk@joneswalker.com
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| 2022-09-13T19:09:56Z
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Filing accuses nationwide apartment owner of racial discrimination against crime victim
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- UDR Inc. (NYSE: UDR), a large national real estate corporation, cannot shake a discrimination lawsuit that a former tenant filed in 2021 after he was forced to vacate the premises after unknown assailants shot him at his Washington, D.C. apartment, Capitol View at 14th.
A judge's order, issued Friday, allows key portions of the lawsuit filed on behalf of Patrick Oseni, a young Black graduate of Howard University, to proceed.
The lawsuit stems from a January 2020 incident at Capitol View, a luxury apartment building, where Oseni was shot one Saturday morning after opening the door to his unit. The lawsuit says assailants entered the building unimpeded, went up to the fourth floor, knocked on Oseni's door and shot him in the head and torso when he opened it. He survived after undergoing emergency surgery.
The claim alleges that when he returned from the hospital in bandages, UDR had changed the lock on Oseni's apartment door and pressed him to vacate because UDR claimed other tenants were "uncomfortable" with him continuing to live in the building.
One month later, a police raid on another Capitol View apartment—on the same floor where Oseni had resided—turned up guns, cash and drugs including crystal meth and cocaine. That illegal operation—and not Oseni—was the likely target of the initial incident, according to the lawsuit.
"I think Patrick may have been shot by assailants who had the wrong door and nearly killed the wrong guy," said lead attorney Mark A. Smith of Smith Mustille, LLC, who along with Judith A. Mustille represents Oseni.
UDR, which is headquartered in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and operates apartment buildings in New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, Silicon Valley, Dallas, San Francisco, and other cities, moved to dismiss the case. But D.C. Superior Court Judge Maurice Ross allowed the most serious counts, including two counts of discrimination, one of fraudulent misrepresentation, and one of intentional infliction of emotional distress, to proceed toward trial.
"No one should have to experience the trauma that Patrick suffered at the hands of a landlord who locked him out of his apartment because he'd been the victim of a crime, especially in a luxury building where the owners advertise 24-hour concierge and controlled access," said Ms. Mustille.
Contact:
Mark Annick
800-559-4534
mark@androvett.com
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/judge-allows-young-black-former-tenants-discrimination-claims-against-udr-advance/
| 2022-09-13T19:10:03Z
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Honor reflects Sidi's cumulative work and dedication as a leader in the Real estate lending and fintech industries
FOOTHILL RANCH, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Zeenat Sidi, loanDepot Inc.'s president of Digital Products and Services, will receive the Asian American Business Development Center's (AABDC) 2022 "Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business" award recognizing excellence in corporate professionals and entrepreneurs.
Each year, the Outstanding 50 award committee identifies and selects remarkable leaders who have built a successful business or distinguished themselves in their community. The AABDC has to-date conferred the premier award to over 1,000 Asian American corporate executives and entrepreneurs, representing scores of industries nationwide.
loanDepot President and CEO Frank Martell said, "Zeenat's recognition as one of the 50 outstanding Asian Americans in business reflects her considerable accomplishments and dedication as a leader in the real estate lending and financial services industries and shines a light on loanDepot's efforts to ensure our company, at all levels, represents the customers we serve across the country. Congratulations to Zeenat for this well-deserved honor."
"It is truly an honor to be recognized by the AABDC and our community," said Sidi. "As an immigrant coming to the US to pursue higher education, the support I received from the community and my colleagues in the business world who embraced my diverse background and experiences, was instrumental in shaping my career and my passion for financial inclusion. This award comes as loanDepot continues to be an increasingly purpose-driven organization, and I'm proud to continue to advance ways to leverage financial services technology to help those who need it the most in our diverse communities. Congratulations to all the Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award recipients. It is humbling to be amongst this esteemed group."
Sidi joined loanDepot in March 2022 to lead LDI Digital Products and Services. With a 25-year track record of accomplishments in fintech and financial services, she's built a reputation for driving important digital transformation initiatives with some of the most recognized companies in the industry. She is also the chair of the Audit Committee of the Texas Women's Foundation, one of the largest regional non-profit organizations dedicated to the empowerment of girls and women, advancing their economic security and leadership through research, advocacy, grants and programs.
Sidi will receive the honor at the 2022 Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business dinner gala, September 22. As an industry innovator, she spoke earlier today at National Mortgage News' Digital Mortgage Conference in Las Vegas, Nev. about the future of future of one-shop homeownership.
About loanDepot
loanDepot (NYSE: LDI) is a digital commerce company committed to serving its customers throughout the home ownership journey. Since its launch in 2010, loanDepot has revolutionized the mortgage industry with a digital-first approach that makes it easier, faster and less stressful to purchase or refinance a home. Today, as one of the nation's largest non-bank retail mortgage lenders, loanDepot enables customers to achieve the American dream of homeownership through a broad suite of lending and real estate services that simplify one of life's most complex transactions. With headquarters in Southern California and offices nationwide, loanDepot is committed to serving the communities in which its team lives and works through a variety of local, regional and national philanthropic efforts.
Media Contact:
Jonathan Fine
VP, Public Relations
(781) 248-3963
jfine@loandepot.com
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/loandepots-zeenat-sidi-receive-outstanding-50-asian-americans-business-award/
| 2022-09-13T19:10:10Z
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NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In order to mitigate water damage and conserve water throughout Europe and the US, MIC Global and InsureTEK are partnering to bring innovative water sensor technology with embedded microinsurance to property companies and REITs.
InsureTEK recognised a requirement within the property industry for greater water protection and monitoring, with owners facing challenges sourcing the necessary equipment and data. In their endeavor to save gallons of water and reduce properties' environmental impact, they developed an IOT Sensor Enabled Loss Control as a Service (LCaS) and ESG monitoring solution which includes sensors, financing, installation, warranty, monitoring, and mitigation.
MIC Global brings their highly relevant, affordable microinsurance products into InsureTEK's platform, providing warranty coverage. In another exciting development, InsureTEK becomes the first policy to be provided via MIC's Lloyd's Syndicate 5183.
Steven Haase, President of STP Insurance Services says:
"InsureTEK's large scale deployment of their LCaS platform was the perfect partner fit for us to launch our combination of technology and microinsurance products."
Harry Croydon, President and CEO of MIC Global states:
"Many people are talking about how IoT can help the Insurance industry - we are actually doing it and rolling out insurance across thousands of devices globally."
Michael P. Murphy KM, President and CSO at InsureTEK says:
"We strategically partnered with MIC on our innovative LCaS platform as they understood that the risk management and insurance markets needed to evolve to stay relevant and brought an entrepreneur's spirit matched with technical expertise that has become a cornerstone of our business."
Peter L. Piecuch, CRMO at InsureTEK adds:
"Underwriters can now access real-time data emanating from the risks they cover. Starting with water loss monitoring, MIC facilitates InsureTEK's LCaS, delivering accurate, seamless data which lowers risk in a cost-effective platform. This advance in loss control underwriting technology also checks the ESG box for energy and water conservation, giving underwriters new tools for our policyholders."
As of August 2022, InsureTEK has installed around 1000 devices which have detected water leaks resulting in thousands of dollars saved per year on the cost of water and reduced energy bills and environmental impact and footprint for properties.
For press enquiries or more information about MIC Global, visit https://www.micglobal.com or email press@micglobal.com
For more information about InsureTEK, visit https://www.insuretek.com or email info@insuretek.com
SOURCE: MIC Global https://www.micglobal.com/mic-global-insuretek-partner-deliver-water-loss-coverage
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| 2022-09-13T19:10:16Z
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Digital trail pass and incentive program showcase color and culture at The Beach
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Visit Myrtle Beach has launched its Arts & Gallery Trail, offering guests an all-new way to explore the destination's 14 unique communities and 60 miles of coastline. In collaboration with the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum and The Arts Grand Strand, the Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail features more than 100 attractions, studios, murals, sculptures and so much more.
Visitors and residents alike will get an unexpected look at the destination's vibrant art scene, from hidden gems and secret underground passages filled with art, to popular staples like the award-winning Brookgreen Gardens, which features the largest collection of figurative sculpture in the U.S. and is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. The trail also features awe-inspiring oceanfront sculptures, enormous alleyway murals and micro galleries – all of which dot the landscape of the region.
"We are so proud to work with local artists and arts organizations throughout our community to help bring the Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail to life," said Karen Riordan, president and CEO of Visit Myrtle Beach. "The Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail will inspire people to explore our ever-evolving destination and dynamic community at The Beach and beyond."
The trail stretches from Little River and North Myrtle Beach to Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island – stopping in many of Myrtle Beach's lesser-known areas, such as historic downtown Conway, the quaint "Little Golden Town" of Aynor and the newly-minted Arts & Innovation District – along the way. To participate, guests can sign up for a free digital pass and check-in to stops to earn points. Points can be redeemed for a variety of prizes, including prints from local artists, t-shirts and even a trip to The Beach.
"There are so many passionate artists in the Myrtle Beach area, and it's an honor to help share their stories and promote their work through the Arts & Gallery Trail," explained Patricia Goodwin, executive director of the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. "I hope visitors and residents alike take time to explore the trail, learn more about the stories of our local artists and experience the diverse arts community Myrtle Beach has to offer."
For more information on the Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail, please visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/artstrail
About Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Myrtle Beach isn't just a beach. It's The Beach. Popularly known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is one destination made up of 14 unique communities that stretch 60 miles along the northeast coast of South Carolina. Families, couples and those in search of a warm welcome will find more than just a day at The Beach when they come together to connect and enjoy vibrant entertainment and family attractions, including world-class golf, shopping and fresh coastal Carolina cuisine. Recognized as an autism-friendly destination since 2016, Myrtle Beach has established a number of programs and partnerships to create an inclusive destination for visitors of all abilities. From the moment you arrive, you'll find you belong at The Beach – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. For additional information on tourism offerings in the Myrtle Beach area, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle-1.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/myrtle-beach-south-carolina-launches-new-arts-amp-gallery-trail/
| 2022-09-13T19:10:23Z
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CLEVELAND, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Novum Underwriting Partners is excited to announce an exclusive Franchise and Non-Franchise Auto Dealer Insurance Program specializing in multi-line coverage tailored to meet the unique needs of Automobile and RV Dealers.
This exciting new program is offered on admitted paper and grants Novum's DealerPro program with Property and Auto Liability binding authority in AR, AZ, ID, IL, IN, MS, NV, PA, SD, UT, and WV, with more states to follow.
Novum is a specialty MGA and wholesale broker providing commercial insurance nationwide on a fully proprietary comparative rating & submission platform. Novum is headquartered near Cleveland, OH. To learn more, please visit www.novumuw.com.
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| 2022-09-13T19:10:30Z
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MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OZY Media, the award-winning news and entertainment company, today announced the launch of its 5th annual OZY Genius Awards (OGA).
The landmark grant program supports ten bold and innovative ideas from college and university students with a summer stipend of $10,000. From scientific research to launching new companies, writing books to building nonprofit organizations, the OZY Genius Awards has allowed talented young people to fully pursue their big dreams to help make the world a better place. Since 2015, the OGA program has already helped launch young superstars, such as Amanda Gorman, Brandy Star Merriweather and Dyllen Nellis.
"Winning the OZY Genius Award gave us momentum to scale our impact by enabling our team to launch an online mentorship community for students around the world," said Dante Alvarado-Leon, OGA class of 2017.
"We are so proud of the OZY Genius Awards and all that they stand for," said OZY CEO Carlos Watson. "My mom, a former teacher, helped incubate the idea and I am so pleased to see hundreds of students embrace this wonderful opportunity by putting their best ideas forward."
This year's OGA program, with the support of *AT&T Dream in Black, will give special emphasis to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)by also honoring them as AT&T Rising Future Makers. A campaign that launched in 2021 to uplift HBCU students making a difference in their communities and providing them the connections needed for greater possibility.
"I've met so many HBCU students who have brilliant ideas, but they lack the capital and resources to bring them to life. I was once in that same boat," said Michael DeVore, OGA class of 2015. "I believe the OZY Genius Awards can help attract resources to talented HBCU students. There are so many amazing young people that need platforms like this to highlight their brilliant ideas."
"We believe deeply in the creativity and genius of young people and are glad to be supporting the OZY Genius Awards," said AT&T Chief Diversity Officer, Michelle Jordan. "AT&T is committed to supporting young leaders and our Rising Future Makers program plays a critical role in that effort."
Applications for the OZY Genius Awards are available here to full-time college students in the U.S. and will remain open until Oct. 31, 2022. Winners will be announced on Nov. 15, 2022.
Current and recent judges have included: former Mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Carmen Yulín Cruz; noted physicist and bestselling author Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi; former OMD CEO John Osborn; Milwaukee Bucks owner Marc Lasry; Emerson Collective founder Laurene Powell Jobs; former "CBS Evening News" anchor Katie Couric; former McKinsey partner James Manyika.
Enjoy this short video to feel the spirit of the OZY Genius Awards or to learn more about AT&T Dream in Black, please visit attdreaminblack.com.
OZY cuts through the noise with a bold and smart approach, showcasing the new and next in global news and entertainment. A cutting-edge media company delivering premium TV shows, podcasts, newsletters, and festivals, OZY highlights provocative and indispensable voices that help us understand and appreciate our ever-spinning world. Launched in 2013, OZY has produced 5 newsletters, 12 TV shows, 9 podcasts and 4 festivals, and won a 2020 Emmy Award for its groundbreaking television program, "Black Women OWN the Conversation."
We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com.
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| 2022-09-13T19:10:36Z
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MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Patterns of Evidence has become a beloved, trusted source for those seeking to discover the credibility of the Bible. By comparing biblical accounts with science, archaeology, and historical documents, the series strives to validate stories from scripture that are core to biblical faith. Now, the sixth film, PATTERNS OF EVIDENCE: JOURNEY TO MOUNT SINAI, will launch in theaters for a two-night only event, October 17 & 18 through Fathom Events. This will be followed in early 2023 by the second theatrical film in this series.
View trailer HERE
PATTERNS OF EVIDENCE: JOURNEY TO MOUNT SINAI is focused on searching for the true location of Mount Sinai. The film follows investigative filmmaker Tim Mahoney pursuing physical evidence of the Exodus journey to Mount Sinai where Scripture shares that God came down to meet the Israelites. The film follows the Israelites' path after the Red Sea crossing until their arrival at the mountain. After initially focusing on a mountain in Saudi Arabia, favored by Exodus Explorers, Mahoney is challenged to look at other options. He uses the trusted Patterns-of-Evidence approach to investigate six main candidates. Examining details in the biblical text as well as geographical and archaeological information, he sets out to pin-point the mountain's true location. Can he find the mountain where Moses encountered the burning bush and heard the voice of God commanding him to return with the Israelites?
Viewers can download a free Mount Sinai Scorecard on the film website, to begin their own Biblical research and follow along during the film's investigation. Each Journey to Mount Sinai film explores evidence for three Mount Sinai candidates. Director Tim Mahoney comments "I believe this interactive approach of using the Mount Sinai Scorecard will open up a whole new level of engagement for the viewer and their faith, as they use their Bible to evaluate the evidence being presented for each Mount Sinai candidate. At the end of the two films the viewer will be able to rate which location they believe is the true site of Mount Sinai as well be inspired by the historical credibility of the Bible."
Fathom Events and Thinking Man Films will host Patterns of Evidence: The Journey to Mount Sinai Part 1 in movie theaters nationwide on Monday October 17 and Tuesday October 18 at 7:00 p.m. local time.
Tickets for the film can be purchased at www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theater box offices. For a complete list of theater locations visit the Fathom Events website (theaters are subject to change).
For artwork/photos related to The Journey to Mount Sinai, visit the Fathom Events Press page.
About Fathom Events:
Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal , a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in all the top U.S. markets and to more than 45 countries. For more information, visit www.FathomEvents.com
About Thinking Man Films:
Thinking Man Films is a U.S. based production company owned by Timothy P. Mahoney. The company's first film was Patterns of Evidence: The Exodus and led to the internationally successful Patterns of Evidence film series. We seek to produce balanced, high-quality films and media that encourage all to be thinking men and women. www.thinkingmanfilms.com
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/patterns-evidence-journey-mt-sinai-first-film-two-part-interactive-documentary-series-hitting-theaters-october-17-amp-18/
| 2022-09-13T19:10:43Z
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New offerings help establish a proven path to enterprise pipeline and revenue generation so that reps can prioritize the right people in the right accounts
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- People.ai, the enterprise revenue intelligence leader, today announces the launch of its newest product capabilities, including Engagement Dashboards, Account Planning, and People.ai for Oracle Sales Cloud to help sales and ops teams drive greater efficiency, deeper relationships and clearer visibility.
According to LinkedIn's Global State of Sales 2022 report, sellers spend only 30% of their time actually selling, making automatic activity data capturing essential for reps to do the most important part of their job. Also noted in the report, 81% of sellers are losing deals from key contacts leaving client or prospect companies, and 45% say incomplete data is their biggest data challenge. More automation and visibility into pipeline means salespeople can win more deals and generate more revenue.
"The industry today has turned selling into an obstacle course, where reps need to navigate so many hurdles in order to actually do their job. We're clearing the pathway so teams can focus on what matters: building revenue," said Oleg Rogynskyy, CEO of People.ai. "Our newest product offerings aim to transform the B2B sales process by providing our customers with more data and greater insight to accelerate business decisions that will grow pipeline, increase deal sizes, shorten sales cycles and boost win rates."
Key features of People.ai's new product offerings include:
Engagement Dashboards
People.ai's Engagement Dashboards provide sales and ops teams with a powerful out-of-the-box experience for both buyer and seller engagement visibility. With Engagement Dashboards, sales and ops teams can pinpoint at-risk accounts and opportunities in real time by easily creating personalized tables with custom metrics based on any CRM or People.ai field.
Vonage, an innovation leader in leveraging sales technology across their account-based selling initiatives and People.ai customer, is an early adopter of this new solution. "Leveraging People.ai's multi-org SFDC enabled us to completely revamp our coaching culture and approach to account-based selling," said Frankie Panicucci, sales operations generalist at Vonage. "Our sales leaders now have more data and visibility into pipeline health, which gives us the ability to increase account engagement where needed and achieve our revenue goals."
People.ai Account Planning
People.ai's Account Planning application enables enterprise sales leadership to operationalize their account planning methodology, process and strategy, all natively in Salesforce. Coupled with People.ai data automation and insights, Account Planning helps sellers visualize and develop a deeper understanding of the buyer's business, goals, and obstacles to identify opportunities, resulting in increased pipeline in existing and target accounts.
People.ai for Oracle Sales Cloud
As a part of Oracle's recent announcement about the next iteration of Oracle Fusion Sales, People.ai and Oracle have partnered together to transform the sales process into a modern revenue engine. The result of that partnership, People.ai for Oracle Sales Cloud, will help customers generate more revenue by increasing sales productivity, which will drive more and bigger deals faster and increase buyer satisfaction.
