Monthly Archives: March 2022

TERRE HAUTE Kalina Long and Rylee Huebner, both second-graders at Dixie Bee Elementary, understand the importance of celebrating diversity and accepting those who may be different from them.

We should accept and include everyone. Skin color doesnt matter because we are all different, Long wrote in an essay about diversity. If someone that has a disability doesnt have someone to play with, join them. Its the right thing to do.

Huebner wrote in a similar essay, We are all different and that is what makes Earth awesome.

Huebner also wrote, It is important to accept people who are different because it will hurt their feelings. It will make them cry. Also, other people will see you. Then they will do the same thing. We need to be nice because it will make other people feel good.

On a recent Wednesday, the two received Diversity Writing Awards from the Vigo County School Corp.

The second-grade contest began many years ago and in past years was sponsored by the Terre Haute Human Relations Commission.

Second-grade students district wide celebrate diversity while showcasing their writing skills that have been developed through weekly lessons with the districts writing team: Patty Curley, Sarah Freeze, Shelly Gardner, Melissa Sawyer and Sandy Sell.

One student from each second-grade class was recognized. Matt McClendon, VCSC director of civility, diversity and international exchange presented the awards. He was accompanied by Frank Bailey, district reading and writing coach.

Until this year, these second-graders have not had a normal school year due to the pandemic, Bailey said. The emphasis on positive interactions with other people could not come at a better time.

The springboard for the contest consisted of two parts. Students listened to the story, All Are Welcome, and watched the video, Being Different is Beautiful.

Writing coaches led brief discussions with their classes then asked their students to write to a prompt, Why should we accept and include people who are different from us? Explain how you can show others how to respect and celebrate diversity.

The second-graders were encouraged to use all the writing skills they have been practicing throughout the year: sentence fluency, word choice, voice, organization, idea and conventions. Winners were chosen by a committee.

Diversity award presentations took place at schools over several days.

What you wrote about is what I do every day, McClendon told students. Its about accepting others, other people for who they are, so no matter how short or tall they may be whether they have no hair, mohawks, long hair its all about accepting everybody and their cultures.

When he presented the award, he asked for a drum roll, with students pounding on their desks. You all did an amazing job, he told all the second-graders. I want you to continue to think like that as you get older. Never, never lose that.

The goal of the diversity writing contest is to encourage acceptance and increase the sense of belonging, especially for new students, McClendon said. Its about practicing the Golden Rule by treating others fairly and with respect and spreading the love.

Kalina Long, a student in Cheryl Thorntons class at Dixie Bee, said that when she was a littler kid, I did think that skin color mattered because there was a kid in my class and her skin was brown. I thought I couldnt play with her, but then my mom told me it doesnt matter what the color of her skin is and she was my best friend.

Sue Loughlin can be reached at 812-231-4235 or at sue.loughlin@tribstar.com Follow Sue on Twitter @TribStarSue.

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Second grade diversity writing award winners share the love - Lebanon Reporter

The CHI St. Vincent 'addiction recovery center' has observed their first year anniversary.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. About every healthcare provider in America has gotten involved in the fight against COVID-19. THV11 has another example of the virus' far reaching impact.

Meet Dori Haddock, regional program director for the CHI St. Vincent Recovery program. Like all mental health effort, needed now more than ever, we're definitely seeing an increase in not only substance abuse and treatment, but mental health and suicide rates have skyrocketed.

Drinking is at the top of the list with something Haddock has heard a lot.

Well ever since the pandemic came its allowed me to drink or I get to drunk just because I've got nothing else to do, Haddock said.

The anxieties associated with a time like no other in our history also includes narcotics and so much more.

Eating, shopping, pornography, video games, we're seeing a huge thing with video games and our youth, Haddock said.

But as Haddock points out, your brain doesn't know what it is that gives you an addiction. So how do you know if you have a problem? Remember the golden rule:

If you have to ask yourself if you've got a problem chances are probably yes, Haddock said.

Friends and family will be the first to notice, and that can lead to one of the biggest misconceptions regarding addiction.

Family and support systems is usually why don't they just quit?

What is understood in clinics nationwide, there is no magic switch. It's a disease like no other.

If somebody is diagnosed with a terminal illness, their symptoms are being sick and frail and weak and the the community wraps around that person, Haddock said.

But for somebody with a substance abuse disorder, their symptoms are lying, manipulation, isolation, not showing up on time, and when you confront that person a lot of times it's met with resistance and anger, Haddock said.

It all seems so impossible to overcome unless you stay focused on the mission.

What people have to remember is that underneath the symptoms of this disease is a person; a human that you remember as a person before they started using, Haddock said. That's where family and friends remember that person and want to know how they get back to that.

The CHI St. Vincent 'addiction recovery center' has observed their first year anniversary.

