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Who is Ken Bennett, Arizona's Senate's liaison for the Maricopa County election audit?
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Ken Bennett, who the Arizona Senate named as its liaison for the recount of Maricopa County ballots, is a familiar figure in the state's Republican political circles. Bennett, an Arizona native, served as Senate president in the early 2000s and later as Secretary of State. Bennett was largely seen as a moderate during his time in the state Senate and in the early days as Secretary of State, but then he asked Hawaiian officials to verify then-President Barack Obama's birth certificate before placing his name on the 2012 general election ballot. He unsuccessfully ran for governor in 2014 and 2018. Bennett said he called Senate President Karen Fann to offer his assistance with the audit, and she asked him to serve as a liaison between the Senate and the private contractors overseeing the audit. The audit, happening at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum, began Friday. The 61-year-old Bennett touts that he ran 12 state elections as secretary of state, including Arizonas only recount of a state election, referring to a statewide ballot measure in 2010. At a news conference on Tuesday, he praised the "courage" of the state Senate to launch an audit that's "going to help people around this state and around this country know that they have complete confidence in their elections or where they can make them better." Heres what to know about Bennett. Early political years and time in Senate Bennett grew up in Prescott and helped run his family business, Bennetts Oil Co., where he worked for more than 20 years. He stepped onto the political scene in the mid-1980s when he ran for the Prescott City Council, where he served from 1985 to 1989. A decade later, Bennett served in the state Senate where he represented Prescott from 1999 to 2007 before facing term limits. He was Senate president from 2003 to 2007. Secretary of State Bennett was appointed Secretary of State in January 2009 to finish Jan Brewers term after she succeeded to the states top executive position when Gov. Janet Napolitano resigned to become U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security. He was elected to his first full term in November 2010 and served as Secretary of State until 2015. In 2012, he infamously refused to place President Obama on the Arizona presidential ballot until he verified that the president was born in the United States. Bennett requested that Hawaiian officials provide a copy or verification of Obamas birth certificate proving he was born in the state, further igniting the birther controversy and making national headlines. Bennett refuted being a birther, saying he was trying to verify the information at the request of a constituent. Hawaiian officials provided Bennett a "verification of birth" document that verified the information contained in Obama's birth certificate, which his campaign had already publicly released in 2008. Bennett bristled over a question about that decade-old controversy on Tuesday. "I am not going to even address that," he said. Unsuccessful gubernatorial and congressional campaigns Bennett ran for governor in a six-way Republican primary in 2014 and finished fourth behind Gov. Doug Ducey and two other candidates. In 2016, he ran for the U.S. House in Congressional District 1 in a crowded Republican primary where he lost to former Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu. Bennett challenged Ducey for governor in the Republican primary in 2018, jumping into the race in response to Duceys teacher pay plan. He told The Republic at the time that he decided to run after watching Ducey panicking and flip-flopping during the teacher walkouts that spring. Duceys campaign refused to debate Bennett in the months leading up to the election, calling Bennett a fringe candidate. He lost in the primary election. Reach reporter Paulina Pineda at paulina.pineda@azcentral.com or 480-389-9637. Follow her on Twitter: @paulinapineda22. Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.
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https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/elections/2021/04/28/arizona-ken-bennett-senate-liaison-maricopa-county-election-recount-audit/4874445001/
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When Should We Start Worrying About Deficit Spending?
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Government Spending newspaper headline on assorted money getty Since President Biden took office, he has presided over a massive stimulus spending bill, proposed another multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure plan, a huge investment into education, and recently issued an executive order raising federal contractor wages to a minimum of $15 per hour. The idea that the US government can go on spending simply doesnt compute to anyone who operates a household budget. We know that when there is a limited number of dollars, you must make tough choices or face going into debt. If we apply that thinking to our country, it raises concerns that future growth will be weighed down by higher taxes and that government benefits will be reduced or eliminated. Stephanie Kelton, an economist, professor, and author of The Deficit Myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the Birth of the Peoples Economy, says that thinking about the US governments budget the way we do our own is one of several myths that make it harder to understand the way deficit spending works and its impact on the economy. By explaining Modern Monetary Theory (MMT), she offers a different way to look at deficit spending, and although it certainly is not a view shared by everyone, President Biden has signaled that he is considering MMT in his policy decisions. A good place to start with MMT is understanding how the US is fundamentally different than its citizens, corporations, and states. As anyone who runs a household, company or local government budget knows, when you want to increase spending, you need to find a corresponding increase in income or reduction in other spending to avoid going into debt. We must ask ourselves where is the money going to come from? According to Kelton, that is the right way to think about it for anyone who uses money but cannot print it. The trouble is, we often apply this same logic to the federal budget despite our governments ability to print money. MMT points out that the US is not just a currency user; it is a currency issuer and one with monetary sovereignty. To have monetary sovereignty a country must issue its own currency, avoid tying the value of that currency to a limited resource (like gold) and only borrow money in its own currency. Having monetary sovereignty makes it virtually impossible to go broke because the country can print new money to fund expenses and pay off debts it may incur. Unlike most of us who cant print new dollars to pay off our credit card balances, the US and a few other countries can. It is important to say at this point that MMT is not an endorsement of unlimited deficit spending paid for by printing money, though its critics like to suggest that MMT stands for magic money tree. MMT simply states that running out of money is not a real consequence for a country with monetary sovereignty, and rather than worrying about how deficits are going to cause our country to go broke we should look at the real consequences of deficit spending, both good and bad. In MMT, deficits are not inherently bad and are not, in and of themselves, a sign of overspending. The way MMT economists measure if the government is overspending is to carefully monitor inflation. When the government spends, it is putting money into the hands of currency users. There are many ways to do that, such as stimulus payments, tax cuts or federal programs, but no matter the method, the risk is the same. When there is a greater supply of money available in currency users hands, more people compete for the same goods and services and the resulting scarcity could cause prices to rapidly increase. This has happened in other countries that have printed endless amounts of money without regard for inflation, which ultimately diminished the value of their currencies and sent prices soaring. Of course, for inflation to occur, you have to reach a point where resources become scarce. Up to that point, additional money in the hands of currency users is simply more money to spend on available resources which is a good thing for economic growth. Believers in MMT use models to measure things like how many people are unemployed (overall or in specific industries) and how much unused capacity there is for companies to increase output. The focus is on how many real resources, like raw goods or even people to work, companies have available to maximize their output. Only when we reach the point of fully utilizing our real resources would we expect to see the kind of scarcity that causes inflation. This is very different than how the Fed has managed inflation for the last few decades. The Fed has maintained a policy of targeting around 5% unemployment, meaning that they consider us being at maximum capacity and at higher risk of inflation when millions of people are unemployed. Looking at this policy from an MMT viewpoint, 5% unemployment means there is still excess capacity available, and inflation is not yet imminent. If that is true, the government could have been putting more dollars into the hands of currency users without causing excessive inflation and the failure to do so represents a lost opportunity for growth. It also represents a lost opportunity to use deficit spending to address challenges like healthcare, education, and infrastructure in ways that could materially improve peoples lives merely to avoid a risk of excessive inflation that has not materialized in decades. While we often think of deficits as a burden being laid at the feet of future generations, MMT argues that periods of high deficits have correlated to subsequent increases in wealth and incomes for future generations. For example, the period after World War II represented a major growth period in our economy despite the high deficits that were incurred during the War. Kelton attributes that to the fact that during WWII, the government focused on maximizing resources and output to make things like planes and guns and food, irrespective of the deficit (just as MMT would have us do now). More recently, government stimulus helped the country (slowly) recover from the depths of the Great Recession such that unemployment fell to historically low levels without causing inflation. Many economists including Kelton believe that had the US done more deficit spending following the Great Recession, the recovery would have been even faster and more effective. This is likely an influence on the current administration who has opted for larger government spending in hopes of accelerating the recovery. At its essence, MMT is about developing policies that will increase output or improve lives by maximizing real resources, without an undue focus on the deficit the policy creates. If the policy is thought to be highly beneficial, deficits will be tolerated as will a sustainable amount of inflation. If the policy is expected to cause excess inflation, it would need to be modified or paired with policies that would simultaneously take money out of the economy to stave off price increases and bottlenecks in productivity. Modern Monetary Theory is controversial and far too complex to fully explain here, but it does provide a framework to understand why the government is pursuing policies that beget huge deficits. If we can take anything from MMT, it is that inflation remains a key metric to assess the health of the economy even in an environment where deficits are embraced.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/danielleseurkamp/2021/04/28/when-should-we-start-worrying-about-deficit-spending/
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Should I Pay Off My Mortgage?
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Middle class two story wood home. (Photo by: Jim Lane/Education Images/Universal Images Group via ... [+] Getty Images) Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images There are people who understand how to save and those who don't. If you don't understand how to save, it is better to pay off your home mortgage. Dave Ramsey is correct, "Most people are gonna take that lower payment and just buy crap they don't use." He recommends a 15-year fixed rate mortgage and says you shouldn't get a 30-year fixed mortgage. He suggests that at a 4% interest rate, a $175,000 30-year fixed mortgage will cost you $68,000 more over the life of the loan than a 15-year mortgage will cost. For the majority of people who don't understand finance and who would "just buy crap," he is correct. On the other hand, most of our millionaire clients are frugal super savers. They follow the "Millionaire Next Door" and live very humble lifestyles. Even with their riches, they benefit from having a house with as large of a mortgage as they can get. My wife and I purchased our house in 1990, thirty years ago. Our first mortgage was $170,000. Thirty years later, we just finished refinancing for the fourth time. This time, we refinanced for $190,000 for 30 years. Over the past 30 years, our home has appreciated, we've diligently paid our mortgage each month, and we've gone backwards, owing an additional $20,000 over a new 30-year time period. About ten years ago, we refinanced and took an additional $100,000 out of our house equity. When we did, the mortgage company representative conversationally asked, "What are you going to do with the money?" I told them I was going to invest it into the stock markets. The mortgage representative told me that was not an acceptable option. Acceptable options included remodeling, paying for a college education, or going on a vacation. I hung up the phone. I called back and started the process again. When I was asked what we were going to do with the money, I said my wife was thinking about remodeling, my daughter was in college, and we were going on a vacation that summer. The representative said "Great!" and we refinanced our house. Then, I took the extra $100,000 and put it in the markets with my other savings. From those savings, we did pay for college, go on vacation, and eventually put an addition on our house. However, taking money out simply to invest should have been an acceptable answer. If you think about $170,000 invested since 1990, we have made out much better by not paying off our home than any advantage gained by being debt-free. Over the past 30 years, the S&P 500 composite total return has gone up over twenty times in value. As Dave Ramsey suggests, I may have paid an additional $68,000 in interest, but having that money invested in the markets over the same time period could have earned over $3.4 million in stock market returns. Being "debt-free" comes at a high opportunity cost. Dave Ramsey is selling peace of mind, but the cost is too high. If your are capable of generating wealth through diligent saving, having a 30-year fixed mortgage at these rates is the best hedge against inflation. Here I am 30-years later, I still have a 30-year fixed mortgage. Without another refinance, I will be 90 years old when my current mortgage is paid off. However, in reality, I will probably die with a mortgage. Even if the world was ending, I still want to have a mortgage.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidmarotta/2021/04/28/should-i-pay-off-my-mortgage/
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Is Cannabis Beer The Next Big Trend In The U.S.?
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A hint is buried in AB InBevs 2020 annual report, which was released this past February. AB InBev, the parent company of Anheuser-Busch, manages a global portfolio of beverage brands, from beer to hard seltzer and ready-to-drink cocktails. AB InBev, which produces beer brands such as Stella Artois, Budweiser and Corona, is also investing in the no- and low-alcohol beverage; the beverage maker launched 11 new no- and low-alcoholic beers, including Budweiser Zero and Stella Artois. As more states legalize marijuana, cannabis-infused beer may be poised to take off. getty The no- and low-alcoholic market, overall, is poised to keep growing, despite pandemic pressures. One recent market study projects the category to be account for a full third of the total global alcoholic market by 2024. Which is why the loosening of marijuana regulations could potentially intersect with a fast-growing industry sector, if companies can position themselves on the right side of regulators. In the Risks and Uncertainties section of AB InBevs annual report, the corporation notes that Labatt, a Canadian subsidiary, is researching non-alcoholic beverages infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) as well as developing a non-alcoholic CBD beverage to be sold in Canada only. Cannabis-infused beer is available in some states, but might be the next big thing in beverages. getty The project is listed under risks because cannabis remains illegal in many markets in which AB InBev operates, and violations of law could result in significant fines, penalties, administrative sanctions, convictions or settlements arising from civil proceedings or criminal charges, the report states. Furthermore, the political environment and popular support for cannabis legalization has changed quickly and remains in flux. Marijuana is legal in 17 U.S. states, including Alaska, California, Maine, Colorado and Illinois, while another 13 states have decriminalized its use. In some states, politicians such as Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf are actively courting voters to help legalize marijuana. (Part of the new enthusiasm for this so-called green rush is because new, legal weed businesses would puff up pandemic-depleted tax coffers.) A rapidly shifting legal landscape for weed still poses risks. getty In states where its legal, craft brewers have stepped in to experiment with THC- and CBD-infused beers, as beer blogs will attest. Uneven state regulations, however, wont allow out-of-state shipping. What this means is that there could soon be a turning point, as more states turn green, for multi-national corporations like AB InBev to step into the weed-infused beer space and enhance their standing in the no- and low-alcohol beverage space at the same time. The craft brewers will remain but they may, in a few short years, be joined by marquee names from major beverage producers.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/elvaramirez/2021/04/28/is-cannabis-beer-the-next-big-trend-in-the-us/
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Who knows how many lives might have been saved with earlier paid sick leave?
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Lets start with the positive, which frankly takes quite an effort when it comes to Ontarios cobbled-together plan for paid sick leave: Finally, a worker who needs a day off to go and get vaccinated will be able to do that without worrying about losing pay (at least up to $200 a day). Someone who has symptoms and fears they might have COVID-19 can stay home for a couple of days, again without worrying about pay. Likewise for a worker who has side-effects after getting a shot, needs time to get tested for the virus, or has to stay home while waiting for a test result. Having those benefits, for up to three days, is obviously better than not having them. And its a comment on how low the bar is in Canada for mandatory paid sick leave that the Ford government can accurately claim that its temporary new Worker Income Protection Benefit will be the most generous among all the provinces (at least until it expires on Sept. 25). Shockingly, thats true. Prince Edward Island mandates one paid day off per year, while Quebec has two. In other provinces, the standard is zero. So the new three-day benefit, which matches what Ottawa guarantees for employees of federally regulated businesses, will exceed that as long as it lasts. But all that being said, what a torturous road to get to this point, 14 months into the pandemic. The Ford government had to be dragged here kicking and screaming, offering up the three-day gap filler plus a top-up of the existing federal paid-leave program assuming the federal government agrees to that, which isnt certain at this point. Premier Doug Ford, an almost daily fixture on Ontarians TV screens for the past year, commenting on every aspect of the fight against COVID, boasting that the buck stops with him, was nowhere to be seen as two of his ministers executed the governments biggest policy about-face since the start of the pandemic. We dont know why. But it is clear this new approach has been thrown together at the last minute by a government running scared at public outrage over its failure to control the third wave of COVID-19. Its recent budget contained nothing along these lines, and the government did not even table legislation on Wednesday. Details to come, it seems. Until very recently, in fact, the Ford governments official position that mandatory paid leave wasnt needed at the provincial level because Ottawa already had an adequate plan for that, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit. Then, suddenly, Ontario joined the many critics of the federal benefit. It agreed that Ottawas plan is hard to access and doesnt pay enough (a maximum of $450 a week after taxes). But the solution wasnt a provincial plan, Ford insisted; the federal one should be fixed. Now his government has come full circle. In addition to its temporary new three-day sick-leave benefit, it wants to piggy-back on the federal plan so that Ontarians would get up to $1,000 a week for a maximum of four weeks. The two benefits put together, it says, will be the most generous in North America. Small problem: Ottawa hasnt actually agreed to allow Ontario to top up its program, so until some kind of deal is reached thats all theoretical. In the meantime, the clock ticks on, more people in Ontario fall sick from COVID-19 and every day some die. Well never know how many illnesses, and deaths, could have been prevented if a comprehensive paid sick leave plan had been in effect from Day One of the pandemic. But its reasonable to assume that the third wave, driven largely by workplace outbreaks in so-called hot spot areas, might have been blunted to some extent. Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... All that is on a government that, long before anyone had heard of COVID-19, did away with a paid sick-leave program that was already on the books. And then refused for 14 long months to do the right thing and fix its mistake. That will be hard for Ontarians to forget, and even harder to forgive. Read more about:
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https://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2021/04/28/who-knows-how-many-lives-might-have-been-saved-with-earlier-paid-sick-leave.html
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Should My Company Be On Clubhouse Or Ignore It?
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Founder + CEO of Candybox Marketing and Launch48 [Digital Marketing] getty A new social media enters stage left. Welcome to Clubhouse, the 24/7 live multi-userapp that has been invite-only to grow its popularity amongst influencers. If you don't know what Clubhouse is, take a few minutes to watch Tech Insider's 2-minute overview. Although the app only had 10 million downloads as of February 2021, do not discount small beginnings. It has recently seen the likes of Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerburg and Kanye West host rooms, which have led to a boom in popularity. From a marketing perspective, it's been fascinating at how audio-only chatrooms have grown in popularity as many of us marketers find it easy to tune in without being on video with networks like TikTok, Instagram or Snapchat. From a business perspective, new social networks can become frustrating as we try to navigate an already busy marketing schedule while measuring ROI across our existing multi-channel strategies. I do not believe that all brands need to jump onto every shiny new social media network, but some really should consider it. After spending time on the network myself and seeing what brands are doing, I've come up with a list of reasons why you may (or may not) want to join the club. To Listen and Learn I never recommend joining social media networks to people who don't want to consume the content. If you intend only to start speaking about your brand, products or services, it may not work well (unless you are a popular celebrity, politician or influencer). Before you build a strategy to broadcast on Clubhouse, I'd recommend you spend at least 24 hours listening and learning about any topic that interests you. During this time, you'll learn the ebbs and flows of conversation, best practices when starting a room or club and how to manage the annoying spammers who enter the room. To Promote Yourself as a Thought Leader The main focus of Clubhouse is about people adding value to their listeners. The most popular segments include revolving experts answering questions, interviews on how-to's and connecting people to answers. When done well, this promotes you (yes, you, because you are the brand) as a thought leader in your industry or specialty. Since Clubhouse is about people talking, you need to be comfortable being the brand. This is similar to thought leadership within LinkedIn both are effective through individual people's accounts not generic brands. To Connect With Customers The power of Clubhouse is in the emerging audiences who are actively tuning in. Instead of launching a podcast that people may not listen to, there's a massive community of listeners on Clubhouse today. You can easily move from room to room and connect with listeners from all over the world. During my time in different rooms, I heard legal experts who talked about recording copywriting pick up 20-30 customers by hosting a Q&A session with emerging artists; CEO coaches pick up a few prospects by speaking about goal setting; and even churches gather new audiences by live-streaming their services through the platform. Right now, there's no knowing how this platform will transform over the next year as people use it in new ways every single day. Now let's get to three reasons why you may want to ignore Clubhouse: You Aren't Willing to Put in the Time Clubhouse is not for marketers who want to allocate a budget instead of time. It takes time to build a following on Clubhouse; there are no shortcuts. I personally try to commit one hour per day to listening and two hours per week where I host a room, and that's barely enough to get started. The unique benefit to this platform is that you don't need to be on camera, so it's easier to put on in the car, listen in the background or during your daily exercise routine. If you can't dedicate the time, this platform won't work for you. Your Customers, Vendors or Industry Leaders Aren't on the Platform It's hard to tell at this point who is or isn't on Clubhouse, but it may not be worth your time if you can't find your target audience on the platform. Marketing 101 tells us to define our target audience and build marketing plans around those targets, including reach, mediums and frequency. If you cannot find your customers or vendors on the platform, it may only help you become a resource for your own personal development. You're Not Comfortable With an Individual Representing Your Brand Some organizations are not okay with individuals representing them online. These include highly regulated industries, private companies that keep their cards close to their chest or old-school companies that don't understand the value of personal branding. My own agency has many team members who have built large personal brands while representing our company out in the market, which works well for us as a thought leader marketing company, but it's not for everyone. If you decide that your brand is in the right spot to join Clubhouse, make sure you have a proper content plan and schedule to add value into this emerging social media network. If you decide to pass on this network for now, keep an eye out, as new networks typically change quickly in the first six months as they gain market share. Forbes Agency Council is an invitation-only community for executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative and advertising agencies.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/04/28/should-my-company-be-on-clubhouse-or-ignore-it/
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When Will Quantum Computers Impact Our Day-To-Day?
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Gary Fowler is a serial AI entrepreneur with 17 startups and an IPO. He is CEO and co-founder of GSDVS.com and Yva.ai. getty Its natural to quickly imagine the distant future, or an alternate, Marvel-like universe where quantum computing and quantum mechanics truly belong. The truth is, quantum computers are more real than they might seem to be; in fact, they are already revolutionizing the world as we know it as you read this article. Quantum computing is already opening new horizons for data encryption and processing. Studies have already predicted that quantum computing will become a multibillion-dollar quantum industry as early as 2030. In fact, quantum computing and quantum communication are poised to have a transformative effect across a multitude of industries, ranging from healthcare and energy to finance and security. At the very core, quantum computers arent simply more advanced versions of the machines we are using day-to-day; they are much more complex than that. Our modern computers from laptops to more sophisticated machines share a strict limitation in how much data they can process during a specified period of time. This limitation is largely due to the fact that traditional computers operate on bits, which only come in 2 states: either 0s or 1s. In contrast, quantum computers operate on "qubits" which, unlike the bits, dont have to adhere to the requirement of choosing one state or another. This ability to take on multiple states, known as superposition, ensures the versatility of quantum computing through uncertainty and it unlocks never-before-seen abilities to analyze data in a very short time. Quantum computing is already underway, accelerating the normal speed of completing various tasks and promising to change how the internet will work. Even though the technology is still in the earlier, more nascent stages, its potential is vast. One of quantum computings biggest promises is to redefine cybersecurity and data encryption. Due to quantum machines rooting in probability and uncertainty, quantum information essentially becomes impossible to be copied or replicated. Nowadays, with security relying largely on encryption keys for data transmission, its in the hands of hackers to replicate the keys and gain unlawful access to information. In the world of quantum computing and physics, data processing is not as vulnerable: In fact, an attempt to access data unlawfully will result in the dissolution of the original data composite, making quantum-backed security unhackable. As fictional as it may sound, data transmission in the quantum world is much like teleportation. With the quantum particles entangled, its impossible to alter one without accordingly changing the other. Accessing data equals breaking quantum physics rules. No doubt, quantum computing is the Sonic among computers: Its faster and more capable than anything we have encountered before. In fact, Google claims (paywall) to have created a quantum machine that can complete a 3-minute calculation that would have taken 10,000 years for a traditional computer to do. With quantum computing accelerating data processing and task completion, this technological advancement has the potential to transform the healthcare industry as we know it especially when it comes to pharmaceutical development and creation. With the new processing power, experimentation with molecules and particles will be infinitely faster in the race to create treatments for conditions currently considered incurable. It will also allow the unlocking of new levels of accuracy in forecasting and predictions, especially in the finance and data science fields. The quantum revolution is not far into the future anymore; it is happening here and now, albeit on a smaller scale. Governments, tech giants and private investors are already in a race to continuously invest in research and development in quantum physics, hardware and software. With a much shorter timeline in mind, businesses need to begin factoring quantum computing into their projections and begin the preparation process for a large-scale transformation thats underway. One big area to tap into in order to be best prepared for the quantum revolution is accounting for quantum security. With modern data encryption techniques and keys being extremely vulnerable to breaching and hacking, there is a need for new data security protocols that will be more enduring and resilient. Businesses need to begin allocating resources towards preparing for the likelihood of adopting quantum-centric security in order to remain ahead of the curve in light of the approaching changes. Companies also need to begin to strategize around the unique ways in which quantum computing will be complementary to their own business needs and objectives. Its not just enough to integrate new technology with a business; it takes more planning and collaboration with scientists and researchers to devise best practices for matching quantum computing capabilities to a businesss structure, state, industry and trajectory. The reality is, the quantum revolution is already happening its not a product of the future anymore. The question isnt, When will it impact our lives? but rather, How will it change our lives? And at this early stage, businesses can begin preparing for the onset of new technology. Forbes Business Development Council is an invitation-only community for sales and biz dev executives.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinessdevelopmentcouncil/2021/04/28/when-will-quantum-computers-impact-our-day-to-day/
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Can Liverpool Owners FSG Rebuild Relationship With Fans?
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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 21: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Tom Werner Chairman of Liverpool ... [+] poses with Jurgen Klopp manager of Liverpool and John W Henry Principal owner with wife Linda Pizzuti at the end of the Premier League match between Liverpool F.C. and Middlesbrough F.C. at Anfield on May 21, 2017 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images) Liverpool FC via Getty Images The best thing Liverpools owners could have done is to not try to raise ticket prices, not try to trademark the word Liverpool, not decide to furlough club staff, and definitely not attempt to join a breakaway European Super League. Maybe these moves were even made in good faith. Maybe the owners thought they were doing the right thing for the club at that particular time, but if this was the case they massively misjudged each situation. The owners went back on all four of these decisions and following external pressure duly released apologies shortly after. Each of these damaging decisions could have been prevented had the club decided to consult with stakeholders first, including, and especially, the fans. For many Liverpool supporters, the brazen move to form a closed-shop Super League along with five other English clubs and six more from Europe was the final straw. These breakaway plans were carried out covertly by those at the top of their respective clubs, and Liverpools principal owner John W Henry went as far as to take all the blame in his apology to the club and the fans. Henrys secrecy regarding the Super League plans matched that at other clubs, with one notable example being Milan where club icon and current technical director, Paolo Maldini, wasnt aware of the plans until they were released publicly on April 18. The Super League saga lasted barely three days as many clubs scrambled to be the first to pull out amid overwhelming negative reaction from football fansnotably from fans of the clubs involved. Liverpool supporters left anti-FSG banners outside Anfield, and the backlash would have been much worse had the owners not pulled out of the league by the time of the next home game against Newcastle. Instead, the gathered fans showed support for the players and coaching staff as the team bus approached Anfield. Nationality shouldnt come into it, but many Liverpool fans remain wary of American owners having seen the club almost go into administration under the ownership of Tom Hicks and George Gillett previously. Fenway Sports Group, then known as New England Sports Ventures, saw an opportunity to invest in a sleeping giant of the sporting world, purchasing Liverpool for 300 million ($440m). As of April 2021, Forbes values the club at $4.1 billion. Though they dont take money out of the club via dividends, as is the case with the Glazer family at Manchester United, this increase in valuation in itself is a large return on an investment in an institution. LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JULY 22: Jordan Henderson of Liverpool holds the Premier League Trophy aloft ... [+] along side Mohamed Salah as they celebrate winning the League during the presentation ceremony of the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Chelsea FC at Anfield on July 22, 2020 in Liverpool, England. Football Stadiums around Europe remain empty due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) Getty Images On the pitch, FSG have overseen a resurgence in success for Liverpool with the club winning a league title for the first time in 30 years while also securing a sixth European Cup. The team that enjoyed success under Jrgen Klopp in 2019 and 2020 is one of the best in the clubs history, if not the best, which takes some doing given the quality of some of the Liverpool sides during their period of dominance in the 1980s. Alongside this success on the field, FSG redeveloped Anfield meaning Liverpool could remain in their spiritual home. Many other sides have moved stadiums in recent times, losing a bit of what makes them them, but Liverpool managed to remain in the historic, hallowed Anfield Stadium and there are plans to develop it further. Last year the club left the iconic Melwood training ground for a refurbished facility in Kirkbythe home of the clubs academy. This was progress, despite the history left behind, and is another off-field development the owners have been praised for. To go with all this the club have one of the most modern and widely respected backroom staff in footballfrom recruitment and analysis to coaching and sports science, while many of the playing staff and Klopp himself will go down as club legends. LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 13: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Jurgen Klopp Signs A Contract ... [+] Extension and chats with Sporting Director Michael Edwards and Mike Gordon FSG President and Liverpool F.C owner at Melwood Training Ground on December 13, 2019 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images) Liverpool FC via Getty Images In recent years the Liverpool have been the only obstacle in the way of the heavily funded Manchester City juggernaut, running City close in 2019 and eventually wresting the Premier League title from them in 2020. Despite this progress, there is regular criticism of FSGs transfer policy which sees them spend little more on players than they bring in through player sales. When assessing this area of FSGs operation there is a balance to be had between criticising them for not acting in the transfer market when needed and the more sensible idea of only spending what the club makes. Splashing big money on marquee signings as many other clubs do (mostly badly) risks saddling the club with further debt and being left with expensive burdens if they dont work out. But when a centre-back was desperately needed as soon as the transfer window opened in January the club failed to act. Reinforcements only arrived in the final moments of the transfer window, not taking to the field until mid-February. Its a move that could cost them Champions League football and all of the income that brings. There is now even more criticism of FSG on the back of their attempts to join The Super League. Though this move would have brought further income it would have done so at the expense of sporting merit, club heritage, and removed the magic around big European tiesseeing them become the norm rather than rare, special moments. As a result, calls for FSG to sell the club have now moved from isolated corners of social media to the mainstream mindset. LIVERPOOL, UNITED KINGDOM - APRIL 20: A flag with the words 'Yanks Out' is displayed as banners and ... [+] football scarves are tied to the fences around Anfield Stadium, the home of Liverpool Football Club, in protest at the club's intentions to join the European Super League on April 20, 2021 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. Six English premier league teams have announced they are part of plans for a breakaway European Super League. Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur will join 12 other European teams in a closed league similar to that of the NFL American Football League. In a statement released last night, the new competition "is intended to commence as soon as practicable" potentially in August. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) Getty Images In many ways, the club, and others like it, has already gone beyond the point of no return when it comes to being run in a more cooperative fashion by supporters or members. This means the answer lies in increased dialogue between the owners and the clubs key stakeholders. Those include Klopp and his staff, the players and the fans. Supporters should not need to put money into buying shares in order to have a say, as no group has invested more than them in the history of storied clubs such as Liverpool. Buying the fans back in the form of splashing out on transfers this summer isnt part of the answer to this, either, as this would lead to more of the problems The Super League was created to solve in the first placei.e. spiralling debt at certain clubs. This said the club should, and likely will, bring reinforcements in this summer regardless, as they will be able to offload a number of players who have only played bit-parts this season and others who have been out on loan. A club worth over $4 billion that recently won the two biggest prizes in football, and one with such a lauded recruitment team, should be able to bring in the players they need without dallying as they did in January. Liverpool have and will suffer financially as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, as all clubs will, but wise moves in the transfer market should be a way through this rather than something to be avoided. After all, Liverpools success is partly down to savvy selling, and though the financial situations at other clubs will make this more difficult, there is still activity in the transfer market. FSG are not in the same league as Manchester United owners the Glazer family or Arsenals own absent owner Stan Kroenkewho fans of these clubs are rightfully looking to remove, but in plotting with them on The Super League, FSG proved that though they might be the best of a bad bunch of super-club owners, they are certainly part of that bunch. The way back involves more meaningful dialogue with fans, more fan representation, and more consideration and consultation with club staff when making big decisions. Dialogue with fans is something which was supposed to exist already, but recent events show was merely just a token gesture. There have already been attempts to rectify this with Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan responding in writing to supporters union Spirit of Shankly. FSG have worked admirably to run Liverpool with minimal debt after it was run into the ground by Hicks and Gillett, and in their ten and a half years as the clubs owners have reestablished it as a force at the top of the game. But after the Super League stunt, their debt is now with football fans. The best way to repay it is to work towards making sure Liverpool supporters will always have a say in how their club is run.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesnalton/2021/04/28/can-liverpool-owners-fsg-rebuild-relationship-with-fans/
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Should Bruno Fernandes Be Awarded Manchester Uniteds Player Of The Year?
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LEEDS, ENGLAND - APRIL 25: Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United stand over a ... [+] free kick during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road on April 25, 2021 in Leeds, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) Getty Images While the season did not start out in the way Manchester United fans had hoped, the players and manager have turned it around and got themselves sitting comfortably in second place in the Premier League PINC . With Coronavirus taking precedent and not allowing supporters into the stadium, it has certainly reduced the output of teams all across Europe with the Red Devils being no exception. However, after a small blip, Ole Gunnar Solskjaers Reds have done emphatically well, especially away from home. With victory over Tottenham Hotspur in North London a couple of weeks ago, Manchester United extended their unbeaten away record to 23 matches in the Premier League. If Solskjaer can avoid defeat in the last three remaining away Premier League fixtures, Manchester United will end the season having not been defeated while on the road. Only two clubs have ever achieved this accomplishment: Preston North End (1888/89) and Arsenal (2001/02 and 2003/04). Here are three players that are in the running for Manchester Uniteds Player of the Year award: Bruno Fernandes LEEDS, ENGLAND - APRIL 25: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United in action during the Premier League ... [+] match between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road on April 25, 2021 in Leeds, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Peter Powell - Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images Perhaps the obvious choice the award, Bruno Fernandes has carried on last seasons form in this campaign. 24 goals and 14 assists in 51 appearances through all competitions shows his importance in the final third for the Red Devils. While he has arguably not been at his best form in the last month, with the sheer amount of games he has played, it is understandable there might be a drop-off. Fernandes is far more than just goals and assists, however. His leadership qualities speak volumes in how he has transformed the club in just over 12 months and put them onto this path of rejuvenation. While he doesnt wear the captains armband, Fernandes is a leader on the pitch and has shown that he is one to stand up and be counted in the big moments. Luke Shaw LEEDS, ENGLAND - APRIL 25: Luke Shaw of Manchester United looks on during the Premier League match ... [+] between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road on April 25, 2021 in Leeds, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) Getty Images Luke Shaw has been a revelation at left back this season. Under Solskjaers tutelage, Shaw has risen to the occasion and performed week in, week out for the whole season. It is clear now that when he does not feature, there is a severe lack of attacking output coming down the left-hand side. Shaws ability to commit defenders and create chances cannot be understated and has been a huge part of Manchester Uniteds success this season. While he has had some disappointing and non-starter campaigns, Shaw should be immensely proud of how he has kicked on this season and also reclaimed his England spot in the squad especially ahead of this summers European Championship. A fans favourite, Shaws comeback is a wholesome story and, at the age of 25, has so much more to give both on and off the pitch. He would be a deserved winner. Marcus Rashford LEEDS, ENGLAND - APRIL 25: Marcus Rashford of Manchester United reacts during the Premier League ... [+] match between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road on April 25, 2021 in Leeds, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Jon Super - Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images Marcus Rashford has been in the public spotlight for his crucial work to help feed hungry school children over the last 12 months, but it has sometimes gone amiss his stellar performances in a Red Devils shirt. Mature beyond his years, Rashford is still only 23-years-old and is nurturing and crafting his overall game. It has been clear to see this season, more than before, his ability to link between attack and midfield and push Manchester United onto the front foot. With a combined 33 goal contributions in 50 appearances, Rashfords influence on the team continues to grow with every passing season. He is leading by example and showing his true qualities from the left wing. There might be a time where he moves centrally to lead the line for the Red Devils, but Rashfords electric pace cutting inside from the left onto his favoured right foot is something to behold and very difficult to prevent. Rashford will be looking to end the season on a high by winning the Europa League before starting to prepare under Gareth Southgate for the Three Lions.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/liamcanning/2021/04/28/who-should-be-awarded-manchester-uniteds-player-of-the-year/
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What Are Some Of The Biggest Challenges Direct-To-Consumer Brands Are Facing?
