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Would Climate Change Happen Without Humans? | The Earth is getting warmer, the seas are rising steadily, and yet despite incontrovertible evidence of climate changes destructive effects, many people remain inexplicably convinced that humans are not to blame. These naysayers believe that scientists are erroneously attributing naturally occurring variations in Earths atmosphere. As ridiculous as that might sound to some folks, others have begun to delve more deeply to investigate if climate change would have happened without humans . Studies to investigate this rapid heating eventually determined that humans have been driving global warming through fossil fuel emissions since the onset of the Industrial Age. As a result, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has determined that humans are 94 percent responsible for climate change by our actions alone. According to a Time article published in 2015, 13 of the 15 warmest years on record previously occurred between 1998 and 2014. Those numbers were supplanted in 2016 and then surpassed again in 2020. Essentially, according to NASA , Earths average temperature has risen a total of 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the 1880s. The simple answer is, no. Climate change, at least on the scale and rate that we are now seeing it, would not be as it is without the intervention of humans. That isnt to say that there wouldnt be natural changes in global temperatures or weather patterns over time, it just wouldnt be happening as quickly. There are several myths that bolster this erroneous belief that climate change is nothing more than a natural process. The first myth, at least according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), is that the Earths climate has always changed. Warming and cooling have occurred before, prior to, and during the ice ages, but those changes took place over hundreds of thousands of years, not within the span of two decades. To be fair, the planet has changed a great deal in its 4.5 billion year history. According to author Pete Brannen in his book, The Ends of the World, most of those changes were due to great cataclysms like volcanic activity, variations in solar output, or immense asteroids. Article continues below advertisement Events such as these would cloud the world in dust or increase the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, thereby warming the world for the next several centuries. In either case, the world would remain changed until such conditions abated. Source: Getty Images Article continues below advertisement Humanity is doing this same thing, only were doing it to the planet ourselves. Our technological advancement and consumption of resources are causing real alterations to the way the planets climate works, but we dont really know how this might come to affect us in the long run. Scientists make assumptions and predictions, of course, and frankly, all of the outcomes are bad. As the population continues to grow, efforts to minimize humanitys impact on climate change via international cooperative efforts like the Paris Agreement, seem to become less and less effective. We have the technology and systems in place to move to renewable, non-polluting sources of energy, but getting 7.6 billion people on board is going to be a tall order. Article continues below advertisement Source: Getty Images | https://www.greenmatters.com/p/would-climate-change-happen-without-humans |
What will graduation look like at Dutchess Stadium this year? | Hanah Tamweber can't wait for the chance to hear her name projected through the speakers at Dutchess Stadium, with the image of her in a cap and gown projected on the Jumbotron. The Arlington High School class president didn't have much hope for a traditional graduation at the end of her senior year. Still, being part of commencement was one of the main reasons she sought the office. "I know it sounds kind of weird, but that was my main motivation in becoming class president," Tamweber said. "To be able to say the names at graduation and having my grandparents there, we are all very excited to have that moment." Tamweber will have her special moment crossing the stage, but commencement will be early. After graduation on Saturday, June 12, Tamweber and her fellow seniors will return to school to finish up the school year. And they are not alone. Beacon High seniors will be doing the same this year due to a longer Hudson Valley Renegades season and a rule requiring that the stadium remain empty 24 hours before each game. Renegades:Hudson Valley Renegades join new High-A 'East' League Prom:Prom season in Dutchess: How schools will safely bring back year-end tradition Musicals:Some Dutchess County high schools are managing to bring back spring musicals. Here's how. Beacon Superintendent Matt Landahl and Arlington High School Principal John Orcutt said June 11 and 12 were the only days available for commencement, before a series of Renegades home games begins at the end of the month. Orcutt said holding graduation at the stadium was the only option for the senior class of roughly 700 students. The class wouldn't fit into any other venue he considered. "It really does have a special feeling to it," Orcutt said. "The members of the community that were calling for graduation were really envisioning it at the stadium, not any other venue." Commencement at Arlington will be split into two ceremonies, one at 8 a.m. and the second at 11:30 a.m. Beacon will host one ceremony at 6 p.m. on June 11. Graduation at the stadium will have a traditional feel, but with social distancing and mask wearing throughout. Landahl and Orcutt said the schools will follow regulations set by the stadium and state guidelines. Beacon students will be spaced out in chairs on the field, but will still have their moment to cross the stage and receive diplomas. Arlington High plans to distribute diplomas to students at a drive-thru ceremony on June 25. Guests will be spread throughout the stadium in pods. They will fill out a health screener asserting that they either tested negative for COVID-19, have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID within 90 days. In between the two Arlington sessions, staff will conduct a deep cleaning of the stadium. The stadium has the capacity for 1,700 guests. Arlington will allow four guests per student. Landahl did not say how many guests Beacon students can have. Orcutt said the Arlington ceremony will symbolize the end of a tough year filled with obstacles for his students. "The commencement ceremony is a significant event in the experience of a student, they've worked really hard and they've been through so much that trying to replicate a traditional graduation for them was a priority for this year," he said. Katelyn Cordero is the education reporter for the Poughkeepsie Journal: [email protected]; Twitter: @KatelynCordero. | https://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/story/news/2021/06/04/what-graduation-look-like-dutchess-stadium-year/7523670002/ |
Was lernen Sie konkret in Ihrer Vertriebsfreaks-Akademie? | Ganz nach dem Motto Nur vom Reden wird der Reis nicht gekocht geht es in diesen 9 Wochen um eins, um Ihre Umsetzung. Damit auch Sie ins TUN kommen. Und genau das unterscheidet all die Macher, all die erfolgreichen Unternehmer und Selbststndigen, das Wissen auch anzuwenden! Zudem noch eine groe Portion an Motivation, Emotionen pur sowie auch viele Lacher mit viel Spa und Freude bei jeglicher Lektion. Langweilig wird es uns nie. Dreifachschwr! Sie werden auf Ihrer Reise und Ihrem Wachstum zu Ihrem Erfolg begleitet, den Sie sich wnschen. Eins auch hier in aller Deutlichkeit: Wir alle brauchen Hilfe und Untersttzung, um zu wachsen. Und dafr stehen Experten zur Verfgung. Genau das setzen wir mit den restlichen 20 Prozent an. Sie werden begleitet, Sie haben einen Partner zur Hand, der Ihnen 24 Stunden am Tag, 7 Tage die Woche, 9 Wochen zur Seite steht. Ja, sogar auf Sie schaut. Mit unseren braunen Augen. Nein, keine Kontrolle. Dafr sind Sie alt genug. Sondern die Gelegenheit und Mglichkeit zu haben, nicht nur Blockaden, sondern auch Fragen schnellstmglich beantwortet zu bekommen. Sowohl fachlich als auch technisch. Die Akademie ist insgesamt in 9 Module aufgeteilt. Damit Sie Stck fr Stck in die Umsetzung kommen, wird jede Woche je ein Modul freigeschalten. So erarbeiten Sie schrittweise, Woche fr Woche, Ihr individuelles Vertriebskonzept. Und der Begriff einfacher wie Malen nach Zahlen trifft hier wie der Nagel auf den Kopf. Detaillierte Informationen ber die Vertriebsfreaks-Akademie von Uwe Rieder, der bayerische Vertriebsfreak, erhalten Sie, wenn Sie hier klicken. Damit Sie ideal in die Umsetzung kommen, erhalten Sie in jeder Woche per einfachem Download ein Arbeitsheft zum Ausfllen. Sodass Sie mit mglichst wenig Aufwand schnell ins Tun kommen. Das Umsetzen ist ja das A und O fr uns Vertriebsfreaks! Denn Sie wissen: Nur vom Reden wird der Reis nicht gekocht! Und reden (auf bayerisch: labern!) tun viele da drauen. Beim ins-Tun-kommen trennt sich aber die Spreu vom Weizen! Egal, ob 1 Mann-Unternehmer, 1 Frau-Inhaberin, auch Konzerne mit ber 70 Millionen Euro Umsatz: Die Vertriebsfreak-Vertriebsstruktur hat bei jedem einzelnen funktioniert. Dieses 1:1 Coaching wurde im Laufe der Zeit immer mehr verfeinert, nachgebessert, getuned und intensiviert. Immer mehr Buchungen kamen rein, immer mehr Erfolge wurden seitens der anwesenden Kunden ja genau, die kamen alle zu uns nach Dachau, wir fuhren und fahren nicht raus gefeiert. In dieser Zeit zudem ber 50.000 (in Worte: Fnfzigtausend!) geniale Kontakte geschaffen in meiner Zielgruppe von Unternehmern, Selbststndigen sowie Einzelunternehmern. Dann nutzen auch Sie ein kostenfreies Strategiegesprch mit Uwe Rieder, der bayerische Vertriebsfreak. Hier geht es zu Ihrem Gesprch. | https://www.mittelstandcafe.de/was-lernen-sie-konkret-in-ihrer-vertriebsfreaks-akademie-1907513.html |
What role does the Church have to play in uniting people? | Jon Yates launched his new book, 'Fractured', via a lunchtime webinar hosted by the Theos think tank on Thursday. Joined by Dr Madeleine Pennington, Head of Research at Theos, Yates delved into the topic of his book - divisions within society. "Half of British people today feel that their country has never felt so divided. We can see evidence of this in our own friendship groups," he said. "Half of Brits with degrees do not have a single friend who doesn't have a degree. The vast majority of pensioners do not mix with anyone or have any contact with anybody who is a millennial, unless they are their grandchildren. "The biggest divide of all remains income or class." Yates, Executive Director of the Youth Endowment Fund, explained that a "common life" is what historically united people. This way of life was particularly prevalent in agricultural society where community gatherings were frequent. "Religious services were connecting people together, people they didn't choose to spend time with," he said. "Then when we moved into cities we see another common life spring up, you see the birth of clubs and societies. Nearly all the clubs that exist today from the scouts to the guides, freemasons and boys brigade, all broadly date from the early period of the industrial revolution. "They sprung out of nothing and provided a space where we mixed with people we didn't choose, we just turned up and met people and bonded together". Yates said that the reason for division today is the decline of society's common life. "We still have to go to school and go to work, but now we tend to choose where we send our children to school. We now have a lot of choice as to where we go to work," he said. He continued, "The more we choose where we send our children to school, the more we choose where we work, the more we should expect these institutions to become full of people who are quite similar. "In publishing this book I hope to start the journey for the idea of a mandatory common life to bring us all back together." Asked about the role of religion, and how faith and belief could be a part of the solution, Yates said, "I do think there is a slight tendency to think if we just ban religion then everyone would agree. That definitely doesn't seem likely. I don't see a secular society as one where everybody has the same view on everything." He continued, "It is also important to note when we think about a common life, religious gatherings can play an important role. "Places of worship are often one of the few places in society where people mix across ages. They are one of the few places where you can see mixing by different education levels." Yates also touched on the role that the Church specifically must play in uniting people. "Churches tend to be dominated by people who are older, by people who have got graduate degrees, and they tend to not have a great record of mixing people from ethnic backgrounds," he said. "We do need to challenge those of us who are involved in places of worship. "I think there is a huge role for religion to play while at the same time people need to be self-critical about how we use the institutions that we have to make them as effective as possible." | https://www.christiantoday.com:443/article/what.role.does.the.church.have.to.play.in.uniting.people/136901.htm |
Was ist WhatsApp Fast Playback und wie wird es verwendet? | Diese Seite wurde mit KI und maschinellem Lernen bersetzt. (Pocket-lint) - WhatsApp hat Fast Playback im Juni 2021 offiziell eingefhrt. Die Funktion die erstmals im Mrz 2021 gemunkelt wurde ermglicht es Benutzern, die Wiedergabe von Sprachnachrichten zu beschleunigen und damit die Zeit zum Abhren zu verkrzen. Sprachnachrichten sind groartig. Sie ermglichen es Benutzern, mehr Informationen zu senden, ohne alles in eine Nachricht eingeben zu mssen. Sie sind auch etwas persnlicher als eine schriftliche Nachricht und helfen dabei, den richtigen Kontext zu vermitteln, von dem einige in einer Nachricht verloren gehen knnen. Das Problem mit ihnen ist jedoch, dass es ziemlich lange dauern kann, sie anzuhren, wenn Sie einen besonders gesprchigen Freund haben. Dabei hilft die schnelle Wiedergabe. Es stehen drei Einstellungen zur Auswahl - 1x, 1,5x und 2x - von denen keine die Tonhhe der Stimme der Person ndert. So verwenden Sie die schnelle Wiedergabe auf WhatsApp. Holen Sie sich das groartige Ivacy VPN fr weniger Geld mit diesem fantastischen Weihnachtsangebot von Pocket-lint International Promotion 4 Juni 2021 Um Sprachnachrichten auf WhatsApp zu beschleunigen, fhren Sie die folgenden Schritte aus: ffne WhatsApp Tippen Sie auf das Wiedergabesymbol der Sprachnachricht, die Sie beschleunigen mchten Tippen Sie auf das 1x auf der Sprachnachricht, um es in 1,5x zu ndern - das 1x-Symbol wird angezeigt, wenn Sie auf Play drcken Tippen Sie auf das 1,5x-Symbol, um es in 2x zu ndern Tippen Sie auf das 2x-Symbol, um es wieder auf die standardmige 1x-Geschwindigkeit zu ndern Das ist es. Einfach. Die WhatsApp Fast Playback-Funktion ist in den WhatsApp iOS- und Android-Apps sowie in WhatsApp Desktop und WhatsApp Web verfgbar . Um es zu erhalten, stellen Sie sicher, dass Sie die neueste Version von WhatsApp ausfhren. Sie mssen sicherstellen, dass Sie Version 2.21.101 oder hher verwenden. ffnen Sie den App Store auf iOS oder den Google Play Store auf Android, suchen Sie nach WhatsApp und vergewissern Sie sich, dass es sich um die neueste Version handelt. Schreiben von Britta O'Boyle. | https://www.pocket-lint.com/de-de/software/news/whatsapp/157188-was-ist-die-schnelle-whatsapp-wiedergabe-und-wie-kann-man-sprachnachrichten-beschleunigen |
Is a One Direction reunion on the cards? | Adv. It has been 5 years since our favourite One Direction broke hearts worldwide by announcing an indefinite hiatus. Liam Payne recently disclosed he is still in close contact with Harry Styles, revealing, I spoke to him and it was a really lovely catch up actually. And Ive got a lot of love for the man. Hes great, hes really really great. In the upcoming episode of My Life on MTV, Liam Payne will be seen spilling the beans around the reunion, talking about the intent of boys to keep it a secret. Adv. We cant wait to find out! In the nostalgic boyband special episode, apart from One Direction, you will look at yet another favourite boy band The Backstreet Boys. The reminiscence hits deep as the episode details out the glorious old days with the best pop band of the past 4 decades! My Life At MTV features the throwback journey of our beloved and most memorable international musicians from the industry. And its a throwback we wouldnt want to miss. Adv. Take a glimpse inside the lives of Backstreet Boys and One Direction on My Life on MTV. | https://www.glamsham.com/music/music-news/liam-payne-harry-styles-one-direction-reunion-reveals-secrets |
Is Huaweis new smartphone OS an alternative to Android and iOS? | Huawei on Wednesday launched a new range of smartphones, including its flagship Huawei Mate 40 series, which are all powered by the new HarmonyOS 2 operating system (OS). This is a significant change from Huaweis previous phones, which were all powered by an open-source version of Android. The geopolitics surrounding the launch of the Harmony OS 2 operating system are worth looking into. The development of HarmonyOS began as far back as 2016, but it gained momentum and importance after the US government imposed sanctions on Huawei in 2019. In May 2019, the US Department of Commerce added the Chinese smartphone maker and 70 affiliates to its Entity List, effectively prohibiting the company from importing, exporting or using American technology. In August 2020, another 38 other Huawei-affiliate companies were added to this Entity List. After Huawei made it to the US governments blacklist, Google cut ties with the company and cancelled its Android licence. This meant that Huawei was only allowed to use the public version of Android, known as the Android Open Source Project and not Googles proprietary apps and services such as the Play Store, Gmail and YouTube, which are not covered by the open-source license and require a commercial agreement with Google. In September 2020, Huawei revealed that it is preparing to switch from Android to HarmonyOS for its smartphones. Previously, HarmonyOS was only used for other smart devices like TVs and smartwatches. Although HarmonyOS is Huaweis own, it is largely derived from Googles Android open-source code that it is replacing. After having done a deep dive into the code of HarmonyOS, Ars Technica reported that it is essentially an Android fork and that there is no discernible difference between Huaweis all-new OS and Android. But there is nothing illegal about this because Android code is open source and it isnt subject to US export restrictions. Huawei is not the first to try developing an alternative to iOS and Android. Alibaba made AliOS but the company long stopped updating it. Samsung created Tizen OS but these do not power its smartphones yet, and the watch version of Tizen is now consumed into Googles WearOS. HarmonyOS might have a better chance than those that came before it because Huawei is one of the largest smartphone manufacturers and it will have the support of the all-powerful Chinese government which has been aggressively pushing for more adoption of local technology. Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. HarmonyOS, however, still poses many problems to Huawei. The OS still cannot run closed source Google software like PlayStore, Gmail, YouTube, Chrome, etc, or any other US-developed apps (except Microsoft apps which are exempted) because these are restricted by US sanctions. For these reasons, HarmonyOS is unlikely to be a worthy alternative to Android outside of China and is unlikely to seriously challenge the dominance of Android and iOS, which currently account for 85.4% and 14.6% of market share respectively. This whole effort seems to be nothing more than a branding exercise. Huawei can claim HarmonyOS as its own and say that it isnt reliant on US software, and it can hope people will believe those claims. Saving face seems to be the only reason HarmonyOS exists, and that also explains why the company is so reluctant to be upfront about Harmonys Android lineage. ArsTechnica In order to be a true alternative to Android and iOS, Huawei not only needs to build an OS that is not largely dependent on Android code but, more importantly, it needs to build or facilitate the building of a whole new set of apps and services that are competitive with Google apps like Gmail, YouTube, PlayStore, as well as with apps other US-developed apps like Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, Netflix, etc. When the US government imposed the sanctions, Google was worried that such a move risks compromising US national security. Google stated that the sanctions will prompt Huawei to develop its own version of the mobile OS, which could pose a bigger threat to Android in the coming years. Google argued that a version of Android developed by Huawei would be more vulnerable to hackers. The HarmonyOS 2 might just be that version of Android that Google feared. As of now, the new OS has little impact on Indian consumers because Huawei does not hold a significant market share in the country. Other Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi, Vivo and Oppo are leading in market share in India, and these manufacturers continue to use Googles software because they do not feature in the sanction list. If these manufacturers decide to adopt HarmonyOS 2 going forward, which is highly unlikely, only then will it affect Indian users because access to Google apps and other US-developed apps will be cut off. But there is a larger lesson here: Although there is no imminent risk for an Indian smartphone manufacturer to face such US sanctions, if any company did, it would be in the same boat as Huawei because India does not have any reliable alternative to Android or iOS, and is heavily reliant on US-developed apps, more so than China. Homegrown IndusOS made an attempt to challenge Android but did not make much headway. The platform was recently acquired by PhonePe and seems to have pivoted to helping the payment giant make a super app. In some spaces like fintech and food delivery, Indian apps are up there with the best, but theres still a long way to go in other spaces, social media, for example. Also Read | https://www.medianama.com/2021/06/223-huawei-smartphone-harmony-os/ |
What is Special Cargo in GTA Online and how to make money with it? | The Special Cargo warehouse is one of the most popular ways to make the big bucks in GTA Online. While the warehouse does not support the idea of passive income, the blood, sweat, and tears going into sourcing and selling crates are worth it. Of course, there are other ways to generate a steady source of income in GTA Online, but the Cargo Warehouse is not so famous for no reason. Passive sources of income may not require a lot of elbow-greasing, but they hardly churn out enough to live with. Most players don't fancy the idea of minimalist living, at least not in the game. GTA Online is all about bathing in dollars. The Special Cargo Warehouse may not be as profitable as the Vehicle Warehouse, but it's certainly rewarding in its own right. This article explains how players can make money with this feature in GTA Online. All details about Special Cargo Warehouse in GTA Online A cargo warehouse is essentially an underground facility unit that allows players to store stolen contraband until it's sold to a dealer. GTA Online features three kinds of warehouses: small, medium, and large. The profitability of a warehouse depends on how many crates it can store at a time. Small warehouses can store 16 crates, medium warehouses 42, and large warehouses can house 111 crates at the same time. The best way to maximize profit and save time is to sell as many crates at a time as possible. The list below shows how much each kind of warehouse costs in GTA Online. Small warehouses ($250,000 - $400,000) - can host 16 crates Medium Warehouses ($880,000 - $1,017,000) - 42 Large warehouses ($1,900,000 - $3,500,000) - 111 Selling 1 crate at a time can generate $132,000 per hour Selling 2 crates at a time can generate $189,000 per hour Selling 3 crates at a time can generate $286,000 per hour. Selling CEO crates is an excellent way to make decent money in GTA Online. Players must, however, keep in mind that the source missions featured for this business aren't exactly fun, and griefers are always lurking around the corner, waiting to blow up the crates and claim the bounty. Edited by Ravi Iyer | https://www.sportskeeda.com/gta/what-special-cargo-gta-online-make-money-it |
Do We Owe Missy Higgins An Apology? | Aussie singer/songwriter Missy Higgins appeared on Anh Do's Brush With Fame this week. She spoke about the pressure put on her at a young age by the media, and her fans, to put a label on her sexuality. Apart from a bit of an ick word. And our best and worst of the week which veer from trolls to teeth. The End Bits Recommendations: Holly wants you to listen to this important episode of The Quicky You can watch Missy Higgins on Anh Do's Brush With Fame here Read more about Canada's stolen generation here Check out the UK's Covid Wall of Remembrance here CREDITS Hosts: Mia Freedman, Holly Wainwright and Jessie Stephens Producer: Emma Gillespie Executive Producer: Elissa Ratliff CONTACT US Via our PodPhone on 02 8999 9386 Via our email at [email protected] Via our Outlouders Facebook page- https://www.facebook.com/groups/329632330777506/ Mamamia Out Loud is a podcast by Mamamia https://www.mamamia.com.au/author/mamamiaoutloud/ Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | https://www.mamamia.com.au/podcasts/mamamia-out-loud/missy-higgins-anh-do/ |
Where are the 7 best holiday home views in North Devon? | Published: 1:24 PM June 4, 2021 Claire's favourite view from her journey home, looking across the estuary from Spreacombe Hill. - Credit: Grant Housekeeping Take a holiday in North Devon and youll be spoilt for choice with amazing views. One expert gave us seven of the best Sweeping beaches which peter off as far as the eye can see, chocolate box villages with pretty streets, green-dappled forest glades, dramatic clifftop vistas, historic towns and harbours with characterNorth Devon has them all. Expert Claire Grant has run Grant Housekeeping, a North Devon holiday cottage housekeeping and laundry servicing company, for the last 14 years. With her experience, Claire says: We have so many amazing holiday lets in this region and the range for people to stay in is enormous. But in my view, the icing on the cake is waking up each day in a property which has an amazing viewand then going out for the day knowing you are coming back to it once more every evening. Indeed, some of the properties we know are so spectacular its even hard to leave them during the day as you just want to drink in the view all the time! We love cleaning and maintaining them and we know just how happy our holidaymakers are to stay in such stunning properties with a true wow factor. Im lucky enough to have the most scenic commute to and from work every day whether Im going from home to Croyde or Woolacombe or anywhere in between. My personal favourite view is from the top of Spreacombe Hill across to the Taw and Torridge estuary, closely followed by the view across Saunton Beach, where I occasionally see dolphins. Here is Claires selection of seven North Devon holiday lets with amazing views: Heatherdown has ocean views from every room. - Credit: Heatherdown 1. Heatherdown is a large luxury home that sleeps up to 14 people and is situated up above Croyde Bay and has sweeping views of the whole bay. The house has ocean views from every room, great communal spaces for large groups and is set in six acres of private land while still only having a five-minute walk to the beach. Its let via [email protected] Langtrees has a stunning award-winning garden. - Credit: Ocean Cottages 2. Langtrees can be found in the middle of Croyde village but in a tucked away private position. The house sleeps nine and was recently completely refurnished and the hot tub looks over the stunning award-winning garden. No 6 Out of the Blue has a balcony overlooking the sea. - Credit: Ocean Cottages 3. No 6 Out of the Blue sleeps up to six and has the enviable position of actually being on the edge of Croyde beach. Its a very comfortable property with the master bedroom having French doors onto a balcony overlooking the sea. So you get to lie in bed and hear and the waves down below! The White House has completely uninterrupted sea views. - Credit: Ocean Cottages 4. The White House is a beautiful, large Victorian property on the South West Coast path between Croyde and Baggy Point. It has thoughtfully and traditionally furnished rooms and a hot tub with completely uninterrupted sea views. This house is a great space for family get-together, or Christmas. It sleeps up to 12 but was recently booked for two for a honeymoon! The Penthouse views of the beach from its wraparound glass sitting room and balcony. - Credit: Ocean Cottages 5. The Penthouse apartment in the Narracott building in Woolacombe has one of the best views across the village and beach from its wraparound glass sitting room and balcony. Its a large open plan apartment with perfect entertaining spaces and sleeps up to nine. Its all beautifully recently refurbished and furnished. Parade House now boasts ultra-contemporary, luxury accommodation. - Credit: Parade House 6. Parade House is a collection of four individual luxury properties, varying in size, set on Woolacombe Esplanade. Each has their own private outside space and hot tub which look directly along Woolacombe beach. It was built in 1890 but completely rebuilt and renovated in 2017 and now boasts ultra-contemporary, luxury accommodation. The smallest is the Beach Hut which sleeps up to six (two on a sofa bed). The View sleeps up to eight again (with, again two on a sofa bed). The Lookout sleeps up to eight and the main house, Memories, sleeps up to eight. They may vary in size but the standard is outstanding across all four properties. No 3 Gull Rock has spectacular views out to Lundy Island. - Credit: Ocean Cottages 7. No 3 Gull Rock is an apartment perched high above Combsgate Beach and has spectacular views out to Lundy Island from a large, private decked patio. Its slightly out of Woolacombe village but amenties are close enough to walk to. This is a romantic hideaway with great open plan living space but cosy at any time of year. Claire concludes: These are just some of my own personal favourite views to make up a magnificent seven, but to be honest, I could have chosen ten more! North Devon really does have it all when it comes to the variety and scope of its holiday homesholidaymakers coming here truly are spoilt for choice. | https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/travel/places-to-visit/see-amazing-views-from-7-devon-holiday-homes-8027780 |
How a comprehensive health insurance policy differs from a basic plan? | Health insurance is essential to safeguard savings in the event of a medical emergency. While there are several options available, customers should research the features and options before deciding on a policy. It's vital to understand that different health insurance plans fulfill different purposes. Some may cover only a specific group of people, whereas some may cover a specific disease. Here, we are discussing the concept of a comprehensive health insurance plan and how it differs from a regular or basic health insurance policy. Let's understand it under different sub-heads: Coverage According to Rakesh Goyal, director, Probus Insurance, comprehensive medical insurance covers the cost of hospitalisation, daycare procedures, medical care at home, ambulance charges, among others. It offers extensive coverage and acts as a financial cushion in case of medical emergencies. On the other hand, Goyal said, a basic health insurance policy covers medical expenses for illnesses or injuries. At the same time, it protects policyholders from sudden medical expenses and reimburses the bills or pays the medical care provider directly on the policyholders behalf. In short, a basic health insurance plan helps policyholders in staying covered against various diseases. While, a comprehensive policy covers outpatient as well as inpatient treatments, including consultations, medical tests as well as hospital stays. Inclusions and cost According to Pankaj Arora, MD and CEO, Raheja QBE General Insurance, comprehensive health insurance is generally designed without any capping for room rent/ICU charges and doctors fees. It also does not have any sub-limits for any coverage such as domiciliary hospitalisation. It offers the maximum benefit to the insured as compared to the basic health insurance cover and hence the cost is also higher. Value-added services Unlike basic health insurance, comprehensive health plans come with valued added services such as pharmacy and diagnostic centre tie-ups, doctor consultation, gym membership discount and many such features which add to the health cover. As per market experts, a comprehensive plan is much better than the regular health cover in terms of the sum insured, benefits offered, diseases covered, flexibility, etc. A basic plan has limited benefits. However, it's always on the customers to pick the policy as per their needs and fund availability. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on CNBCTV18.com are their own and not that of the website or its management. CNBCTV18.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. | https://www.cnbctv18.com/personal-finance/how-a-comprehensive-health-insurance-policy-differs-from-a-basic-plan-9543061.htm |
What are the best options to create emergency fund? | The COVID-19 pandemic has made people realise the importance of having an emergency fund. Also known as a contingency fund, an emergency fund means a specified amount set aside for emergencies that arise unexpectedly such as a job loss, pay cut, or a medical emergency. Ideally, market experts say that one portion of savings must be parked to meet such emergencies. A typical thumb rule requires that such an emergency fund must meet 6-12 months of survival needs. "While it's smart to always let the money earn the best returns possible, this is an exception where the speed and assurance at which individuals can access the funds are more desirable than the rate of return, stresses Yashpal Sharma, vice president of Taurus Mutual fund. Here are some of the best options to create an emergency fund: Savings account Emergency funds must be readily accessible; therefore investors should necessarily invest in liquid instruments. Liquid instruments offer unhindered access to fund. In this scenario, the first thing that comes to mind is a savings account. People who are not comfortable with debt instruments can use a savings account that offers a high rate of interest with no minimum balance requirements for parking emergency funds. Flexible bank fixed deposits (FDs) FD, being a secure investment, can also be used as an emergency fund investment. In any unforeseen requirement, fixed deposits can easily be converted to ready cash. Overnight funds According to Sharma, one of the best parking places for this fund is an overnight fund, which is a very short-term mutual fund. Other liquid funds Investors can park around 30-50 percent of the investible corpus in liquid funds as they offer high liquidity along with better returns than a savings account. "By investing a sizeable part of the emergency fund in these schemes, liquidity is ensured since investors can redeem within a couple of days. Average returns on liquid funds hover around the 6-8 percent mark. With low risks and an opportunity to earn good returns, these funds can help in creating the corpus in a shorter period, said Harsh Jain co-founder and COO Groww. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on CNBCTV18.com are their own and not that of the website or its management. CNBCTV18.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. | https://www.cnbctv18.com/personal-finance/what-are-the-best-options-to-create-emergency-fund-9544171.htm |
What will the weather be like for the June Bank Holiday weekend in Leitrim and surrounding counties? | Saturday: Scattered outbreaks of rain and drizzle, mainly over Ulster, the midlands and north Leinster will gradually clear through the morning and afternoon, with dry and sunny conditions extending from the west. Highest temperatures of 15 to 20 degrees, mildest in the east. Light to moderate southwesterly breezes will veer westerly in the clearance from the rain. Saturday night: A dry and clear night with mist and fog patches developing. Cooler than previous nights with lowest temperatures of 5 to 8 degrees in light westerly breezes. Sunday: A dry day, apart from isolated showers, with sunny spells. Feeling pleasant with highest temperatures of 15 to 19 degrees in light breezes. Staying dry overnight with clear spells though there's a possibility of some dense fog developing in light southeasterly or variable breezes. Lowest temperatures of 7 to 10 degrees. Bank Holiday Monday: Mist and fog will clear away quickly for a dry morning with sunny spells. But cloud will push in from the Atlantic with scattered showers developing, with the driest conditions in the east. Highest temperatures of 16 to 20 degrees in light to moderate southwesterly winds. Becoming largely dry overnight with lowest temperatures of 8 to 11 degrees in light breezes. | https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/weather/638399/what-will-the-weather-be-like-for-the-june-bank-holiday-weekend-in-leitrim-and-surrounding-counties.html |
What Does Toro's Debt Look Like? | Over the past three months, shares of Toro (NYSE:TTC) increased by 8.89%. Before we understand the importance of debt, let us look at how much debt Toro has. Toro's Debt According to the Toro's most recent balance sheet as reported on June 3, 2021, total debt is at $691.46 million, with $591.50 million in long-term debt and $99.96 million in current debt. Adjusting for $497.63 million in cash-equivalents, the company has a net debt of $193.82 million. Let's define some of the terms we used in the paragraph above. Current debt is the portion of a company's debt which is due within 1 year, while long-term debt is the portion due in more than 1 year. Cash equivalents include cash and any liquid securities with maturity periods of 90 days or less. Total debt equals current debt plus long-term debt minus cash equivalents. Shareholders look at the debt-ratio to understand how much financial leverage a company has. Toro has $3.00 billion in total assets, therefore making the debt-ratio 0.23. Generally speaking, a debt-ratio more than one means that a large portion of debt is funded by assets. As the debt-ratio increases, so the does the risk of defaulting on loans, if interest rates were to increase. Different industries have different thresholds of tolerance for debt-ratios. A debt ratio of 40% might be higher for one industry and normal for another. Importance Of Debt Debt is an important factor in the capital structure of a company, and can help it attain growth. Debt usually has a relatively lower financing cost than equity, which makes it an attractive option for executives. However, due to interest-payment obligations, cash-flow of a company can be impacted. Having financial leverage also allows companies to use additional capital for business operations, allowing equity owners to retain excess profit, generated by the debt capital. Check out Benzinga Pro, a market research platform which provides investors with near-instantaneous access to dozens of stock metrics - including debt-to-equity ratio. Click here to learn more. | https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/06/21427321/what-does-toros-debt-look-like |
How Does JM Smucker's Debt Look? | Shares of JM Smucker (NYSE:SJM) increased by 15.88% in the past three months. Before we understand the importance of debt, let us look at how much debt JM Smucker has. JM Smucker's Debt Based on JM Smucker's financial statement as of February 25, 2021, long-term debt is at $3.92 billion and current debt is at $921.40 million, amounting to $4.84 billion in total debt. Adjusted for $501.50 million in cash-equivalents, the company's net debt is at $4.34 billion. Let's define some of the terms we used in the paragraph above. Current debt is the portion of a company's debt which is due within 1 year, while long-term debt is the portion due in more than 1 year. Cash equivalents include cash and any liquid securities with maturity periods of 90 days or less. Total debt equals current debt plus long-term debt minus cash equivalents. Shareholders look at the debt-ratio to understand how much financial leverage a company has. JM Smucker has $16.43 billion in total assets, therefore making the debt-ratio 0.29. Generally speaking, a debt-ratio more than one means that a large portion of debt is funded by assets. As the debt-ratio increases, so the does the risk of defaulting on loans, if interest rates were to increase. Different industries have different thresholds of tolerance for debt-ratios. A debt ratio of 40% might be higher for one industry and normal for another. Importance Of Debt Debt is an important factor in the capital structure of a company, and can help it attain growth. Debt usually has a relatively lower financing cost than equity, which makes it an attractive option for executives. Interest-payment obligations can impact the cash-flow of the company. Equity owners can keep excess profit, generated from the debt capital, when companies use the debt capital for its business operations. Check out Benzinga Pro, a market research platform which provides investors with near-instantaneous access to dozens of stock metrics - including debt-to-equity ratio. Click here to learn more. | https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/06/21427329/how-does-jm-smuckers-debt-look |
What Does Science Applications Debt Look Like? | Shares of Science Applications Intl (NYSE:SAIC) moved lower by nan% in the past three months. Before having a look at the importance of debt, let us look at how much debt Science Applications Intl has. Science Applications Intl's Debt Based on Science Applications Intl's financial statement as of March 26, 2021, long-term debt is at $2.45 billion and current debt is at $68.00 million, amounting to $2.52 billion in total debt. Adjusted for $171.00 million in cash-equivalents, the company's net debt is at $2.34 billion. Let's define some of the terms we used in the paragraph above. Current debt is the portion of a company's debt which is due within 1 year, while long-term debt is the portion due in more than 1 year. Cash equivalents include cash and any liquid securities with maturity periods of 90 days or less. Total debt equals current debt plus long-term debt minus cash equivalents. To understand the degree of financial leverage a company has, investors look at the debt ratio. Considering Science Applications Intl's $5.72 billion in total assets, the debt-ratio is at 0.44. Generally speaking, a debt-ratio more than one means that a large portion of debt is funded by assets. As the debt-ratio increases, so the does the risk of defaulting on loans, if interest rates were to increase. Different industries have different thresholds of tolerance for debt-ratios. A debt ratio of 40% might be higher for one industry and average for another. Importance Of Debt Debt is an important factor in the capital structure of a company, and can help it attain growth. Debt usually has a relatively lower financing cost than equity, which makes it an attractive option for executives. Interest-payment obligations can impact the cash-flow of the company. Having financial leverage also allows companies to use additional capital for business operations, allowing equity owners to retain excess profit, generated by the debt capital. Check out Benzinga Pro, a market research platform which provides investors with near-instantaneous access to dozens of stock metrics - including debt-to-equity ratio. Click here to learn more. | https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/06/21427390/what-does-science-applications-debt-look-like |
