World-Leading Experts Headline COVID-19 Summit Hosted by WTTC & Carnival Corporation – PRNewswire

Posted on by

LONDON, July 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) together with the world's largest cruise company, Carnival Corporation& plc(NYSE/LSE: CCL;NYSE: CUK) today announced more world-leading scientific and medical experts participating in the WTTC/Carnival Corporation Global Science Summit on COVID-19 on July 28.

Together, with the panelists already announced, this distinguished group of top global medical, epidemiology and public health experts will focus on the science of COVID-19 and the "new normal."

Scheduled for Tuesday, July 28 from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. GMT (10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EDT), the virtual event will explore the most up-to-date science and medical evidence available to inform practical, adaptable and science-based solutions for mitigating and living with COVID-19.

Open to the public, the event is free to attend. To register and see more information, including the current full lineup of top experts, please go to CovidScienceSummit.com.

The WTTC/Carnival Corporation Global Science Summit on COVID-19 will include a series of panels focusing on critical areas of science related to COVID-19. During a combination of science-based discussions sharing the latest knowledge of key topic areas, speakers will examine the epidemiology of the virus, transmission, testing, prevention, treatments, vaccines and approaches to help mitigate and live with COVID-19.

The additional panelists, in alphabetic order, include the following:

Gloria Guevara, WTTC president & CEO, said: "We are privileged to welcome these esteemed experts who each offer valuable insight on how best to apply the latest science and medical-evidence to address the many practical questions people have about living in a world with COVID-19. Now is the time to engage in open discussion on how we as leaders and global citizens alike can join forces to best manage this international crisis. I am delighted that WTTC and Carnival Corporation are collaborating on a forum for these important conversations."

Arnold Donald, president & CEO of Carnival Corporation, is a member of the WTTC Executive Committee and its vice chair for North America. Carnival Corporation designed and produced the summit in close coordination with WTTC leadership.

"We are grateful to the many highly regarded and well-respected experts who have agreed to participate in this very important scientific summit their names are well-known among those at the forefront of the COVID-19 battle," said Donald. "Their insights will be incredibly helpful as businesses and governments alike seek to better understand COVID-19's impact on society, and as together we consider safe and practical evidence-based practices for mitigating and living with the virus."

Summit will discuss practical approaches to living in a world with COVID-19

The summit will be attended by global tourism leaders, including WTTC Members, government agencies, destination partners, trade and private businesses and the general public for this sharing of real-time insights and the latest scientific findings from across all fields of knowledge in the public and private sectors. Panels will focus on the following key topic areas:

Registration Details

To register and for more information, including the current full lineup of top experts, please go to CovidSummitScience.Com. Participants will be invited to submit questions in advance and during the online event. Members of the media are welcome to join for all or part of the sessions or connect with members and/or presenters.

About WTTC

Evidence from WTTC's Crisis Readiness report, which looked at 90 different types of crises, highlights the importance of public-private cooperation to ensure that smart policies and effective communities are in place to enable a more resilient travel and tourism sector.

According to WTTC's 2020 Economic Impact Report, during 2019, Travel &Tourism was responsible for one in 10 jobs (330 million total), making a 10.3% contribution to global GDP and generating one in four of all new jobs.

About Carnival Corporation & plcCarnival Corporation & plc is one of the world's largest leisure travel companies with a portfolio of nine of the world's leading cruise lines. With operations in North America, Australia, Europe and Asia, its portfolio features Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard.

Additional information can be found on http://www.carnival.com, http://www.princess.com, http://www.hollandamerica.com, http://www.seabourn.com, http://www.pocruises.com.au, http://www.costacruise.com, http://www.aida.de, http://www.pocruises.comand http://www.cunard.com.

SOURCE Carnival Corporation & plc

http://www.carnival.com

Read this article:

World-Leading Experts Headline COVID-19 Summit Hosted by WTTC & Carnival Corporation - PRNewswire

Where To Travel Now: Turks And Caicos – Forbes

Posted on by

Turks and Caicos is open to travelers.

Turks and Caicos reopened its crystalline waters to travelers July 22. While many countries have closed their borders to Americans, the archipelago joins Caribbean islands like Aruba, the Dominican Republic and St. Lucia in welcoming U.S. tourists.

A luxury destination, the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is renowned for its powdery sands and its crystal-clear turquoise water. It has one of the lowest annual rainfall averages in the region, which ensures plenty of sun-drenched days to enjoy its pristine beaches. Another bonus for those who dont want to spend a lot of time on a plane: TCI is 3.5-hour plane ride from New York and about two hours from Miami.

After months in lockdown, TCI says its following the proper reopening procedures. We are taking every precaution to ensure the Islands are safe and to enhance the exceptional experience and care afforded by the destination and our world-class hospitality partners, says Pamela Ewing, director of tourism for the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board. Our intention is to cautiously reboot the tourism sector, laying the foundation for short- and long-term recovery. TCI reported 81 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and two related deaths, as of July 20, 2020.

Forbes Travel Guide offers some insight into planning a trip to the British overseas territory and shares what to expect when youre there. Since restrictions concerning the coronavirus can change, its important to check the latest updates from the TCI government and heed guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when traveling.

The adult pool at Grace Bay Club.

How To Get There

An escape to paradise requires some legwork before grabbing your passport and boarding a plane. Proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test, which must be taken within five days of travel (children under 10 are exempt), and medical or travel insurance (it has to cover a medevac) are required. You also have to fill out an online health screening and travel authorization form 72 hours before arrival to the island; approval is granted within a few hours, the tourism bureau says.

Once you land at the airport, temperature checks and a screening will be conducted. You also may be subject to COVID-19 testing.

Pack Your Masks

Facial coverings are required in all public spaces, though there are some exceptions, like at the beach, but you should maintain a six-foot buffer from other parties. You will need to wear a mask upon entering restaurants, but it can be removed once you are seated.

Wymara Resort and Villas' newly renovated accommodations will debut August 13.

What to Expect at Hotels

Weve shared what you can expect at a hotel during COVID, from the culinary experiences to the spa and gym. Many TCI properties are adopting these measures, but are adding some unique options, from the types of accommodations to activities.

A stay on the main island, Providenciales (nicknamed Provo) revolves around hotels, since thats where the beaches are. In Grace Bay, Wymara Resort and Villas wont book rooms in the main resort until August 13, but theres an incentive to wait: newly renovated accommodations will make their debut. The boutique hotel has opened its seven villas, which seem made for social distancing. While the four- and five-bedroom abodes boast top-of-the-line amenities (like Cuisinart appliances, Wolf cooktops and Sub-Zero refrigerators), youll likely be more interested in the fact that each comes with two pools and an over-the-water swim platform with direct ocean access.

Farther east, Grace Bay Club has its own collection of luxury villas that come with a private chef and bartender (extra fees are incurred for the food and drinks), though the all-suite hotel has plenty of spacious accommodations at the main resort.

Unwind in The Shore Club Turks and Caicos.

If you prefer a more secluded location, opt for The Shore Club Turks and Caicos, which sits along Long Bay Beach on the southeast side of Provo. Its gated villas have six bedrooms, plunge pools and a dedicated butler.

When it comes time for some fun in the sun, Wymara curates island activities that cater to small groups of families or friends traveling together. According to the hotel, a popular excursion is the power snorkel. A handheld propulsion unit lets snorkelers zip through the water and take in the vistas, including a dramatic 7,000-foot drop at the edge of the reef. In addition, there are bird-watching tours and Provo Ponies, where you can ride a horse onto the beach and into the water.

At Grace Bay Club, the staff wears palm-patterned masks, though guests are not required to wear them while on property. The iconic hotel says that social distancing will be in effect for all activities, including its complimentary outdoor yoga class near the adult pool. The hotels 1,100 feet of beachfront allows for plenty of naturally spaced-out fun, including volleyball, Hobie Cats, kayaking and more.

Linger by the pool at The Palms Turks and Caicos.

Sister properties The Palms Turks and Caicos and The Shore Club Turks and Caicos anticipate that demand will increase for their pool cabanas, which afford privacy for small groups and allow for physical distancing. Both hotels have rolled out enhanced menus to feed those lingering at the cabanas all day.

The Palms and The Shore Club also expect more guests to opt to dine inside their rooms. They have expanded their room service offerings and will add a family-style menu. Plus, any dish from the onsite restaurants can be delivered, perhaps with one of the new immune-boosting beverages, like the ginger, lemon and honey shots.

Grace Bay Club wanted to accommodate guests who might be uncomfortable leaving its grounds, so it launched a meal inclusive package that takes care of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The beach is calling.

What to Expect at Restaurants

For those who want to venture out for meals, most restaurants on the island are open, the tourism board says. You should consult your hotel concierge for the most up-to-date list.

If you are hesitant about dining out, look for restaurants brandishing a TCI Assured decal. As part of the governments TCI Assured program, the designation indicates the restaurant submitted a reopening plan and passed a health department inspection.

Read the original post:

Where To Travel Now: Turks And Caicos - Forbes

Tips on Finding a Rental While You’re Traveling the World – Breaking Travel News

Posted on by

Short-term rentals are a popular form of accommodation for travelers, as they have the opportunity to stay somewhere wonderful for a short amount of time, without having to worry about the expense of a hotel. However, its not always that easy to find the perfect rental, especially in a competitive market. In this article, well talk about some tips to help you find an apartment when youre traveling the world.

Write down your necessities The first thing youll want to do when looking at short-term rentals is to write down the necessities that you need. For example, youll most likely want a place that is already furnished, with all the essentials already provided. You might also need a place that is close to public transport, or a particular school, etc. Make a list, and keep it with you when you are searching for locations, it will definitely help.

Check out the different locations The next step is to look at the various suburbs and neighborhoods in the town/city you wish to stay. You want to be somewhere safe, with friendly neighbors and plenty of shops close by. Try taking out a map, and search for the most popular areas. This way, you know where to start searching. Visiting Canada? Check out Furnished Apartments Toronto here.

Set yourself a reasonable budget If youre traveling, chances are youre probably looking for somewhere affordable. Before you get too ahead of yourself, try setting yourself a reasonable budget that you know you can afford. If youre working abroad, try and estimate how much you earn each month, so that you can set aside money for your bills. Groceries and rent should always come first, but dont be afraid to save a little money for yourself on the side.

Check out the place and make an impression It would be best if you always visited a site in person before making any decisions, as you want to make sure that it is right for you. It also gives you the opportunity to stand out amongst other competitors, as you can speak directly with the real estate agent or landlord. Make sure you keep any rental references with you when you visit, as it makes you look organized and respectable.

