DEA Agrees To Hold Hearing On Proposed Ban Of Two Psychedelics Amid Pushback From Researchers – Marijuana Moment

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled an administrative hearing to get additional feedback from experts about its renewed push to ban two psychedelics after abandoning its original scheduling proposal in 2022.

More than a year after DEA announced its intent to classify 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-chloroamphetamine (DOC) as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), the agency has agreed to hold a hearing before issuing a final rule.

DEA Administrator Anne Milgram signed off on the hearing notice on Thursday. It says that the agencys administrative law judge will convene the meeting on June 10, at the request of three interested parties, including Panacea Plant Sciences, which had filed a motion contesting the proposed scheduling action last year.

Panacea Plant Sciences founder and CEO David Heldreth told Marijuana Moment on Monday that the company is prepared to fight the DEA attempt to schedule DOI & DOC.

Beyond the scheduling attempt, we believe the DEA administrative law judges and system are unconstitutional, he said, arguing that theres legal precedent based on prior Supreme Court rulings. We expect to file federal challenges to the ALJ prior to the hearing.

In its notice about the psychedelics ban last year, DEA said its arguments about the merits of the scheduling action remained the same as in its prior abandoned ban attempt. It is maintaining that DOI and DOC hold high abuse potential with no established medical value. But it also notably described a change in the process to request an administrative hearing, which left some with the impression that the agency was deliberately complicating the procedure in the face of likely challenges from the psychedelics research community.

But, ultimately, DEA accepted the multiple requests for a hearing.

Upon review of the requests for hearings, I have authorized a hearing, and direct the Chief Administrative Law Judge to assign the matter to an Administrative Law Judge who will complete all prehearing procedures, conduct a due process hearingand issue a recommended decision for the Agencys review and action, Milgram said.

A DEA spokesperson told Marijuana Moment on Monday that they expect the notice to be posted on the online docket on Tuesday.

DEA backed down off its original proposed ban of the psychedelics following challenges from Panacea and researchers from Emory University. It remains to be seen how the agency will navigate the scheduling issue following the hearing with experts.

DEA separatelywithdrew from a proposal to ban five different tryptamine psychedelics in 2022amid sizable pushback from the research and advocacy communities.

For DOI and DOC, the agencys 2023 notice about the scheduling proposal still lacks evidence that directly connects the compounds to serious adverse health events or demonstrated a high abuse potential.

To date, there are no reports of distressing responses or death associated with DOI in medical literature, it says. The physiological dependence liability of DOI and DOC in animals and humans is not reported in scientific and medical literature.

DEA said that anecdotal reports posted by people online signaled that the substances have hallucinogenic effects, making it reasonable to assume that DOI and DOC have substantial capability to be a hazard to the health of the user and to the safety of the community.

It did point to one report of a death of a person who had used DOC in combination with two other unspecified drugsas well as two reports of hospitalizations that it said were attributable to the use of DOC with other drugsbut scientists say that hardly constitutes reason enough to place them in the most strictly controlled schedule.

Meanwhile, DEA is also under significant public and political pressure to complete its review into marijuana scheduling after the agency received a recommendation to move cannabis to Schedule III of the CSA from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

A DEA official recently said on a podcast that the agency wants to correct misperceptions that its drug scheduling review process is done in a shroud of secrecy as it works to reach a final decision. He also said it sometimes takes up to six months for DEA to complete its analysis of health officials recommendationswhich is just about how long it has now been since the agency began its current cannabis assessment.

Vice President Kamala Harris recently urged DEA to finalize its cannabis review as quickly as possible and called it absurd and patently unfair that marijuana remains in Schedule I alongside drugs such as heroin.

President Joe Biden has also routinely touted his role in directing the marijuana scheduling review, including during his State of the Union address last month and in a new proclamation designating April as Second Chances Month.

Read DEAs notice about the psychedelics scheduling hearing below:

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DEA Agrees To Hold Hearing On Proposed Ban Of Two Psychedelics Amid Pushback From Researchers - Marijuana Moment

Can psychedelics treat people with a severe brain injury? – National Geographic

Ultimately, the logic driving these scientific initiatives is the correlation that exists between brain complexity and conscious level. But correlation is not causation, and its possible that the rise in complexity seen when under the influence of psychedelics is actually pointing to brain activity unrelated to growing conscious awareness, says Anil Seth, professor of computational neuroscience at the University of Sussex, and investigator on the 2017 study.

For example, it could be capturing the multi-sensorial richness of their experience during the trip, the random firing of neurons, or unwanted, reflexive bodily movements.

Theres many missing knowledge gaps, says Seth.

Still, the results led scientists to wonder: could psychedelics ability to boost complexity levels be used to awaken patients with disorders of consciousness?

For David, there was only one way to find out.

On August 25, 2023, exactly 336 days following Sarahs tragic accident, David, who is based in Colorado where psychedelic mushrooms are decriminalized, obtained a tincture of distilled liquid psilocybin. He had already given Sarah low and moderate doses of the drug over the course of several months and it had a remarkable" affect in her bodily movements.

This time, however, he would go all in, using the equivalent of 2.5 gramsa dose high enough to provoke a powerful psychedelic experience and which is often used in clinical trials for therapeutic purposes. At this dose, both Gosseries and Carhart-Harris said an awakening was theoretically possible.

The legalities of what David was about to do were unclear. Colorados decriminalization of certain psychedelics in 2022 means that psilocybin is easy to access and magic mushrooms can be grown and consumed. But whether David was crossing a line by giving Sarah the drug, when she could not consent, was not obvious.

David felt that if there was even a slim chance that psychedelics could awaken Sarah, he would take the risk.

Sarah sat in her wheelchair and wore a helmet-like headset with cables sprouting out of the back of her head, feeding into a laptop. The headset, a commercial-grade piece of equipment called a WAVi, measured the electrical activity from her brain and was going to be recorded and analyzed by Frank Palermo, medical director of the Colorado-based company, WAVi Co., which focuses on medical equipment manufacturing. Palermo also describes himself as a physiatrist specializing in neurorehabilitation, as he does in a video of him posted on Neurologic Life, a company that markets medical devices, including WAVi.

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Can psychedelics treat people with a severe brain injury? - National Geographic

WPT’s Vince Van Patten Teaches Poker Players Pickelball in the Cayman Islands – PokerNews.com

Dozens of poker players on board the WPT Voyage got a special experience on Tuesday, April 2 when the Valiant Lady set up shop on the shore of Grand Cayman in the Caribbean. Those poker players became pickleball grinders as they received lessons from WPT commentator Vince Van Patten, a former tennis pro who made the transition to professional pickleball.

Van Patten, whose pickleball prowess was highlighted by Sports Illustrated last month, was joined by pickleball champion Mattias Johannson for two separate sessions of the popular sport on the balmy Cayman Islands with plenty of palm trees bordering the courts.

Follow the WPT Voyage Here!

The early risers who weren't up late playing in the WPT Voyage Main Event boated over to Grand Cayman in the morning before a short shuttle ride brought them to Pickleball Cayman, an outdoor facility that, thankfully, was shaded by a giant canopy.

Before hitting the courts, players were divided into beginner and intermediate groups before getting lessons from two individuals who knew their stuff. Van Patten kicked things off with explaining the nuances of pickleball, from what the "kitchen" is to the importance of dinking and moving up to the net after serving.

After the lessons, players were divided up into teams of two and played some practice rounds before launching into a pickleball tournament consisting of six rounds of eight-minute games. In addition to the regular cruise attendees, WPT President and CEO Adam Pliska was in the mix and

There were also a few poker media members who had the chance to partake in the pickleball action, including those from PokerNews and Brazil's SuperPoker.

In addition to the tournament, players were offered a $20 freeroll if they could slam the ball over the net and hit a small target placed on the other side of the court something many players struggled with that Johannson was able to accomplish in his first few tries.