"We're collaborating with People.ai because we're equally laser-focused on transforming the sales process into a modern revenue engine," said Katrina Gosek, vice president, product management, Oracle Customer Experience. "Together, we will be able to provide our mutual customers with the actionable revenue insights needed to drive significant revenue transformation and growth.
For more information about People.ai's product and service offerings, please visit https://people.ai/product/
About People.ai
People.ai is the leader in guiding enterprise sales teams on the proven path to pipeline and revenue generation. The People.ai enterprise revenue intelligence platform ensures organizations speed up complex sales cycles by engaging the right people in the right accounts. Through our patented AI technology, People.ai enables sales teams to clearly see whom to engage with in each of their accounts and exactly what to do to deliver the highest yielding deals. Enterprises such as AppDynamics, DataRobot, Okta, and Zoom know that people buy from people, that's why people buy from People.ai. For more information, please visit www.people.ai
Media Contacts
BLASTmedia for People.ai
Avery Hand
peopleai@blastmedia.com
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| 2022-09-13T19:10:51Z
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Lawsuits By Workers and Surrounding Residents Continue to Mount as a Result of August 15, 2021 Chemical Release
HOUSTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Two delivery drivers, who were on the grounds of the Lubrizol Corporation plant in Deer Park, Harris County, Texas on August 15, 2021, have filed separate lawsuits against the company alleging that negligence and gross negligence by the company caused them permanent respiratory injuries.
According to the lawsuits filed today in the District Court of Harris County, Lubrizol Corporation's workers caused the release of massive amounts of toxic chemicals, hydrogen sulfide and mercaptan, into the air by overheating a railcar, where the chemicals were being stored, on August 15, 2021.
The two lawsuits state that the two independent contractors were working at the Lubrizol Corporation plant in Deer Park at the time of the leak and inhaled high concentrations of chemicals, which caused severe and permanent respiratory and neurological injuries. The lawsuits also state that adequate emergency management measures were not taken by Lubrizol Corporation's workers after the leak occurred.
Multiple lawsuits have already been filed by residents, who surround the Lubrizol Corporation plant in Deer Park, complaining of similar injuries. More than 49,000 people in and around Houston were forced to shelter in place, with people located as far away from the plant as downtown Houston calling Harris County Pollution Control to complain. A subsequent investigation by Harris County Pollution Control resulted in a finding that Lubrizol violated multiple state health and safety laws. It was also determined that the release constituted a nuisance to the public's normal use and enjoyment of its property.
"Unfortunately, out-of-state companies, like Lubrizol Corporation, who profit from having a plant in the Houston metropolitan area, are not as concerned as they need to be about the safety of Harris County's workers and residents," says Derek Potts, representing the two delivery drivers as well as hundreds of residents in Deer Park who were injured by the release. "We are seeking justice and compensation for all of our clients who were injured and terrified due to the negligent conduct of Lubrizol on August 15, 2021."
The lawsuits are Lisa Curry v. The Lubrizol Corporation, et. al., Cause No.: 2022-57957 and Brian Pitts v. The Lubrizol Corporation, et al., Cause No.: 2022-57984, filed in Harris County District Court. Plaintiffs' attorneys are Potts Law Firm out of Houston, Texas.
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/potts-law-firm-two-delivery-drivers-file-lawsuits-against-deer-park-lubrizol-plant/
| 2022-09-13T19:10:59Z
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LOS ANGELES, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MeWe, a 20 million-member, privacy-first, social network committed to protecting user data, today announced the close of a $27-million investment round led by McCourt Global.
"As a values-driven company, we are pleased to have the support of values-driven investors," said MeWe Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Edell. "This latest round of capital led by McCourt Global will help more people enjoy the benefits of a social media platform that doesn't exploit its members and sell their data. We are thrilled for this additional support that will allow us to grow MeWe's privacy-centered social media model even further."
The round included $12 million from previous investors and $15 million in strategic financing from McCourt Global. Led by CEO Frank McCourt, McCourt Global is committed to building a better future through its work across the real estate, sports, technology, media, and finance industries, as well as its significant philanthropic activities.
MeWe is a breakthrough social network engineered to respect personal privacy and avoid algorithmic manipulation – allowing for authentic relationships and community to thrive. Its global membership, which currently spans North America, Europe and Asia, has created over 600,000 interest groups to date. With members divided equally between U.S. and international audiences, MeWe's free service is available in 20 languages.
MeWe has a different business model than other social media networks and doesn't depend on selling user data. Instead, it offers paid premium service granting members additional services like cloud storage and custom emojis. MeWe gives members full control of their newsfeed and content for authentic sharing with friends, family, people with common interests, as well as following celebrities, artists, and influencers without the manipulation of ads or algorithms.
With the injection of capital from McCourt Global, MeWe will work to optimize the benefits of social media, continue to uphold their commitment to reject financial models that exploit member data, and expand the company's global footprint. It will also advance the shared vision of a healthier digital ecosystem where members have more control over their personal information and online networks without manipulation by algorithms.
"Our stake in MeWe reflects our desire to give the power of the internet back to people and put individuals in control of their personal data," said Frank McCourt. "We are eager to advance new models of innovation that empower internet users, help restore trust and privacy rights, and pave the way for a more equitable digital economy. Our investment in MeWe is not just about supporting one company's unique and socially conscious approach to digital engagement, it's ultimately about investing in a healthier digital community and society."
About MeWe
MeWe is a privacy-first social network that allows you to join groups, enjoy your friends, and puts you in complete control without ads or algorithms. With 20 million members worldwide, and unique features such as the MeWe 2-way camera, MeWe is host to over 600,000 member-driven interest groups. The company offers a groundbreaking "Privacy Bill of Rights'' which guarantees members control of their data and newsfeeds. MeWe encourages authentic engagement between members by not manipulating or amplifying content and safeguards its members with strong Terms of Service.
In 2016, MeWe was honored as Start-Up of the Year Finalist for "Innovative World Technology" at SXSW. MeWe's Board of Directors includes Jeffrey Edell, Divya Narendra, Braxton Woodham, Max Duncan, Jonathan Wolfe, and Jason Hardy. Advisors to MeWe include the father of the World Wide Web, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and filmmaker Cullen Hoback.
About McCourt Global
McCourt Global (MG) is a private family company committed to building a better future for all through its work across the real estate, sports, technology, media, and finance industries, as well as its significant philanthropic activities. Led by civic entrepreneur Frank McCourt, MG is dedicated to extending the McCourt family's 130-year legacy of merging community and social impact with financial results, an approach that started when the original McCourt Company was launched in Boston in 1893. MG's multiple businesses include Ligue 1 football club Olympique de Marseille, an international real estate portfolio, a technology development lab focused on creating a healthier digital society, and a private investment platform with over $1 billion in permanent capital. In 2021, MG announced the launch of Project Liberty, an initiative to transform how the internet works and create a new civic architecture for the digital world; and, in partnership with Sciences Po in Paris and Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., established the McCourt Institute to ensure that digital governance is core to the next generation of the web. MG powers Unfinished, an impact network reimagining the future to create a thriving democracy and just economy; and hosts the annual Unfinished Live convening in New York City in September. MG's philanthropic activities include its foundational support for Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy and The Shed in New York City.
Contact:
Emily Schwartz
press@mewe.com
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- The Reejig Impact Fund will donate Reejig's workforce intelligence technology to veteran, skilled refugee and other underrepresented communities, with a goal to reskill, build new capabilities, and remove barriers to career opportunities for all.
- Reejig is calling on as many people as possible to join the pledge to unlock a world of Zero Wasted Potential where all individuals have access to meaningful career opportunities, no matter their background or circumstance.
- For each pledge, Reejig will gift its workforce intelligence technology to someone from an underrepresented community, giving them access to career opportunities that align to their skills, interests, and potential.
LAS VEGAS, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Enterprise-grade workforce intelligence platform Reejig is proud to announce the launch of the Reejig Impact Fund at the HR Technology Conference and Expo in Las Vegas.
The Impact Fund is designed to help underrepresented communities unlock career opportunities, growth, and potential. It will donate Reejig's workforce intelligence technology to veterans, skilled refugees and other underrepresented communities, with a goal to reskill, build new capabilities, and remove barriers to career opportunities for all.
Announcing the launch, CEO & Co-Founder of Reejig, Siobhan Savage said, "Reejig's mission is to create a world with Zero Wasted Potential in business, people, and society. We're not just building technology; we're also creating recurring impact and change for the better. The Reejig Impact Fund is our way of giving back to society by removing barriers to career opportunities for all. When people have fair and equitable access to personally meaningful work — no matter their background — all of society can reap the benefits"
Reejig is calling on as many people as possible to join the pledge to unlock a world with Zero Wasted Potential. For each pledge, Reejig will gift its workforce intelligence technology to someone from an underrepresented community, giving them access to career opportunities that align to their skills, interests, and potential.
The launch of The Impact Fund comes after a huge year of growth for Reejig. The team has grown by over 1000% and opened offices in APAC, NAMER, and the UK. It is rapidly adding to its global enterprise client portfolio with clients such as AWS, KPMG, Woolworths Group, John Holland, and Allianz. Reejig announced last week that it had secured an investment from Salesforce Ventures, adding to its world-class investor portfolio including Skip Capital, headed by Atlassian co-founder Scott Farquhar, Airtree Ventures, and Culture Amp's Didier Elzinga.
Siobhan Savage will be speaking at the HR Technology Conference and Expo in Las Vegas, which runs from 13th – 16th September. Siobhan's session, Have you got your Zero Wasted Potential People Strategy? will focus on how HR leaders can create a winning people strategy in this volatile environment.
Siobhan Savage, said of being at the conference, "We are excited to connect with the world's top people leaders in Vegas this week at HR Tech. We're challenging leaders to approach their people strategy with the same rigor that they would do their supply chain or finances. This starts with knowing who your people are, what skills they have and how you are utilizing them. We created Reejig to give organizations true visibility of their people and their potential, at scale, so they can optimize their workforces and create meaningful careers for everyone involved."
For on the ground updates at the event follow #HRTechConf or Siobhan Savage's LinkedIn or Reejig's LinkedIn.
Reejig is a leading workforce intelligence platform that enables global organizations to find, retain, and upskill talent at scale. Powered by the world's first independently-audited, ethical AI, Reejig acts as your central nervous system for all talent decisions, enabling zero wasted potential. Learn more by visiting reejig.com, or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Reejig is a platinum sponsor of the HR Technology Conference and Expo 2022.
Anya Khalamayzer
anya.khalamayzer@reejig.com
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:12Z
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NICB To Meet With U.S. Department Of State, U.S. Consulate in Tijuana To Evolve and Reinforce Partnership
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the insurance industry's association dedicated to predicting, preventing, and prosecuting insurance crime, is strengthening its longstanding relationship with the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Consulate in Tijuana. NICB President and CEO David Glawe will meet with Meg Katsumi, Chief of American Citizens Services at the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana, Mexico on Tuesday, Sept. 13 to discuss emerging fraud trends and develop proactive solutions to address crimes impacting everyday Americans.
During the meeting, Glawe, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tim Slater, and other NICB leadership will meet with Katsumi and other Consulate officials at NICB's Foreign Operations Field Office in Chula Vista. As crime continues to increase, including the highest vehicle theft numbers seen in the United States since 2008, staggering catalytic converter thefts, and fraud exceeding $300 billion nationwide each year, California is experiencing some of the highest crime rates, and therefore, is the perfect place to address these issues.
"NICB's Foreign Operations works to repatriate stolen vehicles out of Mexico daily," said Glawe. "Meeting with our valued partners from the U.S. Department of State helps us solidify our on-going partnership. This relationship is critical to vehicle recovery, and we are grateful for our decade's long partnership with the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana."
NICB and the U.S. Department of State will specifically discuss the importance of collaboration and information sharing. These tools are the keys to success to deter crime. Both parties are looking forward to continuing their valued partnership as they battle the ever-growing crime trends, especially stolen vehicles.
If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, call the NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB. For additional information, visit NICB's website, WWW.NICB.org.
REPORT FRAUD: Anyone with information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle theft can report it anonymously by calling toll-free 800.TEL.NICB (800.835.6422) or submitting a form on our website.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU: Headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill., the NICB is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime through Intelligence, Analytics, and Operations; Education and Crime Prevention; and Strategy, Policy, and Advocacy. The NICB is supported by more than 1,200 property and casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations. NICB member companies wrote over $582 billion in insurance premiums in 2021, or more than 82% of the nation's property-casualty insurance. That includes more than 96% of the nation's personal auto insurance. To learn more, visit www.nicb.org.
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:21Z
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The full line of Santo Blanco, Reposado, and Mezquila created by spirits pioneer Sammy Hagar and iconic chef Guy Fieri, will be available in stores, bars and restaurants across the Caribbean Island
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Santo Spirits, the brainchild of spirits pioneer and Grammy-award winning musician Sammy Hagar, and iconic chef and Emmy Award-winning television personality Guy Fieri is reaching new consumers by launching their portfolio of premium agave spirits in Puerto Rico. Produced with time-honored, artisanal practices in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, Santo Spirits only utilizes 100% blue Weber agave of the highest quality. Santo's expressions are gluten free, unbelievably smooth and made the traditional way, honoring the culture and practices of authentic tequila. Unlike most tequilas on the market in the U.S., Santo tequilas are certified additive free by Tequila Matchmaker meaning there is no coloring or flavoring added to the finished product. The premium portfolio currently consists of the world's first Mezquila, an old-world style tequila Blanco and an ultra-smooth Reposado, all of which will be officially available for purchase in Puerto Rico in October 2022.
"I have been in this business for over 30 years, and I am really proud and impressed by what we have been able to accomplish with the Santo Spirits brand. I'm dedicated to producing the best tequila in the world and I can't wait for fans in Puerto Rico to get a taste of such an authentic product," said Sammy Hagar. "We are using premium ingredients and traditional processes that have given us a liquid that is going to shake up the tequila market."
Santo will be launching all three of their award-winning agave expressions in Puerto Rico in October, with future variants to also be made available upon release. Santo Blanco is smooth, with balanced and notable agave flavor which is complimented by earthy, white pepper and citrus aromas. Delicate spice and floral flavors add to the intensity of the liquid. Santo Reposado begins as Santo Tequila Blanco, resting in lightly charred and used American oak bourbon barrels for four to five months, imparting a smooth, easy-drinking tequila. Santo Mezquila, the world's first ever blend of tequila and mezcal, is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and 100% Espadin Agave (Angustifolia variety).
"Sammy and I are longtime buddies who share a love for creating and curating memorable experiences, whether it's through food, music or now, tequila. We are stoked to bring the Santo Spirits experience to more folks around the country so that they can share in our passion and join in on the Santo lifestyle," said Guy Fieri.
The Santo portfolio should be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a premium cocktail. For more information and recipes please visit www.santospirits.com.
The Santo Spirits brand was conceived out of longtime friendship, exceptional food, great tequila, and the search for a taste revelation. Santo Spirits is the brainchild of rocker Sammy Hagar, and chef Guy Fieri. Together, the duo created Santo Spirits and found their virtuoso with Juan Eduardo Nuñez, a third-generation master distiller from the famed distillery El Viejito, founded in 1937, in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. Sammy's history of making world-renowned tequila, Guy's world-famous taste buds, and Juan Eduardo's award-winning craftsmanship, bring to life the portfolio of Santo Spirits: The world's first Mezquila, an old-world style tequila Blanco, and the sinfully smooth reposado. For more information about Santo Spirits, please visit SantoSpirit.com
Media Contacts:
Santo Spirits
Jessica Meisels/Fingerprint Communications
jessica@fingerprintcom.net
Office: 310-276-7500
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:27Z
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NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
If you own shares in any of the companies listed above and
would like to discuss our investigations or have any questions concerning
this notice or your rights or interests, please contact:
Joshua Rubin, Esq.
Weiss Law
305 Broadway, 7th Floor
New York, NY 10007
(212) 682-3025
(888) 593-4771
stockinfo@weisslawllp.com
Avalara, Inc. (NYSE: AVLR)
Weiss Law is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of Avalara, Inc. (NYSE: AVLR), in connection with the proposed acquisition of AVLR by Vista Equity Partners. Under the terms of the merger agreement, AVLR shareholders will receive $93.50 in cash for each share of AVLR common stock owned. If you own AVLR shares and wish to discuss this investigation or your rights, please call us or visit our website: https://www.weisslaw.co/news-and-cases/avlr
CarLotz, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOTZ)
Weiss Law is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of CarLotz, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOTZ), in connection with the proposed merger of LOTZ with Shift Technologies, Inc. ("Shift"). Pursuant to the merger agreement, LOTZ shareholders will receive 0.692158 shares of Shift common stock for each share of LOTZ common stock. If you own LOTZ shares and wish to discuss this investigation or your rights, please call us or visit our website: https://www.weisslaw.co/news-and-cases/lotz
Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: GMTX)
Weiss Law is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: GMTX), in connection with the proposed merger of GMTX with Disc Medicine, Inc. ("Disc"). Pursuant to the merger agreement, GMTX shareholders are expected to own approximately 28% of the combined company and Disc shareholders are expected to own approximately 72% of the combined company. Prior to the closing of the proposed merger, GMTX shareholders will be issued contingent value rights ("CVR's) representing the right to receive certain payments from proceeds received by the combined company, if any, related to pre-transaction legacy assets during the period ending one year following the closing of the merger. If you own GMTX shares and wish to discuss this investigation or your rights, please call us or visit our website: https://www.weisslaw.co/news-and-cases/gmtx
Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AAWW)
Weiss Law is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AAWW), in connection with the proposed acquisition of AAWW by a consortium of investors led by Apollo Global Management Inc. Pursuant to the merger agreement, AAWW shareholders will receive $102.50 in cash for each share of AAWW common stock owned. If you own AAWW shares and wish to discuss this investigation or your rights, please call us or visit our website: https://www.weisslaw.co/news-and-cases/aaww
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:34Z
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Whipshots™ now available on retail shelves in Hawaii, Missouri, and Indiana
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Starco Brands today announced that Whipshots™, the innovative new vodka-infused whipped cream, is establishing its retail presence in Hawaii, Missouri, and Indiana. The expansion builds upon Whipshots' successful entry into both on and off premise retail across the U.S., making the highly demanded product available to even more consumers in more locations. With the addition of these three states, Whipshots is now sold in 14 markets nationwide.
Following its national retail launch in February 2022, Whipshots continues to establish its retail footprint, launching in Hawaii, Missouri, and Indiana with initial availability through retailers including Foodland, Total Wine & More, Hy-Vee, and Randall's. In addition to the recent retail expansion in Texas, Washington D.C./Maryland and Illinois, Whipshots will be available for purchase in Hawaii, Missouri, and Indiana in 50mL ($5.99), 200mL ($14.99), and 375mL ($24.99) sizes in all three flavors: vanilla, caramel and mocha.
"We're thrilled to be able to offer Whipshots to even more consumers in more locations across the country," says Ross Sklar, CEO of Starco Brands. "The demand for Whipshots has been astounding and shows what is possible when you have an incredible product and elite retail partners."