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originally appeared on Quora: the place to gain and share knowledge, empowering people to learn from others and better understand the world. Answer by Lee Hnetinka, Founder at Darkstore and FastAF, on Quora: Some of the largest challenges for DTC brands include increased investment in customer data, personalization, customer service, and distribution. DTC brands constantly need to evaluate their inventory, logistics capabilities and end-to-end sales processes. Visibility is especially difficult for some DTC brands, so insights and inventory management can make all the difference when it comes to making better business decisions. In order to help mitigate some of these challenges, DTC brands should look for new end-to-end solutions that specifically help with logistics and distribution, and that never existed before. For instance, brands today can take full advantage of platforms that provide micro fulfillment warehouses and infrastructure. They allow for inventory control and therefore, customer experience, like presence in cities where they do not have physical stores. The real deal-breaker is 2-hour delivery infrastructure (with delivery leaders like Doordash and Roadie), empowering brands to deliver at the speed consumers have come to expect. The fast-growing direct-to-consumer ecosystem has created a democratized industry and the brands that embrace growth with a strategic approach to modern commerce will emerge as the differentiators. This question originally appeared on Quora - the place to gain and share knowledge, empowering people to learn from others and better understand the world.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2021/04/28/what-are-some-of-the-biggest-challenges-direct-to-consumer-brands-are-facing/
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How Long Will The Value Rotation Last?
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AFP via Getty Images The S&P 500s move this year to new highs has been led by a strong rotation into value and cyclical stocks. As of April 26, the five best-performing sectors year-to-date are, in order, Energy, Financials, Real Estate, Materials, and Industrials. Classic growth groups Technology, Consumer Discretionary, and Health Care are all in the bottom half of sector performance. Investors have been anticipating a strong recovery in U.S. economic growth and corporate profits as the pandemic recedes. In addition, an easy Federal Reserve promoting negative real rates and massive multi-trillion-dollar stimulus are amplifying the economys resurgence, reflected in the S&P 500s Q1 2021 earnings results. Of the 123 companies on the index that have reported, 86% had positive surprises, and Q1 2021 EPS has grown 34% year-over-year so far. Incredibly, Wall Street estimates this will accelerate to +53% year-over-year in the Q2 2021 earnings season, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. A broad acceleration in earnings representing plentiful growth usually corresponds with investors rotation into value and cyclical stocks. To understand this phenomenon, I recently spoke with Satya Pradhuman, CEO and Director of Research at Cirrus Research, an institutional quantitative research firm focused on mid- and small-cap stocks. Cirrus theorizes that the recent break in mega-cap growth and assumption of cyclical leadership is still in the early stages or midpoint of its cycle. A number of the indicators argue that the re-opening and bottoming of the profits cycle is likely to extend the cyclical run and concurrently create further stresses to the long bond, Cirrus writes in a recent report. The report continues, as the profit cycle bottoms and as the economy rebounds, leadership, or Mega Cap growth, will continue to be a source of funds. As capital searches out growth, it is easy to understand why Small Caps, Value and EM [emerging markets] can benefit and outperform. Satya believes we are in the top right segment of Cirruss style leadership rotation graph. Cirrus Research S&P 500 sales growth turned positive in Q4 2020, hitting +2.5%, estimated to rise to 67% for Q1 2021 once all reports are in. Value is likely to lead growth over a minimum of the next six months but more likely at least 12 months. Cirrus Research Given this, it may be a good time to inject more cyclicality into your portfolio. While I favor secular growth stocks in the long term, the economic acceleration following the retreat of COVID-19 is hard to ignore. Increasing weights in Cyclicals, Industrials, Materials, Transports, and Financials, especially on the back of strong Q1 earnings reports, makes a lot of sense right now. Sub-sectors that Id favor adding exposure to include leisure products (Brunswick, Fox Factory, Polaris), infrastructure/housing-related (Vertiv, Trex, Top-Build), paints (PPG Industries, Sherwin Williams SHW ), base-metal mining (Freeport-McMoRan FCX , Vale), air freight (UPS, FedEx FDX ), and regional banks (SVB Financial Group, First Republic Bank FRC ). As this rotation occurs, Ill be watching the secular growth names I favor, where any significant weakness could be used to establish or add to core positions. Longer-term, after the stimulus has faded and the Fed becomes less accommodative, I believe growth will re-assert itself, as it always has. Its important to be ready for this, but its unlikely to take place before the second half of next year. Until then, its values turn at the front of the pack. DISCLOSURE: No part of my compensation was, is, or will be directly or indirectly related to the specific recommendations or views expressed herein. ONeil Global Advisors, its affiliates, and/or their respective officers, directors, or employees may have interests, or long or short positions, and may at any time make purchases or sales as a principal or agent of the securities referred to herein.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/randywatts/2021/04/28/how-long-will-the-value-rotation-last/
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Is Eric Baillys New Contract Too Much Of A Risk For Manchester United?
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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 14: Eric Bailly of Manchester United reacts during a first team ... [+] training session at Aon Training Complex on January 14, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images) Manchester United via Getty Images The Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Eric Bailly smiled for the camera and said all the right things when the club announced the central defender had signed a new four-year contract on Monday. Im very happy, Bailly said. This decision is something I didnt have to think about, I love this club and I love playing for Manchester United...Everything is good. The new contract shows the group has confidence in me, the coach, the staff and the players and, for me, that is very important, and thats why I made this decision to stay at the club. I am pleased Eric has signed, Solskjaer added. He is still learning and improving all the time under the coaches. Eric has improved his robustness since my time as manager and he will continue to play a significant part in the squad. But behind the naturally upbeat messaging there remains some anxiety about whether this contract is really in Uniteds best interests. Since he arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2016 Bailly has become the very definition of unfulfilled potential. MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Eric Bailly of Manchester United poses with ... [+] Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after signing a contract extension at Aon Training Complex on April 26, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images) Manchester United via Getty Images On his day, when fit, Bailly is arguably Uniteds best central defender, blessed with strength, pace, mobility and brilliant tackling. The problem is those days have come along very rarely in the last five years, and he has started just 51 Premier League games from a potential 185. The United captain Harry Maguire arrived three years after Bailly, but incredibly has already played more league games than him. Since Baillys first season he has not managed to play more than 20 games across all competitions in a single season for United. Too often Bailly is unfit, out of form, left on the bench or left in the stands. It would not have been a surprise if Uniteds patience had been exhausted and they had decided to sell him this summer before his contract expires next year. MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Eirc Bailly and Harry Maguire of Manchester United warm up ahead of ... [+] the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 First Leg match between Manchester United and A.C. Milan at Old Trafford on March 11, 2021 in Manchester, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images) Getty Images And yet they have given him a new four-year contract, an initial three years with the option of another year, to remain at Old Trafford. This has alarming echoes about the contracts United have offered two other injury-prone central defenders in recent years: Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo. After Rojo signed a new three-year contract in March 2018, one of the most nakedly wasteful in Uniteds history, he would make just five league starts before leaving for Boca Juniors on a free transfer earlier this year. Phil Jones signed his own lucrative new four-year contract in February 2019, and has since made just eight league starts, and none since last season. It will be very difficult for United to raise a fee for him when he is fit enough to sell. But United have made a pragmatic decision that they could not afford to allow Bailly to leave for a reduced transfer fee this summer or for nothing at all next year. MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 20: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones of Manchester ... [+] United in action during a first team training session at Aon Training Complex on November 20, 2018 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images) Manchester United via Getty Images This has to be the reasoning, for it would take an extreme optimist to believe Bailly will shrug off his injury problems to become an ever present in Solskjaers starting eleven. The player himself must have been tempted to look for a move beyond Old Trafford, especially since Solskjaer has made it clear his first choice partnership in central defence is Maguire and Victor Lindelof. But it would have also been very difficult to turn down this contract and more guaranteed wealth from United. The fact that United offered Bailly this contract also offers a hint as to where their transfer priorities might be this summer. It had been expected they would look to sign a new central defender, and this could still happen, but with Bailly now committed for another four years, they could instead divert more funds to their forward line.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/sampilger/2021/04/28/is-eric-baillys-new-contract-too-much-of-a-risk-for-manchester-united/
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Should The U.S. Develop A Competitive Prize For Technology Breakthroughs?
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getty As one who has covered the developments of technology in Silicon Valley and the U.S. since the late 1970s, I also became very interested in the U.K.'s role, especially as it pertains to the contributions U.K. scientists and inventors have had in areas like computer programming, development of radar and even the development of the semiconductor itself. I had the privilege of taking summer courses at Oxford University in the U.K. and one of the classes I took was entitled, "The British Contributions to the Advancement of Technology." The course was fascinating as we explored everything from Charles Babbage's proposed Analytical engine, Ada Lovelace's work on Babbage's Difference Engine and her programming vision and the various radio and radar technologies the British invented for use in WW II. We learned about Alan Turing's Enigma Engine that cracked the code so the British could understand Germany's secret messaging system. One of the most fascinating sections of this course looked even farther back at the U.K.'s history of science and technology that has its roots in the Royal Society of London for Improving Natural Knowledge, which started around 1660. The British Royal Society was one of the first to create awards and prizes for breakthroughs in science, math, philosophy, and other disciplines that improved and expanded knowledge. One of the biggest knowledge problems in the early 1700s was related to sea and ocean navigation. While transoceanic sailors could determine latitude from the altitude of the sun at noon with the aid of a table giving the sun's declination for the day. But for longitude, navigators had to rely on dead reckoning that was subject to errors. This led King Charles II to found the Royal Observatory in 1675 to solve the problem of finding longitude at sea. In 1714, the British government offered a 20,000 GBP ( a huge amount in those days) prize for anyone who could solve this problem. Dava Sobel wrote a great book entitled, " Longitude-The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time . It lays out the longitude problem in detail and explains how this award motivated real competition in a quest for a solution. In terms of prizes for technology inventions, the British Royal Society and the U.K. government blazed early trails in developing these types of award programs and incentives that pushed for accelerated discovery in science and technology to meet pressing challenges facing the world and mankind. The U.S. has various programs that spur technology innovation via grants through the National Science Foundation, (NSF) and lists the types of funding and grants available on their site. This week, Elon Musk reenergized this concept of a cash prize for innovation when he announced a new XPrize competition related to climate change. A $100 million prize will be awarded to entrepreneurs who come up with the best technologies to capture carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and lock it away permanently. I find Musk's approach very interesting in light of the history of how cash prizes spurred innovation as far back as the early 1700s. The U.S. approach through NSF and other governmental agencies follows a similar trajectory, minus a prized-based competition format dreamed up in the U.K. centuries ago. I wonder if it is time for the U.S. to become even more targeted and aggressive in trying to solve major problems facing our country and the world. The prize format has worked in the past and perhaps the U.S. needs to develop similar types of targeted prizes to solve some of our pressing needs. The problem that Musk is dealing with via carbon capture might be something the U.S. should enjoin and provide even more financial incentives to solve this critical problem. Diseases like cancer, diabetes, obesity, etc., cost the U.S. government billions of dollars each year. Perhaps prizes targeting solutions for conquering these health problems could accelerate the discovery of more effective treatments or even ways to eradicate these major health problems. Private industry is trying to solve these problems, often with grants or special government funding as well. But the incentive of a dedicated prize focused on a specific solution has worked in the past, and as Elon Musk suggests with his new XPrize, could work again.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/timbajarin/2021/04/28/should-the-us-develop-a-competitive-prize-for-technology-breakthroughs/
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Will 49ers trade Jimmy Garoppolo this weekend?
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The 49ers will add a quarterback tomorrow night with the third overall selection in the draft. Speculation has intensified in recent days that the 49ers will trade Jimmy Garoppolo before or during the draft. Peter King dusted off the subject in Mondays Football Morning in America column. Jason La Canfora of CBS followed Peters item with word of a strong expectation among General Managers that the 49ers will try to make a deal. Potential trade partners include the Patriots, the Texans, and maybe the Bears. Two key components will be part of any trade. First, and obviously, the 49ers will have to find a suitor who will give San Francisco the compensation that it wants. Second, the new team will need to strike a deal with Garoppolo as to his compensation for 2021, and whether hell get an extension or (like Teddy Bridgewater in Denver) a path to free agency after the 2021 season. The strategic question for the 49ers becomes whether theyre willing to wait for a better market to develop later, if for example a starting quarterback elsewhere suffers an injury. However, waiting for a preseason ACL tear or broken leg would entail risking that the oft-injured Garoppolo will get injured, sticking the 49ers with his full $24.1 million salary for 2021. A separate problem comes from the possibility of Garoppolo playing, staying healthy, and playing well in 2021. If hes the Week One starter, whether because he wins the job or the rookie is injured, the 49ers may have a hard time flipping in 2022 to the rookie for who they will have given up the 12th overall pick, two future first-rounders, and a third-rounder. Arguably, the teams decision to express indecision (feigned or otherwise) regarding whether theyll take Mac Jones or Justin Fields or Trey Lance makes it more important to not let a lingering Garoppolo keep the rookie on the bench. As recently explained on PFT Live, the 49ers are the guy who took out a second mortgage to buy a Ferrari. Then, when he got to the exotic car dealership, he started looking at the Porsche and the Aston-Martin. Then, he drove all three. Then, he agonized over which one to take. Story continues Then, he made a selection. Then, his neighbors bought the other two cars. And they drive them by his house regularly. If the two guys the 49ers dont take are playing well elsewhere, and if the player drafted by the 49ers gets stuck behind Garoppolo, that wont go over well with the paying customers. And for good reason. Fans and media will say that the 49ers wasted draft picks that could have been used to acquire four other players over the next three drafts. Even if they still buy the Ferarri, the 49ers have to worry that they bought the lemon. If the Ferarri cant even get out of the garage because the jalopy they wanted to get rid of is finally running well, the necessarily will cause Ferrari to be regarded as a purchase. The 49ers have seemed indecisive about the player theyll take at No. 3. They cant afford to be indecisive about Garoppolo. They made a big move because they dont trust Garoppolo over the long-term. They shouldnt trust him over the short-term, either. originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
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https://sports.yahoo.com/49ers-trade-jimmy-garoppolo-weekend-233004276.html?src=rss
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How Did India's COVID-19 Crisis Become a Catastrophe?
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Dusk is falling in the Indian capital, and the acrid smell of burning bodies fills the air. Its the evening of April 26, and at a tiny crematorium in a Delhi suburb, seven funeral pyres are still burning. I have lived here all my life and pass through this area twice a day, says local resident Gaurav Singh. I have never seen so many bodies burning together. Scenes of mass death are now unavoidable in whats often called the worlds largest democracy. Social media is filled with images of body bags and urgent requests for medical aid. Indians gasping for breath are being turned away from overwhelmed hospitals, sometimes simply because they dont have lab reports confirming COVID-19 infection. Health workers plead for basic supplies. We feel so angry, says Kanchan Pandey, a community health worker in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh. At least give us some masks and gloves. Is there no value to our lives? At a crematorium in New Delhi on April 27, Shivam Verma, in white PPE, helps carry the body of his sister-in-law Bharti, 48, who died of COVID-19. Photograph by Saumya Khandelwal for TIME Such devastation would have been hard to imagine just a few months ago. Children were back in school, politicians were on the campaign trail, and people were dancing at weddings. Soon the winter of our discontent will be made glorious summer, Indias usually staid central bank said in a Jan. 21 bulletin. The next day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi heralded the spirit of atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) that had helped India secure victories in two major battles: on the cricket field against Australia and in the pandemic. A positive mindset always leads to positive results, he declared. That ebullience did not fade even as epidemiologists noted that cases were starting to rise in a few key states. On Feb. 21, Modis ruling Bharatiya Janata Party passed a resolution unequivocally hailing the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi in turning India into a victorious nation in the fight against COVID. Two months later, Indias crisis has blown well past the scale of anything seen elsewhere during the pandemic. For six of the seven days beginning April 21, India set new global records for daily COVID-19 infections, repeatedly surpassing the 300,000 tally previously set by the U.S. Its total confirmed casesmore than 18 millionare second only to that of the U.S. By official counts, more than 200,000 have now died, and some 3,000 are dying per day. The true daily death toll is at least two times higher, says Bhramar Mukherjee, an epidemiologist at the University of Michigan, from a caseload likely at least 10 times higher, based on modeling of data from the first wave. Indias health system is on the brink of collapse. Hospitals across the country are running out of oxygen supplies, ventilators and beds. Indians are rushing to buy drugs like remdesivir, causing prices to surge, while labs struggle to process growing backlogs of COVID-19 tests. Its humanitarian crisis will not just be devastating for the countrys nearly 1.4 billion citizens. In the words of the director general of the World Health Organization, the pandemic is a global inferno: If you hose only one part of it, the rest will keep burning. In India, where crematoriums have been burning so long that their metal structures have started to melt, the hose isnt even turned on yet. With hospitals full, COVID-19 patients receive oxygen outside a Sikh temple in Delhi on April 25. Atul LokeThe New York Times/Redux A volunteer performs CPR on a woman with breathing problems in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, on April 24. Danish SiddiquiReuters Family members mourn after Shayam Narayan, a 45-year-old COVID-19 patient and father of five, is declared dead outside the COVID-19 casualty ward at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital in Delhi on April 23. Danish SiddiquiReuters When the pandemic swept the world last year, India braced itself. Modi announced a sudden national lockdown in March, sparking an exodus of migrant workers, hundreds of whom died en route from cities to their hometowns. Indias economy was one of the hardest-hit in the pandemic, and lockdown was eased in June to allow businesses to reopen. Cases peaked around 93,000 per day in Septemberless than a third of the daily tallies India is reporting this Apriland then the curve began to flatten. A narrative emerged that India may have quietly achieved herd immunity, thanks to its comparatively young populationthe median age is 27, and just 6.4% of Indians are over 65and the fact that 66% of its population live in rural areas, spending most of their time outdoors. That optimistic account has since been complicated by two facts: cases are now hitting the young, and also surging in poor, rural states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Read More: How the Pandemic Is Reshaping India The scale of the current crisis may have been driven by more-transmissible variants, though data are limited because of a lack of widespread genomic sequencing, says Dr. Ashish Jha, dean at Brown University School of Public Health. Other factors are contributing to the surge. The virus moves quickly through the multigenerational households that account for 4 in 10 Indian homes. Chronic underfunding of the health system over decades has also left hospitals ill-equipped to deal with the surge. Indias total health care spending is a mere 3.5% of GDP, far lower than in countries ranging from the worlds wealthiest like France (11.3%) and the U.K. (10%) to other emerging economies like Brazil (9.5%) and South Africa (8.3%). And only a third of Indias health care spending comes from the government, with the rest mostly coming out of citizens pockets. It essentially means that those who can afford to purchase health can have it, says Dr. Gagandeep Kang, a virologist and public-policy researcher at Christian Medical College, Vellore. At a facility on the outskirts of Chennai on April 24, workers check medical oxygen cylinders that will be transported to hospitals. Arun SankarAFP/Getty Images For all those vulnerabilities, experts say the current crisis could have been avoided if the government had acted earlier. It is the virus, but its way more than the virus, says Sumit Chanda, an infectious-disease expert at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute in California. Its equal parts complacency and incompetence. Many Indians who took strict precautions last year abandoned their masks and gathered indoors when the broader public messaging implied that India had conquered the virus. They were pristine prey, as Mukherjee puts it, when the virus resurged this spring. Crucially, this complacency was encouraged by the governments mission-accomplished mentality, Chanda says. Indias leaders ignored warning signs in the data and the news of variants circulating in other countries. By early March, it was really starting to be clear, and by late March, we had flashing red lights, Browns Jha says. Even then, the government was largely acting like there wasnt anything serious going on. Read More: This Is Hell. Prime Minister Modis Failure to Lead Is Deepening Indias COVID-19 Crisis Rather than intensifying public-health messaging and ramping up interventions like banning mass gatherings and encouraging mask wearing, Modi and his officials did the opposite. They held mass rallies ahead of elections and promoted the Kumbh Mela, a Hindu pilgrimage that drew millions of worshippers to a single townan event Jha predicts will end up one of the biggest superspreader events in the history of humanity. On April 17, after India had overtaken Brazil to become the second worst-hit country in the world, Modi told a rally in West Bengal that he was elated to see such a large crowd. Modis insistence on atmanirbhar Bharat, the principle of self-reliance, also made India slow to approve and purchase foreign vaccines, including Pfizer-BioNTechs, in favor of its own Covaxin. In the meantime, the government was keen to wield its heft as the pharmacy of the world, exporting doses even as it vaccinated only 0.2% of its population per day. The complete policy complacency created a scenario where we allowed COVID-19 to get the better of us, says Yamini Aiyar, president of the Centre for Policy Research in New Delhi. We couldnt have predicted the scale, but the complete lack of preparedness and crowding in pursuit of power is really unforgivable. Workers build new platforms to expand a mass cremation site in New Delhi on April 27. Atul LokeThe New York Times/Redux Clothes of the deceased lie on the terrace of a building within crematorium premises in New Delhi on April 27. Saumya Khandelwal for TIME A man waits for his family's turn to cremate the body of their loved one, who died from COVID-19, in New Delhi on April 27. Saumya Khandelwal for TIME Though Modi has been reluctant to admit failures handling the pandemic, his tone has become more somber as India has started airlifting oxygen generators and other supplies from abroad, with countries including Australia, the U.K. and even Indias rival Pakistan offering support. The White House is sending ventilators, test kits, PPE and oxygen concentrators to Delhi, and has overturned a ban on the export of raw materials India needs to ramp up vaccine production. In the short term, this emergency disaster reliefalong with lockdowns in hot spots and a national mask mandateis key to curbing the second wave. In the longer term, vaccinations are desperately needed to prevent a third wave. Only 9% of Indians have had at least one vaccine dose (some, like Covaxin, require two doses), and the current pace of inoculation is too slow. Its also not realistic, says Dr. Prabhat Jha, an epidemiologist at St. Michaels Hospital, University of Toronto, for India to try to rapidly vaccinate 1 billion people. With limited vaccine supply, the most effective way to reduce transmission may be to target hot-spot areas and higher-risk peoplewhich means India needs better data, fast. How India handles its internal crisis is already having spillover effects. Modi has suspended Indias vaccine exports and is looking to import doses from other countries. This will have critical repercussions for millions in Africa and Latin America, who depend heavily on Indias vaccine production. Serum Institute, the Indian vaccine manufacturer, was already running behind. Expected to deliver 100 million doses for other countries by May, it so far has delivered only 20 million. Read More: How Countries Around the World Are Helping India Fight COVID-19and How You Can Too India may be far less wealthy than the Western countries now lending support, but it also has the tools to emerge from this crisis. It has a history of successful, large-scale immunization programs for diseases like polio and tetanus, first-rate scientists, highly trained doctors and powerful networks of community health workers. What has been lacking, experts say, is the political will to get ahead of the crisisand to use data and science to its advantage. Without dataon who is testing positive, where the hot spots of cases and deaths are, who is really vulnerabletheres no easy way for India to walk out of the pandemic, Prabhat Jha says. Many say the government has lost sight of its priorities. As cases soared to record highs in April, the government ordered Twitter and Facebook to remove posts critical of the authorities. Independent journalists have scrambled to identify massive discrepancies between official figures and deaths. Those who died will never come back, the Chief Minister of Haryana said in response to questions on April 26 about whether COVID-19 deaths were higher than official figures. There is no point debating if the number of deaths is actually more or less. Modi entered the pandemic with sky-high approval ratings of nearly 80%, and polls from as recently as January suggest those numbers have barely dipped. Now, anger is rising among those spending their days trying to find beds for relatives or caring for their communities. But for most Indians, whether Modi can survive this crisis is now less urgent than whether they can. The cries for help are growingbut not our capacities, says Usha Thakur, a community health worker in Najafgarh, Delhi. The governments are fighting amongst each other. They dont care about the people but its the people who are losing their loved ones. With reporting by Nilanjana Bhowmick/New Delhi, Alice Park/New York and Billy Perrigo/London The Coronavirus Brief. Everything you need to know about the global spread of COVID-19 Please enter a valid email address. * The request timed out and you did not successfully sign up. Please attempt to sign up again. Sign Up Now An unexpected error has occurred with your sign up. Please try again later. Check the box if you do not wish to receive promotional offers via email from TIME. You can unsubscribe at any time. By signing up you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Thank you! For your security, we've sent a confirmation email to the address you entered. Click the link to confirm your subscription and begin receiving our newsletters. If you don't get the confirmation within 10 minutes, please check your spam folder. Write to Naina Bajekal at naina.bajekal@time.com.
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https://time.com/5964796/india-covid-19-failure/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+time%2Ftopstories+%28TIME%3A+Top+Stories%29
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Has the transtasman bubble boosted NZ's struggling hospitality sector?
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Diners wait for orders outside Ferg Burger and sister business Fergbaker in Queentsown. Photo / Getty Images A week and a half into the transtasman travel bubble is said to have catapulted New Zealand hospitality sales to their biggest week of the year yet. According to digital insights platform Trickle, which tracks sales data from over 300 hospitality venues across New Zealand - representing approximately 5 per cent of the industry, last week hospitality netted its biggest sales week of the year, with sales up 38 per cent following the travel corridor opening up on April 19. The sales increase far exceeded gains from the America's Cup and St Patrick's Day boom - previously the biggest sales week of the year, with hospitality venues in Auckland and Otago regions reaping most of the gains. Survey findings from the Restaurant Association shared exclusively with the Herald show almost 15 per cent of hospitality venues said they had experienced increased turnover in response to tourists arriving from Australia. Businesses based in Queenstown had been particularly busy since the start of the transtasman bubble, Restaurant Association chief executive Marisa Bidois said. "The results from our survey show there is really good, strong economic activity happening as a result of the bubble." Auckland CBD businesses, many of which had been struggling for months following the shift in work from home culture among office workers and lack of international visitors and students, were also benefiting from the bubble, she said. Sales would no doubt continue to tick upwards in the month ahead as more Australians visited New Zealand, Bidois said. "There are certain regions that benefit from the Australian bubble over others. There are some regions that may not see such a big impact with the bubble being open, but there are certainly those regions that are [positively] impacted by it like Queenstown and some of our CBDs." Bidois was unsure of whether the transtasman bubble alone would be enough to see the industry recover after a disastrous 2020, but said it was certainly aiding a recovery. "The bubble is helping the sector recover. "Things are looking up for us now but we are still recovering from a lack of consistent trading over the last 12 months. Our businesses, many had no revenue for almost two to three months in some cases, or reduced revenue, and so they are still recovering from that." Even prior to the bubble opening up, trading in the hospitality sector was starting to look up, Bidois said. "There has certainly been more positivity throughout the sector, particularly over the last few weeks. There are still businesses that are working through challenges, but there has [overall] been a shift in the mood for many." "We've had some really positive conversations and encouraging sighs of relief as that bubble opened up with Australia." Insights from Auckland-based Trickle estimate that New Zealand's hospitality industry post-Covid is set to be worth between $8 billion and $12 billion. Trickle founder Adrian Wills said like hospitality venues, the organisation had hoped that the transtasman bubble would result in a jump in sales across the country for operators. "Any increase is good, but we wanted to see a real jump in sales linking the opening of the borders and the lifting of travel restrictions - and the numbers are astounding. "The hospitality industry was bracing itself for a long and hard winter as this time of year sees a natural dip in sales as the weather gets cooler. We're absolutely thrilled to see this unprecedented and huge increase for venues. Long may it continue."
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https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/has-the-transtasman-bubble-boosted-nzs-struggling-hospitality-sector/XWETEEA53DWRFBZH4MUFXDAGT4/
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Is there a war coming between China and the US?
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The post-World War II order is being challenged now more than ever. Photo / AP The post-World War II order is being challenged now more than ever. Photo / AP OPINION: If you're looking for a compelling beach read this summer, I recommend the novel "2034," by James Stavridis, a retired admiral, and Elliot Ackerman, a former Marine and intelligence officer. The book is about how China and America go to war in 2034, beginning with a naval battle near Taiwan and with China acting in a tacit alliance with Iran and Russia. I'm not giving it all away to say China and the US end up in a nuclear shootout and incinerate a few of each other's cities, and the result is that neutral India becomes the dominant world power. (Hey, it's a novel!) What made the book unnerving, though, was that when I'd put it down and pick up the day's newspaper I'd read much of what it was predicting for 13 years from now: Iran and China just signed a 25-year cooperation agreement. Vladimir Putin just massed troops on the border of Ukraine while warning the US that anyone who threatens Russia "will regret their deeds more than they have regretted anything in a long time". As fleets of Chinese fighter jets, armed with electronic warfare technology, now regularly buzz Taiwan, China's top foreign affairs policymaker just declared that the US "does not have the qualification ... to speak to China from a position of strength". Yikes, that's life imitating art a little too closely for comfort. The answer can be found, in part, in a book I have written about before: Michael Mandelbaum's "The Rise and Fall of Peace on Earth". It tracks how we went from a world defined by the Cold War between American democracy and Soviet communism 1945 to 1989 to a singularly peaceful quarter-century without big power conflict, buttressed by spreading democracy and global economic interdependence 1989 to about 2015 to our current, much more dangerous era in which China, Iran and Russia are each deflecting the pressures of democracy and the need to deliver constant economic growth by offering their people aggressive hypernationalism instead. What has made this return of Chinese, Iranian and Russian aggressive nationalism even more dangerous is that, in each country, it is married to state-led industries particularly military industries and it's emerging at a time when America's democracy is weakening. Our debilitating political and cultural civil war, inflamed by social networks, is hobbling Americans' ability to act in unison and for Washington to be a global stabiliser and institution builder, as the United States was after World War II. Our foolish decision to expand NATO into Russia's face after the fall of the Soviet Union hardened post-communist Russia into an enemy instead of a potential partner, creating the ideal conditions for an anti-Western autocrat like Putin to emerge. (Imagine if Russia, a country with which we have zero trade or border disputes, were OUR ally today vis--vis China and Iran and not THEIR ally in disputes with us.) Meanwhile, the failure of the US interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq to produce the pluralism and decency hoped for after 9/11, coupled with the 2008 economic crisis and the current pandemic together with the general hollowing out of America's manufacturing base has weakened both American self-confidence and the world's confidence in America. The failed forays into Iraq and Afghanistan weakened the world's confidence in America. Right when China, Russia and Iran are challenging the post-World War II order more aggressively than ever, many wonder whether the United States has the energy, allies and resources for a new geopolitical brawl. "Just because communism is gone and we don't have two political and economic systems that claim universal legitimacy competing to govern every country doesn't mean that ideological considerations have disappeared from international politics," Mandelbaum argued to me. Regimes like those in China, Iran and Russia feel much more threatened more than we think by democracy, Mandelbaum added. During the first decade of the 21st century, these regimes were able to generate sufficient public support through economic progress. But after that proved more difficult in the second decade of the 21st century, "the leaders of these countries need to find a substitute, and the one they have chosen is hypernationalism." I'm pretty sure we can keep a more aggressive, nationalistic Russia and Iran deterred at a reasonable cost, and with the help of our traditional allies. But China is another question. So we'd better understand where our strengths and weaknesses lie, as well as China's. China is now a true peer competitor in the military, technological and economic realms, except except in one critical field: designing and manufacturing the most advanced microprocessors and logic and memory chips that are the base layer for artificial intelligence, machine learning, high-performance computing, electric vehicles, telecommunications ie, the whole digital economy that we're moving into. China's massive, state-led effort to develop its own vertically integrated microchip industry has so far largely failed to master the physics and hardware to manipulate matter at the nano-scale, a skill required to mass produce super-sophisticated microprocessors. However, just a few miles away from China sits the largest and most sophisticated contract chipmaker in the world: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. According to the Congressional Research Service, TSMC is one of only three manufacturers in the world that fabricate the most advanced semiconductor chips and by far the biggest. The second and third are Samsung and Intel. China is now truly competing with the US, except in the field of designing and manufacturing microprocessors and logic and memory chips. Photo / 123RF Most chip designers, like IBM, Qualcomm, Nvidia, AMD (and even Intel to some extent) now use TSMC and Samsung to make the microprocessors they design. But, just as important, three of the five companies that make the super-sophisticated lithography machines, tools and software used by TSMC and others to actually make the microchips Applied Materials, Lam Research Corp and KLA Corp are based in the United States. (The other two are Dutch and Japanese.) China largely lacks this expertise. As such, the US government has the leverage to restrict TSMC from making advanced chips for Chinese companies. Indeed, just two weeks ago, the United States made TSMC suspend new orders from seven Chinese supercomputing centres suspected of assisting in the country's weapons development. The South China Morning Post quoted Francis Lau, a University of Hong Kong computer scientist, as saying: "The sanctions would definitely affect China's ability to keep to its leading position in supercomputing," because all of its current supercomputers mostly use processors from Intel or designed by AMD and IBM and manufactured by TSMC. Although there are Korean and Japanese alternatives, Lau added, they are not as powerful. China, though, is doubling down on research in the physics, nanotechnology and material sciences that will drive the next generation of chips and chipmaking equipment. But it could take China a decade or more to reach the cutting edge. That's why today as much as China wants Taiwan for reasons of ideology, it wants TSMC in the pocket of Chinese military industries for reasons of strategy. And as much as US strategists are committed to preserving Taiwan's democracy, they are even more committed to ensuring that TSMC doesn't fall into China's hands for reasons of strategy. (TSMC is now building a new semiconductor factory in Phoenix). Because, in a digitising world, he who controls the best chipmaker will control ... a lot. Just read "2034". In the novel, China gains the technological edge with superior AI-driven cybercloaking, satellite spoofing and stealth materials. It's then able to launch a successful surprise attack on the US Pacific Fleet. And the first thing China does is seize Taiwan. Let's make sure that stays the stuff of fiction. Written by: Thomas L. Friedman 2021 THE NEW YORK TIMES
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https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/is-there-a-war-coming-between-china-and-the-us/ZFQNMMXNMLMBDUJBFHESOZDXXI/
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Can A Slot Receiver Do Enough to Warrant First-Round Selection?