Another freeroll took place in the form of a competition to see if players could hit Van Patten and Johannson, something that had the two pros ducking and dodging like Neo and Trinity in the Matrix.

After posing for a group photo, the team of newly minted pickleball crushers loaded and on the buses and headed to the Grand Cayman docks before heading back out to sea on the Valiant Lady. Once back on the boat, it was time for some more poker.

Follow the WPT Voyage poker action by checking out the PokerNews reporting blog.

Read About the WPT Voyage Main Event!

*Photos courtesy WPT & Alicia Skillman

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WPT's Vince Van Patten Teaches Poker Players Pickelball in the Cayman Islands - PokerNews.com

Hands of the Week WPT Voyage Prime Championship Robin Poker’s Boat on a Boat – PokerNews.com

The $1,100 buy-in WPT Prime Voyage Championship attracted 968 runners over three starting flights before surviving players returned for Day 2 to compete for a share of a $968,000 prize pool. When the dust settled, Brazils Gregory De Faria finished as the last player standing to claim the title and $155,400 first-place prize.

Throughout the event, which took place on the Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady, the World Poker Tour (WPT) live reporting team of Liam Gannon, Mike Patrick, BJ Nemeth and Mickey Doft were on-hand to capture all the action.

During that time, they caught some either interesting or game-changing hands. Check out five of them below.

On Day 1a in Level 14 (2,500/5,000/5,000), a player opened for 12,000 and Trent Boudreau called from the hijack. The small blind called and then Jeff Platt moved all in for 98,000 from the big blind. The original raiser jammed over the top, Boudreau called to put both players at risk, and the small blind got out of the way.

Jeff Platt: KJ Original Raiser: JJ Trent Boudreau: AK

This is a disaster, Platt said upon discovering between his two opponents he was drawing thin. Indeed, the poker commentator watched helplessly as the board ran out 410877 to give Boudreau the double elimination.

Fortunately for Platt, he reentered a different flight and went on to finish the tournament in 108th place for $2,000.

On Day 1b in Level 12 (1,500/3,000/3,000), PokerNews Podcast host Chad Holloway got his stack of 103,000 all in preflop and was racing against Michael Wang.

Chad Holloway: AK Michael Wang: QQ

It was a classic flip, and Holloway took a big lead when the AJ2 flop delivered him a pair of aces. Neither the J turn nor 4 river changed a thing and Holloway shipped a big double.

In the very next hand, a middle-position player raised to 10,000 and Holloway just called from the big blind with the 99. He then checked top set on the 972 flop and smooth called when his opponent bet 14,000.

On the A turn, Holloway checked for a second time and then snap-called when the middle-position player moved all in for 43,000. The middle-position player was drawing dead with the K10 and Holloway pulled in another nice pot when the 8 completed the board on the river.

Unfortunately, Holloways stack dwindled and in Level 17 (5,000/10,000/10,000) he shoved his last 90,000 from the button with the K4 and was called by the KQ of Jeff Farnes in the big blind.

Holloway was dominated and left drawing thin when the QQ6 flop gave Farnes trip queens. The 3 turn left Holloway drawing dead and he was eliminated short of the money after the meaningless 7 was put out on the river.

5 Big Hands from the WPT Voyage Cracked Aces Leads to Andrew Neemes Demise

On Day 1c in Level 2 (200/300/300), PokerNews Ambassador Lukas Robin Poker Robinson and two other players were on the turn with around 8,000 in the pot and a board reading KKQ6. Two checks saw Robinson bet 3,000 from the hijack and only Bartley Dowling called from the small blind.

When the 10 appeared on the river, Dowling checked and Robinson bet 10,000. Dowling called only to muck when Robinson rolled over the KQ for a full house.

Robinson went deep but in Level 16 (4,000/8,000/8,000) he moved all in for 65,000 holding the K10 on the button and Darrell Floyd called from the small blind with the AQ. The board ran out QQ2310 and that was all she wrote for the Game of Gold star.

Speaking of Game of Gold stars, Olga Iermolcheva was on the WPT Voyage and made Day 2 of the Prime tournament. In Level 18 (6,000/12,000/12,000), she found herself all in for approximately 200,000 and up against WPT Prime World Championship winner Calvin Anderson.

Olga Iermolcheva: A5 Calvin Anderson: A7

Both players held an ace but Iermolcheva had a kicker problem. Unfortunately for her, it didnt get resolved as the board ran out 86263 to send her out in 19th place for $2,000.

With 44 players remaining on Day 2 in Level 22 (15,000/30,000/30,000), Zoltan Lanszki raised to 60,000 from middle position and then called off for 640,000 after Gregory De Faria moved all in for 690,000 from the button.

Zoltan Lanszki: AK Gregory De Faria: AQ

Lanszki got it in as a heavy favorite and maintained the lead on the J43 flop. Unfortunately for him, the running 7 turn and 9 river gave De Faria a runner-runner flush. Lanszki finished in 44th place for $4,500 while that hand helped De Faria on his way to winning the whole thing!

*Images courtesy of WPT.

PR & Media Manager for PokerNews, Podcast host & 2013 WSOP Bracelet Winner.

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Hands of the Week WPT Voyage Prime Championship Robin Poker's Boat on a Boat - PokerNews.com

Is There A Poker Face Season 2 Release Date? – The Mary Sue

Im not lying when I say that Rian Johnsons mystery series Poker Face was one of the best new shows of 2023. The series stars Natasha Lyonne (Orange Is the New Black, Russian Doll) as Charlie Cale, a woman with an innate ability to detect lies.

This skill comes in handy as she crisscrosses the country, stumbling into various whodunnits along the way. Although in the case of Poker Face, its more of a whydunnit. Each episode opens with a murder, then introduces Charlie who susses out the crime based on who is lying.

In season one, Charlie encountered shady race car drivers, hippy seniors, and a one-hit wonder metal band while running from casino boss Sterling Frost Sr. (Ron Perlman) and his head of security Cliff (Benjamin Bratt). Along the way, she stumbles into various cases of the week, exploring subcultures and criminals in her travels.

Poker Face debuted to critical acclaim, and it was no surprise when the series was quickly renewed for a second season. Its been over a year since the series was renewed, but in that time the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes brought production to a standstill.

Unfortunately for us, we may be waiting awhile for the further adventures of Charlie Cale. In an interview with Deadline in June, Johnson said of the release date, Thats something thats really up in the air. I mean, a lot of it has to do with what happens in terms of the writers strike, and theres so much thats unknown at the moment. Also, right now my priority is getting the next Benoit Blanc movie going.

Lyonne spoke with Variety at the at the Critics Choice Awards, where she joked that she was recruiting future guest stars, saying Its all cooking and its fucking hot. Its gonna be a hot season, Theres some big ideas and Ive been going around all of this award circuit with contracts and so Ive been getting people to sign up for episodes. Its been really helpful Billie Eilish. Ill try to get her to sign one later tonight. You know, I hear Jodie Foster is gonna be here tonight. So Ill try to get a signature, some sort of a blood oath or you know, spitting in a palm and a handshake still holds in this town.

In the meantime, you can catch Lyonne voicing Nurse Tup in Amazons The Second Best Hospital in The Galaxy, which she also produced. Lyonne also directed theNetflix specialJacqueline Novak: Get On Your Knees.

(featured image: Evans Vestal Ward/Peacock)

Have a tip we should know? [emailprotected]

Chelsea was born and raised in New Orleans, which explains her affinity for cheesy grits and Britney Spears. An pop culture journalist since 2012, her work has appeared on Autostraddle, AfterEllen, and more. Her beats include queer popular culture, film, television, republican clownery, and the unwavering belief that 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' is the greatest movie ever made. She currently resides in sunny Los Angeles, with her husband, 2 sons, and one poorly behaved rescue dog. She is a former roller derby girl and a black belt in Judo, so she is not to be trifled with. She loves the word Jewess and wishes more people used it to describe her.