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How to get help in overcoming addiction - THV11.com KTHV

Story and Interview by Gracie Williams

With country culture turning from taboo to trendy in the modern mainstream, its easy to assume that all of these new additions have created a diluted version of the culture. But for artists like Kansas-based Ned LeDoux, who was born and raised in it, it brings back tradition, and genuine family pastimes into the beloved lifestyle. With the release of his third studio album Buckskin, LeDoux continues to explore this culture the only way he knows howby simply painting a pretty portrait of country life as he experiences it.

Growing up on a ranch in Wyoming, LeDoux learned to write what he knewcowboy stuff as he puts it, family, friends, and wide-open spaces. In addition to this outward nostalgia, LeDoux often explores for Buckskin, it all began with a bit of introspection, and a single poem with the albums namesake.

Ive been a big fan of Cowboy Poetry for most of my life, LeDoux tells American Songwriter. I played at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering out in Elko, Nevada a couple of times, and got to meet some of the legendary poets that go out there every year. So, I just thought Id try my hand at it.

Now, as LeDoux resides in the great Kansas plains with a family of his own, he makes a conscious effort to keep themes of family and tradition alive in every projectespecially when it comes to the legacy of his late father, beloved country singer Chris LeDoux.

Collaborating with acclaimed producer Mac McAnally, a member of Jimmy Buffetts Coral Reefer Band and an established artist in his own right, who produced for both LeDouxs over the years, LeDoux worked at keeping things fresh while also giving a nod of the cowboy hat to his fathers extensive body of work. This ode occurs on every album by LeDoux, choosing a song from his late father to cover, but for Buckskin, it became less of a choice and more of a stroke of fate.

When McAnally was working on producing LeDouxs final original studio album Horsepower in 2003, the eldest LeDoux ended up shelving a song titled Upside of the Ground, which remained untouched and unknown until McAnally presented it to the younger LeDoux nearly 18 years later.

When I was working on new material for another album, I got the email for Upside of the Ground, says LeDoux. I got about a third of the way through the song and thought, Man, Im going to include this on the album. This will be fun.

Once I got the album done, and I was letting the whole band listen to the albumbecause weve been working up some of these songs to play liveour sound man said, Thats Chris, LeDoux continues. One of the guys in the band said, No, thats Ned. Hes like, Well, no, thats not what I mean. I mean that sounds like a song that Chris would do. And hes totally right. Im pretty proud to have this one.

To celebrate the release of Buckskin, LeDoux recently graced the historic Grand Ole Opry stage, performing new and old songs alike, and even sharing a special moment by inviting McAnally on stage to sing Upside of the Ground. Although this wasnt his first rodeo after making his Opry debut in 2017, LeDoux still acknowledges the surreality of the whole experience.

Thats probably one of the biggest honors any artists could have, says LeDoux. Just knowing the history of the place, and that they have that circle right there at center stage that was cut out from the original Opry The people that stood thereJohnny Cash, Hank Sr. Patsy Cline, the list goes on and on. It was pretty neat.

On top of his passionate fan base and impressive stage feats, LeDoux has gained accolades like Male Vocalist of the Year at the Rocky Mountain Country Awards throughout his two decades of performing. But despite it all, LeDoux always reminisces back to those days on the ranch in Wyoming where it all started. And he always will.

I remember when me and my siblings were kids, wed all go to town and my mom would say, Dont forget where you came from, shares LeDoux. This is just the work ethic they instilled in us. Just to do your best, to live by the golden rule. Simple as that. Im very proud to carry on the family tradition.

Courtesy All the Buzz

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Ned LeDoux Carries the Cowboy Tradition with Third-Studio Album Buckskin - American Songwriter

Global markets have had many ups and downs since the start of the year. Inflation, central bank policies and geopolitics may keep markets volatile for the foreseeable future.

For most investors, volatility isnt fun. Investor sentiment has slumped to notably pessimistic levels, so its no wonder questions are being asked whether its time to exit the market and hold on to excess cash until the storm passes.

The short answer: not yet. In fact, for most long-term investors, its probably the time to stay invested or get in.

Don't put all your eggs in one basket, the adage goes. This is the golden rule of investing for the long run.

The idea is that a diversified portfolio can help mitigate losses in the event of a market downturn.

In this years sell-off, both stocks and bonds have seen a decline but even a basic diversified portfolio has offered protection.

At their worst point in January, global stocks were down 8 per cent while the diversified portfolio dipped by only 6 per cent.

To be clear, a diverse portfolio cannot keep up with one consisting only of equities, when the stock market is rising. Instead, this concept is all about mitigating the downside.

By helping investors avoid the full brunt of market downturns, diversification has historically helped a portfolios value recover sooner and smooth out the ride along the way.

Dalbar, a financial services research company, analysed how emotions affect investment decisions by studying the timing of mutual fund flows.

Based on that analysis, Dalbar estimated the return achieved by the average investor over a 20-year period. It found that most investors are bad at timing the market but still attempt to do it.