Understand you wont be able to have everything Lastly, its important not to set your standards too high for a short-term apartment, as it is unlikely that you will find absolutely everything you desire. A place, close to transport, with a bath, fully-furnished and affordable is just too good to be true. As long as you are safe, happy, and have the necessities, thats really all that matters, as you wont be there for a very long time.

While it might seem a bit daunting at first, its important to remember not to give up. Youll find the perfect place eventually so that you can relax, enjoy your stay, and then move on and get ready for your next destination! Good luck, and remember youve got this!

Visit link:

Tips on Finding a Rental While You're Traveling the World - Breaking Travel News

Portugal Says Exclusion From UK’s Safe Travel List ‘Not Backed by Facts’ – The New York Times

Posted on by

LISBON Britain's decision to persist with a quarantine regime for travellers from Portugal, which has hit the tourism-dependant country hard, is not supported by facts, its foreign minister said on Friday.

Portugal initially won praise for its quick response to the pandemic but a steady count of several hundred new cases per day in and around Lisbon in the past two months has worried authorities at home and abroad.

It was this month left off an initial list of more than 50 countries Britain considered safe enough for travel without coronavirus-related restrictions, and left off again when London updated the list on Friday, adding more countries including Estonia and Slovakia.

Portugal regretted a decision "that is neither substantiated nor backed by the facts," Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva tweeted.

The need for holidaymakers returning to Britain from Portugal to quarantine for 14 days has particularly affected the southern Algarve region, popular among Britons for its sandy beaches and golf courses.

Other European nations including Ireland, Belgium and Finland have also imposed travel restrictions on Portugal.

Spain, meanwhile, has stayed on the UK safe list, despite a sharp increase in new cases.

(Reporting by Catarina Demony, Editing by Ingrid Melander and John Stonestreet)

Read the original:

Portugal Says Exclusion From UK's Safe Travel List 'Not Backed by Facts' - The New York Times

Gregory backpack is releasing the industry’s first plus-size backpack – Business Insider – Business Insider

Posted on by

Over the last few decades, the outdoor gear industry made innovation after innovation in product designs. Jackets are now waterproof yet surprisingly breathable, tents are so impressively lightweight one might mistake the aluminum poles for bird bones. But you still can't buy a plus-size hiking backpack.

"When I think about it too much, I get really angry about it," Jenny Bruso, the self-described queer, fat, femme writer and hiker behind the popular Instagram account Unlikely Hikers told Business Insider.

That's why backpack maker Gregory's announcement that they're releasing the industry's first line of plus-size backpacks in Spring 2021 is such big news. Finally, hikers and travelers will have size-inclusive backpacks that reflect the diversity of their bodies. And Bruso, whose frustrations with the industry is a driving force behind her activism within it, is partnering with Gregory to develop the line. The release will include more than 20 different plus-size packs across the day hiking, multi-day backpacking, hydration and lifestyle categories.

"We didn't want to do a partial launch that was like one or two products in black and grey," Gregory Marketing Manager Lindsey Malone said about the robustness of their launch line. "We wanted to do it right if we were going to do it."

The result of that determination to get it right led Gregory to its partnership with Bruso. Bruso has been an outspoken activist for inclusivity and body liberation within the outdoor world since she herself first got into hiking eight years ago and didn't see people like heror really anyone outside of the white, thin, straight, cis categoryrepresented in the industry or on the trails in the pacific northwest where she lives. She started Unlikely Hikers for "everyone who doesn't see themselves represented or invited to the table." Gregory's team didn't want to assume they'd know what would work for plus-size hikersthey wanted real, unfiltered feedback from hikers themselves, and they saw Bruso as the perfect person to help them make their product line more genuinely inclusive.

"There was no hesitation, I was so thrilled about it," Bruso said of Gregory's offer for the paid partnership. Bruso, her partner, and hikers in the Unlikely Hikers group hikes that Bruso leads have tested current Gregory products and provided Gregory with feedback on fit, function, and even colors, which Gregory is using to develop prototypes.

Malone sees this project as an answer to a problem that Gregory, along with many other retailers in the outdoor industry, put a band-aid on for years: their backpacks weren't size-inclusive, but some retailers make hip-belt extenders that increase the size ranges of their existing products.

After years of not offering actually size-inclusive products, Malone says Gregory, a brand that prides itself on being fit experts, wants this launch to be a thorough answer to the industry's size inclusivity shortcomings. According to Gregory, the new line includes "wider shoulder harness angles, extended shoulder harness lengths, and a much larger hip belt fit." They wanted to develop a line of well-researched products for experienced and entry-level hikers alike, in multiple colors, and at different price points.

"There are going to be options and it's going to continue to grow," Malone said.

But beyond just size inclusivity, this product line is a much-needed step towards finally recognizing and championing diversity in the outdoor industry, which has historical issues with representation.

"One thing I noticed pretty early on is there was just a very narrow definition of who was outdoorsy, and it was perpetrated by social media and advertising," Bruso said.

Edith Bernier, author of blog The Plus Size Backpacker which launched in 2013, refers to the prevailing image within the outdoor and travel world "the Insta Babes," by which she means the type of conventionally attractive, white influencers who post highly produced photos of themselves doing yoga poses on top of mountains during sunsets with captions about feeling "aligned."

"It's a very white, thin world. And privileged," Bernier said. That was even more true when she first started blogging in 2013, but even as the hiking and travel world has become more diverse in real life, many people still don't see themselves represented.

Beyond the discouragement from participation in the outdoor and travel world that comes from lack of representation, the lack of actually inclusive gear presents logistical problems that can be even more exclusionary.

"It could be quite discouraging to try to see yourself on Machu Picchu when you look at all the things you have to get that fit your body," Bernier said. When she first went to buy a backpacking pack for her global travels, Bernier went to MEC, a Canadian outfitters store similar to REI. "I tried maybe 20 backpacks that day and finally settled for one. That was the only one that fit my body back then."

Bruso says not having gear that fits tells plus-size hikers they're not wanted. "Not having the gear you need to do the thing you need to do sends a message that you're not being considered, that maybe they really don't want you out on the trail."

Hiking and travel gear is also expensive. And it can be even more expensive for plus-size folks because of what Bernier calls the "fat tax."

"Everything becomes more expensive when you're a bigger person."

To combat that discriminatory expense, Gregory will be pricing their new line of plus-size packs at the exact same price point as their current line of products.

Bruso first coined the term "unlikely hiker" when referring to herself as such in a blog post chronicling her early years of becoming an outdoors person eight years ago.

The term is catchy, tongue-in-cheek, a reclamation, and beautifully open-ended. Many people were quick to adopt the description for themselves, demonstrating that diverse hikers have been out on the trails, even if the industry didn't recognize them, and they wanted to be represented. Suddenly Bruso's blog of one became a community of thousands.

Unlikely Hikers is now much more than an incredibly successful Instagram page. It's also an in-person hiking meetup with monthly events in Portland, Oregon, and pop-ups in other areas of the country (though COVID-19 has put those on hiatus); it's a podcast; and it's a community for anyone who wants to support body liberation, anti-racism, and diversity in the outdoors.

Bernier's blog has turned into a book deal. Her guide to combatting fat-phobia will be out this September.

Beyond Bernier and Bruso's successful efforts, there are tons of communities and organizations creating space for diversity within the outdoor world. There's Outdoor Afro, a network that inspires Black folks to connect outdoors. Fat Girls Hiking promotes body positivity in the outdoors. All these communities are proof that the outdoor world is much more diverse than the industry recognizes.

"The brands are behind," Bruso says. "It is 2020 and I see plus-size people on the trail. I'm hiking with them all the time. I'm on the trail all the time."

Malone recognizes the role that Gregory plays in that and is working hard to create more inclusivity through their brand. "We have influence over the photographers we work with, the talent we choose, the ambassadors we choose to work with."

But actually creating a line of backpacks that allow for more people to hit the trails or travel the world is the most direct, tangible way to create real, honest inclusivity, and not just give those concepts lip service.

"It's what we do best," Malone said. "At the end of the day, we build backpacks. Getting to do that in a way that is tangible and helps with diversity and inclusion is the best of all worlds."

Visit link:

Gregory backpack is releasing the industry's first plus-size backpack - Business Insider - Business Insider

Travel Medical Service Market 2020: Applications, Types and Growing Trends in Market, Gross Margin and Market Share 2025 – CueReport

Posted on by

The Travel Medical Service market report highlights the significant growth drivers, opportunities, and challenges that are slated to define the growth trajectory of this business space in the ensuing years.

According to the document, the market is projected to register XX% CAGR over the analysis timeframe (2020-2025) and is slated to witness substantial gains by the end of analysis period.

Request Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.cuereport.com/request-sample/25117

With the market going up and down amidst the coronavirus outbreak, uncertainty dominates the day. Apart from short-term revenue concerns, some industries are projected to face complications even once the economy emerges from the pandemic.

Request Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.cuereport.com/request-sample/25117

Almost all the businesses in various sectors have planned their budget to regain profit trajectory for the approaching years. Our assessment of this industry vertical can assist your action plan for managing market uncertainties and help you fabricate robust contingency plans.

The research report offers an extensive analysis of the various market segmentations along with the existing market trends to facilitate better understanding of the revenue projections.

Key inclusions of the Travel Medical Service market report:

Travel Medical Service Market segments covered in the report:

Regional landscape: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa, South East Asia

Product types: Heavy Medical Mode, Light Medical Model and Comprehensive Health Care

Applications spectrum: Cosmetic Medicine, Disease Treatment and Other

Competitive outlook: The major players covered in Travel Medical Service are:,Manor Medical Center,Icheckworld,L'AVION,Saint Lucia Consulting,Medretreat International,Concord Healthcare Consulting,UCLH,Ctrip International,Hopenoah,Traveler's Medical Service,Global Travel Plus,International Medical Services,Passport Health,World Travel Care,EvergreenHealth,Travel Medicine & Vaccination Centre,GMS (Group Medical Services) ande7 Health

Market segmentation

The Travel Medical Service market is split by Type and by Application. For the period 2020-2025, the growth among segments provides accurate calculations and forecasts for sales by Type and by Application in terms of volume and value. This analysis can help you expand your business by targeting qualified niche markets.