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Is There A Poker Face Season 2 Release Date? - The Mary Sue

Giuseppe Pantaleo Wins World Series of Poker Circuit Main Event in Las Vegas – CardsChat.com

Giuseppe Pantaleo is the winner of the World Series of Poker Circuit Main Event at the Horseshoe Las Vegas, breaking a self-described poker drought that tested his desire to even play tournaments anymore. But turning $1,700 into $192,831 will change any poker players attitude and mood.

Yeah, this feels very good because the last five years have been pretty bad in tournaments for me. Im just very happy to get the weight off my shoulders and have some success, Pantaleo said. Honestly, I didnt even want to play tournaments anymore. Ive been playing more cash and just to be slow and steady to make some money because the tournament grind, you never know when youre gonna win them, so it does feel good to put in the work and get rewarded.

His largest cash since finishing fifth in EPT Barcelonas main event for $232,354. Its his third WSOP Ring, but the first coming in a live event. He also owns one WSOP bracelet he won with Nikita Luther in the tag-team event in 2018.

The WSOP Circuit series Main Event more than doubled its $500,000 guarantee with 669 entries, paying the top 101. Those numbers were reached with three starting flights, building a prize pool of $1,013,535.

Pantaleo found his way to the top after making two other final tables, finishing eighth in the $3,300 event for $7,354, and fourth in the $2,200 event for $23,429. Both events are considered high-rollers.

The win sends Pantaleo to the WSOP Tournament of Champions, $1 million freeroll, which will be held as part of the final WSOP Circuit series of the season at Commerce Casino in Los Angeles in May.

It took about nine hours playing from 12 players to the winner. When asked what he would be doing to celebrate the victory, he said: Im very happy inside. Im going home to my wife and my daughter and we are gonna be happy together.

There are five more live WSOP Circuit series left in the 2023/24 season, which runs from May to May. The 19-event series at Grand Victoria Casino in Chicago starts tomorrow, with the Main Event starting April 11. After that, it heads to Horseshoe Tunica in Mississippi April April 18-29, Harrahs Cherokee in North Carolina May 2-13, Caesars Southern Indiana May 9-20, before wrapping it all up at Commerce Casino in the City of Angels May 10-24.

Then its the granddaddy of them all, the WSOP at Horseshoe Las Vegas and Paris, which runs from May 28 to July 17.

Bob Pajich

Bob Pajich is a poker news reporter, creative writer, and poker player who never met suited connectors he didnt like. For any tips, corrections, complaints or kudos, please contact us.

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Giuseppe Pantaleo Wins World Series of Poker Circuit Main Event in Las Vegas - CardsChat.com

Where to get the Death’s Poker in Elden Ring – VG247

Throughout Elden Ring, you mightve run into a couple of Deathbirds. These large beasts who often roam around graveyards will carry the Deaths Poker weapon, a barbed rod that looks a lot like your average stick. Appearances can be deceiving though, and this greatsword is capable of dealing Frostbite while dishing out some impressive-looking Ghostflame.

If you want to get your hands on a Deaths Poker for yourself, itll mean fighting a more powerful version of the Deathbirds during the dead of night: a Death Rite Bird. But with a name like that, it sounds like you're doing everyone a favour, so heres exactly where to get the Deaths Poker in Elden Ring.

The Deaths Poker is a drop from a Death Rite Bird in Caelids Swamp of Aeonia in Elden Ring. That said, this particular Death Rite Bird - and thus, the Deaths Poker - only spawn at night.

At the Southern Aeonia Swamp Bank Site of Grace, you want to pass time until it is nighttime. From there, simply head a little southwest until you encounter a Death Rite Bird. If you manage to fell it before dying and letting morning come back around, youll be rewarded with the Deaths Poker.

Death Rite Birds are a lot more troublesome than the typical Deathbirds youll have already found across Caelid and beyond. Theyre immune to the likes of Bleed, Frostbite, and Poison, while being particularly strong against Lightning damage. That said, if youve a Holy weapon to hand, Death Rite Birds are particularly weak to that damage type.

Any Faith weapons or Incantations you have to hand will make light work of this fight, but alternatively, weapons that dish out Strike damage will also be good here. I managed to have an easy time of it using Wing of Astel's Weapon Skill, Nebula, which was able to do AoE damage to the boss.

Once you finally receive the Deaths Poker, itll requires 11 Intelligence, 17 Dexterity, and 15 Strength to wield, while requiring Somber Smithing Stones to be upgraded. It scales best with Strength and Dexterity, while its Weapon Skill, Ghostflame Ignition, scales with Intelligence. So, this weapon is ideal for those running Dexterity and Intelligence builds, or those who like weapons capable of dealing Frostbite damage.

For more on Elden Ring, take a look at some of the other impressive weapons worth experimenting with across The Lands Between. Theres the Eclipse Shotel, the Marais Executioners Sword, and the Sword of Night and Flame worth considering.

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Where to get the Death's Poker in Elden Ring - VG247

Three Easy Poker Tactics That Will Make You Money in 2024 – Tight Poker

In this article, well be detailing three proven tactics to improve your chances at the poker felt in 2024. From bluffing like a champ to using position like a boss and reading your opponents, were here to help you conquer your poker opponents in the next 12 months.

Pocket Aces can be tricky to play. There are ace crackers out there in the form of suited connectors, your opponents could always fold to you if you go too big too soon and if youve already won big with premium hands like kings or queens, then your opponents will find it easier to read your style with monster hands unless you mix it up.

Playing pocket aces slowly in order to trap your opponent is, therefore, fraught with danger. Play them correctly, though, and you can scoop the big pots, whether its playing tournament poker or crushing at cash. For now, lets assume that youre playing $2/$5 cash and your stack is $500.

Here are some quick rules to playing aces slowly:

Many times with pocket aces, if you get a call pre-flop, a flop such as 8-5-3 with two cards in the same suit can lead to a check from your opponent. Now your strategy here could easily be to bet in order to protect your hand from flushes or straights. Thats understandable. If someone has called your pockets rockets with ace crackers like seven-six suited, you could be in trouble.

But if you know your opponents ranges and put them on a bigger hand like king-queen offsuit, then youre going to scare them off. Instead, you want to check and give your opponent a chance to a) bluff or b) catch one of their cards later on, such as a queen on the turn. If they do this, the letting them take the betting lead will disguise your aces brilliantly.

In the 2006 movie Casino Royale, James Bond, played by Daniel Craig, demonstrates the art of slow playing pocket aces during a high-stakes poker game. With a calm demeanor and strategic finesse, Bond opts to underplay his hand, allowing his opponents to underestimate his strength. This tactical maneuver not only maximizes his potential winnings but also adds a touch of sophistication to Bonds already legendary poker prowess.

You dont always want to check pocket aces on the flop. But if youve got good reasons to do so and youre playing against your regular intentions, then it can be an extremely smart way of winning big pots against certain opponents.

Continuation betting, or c-betting, is one of the most crucial phases of play at the poker table. Back in the 1970s, players simply didnt c-bet unless they caught some of the flop. If they did, then those c-bets were frequently too low and risked too many players coming along for the ride to the turn and, often, the river.

In 2024, betting post-flop when the flop is really good for you is often the right play. Lets look at a common example of you raising pre-flop with a premium hand and the flop lands A-Q-4 with three different suits. This is now a great flop for you and has hit your hand. In the past, a small c-bet designed to tease players into seeing another street might have been preferred. Today, advice is very different.

In 2024, betting big on this flop works better and for several good reasons. Firstly, youre bumping the pot when youre likely to have the best hand and bigger bets are being called more often these days in this position.