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Jon Robinson does not ask for a lot from his wide receivers. In fact, the Tennessee Titans general manger wants just three things regardless of where those players are lined up. At the end of the day, at the receiver position, its get open, catch and block, Robinson said this week. Those are the three most important things for the receiver position. There are certainly some inside and some slot receivers that fit that bill this year. With the 2021 NFL Draft at hand, the Titans dont have a proven slot receiver on the roster. Adam Humphries was a victim of offseason cuts. Marcus Johnson, Chester Rogers, Rashad Davis and Cody Hollister all have some experience in the role but none spent much if any time on the active roster last season. Robinson could address one of several positional needs with his first-round pick, No. 22 overall. One possibility is to get one of those inside or slot receivers, Elijah Moore out of Ole Miss. Moore ran a 4.35 40-yard dash on his pro day. He is speedy and small and utilizes those attributes to his advantage. And in his junior year at Ole Miss, he hauled in 86 receptions for 1,257 yards, and eight touchdowns in eight games played. Hes drawn comparisons to receivers such as Ted Ginn Jr., DeSean Jackson and Tyler Lockett according to Pro Football Focus. And NFL.coms own Lance Zierlein drew a comparison to Antonio Brown on Moores prospect profile. Moores talent is clear. Yet, what isnt is his draft projection. Some have Moore going early second round, while other draft analysts having him as a first-round selection. It all comes down to when one team believes he is too good to pass up. There is at least one person among the Titans who would hate to see Moore end up with another team. That is wide receiver A.J. Brown, who has topped 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first two seasons, made his first Pro Bowl in 2020 and also happens to be an Ole Miss product in his own right. In a post of pictures from Moores pro day at Ole Miss, Brown quote tweeted the photos saying, as expected, @titans dont mess this up. For Brown, the decision is made, it seems. But Robinson needs to see more than just the basics if he is to pick a slot receiver that early. You have to define the role for a player, Robinson said. ... With slot receivers, there are some speed slots and then there are some shifty make you miss guys. The guys that can do both will have more value. For what its worth, Moore ran the ball 21 times for 71 yards, averaged 4.9 yards on 27 punt returns and 18.5 yards on 12 kickoff returns during his college career.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/titans/news/tennessee-titans-2021-nfl-draft-slot-receiver-elijah-moore
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Which teams would try to trade for Deshaun Watson?
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If the lawyers on both sides of the Deshaun Watson litigation have indeed decided to trade public squabbles for private negotiations, and if they can work out a settlement of the 22 civil claims pending against the Texans quarterback before or during the draft, a trade could happen. John McClain of the Houston Chronicle recently identified eight teams that were interested in Watson before the lawsuits were filed: the Jets, Dolphins, Panthers, Broncos, 49ers, Patriots, Bears, and Washington. At this point, the Jets and 49ers likely wouldnt be interested, given their draft plans. The rest likely would be. Another team that wasnt listed by McClain could be waiting for the right time to make a move the Eagles. Other teams could decide to get in on the bidding if/when the Texans are able to try to trade Watsons contract. Every team that makes a move will need to assume that a suspension will happen, even if all 22 cases are settled. If enough teams are interested, the Texans could end up getting nearly as much as they would have before the off-field problems arose. The real question becomes factoring the length of a potential suspension into the trade value. If the Texans can spark a bidding war for Watsons contract, it may not matter. originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
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https://sports.yahoo.com/teams-try-trade-deshaun-watson-001050007.html?src=rss
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Is Texans QB Watson Working On Settlement Leading To NFL Trade?
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The eventual outcome of the ongoing legal battle surrounding Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is a hard one to predict for multiple reasons, especially given the whole situation has gone so publicly quiet in recent days. However, according to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio, this silence could be telling ... "The fact that the two lawyers at the center of the controversy, Tony Buzbee and Rusty Hardin, have fallen silent during draft week makes it hard not to wonder whether well soon be hearing about the cases being resolved, followed by news of Watson being traded to a new team," said Florio on Wednesday. READ MORE: Ranking Texans' 5 Biggest NFL Draft Needs If this were the case, then Watson's legal team will need to be quick given that the NFL Draft kicks off on Thursday. That is, of course, if Watson is trying to push to return to the field at some point in 2021. This is currently an unknown, however, Florio did point out that there is a strong possibility Watson will face a suspension this season: "in the range of four to eight games." From Houston's point of view, in our opinion, it would be best if they could trade Watson prior to this year's draft, assuming the compensation they received was in the same ballpark as they could acquire if they waited until 2022 to trade him. That would mean that not only can the team disassociate themselves from this ongoing drama, but they could then look to ascertain more quality draft picks this season in order to not stall their complete roster overhaul until 2022. Alas ... we do not sense that a lucrative offer awaits. Top 10 Targets - With Texas Flavor This potential wait until next season to fully rebuild is something the Houston Chronicle's John McClain discussed on Monday's Texas Sports Nation podcast. "To me, that (2022) would be when they would take a big step toward rebuilding," said McClain. "The rebuild starts this season, I think next season is vital to that rebuild. We're going to find out a whole lot about (general manager Nick) Caserio, (head coach) David Culley, the staff and where they are on that rebuild in the 2022 season after they undergo an offseason that he (Caserio) may bring in as many players as this season." The NFL Draft is no stranger to blockbuster trades. However, it is rare to see a trade as potentially monumental as this involving a player like Watson. The next 24 hours could be crucial for both he and the Texans.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/texans/news/is-houston-texans-qb-watson-working-on-settlement-leading-to-nfl-trade
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When can Manchester City win Premier League title?
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Last updated on .From the section Premier League Manchester City last became English champions in the 2018-19 season Manchester City are aiming to become English champions for the seventh time in their history and win the Premier League title for the fifth time in 10 seasons. Here's everything you need to know about what they need to do to wrap it up. With five games of the Premier League season left Manchester City are 10 points ahead of rivals Manchester United. Leicester are third, 15 points behind City but with a far worse goal difference than both the top two. City need six points to guarantee the title, although five will be enough if they maintain their goal difference advantage. That means the earliest City can be celebrating is Sunday, 2 May. They will be champions if they win at Crystal Palace on Saturday and then United lose at home to last season's champions Liverpool the following day. If both teams keep winning then City manager Pep Guardiola will win his third English league title on Saturday, 8 May at home against Chelsea. If Manchester City win the title this weekend, it will be all over with four games to spare. However, in the 29 seasons since the Premier League replaced the old First Division, six teams have won it earlier in their campaigns. Chelsea's 2-1 win over Manchester City in June meant Liverpool became 2019-20 champions with seven matches remaining, while Manchester United and Manchester City have both secured the title with five games to go - in 2000-01 and 2017-18 respectively. In 1999-00 and 2012-13 Manchester United were victorious with four games left, as were Arsenal in 2003-04 when their 'Invincibles' went unbeaten throughout the league campaign - the only time that has happened in Premier League history. Manchester City are 10 points clear at the top and they hold the record for biggest margin between the teams finishing first and second in the Premier League era. Three seasons ago they got to 100 points, the only side to reach a century, and ended 19 points ahead of Manchester United. Last year Liverpool got to 99 points, with Manchester City 18 behind on 81. Whatever happens in the rest of this campaign, the champions will have picked up fewer points than the title winners in each of the past four seasons because Manchester City can only get a maximum of 90, compared to 93 (Chelsea, 2016-17), 100 (Manchester City, 2017-18), 98 (Manchester City 2018-19) and 99 (Liverpool (2019-20). The lowest points haul for a Premier League winner was in 1996-97 when Manchester United won with 75 points, seven ahead of Newcastle, Arsenal and Liverpool. If Manchester City win the league, they will move ahead of Chelsea and Sunderland on six and level with Aston Villa's seven English titles, although well adrift of Manchester United's record of 20. Manchester City's hopes of becoming the first team to win the quadruple of Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup were ended when they lost to Chelsea in the semi-finals of the FA Cup. However, they already have one trophy after beating Tottenham 1-0 in the Carabao Cup final and beat Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the semi-final of the Champions League. In 1998-99 Manchester United won the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup, while Liverpool collected the Uefa Cup, FA Cup and League Cup in 2000-01.
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https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/56909006
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Why is Texas getting more members in Congress?
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Texas has a lot to celebrate when it comes to growth and prosperity, and we can now add to that celebration the number two, as in two additional congressional seats that the state picked up in the 2020 census. Texas is entitled to the seats because we continue to add new residents to our state, either through birth or through their decision to come to their senses and get here as fast as they could. Its a testament to reality that people and businesses want to be here. But as we perused the national press, we found more than one story that couldnt seem to put two-and-two together on why states like California, New York and Illinois are losing population and representation even as Texas is gaining it. To us, the answer stands out like a single white star on a deep blue background. Its just easier to do business and make a living in Texas than it is in the places people are leaving. A state that lets workers keep more of their paychecks by refusing to add an income tax is a state that is going to be attractive to people who need the money they have earned to support their families. And a state that has an environment where entrepreneurs and executives dont have to hop through the hoops of every sort of regulation is a place where businesses are going to want to set up shop. Californias income tax rate on people earning between $59,000-$300,000 is approaching 10%. In New York state, if you earn between $21,000-$80,000, youll hand over 6% of every dollar you earn. (Thats to say nothing of New York City, which takes a chunk all its own.) Meanwhile, there is the cost of living to consider. Housing affordability is complex, but the struggle to build new housing in California is legend, and as supply dropped and demand rose, the dream of homeownership became harder to achieve. Texas has avoided these traps by permitting development to keep home prices relatively low and avoiding the temptation of tapping into paychecks after the federal government took a share. But we shouldnt get cocky. We see local politicians in Texas from both the left and right fighting against new housing, whether in the name of preventing gentrification on the left or on the pretense that denser multifamily development will lower property values on the right. Development needs to be smart, no doubt. Being sensitive to existing populations and letting change happen gradually is important. Density should come with a plan for infrastructure and other supporting development, including retail. But consistently saying no to new housing will cost Texas its competitive edge on affordability. Meanwhile, voters must remain vigilant about the size and scope of government. Every program added or expanded is a new cost that must be sustained on the backs of residents. Wise government leaders are spare and cautious with expenditures, knowing that the people know best how to spend what they earn.
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https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/editorials/2021/04/29/why-is-texas-getting-more-members-in-congress/
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Who's Excited to Watch Joe Biden Speak to Congress Tonight?
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President Joe Biden delivers remarks from the State Dining Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., April 6, 2021. In large part because of the pandemic, this gathering was delayed to much later in the year. The Biden era has already seen its first big spending bill, its first cabinet-appointee derailment, its first major policy crisis on the border. Were 100 days into the Biden presidency; there are about 1,300 days left. Advertisement For four straight years, we saw Donald Trump put aside his Twitter-raging, erratic, off-the-cuff persona, read a well-crafted script from the teleprompter, saluted great Americans, and sounded presidential. For four straight years, people like me generally liked it. And for four straight years, Trump quickly reverted back to his Twitter-raging, erratic, off-the-cuff persona. The state of the union came and went like a summer thunderstorm. The address had little to no effect on what Trump or the administration did, before or after. It was a brief, two-hour simulation of a normal presidency, before relapsing to the usual circus. Peter Hamby said earlier today, America has never cared less about an address to Congress. And thats a good thing. Maybe its a good thing, but it does raise the question of why we go through this each year. Yes, its constitutionally required, which is a good enough reason, but a written address would meet the requirement as well. The State of the Union er, joint address of Congress turned into just another political speech, usually twice as long as it needs to be, a laundry list of presidential wishes to Congress. The presidents party leaps out of their seats and applauds whether the president pauses long enough; the opposition party sits on their hands, unless the presidents line is sufficiently bipartisan or patriotic. Advertisement And whichever member of the opposition party gives the response to the State of the Union Address gets cursed. Good luck, Tim Scott. If a president is going to get this kind of attention, on all the major networks in prime-time, he ought to say something new and big and consequential. Dont just give us rehashed clichs and Whitney Houston-esque, I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way.
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https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/biden-addresses-congress-tonight-try-to-contain-your-excitement/
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Should Shaun Wade sill be considered one of the best defensive backs in the 2021 NFL Draft?
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COLUMBUS, Ohio Every major football prospect boasts a carefully edited library of video breakdowns meant to showcase only the apex of their strengths. Do a YouTube search for former Ohio State defensive back Shaun Wade and youll find a clip titled Trust the process: Shaun Wade NOT so highlights vs. IMG 2014. The video posted by Wades father, Randy showed how far the eventual five-star prospect and consensus All-American still needed to improve as a high school sophomore at Jacksonville, Floridas Trinity Christian Academy. When those closest to you keep it that real, you learn how to handle criticism and high expectations. Wade needed that background in 2020, when he faced as much scrutiny as any player on the Ohio State roster. Go back to January 2020. Ohio State had wrapped up a return to the playoffs with the help of Wade, the starting slot cornerback. He seriously considered entering the NFL Draft after that redshirt sophomore season. Instead, he made headlines when he announced he would return to Columbus. Hell tell you himself NO REGRETS: Shaun Wade could not walk away from his Ohio State football teammates and their national championship potential The plan made sense. Put together a season of outside cornerback play that rivaled what he accomplished in the slot. As the season began, many referred to Wade as a potential first-round draft pick. That season never came together. With the exception of a few big moments including a game-deciding pick-six against Indiana that film more resembled the NOT so highlights from his high school days. Wade will not hear his name in Thursdays first round of the NFL Draft has he had once expected. Some analysts have predicted he will fall past the third round and into Day 3. Few members of OSUs 2021 draft class are as polarizing. Right now, Wade is being judged on that 2020 film which as it turns out, is probably film of a position he will not play much if at all at the next level. Wade thrived while playing in the box in 2019. His skill and production there were not a mirage. According to Pro Football Focus, he held quarterbacks to a 69.9 rating. While he did benefit from playing with future first-round picks Jeff Okudah and Damon Arnette not to mention underdrafted sixth-round safety Jordan Fuller Wade made a name for himself. Some of those same qualities carried over to 2020. PFF still graded him in the top quartile of all cornerbacks in run defense. It went so far as to call him One of the best tackling CBs in the class. The same publication also pointed out Wade was demolished in coverage, allowing 29 first downs or touchdowns in eight games. Wade apparently played with a turf toe injury for at least part of the season, which also delayed his Pro Day workout for NFL scouts. Yet as natural as Wade looked taking command of the slot in 2019, he never looked comfortable on the perimeter last season. Once his Pro Day arrived, Wade helped remind observers why he was a five-star high school prospect. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds which would rank among the top 40 or so times from the scattered pro days held in lieu of the usual scouting combine. His vertical leap (37.5 inches) and broad jump (10 feet, 3 inches) landed in about the same range. All would have ranked even higher at the combine in 2020, had he entered the draft a year ago. When you begin to consider Wade as a safety or a slot/nickel cornerback, all of those attributes look even better. Wade was credited with 14 pass breakups and four interceptions over the 2018-19 seasons, before moving outside. He was considered an asset stopping the run. In 2020 we learned what Wade cannot do at an elite level. Prior to that, he showed where he could potentially carve out a role in an NFL defense perhaps a significant one, and a long-tenured one. Some team will look past the faults of a well-intentioned season played out of position and draft Wade for what he is. But he will need to wait longer than he had hoped for that moment to arrive. New Ohio State face masks for sale: Heres where you can buy Ohio State-themed face coverings for coronavirus protection. A 3-pack is available on Fanatics for $29.99. Our predictions, plus national predictions Mayfield to Fields: I cant wait to see what you do Dasan McCulloughs decision leaves a hole OSUs 2022 class must quickly fill Meechie Johnson, Zed Key invited to Team USA tryouts for 2021 World Cup
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https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2021/04/should-shaun-wade-sill-be-considered-one-of-the-best-defensive-backs-in-the-2021-nfl-draft.html
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Can therapy ease the trauma of U.S. racist attacks and systemic racism?
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The Daily Beast HBO MaxLucy the Chimpanzees story is an animal rights nightmare. As told in the new documentary Lucy the Human Chimp, psychologist Maurice Temerlin and his wife, Jane, bought the fuzzy primate from a roadside zoo in Florida that trained chimps to box human opponents when she was only two days old. (The zoo drugged Lucys mother by spiking a Coca-Cola with a tranquilizer.) From then on, the Temerlins raised their new daughter as human, teaching her to dress herself and use silverware. She even knew how to make her own gin and tonics.The Temerlins famous experiment, in which they raised a chimpanzee as human to study that age-old question of nature versus nurture, sounds barbaric now, but in its time it received heaps of publicity. Lucy learned around 120 signs, and seemed to flourish in the Temerlins homethat is, until she reached sexual maturity.Lucy the Human Chimp, which debuts HBO Max Thursday, focuses on what happened after Lucy left the spotlightwhen caretaker Janis Carter stepped in to feed and clean up after the largely cage-bound animal after the Temerlins had deemed her unmanageable and dangerous. She would ultimately spend more than six years of her life living with Lucy and other rescued chimps in Gambia, first at a nature reserve and then on an uninhabited island. Director Alex Parkinson tells Lucy and Carters stories with empathy, leaving space for both humor and tragedy. The most effective moments come during interviews with Carter, when she reflects on the profound bond she formed with her chimp charges. I learned a lot more about families living with the chimps than I did with my own human family, Carter says at one point. (She now serves as director of the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project in Gambia. )Still, the film struggles to establish much critical distance from its human subject. Parkinson does not engage, for instance, with the argument that Lucy was not a suitable rehabilitation candidate, and that efforts to prepare and release her into the wild actually hurt her. Much like My Octopus Teacher, which won best documentary at Sundays Oscars, Lucy the Human Chimp works better as a personal narrative than it does as a documentary. That said, Carters narration does at least largely avoid anthropomorphizing Lucy or romanticizing her story.Carter first began working for the Temerlins in 1976 as a 25-year-old graduate student of the University of Oklahoma focused on primate studies. From the beginning, the couple told her that physical contact with Lucy would not be permitted, given the decent chance that she could lose at least a finger or two from an encounter gone awry. There wasnt any nicety in her greeting with me, Carter recalls in the film. The chimp was unequivocally aggressiveand on top of that, she was a sign language perfectionist, and therefore condescending toward her new, ASL-illiterate assistant.Over time, however, Lucy seemed to soften toward her human caretaker. One day, Carter says, the chimp expressed a desire to groom hera bonding ritual between the primates. After some hesitation, she acquiesced, and soon after, she returned the favor, grooming Lucy as well. Carter had been nervous to tell the Temerlins about her and Lucys ritual. But when she did, Maurice was thrilled; it turned out that the couple had decided that they could no longer care for Lucy in a humane way and would be sending her to a nature reserve in Gambia so that she could be rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Carter agreed to accompany the couple and to remain at the reserve for one additional week beyond their two-week stay. In 1977, 12-year-old Lucy rode to Africa in the cargo hold of an airplane; the first-class passengers could hear her screams.Lucy languished at the refuge, dropping weight and losing patches of hair as she rejected her new diet and isolated herself from the other chimps. Carter could not bear to leave her hairy ward until she knew she could survive on her own. So after multiple short-term delays, she decided to stay for the long haul. She abandoned her life for more than six years to live among chimpanzees in almost complete isolation from other people, first on the refuge and then on a remote island on the Gambia River that was also home to hippos, hyenas, cobras, and leopards. Carter makes no pretense that she had any idea what she was doing in these extraordinary circumstances. As she puts it, Everything was on me and my gut.Archival footage and photos combine with staged re-enactments bring Lucy the Human Chimp to life. Parkinson interviews Carter straight on, allowing her testimony to narrate the bulk of the film. Her emotions about the time she spent with Lucy and the other rescue chimps remain fresh to this day; at one point, she tears up remembering their nightly ritual of watching the sunset from a boat, dipping their hands in the water.It just seemed so genuine, Carter says. Every second of it was just so genuine, and we were appreciative of what life had given us that day... feeling that all of these vile forces of civilization did not impact us. It was just us.At a time when most of us have spent more than a year isolated and unable to travel, its not hard to grasp the appeal of a story in which a woman abandons everything and everyone she knows to discover a purer way of life surrounded by nature. For Carter, the journey seems to have been as spiritual as it was primal. (Although, that said, before you pack your bags for the nearest reserve, you should know that she also slept in a cage with no ceiling, and the chimps slept above her on the roofurinating and defecating onto her bed any time an unfamiliar noise startled them. )As the film winds down, Carter recalls the moment that rescue chimp Dash, who shed raised for most of his life, asserted his authority after coming into sexual maturity as the oldest male in the group. In a harrowing instant, he charged her and dragged her through the forestmaking clear that shed become the No. 2 in the group and that it was no longer safe to stay. Carter would return to the island one more time, a year later, to visit Lucyand its hard to imagine anyone finishing the film with dry eyes after she describes their last embrace, when she realized the chimp could survive on her own. And then, theres the final heartbreak: Lucy would die little more than a year later, although the cause of her death is undetermined.That, perhaps, is the tragedy of Lucys story: After spending years struggling to acclimate to the life she would have naturally lived, had humans left her alone, she ultimately had barely any time to enjoy it.Maurice Temerlin died in 1988; he notes in archival Good Morning America footage that Lucy might have missed something not knowing chimpanzees. In voiceover audio, Jane expresses her gratitude for Carters dedication to Lucy but adds, I wouldnt take a chimp from a chimpanzee mother again. Many viewers might tune in to Lucy and the Chimp for a cute, feel-good story about the unexpected bond between the primate and her caretakerI certainly did!and despite the sad ending to Lucys story, Parkinsons doc largely delivers. But one hopes that Lucys story also leaves a deeper impression. One hopes that viewers will come away with not only greater empathy for wildlife, but also a better understanding of just how great a threat human involvement in these creatures lives can poseeven when the intentions are good.Read more at The Daily Beast.Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now!Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more.
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https://news.yahoo.com/therapy-ease-trauma-u-racist-100709803.html
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Will Apples tighter privacy rules for ads hurt Facebook?
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ONLINE SHOPPERS often feel they are being watched. Put an item in your basket but fail to buy it, and it may follow you plaintively around the internet for days. Announce your engagement on social media and you will be hit with ads for the honeymoon. As you turn 40, expect the attention of elasticated-trouser merchants. On April 26th Apple, which supplies one-fifth of the worlds smartphones and around half of Americas, introduced a software update that will end much of this snooping. Its latest mobile operating system forces apps to ask users if they want to be tracked. Many will decline. It is the latest move forcing marketers to rethink how they target online ads. By micro-profiling audiences and monitoring their behaviour, digital ad platforms claim to solve advertisers age-old quandary of not knowing which half of their budget is being wasted. In the past decade digital ads have gone from less than 20% of the global ad market to more than 60%, according to GroupM, the worlds largest media buyer. Even last year, amid the pandemic, the business grew by 9%. As lockdowns ease it is going gangbusters. On April 27th Alphabet, Googles parent company and the worlds biggest digital ad platform, reported first-quarter ad revenues up by 34%, year-on-year. The next day Facebook, the second-largest, said its own ad revenues had grown by 46%. Stronger privacy protections may make their ads less effective. In 2018 the EU imposed its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Americas most-populous state introduced the California Consumer Privacy Act. Both made it harder to harvest users data. Apples Safari web browser has blocked the cookies that advertisers use to see what people get up to online since 2020. Google has similar plans for its more popular Chrome browser. Apples latest change makes explicit an option that was previously hidden deep in its phones settings. Users can forbid apps to access their identifier for advertisers (IDFA) code, which singles out their device, and from tracking their activity across other firms apps and websites. It amounts to a seismic shift in in-app advertising, says Jon Mew, head of the Internet Advertising Bureau, an industry body The platforms best-placed to survive the shake-out are those with lots of consumer data of their own. Googles $147bn ad business gets most of the information it needs from the terms users type into its search bar. Amazon, whose digital-ad business is the third-largest and growing fast, has the advantage of being able to track what people buy after seeing ads on its sitea closed loop, as marketers call it. Apple knows where iPhone-users go, what time they wake up and much besides. It has a small but growing ad business, selling prominence in its app store, for instance. For Facebook, which knows more about its users interests than about their shopping needs, Apples changes are more worrying. In August it warned they might reduce revenues at its Audience Network, through which it sells ads to other apps, by as much as 50%. But the Audience Network represents less than a tenth of its business. Thanks to its deep knowledge of users, it will still be better at targeting than almost anyone else. In a world with a lot less data, who has relatively more? asks Brian Wieser of GroupM. The effect of GDPR was, if anything, to increase Facebooks and Googles market shares, he adds. To improve its tracking of purchases, Facebook is moving to create a closed loop of its own. Last year it introduced Facebook Shops on its flagship social network and Instagram Shops and ts sister photo-sharing app. Mark Zuckerberg, Facebooks boss, speculated in March that we may even be in a stronger position if Apples changes encourage more businesses to conduct more commerce on our platforms, by making it harder for them to use their dataoutside of our platforms. Not every ad platform will be able to adapt as easily. Smaller publishers with fewer data and resources will suffer, believes Nicole Perrin of eMarketer, a research firm. Publishers that rely on third-party cookies will be hit hardest. The day Apple launched its new policy, a group of German publishing companies lodged a legal complaint with Germanys antitrust authorities. Small platforms may also find it harder to persuade phone users to trust them with their data. AppsFlyer, an ad-tech company, found that iPhone users agreed to tracking from shopping and finance apps more than 40% of the time, but 12% of the time with casual gaming apps. The inability to share data is forcing advertisers to come up with new ruses. One is to bypass rules banning data transfers between ad-tech companies by consolidating. In February AppLovin, a mobile-software company, acquired Adjust, which provides mobile-ad attribution, reportedly for $1bn. Another is to ask users to sign in, which lets an app monitor their behaviour with no need for IDFAs. And instead of targeting individuals, marketers can target broader interest groupscoffee lovers, Daily Mail readers, and so onmuch as they did in the pre-internet age. Its back to the future, says Mr Wieser. In another throwback, advertisers will have to resort to old-school techniques for gauging ads effectiveness, such as looking for a rise in sales in a region where an ad ran but not elsewhere. That will favour campaigns which promote general awareness of a companys brand; effects of so-called direct-response ads, which require consumers to take an action (like clicking), would be too small to measure. Platforms that mostly attract brand advertising will thus benefit. Snap, whose social network popular among teenagers belongs to that group, posted a year-on-year rise in revenues of 66% in the first quarter. The less advertisers know about their audience, the costlier advertising will become. Facebook has argued this will hurt small businesses. It is probably right, thinks William Merchan of Pathmatics, a data company. Digital ads promise to cut waste in media buys, he says. Now that ad firms are again in the dark about which half of their budget is wasted, they are going to have to just spend more.
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https://www.economist.com/business/2021/04/28/will-apples-tighter-privacy-rules-for-ads-hurt-facebook
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Who was Britain's greatest liberal prime minister?
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Our panel of politics wonks make the case for Margaret Thatcher and Winston Churchill, among others This month marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of the office of prime minister. In a live subscriber event, each panellist made the case for a prime minister. The winner was decided by our audience. You can watch the debate in full below. Liberalism is at the heart of what The Economist stands for. Over 175 years ago, this newspaper was founded to campaign for liberalisma commitment to individual dignity, open markets, limited government and a faith in human progress brought about by debate and reform. Visit this page to view the schedule for our upcoming events. Subscribers can also watch recordings of all our previous sessions.
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https://www.economist.com/films/2021/04/27/who-was-britains-greatest-liberal-prime-minister
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Will Joe Bidens proposed taxes on capital make America an outlier?
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IF PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN succeeds in raising Americas top rate of federal capital-gains and dividend tax to 39.6%, as he is expected to pledge to Congress on April 28th, it would be twice the average top rate in Europe. But it would apply only to the highest-earning 0.3% of taxpayers: those earning more than $1m. The fact that countries cast their nets differently makes comparing taxes on capital, which include levies on companies and property as well as on capital gains and dividends, tricky. The OECD, a club of mostly rich countries, does not publicly track members capital-gains-tax rates because exemptions and carve-outs make them so hard to compare. Fortunately comparing how much money countries levies raise is easier. Americas total taxes on capital brought in revenues worth about 5% of GDP in 2018, according to analysis by Spencer Bastani of the Institute for Evaluation of Labour Market and Education Policy and Daniel Waldenstrm of the Research Institute of Industrial Economics. That compares with an average of 5.8% for a panel of 16 OECD countries. What is distinctive about America is the mix of capital taxes. Its corporate tax raises raises relatively meagre revenues (see chart), whereas property-tax revenues are unusually high. Overall, America collects less tax than most rich countries, so as a share of total revenues, capital taxes are a hefty 20%, fifth among the 16 countries in the researchers sample. Working out the answer is just as tricky as conducting cross-country comparisons. The headline proposals are straightforward. Corporate taxes would rise from 21% to 28%. And the rate on capital gains and dividends would nearly double from 20% for top earners (who own a disproportionate share of wealth). But assessing how saving and investment respond to capital taxes is one of the most hotly debated topics in economics. Investors can choose when to sell assets, and therefore when to pay capital-gains tax. American budget wonks usually calculate a revenue-maximising rate of capital-gains tax of about 28%. But that is under existing rules, which in effect waive the tax on estates when heirs inherit them. Mr Biden wants to close that loophole, so postponing capital gains indefinitely might no longer be so attractive, drawing more of them into the tax net. Taking this change into account, the Penn-Wharton budget model finds that Mr Bidens capital-gains proposal would raise $113bn over ten years. That is still relatively modest compared with the $1trn that Mr Bidens proposed increase to the corporate tax is expected to bring in. The combined revenues would come to about 0.4% of projected GDP over the decade, which would still leave America in the middle of the OECD pack for overall capital taxes. That is what a recent paper by Natasha Sarin of the University of Pennsylvania, Larry Summers of Harvard University, Owen Zidar of Princeton University and Eric Zwick of the University of Chicago argues, for a variety of technical reasons. Earlier work by Mr Zidar and Ole Agersnap, also of Princeton, finds a rate of 38-47% could maximise revenue. Still, the uncertainty around these analyses is highthe second paper relies on an extrapolation from state-level taxes. And in any case the revenue-maximising rate is not necessarily the same as the most desirable rate for society, notes James Poterba of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Economic policy should consider both the revenue raised and the downsides of the taxand Congress will no doubt soon be debating just that.
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https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2021/04/28/will-joe-bidens-proposed-taxes-on-capital-make-america-an-outlier
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How does America apportion congressional seats?
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AMERICAS CONSTITUTION requires the government to perform a complete count of each person living in the country every ten years. The results of this census are used for many purposes, among the most important of which is allocating congressional representatives proportionally to the population in each state. Because Congress fixed the number of seats in the House of Representatives at 435 in 1929, the Census Bureau has to shuffle seats between states as their populations grow and shrink. On April 26th the Bureau released its estimates for the next decade. They show a shifting of political power as southern and western states have grown at higher rates than northern ones. According to the new tallies, which took over a year to complete and were delayed because of the covid-19 pandemic, California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia will each lose one House member for the next Congress. (Californias loss is its first ever; its population has grown more slowly than that of other states.) Colorado, Florida, Montana, North Carolina and Oregon will each gain one, while Texas will gain two (see map). It will take months more before states redraw their individual Congressional plans to determine which areas will gain or lose districts. That is because the fine-grained data that enumerate populations at the neighbourhood level, which redistricting committees need to run their incredibly precise districting software, will not be released by the Census Bureau until the autumn. Those counts take much longer to finalise than the aggregated state-level estimates. Once the Census Bureau sends states their data, the race to redraw districts begins. Many states face legal requirements to finish the redistricting in a matter of months. Idaho, for example, gives the independent redistricting commission only 90 days to draw and agree on new maps. It is one of seven states that use a non-partisan commission of citizens, usually chosen by courts, the state auditor or the legislature, to draw district borders. As of 2021 Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Michigan, Montana and Oregon are the only states that let citizens, with inputs from experts and their legislatures, decide how maps get drawn. Ten others delegate the redistricting process to citizen commissions with a partisan imbalance, commissions made up of elected officials, independent boards that only get a say if the legislature cant pick a map, or other appointed staff. The rest leave the process up to the state legislatures, which are much more likely to draw districts that are biased towards one party or against a minority racial groupknown as gerrymanderingdespite some having constitutional standards against partisan bias. Until 2013, Section 5 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act required jurisdictions with a history of racial discrimination or segregation to receive approval for proposed districting plans from the Department of Justice before implementing them, a process known as preclearance. In 2011, that requirement applied to nine whole statesall but one were Southernand smaller portions of six others. But in 2013 the Supreme Court said the formula that had identified states plagued by racial bias was based on old data. In Shelby County v Holder, the court invalidated the coverage formula, putting Section 5 out of service unless Congress creates a new one, which it has not yet done. Because census results were delayed, most states will have to rush their redistricting processes to meet deadlines for the 2022 elections. The lack of preclearance will give states greater leeway in drawing maps, though racially biased ones can still be challenged in court and subsequently adjusted. But however districts are ultimately apportioned within states, the next Congress will reflect Americas continuing population shift southward and westward.
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https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2021/04/27/how-does-america-apportion-congressional-seats
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Are Indian statistics understating covid-19 cases and deaths?
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A FEARSOME SECOND wave of the covid-19 pandemic has engulfed India. With 350,000 people now testing positive every day, it accounts for almost half the recorded global rise in covid-19 cases. Indias official death toll has topped 200,000 and keeps rising by more than 3,000 a day. Yet experts, backed by reports from journalists, insist that Indias crisis is far bigger than even those numbers suggest. The real caseload could be ten or even 30 times higher (see chart), and the number of deaths much more, too. As so often in this vast, varied and still overwhelmingly poor country of 1.4bn, the answer is complex. At the best of times India has a weak system for reporting deaths. Around 10m Indians die every year, but national statistics for all-cause mortality, the obvious baseline for calculating the impact of an epidemic, tend to be issued only after a two-year delay. In normal times one in seven deaths is never registered, and of those that are, just 22% cite a cause certified by a doctor. There are also huge differences in reporting. A few states, such as Kerala, keep accurate records, but most do not. The pandemic has complicated things further. In most states, deaths are not attributed to covid-19 without a recent positive test result. But testing, especially outside big cities, is not widespread. Even with more than 1.5m Indians now getting tested each day, the rate of testing relative to population is still less than a tenth of that in Britain, for example. And because of the surge in cases, labs even in Delhi, Indias capital, are overwhelmed. They now take days to deliver results; many die without knowing they are positive, or after getting a false negative. Fully one-third of tests are coming back positive in Delhi, and 21% across India as a whole, proportions high enough to convince epidemiologists that more testing would reveal many more cases. Sero-surveys, blood tests which measure how many people have been infected with covid in the past, reveal a huge gap, too. A national one in December, when India was reporting a cumulative total of 10m covid-19 cases, suggested that the real number was closer to 300m. And journalists from across India investigating local records from crematoria, cemeteries and even newspaper obituaries have found many times more covid-19 deaths than appear in official health bulletins. Politics plays an obvious role. The rival parties running different states want to keep their own numbers down. Narendra Modi, the prime minister, does not want voters to tie covid-19 deaths to events he promoted even as infections soared, such as big religious festivals and election rallies. Between administrative incapacity and political manipulation, the real number of covid-19 cases or victims in India may never be known. Official records from the time of the Spanish flu of 1918-20 said that it killed 6m people in India. Only when historians took a closer look at other sources, including census figures, did they conclude the real count was possibly three times higher.