Research Objective:

Why to Select This Report:

Key questions answered in the report:

MAJOR TOC OF THE REPORT:

Chapter 1 Industry Overview

Chapter 2 Production Market Analysis

Chapter 3 Sales Market Analysis

Chapter 4 Consumption Market Analysis

Chapter 5 Production, Sales and Consumption Market Comparison Analysis

Chapter 6 Major Manufacturers Production and Sales Market Comparison Analysis

Chapter 7 Major Product Analysis

Chapter 8 Major Application Analysis

Chapter 9 Industry Chain Analysis

Chapter 10 Global and Regional Market Forecast

Chapter 11 Major Manufacturers Analysis

Chapter 12 New Project Investment Feasibility Analysis

Chapter 13 Conclusions

Chapter 14 Appendix

Request Customization on This Report @ https://www.cuereport.com/request-for-customization/25117

Read more:

Travel Medical Service Market 2020: Applications, Types and Growing Trends in Market, Gross Margin and Market Share 2025 - CueReport

The AN-225: How the Cold War created the world’s largest airplane – CNN

Posted on by

(CNN) The first powered plane flight, performed by the Wright Brothers over the windswept beach of North Carolina's Kitty Hawk in 1903, covered 120 feet. That historic flight would fit entirely in the cargo hold of the Antonov AN-225 Mriya, the world's biggest fully operational plane.

Powered by six turbofan engines and with a wingspan almost the length of a football field, this gentle giant of the skies can carry bigger and heavier cargo than any other plane, and is unique in the world of aviation, as just one was ever built.

A favorite of plane spotters around the world, the AN-225 attracts a crowd whenever it visits an airport during one of its rare -- and often spectacular -- heavy lift jobs.

Onlookers video the AN-225 Mriya from the viewing deck at Perth International airport.

Paul Kane/Getty Images

"It looks magnificent during takeoff and landing and it seems to slowly sail into the air, due to its huge size," said Ilya Grinberg, a Soviet aviation expert and a professor of engineering at Buffalo State University. "It can be easily photographed with any type of camera and it looks very impressive from any angle. I think it is indeed an engineering marvel," he said.

Recently, the plane has been used in the Covid-19 relief effort to transport record loads of protective equipment. But its original mission was very different: born out of the Cold War, the AN-225 was designed to be part of the Soviet space program.

A flying dream

The AN-225 was conceived to carry Soviet space shuttles.

GENYA SAVILOV/AFP via Getty Images

A new era in space exploration began in April 1981, when the first Space Shuttle launched into orbit from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Its large cargo bay was a design feature pushed by the Pentagon, which used the Shuttle in a handful of classified missions to send military satellites into orbit. The USSR perceived this capability as a threat, and wanted a vehicle that could do the same.

The result was the Buran ("Blizzard" in Russian), a Soviet Shuttle that looked remarkably like its American counterpart, down to the black and white paint job.

But whether it was a straight up clone or simply informed by the laws of aerodynamics, the Buran -- along with its companion rocket, the Energiya -- came with a logistical problem: how to transport the spacecraft from manufacturing facilities around Moscow to the Baikonur Cosmodrome, 1,300 miles away in today's southern Kazakhstan, from which Soviet space missions departed.

The Soviet Union's Buran shuttle looked similar to its US counterpart.

TASS / AFP via Getty Images

Rather than building a new freeway across rivers and mountains, Soviet engineers asked the Antonov Design Bureau in Kiev to create a new transporter plane capable of airlifting the shuttle and its rocket. It would also be used to haul the Buran back to Baikonur whenever it would land at a backup site rather than the Cosmodrome upon returning from orbit.

Antonov based it around an existing model, the AN-124 Ruslan (meaning "Condor"), itself already a very large plane, bigger than the Boeing 747-400.

The overall size was increased significantly, with the goal of doubling the cargo capacity. Among the visible upgrades were an extra pair of engines, bringing the total to six, and a longer landing gear, which increased the wheel count to a whopping 32. A new twin tail with an oversize vertical stabilizer was also added to allow the plane to carry the Buran on its back.

The resulting behemoth, so large that it stuck out of its hangar during the inauguration ceremony, was christened the AN-225 Mriya.

"Mriya is the Ukrainian word for 'dream.' It was the first soviet plane to be christened with a Ukrainian name," said Grinberg.

The AN-225 carrying the Buran space shuttle was the star of the 1989 Paris air show.

aviation-images.com/UIG/Getty Images

The Antonov Design Bureau worked quickly to produce the finished plane in just three and a half years, but it still couldn't keep up with the development of the Buran, so an interim solution was chosen: adapting a fleet of old 3M-T bombers to carry the spacecraft unassembled.

When the AN-225 was finally ready, it was history it couldn't catch up with: both the Buran and the AN-225 first flew in late 1988, a year before the fall of the Berlin Wall, which foreshadowed the collapse of the Soviet Union.

As a result, the Buran program was canceled after just one official mission, and the AN-225 ended up carrying the shuttle piggyback style in only about a dozen test flights.

The duo stole the show when it made an appearance at the 1989 Paris Air Show, but its primary mission had vanished. An outlandish proposal to transform it into a flying hotel, with suites and swimming pools and space for 1,500 guests never turned into reality, and the AN-225 ended up in a hangar where it was stripped for parts and rusted away for seven years.

A new life

How many wheels? The AN-225's landing gear.

Paul Kane/Getty Images

In 2001, the AN-225 was dusted off, thoroughly upgraded with modern equipment and brought back into service.

In the same year it set 124 world records, according to Antonov, including those for carrying capacity, flight altitude with cargo, and lifting record cargo to an altitude.

"This happened on the day of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, and therefore all these records went unnoticed," said Grinberg. "That day, five battle tanks, each weighing 50 tons, served as the control cargo. And they drove into the cargo cabin themselves."

The plane was resurrected because Antonov Airlines, a division of the Antonov company that operates around a dozen heavy transporter planes, was receiving orders on cargo deliveries that were beyond the capabilities of the AN-124, known as the AN-225's "little brother."

"We quickly understood that there was a growing demand for oversize or extremely heavy pieces of cargo," said Vitaliy Shost, senior deputy director of Antonov Airlines. He says that the AN-225 is able to accommodate up to 950 cubic meters of cargo, compared to 750 for the AN-124 and 650 for a Boeing 747.

The AN-225 has set numerous world records.

Simon Cooper/PA Images/Getty Images

Such capacity would allow the AN-225 to carry up to 16 shipping containers or 80 family cars. The cargo hold also has a titanium floor for added strength and its own crane system to load cargo efficiently. The maximum payload is 250 tons -- reached in 2001 when transporting the five battle tanks. The record for the heaviest single piece ever airlifted was achieved by the An-225 in 2009, when a generator was transported from Germany to Armenia. It weighed 187 tons.

The plane set other records such as the longest cargo item in the history of transportation -- two wind turbines measuring 137 feet each, delivered from China to Denmark -- and clinched a Guinness World Records entry by holding an art exhibition of 500 paintings by 120 Ukrainian artists at an altitude of 33,000 feet.

The AN-225 has also transported water turbines, nuclear fuel, construction vehicles, light aircraft and maglev trains. Electric generators are its most common type of cargo.

Crew members in protective suits stand inside an Antonov An-225 Mriya cargo aeroplane during a delivery of protective masks from China.

RONNY HARTMANN/AFP via Getty Images

In April 2020, the AN-225 set yet another record by transporting 100 tons of Covid-19 protective equipment, medicines and tests from Tianjin, China, to Warsaw, Poland (with a refueling stop in Kazakhstan). The landing in Poland was livestreamed to an audience of 80,000, according to Antonov.

"We didn't expect the plane to be involved in this business, because PPE packed in boxes is not the standard type of cargo for the An-225, but due to lack of transport availability our customers requested it," said Shost. "Over two and half months we performed 10 flights from China to different points around the world."

A second one

There's a second, unfinished Antonov An-255 languishing in a Kiev factory.

Vladmir Shtanko/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

The AN-225 flies sparingly. Its high operational cost -- it uses over 20 tons of fuel per hour according to Shost, equal to $6,700 at current prices -- limits it to the most demanding of jobs.

"Last year the plane performed about 20 flights. In 2020 we are already at 10 flights, and we expect 10 more through the end of the year," Shost added.

The fact that the AN-225 is one of a kind, however, adds to its mystique.

"This airplane is our pride and joy, a business card for the Antonov company and Ukraine itself," said Shost. "I first saw it when I was a schoolboy and I was so impressed with it, I couldn't believe it could actually fly. Now I make sure it does."

Antonov is constantly upgrading the AN-225 to keep up with international flight regulations and requirements, and the company says that the plane will be in service for at least another 25 years. That's good news for aviation enthusiasts and plane spotters, who show up in droves at its every appearance.

"This aircraft ranks 10/10 on a spotter's dream list, in my opinion," said Casey Groulx, a Canadian plane spotter who photographed the An-225 when it landed in Toronto in late May to deliver Covid-19 relief equipment.

"It was an absolute dream come true as I had always wanted to see this incredible aircraft. There were a lot of other spotters. It felt very special, to have that feeling of having seen the world's biggest plane."

Visit link:

The AN-225: How the Cold War created the world's largest airplane - CNN

New Home to Grand Extended Stay Program, More Privacy, Services, and Perks from Velas Resorts in Mexico – PR Web

Posted on by

privacy features include an area set aside for a private beach and another for private office as well as personalized classes and exclusive dining experiences

PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico (PRWEB) July 23, 2020

For travelers who want extra social distancing and privacy and to get away for a longer time, Velas Resorts in Mexico is making it easier, and adding more perks and value. Its all part of the new Velas Resorts Home to Grand Extended Stay Program.

Available at the resort collections Grand Velas properties in Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, and Riviera Nayarit, privacy features include:

In addition, guests receive a 10% discount on the rate and value-added perks. All company resorts have all received the global safety stamp of approval from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) due to state-of-the-art safety and cleanliness protocols detailed in a 15-page Stay Safe with Velas program.

This new program makes it easier and adds an additional element of safety for travelers to holiday, said Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts. From an extended honeymoon for a couple to a multi-generational family or group of close friends looking to relocate for several weeks, its almost like having your own home at the beach.

From private airport transportation and a welcome bottle of champagne to free massages, suite upgrade, photo session, private beach dinner, personal yoga, cooking or Pilates class, and more, guests will be made to feel super special. Personalized gastronomy by international chefs and dedicated attention to detail by a 24-hr Personal Concierge are also included. In addition, at Grand Velas Los Cabos there is a one-hour sail aboard the hotels yacht, and at Grand Velas Riviera Maya a car is available to visit the destination highlights. Kids up to 12 years old are free when staying in the same suite as an adult and a 10% discount on the rate is also applied.