A Double Gold medal recipient in both the 2022 SIP Awards and the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition, Whipshots has 10% Alc./Vol, does not require refrigeration, and is a luxurious addition to any cocktail, dessert, or party. Whipshots is also available nationwide online at Whipshots.com, powered by The Spirits Network.
Starco Brands is a disruptive and scaling company that prides itself on only creating behavior-changing products and technologies. Together with its retail partners, Starco Brands is making Whipshots easily accessible to consumers nationwide. Follow @whip_shots and visit Whipshots.com for more information.
About Whipshots™
Developed by Starco Brands, Whipshots™ is a first-of-its-kind alcoholic whipped cream that is a party in a can and launched in 2021 with Partner Cardi B. Whipshots™ is a playful shot of sophistication that will indulge your curiosity and senses. A Double Gold medal recipient in the 2022 SIP Awards and Double Gold medal recipient in the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition, the boozy whipped cream is non-dairy (contains caseinate), does not require refrigeration and can be found next to other spirits at retail and in hospitality and entertainment locations. Follow Whipshots™ @whip_shots and visit whipshots.com for more information.
About Starco Brands
Starco Brands (OTCQB: STCB) invents consumer products with behavior-changing technologies that spark excitement in the everyday. Today, its disruptive brands include: Whipshots, bringing the fun back to a stagnant alcohol category with the only alcohol-infused whipped cream in the market; Breathe, the first-ever air-powered aerosol cleaning line that meets the Environmental Protection Agency's Safer Choice criteria; and Winona Popcorn Spray, bringing home the movie-going experience with the first indulgent theater-popcorn taste powered by air. A modern-day invention factory to its core, Starco Brands identifies whitespaces across consumer product categories. It draws upon a portfolio of innovative formulas and commercial manufacturing facilities spanning 10 product categories with limitless innovation potential. Starco Brands publicly trades on the OTCQB stock exchange, so retail investors can invest in STCB alongside accredited individuals and institutions. Visit www.starcobrands.com for more information.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Ariel Moses l Rogers & Cowan PMK
Whipshots@rogersandcowanpmk.com
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:41Z
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NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Feds for Medical Freedom President Marcus Thornton released the following statement today after the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit held an en banc hearing in the case of Feds for Medical Freedom, Et Al. v. Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Et Al., Appellants. The suit, in which Feds for Medical Freedom is a plaintiff, argues that the Biden Administration exceeded its Constitutional authority in attempting to require that all federal employees and contractors take a COVID vaccination.
"There are hundreds of thousands of public servants who do not want to get a COVID vaccine for personal, religious, or medical reasons. There are hundreds of thousands more who, regardless of their vaccination status, do not believe the government has the right to compel fellow Americans to inject something they do not want in their body. This hearing, and our year-long legal struggle, is about standing up for our inalienable rights and giving a voice to colleagues who have been heavily censored by those in positions of power.
"Regardless of the court's ruling, Feds for Medical Freedom has won a great victory by taking a stand, speaking truth to power, and making sure the American people know how outrageously their fellow Americans are being treated. Federal workers who stood up for their rights have been subjected to personal and professional ridicule, disciplinary actions, threats of termination, and a generally hostile work environment. These are proud Americans who are being told by this administration that their God-given freedoms do not matter. That is profoundly wrong.
"We continue to call on this this administration to rescind its unscientific and unconstitutional executive orders mandating Americans to choose between jobs or jabs – a heart-stopping overreach and abuse of power. Furthermore, the administration should apologize to the men and women who have been subjected to harassment and abuse, withdraw all COVID vaccination requirements, reverse all disciplinary actions taken regarding vaccination status, and commit itself to upholding individual liberty and medical autonomy.
"We are proud of our members who have taken a stand for freedom and liberty, often at great personal and professional cost, and we will continue to fight this government overreach through every legal means available to us." – Marcus Thornton, President, Feds for Medical Freedom
About Feds for Medical Freedom:
Feds for Medical Freedom is a grassroots coalition of over 8,000 federal employees and contractors who do not believe the U.S. government can or should compel them to get vaccinated or to disclose their vaccination status. For more information, visit feds4medfreedom.org.
Media Contact: Alex Weintz; 914.282.3229; aweintz@amberintegrated.com
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:48Z
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BOONE, N.C., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The well-known western North Carolina town of Boone, in Watauga County, is launching a new tourism development initiative named "Imagine Watauga''. The website, imaginewatauga.com, was developed for promotion locally and to encourage community input. To help accomplish the project, the local Tourism Development Authorities have contracted with Destination by Design, a Boone-based planning and economic development firm.
Mayor of Boone, Tim Futrelle, emphasized the need for widespread community involvement in this effort, "This is an amazing opportunity to showcase the possibilities for Boone and Watauga County. All residents have a stake in this. Everyone's opinion is valued."
According to Eric Woolridge, Destination by Design President, "this project is unique in that Boone's tourism economy is well established. The plan will focus on balancing existing tourism assets with the growing needs of local residents. We must not just grow tourism, but we need to do so responsibly in order to meet a variety of community goals."
Like many destinations, the appeal of the Boone area has generated many challenges for the local community, such as a lack of affordable housing, congestion, and overuse of natural resources. However, tourism is the lifeblood of the local economy, generating more than $6.5 million dollars annually in occupancy taxes. Responsible stewardship of these dollars can help to mitigate some of these challenges.
Billy Kennedy, Vice Chair of the Watauga County Board of Commissioners says, "Imagine Watauga is a great opportunity to bring resources from people who come to our county and put it into infrastructure that benefits both the tourists and the residents."
According to Wright Tilley, Director of the Boone and Watauga County Tourism Development Authorities, the plan is a community-led vision and 15-year roadmap towards enhancing tourism assets. "As the area continues to grow and thrive, there's never been a better opportunity to look to the future than now," says Tilley.
Previously, Destination by Design was instrumental in the development of several beloved local assets such as Rocky Knob Park, Watauga River and New River paddle access points, and area greenway expansions. Destination by Design works with communities across the country to plan, design and promote vibrant mainstreets, parks, trails, and destination-quality recreation areas. For more information, visit www.dbdplanning.com.
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| 2022-09-13T19:11:54Z
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NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Risk-based pricing – a method insurers use to set prices based on the risk they assume – allows insurers to offer the lowest premiums to policyholders with the most favorable risk factors, while at the same time offering higher premiums for less favorable risks, according to an Issues Brief released today by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I).
"Risk-based pricing has many benefits," said Dale Porfilio, FCAS, MAAA, Chief Insurance Officer, Triple-I. "The price reflects risk, helps align premium paid with risk assumed, expands availability of coverage and promotes a competitive marketplace."
The risk-based pricing concept also incorporates actuarially sound rating factors such as credit-based insurance scores, geography, home ownership and motor vehicle records. These variables improve the accuracy of insurance prices for auto and homeowners insurance, Triple-I's Issues Brief explained.
"Confusion around insurance pricing is understandable, given the government-regulated models used to assess risk," added Porfilio. "To navigate this complexity, teams of actuaries and data scientists are hired by insurers to quantify and differentiate among a range of risk variables while avoiding unfair discrimination."
The Triple-I's Issues Brief noted algorithms and machine learning hold great promise for ensuring equitable insurance pricing, but research has shown these tools also can amplify any biases in the underlying data. The actuarial profession continues to research and attempt to address these concerns, the Issues Brief stated.
The Brief also addressed concerns regarding the use of gender as a rating factor. Six states currently ban insurers from using gender as a factor when pricing personal auto insurance. Gender and age have long been reliable predictors of the likelihood a prospective policyholder will file an auto insurance claim. Denying insurers access to actuarially sound rating tools would force them to price risk less precisely, causing lower-risk drivers to subsidize the riskiest ones, the Triple-I noted.
"There is no place in today's insurance market for unfair discrimination," Porfilio stated. "In addition to being illegal, discrimination based on any factor that doesn't directly affect the insured risk would be bad business in today's diverse society."
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| 2022-09-13T19:12:01Z
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SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- VAVA announced its 720P Video Baby Monitor is now available in 1000+ Target and Walmart stores nationwide. It's more convenient than ever for parents to enjoy the award winning VAVA baby monitor.
The VAVA baby monitor was listed as one of the Best Baby Monitors of 2022 on Tech Advisor and Babylist, and is available in four soothing colors – white, pink, blue, and green. Not only do these color options add more personality to a baby nursery, but the baby monitor is designed with multiple convenient features so parents can easily check on their children from anywhere in the house.
Baby monitors are an important safety feature that parents rely on to help keep their children safe. The VAVA baby monitor is outfitted with wireless connection and up to four cameras can be connected to a single monitor, and when multiple cameras are connected to the monitor, parents can activate scan view mode. This function will automatically switch between visual input from all the cameras.
Additionally, the VAVA baby monitor has a large 5" HD display, making it easy for parents to monitor for sleep disruptions or other issues. For added peace of mind,, the two-way talk system makes it easy for parents to hear when their child is crying, fussing, or just wants attention.
Get your hands on your own VAVA baby monitor at your local Walmart, Target, or at the VAVA Official Store today.
Media Contact
VAVA Press
press@vava.com
SOURCE VAVA
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| 2022-09-13T19:12:08Z
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Newly-Formed Company Positions WM to Rapidly Accelerate Film and Plastic Wrap Recycling
HOUSTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- WM (NYSE:WM) today announced that it has agreed to acquire a controlling interest in Avangard Innovative's U.S. business, which will operate as Natura PCR – an independent company expected to scale and grow recycling capacity to produce an estimated 400 million pounds per year of post-consumer resin (PCR) in five years. Through Natura PCR, WM expects to deliver new recycling capabilities for its customers and provide circular solutions for films and clear plastic wrap used commercially, such as plastic stretch wrap for pallets, furniture film, grocery bags and potentially shrink wrap around food and beverage containers.
"WM's controlling interest in Natura PCR positions us to grow and scale rapidly in the emerging PCR space," said Jim Fish, president and CEO, WM. "WM's core material supply capabilities, with the head start and knowledge provided by Avangard's U.S. business, will help Natura PCR quickly deliver circular options to WM's customers as an important component of our continued growth strategy in recycling. Today, there is so much untapped potential to reuse film – which impacts many of our commercial customers. We can help our customers close the loop and bring more recycled materials to the store shelf."
Leading materials science company, Dow (NYSE: DOW) has been working with WM to help increase the recycling rate of plastics and create sustainable solutions in packaging, infrastructure and consumer applications. Dow has also been working with Avangard Innovative since early 2020, purchasing the company's PCR pellets to produce REVOLOOP™, Dow's product line with PCR content.
"We have been working with both companies to increase the use of recycled plastic in Dow's products, and Natura PCR brings together capabilities that will unlock more options for hard-to-recycle plastics for the industry," said Nestor de Mattos, North America commercial vice president, Packaging & Specialty Plastics, Dow. "Natura PCR further expands at scale, waste-to-market solutions across North America and advances our goal to help divert plastics from landfills to circular solutions."
Natura PCR will focus on the mechanical recycling of film and flexible plastics – some of the most complex plastics in the recycling stream today – and converts these materials to PCR that can be used to manufacture new products replacing virgin materials. These streams make up almost a quarter of today's plastic generation, but only about 5 percent is recycled today.
Demand for PCR is expected to grow in response to consumer-packaged goods companies' commitments to use recycled content and pressures from consumers and regulators to increase the PCR content in the packaging materials the companies manufacture. WM has demonstrated a track record of collecting materials from commercial streams for the feedstock needed to produce PCR content and expects its materials sourcing expertise will enable the increased volume of PCR pellets that Natura PCR can produce for use in new products.
"This transaction helps the business quickly scale operations, maximize source feedstock and meet the continued rise in demand for environmental additives, such as recycled plastic resin," said Rick Perez, CEO, Avangard Innovative. "After 30 years in the recycling business, WM's significant involvement, coupled with the strong relationship with Dow and other customers, will set Natura PCR up to offer the most innovative end-to-end circular economy solution in the market."
Natura PCR plans to grow recycling capabilities at Avangard's existing plant in Waller, Texas, and build new plant capacity in the Midwest. Natura PCR will be primarily owned and controlled by WM. Avangard and affiliated entities will hold a collective minority equity position in Natura PCR. WM expects to receive investment returns comparable to its previously announced automation investments in single-stream recycling. The transaction is expected to close in late 2022, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
ADVISORS
Goldman Sachs & Co LLC is serving as the exclusive financial advisor and Locke Lord LLP is serving as the legal advisor to WM on this transaction. Seale & Associates, Inc. is serving as the exclusive financial advisor and Vinson & Elkins LLP is serving as the legal advisor to Avangard Innovative on this transaction.
ABOUT WM
WM (WM.com) is North America's largest comprehensive waste management environmental solutions provider. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them achieve their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of post-consumer materials and is the leader in beneficial reuse of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most gas-to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes nearly 11,000 natural gas trucks – the largest heavy-duty natural gas truck fleet of its kind in North America – where more than half are fueled by renewable natural gas. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.
ABOUT AVANGARD INNOVATIVE
Avangard Innovative is a leader in technology-driven circular economy solutions. With 30 years of experience, Avangard Innovative offers full-service waste management and recycling optimization solutions at all levels of the process. AI's proprietary technology, program management & optimization, and post-consumer resin manufacturing are designed to help clients measure, manage and monetize their sustainability programs. Avangard Innovative's mission is to preserve and protect the environment by achieving zero-waste-to-landfill. For more information, please visit avaicg.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
WM, from time to time, provides estimates, comments on expectations relating to future periods and makes statements of opinion, view or belief about current and future events. This press release contains a number of forward-looking statements, including all statements regarding closing of the transaction; anticipated results of the transaction and business performance; future growth and production of the acquired business; future investment returns; future plastic generation and demand; and location and construction of future plants. You should view these statements with caution. They are based on facts and circumstances as of the date the statements are made and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different, including but not limited to, general economic and market conditions; inability to obtain regulatory or government approvals or to obtain such approvals on satisfactory conditions; inability to satisfy other closing conditions; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the transaction agreement; legal proceedings; unexpected costs, charges or expenses; failure to successfully integrate the transaction and obtain the results anticipated; and other risks and uncertainties described in Part I, Item 1A of WM's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, available at investors.wm.com. WM assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of future events, circumstances or developments or otherwise.
SOURCE Waste Management National Services, Inc
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/wm-acquire-controlling-interest-avangard-innovatives-us-business/
| 2022-09-13T19:12:14Z
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The embedded visualization of mission-critical data insights offers better opportunities for customers to boost member growth, retention rates, and engagement scores
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Community Brands, the leading provider of software and payment solutions for associations, is proud to announce the launch of new Advanced Analytics by YourMembership AMS. This embedded data platform – offered to all current and new customers – gives staff instant access to high-quality interactive visual data above and beyond standard reporting.
Associations can use data insights to prioritize member initiatives and engagement, better understand trends to make data-driven decisions, create personalized outreach campaigns, and drive revenue to move their association forward.
With immediately actionable data visualizations, YourMembership AMS users are better able to make informed business decisions. These gained insights can help organizations advance their mission and inspire members to renew year after year.
What makes Advanced Analytics different from standard static reporting?
- Intuitive Interface: Easy to use analytics for all
- Glossary: Shared understanding of key definitions
- Data Export: Reach the right people with data subsets
- Explore: Break down data for a complete view of the dashboard
"Our latest launch is a game-changer for associations. This built-in, enterprise-level analytics is a huge product enhancement available to all YM customers, and we are beyond excited to offer the next level of actionable insights for associations," said Quinn Hoffman, YourMembership General Manager. "This is a feature requested by so many organizations and it's truly a new frontier in the AMS space. The user-friendly dashboard is fantastic and will provide associations instant access to so many new opportunities in member management."
Learn more about YourMembership Advanced Analytics at Data Analytics | YourMembership.
Data-driven decisions add more value and Advanced Analytics provides customers with the opportunity to quickly gain visibility on critical information like member growth, retention rates, and engagement scores.
Actionable insights that help advance organizations:
- Track the complete membership lifecycle from non-member to retired member.
- Easily configure dashboards based on financial year or member types.
- Generate event reports for all types of registration types and attendance.
- Quickly view renewal rates, lapsed members, and new members with customizable start and end periods.
Save staff time by eliminating cumbersome, custom reports, increase revenue with trends to grow your programs, and drive member engagement by uncovering fresh data insights. Advanced Analytics and Dashboards are part of YourMembership's all-in-one member management system.
Advanced Analytics and Dashboards are part of YourMembership's all-in-one member management system. Request a Demo
About Your Membership AMS
YourMembership association management software is the membership solution small-staff associations need to drive member success and growth. One solution to lighten the workload, build member engagement, and grow revenue. As the only small-staff solution with a modern, built-in online community, you'll convert sporadic conversations into continuous engagement – ultimately driving member value and revenue year-round.
About Community Brands
Community Brands helps mission-driven organizations thrive. Our software, services, and payment solutions power nonprofits, associations, and K-12 schools to engage the people they serve through programs and events; raise funds to enable their mission; and manage their financials and operations. Our family of brands are bound by a common purpose to serve the organizations that make our communities a better place to live. Learn more about our Community Brands solutions for associations, nonprofits, K-12s, and event tech. Visit us at communitybrands.com and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Media contact:
Jessi Cape
press@communitybrands.com
(512) 861-3012
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Community Brands
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/yourmembership-advanced-analytics-offers-new-interactive-data-insights-associations/
| 2022-09-13T19:12:21Z
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Concord University receives scholarship grant from Truist West Virginia Foundation
ATHENS, W.Va. (WVVA) - Concord University received a $10,000 grant from Truist West Virginia Foundation to support the Pathways Scholarship.
The Pathways Scholarship is awarded annually to rising or current sophomores, juniors, or seniors who are West Virginia residents and face financial need that could force them to withdraw.
“Because of the continuous support of the Truist West Virginia Foundation and other dedicated donors like them, the Concord University Foundation is able to make a difference in the lives of many students who depend on scholarships to finish their degree,” said Sarah Turner, Vice President of Advancement at Concord University.
“This grant will allow Concord’s Foundation to continue serving the needs of our students, and we are grateful.”
Fifty students who apply and qualify for the Pathways Scholarship will each receive two-thousand dollars.
If you would like to support the Concord University Pathways Scholarship, please make a donation at concord.edu/pathways.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/concord-university-receives-scholarship-grant-truist-west-virginia-foundation/
| 2022-09-13T19:44:15Z
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Four vehicles involved in Rt. 460 crash
Published: Sep. 13, 2022 at 11:50 AM EDT|Updated: 4 hours ago
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. (WVVA) - Bluefield Rescue Squad, Bluefield, WV Police Dept and Bluefield Fire Dept. responded to a crash Tuesday morning at the intersection of Rt. 460 East and Maryland Ave.
Mercer County dispatch has confirmed that four cars were involved. They say no one was transported to the hospital.