If your opponent has queen-ten or ace-eight, for example, they are already in a really horrible spot despite having hit their hand. While you can make this move with ace-jack or king-queen and might be dominating them, you can just as easily make this move with low pairs or suite connectors that didnt and get a fold by bluffing, as long as your opponents range is such that you know theyre unlikely to call if faced with the situation above.

The secondary benefit of playing really strong holdings like ace-king or ace-queen strongly in this position is that some opponents will be reluctant to fold weaker paired hands, such as ace-jack or ace-ten when the flop lands like this. When there are two high cards and one low card, if youre holding the goods then betting big is far more likely to pay you off bigger in 2024.

Weve spoken about trapping with aces and betting big with a top pair on a double high-card flop, but our third money-making quick tip is to check. When you think of the action of checking, who do you think of? Perhaps its the local rock at your casino who never bets big even if hes got it. Maybe its Mike McDermott in the 1998 poker movie Rounders, who famously got the better of Teddy KGB After check, check, checking in the late stages of their heads-up battle.

Checking when youre out of position is often the right move, even if you were the pre-flop aggressor. In 2024, plenty of players will be more than happy to try to take betting control of the pot away from you post-flop, and if you have strong hole cards, this can play right into your hands.

On a low flop of 5-3-2 with two suits, you might often make money with an overpair of pocket queens against drawing hands or weaker pairs such as pocket sevens through tens. In this situation, many players simply bet with the queens, get a fold or a call and have less idea where they are in the hand. By checking, you can often get your opponent to bet, where many GTO solvers recommend that you check-raise over 20% of the time.

On flops such as 9-9-8 or A-5-3, solvers suggest that you should check over 90% of the time rather than betting if you have an overpair. This is despite the natural tendency to want to protect against drawing hands in this situation. In 2024, looking for value often means checking in these spots rather than revealing the strength of your hand or simply following standard c-betting strategy.

While this tactic actively applies to heads-up tournament poker, it is worth remembering that checking with a stronger hand in pots against multiple opponents is going to benefit you too. In cash games, youll often see players chasing draws to turn or river, so checking your cards with a protected range gives you even more chance of winning big and can often lead to you taking down inflated pots on the flop after youve check-raised on later on in the board when you represent your strength and push weaker holdings off the pot.

These three tips, working alongside a study path and practiced proven strategy, could help make you more money in 2024.

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Three Easy Poker Tactics That Will Make You Money in 2024 - Tight Poker

Millions of Dollars on the Table in This Week’s High Stakes Poker Episode – PokerNews.com

Nikhil "Nik Airball" Arcot and Andrew Robl went to battle, Santhosh Suvarna played some monster pots, and there was over $4.7 million on the table on the newest High Stakes Poker episode, which aired Monday on PokerGO.

Season 12 is heating up, and Episode 7 is must-see. Multiple pots over $500,000 were played, and the $1,000/$2,000 blinds made for some juicy action. Here's a look at the full list of players when the game began, and the chips they each had in front of them.

The show began with Robl, holding QJ, flopping top pair on a board of 510Q77 and betting $4,000 into a pot of $23,000. Airball, perhaps fooled by the undersized wager, went for a raise to $18,000 with king-high, but it wasnt enough to force a fold.

On the next hand, with a $4,000 straddle on, the same two players would tangle again. Robl raised to $10,000 with K9 from an early position. Airball called on the button with A6.

The flop came out A9A, and Robl led for $10,000 with his nearly-drawing-dead two pair. A call was made, and then both players checked the 4 turn. When the 5 appeared on the river, Robl checked, but would call off a $15,000 bet only to find out his hand was no good.

After Robl pushed Suvarna around in a couple of pots, he went back to war against the Hustler Casino Live regular hed already faced at the beginning of the show. In this next pot, Airball would get a fortunate run-out.

Action began with Robl raising to $6,000 with Q10 and then, in position, Airball made the call with A2. The flop of 987 gave both players something to draw to, and after a check, Airball bet $10,000, to which his opponent called.

Following the K on the turn, which completed the nut flush, Airball would fire out a bet of $21,000 and receive a call. The river was the 3, giving Robl a flush, but one that was inferior. Despite that, instead of checking it back, he fired out a bet of $85,000, just over the size of the pot. Knowing his hand couldnt possibly be beat, Airball raised to $175,000, and he earned a call before scooping a $429,000 pot.

When your pocket aces get cracked but youre still drawing live, thats not an awful position. For Suvarana, who has been getting destroyed in the few High Stakes Poker episodes hes appeared on, he found himself in such a situation against a Harvard professor.

Preflop action started with Tang raising to $5,000 with A5, and then Suvarna deciding to slowplay his AA by just calling in position. Adams, in the big blind with 64, called to see a flop of 5J7, and Tang made a continuation bet of $7,000 with bottom pair.

Suvarna and Adams, who had a straight draw, would both make the call to see the 8 on the turn complete the straight. But with a heart in his hand, Suvarna wasnt drawing dead, and he would bet out $25,000.

Adams had a decision to make with a straight knowing theres a chance he was up against a flush. But he wasnt about to fold, so he made the call just before Tang mucked his cards. The 5 on the river bricked the flush, and Adams checked. Instead of checking behind, Santhosh made a sizable bet of $62,000 for value. But he wouldnt get that value because Adams called with a superior hand.

Moments later in the show, Adams was the one who picked up pocket aces, and he would get paid off on the river by Airballs ten-high when a straight draw failed to come through in a $140,000 pot. Suvarna would then go on a heater, winning large pots against Airball and Tang over the following few hands.

Things would get even better for Santhosh in a hand against Tang. With the board showing 5369, both players were all in for a $524,000 pot. Tang held 107 for a monster draw, and was up against 65 for two pair. They agreed to run it twice, and both rivers were of no help to the drawing hand.

Charles Yu would enter the game late, and it took him no time to lose a big pot, which he often has done on shows such as Hustler Casino Live.

The hand began with Adams raising to $5,000 with 77, while Suvarna called behind him with 42. Yu, on the button with QQ, three-bet to $29,000 and both players called.

When the flop showed 1097, Yu was in deep trouble, and he checked it over to Adams, who bet $45,000 with bottom set. That was enough to get Suvarna out of the way, but pocket queens wasnt going anywhere.

The turn was the 5, no help to either player. Yu checked and then called a $90,000 wager before the 5 on the river paired the board. Following another check back to him, Adams downsized his bet a tad to $85,000, just enough to keep his opponent interested. Yu made the call and lost a $530,000 pot to close out Episode 7.

You can catch the full episode on PokerGO and future episodes, which air each Monday at 5 p.m. PT.

To watch new episodes of High Stakes Poker, visit PokerGO.

*Images courtesy of PokerGO/Antonio Abrego

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World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions Moved to Los Angeles – CardsChat.com

The World Series of Poker is moving its Tournament of Champions a $1 million freeroll open to all winners of Circuit and bracelet events to Commerce Casino in Los Angeles. The Tournament of Champions will take place May 22-24, and is officially part of the schedule of the WSOP Circuit series at Commerce that starts May 10.

The first event of the 55th WSOP series in Las Vegas starts May 28.

The Tournament of Champions is open to anyone who won a bracelet or a Circuit ring in the 2023/24 season, which runs from May to May. That includes all the bracelet winners from the 2023 WSOP.

Last year, the Tournament of Champions was held as a kick-off to the Series in Las Vegas. Ronnie Day, who won his way into the Tournament of Champions by taking down a $400 Circuit event at Caesars Southern Indiana just two weeks before it was held, outlasted 741 other champions for $200,000.

The year before, which was the first time it was held, it was the final event for all the winners, making it a convenient end-cap for those who managed to snag a bracelet or two during the summer.