For travel through December 18th, the Home to Grand program is applicable for couples staying a minimum of 14 nights or there is a 10-night minimum for groups of 5 suites or more. Nightly rates start at $381 per adult based on double occupancy (Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit). In addition to Home to Grand program, rate includes luxury accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, taxes, gratuity and more. Blackout dates apply. For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com or visit https://home-to-grand.velasresorts.com/.

About Velas ResortsVelas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, and Los Cabos have earned 56 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for services and facilities include Virtuosos Best Family Program, Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award for spa, and TripAdvisors Hall of Fame, among others. Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, properties include Grand Velas in Los Cabos, with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort; Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, which enjoys a long stretch of pristine beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains; and Grand Velas Riviera Maya, offering a sophisticated resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. In Puerto Vallarta, Casa Velas is a boutique adults-only hotel and beach club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and Velas Vallarta, a family-friendly all suites resort and spa located on Banderas Bay. Mar del Cabo, a boutique hotel on Mexicos Baja Peninsula, opened in December 2018 as its only European Plan offering. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: http://www.velasmagazine.com.

Share article on social media or email:

Link:

New Home to Grand Extended Stay Program, More Privacy, Services, and Perks from Velas Resorts in Mexico - PR Web

How will travel change in the post-pandemic world? Part Two: Cruising and Road Trips – Gildshire Magazines

Posted on by

How will travel change in the post-pandemic world? As we all know, travel has been severely impacted by COVID-19 and the social distancing and stay-at-home orders implemented. We have all been wondering what our new travel normal will be like. In part one of this article, we looked at how hotel stays and air travel will be affected and changed in the post-pandemic world. For this part, let us look at how cruising and road trips will change in the post-pandemic world.

Cruises are known for their distressing environmental effects and notorious skirting of labor laws. Therefore, we can expect big changes in the cruise industry in the post-pandemic world. This will give them the chance to review how they have been operating and implement positive changes. The environmental impact cruises have on the earth is severe. One of the transitions that cruise lines who operate in the United States market will make is working towards launching electric cruise ships that have zero emissions. This change is less to do with the pandemic, but having halted voyages and looking at how they operate, cruise ships need to change the way they sail to better our environment.

In direct regards to the COVID-19 outbreak, cruise lines need to up their game when it comes to germ spreading on board. Ever heard the phrase floating petri dish? Sadly, it is not far off given the small living quarters and shared amenities that one finds when they sail on a cruise. As cruise ships figure out the best way for them to stop the spread of disease in order to safely offer voyages again, the first thing they are doing is limiting the number of people on board and eliminating buffet-style dining. It is unclear what else will change following the pandemic, so as of now, travelers with underlying health conditions are being encouraged by the CDC to stay away from traveling on cruise ships.

How will travel change in the post-pandemic world? No more cruise ships?

Not wanting to rent a room in a hotel or fly on a plane will lead many people to take road trips and stay close to home. Being in ones own car will provide comfort and no exposure to more germs. As mentioned in part one, Airbnb and private rentals are likely to be more popular so as people being taking road trips, they may travel several hours away. And rent a private home, as opposed to staying in a hotel. This allows for a longer trip via safer means. Specifically trips to national parks and outdoor areas are likely to be most visited because the open-air decreases the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission. It allows people to space out, not jammed together in one room.

As driving becomes the primary method of travel, rest stops may change in the post-pandemic world, as well. Oftentimes they are small and compact so they will need to rescue contact by involving more drive-thru options. Also have individual restrooms that open to the outside, rather than several that are solely accessed indoors.

It is not only the travel industry but also the individual travelers responsibility to do what they can to reduce germ transmissions and prevent the spread. Hand washing and hand sanitizing have always been something that is encouraged. Now more than ever people really need to be sure they wash their hands for a full 20 seconds every time they enter a new place or leave the bathroom. Hand sanitizing after interacting with another person is also something to make a habit.

And of course, wearing a mask. A mask has shown to prevent the spread of droplets that carry illnesses. While it is incredibly uncomfortable and irksome, masks play a large role in curbing the spread of COVID-19. As we move into the post-pandemic world, wearing masks will continue to be expected when traveling.

More:

How will travel change in the post-pandemic world? Part Two: Cruising and Road Trips - Gildshire Magazines

Liberalism made the Western world, but now it is destroying it – Telegraph.co.uk

Posted on by

The arson attack on Nantes Cathedral is a terrible yet apposite metaphor for our troubled times. We do not know who tried to destroy this beautiful place of worship, but we should understand the significance of the action.

Attacks on churches in France, common in recent years, have been carried out by anarchists, nihilists, Islamists and others. But regardless of the cause or lack of one behind this attack, its symbolism is unmistakable.

Churches and cathedrals stand for religious faith, of course. They represent Europes Christian heritage, too. They are part of our cultural and national identities.

Some have stood for hundreds of years, physical monuments to the long sweep of history, and a reminder, through wars, plagues, recessions and depressions, of the continuity of the institutions and traditions of our societies.

The Church is just one institution, and Christianity just one traditional belief, that for generations have encouraged us to compromise with one another, and make sacrifices for one another, in the name of community. They have taught us to pursue not only our own material benefit but the common good.

Other institutions have played similar roles of course, such ascharities, trades unions and philanthropic foundations. And other beliefs systems, from other religions to political creeds such asconservatism and social democracy, have also sought to foster a sense of solidarity to build a cohesive society.

And yet Western countries are today hardly cohesive societies. In Britain, the wealth of the richest 10 per cent of families is five times higher than the wealth of the bottom half of all families combined. With children's life chances defined more by their parents' prosperity than talent, social mobility is in crisis. With the working class demonised and despised by many, social solidarity is in crisis too.

Then there is the pernicious effect of cultural liberalism and militant identity politics. While elites debate the number of black students at Oxbridge with guilt and urgency, few acknowledge that white students are less likely to go to university than any other ethnic group, and white working-class boys fare worse than anybody else at school.

While the powerful engage in exclusively elite equality debates, such asthe number of women on boards, they give little thought to the availability and affordability of childcare for low-income parents.

Those who try to raise the plight of the white working-class are often written off as racists and cranks. And those who argue in favour of unifying identities made possible by patriotism, or our attachment to more local communities are lampooned as reactionary and ridiculous.

Like letters through a stick of rock, running through each of these problems is liberalism, the ideology that made our modern Western world.

The pursuit of the common good has little place in liberalism, for liberalism is principally concerned with the maximisation of individual freedom. Liberals have always tended to underestimate how the freedom of the rich and powerful can undermine the freedom of the poor and powerless. But it is only now that this reality is becoming so blatant, prevalent and, in the eyes of many, inevitable and even legitimate.

So we have a mirage of meritocracy, in which many of those who reach the top do so not through their own achievement but the headstart handed to them by their parents.

Believing they succeeded on their own merits, however, they feel they owe little to those who "failed" to make it. This is just one reason we see a selfish corporate class, paying themselves sky-high wages and marking one anothers homework, tax avoidance by rich families and big business, and faltering support for progressive taxation and universal public services.

Also to blame is the misplaced universalism of liberalism. Partly because much of liberal thought starts with a misconceived "model" of human nature and political organisation, liberals underestimate the cultural and institutional context and history of communities and countries.

They assume we are all rational freedom-seekers, the same the world over. This leads liberals to all sorts of flawed judgments about foreign policy (think Iraq), democracy (think European Union) and immigration.

Viewing countries as little more than a platform, upon which anybody from anywhere in the world can live and work with only minimal obligations towards others, liberals support mass immigration.

In fact, they are often maniacally in favour of it, because for many of them, borders are a restraint on freedom, and culturally diverse countries are more likely to put irrational attachments to majority culture and identity behind them.

But study after academic study shows that the more diverse a society becomes, the less trust and reciprocity there is, and less willingness to pay taxes to fund universal public services and welfare systems.

Liberalism attacks the institutions and traditions that bring us together, in part because they are seen as hindrances in the pursuit of freedom. But this destructiveness is also down to the problematic relationship liberalism has with the idea of inevitable progress.

Because some liberal thinkers justify pluralism and tolerance on the basis that they create trial and error that leads to an increasingly perfect society, liberalism can become illiberal and intolerant: conservatives who worry that change can bring loss and not just gain, institutions and traditions that ask us to put others first, and beliefs that seek to achieve the common good are mocked, undermined and attacked.

The irony is, the more we see the full extent of the crisis of Western society, it becomes clearer that liberalism has always depended on those very institutions and traditions and ways of life it attacks.

Perhaps liberalism can survive without Christian virtues and stable national identities, but we cannot yet know that for sure.

And so we return to the tragedy of Nantes Cathedral. We saw on Saturday a place of worship going up in flames, but without a greater willingness to pursue the common good, it will be more than a cathedral that succumbs to fire. The very basis of Western civilisation will be in serious danger.

Follow this link:

Liberalism made the Western world, but now it is destroying it - Telegraph.co.uk

Liberal ‘Grandfathering’ Is Concealed Confiscation: Rick Hemmingson – TheGunBlog.ca

Posted on by

TheGunBlog.ca The Liberal Party of Canada uses the term grandfathering to conceal the reality of their instant gun prohibitions, according to from Rick Hemmingson, a lawyer swith Hemmingson Law in Lacombe, Alberta.

Hemmingson e-mailed TheGunBlog.ca yesterday evening in response to our report: Liberals Plan Grandfathering Under Bans: Minister of Justice.

An early version of the article equated grandfathering with confiscation upon death.

Hemmingsons comments led us to revise the report.

We are publishing his e-mail below with his permission. TheGunBlog.ca added headings and additional paragraph breaks.

By Rick Hemmingson

A law that restricts my ability to enjoy and use my guns to nothing more than being a storage facility until I die is not confiscation upon death.

It is confiscation.

A gun that must stay in my safe is worth nothing. A gun that cannot be used has been turned into an ornament. An ornament is not a grandfathered gun; it is an ornament.

Not Just Semantics

Confiscation is not just about semantics. We must look to the effect; not just the words used.

It is about whether the government has taken away my right to use, enjoy, sell, not sell my property, as I see fit. That is what I had. That is what has been taken not later. Not when I die.

It was taken NOW!

Restaurant Example

Grandfathering is typically used in a rezoning situation, for instance. If I am operating a restaurant at 101 Street and my property is rezoned to allow only a cannabis store to be built or operated at 101 Street, I can still continue to operate my restaurant because it is grandfathered. I can also sell my operating restaurant to someone else because that use is grandfathered. My restaurant continues to have value and I continue to do what I expected when I spent the money to build it. I am not, for instance, allowed to grandfather my restaurant but only if I dont serve food!