Both lanes on Rt. 460 East are closed as of 11:40 a.m.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/four-vehicles-involved-rt-460-crash/
| 2022-09-13T19:44:33Z
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GOP’s Graham unveils nationwide abortion ban after 15 weeks
WASHINGTON (AP) — Upending the political debate, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham introduced a nationwide abortion ban Tuesday, sending shockwaves through both parties and igniting fresh debate on a fraught issue weeks before the midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.
Graham’s own Republican party leaders did not immediately embrace his abortion ban bill, which would prohibit the procedure after 15 weeks of pregnancy with rare exceptions, and has almost no chance of becoming law in the Democratic-held Congress. Democrats torched it as extreme, an alarming signal of where “MAGA” Republicans are headed if they win control of the House and Senate in November.
“America’s got to make some decisions,” Graham said at a press conference at the Capitol.
The South Carolina Republican said rather than shying away from the Supreme Court’s ruling this summer overturning Roe vs. Wade’s nearly 50-year right to abortion access, Republicans are preparing to fight to make a nationwide abortion ban federal law.
“Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no, we’re going nowhere,” the senator said flanked by women advocates from the anti-abortion movement. “We welcome the debate. We welcome the vote in the United States Senate as to what America should look like in 2022.”
Reaction was swift, fierce and unwavering from Democrats who viewed Graham’s legislation as an extreme example of the far-right’s hold on the GOP, and as a political gift of self-inflicted pain for Republican candidates now having to answer questions about an abortion ban heading toward the midterm elections.
“A nationwide abortion ban — that’s the contrast between the two parties, plain and simple,” said Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer.
Sen. Patty Murray, a Democrat from Washington who is in her own fight for reelection, said Republicans “want to force” women to stay pregnant and deliver babies.
“To anyone who thought they were safe, here is the painful reality,” she said. “Republicans are coming for your rights.”
The sudden turn of events comes in a razor-tight election season as Republicans hoping to seize control of Congress are struggling to recapture momentum, particularly after the Supreme Court’s landmark decision sparked deep concerns among some voters, with signs of women voters peeling away from the GOP.
In a midterm election where the party out of the White House traditionally holds an advantage, even more so this year with President Joe Biden’s lackluster approval ratings, the Democrats have regained their own momentum pushing back the GOP candidates in House and Senate races.
Tuesday’s announcement set up an immediate split screen with Biden and Democrats poised to celebrate their accomplishments in a ceremony at the White House after passage of the Inflation Reduction Act and Republicans forced to answer for Graham’s proposed abortion ban.
“This bill is wildly out of step with what Americans believe,” said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a statement.
“While President Biden and Vice President Harris are focused on the historic passage of the Inflation Reduction Act to reduce the cost of prescription drugs, health care, and energy – and to take unprecedented action to address climate change – Republicans in Congress are focused on taking rights away from millions of women,” Jean-Pierre said.
Graham’s legislation has almost zero chance of becoming law, but it elevates the abortion issue at a time when other Republicans would prefer to focus on inflation, border security and Biden’s leadership.
The Republican bill would ban abortions nationwide after 15 weeks of pregnancy, expect in cases of rape, incest or risks to the physical health of the mother. Graham said it would put the U.S. on par with many other countries in Europe and around the world.
In particular, Graham’s bill would leave in place state laws that are more restrictive. That provision is notable because many Republicans have argued the Supreme Court’s ruling leaves the abortion issue for the states to decide. But the legislation from the Republicans makes it clear states are only allowed to decide the issue if their abortion bans are more stringent.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who is one seat away from majority control, declined to embrace Graham’s legislation.
“I think every Republican senator running this year in these contested races has an answer as to how they feel about the issue,” McConnell said. “So I leave it up to our candidates who are quite capable of handling this issue to determine for them what their response is.”
The Democratic senators most at risk this fall and other Democratic candidates running for Congress appeared eager to fight against Graham’s proposed nationwide abortion ban.
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, the Democrat from Nevada tweeted that Graham “and every other anti-choice extremist can take a hike.”
Her Republican opponent, Adam Laxalt, has during his campaign insisted that abortion is protected in the state constitution, which it would no longer be under this bill.
In Colorado, another Democratic up for reelection, Sen. Michael Bennet, tweeted: “A nationwide abortion ban is outrageous. "
Bennet pledged “to defend a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions, no matter what ZIP code she lives in. We cannot afford to let the Republicans take back the Senate.”
His opponent in Colorado, Republican Senate hopeful Joe O’Dea, who supports putting abortion access that had been guaranteed under Roe vs. Wade into law, agreed, in part: “A Republican ban is as reckless and tone deaf as is Joe Biden and Chuck Schumer’s hostility to considering any compromise on late term abortion, parental notification or conscience protections for religious hospitals.”
The races for control of Congress are tight in the split 50-50 Senate where one seat determines majority control and the House, where Speaker Nancy Pelosi can afford to lose only a very few seats.
Pelosi called Graham’s bill the “clearest signal of extreme MAGA Republicans’ intent to criminalize women’s health freedom in all 50 states and arrest doctors for providing basic care. Make no mistake: if Republicans get the chance, they will work to pass laws even more draconian than this bill.”
Republican leaders on Capitol Hill tried to hold the party together amid the differences.
“I think that what it’s attempting to do is probably change the conversation a little bit,” said Sen. John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, and second-ranking party leader.
“Democrats are implying that all Republicans are for a ban without exceptions, and that’s not true,” Thune said. “There are Republicans who are in favor of restrictions. And I think this is an attempt to at least put something out there that reflects the views of a lot of Republicans who are in favor of some restrictions.”
___
Associated Press writers Kevin Freking in Washington and Nick Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/gops-graham-unveils-nationwide-abortion-ban-after-15-weeks/
| 2022-09-13T19:54:48Z
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Man professes love to woman while assaulting, dragging her from apartment, authorities say
VANCOUVER, Wash. (KPTV/Gray News) - Deputies in Washington state say they helped a woman escape a man who attacked her at an apartment complex.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office reports they were called to an apartment in Orchards, Washington, on Sept. 9. Arriving deputies said they were informed that a man had assaulted a woman before forcibly dragging her from an apartment.
KPTV reports neighbors told authorities the man was professing his love for the woman, while he was dragging her from the apartment.
Deputies said they found several death threat text messages the man sent to the woman.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were able to get the woman to a safe location, but could not initially find the suspect.
On Sept. 10, the victim told deputies, the man was again sending more threatening text messages. Authorities said the woman and her friends eventually found the man and deputies took him into custody.
The sheriff’s office said Mohamed Aly Aboulezz was arrested in downtown Vancouver. He suffered minor injuries while attempting to escape custody.
Aboulezz is facing charges that include kidnapping, residential burglary and assault.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office reports it has responded to three cases of women being kidnapped in the last two weeks. Authorities reminded the public to use caution when meeting people online, in bars and at parties.
Copyright 2022 KPTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/man-professes-love-woman-while-assaulting-dragging-her-apartment-authorities-say/
| 2022-09-13T19:54:54Z
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Police say teen never arrived at destination after getting in Uber vehicle
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT/Gray News) – The Knoxville Police Department is looking for a teenage girl who has been missing for more than a week.
According to police, Desaray Thurmer, 17, left her home in an Uber but never arrived at her destination.
Police believe she may have been trying to get to a location on Avalon Drive, which is about 20 minutes away from her home.
Thurmer was last seen around 8 p.m. on Sept. 5. She is about 5′6″ with hazel eyes and brown hair.
Anyone with information is urged to contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers at 865-215-7165, online at easttnvalleycrimestoppers.org or via the P3 Tips mobile app.
The community guidelines posted on Uber’s website state riders must be at least 18 years old to ride alone.
“Account holders can’t request a ride or delivery for someone under the age of 18 who will not be accompanied by either the account holder or another adult during the ride,” the policy states.
WVLT reached out to Uber for a comment but didn’t receive a response.
Copyright 2022 WVLT via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/police-say-teen-never-arrived-destination-after-getting-uber-vehicle/
| 2022-09-13T19:55:00Z
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Alex Jones faces second trial over Sandy Hook hoax claims
WATERBURY, Conn. (AP) — Alex Jones was portrayed Tuesday by a lawyer for Sandy Hook families as a bully and by his own attorney as a crank in a town square who should be ignored as a trial got underway to determine how much the conspiracy theorist should pay the relatives for spreading the lie that the 2012 Newtown school shooting was a hoax.
The trial is being held in Waterbury, Connecticut, less than 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Newtown, where 26 children and teachers were shot to death.
It’s the second such trial for Jones, who was ordered by a Texas jury last month to pay nearly $50 million to the parents of one of the slain children. Jones was not at the trial Tuesday and is expected to attend next week.
A jury of three men and three women along with several alternates will decide how much Jones should pay relatives of eight victims and an FBI agent who responded to the school. Judge Barbara Bellis found Jones liable without a trial last year after he failed to turn over documents to the families’ lawyers.
More than a dozen family members, including parents of some victims, filed into the courtroom to listen to the opening statements and first day of evidence.
Christopher Mattei, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, showed jurors data indicating how Jones’ audience increased as he spread lies about the shooting. He showed them photos and videos of things Jones had said and told the panel they already had the tools from their own life experiences to decide what to do in this case.
“What your parents taught you, what your grandparents taught you to know the difference between right and wrong, to know the difference between the truth and a horrible lie, to know the importance of standing up to bullies when they prey on people who are helpless and profit from them and to know unless you stop a bully, a bully will never stop,” he said. “And when it comes to stopping Alex Jones, that will be the most important work that you do.”
Jones’ attorney, Norm Pattis, argued that his client has espoused a number of conspiracy theories over the years, something he has a Constitutional right to do.
“At what point do we regard him as a crank on the village green, a person we can walk away from if we choose?” he asked.
Pattis told the jury that although Jones is liable for damages, any award should be minimal and alleged the families were overstating the harm they say Jones caused them.
On his Infowars web show on Tuesday, Jones portrayed himself as the victim of unfair show trials.
“How am I handling it? We’re at war. This is total tyranny,” he said. “I’ll tell you this, we can appeal this for years. We can beat this. We can stay on air through everything they’re doing if we keep fighting and don’t give up. But it takes massive money to fight three lawsuits in Texas and in Connecticut.”
Judge Bellis sanctioned Jones Tuesday for failing to turn over analytic data related to his website and the popularity of his show. She told his lawyers that because of that failure, they will not be allowed to argue he didn’t profit from his Sandy Hook remarks.
The trial is expected to last about a month and feature testimony from both Jones and the families.
Bellis instructed the jury that Jones and his company, Free Speech Systems, have already been found liable for damages to the plaintiffs for calling the shooting a hoax on multiple media platforms and saying that no one died.
The Sandy Hook families and former FBI agent William Aldenberg say they have been confronted and harassed for years by people who believed Jones’ false claim that the shooting was staged by crisis actors as part of a plot to take away people’s guns.
Some say strangers have videotaped them and their surviving children. They’ve also endured death threats and been subjected to abusive comments on social media. And some families have moved out of Newtown to avoid harassment. They accuse Jones of causing them emotional and psychological harm.
Aldenberg was the first witness to take the stand Tuesday, describing his response to the school after the shooting and becoming overwhelmed with emotion at times.
Jones, whose web show and Infowars brand are based in Austin, Texas, has been banned from YouTube, Facebook and Spotify for violating hate-speech policies.
Jones now says he believes the shooting was real. At the Texas trial, he testified that he realizes what he said was irresponsible, did hurt people’s feelings and he apologized.
He continues, however, to insist that his comments were protected free speech. He views the lawsuits as efforts to silence him and put him out of business.
Jones’ lawyers say he intends to appeal the judgment against him in Texas. Jones also will face a third trial back in Texas involving the parents of another slain child.
___
Associated Press writer Pat Eaton-Robb contributed to this story from Hartford, Connecticut.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/alex-jones-faces-second-trial-over-sandy-hook-hoax-claims/
| 2022-09-13T20:14:37Z
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LIVE: Biden set to mark Inflation Reduction Act at White House event
WASHINGTON (AP) — Biden gathered a crowd of thousands at the White House Tuesday to celebrate last month’s passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, even as a new government report showed how hard it could be to bring surging prices down near prepandemic levels.
Despite its name, the law’s impact on inflation is expected to be modest at best.
Tuesday’s economic report — inflation at 8.3% year-to-year, though just 0.1%. from July to August — was a harsh reminder of how difficult it might be to hit the Federal Reserve’s inflation target of 2% a year. Even as gasoline costs have waned since June, the price of housing and food remain especially high in a way that suggests further Fed rate hikes and more economic pain to bring down prices.
The legislation, which passed with only Democratic votes in Congress, also included the most substantial federal investment in history to fight climate change — some $375 billion over a decade — and will cap prescription drug costs at $2,000 out-of-pocket annually for Medicare recipients. It also would help an estimated 13 million Americans pay for health care insurance by extending subsidies provided during the coronavirus pandemic. The measure is paid for by new taxes on large companies and stepped-up IRS enforcement on wealthy individuals and entities.
Biden in his remarks was to criticize Republicans for voting against the measure, contending they voted against a bill that would lower prices, the White House said.
The law may help lower prescription drug prices, but outside analyses suggest it will do little to immediately bring down overall inflation. Last month, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office judged it would have a “negligible” effect on prices through 2023. The University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Wharton Budget Model went even further to say “the impact on inflation is statistically indistinguishable from zero” over the next decade.
In theory, the law could reduce inflationary pressures because it would lower annual budget deficits by $300 billion over 10 years.
But by partially forgiving student debt and changing the repayment structure in an August executive order, Biden likely has wiped out those deficit savings, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. An analysis by the fiscal watchdog estimates that the president’s executive order on student debt would cost roughly $500 billion over 10 years, “completely eliminating any disinflationary benefit.”
Still, voters are especially sensitive to gasoline, which declined 10.6% in August. The Biden administration has repeatedly cited relief at the pump as gas costs have fallen since June —when average U.S. prices crested above $5 a gallon. AAA estimates that gas prices nationwide averaged $3.71 a gallon on Tuesday.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/biden-set-mark-inflation-reduction-act-white-house-event/
| 2022-09-13T20:14:43Z
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Big breakfast helps curb appetite, but has no effect on weight loss, study finds
(CNN) – Did you enjoy a big breakfast today?
A new study from the University of Aberdeen shows having a hearty breakfast can help curb hunger cravings throughout the day.
However, researchers found big breakfasts doesn’t help people lose weight.
The study looked at 30 people who had big breakfasts for four weeks and then big dinners for another four weeks.
Researchers found no difference in weight loss between the two, but participants reported being less hungry throughout the day after having a hearty meal at the beginning of the day.
This could be a big help for anyone working on overall appetite control.
It is important to note the participants were provided their meals, so the study does not account for whether they would have chosen to eat less or more during each phase of the research.
For more details, check out the study in the journal “Cell Metabolism.”
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/big-breakfast-helps-curb-appetite-has-no-effect-weight-loss-study-finds/
| 2022-09-13T20:14:50Z
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Busted: Agents seize 250+ pounds of meth being smuggled into US
PHARR, Texas (Gray News) – Officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection said they seized more than 250 pounds of methamphetamine smugglers tried to bring into the country.
“Our CBP officers relied on their experience and all available tools and resources to thwart this smuggling attempt,” Port Director Carlos Rodriguez said.
Authorities said officers found 266.75 pounds of meth concealed in a tractor-trailer arriving from Mexico. The drugs have a street value of $2.3 million, according to border patrol agents.
The case remains under investigation.
According to Field Operations Director Randy Howe, the agency has seized 2,270 pounds of meth and 72 pounds of cocaine in the past week.
He said the estimated street value of the narcotics seized is over $35 million.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/busted-agents-seize-250-pounds-meth-being-smuggled-into-us/
| 2022-09-13T20:14:57Z
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Court rehears fight over vaccine mandate for federal workers
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — President Joe Biden has the same authority to impose a COVID-19 vaccine requirement on federal workers that private employers have for their employees, an administration lawyer told a federal appeals court Tuesday.
A lawyer for opponents of the vaccine requirement, which has been blocked nationwide by a federal judge in Texas, said the requirement imposes an “unconstitutionally intolerable choice” for executive branch workers — taking a vaccine they don’t want or losing their jobs.
Judges on the appeals court, meanwhile, questioned how far the chief executive’s authority goes, asking, theoretically, whether the president could require employees to meet certain healthy body weights or forbid them from smoking at home.
It was the second time arguments on the issue were heard before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. A three-judge panel of the same court had upheld the Biden requirement for executive branch workers, overturning the Texas judge.
But the full appeals court, currently with 16 active members, vacated the panel ruling and agreed to rehear the case. There was no indication when the court would rule.
Administration lawyers argue that the employees opposing the mandate should have taken their objections not to federal court but to a federal review board, in accordance with the Civil Service Reform Act. The administration also argues that the president has the same authority, under the Constitution, as the CEO of a private corporation to require that employees be vaccinated.
Arguing for the government, Charles Scarborough of the Department of Justice, said the statute provides employees with “robust” remedies if they successfully challenge the requirement through the review board, including back pay if they are dismissed for not complying.
Addressing whether the president could impose body weight requirements on federal employees, Scarborough said the vaccine requirement is part of a mainstream effort to reduce the incidence of serious COVID-19 cases in the workplace, while a body weight requirement would be among “hypotheticals at the extremes.”
Opponents say the policy is an encroachment on federal workers’ lives that neither the Constitution nor federal statutes authorize. And they argued that a case involving a policy that could cost some workers their jobs if they don’t agree to a medical procedure is not the type of work policy that belongs before a civil service review board.
Biden issued an executive order Sept. 9, 2021, ordering vaccinations for all executive branch agency employees, with exceptions for medical and religious reasons. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown, who was appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of Texas by then-President Donald Trump, issued a nationwide injunction against the requirement in January.
There came a series of varying rulings at the 5th Circuit.
One three-judge panel refused to immediately block the law.
But, a 2-1 ruling on the merits of the case by a different panel upheld Biden’s position. Judges Carl Stewart and James Dennis, both nominated to the court by President Bill Clinton, were in the majority. Judge Rhesa Barksdale, a senior judge nominated by President George H.W. Bush, dissented, saying the relief the challengers sought does not fall under the Civil Service Reform Act cited by the administration.
A majority of the full court voted to vacate that ruling and reconsider the case, resulting in Tuesday’s hearing.
Twelve of 16 active judges at the 5th Circuit were nominated to the court by Republicans, including six Trump appointees. Senior judges do not routinely take part in full-court hearings, but Barksdale participated in the hearing Tuesday because he had been on the earlier panel.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/court-rehears-fight-over-vaccine-mandate-federal-workers/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:04Z
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Expert online safety tips for kids and teens
Regular check-ins are key to online safety
InvestigateTV - More than half of teens and young adults admit to spending too much time on social media, according to the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI). As a result, experts said it is crucial to regularly check-in to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Stephen Balkham, the CEO of FOSI, said you should be talking to your child about their online activities several times a month.
Balkham shared four tips to nurture good online behavior:
Check in with your children regularly: Set aside 10-15 minutes once a week to chat about their online activities.