The move is part of a partnership both WSOP and Commerce announced last week.

For years, the Commerce has been the home of poker in Los Angeles and one of the leading card rooms in the world, said Ty Stewart, Senior Vice President & Executive Director of the WSOP. We look forward to kicking off our new strategic relationship with a special WSOP Circuit finale and the Tournament of Champions bracelet event. We also look forward to qualifying more players from Los Angeles for the WSOP Main Event than ever before.

In previous years, the Bicycle Club was WSOPs home to Circuit events in Los Angeles. That partnership seemingly ended last year.

We are ecstatic to merge our strengths with the World Series of Poker, said Spencer Villaseor, Director of Guest Experience at theCommerceCasino said in a press release. This collaboration marks the convergence of two giants in the poker world and presents endless possibilities. Together, we are committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards of excellence in the industry.

Both the WSOP and Commerce promised the partnership will lead to more WSOP-branded tourneys and provide players with unparalleled access to the world of competitive poker.

Partnering with TheCommerceCasino& Hotel is an exciting milestone for the WSOP, saidTy Stewart, Senior Vice President & Executive Director of the WSOP in a press release. Commercesreputation as the biggest and best year-round poker room aligns perfectly with our desire to expand the brand while also promoting the growth of the summer festival. We look forward to delivering exciting events and experiences that grow interest in our resilient and resurgent game.

The Commerce and its poker staff have a lot of experience hosting larger poker series. It hosted World Poker Tour events from 2012 to 2020, and holds a full schedule of daily tournaments in its enormous poker room. With 20 tables, its the largest in the world.

Bob Pajich

Bob Pajich is a poker news reporter, creative writer, and poker player who never met suited connectors he didnt like. For any tips, corrections, complaints or kudos, please contact us.

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WPT Voyage No Limit Championship Won by Aram Oganyan on the High Seas – Tight Poker

Once upon a time, poker was brought to America and developed as a card game on riverboats as players in its formative era played poker on the Mississippi River. In 2024, the game is still growing, as players on board the Valiant Lady cruise ship discovered as they took part in the $4,600+$400 WPT Voyage NLHE Championship. Four days of action produced a thrilling finale and gave Aram Oganyan the title for $214,245.

* denotes three-way deal

** includes $10,400 buy-in into the season-concluding 2024 WPT World Championship at The Wynn Las Vegas.

Since it was announced, the World Poker Tours foray into the high seas has captured the imagination of everyone in the poker industry. From players to organisers, everyone has been ready for the Valiant Lady to set sail with expectations high. It is right to say that the WPT have exceeded those expectations as the poker publics desire for drama, fun and excitement have all been met in spades!

From Andrew Neeme being at the pajama-uniformed Meet Up Game and a pool party that saw the great and good celebrate on the red neon lit deck, the WPT Voyage has had it all. Even industry legend Robbie Strazynski of CardPlayer Lifestyle wrote a brilliant blog about exactly what being on board the Valiant Lady was like. Padel players have even had the chance to take on former tennis pro Vince Van Patten on the courts.

With wall-to-wall player parties, excursions to glamourous locations such as the Cayman Islands and activities all being enjoyed, you could almost forget about the poker! With a million-dollar guarantee on the line, the WPT Voyage No Limit Holdem Championship was always going to grab the attention of players across the board or rather. Ending with a prizepool of $1,347,800 on the line, it was fun from start to finish in the $5,000 by-in event with Aram Oganyan getting name on the Mike Sexton WPT Champions Cup.

With a total of 293 entries, just 37 made the money places on board the Valiant Lady as the $4,600+$400 buy-in promoted top-quality poker at the felt. The top 37 players got paid, with the 2013 WSOP Main Event winner Ryan Riess (33rd for $9,600), former WPT World Championship winner Eliot Hudon (22nd for $14,000), WPT Ambassdor Andrew Neeme (19th for $17,000), WPT presenter Tony Dunst (17th for $17,000) and Masato Yokosawa (10th for $28,000) all making money but falling short of the final table.

It was the Colombian professional Farrid Jattin who had the chip lead with 91 big blinds when the final nine convened at the last table in the tournament. Soon after the action got underway, one of two Brazilians at the final table felt, Marcelo Giordano, was the first player to bust, cashing for $28,000 in ninth place. One on the rail became two when Iman Dans pocket fours couldnt hold against the ace-seven offsuit of Daniel Sepiol, the latter making a diamond flush on the turn despite only having one diamond in his hole cards. Sepiol chipped up but Dan stepped out, cashing for $34,000 in eighth place.

In seventh place, Poker Mommaa herself, a.k.a. Kasey Mills, cashed for $42,000 when her pocket fives were shot down by Carlo Busartos pocket kings which made a full house by the turn. And a rollercoaster period was complete when Giordanos fellow Brazilian Romula Dorea missed out on the really big money in sixth for $55,000.

The Championship event of WPT Voyage did not disappoint.

Daniel Sepiol had led the final table at a couple of points but whiffed the podium places in fifth for $75,000. All-in with pocket queens on a board of 7-6-5-T, Sepiol was ahead of Jattins pocket eights but a four on the river completed the straight for the Colombian and the field was down to four.

Despite scoring that scalp, Jattin was the next one to bite the dust as he cashed for $100,000 in fourth place. All-in with pocket aces, Jattins luck in the previous hand was levelled out as Basurtos king-queen of spades hit not one but two kings on the flop to send play three-handed and into an immediate discussion about doing a three-way deal.

One hand ended the drama as after an ICM-based deal was agreed. All-in with six-three, Basurto came second as Austin Srurs pair of queens with the lowest stack saw him bust in third. Both men lost out to the winner, Aram Oganyan, courtesy of his pocket deuces hitting a set on the flop and that was enough to give the American the top prize of $214,245.

The Championship event of WPT Voyage did not disappoint, said WPT CEO Adam Pliska as the seaweed. What a sight it was to see such a prominent group of players battle on board a world-class Virgin Voyages ship. In the end, we congratulated Aram for his achievement in joining the WPT Champions Club.

Oganyan himself was beside himself to have gotten his name on the WPT Mike Sexton Champions Cup.

I feel amazing. This is so fun unbelievable, he said. I won some flips at the end, got some bluffs through, and here we are. I thought poker on a cruise would be an amazing thing, and it is so amazing everyone should do it.

Following Oganyans superb trophy lift, others will be desperate to take part in the next WPT Voyage event.

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PRESSR: Shipsy recognized as a niche player in 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for TMS – TradingView

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Shipsy, a leading global logistics orchestration and execution platform, has been recognized as a Niche Player in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Transport Management Systems (TMS).

TMS solutions are utilized by companies of differing sizes, operational complexity, industries, and geographic locations. TMS solutions are utilized to plan and execute the physical transport of goods across the supply chain. They provide a company with the ability to manage the entire transportation life cycle of an order or shipment.

Today, enterprises across industries find themselves juggling between increasingly complex supply chain operations, rapidly evolving customer demands, and growing costs. To manage these, supply chain leaders across the globe are leveraging advanced tools and technology to improve transportation and drive profitability, productivity, transparency, and sustainability.

TMS solutions enable a company to have tighter control of their transportation operations, optimize costs, improve efficiencies, and have improved visibility into the movement of goods, highlights Gartner in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for TMS.

We are honored with our recognition in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Transport Management Systems. At Shipsy, we are constantly innovating and striving to ensure businesses across the globe can quickly realize their true potential in terms of growth, sustainability, customer experience, and profitability by weaving AI, real-time analytics, and automation into their everyday transportation operations, said Soham Chokshi, CEO & Co-Founder, Shipsy.

Today, more than 275 enterprise customers across logistics, retail, manufacturing, and automotive industries are leveraging Shipsys AI-powered supply chain orchestration and execution platform. Shipsy had drastically enhanced its global presence by establishing regional HQs in the Netherlands, UAE, KSA and Indonesia.