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https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2021/04/28/are-indian-statistics-understating-covid-19-cases-and-deaths
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What Draft Clues Can We Get from Giants Contracts?
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Yes, player contract status is just one of the many pieces of the puzzle that general manager Dave Gettleman and the rest of the organization looks at when it comes to making draft decisions. When it comes to finding Giants in the NFL draft, several factors are considered beyond a player's film and background. One element that is rarely discussed yet, which general manager Dave Gettleman admitted is a factor, is the contract situation of the veterans currently on the team. "Youre always looking at that kind of stuff," Gettleman said last week in response to a question I posed to him. "So, just for an example, if you know youve got a guy thats contract is up and because of the financial aspect you decide youre not going to do it, then sure, you may draft a player to fill the need that you know youre going to have. So you absolutely take that into consideration." So let's take a closer look at that angle by reviewing the Giants contract situations and depth at certain position groups and try to figure out what clues we might be able to glean into the organization's thinking when the draft kicks off Thursday night. (All contract info per Spotrac unless otherwise noted.) RELATED Offensive Line Gettleman is already on the record as saying he likes the talent he has on the offensive line. But six players on this unit--including guards Will Hernandez and Zach Fulton, center/guard Jonotthan Harrison--are set to be unrestricted free agents after this year, while offensive tackle Nate Solder is projected to have the 2022 season in his contract voided. This means Gettleman will have to extend some deals after this season or add some more depth on this unit. Logic says that it will be the latter scenario. A decade ago, the Giants made the mistake of trying to bleed out every last ounce of sweat from their stellar offensive line that manned the field from 2007-11 until age, and injuries began forcing each of David Diehl, Shaun O'Hara, Rich Seubert, Kareem McKenzie, and Chris Snee into retirement. It took the Giants until 2013 to start pouring higher premium assets into their offensive line, and by then, it was too late as quarterback Eli Manning had to bear the brunt of things. The Giants probably won't draft an offensive lineman at No. 11 unless Penei Sewell is sitting there, as he'd be tough to pass up. Still, given the reported depth of guards, it wouldn't be surprising if the Giants plucked a guard at some point on Day 2 to develop, nor would it be surprising if they add a young center to the mix as well. Wide Receiver The Giants' primary objective in free agency was to ensure they put playmakers around quarterback Daniel Jones. They did just that, adding Kenny Golladay and John Ross at the receiver position to a group that will also include Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton. But there are a few things within the players' contract at this position worth noting that would indicate the Giants aren't done adding at this spot. First, Golladay, who is coming off an injury-shortened season last year, has a $250,000 per game roster bonus in just the first year of the deal. Usually, teams go for the per-game roster bonus with players coming off injuries instead of the one big lump sum roster bonus paid out within days of the contract being signed, so I found this little detail in Golladay's contract to be interesting. Second, Shepard receives the last of his guaranteed money ($4.025 million) this year. Although he's signed through 2023, he's also missed parts of the previous two seasons due to injury, and if he ends up missing part of this coming season again, it would be tough to argue about retaining him on the roster after this season. Ross, as we all know, is only signed to a one-year "prove it" deal. While an argument could be made that the Giants picked up a first-round talent, there is a growing facet of draft analysts who believe Ross was never a top-10 talent, which is where he was drafted. The biggest concern with the receivers is the injury factor. This is why adding another receiver makes sense. If one of Jalen Waddle or Devonta Smith is there at No. 11, it would not be shocking if the Giants go in that direction (Waddle, if he's there, makes more sense as, given his play in the slot, he could be the successor to Shepard's spot). Cornerback Cornerback is another deceiving position group where some might question the wisdom of adding a Day 1 or Day 2 pick but where this could be a possibility. Sure, the Giants added Adoree' Jackson to the mix, and he will presumably start opposite of James Bradberry on the perimeter. But let's look at depth. Even if the Giants don't have to deal with injuries--and let's hope they won't--adding another cornerback would give defensive coordinator Patrick Graham another chess piece in designing some creative coverage schemes that would help them pass rush out. That's why if Patrick Surtain II somehow falls to the Giants, it might be challenging for the Giants to pass him up. Otherwise, assuming the Giants don't get a cornerback early, don't rule out their taking one later in the draft. Running Back The Giants have Saquon Barkley expected back from his torn ACL, but the big question that needs to be answered is whether Barkley will be able to step right in and carry a full workload right from the start. If not, that's where Devontae Booker, whom Gettleman said is a three-down back, comes into play. Booker will likely take on the third-down back duties at first to help ease the strain on Barkley, who, by the way, should have his option year in his rookie deal exercised in time for next week's deadline. But beyond Booker and Barkley, the Giants don't have any halfbacks with NFL experience, which is why it's no surprise to learn that the Giants have, according to ESPN, done extensive work on running backs. That's up for debate, especially since they have other more pressing needs to look at and that the draft pick would probably be third on the depth chart behind Barkley and Booker. But using a fourth-round pick on a running back wouldn't be a wild idea as it would give them some much-needed insurance. Edge Rusher Thanks to Graham's creativity, the Giants somehow got by last year with their pass rush, a group that recorded 40 sacks (tied for 12th league-wide) despite the injuries to their top edge rushers. The truth is the Giants haven't had a solid pass rush since they unloaded Jason Pierre-Paul (their last successful edge rusher whom they drafted and developed). Since then, they haven't spent a first or second-round pick on an edge rusher instead of going third or lower. That ultimately needs to change, especially considering how those Giants teams that made it to the playoffs did so with a deep rotation of quality edge rushers. The Giants have a pair of young homegrown talents in Lorenzo Carter and Oshane Ximines, and they added Ifeadi Odenigbo in free agency. Both Odenigbo and Carter are signed through this year. Still, even if that wasn't the case, the Giants are likely to add to their outside linebacker group, especially if they don't feel that Cam Brown and Carter Coughlin will be anything more than just situational pass rushers. Final Thoughts Contract status is just one small piece of the puzzle, but it's one Gettleman acknowledged is something they look at. "You have to look at what youve got, eventually whos going to go out the door and how do you replenish," he said. But as he also added, just because a position looks stacked both depth-wise and contract-wise doesn't mean they can't swap guys out. "You want to always take value and I think really and truly that just because you take a guy, theres no law against maybe flipping him or flipping the guy you already have on your roster, so its an asset," Gettleman said. "You dont want to pass up good assets, you really dont." But a team certainly wants to have depth, and clearly, the Giants can use more at certain spots if they are indeed loading up to make a run this year. Sign up for our FREE newsletter for all the latest, and be sure to follow and like us on Facebook. Submit your questions for our mailbag. And don't forget to check out the daily LockedOn Giants podcast, also available for subscription wherever you find podcasts.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/giants/draft/what-draft-clues-can-we-get-from-giants-contracts
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Should the Vikings draft a backup quarterback of the present?
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Much of the Vikings' 60-plus year history, at least in the post-Fran Tarkenton era, has involved an ongoing search for quarterback stability. First-round draft picks have been invested, only for devastating injuries (Daunte Culpepper and Teddy Bridgewater) or ineffectiveness (Christian Ponder) to send the Vikings back to the search. Even now, after spending heavily on free agent Kirk Cousins in 2018 and enjoying three years of durable play albeit with uneven results, even if the net is above-average there are reasons to wonder if the relationship is headed for a breakup a year from now when Cousins will be due for another extension. The Vikings appear very much set to enter 2021 with Cousins as their starter, which means thinking about using the No. 14 overall pick on a QB even if one falls to them in Thursday's first round, as unlikely as that is probably doesn't make much sense. This is a roster that needs a lot of help. That always makes sense, even though the Vikings have a history of not doing it. It makes particular sense this season, and there are reasons to believe this will be the year it really happens. As our Andrew Krammer noted recently, Sean Mannion the backup in 2019 and 2020 remains unsigned. There are no other experienced QBs on the roster behind Cousins. The Vikings also have two third-round picks and four fourth-round picks. Even if they package a couple of those in a trade up into the second round as Ben Goessling suggests in his seven-round Vikings mock draft they would still have four picks in that third/fourth round sweet spot that has produced quality backups and even star quarterbacks in the last decade. Now: The Vikings haven't used a pick in the third or fourth round on a QB since 1995 (Chad May), long before current GM Rick Spielman arrived. They either take quarterbacks very late or in the first round, including those picks of Ponder (2011) and Bridgewater (2014). But with the draft capital and need for a backup, it makes sense this season. "There's no position that's off limits going into this draft," Spielman said recently. "I'll just leave it at that." A solid choice would give the Vikings a low-cost backup for the durable Cousins in 2021. A spectacular choice could prove to be his heir apparent as the starter. For an example of how this thinking can alter a franchise's trajectory, look back to the 2012 draft. The Vikings had picked Ponder No. 12 overall in 2011. But as Goessling has said many times, they had some coaches on their staff that REALLY liked Russell Wilson in 2012. But instead of going after him early in the third round, the Vikings took corner Josh Robinson. Nine picks later, Seattle picked Wilson. Yeah, maybe. But Washington picked Robert Griffin III No. 2 overall in 2012. And it liked another quarterback well enough to pick him in the fourth round of the same draft. Cousins. Now, for every Wilson, Cousins or Dak Prescott (2016 fourth round), there are a lot of other quarterbacks picked in the third or fourth round who range from replacement level to truly forgettable. But you can say that about every position in the draft. This should be the year the Vikings break with their own history and grab a quarterback in the middle rounds.
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https://www.startribune.com/vikings-draft-backup-quarterback-future-starter-randball/600051528/
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What is good taste?
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Since before recorded history, humans have been buried with cherished grave goods, items seen as beautiful in this life or useful in the next. I dont know about you, but Im taking my Le Creuset dutch oven, both beautiful and useful, with me. If youre reading this publication, youre pretty sure you know what good taste is. But if you roll the idea around in your head for a few minutes, it gets more complicated. If youve sold a house in the past couple of decades, you know that real estate agents try to optimize the sale value by staging the dcor no doubt a useful act. What they really want is for you to erase all remnants of your personality and culture. With some caveats, Maxwell Anderson, a former museum director, writer and president of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, says yes. The quest for refinement is seen as elitism, he says, acknowledging that superficiality and self-indulgence often join the quest. But they dont have to. For example, Anderson says, take the famous quilts of Gees Bend, Ala. Products of poverty and necessity pieced together by African American women, the exuberant quilts now have the status of classics. They rose above even what the priests of high art see as deserving, he notes. Hes also a fan of breaking the implied link between price and taste. Simple, inexpensive objects he has a favorite espresso cup can be things of beauty. Originals dont need to be fetishized: A good reproduction or high-quality knockoff is fine. (The Greeks and Romans thought so, he says.) Chains such as Ikea and Target have thrived on selling attractive, useful items on the cheap. And, given time and desire, you can learn to have a better eye. Pinterest, online design magazines, even Consumer Reports can be free or cheap sources of education and inspiration. People who develop good taste can do it without an MFA, he says. The key is then to put together your own unique aesthetic. S. Margot Finn would take that a little further. Finn, a lecturer at the University of Michigan and author of Discriminating Taste: How Class Anxiety Created the American Food Revolution, questions the very premise of taste. I know, because I made the mistake of telling her that some foods just taste better than others. Do they? she asked. She may be right. Somewhere, somebody likes kale. Finn contends that our screwed-up relationship to food is made worse by increasing economic inequality. This makes for strange dining companions. We buy triple crme brie and 1-percent milk. We tout eating locally grown food while buying cooking ingredients from around the world. Were always on a diet and yet always overweight. A similar period of extreme inequality, the Gilded Age of the late 19th century, she says, spawned our interest in special diets, whole grains and weight loss. And here we are again. She argues that Americans internalize these conflicting messages without really thinking. She says the evidence isnt nearly as clear as we think. In any case, its making us crazy. simple choices carry too much weight. Eating fast food is seen as a form of slumming, even though statistics show that very rich and very poor people eat at the drive-thru at the same rate. Finn, for one, loves the calamari at Olive Garden but cant get anybody to go with her. I cannot tell a lie: I ate a Whopper Junior this week. It was sublime. The best gift we can give ourselves is some forgiveness for our choices. Finn offers one word: Relax. For his part, Anderson is looking to the post-pandemic future with some hope. After the 1918-19 Spanish flu disaster, a design revolution sparked. Gone were heavy, germ-laden carpets, draperies and overstuffed sofas. In came clean lines, minimalist dcor, steel, leather, open-air balconies. Were at the stage now of reassessing design, he says. I asked Anderson and Finn for parting advice. True luxury is living well, Anderson said. Finn quoted the anthropologist David Graeber: Live as if you were already free. Ill take those statements as permission to drink a glass of chocolate milk.
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https://www.houstonchronicle.com/lifestyle/thepage/article/What-is-good-taste-16135712.php
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Why open a state vaccination site in Scottsdale when the vaccine is needed in Maryvale?
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The state is now practically begging people to get vaccinated for COVID-19. Appointments are no longer needed at the states seven mass vaccination sites, and state Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ says supply is starting to exceed demand. That would be fantastic news, except for the fact that theres still plenty of demand or there should be given that only 40% of the state has had at least one vaccination. The problem is the demand is nowhere near where the state is offering the supply. Many in Scottsdale are already vaxxed Consider Scottsdale. The states newest mass vaccination site opened on April 22 at Westworld. On Monday, it had an astounding 20,623 open appointments for this week, or more than a third of the open appointments at all state sites. Perhaps thats because most residents in Scottsdale who are going to get vaccinated already are vaccinated or are well on their way. In north Scottsdales 85255 ZIP code, for example, 77% of residents already have gotten their first shot, with 65% fully vaccinated, according to state Department of Health Services Department data. Meanwhile, in Maryvales 85035, just 32% of people have gotten their first shot and only 18% are fully protected. Pity those 20,623 vaccines couldnt be carted over to west Phoenix. State wants geographic distribution Les Braswell of Advancing Arizona, a left-of-center nonprofit that focuses on health care policy, says those 20,000 empty appointment slots in Scottsdale point to one big inequity in how we are doling out protection. Instead of providing vaccine doses to the most vulnerable, underserved community, Gov. (Doug) Duceys COVID-19 policy continues to favor the wealthiest Arizonans and puts the most vulnerable at the end of the line, he told me. DHS Director Dr. Cara Christ, however, told me that demand is down at all vaccination sites across the state. She defended opening the WestWorld walk-through site, saying the state wanted to ensure geographic distribution. Weve got the Gila River (Arena), which is doing the west , she said. Were working with both Maricopa County and other groups to offer more community-based pop-up events. Yet still the inequitites are glaring. In Scottsdales 85258, 76% of residents have had one shot and 65% are fully vaccinated. Meanwhile, just 20 miles southwest of there in south Phoenixs 85040, only 36% of residents have gotten a shot, with just 22% fully protected. Christ told me they are continuing to evaluate where and how to offer the vaccine with the ultimate goal of getting the shots into more pharmacies and other places where people normally go to get health care. What we wanted to make sure we didnt do is reduce capacities in any one geographical area, she said. Weve continued to evaluate where resources need to go and work with community providers. It seems pretty clear the answer isn't Scottsdale. The site opened just a week ago and this week had the highest number of unfilled spots by far at any state site. In addition to WestWorld and Gila River, the state also runs mass vaccination sites inside ASUs Desert Financial Arena in Tempe, a Dexcom distribution center in Mesa and in Tucson, Yuma and Flagstaff. The locations of these and all other sites offering the vaccine can be found on the DHS website. Nationwide, 43% of adults have gotten at least one shot, according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention's vaccine tracker. Arizona isnt far off that mark, at 40%. Overall, 48% of Arizonans who have been vaccinated are white, while less than 13% of the vaccine has gone into the arms of Hispanics and just 2% of Black residents. Meanwhile, 20,000 open slots in north Scottsdale Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Twitter at @LaurieRoberts. Support local journalism:Subscribe to azcentral.com today.
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https://www.azcentral.com/story/opinion/op-ed/laurieroberts/2021/04/29/why-scottsdale-doesnt-need-covid-mass-vaccination-site/4882547001/
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Is it safe to go to big sporting events during the pandemic?
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Not yet, but there are ways to make it safer if you go. Yelling, chanting, hugging and generally pouring out our sports enthusiasm is still not the safest activity, noted Jennifer Dowd, associate professor of population health at University of Oxford and chief scientific officer of Dear Pandemic, a website that offers expert opinions. If you do decide to go to a game, outdoor stadiums are safer than indoor arenas, which wont be as well ventilated. Venues that limit attendance and require masks are safer as well. Some teams are requiring proof of vaccination or a negative test for the coronavirus. Once at the stadium, avoid indoor bars, restaurants and box seating, Dowd said. Spaces that are indoors with lots of people eating and drinking without masks are still among the riskiest, she said. Going to a game is much safer if youre fully vaccinated, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But the agency advises wearing masks at crowded sports events regardless of whether youve had your shots. Evidence on the safety of big games is mixed. The NFL says it safely hosted 1.2 million fans at 119 games during the 2020 season. Some studies that havent yet been vetted by outside experts have reached differing conclusions about whether the football season led to more infections. The study findings cant be certain, since they were based on disease rates in counties, not on contact tracing investigations. Dr. Peter Hotez, an infectious disease specialist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, said enough Americans will likely be fully vaccinated by June or July to see significant declines in transmission of the virus. The risk wont go to zero, Hotez said, but it will drop enough that sporting events, restaurants and larger gatherings may be much safer. The CDC offers additional guidance to help sports fans make decisions as the pandemic continues, such as checking with event organizers about what safety measures are being taken. An important reminder: If you have symptoms, are waiting for a virus test result or have been exposed to someone whos infected, you should stay home, the CDC says. ___ The AP is answering your questions about the coronavirus in this series. Submit them at: FactCheck@AP.org. Read more: I got the COVID-19 vaccine.
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https://www.houstonchronicle.com/living/article/Is-it-safe-to-go-to-big-sporting-events-during-16138711.php
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What's Next for the Knicks Now and Beyond?
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A franchise and fan base familiar with mid- and late-season collapses, the Knicks have remained one of the NBAs hottest teams as we inch towards the playoffs. Welcome to the Morning Shootaround, where every weekday youll get a fresh, topical column from one of SI.coms NBA writers: Howard Beck on Mondays, Chris Mannix on Tuesdays, Michael Pina on Wednesdays, Chris Herring on Thursdays and Rohan Nadkarni on Fridays. Sir Isaac Newton probably didnt have the Knicks in mind when he developed the law of gravity. But given how aggressively New York subscribes to the theory of what goes up must come down, he might have. In recent years the Knicks and their loyal fans had grown accustomed to mid- and late-season collapses. Back in 201718 under Jeff Hornacek, there was the excitement of a 1715 start before a 1238 finish. During the 201617 campaign, they jumped out to a 1410 mark, before going 1741 the rest of the way. And in 201516 with Derek Fisher, New York began with a 2020 record, to only finish the year 1230. Frankly, this season looked like it would be more of the same. The club sat at 1918 during the All-Star break, then dropped nine of its next 15 contests to fall to 2527. The Knicks spring schedule was intensifying, and their usual subway stopoutside the playoff raceappeared to be coming up soon. But four weeks later the Knicks are still on the train, having won 10 of 11 as the leagues hottest team. Because of those past instances, Knicks fans know better than to count their chickens before theyve hatched. Still, with New York currently two games clear of the seventh-seeded Heatand holding a 90% probability of making the playoffs, according to FiveThirtyEights projection modelwere going to peer ahead just a bit. For now just about everything starts with forward Julius Randle. He was a tornadic turnover machine last season, coughing up more miscues in one-on-one situations than any other volume scorer in the league. Yet after a tireless offseason, Randles been a completely different, All-NBA type player this year, averaging 32.2 points, 8.5 boards and 5.2 assists on 50.7% from three the past two and a half weeks. The challenge here is that opposing teams likely wont let him wreak havoc that way in a playoff series. Yes, at times Randle calls his own number in the middle floor, where its tougher to double-team him. But clubs like the Celtics and Heat will send aggressive traps at him when hes serving as a pick-and-roll ballhandler. Similarly, when Randles acting as the roll man, defenses will sell out on him and simply dare guard Elfrid Payton to shoot floaters, which he connects on just 38% of the time, according to Synergy. Derrick Rose, whos knocked down his wildly flat midrange jumpers at a career-best rate this year and created a bevy of Kobe Assists, presents one obvious way to get around the Payton problem. More than anything, though, Randleequal parts freight train and maestrowill have to let the game come to him if and when teams seek to force the ball out of his hands. That means trusting his teammates in the corner, where the Knicks have launched a greater share of triples than any other NBA team thus far. New Yorks spot-up shooters have given Randle reason to trust making those passes. Since ranking dead-last in the league on wide-open three-point looks back in January, the Knicks have ranked fourth on such looks in February, eighth in March and rank first by a mile in April thus far, according to NBA.com. Knocking those down is crucial, because it makes the defense change what its doing. Its a huge help to [Randle] and our team, says second-year wing RJ Barrett, whos enjoying a breakout season of his own. New York was dead-last in the NBA, at 32.8% from three, when left wide open in January. The club ranked fourth in February at 42.9% on those shots. Then ranked eighth in March at 41.9%. No ones been better than the Knicks in April, a month when theyve hit 48.4% of their wide-open treys. Reggie Bullocks been the clubs supreme flamethrower during this recent hot streak. Over those 11 games, hes hit an impressive 53.1% (17-for-32) of his tries from the corners. Just as important: Bullock has helped create some of those looksin basketball lingo, you would say hes hunted themby slinking away from defenders to put himself more directly in the ballhandlers line of sight. (This could also be asked of center Nerlens Noel, whos been a fantastic fit in replacing the injured Mitchell Robinson.) On one hand, it may not be a huge deal for New York to loosen the purse strings for him. On the other, with the Knicks finally looking legitimate, they may be more inclined to go big-star hunting, whichif they end up landing onewould make it tougher to retain a well-rounded player like Bullock. Of all the things you can question with New YorkBarretts occasional tendency to run hot and cold, the teams high foul rate on defense, whether the Knicks have been the beneficiary of good luck with opponents missing from threeits almost impossible to knock this teams effort. After years of geometric shapes and riddlesand almost no mention of the defensive side of the ball at timesits been refreshing to see the Knicks commit to getting stops on a nightly basis. In any given quarter youll see the long-limbed Noel issuing more return-to-sender notices than a local post office, or witness New Yorks pesky wing stoppers swarming like cicadas on their rotations and closeouts. Its some hard work. Its real, Barrett says of the defensive intensity coach Tom Thibodeau requires each possession. But you kind of get used to it as the season goes along. (One thing to monitor, which Thibodeaus addressed with his players: The teams fourth-ranked defense hasnt been consistently solid during this run of success. Its been more of an offensive hot streak. The Knicks hemorrhaged 113.5 points per 100 possessions from April 16 to April 27, one of the NBAs 10 worst rates in that window.) Often when people discuss Thibodeau and his ideology, both are framed through the prism of minutes and potential injuries. And thats understandable, given the Bulls struggles to stay healthy during his time in Chicago. (Aside from Roses ACL tear in the 2012 playoffs, Joakim Noah and current Knick Taj Gibson also got injured during the teams first-round series loss that year.) But the better question may be whether the Knicks every-night grind will leave enough in the tank for them to find another gear in the playoffs. Then again, this was a youth-led team that went 2145 last year. One that brought back seven of its top nine rotation players, andwith the NBAs lowest payrolldidnt add any significant free agents. So even if New York ends up flaming out a month from now, fine. We know whatever goes up has to come down at some point. But after eight years, its been fun to see the Knicks enjoy this sort of hang time again. More NBA Stories:
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https://www.si.com/nba/2021/04/29/new-york-knicks-hot-streak-julius-randle-rj-barrett
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Will the successor to Kirk Cousins emerge from this year's draft?
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Much of the Vikings' 60-plus year history, at least in the post-Fran Tarkenton era, has involved an ongoing search for quarterback stability. First-round draft picks have been invested, only for devastating injuries (Daunte Culpepper and Teddy Bridgewater) or ineffectiveness (Christian Ponder) to send the Vikings back to the search. Even now, after spending heavily on free agent Kirk Cousins in 2018 and enjoying three years of durable play albeit with uneven results, even if the net is above-average there are reasons to wonder if the relationship is headed for a breakup a year from now when Cousins will be due for another extension. The Vikings appear very much set to enter 2021 with Cousins as their starter, which means thinking about using the No. 14 overall pick on a QB even if one falls to them in Thursday's first round, as unlikely as that is probably doesn't make much sense. This is a roster that needs a lot of help. That always makes sense, even though the Vikings have a history of not doing it. It makes particular sense this season, and there are reasons to believe this will be the year it really happens. Ben Goessling and I talked about that on Thursday's Daily Delivery podcast as we set up all seven rounds of the draft for the Vikings. If you don't see the podcast player, click here to listen. As our Andrew Krammer noted recently, Sean Mannion the backup in 2019 and 2020 remains unsigned. There are no other experienced QBs on the roster behind Cousins. The Vikings also have two third-round picks and four fourth-round picks. Even if they package a couple of those in a trade up into the second round as Goessling suggests in his seven-round Vikings mock draft they would still have four picks in that third/fourth round sweet spot that has produced quality backups and even star quarterbacks in the last decade. Now: The Vikings haven't used a pick in the third or fourth round on a QB since 1995 (Chad May), long before current GM Rick Spielman arrived. They either take quarterbacks very late or in the first round, including those picks of Ponder (2011) and Bridgewater (2014). But with the draft capital and need for a backup, it makes sense this season. "There's no position that's off limits going into this draft," Spielman said recently. "I'll just leave it at that." A solid choice would give the Vikings a low-cost backup for the durable Cousins in 2021. A spectacular choice could prove to be his heir apparent as the starter. For an example of how this thinking can alter a franchise's trajectory, look back to the 2012 draft. The Vikings had picked Ponder No. 12 overall in 2011. But as Goessling has said many times, they had some coaches and evaluators on their staff that REALLY liked Russell Wilson in 2012. But instead of going after him early in the third round, the Vikings took corner Josh Robinson. Nine picks later, Seattle picked Wilson. Yeah, maybe. But Washington picked Robert Griffin III No. 2 overall in 2012. And it liked another quarterback well enough to pick him in the fourth round of the same draft. Cousins, who wound up as Washington's solid starter before signing with the Vikings. Now, for every Wilson, Cousins or Dak Prescott (2016 fourth round), there are a lot of other quarterbacks picked in the third or fourth round who range from replacement level to truly forgettable. But you can say that about every position in the draft. This should be the year the Vikings break with their own history and grab a quarterback in the middle rounds.
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https://www.startribune.com/vikings-draft-backup-quarterback-future-starter-kirk-cousins/600051528/
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Can Democrats Avoid a Wipeout in 2022?
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There is this recognition of this moment and how fleeting it is, and an evaluation that, absent the trifecta of control, it is very hard to move big policy, said a senior official at one of the partys leading outside advocacy groups, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal strategizing. So you have to take your shot. I think thats part of what undergirds Go big. In one sense, past presidents first two years in office offer Biden and congressional Democrats reason to be optimistic about executing their plans. Looked at another way, though, that history is discouraging, dauntingly so. Whats encouraging is how past presidents have managed to push through important parts of their agenda. Presidents dont get everything they want during that initial two-year period. Clinton, for instance, failed to pass comprehensive health-care reform, and Donald Trump failed to repeal the comprehensive reform that Obama did passthe Affordable Care Act. But presidents whose party controls Congress typically do pass some version of their core economic proposals during their first two years, even if it usually happens after some significant remodeling. Trump and George W. Bush each pushed massive tax cuts through a Republican-controlled Congress during their first year in office. In his first months, Ronald Reagan muscled through a landmark tax reduction, despite a Congress divided between a Republican Senate and a Democratic House. With the support of a Democratic-controlled Congress, Obama signed both a large economic-stimulus package and the ACA, and Clinton, by the narrowest possible margins, likewise enacted his deficit-reduction and public-investment plans. David Frum: The Trump policy that Biden is extending In each of these cases, the president was compelled to abandon or trim key elements of his blueprint. Congress forced Clinton to jettison his BTU tax (an early attempt to tax energy consumption) and accept the creation of a commission to study entitlement cuts. Dissent from two moderate Republican senators forced Bush to slash his tax cut by nearly one-fourth. Obama was compelled to reduce his stimulus spending to win over Senate Republican votes, and to drop the ACAs public option to obtain the last Democratic votes he needed. Even Reagans watershed reductions in personal-income-tax rates were scaled back. Yet while these concessions were seen at the time as major setbacks, they are now remembered, if at all, as merely smudges on legislative achievements that rank among each of these presidents most consequential. This history augurs well for Congress eventually approving some version of the infrastructure and human-capital plans Biden touted last night, even if the plans are adjusted to win approval from the Democratic Partys most conservative senators, such as West Virginias Joe Manchin. (Democrats can pass most of Bidens economic agenda through the reconciliation process, which requires only a simple-majority vote in the Senate. His noneconomic priorities face much dimmer prospects of passing in the upper chamber, unless Senate Democrats agree to curtail the filibuster.) Democrats often blame the devastating losses Obama suffered in 2010he lost more House seats than any president in a midterm since 1938on his administrations overly cautious approach, and they dont want to repeat that mistake. Trying to placate the Republicans with a bunch of tax cuts and going for a more modest package, thinking that would gain support, turned out to be dead wrong, Price told me. You got a weaker bill and no bipartisan support: the worst of both worlds. We are trying to get a stronger bill and assuming the net effect will be to increase pressure on Republicans who are opposing it.
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https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2021/04/biden-address-can-democrats-avoid-2022-wipeout/618746/?utm_source=feed
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What kind of opportunity will Teddy Bridgewater get in Denver?
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On Wednesday, the Broncos traded a sixth-round pick to the Panthers for quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. The move will reunite Bridgewater with George Paton, who is now the Broncos GM. Its certainly a move that makes sense for both sides. It appears the Panthers are set to go with Sam Darnold (or another quarterback at No. 8) after one year of Bridgewater. In 2020, Bridgewater threw for a career-high 3,733 yards, but just 15 touchdowns to go with 11 interceptions. The Panthers finished with a 5-11 record. As for the Broncos, Drew Lock struggled in season No. 2. Even if Bridgewater doesnt start, it will create good competition in Denvers QB room. The kicker here will be what Denver does with the No. 9 pick. ESPNs Adam Schefter reported that the Bridgewater trade doesnt take team out of the quarterback market in the draft. Panthers are trading to QB Teddy Bridgewater to the Broncos for a sixth-round pick, as @TomPelissero reported. Panthers paying Bridgewater $7 million, Broncos paying him $3 million, per source. Trade does not take Denver out of QB market Thursday night, per source. Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 28, 2021 Bridgewater will be anxiously waiting to see what his fate is, as will Lock.
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https://sports.yahoo.com/kind-opportunity-teddy-bridgewater-denver-142342555.html?src=rss
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Where will Justin Fields end up?
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As to the first two picks in the draft, theres no mystery. After that, its all a mystery. At the center of the mystery resides Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields. Once regarded as the No. 2 quarterback in the draft (especially after shredding presumptive No. 1 pick Trevor Lawrences Clemson Tigers in the national semifinals), Fields could go as high as No. 3, to the 49ers. Our mock draft has that happening. It would be a surprise, given the reports that the 49ers narrowed their options to Mac Jones and Trey Lance. (Some continue to suggest that the Jets will take Fields. The fact that the Jets have done nothing to push back against the widespread belief that theyll take BYU quarterback Zach Wilson makes that extremely unlikely. Fireman Ed does not like surprises.) After No. 3, the window opens on a potential trade up for Fields. Someone could move to No. 4 with the Falcons (possible) or No. 5 with the Bengals (highly unlikely, given their propensity to stay put). The Dolphins have demonstrated a mastery of the board, and they could easily move down from No. 6 with a team that wants Fields. Next come the Lions at No. 7. Next are the Panthers at No. 8 and the Broncos at No. 9. Both have traded for veterans. Both could trade Fields or trade down with someone who would. The Cowboys would be a trade-down candidate, as would the Giants. The Eagles become an intriguing candidate to trade down, or to possibly take Fields. Although some have Fields plunging past the first dozen picks, theres a good chance he goes in the first 12 picks. And theres also persistent speculation that the Patriots want him. As Simms pointed out on Thursdays PFT Live, theres no way that wed know that the Patriots want Fields, if they do. He was sufficiently confident in his belief that he vowed to wear only his white, sleeveless undershirt for a full segment on tomorrow morning, if Fields ends up with the Patriots. So, yes, Im now rooting for Fields to end up with the Patriots. originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
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https://sports.yahoo.com/where-justin-fields-end-143254515.html?src=rss
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How does Bidens approval rating at 100 days compare to past presidents?
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President Biden has an approval rating of 54% at his 100th day in office, according to FiveThirtyEight. Washington Post On the cusp of President Joe Bidens 100th day in office, several polls have measured his popularity based on approval rating. Bidens average approval rating stands at 54% higher than former President Donald Trumps 42% approval rating at his 100th day in office, according to FiveThirtyEights tracker. Biden scored slightly higher on Gallups rating at his 100th day, with a 57% rating, which exceeds Trumps 41% 100-day rating but falls below Barack Obamas 65% rating and George W. Bushs 62% score. Bidens rating is similar to George H.W. Bushs 58% and Bill Clintons 55% on their 100th days in office. A CNN poll found 53% of respondents approve of the way Biden is handling the presidency and 59% said he is doing a good job of keeping his campaign promises. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.6 percentage points and surveyed 1,004 adults from April 21-26. Biden also earned approval for how hes handled the coronavirus pandemic. Sixty-six percent approved in the CNN survey, with 97% of Democrats approving, 65% of independents and 30% approval from Republicans. Unlike previous presidents, Biden hasnt enjoyed a honeymoon period in his first months of presidency, in which prior leaders have typically received higher performance evaluations, according to FiveThirtyEight. This is, in large part, thanks to how polarized our politics are, according to the FiveThirtyEight analysts. The honeymoon period has diminished given just how hard it is for presidents to attract support from outside their party base. Other polls have also shown partisan views toward Bidens job as president. Biden received the approval of 85% of Democrats for his first 100 days in office, according to a Politico/Morning Consult survey conducted April 24-26. The poll has a sample size of 1,991 registered voters and a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points. Meanwhile, 44% of surveyed independents gave Biden an A or B grade compared to the32% of independents who gave the same marks to Trump during his first 100 days in office. Trump received support from 72% of Republicans. Biden has an overall approval rate of 60% in the Politico survey compared to Trumps 48% rating before his 100th day in office. Trump and Biden both got the same approval from their opposite parties: 14% of Republicans gave Biden an A or B grade, the same approval Trump received from Democrats in 2017.
