TCS World Travel Introduces New All-Inclusive Personalized Trips by Private Charter Planes – Business Wire

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TCS World Travel, the worlds leading operator of private jet expeditions, today announced a new type of all-inclusive personalized itinerarya curated trip for families and friends to travel together by private charter plane. Whether guests want to travel within the United States or venture farther afield, TCS leverages its 25 years of unparalleled knowledge, access and service to handle every aspect of the trip, including chartering an aircraft that is the right size for the group and managing all on-the-ground details to create the ultimate customized vacation. The trips can also be arranged using guests own aircraft.

To help fuel travelers imaginations, TCS Luxury Custom Travel consultants have developed a collection of 11 tailored itineraries for families and friends to explore the best of North Americas majestic landscapes and great outdoors by private charter planes. The destinations include U.S. National Parks, Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, the Southwestern U.S, Islands off the East Coast, Hawaii, Western mountain ranges, unique American art destinations, Mexico, the Caribbean and the wilds of Canada. TCS can also create trips to almost any destination in North America from guests hometown private airports.

Celebrating the spirit of adventure and wide-open spaces far from crowds, TCSs 11 new trips are custom itineraries that comprise every detailfrom activities inspired by guests personal interests and private dining experiences to private access to attractions. Every aspect of the trip is managed by TCSs Luxury Custom Travel consultants, enabling guests to relax and be fully present throughout their journey. TCS can also create trips to any of the individual destinations featured in the itineraries if that is something a guest would prefer, and arrange exclusive access and bespoke experiences such as behind-the-scenes tours, private cruises and after-hours visits.

Trips can be arranged for any group size, but are best suited for intimate groups of four to 12 people, and can also include a tour leader to travel with the group and handle everything along the way. In addition, TCS is prioritizing the health and safety of guests by developing a thorough return-to-travel plan, following evolving best health and wellbeing practices, for its journeys. Guests can consult with TCS physicians and TCS is working with its transportation partners, luxury hotel partners and on-the-ground associates to help ensure that they also adhere to high hygiene standards.

For flexibility, convenience and safety, theres never been a more advantageous time to travel privately, said TCS World Travel President Shelley Cline. Our guests are telling us that they are ready to start booking travel. More than 80 percent of those we surveyed said they would be traveling with family and close friends in the near future, as well as staying closer to home. We can provide the best U.S. and North American vacations, from remote Alaskan wilderness to islands in Maine. We are excited to help travelers pivot from dreaming to exploring this summer and fall.

TCS is also offering new flexible transfer terms to ensure guests can book with maximum flexibility. With the TCS Flexibility Promise, guests have the ability to postpone one of these booked trips without any cost or to apply the credit to a new destination, up to 15 days before they are due to depart.

New 2020 Private Charter Plane Itineraries

Each inspired itinerary transports guests via private charter plane on any date of their choosing. The itineraries can be customized to guests travel interests, specifications and group size. The price quoted is based on the accommodations and activities listed, and is inclusive of all transportation throughout the trip, hotels, daily activities, top-of-the-line guides and gratuities. The majority of the trips are priced based on private jet flights departing Los Angeles International Airport, but can be adjusted to depart from a home airport. The trips are priced starting at $29,900 per person, double occupancy.

The Alaskan Wilderness by Private AirGirdwood Finger Lake Kachemak Bay Anchorage10 days Explore the wondrous nature and raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness in luxurious remote lodges. Learn from experts as you beachcomb along the coastline, take part in nature walks, and observe Alaskas wildlife in its natural habitat.

Uncharted Pacific Northwest by Private JetSeattle San Juan Islands, Wash. Gold Beach, Ore. Seneca, Ore.11 days Discover the best of the Pacific Northwestwine, local delicacies from the land and sea, and contrasting landscapes as you travel to stunning, secluded areas of Washington and Oregon for unique and bespoke experiences, including a private yacht cruise in the San Juan Islands.

U.S. National Parks by Private JetJackson Hole Grand Teton Yellowstone Moab Arches Canyonlands Bryce Canyon Zion Grand Canyon Amangiri10 days Experience the best of the western U.S national parks on a fully tailored journey. Explore eight of these stunning protected lands while hiking, horseback riding, rafting and canyoneering.

Uncharted Hawaii by Private Jet Kauai Maui Lanai Big Island of Hawaii13 days Experience Hawaii like never before with exclusive access to remote corners of the islands. Enjoy a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation as you discover the dramatic landscapes of Kauai, the secluded beauty of Lanai and the volcanic splendor of the Big Island.

Uncharted Southwestern U.S. by Private JetPalm Springs, Calif. Joshua Tree, Calif. Sedona, Ariz. Santa Fe, N.M. Austin, Texas11 days Explore the rugged beauty of the mystical American Southwest. From Palm Springs to Joshua Tree, Red Rock Country to Pueblo-style Santa Fe, explore the stark desert landscapes and rich Native American cultures of this truly wild region.

Mountains of the American West by Private Jet Wasatch Mountain Range, Utah Lake Powell, Ariz. San Juan Mountains, Colo.10 days Travel to three must-see destinations of the American West on a fully tailored journey. Enjoy immersive nature activities, expert local guides, and exclusive access to some of the most spectacular sights of the United States.

Uncharted U.S. Islands by Private Jet Bar Harbor, Maine Nantucket, Mass. Bluffton, S.C. Key West, Fla.12 days Delve into the diverse culture and rich history found along the eastern coast of the U.S., from Maine to Florida. Enjoy the beauty of U.S. islands as you experience small coastal towns, national parks and daily local life.

U.S Art by Private JetNew York City, NY Washington D.C Bentonville, Ark. Marfa, Texas Santa Fe, N.M. San Francisco12 daysImmerse yourself in the artistic capitals of the U.S. From the world-renown galleries of New York and San Francisco to the artist meccas of the Southwest, enjoy exclusive access and private tours.

Uncharted Mexico by Private Jet Mrida Oaxaca San Miguel de Allende Punta Mita13 days Travel through four distinct regions of Mexico, exploring various cultures and climates. Enjoy private tours of cities and archaeological sites, discover the natural beauty of southern Mexico, and learn about colonial history throughout the country

Canada by Private Jet: From the Rockies to the PacificBanff Okanagan Valley Nimmo Bay11 daysExplore the diversity of our neighbor to the north. Take in jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies, discover Canadas wine country in Okanagan Valley, and spot wildlife while unwinding in the serenity of Nimmo Bay.

The Uncharted Caribbean by Private Jet trip will be unveiled in late July.

For more information please call TCS Luxury Custom Travel at 206-995-8655, email at lctinquiries@tcsworldtravel.com or visit TCSWorldTravel.com.

About TCS World Travel

TCS World Travel leads the industry in private jet journeys with the experience and knowledge built from developing hundreds of trips for 25 years. The company excels at providing unparalleled local access and exclusive activities tailored to any travel style. Circle the globe or take a dive deep into a region on a luxury private jet expedition or embark on a luxury custom journey by private charter plane created especially for you to any destination in the world. For more information, visit http://www.tcsworldtravel.com or find TCS World Travel on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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TCS World Travel Introduces New All-Inclusive Personalized Trips by Private Charter Planes - Business Wire

‘Travel without moving’: how people are seeing the world through strangers’ windows – The Guardian

Wouldnt it be a relief considering we are all stuck inside and travel is a distant memory if you could get a change of scenery? A new view would do us all well, and with that in mind, people across the world from Beirut, to the French Antilles, to Hawaii have been making short videos of whats right outside their windows to share so we can still explore during quarantine.

See someones world from their window in Oxford, Michigan, where the reflection of emerald trees bounces off the water. See potted plants dance in the breeze in Honolulu. If its chaos youre craving, opt for the busy bustling road in Londons Brixton, where red buses and white vans hurry past tower blocks seemingly unaware of the menacing dark cloud hovering above.