Liberal Grandfathering Is a Lie

Words matter. These words are a lie.

Our guns have been confiscated.

Charge for Storage

In fact, it would make more sense for gun owners to charge the federal government storage charges for keeping securely stored indefinitely the guns it has confiscated.

The value of these guns is gone because they cannot be sold.

We have been left with nothing other than the legal (criminal) obligation to provide free storage until death or to surrender them immediately.

When something is grandfathered, the status quo remains for those who lawfully owned and used a certain property.

Gun Owners Arent Grandfathered

Nothing has been grandfathered here simply because the government will delay marching in and taking, then destroying, my property until I die, but it is sterilized until then.

We must reject their term because it is false.

We our fans and professional members for their support.

Not a member yet?

Join here.

Related

Correction July 23: Corrects name and location of law firm in first paragraph.

Original post:

Liberal 'Grandfathering' Is Concealed Confiscation: Rick Hemmingson - TheGunBlog.ca

Michigan’s Aug. 4 primary election: What’s on the ballot? – The State News

Posted on by

Ahead of the Nov. 3 general election, Michigan voters will be able to head to the polls or mail in their ballot for the state primary election Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

How to vote

According to City Clerk Jennifer Shuster, the state of Michigan is requiring that all voting precincts be open for the state primary election.

The polling locations will operate with social distancing guidelines and required use of PPE for election inspectors, Shuster said via email.

Masks are not required for voters in polling places, per an executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, though they are still strongly encouraged.

There are options for voters who do not want to go to an in-person precinct. All Michigan voters are allowed to vote absentee without a reason, Shuster said.

Absentee ballots, or by-mail voting, allow people to vote without leaving their homes. All registered voters were mailed an absentee ballot application for both the primary and general elections.

An absentee voter ballot must be completed and returned to the clerks office by 8 p.m. on Election Day. A ballot will not be counted unless the voters signature is on the return envelope and matches their signature on file.

Voters can apply for an absentee ballot here. Applications to have an absent voter ballot mailed to you must be received by your clerk no later than 5 p.m. the Friday before the election, according to Michigans Secretary of State website.

Absentee ballot requests are up 350% compared to the same time ahead of the 2016 state primary, according to the Secretary of State website. While 378,317 absent voter applications were returned 35 days before the primary in 2016, 1,323,922 applications have been returned in that same time in 2020.

In 2016, 283,731 absent voter ballots were issued, and 17,590 were returned. This year, however, saw major increases in these numbers, as 1,005,989 ballots were issued, and 29,760 have been returned.

This significant increase in those requesting to vote by mail already this year confirms they recognize that this option is a safe, secure and convenient way for them to ensure their voices are heard, even in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said, according to the Secretary of State website.

Those who are not registered to vote may still register through Election Day. However, if you wait until the two-week period before an election to register, you must do so at your city clerks office. You must also provide proof of residency, Shuster said.

Any item with a person's name and residence address is considered proof of residency. Acceptable items to establish residency include utility or credit card bills issued within the prior 90 days, a bank account statement, school transcripts less than two years old, lease or rental agreements with a landlord's number, a pay stub, insurance policies and government documents.

Shuster said it is easier to register to vote online before the two-week mark. More information about registering to vote, including a program to register, can be found here.

She also stressed the importance of keeping voter registration information up-to-date, which can also be done online.

It is possible to register to vote and apply for an absentee ballot at the same time.

Whats on the ballot

East Lansing voters will be voting for partisan offices for U.S. senators down to county commissioners and precinct delegates, Shuster said.

Incumbent Democrat U.S. Sen. Gary Peters is running unopposed in the primary, as is Republican John James, who ran against U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow in 2018.

On Tuesday, Peters wrote on Twitter he was looking forward to upcoming debates with James after being challenged to four ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

Incumbent U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Lansing, is running unopposed in her party for the 8th U.S. House District, but will face off in the general against one of four Republican candidates.

Slotkins platform includes affordable healthcare and prescription drugs, investing in infrastructure and education and strengthening national security. She is pro-choice and pro-veteran.

Mike Detmer is running on a platform advocating the codification of federal policy to buy American goods and hire American workers, tax cuts and reformation in the healthcare system to lower costs, provide more choice and include mental healthcare. He also seeks to end "catch and release" and chain migration, and intends to allocate funding for a border wall. Detmer is pro-Second Amendment, pro-life, pro-veteran and pro-term limits.

Alan T. Hoover's platform includes the reduction of government reach into households and the establishment of ethical data collection standards. Hoover also wants to secure the borders, preserve the Constitution and make improvements for veterans and their families. Hoover is also pro-Second Amendment, pro-life and pro-term limits.

Paul Junge intends to oppose tax increases, stop "costly liberal regulations" and cut wasteful spending to promote a more balanced budget. He supports the banning of sanctuary cities and the securing of the U.S. border to stop illegal immigration, and seeks to protect work-related healthcare and Medicare for seniors. Junge is pro-Second Amendment and pro-life.

Kristina Lyke's platform includes the covering of pre-existing conditions and treatment for mental health and addiction. She seeks to secure borders and modernize immigration, and to hold China accountable for "commercial terrorism." She also intends to protect free speech and freedom of religion, in addition to protecting workers and rebuilding infrastructure. Lyke is pro-Second Amendment, pro-life and pro-veteran.

For the Ingham County Clerk seat, incumbent Democrat Barb Byrum is facing a Democrat primary opponent.

According to the Lansing State Journal, Byrum said she will reconcile budgetary impacts onset by the COVID-19 pandemic and modernize and make better use of technology in the Clerks Office to allow customers the ability to make remote transactions if she is reelected.

Her challenger, DeKeea Quinney-Davis, said she will ensure all Ingham County residents are aware of the services the county has to offer, facilitate inclusion in civil engagement with traditionally marginalized groups and increase accessibility to services, according to the Lansing State Journal.

The Michigan Voter Information Center's online tool shows statewide sample ballots by precinct. Here's what a sample ballot in East Lansing will look like.

Ingham County voters will have two county-wide ballot proposals, while Clinton County voters in Precinct 17 do not have any proposals on their ballots.

The first proposal for Ingham County residents concerns an elder person's millage seeking to authorize funding to eliminate wait lists and expand services such as in-home care, meals on wheels and crisis services.

The millage seeks to increase the limitation upon the total amount of taxes that may be assessed in one year upon all property in Ingham County by up to $0.30 per $1,000 of state taxable valuation for a period of four years.

The second ballot proposal for Ingham County residents seeks to renew funding for a comprehensive, countywide 911 Emergency Telephone and Dispatch System at the same millage level approved every four years since 1996.

This emergency telephone service millage renewal intends to maintain the $0.85 per $1,000 of taxable value limitation for a period of 10 years, concluding in 2029.

Voters in the city of Lansing may vote on a proposed renewal of a $1.00 per $1,000 levy for five years, commencing on July 1, 2021, on all taxable real and personal property in the city for the purpose of operating, maintaining and providing improvements to its parks and recreation system.

Leslie Township voters may vote on the millage renewal proposal for fire protection, which seeks to renew the $0.08895 per $1,000 of taxable value levy from 2021 through 2024.

Additionally, there is a bond proposal for Leslie Public Schools that seeks to borrow up to $13,090,000 for additions to school buildings and entryways, the remodeling and re-equipping of school buildings, acquiring and installing technology and security and improving sites such as sidewalks and the high school track.

Two ballot questions concern the Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority tax.

The first addresses a tax set to expire December 2032, and seeks to replace the 1.2467 mills tax with one up to 2.00 mills ($2.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for eight years, through 2028 inclusive, for funding emergency services.

The second question, concerning a tax set to expire December 2020, seeks to increase the 0.7454 mills tax up to 1.0 mills ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levy it for eight years, through 2028 inclusive, for building improvements and equipment.

Further details about Ingham County ballot proposals for the state primary election can be found here.

Discussion

Share and discuss Michigan's Aug. 4 primary election: What's on the ballot? on social media.

Read more from the original source:

Michigan's Aug. 4 primary election: What's on the ballot? - The State News

Bitcoin Cash (BCH) Down $0.83 Over Past 4 Hours, Fares the Worst Out of Top Cryptos to Start the Day; Entered Today Down 0.67% – CFDTrading

Posted on by

Bitcoin Cash 4 Hour Price Update

Updated July 24, 2020 03:19 PM GMT (11:19 AM EST)

Bitcoin Cash came into the current 4 hour candle up 0.01% ($0.02) from the open of the previous 4 hours, marking the 2nd candle in a row it has gone up. Relative to other instruments in the Top Cryptos asset class, Bitcoin Cash ranked 3rd since the previous 4 hours in terms of percentage price change.

The back and forth price flow continues for Bitcoin Cash, which started today off at 238.62 US dollars, down 0.67% ($1.6) from the day prior. The price move occurred on stronger volume; specifically, yesterdays volume was up 18.26% from the day prior, and up 54.85% from the same day the week before. On a relative basis, Bitcoin Cash was the worst performer out of all 5 of the assets in the Top Cryptos asset class during the day prior. Lets take a look at the daily price chart of Bitcoin Cash.

Notably, the current price of Bitcoin Cash is sitting close to its 20, 50 and 100 day moving averages; moving average crosses often indicate a change in momentum, so this may be worth keeping an eye on. The clearest trend exists on the 90 day timeframe, which shows price moving down over that time. Or to view things another way, note that out of the past 14 days Bitcoin Cashs price has gone down 8 them.

Behold! Here are the top tweets related to Bitcoin Cash:

My guilty pleasure is sleeping in an oversized Bitcoin Cash TShirt

@RyanSAdams @BanklessHQ It was done in the context of LINK making to the top 10.Grouping Cardano with Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin Silver (shitcoins)as a project that has no place competing as a currency makes no sense. There was tribalism among AOL, Netcom,etc in Now we just call it the internet.

@lasvegaspokers I enjoy ACR a great deal, regardless of hiccups that occur from time to time. I was nervous about Bitcoin cash outs but my first two have been a great experience.

For a longer news piece related to BCH thats been generating discussion, check out:

Introducing Bitcoin Cash Logo made of Tarpapel posted in Our Sari-sari Store

Great work Thank you so much sir!!!I will definitely do my best to make the adoption of crypto especially BCH to expand.wow is nice and great article Thank you so much!Also, I will try all your suggestions and make a good way and strategies to attract more people Wow that is a really great idea Thank you so much!!!You did a great and amazing idea I hope that this article will spread and also a lot of people who has a store, Like(Big or Small strore) will do the same thing as you do.I hope too that they will adopt BCH and learn how to use it I was really hoping that.