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https://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/article251028264.html
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Should Massachusetts prohibit the sale of new fur products in the state?
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Jack Patrick Lewis Jeff Chan Massachusetts residents made it abundantly clear that we cared about animals when we passed the 2016 farm animal protection ballot initiative with nearly 78 percent of the vote. Now we should finally say no to fur, a product so outdated and cruel that many fashion retailers including Massachusetts own TJX and most recently Saks Fifth Avenue are forgoing it for better alternatives. To that end, I filed H965, a bipartisan bill with 40 cosponsors from across the Commonwealth, which would phase out the retail sale of new animal fur products. A companion bill in the Senate (S623) would do the same. Advertisement To be clear, my bill would not prevent hunters and trappers from selling their pelts to fur dealers and other intermediaries, as some currently do. Most fur products come from fur farms. Investigations carried out by Humane Society International have shown foxes, minks, and raccoon dogs living in extreme fear and discomfort in cramped cages. The distress from being unable to run, dig, or swim can lead to self-mutilation and injury. The only reprieve for an animals suffering is death by electrocution or gassing. But not even that is guaranteed, with well-documented instances of animals being skinned alive to keep costs low and reduce damage to their pelts. Fur production is also a nightmare for the environment. Waste runoff from fur factory farms and toxic chemicals used in the tanning and dyeing process can seep into soil and waterways. Innovative, environmentally friendly fur alternatives exist that are plant-based or are derived from recycled plastic. Moreover, with the World Health Organization investigating the role of the fur trade in the spread of COVID-19, and with fur-farmed minks the only animals known to have transmitted the virus to humans (after the initial transmission), this legislation would help combat the pandemic and prevent the next one. California passed its fur sales prohibition in 2019 and Wellesley joined it ast year. Six states have introduced similar legislation, and the United Kingdom is considering a ban. Its time we make Massachusetts a kinder, more humane state. NO Alan Herscovici Senior Writer and researcher, TruthAboutFur.com, a website about the North American fur industry, supported by national trade associations and the International Fur Federation Alan Herscovici Helene Lapointe If we look at facts, those who care about sustainability, ethical lifestyles, and social justice should promote the use of natural fur, not seek to ban it. Fur today is produced responsibly and sustainably. Only abundant furs are used, and state, federal, and international controls ensure wild animals are not endangered by the fur trade. Many wild furbearers would have to be culled even if we didnt use fur. Overpopulated beavers flood property. Coyotes prey on livestock and, increasingly, pets. Raccoons and foxes spread rabies and other diseasesthe list goes on. About half the fur produced in the United States is raised by farmers, and they have a strong incentive to ensure their animals receive excellent nutrition and care; its the only way to produce the high quality fur for which the United States is known. Advertisement Farmed mink are fed leftovers from our own food production parts of cows, chickens, and fish that we dont eat and might otherwise clog landfills. Farm wastes are composted to produce high-quality organic fertilizer, completing the agricultural-nutrient cycle. Fur products hand-crafted by skilled artisans are long-lasting, restylable, and after decades of use can be thrown into the garden compost. In contrast, fake fur and other synthetics which account for about 60 percent of todays clothing are really plastics, which are not naturally biodegradable and pollute our waterways. Microparticles of these plastics are now being found in marine life and even breast milk. Cruelty-free indeed! Proposals to ban the sale of fur, including the legislation in Massachusetts, are shameful attacks on the cultures and livelihoods of hard-working farm families; of trappers who are among the last Americans maintaining our land-based heritage; and of artisans producing warm and durable clothing with responsibly produced natural materials. No one has to wear fur or leather, or eat meat or dairy; these are personal choices, not decisions to be usurped by elected officials. But if you believe its ethical to use animal products that are produced responsibly and sustainably, you can wear fur with pride. As told to Globe correspondent John Laidler. To suggest a topic, please contact laidler@globe.com. This is not a scientific survey. Please only vote once.
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https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/04/29/metro/should-massachusetts-prohibit-sale-new-fur-products-state/
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Is public support for Bidens spending plans strong enough to sway Congress?
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Like the Academy Awards a few nights earlier, President Joe Bidens first major speech to Congress and the nation fell somewhat short of compelling viewing, more predictable than surprising, more laundry list than inspiring rhetoric. But that doesnt mean it wont help congressional Democrats who seek to enact the most far-reaching legislative agenda since Lyndon Johnsons Great Society of the 1960s. As stagecraft, Bidens subdued presentation lacked the drama of such past nights as President Ronald Reagans return from an assassination attempt exactly 40 years ago to the night or the 2020 claims by President Donald Trump that prompted House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to shred his text. Almost everything Biden told the 200 mask-wearing, socially distant lawmakers echoed his prior speeches and pre-speech announcements, though in greater detail. He hailed his administrations success in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and argued his proposals for vastly expanding federal economic and social programs would provide millions of jobs and help the nation compete in the 21st-century world. Fellow Democrats repeatedly cheered Bidens support for the kind of transformative legislative agenda party progressives have long sought. The official GOP response by Sen. Tim Scott dismissed Bidens agenda as ever more taxes, even more spending. The only statistical measure of initial public reaction was a CNN poll that showed a favorable response among viewers, but that may have reflected the fact that partisans are more likely than opponents to watch such speeches. In recent years, most such presidential speeches have had little long-term impact on public opinion. The real question is the extent to which the presidents effort to place his proposals in a broader context of global competition especially with China will help to maintain public support that recent polls showed for their broad outline and whether that proves helpful in winning the upcoming congressional battles. Despite continuing sharp partisan divisions in Washington, administration strategists feel they have benefited from the fact that polls show broader overall backing for Bidens efforts in the nation as a whole than in Congress. That support includes overwhelming support from Democrats, a majority from independents, and even some from Republicans. Administration officials credit that broad base with helping to ensure the solid Democratic congressional support that passed his initial legislation to fight the pandemic and speed economic recovery. Similarly, the polls have shown broad public backing for the kinds of tax increases that Biden hopes will pay for some of his proposals, primarily restoring the cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans that were a cornerstone of Trumps 2017 tax cut law. But Biden devoted only five minutes of his speech to them, and public support does not always translate into congressional votes when tax increases are involved. If most of Bidens speech was directed at solidifying that bipartisan support for a Democratic agenda in the country, he also repeated his desire to reach out to like-minded Republicans at a time that many GOP lawmakers complain he has talked more about bipartisanship than sought it. In drafting measures to revitalize the nations crumbling physical infrastructure its roads, bridges and sewers Biden said he wanted to meet with those who have ideas that are different, that they think are better. But he cloaked that outreach in a warning against the kind of long, drawn-out negotiations that marked such efforts during the Obama years, declaring that from my perspective, doing nothing is not an option. He also expressed hope that, in areas like police reform, immigration and guns, where partisan divisions have long prevented any action on comprehensive legislation, some agreement might be possible on more modest measures. That might include closing existing loopholes on gun purchases and providing legal status for the so-called Dreamers and farm workers who have been in this country for decades. As Biden left the podium of the House of Representatives, he chatted with several House and Senate members from both parties, including a long conversation with Ohio Sen. Rob Portman, one of the more moderate Republicans the White House believes may be open to some Biden proposals. But the overall prospects for Bidens agenda almost certainly depend on holding the line among his fellow Democrats. So far, many news stories about the views of individual lawmakers have focused on their objections to the specifics of individual proposals. Given the tiny Democratic majorities in both houses, these are likely to be the subject of extensive negotiations as the congressional committees begin to draft the legislation translating them into law. In the end, the presidents prospects for success may depend on maintaining support in the country, and thats what Wednesdays speech was designed to buoy. Carl P. Leubsdorf is the former Washington bureau chief of The Dallas Morning News and a frequent contributor. Send a letter to the editor and you just might get published.
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https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2021/04/29/is-public-support-for-bidens-spending-plans-strong-enough-to-sway-congress/
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Is the top undecided college basketball recruit for next season nearing a decision?
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The month of May is two days away, and the college basketball recruiting world is still waiting on the nations No. 4 overall prospect to make his final decision. And theres still some uncertainty over where hell end up. Patrick Baldwin Jr. a perimeter-oriented 6-foot-9 forward has previously been ranked as the No. 1 overall player in the 2021 class. Hes still one of that groups most highly touted prospects, despite missing almost all of his senior season of high school with an ankle injury. Where he ends up for college remains a guessing game, but a decision should be coming soon. There have been signals in recent weeks that Baldwin is getting close to a college announcement. Technically, he still has Kentucky on his list the Wildcats extended a scholarship offer early in the process but no one expects him to choose UK at this point. For the past several months, Baldwins recruitment was expected to come down to Duke, which offered him as a freshman, and Milwaukee, where his father, Pat Baldwin, is the schools head coach. Baldwin has stayed fairly quiet on the topic himself. And the recruiting chatter has been all over the place in recent days. The circus began back in February, when a handful of Duke insiders changed their 247Sports Crystal Ball picks from the Blue Devils to Milwaukee. National analysts Eric Bossi and Jerry Meyer also logged picks in favor of Milwaukee around that time, cementing the hometown programs status as the team to beat. Earlier this month, however, Georgetown emerged as another possible landing spot, with the recruiting rumor mill churning to such a degree that it looked like the Hoyas might actually land a commitment from Baldwin last week. That obviously didnt happen. Then, on Tuesday, one of those Duke insiders on Baldwins Crystal Ball page flipped his prediction back to the Blue Devils amid talk that Dukes trio of five-star signees Paolo Banchero, AJ Griffin and Trevor Keels have been pushing hard for Baldwin to join them in Durham next season. Story continues As it stands, Dukes class (which also includes four-star point guard Jaylen Blakes) is ranked No. 2 nationally, behind only Michigan. A commitment from Baldwin would give the Blue Devils the No. 1 class in the country for the first time since 2018 after Kentucky and Memphis took the top spot the past two years. Bossi and Meyer are among those who have stuck with their Milwaukee predictions (as of Thursday morning) and uncertainty continues to reign with a commitment seemingly on the horizon. Baldwin and star combo guard Jaden Hardy the No. 2 overall recruit in the 2021 class are the only two uncommitted players in the top 20 nationally, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. But Hardy is still widely expected to go pro straight out of high school, and that has thrust the attention of the college basketball recruiting world on Baldwin. Well just have to continue to wait to see where he ends up.
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https://sports.yahoo.com/top-undecided-college-basketball-recruit-160018006.html?src=rss
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What Could Saints Offer to Trade Up to No. 7?
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Rumors are swirling that the New Orleans Saints are interested in trading up into the top 10 of the NFL Draft. The New Orleans Saints could be on the verge of making significant news ahead of the 2021 NFL Draft. According to NFL Network, the Saints are "doing the most groundwork" of any franchise to attempt to trade up and are even open to the idea of moving up as far as the top 10. New Orleans currently sit at No. 28 and are reportedly interested in adding one of the talented cornerbacks available in the draft. The Athletic speculated that this would need to be the trade proposal for the Lions to even consider moving down so far. Saints receive pick No. 7 Lions receive: Pick No. 28, pick No. 60, 2022 first-round pick, 2022 third-round pick, player on the Saints' active roster While this proposal is quite intriguing, moving down would take Detroit out of the market for several of the top prospects at each position. Look for the Saints to try and get into the top 10, but Detroit is not likely the team that will move down that far in the draft in general manager Brad Holmes' first with the organization. Here's a look at Detroit's six draft picks for 2021: Round 1, Pick 7 Round 2, Pick 9 (41 overall) Round 3, Pick 8 (72 overall) Round 3, Pick 38 (101 overall, via the Los Angeles Rams) Round 4, Pick 7 (112 overall) Round 5, Pick 9 (153 overall) How to watch 2021 NFL Draft
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https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/saints-lions-draft-trade-offer
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Is Penei Sewell a New Orleans Saints Draft Target?
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Our partner site at CowboysSi.com reported the New Orleans Saints are attempting to trade up and draft offensive lineman Penei Sewell. SNN's partner site at CowboysSi.com reported New Orleans targets Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell in tonight's draft. I confirmed with Mike "Fish" Fisher, a longtime NFL reporter and site publisher, his sources told him about the Saints' intentions to trade up into the Top 10 and select Sewell. Two league sources tell CowboysSI.com that the Saints are working toward a potential trade up in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. and into the top 10 of the draft order. CowboysSI.com This morning, Ian Rapoport shared the Saints intentions to move up in the draft, but to possibly target a cornerback. The challenge for Loomis and Payton is the fact New Orleans holds very little draft capital at No. 28 and several other picks this weekend for them to jump into a Top 10 spot. A likely scenario would be for the Saints to execute a trade with one of their star players/starter and package a deal with future high draft picks. I reported a few days ago for Saints fans not to be "SHOCKED AND DISMAYED" if the team would select an offensive lineman as their first-round pick. At the moment, everything is speculatory until a trade is made by New Orleans. We will have more on this development on the Saints News Network.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/saints/nfl-draft/is-penei-sewell-a-new-orleans-saints-draft-target
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Can Brexit ever really be said to be 'done'?
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Flags of the Union Jack and the EU - Olivier Hoslet/AFP On Saturday May 1, 1,494 days since Britain triggered the Article 50 process to leave the EU in March 2017, the UK-EU free trade agreement will enter fully into force. The European Parliament voted by a huge majority in favour of the deal on Wednesday. The Council of the EU took the last procedural step before formal ratification on Thursday. Britain and the EU will soon exchange letters to enable the trade deal to come into force and replace the provisional application of the agreement that began at the start of the year. After more than four years of butting heads over Brexit, both sides are understandably anxious to look to the future. That future holds negotiations, talks, meetings and yet more negotiations between Brussels and London. Tough talks continue over the politically difficult implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which claimed a high-profile victim in Arlene Foster this week. Those discussions promise to be turbulent with the EU already bringing legal action for treaty violation against the UK for unilaterally extended grace periods on some customs checks on GB-NI trade. Ursula von der Leyen told MEPs before the vote that the trade deal had real teeth and would give Brussels leverage over the UK. If the UK failed to implement the two Brexit agreements fully, or broke level playing field commitments, the EU could hit the UK with trade tariffs, she said. Lord Frost told peers on Thursday that Brussels should tone down the rhetoric. His opposite number Maros Sefcovic said he would be in touch with the former Brexit negotiator to set up the EU-UK partnership council, which will be the first port of call in any dispute. The council and its specialised committees will aim to manage a relationship that has endured a turbulent 100 days or so since the UK left the transition period on Dec 31. There are likely to be plenty of teething problems. Brussels has already asked Britain to be pragmatic over the granting of fishing licences for small French boats in the Channel. Story continues Paris has threatened to block any EU decision granting UK financial services firms to the EU market if Britain doesnt play ball. But the commission is in no hurry to grant equivalence to the City. It may deign to begin considering the request in the middle of the year but the City may have moved onto new markets by then. There is also the EUs demand for UK-manufactured AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccines, foreign policy cooperation against Russia, the climate conference in Glasgow and the belated recognition of the EUs ambassador in Londons diplomatic status to navigate. On Wednesday, Joo Vale de Almeida suggested at the Institute for Government that Britain and Brussels were condemned to working together, despite Brexit. This is a relationship that because of its intensity, because of its depth, because of its complexity will require a lot of meetings, a lot of talking, a lot of exchanges across the Channel, the ambassador said. Brexit is very far from over. This article is an extract from The Telegraphs Beyond Brexit Bulletin newsletter. Sign up here to get exclusive insight from the UKs leading commentators James Crisp, Christopher Hope, Dia Chakravarty and more delivered direct to your inbox every Tuesday and Thursday.
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https://news.yahoo.com/brexit-ever-really-said-done-160035960.html
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Whats next for the Knicks now and beyond?
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A franchise and fan base familiar with mid- and late-season collapses, the Knicks have remained one of the NBAs hottest teams as we inch towards the playoffs. Welcome to the Morning Shootaround, where every weekday youll get a fresh, topical column from one of SI.coms NBA writers: Howard Beck on Mondays, Chris Mannix on Tuesdays, Michael Pina on Wednesdays, Chris Herring on Thursdays and Rohan Nadkarni on Fridays. Sir Isaac Newton probably didnt have the Knicks in mind when he developed the law of gravity. But given how aggressively New York subscribes to the theory of what goes up must come down, he might have. In recent years the Knicks and their loyal fans had grown accustomed to mid- and late-season collapses. Back in 201718 under Jeff Hornacek, there was the excitement of a 1715 start before a 1238 finish. During the 201617 campaign, they jumped out to a 1410 mark, before going 1741 the rest of the way. And in 201516 with Derek Fisher, New York began with a 2020 record, to only finish the year 1230. Frankly, this season looked like it would be more of the same. The club sat at 1918 during the All-Star break, then dropped nine of its next 15 contests to fall to 2527. The Knicks spring schedule was intensifying, and their usual subway stopoutside the playoff raceappeared to be coming up soon. But four weeks later the Knicks are still on the train, having won 10 of 11 as the leagues hottest team. Because of those past instances, Knicks fans know better than to count their chickens before theyve hatched. Still, with New York currently two games clear of the seventh-seeded Heatand holding a 90 per cent probability of making the playoffs, according to FiveThirtyEights projection modelwere going to peer ahead just a bit. For now just about everything starts with forward Julius Randle. He was a tornadic turnover machine last season, coughing up more miscues in one-on-one situations than any other volume scorer in the league. Yet after a tireless off-season, Randles been a completely different, All-NBA type player this year, averaging 32.2 points, 8.5 boards and 5.2 assists on 50.7 per cent from three the past two and a half weeks. The challenge here is that opposing teams likely wont let him wreak havoc that way in a playoff series. Yes, at times Randle calls his own number in the middle floor, where its tougher to double-team him. But clubs like the Celtics and Heat will send aggressive traps at him when hes serving as a pick-and-roll ballhandler. Similarly, when Randles acting as the roll man, defences will sell out on him and simply dare guard Elfrid Payton to shoot floaters, which he connects on just 38 per cent of the time, according to Synergy. Derrick Rose, whos knocked down his wildly flat mid-range jumpers at a career-best rate this year and created a bevy of Kobe Assists, presents one obvious way to get around the Payton problem. More than anything, though, Randleequal parts freight train and maestrowill have to let the game come to him if and when teams seek to force the ball out of his hands. That means trusting his teammates in the corner, where the Knicks have launched a greater share of triples than any other NBA team thus far. New Yorks spot-up shooters have given Randle reason to trust making those passes. Since ranking dead-last in the league on wide-open three-point looks back in January, the Knicks have ranked fourth on such looks in February, eighth in March and rank first by a mile in April thus far, according to NBA.com. Knocking those down is crucial, because it makes the defence change what its doing. Its a huge help to [Randle] and our team, says second-year wing RJ Barrett, whos enjoying a breakout season of his own. New York was dead-last in the NBA, at 32.8 per cent from three, when left wide open in January. The club ranked fourth in February at 42.9 per cent on those shots. Then ranked eighth in March at 41.9 per cent. No ones been better than the Knicks in April, a month when theyve hit 48.4 per cent of their wide-open treys. Reggie Bullocks been the clubs supreme flame-thrower during this recent hot streak. Over those 11 games, hes hit an impressive 53.1 per cent (17-for-32) of his tries from the corners. Just as important: Bullock has helped create some of those looksin basketball lingo, you would say hes hunted themby slinking away from defenders to put himself more directly in the ballhandlers line of sight. (This could also be asked of centre Nerlens Noel, whos been a fantastic fit in replacing the injured Mitchell Robinson.) On one hand, it may not be a huge deal for New York to loosen the purse strings for him. On the other, with the Knicks finally looking legitimate, they may be more inclined to go big-star hunting, whichif they end up landing onewould make it tougher to retain a well-rounded player like Bullock. Of all the things you can question with New YorkBarretts occasional tendency to run hot and cold, the teams high foul rate on defence, whether the Knicks have been the beneficiary of good luck with opponents missing from threeits almost impossible to knock this teams effort. After years of geometric shapes and riddlesand almost no mention of the defensive side of the ball at timesits been refreshing to see the Knicks commit to getting stops on a nightly basis. In any given quarter youll see the long-limbed Noel issuing more return-to-sender notices than a local post office, or witness New Yorks pesky wing stoppers swarming like cicadas on their rotations and closeouts. Its some hard work. Its real, Barrett says of the defensive intensity coach Tom Thibodeau requires each possession. But you kind of get used to it as the season goes along. (One thing to monitor, which Thibodeaus addressed with his players: The teams fourth-ranked defence hasnt been consistently solid during this run of success. Its been more of an offensive hot streak. The Knicks hemorrhaged 113.5 points per 100 possessions from April 16 to April 27, one of the NBAs 10 worst rates in that window.) Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Often when people discuss Thibodeau and his ideology, both are framed through the prism of minutes and potential injuries. And thats understandable, given the Bulls struggles to stay healthy during his time in Chicago. (Aside from Roses ACL tear in the 2012 playoffs, Joakim Noah and current Knick Taj Gibson also got injured during the teams first-round series loss that year.) But the better question may be whether the Knicks every-night grind will leave enough in the tank for them to find another gear in the playoffs. Then again, this was a youth-led team that went 2145 last year. One that brought back seven of its top nine rotation players, andwith the NBAs lowest payrolldidnt add any significant free agents. So even if New York ends up flaming out a month from now, fine. We know whatever goes up has to come down at some point. But after eight years, its been fun to see the Knicks enjoy this sort of hang time again.
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https://www.thestar.com/sports/si/2021/04/29/whats-next-for-the-knicks-now-and-beyond.html
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Is he right for me?
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Q. Ive been in a relationship with my boyfriend for about two years now. I knew I loved this man from the get-go ... very sweet and sensitive and handsome. However, I also had the feeling that as much as I loved this man, he just wasnt right for me. Those feelings never entirely went away, but definitely subsided as we developed. I love spending time with him; its very comfortable and I believe hed do anything for me. But he is a bit of an absentminded professor and just goes one day to the next without much effort to let me know he appreciates me in his life. Advertisement About six months ago, I met someone new in the community and he struck a different cord with me. I left my boyfriend for him. But all I could do is think of Boyfriend #1. I felt like I was a fraud when I was with #2. And #1 fought for me every day. Boyfriend #1 and I started trying to make it work again, but in the back of my mind is how well I was treated by #2. We just ended it because Im a ball of confusion (I called him out on not making me feel like #2 does (in so many words). Except he isnt Boyfriend #2, hes Boyfriend #1 and I love him. Hes not perfect for me, but he loves me and I love him. No one and no relationship is perfect. BALL OF CONFUSION A. Hello, confusion ball. Boyfriend #1 is your man of choice. So yes, embrace that decision and him. Think about how he shows his interest. He might not say it in words. Maybe hes good at simply showing up and being present. Advertisement If you want more validation and communication, you could suggest some periodic check-ins. After every few weeks, you could have a conversation about how youre both doing. As in, I still find you super attractive and would like to take a vacation with you. The stuff you might not think to say on a random Tuesday. That could be the compromise if hes not very effusive. Youre right, though: No relationship is perfect, and maybe #2 looks good on paper but you want #1. Remind yourself why you couldnt let go of this man, despite the absentminded professor thing. Also, it sounds like he responds to your needs when you share them, so when you talk about important things, dont hint. Be clear. MEREDITH READERS RESPOND: I think youll continue to be just meh about your first boyfriend and thats not fair to him. And frankly, after you outright told him you keep comparing him to the second guy, he shouldnt want you back. Thats a cruel thing to say. Just because you can toy with men doesnt mean you should. LUPELOVE You DONT love #1! If you did, you would never have been so hurtful to say You dont treat me the way the other guy does! There are ways to make your point without rubbing it in his face that someone else has hit it. I bet you even respect him less now for taking you back. Advertisement DANGLEPARTICIPLE I am married to a brilliant absentminded engineer guy who also found it difficult to express his feelings for me verbally. In every other way he was the man of my dreams. In the beginning of our relationship I began to get irritated but saw this as my shortcoming to fix. I decided to love and appreciate him for exactly who he is. After 10 years our love has grown deeper and stronger. He expresses his love beautifully in birthday and Valentines cards and in everyday gestures that make me swoon. Either appreciate Boyfriend #1 as he is or let him go find someone who does. HAPPYINLOVE Send your own relationship and dating questions to loveletters@globe.com. Catch new episodes of Meredith Goldsteins Love Letters podcast at loveletters.show or wherever you listen to podcasts. Column and comments are edited and reprinted from boston.com/loveletters.
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https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/04/29/lifestyle/is-he-right-me/
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What numbers are the new IU basketball players wearing?
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The Indiana University men's basketball team announced new uniform numbers for the 2021-22 season: >> Transfer Xavier Johnson will wear No. 0, worn last year by Cooper Bybee. (Best IU player to wear 0: Romeo Langford) >> Rob Phinisee will switch from 10 to 1, which had been worn by Al Durham Jr. (Jared Jeffries) >> Transfer Miller Kopp will wear 12. (Steve Alford) >> Freshman Logan Duncomb will wear 51. (Earl Calloway) >> Freshman Tamar Bates will wear 53. (Tom Geyer) More:Best IU basketball player at each jersey number yeah, we picked 'em College basketball players can't wear the numbers 6, 7, 8 or 9 in either digit. This allows officials to use both hands to signal who a foul is on with their five fingers. Teams are also allowed a 0 or 00 but not both. Here is the full roster (year is based on eligibility): 0: Xavier Johnson, 6-3, 200, G, Jr. 1: Rob Phinisee, 6-1, 187, G, Jr. 3: Anthony Leal, 6-5, 210, G, Fr. 4: Khristian Lander, 6-2, 185, G, Fr. 5. Michael Shipp, 6-3, 190, G, So. 12: Miller Kopp, 6-7, 215, F, Jr. 14: Nathan Childress, 6-6, 212, F, So. 15: Sebastien Scott, 6-2, 185, G, Fr. 21: Jerome Hunter, 6-7, 215, F, So. 22: Jordan Geronimo, 6-6, 220, F, Fr. 23: Trayce Jackson-Davis, 6-9, 245, F, So. 25: Race Thompson, 6-8, 228, F, Jr. 32: Trey Galloway, 6-4, 210, G, Fr. 45: Parker Stewart, 6-5, 200, G, Jr. 51: Logan Duncomb, 6-9, 235, C, Fr. 53: Tamar Bates, 6-5, 180, G, Fr. Contact IndyStar Deputy Sports Editor Nat Newell at (317) 444-6182 or nat.newell@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter: @NatJNewell.
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https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2021/04/29/indiana-basketball-what-numbers-new-players-wearing-rob-phinisee/4890175001/
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Will IU football program run its NFL Draft streak to eight years in a row?
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Jon Blau Bloomington Herald-Times There are two criteria recruits often use to judge college football programs. Indiana has upped its game on the Saturday part, following up a historic eight-win season with an even more remarkable six-win campaign in a pandemic-shortened slate. But this weeks NFL Draft will give IUs program another test on the Sunday front, demonstrating whether professional teams want the Hoosiers talent. Most top recruits want a chance to play in the league. Its almost certain IU will have at least one player drafted, extending its streak to eight years in a row the longest run of drafted players since the selection process was reduced to seven rounds in 1994. IU safety Jamar Johnson is widely expected to be taken in the early to middle rounds. On 10 occasions since 1994, IU has had multiple players drafted in the same year. But the last two years, its been single draftees for the Hoosiers, Wes Martin in 2019 (Redskins, 4th round) and Simon Stepaniak in 2020 (Packers, 6th round), both offensive linemen. There are a handful of players who could pair with Johnson this time around. Senior receiver Whop Philyor and junior running back Stevie Scott were fellow NFL Combine invitees, despite a lack of a physical event in Indianapolis this year. Defensive tackle Jerome Johnson and center Harry Crider are two experienced front-line players who could help a team in the trenches. Here are IUs draft-eligible prospects and what they bring to the equation, as the Hoosier football program tries to push players to the next level. Jamar Johnson, Safety The 6-foot, 205-pound defensive backs early entry into the NFL Draft was only surprising because the 2020 season was his first as a full-time starter. But given his makeup, its not hard to understand why the NFL would return a second- or third-round grade when Johnson entered his name for consideration. Playing his freshman and sophomore seasons as a hybrid husky in IUs 4-2-5 scheme, Johnson flashed an ability to play the run, blitz the quarterback, and split out into the slot and cover. He moved back to free safety as a junior, tying for the team lead with four interceptions, proving his range on the backend. He probably didnt log his fastest 40-yard dash time at IUs pro day, coming in at 4.58 seconds. But with a 35-inch vertical and a 4.41-second short shuttle both good numbers his athletic profile should translate to the NFL. NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein called Johnson an ascending defensive back who offers the positional versatility needed in todays game. His combination of vision, field awareness and instincts usually have him in the right place at the right time, Zierlein wrote. Johnson is willing as a tackler, but needs to clean up his technique and approach to bolster his run support for the next level. His high football IQ should aid his transition to pro football as a future starter with a strong upside. Pro Football Network called Johnson an underrated prospect and lists the Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins, and Minnesota Vikings as possible suitors, though Johnsons ability to play nickel corner does widen his range of landing spots. Whop Philyor, Wide receiver Philyor, like all seniors, had an opportunity to return to IU in 2021 due to the COVID-altered 2020 season, but he chose to go ahead and make the jump. No one could blame him. The 5-10, 184-pound slot receiver finished ninth all-time in receiving yards at IU with 2,067. He was essentially a safety blanket for Michael Penix Jr. and Peyton Ramsey over the last two seasons, nabbing quick passes and making plays in space. The only issue for Philyor is the NFL is loaded with players who can move in space. So the question is whether Philyor did enough at IU and during his pro day to distinguish himself. According to draft pundits, Philyor is right on the borderline. Pro Football Networks Tony Pauline has Philyor ranked as the No. 266 prospect in the draft. Pro Football Focus has Philyor ranked at No. 258. Last years selection process had 255 picks. So its hard to make a guarantee either way, and his 4.57 40-yard dash time at IUs pro day didnt paint a picture of a receiver who can blow the top off of defenses. But Philyor only needs one team to fall in love with his short-area quickness and his toughness after the catch. Zierlein wrote for NFL.com, Im sure teams would like for him to carry a little more weight on his frame, but hes certainly not lacking in toughness. Philyor is more than willing to work into the teeth of the defense underneath, but also has the acceleration to blow past unsuspecting off-man coverage and stretch the field from the slot. Pro Football Network listed Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Buffalo, and Green Bay as possible fits for Philyor. Whether he gets drafted or not, its only the beginning of the road for Philyor. Late-round draft picks arent guaranteed a roster spot. Then again, he need only look to last April to see that an undrafted receiver can carve out a niche. IUs Nick Westbrook didnt get selected in last years draft, but he excelled on special teams and earned a spot on the Titans active roster during the 2020 season. Stevie Scott III, Running back Like Jamar Johnson, Scott decided to enter the draft after his junior season, which is not totally surprising. Tread on the tires is always a consideration for running backs seeking to play at the next level. In three seasons at IU, the 6-2, 231-pound rusher carried the ball 562 times, which ranks seventh all-time in school history. Given the game of football has shifted away from the run, thats a lot of wear over three years. Scott had success, finishing fourth all-time at IU with 30 rushing touchdowns. The trouble is Scotts projection to the NFL isnt easy, because he has limitations. Hes a well-built back, plus an above-average pass protector, but he didnt display a ton of wiggle at IU, or a second gear, which would make him a surefire draft pick. He tends to need runway to get going upfield, and it takes him time to get there. At IUs pro day, Scott ran a 4.66-second 40-yard dash at 225 pounds. With that said, Pro Football Network has Scott as the No. 312 prospect on the board. NFL.com also considers him a priority free agent with a chance to make a roster. He possesses an impressive combination of vision, power and feel for blocking development as a short-yardage runner whos able to finish drives for touchdowns, Zierlein wrote. He needs a clear point of entry as an early down runner so he can get it moving downhill quickly. His short-yardage talent is appealing, but maybe not appealing enough to keep him on a roster. If a team needs a short-yardage back who wont leave a quarterback hanging in pass protection, Scott could be an option. But as football becomes more and more pass-first, backs like Scott arent typically high on draft boards. The rest While its unlikely anyone beyond Johnson, Philyor, or Scott gets their name called, another Hoosier could be on a teams draft radar. Jerome Johnson, IUs fifth-year defensive tackle, is coming off a first-team All-Big Ten season. Pro Football Network says the 6-3, 304-pounder has a terrific first step but comes with average measurables and does not play with leverage. Hes down the board, according to draft experts, but its not out of the question a team likes his athletic ability and upside in the trenches. Harry Crider, the Hoosiers center, probably wasnt on the draft radar coming into the year, but he did blast out 31 reps of 225 pounds during IUs pro day. He also has the versatility of playing both guard and center, which could make him attractive to a team in need of interior line help. The star of the bench press for IU, though, was defensive tackle Jovan Swann. The former Stanford grad transfer lifted the bar 34 times at the Hoosiers pro day. That would have been more than any defensive lineman at the combine in 2020. Its still a long shot, but who knows. The least likely to hear his name called is punter Haydon Whitehead. Its exceedingly rare that NFL teams use draft capital on specialists, and there are only 32 of those jobs available in the league. There are no backup punters. If Whitehead is drafted, however, there will be pandemonium back in Melbourne, Australia, because the 25-year-old Whitehead only started playing American football after he fell just short of going pro as a rugby player back home. Would make a cool story, but not likely.
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https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2021/04/29/indiana-football-iu-run-its-nfl-draft-streak-eight-years/4890700001/
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Can Painful Complications Arise After A Covid-19 Nasal Swab Test?