Sonali Ranjit and Vaishnav Balasubramaniam started the WindowSwap project while under lockdown in Singapore by asking a few close friends to share the view from their windows with them. In June they expanded it, asking people to send in 10 minutes of horizontal video via email, to be uploaded on their website. They have received hundreds of submissions from dozens of countries across the world since. Until we can explore our planet responsibly again I guess, this is a way to travel without moving, says Ranjit over the telephone from Singapore.

They have made small discoveries since then, like the ability to trade places for a moment with people in places they had never heard of; seeing the view of an 81-year-old woman in Massachusetts who couldnt send a video because she didnt know how, but sent a beautiful photo instead; understanding the natural knack of teenagers in cities for making high-quality videos; and nothing quite compares to the appeal of a slightly pixellated, grainy video from a small town.

I feel, they have so much character and its the beauty of this thing we started, that continues to transform, says Balasubramaniam.

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'Travel without moving': how people are seeing the world through strangers' windows - The Guardian

Global Travel Bags Market with Competitive Analysis, Market Size and Shares Forecasts till 2026 – 3rd Watch News

Travel Bags Market is systematic exploration that delivers key statistics on the market status of the development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status. The report has included strong players and analyses their limitations and strong points of the well-known players through SWOT analysis. This Report covers growing trends that are linked with major opportunities for the expansion of the Travel Bags industry.

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Global Travel Bags Market Segmentation: By Types

Lightweight Carry-OnsWheeled Duffel Bags and Rolling LuggageBackpacks and Wheeled BackpacksTravel Packs

Global Travel Bags Market Segmentation: By Applications

MenWomenKids

Do you want any other requirement or customize the report, Do Inquiry Here: https://www.globalmarketers.biz/report/life-sciences/global-travel-bags-market-report-2020-by-key-players,-types,-applications,-countries,-market-size,-forecast-to-2026-(based-on-2020-covid-19-worldwide-spread)/154350#inquiry_before_buying

This research report represents a 360-degree overview of the competitive landscape of the Travel Bags Market. Furthermore, it offers enormous statistics relating to current trends, technological advancements, tools, and methodologies.

Global Travel Bags Market Research Report 2020

Chapter 1 About the Travel Bags Industry

Chapter 2 World Market Competition Landscape

Chapter 3 World Travel Bags Market share

Chapter 4 Supply Chain Analysis

Chapter 5 Company Profiles

Chapter 6 Globalization & Trade

Chapter 7 Distributors and Customers

Chapter 8 Import, Export, Consumption and Consumption Value by Major Countries

Chapter 9 World Travel Bags Market Forecast through 2026

Chapter 10 Key success factors and Market Overview

It concludes by throwing light on the recent developments that took place in the Travel Bags market and their influence on the future growth of this market.

Table of Content & Report Detail @ https://www.globalmarketers.biz/report/life-sciences/global-travel-bags-market-report-2020-by-key-players,-types,-applications,-countries,-market-size,-forecast-to-2026-(based-on-2020-covid-19-worldwide-spread)/154350#table_of_contents

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Global Travel Bags Market with Competitive Analysis, Market Size and Shares Forecasts till 2026 - 3rd Watch News

Three world-renowned museums in London are all set to reopen in August – Happytrips

Here are all the details that you need to know.

Natural History Museum The director of the Natural History Museum said, This is a fantastic opportunity to experience all three of our museums without crowds. He said that guest capacity here would be about 2800 visitors per day.

Talking about new rules, face masks wont be mandatory but will be strongly recommended. Also kids under 11 years of age are exempt from wearing face masks.

Opening date: August 5. Timings: Wednesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PMBooking: Online pre-bookedEntry: Free

The Science Museum The Science Museum, one of the most popular museums in the country, will implement self-guided routes to ensure social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be provided by the museum authorities. Face masks are recommended, but are not mandatory. Opening date: August 19Timings: Open all days from 10 AM to 6 PMBooking: Online pre-bookedEntry: Free

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Three world-renowned museums in London are all set to reopen in August - Happytrips

Coronavirus: Leisure travel may not be possible this year, says Lawrence Wong – The Straits Times

Singaporeans are unlikely to be able to travel for leisure this year, though essential business travel will be possible.

At a virtual press conference yesterday, National Development Minister Lawrence Wong said: "Our overall advisory, it remains for everyone in Singapore, is not to travel, to avoid all travel."

He added that even though the virus situation is dynamic and constantly changing, the multi-ministry task force tackling Covid-19 - which he co-chairs - does not see things improving any time soon.

"Looking at the situation, the Covid-19 infection around the world is unlikely to go away. At the end of the year, it will continue to be with us, even till next year.

"So, it is unlikely that we will see improvement in the situation in the near term, which means that our travel advisory position is unlikely to change in the near term as well," he said.

However, negotiations with countries on reciprocal green lane arrangements will proceed to facilitate essential business travel, so long as the country Singapore is talking to has the appropriate control measures.

Green lanes "are not just free for all travel", reminded Mr Wong.

"A traveller coming in through a reciprocal green lane has to abide by and comply with certain control measures, including testing at the point of departure and point of arrival, and then following a very strict and controlled itinerary."

He added: "This will not apply to mass tourism travel... that, I think, will not happen any time soon."

The task force will also continually review and update border control measures for travellers who are entering Singapore, he said.

In the light of the resurgence of cases in certain countries, travellers entering Singapore from Japan, Hong Kong and Australia's Victoria state from July 20 will have to serve their stay-home notice (SHN) at dedicated facilities instead of their own places of residence.

They will also have to undergo a Covid-19 test before the end of their SHN period.

Travellers who left Singapore from March 27, despite the prevailing travel advisory against leaving the country, are required to pay for their stay at dedicated SHN facilities. Travellers who are not Singapore citizens or permanent residents also have to pay for their stay at dedicated SHN facilities.

The Straits Times understands that the cost of each 14-day stay is about $2,000. The Covid-19 test for each person costs another $200.

Mr Wong said: "In some countries, you are seeing a resurgence - it has not been controlled at all and the cases are still accelerating. So, we really need to remain vigilant."

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Coronavirus: Leisure travel may not be possible this year, says Lawrence Wong - The Straits Times

Top 7 Online Blackjack Casinos [2020] – Play for Real Money

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Dont miss the limited offer that comes with a lot of online Blackjack games. Their bonus opportunities give you the chance to win from a huge jackpot. They each offer a wonderful opportunity for online Blackjack games. The best gaming option lets you win real money with no deposit. Playing at a casino has never been so much fun. Its never been easier to win big with table playing casino options.

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Top 7 Online Blackjack Casinos [2020] - Play for Real Money

Gambling Laws in Texas – Why Does Texas Have Strict Gambling Laws – BestUSCasinos.org

Oh, Lone Star State. I have a bone to pick with you. This is a touchy subject, too, as Im a proud citizen of the great state of Texas.

I love your food; I love your diverse cultures and climates. I love that you can be country and hipster all at the same time.

But.

I want to know why you hate gambling.

This is a heart breaker for this gambling Texan girl.

Why are almost all forms of gambling illegal in my home state?

Why do you want me to take my hard-earned dollars out of state to spend on my favorite hobby?

I dont want to give that taxable revenue to Louisiana, Oklahoma, or Nevada. I want to go to the Gulf Coast and let my family enjoy our warm waters.

Then I want to gamble.

Why are you keeping this from me?

Did I do something wrong?

Why are you so mad at gambling?

So many questions.

Lets see if I can answer some of them.