Model good online behavior: Kids mimic your behavior. If they see you constantly on Facebook or checking email, they think they are allowed to do the same.
Research your child’s games and online devices: Know if they are using chats and playing age-appropriate games.
Disable credit cards attached to accounts or devices: You do not want surprise charges on your bill.
FOSI has created one-page safety agreements for young children and teens. The agreement has suggested rules for online time and there are even blank lines you and your child to fill out together to create your own rules for online activities.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/expert-online-safety-tips-kids-teens/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:11Z
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FDA to consider over-the-counter birth control pill
(CNN) – The Food and Drug Administration is set to consider the first-ever birth control pill that would be sold without a prescription in the U.S.
On Tuesday, a joint advisory meeting was officially scheduled for November.
Officials will review an application for over-the-counter approval of the contraceptive Opill, a non-estrogen pill taken orally once a day to prevent pregnancy.
Opill is currently available with a prescription.
HRA Pharma submitted the application weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
A company official said approval will “help even more women and people access contraception without facing unnecessary barriers.”
Though the review is scheduled for Nov. 18, it’s unclear when a vote might take place.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/fda-consider-over-the-counter-birth-control-pill/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:17Z
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GOP’s Graham unveils nationwide abortion ban after 15 weeks
WASHINGTON (AP) — Upending the political debate, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham introduced a nationwide abortion ban Tuesday, sending shockwaves through both parties and igniting fresh debate on a fraught issue weeks before the midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.
Graham’s own Republican party leaders did not immediately embrace his abortion ban bill, which would prohibit the procedure after 15 weeks of pregnancy with rare exceptions, and has almost no chance of becoming law in the Democratic-held Congress. Democrats torched it as extreme, an alarming signal of where “MAGA” Republicans are headed if they win control of the House and Senate in November.
“America’s got to make some decisions,” Graham said at a press conference at the Capitol.
The South Carolina Republican said rather than shying away from the Supreme Court’s ruling this summer overturning Roe vs. Wade’s nearly 50-year right to abortion access, Republicans are preparing to fight to make a nationwide abortion ban federal law.
“Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no, we’re going nowhere,” the senator said flanked by women advocates from the anti-abortion movement. “We welcome the debate. We welcome the vote in the United States Senate as to what America should look like in 2022.”
Reaction was swift, fierce and unwavering from Democrats who viewed Graham’s legislation as an extreme example of the far-right’s hold on the GOP, and as a political gift of self-inflicted pain for Republican candidates now having to answer questions about an abortion ban heading toward the midterm elections.
“A nationwide abortion ban — that’s the contrast between the two parties, plain and simple,” said Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer.
Sen. Patty Murray, a Democrat from Washington who is in her own fight for reelection, said Republicans “want to force” women to stay pregnant and deliver babies.
“To anyone who thought they were safe, here is the painful reality,” she said. “Republicans are coming for your rights.”
The sudden turn of events comes in a razor-tight election season as Republicans hoping to seize control of Congress are struggling to recapture momentum, particularly after the Supreme Court’s landmark decision sparked deep concerns among some voters, with signs of women voters peeling away from the GOP.
In a midterm election where the party out of the White House traditionally holds an advantage, even more so this year with President Joe Biden’s lackluster approval ratings, the Democrats have regained their own momentum pushing back the GOP candidates in House and Senate races.
Tuesday’s announcement set up an immediate split screen with Biden and Democrats poised to celebrate their accomplishments in a ceremony at the White House after passage of the Inflation Reduction Act and Republicans forced to answer for Graham’s proposed abortion ban.
“This bill is wildly out of step with what Americans believe,” said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a statement.
“While President Biden and Vice President Harris are focused on the historic passage of the Inflation Reduction Act to reduce the cost of prescription drugs, health care, and energy – and to take unprecedented action to address climate change – Republicans in Congress are focused on taking rights away from millions of women,” Jean-Pierre said.
Graham’s legislation has almost zero chance of becoming law, but it elevates the abortion issue at a time when other Republicans would prefer to focus on inflation, border security and Biden’s leadership.
The Republican bill would ban abortions nationwide after 15 weeks of pregnancy, expect in cases of rape, incest or risks to the physical health of the mother. Graham said it would put the U.S. on par with many other countries in Europe and around the world.
In particular, Graham’s bill would leave in place state laws that are more restrictive. That provision is notable because many Republicans have argued the Supreme Court’s ruling leaves the abortion issue for the states to decide. But the legislation from the Republicans makes it clear states are only allowed to decide the issue if their abortion bans are more stringent.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who is one seat away from majority control, declined to embrace Graham’s legislation.
“I think every Republican senator running this year in these contested races has an answer as to how they feel about the issue,” McConnell said. “So I leave it up to our candidates who are quite capable of handling this issue to determine for them what their response is.”
The Democratic senators most at risk this fall and other Democratic candidates running for Congress appeared eager to fight against Graham’s proposed nationwide abortion ban.
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, the Democrat from Nevada tweeted that Graham “and every other anti-choice extremist can take a hike.”
Her Republican opponent, Adam Laxalt, has during his campaign insisted that abortion is protected in the state constitution, which it would no longer be under this bill.
In Colorado, another Democratic up for reelection, Sen. Michael Bennet, tweeted: “A nationwide abortion ban is outrageous. "
Bennet pledged “to defend a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions, no matter what ZIP code she lives in. We cannot afford to let the Republicans take back the Senate.”
His opponent in Colorado, Republican Senate hopeful Joe O’Dea, who supports putting abortion access that had been guaranteed under Roe vs. Wade into law, agreed, in part: “A Republican ban is as reckless and tone deaf as is Joe Biden and Chuck Schumer’s hostility to considering any compromise on late term abortion, parental notification or conscience protections for religious hospitals.”
The races for control of Congress are tight in the split 50-50 Senate where one seat determines majority control and the House, where Speaker Nancy Pelosi can afford to lose only a very few seats.
Pelosi called Graham’s bill the “clearest signal of extreme MAGA Republicans’ intent to criminalize women’s health freedom in all 50 states and arrest doctors for providing basic care. Make no mistake: if Republicans get the chance, they will work to pass laws even more draconian than this bill.”
Republican leaders on Capitol Hill tried to hold the party together amid the differences.
“I think that what it’s attempting to do is probably change the conversation a little bit,” said Sen. John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, and second-ranking party leader.
“Democrats are implying that all Republicans are for a ban without exceptions, and that’s not true,” Thune said. “There are Republicans who are in favor of restrictions. And I think this is an attempt to at least put something out there that reflects the views of a lot of Republicans who are in favor of some restrictions.”
___
Associated Press writers Kevin Freking in Washington and Nick Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/gops-graham-unveils-nationwide-abortion-ban-after-15-weeks/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:24Z
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International Mines Rescue Competition underway in Beaver
BEAVER, W.Va. (WVVA) - The world’s best mine rescue teams are in Raleigh County this week for the International Mines Rescue Competition.
Nine different countries are represented at the event being hosted at the National Mine Health and Safety Academy in Beaver, W.Va.
All week, rescue teams will be tested through different simulations ranging from first aide to rescue to firefighting. The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine is also assisting the academy with the competition.
Joshua Caldwell is a judge who works as a mine rescue instructor at WVU.
“We’re all the mine rescue community and in being so, we need to make each other better. We do the same thing and have the same mission and that’s taking care of our people and operations.”
The competition had to be delayed after 2020 due to the Pandemic.
It ends on Friday with an awards ceremony at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center.
Copyright 2022 WVVA. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/international-mines-rescue-competition-underway-beaver/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:32Z
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Man, 19, charged in death of 18-year-old woman who fell off golf cart
MOUNT HOLLY, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) - Police have arrested a 19-year-old man after an 18-year-old woman fell off a golf cart and later died.
The Gaston County Police Department said officers received a report of someone falling off the vehicle on Monday, WBTV reports.
When police arrived, they found 18-year-old Gabby Carrigan unconscious and not breathing. She was taken to the hospital and died the next day.
Investigators believe several people were drinking and driving the golf cart in the area, including 19-year-old Derek Helms, who police said was driving the vehicle at the time Carrigan fell.
Helms was charged with involuntary manslaughter, DWI, felony serious injury by vehicle and reckless driving. He is being held in the Gaston County Jail under a $300,000 bond.
Copyright 2022 WBTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/man-19-charged-death-18-year-old-woman-who-fell-off-golf-cart/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:38Z
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Man kills wife before walking in front of semi to take his own life, police say
MADISON, Wis. (WISC) – Police said a man who took his own life by stepping in front of a tractor-trailer in Wisconsin Sunday was a suspect in his wife’s slaying earlier that day.
Chief Shon Barnes with the Madison Police Department said officers were called to a home where they found that the victim had been “violently, physically attacked.”
The attack had ended with one woman dead, but that was far from the end of the case.
Barnes on Monday laid out a wild and tragic series of events that ended with another death.
The events began around 3:15 p.m. Sunday when police received a call reporting someone was dead in a home. Police said the caller wasn’t on the scene.
The responding officers found a woman in her 40s dead inside the home.
As police tried to find the woman’s husband, another call came in just before 3:30 p.m. reporting that a man had left his car and gotten hit by another car.
Police said the man was able to get back into his own car and drive off.
The third and final call came just before 3:50 p.m. This time, the caller reported the same man had again gotten out of his vehicle before running into traffic, where he was hit and killed by a tractor-trailer.
Barnes said the man was identified as the husband of the dead woman. He also said officers had not been called to the home before.
Police still view what happened inside the home as something that should be addressed.
“Domestic violence continues to be an issue that plagues our community, even though it remains sometimes hidden,” Aureille Smith, director of policy planning and evacuation, said.
The couple’s identities have not yet been released. The incident is being investigated as a murder-suicide.
Copyright 2022 WISC via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/man-kills-wife-before-walking-front-semi-take-his-own-life-police-say/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:44Z
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Man professes love to woman while assaulting, dragging her from apartment, authorities say
VANCOUVER, Wash. (KPTV/Gray News) - Deputies in Washington state say they helped a woman escape a man who attacked her at an apartment complex.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office reports they were called to an apartment in Orchards, Washington, on Sept. 9. Arriving deputies said they were informed that a man had assaulted a woman before forcibly dragging her from an apartment.
KPTV reports neighbors told authorities the man was professing his love for the woman, while he was dragging her from the apartment.
Deputies said they found several death threat text messages the man sent to the woman.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were able to get the woman to a safe location, but could not initially find the suspect.
On Sept. 10, the victim told deputies, the man was again sending more threatening text messages. Authorities said the woman and her friends eventually found the man and deputies took him into custody.
The sheriff’s office said Mohamed Aly Aboulezz was arrested in downtown Vancouver. He suffered minor injuries while attempting to escape custody.
Aboulezz is facing charges that include kidnapping, residential burglary and assault.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office reports it has responded to three cases of women being kidnapped in the last two weeks. Authorities reminded the public to use caution when meeting people online, in bars and at parties.
Copyright 2022 KPTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/man-professes-love-woman-while-assaulting-dragging-her-apartment-authorities-say/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:51Z
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Man sentenced to 20 years for overdose death of teen who died days before graduation
PLAQUEMINES PARISH, La. (WVUE/Gray News) – A man who pleaded guilty to selling fake pills to a teen has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after she died of a fentanyl overdose, according to the Plaquemines Parish District Attorney’s Office.
Hailey Deickman, an 18-year-old senior at Belle Chasse High School, died of an overdose one week before graduation on May 18, 2021. District Attorney Charles Ballay says Deikman took half of what she believed was a Percocet pill she and a friend purchased from 22-year-old Franklin Senfles.
Senfles was arrested and indicted on one count of second-degree murder later that month, but he entered a guilty plea to a lesser charge of manslaughter on Sept. 6. Plaquemines Parish Judge Kevin Conner sentenced him to 20 years in prison.
Deickman’s mother says she was an honor roll student who stayed out of trouble and made one bad choice that cost her her life.
The Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office said Deickman’s death should serve as a wake-up call, especially for young kids who may not understand the dangers of counterfeit pills.
“These counterfeit pills are disguised to look like Oxycodone, pain medications, Xanax,” DEA Special Agent Brad Byerley said. “People are buying these pills off the street, thinking they’re buying something that a health care provider prescribed to someone.”
Copyright 2022 WVUE via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/man-sentenced-20-years-overdose-death-teen-who-died-days-before-graduation/
| 2022-09-13T20:15:58Z
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Suns owner Sarver suspended 1 year, fined $10M after probe
NEW YORK (AP) — The NBA has suspended Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury owner Robert Sarver for one year, plus fined him $10 million, after an investigation found that he had engaged in what the league called “workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies.”
The findings of the league’s report, published Tuesday, came nearly a year after the NBA asked a law firm to investigate allegations that Sarver had a history of racist, misogynistic and hostile incidents over his nearly two-decade tenure overseeing the franchise.
Sarver said he will “accept the consequences of the league’s decision” and apologized for “words and actions that offended our employees,” though noted he disagreed with some of the report’s findings.
The report said Sarver “repeated or purported to repeat the N-word on at least five occasions spanning his tenure with the Suns,” though added that the investigation “makes no finding that Sarver used this racially insensitive language with the intent to demean or denigrate.”
The study also concluded that Sarver used demeaning language toward female employees, including telling a pregnant employee that she would not be able to do her job after becoming a mother; made off-color comments and jokes about sex and anatomy; and yelled and cursed at employees in ways that would be considered bullying “under workplace standards.”
The $10 million fine is the maximum allowed by NBA rule.
“I take full responsibility for what I have done,” Sarver said. “I am sorry for causing this pain, and these errors in judgment are not consistent with my personal philosophy or my values. ... This moment is an opportunity for me to demonstrate a capacity to learn and grow as we continue to build a working culture where every employee feels comfortable and valued.”
Sarver, the league said, cannot be present at any NBA or WNBA team facility, including any office, arena, or practice facility; attend or participate in any NBA or WNBA event or activity, including games, practices or business partner activity; represent the Suns or Mercury in any public or private capacity; or have any involvement with the business or basketball operations of the Suns or Mercury.
The league said it would donate the $10 million “to organizations that are committed to addressing race and gender-based issues in and outside the workplace.”
“The statements and conduct described in the findings of the independent investigation are troubling and disappointing,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “We believe the outcome is the right one, taking into account all the facts, circumstances and context brought to light by the comprehensive investigation of this 18-year period and our commitment to upholding proper standards in NBA workplaces.”
It’s the second-largest penalty — in terms of total sanctions — ever levied by the NBA against a team owner, behind Donald Sterling being banned for life by Silver in 2014. Sterling was fined $2.5 million, the largest allowable figure at that time, and was forced to sell the Los Angeles Clippers as part of the massive fallout that followed him making racist comments in a recorded conversation.
The allegations against Sarver were reported by ESPN last year, which said it talked to dozens of current and former team employees for its story, including some who detailed inappropriate behavior. He originally denied or disputed most of the allegations through his legal team.
On Tuesday, Sarver’s representatives said the investigation’s findings “confirmed that there was no evidence, whatsoever, to support several of the accusations in ESPN’s reporting from November 2021.”
“While it is difficult to identify with precision what motivated Sarver’s workplace behavior described in this report, certain patterns emerged from witness accounts: Sarver often acted aggressively in an apparent effort to provoke a reaction from his targets; Sarver’s sense of humor was sophomoric and inappropriate for the workplace; and Sarver behaved as though workplace norms and policies did not apply to him,” read the report from the New York-based investigating firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
Sarver will have to complete a training program “focused on respect and appropriate conduct in the workplace” during his suspension, the league said.
Sarver, through his attorney, continued denying the allegations as recently as June in a letter to the league and insisted the claims against him were “demonstrably false.”
The attorney, Thomas Clare, wrote that Sarver’s record shows a “longstanding commitment to social and racial justice” and that it attests to his “commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
“Mr. Sarver is one of few NBA owners who continues to support and advance the development of women’s professional basketball,” Clare wrote, citing upgrades to the Mercury team facilities, how the Suns claim a league-best rate of 55% employment of minorities within its front office and how more than half of the Suns’ coaches and general managers in Sarver’s tenure — including current coach Monty Williams and current GM James Jones — are Black.
Among the league’s findings:
— That Sarver engaged in “crude, sexual and vulgar commentary and conduct in the workplace,” including references to sexual acts, condoms and the anatomy, referring to both his own and those of others.
— The investigation also found that Sarver sent a small number of male Suns employees “joking pornographic material and crude emails, including emails containing photos of a nude woman and a video of two people having sex.”
— Sarver, the investigation found, also exposed himself unnecessarily to a male Suns employee during a fitness check, caused another male employee to become uncomfortable by grabbing him and dancing “pelvis to pelvis” at a holiday party, and standing nude in front of a male employee following a shower.
— He also made comments about female employees, the investigation found, including the attractiveness of Suns dancers, and asked a female Suns employee if she had undergone breast augmentation.
The league also will require the Suns and Mercury to engage in a series of workplace improvements, including retaining outside firms that will “focus on fostering a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace.”
Employees of those organizations will be surveyed, anonymously and regularly, to ensure that proper workplace culture is in place. The NBA and WNBA will need to be told immediately of any instances, or even allegations, of significant misconduct by any employees.
All those conditions will be in place for three years.
The league said the results of the investigation were based on interviews with 320 individuals, including current and former employees who worked for the teams during Sarver’s 18 years with the Suns, and from the evaluation of more than 80,000 documents and other materials, including emails, text messages and videos.
Sarver and the Suns and Mercury “cooperated fully with the investigative process,” the league said.
“Regardless of position, power or intent, we all need to recognize the corrosive and hurtful impact of racially insensitive and demeaning language and behavior,” Silver said. “On behalf of the entire NBA, I apologize to all of those impacted by the misconduct outlined in the investigators’ report. We must do better.”
___
More AP NBA coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/nba-bans-suns-owner-sarver-1-year-fine-him-10m-after-probe/
| 2022-09-13T20:16:04Z
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Police search for teen last seen more than a week ago
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT/Gray News) – The Knoxville Police Department is looking for a teenage girl who hasn’t been seen by her family for more than a week.
According to police, Desaray Thurmer, 17, left her home in an Uber but never arrived at her destination.
Police believe she ran away and may have been trying to get to a location on Avalon Drive, which is about 20 minutes away from her home.
Thurmer was last seen around 8 p.m. on Sept. 5. She is about 5′6″ with hazel eyes and brown hair.
Anyone with information is urged to contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers at 865-215-7165, online at easttnvalleycrimestoppers.org or via the P3 Tips mobile app.
The community guidelines posted on Uber’s website state riders must be at least 18 years old to ride alone.
“Account holders can’t request a ride or delivery for someone under the age of 18 who will not be accompanied by either the account holder or another adult during the ride,” the policy states.
Copyright 2022 WVLT via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/police-say-teen-never-arrived-destination-after-getting-uber-vehicle/
| 2022-09-13T20:16:11Z
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President Biden to tout “electric vehicle manufacturing boom” at Detroit Auto Show
The White House says “the private sector has invested over $100 billion to make more electric cars and their parts in America.”
WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - President Joe Biden will be in Detroit Wednesday for the start of the North American International Auto Show in Michigan.
When the event kicks off, Biden is scheduled to highlight how his economic plan is driving what the White House calls “an electric vehicle manufacturing boom.”
“Under President Biden, the private sector has invested over $100 billion to make more electric cars and their parts in America, create jobs for our autoworkers, and strengthen our domestic supply chains,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
The president’s visit to Detroit comes on the heels of the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act into law last month.
A law which Republicans criticize. Minority Leader Senator Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has repeatedly criticized the tax credits intended to fuel purchases of electric vehicles.
In his Senate floor remarks on July 28th, McConnell, said “Democrats want to subsidize rich people buying electric cars that cost more than the median American household earns in an entire year.”
The White House says the policies are about more than tax cuts. The legislation has key investments for reducing carbon emissions by roughly 40% by 2030.
”Major companies have already announced billions of additional dollars in new investments to boost American clean energy manufacturing and create good-paying jobs,” said Jean-Pierre.
These investments are in addition to General Motors’ announcement back in January to spend more than $7 billion and create 4,000 new jobs to boost electric vehicle manufacturing.
When President Biden visited Detroit in November to tout the bipartisan infrastructure law, it was at a General Motors factory.
During his speech, he thanked the Michigan congressional delegation specifically Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Representative Dan Kildee (D-Mich.) for proposing the additional tax credit of $4,500 for union-made vehicles.
Copyright 2022 Gray DC. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/president-biden-tout-electric-vehicle-manufacturing-boom-detroit-auto-show/
| 2022-09-13T20:16:19Z
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Pro bull rider Ouncie Mitchell killed in Salt Lake City
Published: Sep. 13, 2022 at 2:51 PM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A pro bull rider was killed in Utah overnight Monday in what Salt Lake City police are calling a domestic violence homicide.
Police say in a news release that Demetrius Omar Lateef Allen was found shot outside an apartment complex in Salt Lake City after he got into an argument with a woman he had been dating.
Allen died at a hospital. PBR commissioner Sean Gleason says Allen went by the name Ouncie Mitchell as a pro bull rider.
Police arrested LaShawn Denise Bagley, a 21-year-old woman, on suspicion of murder. It’s unknown if Bagley had an attorney.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/pro-bull-rider-ouncie-mitchell-killed-salt-lake-city/
| 2022-09-13T20:16:26Z
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Woman charged in fatal hit-and-run that left teacher and father of 10 dead
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) - Prosecutors charged a 27-year-old woman in connection to a crash that killed a middle school teacher.
Kyrie Fields of Oregon, Wisconsin, was charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle, KCTV reports.
A probable cause document stated Charles Criniere, a husband and father of 10 children who also was a teacher at Martin City Middle School, was struck and killed while riding his bike the morning of Aug. 27.
Law enforcement found car parts at the scene of the incident and learned that a white Acura MDX was the suspect vehicle. Police found that the car had been set on fire the day after the fatal crash. The document stated that the parts found matched the suspect vehicle.
After detectives found that Fields was the driver of the Acura, they arrested her Monday. While being interviewed, police said she told them she was texting a friend, high on Percocet, and had taken her eyes off the road when she struck Criniere.
Fields also said she was unsure who burned the car, the document stated.
The court record also said Fields admitted to cleaning the car at a friend’s house after the crash, and that there had been blood on the front of the vehicle after the incident.
Prosecutors are requesting a $100,000 bond.
A fundraiser has been set up by a family friend to benefit the Criniere family. Visit GoFundMe to donate money to the family.
Copyright 2022 KCTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wvva.com/2022/09/13/woman-charged-fatal-hit-and-run-that-left-teacher-father-10-dead/
| 2022-09-13T20:16:33Z
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Back in the early 1990s, Nathaniel Landau was a young virologist just starting his career in HIV research. But he and his colleagues were already on the verge of a landmark breakthrough. Several labs around the world were hot on his team's tail.
"We were sleeping in the lab, just to keep the work going day and night because there were many labs all racing against each other," Landau says. "Of course, we wanted to be the first to do it. We were totally stressed out. "
Other scientists had identified groups of people who appeared to be completely resistant to HIV. "People who knew they had been exposed to HIV multiple times, mainly through unprotected sex, yet they clearly were not infected," Landau explains.
And so the race was on to figure out why: "Are these people just lucky or did they really have a mutation in their genes that was protecting them from infection?'" he says.
Now 25 years later, scientists all over the world are trying to answer the same question but about a different virus: SARS-CoV-2.
By this point in the pandemic, most Americans have had at least one bout of COVID. For children under age 18, more than 80% of them have been infected, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates.
But just as with HIV, some people have been exposed multiple times but never had symptoms and never tested positive.
"We've heard countless anecdotes about nurses and health-care workers being exposed without any protection and remaining negative over and over again," says pediatrician Jean-Laurent Casanova, who studies the genetics of viral resistance at Rockefeller University. "Or people share a household with someone who's been coughing for a couple of weeks, and one person stays negative."
So why haven't these people caught COVID?
After two years of hunting, a team at the University of California, San Francisco has come pretty close to answering the question.
"These findings are like hot off the presses," says immunogeneticist Jill Hollenbach, who led this research. "We haven't published them yet. It's all stuff that's been happening this summer."
Hollenbach and her team have found a genetic mutation that doesn't prevent the virus from infecting cells – that's what Landau was searching for in his HIV research – but still does something remarkable: It prevents a person from having COVID symptoms.
Turns out, stopping an infection altogether is an extremely tough nut for our bodies to crack.
What does it take to be a true superdodger?
Over the course of human history, scientists have identified only two instances of true virus superdodgers. That is, where a specific mutation in their genes makes people completely resistant to a virus. So that it slides off their cells, "like water sliding off a glass window," as Casanova puts it..
In 2003, a team in London showed how some people never get a stomach bug, called norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhea. The researchers found that one mutation in their genes prevents them from making a molecule the virus needs to infect the cell.
(In 1995, researchers in France figured out why some people appeared to never be infected with a species of malaria known as Plasmodium vivax. However, over the past decade, further studies have clarified that these superdodgers actually do become infected with the parasite; they simply don't show symptoms.)
The best-known superdodgers in human history
By far, the most famous virus superdodgers are people protected against HIV — the ones Landau and his colleagues were studying back in the early 1990s.
In 1996, his team was getting really close to solving that puzzle. One morning they found a huge clue. The night before, they had set up an experiment to test which molecules HIV needed to infect a human cell. The experiment garnered spectacular results.
It showed that HIV didn't enter cells the way scientists had believed. Instead it needed a little bit of extra help. Specifically, HIV needs a specific molecule, called CCR5, on the surface of the cell to "open the door" and let the virus enter, Landau says. Without CCR5, the virus only sticks to the cell's surface but can't enter. "It's kind of like the virus is knocking at the door, but nobody's opening the door. The door is locked," he says.
"That was what we call a eureka moment," Landau says. "That was the moment where we could say, 'We found something that had never been seen before.' "
Landau and his colleagues rushed to the computer and wrote up the findings as quickly as possible. Then he literally ran to the FedEx store to submit the paper to the journal Nature, knowing that other teams were likely to have the same finding soon.
"In those days you couldn't just submit your paper through your computer," he says. "You had to mail a hard copy of it to the journal. And my job was to sprint over to the FedEx store so we could get the paper mailed on time."
Then only a few short weeks later, Landau and his colleagues made another huge discovery, and in the process solved the final piece of the HIV puzzle. "We were quite amazed that it all happened so quickly," Landau says.
In collaboration with a research group down the hall, Landau and his colleagues sequenced the CCR5 gene in two people completely resistant to HIV. Lo and behold! Both people had the same mutation in the gene – and it's a powerful mutation. It completely cripples the molecule so that it doesn't appear on the cells' surface, the group reported in the journal Cell. Remember, without CCR5, HIV can't infect the cell.
"You can put as many virus particles as you want onto those cells, and they will not get infected," he says. "So in the case of resistance to HIV, the story was very clear."
The finding completely shifted the field of HIV. It led to the first – and only – way to cure a person of HIV and suggested a new route, using gene editing with CRISPR. But it did something else: It showed scientists that one mutation could make a person completely resistant to an infection. One mutation in their genes could make them a true superdodger.
Trying to find out if there really are COVID superdodgers
"So when SARS-CoV-2 came along, of course, many labs looked to see if the same might be true for this virus," Landau says. And inspired by the story of CCR5, they went looking for mutations in the genes required for SARS-CoV-2 to enter and infect cells.
For COVID superdodgers, the situation appears to be more complex than for people resistant to HIV, Landau says, because the way SARS-CoV-2 infects cells is different from that of HIV.
Instead of using CCR5 to "open the cell's door," SARS-CoV-2 uses the ACE2 receptor. People can't live without ACE2. "The receptor regulates your blood pressure," Landau explains. So, unlike CCR5, you can't simply knock out the ACE2 receptor, he says. "You're not going to have many people walking around that don't have ACE2.
"Of course, there may be more subtle mutations in ACE2 which could play a role in resistance to SARS-CoV-2," he adds. "But there doesn't seem to be an obvious and dramatic mutation as is the case for HIV."
But perhaps what's more likely, he says, is that people have mutations in genes other than ACE2, and these mutations probably don't protect them from getting infected per se but do protect them from getting sick.
Maybe there are ... mini-dodgers?
So having one of these mutations would make you a sort of COVID mini-dodger, if you will. There are other ways to resist an infection besides denying the virus entrance into the cell, Landau explains. And they likely involve your body's immune system.
That's exactly what the team at UCSF has found.
Since the pandemic begin, Jill Hollenbach and her colleagues at UCSF have been studying people who test positive COVID but show no symptoms. "Not even a sniffle or a scratchy throat," she says. "So they are entirely asymptomatic."
After analyzing DNA from more than 1,400 people, they identified a mutation that helps a person clear out a SARS-CoV-2 so fast that their body doesn't have a chance to develop symptoms.
The mutation occurs in a gene called HLA, which is critical during the earliest stages of infection. Hollenbach and her colleagues found that having a particular mutation in that gene increases a person's chance of being asymptomatic by almost 10 times. They reported those preliminary findings online last September.
Since then, they've gone on to show how this mutation works. And it has to do with your immune system preparing for SARS-CoV-2 before the pandemic even began back in 2019.
When a virus first enters cells, HLA signals to the immune system that cells are invaded and need help. That signal triggers a cascade of events that ultimately leads your body to make potent weapons specifically designed to fight SARS-CoV-2. These weapons include antibodies and T cells that uniquely recognize pieces of this virus. Once these targeted weapons are available, your immune system has a much easier time clearing up the infection. But these weapons take time to manufacture. And that delay allows the infection to spread and symptoms to develop.
But what if, for some lucky reason, your immune system already had weapons specifically targeted to SARS-CoV-2?
This summer, Hollenbach and her colleagues demonstrated that, with a specific mutation in HLA, some people have T cells that are already pre-programmed to recognize and fight off SARS-CoV-2. So there's no delay in generating COVID-specfic weaponry. It's already there.
"Your immune response and these T cells fire up much more quickly [than in a person without the HLA mutation]," Hollenbach says. "So for lack of a better term, you basically nuke the infection before you even start to have symptoms."
But here's the kicker. For the HLA mutation to work (and for you to have these pre-armed T cells), you first had to have been infected with another coronavirus.
"Most of us have been exposed to some common cold coronavirus at some point in life," she explains. And we all generate T cells to fight off these colds. But if you also have this mutation in your HLA, Hollenbach says, then just by mere luck, these T cells you make can also fight off SARS-CoV-2.
"It's definitely luck," she says. "But, you know, this mutation is quite common. We estimate that maybe 1 in 10 people have it. And in people who are asymptomatic, that rises to 1 in 5."
Seeking possible superdodgers who'll spit into a cup
While Hollenbach and her team continue to look for more mini-dodger genes, Casanova over at Rockefeller University and his colleagues are still trying to determine if there are true superdodger genes. And he's looking for participants right now for his study.
"You fill out a questionnaire online about your exposures to SARS-CoV-2," he says. And then if you meet the criteria of a superdodger, the team sends you a testing kit. Basically you spit in a cup and mail it back to Casanova and his collaborators.
"We'll extract your DNA and sequence your genome," he explains. "We hope that in a group of 2,000 to 4,000 people, some people will have genetic mutations that tell us why they're resistant to infection."
And perhaps, like with HIV, that finding will one day shift the field of COVID research and lead to a vaccine that does what everyone wishes our current vaccines would do: turn everyone into a COVID superdodger.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.keranews.org/news/2022-09-13/so-you-havent-caught-covid-yet-but-does-that-mean-youre-a-superdodger
| 2022-09-13T20:17:29Z
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Updated September 13, 2022 at 8:41 AM ET
Inflation cooled a bit last month, thanks in part to falling gasoline prices, but for many families, there's another major strain on their household budget: soaring electricity bills.
Take Bernice Brown, a retiree in Tuscaloosa, Ala.. In both July and August, her power bill topped a jaw-dropping $400.
"It's been damaging to be honest," she says.
But there's little she can do about it.
"The heat here is horrible," she says, noting her neighborhood near the University of Alabama campus doesn't have many shade trees. "The houses are just sitting, baking."
A report from the Labor Department Tuesday shows the country's annual inflation rate dipped to 8.3% in August, from 8.5% in July. But many families are still struggling with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and other essentials like electricity.
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Electricity prices have jumped 15.8% in the last year, largely as a result of high-priced natural gas, which is used to generate nearly 40% of the nation's power.
The rising price of power has been compounded by soaring temperatures, which have kept air conditioners working overtime.
"It was one heat wave after another," said Mark Wolfe, executive director of the National Energy Assistance Directors Association. "Families need to use air conditioning to stay safe."
NEADA estimates the average family's cooling costs rose from $450 last summer to about $600 this year.
Six months of summer
Dale Cooper's power bills in Phoenix are even higher.
"We have six months of summer with over 100-degree heat," says Cooper, who earns $13.50 an hour as a restaurant cashier. "If I didn't have roommates, I wouldn't be able to make it on the salary that I have."
While Cooper, who's 59, will likely get a break on utility costs during the mild Phoenix winter, people in colder parts of the country are likely to face significantly higher heating bills.
NEADA predicts the average family will pay $1,202 to heat their home this winter — 17% more than last year. For the six in 10 families whose heat comes from natural gas, the increase in heating costs could be 34%.
"There's no sign these prices are coming down," Wolfe says. "All the signs point to more expensive costs of home heating, and they could spike if it's cold."
NEADA says more than 20 million families have fallen behind on their utility bills and the average amount they owe has grown to $792 — nearly double what it was before the pandemic.
"It's not a question of are families heating and cooling their homes responsibly," Wolfe says. "Families do this. They turn the heat down as low as they can. They use air conditioning sparingly. It's just that the cost of home heating and home cooling has gone up so much that low-income families are struggling to pay these bills."
Other costs still sting
Heating and cooling bills come on top of rising costs for other essentials such as shelter and food. Housing costs rose 6.2% for the twelve months ending in August, while grocery prices jumped 13.5%.
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"To get decent, healthy food, the prices are extremely high," said Brown, in Tuscaloosa.
That's keeping the Federal Reserve on guard, even as overall inflation was tempered last month by the steep drop in gasoline prices. Gas prices tumbled nearly 40 cents a gallon during August to $3.84, according to the American Automobile Association.
Gasoline prices are among the most visible in the country, and they often carry an outsize psychological impact. As pump prices have declined, Americans' worries about inflation have also eased a bit.
A new NPR/PBS Newshour/Marist poll finds that inflation is the number one concern for 30% of adults this fall, down from 37% in July.
Despite the drop in gasoline prices, officials at the Fed say they are still not satisfied that overall inflation is moving back towards their target of 2%.
"I got burned last year," Fed governor Christopher Waller said in a speech last week.
He noted that inflation appeared to be falling last summer only to have prices take off again in the fall.
"We're very cautious about getting burned again," Waller said. "So it's got to be a real, permanent longer-term decline than like what happened last year."
The Fed is expected to raise interest rates by another 0.75 percentage points next week, and keep borrowing costs elevated until officials are confident that prices — including for essentials like electricity —are under control.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.keranews.org/news/2022-09-13/soaring-electricity-bills-are-the-latest-inflation-flashpoint
| 2022-09-13T20:17:35Z
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Texas is among the worst states in the country for workers, according to new research from a national nonprofit.
The Lone Star State ranked 48th on the “Best States to Work Index” from Oxfam America, a nonprofit focused on ending poverty.
“The three big themes of the index are wages, worker protections and the right to organize,” said Dr. Kaitlyn Henderson, a senior researcher with the organization. “Texas does not perform very strongly in any of those spaces.”
The goal of the study was not just to rank the best and worst states for workers, Henderson said. Oxfam also wanted to understand if and how labor policies impact people’s well-being.
“If you have a robust labor policy landscape at the state level, does that equate to or correlate to other good measures of well-being?” she said. “We tracked our state ranking against measures of food insecurity, poverty and infant mortality, and we found that there is a very strong correlation.”
“The stronger the labor landscape is at the state level, the less likely there is to be high levels of poverty, food insecurity and infant mortality,” Henderson said.
Worker Protections
The research looked at policies that support workers and their families’ needs both within and outside the workplace. That includes things like equal pay mandates, pregnancy accommodations and paid family and sick leave.
Texas does mandate equal pay across gender and race and provides sexual harassment protection by state law, but it fell short on nearly every other criteria the study looked at.
“Texas does not have any paid leave, does not have accommodations for pregnant workers, for workers who are breastfeeding,” Henderson said. “There are very few regulations around having a fair enough schedule for workers. There's no protections for domestic workers. There is no protection for outdoor workers from heat.”
Fair Wages
When determining whether a state offers fair wages to workers, Oxfam looked at the ratio of the state minimum wage compared to the cost of living for a family of four.
In Texas, the minimum wage remains at $7.25. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, that would only cover about 20% of the cost of living for a family of four.
The study also looked at how well Texas’ unemployment benefits cover the cost of living for a family of four. It found those benefits only cover 10.5% of the wages needed to cover cost of living.
Organizing Rights
Researchers also looked at whether workers have the right to organize and sustain a union. As a “right-to-work” state, Texas ranks just shy of dead last in this category.
Historically, unions have played a vital role in protecting workers’ rights to speak out about problems in the workplace, bargain for higher wages and push for stronger protections.
When states like Texas impose “right-to-work” laws, it prohibits unions from collecting dues from the people who benefit from their activities, making it much more challenging for unions to grow.
Texas also bans collective bargaining and wage negotiations for teachers.
“Public teachers are one of the largest sectors in this country, behind government workers, and overwhelmingly are women,” she said. “So denying public teachers the right to collectively bargain and organize really does limit the wage and benefit negotiation of teachers and keeps them working at a much lower wage.”
Democratic candidate for governor Beto O’Rourke has criticized the Republican push to weaken unions in Texas and has made strengthening unions in the state part of his campaign.