Amid strong index returns over time, the average investor has underperformed a basic, indexed 60/40 portfolio by 3.5 per cent annualised.

For instance, on a $100,000 investment from the year 2001 until the end of 2020, that adds up to about $170,000 worth of missed gains.

A diverse portfolio can help mitigate losses in the event of a market downturn

Steven Rees, head of investments for Mena at JP Morgan Private Bank

Diversification can help reduce the pain investors experience during a market correction. It may also help avoid the temptation to sell out of investments when markets are volatile.

Many people believe they can time the market better than the average investor. However, its crucial to consider the risks of doing this.

The next time market volatility makes you second-guess your long-term investment strategy, have a good think before you exit the market. There could be a 70 per cent chance that you may miss capitalising on one of the best days.

In 2020, investor worries focused on Covid-19. Last year, they were worried about new variants of the coronavirus, Chinas property market turmoil and regulatory action. Today, they are concerned about inflation, central bank policy tightening and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Whats next?

Do not dismiss prevailing risks; instead remember that markets tend to right themselves as these risks pass.

Volatile times are when active management and thoughtful portfolio construction can earn their keep by adjusting exposures to better weather the bumps.

Diversification, time in the market and a steady head can help investors achieve their long-term financial goals by avoiding the pitfalls of emotionally driven, badly timed mistakes.

When times get tough in markets and make you feel nervous, remember the lessons from tried-and-tested investing principles.

Steven Rees is head of investments for the Middle East and North Africa at JP Morgan Private Bank

Updated: March 29, 2022, 4:30 AM

Originally posted here:

Why you should remain invested in a volatile market - The National

As an investment option, Bitcoin (BTC-USD) has been the subject of extreme opinions. There are lovers and haters for the cryptocurrency. Amidst these opinions, Bitcoin has been the best-performing asset class in the last decade.

Source: Shutterstock

There is a golden rule of investing in what you understand. The new age investing rule is to invest (what you can afford to lose) in asset classes that 95% of investors fail to understand. Any new investment theme goes through a phase of price discovery. If the utility is established, the price discovery phase will translate into multi-fold returns. Bitcoin and dozens of altcoins are good examples.

As a matter of fact, Bitcoin still seems to be in a phase of price discovery. I believe that the cryptocurrency is positioned to trend higher in the coming years.

Lets discuss the reasons to be bullish on the blue-chip stock of the cryptocurrency world.

The number of cryptocurrency holders have been increasing globally. In 2021, crypto holders increased by 178% on a year-on-year basis to nearly 300 million. Its estimated that the number of crypto holders will triple to 1 billion by 2023.

Assume a new investor in equities. Even with the slightest of knowledge, the individual would know about companies like Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) or Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA). Further, in all probability, these stocks would be the first investment for a newbie.

Similar to this, new cryptocurrency investors would look at top coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum (ETH-USD) as initial investments. Given the projected growth in the number of investors, the demand supply scenario for Bitcoin is likely to remain tight. With a limited supply of 21 million, the cryptocurrency is positioned to trend higher.

Institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies has been accelerating. For Q4 2011, Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) increased its institutional customer base by over 50%. This includes big fund houses like Franklin Templeton. Increasingly, major institutional investors are recognizing Bitcoin as an asset class that deserves a place in a diversified portfolio.

One factor that will significantly increase institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies is regulations. According to Brookings Institution, the White House is seeking to strike the right balance from the positives of crypto financial efficiency, inclusion, American leadership in global finance with its negatives: potential illicit financing, consumer and business abuse, and regulatory arbitrage.

I believe that major economies will regulate cryptocurrencies. While that would disappoint from the core perspective of decentralization, crypto survival and growth seems likely.

Historically, gold has been an effective hedge against inflation. The latest data indicates that inflation is at a 40-year high in the United States.

These inflation numbers do not account for the surge in energy price due to geo-political tensions. Therefore, inflation is likely to accelerate further in the coming months.

Its important to understand why gold is considered as an inflation hedge. First, gold has limited supply and its supply cant be increased at the same pace as fiat money. Further, gold has historically been considered as a currency. Even central banks hold gold in their reserves.

These two factors also hold true for Bitcoin. As mentioned earlier, the cryptocurrency has a limited supply of 21 million. Bitcoin is already being used as a currency by individuals. It might still not be recognized by governments. However, there are no questions on the utility of Bitcoin as a means of payment. Factors such as money laundering concern governments more than Bitcoin being used as an alternative to fiat money.

Therefore, there is no reason to believe that Bitcoin cant serve as an effective hedge against inflation. Investors will argue that with multiple rate hikes, Bitcoin might trend lower. However, even with four or five rate hikes in 2022, real interest rates are likely to remain negative. This is likely to translate into continued fund flow into risk asset classes.

Bitcoin has been volatile with a downward bias in 2022. The key reasons include regulatory headwinds and tightening of global liquidity.