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A young Palestinian man reacts as a health worker collects a nasal swab sample for a coronavirus ... [+] test at a local clinic in Gaza city, on April 29, 2021, - Health authorities in Gaza said the situation concerning the coronavirus pandemic was aggravated following the emergence last month of the more contagious British variant, which fuelled a surge in cases among younger Palestinians. (Photo by MOHAMMED ABED / AFP) (Photo by MOHAMMED ABED/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images Timely and reliable testing is essential for controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. Nasal swab RT-PCR testing is most commonly used for diagnosing the air-borne disease, all thanks to its excellent specificity and sensitivity in detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus within 48 hours. While nasal sampling is safe, some doctors have clinically observed that after a swab test, there could be the possibility of severe complications such as a cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) leak in rare cases. But these cases have been far and few. (CSF leak is a condition in which a clear fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord leaks through a small tear in the outer most layer of connective tissue (dura matter) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord and holds in the CSF. That fluid is normally responsible for cushioning the brain and spinal cord from injury. It also helps in nutrient delivery and waste removal system for the brain.) Doctors and researchers are still trying to figure out how often complications can arise following a nasal swab test. In a new study published in the journal JAMA OtolaryngologyHead & Neck Surgery, a group of Finnish researchers from the Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, investigated the frequency and type of complications that have arose following a Covid-19 nasal swab test. Lead author Dr. Anni Koskinen, and colleagues findings emphasize the importance of adequately trained technicians who can perform nasal swabs for Covid-19 RT-PCR tests safely. During the 7-month study period between March 1 and September 30, 2020, the researchers observed all patients who visited Helsinki University Hospitals dedicated otorhinolaryngology emergency department. The researchers then screened the patients for complications after the Covid-19 nasal swab test. They also got the number of Covid-19 tests performed in the hospital (1.6 million) during the same period from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare. Around 6,43,284 Covid-19 RT-PCR tests were performed within seven months. Out of that, doctors treated only eight complication related visits in the emergency department. Seven of them were women, and one was male. They were between the ages of 14 years old to 78 years old. Four of them experienced nasal bleeds after the Covid-19 nasal swab test. Another four rushed to the hospital immediately after the test with four broken swabs that got stuck in each of their nasal cavity, respectively. None of these eight patients tested positive for Covid-19. That made the frequency of complications requiring treatment in the emergency department 1.24 per 100 000 performed SARS-CoV-2 tests. Out of these eight patients, one of them had previously undergone a rhino surgery or a nose job. Another was suffering from a nasal congestion at the time of the Covid-19 test. Whereas the others either had a hematological disorder, a cardiovascular disease, or were on anti-coagulant (blood thinners) medication. The doctors removed the broken swabs via nasal endoscopy under local anesthesia. However, the treatment for nasal bleeds took longer. The patients required medication, many nasal packings the placement of an intranasal device that applies pressure to the nasal septum locally and surgical and endovascular procedures. While this might sound scary, dont shy away from getting a Covid-test done! The researchers concluded that the frequency of complications was extremely low in their study. All complications seemed to involve an incorrect sampling technique: excess use of force or an overly cranial direction (directed towards the brain) of the swab. While the patients who experienced broken swabs fared well, the patients with epistaxis (nasal bleeds) had rockier recuperations, the researchers wrote. To avoid complications, correct sampling techniques are crucial. Sampling should always be performed bearing in mind the anatomical structures of the nasal cavity and its surroundings to ensure safe sampling and correct results. Force should never be used, especially in patients with known prior operations of the nose or skull base. The sampling swab should be directed along the nasal floor, not too laterally nor too cranially, until resistance is encountered, the researchers concluded.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/anuradhavaranasi/2021/04/29/can-painful-complications-arise-after-a-covid-19-nasal-swab-test/
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What's It Like To Travel To Florida Now?
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The rocket garden at Kennedy Space Center on Florida's Space Coast. Christopher Elliott If you like warm-weather vacations, you've probably considered a trip to Florida and then reconsidered. Maybe you've seen the images of masked theme park visitors and unmasked spring breakers. Or you've read about the state's relaxed rules and followed the worrisome COVID-19 case reports. I could cite the latest Florida Department of Health information. (I'll condense it for you: The beaches, visitor centers and state parks are open. But if you're vulnerable, stay home). I could talk to Florida Tourism officials, but you already know what they're going to say. Come and visit. Everything's fine! But there's only one way to find out. You have to go. I spent the last three weeks touring the Sunshine State by car. My stops included the epicenter of American tourism, Orlando. I swung through Florida's Space Coast and ended my trip in Sarasota, on the west coast. Along the way, I discovered a few helpful tips for staying safe when you visit Florida. This is what it's like to travel to Florida now: A sign at Disney Studios warns visitors to keep ... [+] their masks on or face expulsion. Christopher Elliott Disney World: Mandatory masks and more One of the first things you notice when you drive into Florida is that masks appear to be optional. Outdoors, almost no one is wearing them. Indoors, you might see a few more people with face coverings. And then there's Disney World. Masks are required indoors and outdoors. You can remove them to eat and to take pictures. If you break the rules, Mickey will show you the turnstiles. We saw someone being escorted out of the park on the day we visited Epcot. This is serious. Disney's four Orlando theme parks are running at about 35 percent capacity. They look a lot more crowded than they are because of social distancing requirements. There's a six-foot rule in the lines, making them look a lot longer than they are. But they move quickly. The pandemic Disney experience rewards guests who plan ahead. You have to make reservations to get into the theme parks. Some popular rides like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Hollywood Studios also require a reservation. The reaction from guests was positive. The visitors I met at the theme parks and Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, where I stayed, expressed gratitude for having a chance to visit the Happiest Place On Earth during the pandemic. Disneyland in California has been closed since the outbreak, so if you need a Disney fix in the United States, Orlando is pretty much your only option. And full disclosure: I didn't interview the guy who was sent away for his noncompliance. Something tells me he wasn't having a magical day. Disney officials told me they're focused on the future. They're busy promoting the new Star Wars attractions at Hollywood Studios, and they're also halfway through an ambitious renovation of Epcot. The guests I spoke with said they had a lot of confidence in the Disney experience. They understood that some closed attractions, mask requirements, limited park options and longer wait times for shuttle buses were necessary to keep them safe. That's what it's like to travel to Florida now. Kayaking at the Brevard Zoo on Florida's Space Coast. Christopher Elliott The Space Coast: go for launch! On Florida's east coast, it's a somewhat different experience. In Cocoa Beach, just south of the Kennedy Space Center, it almost looked like the pandemic was over. Some businesses still require that you wear a mask indoors, but out on the pier and on the beach, it felt like 2019 again. The Kennedy Space Center is preparing for one of the most exciting times in space flight since the 1960s. Regular rocket launches are a mainstay of life on the Space Coast. I watched the April 24 night launch of a SpaceX crewed mission from the balcony at the Courtyard by Marriott. The powerful rocket turned night into day for a few brief moments, which is an unforgettable experience. The view from our room at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa Beach on launch day. Christopher Elliott This part of Florida has its head in the clouds. A few days before, I watched the tail end of the Cocoa Beach Air Show from my room at the Beachside Suites. That one will go down in history as the air show where a restored TBM Avenger, a WWII-era aircraft, unexpectedly landed in the water. Fortunately, no one was hurt. The area is also known for an impressive collection of WWII and Vietnam-era aircraft at the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum. (Masks are currently required indoors, but not in the outdoor exhibits.) Even businesses that require masks, like the Brevard Zoo, don't make you wear them everywhere. When I took my kids out kayaking around the exhibits the Brevard Zoo is the only zoo in America that lets you kayak around the animals our guide told us we could safely remove our face coverings. If you want to know what it's like to travel to Florida now, the Space Coast is pretty typical. It's impossible to walk away from this place without feeling the pandemic was left on the runway or launchpad. A jellyfish at the Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium in Sarasota, Fla. Christopher Elliott A quieter side of Florida in Sarasota And then there's Sarasota, on Florida's quieter west coast. There were fewer tourists here than in Orlando or Cocoa Beach, even at the usually busy Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium. It's one of the area's top attractions, and rightfully so. Like other Florida tourism businesses, Mote has limited its visitor numbers during the pandemic and helps maintain social distancing through a timed admission system. But it made the aquarium look almost deserted, at least compared to the last time we visited. The venue can affect people's attitude toward the pandemic. For example, at the Sarasota Art Museum, which is wrapping up an exhibit of Janaina Tschpe's works, every visitor wore a mask and kept a polite social distance. If you like things a little less frenetic, that's actually a good thing. It allows companies to offer a little extra attention to their guests. At the Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota Hotel, staff members seemed unhurried as they helped socially distanced guests with directions. And I overheard the chef at the on-site Bridges Restaurant chatting leisurely with guests something I hadn't seen in years. Our visit happened to coincide with the day the Centers for Disease Control gave the OK for vaccinated people to go without a mask outdoors. Within hours, the number of maskless people seemed to multiply. The number of cases in Sarasota County has fallen to below 100 new infections per day and continues to decline. The COVID-19 epidemic may not be over, but it sure feels like it here. A sign warns visitors to the Brevard Zoo to mask up. One of the most common questions I get other than "What's it like to visit Florida now?" is: "Is it safe to visit Florida at a time like this?" The answer is simple: Yes, but you still have to be careful. Here are a few tips for staying safe when you visit Florida. Stay away from crowds. I'd still recommend avoiding any large groups of people including the late-morning crush of guests at Disney, the crowded bars on the Cocoa Beach Pier, or the busy sidewalk cafes in downtown Sarasota on the weekends. They're probably safe, but you never know. Look for attractions that do timed admissions. The Brevard Zoo and Mote Aquarium are great examples of facilities adapted to the new reality of pandemic travel. If you follow the recommendations of the museums which include still wearing a mask you should stay virus-free. Don't follow the herd. One of the things I noticed is that once one or two people removed their masks, others did too. Resist that temptation. That's particularly true indoors even in large places like the Saturn V exhibit at Kennedy Space Center. It's still indoors, even if it doesn't feel that way. If you're vaccinated and cautious, you can visit Florida safely now. Don't forget to have fun.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2021/04/29/whats-it-like-to-travel-to-florida-now/
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What Sort Of Manager Do Tottenham Hotspur Need To Move On From Jose Mourinho?
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AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - APRIL 25: Trainer coach Erik ten Hag of Ajax during the Dutch Eredivisie ... [+] match between Ajax and AZ at Johan Cruijff Arena on April 25, 2021 in Amsterdam, Netherlands (Photo by Gerrit van Keulen/BSR Agency/Getty Images) Getty Images Jose Mourinho was always an awkward fit for Tottenham Hotspur. Revered for being European soccers go-to guy for instant success, it was somewhat surprising that the Portuguese would take charge of a project club like the North London outfit in the first place. What was less surprising was that their uncomfortable relationship ended after only 17 months. Now, Spurs must identify a successor to repair the damage done by Mourinho. Chairman Daniel Levy must find a manager more aligned with the clubs values although the number of candidates available already appears to be dwindling. It wont be easy for Tottenham to appoint someone who can take them back into the elite. Julian Nagelsmann had been linked with the vacancy, but the 33-year-old has already agreed a deal to take over at Bayern Munich this summer. Brendan Rodgers was another name mentioned as a potential candidate, but recent reports claim the Northern Irishman has decided to stay put with Leicester City on the brink of Champions League qualification. BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: Graham Potter, Manager of Brighton & Hove Albion is interviewed by Sky ... [+] Sports prior to the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Newcastle United at American Express Community Stadium on March 20, 2021 in Brighton, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Newcastle United/Newcastle United via Getty Images) Newcastle United via Getty Images Brightons Graham Potter would be a left-field choice. However, his brand of football would appeal to those who want to see Spurs play the game in a modern and dynamic way again. Levy would be taking an almighty risk by hiring a manager who hasnt even completed one season in the Premier League PINC , though. Recent speculation has placed Erik Ten Hag as the favourite to take charge at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this summer. As Ajax manager for the last four years, the 51-year-old has earned a reputation for himself as a forward-thinking coach. The sort of coach Spurs want to get them back on the straight and narrow. Tottenham know Ten Hag well. It was Ajax side they knocked out of the 2018/19 Champions League semi finals in dramatic fashion. Ten Hags team, which included young talents like Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt, caught the eye with sparkling displays away to Juventus and Real Madrid, coming within seconds of the final. Ten Hag learned from Pep Guardiola while working as head coach of Bayern Munich II and this education is evident in the way his teams play. The Dutchman isnt afraid to try new tactical ideas. He gets the best out of players - see Dusan Tadic, who has flourished in Amsterdam having failed to make much of a mark at Southampton. LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur and Erik Ten Hag, ... [+] Manager of Ajax embrace prior to the UEFA Champions League Semi Final first leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax at at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 30, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) Getty Images Under Mauricio Pochettino, Spurs earned a reputation for bringing through young players. With Mourinho at the helm, the pathway between the youth academy and the first team was blocked. Its in Tottenhams best interests to re-establish that pathway. This is another area where Ten Hag stands out as a candidate. As an Ajax coach, he is wired to trust youth. Whoever gets the Spurs job this summer will have a lot of work ahead of them. While Mourinho added to the deep sense of malaise around the club, the squad is in need of an overhaul. That has been apparent since the final days of Pochettinos tenure, when the Argentine didnt get the transfer market backing he wanted. Levy cant expect Ten Hag, or whoever he appoints this summer, to fix every issue Tottenham Hotspur have, but the identification of the right manager would be an important first step in the recovery of the North London club. Spurs must learn from the mistake they made in hiring Mourinho by seeking someone who is essentially his antithesis.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/grahamruthven/2021/04/29/what-sort-of-manager-do-tottenham-hotspur-need-to-move-on-from-jose-mourinho/
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Whats Driving The Surge In Apples Margins?
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People in the Apple Store. Many people use the occasion on March 16 2021 to shop in Munich ... [+] downtown. As the incidence is over 50 and is rising, one has to register before buying. (Photo by Alexander Pohl/NurPhoto via Getty Images) NurPhoto via Getty Images Apple posted a strong set of Q2 FY21 results, with revenue surging almost 54% year-over-year to about $90 billion and earnings per share rising to $1.40, up from around $0.64 last year, driven by higher sales of the iPhone, digital services, as well as iPads and Macs. Apples gross margins expanded by a remarkable 420 basis points year over year to 42.5%, reaching their highest levels in almost nine years. The new iPhone 12 handsets saw their first full quarter of sales over Q2 FY21, helping iPhone revenue rise 65% compared to last year. The iPhone is Apples most profitable hardware product and the new handset is also priced at a premium compared to its predecessors, helping margins. Apples services business also had a solid quarter, with sales growing by about 26% compared to last year, with services gross margins rising to 70% from about 65% last year, driven by a more favorable revenue mix, likely skewed toward more commission generating businesses such as apps and third-party subscriptions. For example, Apple says that it has about 660 million paid subscriptions on its platform now, marking an increase of 145 million compared to last year. Separately, Apple said that it also benefited from a favorable foreign exchange environment. The company has guided margins of between 41.5% and 42.5% for Q3, which is reasonably high, considering that FYQ3 is typically a seasonally weaker quarter compared to FYQ2. Moreover, Apple expects to see some semiconductor supply constraints for its Macs and iPads over the next quarter, likely putting some pressure on margins. Check out our theme on Apple Component Supplier Stocks which includes a diverse set of companies that supply components for iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices. [4/16/2021] Apples Q2 Earnings Preview Apple is expected to publish its Q2 FY21 results on April 28. We expect Apples Revenues to come in at about $76.6 billion, marking an increase of about 31% year-over-year. EPS is likely to stand at about $0.97 per share, an increase of about 51% compared to last year. Our revenue estimates are roughly in line with consensus while our EPS estimate is marginally below consensus. Revenues should see a nice bump year-over-year driven by the higher-priced iPhone 12 handsets which will see their first full quarter of availability. Higher demand for computing products such as Macs and iPads and stronger growth in the services business is also likely to drive Apples top line. Moreover, Apple will see a favorable comparison with Q2 FY20 when sales were impacted by the first set of Covid-19 related lockdowns. Apples margins could also trend higher, driven by a growing mix of services revenues and higher average prices on iPhones, although the supply crunch in the semiconductor market could put some pressure on the company. for more details. Apple stock has rallied by almost 90% over the last 12 months, driven by growing demand for consumer electronics through Covid-19, anticipation surrounding the 5G iPhones, and Apples position as a safe haven stock. The stock now trades at roughly 30x forward EPS, which is higher compared to historical levels. Its very likely that Apples Q2 results will determine the near-term trajectory for Apples stock. Apple had a solid Q1 FY21, posting record Revenues that topped $110 billion led by the new 5G iPhones. Apples Operating Margins also soared by a remarkable 220 basis points year over year to about 30.1%. Lets take a closer look at what drove Apples Products and Services Gross Margins and Operating Expenses to find out. Apples Product Gross Margins, or the profits it makes after accounting for direct costs related to making its iDevices, computers, and accessories, rose by around 90 basis points year over year to 35.1%. Although we actually expected margins to face pressure on account of higher costs relating to 5G components on the new iPhones, Apple significantly beat our margin expectations, driven by a couple of factors. Firstly, Apple has a certain level of fixed costs in its product cost structures and with the product Revenue soaring by about 21%, it benefited from some leverage gains. Secondly, Apples product mix has been more favorable than previous quarters, with Apple nudging customers towards Pro versions of its devices, which likely have thicker margins. In fact, Apple raised the price of its iPhone 12 versus last years iPhone 11, making its iPhone 12 Pro models (priced at $1,000 and up) look like better value compared to last year. Apples Services business also saw Gross Margins soar to around 68.4%, an increase of around 400 basis points versus last year. Services Revenue grew by a strong 24% year-over-year, likely enabling better-fixed cost absorption. Apple also likely saw a large percentage of commission-driven revenues such as App sales and subscriptions, which are much more profitable. Apples operating expenses rose by just about 12% year-over-year compared to total Revenues which expanded by 21% and this was also a factor that drove its Operating Margin gains, in addition to the Gross Profit gains. Our dashboard Breaking Down Apples Services Revenue estimates the revenue figures for AppStore, Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud, Third-party Subscriptions, Licensing, Apple Care, and Apple Pay. We think so. Apples 2021 Revenues are projected to jump by a solid 21%, per consensus estimates, likely growing faster than Apples cost base. Moreover, the full impact of the new iPhone 12 is only likely to be seen in the coming quarters, as production picks up and the devices see full quarters of availability. For perspective, the device went on sale only about 3 to 4 weeks into Q1FY21, with popular models remaining short supplied. Apple is slated to publish its Q1 FY21 earnings on January 27, reporting on a quarter that saw the launch of its much anticipated 5G iPhone 12. We expect Revenues to come in at about $100 billion for the quarter, growing by about 9% versus last year, with EPS likely to grow by about 7% to around $1.35 per share. Our estimates are marginally below the consensus. Firstly, Revenues should see a bump driven by strong demand for the 5G iPhones, which saw multiple models remain back-ordered through the holidays. Apple should also see higher average selling prices for the iconic smartphone, as it raised base pricing on the iPhone 12 versus the iPhone 11, while nudging customers toward the more premium iPhone Pro models (priced at $1,000 and up), which appear to be a better value compared to last year. Apples Services business is also likely to have had its strongest quarter yet, driven by the App Store. In fact, Apple provided a data point indicating that between Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, a total of $1.8 billion was spent on apps, up 27% versus last year. [1] App sales growth over the same period last year was about 16%. That said, Apples margins could see some pressure, as the new iPhones are likely to be more expensive to produce compared to last year as 5G components are pricier. Apple stock has rallied by about 65% over the last 12 months, driven largely by anticipation surrounding the 5G iPhones. Apple stock now trades at 33x projected EPS, making it look pricey compared to historical levels. The Q1 FY21 earnings should give investors a good sense of how the device is faring and could be key to Apples stock trajectory in the near-term. for more details on Apples recent performance and whats driving its valuation. [12/9/2020] Apples Services Will Overtake The iPhone By 2024 Apples Services business is likely to emerge as its most profitable (and valuable) business within the next four years, likely eclipsing even the iPhone which is seen as one of the most lucrative consumer products of all time. Heres how we expect this to play out. We expect Services sales to grow at a rate of about 11% a year (down from a rate of 22% each year over the last 4 years) to $81.5 billion in FY24, driven by the continued growth of the AppStore and subscription services. On the other hand, we expect iPhone Revenues to grow at an average rate of about 5% each year over the next four years to about $167 billion (iPhone Revenue remained almost flat between 2016 and 2020). Now Apples services have much thicker margins compared to hardware products. Over FY20, Apples product Gross Margins stood at 31.5% versus about 66% for Services. If we assume that margins remain flat at current levels, Services Gross Profits would stand at about $54 billion in FY24, compared to about $53 billion for the iPhone. In fact, Operating Profits could actually be much higher for Services, considering that much of Apples Services sales come via commissions, with little marketing or development expenses involved. Our dashboard Breaking Down Apples Services Revenue estimates the revenue figures for AppStore, Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud, Third-party Subscriptions, Licensing, Apple Care, and Apple Pay. However, there are a few caveats. Firstly, Apples Service business is quite dependent on fees Google pays Apple for being the default search engine on its iDevices (an estimated 20% of Services Revenue, and a larger percentage of profits). Theres a possibility that the U.S. Justice Departments antitrust lawsuit against Google could jeopardize these payments, hurting Apples services growth. Secondly, Apple is increasingly investing in content production with services such as AppleTV+ and these offerings could also have lower margins. Internet services-led companies have typically commanded higher valuation multiples compared to hardware plays on account of their thicker margins, and associated platform-related lock-ins. However, in Apples case, this is likely already baked into its valuation. Apples trailing P/E multiple has soared and almost doubled over the past year to levels of around 38x currently which is in line with other Internet players such as Alphabet. Last week, Apple indicated that it would be cutting its commissions on app sales and in-app purchases from 30% to 15% for smaller developers, who earn less than $1 million annually from the AppStore. Apple has been facing significant criticism that its AppStore practices hurt smaller developers and tech giants, including Apple, face increasing scrutiny from regulators regarding their market power. This move should help Apples image to a large extent. App analytics company Sensor Tower estimates that about 98% of the developers that pay Apple commissions will benefit. After all, the AppStore is estimated to account for roughly a third of Apples Services Revenue. Not really. Apple earns a bulk of its AppStore revenue from the largest developers, with Sensor Tower indicating that developers who benefit from this program accounted for under 5% of App Store revenues last year. Moreover, the discounted fee will only apply until developers cross the $1 million threshold, after which Apple will bill them at the higher 30% commission rate. [Updated 8/17/2020] How The Epic Lawsuit Impacts Apple Last week, Epic Games sued Apple for antitrust violations, after its popular Fortnite game was removed from the AppStore shortly after Epic let players bypass Apples in-app purchase system, avoiding the 30% commission on sales. Although Apple has had spats with developers in the past, the Epic lawsuit is noteworthy for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the Epic lawsuit comes at a time when tech giants, including Apple, have been facing increasing scrutiny from regulators regarding their market power. Secondly, Apple is more dependent on its Services business than ever before, with hardware growth slowing (profits from Services grew 5x as fast as hardware profits over the first three-quarters of FY20), and Epics lawsuit targets Apples commissions, which we estimate are Apples single most profitable revenue stream. Apple made roughly about $360 million in commissions from Fortnite over the last two years per Sensor Tower a relative drop in the bucket for Apple which pulled in $260 billion-plus in revenues last year. [1] However, if Epic sees a favorable judgment, and if Apple is forced to reduce its commissions or change the terms of its AppStore, this is very likely to set a precedent, causing other developers to demand similar terms. Apple takes a 30% cut on App sales and subscriptions (15% from the second year of subscriptions) and we estimate that total commission revenues stood at almost $20 billion in FY19 (out of a total of about $46 billion in Services Revenue). If Apple reduced commissions to say 20% from 30%, it would reduced total commissions by about $7 billion to roughly $13 billion. Although the revenue impact would be limited for Apple (under 3% of Apples Total Revenue) the impact on profits would be more pronounced given that commissions are likely to be almost entirely profit. We estimate that Apples Operating Income would be about 10% lower if commissions were reduced, considering Apple posted about $64 billion in Operating Income in FY19. Now commissions of 30% are actually pretty standard across the industry Alphabets Google, which also faces a similar lawsuit from Epic, as well as Microsoft and Amazon, charge roughly the same fees on app sales on their respective market places. However, Apple has the most to lose from this given the sheer scale of its business. AppStore revenues are roughly twice as large as Googles Playstore. See How Its Powering New Collaboration and What-Ifs For CFOs and Finance Teams | Product, R&D, and Marketing Teams
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2021/04/29/whats-driving-the-surge-in-apples-margins/
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Who Is Tottenham Managerial Target Erik Ten Hag? And What Would He Bring To Spurs?
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Ajax coach Erik ten Hag, trophy during the Dutch Toto KNVB Cup Final match between Willem II and ... [+] Ajax Amsterdam on May 05, 2019 at the Kuip stadium in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. (Photo by VI Images via Getty Images) VI-Images via Getty Images Since Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy sacked Jose Mourinho on Monday April 19 the day after the news broke about the short-lived European Super League the club has been linked to a host of candidates for the vacant position, including Brendan Rodgers, Marcelino, Ralf Rangnick, Scott Parker, Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martinez. Rodgers has ruled himself out, Nagelsmann is going to join Bayern Munich and while other options have not been discarded, Dutchman and current Ajax boss Erik Ten Hag has emerged as the bookmakers favorite to take the role. According to a piece in the Guardian on Thursday, Tottenham want to meet Ten Hag to discuss the position. The meeting will reportedly take place once Ajax have wrapped up the Eredivisie title, which looks a formality, and Ten Hag is said to be interested in joining Spurs. The time would seem right for a move. Ten Hag has won everything domestically in the Netherlands and forged a reputation for constructing teams that play intelligent, attacking football. A move to the Premier League PINC would be a step up and the Spurs job a significant challenge, but one he has done enough to earn. Most Spurs fans will remember Ten Hag as the Ajax boss from the Champions League semi-final in 2019, when Tottenham beat the Dutch side in the most dramatic fashion to progress. ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - APRIL 18: (L-R) Nicolas Tagliafico of Ajax, Davy Klaassen of Ajax, Daley ... [+] Blind of Ajax, Brian Brobbey of Ajax, Dusan Tadic of Ajax, Maarten Stekelenburg of Ajax, coach Erik ten Hag of Ajax, Ryan Gravenberch of Ajax, Jurrien Timber of Ajax, Zakaria Labyad of Ajax, Devyne Rensch of Ajax celebrate the victory during the Dutch KNVB Beker match between Ajax v Vitesse at the Stadium Feijenoord on April 18, 2021 in Rotterdam Netherlands (Photo by Laurens Lindhout/Soccrates/Getty Images) Getty Images Playing style Ten Hag very much fits the attacking manager template that Levy is reportedly following in the search for Mourinhos replacement. Unsurprisingly, given the club he represents, Ten Hag is very much committed to a high-pressing, quick-passing, possession-heavy style of football based upon the ideas espoused by Johan Cruyff and his natural heir Pep Guardiola, with whom Ten Hag worked in his capacity as Bayern Munich reserve team boss from 2013 until 2015. Importantly, though, Ten Hags Ajax have never had only one way of playing. In the Dutch league, when faced with sides that sit back and defend, Ten Hag will encourage his team to use the wide men, generating two-on-ones down the flanks by pushing his full-backs up the pitch. In European football, when playing teams that come onto them and leave space in central areas, they look to play with combinations through the middle, as they did in the 2018-19 Champions League campaign with the fantastically talented midfield of Donny Van De Beek and Frenkie De Jong. Unlike Mourinho, Ten Hag also has a very clear strategy in attack. He sets out specific patterns and works on pre-determined passing movements that will help his players advance the ball on the pitch. That is something that the players would likely welcome after the give-it-to-Harry-or-Son-and-hope attacking plan that predominated under the Portuguese coach. In true Dutch style, Ten Hag also encourages his players to swap positions to draw markers and create space, whether they are wide or central. LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur and Erik Ten Hag, ... [+] Manager of Ajax embrace prior to the UEFA Champions League Semi Final first leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax at at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 30, 2019 in London, England. In terms of formation, Ten Hag favours a 4-3-3, but has played a 4-2-3-1 when he has had the players to suit the formation, so there could be space for a No.10 if he feels he can inject some new life into the ailing career of Dele Alli. Other players likely to benefit if he arrives would be intelligent creators like Tanguy Ndombele and Giovani Lo Celso and possibly passing controller Harry Winks. The wingers would also become significant parts of Spurs plans, with someone like Steven Bergwijn perhaps being the most obvious potential beneficiary. Ten Hag is also focused on youth development. He has worked with the likes of De Jong, Van De Beek and Matthijs De Ligt and more recently has mentored young South Americans like Lisandro Martinez, Antony and David Neres, bringing them on leaps and bounds and showing he can with players from around the world. Tottenham Hotspur's English midfielder Dele Alli (up) and Tottenham Hotspur's Portuguese head coach ... [+] Jose Mourinho watches the English FA Cup fifth round football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, on Match 4, 2020. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. Asked how he works before Ajax played Tottenham in 2019, Ten Hag is quoted by Football.London as having said, We prepare our team thoroughly, on the basis of our own strengths. We need to have respect for the opposition we take that into every match. That is how we do our work. "We want to be confident on the pitch, but we can't be naive. I don't have superstitions. I believe in my team, the players on the pitch and the plan we have gone through together. They can make their own independent decisions if something changes on the pitch. It also appears his former players enjoyed working with him. In an interview with the Guardian, De Jong praised Ten Hags positive energy and great football vision. De Ligt, meanwhile, told the BBC that Ten Hag had a really big role in the success" they enjoyed together in 2018-19. It is difficult to be certain. After huge success at Ajax, Frank De Boer went on to have really poor spells with Inter Milan and Crystal Palace, so winning in the Dutch league is no guarantee of great performance elsewhere. That said, Ten Hag does appear to fit the mold defined by the Spurs hierarchy and fans would likely enjoy his football far more than they did the dour fare served up under Mourinho. Whether Spurs can convince him to come to them... well, well have to wait and see.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshualaw/2021/04/29/who-is-tottenham-managerial-target-erik-ten-hag-and-what-would-he-bring-to-spurs/
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What Should We Call Covid-19 Variants To Avoid Racism?
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Coronavirus variants. getty Coronavirus strains are being named after where they were first found, such as calling B.1.351 the 'South African variant'. We should avoid using the names of places to label Covid variants, however, as it creates stigma and could lead to racism. The practice of naming a variant after a country can wrongly blame people from that place, as explained in a recent article published in the journal Science by epidemiologist Salim Abdool Karim, bioinformatics expert Tulio de Oliveira and Glaudina Loots from South Africa's Department of Science and Technology. Entitled 'Appropriate names for COVID-19 variants', the article covers some of the problems with geographic labelling and concludes that "scientific and media reports should not refer to variants by country names." The biggest problem is racism: any name based on location even a city can become racist language. Just as "Chinese virus" is an inappropriate name for the SARS-CoV-2 species, so too are labels like "Indian variant" for strain B.1.617. Naming Challenges Although the World Health Organization has produced a guide to preventing social stigma that highlights how words matter, WHO's guide is a preachy and unhelpful list of Dos and Don'ts. One major challenge is the need for variant names that don't sound like someone is playing a game of Battleship. That's especially important for media outlets: saying a name like "B.1.617" is a mouthful for news anchors, for example. Scientists have used various systems of naming or 'nomenclature' to label distinct kinds of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Some of those strains or variants have been named for their notable mutations, for instance, others have been labelled according to their branch or 'lineage' on an evolutionary tree. But as the authors of the Science article admit, labels based on mutations or lineage are difficult to say and write. Optimistic for resolution, they mention that WHO is "expected to announce a standard nomenclature soon". At WHO's Sixth Emergency Committee meeting on the Covid-19 pandemic on 14 January 2021, researchers and officials discussed naming systems and media-friendly terms for new variants. WHO claimed it would "Continue to work with partners to develop standardized definitions and nomenclature of SARS-CoV-2 virus variants, based on their genetic sequence, that avoids stigmatization and is geographically and politically neutral." Almost four months later and WHO still hasn't provided a standard naming system, and its Seventh meeting on 15 April didn't seem to cover the topic. That lack of progress shouldn't be a surprise given the organization's track record though. Regardless of the good work WHO has done in eradicating diseases like smallpox, it's a bureaucratic behemoth that isn't nimble enough to keep up with pandemics the organization also took too long to say that Coronavirus is airborne, for instance. WHO is often quick to point out problems, yet slow to offer practical solutions. The issue of naming Covid variants needs to tackled soon because, while has WHO dithered, the media has continued to use stigmatizing labels based on location. Alternative Names One solution is to get ahead of the problem and name Covid variants in advance. In an opinion piece for New Scientist magazine, microbiologist Mark Pallen proposed pulling labels from a pre-generated list of proper nouns, which is how tropical storms and cyclones are given names such as 'Hurricane Katrina'. To follow the storm-naming approach, we need a public health authority to take responsibility for deciding whether a new strain is a 'Variant Of Concern' (VOC) that poses a significant risk to humans and then randomly assign a pre-generated name, just as the World Meteorological Organization does with storms. The World Health Organization would need to work fast and become proactive to step up to such a task. Alternatively, names could be assigned by a different authority or trusted source of information one candidate is Johns Hopkins University, whose data is used by many news agencies to track Covid cases. Pallen also suggested adding "gravitas" through mythological or historical characters. A list based upon Greek mythology would mean variants named for Zeus or Heracles, for instance. Referring to a deadly virus with the names of gods or heroes may seem inappropriate, however, whereas using monsters like the Minotaur or Medusa is also flawed, given that the media gravitates toward scary phrases like 'mutant'. There's already more than enough fear-mongering surrounding Coronavirus. Pulling labels from a list is certainly better than using locations, but the approach has some shortcomings. Its major flaw is that, while using proper nouns such as 'Medusa' or 'Katrina' may well be fine for a force of Nature, it could be bad for a natural phenomenon that affects the human body. The issue with using proper nouns is that we humans tend to apply human-like qualities to non-human entities ('anthropomorphism'). With germs and diseases, an entity can become an enemy, which in turn leads to battle metaphors like the 'War on Cancer', which studies have found undermine treatment and prevention. Oncologists have argued that using such language could be harmful when talking about Covid-19 too, and doctors should "use war metaphors with caution [because] they are an ethical minefield." That suggests that using a proper noun as in phrases like trying to "beat a Medusa variant" may also be inappropriate. The biggest challenge for naming is adoption. Authorities might well want people to use terms such as B.1.617 or labels like 'Katrina variant', but whether those names end-up being adopted will depend on whether we make an effort to use them. Media Ethics We should be careful when using potentially racist language, and the power to influence how other people label things comes with ethical responsibility. The media in particular must avoid using location-based labels because they help dictate which words the general public will use in everyday conversation. News outlets might argue that a variant's origin is of public interest, but the counter-argument is they don't call SARS-CoV-2 the "Chinese virus" because it's racist. Mentioning where something was discovered isn't relevant to the story. And if you still can't see the similarity, congratulations on your ability to suppress cognitive dissonance and turn a blind eye to racism. Journalists need to balance ethical considerations with clear communication, which includes a need for their audience to recognize variants by name. The practical solution is simple: use lineage labels such as B.1.1.7 every time except in the first instance, then say something like "first isolated in the UK". You should never put a geographic location immediately next to the word "variant". New phrases are never familiar to audiences initially but, after people keep using them, they soon learn to recognize those words. If a headline contains 'B.1...' and the word 'variant', readers will immediately know that you're referring to a Covid variant. For those who might complain that a series of letters and numbers is confusing, remember that there's already a precedent for such labels, as we already refer to influenza strains using names like H1N1. The naming of new Covid variants started-out as a confused "bloody mess", with little agreement among researchers, but the media seems to have settled on using labels that are based on evolutionary lineage, such as B.1.617. As a result, lineage-based labels have become the de facto standard in our society, which means that alternative names may ultimately become unnecessary.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/jvchamary/2021/04/29/alternative-covid-variant-names/
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Will Biden Repeat One Of Obamas Biggest Mistakes With Infrastructure Bill?