How Much Oxygen Do We Need To Survive? | Health oi-Amritha K The world witnessed one of the bleakest moments in history in 2019 - the Amazon rainforest has been burning for the past three weeks and nothing has been done to control the situation. With the lungs of the planet burning at record speed, the home to 10 per cent of the known species, 40,000 different plant species and 2.5 million insect species is a crucial factor in the fight against global warming, due to the massive forest's ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. About 20 per cent of the world's oxygen is produced in the Amazon rainforest and with a 93 per cent surge in the fires - as per reports from Brazil's space research centre Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE), we are looking at an intractable loss of biodiversity [1] . The impact of one of the largest fire outbreaks in the Amazon rainforest is already evident in different regions in South America including the Atlantic coast and Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city. The city, during one of the brightest hours of the day, turned black from the thick smoke at 3 pm, although it is located thousands of miles away from the scorching fire [2] . In the event of the global celebration of the environment and its improvement on the World Environment Day, let's take a look at the importance of oxygen in our sustenance. The World's Breathing Is At Stake The Amazon rainforest is central to the ecological balance of the world. With the fire reaching about 2,000 miles away and continuing, the negative consequences this can have on climate change is colossal. By absorbing the carbon present in the atmosphere and producing as big as 20 per cent of the world's oxygen supply, the Amazon rainforest is essential for the survival of the earth and its beings. The rainforest is also responsible for controlling the carbon emissions, creating ease of breathing [3] [4] . But with the forest burning on accelerated levels, the levels of carbon emissions are on a high - making it difficult to breathe and also, hampering the supply of oxygen with thousands of trees burning down every minute. Air Quality In India As the world watches the largest forest burn, there rises a question about our daily consumption of oxygen. It is existent around us and is for free right. But let me and other thousands of studies tell you, NO! The oxygen that you breathe right now may not available in the coming years. The air quality in India is declining daily with Indian cities making up six of the top 10 cities with high air pollution were from India. And India as a country ranks 9 in the overall calculation. According to a WHO survey, approximately 3 million deaths per year are caused by air pollution, pointing out the importance of oxygen for survival [5] . According to studies, the minimum oxygen concentration required for human breathing is 19.5 per cent. For human beings, the optimal range of oxygen in the air for humans runs between 19.5 per cent and 23.5 per cent [6] . An average adult, while resting inhales and exhales about 7 or 8 litres of air per minute, which is approximately 11,000 litres of air per day. The air we inhale is 20 per cent oxygen and the exhaled air contains 15 per cent oxygen, therefore it can be pointed out that 5 per cent of oxygen is consumed in each breath. So in total, human beings consume about 550 litres of pure oxygen per day [7] . If the oxygen level drops from the normal rate of 19.5 per cent to 16 per cent, your body will face severe side effects. Ample amount of oxygen is required for your body to function physically and mentally. In the event of a lack of oxygen, the cells in your body fail to receive the oxygen needed for functioning. Lack of oxygen can also result in your mental functions becoming impaired [8] [6] . Also read: Detoxing Your Home: Understanding And Eliminating Environmental Toxins In addition to this, let's take a look at the effect of too much oxygen. An excessive amount of oxygen does not pose anything as harmful as to the levels of lack of oxygen. However, it can cause the formation of oxidizing free radicals, which can attack the tissues and cells of the body and cause muscle twitching. Long-term exposure is fatal. Effects Of Oxygen-deficient Atmosphere The concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere is critical to the survival of any human being. At 19 per cent level concentration, few physiological effects occur but may not be evident. At 15 to 18 per cent, it can cause impaired thinking and attention, along with increased pulse, breathing rate and reduced coordination. It can also cause reduced physical and intellectual performance without awareness [9] . At 12 per cent, you will have poor judgement, faulty coordination, abnormal fatigue upon exertion and even affect your emotional stability. At 10 per cent you will develop very poor judgement and coordination, impaired respiration that may cause permanent heart damage, the possibility of fainting within a few minutes without warning, as well as nausea and vomiting [10] . With an oxygen level below 7 per cent, human beings will not be able to survive. ---- Considering the rampant rise in air pollution and very low air quality, it is imperative that conservative measures should be adopted. It is not only the government and big corporations that can play a role in positive impact. Every single individual can play a part in improving the air quality and in saving the earth and its inhabitants. The conservative methods you can adopt are as follows: Recycle Plant trees Use public transport to reduce carbon emissions Grow vegetables in your garden Quit smoking Get pollution control checkups for your automobile View Article References [1] Krishnan, S. (2019, August 23). Amazon Rainforest fire: Everything you need to know [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.jagranjosh.com/current-affairs/amazon-rainforest-fire-cause-and-global-impact-1566462374-1 [2] Woodward, A. (2019, August 22). The Amazon Is Burning at a Record Rate, And The Devastation Can Be Seen From Space. Retrieved from https://www.sciencealert.com/the-amazon-is-burning-at-a-record-rate-and-parts-were-intentionally-set-alight [3] Ortiz, E. (2019, August 23). Climate change, oxygen and biodiversity: Amazon rainforest fires leave plenty at stake. Retrieved from https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/climate-change-oxygen-biodiversity-amazon-rainforest-fires-leave-plenty-stake-n1045446 [4] Philips, T. (2019, August 23). Amazon rainforest fires: Macron calls for G7 talks to focus on 'international crisis'. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/aug/23/amazon-rainforest-fires-macron-calls-for-international-crisis-to-lead-g7-discussions [5] India Today. (2018, March 05). Every day, air quality worsens in India. Retrieved from https://www.indiatoday.in/sponsored-feature/story/everyday-in-india-air-quality-gets-worse-1182391-2018-03-05 [6] Green, R. G. (2017).Human factors for pilots. Routledge. [7] Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. H. (2017).Introduction to the human body. John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated. [8] Birren, F. (2016).Color psychology and color therapy; a factual study of the influence of color on human life. Pickle Partners Publishing. [9] Li, Y., Ye, X., Cao, S., Yang, C., Wang, Y., & Ye, J. (2019). OxygenDeficient DumbbellShaped Anatase TiO2 x Mesocrystals with Nearly 100% Exposed {101} Facets: Synthesis, Growth Mechanism, and Photocatalytic Performance.ChemistryA European Journal,25(12), 3032-3041. [10] Rodenbcher, C., Hildebrandt, E., Szot, K., Sharath, S. U., Kurian, J., Komissinskiy, P., ... & Alff, L. (2016). Hafnium carbide formation in oxygen deficient hafnium oxide thin films.Applied Physics Letters,108(25), 252903. | https://www.boldsky.com/health/how-much-oxygen-we-need-to-survive-129593.html |
Why are people talking about Dr Anthony Fauci's emails? | Dr Fauci adjusts his mask Thousands of private emails from US infectious disease chief Dr Anthony Fauci have revealed the concern and confusion at the start of the pandemic. A National Institutes of Health specialist with a career spanning seven US presidents, Dr Fauci, 80, became the face of the nation's Covid-19 response and has since been the subject of both effusive praise and ferocious criticism. The over 3,000 pages of emails, obtained by the Washington Post, Buzzfeed News and CNN through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, date from January to June 2020. His conversations offer a glimpse into the early days of the US Covid outbreak and his dealings with the government, foreign and domestic health officials, the media, celebrities and everyday Americans. The Wuhan lab theory Dr Fauci and his colleagues took notice, in the early days, of the theory that Covid-19 may have leaked from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. The controversial claim was dismissed by experts last year, who said it was "extremely unlikely". No evidence to support it has emerged. But in recent days, amid criticism of an inconclusive international probe into the virus' origins and new reports of Covid-related illness in the region weeks before it was officially identified, the theory is once again sparking debate. A January 2020 email to Dr Fauci from the director of the country's largest biomedical research facility suggested the "unusual features" of the virus may indicate it is "engineered", prompting Dr Fauci to say he will reach out via phone. In April 2020, an email from the director of the National Institute of Health, Francis Collins, nudged Dr Fauci with the subject line "conspiracy gains momentum". The doctor's response to this is fully redacted. Story continues This May, Dr Fauci said he is "not convinced" the virus originated naturally and expressed support for an investigation. On masks In the early months of the virus, the US government was still working out mask guidance - a move that has been criticised for adding to the confusion. In a February 2020 email exchange with a former US health secretary, Dr Fauci said: "Masks are really for infected people to prevent them from spreading infection to people who are not infected rather than protecting uninfected people from acquiring infection." He added that store-bought masks are "not really effective in keeping out virus, which is small enough to pass through material". The following month, a friend in the Chinese public health field wrote to say he has been misquoted in the media for saying the West is making a "big mistake" in not recommending mask use. Dr Fauci responded: "I understand. No problem. We will get through this together." Questions from all sides As the public sought answers to the worsening crisis, Dr Fauci fielded inquiries from across the US - including Hollywood and Silicon Valley. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg invited the doctor to participate in the social media platform's Covid information hub and respond to users' questions. Actress Morgan Fairchild - who reportedly collaborated with him during the Aids epidemic of the 1980s - reached out in February asking how she could help. Dr Fauci suggested she tweet: "The American public should not be frightened, but should be prepared to mitigate an outbreak in this country by measures including social distancing, teleworking, temporary closure of schools, etc." And, soon after a phone call with Bill Gates, a senior executive at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation wrote to say he was "seriously worried" about Dr Fauci's health and safety. The emails also reveal Dr Fauci frequently and firmly shut down rumours that he was being censored by President Trump. "I actually have not been muzzled at all," he wrote to one unidentified fan in February 2020. Some moments of levity Lionised on prayer candles and bobble-head toys, the emails show Dr Fauci professing discomfort with the adulation coming from many corners of the internet. When a colleague emailed him a story of how a shop sold out of doughnuts emblazoned with his face, he responded: "Truly surrealistic. Hopefully this all stops soon... It is not at all pleasant, that is for sure." In another email, he shared a story about 'Fauci Fever' with the quip: "It will blow your mind. Our society is really totally nuts." And, when actor Brad Pitt played him on the Saturday Night Live sketch comedy show, he happily told a colleague that one reviewer said Pitt "looked 'exactly like me'. That statement made my year." Some conservative politicians and media pundits have cited the emails in their calls to sack Dr Fauci for his work on the pandemic response. US Senator Rand Paul, a Republican who has frequently clashed with Dr Fauci in hearings on Capitol Hill, said the emails make it "abundantly clear" the doctor is "a massive fraud". Across the political aisle, liberals have argued Dr Fauci's positions adapted to the scientific evidence available at the time. Others celebrated his style and tone of response to various emails. The Fauci Ink Blot Test Analysis by Tara McKelvey, BBC White House reporter Fauci's emails are like a Rorschach ink blot: what you see in them reveals more about you than the ink blot, or, in this case, the emails. For Trump supporters I know in small Kansas towns and other rural areas, Fauci is a villain. He broadcasts conflicting messages about the virus, these Republicans say, and twists science. They also say that he undermined then-President Trump. These conservatives refused to wear masks, even during the worst days of the pandemic, because, they said, the scientific guidelines changed constantly, and Fauci had flip-flopped. His emails will reinforce their opinions. Fauci did indeed change his mind about health guidance, such as the wearing of masks, as more information emerged about the virus. He told someone in February 2020 they did not need to wear a mask while travelling. Later, he encouraged people to wear them. In contrast, for liberals in the Midwest and in other regions, Fauci is a hero. His emails reinforce their views - that he changed his mind about what people should do to fight the virus, depending upon the scientific data, and not on what Trump wanted people to hear. | https://news.yahoo.com/why-people-talking-dr-anthony-205810364.html |
How much is Fisker's Popemobile photo op worth? | Photos of Fisker Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker's meeting with Pope Francis on May 20 to pitch building an electric "Popemobile" may be worth a thousand words and millions in marketing exposure, but video from the event tells a bit more of the story about how it played out. Fisker told FOX Business that a mutual acquaintance "set up the meeting, we met in the Vatican, it was an amazing experience." Video posted by the Vatican News shows that two were introduced in a reception line during an event in Romes Trastevere neighborhood at the headquarters of the Scholas Occurrentes, an international student educational outreach started by Francis when he was an archbishop in Argentina and constituted as a International Organization of Pontifical Law in 2013. Francis was there to celebrate the opening of five new offices for the organization around the world via a livestream broadcast. The property isn't in Vatican City proper, but is one of several extraterritorialities of the Holy See located within Rome. Fiskers wife, Fisker CFO Dr. Geeta Gupta Fisker, met Francis first and said she was "very honored and humbled to help this great cause for the children" before asking him to "bless our car company." She then had him sign a sketch of the Fisker Ocean, which is set to be the automakers first model. The pope was then introduced to Henrik Fisker, who said to him, "I know how much influence you have in the world. A clean sustainable future. Particularly during COVID we see how quickly the Earth can heal itself. And, with that, I would like to present to you the worlds first electric car for you." Fisker displayed images of the proposed vehicle based on the Ocean, explaining that it would have solar panels on the roof and a pop-up protective box to stand in while riding past crowds. Ticker Security Last Change Change % FSR FISKER 15.89 +1.20 +8.13% "They are certainly clever in terms of generating costless attention in the form of media coverage and downstream reaction based on its having been selected by/for the pope," professor Fred Feinberg of the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business told FOX Business. A Fisker spokesperson said the third-party contact has since informed the company that the Vatican is interested in having it pursue the project, but a follow-up meeting has not yet been scheduled. A more detailed design specification for the vehicle is now in the works. GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE California-based Fisker is accepting reservations for the $37,499 Ocean, which is scheduled to be built under contract by Magna in Austria starting on Nov. 17, 2022. Fisker told FOX Business he would donate the Popemobile to the Vatican next October. Feinberg thinks the association with Pope Francis could be a mixed blessing when the vehicle hits the market. "An image based on association with a religious organization may not be entirely positive for all segments of auto buyers, especially for an older figure like the pope, regardless of the positivity of his own image," Feinberg said. "This is a part-tech product, after all, and cutting-edge technologies tend to require younger and more tech-oriented spokespeople, e.g., actors who've appeared in films with that sort of orientation." If it comes to fruition, the Fisker won't be the only electrically driven Popemobile in Francis' fleet. Toyota built two for his 2019 visit to Japan that use hydrogen fuel cells instead of batteries for power and donated one to the Vatican last year. | https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/fiskers-popmobile-photo-op-francis |
What year did Superbad come out? | THE beloved comedy film Superbad started trending on June 3 - after writer Seth Rogen acknowledged a fellow character's 40th birthday. The Hawaiian organ donor with no first name turned 40 on June 3. Superbad released in the summer of 2007, which starred Jonah Hill and Michael Cera, as Seth and Evan, two high school seniors who have been best friends since childhood. Seth and Evan were about to graduate from high school, but before their graduation, the boys want to party and lose their virginity. After Seth is paired with Jules (Emma Stone) during home economics class, she invites him to a party at her house that night. Their friend Fogell (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) reveals his plans to obtain a fake ID, so Seth promises to buy alcohol for Jules' party with the money she gives him. 4 The coming-of-age film starred Jonah Hill as Seth (R), Michael Cera as Evan (L) and Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Fogell aka McLovin (middle) However, their plan proves to be harder than expected. Rogen portrayed the irresponsible Officer Michaels as he was paired with Officer Slater - who was played by Saturday Night Live star Bill Hader. On June 3, Rogen revealed McLovin - the iconic underage try-hard - officially turned 40. "Happy 40th birthday McLovin," Rogen tweeted on June 3. The tweet was accompanied by a photo of Fogells now-infamous forged Hawaii drivers license, which bears his photo, the name McLovin and the birthdate June 3, 1981. 4 Superbad began trending on June 3 after writer Seth Rogen acknowledge McLovin's 40th birthday Credit: Twitter Fogell's ID gave him the alias of a 25-year-old in the movie, and both stars and fans took to social media to commemorate McLovin turning 40 this year. (We wrote this joke when we were 14 years old), Rogen, 39, added, in a nod to the fact that he and co-writer Evan Goldberg began writing the flicks script when they were teenagers. Rogens tweet went viral, racking up more than 270,000 likes, as well as a deluge of comments from fans of the film and its most legendary prop. Meanwhile, Mintz-Plasse is currently 31, going on 32 later this month. One fan toasted McLovin's 40th by adding beer mug emojis to his tweet, which read, "HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY MCLOVIN!!!!!!" Jfc, I need a McLovin ID." 4 McLovin - the iconic underage try-hard - officially turned 40 on June 3, 2021 Credit: Alamy Most read in Entertainment Exclusive A JLO-W BLOW Ben Affleck's dad breaks silence on Jennifer Lopez reunion 'DISRESPECTFUL!' Kim accused of 'cultural appropriation' for wearing Hindu earrings WHAT MONEY BUYS Everything about Kourtney Kardashian's new home KIM'S TEARS Kim cries that she 'failed' Kanye as he 'deserves wife who's there for him' Exclusive LOVE NEST Kourtney buys $12M La Quinta mansion featuring infinity pool & mountain views SWEET REUNION Teen Mom Catelyn & Tyler 'reunite with daughter they placed for adoption I once used this exact ID to get into Melbourne CasinoI was old enough anyways but was s****tfaced and thought Id try. Security didnt even look twice, one Superbad fan responded. A fourth person chimed in saying, "there is a liquor store in my neighborhood that has a 'NO MCLOVINS' sign under a display of fake ids they seized over the years." | https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/3015367/superbad-2007-mclovin-turns-40-fake-id/ |
When is National Donut Day 2021? | NATIONAL Donut day lands on the first Friday in June every year. It is a time for donut lovers to enjoy sweet deals all over the country. National Donut Day falls on June 4 in 2021. Savory discounts are offered all across the US. Krispy Kreme, for instance, is celebrating in a very special way with multiple offers. "Krispy Kreme will be making this day a fun celebration of doughnuts sprinkled with joy," the company says on its website. "Celebrate with us and enjoy TWO offers on National Doughnut Day. In addition to National Doughnut Day, guests who have received a Covid vaccination shot are still eligible for one free Original Glazed doughnut. "That means when you celebrate with us you can enjoy - one free doughnut of choice, one free Original Glazed doughnut and a $1 Original Glazed Dozen with any dozen purchase!" Dunkin' Donuts also has a special offer for the big day - customers get a free classic donut of their choice when a drink is purchased. DiGiorno, Duck Donuts, Entenmanns, and Tim Hortons are among the other companies offering deals, according to USA Today. National Doughnut Day launched in 1938 "to honor the women who served doughnuts to soldiers in World War I," according to the National Day Calendar. "The goal of their 1938 fundraiser was to help the needy during the Great Depression." The "Salvation Army Doughnut" was first served in 1917, according to the outlet. 3 Donuts come in many colors and flavors Credit: Getty "Home-cooked foods, provided by these brave volunteers, were a morale boost to the troops," according to National Day Calendar. "The doughnuts were often cooked in oil inside the metal helmets of American soldiers. "American infantrymen were then commonly called 'doughboys.'" The best way to celebrate the day is to buy a donut or to donate a bunch to first responders or charities. Doughnut first appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1782, according to NPR, but both are spellings are commonly used. "It is purely personal preference because upon looking into it, they seem to be equally acceptable," Mary McCoy of the Los Angeles Central Library tells the outlet. | https://www.the-sun.com/news/3015156/national-donut-day-krispy-kreme-dunkin-donuts/ |
Where the England stars humiliated by Iceland at Euro 2016 are now with just three survivors from starting XI? | ENGLAND'S embarrassing Euro 2016 defeat to Iceland was one of the lowest moments in the national team's long history - and there have certainly been a few. It all started so well when Wayne Rooney slotted in from the penalty spot. 5 There are just four survivors from England's embarrassed Euro 2016 flops still in the national set-up in 2021 5 England were humiliated at the last European Championship when they crashed out to Iceland Credit: AFP - Getty But Ragnar Sigurdsson and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson grabbed the goals to turn the game on its head before Iceland - with a population of just 330,000 - held on for more than 70 minutes to complete the win. The short-term ramifications were obvious: The Three Lions crashing out of another major tournament and another two years of fans' pain. First thing's first, the manager did not last long. In fact, Roy Hodgson resigned immediately after the game before he was given the boot. Sam Allardyce came in, beat Slovakia 1-0, then left after 67 days and was replaced by Gareth Southgate, promoted after his fine work with the Under-21s. Joe Hart came in for plenty of criticism during the tournament in France five years ago and his career has hit a downward spiral. Fraser Forster and Tom Heaton were England's other goalkeepers at Euro 2016. But the trio have been all replaced, with Jordan Pickford, Sam Johnstone and Dean Henderson the favoured three in 2020-21. RIP ALAN Lee Dixon leads tributes as ex-Arsenal keeper Alan Miller passes away aged 51 Gossip DONN AND DUSTED PSG 'agree to sign Donnarumma on free before sending him out on loan' The back four against Iceland was Kyle Walker, Gary Cahill, Chris Smalling and Danny Rose with Nathaniel Clyne, John Stones and Ryan Bertrand unused subs. But only Walker and Stones are still part of the set-up. Walker could be used again next summer, possibly on the right of a back three, with Kieran Trippier and Ben Chilwell the likely wing-backs. Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Conor Coady, Reece James and Luke Shaw are the other defenders in the frame to play this summer. Further forward, Hodgson went with a midfield three of Dier behind Dele Alli and Wayne Rooney. Ex-captain Rooney retired from international football in 2017 - but did play in a friendly match the following year. The Manchester United legend is now manager of Derby having retired from all football earlier this season. Alli struggled at Tottenham and has been overtaken by a number of attacking midfielders rising to prominence over the past few years, hence he was omitted from the Euros squad. Mason Mount, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden are the future of England's midfield, with Declan Rice also in contention. 5 Iceland stunned England with a 2-1 win in 2016 with the Three Lions squad ripped apart since that embarrassing night in Nice Credit: Reuters Jordan Henderson, an unused sub against Iceland, is now a key player for club and country, although his fitness is under question. But his Euro 2016 team-mates James Milner, Adam Lallana, Jack Wilshere and Ross Barkley have been moved on. The attack is where things have changed the least. Harry Kane still leads the line as he did against Iceland, while Raheem Sterling still has one of the spots on the wing. Marcus Rashford - now a national treasure - is likely to start having been a wildcard pick in 2016. He was behind Daniel Sturridge in the pecking order five years ago. But rather than Sturridge getting in his way, it is now Jadon Sancho who may get the nod. Jamie Vardy's decision to stop playing for England after the 2018 World Cup has been beneficial for Leicester. And it's also opened up the door for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to stake a claim for a first team place. 5 The Three Lions squad is vastly different going into next summer's European Championship Credit: -- England squad vs Iceland - Euro 2016 THIS was the side that crashed out in humiliating fashion five years ago. Joe Hart - OUT (Back-up at Spurs) Kyle Walker - IN (Man City regular) Gary Cahill - OUT (Crystal Palace starter when fit) Chris Smalling - OUT (Roma starter) Danny Rose - OUT (Exiled at Spurs, played U23s) Eric Dier - OUT (Spurs starter) Dele Alli - OUT (Bit-part squad player at Spurs) Wayne Rooney - OUT (Derby boss) Daniel Sturridge - OUT (free agent after Trabzonspor release) Harry Kane - IN (Spurs starter) Raheem Sterling - IN (Man City starter) Subs: James Milner - OUT (Liverpool regular) Adam Lallana - OUT (Brighton starter) Jamie Vardy - OUT (Leicester starter, 2019-20 golden boot) Nathaniel Clyne - OUT (Crystal Palace regular) Fraser Forster - OUT (Back-up at Southampton) Jordan Henderson - IN (Liverpool captain) John Stones - IN (Man City starter - heading for recall) Jack Wilshere - OUT (Bournemouth regular) Ross Barkley - OUT (Aston Villa starter, on loan from Chelsea) Ryan Bertrand - OUT (Southampton starter) Marcus Rashford - IN (Man Utd starter) Tom Heaton - OUT (Long-term injury at Aston Villa) Roy Hodgson (manager) - OUT (Crystal Palace boss) | https://www.the-sun.com/sport/premier-league/1813295/england-lineup-euro-2016-iceland/ |
How Is The GOP Adjusting To A Less Religious America? | Enlarge this image toggle caption Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images When Ronald Reagan accepted the 1980 Republican presidential nomination, he ended his speech with a pious request. "I'll confess that I've been a little afraid to suggest what I'm going to suggest I'm more afraid not to that we begin our crusade joined together in a moment of silent prayer," he said. It was the preface to a presidency that would help make white evangelicals the staunchly Republican voting bloc they are today. Fast-forward to a 2015 campaign event, when Republican consultant Frank Luntz worked to pin down soon-to-be-President Donald Trump on a simple question of faith: "Have you ever asked God for forgiveness?" Luntz asked Trump twice, before getting this answer: "I'm not sure I have. I just go and try and do a better job from there. I don't think so." YouTube Trump benefited from the white evangelical support that Reagan helped solidify, but he also presided over a country that, religiously, looks far different from the one Reagan took over after 1980. Trump's presidency is one early case study in how the Republican Party which has long associated itself with conservative Christian values may attempt to deal with a country that's less and less religious. In fact, the U.S. recently passed a religious milestone: For the first time, a majority of Americans are not church members, Gallup found this spring. Over the last decade, the share of Republicans who are church members fell from 75% to 65%, according to Gallup. That's a solid majority but also a sizable fall. The key bloc of white evangelicals is also shrinking as a share of the population, while the share of religiously unaffiliated Americans grows. This makes religion one key part of a looming, long-term demographic challenge for Republicans, says Whit Ayres, a Republican pollster. "Republicans clearly have a stronger hold among the religiously affiliated, especially evangelical Protestants. And consequently, any decline in evangelical Protestant affiliation is not good news for the GOP," he said. The upshot, to Ayres, is that a party still deeply entwined with conservative Christianity and, particularly, white evangelicals will eventually have to win over more Christian conservatives for example, among the growing Hispanic electorate or make gains among substantially less-religious groups, like young voters. A change in tone For now, it's fair to say that in the Republican Party, overtly religious rhetoric is being replaced by broader culture war issues, Ayres said. "While religiosity may be declining, people attracted to culturally conservative causes may not be cancel culture, TV shows and movies that exalt more left-wing values, that cast aspersions on right-wing values," he said. That dovetails with another trend in American politics of people increasingly centering their identities on their partisan affiliations. It's a trend that can give pastors headaches that have nothing to do with whether church attendance is rising or falling. Christian Gaffney, pastor at Expectation Church in Fairfax, Va., says congregation members have pushed back when he has preached about things like masks, as well as race. Gaffney said that conflict arises for him when congregants center their lives on their partisan identities rather than their Christian beliefs. "I think it goes back to the idea of culture wars the idea that everything is so polarized and because there's this trajectory of polarization, Trump kind of gives a lightning rod for one of those poles, one of those sides to really rally around and adhere to," he said. "My job as a pastor is to show people it's not about rallying around either side; it's about rallying around the person Jesus Christ." Though he considers himself conservative, Gaffney said that right-leaning congregation members have accused him of being "liberal" when he has questioned Republican orthodoxy. Christianity vs. Christian culture Gaffney's church has been growing. But on the whole, the shrinking American Christian church may, counterintuitively, tighten the bond between the Republican Party and conservative Christianity. "These kinds of data about the shrinking share of the population of white evangelicals or declines in church membership actually intensify the relationship [between the GOP and conservative Christians]," said Sarah Posner, author of two books critical of white evangelicals' politics. "As those numbers shrink, the demography is not in [the GOP's] favor. And so intensifying their relationship becomes ever more important, in terms of winning elections and so forth," she said. Through statements like saying he had never asked for forgiveness, as well as infamously referring to the biblical book typically called Second Corinthians as "Two Corinthians," Trump showed that he didn't have the churchgoing bona fides of rivals like Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who invoked God regularly at his campaign events. Indeed, Trump early in the 2016 primaries appealed more to Republicans who identified as Christian but weren't regular churchgoers. More observant Republican Christians preferred Cruz. But Trump did eventually win over stauncher Christian conservatives. In the process, he wrapped more traditionally conservative Christian issues like abortion in with his own particular cultural fixations, such as race and grievance politics. At this point, Posner added, Christianity and politics can be so muddled together on the right that they can be hard to separate. "There is an entire constellation of organizations and media and social media and other ways of getting these ideas, ideas about what it means to be a Christian, what it means to be an American, what it means to be an American Christian, what it means to be a patriot, what it means to fight the left or cancel culture," she said. Jackson Avery, president of the College Republicans at George Mason University and a Christian himself, said he doesn't hear his fellow young Republicans talking a lot about their faith, but he nevertheless thinks maintaining a Christian identity is good for the party. "I don't think the Republican Party saying, 'We are not the party of not only the Christians, but atheists' I think that drives away more people. You know, you only need enough percentage to win," he said. He believes that the GOP won't hit its Reagan-era heights again but also suggests it may not need to, at least in the short term. "There's this idea where like they go back to Ronald Reagan, where he gets like 60% of the popular vote," Avery added. "Republicans will never, never get that, at least in our lifetimes. I don't think so." | https://www.npr.org/2021/06/04/1002841048/how-is-the-gop-adjusting-to-a-less-religious-america |
How many episodes are in Time on BBC One? | When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. Sign up fornow for the biggest moments from morning TV Time is a new crime drama starring Stephen Graham and Sean Bean set to premiere on June 6 on BBC One. The series is promising to be a gritty prison thriller that will test the morals of its characters. Time will be a three-part mini-series coming to BBC One on June 6. The full series will be available for fans to binge on BBC iPlayer as soon as episode one airs the same night. Leading the series are acting legends Sean Bean and Stephen Graham, who will be playing Mark Cobden and Eric McNally, respectively. The series has been created by Lewis Arnold and Jimmy McGovern, with Arnold in the directors chair and McGovern penning the script. READ MORE: Wales chief says lockdown restrictions WON'T be eased on June 21 [INSIGHT] | https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1445470/how-many-episodes-in-time-bbc-one-sean-bean-stephen-graham |
Should NJ provide stimulus to undocumented workers? | The rally against extending Gov. Phil Murphy's pandemic powers got most of the headlines on Thursday, but there was another rally in Trenton that also drew the attention of state lawmakers. A coalition of immigrant rights groups, clergy and labor groups were gathered behind the State House near the War Memorial demanding pandemic relief for the undocumented. Gov. Murphy has announced he will set aside $40 million in the state budget to provide relief for those who were not eligible for unemployment benefits or claim stimulus money due to their immigration status. Critics say funding for the Excluded New Jerseyans Fund falls about a billion dollars short. That $40 million, they say, would provide only minimal relief to nearly 30,000 undocumented residents among a population of nearly 460,000 who have received no stimulus money. Thursday's rally was aimed at pressuring lawmakers to add $989 million dollars to the fund. The money would be used to provide direct stimulus payments of $2,000 and equivalent unemployment benefits. When he announced the first round of relief for undocumented residents, Murphy signaled he was open to discussing more. A spokeswoman for the governor's office told NJ.com they were still unclear if federal stimulus aid from the American Rescue Plan could be used to provide relief to those unable to prove legal status, but would work with the legislature to "allocate funds." A handful of other states have allocated stimulus money for their undocumented populations. New York State lawmakers have approved a $2.1 billion plan that provides direct payments up to $15,600 to undocumented workers and their families. David Dyssegaard Kallick, deputy director of the Fiscal Policy Institute a nonprofit policy research group, told CBS news "This is the first time any kind of benefits for undocumented immigrants approach the level of what other kinds of workers get." NJ's most and least COVID vaccinated towns, by county New Jersey reported just short of 4 million people fully vaccinated against COVID-19 statewide, heading into the last week of May. Reasons include people who have moved, those who are traveling and not residing at home where the census counted them, students who may select their school residence for vaccination data and people in long-term care (or other facility-based housing) among other reasons, as explained in a footnote on the state COVID dashboard. | https://nj1015.com/demand-for-1-billion-in-stimulus-for-undocumented-in-nj/ |
Which of the big-name defenders are worth their price in Dream Team Euros? | Generally speaking, Dream Team Euros bosses should devote the majority of their budget to attacking threats. Thats why the three most-expensive players in the game are Kylian Mbappe (7.5m), Cristiano Ronaldo (7.0m) and Harry Kane (7.0m). Prolific goalscorers produce the most points its as simple as that. With this in mind, you dont want to stack your defence with expensive assets. In fact, depending on the rest of your XI, you may only have enough budget for one big-name defender. Lets analyse which of costly spoilers are actually worth their price WIN 50,000! Seems like a relatively safe bet. The only marks against Varanes name are his price hes the outright most-expensive defender in the game and his fixture list. The defending world champions make up one quarter of Euro 2020s Group of Death, alongside Germany, Portugal and Hungary. Les Bleus should be able to progress to knockouts but their journey might not be totally smooth. Ruben Dias (5.0m) Another Group of Death participant but one that starts his campaign against Hungary most would pencil that in is as a Portugal clean sheet so the FWA Footballer of the Year looks a good option for the first week. Clean sheets may be harder to come by against France and Germany but Dias is arguably Europes most in-form centre-back right now. Hes the most-popular defender in Dream Team Euros at the time of writing with an ownership of 37.7%. Aymeric Laporte (4.5m) Stepping into Sergio Ramos blood-stained boots wont be an easy task but the former Frenchman has the attributes to keep things tight at the back for Spain. Laporte may even edge out Varane and Dias during the group stages as La Roja will feel confident of topping Group E above Sweden, Poland and Slovakia. However, at this stage were only assuming the 27-year-old will be a guaranteed starter for his new country. Hell probably make his international debut this Friday when Spain take on Portugal in a friendly. Cheaper Spain defenders are available. WIN 50,000 with Dream Team Euros Dream Team Euros is HERE! The best fantasy football game to accompany Euro 2020 has arrived. And you can play absolutely FREE for your chance to win the 50,000 jackpot. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR FREE! Dream Team Euros 50,000 jackpot The best fantasy football game this summer Play in mini-leagues against your mates, colleagues, family members and some hand-picked celebrities FREE to play Leonardo Bonucci (4.0m) Italy have kept seven clean sheets in a row and havent lost a game in any capacity since 2018. At 34 years old, the Juventus centre-back may be slightly long in the tooth but he remains an excellent option for Dream Team Euros bosses with the Azzurri set to take on Turkey, Switzerland and Wales in Group A. Getty 3 Englands first-choice centre-back partnership may not link up until later in the tournament Toby Alderweireld (4.0m) Another very solid choice when consider his fixture list. The Belgian is a key figure in an ageing defence but has been blessed with arguably the most-favourable group of them all. Roberto Martinezs men will feel confident of at least a couple of clean sheets from match-ups against Russia, Finland and Denmark. Harry Maguire (4.0m) Ankle ligament injuries are no joke and Gareth Southgate has admitted Man Uniteds skipper is touch and go for Englands opener against Croatia. Selecting Maguire seems like an unnecessary risk at this stage there are safer options in his price bracket. John Stones (4.0m) Maguires partner is guaranteed to start for the Three Lions and is therefore a relatively good option. He also scored two goals at the 2018 World Cup and was a constant threat from set-pieces. However, you could opt for Kyle Walker (3.5m) and save yourself a slither of budget to use elsewhere. Afp or licensors 3 France will fear no team after conquering the world in 2018 Lucas Hernandez (4.0m) & Presnel Kimpembe (4.0m) Weve lumped these two together because the same logic can be applied to both. Theyre both good players who will almost certainly start for France and are considerably cheaper than Varane. Joao Cancelo (4.0m) We finish with an echo of Ruben Dias a Portuguese Man City defender who flourished during the 2020/21 campaign. Whether Cancelo will be as influential for his country as he was at times for Pep Guardiola this season remains to be seen but his ability in possession is unquestioned. | https://www.thesun.co.uk/dream-team/fantasy-football/15155020/defenders-euro-2020-fantasy-football-tips/ |