Shipsy is laser-focused on developing cutting-edge AI-powered solutions that include, AI co-pilot LIA (Logistics Intelligent Assistant), intelligent Route Optimization, AI-driven Allocation Engine, advanced Analytics, automated Multi-Carrier Management, Freight Procurement and more.

To get an expert overview of the TMS industry, access the complimentary copy of the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Transport Management Systems (TMS) here and learn how Shipsy is recognized for its ability to execute and completeness of vision.

-Ends-

Gartner Disclaimer:

Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Transportation Management Systems, Brock Johns, Oscar Sanchez Duran, Carly West, Manav Jain, 27 March 2024

Gartner is a registered trademark and service mark and Magic Quadrant is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About Shipsy:

Shipsy's AI powered supply chain orchestration and execution platform empowers Shippers & Logistics companies to save costs, reduce working capital, ensure operational resilience and elevate customer experience. Shipsy's intuitive, adaptive, seamlessly integrated and modular platform leverages co-pilots, predictive and prescriptive intelligence to plan supply chain asset requirements, plan and execute transportation and improve warehousing and inventory operations, all the while making every delivery quicker, greener and more profitable. Shipsy's 350+ team is based out of India, Dubai, and Indonesia serving 275+ customers across the globe. Shipsy tracks 650,000+ containers per month, procure freight worth $150mn+ per month, and powers 60mn+ parcels per month. On a broader perspective, Shipsy has integrations with 64+ major shipping lines, 50+ third-party logistics companies, 300+ freight forwarders, 50+ customs agents, and a network of over 20,000 global shippers. To learn more about us, please visit http://www.shipsy.io.

For more information, please contact Matrix PR

Khushie Mallya khushie@matrixdubai.com

Ambika Jadeja ambika@matrixdubai.com

Press Release 2024

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Peterson Health earns three-year CARF accreditation | Community Life | hccommunityjournal.com – Community journal

CARF International, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, announced that Peterson Health has been accredited for a period of three years for its comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation and stroke specialty programs.

The latest accreditation is the second consecutive Three-Year Accreditation that CARF has awarded to Peterson Health.

This is amazing work, Elizabeth Johnson, Director of Rehab Services at Peterson Health, said. It is a true testament to how our units dedication to exceptional, compassionate, patient-centered care continues to shine.

This accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be given to an organization and shows the organizations substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has gone through a rigorous peer-review process. Peterson has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.

These types of results dont happen by accident, Joe Piszczor, Peterson Healths Chief Operating Officer, said. They are the outcome of our teams dedication and hard work to ensure the residents of Kerrville and surrounding communities receive the absolute best care.

CARF International is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of persons served. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, and now known as CARF International, the accrediting body establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services. For more information about the accreditation process, please visit the CARF website at http://www.carf.org.

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Judge rules Drew Peterson mentally competent to stand trial as he seeks overturned conviction for murder of Kathleen Savio – WLS-TV

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Andy Cohen, Bravo Stars Mourn Death of RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson’s Son Joshua Waring at 35 – TooFab

The Bravo family came together over the weekend to mourn one of their own after OG Real Housewives of Orange County cast member Lauri Peterson announced that her son Joshua-Michael Waring had died on Easter Sunday. He was 35.

Waring's sister, Ashley Zarlin, paid tribute to her brother on Instagram while stating that he died from "the relentless grip of addiction." She posted a carousel of images from their lives growing up together, along with a heartfelt message.

"He was brilliant and had limitless potential, but addiction veered him off course," she wrote, calling addiction "a disease that distorts and destroys, leaving behind shattered dreams and broken hearts."

"My heart aches for the lost opportunities for us to grow together as adults, to share laughter and dreams, the conversations that we will never get to have, and the dreams that will be left unfulfilled," Zarlin continued.

She praised their mother for fighting alongside him, "never wavering in her belief that he could overcome this demon," while wishing that she could have done more to change this tragic outcome.

Then, Zarlin called for change in the healthcare system to prioritize "compassion and support above all else," saying that our current system "failed him time and again."

"I pray for a world where compassion and effective support systems replace judgment and neglect, so that others may find the help they desperately need," she wrote.

In her own post, Peterson wrote, "No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss. Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great."

She eulogized her son beautifully, talking about his joy-filled childhood and his ability to be optimistic and kind through "adult hardship." "He received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years," wrote Peterson.

She went on to thank everyone who tried to help Josh in his struggles with addiction, as well as all the support she's received while trying to help him.

"Josh I love you so much and I will miss you terribly! I will forever be your 'Mama Bear & Mama Dukes' and every time the clock turns to 11:11, I will expect your call to tell me to make a wish!" she wrote. "What will I wish for now?"

Andy Cohen was among the first to offer his condolences to Peterson, commenting, "Lauri I am so sorry. This is heartbreaking. You tried so hard to save him, and by sharing Joshs story you would up educating people around the world about the tragedy of addiction for those who are touched by it. May Joshs memory be a blessing to you always. Sending your family all my love. "

Heather McDonald commented, "Remember he was so lucky to have a mom who never gave up. RIP." Gretchen Rossi added, "Oh Laurie, my heart breaks for you so much. I know how much you fought for him and always wanted nothing but the best for him. May the Lord surround you with his angels and give you strength through this incredibly hard loss. I love you friend

Taking to the comments section on Zarlin's post, Rossi also wrote, "Im just so sorry to hear this news Ash, You all were such a great support to him for so many years. I am sending you all much love and healing prayers during this painful time. Love you friend ."

"So so sad. Im so sorry to hear this news Ash. Sending you and your family love and prayers ," added Laguna Beach star Casey Beau Brown.

On Peterson's post, Kelly Dodd commented, "Im so sorry for your loss !! My prayers go out to yall !!" Tamra Judge also shared her condolences, writing, "Lauri, Im so sorry. My heart breaks for you. Thinking of you and your family. Sending you all so much love ."

Jeana Keough shared, "My heart breaks for you, i know how hard you worked to be his advocate . Big hug and prayers for your family at this sad time ." Jill Zarin added, "My heart breaks for you and your family and especially his daughter. He was blessed you were his mama bear and you always will be . . Much love , Jill"

Rossi's partner Slade Smiley, who lost his son to brain cancer at just five years old, wrote, "Laurie, Im so so sorry for your loss. this type of pain is something I pray must people will never have to experience. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. The one thing that keeps me going is the thought that this is not good bye, but rather its just Ill see you again soon. Try to stay in the light and know our loved ones are now free of their pain and earthly constraints. Sending love and light to you and the family."

Peterson starred on The Real Housewives of Orange County for four seasons, starring alongside other OG stars Vicki Gunvalson, Jeana Keough, Jo De La Rosa, and Kimberly Bryant. She also shared the screenw ith Tammy Knickberbocker, Quinn Fry, Tamra Judge, Gretchen Rossi, Lynne Curtin, and Alexis Bellino. She returned as a friend for 2013's Season 8.

You can check out her and Ashley Zarlin's full tributes below.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, get help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) provides 24/7, free, confidential support for people in distress.

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Guest Column: Somebody Has To Say It | Your Wyoming News Source – Cowboy State Daily

Another legislative budget session has finished up and legislators have now returned home to report to their constituents how things went.

This is where it gets interesting. The recent session seems to have had more fireworks than most.

From an outside perspective, it seems that the divide between members of our majority party is getting worse and distracting many away from the real reason they have been elected.

The recent discussion and vote of having a special session to override the Governors vetoes has once again exposed the divide that seems to be growing between our good ole Republican legislators.

With a super majority such as we have in Wyoming, we certainly have our disagreements among same party officials.This has always been the case.

But this time it seems different.A bit nastier and more direct.