Texas, much like its neighbors to the east and west, has changed hands many times of the course of its history. It was once even its own sovereign nation. Texans often refer to the Republic of Texas.

Texas was originally part of multiple native tribes, but we know how this goes. It changed hands between the Spanish (Tejas is the Spanish spelling), American, Mexico, and even the French.

Texas has the strictest real money gambling laws in the United States.

I wouldve guessed our Mormon friends in Utah would be a no go on gambling, but no.

Its Texas.

Texas outlawed almost all forms of gambling during Prohibition in the 1920s when vice laws became prevalent in Texas. This move towards outlawing vices like alcohol, prostitution, gambling, and narcotics became prevalent in this once wild country.

This was huge swing from the Wild West attitude of the 1800s. Texas is the home of many outlaws like Billy the Kid and Jesse James. Lets not forget that Bonnie and Clyde were Texas residents, too.

This is not a neat or prim and proper state. We like to be left alone, not told what to do, and keep to ourselves.

The Prohibition Era ushered in a clamping down of the above vices to almost do a 180 from the torrid, wild past of the state.

So, when did the State of Texas make gambling illegal?

Its a long drawn out answer. I wish it were easier. I wish it were something simple like 1920.

But no, it was a slow suffocation of the hobby.

The state would see local governments outlaw vices in their regions starting in the Reconstruction Era of the post war South. The nail in the coffin was the passage of the 18th amendment to the United States Constitution. This made alcohol and gambling illegal throughout the country.

Once this amendment was overturned, many states started to reopen racetracks and saloon or bars. Texas dug its heels in the ground on the topic of gambling.

The legality of gambling has wavered throughout the state over the years, but one thing has stayed true.

Texas doesnt condone most forms of gambling.

Texas has 2 casinos. We are number 2 in size and population in America. We are last in gambling.

And it doesnt look like the legislature is going to budge anytime soon.

There are some obscure loopholes in our gambling laws, and the lottery is a big government business.

There are a few types of gambling that are legal in Texas.

Most of these are weird except for the lottery.

The State of Texas legalized a state lottery in July of 1991. That was a big win. I remember when my parents got together with their friends to go in a ton of tickets. My siblings and I started seeing scratch off tickets in birthday and holiday cards from our grandparents.

Playing the lottery in Texas is a big deal. An estimated 68% of Texan play some form of the lottery. With almost 40 million residents, that is a lot of money.

I am from Austin, the capitol of the state. Downtown they used to live film the drawings and we would watch through the window on our way to the bar when I was in college at University of Texas at Austin.

I dont know anyone who hasnt played the lottery. When my husband and I were young and broke we would buy scratch off in hopes to win enough to cover our bills

The Texas lottery is as common as a rodeo or going 2 stepping after a meal of Mexican food or BBQ.

The state makes billions off the proceeds. This money is allocated to schools and wildlife and land protections. Texans are big hunters which makes them conservationists by default.

Under the pari-mutuel racing rules, Texans can participate in dog and horse betting. There are 3 class 1 racetracks in the entire state.

This type of gambling was legalized in Texas in 1978. Texas was about 30 years behind the rest of the country.

I didnt grow up with adults going to the races because of the old hold over of prohibition and the Progressive Movement.

Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the 3 recognized native tribes of Texas were granted the right to open gaming establishment.

The Kickapoo Tribe has the Lucky Eagle Casino. Its found in Eagle Pass, in far West Texas on the Mexican border. Its a long hot drive from almost anyone in the state except Laredo.

The Tigua Tribe owns and operates the Speaking Rock Entertainment Center.

Youll find it in El Paso on their native lands. El Paso is the 5th most populated city in the state, but its still a 9+ hour drive from the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex.

Are you seeing a trend?

The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe offers gambling, too at Naskila Gaming.

Thats located in Livingston, just north of Beaumont, Texas. Its only a 3-hour drive, but theres not a lot to see once you get there

The Naskila Gaming and Speaking Rock Entertainment have been wrapped up in red tape and legal disputes for years and may not be able to survive. This is against trend for other native casinos in other states.

Youve heard of WinStar?

The largest casino in the world?

It is a native owned casino and has its own economy. Its literally an hour drive from my house over the Oklahoma border.

What gives?

If youre not from here, youve probably not seen these shady little machines. Theyre the video poker looking machines in gas stations and dive bars.

They are gaming machines that offer noncash prizes of less than a $5.00 value. I have played these at a now closed bar (probably because they didnt ID people).

Nowadays I see them mostly in underserved communities. Its always a slimy gas station. The state legislature has been trying to outlaw them since the 80s.

They argue that they qualify as in-person gambling and dont follow that state guidelines of approved gambling.

Thats not the type of hobby gambling Im look for in my home state, are you?

This one is tricky. Im impressed to be honest. These one day cruises take people to a cruise to essentially nowhere.

They stop in international waters so that there is no jurisdiction to say, Quit it!. It is pretty genius but expensive.

The cost has caused many startups to fail or rebrand with more failure. They leave out of a Texas port with mostly Texas passengers.

The problem is most of the Texas ports are a short drive to Louisiana, our eastern neighbor. Louisiana is very pro gambling.

See the problem?

Why would I get on a day cruise and risk sea sickness when I can take my entire family to the Golden Nugget Lake Charles Casino and Resort for an all-inclusive resort vacation?

Its not good. Texas has even made friendly wagering illegal in the state. If I host a poker night with real money, I could serve some prison time.

When will Texas catch up and join the 21st, heck even the 20th, century?

I dont know.

Every year its on the state legislatures docket.

Every session it fails.

Maybe other states have made it too easy for Texans to come visit.

I see it as a missed opportunity for tax revenue for the state. And tourist dollars. Texas is so big that driving from Dallas to the coast is considered being out of state in other parts of this country.

Austin has 100s of 1000s descend on it every March for the SXSW festival.

Why not also make some tax venue off them with gambling?

It just doesnt make sense.

But this state likes to do things the hard way because thats how its always been. For a long time.

I would love to hear your thoughts and questions. Please leave a comment below.

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Gambling Laws in Texas - Why Does Texas Have Strict Gambling Laws - BestUSCasinos.org

Letter to the editor: Gambling on COVID is a losing bet – Huntington Herald Dispatch

In 1897, the Indiana legislature attempts by law to declare 3.2 as the legal value of the ratio of the circles circumference to its diameter (pi). They plan to resolve the ancient mathematical conundrum of squaring the circle as worked on by Archimedes and others with legislative decree. However, even approximations of 22/7 and 355/113 fall short. Pi exists as an irrational and transcendental number with an infinite number of digits that never repeat. Luckily, Clarence Waldo intervenes with a geometry lesson to state senators after which the bill becomes tabled indefinitely.

Higher stakes exist for todays politicians claiming alternative facts. Such a world view betrays an attitude of unbridled arrogance morphing into irrationality. Laws of nature, unlike human law, dont discriminate between party affiliations or ideology. Inability to arrive at scientifically based solutions guarantees future economic and mortality-rate forfeitures.

We must learn from Ginsbergs theorem (parody of the laws of thermodynamics) in terms of a person playing a game of chance. First, you cant win the game. Second, you cant even break even. Third, you cant even get out of the game. This mirrors todays seemingly unstoppable pandemic. Unfortunately, we experience the additional handicap of not knowing all the rules of the game, such as mutation rate, transmission rate, fatality rate, genetic susceptibility and aerosol dispersion risks, among others.

Limited health care guidance and insufficient contact tracing increase the probability of contracting COVID-19. Our odds of evading COVID-19 improve significantly with social distancing and wearing masks in public settings. Human nature thrives on personal interactions (exchange, competition, conflict, cooperation, accommodation). These can lead to risky and irresponsible behavior. Hence, the arrogance of dismissing preventative measures gives the virus a marked advantage.