However, it seems that the concerns are largely discounted in the current price. Its likely that Bitcoin will move to new highs after consolidation around $40,000 levels.

On the date of publication, Faisal Humayun did not hold (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to theInvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

Faisal Humayun is a senior research analyst with 12 years of industry experience in the field of credit research, equity research and financial modeling. Faisal has authored over 1,500 stock specific articles with focus on the technology, energy and commodities sector.

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Bitcoin Will Make New Highs In Its Next Rally - InvestorPlace

Each week, we ask agency experts from across the world and across the ad business for their take on a tough question facing the industry, from topical concerns to perennial pain points.

Last week, Arbys decided to take a pot-shot at rival fast food joint McDonalds with a campaign boosting its own pescatarian sandwich offering.

The fish feud was cheeky, but there is a lot to be gained from taking aim at a competitor in your ads points for humor, the fun in playing up a rivalry and the chance to create not just consumer loyalty, but fandom.

Briefs like these can be tough to land, however, and spending precious airtime asking your audience to think about your competitors carries its own risk. So, how should brands and agencies approach the assignment?

Chris Campbell, group account director, Fallon (the creative agency behind Arbys Filet-O-Fish diss)

Taking on the originator of fish sandwiches takes two things: an agency that trusts its client has a better product and a client that trusts its agency will find a provocative way to tell the world about it. Omar Little of The Wire said: If you come at the king (in this case the Arches), you best not miss. And we knew that working with Pusha T would ensure we didnt miss.

Jon Evans, chief marketing officer, System1

We tested the Arbys spot to see how real consumers felt. While going after the square shape of McDonalds Filet-O-Fish is a bit leftfield, our testing found that the ads Spike rating (the intensity of emotional response) and fluency rating (which is driven by the amount of viewers who recognize the brand) were both exceptionally high. While the ad was a little light when it came to generating an overall emotional response, Arbys still won where it counts: with laughs. People naturally engage with humor in advertising and, in this instance, fun elements like Pusha Ts claim that he could sell water to a whale have earned Arbys significant short term sales potential.

Christina Miller, head of social, VMLY&R

Theres a stark difference between throwing punches as a mechanism to gain attention and poking fun to raise the standards of a category. Here, punching with purpose is key to getting it right. Brands must have their consumers backs and always have their best interests at the very heart of their actions. If a rival is selling a product or a promise that is letting down their consumer or lowering the standards in its category, poking fun can help open consumers eyes to what they deserve and what they shouldnt settle for. Any brand looking to adopt this tone needs to look inwards and really understand what value they are bringing to the table, whether thats offering a different perspective, raising expectations or giving consumers a better option.

Dustin Tomes, executive vice-president and executive creative director, Saatchi & Saatchi NY

Its important to establish an undisputed, strategic reason for poking fun at a rival. Without a watertight case, you could set yourself up for a counterpunch that makes you wish you never stepped into the ring. Even then you should scenario plan potential responses from your rival or consumers.

Understanding the brands place in the market and its relationship with rivals is crucial. Category leaders cant behave the same as challenger brands. It could mean the difference between coming across as fun or a bully. This all informs the shape the work takes and the tonality you wrap it in.

Pablo Rosas, group strategy director, Gut

Interacting with other entities out in the world including competitors makes brands feel real. It adds a new dimension to the basic interplay brands have with their audiences. You go from a straight line to a triangle. It broadens the space where brands play. They gain presence. Positioning and tone should be kept in mind, but its OK to stretch. If youre worried about risk, remember theres also risk in refusing to participate in newer ways of making brands feel present in the world. If the brand is the boss, the internet is god. And as we say, #NoGutNoGlory.

Chris Jefford, chief executive officer and co-founder, Truant London

Truant clients often have competitors with deeper pockets, so were always looking to poke the bear. But were very selective and use three filters before taking action. Firstly, is the dig around something audiences care about? If the ideas too niche and doesnt land a wider point with audiences, we park it. No one is interested in brands bickering about shit they don't care about. Second, is the work mean-spirited? Are we being mean or are we having a bit of fun? If its the latter, game on. Lastly, are we ready for comeback? Preparing for a bite-back is essential. If its an area were not happy bantering around, its probably not right.

Simon Richings, executive creative director, We Are Social

If youre going to mention your competitor youre inevitably going to do a mental availability favor for your rival. So, two things become super-important. Firstly, make sure the brand actually delivers on its promises. Arbys Spicy Fish Sandwich needs to be a world better than the McDonalds offering or people will quickly discover and share that the claim is fishy (sorry). Secondly, the creative execution itself has a bigger job to do. It has got to be great genuinely funny, surprising or exciting because people are not paying attention and messages with multiple brands mentioned may have it tougher.