When I see a Facebook post from current legislators, calling out the traitors or turn coats that voted against the special session, my skin begins to crawl.

Because Ive served in the Wyoming Senate, I wondered how I would react to such a public comment from a fellow legislator.

In my years of service, I saw more than my share of grandstanding moments from others that I worked with.

Most of the time I would ignore the attacks but the increase of these attacks and the trend of blowhards using social media to poke or stab at colleagues is starting to irritate me a great deal.

Heres why: it is self-promoting political grandstanding.

These caustic remarks are directed to politically hurt any opponent, while attempting to elevate the grandstander.

Now, Im a big boy and some may say its fair game or that it is politics, but what really irks me is when these same folks that make these attacks on fellow legislators cry foul when they are passed over for leadership positions in the body they serve in.

They tell their constituents that they are being mistreated because they dared to stand up to those in power or refused to kiss the ring.

The reality is that these folks can dish it out, but they cant take it.Much like the typical bully from school, when finally confronted they fold like a napkin. Sadly, the end game to all this poor behavior is nothing but wasted time.

Proof of this is the poorly crafted and passed bills that the governor elected to veto.

The logical person should ask themselves this question: if the governor knew that these vetoes would be political suicide, then why would he veto these bills?

Im sure he struggled with them and put himself on the line by using his veto power of bills that were supposed to be important to the citizens of Wyoming.

Yet he chose to apply his authority to provide a check and a balance by using his veto power.

Why would he do this unless he had valid concerns that he will now have to explain every time he is asked about his actions on these bills.

Having been in similar positions, I can tell you that his decision took a lot of thought and courage to make.

But rather than taking the high road, those that might disagree with their governor and these vetoes have taken to the social media outlets and labeled all those that opposed having a special session, with the usual banter, name calling while applying labels to any opponent that gets in the way of their efforts.

To those that have chosen to play to the crowd by slandering their fellow legislators, may I suggest a few ideas of how they may better respond to having a different opinion on a matter.

I cant speak for my colleagues that voted against having a special session, youll have to ask them why they voted as they did, I can only tell you why I voted in favor of having a special session.

Or maybe this, Ive tried to understand the concerns they may have with a special session but feel that the importance of these particular bills far outweighed the concerns that some had.

Its not that hard to say the right thing when you check your ego at the door and have a better understanding of mutual respect and honoring the position these people hold.

Words matter.Using correct language when speaking about colleagues such as my friendsor my good friends across the aisle.

As I served in the Senate, mutual respect was a constant practice. But this common decency among legislators seems to be more lacking with each passing session.

I attribute this downward trend to extremism, frustration, constant bombardment of violence from the world we live in with social media and 24-hour news and a tired and uninformed electorate.

We would rather get our information from a nasty Facebook post or blog that entertains us rather than asking the person directly.

We really dont want to know the truth of a matter but would rather assume the worst of an individual.Our standards have been lowered and we seem quick to judge or fight without getting the facts.

We assume that everyone is an enemy and we stand ready with gun in hand to shoot before asking questions.

There is no doubt that the differences between groups are magnified as we degrade ourselves by pointing out these differences rather than finding common ground.

It seems weve lost the art of compromise and substituted diplomacy with take no prisoners."

Some may think that its time we stood our ground and dig in if we are to save our values.

Sadly, the result of standing your ground is that nothing moves while the dead bodies continue to stack up, much like the trench warfare of World War I.

A great example of a futile exercise: when both parties are dug in and unwilling to move, the dead bodies will begin to stack up with little or no positive movement or effort.

I would point out to the reader that the attitude of these so-called true Republicans have set themselves up as the judge of who is a good Republican and who is not. It is nothing more than a mob mentality.

For a glimpse of the end game of this movement could be provided by a study of the extreme party in Germany that began much the same way.

They were looking for a change and the purists showed up promising reform.Their tactics were justified as a love for their country.

The tactics became more brutal as time went on and as the true extremists became more prominent.Justification and love for the country was the practice of the day.

Soon the radical ideas were casually accepted by the majority.

It came to an end when the rest of the world had seen enough and millions of lives were lost, bringing accountability to a power hungry few.

As we enter another election season, I would strongly recommend to the voters to ask your legislative candidates where they feel they stand on this important issue.

How will they be an effective legislator?What are their plans for leadership positions?

Do they have any experiences that would assist them while serving in this position?What ideas they may have or will work to introduce?

For the incumbent, you can ask them how they get along with their colleagues.Ask them if they feel they are being effective in representing us and our needs.

Ask them about the success theyve had in the bills that they have sponsored and gotten passed.Do they hold any leadership positions in the House or Senate?

Please do not let them off the hook with their typical answer such as, Well Im out-voted because conservatives like me are just few and far between.We are simply outnumbered.

Having served 13 years in the Senate, I can tell you that is only an excuse used by poor legislators.

How can any legislator come home after a grueling session and criticize other serving legislators by calling them traitors or turn coats or "RINOs" or just plain idiots and expect to be treated nice by them in return?

So why do they do these things?

Because they can come home and placate to the uninformed masses that they were the hero trying to do the right thing and the masses love them for it.

They become the poster child of fighting against the evil majority that are nothing but greedy, selfish, and power-hungry.

They will tell you how bad things are in Cheynne but, they, being the only purest in the group, are fighting an uphill battle.

And because we seem to be too lazy to discover the real deal in Cheyenne, we continue to elect these types because we think that the government is a bunch of criminals as well. When the real fact of the matter is that we elected an ineffective legislator.

Now thats tough talk but its real and its truthful.

I made many stands while serving for what I thought was right, but I never made enemies with those that I had to work with.

A good legislator knows how to make a stand without injuring fellow workers.

A good legislator knows that everyone is different and not everyone will agree with their positions and so they work to persuade others and to debate the issues with the goal of convincing others to see your view of things and to support your concept.

A good legislator also understands that many times they will fail in their attempts to get a great idea or cause passed because some may see things differently.

They dont take it personally.They dont allow themselves to be caught up in the get even" game.

This is what good legislators do.

When we elect folks that cant do these things effectively, or in the right way, we get to the point where we seem to be now, a we vs. them mentality.

The efforts to degrade the other position or the personal attacks to the opponents, are signs of a poor legislator struggling to elevate themselves by degrading another.

They cant run on their own merits because they dont have any to promote.

All they base their campaigns on are that they fight for freedom and liberty and are more conservative than the other person.

Personal integrity is gone as they allow the slander from extreme groups that happen to agree with them, to flood the mailboxes and commercials during a campaign against their opponents.

All of this because they are failing as a leader among their co-legislators.

When the campaigns start and we attend meetings to hear from our candidates, we should have a pretty good understanding of their views and positions before the meeting is over. If not, the meeting was a failure.

We need to ask the hard questions.

We need to see how fast the candidate can think on their feet, how they communicate their thoughts.Because those qualities will be required of that position.

We need to hold them accountable for their past record or lack of one.

Ask them about the issues of the day or their knowledge of state budgets and expenditures that will affect you.

By the time these meetings are over, the candidates should feel like theyve been run over because that is what a legislative session feels like.

If we have the desire to send our best candidate to Cheyenne, then we need to run these candidates through the mill and weed out the fake want-to-bes that fall back to the sound bites that seem to resonate with the majority of the voters.

That is the politician.Yet we elect them and then complain about the ineffectiveness of government. It might be a case of Ive met the enemy, and it is me.

Im getting crochety in my old age and I grow tired of the nonsense around us, especially from our so-called leaders that represent us.

I served my time in public service.I was in the ring.

For this reason, I have every right and the responsibility to call into question the lack of decorum of our state legislature and our state Republican party.

I served and I did my best to carry out that responsibility as a public servant and I grow tired of the backstabbing, and name calling that seems to control this divide we now have.