Which Govt Policy Offers Compensation to COVID Victim Family? | COVID 19 Deaths: The Central Government created the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) programmes to provide low-cost insurance. Now, let us know which of the two policies applies if the policyholder dies from Coronavirus. In the year 2015, Prime Minister Modi presented three excellent programmes. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyothi Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Yojana are two of them. Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Atal Pension Yojana are two government-sponsored schemes. The PMSBY plan is being adopted by everyone. Because the annual charge for this is just Rs 12, and the coverage kicks in if someone dies in a road accident. This policy is available to those in the age group of 18 and 70. In the event of the policy holder's death in an accident, the payout is Rs. 2 lakhs, and in the event of permanent disability, the payout is Rs. 1 lakh. This policy has nothing to do with corona deaths. PMSBY is another policy under this scheme. The cost of the premium is Rs 330. Adults between the ages of 18 and 50 who have a bank savings account are eligible. The insurance becomes effective after 45 days of membership in the programme. If you purchase this policy, you will be entitled to a Rs 2 lakh insurance payout in the event of death due to any cause. This sum is paid to the nominee designated by the policyholder. Under this insurance coverage, anyone who dies due to Corona would be compensated in the amount of Rs 2 lakhs. In the event of the nominee's death by accident, the nominee must contact the insurance bank branch within 30 days to file a claim. Within 30 days of receiving the claim, the bank will send the claim form to the appropriate insurance carrier. The Atal pension programme is unrelated to insurance. It was created so that people might get a pension after reaching a certain age. | https://english.sakshi.com/news/national/which-govt-policy-offers-compensation-covid-victim-family-136489 |
Is it time to give up on consciousness as the ghost in the machine? | As individuals, we feel that we know what consciousness is because we experience it daily. Its that intimate sense of personal awareness we carry around with us, and the accompanying feeling of ownership and control over our thoughts, emotions and memories. But science has not yet reached a consensus on the nature of consciousness which has important implications for our belief in free will and our approach to the study of the human mind. Beliefs about consciousness can be roughly divided into two camps. There are those who believe consciousness is like a ghost in the machinery of our brains, meriting special attention and study in its own right. And there are those, like us, who challenge this, pointing out that what we call consciousness is just another output generated backstage by our efficient neural machinery. Over the past 30 years, neuroscientific research has been gradually moving away from the first camp. Using research from cognitive neuropsychology and hypnosis, our recent paper argues in favour of the latter position, even though this seems to undermine the compelling sense of authorship we have over our consciousness. And we argue this isnt simply a topic of mere academic interest. Giving up on the ghost of consciousness to focus scientific endeavour on the machinery of our brains could be an essential step we need to take to better understand the human mind. Our experience of consciousness places us firmly in the drivers seat, with a sense that were in control of our psychological world. But seen from an objective perspective, its not at all clear that this is how consciousness functions, and theres still much debate about the fundamental nature of consciousness itself. One reason for this is that many of us, including scientists, have adopted a dualist position on the nature of consciousness. Dualism is a philosophical view that draws a distinction between the mind and the body. Even though consciousness is generated by the brain a part of the body dualism claims that the mind is distinct from our physical features, and that consciousness cannot be understood through the study of the physical brain alone. Its easy to see why we believe this to be the case. While every other process in the human body ticks and pulses away without our oversight, there is something uniquely transcendental about our experience of consciousness. Its no surprise that weve treated consciousness as something special, distinct from the automatic systems that keep us breathing and digesting. But a growing body of evidence from the field of cognitive neuroscience which studies the biological processes underpinning cognition challenges this view. Such studies draw attention to the fact that many psychological functions are generated and carried out entirely outside of our subjective awareness, by a range of fast, efficient non-conscious brain systems. Consider, for example, how effortlessly we regain consciousness each morning after losing it the night before, or how, with no deliberate effort, we instantly recognise and understand shapes, colours, patterns and faces we encounter. Consider that we dont actually experience how our perceptions are created, how our thoughts and sentences are produced, how we recall our memories or how we control our muscles to walk and our tongues to talk. Simply put, we dont generate or control our thoughts, feelings or actions we just seem to become aware of them. Becoming aware The way we simply become aware of thoughts, feelings and the world around us suggests that our consciousness is generated and controlled backstage, by brain systems that we remain unaware of. Our recent paper argues that consciousness involves no separate independent psychological process distinct from the brain itself, just as theres no additional function to digestion that exists separately from the physical workings of the gut. While its clear that both the experience and content of consciousness are real, we argue that, from a science explanation, they are epiphenomenal: secondary phenomena based on the machinations of the physical brain itself. In other words, our subjective experience of consciousness is real, but the functions of control and ownership we attribute to that experience are not. Future study of the brain Our position is neither obvious nor intuitive. But we contend that continuing to place consciousness in the drivers seat, above and beyond the physical workings of the brain, and attributing cognitive functions to it, risks confusion and delaying a better understanding of human psychology and behaviour. To better align psychology with the rest of the natural sciences, and to be consistent with how we understand and study processes like digestion and respiration, we favour a perspective change. We should redirect our efforts to studying the non-conscious brain, and not the functions previously attributed to consciousness. This doesnt of course exclude psychological investigation into the nature, origins and distribution of the belief in consciousness. But it does mean refocusing academic efforts on what happens beneath our awareness where we argue the real neuro-psychological processes take place. Our proposal feels personally and emotionally unsatisfying, but we believe it provides a future framework for the investigation of the human mind one that looks at the brains physical machinery rather than the ghost that weve traditionally called consciousness. | https://theconversation.com/is-it-time-to-give-up-on-consciousness-as-the-ghost-in-the-machine-160688 |
When will cruises sail again from Florida? | TAMPA, Fla. The future of the cruise industry remains uncertain after mediation failed to settle the case between the state of Florida and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is now up to District Court Judge Steven D. Merryday to announce the next step in the case. It is not clear when that will happen. What You Need To Know The future of Florida's cruise industry remains uncertain Mediation failed to settle the case between Florida and the CDC The state of Florida filed a lawsuit against the CDC stating the conditional sail order targets the cruise industry unfairly Under CDC guidelines, 98% of crew members and 95% of passengers should be vaccinated If the judge rules in favor of the state, a new Florida law backed by DeSantis could still prevent cruises from taking place as planned. The law bans companies from requiring customers or passengers to prove they have been vaccinated for COVID-19. The lawsuit filed in early April argues that the CDCs conditional sail order targets the cruise industry unfairly and should be thrown out. The CDC guidelines state at least 98% of crew members and 95% of their passengers should be vaccinated in order to sail from U.S. ports. Ships that dont meet that requirement must complete a test cruise to demonstrate their COVID prevention protocols work. I think the governor put himself in a box, said Marc Bokoff, a cruise planner out of Lakewood Ranch. You may have to figure out another plan. Mediation failed to settle the case between the state of Florida and the CDC regarding reopening the cruise industry. Here's part of a statement from @GovRonDeSantis regarding the impasse @BN9 pic.twitter.com/azePszSkup Angie Angers (@angie_angers) June 4, 2021 After the news of an impasse came down on Thursday, DeSantis slammed the CDC calling their regulations ridiculous and unlawful. The CDC has no excuse for ruining two summers of sailing and it is well past time to end the CDC's desperate attempt to prolong its power trip over America. Floridians are ready for a real trip on our waters, he stated in a news release. This back and forth is causing a myriad of problems for cruise planners who arent sure what the future holds. Its making our jobs very difficult because unfortunately were in limbo and were not sure what we need to be advising our clients, said cruise planner Kathleen Pohl. The CDC has not made any indication when it would lift its no sail order. | https://www.mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2021/06/04/when-will-cruises-sail-again-from-florida-- |
What did Dr Faucis leaked emails say? | DR ANTHONY Fauci is a physician-scientist and immunologist - serving as the director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. On June 3, 2021, he admitted that he's "not convinced" that Covid-19 developed naturally after hundreds of his e-mails were published. According to hundreds of Dr Fauci's emails obtained by The Washington Post as part of the Freedom of Information Act, Dr Fauci corresponded with a Chinese health official early in the pandemic. In a March 28, 2020 email, George Gao, director of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, apologized to Fauci for saying the US and other countries were making a big mistake by not encouraging people to wear masks from the get-go. That was journalists wording. Hope you understand, Gao wrote Fauci. Lets work together to get the virus out of the earth. 5 Dr Fauci corresponded with a Chinese health official early in the pandemic Credit: Splash I understand completely. No problem, Fauci wrote back. We will get through this together. The correspondence came as former President Donald Trump blamed China for the coronavirus outbreak. As Fauci faced criticism for his handling of the pandemic, Gao reached out again. I saw some news (hope it is fake) that [you] are being attacked by some people. Hope you are well under such a irrational situation, Gao wrote on April 8, 2020. Three days later, Fauci replied and thanked his longtime friend for his kind note. 5 In hundreds of emails obtained by the Washington Post, Dr Fauci corresponded with George Gao, director of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention Credit: The Mega Agency All is well despite some crazy people in this world, Fauci wrote, The Post reported. Fauci insisted that the e-mails were "taken out of context and "dismissed "nonsense" reports about an email the EcoHealth Alliance president sent him, thanking Fauci for knocking the Covid "lab leak" theory last year. "I keep an open mind all the time. And thats the reason why I have been public that we should continue to look for the origin," he said. "That email you can misconstrue it however you want that email was from a person to me saying thank you for whatever it is he thought I said, and I said that I think the most likely origin is a jumping of species. "I still do think it is at the same time as Im keeping an open mind that it might be a lab leak." Emails show how Fauci was also sent a lengthy message by physicist Erik Nilsen about his "suspicions" over China's true Covid death toll and warned of a "tsunami" of infections in the US. Fauci apparently ignored the early warning message, writing it's "too long for me to read," in an email to his colleague Robert Eisinger. On April 16, 2020, Fauci received an email from Dr Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health, about the lab leak theory being discussed on Sean Hannity's Fox News show. Collins sent an email with the subject, "conspiracy gains momentum," but the contents of the email were blacked out and Fauci responded to that - but whatever he said was also blacked out. Also included in the email trove, Fauci corresponded with an executive at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The top infectious disease expert also corresponded with a medical director of the National Football League Players Association and documentary filmmakers working on a Disney-backed documentary film about him. In his correspondence with Gates adviser Emilio Emini, the executive raised concerns about Faucis health. 5 The email trove also revealed Fauci was in constant communication with billionaire Bill Gates Credit: Splash I see you on TV almost every day, and although you continue to have considerable energy, I am seriously worried about you, Emini wrote in an email on April 2, 2020. The nation and the world absolutely need your leadership. Fauci responded the following morning, saying I will try to engage as much as I can given my current circumstances, while adding he was enthusiastic about moving forward on a collaborative and hopefully synergistic approach to COVID-19. Fauci told The Post that he has maintained a long relationship with Gates. The two talk about every two weeks and remain in touch about how to get Covid-19 vaccines to the rest of the world, he said. Fauci told the outlet that at one point during the pandemic he was receiving around 1,000 emails a day. I was getting every single kind of question, mostly people who were a little bit confused about the mixed messages that were coming out of the White House and wanted to know whats the real scoop, Fauci said of the correspondence. I have a reputation that I respond to people when they ask for help, even if it takes a long time. And its very time consuming, but I do, he added. Dr Li Meng-Yan a Chinese virologist who fled to the US after alleging China covered up the Covid outbreak alleged that the messages, obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, reveal Fauci knew the virus may have been engineered but publicly downplayed it. In an interview on Newsmax she claimed Fauci knew about the Chinese meddling with the virus. She said: "Frankly, there is a lot of useful information there [Faucis emails]. "They verify my words from the beginning... that these people knew what happened, but they chose to hide for the Chinese Communist Party and their own benefits." Dr Li had published three reports about the Chinese virus experiments. In the latest paper published on March 31, she claimed: "The causative agent of Covid-19, is not a naturally occurring pathogen but an Unrestricted Bioweapon. "It is a product of the bioweapons program of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) government, the network of which includes not only the CCP scientists but also certain overseas scientists and organizations." | https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/15161330/dr-anthony-faucis-emails-china-coronavirus-outbreak/ |
What TV channel and time is Connacht v Ospreys on today in the Rainbow Cup? | Sign up to our FREE newsletter Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Yes please! Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Connacht welcome 4th placed Ospreys to the Sportsground in the Guinness Pro 14 Rainbow this weekend. While not in contention near the top of the table, Connacht will be looking for a positive display in what will be hooker Shane Delahunts 100th game for the province. The game takes place at The Sportsground on Friday, June 4. The match will get underway at 6pm . The clash will be shown live on both Premier Sports 2 and TG4. Coverage of the game on Premier Sports 2 will get underway at 5.55pm, while TG4s coverage will begin at 5.30pm. You can also follow updates with The Irish Mirror's live blog. Connacht team 15 Alex Wootton, 14 Peter Sullivan, 13 Bundee Aki, 12 Tom Daly, 11 Ben ODonnell, 10 Jack Carty, 9 Caolin Blade; 1 Jordan Duggan, 2 Shane Delahunt, 3 Dominic Robertson-McCoy, 4 Niall Murray, 5 Ultan Dillane, 6 Cian Prendergast, 7 Jarrad Butler, 8 Eoghan Masterson. Replacements: 16 Jonny Murphy, 17 Matthew Burke, 18 Jack Aungier, 19 Oisin Dowling, 20 Sean Masterson, 21 Kieran Marmion, 22 Conor Fitzgerald, 23 Sammy Arnold. Ospreys team 15 Dan Evans, 14 Dewi Cross, 13 Tiaan Thomas-Wheeler, 12 Joe Hawkins, 11 Luke Morgan, 10 Stephen Myler, 9 Rhys Webb; 1 Nicky Smith, 2 Sam Parry, 3 Tom Botha, 4 Adam Beard, 5 Bradley Davies, 6 Will Griffiths, 7 Morgan Morris, 8 Ethan Roots. Replacements: 16 Ifan Phillips, 17 Gareth Thomas,18 Maafu Fia, 19 Rhys Davies, 20 Sam Cross, 21 Reuben Morgan-Williams, 22 Luke Price, 23 Max Nagy. Quotes Corner Connacht Head Coach Andy Friend: Im delighted for Shane Delahunt who becomes the latest centurion in the squad. Shane always gives us huge energy and hes had a big increase in game-time this season which is a testament to him and how hes performed. Hes a great character and a popular member of the dressing room too. Wed obviously prefer to be in the chasing pack for the Final but its still important we finish the season on a high. Its been such a strange and long 12 months for all the players and staff, but we owe it to ourselves, the supporters and our departing players and staff that we do everything to win this one. | https://www.irishmirror.ie/sport/rugby-union/what-tv-channel-time-connacht-24249844 |
Who were Bobby Joe Longs victims? | BOBBY Joe Long was a prolific serial killer and rapist, thought to have raped more than 50 women. Long was eventually given the death penalty in Florida after going on a killing spree in March 1984. While the exact number of his victims has not been fully established it is thought Long could have raped more than 50 women. Long was executed by lethal injection on May 23, 2019. Bobby Joe Long began an eight-month killing spree in 1984, strangling and killing a young prostitute in Tampa, Florida, as his first victim. Long would drive around in his 1978 Dodge Magnum looking for women in areas known for prostitution. During his trial Long claimed the women would normally approach him first and then he would persuade them to go back to his apartment. Once there he would then tie them up with a rope before raping and murdering them either by strangling them, slitting their throat or hitting them over the head with a blunt instrument. Artiss Ann Wick, 20 killed on March 27, 1984 The sex worker was just 20 when she became Longs first victim. Police found Wicks skeletal remains on November 22, 1984, in rural southern Hillsborough County. 5 Ngeun Thi Long wanted to study art and cinema Ngeun Thi Long, 19 killed on May 13, 1984 The Southern California woman had come to Tampa in February and worked as a dancer at the Starlite Lounge and Sly Fox Lounge. Ngeun Thi Long had recently quit her job at the Tampa nightclub as an exotic dancer to study art and cinema at the University of South Florida. Her body was found naked and bound with rope on May 13, 1984, by an overpass on East Bay Road. 5 Simms worked as a receptionist at a massage parlour before moving to Tampa Michelle Denise Simms, 22 killed on May 27, 1984 Born in San Bernadino County, California, Simms had been a beauty contestant. She had worked as a receptionist at a Fort Pierce massage parlor before coming to Tampa in May 1984. Cops found her body, stabbed and bound, near an Interstate 4 overpass by Plant City. Linda Nuttall - assaulted in May 1984; survived Long answered an ad to sell some of Nuttall and her husbands furniture. He committed his crime while Nuttalls children were in the house. Kevin Nuttall, Lindas husband, said at the time of Longs execution: He got what he deserved. Todays just another chapter. Elizabeth Loudenback, 22 killed on June 8, 1984 Loudenback worked as a solderer at a manufacturing plant in Odessa and lived with her parents and younger siblings at the Village-Tampa Community mobile home park, just a few blocks from the Nebraska Avenue strip where some of the other victims worked. Cops discovered her body east of Brandon on June 24. She was left in an orange grove and had been raped and strangled. Vicky Marie Elliott, 21 killed on September 7, 1984 Elliott waited tables overnight at the Ramada Inn coffee shop and reports at the time said she was hoping to return to Michigan to study to become a paramedic. She disappeared on September 7. She had asked a neighbour for a ride to work, but by the time the neighbour showed up, Elliott was gone. Police found her body in a patch of scrub northeast of Tampa on November 16. 5 Cops believe Williams was working as a prostitute at the time of her murder Chanel Devoun Williams, 18 killed on October 7, 1984 Williams had moved to Tampa from Winter Haven just a month before she was brutally murdered. Police said she was working as a prostitute. She was last seen on a street corner of the Nebraska Avenue strip on the evening of September 30. Her body was found on October 7. She had been shot in the head and neck. Karen Beth Dinsfriend, 28 killed on October 14, 1984 Dinsfriend grew up in St. Petersburg and had a history of drug abuse, according to reports. She is said to have been working as a prostitute at the time of her death. Dinsfriend was found strangled in an orange grove in northeastern Hillsborough, seven hours after she was last seen on the sidewalk of N. Nebraska Avenue. Kimberly Kyle Hopps, 22 killed on October 31, 1984 Hopps had been living in the Sulphur Springs neighbourhood in Tampa. Although little is known about Hopps she last been seen walking with a group of prostitutes mid-October near Nebraska. Her body was found on an isolated portion of US 301 north of Tampa on Halloween. 5 McVey's evidence helped Florida cops track down Long Credit: FOX 13 Lisa McVey, 17 assaulted on November 3, 1984; survived Long spotted teenager Lisa McVey on her bicycle in Tampa at around 2am as she cycled home from work at a Krispy Kreme factory. Unlike his other victims, he raped her repeatedly for more than 26 hours before setting her free. McVey provided a brief description of her assailant and his car, and on November 16, 1984, Long was arrested at a movie theatre not far from his Tampa home. The execution was witnessed by McVey, who sat in the front row. I wanted to be the first person he saw, she said. McVeys experience led her to pursue a career in law enforcement. She became a Hillsborough Sheriffs Deputy. Virginia Lee Johnson, 18 killed on November 6, 1984 The Connecticut-born woman had been in and out of Florida for a few years, according to Tampa Bay Times archives. She vanished from the Nebraska Avenue area between Fowler and Fletcher in late October. She was found November 6 near Morris Bridge Road in Pasco County, but police were unable to identify her body initially. Kim Marie Swann, 21 killed on November 11, 1984 Swann briefly worked as a dancer at the Sly Fox. Just a few months before her death, she decided she wanted to change her life. Most read in News 'POOR LITTLE ANGEL' Boy, 1, drowns in paddling pool as 'mum & shoppers battled to save him' KIDS ARE ALRIGHT Pfizer Covid jab is approved for kids in UK in boost to vaccine blitz LONG STORY Meghan Markle's book could flop as publishers row with Waterstones over supply BALCONY HORROR Man pushes girlfriend to her death off Ibiza balcony then jumps himself' TRAGIC FIND Body found in search for missing teen who vanished after a rave in North Wales SPREADING FAST Indian Covid variant could be '100% more infectious', Prof Lockdown warns She and her 1-year-old son Robbie moved into her parents Carrollwood home, and she enrolled in a vocational programme to become a medical technician. Swann was last seen at a convenience store on November 11. The next day, a man who was swapping out a billboard on Orient Road found her body under an overpass. She had been strangled. | https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/15163045/bobby-joe-long-victims-lisa-mcvey/ |
Are companies that support Pride and other social causes 'wokewashing'? | (The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Kim Sheehan, University of Oregon (THE CONVERSATION) Consumers increasingly want companies to address societys big problems, such as climate change and crumbling infrastructure. And polls suggest more than half say they want to buy from brands that take stands on social issues. At the same time, consumers are increasingly skeptical about these partnerships such as corporatesponsorships of LGBTQ Pride Month and instead see them as marketing stunts rather than acts of genuine activism. This is called wokewashing. Im a professor of brand responsibility, and my forthcoming research investigates brands and their relationships with social issues, including the importance of both corporate allies and advocates. Allies or advocates In marketing terms, allies are members of a dominant social group that bring attention to important social issues. A company can serve as an ally when it works to increase awareness about issues affecting marginalized groups. Advocates take a more active role, working to change political, economic and social systems. Companies can be advocates when they create campaigns to promote institutional change and provide financial support for groups engaged in creating social change. Yoplaits campaign to address patronizing attitudes toward moms is an example of corporate advocacy. Another is Stella Artois partnership with Water.org to end the global water crisis, which has provided clean drinking water to over 2 million people so far. Pride Month However, corporate adventures into social issues arent always well-thought-out or -received. For example, consider corporate involvement in annual Pride Month celebrations. In 2019, the number of brands participating in Pride reached an all-time high. Brands including T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines and MasterCard featured supportive messages and announced donations to support the queer community. Some dont welcome large-brand sponsorships to Pride, arguing that sponsorships take the focus away from issues of LGBTQ marginalization. These brands are not seen as authentic advocates, as they were not contributing directly to LGBTQ causes but instead portrayed as paying for exposure. These critics argue that brands dont really care about the community, pointing to a lack of supportive messages throughout the rest of the year. There are also concerns from members of the community that brands support Pride while taking political stances that harm the LGBTQ community. For example, Equinox and SoulCycle, which have sponsored Pride, faced a consumer boycott in August 2019 after the chairman of their parent company said he was hosting a fundraiser for then-President Donald Trump, who advocates say is anti-LGBTQ. The importance of allies Some companies may use causes to pander to consumers and deserve to be called out, but my research shows that corporate allies and advocates can have an important role in society. Engagement through both allyship and advocacy continue to be important to keep issues in the spotlight to effect significant social change. Im finding in my research that brands connecting with social issues can be a win-win: Consumers become aware of important social issues that may lack media exposure, and brands connect with like-minded consumers in a more authentic way. This is an updated version of an article originally published on Aug. 19, 2019. [Over 106,000 readers rely on The Conversations newsletter to understand the world. Sign up today.] This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/are-companies-that-support-pride-and-other-social-causes-wokewashing-162150. | https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Are-companies-that-support-Pride-and-other-social-16224578.php |
Does SoFis SPAC Debut Signal The Start Of Another Blank-Check Boom? | Short for Social Finance Inc., SoFi (NASDAQ: SOFI) went public on Tuesday by merging with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) Social Capital Hedosophia Corp V. In its market debut, SoFi shares closed up over 12% at $22.65 as investors flocked to the stock. Previously, SoFi was privately valued at $5.7 billion. This article was originally written by MyWallSt. Read more market-beating insights from the MyWallSt team here. SPACs, also known as blank-check companies, raise funds through a shell company with the purpose of buying an already operational business. Social Capital Hedosophia Corp V is run by venture capital investor Chamath Palihapitiya. SoFi is an American digital personal finance company. The firm was founded in 2011 with a focus on student loan refinancing for millennials. Now, SoFi provides its users with stock and cryptocurrency trading, personal and mortgage loans, and wealth management services. The San Francisco-based company has attracted funding from well-known investors including, Peter Thiel, Silver Lake, and SoftBank. SoFi stands out as it is one of the only companies to offer this many financial services. There are plenty of SPAC mergers in the pipeline. In May, Bright Machines Inc, a digital manufacturing startup, said it will be using a SPAC to make its market debut. The company is valued at a staggering $1.1 billion, proving that there is still interest in this method. Bird Rides Inc is also planning its SPAC merger with a $2.3 billion valuation. However, the largest SPAC deal of them all is Southeast Asias ride-hailing giant Grab Holdings Inc. The tech company is currently worth an eye-popping $39.6 billion. According to Refinitiv, companies across the globe have raised around $248 billion, a record high, through IPOs this year including the listings of SPACs. The U.S. has had the most IPOs this year, raising roughly $130 billion, of which $88.2 billion were SPAC deals. Across the waters, Chinese and UK firms raised $39.1 billion in IPOs and $12 billion in blank-check mergers. Black-check companies became increasingly popular over the past year. However, JP Morgan stated that the SPAC boom may have already peaked. The firm explained that the decline in SPACs may be due to a fall in retail traders investing in them along with increased regulations from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Many believe that investigations into conflicts of interest concerning SPAC deals could be soon approaching, which may make this method seem less attractive. The speed of vaccine rollouts and financial benefits coming to an end could also cause the SPAC boom to slow down and it may have already happened. In April, global SPAC proceeds fell to $3.7 billion from March highs of $34.5 billion, the lowest in 10 months. Many experts expect SPAC IPO activity to decrease after it exploded in Q1. However, SoFis impressive result in its SPAC debut was noted by investors. It will be interesting to see how this trend unfolds and if the blank-check boom can continue as the economy recovers and regulators crack down on these mergers. MyWallSt gives you access to over 100 market-beating stock picks and the research to back them up. Our analyst team posts daily insights, subscriber-only podcasts, and the headlines that move the market. Start your free trial now! | https://www.cmcmarkets.com/en-au/opto/does-sofis-spac-debut-signal-the-start-of-another-blank-check-boom |
What Does It Take To Become An Elite-Level Athlete? | I am sure we all have several names that come to mind when answering these questions. Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Floyd Mayweather, and Kobe Bryant are a few names that immediately came to mind for me. However, when thinking about becoming elite level athletes, we should not ask why they are at the top but rather how they made it to the top. Sometimes we think they are where they are because of their exceptional talents, and there is nothing wrong with us thinking this. As humans, we tend to believe what we see and what we see is their performances in the ring, on the track, in the pool, or on the court. As a former elite-level swimmer, I can confidently say that these out-of-the-world performances are only the tip of the iceberg. Below are five things elite athletes do on their way to the top: 1. They Do Not Expect To Become A Superstar Overnight Arguably one of the most important secrets to success. Nothing ever happens overnight. If you expect it to, you will most likely end up disappointed. Success takes time, effort and perseverance. You have to trust the process and recognize that it takes time. Never do something just to do it. Do everything you do with a purpose, and you will continue to grow and reach many milestones. Also check out Never Let It Rest. 2. They Are Willing To Do Things Others Are Not To be the best, you have to beat the best. This means that you have to be willing to do what most people will not even think about. The decisions you make for yourself are the decisions that will turn you from novice to elite. 3. They Recognize That Hard Work Beats Talent Every elite athlete out there will tell you the same thing. They are where they are because of their work ethic. When I was younger, I was struggling to keep up with the rest of my age group. Then, one day, someone close to me told me something that stuck with me to this day. He sat me down and said, Hard work beats talent when talent doesnt work hard. Believe in yourself and trust the process. The only thing I could do was put my head down and get back to work, and it sure paid off. 4. They Embrace Failure Failure is one of the most frequent and essential obstacles on the road to success. How you deal with failure will determine who you become and where you end up. Every elite athlete out there can talk to you for hours upon hours about how they have failed countless times, but instead of giving up, they kept on pushing. 5. They Love What They Do At the end of the day, you have to love what you do. Elite athletes put in hours and hours of training every day to keep their bodies and minds in optimal shape. If you do not love what you do every day, all this hard work can only take you so far. Your heart needs to be in it 100% of the way. The sky is the limit. You have heard the following saying a million times before, but I will say it again: YOU CAN DO WHATEVER YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO. You just have to be willing to work for it and not give up when things get tough. So get out there and keep on pushing. Dream. Dare. Succeed. ABOUT RUDO LOOCK My name is Rudo Loock and I am from South Africa. I was blessed with an opportunity to go swim for Florida State University. I am a 4-time ACC qualifier and one time NCAA qualifier. After battling many ups and downs throughout my career, I now aim to share my knowledge about the sports physical and mental side through personal experience with the rest of the swimming world. | https://swimswam.com/what-does-it-take-to-become-an-elite-level-athlete/ |
Can the Giants Can Sustain Their Hot Start in a Loaded NL West? | Gregory Bull/Associated Press The NL West was shaping up to be an interesting division long before the 2021 season began, but the intrigue involved the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres. The defending World Series champs assembled a historically deep team, but the upstart Padres made it known they were going to challenge their neighbors to the north for West Coast supremacy in the National League. That rivalry has not disappointed, but an old rivalry has been renewed with the San Francisco Giants putting both teams on notice. San Francisco (35-21) is currently first in the division, though the three teams are all within two games of one another. The Giants were in first place after the first month of the season concluded with a 16-10 record, and an 18-10 record in May has them well-positioned in early June. From 2010-2016, the Dodgers were often the best team in the division, but there wasn't much to show for it in the postseason. Instead, it was the Giants who put together a dynasty, winning World Series titles in 2010, 2012 and 2014. San Francisco tried for one more even-year run in 2016, defeating the New York Mets in a thrilling NL Wild Card Game, but the dynasty ended soon thereafter with the Giants falling to the eventual World Series champion Chicago Cubs in the NLDS. A half-decade of being in win-now mode left the team with an aging core and a depleted farm system. There were some down seasons, which was to be expected, and this season figured to be one of them. They weren't going to be able to manufacture enough runs, the rotation wasn't deep enough and the best players were past their prime. Video Play Button Videos you might like But that starting rotation has the third-best ERA in baseball (3.04), and Kevin Gausman is starting to garner some Cy Young attention. Of course, the award might as well already have Jacob deGrom's name on it, but Gausman's 6-0 record and 1.40 ERA certainly puts him in the early conversation. And the Giants are managing to manufacture runs, as they're one of the top-10 scoring teams in MLB, and their plus-67 run differential shows they're doing just fine in that area. Marcio Jose Sanchez/Associated Press Those veterans are also the ones leading this resurgence. Catcher Buster Posey has already surpassed his 2019 home run total (he opted out of the 2020 season). He's been hitting above .300 with an OPS of nearly 1.000 and a 168 wRC+ at age 34. The 35-year-old Evan Longoria was looking more like his younger self before being sidelined with a mild intercostal strain. The third baseman has nine home runs and an .869 OPS. Brandon Crawford, 34, and Brandon Belt, 33, have also recaptured some of their youth, though Belt is currently on the injured list with an oblique strain. The Giants have withstood injuries to key players by utilizing a rebuilt farm system. Their No. 2-rated prospect, catcher Joey Bart, hasn't even been used this season outside of one game despite some big numbers with Triple-A Sacramento. Offseason improvements have paid off, especially with the rotation. But still, few could have predicted San Francisco would be in this position before the season. Last year, the team missed out on the expanded postseason by a single game. President of Baseball Operations Farhan Zaidi previously said he wanted to make a move for a left-handed bat but that nothing came together. Putting deals together this season will likely require him to sacrifice some organizational talent, and the Giants need that emerging talent considering Belt, Crawford and Gausman will be free agents after the season. Longoria has one year left on his contract (club option in 2023), while Posey and Johnny Cueto have $22 million club options for 2022. Still, the Giants have no choice but to do something at the July 30 trade deadline. Doing nothing would send a message that the club doesn't intend to compete this season. Thanks for the contributions, Brandon and Brandon, but you can take your championship rings elsewhere. You gave us your best years, Buster, but the pitching staff belongs to Joey now. General manager Scott Harris and Zaidi owe it to the clubhouse and manager Gabe Kapler to fortify the roster. Right now, there is a lot of pressure on the starting pitchers, and another reliever would help them keep pace and take pressure off Jake McGee and Tyler Rogers. The team will also get a boost when Tommy La Stella and Darin Ruf come off the IL, but getting a younger bench piece wouldn't hurt. Aaron Doster/Associated Press Don't expect any blockbuster trades. The Giants are on the rise, and they'd like to continue that rise over the next few years. They shouldn't want a one-off playoff trip; they should want a long-term contender. They're surely not going to mortgage the future for one season. There are similarities to the dynasty teams of the 2010s. A rotation anchored by Cueto and Gausman and supplemented by Anthony DeSclafani and Alex Wood might not be the flashiest, but they get the ball on the ground and rely on their defenders behind them to do the work. The rotation was the lynchpin for those previous Giants teams, and although this one might not have Madison Bumgarner, it's collectively looking as dominant as some of those past units. And, of course, there are still those familiar faces. They know how to win. But they'll need to hope their age doesn't catch up to them in August and September. That is where some depth trades could help. Right now, the answer appears to be yes. They might be ahead of schedule, but that shouldn't stop the club from making some necessary moves this summer to help them keep pace in a tight NL West race. | https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2944127-can-the-giants-can-sustain-their-hot-start-in-a-loaded-nl-west |
Is Travis Kelce Passing Gronk as the Best TE of His Era? | Uncredited/Associated Press The consensus for some time has been that Rob Gronkowski is the greatest tight end of his generation, if not the best in NFL history at that position. And while Gronk's reputation still inarguably towers over all of his elite positional peers from the 21st century, it's worth pointing out that Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs is making a heck of a run at Gronk's legacy on paper. After setting a new record at the position with 1,416 yards to go along with 11 touchdowns in 2020, the 31-year-old is positioned to leapfrog a slew of legendary tight endspossibly including Gronkin 2021. The three-time first-team All-Pro needs 1,105 yards next season to jump from 12th to fifth on the all-time tight end receiving yardage list, ahead of Hall of Famers Harold Carmichael, Ozzie Newsome and Jackie Smith as well as modern-day stars Greg Olsen, Jimmy Graham and Gronkowski (who currently leads Kelce by 603 yards but had 793 fewer yards than Kelce in 2020). Considering he's averaged 1,229 yards per season over the past five years, that shouldn't be a problem so long as Kelce stays healthy for the juggernaut Chiefs and their superstar quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. And not to jinx things, but he hasn't missed a game because of injury since becoming a regular in 2014. Steve Luciano/Associated Press Video Play Button Videos you might like That's right, Kelce has only been an NFL starter for seven years. He turned 24 as a rookie and missed practically that entire year with a knee injury, so his age-25 campaign was his first full-length professional season. And while that late start might make it hard for the 2013 third-round pick to catch cumulative record-holders Tony Gonzalez (1,325 catches compared to 612 for Kelce and 15,127 yards compared to 7,881 for Kelce) and Antonio Gates (116 touchdowns compared to 48 for Kelce), it also likely means he has more tread on his tires than your typical 31-year-old tight end. With a handful more seasons in the range of 100 receptions, 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns, Kelce would be right there statistically with Gonzalez, Gates and Jason Witten and likely far ahead of Gronkowski, who simply isn't as large a factor with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as he used to be with the New England Patriots. Among modern tight ends with at least 4,000 career receiving yards, only Gronkowski and Kelce have yards-per-target averages above 9.0. Only Kelce, Witten and Heath Miller have catch rates above 70 percent (Gronk is at 65 percent), and only Kelce has averaged more than 70 yards per game (Gronk is second at 64.8). Where Gronkowski and others have a sizable edge over Kelce is the touchdown category. Kelce is tied for 18th on the all-time tight end scoring list, mainly because he corralled just 14 touchdowns prior to his age-28 season. But he's made up for that to a degree with 35 scores (including a rushing touchdown) the last four years. Gronk has caught 86 touchdown passes in 131 career games, which puts him on track to fly by Gates (116) and Gonzalez (111) if he can stick around long enough. If Kelce (who has 48 touchdown grabs in 111 games) can maintain his pace from the last four years, he'd only have 91 career touchdown catches in five years' time. So while he's likely to surpass Gronkowski in a lot of other areas, it will be tough to beat him where Gronk might argue it matters most. The playoffs and the Super Bowl. Obviously, it matters that Gronkowski has four rings compared to one for Kelce, but Kelce has nearly as many catches (83 compared to 89), yards (992 compared to 1,273) and touchdowns (nine compared to 14) in 12 playoff games as Gronkowski has in 20. He's caught 77.6 percent of the passes thrown his way for a yards-per-target average of 9.3 in the postseason, as opposed to just 61.8 percent and 8.8 for Gronkowski. And although he's only a few months younger than Gronkowski (both were born in 1989), his trajectory indicates he'll have more playoff and Super Bowl opportunities than Gronk in the years to come. In other words, the path is there for Kelce, and all he and the Chiefs have to do is maintain their current momentum for a few more seasons. He's already made more Pro Bowls (six) than Gronk (five), and he's just one first-team All-Pro honor behind Gronk's four. That doesn't change the fact that many will continue to view Gronkowski as the more dominant player, and it would be fair for those in his corner to point out that we might not even be having this conversation if injuries didn't wear Gronk down in his prime. He missed a combined 17 games in 2013 and 2016 and retired for a year in 2019. But fair or not, durability is part of the equation when we're assessing all-time greats. There's still plenty of work to do, but considering Gronkowski's place atop the tight end totem pole for much of the last decade, it's rather amazing Kelce has turned this into a legitimate debate. Brad Gagnon has covered the NFL for Bleacher Report since 2012. Follow him on Twitter: @Brad_Gagnon. | https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2944128-is-travis-kelce-passing-gronk-as-the-best-te-of-his-era |