See original here:

Bitcoin Cash (BCH) Down $0.83 Over Past 4 Hours, Fares the Worst Out of Top Cryptos to Start the Day; Entered Today Down 0.67% - CFDTrading

This is How Superman29 Laundered Millions in Bitcoin and Got Caught – Cryptonews

Posted on by

Source: Adobe/mikeosphoto

Kais Mohammad, a 36-year-old resident of Yorba Linda in California who nicknamed himself 'Superman29', has pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges of running Herocoin, an unlicensed cryptocurrency services business that exchanged up to USD 25 million through in-person transactions and a network of Bitcoin (BTC) ATM-type outlets. Some of the customers of the man, who charged a commission of up to 25% for his services, included criminals who used his business to launder money.

'Superman29', who is a former bank employee operated his business between December 2014 and November 2019, advertising his operations online, and attracting transactions worth up to USD 25,000, the US Department of Justice said in a statement.

It added that, in a typical transaction, he met clients at a public location and exchanged currency for them. Mohammad generally did not inquire as to the source of the clients funds and on many occasions he knew the funds were the proceeds of criminal activity. Mohammad admitted that he knew at least one Herocoin client was engaged in illegal activity on the dark web.

As his business grew, Mohammad later bought and advertised online a network of Bitcoin ATM-type kiosks located in shopping malls, gas stations and convenience stores in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. These outlets enabled his customers to use cash to buy and sell bitcoin in exchange for cash that was dispensed onsite.

Mohammad processed cryptocurrency deposited into the machines, supplied the machines with cash that customers would withdraw, and maintained the server software that operated the machines, the statement said.

The US Treasury Departments Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) contacted Mohammad in July 2018, requesting that he registers his company. 'Superman29' complied, but he continued to violate US money laundering and financial due diligence regulations. In 2019, he agreed to exchange money for undercover agents posing as karaoke bar patrons. The agents told Mohammad they employed South Korean women who entertained men in various ways, including engaging in sexual activity. As he agreed to exchange cash that originated from illegal activities, 'Superman29' provided law enforcement with self-implicating evidence.

Mohammad was charged in a three-count criminal information, and he agreed to plead guilty to one count of operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, one count of money laundering, and one count of failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program, the department said. Upon pleading guilty, Mohammad will face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison. As part of the plea agreement, Mohammad has agreed to forfeit cash, cryptocurrency, and 17 Bitcoin ATMs that he operated as part of his business.___Learn more: Considering Stealing Bitcoin? These Two Suspects Wouldn't Recommend it

Read the original post:

This is How Superman29 Laundered Millions in Bitcoin and Got Caught - Cryptonews

BLM activist Brittany Battle: Theres no way in hell Im gonna let them intimidate me. – Triad City Beat

Posted on by

Featured photo: Activist Brittany Battle speaks at a Black Lives Matter rally. (photo by Michaela Ratliff)

Brittany Battles parents still laugh about the time she led a walk-out in her eighth grade class.

I felt like my teacher was being unjust, so I inspired my classmates to walk out of this mans class, Battle says in an interview.

She has had an eye towards social justice for as long as she can remember, aligning herself with Black Lives Matter Winston-Salem shortly after moving there last year. Her involvement with the activist group recently drew her to John Nevilles case.

I cant breathe, inmate John Neville repeatedly told Forsyth County detention officers as they placed him in a prone restraint. He would later die from a brain injury caused by the restraint. Many people were outraged that the Dec. 4, 2019 death was not made public until July 8, 2020, when Forsyth County District Attorney Jim ONeill announced five detention officers and a nurse were being charged with involuntary manslaughter for the death of Neville in a press conference.

Black Lives Matter Winston-Salem called an emergency meeting and then gathered outside of the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center that same day to protest the lack of timely communication to the public and the case of police brutality. The crowd of protesters erupted into cries of, Let them go! as five protesters were arrested for leaving the sidewalk and walking into the street. Battle was one of them.

She expressed that law enforcement held positive attitudes during the local protests for the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, saying that they rode bikes alongside them and blocked off streets for their safety.

Oh, those are bad cops in Louisville, those are bad cops in Minneapolis, she predicted the police said then. But when we start talking about bad cops in Winston-Salem and Forsyth county, the light is shone in their own house. They didnt like that.

They came out there with zip ties, she recalls. They came out there with an LRAD, which is a long-range acoustic device. Its frequently used against protesters. It can make them deaf or hard of hearing. Its supposed to be inconspicuous because people think its a speaker. They admitted it was an LRAD in the paperwork of one of my comrades who was arrested. They said they warned us via LRAD not to be in the street..

And yet, Battle remained fearless.

Theres no way in hell Im gonna let them intimidate me, she says.

Battle felt her arrest was intentional, saying police targeted those they recognized from being organizers of protests in the city. The drive to continue fighting even harder for social justice after her arrest wasnt the only thing she left the protest with. She now flaunts a black splint on her right wrist as a result of the recent arrest as she waits for her follow up appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to examine the extent of her injury.

After I got released, I went to the ER first for the wrist injury they did to me, she said, and then I went right to an organizing meeting after that. There was no stopping.

In addition to being involved with Black Lives Matter Winston-Salem, Battle is also involved with the Triad Abolition Project, a newly-formed grassroots collective of people interested in sharing ideas and resources about abolishing the carceral system, as well as educating others about the meaning of abolition. The Triad Abolition Project, in partnership with the Unity Coalition, another newly formed group in Winston-Salem with similar objectives, organized Occupy the Block Winston-Salem, an ongoing peaceful resistance in Bailey Park which started on July 15. The group intends to hold a protest every day until the four main demands of the Triad Abolition Project are met which include: responding to all questions posed by the Triad Abolition Project and the Unity Coalition, banning the use of prone restraint on any civilian, incarcerated or not, sick or not, notifying the public of any death involving an officer or deputy immediately, and dismissing all charges against protestors from July 8th and 9th arrests.

An activist on the streets and in the classroom, Battle is an assistant professor in the Department of Sociology at Wake Forest University. She earned her masters in African-American studies from Temple University in 2012, and her PhD in Sociology from Rutgers University New Brunswick in 2019. She finds it difficult to balance her time between teaching and fighting racial injustice as her activism tends to infiltrate her classroom.

In spring I taught a class, Social Justice in the Social Sciences, she said. We talked about how social justice shows up in social theories, social research methods, and actual activist movements.I teach from a Black feminist perspective. I create syllabi that highlights the voices of Black women and Black queer folks.

She says she values elevating the voices of minorities as she was also a member of the NAACP and the Black Student Union during her undergraduate years.

Outside of activism and teaching, she can be found creating keepsake baby quilts for her friends who are new moms. She also loves to sew and create jewelry. When social-justice work gets to be overwhelming, she escapes to what she calls her happy place the beach. She also values relaxation exercises like meditation and sage burning to stay grounded, activities she incorporated into Occupy the Block.

We have people who will be coming out to lead a yoga session, she says. Every evening we have a vigil. Were out here burning sage and incense and stuff so were really taking the spiritual part of it seriously as well because this is a lot to be out here twelve hours a day. Weve gotta make sure people are taking care of themselves spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.

Battle is okay with the fact that her ultimate vision abolishing the carceral state will likely not happen in her lifetime, but that doesnt mean her efforts towards it will stop.

My real motivation is that my freedom and liberation is tied up in everybody elses, she says. If there are some of us out there that arent free, none of us are. Thats what inspires me to keep doing this type of work.

Learn more about the Triad Abolition Project by visiting their website at triadabolitionproject.org.

Go here to see the original:

BLM activist Brittany Battle: Theres no way in hell Im gonna let them intimidate me. - Triad City Beat

Open letter on anti-racism to the Princeton School of Architecture – The Daily Princetonian

Posted on by

Gabe Lipkowitz / The Daily Princetonian

Following weeks of civil unrest demanding justice and reflecting on 401 years of anti-Black racism and violence across the nation, the graduate students past and present of the Princeton School of Architecture (PSoA) have discussed how best to support our Black peers. In the words of Kimberly Dowdell, President of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA): We must all leverage our positions of privilege to help our most vulnerable citizens, neighbors and colleagues strive for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If we are to truly resist anti-Black racism in the architecture discipline, we must first recognize and address the ongoing anti-Black racism and inequality within our own PSoA community. We must not ignore the daily realities and traumas of our Black students, faculty, and staff. Our support cannot simply be a statement of detached sentiment or a pledge to do better. Those of us who are white and non-Black POC students, faculty, staff, and administration must stand with our Black colleagues and unequivocally condemn and resist the violence that affects them. We must examine the ways in which we actively marginalize Black voices. We must commit to taking concrete steps to build an anti-racist institution where Black students and colleagues, as vital members of our academic community, can thrive. Black lives matter.

As we consider how to confront racism in our own community, we must remind ourselves that Princeton University has reproduced and protected forms of anti-Black racism since it was founded in 1746. Thanks to the work of Princeton students and faculty such as the Black Justice League and the Princeton & Slavery Project, which has carefully studied the University's support for the institution of chattel slavery, it is now widely known that Princeton presidents, faculty, and students all used enslaved labor while they pursued scholarship in the 19th century. We must recognize that this is not some distant history, but a legacy that continues with us into the present. In a particularly glaring example, the University continued until recently to honor the legacy of Woodrow Wilson, who promoted white supremacy in the United States and around the world, and enforced segregation at Princeton well into the 20th century. We must see and acknowledge the ongoing efforts around us to undo this legacy, including the campaign that successfully removed Wilsons name from the School of Public and International Affairs and which aims to critically transform its curriculum. If we are sincere in our efforts to address racism on this campus, we must raise up and support existing voices particularly those of our Black neighbors and colleagues who have already called for systemic change.