Ambrose Bierce warns us to avoid arrogance and to think clearly: He who ignores the law of probabilities challenges an adversary that is seldom beaten.

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Letter to the editor: Gambling on COVID is a losing bet - Huntington Herald Dispatch

Problem gambling can be a source of emotional distress and mental health struggles – The Batavian

From the New York Council on Problem Gambling:

Mental health refers to our cognitive, emotional, and behavioral wellness.How we think and feel can attribute to the behaviors we display.Many individuals struggle with their mental health in a daily basis.

A variety of factors come into play, but did you ever stop and think that problem gambling may be a source of emotional distress for someone?

Nearly 668,000 New Yorkers have experienced a gambling problem in the past year. That is a lot of family, friends, and colleagues having trouble; possibly half of the state population.

Problems from gambling can include sleep issues, strains on relationships with loved ones, financial problems and struggles at work.

Each person struggling with problem gambling affects up to 10 of the closest people to them.A study found that nine out of 10 people affected by someone elses gambling problems felt emotional distress.

This means that between the people struggling with problem gambling and the people closest to them, nearly 6.7 million New Yorkers are affected by problem gambling and may struggle with mental health issues because of it.

People who struggle with problem gambling are also at a higher risk for struggling with othermental health disorders.

Two out of three gamblers reported that their mental health suffered as a result of their gambling problems.

In addition to struggling with gambling they may be struggling with mental health problems such as a mood disorder, personality disorder, and anxiety.

On top of that, problem gambling has the highest suicide rate among all addictions.About 50 percent of those struggling with a gambling problem have either thought about or attempted suicide.And one in 5 has attempted and/or died by suicide.

Those are frightening statistics.

How can we tell if someone is struggling with a gambling addiction?There are several warning signs to look out for including: being absent from friend/family events because of gambling; feeling stressed or anxious when not gambling; low work performance due to absence or preoccupation with betting; and lying to family and friends about how much money and time is spent on gambling.

For more information and help in Western New York, please click here to accessthe website of theProblem Gambling Resource Center in Williamsville. Or call (716) 833.4274. Email is: [emailprotected]

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Problem gambling can be a source of emotional distress and mental health struggles - The Batavian

Single mum in grip of serious gambling addiction took 340,000 from company in 10 months – Wales Online

A single mum took more than 340,000 from the company she worked for in just 10 months while in the grip of a serious gambling addiction.

Grimsby Crown Court heard that accounts manager Leanne Gouldthorpe was losing an average of more than 1,000 a day betting, thought to be largely online, GrimsbyLive reports.

The court was told the money the 34-year-old fraudulently took was now "lost forever to the gambling companies", causing serious problems for the logistics firm in North East Lincolnshire.

She was jailed for two years and eight months despite a plea that she be given a suspended prison sentence.

Gouldthorpe was described in court as a devoted single parent to her eight-year-old son after her partner left while she was pregnant. She admitted fraud and false accounting while working for the company at its head office near Grimsby between February and December 2018.

She attempted to cover her tracks by falsifying records for VAT payments and the total amount taken was said to be 346,535.

Defending, Andrew Bailey said Gouldthorpe met someone who was a gambler and she became addicted.

"That's the reason behind this offending," said Mr Bailey. "She has lost everything because of her gambling addiction. She has lost all her life savings."

He said she initially borrowed cash from family members but lost their trust because of her gambling and turned to the firm's funds.

"She couldn't stop gambling," said Mr Bailey. "This is no less an addiction than an addiction to Class A drugs."

Gouldthorpe naively thought that she might be able to pay back the money, he said.

"She was, frankly, unaware of how much she had taken," said Mr Bailey. "She was in the genuine grip of this addiction. She couldn't stop. Gambling has ruined her life. She was unable to think about the consequences of her actions. She couldn't think about the consequences, which have been significant on the company she worked for. She is disgusted in herself."

The court heard Gouldthorpe, previously of Marsh Lane, Barton, had suffered with mental health problems and spent about three months in hospital. She was too ashamed to tell her family the full extent of what she had done.

Mr Bailey said she had acted out of character, had no previous convictions and was remorseful.

He added: "She did cooperate with the investigation and made early admissions. She has been determined to address her addiction to gambling. She offers her sincerest apologies to the victims. Given some time, she could raise the sum of 50,000 to go straight to the victim."

Mr Bailey asked for sentencing to be deferred so payments could be made but Judge John Thackray QC said: "Your offending has had a profound and long-lasting impact. Only appropriate punishment can be achieved by way of a custodial sentence."

GamCare offers free information, support and counselling for problem gamblers in the UK. It runs the National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133 and also offers face-to-face counselling. Visit http://www.gamcare.org.uk

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Single mum in grip of serious gambling addiction took 340,000 from company in 10 months - Wales Online

Effect of gambling on Mental Health – Qrius

Gambling is an activity that takes place in almost all regions of the world. Indians especially love to gamble. People play it for various reasons. Some play for the fun and excitement for some people while for others it could be to enjoy the competition against other players.

Also, some people see the huge cash prizes offered as a way to escape financial problems and try all they can to win while they play. A few others see it as a way to escape from their worries and stress.

Over the last few years, we have witnessed a rapid increase of online casinos in India. What is even more fascinating is how well adjusted they are to Indian players. You can now play with Indian Rupees on online casinos, making the entry barrier to gambling smaller. This has led to an increase in gambling activities in the country.

Whatever the reason for gambling, it ultimately has some effect on us. It could be positive and it could be negative. It all depends on the gambler and the circumstances surrounding him.

There are two major types of regular gamblers; one is those who gamble moderately or sensibly and those who are addicted to gambling. Those who gamble moderately see it more like a form of gaming and fun while those addicted have developed a problem with it.

Lets discuss the mental effects gambling could have on these two types of people.

Effects of moderate or sensible gambling on mental health

1. Gambling can help to increase your focus and mental alertness

Gambling involve strategies and tricks. A moderate gambler is under no pressure or form of compulsion. He takes his time to apply these strategies and even develop more strategies. He also takes his time to learn new skills that could help to win the game.

Practicing focus and strategies on the games do not end there but will also help you to focus and develop strategies for other areas of life.

2. Improves your decision-making skills

When gambling, you have to make many decisions. You have to decide on the bets to make, which moves to make, and when to stop. You make many quick decisions when you play games and may pay dearly for making the wrong moves. Hence, you take proper care in deciding when gambling. It can help you in making decisions in other aspects of life.

3. Improves brain power

Casino games like slots, poker, rummy, teen patti require a lot of attention and this stimulates the neurological networks within your brain. The games engage the brain to play and involve it in every process.

Mental effects of being addicted to gambling

1. It could lead to depression

An addicted gambler spends more money than he should on gambling. Most times, this causes such a person to lose a lot of money which further results in depression. The gambler goes broke after losing a lot of money or may even run into debt. It could lead to severe emotional and physical breakdown.

2. It could lead to disorder and serious health problems

When people start to gamble uncontrollably, it could lead to pathological gambling. Pathological gambling is also known as compulsive gambling and is a condition where the gambler continues to gamble despite the negative consequences gambling has caused to him. When this continues for a long time, it could lead to chronic stress which can also result in further physical consequences such as hypertension.

3. Gambling addiction leads to strained relationships with other people.

When gambling becomes a problem, it could make the gambler lose interest in maintaining personal relationships with people. The gambler becomes preoccupied with gambling only and isolates himself from other people to keep gambling.

It causes strained relationships and a feeling of separation from other people. Also, it could lead to a feeling of shame or guilt which can overwhelm the gambler eventually. This is because the gambler may have borrowed money from other people and may not be able to return it. It keeps driving them away from people until they lose connection with other people completely.