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Biden on the podium before Congress and the nation. (Photo by Melina Mara-Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images President Joe Biden recently gave a speech to Congress and the nation. In it, he touted all his many legislative initiatives. It would have helped had he offered some priorities instead of pleas/demands for everything, but that is the way with nationally televised presidential stuff. Part of his talk dwelt on his $2.3 trillion infrastructure spending plan. Even in this one part of the Biden push, Congress and the commentariat have an awful lot of material to sort out, for the program is immense, in both its scope and dollar terms. Valid questions on emphasis and efficacy will arise hopefully in this public discussion, and future posts will offer perspective on such detail. This first post will look at an inherent flaw in the White Houses overall scheme: President Joe Biden has made the same essential mistake as his predecessor, President Barack Obama, with his failed 2009 infrastructure effort. Biden, in rolling out his plan, has frequently referenced Franklin Roosevelt, as did Barack Obama 12 years ago. Obamas references to the Great Depression had more resonance than Bidens does. After all, the economy in 2009 was in a deep recessionary funk, whereas today it is showing every sign of rebounding from the constraints of last years pandemic. However skewed the historical parallels, Biden relies on the same three justifications as did Obama: 1. the long-overdue need to refurbish the nations infrastructure, 2. shovel ready projects will immediately trim unemployment rolls, 3. government spending would jump start a broader surge in the economy as the private sector seizes opportunities uncovered by the governments effort and multiplies the economic effect of every federal dollar extending the positive impact into the indefinite future. Before charging off in a manner entirely parallel to his predecessor, Biden might do well to note how Obamas effort failed and on each of these same three points. In the years following the 2009 spending effort, unemployment remained high, and the U.S. economy suffered the slowest recovery on record. Shovel ready was never in the cards for Obama and is not in the cards for Biden. It might have served Roosevelt in the 1930s, but it describes nothing in the United States in the twenty-first century. The need for public hearings and zoning changes, not to mention environmental considerations, delayed the start of actual construction in 2009 and will now. If history is any guide, those delays will last for years. However warranted public hearings and environmental impact considerations are, they will scotch any immediate help this effort can give in reducing unemployment. Perhaps immediate needs will provide job opportunities for bureaucrats and lawyers, but not to the guys with the shovels. As was the case after the 2009 effort, large numbers will fail to go to work as promptly as suggested. The urgent need for overdue refurbishment will wait as well. The only prompt construction in 2009 were the billboards announcing President Obamas grand plans. They are already appearing now with President Bidens picture. The jump start prediction also failed in 2009, just as it will now, and for the same reasons. President Obama actually, if inadvertently, discouraged American business from seizing the opportunities opened by his infrastructure spending. His tremendous hostility toward profit making was the deciding factor. He blamed corporate greed for the countrys problems and threatening to tax and regulate away what he referred to as excessive profits. He did not have to follow through on his threat as the country back then already imposed the highest corporate taxes in the world. Facing them, companies had little to gain from leveraging any opportunities uncovered by the federal infrastructure spending. Accordingly, the Obama project missed just about all the multiplier effects that would have accompanied follow-on private investments and saw virtually no lasting effects. Instead, the presidents rhetoric and the tax code encouraged businesses to do their expanding abroad, where tax rates were lower. They left their earnings overseas as well, because Washington only promised to tax them at a higher rate than foreign governments did. Now Joe Biden wants to recreate the same impediments to success that Obama suffered. The White House has called for higher corporate taxes to pay for its infrastructure plans. Because in the interim, President Trump had lowered corporate tax rates, Biden seeks to raise those taxes by a whopping one third, from 21% today to 28%. If that were not reason enough for companies to question whether they should follow on the federal infrastructure effort with spending of their own, the president would also impose a 21% minimum tax on any company with a lot of deductions the sort that arise from building and capital spending projects. Effectively, Biden would single out for special punishment any firm that might choose to expand aggressively in the way that would multiply favorable economic effects from the federal spending. What is more, the general tax hike would again give American business an inducement to do its expansion overseas. Nor would business have any incentive to repatriate foreign earnings, because the White House would insist on taxing that money at the higher American rate. As in Obamas effort, Bidens plan would miss any of the general economic boost that might come from extra business spending. There is another flaw in this plan that will contribute to its ultimate failure. It includes nothing on what comes after the building. New roads and bridges need constant attention, as do recharging stations for electric cars and modernized homes and factories. The plan looks to corporate tax hikes to pay for the initial building but offers nothing on how America will maintain all this. If the White House were to promise to return business to lower tax rates after a period of time, firms might then have the incentive and the wherewithal to maintain all these new things. But instead, the White House looks to keep the higher tax rates in place, presumably to finance some other grand project while the infrastructure built over the next few years suffers its inevitable depreciation. It is popular to use the expression jump start to describe infrastructure spending, and it is an apt metaphor. The great economist, John Maynard Keynes, may have relied on it when he first promulgated the idea of using government spending to prompt a broader economic expansion, the multiplier effect, to use his words. A hefty push can sometimes get a reluctant car engine to engage. But if there is insufficient fuel, the exciting roar of that first engagement quickly sputters out. Joe Biden plans that hefty push, but because he also plans to siphon the engines fuel, all he will ultimately get is economic sputtering. If then, Congress succumbs and passes something like this plan, the nation will first see little, as it waits maybe a year or two for the paperwork that allows the shovels to arrive at the projects. Americas economy will then see an economic boost, perhaps just in time for the 2024 election, after which all will wind down, as President Obamas great infrastructure effort did. Unless your only focus is the next election, this is a poorly structured deal.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/miltonezrati/2021/04/29/will-biden-repeat-one-of-obamas-biggest-mistakes-with-infrastructure-bill/
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Are Companies Tying CEO Pay To ESG Because Its Not Linked To Performance?
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A game of dont look there, look here with the Big Three institutional investors http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/9896/businessuw5.jpg getty April is proxy season. Its a time when financial publications carry a mandatory story about how certain CEOs were paid unreal sums of money in the previous fiscal year. This year is no exception. But the headlines seem to have missed two important trends: (i) the growing pressure to link CEO pay to ESG metrics; and (ii) the initial set of companies that link CEO pay to ESG metrics may have done so to get capital providers to overlook the obvious link between pay and performance. My hypothesis is that adding ESG to CEO pay is a way to check a few boxes and keep the Big Three institutional investors (Vanguard, State Street and Black Rock) happy for a while without getting them to focus too deeply into whether executive pay has actually delivered shareholder value. The case, prima facie, for my hypothesis is pretty strong. The early adopters of the practice feature in prominent market indexes and are hence held passively by the big institutions. Smaller shareholders are by and large powerless to enforce change. Savers mechanically buy ETFs and indexes without worrying too much about what is actually in the index. The only check, if any, on these indexed firms is the stock price. As long as passive buying keeps the stock price relatively high, everyone is happy, and few questions get asked. Activist shareholders are unlikely to go after such companies unless the stock price or revenue tanks. Even then, under-performers like IBM are too complex for activists to deal with in a short time frame. Lets look at the data. The following prominent companies have linked CEO pay to ESG metrics: Shell committed to reducing its carbon footprint by making that a long-term benchmark goal for its CEOs incentive pay. Starbucks and IBM have linked CEO pay to human capital measures and DEI (diversity, equality and inclusion). Clorox and Mondelez have focused on sustainability and recycling initiatives and Chipotle has committed 10% of its CEOs annual bonus to a host of ESG metrics such as DEI, sustainable food sourcing and the publication of a new environmental report. Shell is in the oil business which took a shellacking in the last three years as its stock has underperformed the S&P 500 by roughly 102%, as per S&P CAP IQ. IBM holds the dubious distinction of being the only value stock in technology because it has experienced declining revenues for the last three years. In that time, IBMs stock has underperformed the S&P 500 by 59%. Meanwhile Clorox has barely kept up with the S&P 500 over the last three years and Mondelez has underperformed by around 11% in that same period. Hence, it is relatively easy to make the case that ESG was added to the compensation plan as stock price or operating performance tanked. The two exceptions to my hypothesis are Starbucks and Chipotle. Starbucks has beaten the S&P 500 over the last three years by 42%. Chipotle is a runaway star as that stock has outperformed the S&P 500 by a whopping 187% since April 2018 when its new CEO, Brian Niccol, took over. Despite such high odds against my story in these two cases, I believe I can find evidence that Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson has been paid handsomely although Starbucks has failed to deliver shareholder value. Consider the CEOs unexercised options and unvested equity as of the end of last year reproduced below. As I compare that list to this years unvested equity disclosure, 89,794 options granted on 11/16/2015 at a strike price of $60.68 does not appear as unvested in this years proxy. Hence that option grant has vested sometime this year, mostly likely on the fourth anniversary since the grant date or on 11/15/2019. Imagine the following thought experiment. Assume an average Joe bought 89,794 shares of Starbucks stock on 11/16/2015 at $60.68, on the exact same date and price as the CEOs option grant. That investor could have alternatively invested $5.44 million (89,794*$60.68) into the S&P 500. On the vesting date, 11/15/2019, the investment in Starbucks would have grown by 39% whereas the S&P 500 has grown by 51% in the same time period, as per S&P CAP IQ. The investor would have clearly been better off putting her money in the S&P 500. Hence, it is unclear whether the Starbucks CEO deserve the option payout. SBUX proxy table re unvested equity SBUX proxy table re unvested equity My hypothesis does not work for Chipotle, which I mentioned is a runaway success. To me, thats capitalism at work. Chipotles CEO has added huge value since he took over and hence deserves to be rewarded handsomely for his efforts. But, 4.5 out of six (Shell, IBM, Clorox, Mondelez, some part of Starbucks as opposed to Chipotle) is not a bad strike rate for my theory that underperforming companies would prefer to change the subject away from operating and stock price track records when it comes to CEO compensation.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/shivaramrajgopal/2021/04/29/are-companies-tying-ceo-pay-to-esg-because-its-not-linked-to-performance/
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How Do Cosmic Particles Break The Universes Energy Limit?
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Illustration of an array of ground-based detectors to characterize a cosmic ray shower. When ... [+] high-energy cosmic particles strike the atmosphere, they produce a cascade of particles. By building a large array of detectors on the ground, we can capture them all and infer the original particle's properties. ASPERA / G.Toma / A.Saftoiu Even among non-scientists, its well-understood that theres an ultimate speed limit to the Universe: the speed of light. If youre a massless particle, like a photon, you have no choice but to move exactly at that speed as you travel through empty space, which is 299,792,458 m/s, or the speed of light in a vacuum. If youre a massive particle, you can never reach that speed, but rather can only approach it. No matter how much energy you put into that particle, it will always move slower than light. But that doesnt mean that particles can move as close to the speed of light as they want, unimpeded. The Universe itself isnt quite empty, as there are both massive particles and photons permeating all of space. At normal energies, they dont play much of a role, but at very high energies, these particles exert a significant frictional effect, forcing those particles to slow down below a specific energy limit. At least, they ought to, but for almost 30 years weve been observationally finding particles that exceed this limit. Heres the cosmic story behind whats really going on. The inside of the LHC, where protons pass each other at 299,792,455 m/s, just 3 m/s shy of the speed ... [+] of light. As powerful as the LHC is, it cannot compete in terms of energy with the cosmic rays generated by the most powerful natural high-energy sources in the Universe. Julian Herzog / c.c.a-by-3.0 The highest-energy particle weve ever produced on Earth is at CERNs Large Hadron Collider. With energies reaching approximately 7 TeV, or around ~7000 times the rest-mass energy of the proton (from Einsteins E = mc2), these particles move at 299,792,455 m/s, or 99.999999% the speed of light. This might seem fast, but protons with these energies are free to travel through the Universe without much worry. Believe it or not, the answer is the most common quantum of energy in the Universe, which is the photon. Even though we think of photons as mostly coming from stars which they do those are only for the photons that have been created over the past ~13.7 billion years or so. Way back in the earliest stages of the Big Bang, far greater numbers of photons existed: more than one billion for every proton or neutron in the Universe. Today, those photons are still around, more diffuse and lower in energy than ever before. But we can not only detect them; we can figure out what their properties are. Any cosmic particle that travels through the Universe, regardless of speed or energy, must contend ... [+] with the existence of the particles left over from the Big Bang. While we normally focus on the normal matter that exists, made of protons, neutrons, and electrons, they are outnumbered more than a billion-to-one by the remnant photons and neutrinos. NASA/Sonoma State University/Aurore Simonnet Permeating every cubic centimeter of space, or approximately half the size of the last joint of your ring finger, there are 411 photons left over from the Big Bang in that volume. If you were to saw off half of your ring finger and leave it floating in space, more than ten trillion such photons would collide with it every second. Even though theyre exceedingly low in energy, with a mean energy of ~200 micro-electron-Volts, theyre the most abundant type of particle in the Universe. In our own corner of the cosmic neighborhood, this number is absolutely dwarfed by the number of photons coming from our Sun, but thats only because were so close to the Sun in space. While deep images of outer space reveal billions upon billions of stars clustered in trillions of galaxies within the observable Universe, the overwhelming majority of the Universes volume consists of intergalactic space. In those regions which represent the places where cosmic particles spend the majority of their time traveling its the leftover photons from the Big Bang that are the most common. The Pandora Cluster, known formally as Abell 2744, is a cosmic smash-up of four independent galaxy ... [+] clusters. However, this nexus of masses is cosmically rare; much more common is empty, intergalactic space. When a cosmic particle undertakes an intergalactic journey, most of its encounters will come with photons that are part of the cosmic microwave background. The same thing that happens to your hand when you stick it out of your car window as your vehicle travels down the highway. When your car is stationary, only the moving air molecules collide with you, and only at the low speeds/energies at which they travel relative to your stationary hand. When your car is in motion, however, your moving hand will preferentially collide with greater numbers of particles in the direction your hand is in motion. And the faster you go, the greater: the rate of collisions with air molecules, the force experienced by your hand, and the energy exchanged between the particles and your hand with each individual collision. In fact, every time you double your vehicles speed, the force on your hand from collisions with air molecules quadruples. If you stick your limbs out of a moving car, you'll feel a force as the air rushes past. If you ... [+] double your speed, the force quadruples. Yet, if you're at rest relative to the air, you'll experience no net force at all. Pxhere / photo number 151399 For cosmic particles, the story is similar. For a stationary particle, it experiences an equal rate of equal-energy collisions from these leftover photons in all directions. If the particle isnt stationary, but rather is slow-moving, the photons left over from the Big Bang collide with it from all directions relatively equally, but theyre more likely to collide in the direction the particle is moving. Additionally, there will be a slight energy shift: the collisions that occur head-on, between the particle and photons moving in the opposite direction, will impart more energy to the particle than photons striking it from any other direction. However, at even the speeds achievable at the Large Hadron Collider, the effects of these photons can be neglected. Even for particles that travel through the intergalactic medium for billions of years, even at 99.999999% the speed of light, these common photons are so low in energy that they fail to slow down these particles by even a single meter-per-second, cumulatively, over the history of the Universe. When cosmic particles travel through intergalactic space, they cannot avoid the leftover photons ... [+] from the Big Bang: the cosmic microwave background. Once the energy from cosmic particle/photon collisions exceed a certain threshold, the cosmic particles will begin to lose energy as a function of the energy in the center-of-momentum frame. Earth: NASA/BlueEarth; Milky Way: ESO/S. Brunier; CMB: NASA/WMAP But at very, very high energies, things start to get interesting. Whenever two things collide, there are three options for what can occur, even though we normally only consider the first two. They can collide elastically, where the two objects scatter off of one another, exchanging energy and momentum but conserving both. They can collide inelastically, where the two objects conserve momentum but lose energy, wholly or partially sticking together in the process. Or they can collide and if enough energy is available create new particles (and antiparticles) through Einsteins most famous equation: E = mc2. Colliding a photon with a fast-moving cosmic particle, like a proton (which most cosmic rays are observed to be), wont have much of an effect if theres not enough energy (in the center-of-momentum) for E = mc2 to do anything interesting. But as the cosmic particle in question gets more and more energetic, eventually the quantum effects that arise from this third phenomenon start to become important. In this artistic rendering, a blazar is accelerating protons that produce pions, which produce ... [+] neutrinos and gamma rays. Photons are also produced. Processes such as this may be responsible for the generation of the highest-energy cosmic particles of all, but they inevitably interact with the leftover photons from the Big Bang. IceCube/NASA At around one million times the energies that protons can achieve at the Large Hadron Collider, the fact that photons can fluctuate into a state where they behave as electron-positron pairs starts to matter. When protons reach an energy that exceeds about 1017 electron-Volts, heres what occurs. In the center-of-momentum frame, the proton sees the photon as having about 1,000,000 electron-Volts of energy, boosted from its original ~200 micro-electron-Volts. This matters, because the electron and positron each have a rest-mass energy of around 500,000 electron-Volts; if you can create them, you can interact with them. Once protons start colliding with these electrons (and positrons), they start losing energy far more rapidly. Each electron (or positron) collision drains about 0.1% of the original protons energy; even though these events are rare, they can add up over the millions of light-years that separate the galaxies from one another. However, this effect alone isnt enough to cap the allowable energy for cosmic ray protons. When a proton or neutron collides with a high-energy photon, it can produce a pion through a (real ... [+] or virtual) Delta resonance. Pion production can only occur if there's enough available energy via Einstein's E = mc^2, which should limit the energy of cosmic rays to a specific value. Observationally, however, we see that these limits are exceeded. APS/Alan Stonebraker But there should be a cap: when the center-of-momentum energy rises high enough that a proton colliding with a photon has enough free energy, again via Einsteins E = mc2, to produce a subatomic particle known as a pion (). This is a much more efficient energy-draining process, as each pion produced lowers the protons original energy by about 20%. After traveling for just ~100-200 million years through the intergalactic medium a blip in time compared to the 13.8 billion year age of the Universe all protons should fall below that limiting energy: around 5 1019 electron-Volts. But ever since we first began measuring the energies of cosmic rays, weve discovered evidence for particles that exceed that maximum energy: the most extreme examples of ultra-high-energy cosmic rays. 30 years ago, the Flys Eye camera in Utah observed a cosmic particle with 3.2 1020 electron-Volts of energy, and was immediately named the Oh-My-God particle. A follow-up detector, HiRes, confirmed the existence of multiple particles (about ~15 or so) exceeding this limiting energy threshold. And, currently, the Pierre Auger Observatory continues to detect a significant number of events that possess energies that are robustly above this theoretical maximum. The event rate of high-energy cosmic rays versus their detected energy. If the pion-production ... [+] threshold by CMB photons colliding with protons were a bona fide limit, there would be a "cliff" in the data to the right of the point labeled "372." The existence of these extreme cosmic rays indicates that something else must be amiss. The Pierre Auger Collaboration, Phys. Rev. Lett. Before your mind goes to the most fantastic explanations imaginable, like relativity is wrong, consider these other options. These high-energy particles are produced close by, so they dont have time to drop below the limit. The highest of these high-energy particles arent made of protons, but something else thats heavier and has a higher energy limit. Or that active, supermassive black holes can accelerate protons to extreme energies a cosmic Zevatron and they remain above that limit by the time they reach us. More modern observatories can pinpoint the directions from which these particles came, and determine that theyre not correlated with any particular set of directions on the sky. Theyre not correlated with features within our own galaxy, nor neutron stars, nor active supermassive black holes, nor supernovae, nor any other identifiable features. However, there is some fairly good evidence that at the higher end of the ultra-high-energy cosmic ray spectrum, were seeing heavier atomic nuclei: not just hydrogen and helium, but heavy metals like iron. With ~56 protons and neutrons in each iron nucleus, the energy limit can exceed ~1021 electron-Volts, agreeing with observations at last. These graphs show the spectrum of cosmic rays as a function of energy from the Pierre Auger ... [+] Observatory. You can clearly see that the function is more-or-less smooth until an energy of ~5 x 10^19 eV, corresponding to the GZK cutoff. Above that, particles still exist, but are less abundant, likely due to their nature as heavier atomic nuclei. The Pierre Auger Collaboration, Phys. Rev. Lett. 125, 121106 (2020) When you bring all of this information together, it paints a startling picture of the Universe. Cosmic ray particles not only exist, but many of them come with energies that are millions of times greater than we can produce in the most powerful particle accelerators on Earth. Most of these particles are protons, but a few are composed of heavier atomic nuclei. At progressively higher energies, we see fewer and fewer particles, but at one particular critical energy 5 1019 electron-Volts, corresponding to the energy where protons and Big Bang photons can produce pions theres a major dropoff, but higher-energy particles still exist. After decades of mystery, we think we know why: the small fraction of heavier atomic nuclei can survive the journey through intergalactic space at these high energies, while protons cannot. With its energy spread out over ~50 or ~60 particles, these heavy, ultra-energetic composite particles can survive for many millions or even billions of years in space. While we still arent sure how theyre created, we can hang our hats on this accomplishment: weve at least solved the mystery of what these extreme cosmic particles are, and with it, their survival makes sense as well.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/startswithabang/2021/04/29/how-do-cosmic-particles-break-the-universes-energy-limit/
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Why isnt Apple hitting new highs after a record quarter?
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Apple is trading close to flat despite a freakishly good earnings report. Lets look at the key it must clear on the chart. Apple (AAPL) just reported a blowout quarter and the stock was flat on Thursday. The action is quite disappointing, to say the least. Of course, Apple could turn things around later in the day and before the end of the week. But to see such a meek response in the stock after such an impressive quarter is a letdown for longs. The company reported earnings of $1.40 a share, more than 40 per cent ahead of consensus estimates. Revenue of $89.6 billion (U.S.) blew by estimates by more than $12.3 billion. The top- and bottom-line results even smashed the highest expectations on Wall Street. Each category did quite well too, while Apple tacked on $90 billion to its buyback program. Facebook (FB) and Qualcomm (QCOM) were also enjoying some nice post-earnings gains on the day, so its not as if Apple doesnt have tailwinds working in its favour. 72-Hour Flash Sale! Dont miss this chance to join Jim Cramers Investment Club and become a smarter investor. Trading Apple I could understand Thursdays lacklustre reaction if Apple had rallied hard into the print. But thats not the case. Lets not forget that the stock has been consolidating now for eight months. Apple topped out near $138 in early September as the stock was splitting and has been consolidating since. On the plus side, the trend has been higher as there is a series of higher lows. On the downside though, it hasnt been able to crack the $138 level, save for a few sessions in January ahead of earnings. Notably, the company also crushed earnings expectations last quarter, but saw its breakout fail as Apple stock dipped back below $138. Despite an even better report this time, were still seeing a lousy response. While Apple is holding the 10-day moving average, its hard to be overly bullish on the technicals (despite overwhelmingly bullish fundamentals) until the stock clears $138. Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... If it can clear $138, then the all-time high near $145 is in play. Above that and $150-plus is on the table, including the 161.8 per cent extension near $160. If it cant take out resistance, I expect the downside to be relatively muted. At least in the short term. The largest pullback one might expect is down to the 200-day moving average and uptrend support (blue line). Thats obviously subject to change, but given the current market environment, I am not looking for a collapse in Apples share price. Read more about:
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https://www.thestar.com/business/thestreet/2021/04/29/why-isnt-apple-hitting-new-highs-after-a-record-quarter.html
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What's next in the criminal probe of Trump ally Giuliani?
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Article content Federal agents searched Rudolph Giulianis Manhattan apartment and office, advancing a criminal investigation into the Ukrainian dealings of Donald Trumps former lawyer. Here is a summary of what is publicly known about the investigation and what trouble it could spell for Giuliani and the former president: We apologize, but this video has failed to load. tap here to see other videos from our team. Giuliani led an effort to dig up dirt on now-President Joe Biden and his son Hunter in Ukraine before the 2020 election and pushed Trump to remove then-U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch. Prosecutors are investigating whether Giuliani illegally lobbied the Trump administration on behalf of Ukrainian officials and oligarchs, while also serving as Trumps personal lawyer. A law passed in 1938, the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), makes it a federal crime to try to influence or lobby the U.S. government on behalf of a foreign official without disclosing it to the Justice Department. To obtain a warrant, prosecutors first had to persuade a judge that there was probable cause to believe that a crime was committed and that the search would turn up evidence of the crime. Agents seized cell phones and computers in Wednesdays search, Giulianis lawyer said. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content The warrants would have required sign-off at the highest levels of the Justice Department, said Lisa Kern Griffin, a law professor at Duke University and former federal prosecutor. This development suggests that the investigation into Giulianis activities is both ongoing and intensifying, she said. It is unusual for prosecutors to execute a search warrant on a lawyers office or home, but federal prosecutors in Manhattan have done so before, most notably in 2018 against Michael Cohen, another former Trump lawyer, who later was sentenced to three years in prison. Prosecutors clearly think there is real evidence Giuliani broke the law, said Harry Sandick, a former federal prosecutor in Manhattan. They had to get approvals from a judge and high levels of the Justice Department, Sandick said. Giulianis lawyer Bob Costello suggested the investigation was politically motivated and denied that Giuliani failed to register as a foreign agent. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content Giuliani respects the law, and he can demonstrate that his conduct as a lawyer and a citizen was absolutely legal and ethical, Costello said in a statement. Costello said the electronics seized were replete with information protected by attorney-client privilege, a legal doctrine that generally keeps correspondence between a lawyer and client confidential. If Giuliani were to be charged, prosecutors would likely argue that attorney-client privilege does not apply, either because Giuliani was not acting as a lawyer, or because his legal advice furthered criminal acts, Sandick said. Rudy played a lot of different roles for Trump, Sandick said. In Cohens criminal case, a judge said a review of documents seized from Cohens office turned up only a handful of communications between him and his clients pertaining to actual legal advice. Giulianis dealings in Ukraine were clearly intended to benefit Trump, and former Trump administration officials have said in media interviews and congressional testimony that Giuliani was acting at Trumps direction. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content But if the investigation is focused on FARA then Trump is unlikely to be charged as Giulianis co-conspirator, Sandick said. If Giuliani failed to comply with FARAs disclosure requirements, it is his own doing, not Trumps, Sandick said. But it is possible the investigation into Giuliani could expand, particularly if he were to cooperate with prosecutors as Cohen did and implicate Trump in criminal activity, Sandick said. This is all very reminiscent of Cohen, Sandick said. Cohen certainly tried to cooperate, so its hard for me to say it is impossible. The investigation may not have a direct legal impact on Trump, but the fact that the presidents lawyer and close adviser could be prosecuted for acting as an agent of a foreign principal is pretty shocking, he said. Trump on Thursday criticized the investigation and said he had no idea what FBI agents were looking for when they searched his former lawyers apartment and office. Its very, very unfair, Trump, told Fox Business Network in an telephone interview. Rudy is a patriot who loves this country and I dont know what theyre looking for, what theyre doing. (Reporting by Jan Wolfe; Editing by Noeleen Walder and Grant McCool) Share this article in your social network Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Shopping essentials Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Posted Newsletter Sign up to receive the daily top stories from the National Post, a division of Postmedia Network Inc. Email Address There was an error, please provide a valid email address. By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. You may unsubscribe any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of our emails. Postmedia Network Inc. | 365 Bloor Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3L4 | 416-383-2300 Thanks for signing up! A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it please check your junk folder. The next issue of Posted Newsletter will soon be in your inbox. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again Trending
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https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/crime-pmn/whats-next-in-the-criminal-probe-of-trump-ally-giuliani
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Could Tim Tebow reunite with Urban Meyer in a Taysom Hill role?
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The Jacksonville Jaguars worked out Heisman Trophy winner and former first-round pick Tim Tebow recently, setting up a potential reunion between the Florida Gators legend and his college head coach, Urban Meyer. Tebow worked out as a tight end, but could end up playing a Taysom Hill role for Meyer, should he end up ending his pro football retirement and signing with the Jags (via NFL Networks Ian Rapoport). Tebow hasnt played in an NFL game since 2012, and has been playing baseball in the New York Mets organization since. Many wondered whether or not Tebow would have had a longer, more successful NFL career had he switched to tight end or another position besides quarterback. Now that Meyer has dipped his toes into the NFL coaching game for the first time, itll be interesting to see if he brings back this blast from the past to play a unique role for his offense.
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https://sports.yahoo.com/could-tim-tebow-reunite-urban-193825919.html?src=rss
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Are Aaron Rodgers Days in Green Bay Numbered?
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The NFC North could be on the verge of a major shake-up. According to ESPN, Aaron Rodgers has notified the Green Bay Packers that he does not want to return to the team next season. Aaron Rodgers is so disgruntled with the Green Bay Packers that he has told some within the organization that he does not want to return to the team, league and team sources told ESPN," NFL reporter Adam Schefter reported. There are reportedly a myriad of reasons Rodgers is upset, including not being notified that the team was intending to trade up to select quarterback Jordan Love in last year's draft. "He also is at a different point in his personal life, having recently gotten engaged to actress Shailene Woodley. Rodgers also has hosted Jeopardy! and said it would be a dream to become the full-time host," Schefter explains. To try and mend the relationship, the team has flown their president, general manager and head coach to visit Rodgers on multiple occasions to patch things up. Unfortunately, last year's MVP has not changed his mind and things are looking sour for the reigning champs of the NFC North. "The Packers reportedly told Aaron Rodgers they were going to trade him in the off season, then backed off. Its been a bleep show between them ever since. And within the last week Rodgers told the team ... trade or no trade Im not coming back. Buckle up folks," NFL analyst Trey Wingo reported. Mike De Sisti / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via Imagn Content Services, LLC Green Bay has even reportedly offered a contract extension to Rodgers and there have been rumors that the San Francisco 49ers have been in contact with the Packers to negotiate a trade. Ahead of tonight's draft, the situation in Green Bay must be monitored, as one of the league's best quarterback's could be on the verge of forcing his way out of the only place he has played since he entered the NFL in 2005.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/rodgers-unhappy-green-bay-packers
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Was Aaron Rodgers' 'Jeopardy!' diss of Packers a sign of things to come?
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Was Rodgers' 'Jeopardy!' originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington Just hours before the NFL Draft's first night, a report surrounding Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers sent shockwaves throughout the NFL and added more drama to an already-suspenseful three-day stretch. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the veteran quarterback has grown frustrated with the franchise and does not want to return to the team. Though it was a jaw-dropping report, there were signs that Rodgers and Green Bay weren't on the best of terms as of late. Reportedly stemming from the organization's decision to draft Jordan Love in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft and other reasons. However, there may have been another sign of the broken relationship and it came on the show 'Jeopardy!' of all places. As Rodgers guest-hosted the show for a short period of time this month -- something he was quite good at and has stated he wants to take on full-time while playing football -- a moment from the game show went viral. It included a contestant asking Rodgers who decided to kick the widely-discussed field in the NFC Championship loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as his answer to the Final Jeopardy round. Rodgers responded with a laugh, some hesitation and then the phrase "That is a great question." Rodgers deadpanned the line and seemed somewhat bemused. In a time where subtweets and backhanded comments are common, maybe it was. Story continues Rodgers wasn't exactly quick to defend his team's decision, one many felt wasn't the correct call for the situation and head coach Matt LaFleur took heat for in real time. It could have just been Rodgers thinking on the spot in a humorous moment and appreciating the zing, but it's also way more fun to over-analyze and ponder if he was secretly showing his frustration. Download and subscribe to the Washington Football Talk podcast Or, as NBC Sports Washington's Pete Hailey suggested, there could be a reality in which that viral clip essentially made Rodgers want out of Green Bay more than before. The widely-circulated snippet wasn't exactly the best endorsement of the team. In my stupid little mind, I kinda think this contributed to Aaron not wanting to be in GB. No way he enjoyed being mocked about his team's dumb decision https://t.co/J94eEm04No Pete Hailey (@PeteHaileyNBCS) April 29, 2021 Whether or not there is any deeper meaning to the exchange will never truly be known, but what is clear is that Rodgers and the Packers are not on good terms and it feels like a change of scenery could be imminent.
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https://sports.yahoo.com/aaron-rodgers-jeopardy-diss-packers-214026846.html?src=rss
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Who will the Saints Draft in the First Round?
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The 2021 NFL Draft is just hours away, and the New Orleans Saints have been the center of NFL news on Thursday. Reports last night and this morning indicate that GM Mickey Loomis has been approaching teams and looking for a trade partner to move into the Top 10 spots of the draft. Who the Saints are targeting remains a mystery. But, the Saints News Krewe has some thoughts on what will transpire during this evening's main event. John Hendrix James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports Thursday has brought about some fun things related to the Saints and the NFL Draft. Rumors are swirling all over the place, and some of them may be smokescreens, but some may also have some validity to them. One would say that whatever guess you have, you have a chance to be right. Let's just be honest, the Saints are going to trade up. It's in their DNA. The real question is how far they'll get and what the cost will be. Again, I think their sweet spot is around pick No. 20, but could see them start being more active by pick No. 15. Cornerback is my guess, and I believe they get a deal done to get one, and that'll be Jaycee Horn from South Carolina. I don't think they'll fork over the ammo to move ahead of the Cowboys to grab Patrick Surtain II, but do wind up with a strong consolation prize. If it's not those two, then they'll trade up a little later and nab Greg Newsome or Caleb Farley, the player who's been hot on their radar lately. No matter what happens, buckle up and tune in, because New Orleans sure seems like they're going to shock some people. Bob Rose Journal & Courier-USA TODAY NETWORK The latest rumors confirm that the Saints are looking to trade up in the first round, which many of us thought would happen anyway. New Orleans is said to be targeting Virginia Tech cornerback Caleb Farley. While that could certainly be true, I believe that the Saints will draft Northwestern cornerback Greg Newsome. Newsome, like Farley, is an outstanding cover corner with the athleticism and coverage skills to lock down even the best wideouts. Both players have extremely high upsides, but Newsome has far less concerning medical reports than Farley. Kyle T. Mosley Sep 21, 2019; Evanston, IL, USA; Northwestern Wildcats defensive back Greg Newsome II (2) breaks up a pass meant for Michigan State Spartans wide receiver C.J. Hayes (4) during the first half at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports New Orleans will be aggressive and trade-up tonight. Either it will be OL Penei Sewell, CB Patrick Surtain, CB Jaycee Horn or CB Caleb Farley. To go as high as Sewell and Surtain, they have to beat out teams like the Bengals and Cowboys. Cincy may have first dibs for Sewell. Surtain is coveted by the Cowboys, who Jerry Jones may be willing to make moves to snag the Alabama cornerback as well. In the end, I believe the Saints will land CB Greg Newsome II if they do not stay at No. 28. Farley's medical issues may be too much to overlook. Back issues can become chronic, and availability at the corner position is essential. Brendan Boylan Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports With rumors swirling that the Saints are actively looking to move up in the draft, I can only assume that it is for one of the draft's top 3 CBs (Horn, Surtain, Newsome II). I think they do. However, I would be hesitant to surrender picks over this draft and the next to move up 18+ spots. Realistically I can see the Saints trading into the 15-20 range if a player they love falls, and as much as I love the idea of Jaycee Horn (pictured above) in a Saints uniform, I do not see him falling enough for the Saints to be in striking distance. Instead, I see them making a move for a DB with tremendous upside that continues to fall because of his injury history, Caleb Farley. The rumored target will not attend the NFL draft after a false positive COVID test but could very well receive a call from Mickey Loomis in his North Carolina home later tonight. For all the latest New Orleans Saints News & Rumors follow: Follow the Saints News Network at www.saints.media. Continue to follow all Saints coverage on Social Media with Saints News Network at @SaintsNews on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/saints/nfl-draft/who-will-saints-draft-in-first-round
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Is There a Case for Legalizing Heroin?