Melanie Welsh, founding partner, Strat House

Our response to this would be to avoid getting your snark on. Its just not the constructive, purpose-driven use of marketing budgets the world needs right now, is it? Indictment sits very uncomfortably with many cultures and generations and, frankly, we dont blame them. Poking fun at your competitors reeks of insecurity and having nothing positive to say about your own product. As my mum used to say, is it kind, is it necessary? No? Then go back to the drawing board.

Mick Mahoney, creative partner, Harbour Collective

If you can back up your claims then I think its fair game. Particularly if youre a challenger brand. Everyone loves the small guys sticking it to the establishment. The only time it gets ugly is when its the corporate big guys beating up on the little guys. That never plays out well. Generally, however, Im a fan of advertising that polarizes and creates sides. Better to have fewer people loving you than more people feeling ambivalent.

Charles Faircloth, joint managing director, Who Wot Why

This sort of advertising strikes me as lacking, rather than demonstrating confidence. Defining your brand by the denigration of others, regardless of how entertainingly you do it, feels back foot. Doesnt the kid in the playground who rises above the mud-slinging always win on kudos?

What this strategy fails at is surprising the audience. Of course youre going to say youre better, faster, louder. But if you must take this approach, challenge people with a real reason to think about the comparison, like Avis did with When youre only No 2, you try harder. Then consumers may see the value theyll get out of it.

Dino de Len, executive creative director, IN Connected Marketing

Before using paid or owned assets to name check a competitor, I would first ask why? Am I a scrappy challenger brand? Trying to break into a new vertical? Reach a new audience? Or just thirsty for PR?

Then, Id arm myself with data and strategy to create a solution that is authentic, self-aware and entertaining. And the product better be able to back up the banter. Sure, we can quickly test, target and adapt creative, but the biggest watch-out is how your (new?) audience will receive your message. Consumers are brutal in calling out marketing mishaps and underdogs can turn into underperformers quickly.

Heather Lewis, strategy director, 180

Its a classic challenger move, taking down the undisputed leader. Success lies in executing three things confidently. Firstly, attack head on. Veiled slights arent memorable. Be direct. No apologies. Leverage borrowed mental equity. People need to know your opponent by name and be able to picture it in their minds, so you dont waste time (or attention) describing what youre tearing down. Entertain above all else. Marketers think calling out another brand is bold. Real people dont care about your tactics, they remember and engage with communications only if its truly worth their time.

Fran Docx, strategy partner, 20something

The golden rule is always punch up, never down. If youre a small (filet-o-) fish, theres much to be gained by posturing next to the big guys. Youre basically borrowing the equity of their stature. But when the establishment punches down, its just a cheap shot. The best executions Ive seen also trust their audiences intelligence. My favorite example of this is the Pepsi vending machine ad from 2001. Theres no I told you so end line to whip you back into the strategy. Its simple, confident and sophisticated. Pepsi trusts that its audience is with it.

Want to join future debates? Email me at sam.bradley@thedrum.com.

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Here's How To Poke Fun At Rival Brands And Get Away With It - The Drum

OXFORD James Meredith is on his third mission from God.

The 89-year-old civil rights icon is a Mississippi legend and one of the preeminent figures in the states long struggle with racism and desegregation.

Meredith says his first mission from God was to integrate the University of Mississippi, which he successfully did in 1962 despite fierce opposition from white supremacists and even then-Mississippi Gov. Ross Barnett.

His second mission was to expose and challenge the fear that kept white supremacy our way of life. To accomplish this mission he led the Meredith March Against Fear in June 1966, a 200-mile march from Memphis to Jackson that was intended to show Black Mississippians that they were free to walk anywhere within the state without fear of intimidation from white supremacists.

Meredith was shot by a white supremacist in Hernando on the second day of the march. He was rushed to the hospital, but later rejoined the march shortly before it arrived in Jackson.

His third mission is to uplift the moral character of Mississippi through the teaching of the Ten Commandments and the Golden Rule, he says.

That is why he founded the Bible Society, an organization that he says is dedicated to spreading the gospel and uplifting Black Mississippians through the use of scripture.

Meredith said he was afraid to use the phrase moral character because of its association with segregationists during the Civil Rights Movement.

Segregationist leaders often used morality as an excuse for racism, citing a perceived lack of moral character among the Black population as the reason to continue segregation.

The use of the phrase was popularized by James P. Coleman, the 52nd governor of Mississippi who shifted school classifications from color to moral character in the 1950s in an attempt to continue the practice of segregation in schools.

Some of the smarter people that use slick techniques like Governor [James P.] Coleman, they were not rough like Ross Barnett. They used sophisticated trickery, Meredith said.

Meredith said he was hesitant to use the phrase in the past out of fear of being judged, but he claims the fear that paralyzed him for so long is part of the reason why Mississippians are still dealing with these issues of racial inequality decades after the Civil Rights Movement.