Who is Shaun Ley? | SHAUN Ley is known for his work on the BBC News channel. But in June 2021 he had viewers in stitches when he presented a bulletin in his shorts. Shaun, 51, was born June 14, 1969, and is a journalist and newsreader who presents The World This Weekend and The World At One on BBC Radio 4. He is also the main Saturday lunchtime presenter of the BBC Weekend News and also regularly presents on the BBC News Channel. The Devon-born presenter joined the Beeb from university in 1990. He has also hosted shows about his beloved Doctor Who. On June 2, 2021, Shaun was caught presenting the BBC news in shorts and deck shoes. At first, he appeared his usual professional self at 11pm on the hottest day of the year so far. He appeared grim-faced and serious from the front while telling of Covid travel rules and Israels political turmoil. But a keen-eyed viewer spotted his bare legs in a split-second side view. 4 The BBC anchorman also wore a jacket, shirt and tie for the two bulletins Justyna Tosun, 34, watching the bedtime headlines with husband Sherhat, 38, told The Sun: I roared with laughter! Hed been reading all this gloomy news when I realised he had no trousers on. It was hilarious because he looked like a bank manager from the waist up and a holidaymaker from the waist down. Shaun was still in casual attire for the midnight bulletin this time with glasses. Shaun and the BBC declined to comment on his bulletin attire. In 2017 while hosting the BBCs Dateline show, Shaun appeared frustrated by a debate dominated by anti-Brexit guests. Attempting to restore balance, he retorted: Can someone please defend the British here? In 2019, as Shaun interviewed a Glasgow councillor, a spider crawled over a camera lens and appeared huge on screens. That same year, he apologised after referring to Bernardine Evaristo as another author while discussing her joint Booker Prize victory. | https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/15161003/shaun-ley-bbc-anchor/ |
Who is Alexis Ffrench and is he married? | COMPOSER, producer and pianist Alexis Ffrench is quickly growing into the biggest classical artist in the world. Here is everything we know about him in the lead up to the BAFTAs 2021. Alexis Ffrench was the UK's biggest selling pianist of 2020 whilst headlining London's Royal Albert Hall. Alongside sharing the same management as Niall Horan and Little Mix, Alexis has worked with Paloma Faith, Hugo Boss and composed several pieces for major films. Alexis was born in Surrey 1970 and played the piano since he was four. Having a label record with Sony, he is known for combining classical music with R&B. Alexis is married and has two daughters. He keeps his life very private but here is what we know. Alexis and wife, Lesley, have been together for years after meeting at his Freshers' Ball. Alexis' eldest, Savannah, 19, is a classical and modern dancer who has performed in her dad's music video for Dreamland. 2 Alexis is married and has two daughters. At the age of seven, Alexis was appointed head organist at his local church, making him the UK's youngest. Some of his influences growing up were the likes of Bob Marley, Stevie Wonder and Ella Fitzgerald. Alexis started writing music at the age of five when his parents bought him a second-hand piano. Where to watch Mare of Easttown in the UK and US awards axe BAFTA suspends special awards for first time ever in wake of Noel Clarke scandal SEX PROBE Charlie Hanson accuser says producer 'took off her clothes' after walk home His understanding of music then changed when a fellow musician committed suicide at 23. His music writing was impacted and Alexis' single Dreamland expresses mental health concerns. In 2020 he released a single dedicated to the Black Lives Matter movement called "Walk With Us". | https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/15161584/alexis-ffrench-wife-married/ |
Does San Diego County need a high-speed rail system? | San Diego planners are considering a $160 billion proposal that would bring 200 miles of high-speed rail to the region. Proponents say that high-speed rail is the future, and the current trolley system is a bit slow and hard to get to. Many world cities especially in Asia are investing heavily in high-speed rail in urban centers despite slowed population growth. It is also considered a way to reduce costs and wasted commute time of San Diego workers. Critics have called it a waste of money because Californias population growth is slowing and would prefer freeway expansion. It also is likely to face strong legal challenges. The initial leg of the high-speed rail plan is tentatively slated to run along the coast through Solana Beach and Encinitas, cities that have bitterly fought housing requirements in court. SANDAG says not all money in its proposal will go toward the electric rail system, with funds for improved rapid bus service, mobility hubs, technology improvements and other transportation goals. David Ely, San Diego State University NO: There are several reasons to doubt that high-speed rail could significantly improve travel times within the county. A likely outcome of the pandemic is that more people will work remotely, resulting in less congestion on the highways and other forms of transportation. High-speed rail would yield its greatest benefit if new housing is constructed around stations. But local opposition to building large amounts of new housing around stations will make achieving this outcome challenging. Ray Major, SANDAG Not participating this week. Reginald Jones, Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation Not participating this week. Lynn Reaser, Point Loma Nazarene University Advertisement Not participating this week. Kelly Cunningham, San Diego Institute for Economic Research NO: Needs are questionable with employment, shopping, residential centers remaining widely dispersed, San Diego population growth significantly slowing, and working from home much more widespread. Building high-speed rail already served by the above-ground trolley system would have significant environmental impacts on road crossings and neighborhoods. By the time constructed, after prolonged years of court hearings and settlements, our grandchildren might someday utilize and undoubtedly still be paying for it many years from now. Phil Blair, Manpower Advertisement YES: But tread softly. We are in the quagmire of the Speed Train in Northern California that is way over budget, very late, and has been downsized to the point it may never be cost effective. In San Diego we have the newest trolley line opening soon that will be a huge success if people will use it. Maybe it is our test case. The very ambitious $160 billion dollar high speed rail system will only be used if, like other mass transit systems, it is more convenient, cheaper and faster than the current system being used. I hesitate to support a build it and they will come. I would move more slowly and prove the effectiveness of each step before committing to the entire package. Gary London, London Moeder Advisors YES: A high-speed rail system would be far more beneficial than the current trolley system, whose ridership is hugely disappointing, at a cost disproportionate to its utility. But what really matters is SANDAGs Five Big Moves plan, which synchronizes walk, bike, drive and transit. SANDAG is projecting that 90 percent of our regional growth will be multifamily units. That is a big sea change for San Diego whose inventory currently consists of 60 percent single-family housing. If they are right and that is a big if than high-speed rail can work because most of this new housing must be built in urban areas at high density. Alan Gin, University of San Diego Advertisement NO: It would be desirable to have such a system, but forces are working against it. The biggest are changes resulting from the pandemic: telecommuting, online shopping, and restaurant delivery services. All of these reduce the need for people to travel. Some people are going to go back to in-person working and others will want to go out, but there is going to be a marginal decline in intra-regional travel by current residents when a high-speed rail system needs an increase to justify its cost. Bob Rauch, R.A. Rauch & Associates NO: The goal for our region is to manage freeway congestion and rein in greenhouse gases. To accomplish this, more remote workers mean fewer commuters; building promised roads will help alleviate traffic congestion. The high-speed rail system is projected to increase transit use among commuters from 3 percent before the pandemic to 13 percent by 2050. Based on Los Angeles and Phoenix, comparable cities, this is unachievable. Stiff opposition, unlikely projections and common sense say no. Austin Neudecker, Weave Growth Advertisement NO: Southern California expanded rapidly in the era of suburban sprawl yet underinvested in public transportation. A solution is needed, yet I remain skeptical of aspects of this plan. A costly rail artery serving the same affluent coastal communities as our underutilized coaster doesnt address the commuting issue. If the goal is access and adoption (reducing cars on the road), I would focus on the proposed routes between low-income communities and job centers (and keep costs negligible for riders). James Hamilton, UC San Diego NO: SANDAG is strong on good intentions and wishful thinking, but weak when it comes to hard-nosed evaluation of costs and benefits. With 3 million residents in San Diego and a cost of $160 billion for SANDAGs overall proposal, it comes with a price tag of over $50,000 for every man, woman, and child in San Diego. And these projects invariably have big cost overruns. Lets use information technology to tackle directly the problem of traffic congestion and wasted fuel. Chris Van Gorder, Scripps Health Advertisement NO: While improvements to public transportation are needed in this region, and the plan is an ambitious one that could provide a lot of benefits countywide, its just too expensive right now. Taxes and the cost of living in California are already too high. So, instead of taking on another visionary project requiring more tax increases, lets manage through some of those we have under way. Norm Miller, University of San Diego Not participating this week. Jamie Moraga, IntelliSolutions Advertisement NO: Its way too early to properly evaluate. At a proposed cost of $160 billion, there are a lot of assumptions with very little detail, especially with the financing plan. The plan calls for a 1 percent sales tax increase, which would have to be approved by local voters, and potentially a four-cent-per-mile fee due to declining gas tax revenues. Other concerns are where the rail stops will be located and how the land will be acquired to build the high-density housing and mixed use that would surround the stops. This all comes at a time when the state is facing declines in both population and births. Email me at [email protected]. Follow me on Twitter: @PhillipMolnar | https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/business/story/2021-06-04/does-san-diego-county-need-a-high-speed-rail-system |
Is Miami-Dade Finally Ready to Provide Community IDs? | Without an ID, it's difficult for people to access housing, medical treatment, and municipal services. ^ Keep New Times Free Support Us Local Community Journalism I Support Support the independent voice of Miami and help keep the future of New Times free. Support Us When people don't have a government-issued identification card, they may have trouble accessing necessary services, including COVID testing and vaccinations. But now, Miami-Dade County is one step closer to providing county-approved community ID cards to undocumented residents, minors, formerly incarcerated people, those in the process of a gender transition, and others who have difficulty acquiring official forms of identification. During a Wednesday meeting, county commissioners voted 12-1 in favor of the idea. "I represent a community, particularly in east Little Havana, where half of the residents are non-citizens," Commissioner Eileen Higgins said during the meeting. "And that area of my district remains behind in vaccines." The next step is for Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava's administration to outline how the program will be rolled out. The commission will vote again when Cava returns with a plan in about two months. According to Higgins, who sponsored the legislation, all Miami-Dade residents would be eligible to apply for community IDs. The ID cards would provide county residents with photo identification that they could use locally to access government services, open accounts with a credit union, do business at a check-cashing store, or provide as identification in an emergency. For privacy reasons, the IDs would be administered by a community-based organization rather than by the county. The identities of people with community IDs would not enter the public record. Commissioner Joe Martinez cast the only vote against the program. He and some other commissioners expressed concern that the ID cards might be used fraudulently. And Martinez said he opposed the idea of creating a separate layer of privacy for people with community IDs. "Why protect this particular group?" Martinez said at the meeting. Commissioners also had questions about what type of personal information would be included on community ID cards and how a person seeking an ID would prove that they are who they say they are. Cava said those details will be ironed out and presented to the commission within 60 days. Miami-Dade previously tried to implement a local ID program in 2015, when commissioners voted to approve a measure asking then-Mayor Carlos A. Gimnez to issue a report about the feasibility of creating a municipal ID program. But there's a difference between municipal IDs and the community IDs commissioners voted to approve: The former are issued and administered by cities or counties, while the latter are managed by a nonprofit or community-based organization. The report commissioners asked for in 2015 took about four years to complete and ultimately concluded that municipal IDs would raise major privacy concerns. It concluded that if an ID program is maintained by a city or county government, a list of ID holders would be subject to public-records requests a worrisome prospect for advocates who said that a list of undocumented people could land in the hands of Immigration and Customs Enforcement or groups with anti-immigrant sentiments. "By creating a local municipal ID program, a record of cardholders' identity is inevitable," the report stated. "Some municipalities have faced challenges regarding the privacy and identity of cardholders." Cava proposed a community ID program when she was a commissioner in late 2019, but the measure died in committee. When Cava was elected mayor, Higgins picked up the torch. | https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/miami-dade-commissioners-approve-community-ids-12320954 |
What should the St. Louis Cardinals do with Miles Mikolas? | Colorado Rockies vs St Louis Cardinals 5/9/2021 Picks Predictions Previews. The Colorado Rockies (12-21) will collide with the St. Louis Cardinals (20-14) in the finale of a three-game weekend series at the Busch Stadium in St. Louis on Sunday, May 9, 2021, at 2:15 PM ET. Colorado took a late rally with three runs in the 8th inning but lost the match with just one run at 8-9 against the Cardinals in Game 2 of a series on Saturday. The Rockies need a win here to prevent a sweep in the series. Left Fielder Raimel Tapia led Colorado with two runs scored on two hits with one walk and an RBI. Shortstop Trevor Story chipped in another two runs on one hit with a walk while Right Fielder Charlie Blackmon acquired a run on three hits with two RBIs and a walk. CF/2B Garret Hampson, 1st Baseman Connor Joe, and Pinch Hitter Alan Trejo contributed one run each in the losing effort for the Rockies. Starter Chi Chi Gonzalez posted 8 hits, 7 earned runs, one walk, and one strikeout in 4.0 innings pitched. | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2264608032742/what-should-the-st-louis-cardinals-do-with-miles-mikolas |
Is in-house customisation the next big thing in luxury watchmaking? | Choices of precious stones (black onyx, lapis lazuli and malachite) and case materials (titanium, rose gold and platinum) mean there are 30 possible base iterations of the watch available, leaving the case back as a playground for your own motifs, memorable dates and words of wisdom. Thirty may not sound like many, but Bulgari is playing it smart. It says it will be able to deliver any combination between four and eight months from the moment of order, and that it would rather do that than promise the world and take 18 months to fulfil it, as some watchmakers do. Its also rolling the service out slowly at a few events first, then in its major boutiques, and then who knows The Maestria tablet application it developed for the customisation process wont even be publicly available. For now, this is a toe in the water, and Bulgaris top brass are open enough to admit it. We might have expected a luxury company of Bulgaris size to go the whole hog and offer us hundreds of options on any watch in its collection, but, even with its vast resources, it cant overcome the fact that customising a luxury watch isnt at all easy. | https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/watches/article/bulgari-customisation-octo-roma-naturalia |
Which Broncos players will make the NFL Top 100 list this year? | Summer is drawing close, which means it will soon be time for NFL Network to reveal its annual NFL Top 100 list for 2021. The Denver Broncos probably wont be well-represented this year. Even after missing all of last season with an ankle injury, outside linebacker Von Miller is likely to make the list. Miller was ranked No. 26 last year hell probably have a considerable drop on the 2021 list. The only other Denver player who made the list in 2020 was defensive lineman Jurrell Casey (No. 71), and hes no longer on the team. Broncos safety Justin Simmons should be a strong candidate to make the list, but after he was snubbed in 2020, hes certainly not a lock. Denver outside linebacker Bradley Chubb made the Pro Bowl last year but he only had 7.5 sacks and he wasnt on the list in 2020. Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton missed most of last season with a knee injury, so hes probably unlikely to make the list. Denver cornerbacks Ronald Darby and Kyle Fuller are high-profile defensive backs, but neither of them made the list last summer. It seems safe to assume Miller will be on the 2021 list. Beyond that, Broncos players probably wont get much love this summer. | https://broncoswire.usatoday.com/2021/06/04/what-denver-broncos-are-on-nfl-top-100-list-2021/ |
Should Horsham have its own town council? | North Horsham has a parish council, but the rest of the town is represented by the three neighbourhood councils of Denne, Forest and Trafalgar. Frances Haigh, leader of the Lib Dem group at Horsham District Council, says the three organisations play an important role in the town, although one not widely understood by many residents. Back in 2011, the Localism Act gave new powers to communities, including the right to produce neighbourhood plans. The Bandstand in the Carfax, Horsham. Pic by Steve Robards The three neighbourhood councils took advice about how they could do this and were given two options: Either to form a single parish or town council first, which would need a petition for residents for a governance review, and then produce a plan Or form a neighbourhood forum which could produce a plan and once that had passed at referendum. They would have the right to trigger a community governance review for a town council without needing a petition. They went down the second route and formed the Horsham Blueprint Neighbourhood Forum, which has involved many other organisation the Horsham Society, Horsham Town Community Partnership, businesses and elected councillors. Cllr Haigh said: The work in producing the plan has been immense. Some readers will call the various events held in Swan Walk and the postcards where they were asked to write down what they wished for the town. I chaired the forum for many years and then handed over to Andrew Cooke who has done sterling work in bringing the plan finally to fruition. This summer, the plan will come to referendum, and all of who have been involved very much hope that the towns residents and businesses will come out in support of what is your plan. I should stress that the plan does not include any allocations of sites for homes these have been left to HDC. However, it does provide a lot of important protections for our precious green spaces. In addition, it has a lot of policies which feed into planning policy, such as for environmental issues and sustainable transport. It also has proposals for community projects which have been suggested by you, the residents of Horsham, and it is to be hoped that some of you will come forward to help make these happen. But more importantly, once the plan is approved by the referendum, Horsham town can request a governance review for the formation of a town council. Bring it on! For supporters of a town council, Bexhill over in East Sussex may prove a model to follow. The town is the main settlement in Rother, which like Horsham is covered by a district council. After years of campaigning Bexhills own town council was formed last month. | https://www.wscountytimes.co.uk/news/politics/should-horsham-have-its-own-town-council-3261159 |
Is Technological Innovation Measured Adequately? | Hyunjun Park is CEO and Co-Founder of CATALOG, the worlds first DNA-based platform for massive digital data storage and computation. shapecharge There is an abundance of metrics in the business world to quantitatively measure, track and compare everything under the sun. They allow us to distill complex phenomena down to simple indices that can be plugged into spreadsheets that are easier to understand. This is often at the core of data-driven decision-making processes that lead to success. However, as useful as this approach is, fixating on just one metric over all else as the sole figure of merit can lead to distorted incentives and actually serve to block accurate assessment of the real value that technology has for a business. An example can be found in the world of supercomputers. For years supercomputers have been ranked by a single figure of merit called RMax, a score that describes a systems maximal achieved performance using benchmark software. Understanding the importance of having a big RMax number, supercomputer manufacturers have deployed armies of engineers to optimize for the highest possible RMax. As a result, it is common for benchmark applications on these systems to run at 80% efficiency or higher. The problem, however, is that when these systems are deployed, commercial applications typically are only running at about 10% efficiency. This is analogous to choosing the SUV that you will take off-roading based on its Nrburgring lap time. Frequently done, but never in good taste. Sometimes, new and emerging technologies are so revolutionary they lack a useful model for evaluation. And when the model is no longer relevant, existing metrics that go into it may need to be supplanted even if they seem intuitive and are widely accepted. One such example comes from the development of quantum computers. The underlying mathematics and physics that underpin quantum computers are far beyond the ability of most people to understand this applies to even many seasoned business executives. The industry initially rallied around quantitative shorthand based on the number of qubits (quantum bits) in a quantum system to make the conversation consumable. This metric is easy to understand (more qubits are better than fewer) and allows one to make quick comparative judgments among different quantum computer designs. This single figure of merit has appeal because it makes something extraordinarily complex assessable. But looking deeper, we find that the simplicity of qubit count buries a number of assumptions and factors that are material to whether the application of quantum computers will actually have value. To address issues like these, researchers at IBM introduced the concept of Quantum Volume. Quantum Volume is a multidimensional metric that incorporates more nuance into the evaluation of complex quantum systems. And it worked to the extent that the higher the quantum volume of a computer, the more complex a problem it can solve. This was an important step forward because it conveyed more information about the capability and the associated value of a quantum computer than the previous fixation on qubit count by itself. These are just two examples to illustrate the importance of carefully probing the value metrics of new technologies. Single figures of merit, even when widely accepted, can be misleading or meaningless altogether. The concepts of data storage and computation are at the cusp of a paradigm shift partially due to the rise of DNA-based data platforms. Moving away from an electronic model of data storage and computation and toward one based on chemistry promises tremendous improvements in physical density, portability and data parallelism. Gains in energy efficiency and the avoidance of media obsolescence are also bonuses arising from inherent characteristics of the approach. Imagine all of the information ever created by humanity fitting in the volume of an RV, lasting a hundred thousand years and always being computable. Something as new and revolutionary as this demands new ways of thinking in evaluating both the technology and its potential impact. Borrowed metrics from classical data storage systems are not nearly enough to understand and assess because a new model is required. Above all, one must resist the temptation to fixate on a single figure of merit, such as time or cost per byte stored. As was the case with quantum and supercomputers, there is so much more to this story than how quickly and cheaply data can be put into this medium. Common wisdom in evolutionary biology is that we get what we select for. The same holds true for the human development of new technology. Therefore, it is incumbent on technology innovators to make very clear how their technology should be evaluated and avoid the laziness of settling for a metric because it is convenient or familiar. At the same time, its also critical that business leaders press for additional details when presented with single figures of merit to fully appreciate how technology tested in control environments will perform once deployed. Only when adequate metrics are used in conjunction with relevant models do they begin to yield valuable insights about their subjects. Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. | https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/06/04/is-technological-innovation-measured-adequately/ |
Why did the jet initially take a pass on landing at John Wayne Airport? | Q. Mr. Honk: On May 27 I was on a flight to John Wayne Airport. It was a 737 Max, and I was excited to have an experience with this marvelous airplane. During the flight from Denver, everything was going very well. At about 7 p.m. during the approach to JWA, I was looking out the window and from what I could guess we had passed the I-5 Freeway and were descending normally. Then I noticed the aircraft started gaining altitude. We passed over the airport. My assumption was that because of Santa Ana winds, we were going to land from the other side of the airport. However, I was wrong. The plane did a complete go-around, for say 15 minutes, and used the usual approach that we had before. The airplane landed smoothly. I was curious as to what happened. I decided to ask the guru of transportation for the possible reason for this go-around. I would appreciate you enlightening me. Mohsen Sharifi, Laguna Hills A. The guru of transportation, after Mohsen provided the name of the airline and the flight number, reached out to Ian Gregor, a spokesman for the Federal Aviation Administration. The John Wayne control tower cleared Southwest to land, Gregor said in an email. About a minute later, the Southwest pilot radioed that he was going around because their approach was unstable. He did not provide any additional information, but generally speaking, an unstable approach can be due to speed, altitude, descent angle, winds, etc. Aircraft that go around fly standard go-around routes, and controllers issue them standard go-around instructions, which occurred in this case. It was a routine event. Brian Parrish, a Southwest Airlines spokesman, agreed that go-arounds are routine. He offered some specifics on your flight, Mohsen: The assigned flight path over the Santa Ana Mountains for this particular flight required the crew to remain at a higher altitude for an extend period of time, he said in an email. The crew elected a go around to allow for a more stabilized descent and normal approach to landing. Q. I recently had cataract surgery on both eyes with the trifocal lenses. This enables me to see with nearly perfect vision, distance and up close. My drivers license has the corrective-lenses restriction. I no longer need corrective lenses. Bill Bell, Temple City A. Yes, you need to head into the DMV, armed with a Report of Vision Examination, filled out by your optometrist or an ophthalmologist. It will show that you had surgery and detail your current degree of vision. And, yes, you will need to take the vision test again, said Nicholas Filipas, a DMV spokesman in Sacramento. Honkin fact: More than 140,000 people called home a van, a RV or a boat in 2019, before the pandemic hit, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. That was 38% more than three years earlier. Time Magazine, which cites the statistics, says the number of those living out of vehicles has grown during the pandemic. To ask Honk questions, reach him at [email protected]. He only answers those that are published. To see Honk online: ocregister.com/tag/honk. Twitter: @OCRegisterHonk | https://www.dailynews.com/2021/06/04/x-14/ |
Is Naomi Osaka Being Punished Because She's A Black Woman? | Welcome to Keeping It Z, ESSENCEs new column where we touch on and analyze all things Generation Z. For our second piece, editor Brooklyn White talked about the backlash Naomi Osaka received after announcing she would not be participating in press at the French Open. On May 27, four-time Grand Slam singles champion Naomi Osaka announced she would not be participating in press for the 2o21 French Open. In an open letter, she noted being a part of the mandatory interviews was detrimental to her mental health. On Instagram, she wrote: Ive often felt that people have no regard for athletes mental health and this rings very true whenever I see a press conference or partake in one. Wereasked questions that bring doubt into our minds and Im just not going to subject myself to people that doubt me. As a result, Osaka was fined $15,000 for opting out of press and ultimately resigned from the tournament. Japans Naomi Osaka poses with the 2021 Australian Open winners trophy at the Government House in Melbourne on February 21, 2021. I Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images In her 1937 book, Their Eyes Were Watching God, Zora Neale Hurston said that like mules, Black women carry the worlds wishes on our backs. We smile, we dance, we hide grimaces to participate. We do everything that is asked of us, exactly how it is asked, even to our own detriment. People dont concern themselves with whether we wither or not. Were asked for more of the grueling song and dance, no matter how inauthentic or harmful. Its only really a point of concern when we halt. Loading the player... Read our piece on the Zora Neale Hurstons legacy here. You can go back to slavery and back to when people took care of white families, our needs were not important, Dr. Charmain Jackman, a licensed psychologist and the Founder/CEO of InnoPsych said to ESSENCE. It is an affront to have a need, express that need and expect that people will respond to it. Dr. Jackman also shared that she does not believe Black women are able to establish boundaries without pushback. When women of color set boundaries, people dont like itBut for [Naomi] to stand her ground and say, No, Im not going to play anymore,shes not wavering in her boundaries. Naomis decision to discontinue her relationship with press for the French Open is reminiscent of a 1999 incident at the Australian Open. Venus Williams was playing against Lindsay Davenport, when one of her famous beads fell out of her hair. She was penalized, having one of her points taken and ended up losing the match. Williams opponent said that her beads were annoying, while Williams said, No, I shouldnt have to change for any other circumstanceI like my hair. I cannot imagine how difficult it was for Williams to have a part of her culture referred to as a nuisance during a public press meeting after having been punished for who she is. These type of microagressions are common and may also contribute as to why Osaka is choosing not to stick around for them. Naomi deserves boundaries. Furthermore, as a young Black woman, she should be praised for them and not made to feel wrong for enforcing them. We support her pursuit of mental wellness because we understand the necessity of peace for Black women navigating life. | https://www.essence.com/entertainment/only-essence/naomi-osaka-op-ed/ |
How Did UKCS Oil and Gas Perform in 2020? | Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from offshore installations and terminals in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) decreased by ten percent last year, according to the UK Oil and Gas Authoritys (OGA) latest UK Stewardship Survey. The decrease in volumes of carbon dioxide emitted related to a decline in production, but was also significantly driven by emissions reduction by operators, the report showed. The resulting carbon dioxide intensity of offshore production fell from 21.2 kgCO2 per barrel of oil equivalent (boe) in 2019 to 20.2 kgCO2/boe in 2020, the report highlighted. Production efficiency (PE) was sustained at the OGAs target of 80 percent last year, the report outlined. UKCS PE hit this figure in 2019 after jumping up from a PE of 75 percent in 2018. UKCS PE was as low as 60 percent back in 2012, the report showed. In 2020, UKCS wellhead production hit 610 million boe out of a potential 760 million boe, according to the report. In 2019, UKCS wellhead production stood at 640 million boe from a potential 800 million boe. Just eight exploration and appraisal wells were drilled in the UKCS last year, the report pointed out. This was the lowest exploration activity in the last eight years, with seven targets drilled resulting in five discoveries, and culminating in 212 million barrels of oil equivalent resources. Sixty-one development wells were said to have been completed in 2020, which is 14 less than in 2019. The report highlighted that the twin effects of Covid restrictions and the delayed maintenance of the Forties Pipeline System resulted in a significant increase in deferred planned shutdown days. This number amounted to 716 last year, compared to 113 the year before and 98 in 2018. Effects of the pandemic on operations are said to have led to a drop in operating expenses across the basin. Average unit operating costs (UOC) for the basin fell to $1.57 (GBP 11.1) per barrel, which is $1.41 (GBP 1) less per barrel than in 2019. This figure is forecasted to rebound in the next few years, however, exceeding the upper limit of the OGA UOC benchmark boundary by 2023. Against the backdrop of a very difficult year, industry did well to maintain positive performance within the basin, Scott Robertson, the director of operations at the OGA, said in an organization statement. 2020 was certainly a unique year for the UKCS and a lot of activity was delayed or deferred during this period due to the impact of the combination of Covid restrictions and low oil and gas prices, he added. In the year ahead it will be important for industry to maintain this level of performance as activity ramps up, both in traditional oil and gas activity as well as the net zero and energy transition opportunities our basin offers, Robertson went on to say. The OGAs 2020 UKCS Stewardship Survey closed on February 26. Seventy-eight operators contributed to nine industry themes and over 3,880 data sections. To contact the author, email [email protected] | https://www.rigzone.com/news/how_did_ukcs_oil_and_gas_perform_in_2020-04-jun-2021-165600-article/ |
Is OPEC+ Intentionally Firing Up Prices? | The disconnect between its demand forecast and its supply call raises questions on whether OPEC+ is intentionally firing up prices or if some of the demand expectations are overstated. Thats according to Rystad Energys Oil Markets Analyst Louise Dickson, who made the comment in a statement sent to Rigzone on Thursday. In the statement, Dickson outlined that Rystad Energy does not see aviation demand recovering in the same way that the international producer group does. OPECs research arm itself sees oil demand increasing towards 97.9 million barrels per day in the third quarter of 2021, yet the policy making group of OPEC+ has not yet taken supply action to meet this expectation, Dickson said in the statement. The market consensus is now focused on the worry that oil demand will outpace supply in the second half of 2021. Certainly, the seasonal summer demand surge is coming, and if OPEC+ doesnt rise to the occasion and bring more supply on the market, oil prices will continue gains in coming months, Dickson added. Dickson warned in the statement that oil above $70 per barrel will be a real burden for oil importing countries, as higher oil prices could stunt economic recovery prospects. A distinct economic lag in emerging economies after the pandemic could ultimately negatively impact the global overall demand for commodities needed to restart and jumpstart economies and pose a downside risk to the spectacular oil price gains of the past seven months, Dickson said. According to our country-level oil demand models, there are still some countries and regions that will not see oil demand levels recover to pre-pandemic levels until 2022, and some are delayed even further out on the timeline, the Rystad Energy representative added. On June 1, OPEC+ reconfirmed its existing commitment to gradually return two million barrels per day to the market. The next OPEC and non-OPEC ministerial meeting is scheduled for July 1. At the time of writing, the Brent crude oil price stood at $71.68 per barrel. To contact the author, email [email protected] | https://www.rigzone.com/news/is_opec_intentionally_firing_up_prices-04-jun-2021-165601-article/ |
Will Dhanalakshmi qualify for 2020 Tokyo Olympics? | A 22-year-old from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, Dhanalakshmi Sekar, caught the eyes of Indian sports fans in March earlier this year when she defeated the much-fancied Dutee Chand and Hima Das in a 100m sprint during the 24th Federation Cup National Championships in Patiala. Dhanalakshmi's rise to the top has been rapid, and since her brilliant show in the month of March, the sprinter has been in the centre of some really good media attention, with fans expecting her to make it to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Read on to find out. As per the rules, to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in individual 100m and 200m sprints, an athlete needs to be well-placed in the 'Road to Olympic Games 2020 rankings'. Besides, each country can enter a total of just three athletes, so one needs to be amongst the top three in their country as well if they are to qualify. In Dhanalakshmi's case, none of these conditions works in her favour neither in 100m nor in 200m. She is nowhere close to the qualifying standards in the 'Road to Olympic Games 2020' and is neither amongst the top three in India as per the latest world rankings. Dhanalakshmi is ranked eighth amongst Indians in terms of points in 100m and is ranked fifth in 200m. This directly implies that there is no way the sprinter from Tamil Nadu will qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in individual events. But, Dhanalakshmi can still be hopeful of making it through the Women's 4x100m relay team. She was recently included in the Indian women's 4x100m team, thanks to her splendid show during the domestic meets in March, and was supposed to travel to Poland for the World Relays held on 1st and 2nd May 2021. But unfortunately, the team could not travel due to the covid-19 travel restrictions imposed over the country, and the team has not competed together since. To qualify for the relay events at Tokyo Olympics, the team needs to be amongst the top 16 in the 'Road to Olympic Games 2020' rankings. The Indian Women's 4x100m relay team is currently ranked 22nd and are not in contention at the moment. The women can still harbour a hope of qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Games if they are able to compete in some events and improve their timing drastically before the qualification period ends. If they fail to do so, then we might not see Dhanalakshmi Sekar competing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. | https://thebridge.in/athletics/will-dhanalakshmi-qualify-2020-tokyo-olympics-21876 |