Gov. Greg Abbott, meanwhile, has targeted O’Rourke for his positions on organized labor.
Beto O’Rourke wants to END Right-to-Work in Texas, which would stall the booming Texas economy & destroy our state’s thriving job market.
— Texans for Abbott (@AbbottCampaign) August 3, 2022
If Beto has his way, union bosses would thrive while Texans suffer.
WATCH ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/Zc6oAL61FL
Henderson said despite Texas falling short in Oxfam’s analysis, there’s a lot of room for growth and improvement.
“Change is very possible,” she said. “Small policies make a very big difference, and Texans (should) really advocate for the changes that they wish to see, because it matters.”
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https://www.keranews.org/news/2022-09-13/texas-is-one-of-the-worst-states-in-the-country-for-workers-heres-why
| 2022-09-13T20:17:41Z
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Pooja Salhotra | The Texas Tribune Texas News Texas’ abortion law creates new questions about legal personhood Pooja Salhotra | The Texas Tribune
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https://www.keranews.org/pooja-salhotra-the-texas-tribune
| 2022-09-13T20:17:47Z
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When a pregnant North Texas woman was pulled over for driving alone in a high-occupancy vehicle lane, she protested.
“I just felt that there were two of us in [the car] and I was wrongly getting ticketed,” the driver, Brandy Bottone, told The Dallas Morning News in July.
Bottone argued that under Texas’ abortion laws, which went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to abortion, a fetus is considered a living being. She argued the same should be true when it comes to the state’s traffic laws.
“I’m not trying to make a political stance here,” Bottone said, “but in light of everything that is happening, this is a baby.”
Dallas County officials are now facing unprecedented legal questions about what defines “personhood.” While the district attorney’s office dismissed Bottone’s first citation, she was ticketed a second time in August.
Legal experts, meanwhile, warn that this traffic incident is just a small piece of a larger puzzle considering what it means to treat a fetus the same as a person. Debates about “fetal personhood” have been happening nationwide since the 1960s, when many abortion opponents started championing the idea. In Texas, abortion opponents are divided over whether a fetal personhood law is worth pursuing. But the concept is gaining traction nationwide and could become increasingly salient in Texas, where nearly all abortions have been banned and fetuses already have some legal rights.
“Historically, conversations about fetal personhood have been about introducing increasingly harsh penalties for people who either perform abortions or ‘aid and abet’ abortions,” said Mary Ziegler, a legal historian focusing on abortion at University of California Davis School of Law. “That isn’t the only way you can think about personhood.”
An expansive concept
During the 1960s and ’70s, abortion opponents pushed for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would define life as beginning at the point of fertilization. Such an amendment would have automatically criminalized abortion across the country. But it would also raise all sorts of new questions such as whether a fetus should be included when determining child tax credits, in census counts — or even as a passenger in an HOV lane.
Critics say that lawmakers haven’t fully considered these thorny legal questions. Georgia is the only state with a “fetal personhood law” in effect, according to The Guttmacher Institute, and that state is still trying to figure out exactly how to apply that law.
Kimberley Harris, who teaches constitutional law with an emphasis on reproductive rights at Texas Tech University School of Law, warns that the ultimate impact of fetal personhood laws would be to regulate the decisions of pregnant people.
“If the fetus is now a person,” Harris said, someone who consumes alcohol while pregnant “could be guilty of child endangerment.
“You could potentially be guilty of manslaughter or murder if you had a miscarriage and weren’t taking proper precautions,” she said.
Already, such cases are underway in states like Alabama, where voters have adopted a constitutional amendment protecting fetal rights. The state can legally sentence women to up to 99 years in prison for using drugs during pregnancy and then miscarrying. At least 20 women in the state have faced the harshest possible criminal charges for using drugs and then suffering pregnancy loss, The Marshall Project reported.
Rebecca Kluchin, a reproductive health historian at California State University, Sacramento, said that fetal personhood laws hark back to the era of forced sterilization, when states could forcibly sterilize people deemed unfit to procreate. She said that if fetal personhood is more widely recognized, more women could be forced to undergo unwanted medical interventions, such as cesarean sections, if a doctor believes that treatment is in the interest of the fetus.
“A doctor can say, ‘You need this to save your fetus,’ and it doesn’t matter what you want,” Kluchin explained. “And that takes women’s ability to consent out.”
No U.S. or Texas laws on fetal personhood
Although a constitutional amendment granting fetal personhood has been introduced more than 300 times in Congress, it has never gained significant traction. The U.S. Supreme Court has also declined to weigh in on fetal personhood. In the recent Dobbs decision, Justice Samuel Alito wrote: “Our opinion is not based on any view about if and when prenatal life is entitled to any of the rights enjoyed after birth.”
At the state level, lawmakers in several conservative states have championed fetal personhood laws, though only Georgia’s and Arizona’s have passed, and Arizona’s is currently blocked by a judge.
Texas Rep. Steve Toth, R-The Woodlands, filed a bill in the last legislative session that would provide due process to a fetus. That bill died in committee.
Toth did not respond to an inquiry about his agenda for the upcoming session.
State Rep. Greg Bonnen, R-Friendswood, filed a bill last year that would allow families to apply for “life certificates” for their “preborn child.” Similar to a birth certificate, the document would acknowledge the personhood of a fetus, although it’s unclear what types of rights such a certificate would grant. That bill died on the House calendar.
Texas’ abortion opponents remain divided
While certain conservative legislators are advancing bills granting legal rights for the fetus, anti-abortion activists said fetal personhood is not a priority. John Seago, president of Texas Right to Life — a statewide anti-abortion organization — said that while he ethically supports fetal rights, he is more focused on ensuring that current abortion laws are enforced.
“We have district attorneys who are not enforcing pro-life laws,” Seago said. “And so instead of adding a new law, we need to enforce what’s already there.”
At Texas Alliance for Life, another anti-abortion nonprofit organization, president Joe Pojman said he did not support Toth’s personhood bill because fetuses already have sufficient rights in Texas.
“I didn’t see anything that was not already in the Texas law,” Pojman said, adding that references to fetal rights are scattered throughout Texas’ legal code. Texas’ Estates Code, for example, protects inheritance rights for fetuses. And Texas’ Advance Directives Act, which would allow a doctor to end life support for certain patients, does not apply to pregnant women.
For nearly 20 years, Texas has also afforded fetuses legal rights when it comes to criminal cases. The Texas Penal Code was updated in 2003 to identify an “unborn child at every state of gestation from fertilization until birth” as an individual for cases of murder and assault. That law has been upheld by Texas’ highest criminal court of appeals, allowing the state to prosecute individuals who cause the “death of or injury to an unborn child.” In one recent case, a Texas man was imprisoned for life without parole after being found guilty of capital murder. A jury found the man guilty of causing the death of his ex-wife’s 5-week-old fetus.
Since Texas banned all abortions, a person could conceivably be prosecuted for capital murder for performing a medical procedure that was legal just three months ago. Texas law explicitly exempts the pregnant patient from being charged with murder in the death of their fetus. And no prosecutor has yet tried to use the capital murder charge for abortion. Experts say prosecutors are more likely to charge Texas abortion providers under the state’s trigger law, which makes performing an abortion punishable by up to life in prison.
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https://www.keranews.org/texas-news/2022-09-13/texas-abortion-law-creates-new-questions-about-legal-personhood
| 2022-09-13T20:17:53Z
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PERTH, Australia — A man who may have been keeping a wild kangaroo as a pet was killed by the animal in southwest Australia, police said Tuesday. It was reportedly the first fatal attack by a kangaroo in Australia since 1936.
A relative found the 77-year-old man with "serious injuries" on his property Sunday in semirural Redmond, 400 kilometers (250 miles) southeast of the Western Australia state capital Perth.
It was believed he had been attacked earlier in the day by the kangaroo, which police shot dead because it was preventing paramedics from reaching the injured man, police said.
"The kangaroo was posing an ongoing threat to emergency responders," the statement said.
The man died at the scene. Police are preparing a report for a coroner who will record an official cause to death.
Police believe the victim had been keeping the wild kangaroo as a pet.
There are legal restrictions on keeping Australian native fauna as pets, but the police media office said Tuesday they had no information to make public regarding whether the victim had a permit.
Tanya Irwin, who cares for macropods at the Native Animal Rescue service in Perth, said authorities rarely issue permits to keep kangaroos in Western Australia.
"This looks like it was an adult male and they become quite aggressive and they don't do well in captivity," Irwin said.
"We don't know what the situation was; If he was in pain or why he was being kept in captivity and unfortunately ... they're not a cute animal, they're a wild animal," Irwin added.
Irwin said her rescue center always rehabilitates native animals with the aim of returning them to the wild, particularly kangaroos.
"You do need a special permit to be able to do that. I don't believe they really give them out very often unless you're a wildlife center with trained people who know what they're doing," she said.
Western gray kangaroos are common in Australia's southwest. They can weigh up to 54 kilograms (119 pounds) and stand 1.3 meters (4 feet 3 inches) tall.
The males can be aggressive and fight people with the same techniques as they use with each other. They use their short upper limbs to grapple with their opponent, use their muscular tails to take their body weight, then lash out with both their powerful clawed hind legs.
In 1936, William Cruickshank, 38, died in a hospital in Hillston in New South Wales state on the Australian east coast months after he'd been attacked by a kangaroo.
Cruickshank suffered extensive head injuries including a broken jaw as he attempted to rescue his two dogs from a large kangaroo, The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported at the time.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/an-australian-man-is-killed-by-a-kangaroo-in-a-rare-fatal-attack
| 2022-09-13T20:26:10Z
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Visa, Mastercard and American Express have announced that they will begin separately categorizing sales from gun shops. The hope is to help track suspicious purchasing activities before future mass shootings. However, gun rights advocates and lobbyists are not happy.
Roben Farzad of Public Radio’s “Full Disclosure” podcast joins Here & Now‘s Eric Westervelt.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/card-companies-to-begin-tracking-sales-from-gun-shops
| 2022-09-13T20:26:17Z
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A group representing justices for all of the states’ highest courts is speaking out against a legal argument at the heart of an upcoming Supreme Court case.
That legal argument is being pushed by Republican state lawmakers, who brought the case. And if the court sides with those Republicans, experts say presidential and congressional elections would be radically reshaped.
Here & Now‘s Anthony Brooks speaks with Rick Hasen, director of the University of California Los Angeles Law School Safeguarding Democracy Project.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/controversial-legal-theory-underpins-supreme-court-election-law-case
| 2022-09-13T20:26:23Z
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Before lacrosse, there was stickball. The ancient sport is still played among Native Americans despite efforts to eliminate it.
Elizabeth Myong of KERA reports.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/despite-attempts-of-erasure-stickball-endures-as-a-cultural-hallmark-among-native-americans
| 2022-09-13T20:26:29Z
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WHITESBURG, Ky. — Laverne Fields and her family have been living in a camper by the side of the road in Millstone, Ky., for more than a month.
In late July, a week of intense storms turned the quiet mountain stream behind her mobile home into a raging river. More than six feet of water swept her trailer from its foundation. Fields and her family barely escaped before the force of the water shattered the trailer across the creek, where half of it still sits, its contents spilling out. She'd just paid the trailer off a year ago.
"One of the men from FEMA said, 'You guys are tough,' because they said they couldn't live like this," said Fields.
She applied for aid, but says she was rejected.
Temperatures in the 90s and humidity levels of 70% or more have come in waves after the flood.
Around high noon in the heat of the sun, Fields settled in a lawn chair in front of her camper. The only flat space they'd had to set up camp was a gravel strip by the roadside, without much in the way of trees or shade. Around her, two teenagers and a young child sought shade under a blue tarp that stretched across the campsite.
"It gets really hot in there," Fields said. "Me and the baby has breathing problems."
Fields draws disability and needs oxygen, but says she's been having trouble getting it refilled. She runs a generator occasionally. There's no electricity or running water in the camper.
"We bathe morning and night with wet wipes," Fields said.
A church group has promised to deliver the family a single-wide sometime in the fall, so they're holding on till then. But the nights are starting to get cold, and rain still makes them nervous.
A Long Road Ahead
In eastern Kentucky it's been more than a month since record flooding left 39 people dead. Across 13 flood-ravaged counties, more than 13,000 households have applied for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and that number is still rising. But just over half that number have been approved. There's still no official count of damaged homes, or of people who are now homeless.
Last month, Kentucky lawmakers passed a $213 million flood-relief plan. It funds school districts and infrastructure repairs, as well as intermediate housing. Critics say it does not provide for long-term housing and rebuilding.
In a recent news conference, Gov. Andy Beshear assured residents he's working as quickly as he can to house people safely. But, he said, it won't happen overnight.
"I know it's hard, but this is a several year rebuilding project," Beshear said.
The rebuilding has moved from a response phase into what Beshear calls a "stabilization phase." Congregate shelters set up immediately after the flood have begun to close.
Officials try to fill the gap in other ways. More than 300 people live in government-provided and personal trailers throughout Kentucky's state parks, with many more on the waiting list. In Carr Creek State Park, what was once a recreational campground has become a makeshift community of more than 30 families.
At a picnic table in the park, surrounded by her toddler's toys, Kayla Morton tried to stay positive. Morton's family is sleeping in an RV, which, she says, is at least better than a tent.
"We understand the situation we're in, and we're OK with being here for a while," Morton said.
Morton was a renter before the waters submerged her house in the town of Whitesburg. She and her husband tried at first to stay in a local motel, but the $75-a-night cost was well beyond their budget.
"We didn't have anywhere to stay and there was nowhere to rent, because there's so many homes that are lost," Morton said, as her child tugged at her sleeve. "This was really our only option."
Things could be worse. Morton used to run a nonprofit focused on delivering birthday gifts to children in need, so she's passed the time organizing activities for the kids in the park. As donations by church groups and concerned neighbors have threatened to overwhelm the park's capacity to store them, Morton has worked with the park manager to sort and distribute, and put out calls for specific needs.
But as autumn creeps closer, hot days have been followed by chilly nights. The campground is not equipped for the cold. And Morton is sure they're in for six to seven months of this, at least.
"There's families here that have five and six kids living in a camper," Morton said. No one's quite sure how they'll get to school. "And you know, these kids are going to be stuck in here in the wintertime."
Even those who've received aid are struggling to get cost estimates to FEMA. Derenia Dunbar considers herself lucky: her parents are living with her, are alive and well. But now, she spends all her time trying to track down contractors. They tell her to be patient, they're working seven days a week to get to everybody.
"They are so busy, they have to put you on the list," Dunbar said.
It's a race against the clock, and everyone's in the race. Cold weather without central heating and insulation means broken pipes and other problems.
During the past couple of weeks, a flurry of volunteers have come by to help her gut her parents' house. A hundred years of wallpaper and flooring is now stripped down to the studs – wet insulation and flooring removed.
As a volunteer group inspected their house for mold, Dunbar's dad, James Earl Boggs, stood beside her. Boggs worked all his life in a strip mine. He has silicosis now, better known as black lung disease. Worries about his safety made the work urgent.
"You gotta let it sit to make sure mold don't grow upstairs or anything," she said, referring to the current stripped-down state of the house. "Dad has breathing problems. We have to make sure that is getting cleaned."
Climate change brings questions for mountain communities
In the town of Bulan, in Perry County, Terry Thies walks around the bare floors of the house she grew up in. She lives with her boyfriend now in his place a few miles down the road, and she said she'll have to take out loans to rebuild her house, which was paid off long ago.
"I'm 69 and I'm going to have to have a mortgage," Thies said. "For the first time in my life."
Her neighbors are all having to rebuild, and many may have to start over. Thies doesn't know how they will manage it. Many are elderly, have lived here all their lives, and not all of them will be able to return safely. And this was a flood nobody had expected, and nobody was prepared for it.
Before this, Thies said, water had never gotten into the house. "It never got any higher than that second step."
Scientists have repeatedly warned that climate change means flooding and that it's getting more frequent and severe. Eastern Kentucky, along with most of central Appalachia, is slated to receive more intense storms as heat and humidity increases. In the region's narrow valleys, that means more intense flash flooding. Experts say the region's coal mining industry contributes to climate change and reduces topsoil and dense forest that could blunt the impact of heavy rainfall.
Reporting by the Mountain State Spotlight, a West Virginia independent news organization, and its partner radio collaborative Ohio Valley ReSource, showed that despite state hazard-mitigation plans and multiple serious floods over the past decade, little action has been taken at a local level in eastern Kentucky.
Still, everyone interviewed for this story says they don't plan to move away. For Derenia Dunbar, and so many more in eastern Kentucky, connection to land and home goes back generations.
"We're family here," Dunbar said.
Dunbar's under no illusions that it will be easy.
"It's kind of like the road's real crooked instead of straight for everybody," she said. "It's just real crooked. You have to stop at a couple of places, you know?"
Hundreds more trailers are expected to arrive soon, carted in from other disasters in western Kentucky and Louisiana, from tornadoes and hurricanes. Utility crews are working as quickly as they can to restore service to areas still without water and power.
Most affected schools will resume classes in late September.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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| 2022-09-13T20:26:36Z
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Humans are on track to trigger multiple irreversible climate “tipping points” in the coming decades, according to a new study.
If global warming reaches 1.5 degrees Celsius, ice sheets at both poles could experience runaway melting. Some coral reefs would also permanently die at that temperature, the study finds.
NPR’s Rebecca Hersher reports.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/irreversible-climate-tipping-points-loom-in-coming-decades
| 2022-09-13T20:26:42Z
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Many credit Ramsey Lewis with helping to revive jazz, a genre that was lagging in popularity in the 1960s. We hear some music made famous by the jazz pianist to mark his passing.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/jazz-pianist-ramsey-lewis-dies-at-87
| 2022-09-13T20:26:48Z
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The Justice Department issued about 40 subpoenas to former President Donald Trump’s aides and seized phones from two of his top advisers.
Here & Now‘s Anthony Brooks talks with Barbara McQuade, professor at the University of Michigan Law School and a former U.S. attorney.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/justice-department-issues-some-40-subpoenas-to-trump-aides-in-jan-6-probe
| 2022-09-13T20:26:54Z
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Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, is now largely liberated from Russian control following a stunning counter-offensive by Ukrainian forces. Yet the city continues to face major challenges.
Shelling continued Tuesday, killing at least three people while bombings throughout the region are targeting residential areas and infrastructure, knocking out power, water and public transportation.
Analyst Maria Avdeeva has been in Kharkiv throughout the war. She talks to Here & Now‘s Anthony Brooks about the situation on the ground.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/kharkiv-celebrates-russian-withdrawal-while-dealing-with-shelling-land-mines-power-shutdown
| 2022-09-13T20:27:01Z
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Glacier National Park boasts some of the darkest skies in the U.S., so it’s a perfect spot for a stargazing party at the top of 6,000-foot-tall Logan Pass.