4. It leads to a loss of interest in other activities

When a person gets addicted to gambling, he becomes less interested in other social activities. He stops thinking about other hobbies and gambling dominates the thinking even when he isnt playing games. Some people could even see themselves gambling in their sleep and find themselves thinking of their next game once they are awake.

How to keep your gambling moderate

We have seen the results of gambling moderately and addictive gambling. It is obvious that the best way to gamble is to gamble moderately. However, theres a thin line between these two. One could easily cross from gambling moderately to being addicted if one isnt careful. Here are a few tips to help you maintain the balance:

Do not see gambling as a form of making money. Instead, see it as a way of having fun. This will ensure you do not take it as a do or die affair.

Do not spend all time gambling without partaking in other activities. Only spend reasonable time playing gambling games.

Place a limit to the amount you can spend on gambling. Dont spend more than you are ready to lose. This will ensure you dont put yourself under unnecessary pressure to make money.

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Effect of gambling on Mental Health - Qrius

Single mum jailed after stealing 35,000 a month to feed her astonishing gambling habit – Grimsby Live

A devoted single mum has been jailed after stealing 35,000 a MONTH from her work to feed an insatiable gambling addiction.

Accounts manager Leanne Gouldthorpe stole more than 346,000 from the company, a logistics firm in North East Lincolnshire, in just 10 months after getting herself trapped in the "powerful grip" of a gambling addiction.

The 34-year-old was losing an average of more than 1,000 a day betting, thought to be largely online.

A court heard the money that Gouldthorpe stole was now "lost forever to the gambling companies" and the plundering of such a huge sum of money had caused serious problems for the company.

She was jailed at Grimsby Crown Court for two years and eight months despite a plea that she be given a suspended prison sentence.

In court, she was described as a caring single parent to an eight-year-old boy and had been a sole carer after her partner left her when she was pregnant.

Gouldthorpe admitted fraud and false accounting while working for the company at its head office near Grimsby between February and December 2018.

Gouldthorpe tried to cover her tracks during the long-running fraud by falsifying records for VAT payments and the total sum plundered was said to be 346,535.

Andrew Bailey, mitigating, said that Gouldthorpe met someone who was a gambler and became addicted to gambling.

"That's the reason behind this offending," said Mr Bailey.

"She has lost everything because of her gambling addiction. She has lost all her life savings."

She turned to using the company's money after initially borrowing cash from family members but losing the trust of friends and relatives because of her gambling.

"She couldn't stop gambling," said Mr Bailey. "This is no less an addiction than an addiction to Class A drugs."

Gouldthorpe naively thought that she might be able to pay back the money.

"She was, frankly, unaware of how much she had taken," said Mr Bailey.

"She was in the genuine grip of this addiction. She couldn't stop. Gambling has ruined her life. She was unable to think about the consequences of her actions.

"She couldn't think about the consequences, which have been significant on the company she worked for. She is disgusted in herself."

Her actions were blinkered and the gambling had a "powerful grip" over her but she had shown remorse.

Gouldthorpe, previously of Marsh Lane, Barton, had suffered mental health problems and had spent about three months in hospital.

She was too ashamed to tell her family the full extent of what she had done.

Gouldthorpe acted out of character and had no previous convictions.

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The court heard after she became pregnant, her partner at the time left her. She was left with low self-esteem and had suffered with anxiety and depression.

She had suffered a number of setbacks but had always tried to work through her difficulties.

There were glowing references for her and they "could not be more positive" about her.

"She did cooperate with the investigation and made early admissions," said Mr Bailey.

"She has been determined to address her addiction to gambling. She offers her sincerest apologies to the victims.

"Given some time, she could raise the sum of 50,000 to go straight to the victim."

Mr Bailey asked for sentencing to be deferred so that payments could be made if possible but the judge declined to do this.

The "long-lasting impact" on the company had been profound because of the systematic fraud when she had sole access to its business account.

Judge John Thackray QC told Gouldthorpe that, as accounts manager of the company, she had sole access to the company's business account.

North East Lincolnshire Council works with local organisations, such as Krysallis, who work with GamCare, to provide free advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.

If youre concerned about your own or someone elses gambling, services such as Krysallis can help.

For more information or for ways to get help, visit: krysallis.org.uk or call 01472 857939.

GamCare offers free information, support and counselling for problem gamblers in the UK. It runs the National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133 and also offers face-to-face counselling. Visit http://www.gamcare.org.uk

He said over a period of 10 months, she stole over 340,000 which had almost all been "lost forever to the gambling companies" because of her abuse of trust.

"Your offending has had a profound and long-lasting impact," said Judge Thackray.

"Only appropriate punishment can be achieved by way of a custodial sentence."

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Single mum jailed after stealing 35,000 a month to feed her astonishing gambling habit - Grimsby Live

Global Nuclear Medicine Imaging Equipment Market Outlook 2020 with COVID-19 Impact, Size, Growth Analysis and Forecast Report by 2027 – 3rd Watch News

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Global Nuclear Medicine Imaging Equipment Market Outlook 2020 with COVID-19 Impact, Size, Growth Analysis and Forecast Report by 2027 - 3rd Watch News

COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Wisconsin as state reports 978 more people have tested positive – Appleton Post Crescent

For the third Saturday in a row and the second time this week health officials reported a record number of new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin.

The Department of Health Services reported 978 more people have tested positive for COVID-19, which makes up 7.9% of the 12,424 tests processed since Friday.

The previous record for most new cases reported in a single day was set Tuesday, when the state reported 964 new confirmed cases of the virus. Last Saturday, July 11, 926 new confirmed cases were reported and on July 4, there were 738 new cases.

The state also reported 10 more COVID-19 deaths on Saturday, bringing the state's total to 843. La Crosse County reported its first confirmed death on Saturday, according to the state Health Department.

As of Saturday, 41,485 people in Wisconsin have tested positive for COVID-19.

As of Saturday, around 77% of all people diagnosed with COVID-19 in Wisconsin had recovered. There are 8,633active cases, or nearly 21%. The remaining 2% of people have died, according to the state Health Department.

Statewide, 315 people with COVID-19 were hospitalized as of Saturday morning, which is 51morepeople than were hospitalized last Saturday, according to theWisconsin Hospital Association. Of those patients, 90are in the intensive care unit, another increase from last Saturday, when 75 people were in the ICU. More than 150 patients are waiting for the results ofCOVID-19 test.

RELATED:Wisconsin's moratorium on power and utility shutoffs will end July 25. Here are resources if you need help with your bill.

RELATED:Many families in Wisconsin are 'close to becoming homeless' as effects of pandemic continue and help dries up

RELATED:Get ready for a bumpy ride with new mask requirements

Most counties were deemed to have "high" COVID-19 activity in the state Health Department's weekly ratings, released Wednesday. The ratings are based on a combination of total new cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks and the percent change in new cases between the past seven days and the seven days before that.

County ratings were as follows (parentheses reflect a change in the activity level from last week's ratings):

Contact Natalie Brophy at 715-216-5452 or nbrophy@gannett.com. Followher on Twitter @brophy_natalie.

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COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Wisconsin as state reports 978 more people have tested positive - Appleton Post Crescent

COVID-19 update: Rising cases in Ohio and other states, health and well-being resources, support for international students – The Ohio State…

The rising cases of COVID-19 in Ohio and around the nation and new information about the Safe and Healthy Buckeyes website were among topics covered in the latest pandemic update to the Ohio State University community.

Executive Vice President and Provost Bruce A. McPheron and Dr. Hal Paz, executive vice president and chancellor for health affairs and CEO of the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, also detailed Ohio States commitment to address racial injustice in their weekly message to the campus community.

McPheron and Paz delivered the joint message on July 18.