Why is Bodybuilding not an Olympic sport? | Bodybuilding has been in existence for a long, long time. It is nothing but the usage of weight training to develop one's body muscles the way one wants them to be. Over the years, there has been a lot of debates surrounding the inclusion of Bodybuilding, but none has been successful in pushing for the inclusion of Bodybuilding in the prestigious event. Bodybuilding was close to being recognised as a medal sport in the Olympics in the 1970s, thanks to the tireless efforts of Ben Weider, but the idea never materialised due to various reasons. Well, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Olympic Planning Committee (OPC) give the following three different reasons why they do not recognise Bodybuilding as an Olympic sport. Bodybuilders take in a lot of steroids The very first reason why the IOC does not recognise Bodybuilding is the use of steroids by bodybuilders. The core essence of the Olympics is drug-free and fair competition between athletes from all across the globe. Besides, the IOC has strict rules regarding doping wherein athletes who are found to have been in the use of any banned drug are banned or stripped of their medals. It is impossible to conduct a fair bodybuilding competition where the bodybuilders have not used steroids and hence cannot be included in the Olympics according to the IOC. Bodybuilding is not a sport The second argument which the IOC maintains is that they do not consider Bodybuilding to be a sport. They maintain that there is no athleticism maintained in Bodybuilding the exact same reason why even Chess has not been able to make it to the Olympics. The bodybuilders certainly undergo immense physical training, but in the end, on the day of the competition, there is no athleticism involved, and it's rather just based on how your body looks, and thus the IOC refrains from recognising it as an Olympic sport. Bodybuilding is subjective to judge Another argument put forward by the IOC is that Bodybuilding is subjective to judge. For example, the winner of a sport like 100m sprint or long jump can be easily decided objectively based on who completed the sprint fastest or who jumped the longest distance. The IOC considers this objectivity missing in Bodybuilding, as the final decision has to be taken just by judging the physique of the bodybuilders, and the decision here can be a lot subjective, i.e. every single person might have a different opinion regarding whose physique is better. | https://thebridge.in/bodybuilding/why-bodybuilding-not-olympic-sport-21879 |
Where does Pennsylvania rank in parks and wildlife areas? | With 1,924,000 acres of parks and wildlife areas 6.7 percent of the states land area Pennsylvania ranks 19th among the 50 states for land designated for parks and wildlife areas. According to an analysis done for CLIQ, a manufacturer of sturdy, lightweight and highly collapsible camp chairs, the parks and wildlife areas of Pennsylvania add $1.032 in outdoor recreation value per capita each year. The researchers point out that while some of Americas earliest protected parks encompassed iconic destinations like Yellowstone, Yosemite and Niagara Falls, state and federal park lands today are found all over the U.S. and have become even more common in recent decades. In 1959, when Alaska and Hawaii were admitted to the Union, rural parks and wildlife areas totaled around 46 million acres in the U.S. By 2012, that number was more than 253 million acres. One of the reasons that states and the federal government have pursued that strategy is economic impact, especially for rural communities, the researchers noted. Parks attract a lot of visitors, and those visitors need food, lodging, supplies, guides, and other goods and services to support their outdoor ventures, all of which produce economic returns for the areas near a park. The total economic value of outdoor recreation nationwide continues to rise each year, topping $400 billion in 2019 according to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis. More recently, there has been some indication that outdoor recreation has been one of few bright spots in the hard-hit travel and tourism industries in the wake of the pandemic. At the state level, the economic impacts of outdoor recreation are even more apparent. Hawaii and Alaska offer some of the nations most unique natural attractions and have the highest levels of outdoor recreation value added per capita. Other states with high economic output associated with outdoor recreation include: Mountain West states like Wyoming, Montana, and Colorado, which are all home to the Rocky Mountains and many associated parklands; New England states including Vermont and Maine, which host extensive woodlands and the northern Appalachian Mountains; and Florida, which has wildlife-rich wetlands and hundreds of miles of coastline. And even the state with the lowest value added per capita, West Virginia, is soon to see an uptick in outdoor recreation spending, having become home to Americas newest national park. A states economic productivity related to outdoor activity is in part a function of how much land that state devotes to parks and wildlife areas. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Alaska leads the nation in the proportion of lands devoted to parks and wildlife, and many other states known for their natural attractions, like Hawaii and California, are also high on the list. At the lower end are states in the Great Plains and South, which also have extensive rural lands but are more likely to designate those lands for agriculture than for parks and wildlife. To find the states with the most parks and wildlife areas, researchers at CLIQ calculated the proportion of state land designated for parks and wildlife. The research team also calculated the state share of total U.S. parks and wildlife areas and the total outdoor recreation value added per capita. Here are the Pennsylvania stats they uncovered compared to the same categories for the entire U.S. Proportion of state area designated for parks and wildlife: 6.7 percent in Pennsylvania, 11.2 percent nationwide. Total parks and wildlife area: 1,924,000 acres for Pennsylvania, 253,613,000 nationwide. Total outdoor recreation value added per capita: $1,032 for Pennsylvania, $1,401 nationwide. The full report appears on the CLIQ website. For more outdoor coverage, subscribe to Marcus Schnecks free, weekly Outdoor Pennsylvania newsletter right here: Enter email: You also can contact Schneck at [email protected]. | https://www.pennlive.com/life/2021/06/where-does-pennsylvania-rank-in-parks-and-wildlife-areas.html |
Is Fauci a fall guy? | Using his time-tested technique of constructing timelines and comparing the current FOIA release with another key FOIA release, he constructs a thought-provoking theory. As so often in the past, he sees a tacit plot behind the events that capture so much attention. Fauci 6/03/21 on MSNBC (Youtube screengrab) He constructs this sequence of recent events: A once beloved Bill Gates, the primary advocate for COVID vaccines, suddenly became a target by the political left. It was quite a shift. The White House announces their support of investigation into the origin of COVID-19. Media report on State Dept investigators who were handcuffed during their research into the COVID origination. Suddenly discussion of the Lab Leak Theory was permitted by those who control the platforms of speech. Media then report of Anthony Fauci gaining a lucrative book deal. Joe Biden gives a speech in Oklahoma on Tuesday; and immediately thereafter the White House announces no more public appearances for the remainder of the week. The Fauci emails are released under the auspices of a FOIA fulfillment. He asks: Why would the Deep State release these emails, instead of just hiding them? Then, he draws a comparison with another FOIA release, that of FISA application for surveillance of Carter Page, released on July 23, 2018. Requesting the public release of such a top secret document would have been the easiest FOIA request to deny but the DOJ choose to release it. He supplies an explanation for the release: the motive to hide/bury the much larger issue of President Obamas administration using the Intelligence Community to conduct surveillance on their political opponents. (snip) Everyone was excited to read and discuss the content of the FISA application and exhaust thousands of column inches on the discussion as people took sides based on the DOJ/FBI justification for the FISA itself. The Weissmann release had the intended effect people stopped debating whether President Obama was conducting political surveillance on behalf of Hillary Clinton and their political alignment. THAT debate was a much bigger issue that just disappeared with the emergence of the FISA application. Similarly, in the current FOIA releases, Perhaps the bigger story is the creation of the virus; perhaps the bigger story is an intentional release of a manufactured virus; or perhaps the bigger story is the manipulation of the virus -the creation of a fraudulent narrative- to achieve political goals. Against the backdrop of never letting a crisis go to waste, the latter seems much more likely. Those political goals pre-eminently included driving President Trump to defeat in the 2020 election, and he lists the ways in which the virus was manipulated to enable a series of moves that accomplished that goal. Recall that very early on: On February 25, 2020, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, former DOJ Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosensteins sister, who was director of the CDCs National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (link) held a conference call with reporters. Messonniers remarks were rogue and not approved by HHS secretary Alex Azar. Messonniers remarks were made without authorization from anyone in the White House: We are asking the American public to work with us to prepare for the expectation that this could be bad. I understand this whole situation may seem overwhelming and that disruption to everyday life may be severe. But these are things that people need to start thinking about now. (link) The alarming message from Dr. Messonnier was quickly picked up by most major news organizations and pushed into all reporting on the issue. The COVID panic had begun. While the attack weapons were previously being put into position it was Messonniers alarm that triggered the first wave of political confrontation against the Trump administration. The narrative was triggered. The alarms were sounded. The crisis was officially being exploited and COVID was now fully weaponized to eliminate the Presidency of Donald Trump. Having begun the panic narrative, that COVID 19 with a mortality rate under 1% -- was the worst pandemic ever, fanned by the media, the way was cleared for: The stalling of a fantastic economy that was benefiting every American voter. Deployment of mail-in ballots that can be used and manipulated to achieve fraudulent results. Controls over presidential debates to avoid a weak candidate being exposed or confronted. The deployed excuse for a very visible lack of voter enthusiasm for the puppet (Biden). In Sundances view, Fauci is being offered up as a distraction from the larger story that a fairly bad annual flu was weaponized as a means of taking down the re-election of Donald Trump, whose term up until the lockdown was a story of tremendous economic growth and diplomatic triumphs in the Middle East, making his re-election very probable. The expression fall guy is not used by Sundance, but I think it applies, in that the focus on Fauci diverts blame from other parties. I am not 100% convinced hes correct but find the theory worth considering. | https://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2021/06/is_fauci_a_fall_guy.html |
Is Kamala the best feminism can do? | One hundred years after women attained suffrage, the current political female zenith is someone who nervously cackles when she speaks on any topic, and is reticent to visit the very border she is charged with overseeing as a result of Biden's deliberate illegal immigration open arms policy. There were only two criteria for a Democrat vice presidential candidate in 2020: female and a minority. Of all the potential options, Democrats decided on an unpopular failed presidential candidate, whose time as a California attorney general was marked with abject racism against Black men who committed the "heinous" crime of smoking marijuana. No matter she fit the identity politics the left now regards as qualifications for every possible position. Prior to Kamala, the darling of the left was, and in many ways still is, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Her greatest contribution to the political landscape was convincing the Democrat establishment to take seriously a nonsensical, prohibitively expensive "Green New Deal." The fact that the least accomplished member of Congress had that much pull on the left's platform speaks to the party's detachment from actual Americans' priorities. AOC's insistent socialist ideology helped cost Speaker Pelosi a sizable advantage in the congressional races this past election cycle. She is now absent at the same border, where even more migrant children are held now that Biden is in the White House. Joining the likes of AOC are a few other members of the "Squad": Reps. Tlaib (D-Mich.) and Omar (D-Minn.). The former just made ripping headlines by deriding and emphatically calling to defund all police officers. The latter committed immigration fraud to enter the U.S. and made fervent anti-Semitic quips. Both women have been caught palling around with members of terrorist groups: Rashida Tlaib with Hezb'allah affiliates and Ilhan Omar with Muslim Brotherhood representatives. If the entry bar for Democrat leadership is this low, that is a sad state of affairs for a political party that promotes "progressive" ideals. Hillary Clinton was not vastly likeable by the American people. Instead of building a platform for future female leadership in her party after her 2016 presidential loss, Mrs. Clinton spent four years on a whining and blame tour. During the 2020 Democrat primaries, Former rep. Tulsi Gabbard shone bright during the debates, but as a moderate, she was pushed aside by the DNC. The Arizona senior senator, Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), has been in office only since 2019, but she has made major waves by presenting herself as a moderate and thus attracting independents. Sadly, Sen. Sinema is not "woke" enough and not the correct skin color for her now socialist-leaning political party. Republican women lead not with color or creed, but with actual accomplishments: from Ronna McDaniel, who, as head of the RNC, ushered in a win for President Trump in 2016 to Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), who has successfully pivoted from the Republican party of yore to today's mostly Patriot base. Ivanka Trump spearheaded women in the workforce initiatives, lobbied for expanded parental leave, and was heavily involved in investing in underserved female-led small businesses abroad. Lara Trump's campaign trajectory spanned from general assistance in 2016 to campaign communications manager in 2020. Lara is now being mentioned as a potential North Carolina gubernatorial candidate. A daughter of two immigrants from communist countries, Rep. Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), a former N.Y. State Assembly member, handily won her seat against Rep. Max Rose and is now a powerful voice in Congress representing New York interests while pushing back against socialism. A record number of Republican women were elected in the previous election, all thanks to Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.). As one of the youngest members of Congress, Ms. Stefanik not only was an integral part of former President Trump's unconstitutional impeachment trial attempt, but also, through her E-PAC, spearheaded recruiting Republican women to run for congressional seats. Thanks to her powerful efforts, Rep. Stefanik is currently the House GOP Conference chair. The list of impressive Republican female leaders is not complete without mentioning Candace Owens, a former Democrat, who revolutionized the conversation around Black America and the Republican Party. Americans of all colors look at her as an inspiration and with her quick wit and passion; many would welcome her on a future presidential ticket. Democrats may have the numbers a great many more women in their ranks, but only the most extreme are being elevated to the national stage. With all the "progress," an old, cognitively challenged man was deemed more acceptable than any Democrat woman. The Republican Party will produce the first U.S. female president. She will be elected based on merit, and not due to the color of her skin or to fill any other woke-oriented boxes. Laureen Lipsky is the Co-founder & CEO of Taking Back the Narrative, a Zionist education initiative, and is also a Republican strategist. Her political writing has been featured in The Federalist, American Thinker, Israel Hayom, Washington Examiner, and JNS. She recently wrote an exclusive piece, "The semantics of anti-Semitism," for The Center for Security Policy. Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. | https://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2021/06/is_kamala_the_best_feminism_can_do.html |
Which Arsenal star is likely to go the furthest in the Euros? | Arsenal stars to look out for in the Euros Gone are the days when the major tournaments featured several Arsenal stars. In the upcoming Euros 2020, there are only four players who will be representing their respective countries: Bukayo Saka, Bernd Leno, Kieran Tierney and Granit Xhaka. Thus, it will be a straightforward task for the clubs faithful, who will be tracking the progress of their players. Bukayo Sakas England will clash with their age-old rivals Scotland, Czech Republic and Croatia. Although the group has some tricky teams, the Three Lions will be expected to advance as group-winners. While, Bernd Lenos Germany are in the Group of Death group. Die Mannschaft will lock horns with 2018 World Cup winners in France and 2016 European Championship winners in Portugal. Judging by their recent form, Germany would be lucky if they qualify for the knockout stage as group winners. Kieran Tierneys Scotland have already surpassed expectations as the country features in their first major tournament since qualifying for the 1998 World Cup in France. They are in the same group of England and Croatia, who reached the final of the 2018 World Cup. Thus, any other result than elimination in the group stage will be counted as a success for a nation, who has seen so little of any major competition in their recent history. Granit Xhaka might not be an Arsenal player when Switzerland take on Wales on 12th June. The Swiss has been heavily linked with Italian side Roma, whose manager Jose Mourinho is desperate to make the 28-year-old his first signing. Regardless, The Rossocrociati will find it hard in their group stage, as Italy, Turkey and Wales all fight it out for the knockout places. Every Arsenal fan will be banking on Bukayo Sakas England to reach the furthest in the upcoming European Championship. But Granit Xhakas Switzerland and Bernd Lenos Germany can also go on in an adventurous run. Yash Bisht | https://www.justarsenal.com/which-arsenal-star-is-likely-to-go-the-furthest-in-the-euros/283993 |
What changes happen on June 21 as lockdown set to ease in England? | Latest news email updates straight to your inbox Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice The final stage of lockdown is set to fall on June 21 - but there are some doubts. Despite the Government saying there currently isn't anything to show that June 21 will be delayed, there are some worrying signs. But cases are increasing slightly and some scientists have said there are signs that could put the final day of lockdown in jeopardy. It might be a bit confusing but here's everything that we know about the June 21 reopening and the rules that will be relaxed on the day unless the date is pushed back by the Government. According to the Government, all current restrictions should be lifted meaning restrictions on weddings and funerals should be taken away. That means that large outdoor events and nightclubs will be able to go ahead, subject to results that will emerge from the Government's Events Research Programme. This has seen smaller events take place across the country to test the spread of COVID-19 on larger events. "All legal limits" on social contact should be gone which means that there will be no limits on who can gather indoors and outdoors. It is unclear whether or not facemasks will continue to be compulsory but it is believe this will remain in place. | https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/what-changes-happen-june-21-20743758 |
Should I book a summer holiday? | Moving Portugal from green to amber caught many holidaymakers by surprise. Here the PA news agency answers eight key questions on what the announcement means for consumers. You are not required to self-isolate, but need to take one pre-departure test and one post-arrival test. Travellers must quarantine at home for 10 days, take one pre-departure test and two post-arrival tests. It was the only viable major tourist destination on the green list, so tens of thousands of people are either on holiday there or have booked a trip due to depart in the coming weeks. Its removal also casts doubt on the prospects of other countries being added to the green list soon. It is urging people to avoid holidays and other non-essential trips to amber countries. No. It is not illegal to visit an amber country, so many holidaymakers are going against the Governments guidance. There is no law against booking a holiday, and travel firms are desperate for customers. It is worth checking the small print so you know how flexible it is before you make a booking. As long as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is not advising against travelling to the destination, most insurers will provide cover for your trip. Policies are unlikely to cover cancellation due to the pandemic as it is a known risk. Unless your holiday is cancelled, most travel firms will only allow you to change your dates but will not issue a refund. That means many people face the choice of paying more to reschedule, or losing out completely. A handful of firms have been praised for offering additional flexibility, including full refunds. | https://www.newschainonline.com/news/should-i-book-a-summer-holiday-187480 |
What is IEEE 802.3? | 802.3, or IEEE 802.3, is a working group of standard specifications for Ethernet, a method of packet-based physical communication in a local area network maintained by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It defines a physical layer and a data link layer for media access control, or MAC address, for a wired, fast Ethernet network connection. These physical connections are made between nodes or devices such as routers, switches and hubs via copper or fiber cables. In general, IEEE 802.3 standards specify the physical media and the working characteristics of Ethernet. However, there are many variations of this standard used today. | https://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/definition/8023 |
Will the Fed require all 8 million to get re-employed? | Outlook Todays payrolls is clearly the market-mover. Estimates range from 335,000 to 1 million, according to Bloomberg, with the ADP private sector estimate at 978,000 (but ADP lacking credibility after last months epic fail). The consensus remains about 650,000. A good claims number yesterday was priced in, but nevertheless a knee-jerk reaction pushed yields and the dollar up when the number was a bigger than expected surprise. We have to consider whether todays payrolls can deliver a second surprise and thus a second price bump. The probability of a disappointment (under 500,000) is low but not zero. As noted above, we are already getting a flood of explanations about the curious case of the low labor supply when there are 8 million-plus jobs still to be recovered and demand for labor is high. From a technical perspective, the question is whether any of the price moves yesterday constitute a breakout. We are inclined to the view that one days data hardly ever signals a reversal. We want confirmation. Having said that, while we are not getting a taper tantrum in bonds, we are seeing divergence in market vs. Fed expectations for talking about tapering and thus the end-point. See the splendid chart from Gittler at BDSwiss, which captures the issue in one fell swoop. Weirdly, you can have falling inflation expectations and still have rising taper/rate hike expectations as long as the job market is closer to full recovery than we thought only two days ago. That seems silly. Lets assume that 4 million new jobs represent the substantial further progress that the Fed requires. Yes. That would mean tapering to the point of a hike in the Fed funds rate about one year from now. If not sooner. One good thing to come out of this Event in that the market believed the Fed that inflation will be transitory and also that its priority is the jobs market. Its not yet clear that the market has absorbed some of the Feds nuancesthat job growth has to include minorities and be accompanied by decent wages. This time we have Covid-sensitive prices vs. Covid-insensitive from the San Francisco Fed. So far, so good. Then there is the Cleveland Feds trimmed mean CPI, which removes volatile prices to get underlying inflation. The report in the NYT quotes a JP Morgan economist who says we can make it even simpler--just look at rents. The rental component of C.P.I. (as well as the owners equivalent rent category, which measures housing costs for homeowners) is the largest single item in the overall price index, and should be less affected by the pandemic than some other categories. If rents start to rise rapidly beyond a few hot markets, overall inflation could follow. As it happens, we do have rental inflation but only in some hotspots, and its already receding in places like San Francisco. This is an excerpt from The Rockefeller Morning Briefing, which is far larger (about 10 pages). The Briefing has been published every day for over 25 years and represents experienced analysis and insight. The report offers deep background and is not intended to guide FX trading. Rockefeller produces other reports (in spot and futures) for trading purposes. To get a two-week trial of the full reports plus traders advice for only $3.95. Click here! | https://www.fxstreet.com/analysis/will-the-fed-require-all-8-million-to-get-re-employed-202106041237 |
Should women enjoy free travel in public transit? | Within minutes of taking oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu (TN), MK Stalin announced free travel for all women including working professionals and students in state-owned ordinary fare buses, thus fulfilling a poll promise. It is no secret that Indian politics, especially TN politics, employs promises to not only garner mass support but also effect the change a State needs. TNs politics has afforded its people subsidised rice, maternity assistance, gas stoves and washing machines, cycles and laptops to students and cash aid for women family heads, among others. In these instances where political promises come to fruition, we witness a socio-economic turning point. For the free bus service, rolled out on May 8, the State government will pay transport corporations1,200 crore an estimated 40 per cent of their revenue a year. While political pundits wax eloquent on the trade-off between social justice and economic growth, for TNs women and the State overall, this scheme is a welcome move. TN has 5,600 intra-city ordinary fare buses affordable and halting at all stops along their designated routes. Additionally, there are express, deluxe, and air-conditioned buses taking the tally up to 9,000. These serve TNs 7.2 crore population, of which women constitute almost 50 per cent. Though public transits reliability needs to be improved by a) making it demand-responsive, b) increasing the number of buses and routes, and c) enhancing first- and last-mile connectivity, free bus travel is a giant leap forward to achieve gender parity. Womens constraints Womens participation in paid activities is constrained by socio-economic and cultural issues as well as asymmetries in labour market opportunity structure. A critical factor is mobility, i.e. access to affordable, reliable and safe transport modes to places of education and work. For girls studying and women working across TN as municipality employees, domestic help, foundry workers, flower vendors, healthcare professionals, platform workers, teachers or cops, the bus is their lifeline. A gender-disaggregated analysis of Census 2011 data is significant. Among those who travel to work, more women rely on public transit than men. While mens top four modes of commute include bus (29 per cent), moped/scooter (26 per cent), bicycle (18 per cent), and walking (18 per cent), womens top modes include walking (45 per cent), bus (35 per cent), moped/ scooter (8 per cent), and bicycle (4 per cent). Given that four out of five women across rural and urban TN walk or use the public transit to work, the policy measure to make bus travel free for them is a game-changer. In a month constituting 25 working days and at a maximum bus fare of 23 per ride (as set by the state in 2018), the policy of free bus travel helps women save up to 1,150 per month. At an average monthly wage of 4,000-11,000 derived from ILOs India Wage Report and data from the National Sample Survey Office TNs new policy will yield 10-30 per cent savings for women. With both wages and livelihoods severely affected due to the ongoing pandemic more so for women than men, and notwithstanding the gender wage gap across industries, free travel in public transit is the much-needed impetus to womens socio-economic mobility. Global experience Research from around the world has well-established the positive effect of access to mobility paved roads and public transit, for instance on female labour force participation (FLFP). Thanks to decades of affirmative action from labour welfare policies to handouts such as household appliances that ease the burden of domestic responsibilities on women, TN boasts of an FLFP rate of 30 per cent, nearly 10 percentage points higher than the national average, as per the Periodic Labour Force Surveys. To increase the FLFP rate to at least 50 per cent a figure last seen in the 1980s TN must continue easing womens access to mobility. Not just TN. States like Delhi and Punjab too have operationalised fare-free public transit (FFPT) for women. While the impact of these schemes launched in 2019-20 is yet to be studied, FFPT has found over 100 instances of application globally. From the subsidy-conscious Australia of the 1980s and the Netherlands in the 1990s to private-vehicle-heavy markets like the US in the 2000s, or China, the UK, Belgium, Estonia, New Zealand and Nigeria, among others implementing FFPT the last few years, free travel for the elderly, women, students or marginalised communities has been beneficial with public transit ridership increasing and the marginalised finding affordable means to participate in the economy. Enhancing safety Indeed, free travel incentivises more women to use public transit, increasing their presence in public spaces. This in turn enhances safety and brings more women outside their homes. All of India, ergo, must urgently introduce concessionary travel for students, women, transgenders, persons with disabilities and the elderly. The policy of free travel has spillover effects on the economy and is an inflection point in Indias post-Covid recovery, resilience and growth. The writer is Head of Research at Ola Mobility Institute | https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/should-women-enjoy-free-travel-in-public-transit/article34729088.ece |
Do Prefixes 729 And 871 On Barcodes Show A Product Is Made In Israel? | A claim that barcodes with prefixes 729 and 871 mean that a product is made in Israel has been shared in multiple posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. The claim is misleading. While the barcode with the prefix 729 does refer to Israel, it does not denote where products are manufactured or made. The claim was published on May 17, 2021, on Facebook here, where it has been shared more than 34,000 times. Also Read: Quote Criticising Israel Falsely Attributed To Sir David Attenborough The claim is accompanied by a manipulated picture of Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with an an overlaid text in red stating "product BOYCOTT mandatory" and two separate barcodes with the first three numbers circled, namely 729 and 871. Underneath the barcodes, text on the image says: "729 = MADE IN ISRAEL" and "821 = MADE IN ISRAEL". The post's Malaysian-language caption states: "BOYCOTT DON'T BE SEASONAL!!! #TearIsrael" Screenshot of the misleading Facebook post taken on May 21, 2021 The claim has also been shared on Facebook here, here and here; Instagram here; Twitter here; and TikTok here. The claim has also circulated in other languages, such as English, French, Swedish and Arabic. The claim and the call to boycott Israel was posted as the Israeli-Hamas conflict escalated in May 2021, AFP reported here. The claim is misleading. Also Read: US Relief Funds For Palestinians Were Not Used By Hamas To Buy WMD A Google keyword search found this link from GS1, a non-profit organization that issues company prefixes for barcodes. According to the page, the prefix GSI number for Israeli companies is 729. However, the same page also states that "company prefixes are based on the GS1 prefixes below. Note that since GS1 member companies can manufacture products anywhere in the world, GS1 prefixes do not identify the country of origin for a given product." The query was also addressed in the website's FAQ section: "The GS1 Prefix does not indicate that the product was manufactured in a specific country or by a specific manufacturer; it may have been produced anywhere in the world." Below is a screenshot of the GS1 website: Screenshot of the GS1 website AFP received confirmation through an email on May 20, 2021, from the GS1 customer service department, which says: "It is confirmed all GS1 barcodes with 729 as the company prefix are issued by GS1 Israel." According to the GS1 list, 821 is one of the prefixes issued by GS1 Italy. Also Read: No, BBC Did Not Remove Reporter Jeremy Bowen Due To Israeli Pressure The origins of products -- from companies that are members of GS1 -- can be checked through a database called Global Electronic Party Information Registry (GEPIR). AFP has published this report debunking a similar misleading claim that certain barcode prefixes can tell customers that a product is made in China. Photo of Netanyahu The photo of Netanyahu used in the misleading post was edited from this picture of Netanyahu meeting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Tel Aviv in 2018, published in the Flickr account of the US Department of State. Below is a screenshot of the genuine photo on the US Department of State's Flickr account: | https://www.boomlive.in/world/fake-news-barcode-prefix-729-871-products-made-in-israel-benjamin-netanyahu-13410 |
How to make the best use of DJ Alok's abilities in Free Fire's Clash Squad mode? | DJ Alok is one of the most popular Free Fire characters, owing to his exceptional skill, Drop the Beat. Characters in Free Fire have unique powers, but DJ Alok's skill is way better than others'. His healing ability continually improves HP while fighting and also increases teammates' movement speed, providing them an advantage on the ground. Clash Squad mode is one of the most widely played arcade modes in Free Fire. If players know how to utilize Alok's skill in this mode, they can get maximum results. Therefore, this article will share some major tips on how players can make the best use of DJ Alok in Free Fire's Clash Squad mode. Tips to make the best use of DJ Alok in Free Fire's Clash Squad mode 1) Maximize DJ Alok's skill level DJ Alok is the most powerful character in Free Fire DJ Alok has a pretty versatile skill. When the skill is upgraded, players can use Alok to his full potential. Drop the Beat is the active ability of DJ Alok. This skill emits a five-meter aura that increases the movement speed of teammates by 10% and regenerates 5 HP/s for five seconds at Level 1. When Alok's ability is maximized to level 6, it boosts the teammate's movement speed by 15% and heals 5 HP/s for 10 seconds. Thus, after upgrading the skill level, Alok will receive a major boost in his skills and hence, will perform even better. 2) Use with skill combos DJ Alok can be combined with any character skills (Image via PriGaming/ YouTube) When used with proper skill combos, Alok's ability can greatly impact the gameplay in Clash Squad mode. For example, when paired with Moco, Hayato and Jai, Alok can increase the HP of the player while rushing. Jai will increase the reloading speed of the weapons. Hayato will increase armor penetration and Moco will locate enemy positions. Players can try out several other combos with DJ Alok to get the most powerful skills for the Clash Squad mode. 3) Stick with teammates DJ Alok's skill can be fully utilized with allies (Image via JoeGaming/ YouTube) Alok's ability also lets enhance teammates' movement speed. Hence, if players stick with their allies, Alok's full potential can be utilized as allies get to benefit too. Apart from using Alok's skills, sticking with teammates is a beneficial tactic for Clash Squad mode, as players can back each other up amidst intense battles. Note: This article solely reflects the author's individual opinion. The opinions of the reader may vary. Edited by Gautham Balaji | https://www.sportskeeda.com/esports/how-make-best-use-dj-alok-s-abilities-free-fire-s-clash-squad-mode |
Could NBC Buy WWE? | There has been growing speculation over the last few months that Vince McMahon might be preparing to sell the company that his father launched decades ago, WWE. This speculation has gathered some steam recently because of a number of talent releases, both onscreen and backstage. Whilst it's certainly not unusual for WWE to release employees, given they've made similar releases almost annually in the past, the latest batch of cuts has got people talking. Many are citing the trimming of employees as a possible sign that WWE is preparing to sell, alongside recent business dealings like WWE Network becoming exclusive to NBC's Peacock, a series of WWE documentaries on A&E, as well as Vince McMahon's age, as evidence for this. Peacock, the new home of the WWE Network, is run by Comcast-owned NBCUniversal. Additionally, the USA Network (also owned by NBCUniversal) is where Monday Night RAW is currently broadcasting. As a result, there's a logic to support the idea that NBC would want to purchase the entire company. There's even a report suggesting as such from Slice Wrestling, which implies the following: "NBC is looking into buying World Wrestling Entertainment and some movement has already been made in that direction." They went on to add: "Sources say NBC is waiting patiently to offer big money to buy WWE as a whole and feature RAW, SmacKDown, NXT and all pay-per-views and WWE Network programming exclusively on PEACOCK." "No figures have officially been brought up but WWE sources say the deal if NBC were to buy WWE would be in the range of $2 Billion to $4 Billion range. Vince McMahon who will turn 76 this August,24th is said to be looking at Nick Khan to set up WWE to be sold in the coming years and moves are already being put in place for a smooth sale." "WWE is clearing house and streamlining their roster of superstars and office staff with releases and layoffs to cut back on payroll spending and increase the profit margin to make WWE look attractive as possible to NBC when the time comes to sale. Many superstars who WWE wouldve never released are now being let go in a effort to cut back on spending and big contracts. More releases are in the works." It's worth noting that NBC Universal is worth an estimated $35 billion, and as of 2020, the net worth of WWE is believed to be around $5.71 billion. So NBCUniversal could feasibly purchase WWE. However, Slice Wrestling is not considered to be a legitimate source for wrestling news and so anything they've reported should be treated with a grain of salt, especially as there's no evidence to support the claim. Speculation against a potential WWE sale Some don't believe there's any truth to the rumors that WWE is preparing to sell to anyone, let alone specifically NBCUniversal. Brandon Thurston, a wrestling business journalist, has done his own research and has been unable to find any evidence to support the suggestion WWE is selling. I talked with 5 people in the WWE investor community in the last 24 hours about the notion that the company's recent actions indicate they're preparing for a sale. Not one of them thought so. Even the stock price is no-selling wrestling Twitter. pic.twitter.com/xSXOLdn8r1 Brandon Thurston (@BrandonThurston) June 3, 2021 He had previously thrown in his two cents, suggesting President and Chief Revenue Officer Nick Khan told Colin Cowherd that Vince McMahon had no intention of selling. Foreboding that WWE is preparing to sell is the stuff of cynical wrestling fan fatalism. New leadership came on in August and is still in Year 1. I would be shocked if WWE sells in Vince's lifetime. 1) Nick Khan indicated to Cowherd that Vince has no intention to sell. Brandon Thurston (@BrandonThurston) June 2, 2021 To conclude, there's no real evidence other than online speculation and a report from a less-than-reputable source that WWE is preparing to sell, and the money trail certainly doesn't seem to suggest as much. However, there's usually never smoke without fire, and Vince McMahon did start a fire a while ago when he reportedly said that WWE was open for business. McMahon selling WWE would be huge news, and arguably one of the biggest events in professional wrestling history. So a potential WWE sale is definitely worth keeping an eye on, even if there's the smallest chance it might happen. Here's the link for it. Edited by Kartik Arry | https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/could-nbc-buy-wwe |
Did Grace Muriel House care home need to close? | Grace Muriel House in Tavistock Avenue, which provides both long stay and respite care, is set to permanently close from the end of June. The Abbeyfield St Albans Society, which runs the CQC Outstanding care home, announced in March that it would have to shut due to dwindling funds following vacancies brought about by the pandemic. The news left the 22 vulnerable residents, their families and 48 staff reeling as there had been no previous warning of any financial difficulties, and they had just a few weeks to find suitable alternative accommodation. Gillian La Haye's father George Andrews was involved in setting up the society in 1960. Her sister Evelyn Andrews was the first manager of Grace Muriel House, and her mother was nursed there until her death in 2007. You may also want to watch: She believes more could have been done to avoid closure: "I am greatly saddened by the closing of Grace Muriel House. It has always been a very happy place, a true hearth and home to the residents, where the care of the frail elderly was second to none. "I am far from alone in my shock, and indeed anger, that the St Albans community has lost a wonderful asset without any prior warning whatsoever, and with no reference to those people who would have stepped forward as they always have in the past, to fund the Abbeyfield St Albans Society again, following the ravages of the pandemic. "Not even the wonderful staff at the home, who have now all lost their jobs for them it was truly a vocation rather than a job had any idea there was any impending trouble. "Had the trustees informed the current residents and their families, families of past residents who have always been so supportive over the years, the wider local community, present and past members of the Abbeyfield St Albans Society, past friends of Grace Muriel House, that funds were needed, I have absolutely no doubt that support would have been forthcoming and this disastrous closure and disruption to the lives of these frail and disabled people could have been prevented. "But no-one was informed before the final decision to close had been made. "I am very concerned about the future of the Abbeyfield St Albans Society, which has unused assets in the town designed to shore things up should the worst happen. An empty building. And what of the future of the Society and this now historic facility for the elderly and vulnerable of the community?" Society chairman George Ashworth responded to her concerns, explaining that the trustees wanted to avoid a "hard stop" to the business, and use their financial resources to ensure an orderly transition. "In September 2020, having suffered significantly following the deaths of seven residents and one trustee, as well as having a significant proportion of the staff impacted directly by Covid, we believed that we had overcome the worst of the pandemic and would be able to move forward. "However ongoing positive Covid test results meant we were unable to bring new residents into Grace Muriel House and every time a positive result appeared the business was thrown back into a 28-day lockdown. "This continued into spring and the financial impact has been devastating. We have therefore waited 15 months and we have witnessed the business deteriorate month after month for the reasons given above. The timing of our decision was driven by the level of cash that we had. The timing was so that the Society would be able to fulfil all legal and moral obligations to staff and other stakeholders." He said that the trustees reached out to 39 care establishments within the St Albans area to source vacancies for staff and residents, with new homes found for all residents and the majority of staff. He added that the pandemic had exposed the home as no longer fit for residential care purposes in a post-Covid world due to the fact that 15 out of 36 bedrooms did not have en suite bathrooms. Finally, George confirmed that the society's life as a charitable organisation was not coming to an end, with trustees exploring potential future options. | https://www.hertsad.co.uk/news/family-of-resident-upset-after-care-closure-procedures-7997326 |