Most people dont know: fear is not only the most powerful thing in the world, theres a million things to fear. Violence is one of the mildest forms of fear, the greatest fear is that people wont like you, he said. Everybody wants to be liked, most people want to be loved.

Meredith said nobody wants to upset the status quo because of that same fear of judgment, but he believes it is his duty to help shake that fear from Mississippians.

Meredith argues that the breakdown of traditional family structures among Black Mississippians is one of the primary factors that continues to drive social and economic inequality.

Black families are forced into the cycle of poverty and crime due to systemic racism and institutional biases. Meredith says Black elders, especially Black women, must rebuild the family structure and help lift their families out of that cycle of poverty.

Everybody knows it is the breakdown of the Black family that is causing our moral character decline, he said. Only Black women know what a family should do . they run everything thats anything.

Meredith said that is another reason he founded the Bible Society: to serve as a Black think tank that can advocate for the rights and well-being of Black Mississippians.

The other purpose of the Bible Society is to act like a think tank, Meredith said. To my knowledge, theres never been a Black think tank.

He hopes the Bible Society will help uplift the moral character of Black families through the teaching of the Ten Commandments and a renewed emphasis on scripture.

He argues that is the quickest way to help bridge the gap between Black and white society in the United States, which he says is the most important issue in Western culture today.

Other civil rights leaders disagree.

Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., quoted her father in an interview regarding the teaching of critical race theory in Texas, saying, if a nation has done something against the people for hundreds of years, then it must also turn around and do something for those people.

Joe Feagin, a professor of sociology at Texas A&M University, said that the push for equality does not mean that Black people should have to improve their circumstances, but that white Americans must take initiative to concede some of the privileges they enjoy from their higher place in society.

We whites created slavery, Jim Crow segregation and contemporary racial discrimination over 400-plus years now, Feagin said. Whites are the main racial villains in this story and have most of the political and social power to change that racial discrimination and inequality now. We cannot have a truly free and democratic society, with liberty and justice for all until we do that.

To help bring awareness to his mission, Meredith embarked on a quest to travel to all 82 counties in Mississippi in the hopes of speaking with community and civic leaders about his Bible Society and the divide between Black and white Mississippians.

Ive been to every county, most counties more than once, but the only reason I went to all 82 counties was to get the leadership of the counties to invite me back to meet with elders and officials from every county to explain how we can solve our problems through a moral character uplift, he said.

He met with leaders across the state to share his vision for a better Mississippi, a Mississippi that is just and fair to all its citizens regardless of the color of their skin.

Meredith said the first step towards building a more equitable society is recognizing the truth and making an effort to be truthful in all endeavors.

It aint easy. Ive been lying all my life, like most people, Meredith said. But when you set out to do good, if you discover that what youve done does not result in good, the first thing you do is change. But if you dont set out to do good, and you find out that what youve done doesnt result in good, you cover it up.

Meredith said because of its history of racism and segregation, Mississippi must be the state that leads the country in the push for civil rights today.

I believe that Mississippi is the center of the universe, and I believe that Mississippi is gonna lead the world in straightening out this Black-white race issue and in straightening out this economic division between rich and poor, he said.

He cited the failure to come to grips with uncomfortable realities as the reason disparities continue to exist.

Nothing is more important in Western Christian civilization than the Black-white race divide, Meredith said. Everybody lies about it but there aint nobody that dont know Im telling the truth.

Meredith said the stories of hurt that most Black people experienced during the desegregation processsomething he said was never fully realized should be written down and kept in a mission in every town.

Meredith returns to Oxford this weekend for the showing of a new documentary, Mississippi Messiah, that chronicles his life and showcases the power of an individual to inspire dramatic social change.

Meredith hopes his message will be heard throughout Mississippi, and that this final mission will give him peace of mind when he is finally ready to rest.

Believe you me, if theres anybody scared of anything its James Meredith scared of dying, he said. God tells me if I dont do better I aint gonna get through His gates. So thats my greatest motivation: a desire and a wish to get through the gate.

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James Meredith hopes to "uplift the moral character" of Mississippi through the teaching of the Ten Commandments - The Oxford Eagle - Oxford...

The USMNT shouldnt and doesnt need help to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. Gregg Berhalters side controls its own destiny to make it to Qatar this winter. But its never a bad idea to have backup plan, and Americas neighbor to the north is on standby to bail the USMNT out should it fail against Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica.

Concacaf is incredibly tight heading into the final three World Cup qualifying games with five points separating second place and fifth place. Only the top three qualify automatically and the fourth-place team gets a play-in game with Oceania's representative.

The biggest threat to the USMNT not qualifying for the World Cup is Central American opposition Panama and Costa Rica. The U.S. will play both teams in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and it will truly be do or die. You know who else plays Panama and Costa Rica? Our good friend Canada.

The Canucks open and close the upcoming three games with Costa Rica and Panama. While both are away games for Canada, the table leaders have yet to lose a game and look poised to make opponents drop precious points.