Montana Public Radio’s Aaron Bolton reports.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/stargazing-at-glacier-national-park
| 2022-09-13T20:27:07Z
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Here & Now‘s Eric Westervelt speaks with Cleveland.com and Plain Dealer chief politics reporter Andrew Tobias about how fundraising and abortion rights are playing out in the horserace between Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan and Trump-endorsed “Hillbilly Elegy” author J.D. Vance.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/tight-ohio-senate-race-could-tip-balance-of-power-in-washington-next-year
| 2022-09-13T20:27:13Z
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A fungal disease that attacks while bats are hibernating has brought the tricolored bat to the brink of extinction. Now, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is recommending that the tricolored bat be added to the list of endangered species in an effort to protect them.
Tricolored bats live in 39 states east of the Rocky Mountains, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize and Nicaragua.
But white-nose syndrome — caused by a fungus that develops on cave-dwelling bats during hibernation — is decimating the bat's population in North America at "unprecedented rates," Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams said in a news release.
One of the smallest native species in North America, the tricolored bats spend the majority of the year in forest habitats. However, when winter rolls around, they seek shelter in caves and mines to hibernate, which is when they are susceptible to disease, the FWP says.
The fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, can resemble white fuzz on a bat's wings and snout, attacking bare skin while the animal is hibernating. According to the FWP White-nose Syndrome Response Team, the fungus causes the bats to become more active when they should be hibernating, burning off the little energy they have to survive the winter.
White-nose syndrome has killed off millions of bats across the continent, the FWP said, wiping out 90% to 100% of colonies in some sites. Scientists still don't know where the fungus came from, but it has been found in 12 of the 47 species living in North America, including two currently protected by the Endangered Species Act.
The disease is also ravaging the northern long-eared bat population, which FWP recommended reclassifying from threatened to endangered last March. The FWP says bats are critical to the healthy functioning of an ecosystem, and that they contribute at least $3 billion in pest control and pollination every year.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/tricolored-bats-could-become-endangered-as-fungal-disease-decimates-their-population
| 2022-09-13T20:27:20Z
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Updated September 13, 2022 at 3:34 PM ET
Twitter executives put profits ahead of security, leaving the door open to infiltration by foreign agents and hackers, the company's former head of security told Congress on Tuesday.
"Twitter leadership is misleading the public, lawmakers, regulators and even its own board of directors," Peiter Zatko testified during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. "The company's cybersecurity failures make it vulnerable to exploitation, causing real harm to real people."
Zatko, who's also known by his hacker name, Mudge, was hired to lead security at Twitter in 2020, after teenaged hackers took over high-profile verified accounts. He was fired in January of this year. In an 84-page federal whistleblower complaint made public last month, he accused the company of practicing lax security, neglecting user privacy, violating a 2011 settlement with the Federal Trade Commission, and knowingly employing foreign government agents who had access to internal systems and data.
His allegations have raised alarm bells in Washington, given Twitter's role as a place where government leaders, dissidents and businesses go to get their message out.
Zatko's disclosures have also thrown a new twist into Twitter's legal battle with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who is trying to back out of a $44 billion deal to buy the company. The billionaire has seized on Zatko's claims of as further justification for walking away from the purchase without penalty.
In Tuesday's hearing, which ran for more than two hours, Zatko painted a portrait of a company plagued by widespread security issues and unable to control the data it collects. Calm and measured, he stuck closely to his expertise, unpacking technical details of Twitter's systems with real-world examples of how information held by the company could be misused.
"It's not far-fetched to say that an employee inside the company could take over the accounts of all of the senators in this room," he warned.
After the hearing, Twitter pushed back against Zatko's claims. "Today's hearing only confirms that Mr. Zatko's allegations are riddled with inconsistencies and inaccuracies," a company spokesperson said in a statement.
Here are five takeaways from the hearing:
Twitter was warned it hired a Chinese spy
Zatko alleged the company is highly vulnerable to abuse by foreign intelligence agents — but is unable or unwilling to root them out.
A week before his firing in January, he testified, the FBI told Twitter's security team that at least one agent from China's Ministry of State Security was on the company's payroll. Zatko said while he found that disturbing, given "the state of the environment at Twitter," he was not surprised.
"If you are not placing foreign agents inside Twitter — because it's very difficult to detect them [and] it is very valuable to a foreign agent to be inside there — as a foreign intelligence company, you're most likely not doing your job," he said.
Zatko also alleged that the Indian government had placed an agent inside Twitter. He testified that Twitter struggled to identify potential infiltration by foreign agents and typically was only able to do so when notified by outside agencies. The company was "unwilling to put the effort in" to hunt down bad actors within its ranks, he said.
"I'm reminded of one conversation with an executive when I said, 'I am confident that we have a foreign agent,'" Zatko recalled. "Their response was, 'Well, since we already have one, what does it matter if we have more?'"
Twitter says its hiring process is independent of foreign influence.
Zatko pins Twitter's failures on leaders, starting with CEO Parag Agrawal
Zatko placed the blame for Twitter's vulnerabilities squarely on a leadership team that he described as reactive, incompetent, and motivated by profit over safety.
"I saw that Twitter was a company that was managed by risk and by crises, instead of one that manages risk and crises. It would react to problems too late," Zatko told the senators.
Executives, he alleged, ignored warnings from him and other employees over Twitter's security flaws because they "lacked the competency to understand the scope of the problem."
Zatko described a company culture that avoided negativity and alleged executives presented selectively favorable information to the board.
"There was an internal culture of only reporting good results up," he said.
He accused leadership of prioritizing business over security, quoting writer Upton Sinclair: "It is difficult to get someone to understand something when his salary depends on him not understanding something."
Republican Sen. Charles Grassley of Iowa, the committee's ranking member, slammed Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal for turning down an invitation to testify alongside Zatko on Tuesday. He said Agrawal had declined due to Twitter's court battle with Musk.
"The business of this committee and protecting Americans from foreign influence is more important than Twitter's civil litigation in Delaware," Grassley said. "If these allegations are true, I don't see how Mr. Agrawal can maintain his position at Twitter."
Twitter can't control the data it collects, Zatko alleges
When Zatko joined Twitter, he said, he was struck that the company kept having recurring security lapses — "the same amount, year after year."
The root cause, he told senators, is that Twitter doesn't understand how much data it collects, why it collects it, and how it's supposed to be used.
That includes users' phone numbers, IP addresses, emails, the devices they use, their locations and other identifying information. What's more, he said, around half the employees at Twitter have access to that data.
"It doesn't matter who has keys if you don't have any locks on the doors," he said. "The concern there is anybody with access inside Twitter...could go rooting through and find this information and use it for their own purposes."
Zatko said that also raised red flags that Twitter may not be complying with its 2011 agreement with the FTC over misuse of email addresses that it told users it was collecting for security reasons, but then used for marketing. (In May, the FTC fined Twitter $150 million for violating that agreement.)
"How come we keep making these same mistakes?" Zatko said. "What is it that we are telling the FTC as Twitter that is incorrect?"
Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, the committee chairman, compared Twitter to a bank, saying users expect the company to protect the information they use when they sign up for accounts. "Twitter is an immensely powerful platform that cannot afford gaping security vulnerabilities," he said.
Twitter says it controls employees' access to data through a variety of measures, including background checks, detection systems and other controls.
Lawmakers call out regulators, too
Twitter's management wasn't the only target at the hearing. Senators called out failures by government to effectively respond to the risks raised by tech companies.
"I'm concerned that for almost 10 years, the Federal Trade Commission didn't know or didn't take strong enough action to ensure Twitter complied" with the 2011 settlement, Grassley said.
Zatko characterized the regulator as outmatched by Silicon Valley's deep pockets. "Honestly, I think the FTC is a little over their head, compared to the size of the big tech companies," he said. "They're left letting companies grade their own homework."
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., called for the creation of a new federal agency to protect user privacy and security. "To effectively address this problem, we need not only to insist on restructuring the company, but also likely restructuring, reforming and energizing our regulatory apparatus," he said.
Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota said Congress needs to face its own shortcomings. Despite bipartisan concern over the impact of tech companies, "we have not passed one bill out of the U.S. Senate when it comes to competition, when it comes to privacy, when it comes to better funding the agencies, when it comes to the protection of kids," she said.
Off Capitol Hill, Twitter-Musk drama plays out
Shortly after the hearing wrapped, Twitter shareholders voted to approve Elon Musk's deal to buy the company — a formality that had to happen despite the fact the two sides are headed to court in Delaware next month.
Musk is trying to call off the purchase, claiming Twitter misled him and other shareholders about how it counts the number of fake or spam accounts on the platform.
He's seized on Zatko's allegations to bolster his claims, and has added them to his legal arguments in Delaware Chancery Court.
During the hearing, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina asked Zatko if he would buy Twitter, given what he knows.
"I guess that depends on the price," Zatko said.
🍿
— Naughtius Maximus (@elonmusk) September 13, 2022
On Tuesday, Musk hinted he was watching Zatko's testimony. In the first hour of the hearing, the billionaire tweeted a popcorn emoji.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-09-13/twitter-may-have-hired-a-chinese-spy-and-four-other-takeaways-from-the-senate-hearing
| 2022-09-13T20:27:26Z
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Man, 19, charged in death of 18-year-old woman who fell off golf cart
MOUNT HOLLY, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) - Police have arrested a 19-year-old man after an 18-year-old woman fell off a golf cart and later died.
The Gaston County Police Department said officers received a report of someone falling off the vehicle on Monday, WBTV reports.
When police arrived, they found 18-year-old Gabby Carrigan unconscious and not breathing. She was taken to the hospital and died the next day.
Investigators believe several people were drinking and driving the golf cart in the area, including 19-year-old Derek Helms, who police said was driving the vehicle at the time Carrigan fell.
Helms was charged with involuntary manslaughter, DWI, felony serious injury by vehicle and reckless driving. He is being held in the Gaston County Jail under a $300,000 bond.
Copyright 2022 WBTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/man-19-charged-death-18-year-old-woman-who-fell-off-golf-cart/
| 2022-09-13T20:38:19Z
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Woman charged in fatal hit-and-run that left teacher and father of 10 dead
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) - Prosecutors charged a 27-year-old woman in connection to a crash that killed a middle school teacher.
Kyrie Fields of Oregon, Wisconsin, was charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle, KCTV reports.
A probable cause document stated Charles Criniere, a husband and father of 10 children who also was a teacher at Martin City Middle School, was struck and killed while riding his bike the morning of Aug. 27.
Law enforcement found car parts at the scene of the incident and learned that a white Acura MDX was the suspect vehicle. Police found that the car had been set on fire the day after the fatal crash. The document stated that the parts found matched the suspect vehicle.
After detectives found that Fields was the driver of the Acura, they arrested her Monday. While being interviewed, police said she told them she was texting a friend, high on Percocet, and had taken her eyes off the road when she struck Criniere.
Fields also said she was unsure who burned the car, the document stated.
The court record also said Fields admitted to cleaning the car at a friend’s house after the crash, and that there had been blood on the front of the vehicle after the incident.
Prosecutors are requesting a $100,000 bond.
A fundraiser has been set up by a family friend to benefit the Criniere family. Visit GoFundMe to donate money to the family.
Copyright 2022 KCTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.whsv.com/2022/09/13/woman-charged-fatal-hit-and-run-that-left-teacher-father-10-dead/
| 2022-09-13T20:38:25Z
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SAN DIEGO, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Realty Income Corporation (Realty Income, NYSE: O), The Monthly Dividend Company®, today announced its Board of Directors has declared an increase in the company's common stock monthly cash dividend to $0.248 per share from $0.2475 per share. The dividend is payable on October 14, 2022, to stockholders of record as of October 3, 2022. This is the 117th dividend increase since Realty Income's listing on the NYSE in 1994. The ex-dividend date for October's dividend is September 30, 2022. The new monthly dividend represents an annualized dividend amount of $2.976 per share as compared to the prior annualized dividend amount of $2.97 per share.
"I'm pleased that Realty Income can once again increase the amount of the monthly dividend," said Sumit Roy, President and Chief Executive Officer of Realty Income. "Today's dividend declaration represents the 100th consecutive quarterly dividend increase and the 627th consecutive monthly dividend throughout our 53-year operating history."
About Realty Income
Realty Income, The Monthly Dividend Company®, is an S&P 500 company and member of the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats® index. We invest in people and places to deliver dependable monthly dividends that increase over time. The company is structured as a REIT, and its monthly dividends are supported by the cash flow from over 11,400 real estate properties owned under long-term net lease agreements with commercial clients. To date, the company has declared 627 consecutive common stock monthly dividends throughout its 53-year operating history and increased the dividend 117 times since Realty Income's public listing in 1994 (NYSE: O). Additional information about the company can be obtained from the corporate website at www.realtyincome.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. When used in this press release, the words "estimated," "anticipated," "expect," "believe," "intend," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include discussions of our business and portfolio including future operations and results, strategy, plans, intentions of management including the timing and payment of dividends. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions about us, which may cause our actual future results to differ materially from expected results. Some of the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are, among others, our continued qualification as a real estate investment trust; general domestic and foreign business and economic conditions; competition; fluctuating interest and currency rates; access to debt and equity capital markets; continued volatility and uncertainty in the credit markets and broader financial markets; other risks inherent in the real estate business including our clients' defaults under leases, potential liability relating to environmental matters, illiquidity of real estate investments, and potential damages from natural disasters; impairments in the value of our real estate assets; changes in income tax laws and rates; the continued evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to limit its spread, and its impacts on us, our business, our clients, or the economy generally; the timing and pace of reopening efforts at the local, state and national level in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and developments, such as the unexpected surges in COVID-19 cases, that cause a delay in or postponement of reopenings; the outcome of any legal proceedings to which we are a party or which may occur in the future; acts of terrorism and war; any effects of uncertainties regarding whether the anticipated benefits or results of our merger with VEREIT, Inc. will be achieved; and those additional risks and factors discussed in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Those forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future plans and performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. Actual plans and operating results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in this press release. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date these statements were made.
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| 2022-09-13T20:38:32Z
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WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Statara Solutions released its "Baked Audiences Insights" report, which found that 17% of adults in recreational-use states who have not consumed cannabis products have not done so because they are deterred by uncertainty about their options and legal rights. The report goes on to offer detailed profiles of those potential consumers.
"As industry revenues begin to plateau, this timely report identifies critical segments of the adult population that are ripe for sustained cannabis market growth and customer acquisition," said Matt Taverna, Principal of Statara Solutions. "Cannabis dispensary operators, brands, marketers, and investors can use this best-in-class data to learn how and where to engage with these potential customers and continue sustainable growth in the marketplace."
The report is based on a 2022 Statara survey of 5,349 adults ages 21+ in 19 recreational-use states. Survey responses were matched to Statara's national consumer file – including demographics, interests, and media consumption habits – to uncover patterns underlying the consumption of cannabis products and misconceptions by potential customers that want to engage the marketplace, but don't know how or don't think they can.
Statara's Baked Audiences is a best-in-class, compliance-first solution to navigating outbound marketing challenges. Designed specifically for the cannabis industry, Baked Audiences goes beyond the industry-standard approach of predicting age to verifying age using multiple sources of commercial and government data. Comprising more than 192MM individuals, Baked Audiences updates monthly to include fresh contact information and new 21-year-olds, providing a constant stream of accurate, age-compliant prospects.
Statara combines its expertise in compliance, analytics, polling, consulting, and outreach to create a full-service firm committed to helping companies, trade groups, universities, and more reach, engage, and retain their audiences. At Statara, we help our clients identify and gain a full understanding of their audience, customers, and members and then find the most effective ways to reach and engage with them.
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SOURCE Statara
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https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/17-adults-recreational-cannabis-states-dont-know-their-rights-options-according-new-statara-solutions-baked-audiences-insights-report/
| 2022-09-13T20:38:39Z
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Bill would remove practice barriers for nurse practitioners
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) expresses its strong support for the Improving Care and Access to Nurses (ICAN) Act. AANP thanks Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) and Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH) for introducing this legislation, which would improve health care access for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries by removing barriers to practice for nurse practitioners (NPs) and other advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).
"The health of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries depends on timely access to high-quality health care. Today, millions of patients are choosing NPs as their health care providers. This legislation would retire barriers to practice that impede access to timely health care for our patients," said AANP President April Kapu, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, FAANP, FCCM, FAAN. "It's critically important that health care policies reflect who is providing care in our communities and that our health care system is effective and efficient. The ICAN Act would move health care delivery forward for patients, providers and our nation."
NPs provide health care to Medicare and Medicaid patients across all geographic areas and health care settings. Approximately 40% of Medicare beneficiaries receive care from NPs, and NPs are the fastest growing Medicare provider group. Yet, despite the essential health care NPs provide to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, barriers still exist within the programs that prevent NPs from practicing to the full extent of their education and clinical training.
The ICAN Act would increase access to medically necessary health care services for patients across the country by removing outdated federal barriers to care. This bill would authorize NPs to order and supervise cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, certify when patients with diabetes need therapeutic shoes, have their patients fully included in the beneficiary attribution process for the Medicare Shared Savings Program, refer patients for medical nutrition therapy, certify and recertify a patient's terminal illness for hospice eligibility, perform all mandatory examinations in skilled nursing facilities, and more. These common-sense steps would update the Medicare and Medicaid programs, to reflect the modern health care workforce and ensure patients continue to receive the high-quality health care they need and deserve — from their chosen health care provider.
The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) is the largest professional membership organization for nurse practitioners (NPs) of all specialties. It represents the interests of the more than 355,000 licensed NPs in the U.S. AANP provides legislative leadership at the local, state and national levels, advancing health policy; promoting excellence in practice, education and research; and establishing standards that best serve NPs' patients and other health care consumers. As The Voice of the Nurse Practitioner®, AANP represents the interests of NPs as providers of high-quality, cost-effective, comprehensive, patient-centered health care. To locate an NP in your community, visit npfinder.com. For more information about NPs, visit aanp.org.
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| 2022-09-13T20:38:45Z
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BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Agree Realty Corporation (NYSE: ADC) (the "Company") today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized, and the Company has declared, a monthly cash dividend of $0.234 per common share. The monthly dividend reflects an annualized dividend amount of $2.808 per common share, representing a 7.8% increase over the annualized dividend amount of $2.604 per common share from the third quarter of 2021. The dividend is payable October 14, 2022 to stockholders of record at the close of business on September 30, 2022.
Additionally, the Company's Board of Directors has authorized, and the Company has declared, a monthly cash dividend on its 4.25% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock of $0.08854 per depositary share, which is equivalent to $1.0625 per annum. The dividend is payable October 3, 2022 to stockholders of record at the close of business on September 23, 2022.
About Agree Realty Corporation
Agree Realty Corporation is a publicly traded real estate investment trust that is RETHINKING RETAIL through the acquisition and development of properties net leased to industry-leading, omni-channel retail tenants. As of June 30, 2022, the Company owned and operated a portfolio of 1,607 properties, located in all 48 continental states and containing approximately 33.8 million square feet of gross leasable area. The Company's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "ADC". For additional information on the Company and RETHINKING RETAIL, please visit www.agreerealty.com.
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| 2022-09-13T20:38:52Z
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