Wyoming is better than that and we deserve better than that.

Claiming to be more conservative than another is nothing more than a political stunt. Calling another Republican a "RINO" is not only short-sighted but smacks of arrogance and stupidity.

We need to go deeper into these candidates for office.

As for the other side, demeaning another for their position or labeling them a "rebel" or "hillbilly" is as ignorant as the other comments.

We all need to remember that everyone that serves was elected by the majority, and with that carries the representation of that area and that area deserves respect and opportunity to be heard and represented.

My suggestion is to leave the egos at home.Remember who you work for.

Bring honor back to the position and the entire body.Try to build the team rather than tear it apart.Listen more than you speak.

Understand that in Wyoming, we are all a pretty conservative bunch of folks with some occasional differences of opinions or ideas.

Remember that even though you may think it, you dont always have to say it.Understanding should be the key word and effort.All should have a place at the table and the opportunity to be heard.

My own photo is on the walls of the Wyoming Senate, and I remain proud of the product we made and how we made it.

I hope that those serving now will be able to say the same when they are finished.It does no one any good to say the ignorant things that Ive had to read about or listen to from supposedly the best of us and who represent us.

A legislator should not be surprised when they are not considered or supported by the very people that they poke or make enemies out of continually.

A good legislator builds bridges and friendships among those with a different position.A poor legislator digs in and lofts grenades into the supposed enemy.

Ive called for our legislators to pick up their game and make these improvements, the sooner the better.

I would also ask our voters to step up their game as well.Be engaged.Learn about the issues that affect our lives.

Do not accept the sound bites or one liner that fall short of real problem solving.

We need to send our very best. It is our responsibility to make sure we do.

Finally, to our Republican party leaders: be careful how you represent us.

We should never accept some of the practices of our partys leadership as they promote the divide that exists among us.

Read more:

Guest Column: Somebody Has To Say It | Your Wyoming News Source - Cowboy State Daily

Former ‘Real Housewives’ Star Reveals Son Has Died at 35 – The Daily Beast

Former Real Housewives of Orange County star Lauri Peterson has revealed that her 35-year-old son Joshua-Michael Waring has died.

Peterson took to Instagram Saturday to pay tribute to her son, who she said died on Easter Sunday. She did not explicitly reveal how he passed away but noted his well-documented history of substance abuse.

It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday. No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss, she wrote. Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great.

Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness, she wrote.

Peterson was a main cast member on the first four seasons of The Real Housewives of Orange County and then appeared off and on until season 8.

She gave birth to Joshua-Michael in 1988, followed by daughters Ashley and Sophie.

Waring also leaves behind his young daughter, Kennady.

Her fellow Bravolebrities paid tribute to Joshua-Michael on her Instagram post.

Lauri I am so sorry. This is heartbreaking. You tried so hard to save him, and by sharing Joshs story you would up educating people around the world about the tragedy of addiction for those who are touched by it, Bravo boss Andy Cohen wrote.

Oh Laurie, my heart breaks for you so much. I know how much you fought for him and always wanted nothing but the best for him. May the Lord surround you with his angels and give you strength through this incredibly hard loss. I love you friend , Gretchen Rossi wrote.

My heart breaks for you, i know how hard you worked to be his advocate . Big hug and prayers for your family at this sad time, Jeana Keough wrote.

In February, Waring was arrested on suspicion of punching a security guard in California.

In June 2016, he was charged with three counts of attempted murder for the shooting of 35-year-old Daniel Lopez. After spending four years in prison he entered a guilty plea and was sentenced to time served.

Waring also had multiple arrests on drug possession counts.

Here is the original post:

Former 'Real Housewives' Star Reveals Son Has Died at 35 - The Daily Beast

RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson Announces Death of Son Josh Waring at 35: ‘Every Fiber in My Body Hurts’ – Yahoo News Canada

No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss, Peterson wrote on Instagram

Instagram/lauri_peterson

Lauri Petersons son Josh Waring died on March 31. He was 35.

The Real Housewives of Orange County alum, 63, announced his death on April 6 on Instagram, writing, It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday.

PEOPLE reached out to Peterson for comment, but she did not immediately respond.

Alongside photos of Waring throughout the years from childhood pictures to shots of him with his daughter, Kennady Peterson also included a heartfelt message about his life and death.

"No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss, she wrote, adding that every fiber in my body hurts.

Related: Paying Tribute to the Celebrities Who Have Died in 2024

The former RHOC star went on to say that Waring fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great.

Joshs childhood was filled with deep intellect, humor, pranks, athletics, snow boarding, body boarding mountain hikes, reading, friends and his love for music, she wrote. Even during adult hardship, Josh continued to maintain his sense of humor, continued to be optimistic, continued to be kind to others, defended those that were unable to defend themselves and continued to love his family so so much!

Reflecting on his years as a father, she wrote that he received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years, and thanked those who have tried to help Josh along the way.

Never miss a story sign up forPEOPLE's free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

I am witness to many Angels on earth. Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life, she continued. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness.

Story continues

Josh I love you so much and I will miss you terribly! Peterson continued. I will forever be your Mama Bear & Mama Dukes and every time the clock turns to 11:11, I will expect your call to tell me to make a wish! What will I wish for now? My heart is with you and I pray you have found the peace that you so deserve. Heaven has gained the coolest angel and you have gained your freedom at last sweet boy. Love always and forever, Mom.

Related: The Real Housewives of Orange County Turns 18: See How Andy Cohen and the Cast Celebrated Milestone

In recent years, Waring made headlines for his legal troubles, pleading guilty to a 2022 drug charge after he was found in possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine, the Los Angeles Times reported at the time. He was sentenced to two years in prison.

Waring also spent four years in prison for attempted murder after shooting a man named Daniel Lopez outside of a sober living home in 2016. Lopez survived the shooting.

Peterson spoke out about her sons legal troubles on social media in 2018, alleging he had been set up by police.

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Read the original article on People.

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RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson Announces Death of Son Josh Waring at 35: 'Every Fiber in My Body Hurts' - Yahoo News Canada

Real Housewives star Lauri Peterson announces heartbreaking death of her son, 35 – HELLO!

Lauri Peterson, a former Real Housewives of Orange County star, has announced thetragic death of her son Josh, who died on March 31 at the age of 35. Lauri shared the news on Instagram alongside a series of beautiful pictures of Josh throughout his life, and with his daughter Kennady, whom Lauri adopted due to his drug addiction.

In the post, Lauri thanked those who had made an impact on Josh's life and supported Lauri through this journey.

"It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday. No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss," she wrote.

"Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great."

Lauri continued: "Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness."

Lauri shared that Josh "received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years," and wrote that she prayed that he had now "found the peace you deserve".

Kennady is now in the fifth grade, and lives with Lauri and her husband George, whom she married in 2007.

Over the years, Josh had been in the headlines for various legal troubles, including most recent in 2022 when he was found in possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years in prison.

He had spent four years in prison for attempted murder after shooting a man named Daniel Lopez outside of a sober living home in 2016. Daniel survived the attack.

Lauri always insisted that Josh had been set up by police. In 2018 she wrote on social media: "After keeping silent for nearly 2 years in regards to my son's arrest, I am going to begin laying out the facts of his case and how easily it is to be falsely accused!"

Lauri quit the Real Housewivesfranchise in 2008 after Josh, who had struggled with a heroin addiction, relapsed and was sentenced to eight months in jail.

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Real Housewives star Lauri Peterson announces heartbreaking death of her son, 35 - HELLO!

RHOC alum Lauri Peterson announces the death of son Josh Waring at the age of 35; ‘Every fiber in my body – The Times of India

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RHOC alum Lauri Peterson announces the death of son Josh Waring at the age of 35; 'Every fiber in my body - The Times of India