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Canada has already secured, at minimum, the inter-confederation playoff spot. Two points are all that Canada needs to clinch a top three spot. The Canadians will want to stay undefeated in Concacaf, so dont expect them to go easy.

If Canada manages to make Panama and Costa Rica drop points it will be a huge bonus for the USMNT.

Concacaf World Cup qualifyings golden rule has always been win at home, draw away. Canada has followed this rule better than anyone with draws in the United States, Mexico and Jamaica while also winning in Honduras and El Salvador. Its not unrealistic to think that Canada continues the trend and manages two more draws in Panama and Costa Rica.

Reminder of how the table looks.

If Canada makes Panama drop points and draws, that means the U.S. could most likely lose both games to Mexico and Costa Rica, tie Panama and still get at least fourth in the table.

The USMNT sits at 21 points. Panama tying with Canada would put the Central Americans at 18 points. For this hypothetical well give Panama a victory in their game vs. Honduras.

The Scenario

All these results would leave Panama and the U.S. tied at 22 points. The first tiebreaker is goal differential and the U.S. goes into the international window with +8 on Panama.

If Canada ties with Costa Rica, then a similar situation occurs where the U.S. could lose the Mexico and Panama games, tie Costa Rica and finish at least fourth.

The USMNT sits at 21 points. Costa Rica tying with Canada would put the Ticos at 17 points. For this hypothetical well give Costa Rica a victory in their game vs. El Salvador.

The Scenario

If these six results play out as so, then the U.S. would finish a point ahead of Costa Rica. (U.S. 22, Costa Rica 21)

Berhalters team doesnt need the help and should get the job done on its own. At the same time its nice to know that if Canada is feeling friendly, the kind neighbors can seriously bail out the USMNT.

Read the original:

Canada Can Greatly Help USMNT World Cup Qualifying Chances - The18

There were 34 Covid-related deaths in New Zealand on Tuesday, a record for the outbreak so far.Video / Dean Purcell / Michael Craig / Alex Burton / NZ Herald

By Louise Ternouth of RNZ

Concern is mounting over the long-term effects of Covid-19 for more than 600,000 New Zealanders who have contracted the virus since the pandemic began.

New research from the World Health Organisation suggests a quarter of people who have been infected will continue to have symptoms for a month.

And 10 per cent of patients will feel unwell three months on.

Sue Ross got Covid-19 in March 2020 while working in the Middle East.

Two months later her symptoms were still lingering.

"Terrible headaches having to have a nap, which I'd never done in my entire life, for an hour or so in the middle of the day otherwise I just couldn't cope, I was finding it very difficult to look at a screen for eight hours and then in the middle of April I lost my sense of smell."

Things began to get worse as she battled symptom after symptom.

For six months her taste and smell vanished.

In August 2020, five months after contracting the Alpha variant of Covid-19, Sue's health was so bad she lost her job.

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She had to wait until December to get a flight home to New Zealand.

"My Covid symptoms had gone into the joints and my wrists making it very hard to hold things periodically, losing my sense of smell, brain fog all the way through to the point where a lot of days all I could do was just sit on the couch and watch crap on the box."

These days she is able to work but only part-time, her joints are still playing up, her taste and smell is temperamental and the fatigue is never-ending.

"Even now, two years on I can't do a full-time job. I'm an engineer with a law degree. On the days when I feel rubbish, I just have to not do anything. If I can get around the block with the dog, take her for a short walk then that's all good. My world has become very, very small."

Immunologist and University of Auckland senior lecturer Anna Brooks is trying to get some long Covid answers.

She is part of a team of international researchers investigating long Covid.

But she said there was still much unknown.

"As we don't have an official way of tracking who has these ongoing symptoms, all we really understand are those that come forward and join our support group or contact me independently. So far is there's well over 400 in a support group and from my study alone we've got at least 200 signed up."

Up to 200 symptoms can feed into long Covid making it difficult to diagnose.

There have also been small international studies suggesting a relationship between long Covid and the Epstein-Barr virus or glandular fever.

"We're still hearing many, many people who are going to their doctors and not necessarily getting sort of a clear-cut definition because it's difficult. There is no diagnostic test, there is no test you can get when you go to the doctor to say, 'yes, you have long Covid' and that's one of the big issues here," Brooks said.

And when it comes to recovery, experts are warning exercising too soon after Covid-19 can be dangerous.

University of Otago Pain management and musculoskeletal medicine lecturer Dr Bronwyn Lennox Thompson said it was usually the people who felt they had mild symptoms and were super active making that mistake.

"What our mind starts to tell us is that we should really get on with it and we're just being a bit lazy and shouldn't we be more motivated and why can't I get better and faster? Because this is what I'm used to."

A person's viral load, previous exercise routine and symptoms will determine when is the right time for them.