Do the Bucs have the best WR duo in the NFL? | Ranking the top 5 receiver duos in the NFL pic.twitter.com/pJKui9Vak0 B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) May 31, 2021 There are plenty of players on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers current roster who waited quite a while to get their due after playing on losing teams for years. Now that theyve won the Super Bowl, many of them are finally getting the credit theyve long deserved. Among them is the dynamic pass-catching tandem of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, a duo recently ranked by Bleacher Report as the best wide receiver duo in the entire league. Evans and Godwin took the top spot over pairs like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett of the Seattle Seahawks, and Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley of the division-rival Atlanta Falcons. Its hard to argue with the choice, either. Evans has been one of the NFLs most dominant and consistent receivers since he entered the league as a top-10 pick in 2014, and Godwin has quickly developed into arguably the most complete player in the league at the position. | https://bucswire.usatoday.com/2021/06/04/nfl-tampa-bay-buccaneers-mike-evans-chris-godwin-best-wide-receiver-duo/ |
Were the Wars Wise? Were They Worth It? | Through the long Memorial Day weekend, anyone who read the newspapers or watched television could not miss or be unmoved by it: Story after story after story of the fallen, of those who had given the last full measure of devotion to their country. Heart-rending is an apt description of those stories; and searing are the videos of those who survived and returned home without arms or legs. But the stories could not help but bring questions to mind. The longest war of this new century, the longest in our history, the defining endless war or forever war was Afghanistan. In 2001, we sent an army halfway around the world to exact retribution on al-Qaida for 9/11, an attack that rivaled Pearl Harbor in the numbers of dead and wounded Americans. Because al-Qaida and Osama bin Laden had been given sanctuary by the Taliban in Kabul, who refused to give him up, we invaded, overthrew that Islamist regime and cleansed Tora Bora of al-Qaida. Mission accomplished. But then the mission changed. In control of a land that had seen off British and Soviet imperialists, we hubristically set about establishing a democracy and sent hundreds of thousands of Americans to hold off the rebel resistance for two decades while we went about nation-building. We did not succeed. All U.S. troops are to be gone by the 20th anniversary of 9/11. And the Taliban we ousted has never been closer to recapturing power in Kabul. Todays issue: How do we save the Afghans who allied with us in this war, so that they do not face the terrible vengeance of a victorious Taliban. The second American war of this century was the invasion and occupation of Iraq, to strip its dictator, Saddam Hussein, of weapons of mass destruction with which he intended to attack the United States. Begun in 2003, the war has lasted 18 years. No WMD were ever found. Most U.S. troops have come and gone. And today, the Baghdad regime rules at the sufferance of Shiite militia who look to Tehran for guidance and support. Afghanistan and Iraq cost us 7,000 dead and 40,000 wounded. In the second decade of this century, we intervened in Syria to back the good rebels seeking to overthrow Bashar Assad and became the indispensable ally in Saudi Arabias murderous air war to stop the Houthi rebels from consolidating power in Yemen. In both Syria and Yemen, hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians have been wounded, killed, uprooted or driven into exile. Both countries are listed among the humanitarian catastrophes of the 21st century. Today, after six years of fighting, the Houthi still control the Yemeni capital of Sanaa, and Assad just won a fourth term as president with 95% of the vote. In 2011, President Barack Obama ordered U.S. air attacks on Col. Moammar Gadhafis forces in Libya, beginning a NATO intervention that would lead to his overthrow and lynching. In 2020, however, the future of Libya was not being decided by the European Union or U.S. but fought over by proxy forces supported and supplied by Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Russia. And Barack Obama had conceded that the worst mistake of his presidency was not to plan for the aftermath of his 2011 decision to topple the Libyan dictator. Again, the men and women sent to the Middle East to fight these wars did their duty and deserve the gratitude of their countrymen that they received this Memorial Day weekend. What makes these questions of importance, and not only to historians, is that the cry of the hawk may be heard again in the land. We hear calls to confront Iran before the mullahs build an atom bomb, and to challenge Putin and arm Ukraine to retake Crimea and push Russia out of the Donbass. We hear talk of the American Navy contesting Beijings claims in the East and South China Seas, including to Taiwan. The stories of Memorial Day should make us think long and hard before we launch any more unnecessary, unwise, or unwinnable wars. Patrick J. Buchanan is the author of Nixons White House Wars: The Battles That Made and Broke a President and Divided America Forever. To find out more about Patrick Buchanan and read features by other Creators writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators website at www.creators.com. | https://www.gopusa.com/were-the-wars-wise-were-they-worth-it/ |
Whos Who in Gakharias New Old Team? | Former Georgian Dream Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia, who shook up Georgian politics with his not-so-unexpected resignation in February, inaugurated a new For Georgia political party. We are uniting for Georgia but against no one, said Gakharia on May 29, at the inaugural party congress. Civil.ge had a closer look into the records of members of For Georgias Political Council, largely composed of former technocrats and newcomers to Georgian politics. Giorgi Gakharia, 46 Moscows Lomonosov University graduate, Gakharia has years-long international experience in the private sector, having served as a Business Development Director for Eastern Europe/Russia/CIS in Lufthansa Service Holding before joining the Georgian Dream Government as a Business Ombudsman in 2013. Despite pushing some rights reforms during his tenure as Interior Minister in 2017-19, Gakharia became a highly polarizing figure in Georgian politics following a violent dispersal of 20 June, 2019 anti-occupation protests, which injured hundreds. Following week-long protests demanding his resignation, Gakharia was controversially elevated as Prime Minister in September 2019, where he was partially able to improve his public favorability after widely-perceived successful handling of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic under his leadership. He resigned on February 18, 2021, citing disagreement with his GD party colleagues over the detention of the opposition leader Nika Melia. Natia Mezvrishvili, 35 Probably one of the better-known faces in Gakharias party, a lawyer by training Mezvrishvili has a rich experience in public office, having served at different positions in the state agencies for more than 13 years. Mezvrishvili was appointed as the Government Administration Head in October 2019, soon after becoming PM Gakharias Chief of Staff. She also served from 2017 as the Deputy Interior Minister, during Giorgi Gakharias tenure at the Ministry. Mezvrishvili announced her decision to leave the Government Administration Head post several months before Gakharias resignation, particularly thanking him for the faith and the given possibility. The rumors had it that her resignation owed to the Georgian Dream leadership blocking her Justice Ministerial bid after the troubled October elections. Konstantine Ananiashvili, 40 A lawyer by training, Ananiashvili has vast experience of working in the Interior Ministry, where he held various high-ranking positions from 2005 to 2021, including the police chief of south-western Adjara and east-central Shida Kartli regions. Almost exclusively Interior Ministrys cadre throughout his career, Ananiashvili was named as Head of the Regional Liaison Department of the Government Administration in February, only to witness his boss Giorgi Gakharia resign in some two weeks after the appointment. Ananiashvili left the post soon afterward and joined Gakharias new political party. Ana Buchukuri, 30 Yet another lawyer in Gakharias team, incumbent MP Buchukuri commenced her career in Public Defenders Office. At different times, she served at the Ministries of Justice and Economy, while subsequently moving to the Interior Ministry under Gakharias tenure as Minister. Buchukuri followed Gakharia when he ascended to the premiership, serving at different positions in the Government Administration. Buchukuri made the ruling Georgian Dreams proportional-party list for the October Elections as number 56. She was one of the six GD MPs who quit the party after Gakharias resignation. Kakhaber Kemoklidze, 36 Master of European Studies from the University of Leiden and security guru in the new team. Kemoklidze was the shortest-serving Head of Government Administration who resigned in the footsteps of former PM Gakharia approximately a month after his appointment. Kemoklidze is a close associate of the former PM, having worked with him as the Chief of Staff of Georgias National Security Council (NSC) and as the Director of Information-Analytical Department of the Interior Ministry, during Gakharias tenure as Minister. Earlier, he held various high-ranking posts in the Ministry of Interior and State Security Service of Georgia (SSG), also being Interior Ministrys special representative at the Geneva International Discussions (GID) the multilateral forum to address security and humanitarian consequences of the Russo-Georgian War of August 2008. Last but not least, Mr. Kemoklidze and his useless lecture of 2017 apparently served as an inspiration for ex-Reconciliation Minister Paata Zakareishvili, tasked with overseeing occupied regions, to write his latest book about his vision on conflicts and ministerial tenure. Giorgi Goguadze, 28 The youngest member of For Georgias political council, Goguadze is the latest in Georgias CSO-leader-turned-politician list. Tbilisi State Universitys International Relations bachelor, Goguadze kicked off his career at Georgias Reforms Associates (GRASS), a multi-profile think tank co-founded by former MPs Sergi Kapanadze and Elene Khoshtaria, among others, in October 2012, after the Georgian Dream replaced UNM administration. Goguadze, who specializes in IR, security, and terrorism studies, gives lectures at Tbilisi State University. He was the Director of the Tbilisi-based Georgian Center for Strategy and Development (GCSD) from 2019 to 2021 and founded the Terrorism Research Center (TRC) in 2017. Rumor has it that Kemoklidze helped to attract him to the new team. Mikheil Daushvili, 30 Master of Business Law, MP Mikheil Daushvili is yet another technocrat in Gakharias team who began his public service career in the Ministry of Economy. From 2017 to 2019, Daushvili served at different positions in the Interior Ministry, including during Gakharias tenure as Minister. In November 2019, PM Gakharia appointed him as Business Ombudsman, where he served for slightly less than a year. Daushvili was among the six MPs to quit GD to join Gakharias forthcoming party. Rusudan Tevzadze, 47 Environment and social security expert Rusudan Tevzadze is another new face in Georgian politics introduced by Gakharias For Georgia. Tevzadze has rich experience in the academic sphere, gives lectures at Tbilisi State University, and serves as consulting specialist at different institutions. She is also the Chancellor of the Shota Rustaveli Theater and Film State University. Tevzadze was an outspoken supporter of the Georgian Dream before joining Gakharias party, even stating several months before Gakharias resignation that since 2012, we have a practically flawless, humane government. Shalva Kereselidze, 46 A member of Gakharias economic team, incumbent MP Shalva Kereselidzes career almost exclusively revolved around the public sector, from Presidents Administration to the Ministry of Agriculture. In 2018-2020, Kereselidze served as governor of Mtskheta-Mtianeti, while being chosen as a Georgian Dream majoritarian candidate for Mtskheta, Dusheti, Tianeti, and Kazbegi for 2020 Parliamentary Elections. Kereselidze was one of the six GD MPs who quit the ruling party after Gakharias resignation. Beka Liluashvili, 29 One more economist in Gakharias team, incumbent MP Beka Liluashvili is a newbie in Georgian politics. Master of Finances at International Black Sea University, Glen-affiliated private institution, Liluashvili moved from the private to the public service in 2014. From 2014 to 2020, he worked at different positions in the Ministries of Economy and Interior Affairs. Gakharia appointed Liluashvili as an aide in economy in 2020. Liluashvili was part of the Georgian Dreams proportional list for 2020 Parliamentary Elections but left the party after Gakharias resignation to join the former PMs new party. Aleksandre Motserelia, 48 A physicist by training, incumbent MP Motserelia seems to have never worked with his profession. Migrating between private and public sectors, Motserelia started working as Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti governor in 2018 under Mamuka Bakhtadzes premiership and occupied the post until August 2020. He was elected as Georgian Dream majoritarian for Tsalenjikha, Chkhorotsku, Martvili, and Abasha constituency in October 2020 parliamentary elections. Motserelia was one of the six GD MPs who quit the ruling party after Gakharias resignation. Berdia Sichinava, 31 he served as Deputy Chief of the Government Administration from 2019 to 2021, before submitting the resignation in the footsteps of Gakharias departure. Sichinava previously worked in the Interior Ministry as Head of the Main Division of the General Inspection and as a prosecutor in Kvemo Kartli District Prosecutors Office. Giga Parulava, 32 Master of Law, Parulava spent his entire career at Zugdidi Municipality, where he worked at different positions from 2014 to 2021. In 2019, he was appointed as the First Deputy of Zugdidi Mayor. Parulava left the post soon after Gakharias resignation from the Premier Ministers post and joined his new party. Giorgi Sharashidze, 44 Mba of the University of Manchester, Giorgi Sharashidze is another newcomer in politics. A well-known figure in Georgian journalism, Sharashidze is a founder and editor-in-chief of several periodical magazines, including Georgia Today and Entrepreneur. Besides, Sharashidze gives lectures and runs online courses in strategic management and entrepreneurship. Giorgi Khojevanishvili, 36 Doctor of Social Science, MP Giorgi Khojevanishvili made first steps in public service in the Ministry of Corrections where he ultimately served as the Head of International Relations Department. From 2013, Khojevanishvili moved to the private sector, serving five years as a lawyer at one of the largest telecommunications companies in Georgia Magticom. Khojevanishvili made comeback to public office as a Governor of Shida Kartli in 2018. Elected as Georgian Dream Majoritarian of Gori and Kaspi municipalities in October 2020, Khojevanishvili was one of the six GD MPs who quit the party after Gakharias resignation. He is a brother of Aleksandre Khojevanishvili, the former Deputy Security Service Head, who also resigned from his post several weeks after Gakharias departure. Besides the party members introduced by Gakharia, elected chairperson of the party, the inaugural congress was also attended by Kakhaber Sabanadze, former Deputy Interior Minister and Aleksandre Khojevanishvili, former Deputy Head of the State Security Service (SSG), both of them resigned from their posts after Gakharias departure as a Prime Minister. Some well-known public faces could also be detected at the congress, including former Georgian national team football players, brothers Archil and Revaz Arveladze. | https://civil.ge/archives/425032 |
What can the hospitality industry learn from Fawlty Towers? | Basil Fawltys catastrophic hotel can provide the struggling tourism industry with lessons in flexibility, veganism and international cooperation Fawlty Towers did not last very long 12 episodes to be precise (now theres a golden nugget of information, to take forth to your next pub quiz). Its guests, bar a few senile regulars, were consistently dissatisfied. This was largely due to the hotels tyrannical owner, Basil Fawlty who was once described by his wife as a big, bad tempered tomato. The exhausting series of disasters that took place every episode, will resonate with the current UK hospitality industry which lost approximately 200m every day during 2020, according to research commissioned by trade body Hospitality UK, and is currently facing immense uncertainty from the governments list of safe international holiday destinations. To bounce back the industry can perhaps take some tips from Fawltys abominable example. | https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk/education/2021/06/04/what-can-the-hospitality-industry-learn-from-fawlty-towers/ |
How are out-of-province residents entering Nova Scotia without approval? | While police and provincial officials maintain they do not know how, there are residents from outside Nova Scotia coming into this province without permission. In the past couple of weeks, there were two cases where New Brunswick residents were caught on Highway 104 near River Bourgeois. On May 15 at around 6 p.m. Richmond County RCMP stopped a vehicle for speeding, then officers discovered that the 41-year-old female driver was from New Brunswick, and during her vacation, was travelling to visit family in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. Noting that it is very difficult to enter the province at its borders under false pretenses since there is an online application process, Nova Scotia RCMP Cpl. Chris Marshall said they determined the woman did not apply to enter Nova Scotia and was in the province without authorization. He told The Reporter that she must have entered the province at an unmanned border crossing or some other way that didnt involve a checkpoint. As a result, the woman was fined $2,422 under the Health Protection Act and was told to immediately return to New Brunswick, Marshall noted. The RCMP notified the province after this incident, and it is now up to provincial officials to investigate how the woman was able to enter, Marshall stated. To enter Nova Scotia under current public health restrictions, applicants have to register online with Safe Travel Nova Scotia, the RCMP said. Tracy Barron, spokesperson for the Department of Environment and Climate Change, said those who meet the criteria for essential travel need to get approval via the Nova Scotia Safe Check-in form before crossing the border. Barron said permanent Nova Scotia residents will receive conditional approval but must still show proof of permanent residency at the border. She said the province has increased its presence at the border, and with a presence in Tidnish, as well as the closure of the Mount Whatley Road, it is getting more difficult for people to evade border liaison officials. Not long after the province made this declaration, a Moncton man was arrested in Richmond County on May 22 for dangerous driving and flight from police, as well as a motor vehicle theft in New Brunswick. At 7:51 p.m., a member of Cape Breton RCMP Traffic Services noticed a vehicle travelling at a high speed in the Grand Lake Road area of Sydney. According to a press release issued by the RCMP, the police officer attempted to stop the vehicle, a New Brunswick plated blue Mazda CX5 reported stolen from the Moncton area on May 17, but the suspect sped away without police in a position to safely follow. After this incident, the RCMP said numerous reports were made of this vehicle driving dangerously, and police again encountered the vehicle on Kings Road in the Portage area, and the vehicle sped away again. Sgt. Andrew Joyce said they were able to figure out where the suspect was traveling based on reports to police from the public and officer observations. As a result, Richmond County District RCMP successfully deployed a tire deflation device as the suspect was travelling along Highway 104. At 9:06 p.m., the RCMP said they arrested the driver and lone occupant without incident, and located a hatchet between the driver and passenger seats. Jordan Maxime Arsenault, 28, is facing: two counts of flight from police; two counts of dangerous driving; two counts of failure to comply with undertaking condition; two counts of failure to comply with probation order; possession of property obtained by crime; and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. Arsenault is also facing provincial charges under the Motor Vehicle Act, the Health Protection Act and the Emergency Measures Act, the RCMP said, noting that he is currently in custody. Joyce told The Reporter that Arsenaults entry into Nova Scotian will be an avenue of consideration for their investigation. When asked about this, Barron said the suspects ability to evade law enforcement at the border is part of the police investigation. This is largely a police investigation but the province does have a role to play in finding answers to the security lapses at the New Brunswick border since the Department of Environment and Climate Change is in charge of the border crossings. Its bad enough that people think they can visit relatives, but in the case of Arsenault, he crossed the border with a stolen car and despite the fact he was wanted in New Brunswick. Surely this exposes glaring holes at the border, and begs the question of how many others crossed or entered Nova Scotia without permission since public health measures were enacted. Its hard to get answers to these important questions. When contacted to provide an explanation, the RCMP points to the province, and when the province is contacted, they point to the RCMP. And while a small group apparently sneaks into this province, many others who work or live outside Nova Scotia are following the public health protocols, applying online, then waiting their turn to enter the province. For the system to work, stricter penalties are not going to be enough of a deterrent, this is a time when enforcement has to improve by ensuring all points of entry into the province are more closely and consistently monitored. This is not a long-term situation, but until COVID-19 numbers go down to a level that allow restrictions to be lifted, this is the best option that is in the best interests of public health and safety. | https://porthawkesburyreporter.com/how-are-out-of-province-residents-entering-nova-scotia-without-approval/ |
Is there going to be a Beta Release? | With every passing day, were coming one step nearer to the official launch of PUBG Cell Battlegrounds Cell India. However followers of the sport cant get sufficient of the hype surrounding it. Within the dwell chat part, streamers are repeatedly getting requested concerning the official launch date, and theyre dealing with it fairly well. There have been a number of claims that the content material creators of Battlegrounds Cell India already have their arms on the beta model of the sport. However in accordance to Dynamo, to his information, no such model exists. Dynamo about PUBG Cell Battlegrounds Cell India Beta: In a latest dwell stream, Dynamo was requested about his expertise of the beta model of Battlegrounds Cell India. To which his teammate replied that there has been a rumor going round that distinguished content material creators across the nation had entry to the beta model of the sport. Following this remark, Dynamo himself confirmed that he hasnt performed any beta model of the sport. He additional added that Battlegrounds Cell India could have a direct launch as a substitute of getting a beta-testing interval. Upon the official launch of the sport, everybody will be ready to obtain and entry the sport. He additionally prompt to be affected person & wait a little bit longer as the sport is simply a few days away from an official launch. Take a look at what Dynamo mentioned within the video beneath. Beta model falls underneath the testing interval of the sport, the place the sport is launched forward of its official launch with restricted entry. Throughout this era, builders monitor how the sport is performing and look out for errors and imbalances that want to be fastened. Gamers who part-take in an open-beta, present suggestions to the builders about their expertise of the sport in order that the builders might additional enhance the ultimate product earlier than its launched formally. Distinguished content material creators like Ghatak have confirmed that the sport is releasing within the third week of June. Mortal has additionally teased one thing comparable. Nonetheless, we are able to solely be positive as soon as Krafton, the mother or father firm of PUBG Cell, drops an official launch date. Till then, keep tuned. | https://www.gadgetclock.com/is-there-going-to-be-a-beta-release/ |
Will Puerto Rico soon become the 51st US state? | Pedro Pierluisi, who has been governor of Puerto Rico since January 2021, is pushing for the Caribbean archipelago to become the 51st US state. This would put an end to its current status of unincorporated territory and give more rights to its inhabitants. But while the election of Joe Biden seems to give hope to those who want US statehood, others would prefer Puerto Rico to become completely independent. Our regional correspondents Laurence Cuvillier and Matthieu Comin report. Advertising Currently, Puerto Ricans have US nationality but cannot elect the US president. They also have no representatives or senators on Capitol Hill. And the archipelago of 3.3 million people is not allowed to have trade relations with any country other than the United States. For many inhabitants, Joe Biden's arrival at the White House is a sign of hope. A parliamentary delegation has just been elected to plead the case for US statehood on Capitol Hill in the coming weeks. Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning Subscribe | https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/reporters/20210604-will-puerto-rico-soon-become-the-51st-us-state |
How can I stop my mothers constant criticism bringing me down? | I love my mother most of the time, but sometimes I hate her. She has always been critical of me; its as if she has to find fault (with my hair, my clothes, the way I do things). My brother is spared this criticism. My mum is in her late 70s, and unlikely to change. Its never worth arguing with her especially now, as she is grieving and vulnerable following the death of my father last year. I suppress my anger, keep quiet and change the subject. I call and visit often, as I now have to help her with legal and financial affairs; my brother lives abroad and this isnt his skill set. Mum lives in a different part of the country from me, and its not practical to go just for the day, so I am very much on her turf when I visit; if I dont do things the way she wants, there is an explosion. She then seems to recognise that she has gone over the top and sends sweet emails a day or two later about how capable I am. What I need is to find a way of not letting it get to me as badly as it does. I suspect that a large part of my hurt probably stems from recognising a lot of both parents in myself, and liking the bits that are all Dad, and not liking the bits of me that are more Mum. Im sorry to hear about your dad. Sometimes when one parent dies, you not only miss them but realise how much they diluted the other persons less positive traits. However, I would be careful of eulogising the parent who died and demonising the one left behind; things are rarely that simple. It is early days for all of you in your grieving journey, but its important to realise that while your mother lost her husband, you lost your dad. Sometimes in families one person can claim all the grief, but you need to grieve, too. The way you describe your mother, the love and hate, is, psychologist and psychoanalyst Prof Alessandra Lemma (bpc.org.uk) said, completely normal and yet its easy to struggle with that ambivalence. It might be helpful, Lemma said, to think about the distinction between your actual mother [the one you love and hate] and the mother youve internalised in your head [who is always critical]. Because it sounds as if you have strategies for dealing with your actual mother when you are with her, but when you leave you seem to be at the mercy of the critical internal mother and you may be left feeling that you havent got it quite right. This may be why it gets to you so much. It must be exhausting to see her as relentlessly critical even when youre not with her. If you could try to separate out these mothers in your mind, it might help. In the meantime, Lemma suggested you may need to have a second look at how and where you set the boundaries. Perhaps reconsider your idea that its never worth arguing with her. I am imagining that somewhere along the line you learned that it seemed less painful not to contradict her, and sometimes family patterns become so set that we no longer challenge them. Our minds are very good at turning quashed anger into other, more corrosive emotions such as resentment, even hate. Its good that your mum does try to repair things. I come to help you but I dont like it when you speak to me like this, please stop. I understand you dont want the explosions, but in order to contain them you have become her emotional sandbag. Thats not fair on you and will be hard to sustain in the long term. Your mother isnt young, but late 70s isnt old, either. It might be worth trying to explain, at least once, how you feel and letting any subsequent explosion be her responsibility to contain. Maybe even saying that if shes so set on doing things her way, she does them herself. Every week Annalisa Barbieri addresses a family-related problem sent in by a reader. If you would like advice from Annalisa on a family matter, please send your problem to [email protected]. Annalisa regrets she cannot enter into personal correspondence. Submissions are subject to our terms and conditions: see gu.com/letters-terms. Conversations With Annalisa Barbieri, a new podcast series, is available here. Comments on this piece are premoderated to ensure the discussion remains on the topics raised by the article. Please be aware that there may be a short delay in comments appearing on the site. | https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/jun/04/how-can-i-stop-my-mothers-constant-criticism-annalisa-barbieri |
Who Are These Texans Who Want Matthew McConaughey in the Governor's Mansion? | "Matthew McConaughey and Scott Rice host conversation with film director and screenwriter Jeff Nichols." by UT Moody College of Communication is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 ^ Keep Dallas Observer Free Support Us Local Community Journalism I Support Support the independent voice of Dallas and help keep the future of Dallas Observer free. Support Us Late last year, word got out that Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey has been mulling a bid for Texas governor. The Hollywood star hasnt formally announced, but many Texans say itd be a lot cooler if he did. In fact, an April poll by The Dallas Morning News and the University of Texas at Tyler put McConaughey ahead of Gov. Greg Abbott. While 45% of Texas voters said theyd go for McConaughey, just 33% reported theyd opt for the incumbent. So far, McConaughey has kept quiet about his political leanings, but many Texans still say theyd enthusiastically back him. North Texas resident Jason Berryman is an audio engineer and musician whos been a McConaughey fan for decades. While Berryman is worried the actor might just fall in line with political norms, hed hope that McConaughey would shift the states government from within. I have hope that if he were to run and if he were to be elected, that he would ultimately be like a Texas game-changer, Berryman said, chuckling. I would love to call him The Game-changer. Berryman sees a bit of himself in McConaughey, in part because theyre both native Texans who like to help the underdog. McConaughey seems humble and like he has a good work ethic, Berryman said. While hes no doubt a millionaire, the actor once lived in an Airstream by the beach. Plus, McConaughey is good at his craft and even developed a curriculum for a film production class at the University of Texas Moody College of Communication, Berryman said. He believes that McConaughey could apply that type of technical aptitude to learning how to govern Texas. Berryman's support for McConaughey further solidified after Februarys winter storm, which killed more than 150 Texas residents and left millions without power. The actor could have retreated into his life of comfort, Berryman said, but he instead used his just keep livin' nonprofit organization to raise funds for hard-hit Texans. Even if you write that off on your taxes or even if you use that as a bargaining chip, whatever, Berryman said. You could have sat back and lit your fire and been like, Sucks to be you, nerds, but you didnt. You actually got up and did something and helped other people. I would love to call [McConaughey] The Game-changer. Jason Berryman, audio engineer Facebook Twitter Of course, not everyone has celebrated the idea of McConaughey taking over the governors mansion. From what Texas bartender Morrey Taylor has read, McConaughey is a bit too conservative for his tastes. Republicans often slam stars who speak out about their liberal political views, Taylor said. At the same time, conservatives consistently elect celebrities to political office, such as former Presidents Donald Trump and Ronald Reagan. While Taylor believes the actor is a pothead Republican, he said McConaughey is by no means as far-right as Trump. The lefts best shot would be if McConaughey were to run as a third-party candidate and split the right-wing vote. Although hes not enthusiastic about a McConaughey bid, Taylor said itd be better than the alternative. I feel that whatever party alignment he chooses, that infrastructure, those people will get him the staff that he needs, Taylor said. I feel that if it does happen, hell probably be a decent governor much better than Greg Abbott, anyway. Much better. McConaugheys political leanings are certainly something of a mystery, and he once described his own views as aggressively centrist. Still, hes a Hollywood actor who is associated with the center to the center-left of the political spectrum, said Mark Jones, a political science professor at Rice University. Right now, McConaughey has an advantage in that he can be everything to everyone, Jones said. The actor hasnt yet had to answer questions about where he stands on controversial issues such as abortion. If McConaughey could somehow walk the tightrope of gaining Democratic support and avoid being tarnished by the Democrat label then he stands a chance at winning, Jones said. As a Hollywood celebrity and star, right now he can pretty much do whatever he wants, whenever he wants, Jones said. And that would not be the case if he was governor of Texas. | https://www.dallasobserver.com/news/some-north-texans-want-to-see-matthew-mcconaughey-as-texas-govenor-12028983 |
Who In Health Care Made Money on COVID? | (Ravipat via Shutterstock) ELLEN ANDREWS Many COVID-19 heroes put their lives at risk or died caring for others. We all owe health care providers, scientists, public health professionals and other frontline workers a huge debt of gratitude. But the health care industries did just fine. Four of the 10 companies that profited most during the pandemic are in health care. Drug companies and their executives are the biggest COVID winners. Pharma executives were able to run the federal governments $22 billion COVID vaccine program, Operation Warp Speed, because they were exempted from the usual conflict-of-interest requirements. According to Nina Burleighs Virus: Vaccinations, the CDC, and the Hijacking of Americas Response to the Pandemic excerpted in Forbes, Executives at Moderna and Pfizer cashed in on the vaccine, selling shares timed precisely to clinical trial press releases. Pfizers pre-tax profits from its vaccine are estimated at $990 million. Unlike other companies, Pfizer didnt take federal funds to develop or manufacture the vaccine but it did get federal contracts for vaccine doses worth billions of tax dollars. And Pfizers partner in developing the vaccine, BioNTech, received $445 million from the German government. Pfizer also received billions in private donor funds to develop and test the vaccine. Pfizer is not the only drug company that profited. In return for massive Operation Warp Speed subsidies, Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca promised not to profit on their COVID vaccines during the pandemic. However, there was no requirement that they share what theyve learned about vaccines at taxpayers expense to benefit the public in the next pandemic. Both companies have enjoyed large profits during the pandemic, largely from pharmaceuticals. Johnson & Johnsons net earnings were $6.2 billion in the first quarter of this year, $400 million more than the first quarter of last year. AstraZenecas operating profits in the first quarter of this year were $1.9 billion, about double last year. Moderna posted that companys first quarterly profit of $1.2 billion early this year driven by its vaccine. Concerns early in the pandemic that insurers would be hit hard were misplaced. Insurers made a lot of money in 2020 because early in the pandemic, providers cancelled elective procedures and consumers delayed getting routine care. For the first time in history, U.S. health care spending dropped in 2020. Because the Affordable Care Act caps insurers administration and profits, its estimated that they will have to return $2.14 billion of those profits to consumers and payers. Its expected that insurers will continue to benefit from COVID into this year because of federal policy changes in response to COVID and the effects of the recession including higher enrollment in the exchanges and higher premium subsidies that apply to more people. While we wont know until the audits come in this fall, there are early indicators that Connecticut hospitals and their large health systems were also spared financially last year. Connecticut hospitals received over $1 billion in state and federal COVID relief funds. Unlike nursing homes and other health care sectors, Connecticut hospital employment has returned almost to pre-pandemic levels. U.S. hospital spending has more than rebounded at $60 billion higher this March than two years ago. COVID testing became a very profitable service for many hospitals. Large health systems, most led by hospitals, are growing bigger using COVID relief funds to buy more physician practices. While this shift began in Connecticut before the pandemic, COVID has accelerated the trend. Studies find that this consolidation only raises prices and spending without improving the quality of care. This COVID consequence could have lasting effects accelerating rising Connecticuts health care costs long into the future. COVID has been a terrible burden on frontline workers, providers and the economy, but it has been a boon for health care industries. Ellen Andrews, PhD, is the executive director of the CT Health Policy Project. Follow her on Twitter @CTHealthNotes. The views, opinions, positions, or strategies expressed by the author are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of CTNewsJunkie.com. | https://ctnewsjunkie.com/2021/06/04/analysis-who-in-health-care-made-money-on-covid/ |
What did Sullivan do on Station 19? | SEASON four of ABC's Station 19 came to a heart-pounding conclusion on Thursday, June 3. The Grey's Anatomy spinoff follows the lives of the men and women of a firehouse in Seattle. Captain Robert Sullivan, who is played by Boris Kodjoe, is married to the character of Andy Herrera, played by Jaina Lee Ortiz, on Station 19. Lots happened during the 2021 season finale, including the wedding of Maya Bishop (Danielle Savre) and Carina DeLuca (Stefania Spampinato). However, Robert and Andy were having a tough day. "In Roberts estimation, hed just saved his wifes job," writes Yahoo in a finale recap. "In hers, however, hed done something unforgivable." 3 Boris Kodjoe plays Captain Robert Sullivan Credit: Getty Sullivan's behavior was revealed in flashbacks on the show. Maya would lose her job during the epiosde, and apparently Sullivan had something to do with it. "So, as the episode and the season ended, while Maya was sharing a romantic dance with her bride, all of her colleagues were receiving a text that revealed that Bishop had been relieved of her duties," according to Yahoo. 'This is you, Andy told Robert. You did this. According to Yahoo, Robert "saw it as saving her workplace family" and his wife saw it as "the ultimate betrayal." Boris Kodjoe is an actor who plays Captain Robert Sullivan on Station 19. He is also known for his role in the television series Soul Food, where he earned three NAACP Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor. His film credits include Resident Evil: Retribution, Resident Evil: Afterlife, Baggage Claim, Love and Basketball, Brown Sugar, Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion, Addicted and The Gospel and Surrogates. Kodjoe made his Broadway debut in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof alongside James Earl Jones. Teen Mom Catelynn's access to daughter Carly, 12, 'limited by adoptive parents' Exclusive A JLO-W BLOW Ben Affleck's dad breaks silence on Jennifer Lopez reunion 'DISRESPECTFUL!' Kim accused of 'cultural appropriation' for wearing Hindu earrings KIM'S TEARS Kim cries that she 'failed' Kanye as he 'deserves wife who's there for him' LAY OF THE LAND! See Teen Mom Jenelle's humble North Carolina property including a she-shed SNOOKI SNAPS Snooki says 'this is why I quit' after a fistfight with co-stars in trailer His Station 19 bio reads: "Boris' primary interest is raising awareness around health issues in developing countries. "He and Nicole started Sophie's Voice Foundation, in honor of his daughter, Sophie, who was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth. "Together they advocate for the prevention of neural tube defects through folic acid fortification." | https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/3015629/sullivan-station-nineteen-abc-season-four-finale/ |