In response to demands for change from their students and alumni, the administrations of Columbia GSAPP, Harvard GSD, Pratt SoA, and Yale SoA have all issued public statements detailing commitments that their schools will make to address anti-Black racism. We join students of other architecture schools, colleagues from the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, and the PSoA A.B. program (forthcoming) in voicing demands for racial justice. As members of the Princeton SoA graduate student community, past and present, we hope that the faculty and administration of the PSoA will join us in the building of an anti-racist institution, beginning with active resistance to racial violence in the Princeton community and its surroundings. We demand that the PSoA take immediate action on the following:

1. Divest from the Police

After the egregious murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Dion Johnson, and countless others at the hands of the police, it is not enough to express concern. We believe that the PSoA must use its institutional power to demand that the University end any relationship it has with the Princeton Police Department (PPD) and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). The PSoA must recognize that the police brutality being protested across the country exists in our very own community. In 2016, African American studies professor Imani Perry was handcuffed to a table by two white officers over parking violations. Despite comprising only 5 percent of the towns population, in 2018, Black people comprised 15.4 percent of motorists pulled over by PPD, and half of use-of-force incidents.In June of last year, Princeton's Department of Public Safety supported Bill A-4553 of the N.J. General Assembly, which granted police officers working at private universities qualified civil immunity and protection from repercussions in civil court. The way forward is clear. We recognize the Black leaders across the country who have said unequivocally, Reform is not enough. We acknowledge demands made by Yale Black Students for Disarmament as well as those on our own campus, including faculty and alumni and Students for Prison Education and Reform, who have called for the abolition of the carceral state and its extensions in our universities. We must follow the footsteps of Minneapolis, Denver, Seattle, Oakland, and other public schools in actively rejecting police violence.

We demand that the PSoA:

2. Recruit Black Students, Faculty, and Speakers

In the statement Hearing the Call for Structural Change, Dean of the School of Architecture Mnica Ponce de Len stated that data drives diversity. Lets be clear: while data may be necessary, it is only a small first step, and does not constitute structural change in itself. Yes, the PSoA needs to actively recruit Black students and faculty. But simply increasing numbers is inadequate and ultimately self-defeating if not accompanied by the transformative change we outline in this letter. The lack of Black voices at every level of the PSoA has reinforced inequality and helped to ensure that white faculty define the center of contemporary architecture at Princeton and beyond. Black students are consistently underrepresented in the A.B., M.Arch, and Ph.D. programs. While we recognize that the PSoA has begun to address anti-Black racism through faculty hires and lecture programming, we ask that the school continue to do more to elevate the voices of Black architects and scholars in the school and the discipline.

We demand that the PSoA:

3. Provide Financial and Administrative Support for Black Students

Support for Black students must take place at all levels of teaching and mentorship: it should not be taken for granted that students in an overwhelming minority will naturally feel comfortable in an institution structured upon racist ideals. Black and non-Black POC students alike need dedicated staff and mentors whom they can turn to for advice, to discuss opportunities, and to address issues of discrimination. This need is especially, though not exclusively, visible in relation to student evaluation within the school. Currently, in the M.Arch and Ph.D. programs, there is a lack of transparency in evaluation, grading, and structures of advancement. In both cases, this lack of transparency results in unequal expectations, opportunities, and work loads between students. As long as protocols for grading and advancement are not clearly delineated, room for discrimination remains. In order to restore opportunities for BIPOC students and repair trust within the school, new financial and structural commitments must be made.

We demand that the PSoA:

4. Center Black Voices in the Curriculum

Addressing race in the curriculum should not be limited to seminars about BIPOC histories, or studios that engage with BIPOC experiences. Rather, we must recognize that whiteness is also racial, and that subsequently allstudios and seminars, even when addressing predominantly white communities and authors, must be attuned to issues of race. We must not continue making whiteness the invisible norm. This also means that Black and non-Black POC points of view cannot be cordoned off in one week of a syllabus as a topic. Rather, their points of view on weekly topics should be pervasive throughout. We must also recognize that the Black intellectual tradition aligns with the goals of History and Theory requirements in architecture and should be engaged with as such. In sum, we must recognize that issues of race are not topical, but rather foundational fundamental prerequisites in our understanding of the world.

We demand that the PSoA:

5. Dismantle White Supremacy in Studio

As in the curriculum as a whole, the school must make visible how whiteness operates as an invisible norm in the vast majority of existing studio pedagogy. Architecture lags behind other disciplines in the critical examination of its own methods and the subject positions of its practitioners. A view common to architectural education is the assumption that historical, social, and political contexts can be apprehended after a brief site visit or week-long trip. This method encourages extractive, rather than collaborative, design practices and forms of knowledge production that make expertise seem one-sided. Frequently, this creates a power imbalance, often racialized, between a student-designer and their prospective client. These practices are destructive, and reinforce political and economic processes that extract wealth from BIPOC communities in New Jersey and elsewhere around the world. Studio instructors must actively interrogate their ethical commitment and accountability to the communities that they seek to engage with.

We demand that the PSoA:

6. Ban Inequitable Labor Practices

The use of unpaid and poorly compensated student work is a barrier to career advancement for economically disadvantaged students and therefore disproportionately affects Black and non-Black POC students. Working in the private offices of faculty members provides students with a foundation for future professional advancement, garnering them long-term professional support and helping them to build their resume. Unpaid and low-paying internships have been shown to exclude BIPOC students to a greater degree than their peers, due both to their higher levels of indebtedness and the high opportunity costs of unpaid positions.

We demand that the PSoA:

7. Implement Anti-Racism Training

The PSoAshistoric lack of action on racial awareness has obligated BIPOCstudents to not only manage the challenges of architecture school, but also to expend time and energy in processing and confronting racist behavior. BIPOC students cannot be expected to take on the additional labor of educating their peers and professors about race. Instead, the school must assume responsibility for offering anti-racism training starting in the 202021 school year. Studies have shown that diversity and anti-bias training are ineffective when treated as one-off, isolated initiatives. If not coupled with structures of accountability and provided with ongoing institutional support, training can produce racist outcomes. To be effective, training in the PSoA must be undertaken in concert with other initiatives for addressing racism in the school and, wherever possible, be sustained over time.

We demand that the PSoA:

8. Build Campus and Community Alliances

The PSoA should work to strengthen existing student and faculty-initiated alliances with African American Studies, African Studies, the Carl A. Fields Center, and with scholars and institutions beyond Princeton. Strategic alliances should be part of the daily fabric of learning in the PSoA, reflected in distribution requirements and studio offerings. Although partnerships with outside programs, foundations, and departments are important in bringing Black (as well as non-Black POC) voices into the school, extramural efforts should also not replace the PSoAs own efforts in actively countering racism.

We demand that the PSoA:

9. Ensure Accountability and Transparency

In order to uphold any long-term commitment to racial justice, the PSoA administration must provide students and faculty with a list of actionable items along with an implementation timeline, the metrics used to gauge progress, and the methods with which to monitor the schools accountability.

We demand that the PSoA:

This letter has made many demands of the PSoA. At the same time, we, the PSoA student community, recognize our failure in uplifting our BIPOC peers and must hold ourselves accountable for inaction. For too long, students have remained silent when faced with a syllabus of white men or a traveling studio that reproduces racist, colonial dynamics. Many have not shown up to events that feature Black speakers, conferences on Black topics, and classes on Black history. In the recent past, numerous students have tried to start conversations about race and inequity but were ignored by their faculty, peers, or the school administration. It is impossible for the PSoA to pursue racial justice unless all members of the school community acknowledge their responsibility in such an effort. We recognize that while we are being shaped by a racist institution, we as students must actively resist its racist ideals. We, the undersigned students and alumni, pledge to actively confront racism in our discipline and in our worldviews.

In closing, let us remember the words of civil rights leader Whitney M. Young Jr., who in 1968 told the architects at the AIA National Convention in Portland: You are not a profession that has distinguished itself by your social and civic contributions to the cause of civil rights, and I am sure this does not come to you as any shock You are most distinguished by your thunderous silence. We are humbled by the fact that more than five decades have passed since we first heard his indictment, yet there remains so much work to be done. We, as a community, must not be silent once again. Let us move forward with his words as a reminder of how our discipline has contributed to and sustained white supremacy. This letter is only one small effort in the continuing struggle to dismantle anti-Black racism struggles that were happening both within and outside of Princeton long before this moment, and that will continue far into the future. We must not allow this to become a single moment in time, but rather an urgent reminder that we must struggle, actively and on a daily basis, to reject this legacy.

Sincerely,

The undersigned graduate students and alumni of the Princeton School of Architecture.

[Follow this link to sign this letter: https://bit.ly/3hYV0Jn%5D

Current Students (84)

Tairan An, Ph.D.

Zulaikha Ayub, Ph.D.

Fiorella Barreto, M.Arch I 21

Maeliosa Barstow, M.Arch I 21

Carrie Bly, Ph.D.

Barrington Calvert, M.Arch I 23

Landon Carpenter, M.Arch I 21

Gregory Cartelli, Ph.D.

Lluis Alexandre Casanovas Blanco, Ph.D.

Cole Cataneo, M.Arch I 21

Carson Chan, Ph.D.

Martn Cobas, Ph.D.

Jonah Coe-Scharff, M.Arch I 21

Eleanor Collin, M.Arch I 22

Evan Crawford, M.Arch I 22

Melinda Denn, M.Arch I 22

Megan Eardley, Ph.D.

Michael Faciejew, Ph.D.

Kaitlin Faherty, M.Arch II 21

Helen Fialkowski, M.Arch I 21

Clemens Finkelstein, Ph.D.

Chase Galis, M.Arch I 21

Curt Gambetta, Ph.D.

Henry Gomory, Ph.D.

Victor Guan, A.B. Arch 21

Bernardo Guerra, M.Arch I 23

Larissa Guimares, M.Arch I 21

Daniel Hall, M.Arch II 22

Jonathan Hanna, M.Arch I 22

Jane Ilyasova, M.Arch I 21

Zaid Kashef Alghata, M.Arch II 21

Anna Kerr, M.Arch I 22

Evangelos Kotsioris, Ph.D.

Ivan L. Munuera, Ph.D.

Ingrid Lao, Ph.D.

Grace Lee, M.Arch I 22

Simon Lesina-Debiasi, M.Arch I 21

Reese Lewis, M.Arch I 22

Piao Liu, M.Arch II 21

Christopher Loofs, M.Arch I 23

Tiantian Lou, M.Arch II 21

Elena MBouroukounda, M.Arch I 21

Austin Madrigale, M.Arch I 22

Matthew Maldonado, M.Arch I 21

Anoushka Mariwala, A.B. Arch 21

Jacob McCarthy, M.Arch I 21

Elis Mendoza, Ph.D.

Ruta Misiunas, M.Arch I 21

Jacqueline Mix, M.Arch I 22

Christina Moushoul, M.Arch I 22

Luis Fernando Muoz, M.Arch I 21

Christopher Myefski, M.Arch I 21

MaryKate Neff, A.B. Arch 21

Jessica Ngan, Ph.D.

Victoria Oeye, Ph.D.

Emmanuel Osorno, M.Arch II 21

Megan Pai, A.B. Arch 22

Chitra Parikh, A.B. Arch 21

Rafael Pastrana, Ph.D.