Dear Ohio State Community:

We hope you and your families are well. We are now well past the second half of summer term, and our gratitude once again goes to our university community for your hard work and perseverance under extraordinary circumstances.

Our front line professionals and support staff across the university continue to make us proud. Our Wexner Medical Center, in particular, has been a beacon of patient care and research advances in our region and beyond.

We all know that cases of COVID-19 have been rising in the past few weeks in Ohio and in many other states. The increase in cases is very concerning, and we are continually assessing and evaluating our operations in response to the current situation. As we look toward a return to on-campus operations in the autumn, our priorities are to keep students, faculty and staff as safe as possible while empowering them to advance their vital work in teaching, learning, research, creative inquiry and patient care. Our success depends on all of us wearing masks, physically distancing, practicing good hygiene and maintaining reduced traffic and population density on our campuses and in our facilities.

As always, we are Together As Buckeyes. This weeks updates are below.

Student, faculty and staff health and well-being

The Safe and Healthy Buckeyes website has been updated with additional guidance on student health and well-being as well as faculty and staff health and well-being. Topics covered include:

For more, visit the mental health and wellness webpage. These resources are in addition to several others listed at the bottom of this email.

The university state of emergency is extended through July 25, enabling Ohio State to continue to utilize Disaster Leave (Policy 6.28).

Federal reversal of rule impacting international students

Ohio State is encouraged by news that the federal government will be maintaining flexibility for international students to continue their education in the autumn.

This week, a rule was reversed that would have required international students to transfer or leave the country if their schools held classes entirely online. Before the reversal, Ohio State had signed on to an amicus brief filed on behalf of 180 colleges and universities in support of a lawsuit challenging the rule. We expect additional information on the revised guidelines soon.

As the university has stated, our international students are a vital part of our vibrant academic community. We remain committed to supporting their contributions to every discipline, and we will continue to advocate on their behalf.

Focus on racial justice

This week, the university announced the membership of a university-wide Task Force on Racism and Racial Inequities. It is co-chaired by James L. Moore III, vice provost for diversity and inclusion and chief diversity officer, and Tom Gregoire, dean of the College of Social Work.

The task force has been convened to provide tangible recommendations to create a more equitable, healthy, supportive and nurturing community. The group includes students, faculty and staff, and its members will be engaging broadly with the Ohio State community to identify and propose action steps. Read more at the task force website.

As shared last month, Ohio State has established a $1 million seed fund for interdisciplinary research and creative work that can contribute to the elimination of racism and solve its underlying causes and consequences.

Yesterday, the university extended a call for proposals to principal investigators. Ohio State will issue grants of up to $50,000 in two phases over the next two years. The first set of grants will be awarded in December 2020. To review the request for proposals and apply, visit the Office of Research website.

Additionally, the Wexner Medical Center and the health sciences colleges are working to address racism as a social determinant of health through the AntiRacism Action Plan. The plan will work to accelerate structural and systemic change supporting equity in health and well-being. More information is available at the medical centers Anti-Racism Action Plan website.

Summer commencement speaker

Approximately 1,600 Buckeyes will graduate on Aug. 9 during our virtual summer commencement, and we were pleased to share this week that Michael

Redd, an Olympic gold medalist and member of the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame, will serve as speaker.

A pre-ceremony program featuring messages from graduates, deans and other university leaders will begin at 1:30 p.m., with the virtual commencement ceremony starting at 2 p.m. The pre-program and ceremony can be viewed by livestream. As a reminder, an in-person ceremony to honor our graduates will occur when it is safe to do so. For more, visit Ohio State News.

As always, thank you for all that you do -- and Go Buckeyes!

Sincerely,

Bruce A. McPheron, PhDExecutive Vice President and Provost

Harold L. Paz, MD, MSExecutive Vice President andChancellor for Health Affairs CEO, Wexner Medical Center

COVID-19 Resources

Wellness Resources

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COVID-19 update: Rising cases in Ohio and other states, health and well-being resources, support for international students - The Ohio State...

COVID-19 hits Fort Collins restaurants: How it’s spreading and how it’s handled – Coloradoan

Here's what dining out looks like under amended safer-at-home order Fort Collins Coloradoan

In the nearly two months since Colorado restaurants reopened to in-person dining,at least sevenFort Collins eaterieshave temporarily closed due to COVID-19cases among their staffmembers.

But the spread of the virus likely isn't happening within restaurants,according to Larimer County health department spokesperson Katie O'Donnell.

"Our restaurants, breweries, tasting rooms have all been taking our protocols seriously," O'Donnell said, referring to the laundry list of regulations mask wearing and social distancing among them restaurants must follow to remain open during the pandemic.

What were really finding is employees hang out together outside of work," O'Donnell said, indicating the likely spread ofCOVID-19 among restaurant employees is happening when they are in close contact at after-work gatherings.

Since emerging from strict stay-at-home ordersand, in some cases, mandated closuresthis spring, Larimer County has not required a businessto close over COVID-19, O'Donnell said. All closures have been donevoluntarily, some after consultation with the health department, she added.

Tracking COVID-19 in Colorado: Larimer County and statewide case, death and hospital data

Businesses are not required to report positive COVID-19 cases among staff to the county health department, though they are welcome to consult the department on next steps, O'Donnell said.

The county's contact tracing team has the task of identifying sites of potential COVID-19 outbreaks as well asnotifying people who may have come in close contact with anyone who recently tested positive for the virus, O'Donnell said.

Restaurants are not required to collectinformation from diners for contract tracing purposes either, but it isencouraged, O'Donnell added.

According to the state health department's most recent outbreak data, three restaurants have been the site of COVID-19 outbreaks in Fort Collins: Chick-fil-A, 3605 S. College Ave.; Pueblo Viejo Mexican Restaurant, 185 N. College Ave.; and The Still Whiskey Steaks, 151 N. College Ave.

An outbreak is defined as twopositive COVID-19 cases reported at a business or facility within two weeks.

Chick-fil-A's outbreak has since been resolved, according to the state's data. Pueblo Viejo reopenedJuly 9 after a weeklong closure, and The Still Whiskey Steaks reopened Thursday, alsoafter a week of remaining closed.

The latest: 2 Larimer County nursing homes, 1 Fort Collins restaurant report COVID-19 outbreaks

Last week, MoJeaux's Bar & Grill, 820 City Park Ave., announced it would temporarily close after the roommate of one of its employees tested positive for COVID-19.

On Saturday, Tony's Bar,224 S. College Ave., announced via Facebook it would temporarily closeover COVID-19. And on Monday,The Human Bean coffee chain notified customers that a barista at its 821 N. College Ave. location had contracted COVID-19, prompting the drive-in coffee shop's temporary closure.

"It was a no-brainer," The Human Bean owner Frank Sherman said on the decision to close. "We're not going to push any of the limits, we're not going to play with any of our employees' health. We're not going to monkey around with this thing. It's too serious."

As businesses weigh their decisions to close over COVID-19, John Arnolfo knows what they're going through.

It wasn't that long ago that Arnolfo owner of beloved Old Townbreakfast joint Silver Grill Cafe was sitting at a Silver Grill table discussing what to do after one of the restaurant's employees tested positive for COVID-19 in late June.

"It was really tough," Arnolfo said."What do you do?Whats the right thing to do?"

Arnolfo said the restaurant immediately contacted the county health department and later shared the names and phone numbers of customers it had been keeping for contact tracing purposes. Silver Grill Cafe voluntarily closed for eight days.

"We felt that was the right thing to do, and as it turned out, I think it was," Arnolfo said, adding that about half a dozen of the restaurant's 30 employees were asked to quarantine. Employees were paid during the closure, Arnolfo said.