World Health Organisation research suggests 25 per cent of people who have had the virus will continue to have symptoms for at least a month while one in every 10 people will still feel unwell three months on.

Dr Lennox Thompson said some people needed to listen to their bodies.

"The golden rule is start low and go slow. If you normally run for five minutes then knock it right back, let's walk to the letterbox and back and see how we feel because these symptoms they come on while you're exercising, but it's often delayed onset that people start to feel really sluggish they get that fever feeling, they get the muscle aches and pains, they get the foggy head."

Ross said there urgently needed to be more support for long Covid sufferers.

"It really makes the world of difference having someone that you could go and talk to and who actually just believes you for a start because many people just think ... you're being some hysterical woman."

With research still under way to try to understand the effects of long Covid both patients like Ross and experts are calling for a self-reporting system to get a better grasp of how big the issue is.

Read more:

Covid 19 Omicron outbreak: Long Covid - experts warn against exercising too soon after virus - New Zealand Herald

Golden Rule's ready-to-drink Old Fashioned cocktails in miniature cans.

The weathers getting warmer and the days are getting longer, which means its time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. And since everything tastes better outside (including cocktails), its also a good time to stock up on delicious ready-to-drink canned cocktails that eliminate the need to tote heavy bottles of booze and mixers to the beach, pool, boat, or backyard. These easy-pouring options mean that no matter where you are, sipping a bar-quality cocktail can be as simple as cracking open a can.

Tip Top Proper's canned classic cocktails

Tip Top Proper Cocktails, $40 for 8

Tip Top was born from a pair of music industry vets recognizing the need for top-notch cocktails at high-volume events like festivals. With the help of their favorite James Beard award finalist bartender (Miles Macquarrie of Kimball House and Watchmans Seafood & Spirits), the brand serves up a delicious dose of nostalgia with classic recipes in 100-mL cans decked out with mid-century illustrations and fonts. Choose from the full-strenth Negroni, Manhattan, Old Fashioned, Margarita, Bees Knees, or Daiquiris ranging from 48 to 74 proof.

St Hildies canned boozy tonics

St Hildies Spiked Tinctures, $49 for 12

Crafted in California using choice botanicals like fruit, herbs, and spices, these light and refreshing boozy tonics are perfect for sipping in the warmer months ahead. Each can has 110-120 calories, no added sugar, 3-6 grams of carbs, and a low 5% ABV. The 24-can variety pack will let you sample all three flavors: Elderberry Hibiscus, Lemon Turmeric, and Guava Ginger.

Superbird's canned palomas

Superbird Free Canned Palomas, $14 for 4

If youre searching for a canned cocktail thats not too sweet and is low in calories, carbs, and sugar, look no further than the newly-launched Superbird Free Paloma. Crafted in the heart of historic Tequila, Mexico with reposado tequila, grapefruit, and a touch of agave, each 12-ounce can boasts zero sugars, zero carbs, and just 95 calories.

Ohza's fruity mimosas and bellinis

Ohza Mimosas and Bellinis, $39 for 12

Instead of lugging four Champagne bottles, two cartons of juice, and a dozen plastic flutes along for a day the beach, pool, or boat, lighten your load with the more convenient equivalent: a 12-pack of Ohzas mimosas or bellinis.

The line of peach bellinis and mimosas in classic, mango, and cranberry flavors is made with premium bubbly and 20-30% fruit juice. And because there are no added sugars, Ohza says they contain 80% less sugar and 60% less calories than versions made at home or by your brunch bartender.

Fabrizia's trio of canned vodka sodas

Fabrizia Vodka Soda

Fabrizia keeps things simple when making their canned vodka sodas. The not-too-sweet Sicilian lemon, raspberry, or blood orange flavors call for just three ingredients: vodka, sparkling water, and fruit juice. Pick up a mixed 12-pack to sample all three.

Golden Rule's canned margarita

Golden Rule Cocktails, $20 for 4

Dont underestimate Golden Rules small-but-mighty classic cocktails. Yes, the 100-milliliter cans may be compact (making them extra portable for travel). And they have a low calorie count: just 80-100 calories each.

But the sweet-tart Margarita made from 100% agave tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice has an ABV of 27% and proof of 54. The smooth-drinking Old Fashioned, which is crafted with three-year-old high-rye bourbon, bitters, cane sugar, and orange, clocks in at 38.5% ABV, or 79 proof. You can sip the ready-to-drink cocktails straight from the can, but theyre best over ice.

Local Roots' canned hard kombuchas

Local Roots Hard Kombuchas, $36 for 12

For those who like some health perks with their cocktails, try Local Roots Hard Kombuca with live probiotics. The variety 12-pack lets you try five flavors: Island Vibes, Cali Mule, Strawberry Mojito, Purple Haze, and Blood Orange Mimosa.

See original here:

The Best Canned Cocktails To Sip On National Cocktail Day And Beyond - Forbes