Bart-Jan Polman, Ph.D.

Juan Pablo Ponce de Leon, M.Arch I 21

Clelia Pozzi, Ph.D.

Lisa Ramsburg, M.Arch I 22

See the original post here:

Open letter on anti-racism to the Princeton School of Architecture - The Daily Princetonian

‘All lives matter’ say brothers-in-arms Richards and Botham – Macau Business

Posted on by

Almost half a century on from when cricket legends Ian Botham and Viv Richards made their county debut for Somerset their bond is as strong as ever, they explained in media interviews on Friday.

England all-rounder Botham, 64, earned the respect and eternal friendship of 68-year-old West Indies batsman Richards for never turning his back on him even when the Englishman received hate mail during the halcyon days at the county.

Their bond has been recognised with the announcement that future Test series between England and the West Indies will be called the Richards-Botham Trophy.

Between them they made a combined 223 Test appearances, totalled 13,740 runs and 415 wickets.

The third and final Test of the present series which is tied 1-1 gets underway later on Friday at Old Trafford.

What I can say to Ian? I can thank him so much for being in my corner, Richards told Sky Sports.

We just represented what I think people should be representing: that were all human beings, and thats the most important thing.

Botham and Richards in their prime were targeted by South Africa to persuade them to go on rebel tours during the time when sporting links were cut due to the apartheid regime.

Both declined but other England stars like Mike Gatting, John Emburey and Graham Gooch did go whilst the West Indies also toured there.

The thing that finally finished me with all that was when they turned round to Viv and said: Well make you an honorary white man. I said: Hang on, wheres this going?' Botham told the Daily Mail in a joint interview.

Hes black and hes proud and magnificent and a great guy.

He doesnt want to be an honorary white man any more than I want to be an honorary black man.

Richards agreed with Botham over his statement that all lives matter.

The pair stressed that it was not a rejection of the Black Lives Matter movement which was born out of the death of unarmed African-American man George Floyd in Minneapolis at the hands of police officers in May.

I most certainly agree with Ian when he says all lives matter, said Richards.

Its been highlighted now because of the events weve seen played out in America this hate towards our colour.

If we have respect for one another, these things wouldnt come into the equation.

Look at Covid. We are not in control. This warfare is hitting everyone not just black or white, but every race and every country on earth. We should all just sit back and reflect on where wed like to be.

Read more:

'All lives matter' say brothers-in-arms Richards and Botham - Macau Business

On the road to the White House | Joe Biden calls Trump the countrys first racist president – Macau Daily Times

Posted on by

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden

Joe Biden said yesterday [Macau time] that President Donald Trump was the countrys first racist president.The presumptive Democratic presidential nominees comments came during a virtual town hall organized by the Service Employees International Union. When a questioner complained of racism surrounding the coronavirus outbreak and mentioned the president referring to it as the China virus, Biden responded by blasting Trump and his spread of racism.The way he deals with people based on the color of their skin, their national origin, where theyre from, is absolutely sickening, the former vice president said. No sitting president has ever done this. Never, never, never. No Republican president has done this. No Democratic president. Weve had racists, and theyve existed. Theyve tried to get elected president. Hes the first one that has.Biden also suggested that Trump is using race as a wedge to distract from his mishandling of the pandemic.Many presidents including the nations first, George Washington owned slaves.President Woodrow Wilson, the countrys 28th president, is having his name removed from Princeton Universitys public policy school after recent protests against institutional racism and police brutality. Wilson, who served in the early 20th century, supported segregation and imposed it on several federal agencies.At a White House briefing later, Trump responded to a question about Bidens comments by pointing to his administrations efforts passing criminal justice reform legislation and expanding opportunity zones, as well as the low unemployment numbers for minority groups before the coronavirus outbreak.Ive done more for Black Americans than anybody with the possible of exception of Abraham Lincoln, the president said. Nobody has even been close.Katrina Pierson, a senior adviser for Trumps reelection campaign, said in a statement that no one should take lectures on racial justice from Joe Biden.Biden has vowed that, if elected, he will begin addressing institutional racism within his first 100 days of taking office. This was not the first time hes suggested Trumps actions were racist.Biden has built his campaign around the election being a battle for the soul of the nation and says he felt compelled to run for president after he saw Trump respond to a deadly 2017 white supremacist attack on counterprotesters in Charlottesville, Virginia, by saying there were some very fine people on both sides.When Trump said last year that four Democratic congresswomen of color should go back to their countries, Biden called it a flat, racist attack. WILL WEISSERT, WASHINGTON, AP

Link:

On the road to the White House | Joe Biden calls Trump the countrys first racist president - Macau Daily Times

MGTO focuses promotion on citys bread and butter – Macau Daily Times

Posted on by

The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is prioritizing promotions targeting mainland China, particularly Guangdong Province, which it has dubbed the citys bread and butter.In a talk yesterday hosted by the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Macau, MGTO director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes said that initially the target market for tourism was Hong Kong. However, due to the third wave of Covid-19 outbreak in the neighboring region, it has shifted its priorities to attracting tourist arrivals from Guangdong Province.Our eyes are first on mainland China Guangdong Province because we have to look at the bread and butter market first, the official told the audience.In the beginning of the talk, the official admitted that it was a significant challenge for the office to combat the effect of Covid-19 on the tourism sector, given that entry and travel restrictions on the citys border, as well as neighboring regions borders, remain in force.It was only recently that the SAR government opened its borders to visitors from mainland China, as well residents from Taiwan and Hong Kong who have spent the last 14 days in mainland China.These residents will not have to undergo a 14-day quarantine, but they will have to provide a negative test result of the Covid-19 nucleic acid test.Were finally restarting tourism and were now finally starting to work on what we normally do as a tourism office, Fernandes said.The office conducted a survey on the Macao Ready Go! Local Tours program to subsidize the business of local tour operators. Some 85% of the 5,000 respondents were satisfied with the tours, and 90% of the participants were highly satisfied with the local tour bus drivers, according to the tourism board.While MGTO is looking at launching warm up promotional programs, there is still no timetable for these plans.We have [developed] some promotions already. We are almost launching the promotion in Hong Kong but its a different ball game for now, said the tourism chief.Weve also planned a lot for the mainland. If visitors come in we plan to offer free half day tours if they stay at a [partnered] hotel. Were also looking at different international markets, so were looking at any airline transportation partners or ferry companies [] and will use their routes when theyre open and offer special fares upon using their airlines, she explained.However, all these plans will have to wait until the MGTO is in the position to launch them.According to Fernandes, the MGTO is working closely with the health authorities, adding that her office would work further with the Health Bureau while it prepares for the relaunch of the citys tourism.Further, the tourism chief gave an update regarding the rescheduling of its events this year.The Macao Light Festival will be held from September 26 to late October, while the Global Tourism Economy Forum will again be rescheduled to December this year.Were still very optimistic that well be able to run it partially online, as some speakers might only be available to talk online. Were adapting to the different situation as it goes along, she said.

Here is the original post:

MGTO focuses promotion on citys bread and butter - Macau Daily Times

COVID-19 in Las Vegas not stopping casino loyalists from vacationing – Reno Gazette Journal

Posted on by

Autoplay

Show Thumbnails

Show Captions

LAS VEGAS Rick and JaNeen Bird areLas Vegas loyalists.

On Thursday morning, the retired Arizona couple stood outside Bally's,waiting for Elvis and the showgirls to open the resort for the first time in four months.

Rickcarrieda plain blueface mask in his pocket until it was time to go inside. JaNeenwore hers the entire time,a black maskwith her candidate's nameonit.

"President Trump," it read above a tiny American flag. "Keep America Great."

These Birds have for years refused to fly the Vegas coop. They've visitedThe Strip more times than they can remember.

Rick and JaNeen Bird visiting Bally's Las Vegas after it reopened Thursday, July 23, 2020.(Photo: Ed Komenda / Reno Gazette Journal)

They come forthe video poker machines, seafood dinners and live entertainment.

Theirson evengot marriedat the same Las Vegas wedding chapel where they renewed vows on their 30th wedding anniversary.

"We're very loyal," JaNeen said.

They lastvisited in June, whenNevada casinos reopened after a statewide shutdown that lasted almost three months.

White House: Las Vegas should take aggressive steps to stop COVID-19 spread

The'verefused to let COVID-19 get in the way of their enjoyment even if the pandemic has changed the tourist town they love.

"It's not as much fun," JaNeensaid.

An Elvis impersonator arrives at Bally's Las Vegas Thursday, July 23, 2020, after a shutdown that lasted almost four months.(Photo: Ed Komenda / Reno Gazette Journal)

The shows are shuttered, half the casinos are closed, and there's always someone telling you to put a mask on.

That's what happened to them at the Paris pool.

"Some (expletive) said, 'You have to wear a mask,' so we didn't go to the pool," JaNeen said. "I don't know who madethat rule. Whatan idiot."

There is no wayshe's wearing a mask by the pool in 100-degree heat, she said.

Nevada's casinos and COVID-19: Should they be open? It's complicated, experts say.

Next to the couple stooddozens of Vegas vacationers with cell phone cameras pointed at dancers and showgirls.

There was less than 6 feet of distance between many of them, but no one was there to tell them to social distance.

After the confetti cannon exploded, JaNeen and the crowd cheered and walked through the resort's revolving door.

Within an hour of Bally's reopening, the old hotel-casino was back to old form.

New arrivals rolled their luggage towardregistration and their rooms.

Jason Molinar, 54, visiting Bally's Las Vegas after it reopened Thursday, July 23, 2020.(Photo: Ed Komenda / Reno Gazette Journal)

Boyfriends and husbands hovered over girlfriends and wives sliding player cards and cash into slot machines.

Many pulled masks down to their chinsto sip beer andsmokecigarettes.

Jason Molinar is a Las Vegas local who visited Bally's to gamble on reopening day.

The 54-year-old Army veteranshowed up wearing rubber gloves, a sun hat and two masks.

He said he's doing his part to protect Las Vegasfrom the economic dangers of the pandemicby spending money at casinos.

"We have to open up Las Vegas," Molinar said. "It's going to kill Las Vegas if we don't."

Ed Komenda writes about Las Vegas for the Reno Gazette Journal and USA Today Network. Do you care about democracy?Then support local journalism by subscribing to the Reno Gazette Journal right here.

Read or Share this story: https://www.rgj.com/story/news/2020/07/24/covid-las-vegas-casinos-seeing-activity-reopening/5497892002/

Originally posted here:

COVID-19 in Las Vegas not stopping casino loyalists from vacationing - Reno Gazette Journal