When Silver Grill reopened earlier this month, it was with new, stricter social distancing and mask rules for itsemployees, who are now barred from congregating between shifts and on breaks and must keep masks on at all times, except for when they're eating.

Dining out?: Here's your coronavirus guide to dining out in Fort Collins

"What we learned about the second shutdown is contact between employees and customers is minimal, but its the interaction between employees outside of work (that can cause a spread)," Arnolfo said.

After bearing the financial brunt of two separate closures in the last five months, Arnolfo said Silver Grill Cafe is taking steps to make sure another one doesn't happen.

"Its critical that we stay open," he said."Im sure youve heard all the news, read all the papers a second, third shutdown would really be detrimental to any business large or small, so were working through it."

As people continue to ease back into in-person dining, O'Donnell said the Larimer County health department is keeping an eye out for restaurant-related complaints filed through its online business complaint form. Its contact tracing team also continues workingto identify where and how COVID-19 is spreading in the county.

So far, no restaurants mentioned in the county's complaint forms have been the site of an outbreak, but it'slikely just a matter of time, O'Donnell said.

She stressed the importance of businesses following recommended public health guidance.

"If our businesses aren't enforcing (that guidance), then our cases are going to continue to rise," O'Donnell said.

Larimer County recently saw asingle-day record for COVID-19 cases when 37 new cases were reported Sunday.

"The biggest thing were starting to messageis that if our cases continue to rise, were looking at our variance getting revoked, which would drastically impact what business are allowed to be open," O'Donnell said.

"As our whole community has gotten a little lax, we need to remember this is important," O'Donnell added.

Erin Udell reports on news, culture, history and more for the Coloradoan. Contact her at ErinUdell@coloradoan.com. The only way she can keep doing what she does is with your support. If you subscribe, thank you. If not, sign up for a subscription to the Coloradoan today.

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COVID-19 hits Fort Collins restaurants: How it's spreading and how it's handled - Coloradoan

Young adults drive new Minnesota COVID-19 cases, and some are getting very ill – Minneapolis Star Tribune

At 25, Troy Kettwick seemed young enough and healthy enough to avoid the worst of COVID-19.

But this spring, the former four-sport high school athlete spent more than three weeks in the hospital, including 12 days on a ventilator fighting for his life after contracting the deadly novel coronavirus.

It can happen to anybody, said Kettwick, who says he didnt have a history of medical problems. You dont know if this is something thats going to hit you to the point where there are fatal consequences.

While young adults are far less likely to die from COVID-19 or suffer from a serious illness, doctors and health officials say extreme cases like Kettwicks illustrate how the virus can affect them, even though many wont show symptoms at all.

Among all age cohorts, people in their 20s have emerged as the single largest group testing positive for COVID-19 in Minnesota. They accounted for about 20% of new cases in May, but nearly one-third of new cases more than 3,400 from early June to early July.

Kettwick is one of 46 Minnesotans in their 20s who have required intensive care. Two in the age group have died of COVID-19, and neither had underlying health problems, said Kris Ehresmann, the director of infectious disease at the Minnesota Department of Health.

Thats why we keep trying to point out to people that this is not like you can say, Oh, this only affects people with blue eyes and I know for certain that my eyes are green and so I dont have to worry, Ehresmann said.

Certainly, we have data that shows us that certain populations are at greater risk, but no population is at zero risk. And by zero risk, I dont just mean zero risk for developing the disease I mean zero risk for having a really serious outcome.

Beyond general factors, doctors still dont know much about what puts an individual at greater risk for serious illness, said Dr. Ravindra Ganesh, an internal medicine physician at Mayo Clinic who is part of a care team with infectious disease doctors that is focused on treating COVID-19 patients. While many in their 20s who are infected wont have symptoms or develop life-threatening problems, they can spread disease to others, including people who are at higher risk.

I dont want people in their 20s to feel like theyre invincible, because its not you its everybody else that you impact, Ganesh said. Limit your time around other people. The distance is very important. And then the masks are absolutely protective.

Uptick in young adults

Health officials reported Saturday five more COVID-19 deaths in Minnesota and more than 450 new cases on a volume of 16,492 completed tests. Daily tallies for case counts have been rising in July, but the seven-day trend for new cases shifted lower on Saturday.

Residents of long-term care and assisted-living facilities accounted for three of the newly announced deaths. Statewide, 1,538 people have died from the virus.

The latest numbers show 265 patients were hospitalized, compared with 252 on Friday; 117 patients required intensive care, an increase of seven from Friday. The number hospitalized in Minnesota has been holding steady in July.

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory illness. Those most at risk are those 65 and older, residents of long-term care facilities and people with certain underlying medical conditions ranging from cancer to kidney disease.

But state health officials noted an uptick in infections among young adults last month as restrictions on drinking and dining establishments eased and more people ventured out to bars, restaurants, music events and parties.

In the 20 to 29 age group, 334 of 10,275 cases required hospitalization, according to data released Thursday by the Health Department. The 3% hospitalization rate is much lower, however, than the rate among people 60 to 69, where roughly 1 in 4 are hospitalized.

Allison Seaburg, 28, of St. Paul, tested positive after symptoms emerged in March. The illness started with a sore throat but progressed to chills and shortness of breath.

Months later, Seaburg, an avid marathoner who runs daily and attends fitness classes, says shes still not back to her pre-COVID pace.

Even if youre a healthy individual, you can still get it and it can still impact you significantly, said Seaburg, who works as a therapist and suspects she was exposed by travel.

Jordann Crowley, 29, of Rochester, said she has no idea how she contracted the virus. She came down with a mild sore throat and cough the weekend of July 4th and had difficulty catching her breath. Symptoms progressed to body aches, headache and loss of taste and smell one of the odd virus hallmarks for some patients.

When I got my positive result, I was just frantically telling everyone around me to go get tested, said Crowley, who is better now but staying isolated at home. My first knee-jerk reaction was: I feel horrible. I mean, it wasnt my fault and I didnt ask to get infected, but you still have this guilt.

Kind of scary

Kettwick, an IT recruiter for a staffing firm, also isnt sure how he was exposed.

In late March, his symptoms progressed over a few days to outright fatigue and a fever of nearly 104 degrees. His fiance drove him to urgent care, where a test revealed pneumonia. She then drove him to United Hospital in St. Paul, where staff donning masks, shields, gloves and gowns met the car outside the emergency room.

Aside from a few minor ailments growing up, Kettwick said he had always been healthy, with no history of diabetes, asthma, a heart condition or other factors that put people at greater risk for COVID-19.

In high school, he competed in football, basketball, baseball and track. In college, he played on a club-level baseball team. He wasnt quite as active in recent years but still played basketball, slow-pitch softball and worked out from time to time.

After two days in the hospital, Kettwick was admitted to intensive care after his breathing worsened. On the third day, a doctor put him on a ventilator.

It was kind of scary, I think, for all of us, said Dr. Justin Cohenour. Heres this [25-year-old] coming in otherwise healthy no previous medical issues, and hes really sick and intubated

He could have died. If we didnt have all the makings of modern medicine that we have, he would have died.

After 12 days on the ventilator, Kettwick built up his strength with the help of physical therapy. But even after going home, his heart rate became elevated on daily walks.

Now, three months later, hes jogging and playing softball again, said his fiance, Rachel Rolling. The couple plan to marry in August but say the happy ending shouldnt keep others from dismissing the risks of COVID-19.

Youve got to take the proper precautions, youve got to be conscious of it, because you just dont know, Kettwick said. And its not just you, where you feel like youre young [and] youll get through it. Youve also got to be conscious of the people around you.