Did Bex quit Matty In The Morning? | BEX from Matty In The Morning may have quit her longtime radio gig. But whether she did, or not, fans of the long-running Boston morning radio show have suspected that she's needed to call it quits for quite some time. While nothing is confirmed for certain, there are some key clues to suggest that Bex and Matty In The Morning have parted ways. A Twitter user pointed out that Bex's Instagram handle has changed to "bexonair" and has removed all references to Matty In The Morning. Another Twitter user pointed out that Bex's Twitter profile has removed all references to Kiss108, the home of the Matty In The Morning show. However, Bex's official page on the Kiss108 site is still there, albeit with no references to the Matty In The Morning show. Born Rebecca Maroun in New Jersey, Bex became the executive producer and co-host of the Matty In The Morning radio show in 2018. Her brother, Elie, once worked with Diddy. Prior to working with Kiss108, Bex worked with such major companies as Island Def Jam Music Group, Clear Channel Radio, and CBS Radio in New York. She is set to marry her boyfriend, Jimmy Fischer, in September 2021. On May 19, 2021, Matty In The Morning host Matt Siegel made headlines when he abruptly signed off on the show. Kourtney 'to film new Hulu show' with boyfriend Travis and her kids 'DISRESPECTFUL!' Kim accused of 'cultural appropriation' for wearing Hindu earrings WHAT MONEY BUYS Everything about Kourtney Kardashian's new home Exclusive FAITHFUL Carl Lentz' wife 'believes he's innocent & won't leave him after sex abuse claim' Exclusive LOVE NEST Kourtney buys $12M La Quinta mansion featuring infinity pool & mountain views The outburst seemed to stem from the backlash he'd received from comments made about pop star Demi Lovato. He signed off with two words: "Matty out." Two weeks later, he returned to the airwaves with a simple "hi, I'm back." | https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/3015781/bex-matty-in-the-morning/ |
Who are Christina Haacks children? | HGTV star Christina Haack is opening up about her recent divorce and focusing on her children. Christina on the Coast season 3 returned June 3 airing episodes Thursdays at 9pm EST. Christina shares two children- daughter, Taylor, 10, and son, Brayden, 5 - with ex-husband Tarek. She also has a 20-month-old son, Hudson, with Ant. The Christina on the Coast star told E! News, "I believe that everyone deserves to have love and find love and I hope that happens for me." 3 Christina and Ant were introduced by a mutual friend Credit: Instagram "But it would take a really special someone and my goal right now is just to focus on my kids and keeping my private life, as private as it can possibly be." She admitted, "I mean, balancing is something that everyone struggles withso do I." "I just try to do the best I can. When I get off work, I don't have a nanny for Taylor and Brayden, so I just try to make sure that I'm there to pick them up and take them to sports and spend time with the three kids and put my phone down." On Mother's Day this year Christina shared a sweet photo of Brayden's Mother's Day card where he said she was 24 years old and thanked her for her "mediocre packed lunches." Christina married her first husband and business partner Tarek in 2009. The two met while working in the real estate business in Orange County, California before being picked up by HGTV hosting Flip or Flop. After having their second child, tensions rose between the couple "We weren't able to properly communicate anymore. It got to the point where we weren't even driving to set together. Christina and Tarek officially separated in May 2016 after a dramatic episode where she called the police thinking he was suicidal- which Tarek has disputed. 3 Tarek is engaged to Michelle Rae Young Credit: Getty Images - Getty The divorce was finalized in January 2018 and Christina didn't waste much time. She was already dating English television presenter Ant in November 2017 with the two marrying on December 22, 2018. Unfortunately a year after the birth of their child, the TV stars split in September 18, 2020 and filed for divorce in November. Last year Christina got candid about co-parenting with ex-husband Tarek. She told People, "When there are tough times like these, all of a sudden were totally a unified front and talk and email multiple times a day." Kourtney 'to film new Hulu show' with boyfriend Travis and her kids 'DISRESPECTFUL!' Kim accused of 'cultural appropriation' for wearing Hindu earrings WHAT MONEY BUYS Everything about Kourtney Kardashian's new home Exclusive FAITHFUL Carl Lentz' wife 'believes he's innocent & won't leave him after sex abuse claim' Exclusive LOVE NEST Kourtney buys $12M La Quinta mansion featuring infinity pool & mountain views Tarek agreed and said that the two are in a "completely different place" since their split. "She and I are getting along, we're co-parenting, getting along together, and I really think the episodes are getting better and better." Christina's split from Ant is still recent but it seems that if she's already figured out co-parenting with one ex there is hope that things will run smoothly the second time around. | https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/3015814/who-are-christina-haacks-children/ |
Why is Britta Merwin leaving Channel 2? | METEOROLOGIST Britta Merwin is leaving KPRC in Houston after seven years on the air. She has described the decision as "bittersweet." Britta Merwin left Channel 2 in Houston on June 4 after seven "wonderful years." She explained her decision in a lengthy and emotional Facebook post. "It is bittersweet to say goodbye to Houston but I am accepting a job (stay tuned for details) that will allow us to move back east to be by our family," she wrote. "I am excited for my kids to have their aunts and uncles at their games, to be by their grandparents and for their great-grandparents to have the opportunity to hold them often. 2 Merwin left her Texas TV station after seven years on the air Credit: Instagram "Thank you to my amazing team! It has been an honor to work alongside my coworkers who are honestly dear friends. "We have gotten through the darkest times like Harvey and celebrated the best of life welcoming our babies and raising our children. Thank you for being my family away from home." She added: "To all of our viewers, thank you for allowing me into your home every morning. "It has been my greatest honor and an opportunity that I have held close to my heart. Houston, a piece of you will always be with me!" Teen Mom Catelynn's access to daughter Carly, 12, 'limited by adoptive parents' Exclusive A JLO-W BLOW Ben Affleck's dad breaks silence on Jennifer Lopez reunion 'DISRESPECTFUL!' Kim accused of 'cultural appropriation' for wearing Hindu earrings KIM'S TEARS Kim cries that she 'failed' Kanye as he 'deserves wife who's there for him' LAY OF THE LAND! See Teen Mom Jenelle's humble North Carolina property including a she-shed SNOOKI SNAPS Snooki says 'this is why I quit' after a fistfight with co-stars in trailer Her Facebook announcement was flooded with thousands of comments, as fans wished her well. The Texas native had previously spent much time on the East Coast and worked for News12 New Jersey and News12 Long Island. She became an advocate for autistic children after her son was diagnosed with autism. | https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/3015956/britta-merwin-kprc-houston-meteorologist-leaving-east/ |
Did disgruntled gamblers trump tennis ace Osaka? | Former player and now manager Paul Kilderry flinched sometimes watching Sam Stosur do press. I felt a bit sorry for her at times, certainly in Australia where she didnt always play to the best of her ability, he said. It was probably the last thing she wanted to do. Stosur, like Osaka, is an introvert. For them, the expectation to be funny and insightful in new ways every second day weighs ponderously. Sam Stosur is not comfortable with media, but honours the obligation. Credit:Getty Kilderry also remembers squirming while sitting in on press conferences with young players at Wimbledon. You just felt like jumping in and stopping it, he said. Nothing good was going to come of it. But most players do not demur publicly, though nearly all empathise with Osaka. Its the job, says Kilderry. This is how Con Stavros, an associate professor and sports marketing expert from RMIT university, sees it. To me, theyre entertainers, he said. Theres more to it than being able to perform a particular skill. Professional sportspeople are lavishly funded by media outlets, which need personalities as well as performance to enrich their fare. Unlike, say, reality TV, they cannot depend on a scripted climactic outcome. Im watching for the characters, the celebration, says Stavros.Im watching for the raw emotion. You might think a major championship scarcely needs promotion by players. The French Open is such an icon that this year it is calling itself simply Roland Garros. Its hardly the Traralgon challenger. Concerns: former Australian tennis player Paul McNamee. Its still competitive out there, says Stavros. You cant take anything for granted. Run me through the top 10 golfers in the world. Its really hard. I try to make a living out of sports marketing, but sometimes Ive never heard of that person at No. 9. McNamee agrees. Most sports are trying to compete for publicity with the football codes, which dominate, he says. Its difficult to cut through. Even the AFL makes the players do the parade. Itd be the last thing they want to do on Grand Final eve. Most know the score. You cant tell me Michael Jordan didnt do an interview after every game, McNamee says. It was an open locker room, and he knew the deal. Steph Curry would be the same. Jim Courier interviews Roger Federer at the Australian Open. Credit:Getty Images Post-play media conferences mostly are for the benefit of non-rights-holding that is, non-paying media. In terms of boosting the event, they are part of the rising tide that lifts all boats, including the rights-holders. Essentially, this means journalists are being played and at some subliminal level know it. But alternative forms of access to players are limited, controlled and sometimes supervised, leaving no other recourse. Rights-holders reserve their rights, which means there can be too much of a good thing. Whats crept in is the on-court interview, says McNamee. Im guilty; I brought that in at the Australian Open. Some would say the Jim Courier-John McEnroe interviews are pretty entertaining. But before the game doesnt work. Thats a no-brainer. It just doesnt work. This leads to a circular argument. Stavros says he has little truck with Osakas complaint about repetitive, critical or dumbfounding questions. He says a modern athlete should be schooled in them. The coping mechanism many athletes have learned is to provide shallow, formulaic responses, he says, which of course completely defeats the purpose of the interview. Some players, he says, are sure to be worth watching at press conferences because of or despite themselves. Serena Williams in defeat is one, and Nick Kyrgios win or lose. Osaka is another because she does try. She seems to take in the questions quite deeply and react authentically, Stavros says. Not for now. Her revelation of two years of depression put the discussion on a new footing. I can see both sides, says McNamee. Her wellbeing is far and away the most important thing. Shes a remarkable person who transcends the sport. However, the blame game is not appropriate, as it is clear her challenges were not widely known. Serena Williams shortly before walking out of her press conference at the Australian Open this year. Credit:Channel Nine. McNamee says the Grand Slam committee, which oversees the four majors, was blindsided by Osakas move and could only apply the rules as they stood. It makes them look harsh, but any player would have been fined, he says. I dont think its helpful to criticise. Naomi admitted she could have handled it better. The grand slams would admit they could have handled it better. A lot of people have changed their stance since they found out what was going on. Nick Kyrgios at an Australian Open media conference. Credit:Getty Images He does wonder about the booming silence of the Womens Tennis Association. As both the governing body and the players union, it seems to be torn between disciplinary and pastoral duties to Osaka, leaving it tongue-tied. Suggested solutions include fewer media conferences in the early rounds, more time to regroup after defeats, an Olympics-style mixed zone where players walk through a media corral, stopping or not as they choose, a get-out-of-media-free card to be used as necessary and stricter policing of journalists credentials. In one of several jittery reflexes this week, Roland Garros pulled the accreditation of a journalist who zoomed in from a supermarket. McNamee does not want to see a rush to reform; he thinks a cooling-off period now would do. | https://www.theage.com.au/sport/did-disgruntled-gamblers-trump-tennis-ace-osaka-20210604-p57y2b.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_sport |
Are Diddy And City Girls' Yung Miami Dating? | After breaking things off with music producer Southside in 2020, per Hot New Hip Hop, City Girls' Yung Miami is officially back on the market... and it looks like she may have set her eyes on Diddy. The two celebrated Quality Control Music CEO Pierre "Pe" Thomas's birthday in Atlanta on June 2 and they seem to be more than friends. The black tie event was hosted by Diddy himself and took place at the Atlanta Fox Theatre, according to Page Six. Attendees included Quality Control Music signees City Girls and Lil Baby, as well as Gucci Mane, Teyana Taylor, 2 Chainz, Lil Yachty, Lil Durk, and many more, per the outlet. The party featured special performances including dancers... who were literally on fire. "There were dancers on tables wearing feathered skirts, and one dropped down to get her eagle on and caught on fire from a candle!" a source told the publication. "Nothing was left but her string thong. She was panicking and quickly extinguished." The fiery incident didn't stop the fun, and the party continued at the Gold Room nightclub. And after Diddy and Yung Miami posted their recaps of the night, many are speculating that the two may be dating. Find out why below. | https://www.nickiswift.com/428455/are-diddy-and-city-girls-yung-miami-dating/ |
Does the new USFL have the legal right to call itself the USFL? | Getty Images As former USFL head coach Lee Corso would say, Not so fast, my friend. (Personally, I prefer his other catch phrase.) The USFL is back. But it may not be really back. Via Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Inquirer, a question has emerged as to whether the reincarnated USFL has the legal right to the USFL name. I was surprised when I heard about it this morning, Steve Ehrhart, former USFL executive director, told Domowitch. I want to dig into it and see who theyre claiming they acquired these rights [to the name] from. Because it didnt come from any legitimate source. My guess is theres some knucklehead out there who claimed he had registered the name and had the rights to it. Were not being antagonistic. But if they want to do this, they should do it the right way and talk to the actual people, not some guy who sent in an Internet registration or something like that. Erhart contends that the USFL still exists, and that league officials still get monthly royalty checks. Brian Woods has resurrected the USFL, with FOX as the broadcaster and equity partner. We were only around three seasons, but the USFL was a classy, well-respected name, Erhart said. We always said that we didnt want to just jump in there and sell it to somebody who was going to be underfunded and blow up and give a halfway kind of effort. So we never did give or sell or authorize the rights to anybody. It will be interesting to see where it goes from here. And it could end up in the same place where the old USFL won an antitrust case against the NFL. This time around, however, the verdict could be significantly more than one dollar. | https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2021/06/04/does-the-new-usfl-have-the-legal-right-to-call-itself-the-usfl/ |
Is Fauci a Fall Guy? | Using his time-tested technique of constructing timelines and comparing the current FOIA release with another key FOIA release, he constructs a thought-provoking theory. As so often in the past, he sees a tacit plot behind the events that capture so much attention. Fauci 6/03/21 on MSNBC ( Youtube screengrab) He constructs this sequence of recent events: A once beloved Bill Gates, the primary advocate for COVID vaccines, suddenly became a target by the political left. It was quite a shift. The White House announces their support of investigation into the origin of COVID-19. Media report on State Dept investigators who were handcuffed during their research into the COVID origination. Suddenly discussion of the Lab Leak Theory was permitted by those who control the platforms of speech. Media then report of Anthony Fauci gaining a lucrative book deal. Joe Biden gives a speech in Oklahoma on Tuesday; and immediately thereafter the White House announces no more public appearances for the remainder of the week. The Fauci emails [] Read the whole story at www.americanthinker.com Share the truth Newsletter Join fellow patriots as we keep Americans informed and advance the cause of conservatism. Share this: Twitter Facebook | https://clarion.causeaction.com/2021/06/04/is-fauci-a-fall-guy/ |
Is Grafting Dead Babies Scalps Onto Lab Rats Any Better Than Child Sacrifice? | https://thefederalist.com/2021/06/04/is-grafting-dead-babies-scalps-onto-lab-rats-any-better-than-child-sacrifice/ This article is about gruesome subject matter. Child sacrifice strains the limits of moral relativity, yet too often abortion gets a pass. There are various arguments why, but at least its a debate. In contrast, most Americans are only semi-conscious of the use of aborted babies for medical experiments. Our tax dollars pay for it through the National Institutes of Health, but more often than not, we never hear about it. In a recent Newsweek editorial, David Daleiden reminded the public that scientists at the University of Pittsburgh have been taking five-month-old aborted infants, cutting out their body parts, then grafting their scalps onto mice, or otherwise harvesting their organs for medical use. Our natural response is revulsion. For the sake of sanity, though, our momentary outrage is usually followed by forgetfulness. Its a difficult subject to contemplate, so most people dont, at least for long. When Daleiden exposed similar abuses by Planned Parenthood back in 2015, very little changed. Most of us who heard about it simply recoiled in disgust and moved on. Meanwhile, Daleiden faced felony eavesdropping charges for his undercover investigation and is still trying to appeal court orders to pay Planned Parenthood more than $15 million in damages and legal fees. Outside the activist community or his delighted detractors, his story goes largely untold. Any gruesome practice done in the name of medicine is subject to the ethical scrutiny of experts, of course, but the experts are usually the ones conducting them. Most observers have no power over the situation if they even know about it at all. Similarly, most people rarely think about the dark acts occurring daily in abortion clinics, or the child sacrifices taking place today in Uganda, South Africa, and elsewhere. Effectively, these horrors exist outside the publics moral framework. Meanwhile, the horrors of abortion have become too normalized. A recent Pew poll found 59 percent of Americans support allowing abortion to remain legal while only 39 percent oppose it. That opposition is heavily skewed toward white evangelicals. Even among Catholic respondents, more than half favored legalization. As youd expect, older generations are more concerned than young people, although the majority in every age bracket was pro-abortion. Im unaware of any public opinion polls on child sacrifice, but I think its fair to say almost no Americans would favor throwing infants onto temple fires even for the benefit of the community. For one thing, few modern Americans believe the gods require human blood to make the crops grow or keep the sun on its course. Beyond that logical reasoning, though, were morally conditioned from childhood to believe human beings deserve better. Part of the shift in attitudes toward pregnancy termination is due to pop science narratives. For instance, because a newly conceived embryo has not yet developed a nervous system with pain receptors, this living being is easily seen as a mere clump of cells. It takes real effort to imagine what the babys experience might be like, so its easy to pretend it has no soul. Then again, science also reveals that by seven weeks a fetus has formed free nerve endings. By this time, the spinal cord and thalamus are sufficiently developed to receive nerve impulses including discomfort. Some of the children used in the University of Pittsburgh experiments were at 22 weeks of development when they were killed and mutilated. Theres every reason to believe these tiny people are fully capable of experiencing pain. Nevertheless, those who stand to benefit decide such pain is worth the sacrifice. The comparison of abortion to child sacrifice is a common polemic, largely because theres no satisfactory answer for why the two are fundamentally different. In many historical ritual murders across the globe, the purpose wasnt purely malicious. Aztecs, Mayans, Incas, Canaanites, Polynesians, the ancient Chinese, various African tribes, and probably the Celts were all willing to make a trade-off: kill innocent people for the perceived benefit to the community. The logic for abortion, at its core, is pretty much the same. Women have various reasons for wanting to terminate a pregnancy, as do men, but it ultimately snuffs out an innocent life so other peoples lives can proceed unencumbered. Even in the most difficult circumstances, such as incest or rape, the infants life is being sacrificed for the benefit of other people. The same principle is at work in this kind of medical research, but with a seductive twist. The purpose of the childs sacrifice is to benefit other people, but the results are more readily demonstrated. In one of the University of Pittsburgh experiments, tissues were scraped from the livers of infants at 22 weeks of gestation, and injected into liver disease patients. The researchers hope to use similar cell-based treatments to rejuvenate the withered livers of anyone who can afford it. The rhetoric weve heard many times this past year, if we can save just one life, is at play here in its most twisted form ignoring the fact that such medical research costs the lives of countless unborn children. Another study, published in Nature, shows pictures of infants scalps growing on the backs of pitiful rodents. The viewer knows the soft hair should be growing on a childs head, but isnt. The conscience revolts. The spell is broken. You begin to wonder whether any potential benefits to those who are alive are worth something like this. Its a deeply moral question, arising from an innate sense of fairness. Surely there were Aztecs who witnessed the bloody spectacle and thought it might be better to let the sun go dark. Ive known a number of women whove had abortions, and for most, the emotional price of their newfound freedom was far greater than theyd ever imagined. I also know laboratory techs, all women, who still weep after euthanizing lab mice. The reality is that many Americans benefit from human cruelty directly or indirectly be it from wars of aggression or hellish factory farms. In the case of research on aborted infants and humanized mice, its possible countless lives could be saved by the resulting information. So the moral concern shifts away from the invisible innocents toward more immediate desires. Yet when confronted with the brutal truth behind these actions, something in the soul recoils. We should heed that awakened voice. The moment it goes silent, we cease to be fully human. Share this: Twitter Facebook | https://clarion.causeaction.com/2021/06/04/is-grafting-dead-babies-scalps-onto-lab-rats-any-better-than-child-sacrifice/ |
Will Paris Hilton's Upcoming Memoir Atone for Her Racism? | Photo : Amy Sussman ( Getty Images ) In the wake of our great pop-cultural reassessment project, where we who have been paying attention reconsider the shitty ways in which celebrities like Britney Spears have been talked about in the press, comes the announcement of a new Paris Hilton memoir. This is either a natural progression or a worst-case scenario or, depending on your level of cynicism, both. Advertisement Page Six reports that the upcoming publication was acquired by Dey Streets editorial director Carrie Thornton. Dey Street describes Hiltons memoir as both searingly honest and deeply personal and adds, Hilton will share the real Paris Hilton as her celebrity persona evolved. Dey Street published Jessica Simpsons Open Book in 2020, a memoir so well-articulated and apparently candid that it won over people who never so much as thought to turn to Simpson for depth (including me). A publishing insider told us when the book was being shopped that it would try and capitalize on the success of Jessica Simpsons book, and nostalgia for early 2000s-era pop culture, adds Page Six. But as we atone as a culture for our past misdeeds, I wonder if Hilton will follow suit. Things like her expressed toxicity about Kim Kardashians body and her support for Trump (including initially claiming the women who accused him of sexual assault were just trying to get attention and get fame, which she later apologized for) have been left out of the conversation as Hilton re-endears herself to culture via her podcast and last years YouTube documentary This Is Paris. Most egregious wa s her repeated use of the n-word on camera, a potential career-ender when it happens once in this day and age regardless of the context, let alone several times as an intentional slur. Hilton is in the odd position of having been unfairly smeared (slut-shamed over her sex tape, which she contends was released by her ex without her consent and thus is revenge porn) while essentially given a pass by the mainstream media for that which she should be held accountable. Add onto this the sleight of hand present in her claims that shes been misunderstood for so long while actively taking part in said misdirection by playing a baby-voiced character that is not the real Paris, and you have a public figure who is either incredibly complicated or exactingly selective in terms of her presentation. A good book will distinguish between the two and take the time necessary to dissect the former. Lets see if Hiltons self-awareness and humility are up for the challenge. | https://jezebel.com/will-paris-hiltons-upcoming-memoir-atone-for-her-racism-1847032256 |
When is Yellowstone season 4 starting? | When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. Sign up fornow for the biggest moments from morning TV Yellowstone has been running for three seasons now, with season four just around the corner. The details on the new season remain slim, however, the wait may finally be coming to an end. There has been no confirmation from Paramount for the release date of season four. Despite filming wrapping in November of 2020, Yellowstone fans will have to wait just a bit longer before they can head back to the Dutton family ranch. The usual release date for Yellowstone is June however with no word on the premiere, this is now all but impossible. The release date will likely be this year, with new episodes in late summer more than likely. READ MORE:Wales chief says lockdown restrictions WON'T be eased on June 21 | https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1445522/when-is-Yellowstone-season-4-starting-release-date-paramount-plus |
What happened to Justin Hemmes' girlfriend Madeline Holtznagel? | Madeline Holtznagel has debuted a dramatic new look. The model girlfriend of billionaire Justin Hemmes looked almost unrecognisable when she stepped out with pal Jodi Gordon at Afterpay Australian Fashion Week on Thursday. The 24-year-old had noticeably cut her brown hair short and dyed it a striking shade of platinum blonde. Surprise: Madeline Holtznagel (right) has debuted a dramatic new look at Australian Fashion Week on Thursday. (Pictured with Jodi Gordon) She was styled in a cream blazer, matching trousers, and a sparkly silver bra. Madeline, who is the younger sister of Simone Holtnagel, recently raised eyebrows by deleting her Instagram account. It's a surprising move for the rising model, as most models in the industry use social media for exposure and to book jobs. Before and after: The 24-year-old had noticeably cut her brown hair short and dyed it a striking shade of platinum blonde Madeline has been dating the billionaire pub baron, 48, for some time and she also spent lockdown at his Vaucluse mansion last year. She now reportedly lives in a Coogee penthouse that he owns. The couple have been spotted out and about in Sydney several times lately, after confirming their romance. Gone: Madeline, who is the younger sister of Simone Holtnagel, recently raised eyebrows by deleting her Instagram account Madeline lifted the lid on their relationship in October last year, telling The Sydney Morning Herald she was yet to introduce Justin to her parents. 'My parents and my sister Anna haven't met him yet, but [her other sister] Simone has been introduced to him and really liked him,' she said. She remained tight-lipped about how long she and Justin had been dating, but hinted they'd been seeing each other for longer than report. Romance: Madeline has been dating billionaire pub baron Justin Hemmes for some time and she also spent lockdown at his Vaucluse mansion last year Meanwhile, Justin was spotted dancing with model Megan Blake Irwin at the Auteur Studio Australian Fashion Week afterparty on Thursday. The billionaire businessman was seen with his arm around the 29-year-old on the dancefloor of the event at his Coogee restaurant Mimi's. Madeline was not seen in the jovial dancing video, which was shared to Instagram by Sydney DJ Alice Quiddington. Enjoying the evening! Justin was seen getting cosy on the dancefloor with model Megan Blake Irwin at an Australian Fashion Week afterparty on Thursday Megan and Justin are believed to be good friends. They were clearly having a blast while dancing to Finally by CeCe Peniston alongside other revellers and socialites. The pair's embrace was brief and they danced separately for the majority of the video. Justin and Madeline were last pictured together at the Million Dollar Beard Ball on May 13. | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-9651567/What-happened-Justin-Hemmes-girlfriend-Madeline-Holtznagel.html |
How do I deal with chatty employee? | By Caroline Mboijana More by this Author Dear Caroline, One of my employees is overly talkative which leads to a lot of slacking off work and consequently low productivity. I have cautioned her about this before but she seems unable to control herself. Gerald Hello Gerald, Employees chatting with each other is essential for building teamwork and morale. However, if an employee is overly talkative, that can become a problem, particularly if it is impacting their productivity or the productivity of others. This can be incredibly challenging if you have already spoken to her, but she continues to behave in this way. Before deciding what to do about the problem, you must understand its root cause. You may be able to determine the cause yourself, but it could also be beneficial to discuss this with the employee. Arrange a private meeting with her and inform her that you have not seen enough change in the behaviour following your previous conversations. Ask her what she thinks may be causing her to spend so much time talking with her co-workers. As well as discussing the causes of her behaviour, she must understand the impact of her actions on her productivity, the productivity of her co-workers, and the organisation. Once you have established the cause and impact of her chattiness, agree on how to proceed, moving forward. It may be helpful to focus on setting clear objectives. If an employee knows that they must be at work from 9-5 but do not have clear deadlines to be working towards, it can be tempting to procrastinate and talk to people instead of working. Advertisement Establish specific goals that they can be working towards to ensure productivity. Ask them what they think would help and work together to create a plan of action. Finally, be clear about the consequences if their actions dont change and arrange a follow-up meeting to discuss their progress. If, by the time you have a follow-up meeting, they have improved, make sure you recognise that and thank them. However, if they have not, you may need to establish stricter consequences if the behaviour does not improve by a specific time. Caroline Mboijana, Managing Director, The Leadership Team (U) - [email protected] | https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/jobs-and-career/how-do-i-deal-with-chatty-employee--3425554 |
Is Britain becoming more European in its politics? | The question may seem preposterous in the immediate aftermath of Brexit and a tightening grip in England by an ultra-nationalist Conservative party. But perhaps not. Last months elections Super Thursday were the first test of how voters in England, Scotland and Wales feel since the start of the pandemic. It was a mixed bag of polls, with something for everyone and a little bit of everything: cities, municipalities, a parliamentary constituency, devolved nations. It was as reliable a mid-term test of the countrys temperature as youre likely to get. On the face of it the results seem straightforward: The Tories triumphed (again) deep in Labours English heartlands. Working class voters who voted for the Brexit party defected en masse. The pro-independence Scottish nationalists held firm keeping their hopes of an independent Scotland alive. A strongly Welsh-flavoured Labour party prevailed in Wales where it has held office since devolution in 1999. The results have been interpreted as a near-extinction event for Labour. Tony Blair, in a long article that felt suspiciously like a job application, said the party he led to three consecutive victories, needed tearing down and rebuilding. For centrists and those on the left, Super Thursday conjured up the spectre of a right-of-centre, populist one-party state. Boris Johnson has had a chaotic first year. Britain has suffered the highest Covid death toll in Europe. But he keeps winning with his signature mix of fist-pumping, big spending, flag-waving, immigrant-bashing nationalism. But look closely and the picture is more nuanced. And in some ways more compelling. At the granular level of politics, something profound is happening. Old shibboleths and tribal allegiances are being ditched. In others, voters cling to old certainties. We cannot see where it leads yet. But there is a trail of footprints we can follow. Politics is becoming more fragmented. The local is gaining ground on the national. Britain is moving, in fits and starts, towards new equilibrium between London, the devolved nations and the regions. What was created by design in post-war Europe to encourage democracy by delegating it, could be happening by default in the UK. If there is a unifying theme, it is that the British voter can most definitely no longer be taken for granted. Brexit is the proximate cause of changing allegiances (but not the only one). Brexit has torn the UK from Europe. It has also opened up deep cracks within the Union. It remains heart-rending and politically flammable. The fire still rages. Britain, someone once said, is a mystery to itself. Never more so than now. The backdrop to this developing drama is a threadbare Union heading, at the very least, for a painful constitutional crunch or worse. Rising nationalism in Scotland, Wales and Ireland pose a serious challenge to old certainties. The SNPs Nicola Sturgeon and Welsh Labours Mark Drakeford have emerged as national figures. News bulletins now refer routinely to the four nations, a striking upgrade from devolved administrations. The pandemic whether handled better in Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh than in London has given people a taste of what real devolution could be like. Voters are warming to the idea of leaders who make things happen locally but have the stature to stand up to the centre. A clunky, monolithic system is giving way to something more diverse, more European. The rise of big city mayors as national political figures untethered to the centre is a significant development. Metro-mayors with a strong, local presence, an independent streak and a national voice will become an increasingly important part of the landscape. Powerful elected mayors have been a settled feature of the European political landscape since the end of the Second World War. In France, five have risen from a mairie to the lyse. Willy Brandt vaulted to power and international prominence as mayor of West Berlin during the Cold War. This pattern looks like repeating itself in Britain even if acquiring more powers from Westminster will be like pulling teeth. Prior to the construction of nation states in the 18th and 19th centuries, cities and city states were the great centres of power, patronage and revenue. They were dominated by big personalities. Their actions did not necessarily flow from a political philosophy. It was, and to a large extent remains, political entrepreneurship in its purest form. The pandemic has revived this culture, thrusting mayors across Europe and Britain to prominence: Labours Andy Burnham, in his King of the North mantle, standing up to Johnsons furlough scheme; Tory Ben Houchen in Tees Valley parlaying Treasury-backed inward investments and freeport status for Teesport into a stunning 73% victory in a working class area with one of the highest unemployment rates in the country. The UK constitution, such as it is, is in a state of deep disrepair. There are no systematic way of responding smoothly to the growing desire for localism beyond the existing devolved settlement which was not, it should be said, freely given. There remains a profound aversion in Westminster and Whitehall to ceding control. Johnsons image of the Union (devolution is a disaster) is not one of a voluntary joining of nations but of post-imperial England as first among (sort of) equals. The Treasury objects in principle to anything that threatens to loosen its death-grip on the economy. Moving parts of the Treasury to Darlington, the so-called Treasury North campus is hardly the same as handing more tax-raising powers to metro-mayors. The longer the centre resists real change, the more Whitehall insists that power devolved is power retained, the thornier the problem will get. Scottish independence may be a bad idea for Britain, for Europe and probably for Scotland. But it will not be forestalled by just saying No. Then there is the fact that Britain remains profoundly and painfully unequal. Big infrastructure projects such as HS2 will not address Britains epidemic of rough sleeping or the injustice visited on the struggling disabled or the casualties of a punitive social care system. To keep winning Johnson will have to deliver on his levelling-up promises. Brexit is not a gift that will keep on giving. Patriotism doesnt put food on the table. Once the pandemic recedes in the collective consciousness, the challenge will be to find ways of bridging the inequality gap that cements the union as opposed to driving it further apart. Squeezed out of Scotland and Wales and with a vanishingly thin presence in Northern Ireland, the Tories are throwing their all into establishing a permanent hegemony in England. It may, ironically, turn out to be the partys last redoubt. Politics in Britain is not, as some would have it, moribund. Brexit makes the point. But it is stuck in a rut, suffocated by a first past the post electoral system (FPTP) that consistently delivers majority governments voted in by a minority of voters. This has led, increasingly, to alienation, extremism and wild swings in policy that leave our institutions, our health service and our schools drained. The UKs best chance of stability is to heed the EUs motto Unity in Diversity: more democracy; a fairer proportional voting system that makes people feel that their votes count; greater devolution and a genuine commitment to help local communities shape their own lives. This may also be the unions best chance of staying intact. Have your say on this and more by emailing [email protected] | https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/brexit-news/europe-news/the-political-rebalancing-of-britain-8002000 |
Who is Denise on The Young and the Restless and who plays her? | Denise on Y&R is new to the show, but fans may recognize her from her Family Matters days. Pic credit: CBS Denise on The Young and the Restless has fans buzzing about who she is and who plays her. The new character has been making waves on and off-screen for an excellent reason. Theres an off-screen connection that makes the addition of the character to the CBS soap opera even more special. Denise (Telma Hopkins) recently showed up in Genoa City to help Amanda (Mishael Morgan) with the case involving her grandfather, Sutton (Jack Landron). Get our The Young and the Restless newsletter! The Young and the Restless spoilers reveal Denise drops a major truth bomb on Amanda regarding her biological father, Richard. Denise knows a lot more about Richard than Amanda expected. As of now, Denise will only be sticking around for a short time. However, it is a soap opera, so anything is possible. If the actress playing Denise looks familiar, thats because Telma Hopkins is no stranger to showbiz. The actress and singer has made quite a name for herself in Hollywood. Fans may recognize Telma from the hit sitcom Family Matters as Rachel Crawford, the mother of Bryton James character Richie Crawford. The two have been heavily promoting their reunion on Y&R. According to TV Insider, Bryton revealed hes been trying to get Telma on the CBS daytime drama for years. Yes, Devon and Denise will have scenes together, marking the first time Bryton and Telma shared the screen since Family Matters ended in 1998. There was one thing Telma was worried about after she accepted the role of Denise. The fast pace that comes with working on a soap opera. I was extremely nervous because they work at a different pace than Im used to. So I did call Bryton before I said yes, to talk to him about it and ask, you know, if he thought I could handle it without having a nervous breakdown! Telma shared with Soap Opera Digest. Along with working with Bryton again, the other reason Telma wanted the role of Denise is because shes a die-hard The Young and the Restless fan. Telma has been watching the show since the 1970s. The actress worked on a variety show called Tony Orlando and Dawn from 1974-1976. It was filmed across the hall from Y&R in the studios now occupied by The Bold and the Beautiful. Actress Telma Hopkins plays Denise on The Young and the Restless. However, she has a long list of acting credits, including sitcoms like Bosom Buddies, Gimme a Break, and Half and Half. Most recently, Telma appeared on Netflixs Dead to Me. The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS. | https://www.monstersandcritics.com/tv/soaps/who-is-denise-on-the-young-and-the-restless-and-who-plays-her/ |
What role does the Fed have in mitigating climate change? | Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell makes an appearance on a panel at a conference on climate change today about how the financial sector can take action against climate change-related risks. The extent to which the U.S. Federal Reserve should be involved in climate change policy is controversial. It boils down to whether the Feds policies are reactionary or if the Fed is on the offensive, said Christina Skinner at the University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School. If theres a climate shock or a disaster, the Fed can adjust monetary policy to try to mitigate loss. What Skinner said it cant do are things like using its balance sheet to go out into the world and buy green bonds. To try and direct the flow of capital in that direction is not really on the table like it is for some other central banks. In some countries, central banks can take that kind of action. But the U.S. financial system isnt set up that way. Carolin Schellhorn at Saint Josephs University said the Fed, though, has to recognize that it doesnt create monetary policy in a vacuum. The central banks depend on each other, none of them work in isolation. She said private multinational banks need consistent guidance from central banks around the world to make investment decisions including those that align with climate change mitigation goals. | https://www.marketplace.org/2021/06/04/what-role-does-the-fed-have-in-mitigating-climate-change/ |