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Young adults drive new Minnesota COVID-19 cases, and some are getting very ill - Minneapolis Star Tribune

Second mayor in Dickson County is COVID-19 positive – Tennessean

Landon Mathis(Photo: Chris Gadd/The Herald)

The mayor of Burns tested positive for COVID-19 recently making him the second municipal mayor in Dickson County whos been infected with the coronavirus.

Landon Mathis, who has served as Burns mayor since 2012, said his test results came back positive Satur after waiting about a week. Mathis said hes quarantined 10 days since discovering his girlfriend tested positive, and hes feeling fine.

Mathis said his physician, Dr. Desmond White, did an excellent job of explaining the latest CDC guidelines and plans togo back to business soonwhile wearing a mask.

In March, White Bluff Mayor Linda Hayes tested positive for COVID-19.

Dickson County Mayor Bob Rial recently began requiring people entering county buildings to wear a mask, and is exploring mandating masks in public places.

The mayor in neighboringMontgomery Countyissued a mask requirement order Friday.

The Tennessee Department of Health reports that Dickson County currently is shown to have had 343 cases of confirmed or probableCOVID-19, and 217 active cases.

Related: Dickson Co. mayor orders electronic meetings through August

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Second mayor in Dickson County is COVID-19 positive - Tennessean

Brew Practitioners in Florence ordered to shutdown by state citing COVID-19 reopening plan – MassLive.com

A popular Western Massachusetts brewery received a cease and desist order from the Massachusetts Department of Labor accusing the business of operating in violation of Massachusetts COVID-19 orders.

Brew Practitioners, a craft beer brewery in Florence, received the letter on Friday and was ordered to shut down immediately.

Upon receiving the letter, majority owner Tanzania Cannon-Eckerle and co-owner and head brewer Joe Eckerle closed their patio and indoor seating for the weekend to determine their next steps.

Is this reserved for black brewery owners or just female brewery owners. I cant figure out which of my labels has upset the health department so much, Cannon-Eckerle wrote on the Brew Practitioners Facebook page regarding the cease and desist letter. Especially since I just passed their Covid-19 Safety Inspection with flying colors.

Speaking with MassLive, Cannon-Eckerle expressed concern that her business was being held to higher restrictions by local health authorities than are outlined in the Massachusetts reopening plans.

Brew Practitioners opened on Main Street in Florence five years ago with half its space dedicated to brewing operations and half featuring a taproom with indoor seating. One of the smallest breweries in the region, the business has a maximum capacity of 49 people inside and seating for about 25 on its patio.

After three years of operation, the business was asked in 2018 to seek a retail food permit to accommodate brewing beer on site and the sale of small food items, such as chips and pretzels.

What felt like an unnecessary permit at the time initially was considered a blessing upon viewing the states reopening plan.

I saw the perameters for Phase 2 reopening and low and behold, I have a retail food permit, its sticking on my wall, Cannon-Eckerle said, who - in addition to serving as a co-owner of the brewery - is a an attorney with experience in labor and employment law.

The Massachusetts reopening plan features four phases: Start, Cautious, Vigilant and The New Normal.

In the start phase, construction, manufacturing and places of worship were among the first to allowed to resume, with significant restrictions to encourage social distancing. Doctors and dentists were allowed to start seeing patients again and beaches reopened on Memorial Day.

In the Cautious phase, retail, outdoor dining, hotels and other industries were allowed to reopen as early as June 8 under strict restrictions.

The Cautious phase, or Phase 2, was divided into two parts. The first part allowed outdoor dining to resume. Indoor dining was allowed again on June 22.

Restaurants are required to socially distance tables at least six feet apart and seat parties of no more than six people with no people seated at the bar. Face coverings are required for all workers. Customers may remove face coverings while seated at tables.

While initially bars were categorized as allowed to reopen in Phase 3 of the state plan, they were moved to Phase 4, joining nightclubs as among the last to reopen. The state will enter Phase 4 after a vaccine and/or treatment for COVID-19 is developed.

Brew Practitioners argues that the business is not a bar that only serves drinks, but brews on site in addition to serving small food items. The business recently added popcorn, homemade salsa and chips to its menu.

I bought a popcorn machine. Im creating food on site. Theres nothing in the regulations that says I need to create a gourmet meal, Cannon-Eckerle said.

The more popular option for customers is to order meals from Cafe Evolution, a vegan cafe with which the brewery shares a parking lot, or the pizza shop across the street which offers table service delivery for Brew Practitioners customers.

Cannon-Eckerle said theyve attempted to partner with food trucks to offer additional food options on site, though believes its an unsustainable option for breweries, especially one as small as hers.

I cant control if they come or go or if they get a better offer, said Cannon-Eckerle, who said theyve had food trucks lined up only for them to rebook for larger breweries.

If Brew Practitioners isnt allowed to welcome customers back, Cannon-Eckerle fears her business wont survive. She estimates their canned beer sales make up about 5% of their business.

She has appealed the cease and desist with state officials. I can sit down and be quiet and wait for someone to tell me I cant run my business or I can actively fight to keep my business open.

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Florida Sees Its 4th Day Running With More Than 100 COVID-19 Deaths – NPR

Carmen Garcia waits in line Friday to be tested for the coronavirus at a mobile testing truck in Miami Beach, Fla. The units were brought to the area as coronavirus cases spike in Florida. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Carmen Garcia waits in line Friday to be tested for the coronavirus at a mobile testing truck in Miami Beach, Fla. The units were brought to the area as coronavirus cases spike in Florida.

In Florida, hospitals are being stressed by the surge of coronavirus cases. Florida reported 11,466 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday and 128 deaths of residents. It was the fourth day running the state saw more than 100 deaths.

The spike in cases is most acute in the Miami area. Miami-Dade County accounts for nearly a quarter of Florida's 327,241 cases.

On Friday, Miami-Dade County's daily "dashboard" report showed the number of patients admitted with COVID-19 at nearly 120% of intensive care unit capacity.

But Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez said ICUs still have beds available. "Hospitals have the ability to add hundreds of ICU beds," he said, by discontinuing elective surgeries and converting recovery rooms into ICU rooms. "We have 450 ICU beds normally, but you have the ability to add another 500. Hospitals are adjusting on a daily basis."

Gimenez said there are no plans, for now, to activate a 450-bed field hospital set up at a convention center in Miami Beach.

Gimenez said hospitals have seen new COVID-19 admissions stay steady in recent days, a sign he hopes that cases may be peaking. In the meantime, the county is working to enforce public health rules, including mandatory face coverings. This week, it adopted an ordinance allowing police and code enforcement officers to issue $100 citations.

"That means you must wear a mask inside public places and outdoors," Gimenez said, "you must social distance or you may get fined."

In the hours after the order was passed, Miami-Dade County officials said they handed out dozens of citations and closed three businesses.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he supports guidelines requiring face masks in Miami-Dade and other counties. But for weeks as cases have surged statewide, DeSantis has resisted calls that he issue a statewide order requiring face coverings.

On Friday, 12 Democratic members of Florida's congressional delegation sent a letter to DeSantis calling again for a statewide mask order and stay-at-home orders in the hardest-hit counties. In their letter, the lawmakers, including Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Donna Shalala, said that "closing part of Florida's economy again would be painful." But "if we continue with the rate of infection we currently have in Florida, our economy will contract and shutter on its own."

In Miami-Dade County, Gimenez said he's waiting to see if stepped-up enforcement and other measures, including a late-night curfew, are effective at stopping large gatherings and other behavior that public health experts said are driving the surge in Florida and elsewhere. Any decisions to order further shutdowns, he said, will be based on data, especially hospitalizations.

"This is a balancing act," Gimenez said. "Starting to shut down again could cause irreparable damage, irreparable harm to people and their livelihoods on a permanent basis."

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Florida Sees Its 4th Day Running With More Than 100 COVID-19 Deaths - NPR