Will super speciality hospital in Chennai be restored to original status as TN Assembly? | T Muruganandham And Omjasvin MD By Express News Service CHENNAI: The State government on Thursday announced that it would establish a new Rs 250-crore worth multi-purpose super speciality hospital for south Chennai at the King Institute of Preventive Medicine & Research, Guindy, to mark the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. According to official sources at the health department, the King Institute is currently functioning as an exclusive Covid hospital. Only after the cases decrease, steps may be taken to add additional departments and specialities. It is a long process. After Covid cases reduce, we will get a clarity on how this will take shape as a multi-speciality hospital, said sources. Presently, an exclusive 525-bed Covid facility is functioning out of the campus. Apart from this, the institute also processes RT-PCR test samples. The facility was established by former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami during the first wave of the pandemic. The move has however, given rise to speculation in some quarters that the super speciality hospital at Government Omandurar Estate, located in the northern part of the city, may be restored to its original status as the State Assembly cum Secretariat complex. However, senior officials in the State government said so far, there is no hint about this and that it is unlikely in the present situation. When asked about the possibility of restoring the Assembly hall and secretariat complex at the Omandurar estate, a senior official told Express, As of now, there is no hint on this proposal. Since the new Assembly hall cum secretariat complex is a pet project of late CM M Karunanidhi, who took extraordinary interest in its building, it would remain a historical place for the present ruling party. So, perhaps after the pandemic subsides and after steps for building the new super speciality hospital at Guindy gains momentum, the issue may come up. The complex was built in 2010 to mark Karunanidhis completion of 50 years as a legislator. The former CM had taken personal interest in the construction of this complex and got it inaugurated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, on March 13, 2010. Shifting was done for admin convenience However, 17 months later in 2011, the AIADMK government, led by J Jayalalithaa, converted the set of buildings that housed the Assembly and the secretariat departments into a super speciality hospital. On May 20 that year, Jayalalithaa justified her governments decision to bring back the Assembly hall and secretariat to Fort St George and denied allegations that she had effected this out of political animosity against the previous regime. The shifting was done mainly for administrative convenience, Jayalalithaa had said and observed that it was the DMK which stalled all the efforts taken by her previous government to construct a new Assembly complex. Three months later, on August 19, 2011, Jayalalithaa announced that the new Secretariat complex, now kept unused, will house a super multi-speciality hospital on par with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), to cater to medical needs of the poor and downtrodden, and for running a new medical college. Changes Jayalalithaa announced that the new Secretariat complex, now kept unused, will house a super multi-speciality hospital on par with AIIMS, to cater to medical needs of the poor Other announcements | https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2021/jun/03/will-super-speciality-hospital-in-chennai-be-restored-to-original-status-as-tn-assembly-2311270.html |
What Has To Happen For Cryptos To Really Make Sense? | The new cryptocurrencies can be seen from different points of view. The opinions about the new digital currencies differ a lot. Many people have raised concerns about Bitcoin and the other cryptos claiming they would be nothing more than just highly speculative investment options for players. This point was underlined by the latest drops in the value of Bitcoin which has many investors left concerned about their savings. On the other hand, many young people see a revolutionary invention in the new currencies. The cryptos may be the key to a new monetary system that operates faster and easier on a global scale to replace all fiat currencies in the near future. Since the cryptos have come up many companies started to adopt digital coins in their system. Elon Musk and his car brand Tesla, which is known to be an eager and innovative project offering new technologies to push forward the shift towards electric cars, were one of the first ones to accept Bitcoin as a payment method which resulted in an increase of value and popularity of the digital coin. Other branches have quickly followed and offered the same. Especially in the gaming and gambling industry, where fast payments are often extremely important, cryptocurrencies have started to play a bigger role. There have been more and more online crypto casinos popping up on the market in recent years. The amount of new providers of online gambling is overwhelming which is why many customers should inform themselves by reading the Bitcoin Casino Guide before choosing their gambling platform. Both sides have good arguments and no one can foresee the future of the cryptos. But as the new currencies recently appeared to be less sustainable and stable than ordinary currencies, the question arises if the currencies have a future and what must happen for cryptos to be really offering a new solution to our monetary system. We have brought together the most important facts you need to know about the challenges the new currencies are facing and about what must happen for them to sustain. Governments And Cryptocurrencies One big difference between cryptocurrencies and ordinary fiat currencies is that cryptos operate in a decentralized way. That means that they do not originate or rely on only one source. While fiat currencies like Euro, US-Dollar or Turkish Lira are regulated, monitored and introduced to the market by the central bank of the country, cryptocurrencies are not in one place only. The entire currency is basically relying on all participants at the same time. This is the reason why the cryptos operate so fast and secure, as they are not that easy to track down or manipulate. If cryptos really want to take over the market and replace the fiat currencies, they would need to find a way to get bigger acceptance in the international community. That means that all the international governments or at least some of them must accept the currency as a valid payment method. For that, of course, new systems would need to be introduced for governments to regulate and monitor the value and cash flow of those currencies. Furthermore, governments would need to find ways to track and tax international and domestic transactions. While all of this may be possible, the governments are actually not doing much in this direction. One reason for this is that cryptocurrencies compromise the current banking system our market is relying on for the last few hundred years. These monetary institutions are crucial to the system and have a huge influence on the policy of the governments, which makes it hard to get rid of them. Furthermore many governments have been inspired by the idea of blockchain-based currencies but do not really seem to aim to adapt them. On the contrary, some governments of the European Union and other countries have already made efforts to create their own digital currencies. This may look like a step in the right direction, though it would not support the current independent cryptos at all. A Bigger Market For More Opportunities Another thing that must happen for cryptos to maintain is that they generally take over a bigger part of the market. The concept of introducing some new ideas to the world successfully is simple. The more merchants are accepting and working with the new digital currencies like Bitcoin, the more influence and market capacity the currencies gain. It is like a spiral. More popularity and acceptance amplify the value and importance of the coins. Tesla is so far one of the only major companies that supported the new coins in a serious way. But due to concerns about the sustainability of the creation process of those coins, Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) has recently dropped out of the whole thing, saying it will wait until new more efficient ways will be found. Also, the gambling and gaming industry has placed quite a big faith in the new currencies. As mentioned before, a huge number of online crypto casinos has been springing up on the market. The cryptos have become very popular in the gambling industry and more and more games are being introduced to the market. Still, this is not enough to really make a difference. If Bitcoin and the other cryptocurrencies really want to make sense, on a global and significant scale, they need to find more merchants and players accepting them as a payment method. Cryptos As A Pioneer For Future Technologies Besides all of the challenges the cryptos are facing at the moment, the concept of blockchain-based currencies is a revolutionary one and may very well lead to new innovations and big changes in the global market. Like with any new groundbreaking technology or idea, the start of the concept is always a hard one. One thing is clear though. Governments and international companies are already very interested in the new technology and started to get inspired by it. That shows that even if Bitcoin and the others may not be able to sustain their idea will live on and the blockchain-based concept of a digital global, decentralized monetary system may very well be the future of the market anyways. Image Sourced from Pixabay | https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/21/06/21430227/what-has-to-happen-for-cryptos-to-really-make-sense?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+benzinga%2Fnews+%28Channels+-+News%29 |
Could West Dunbartonshire be set for a political shake-up? | Join thousands of others in getting the stories that matter to you sent straight to your inbox. Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Insiders say West Dunbartonshire could be set for a political shake-up, amidst rumours of rising tensions between the SNPs grassroots members and party leaders. And they fear Labour may use a rising tide of confidence created by the return of Dumbarton constituency MSP Jackie Baillie at the Holyrood election earlier this month, to turn up the heat on the minority SNP-led West Dunbartonshire Council. Councillor Caroline McAllister defected from the councils ruling SNP group in March. The former depute council leader accused the SNP at national level of stamping all over local democracy amidst rumoured tensions between party HQ and local level members. Her shift to Alex Salmonds Alba party - which left the SNP with a minority rule in West Dunbartonshire - leaves the door wide open for a power struggle with Labour opponents ahead of next Mays council elections. And with the return of Labour stalwart Ms Baillie to the Scottish Parliament with an increased majority against SNP rival Toni Giugliano, speculation is mounting that the SNP-controlled council could find itself in trouble. Councillor McAllister, who represents Alexandrias Leven ward, told the Lennox that SNP national chiefs had intervened to veto a plan for her vote to shore up the SNPs control of West Dunbartonshire Council, saying: HQ have said no because Alba are going to stand candidates at next years election. I dont believe thats local because not forming a coalition causes problems for the administration, they dont have the numbers. Seasoned Clydebank Waterfront SNP Councillor Marie McNair also won the Clydebank and Milngavie seat earlier this month, landing a role as the towns MSP. But she will continue serving a dual role as a councillor. Her departure from council would present obstacles in the way of the partys continued control. Caroline added: I didnt leave the SNP because of the local group, I left because of what was going on at leadership level. She says she may still agree with much of what the SNP bring to council and says she is open to negotiation but added: Any decisions I take, I need to be convinced its for the improvement of communities in the area, if I think thats going to be a decision that benefits them. The SNP had firm sights on the Dumbarton seat in the Scottish Parliament election and the lose was hard felt. Caroline, who was snubbed in her bid to become the SNP candidate earlier this year and before she left the party, said: I dont know if Toni himself was unpopular, I think it was more a case of how HQ managed it. She said there was a feeling he had been parachuted in. The councillor added: The local democracy was just stamped all over, this election especially. She also alleged other party members were disgruntled, saying: I think on the local level theres more that unites us than divides us, at a national level, theres a significant difference in terms of policy. I think the political landscape will change, it rolls backwards and forwards, the SNP over the course of the next year will have some bearing on it. There are some SNP members, who are still members, who are far from happy. Insiders say locally, the rift could leave veteran Labour group councillors - who number just one fewer than the SNPs nine-strong contingent - a free reign to push through plans that their Nats opponents could find difficult to block. One insider claimed the unrest could leave the way clear for Labour to really start to play politics, while the other side dont know the rules of the game. Council leader Jonathan McColl denied the rumours of a rift in the party and said his administration was comfortable operating as a minority leadership. He confirmed that discussions had been continuing between his ruling administration and former member Councilllor McAllister, saying: Im friends with Caroline and Im not aware of any issues. We had an informal chat about potentially after the election, seeing how things were and we might be in a position to bring Caroline back into the administration in a kind of coalition, but a more formal coalition, as you would with another party but the group had a meeting and decided thats not something that we want to do at this point as a group. We are quite comfortable continuing to operate as a minority administration. Caroline was elected on the same platform as us so obviously we share the same views on a lot of things, so I imagine she will support a lot of what we are going to do. Weve got a protocol in place whereby we are going to have discussions with Caroline before council and committees and see if there are areas we can agree on and Caroline is certainly not about to do anything to remove the SNP from the administration in West Dunbartonshire. But he flatly denied interference from party HQ had terminated any discussions on coalition working with the defected councillor, adding: Its just not one that weve gone with but theres been no intervention from HQ, it wasnt as if we proposed a coalition and HQ said no. The council leader also played down claims that the selection of Toni Giugliano to contest the Dumbarton seat had caused fractures. He said: Toni put his name forward as a candidate just like everybody else. A number of local people stood and Toni made the best argument to the local members and it was the local members that selected him. He denied Councillor McNair was holding her seat on West Dunbartonshire Council to shore up the minority administration, saying: When she spoke to me about it, she feels very strongly that she doesnt want to abandon her council constituents and doesnt want them to feel like shes now been elected to the lofty heights of parliament so shes going to step away from council. The council leader rubbished claims of existing tensions between local members and HQ, saying: I dont know why Caroline would feel that way but its certainly not the way I feel. Shes the only member of the group that has expressed disquiet to me about anything major. Theres disagreement on things like the Gender Recognition Act but the people who disagreed with that to the extent that it was upsetting for them, they have left the party so those are the people who were feeling the tension. For more local news, click here | https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/could-west-dunbartonshire-set-political-24250948 |
Is carbon the 'crop' of the future? | Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain An increasing awareness and concern about the environment, changes in government policy, America's re-entry into the Paris Agreement and a robust demand for carbon offsets all point toward an appetite for a different type of agricultural cropcarbon. "There has been an increasing amount of discussion on how to create a way for farmers to earn credits for the climate-friendly practices they have implemented or will implement on their operations," said Joe Outlaw, co-director of the Agriculture and Food Policy Center at the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and economist with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. "One of these ways is through carbon farming that would allow for the capture or sequestration of soil organic carbon, making it possible for the sale of carbon credits to corporations so they may offset their greenhouse gas emissions." However, many questions on the efficacy of carbon farming and its worth to the farmer are as yet unanswered. The Carbon Cycle Carbon constantly cycles through Earth. Light energy from the sun functions as fuel for the carbon cyclea natural process that moves carbon through our atmosphere, biosphere, pedosphere, lithosphere and oceans. "Human activity has created the need to extract huge amounts of deeply sequestered fossil carbon in the form of fossil fuels," said Katie with Texas A&M AgriLife Research, a soil fertility scientist in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Lubbock. "When burned, these dense forms of carbon release massive amounts of carbon dioxide." She said more carbon dioxide is now being released than the earth's land-based plant life and oceans can naturally reabsorb. This excess carbon dioxide forms a blanket in our atmosphere, trapping the sun's heat and leading to changes in the climate. Worldwide, soils are estimated to contain about 10 times the amount of carbon in the atmospherefar more than what is found in normal vegetation. "Carbon farming is seen as a way to help restore balance within the carbon cycle," Lewis said. "It also helps soil build a resilience to drought and increases agricultural productivity in a natural way." "The idea behind carbon farming is pretty simpleremove excess carbon from the atmosphere and store it in the soil, where it will facilitate plant growth," Lewis said. Carbon farming involves implementing agricultural practices that improve the rate at which carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere and converted to plant material and soil organic matter. It works by applying agricultural methods such as no-till or conservation tilling for minimal soil disturbance, mulching, composting, rotating livestock and using cover crops as ways of sequestering carbon in the soil. "Carbon loss from the soil is mainly due to the removal of plant materials that contain carbon, usually at harvest," Lewis said. "Changes in land management can cause soil carbon increases or decreases, creating a new equilibrium. Variation in climate can also change this equilibrium. Carbon farming can be considered successful when the net amount of soil carbon captured or sequestered exceeds the amount lost." Lewis said to accurately estimate soil carbon storage or stocks, soil samples should be collected at a depth that will determine bulk density and organic carbon using a dry combustion method. "Bulk density is required to convert organic carbon percentage to an actual quantity of carbon in the soil, a stock," she said. "The depth of sample collection will be dependent on the depth of the soil and the cropping history. Deeper depths are likely where there is greater storage potential." Lewis said another method of estimating carbon storage is through a modeling approach based on management practices implemented within a farming operation. "Model outputs should then be verified using laboratory tests," she said. In all, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture has identified at least 32 on-farm conservation practices known to improve soil health and sequester carbon. These practices also provide other benefits in relation to water retention, hydrological function, biodiversity and resilience. Banking On A Carbon Bank "Recently, there have been discussions about creating a 'carbon bank' at the USDA that would buy and sell carbon credits from farmers," Outlaw said. "The credits could then be sold to corporations needing to offset their emissions." This concept, which has received support from a number of farm, food, forestry and environmental groups, also makes accommodations for early adopters who have led the way in carbon-sequestration practices. "There hasn't been a nationwide cap-and-trade effort here in the U.S. for more than a decade, but currently there does appear to be a growing demand for carbon offsets," Outlaw said. "There are already a number of private credit markets or carbon payment programs being contemplated or developed. That seems to support the notion that carbon farming could potentially be a way for farmers to generate additional income." However, for the overall framework of carbon farming to be successful, it would have to include sound policies, public-private partnerships, accurate quantification methodologies and supportive financing to efficiently implement direct, science-based solutions, Outlaw said. "It will also have to be done at a scale where we can achieve measurable carbon capture that promotes regenerative agriculture focused on creating and maintaining healthy soils that absorb and store carbon," he said. The jury is still out on whether carbon farming may be sustainable in the long run. "There are many technical and regulatory barriers to overcome, as well as concerns by some environmentalists that even its widespread implementation will not substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions or will provide only a temporary solution," Outlaw said. He said there is also concern that carbon farming will primarily benefit certain agricultural regions. Additionally, many farmers may not be able to afford the cost of implementing environmentally beneficial measures without some sort of financial assistance. Some farmers have been able to receive government payments from the NRCS's Conservation Stewardship Program to cover the cost of implementing certain conservation measures. However, that funding is capped by the farm bill and there is no long-term assurance of continued payments. "At this time, there's really no way to know if carbon farming would be an effective way to fight climate change, but there is no doubt there are many ways to make changes in land management that would improve soil health and benefit the environment," Outlaw said. Studies on soil organic carbon sequestration show the Corn Belt, with its good soil, mild climate and reliable rainfall, is one of the best prospects for viable carbon farming. Also, regions of the southern U.S. with long growing seasons and sufficient rainfall, as well as those with substantial irrigation, make viable opportunities for carbon farming. "Carbon farming likely will be more of a challenge for farmers in hot, dry areas of the country," Outlaw said. "That's why there seems to be support for a voluntary system that accommodates for climate differences while providing a range of options farmers and ranchers can choose from to determine the best program for their land." The USDA has a web-based tool called COMET-Farm to help farmers interested in transitioning to carbon-sequestering practices. The tool provides an approximate carbon footprint from data supplied by the user and allows farmers to investigate different land management scenarios to see which may work best for them. It also guides the user through describing farm and ranch management practices, including alternative future management scenarios. Once complete, a report is generated comparing the carbon changes and greenhouse gas emissions between the current management practices and future scenarios. "As an economist and someone who has spent many years in agriculture, my advice would be for producers to do their homework and assess the pros, cons and costs of carbon farming versus its potential economic and other benefits to their operations, then decide if it works for them," Outlaw said. Explore further Tropical forest soils capture carbon under elevated nitrogen deposition | https://phys.org/news/2021-06-carbon-crop-future.html |
Did heat from impacts on asteroids provide the ingredients for life on Earth? | Figure 1. The two-stage horizontal gas gun located at Kobe University. A research group from Kobe University has demonstrated that the heat generated by the impact of a small astronomical body could enable aqueous alteration and organic solid formation to occur on the surface of an asteroid. They achieved this by first conducting high-velocity impact cratering experiments using an asteroid-like target material and measuring the post-impact heat distribution around the resulting crater. From these results, they then established a rule-of-thumb for maximum temperature and the duration of the heating, and developed a heat conduction model from this. The research group consisted of the following members from Kobe University's Graduate School of Science; Lecturer YASUI Minami, TAZAWA Taku (a 2nd year masters student at the time of research), HASHIMOTO Ryohei (then a 4th year undergraduate in the Faculty of Science) and Professor ARAKAWA Masahiko, in addition to JAXA Space Exploration Center's Associate Senior Researcher OGAWA Kazunori (who was a technical specialist at Kobe University at the time of the study). These results have expanded the spatial and temporal range over which the necessary conditions for aqueous alteration and organic solid formation could occur. This is expected to significantly increase the number of prospective astronomical bodies that could have brought water and the origins of life to Earth. These research results were published in the British scientific journal Communications Earth and Environmenton May 18, 2021. Main Points The researchers used porous gypsum as an imitation asteroid and inserted multiple thermocouples inside it. They conducted high-velocity impact experiments on this target at impact speeds of 1 km/s and over, and succeeded in measuring changes in temperature duration around the resulting crater soon after impact. This revealed that, regardless of the impact speed and projectile's size and density, the maximum temperature and its duration were dependent upon dimensionless distance (the distance from the impact point scaled by the crater radius). Using the above results, the researchers calculated the temporal changes in thermal heat distribution after the crater's formation on the asteroid's surface. These calculations suggested that, at distances within 2 astronomical units, aqueous alteration can occur if the crater has a radius of over 20 km, and organic solid formation can be supported by craters of over 1 km. These findings will enable an increased number of astronomical bodies to be considered as candidates for the source of the water and organic substances necessary for the beginning of life on Earth. Figure 2. Example of thermal changes: The x-axis indicates the elapsed time, with 0 being the time of impact. The y axis shows the differences in temperature from pre-impact onwards. This impact was made by an aluminum projectile with an impact velocity of 4.3km/s. The different colored lines indicate the distance between the point of impact and the thermocouples. The duration is the time that it takes for the maximum temperature to drop by half. The photo shows the impact crater. Thermocouples were embedded in the target. Research Background It is believed that the water and organic substances necessary for life to begin on Earth were the result of a comet or asteroid impacting the planet. Minerals and organic substances that have experienced aqueous alteration have been discovered in meteorites (from which asteroids originate), providing proof that they once contained water. However, a heat source is necessary for the chemical reactions that cause aqueous alteration and organic solid formation inside asteroids. One sufficiently strong heat source is the radioactive decay heating of 26Al, a short-lived radioactive nuclide found inside rocks. However, it is said that the radioactive heating that caused aqueous alteration and solid formation on asteroid parent bodies (*4) could have only occurred at the beginning of the solar system's history due to the short half-life of 26Al (720,000 years). In recent years, the theory that the impact heat generated when a small astronomical body hits an asteroid could also be a viable heat source has started to gain attention. However, it is not known how much heat is generated depending on the astronomical body's characteristics (size, density, impact speed) and how far within the asteroid this generated heat is transmitted. Up until now, there have been no studies that have experimentally investigated this heat generation and propagation process to determine whether aqueous alteration and organic substance formation would be possible. Figure 3. A. Relationship between maximum temperature and dimensionless distance. B. Relationship between duration and dimensionless distance. Duration is scaled by thermal diffusion (*6) time. The colors indicate different projectiles and impact speeds: PC is a polycarbonate sphere with a diameter of 4.7mm and Al is an aluminum sphere with a diameter of 2mm. Research Methodology This research group conducted laboratory experiments to investigate the relationship between the impact heat generated on an asteroid (as a result of a small astronomical body's impact) and the impact's characteristics. For the target, they used gypsum (a porous mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate) to imitate an asteroid. They accelerated projectiles at the target at high impact velocities of between 1 km/s to 5 km/s using Kobe University's two-stage horizontal gas gun (Figure 1). Multiple thermocouples were set in the gypsum target in order to measure the temperature changes post-impact. In this series of experiments, the researchers changed the size, density, impact speed of the projectiles and the thermocouples' positions in order to investigate the differences in heat duration depending on the characteristics of the impact (Figure 2). From the heat duration graph, the research group investigated the maximum temperature and its duration, and looked at how this related to the impact characteristics (Figure 3). By using the dimensionless distance obtained by normalizing the distance from the impact point (where the projectile hit the target) by the crater radius, they successfully determined how maximum temperature and its duration are altered by impact characteristics and came up with a rule-of-thumb for this. Subsequently constructing a heat conduction model incorporating this rule of thumb, enabled them to calculate the heat distribution around the crater formed on the asteroid surface (Figure 4). The research group checked the numerical results from the heat conduction model against data on the required heat and duration for aqueous alteration and organic solid formation obtained from past analyses of meteorites. These results showed that aqueous alteration could occur if a crater with a radius of over 20 km was formed within 2au from the sun. In addition, they estimated that even a small crater with a 100m radius on an asteroid within 4au could heat up to 100 degrees Celsius, meaning that it could support organic solid formation. Most asteroids are located within 4 au. The researchers also found that if a crater with a radius of over 1 km is formed within 2au, the circumference of the crater can heat up to 0 degrees Celsius (the temperature at which ice becomes water), thus enabling organic solids to be formed. Figure 4. Heat distribution around the crater floor of asteroid parent bodies calculated using the Heat conduction model: The dotted lines are isotherm contour lines. The numbers that meet the isotherm contour lines indicate the value obtained when normalizing the distance from the impact point by the crater radius. Further Developments It is thought that radioactive decay heating of 26Al triggers the chemical reactions for aqueous alteration and organic solid formation on asteroids. However, this heating can only occur near the core of comparatively large asteroids that are tens of kilometers in diameter. Furthermore, it is said that this could have only occurred within a million years after the sun's formation due to the short half-life of 26Al. On the other hand, collisions between asteroids still occur today, and it is possible that such collisions heat up the surface of even small asteroids, providing that the impact does not destroy the asteroid itself. In other words, these research results show that the potential for asteroids to support aqueous alteration and organic solid formation is temporarily and spatially far greater than previously thought. This will contribute towards an increased number of astrological bodies being considered as candidates that brought the water and organic substances for the beginning of life on Earth. Next the research group hopes to examine samples returned from asteroid exploration missions conducted not only by Japan but other countries as well. If aqueously altered minerals or organic substances were to be discovered in the collected samples, this could provide evidence of impact heating's effects. Explore further Research sheds light on origins, age of massive impact crater More information: Minami Yasui et al, Impacts may provide heat for aqueous alteration and organic solid formation on asteroid parent bodies, Communications Earth & Environment (2021). Journal information: Communications Earth & Environment Minami Yasui et al, Impacts may provide heat for aqueous alteration and organic solid formation on asteroid parent bodies,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-021-00159-x | https://phys.org/news/2021-06-impacts-asteroids-ingredients-life-earth.html |
What is blues music? | Blues is both a musical form and a musical genre. Blues gets its name from its original association with melancholy subjects and sounds: when we have the blues, were feeling sad. However, blues has since developed to address other subjects and emotions, adopting a wider purpose of chasing the blues away with music. Advertisement The main features of blues include: specific chord progressions, a walking bass, call and response, dissonant harmonies, syncopation, melisma and flattened blue notes. Blues is known for being microtonal, using pitches between the semitones defined by a piano keyboard. This is often achieved on electric guitar using a metal slide for a whining effect. As a result, blues can be heavily chromatic. The blues scale from which most of the melody, harmony and improvisations are composed is a six-note scale that consists of the minor pentatonic scale plus an extra flattened fifth note. There are also longer variations of the blues scale that use further chromaticism, most notably flattening the third, fifth and seventh notes. The most common blues form is the twelve-bar blues, though musicians will sometimes favour the eight or 16-bar blues forms. The twelve-bar blues uses a basic chord progression of: I I I I V V I I V IV I I. This is normally accompanied by an AAB structure for its lyrics, utilising the popular call-and-response element that blues originated from. As blues has developed over the years, it has encouraged a number of subgenres to flourish, often including hybrids with other genres, including blues rock and country blues. Other subgenres are defined by their development within a certain place, such as Chicago blues and Delta blues. Blues originated in the Deep South after the US Civil War in the 19th century, evolving from the oral tradition of African American work songs and spirituals, which featured the call-and-response patterns that are still prominent in blues today. It came into mainstream popularity in the 1920s when it also developed its common AAB lyric pattern. Blues songs were centred around the pain of loss and injustice but also expressed the victory in outlasting these painful experiences. The music also originated with a slow tempo that has since become faster with its increase in popularity. Blues is a predecessor to and foundation of jazz. While there are some elements that overlap, jazz and blues use similar features in different ways. Both styles of music use improvisation but in blues this is reserved for a soloist in a set number of bars and over a strict chord progression, whereas jazz ensembles often improvise together and for an unlimited amount of time. Generally, jazz is less strict and more polyphonic than blues, using a wide variety of chord progressions. It is also more likely to be purely instrumental, while blues most often centres a vocalist who leads call-and-response and articulates the musics subject matter. There is also significant overlap in the instruments typically used in both genres, though again jazz tends to create more diverse ensembles. More often than not, blues bands feature the following instruments: guitar (usually electric), drums, double bass (pizzicato), piano, saxophone and brass instruments (often with mutes). This ensemble usually accompanies a leading vocalist, but they also have the opportunity for instrumental solos. Advertisement Top image shows American blues musician and singer Muddy Waters (1913 1983) in concert, circa 1970. (Photo by Val Wilmer/Redferns/Getty Images) | https://www.classical-music.com/features/articles/blues-music/ |
How did businesses fare during the 87th Texas Legislature? | AUSTIN (Austin Business Journal) The 87th Texas Legislature began with a wave of uncertainty. Lawmakers faced a potential multibillion-dollar budget shortfall. The COVID-19 pandemic was still raging, and vaccines werent yet widely available. Lobbyists faced the prospect of having limited access to the State Capitol. Those dark clouds parted swiftly. The vaccine rollout kicked into overdrive as COVID-19 cases in the United States plummeted. The Capitol slowly opened up, with business approaching normal by mid-May. Most importantly, the financial picture cleared up as more optimistic economic forecasts trickled in. The federal tooth fairy came down and waved its magic wand, and the budget shortfall disappeared, explained lobbyist Royce Poinsett of Poinsett PLLC. You can read the rest of the story on the Austin Business Journals website, and KXAN News Today anchor Tom Miller spoke with Paul Thompson of the Austin Business Journal about what the legislature passed, and didnt pass, that affected businesses in Austin. | https://www.kxan.com/news/how-did-businesses-fare-during-the-87th-texas-legislature/ |
What do the symbols on the dollar bill mean? | Although a lot is said letter or symbol that reflect illuminati, reptiles and Freemasons, everything is wrong, this is the true meaning of letter or symbol that appear on the card dollar. If youre a fan of conspiracy theories, youve surely heard that some of the symbols that appear on the dollar bill are signs that the Illuminati, Freemasons, Reptiles, or other forces are in control of the world and are behind everything. As appealing as they may be, all these stories are no more than that, because the true meaning is a bit far from what these hypotheses imply. The dollar bill is perhaps the most studied in all of history. It was first synthesized in 1963 and since then it has been in the hands of millions of people. Among the signs that cause the greatest confusion are the broken pyramid that shows an eye at the top, as well as an eagle with 13 stars on its head, as well as some phrases in Latin. Although these symbols are repeated within Freemasonry and the Enlightenment, this does not mean that they are societies behind everything and even government United State. According to the official interpretation of the United States, the pyramid represents the strength and durability of this country, and it is incomplete because it is a symbol of the work of Americans in building and creating a nation in continuous growth. While it is widely believed that it is the eye that sees everything, and that it controls everything, it is not necessarily about that. According to Benjamin Franklins story, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams came together to try to create a design on the bill, and although the pyramid was never in the plan, including the eye was always part of the plan. The above because they wanted to include a Christian symbol inside the coin representing the Eye of Providence. In other words, a symbol of Gods constant vigilance in mankind. In fact, it was a fairly popular symbol at the end of the eighteenth century. Another question is the constant appearance of Number 13, which is reflected in the number of stars on the head of the eagle, 13 leaves and 13 fruits on its legs, and 13 arrows on the other leg; In addition to the 13 steps that the pyramid has. Usually this number is associated with a positive attribute of Freemasonry denoting transformation. But what it really stands for are the original thirteen colonies that made up the United States and that became independent. Latin phrases have always been something to talk about. One is on the pyramid and says Annuit Coeptus and the other is Novo Ordo Seclorum. Both are related to the Christian system in the United States to which they refer; Our Company Is Successful and The New Age System which are the religious inspiration they had to rule the nation. However, conspiracy theorists have always wanted to reflect on the one-dollar bill the origin and power of the United States of America. However, it is probably just a random and well-designed way to put the symbols on a banknote. | https://www.sundayvision.co.ug/what-do-the-symbols-on-the-dollar-bill-mean/ |
Why Does Anyone Care About a Superyacht? | Spend any time consuming news media, and youll develop a keen sense for what sort of stories reliably move the needle with readers: celebrity couplings, celebrity marriages, celebrity divorces, hideous real estate, crooked pols, lost fortunes, overnight millionaires, inexpensive beach vacations, feuding royals and, of course, possible UFOs. Theres also a thriving industry of upbeat, animal-based media, from Very Large Pets to Bears in Pools, and my personal favorite, Unlikely Animal Buddies (dog palling around with a tortoise, tortoise palling around with a squirrel, squirrel palling around with a crooked pol aboard a possible UFO.) I believe we can safely add another topic to the list of attention-grabbing gold: Superyachts. Superyacht coverage falls attractively into the media Venn diagram between This is Outrageous Consumerism and OK Fine I Need to Look at These Crazy Pictures. I want to ignore such pieces, but I cant resist. Put me within 10 nautical miles of a superyacht story, and Im paddling over in a kayak to gawk at the absurdist spending, the daffy, futuristic designs (most superyachts look like pirate-themed Atlantic City casinos) and, of course, the luxuriant details, from restaurant-grade kitchens to screening rooms to velvety libraries of never-cracked books. | https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-does-anyone-care-about-a-superyacht-11622813532 |
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