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In 2013, the Columbia psychologist and drug-addiction researcher Carl Hart published a book that was a specific kind of success: it made him into a public character. The book, High Price, is in part a memoir of Harts adolescence in a poor Miami neighborhood, documenting the arrival of cocaine there in the eighties. Two cousins, whom as a child hed looked up to, are exiled from their mothers house for using cocaine, move into a shed in her back yard, and steal her washer and dryer to pay for drugs. The narrative of Harts ascent, to the Air Force, graduate school in neuroscience, and, eventually, Ivy League tenure, is interspersed with evidence from his career as an addiction researcher, in which he spent years paying volunteers to use drugs in a controlled hospital setting and observing the results. Hart argues that the violence and despair that defined the crack epidemic had more to do with the social conditions of Black America than they did with the physical pull of drugs. The book begins with his father beating his mother with a hammer after drinking. Harts view is that the attack was not about alcohol. As we now know from experience with alcohol, drinking itself isnt a problem for most people who do it, Hart wrote. The same is true of illegal drugs, even those we have learned to fear, like heroin and crack cocaine. Hart, who was one of the first Black scientists to attain tenure at Columbia, cut a charismatic figure. He had an easy authority in talking about the human and pharmacological experience of drug use, describing it in a way that turned an audiences expectations on its head. Recounting the Rat Park experiments of the seventies, which allowed rats to press a lever for a drug, Hart explained that rats raised and kept in isolation consumed greater quantities of the drug than those that were held in a stimulating environment. The key factor is the environment, whether youre talking about humans or rats, he said. In the late Obama years, most everyone, but especially most evidence-minded liberals, had lost faith in the war on drugs, and Hart became the scientist who said that pharmacology was a weaker force than wed been led to think. To promote the book, and this idea, Hart travelled overseas. During those trips, he said that he favored decriminalization and the regulation of all drugs from a perspective of harm reduction, positions that put him on the far left of the American debate. Still, he was sometimes challenged by audience members who thought these positions condescended to users. At an event in Vancouver, a man in the audience raised his hand and explained that he was a heroin user. Canadians are more polite than New Yorkers, but essentially he said, Who are you to tell me how to live my life? Hart recalled. The man was smart and clear, and he knew things about heroin that Hart did not. Hart said the conversation made him feel that he had been paternalistic, pedantic, all those things. I thought I was, I dont know, some enlightened scientist, and it just came down to, I had no right. In Geneva, he met a physician who invited him to visit a heroin-maintenance clinic with which she was affiliated. Hart spent several months there in 2015, watching heroin users behave as efficiently and functionally as the weighted gears in a watch. Patients checked in twice a day for injections, during one period that began at seven in the morning and another at five in the afternoon. In between, many of them went to work. The patients were each assigned a cubby to stash their respective belongings, and often one would leave a beer there, to drink after injection. Hart noticed that though American doctors worried endlessly over the harms of mixing booze and opioids, it didnt seem a very big deal to the Swiss users, maybe because they knew the exact dose of heroin they were getting and could trust its purity. When one patient had to attend a wedding in less enlightened England, utterly lacking in injection clinics, she carefully planned out her doses and travel arrangements so she could make the trip. When Hart told me about the Geneva injection clinic, he spoke about it in the way that liberal parents speak about Montessori schoolsas a fanatically engineered expression of trust. Of the users, Hart said, They were always on time. Shortly after visiting the clinic, Hart began regularly snorting heroin, as he recounts in a new book, Drug Use for Grown-Ups. His description of how he started is deliberately simple, suggesting how many of his boundaries had fallen away: a friend said that shed never used heroin before but was interested in doing so. Same here. So one Friday evening we did. He describes using heroin in carefully managed doses, with product he trusts, in the company of friends, at times when being in an altered state does not interfere with his life, and achieving a dreamy light sedation, free of stress. Hart says that he used on no more than about ten consecutive days at a time, with a frequency roughly similar to his use of alcohol. He writes, Like vacation, sex, and the arts, heroin is one of the tools I use to maintain my work-life balance. There are libertarian strains in Harts extreme vision of a responsible individual userbut he also sometimes describes his use in the context of a shared racial identity. I am frequently in a state of hypervigilance in an effort to prevent or minimize the damage caused by living in my own skin, he writes. When heroin binds to mu opioid receptors in my brain, I lay down my burden as well as my sword and shield just as described in the Negro spiritual Down by the Riverside. Last summer, during the nationwide protests after a Minneapolis police officer killed George Floyd, Hart published an attention-getting Op-Ed in the Times, analyzing Floyds toxicology report and concluding that traces of fentanyl and methamphetamine found in Floyds system had played no part in his death, nor could they have made him crazed, as some backers of police had alleged. Shortly thereafter, he was interviewed extensively by the MSNBC host Chris Hayes. But if liberals found themselves moving toward his point of view, Hart was moving away from theirs. This evolution becomes plain in Drug Use for Grown-Ups, which makes the case that even the hardest drugs can serve as tools for a more balanced life. Hart is sharply critical of the distinctions that liberals often draw between hard and soft drugs: he quotes Bernie Sanderss claim that marijuana is different from killer drugs and calls that view ignorant. Hart agrees with the scientific consensus that heroin is more likely to create a physical dependence than psychedelics or marijuana, but he does not believe that a heroin user is less likely to be functional than a user of soft drugs, a position that puts him outside the mainstream. He writes, Neither heroin nor marijuana is inherently more evil than the other. Its difficult not to notice that Hart is also experimenting with a different public characterone that is more pugnacious and extreme. Having so recently been broadly celebrated, he has now made himself a case studyof whether liberals, presented with an apparently exemplary heroin user, might be willing to see drug policy from his perspective. In so doing, he had also remade himself as one of scientific liberalisms discontents. Hart told me recently, In High Price, Im clearly on the left, Im clearly a good Democrat. And I also subscribe to that up from slavery narrative. And I think thats what a lot of liberals really like. And life is not that neat, obviously. To some extent, Harts argument is simply that the public-health establishment is infantilizing Americans, and that the more enlightened approach would be to allow them their own preferences. This past year has been a remarkable one in which to make that case. If, during the Obama years, liberals were inclined to follow the teachings of behavioral economics, which gently nudge the population toward self-interested compliance, the COVID-19 emergency has enforced a stricter regime: six feet apart, masks over the nose, and apps to tick down fourteen-day quarantine timetables. This year, anti-paternalism has been the rights animating cause. Its complaint, echoing Hart, has been that liberals are working from faux, politically motivated science rather than the real thing. The movement against masking and against paternalism has seemed to grow only more intense as mass vaccination advances: this week, Tucker Carlson told his audience that if they saw a child wearing a mask outside they were to call Child Protective Services (a weird combination of anti-paternalism and straightforward paternalism). Hart was sometimes caught in the red-blue crossfire. He told me, People have actually assumed that Im an anti-vaxxer, and Im, like, Where did you get that from? The rollout for Harts second book has been less successful than the one for High Price. An interview in the Times opened with the question of whether Hart was high. (No, he said, with some indignation.) Hart told journalists that his grants from the National Institute on Drug Abuse had dried up, because he was no longer focussed solely on the negative consequences of drug use on the brain. (The institute said that it does not comment on the grant decision-making process for individual applications.) He told me that a university had asked if he could give a scheduled book talk on High Price instead. When his audiences were not mostly white, the skepticism didnt really evaporate. Hart said, Of course not. Yes, the co-host DJ Envy cut in, and added, an orgasm cant kill you, though. If the media seemed hesitant about Harts arguments, that was probably because many scientists and clinicians were, too. The specific drug matters, Andrew Kolodny, an addiction specialist and the medical director of the Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, at Brandeiss Heller School for Social Policy and Management, told me. I heard a note of slight disbelief in his voice, that he was really being asked to explain why heroin caused more physical dependence and human suffering than other drugs. With alcohol, most of the population can be repeatedly exposed to it and doesnt develop addiction to it, he said. With other drugs, like nicotine, heroin, and oxycodone, its a different story. If youre using those drugs regularly, youre going to be at very high risk for becoming addicted. Bertha K. Madras, a professor of psychobiology at Harvard, argued that the U.S. had just run this experiment, and it had ended very badly. What we have learned from the current opioid crisis is that it is very easy to promote a drug as safe and effective and harmless, as was done with prescription opioids, she said. The end result was that we had millions of people misusing opioids. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half a million people have died from opioid overdoses in the past two decades. I spoke with Hart on Zoom earlier this month, and when he appeared on my screena slim, intense man in his early fifties, with dreadlocks hes worn long for years and a little gray in his mustache and hairhe sounded like hed accepted the reaction to the book, even if it frustrated him. One of the things that has been interesting as I go through the interviews and I talk to liberalsBlack, white, whatever, just liberalsand I talk about giving people the right to make decisions when it comes to drugs, they say, Im just concerned about the vulnerable. Thats the buzzword. And then I say, Well, if I hear you right, youre saying that some people can handle this and others cant. Yeah, exactly. It seemed to Hart that what the liberals were saying was that some people cant think for themselves, and so they shouldnt have this decision. Thats where you get to the crux of this. People back away from that, but thats what they really mean. Hart told me that he hadnt come lightly to the choice to publish a book saying he was a heroin user. But now that Ive done it, Im so happy that Ive done it, because I get a little taste of what people get who are vilified, who dont have a middle-class life, he said. I feel more aligned with people whove been vilified for their drug use than ever before. The drug war has shown an unusual tenacity, of late. The Democrats who run cities often reject its precepts, a wave of progressive prosecutors has been elected, referendums to decriminalize marijuana have been successful. And yet the basic operational pattern, of a very active police presence and vast numbers of arrests for drug possession and other minor infractions, has proved resistant to change. Hart told me that he differed from the rest of the addiction field in that he drew a more direct connection between the work that scientists did emphasizing the toxicity of drugs and the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. In his view, the casualties of policing are unlikely to change unless the public comes to view heroin and cocaine in something like the way it now views marijuana and psychedelics. Hart writes that he hopes to encourage other users to come out of the closet, and to show how functional even heroin users could be. If there is to be a wave of professional heroin users coming out of the closet, it has not yet begun. It seemed to me that Hart might have underestimated how unusual he is, as a case study, and how hard an act to follow. Few closeted users could be so sure as he that they are estimating the effects of the drugs correctly, that they are dosing accurately, that using heroin for ten consecutive days is responsible and defensible but using for, say, twenty is not. He is using heroin not just like a grownup but like a scientist. Hart may be right that there is a large population of quietly functional, closeted heroin users and wrong about their motivations, which might include not just fear but doubt: that they are actually being as safe and functional as they might like to imagine, that the kind of liberties they are taking themselves would also be wise for others to take, that the benefits to broadcasting their use would outweigh the risks. This kind of drug use might not be as brave or unfettered as Harts. But, in its own way, it is a very grownup choice, too.
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https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-populism/is-there-a-case-for-legalizing-heroin
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What happens if Packers dont trade Aaron Rodgers?
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The cat is out of the bag. Aaron Rodgers wants out of Green Bay. Theres a poetry, and potentially a significant amount of orchestration, that has gone into Rodgers using the first day of the draft to make his power play. Indeed, it was last year on the first night of the draft that the Packers sent Rodgers four fingers deep in tequila after packaging a first-round pick and a fourth-round sweetener to trade up for Jordan Love. Rodgers, as weve reported, has a wish list. It remains the 49ers, the Broncos, and the Raiders. Rodgers has leverage. He can do what Deshaun Watson did in Houston, before the legal issues arose. Rodgers can make it known that hes done, allowing the Packers to come to terms with the reality that they can either trade him and get value or have him never show up again and get nothing and like it. It wouldnt be an inexpensive proposition for Rodgers. He has $23 million in unearned signing bonus money that hed owe the Packers, and hed also give up $14.7 million in 2021 salary. Also, his recent roster bonus of $6.8 million surely would be forfeited if he walks away from the game in the event that he doesnt get traded. The Packers have other leverage. They have Jordan Love; thus, they wouldnt be left holding the bag with no quarterback. Then theres the possibility that Rodgers becomes a pariah among Packers fans. Although he has yet to address the situation, hes likely to act like its all overblown and overplayed and overhyped when he does, downplaying the aftermath of the fuse he deliberately ignited. He does not want to be vilified by the Green Bay faithful. Thursdays events could set him up for a backlash. Quitting on the Packers could make it even worse. Story continues Before any of that becomes relevant, the Packers will have to persist in their refusal to trade him, either during the draft or as a post-June 2 transaction, which would significantly reduce the cap charge. However it plays out, the situation quickly has gone from dormant to full boil. And even though hed undoubtedly deny it, Rodgers surely loves every second of it. Hes finally getting his revenge, in a move that carries with equal parts Godfather and #GameofThrones. originally appeared on Pro Football Talk
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https://sports.yahoo.com/happens-packers-don-t-trade-222808061.html?src=rss
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Is Jimmy Garoppolo trade held up by Kyle Shanahan-Bill Belichick feud?
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originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea The 49ers are less than two hours away from making their franchise-altering selection at No. 3 overall, and, at least for now, Jimmy Garoppolo still is alive and a 49er. While many expect the 49ers to trade the oft-injured starting quarterback during the 2021 NFL Draft, San Francisco reportedly would need to be overwhelmed to trade the 29-year-old. After the Denver Broncos' trade to acquire Teddy Bridgewater on Wednesday. the potential landing spots for Garoppolo have shrunk. The New England Patriots remain the most obvious potential landing spot, but that would require Garoppolo to restructure his contract and waive his no-trade clause. Garoppolo being traded back to the Patriots seems like an obvious fit, but there could be a potential roadblock. Boston Sports Journal's and longtime Patriots reported Greg Bedard reported Thursday that 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan doesn't like Bill Belichick and that could be part of the hang-up in a Garoppolo trade. "I also have heard from sources that Shanahan doesn't really like Belichick all that much," Bedard writes. "Mike Shanahan and Belichick get along well, and Kyle goes along for that reason and this has devolved into one big pissing match between the two, similar to Belichick's old rivalry with agent Tom Condon that caused the Brandon Lloyd deal to take forever." It's fair to take this report with a grain of salt. During Super Bowl LIV Opening Night, Shanahan said he spoke with Belichick following the Atlanta Falcons' collapse in Super Bowl LI and Belichick "has been great." It was really cool that he reached out to me after the Super Bowl just to talk, Shanahan said Monday at Super Bowl Opening Night. I was able to spend some time with him at the [2017] NFL combine, which I was very appreciative of. Any time that guy talks, everyone in the world listens. That was especially true for someone like me who aspired to be a head coach. He has been great. Its not like we talk a ton or anything, but hes a humble guy who likes to help people. Story continues Of course, Belichick and Shanahan, along with 49ers general manager John Lynch, worked out the trade that landed Garoppolo in San Francisco in 2017. "I know Bill was a big fan [of Garoppolo], and I mean, I enjoyed talking to him about it," Shanahan told reporters before the 49ers' visit to Foxboro last season. "It helped me out with stuff, stuff that will probably stay between Bill and I, but he was a great guy to deal with. It's always hard to get trades done, but when you deal with someone who's just about football and pretty simple and everything else, it's easy to get stuff done. Thats why it's really fun dealing with someone like Bill when you're trying to make two teams better." Perhaps the initial Garoppolo trade was a product of circumstance -- both Shanahan's need for a QB not named Brian Hoyer, and Belichick's need to try and rid himself of some of the palace drama surrounding himself, Garoppolo, Tom Brady and Robert Kraft -- and not of mutual respect. The 49ers don't need to trade Garoppolo, and would like to have a competent quarterback on the roster along with the rookie they draft at No. 3 overall in order to ensure a solid depth chart at the sport's most important position. The Patriots, on the other hand, are in need of a quarterback to compete with Cam Newton during camp, and Garoppolo is the likely fit for obvious reasons. But it's unclear if the 49ers truly want to move Garoppolo and if they'd be willing to send him back to New England. Download and subscribe to the 49ers Talk Podcast
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https://sports.yahoo.com/jimmy-garoppolo-trade-held-kyle-224535570.html?src=rss
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Can Drinkwitz deliver another St. Louis Buckeye to Mizzou?
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A: Yes, I wouldn't be shocked if the Broncos take Trey Lance if he's available - or Justin Fields. I don't think the current Denver regime views Bridgewater or Lock as the long-term answer at quarterback. Now, maybe one of them can become that guy if they play well in 2021, but if I'm GM George Paton I think long and hard about adding a young QB who can become that franchise guy. I follow the Broncos pretty closely. They're built to make the playoffs at just about every position except the most important one: quarterback. Lock has shown promising signs but it seems like it's always one step forward, two back with him. Denver Post columnist Mark Kiszla put it best recently: Denver likes Drew, but you have to love your quarterback if you're going to be a playoff team and Super Bowl contender. Wouldn't surprise me at all if he's traded and Denver goes with Bridgewater for 2021 with a rookie on board as the eventual answer. That might be the best-case scenario for Lock. A fresh start.
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https://www.stltoday.com/sports/subscriber/can-drinkwitz-deliver-another-st-louis-buckeye-to-mizzou/article_8ed059e2-9b3c-5e36-849c-bee147ebc1f3.html
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Are Internet Pharmacies as Safe as Brick-and-Mortar Ones?
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Bloomberg (Bloomberg) -- Time was when the Middle Easts petrostates recoiled from using their crown jewels to raise money from foreign investors.Not any more. In the space of a few weeks, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait have all accelerated multi-billion-dollar plans to sell energy assets or issue bonds off the back of them. Capping that trend, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said Tuesday the kingdom is in talks with an unidentified global energy company to sell a stake worth about $20 billion in state oil firm Aramco.The shift underscores how countries in a region home to almost half the worlds oil reserves are taking advantage of the recovery in energy prices following last years coronavirus-triggered crash to bolster their ailing finances. The global transition to greener energy is only adding to the urgency, with governments requiring fresh funds to invest in new sectors and diversify their economies. And investors, hobbled by record low interest rates, are grabbing the opportunity.It makes sense for these countries to sell stakes when valuations are good, said Justin Alexander, chief economist at MENA Advisors, a U.K.-based consultancy. Some of its fiscal. Some of its a growing recognition of the speed of the energy transition and the need to realize value from these assets.Oil exporters in the Middle East saw their budget deficits balloon to 10.8% of gross domestic product last year from barely 3% in 2019, according to the International Monetary Fund. GDP in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar shrunk the most in about three decades.Aramco and AdnocSaudi Aramco, the worlds biggest crude producer, and Adnoc, which pumps almost all the UAEs oil and gas, have been the most active of the regions state companies. Both started privatizations before the pandemic, with Aramco listing on Riyadhs stock market in 2019 and Adnoc selling part of fuel-distribution business in late 2017, also through an initial public offering.The deals have since increased in number and sophistication -- as has the focus on foreign money. On April 10, Aramco said a U.S.-led group would invest $12.4 billion in its oil pipelines. Its next deal may be an offering of a stake in its natural-gas network. For its part, Adnoc is planning IPOs of drilling and fertilizer units. These would follow a string of transactions from June 2020 that saw the likes of Brookfield Asset Management Inc. and Apollo Global Management Inc. invest about $15 billion in the Abu Dhabi-based firms gas pipelines and real estate.Prince Mohammed, Saudi Arabias de facto ruler, sees Aramco as a key part of his Vision 2030, the grand project designed to boost everything from tourism to investments in solar parks and pharmaceuticals. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed of the UAE has similar ideas for Adnoc, and in March gave himself more control over the firm hes shaking up to wring more cash out of.Keeping ControlAmid the flurry of activity, the companies have been careful to structure transactions such that they dont lose sway over marquee assets. When subsidiaries are sold down, they keep hold of the bulk of the shares. With the pipeline deals, Aramco and Adnoc offered decades-long leasing rights rather than direct equity. Boutique Wall Street bank Moelis & Co. is acting as adviser to both firms.The Gulf national oil companies have realized they can sell bits and pieces of their empire, raising cash without giving up control, said Ben Cahill, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. For the companies and governments, it is a pretty good combination.Elsewhere in the Gulf, Qatar Petroleum and Omani state companies such as OQ SAOC are tapping the dollar-bond market for the first time. Qatar Petroleum is seeking as much as $10 billion to increase its capacity to export liquefied natural gas.Qatar is among the worlds richest countries per capita and in the past the government may have funded the $29 billion project using its own money. But its now trying to reduce a debt load that swelled last year, Fitch Ratings Ltd. said in a report on Monday. Leveraging state-owned firms allows the government to protect its own balance sheet.Omans PushOmans OQ on Wednesday sold $750 million of seven-year Eurobonds. Energy Development Oman, another state firm, may follow later this year as it seeks to raise $3 billion of debt. The plans are part of a broad shake-up of the oil sector since Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq came to power little more than a year ago. Hes seeking to attract foreign funding and rejuvenate the battered economy.Meanwhile, state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corp. is considering its first international bond. It would be part of a strategy to borrow as much as $20 billion over the next five years to make up for an expected shortfall in revenue.More to ComeAsset and debt sales are likely to account for the lions share of future deals, according to Hasnain Malik, head of equity research at Tellimer, a London-based firm that provides analysis on emerging markets.Securitizing future cash flows and issuing bonds, as well as private equity sales, appear a far less onerous method of raising finance from international investors than selling equity via an IPO, said Malik, whos covered Middle Eastern markets for more than 20 years. They are rightly recognizing the fixed-income and private-equity investor base is bigger than the regional equity one.For now, foreign investors, whove rarely had such an array of options to put their money into Middle East oil and gas, seem happy to stump up the cash.Theres definitely more to come, said Cahill. The national oil companies are watching each other and picking up some new tricks.For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.comSubscribe now to stay ahead with the most trusted business news source.2021 Bloomberg L.P.
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https://finance.yahoo.com/news/internet-pharmacies-safe-brick-mortar-232100523.html
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Did NFL reporters not know about Aaron Rodgers rumors? Or did a radio host make them do their jobs?
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Credit where credit is due: I should've never doubted Mr. Bill Michaels, a Wisconsin radio host. On Thursday morning, Michaels reported that the San Francisco 49ers recently made a Godfather offer for reigning NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers involving the No. 3 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Jimmy Garoppolo and potentially other pieces. He was immediately, roundly clowned on social media. Fans laughed him off. National sports media figures reflexively responded that they'd heard nothing of the sort. I told SFGATE's editorial director, Grant Marek, that I wanted to wait on someone a little more well-known to confirm what sounded like a tough-to-believe scoop before we ran with it. My logic was that lots of people have blue check marks on Twitter, and local sports pundits have an unfortunate habit of making st up for their 15 minutes of fame. In this case, my cautiousness was misplaced. I ignored an even more pervasive sports media problem: NFL reporters hesitating to do their jobs. Just a few weeks ago, I wrote for this very website about how ESPN access merchant Adam Schefter very quickly walked back a definitive assertion that the Niners were going to select Mac Jones No. 3 overall. Schefter has the phone number of every major figure in the NFL. He does not say things definitively unless he knows something. But he, like his counterparts at the NFL Network, are also beholden to a massive broadcasting deal and a dollar-driven reality that the draft would be way more boring if everybody already knew what San Francisco was doing. So a few days after his initial pronouncement, Schefter reverted to boilerplate responses about what San Francisco's plans might be. (Much more recently, it's of course possible that Kyle Shanahan and company really did warm up to somebody else.) Schefter isn't the only offender. This week, NFL Network's Mike Silver did a 49ers draft Twitter thread that he confusingly referred to as "not a report," but also not his opinion, because he's not allowed to "tip picks." (I covered this strange phenomenon, too.) Once again, it read like a national media member who knew more than he was willing to say. And now a local radio guy has a big report out that likely caused one of two outcomes. One is that Michaels spurred the rest of the national sports media to finally pick up the phone and inquire about Rodgers. The other possibility is a whole bunch of NFL journalists were feigning ignorance about the Packers quarterback's unhappiness until they couldn't anymore. It's very weird that hours after the national media was scooped, Schefter published a story detailing how Rodgers has been disgruntled for MONTHS. "The Packers are aware of his feelings, concerned about them and have had team president Mark Murphy, general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur each fly out on separate trips to meet with Rodgers at various points this offseason, sources told ESPN." Schefter then dropped that the 49ers did inquire about Rodgers, as did the Los Angeles Rams back in January. A whole cavalry of well-connected NFL reporters are doing the same thing. Former ESPN host Trey Wingo is reporting today, for the first time, that the Packers were promising to trade Rodgers way earlier in the offseason. Suddenly, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport knows the full situation about Rodgers' contract negotiations. Miraculously, Mike Florio went from writing about how there's nothing to these rumors to actually, Rodgers has a short-list of preferred destinations and wanted Green Bay to take the Niners' very real offer. The gossip that seems to be floating around is that this is Rodgers' revenge, that he waited until today to let his opinion leak to reporters, all because Green Bay selected a quarterback in the first-round of the 2020 draft. Sure, I guess that's possible. The timing on that doesn't feel so compelling, though. I'm far more convinced of the other scenario: that a local radio host reported something on an inconvenient day, and NFL reporters finally revealed what they themselves have been chattering about for weeks.
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https://www.sfgate.com/49ers/article/2021-04-Did-NFL-reporters-not-know-about-Rodgers-16140001.php
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Was LeBron James snubbed from Dr. Js all-time list?
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Julius Erving joined "Posted Up" this week and toward the end of our interview, the discussion of Dr. Js top players of all time came up and sparked a huge debate across social media. My first team is like Oscar Robertson and Jerry West, I got Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell and Elgin Baylor, Erving told Yahoo Sports. That second team, Magic, Michael, Larry, Karl Malone, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar those guys they would be my second team. And a lot of people would argue that LeBron [muffled] you know it's crazy to kind of pick him on the third team." The 71-year-old Hall of Famers list is comprised of players he grew up watching as a kid or played against during his time in the ABA and NBA. As for why LeBron was snubbed, Erving explained further why he didnt make the cut. Hes the guy who has led the charge in terms of super teams...@JuliusErving doesn't have LeBron on his top-two All-Time NBA teams Check out Posted Up with @ChrisBHaynes https://t.co/LIqxEaKxVO pic.twitter.com/IROWlOSYkT Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 27, 2021 When you look at LeBron and anybody he sort of picks with him he played with so many guys. Hes the guy who has led the charge in terms of superteams being put together. When he put together the team in Miami, he put together that team in Cleveland as well and put together a team in Los Angeles. So he can pick his own team, Im not going to pick his team. Im not saying nothing bad about LeBron. While its true that players werent picking their teammates, historically, superteams have always existed in one form or another. Championship teams might have never been labeled as superteams, but its hard to find a title contender that didnt have multiple All-Stars on its roster. Vote below: More from Yahoo Sports:
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https://sports.yahoo.com/was-le-bron-james-snubbed-from-dr-js-all-time-list-185025817.html?src=rss
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Why Is Public Interest in Getting Vaccinated Declining?
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A person receives a dose of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine at a vaccination center in Chicago, Ill., April 6, 2021. (Carlos Barria/Reuters) Ive got a reader whos really mad about this post back on March 5, and who demands a retraction for making fun of Detroit and its mayor. In case youve forgotten, the mayor of Detroit initially turned down 6,200 doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Mayor Mike Duggan doubled down Thursday on his reasoning for sticking with the vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer. Johnson & Johnson is a very good vaccine. Moderna and Pfizer are the best, Duggan said in a news conference. And I am going to do everything I can to make sure that residents of the city of Detroit get the best. The mayors stance was at odds with all available science and the recommendations of public health experts, and the new administration noticed. White House Jen Psaki said, our team has been in touch with the mayor. There was a bit of a misunderstanding. He was going to go out and speak publicly about accepting vaccines. The mayor reversed his position on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine shortly after that White House outreach. This reader metaphorically did a touchdown dance when the FDA and CDC temporarily paused the administering of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, interpreting that as vindication for Duggan. Of course, the FDA and CDC rescinded the pause, declaring they have confidence that this vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19 and the FDA has determined that the available data show that the vaccines known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older. But the daily rate of vaccinations dropped noticeably after that initial FDA pause: People ages 18-49, who were rapidly increasing their vaccination rate, took a sudden lurch downward right at the time the J&J pause was announced. Those from 50-64, who were holding steady, also took a big downward dip. Conversely, those under 18, who were approved only for the Pfizer vaccine, showed no change in response. Great work, fellas. Because of a handful of cases of blood clots that may or may not be connected to the vaccine, you did real damage to public enthusiasm for getting vaccinated. Im sure Jenny McCarthy is proud. Advertisement As for my reader whos the president of the Mike Duggan Fan Club, I guess when you have to root for the Lions (last place in the NFC North last year), Tigers (worst record in baseball), Pistons (last place in the NBAs Eastern Conference) and Red Wings (seventh place in the eight-team NHL Central Division), you get really emotionally invested in particular brands of COVID-19 vaccine.
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https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/why-are-people-less-eager-to-get-vaccinated-than-a-month-ago/
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Did the Jets Just Draft the 'Next Patrick Mahomes' in Zach Wilson?
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The ability to throw on the run, change arm angles under pressure, launch missiles down the field and maneuver outside of the pocket. New York's new franchise quarterback Zach Wilson, selected with the No. 2 overall pick on Thursday, has all of those skills and more. According to this NFL insider, Wilson doesn't just look like Mahomes between the lines. He has a chance to be the next Mahomes in the National Football League. "I think Zach Wilson has the potential to be the next Patrick Mahomes," ESPN's Sal Paolantonio told Jack Bell of NYJets.com. "He has all those kinds of tools ... incredible vision, quick release, accurate on the run, a creative player and he can really rip it." Paolantonio added that with a long-suffering fan base and three other teams rising in their division, now is the time for the Jets to "make [their] move." This is the type of pick for general manager Joe Douglas that will start to point this franchise in the direction of contention. Zach Wilson: Getting Drafted By Jets Was 'Exactly What I Was Hoping For' Odds are you've heard the Mahomes comparison before. Asked which quarterback Wilson reminds him of, former NFL and college head coach Jim Mora told Jets Country the first quarterback that came to his mind is the legendary QB from the New Orleans Saints. "I can compare Trevor Lawrence to a Peyton Manning but Trevor's got more mobility. Or I can compare a Mac Jones to Joe Montana, maybe with a little less mobility," Mora explained. "When I think of Zach, the first name that pops into my head is Drew Brees. They're physically different. Zach's bigger, I think he's more mobile, but I think it's kind of the calm demeanor and the ability to find guys late in a down and throw with accuracy and perform with a level of confidence that radiates off of you and permeates your team." Mora went on to add that Mahomes and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers have similar skillsets as well. No matter what quarterback Wilson reminds the experts of, or even the fans, he's poised to do some damage in green and white as soon as Week 1 "I think it's gonna be a really fun team to watch," Mora said. "Let's not expect too much out of Zach too fast, but let's look for the positives, let's give him a chance to grow and I think they're heading in the right direction." Follow Max Goodman on Twitter (@MaxTGoodman), on Facebook (also @MaxTGoodman), be sure to bookmark Jets Country and check back daily for news, analysis and more.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/jets/news/new-york-jets-quarterback-zach-wilson-called-next-patrick-mahomes-by-nfl-insider-drew-breer-aaron-rodgers
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Could Packers Trade Love to Give Rodgers Clarity?
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The short and simple answer is it would be very difficult. GREEN BAY, Wis. One way to get quarterback Aaron Rodgers the job security he wants would be for the Green Bay Packers to trade Jordan Love. Thats not going to happen, though. Remember, the Packers signed Love to a four-year contract worth $12.383 million. Every penny of that was guaranteed. Thus, parting ways now would create a dead cap hit of about $9.3 million, according to Spotrac. According to the NFLPA, the Packers entered the night with $2.69 million of cap space. In other words, they would have to quickly create about $6.65 million of cap space to absorb Loves dead money charge and remain compliant with the cap. Behind the finances and the fact its shelled out a lot of money for a player who spent the year as the No. 3 quarterback, it would be the tremendous loss of draft capital. Green Bay gave up first- and fourth-round picks to get Love last year. RELATED: Analyzing the Aaron Rodgers news Almost nothing, comparatively. With five first-round quarterbacks, a lot of holes were filled in the first 15 picks of Thursday nights draft. And there will be a few decent options in Day 2. So, any team needing a quarterback can probably find its quarterback in the draft. One source said he thought the Packers could get a fourth- or fifth-rounder for Love. First, he wasnt universally loved last draft cycle. Two, he did not have a good training camp. We read what you guys wrote. Its all we had with no preseason, he said. Third, its a case of out of sight, out of mind. Nobody knows other than the Green Bay coaching staff. On the other hand, Loves contract would be easy to swallow for his new team. Green Bays already paid about $8.21 million of the $12.38 million, or two-thirds of the total. The new team would be on the hook for only base salaries of $1.17 million in 2021, $1.74 million in 2022 and $2.30 million in 2023.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/news/could-packers-trade-love-to-give-rodgers-clarity
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Can the U.S. and Cuba get along now that the Castros are gone?
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The 360 shows you diverse perspectives on the days top stories and debates. Whats happening For more than 60 years, the name Castro has been synonymous with Cubas communist regime. First it was Fidel Castro, who ruled the country for nearly five decades after the communist revolution before ceding power to his brother Ral in 2008. Ral Castro, 89, stepped down as head of Cubas Communist Party earlier this month, ending the Castros era of formal leadership in the country. The partys new leader, Miguel Daz-Canel, is a devoted acolyte of the Castro model of socialism and has served as Cubas president since 2018, a role he also took over from Ral Castro. Daz-Canel assumes power during a challenging time for the island nation. Cubas economy, already kneecapped by the ongoing U.S. embargo, shrank by 11 percent last year after the pandemic dealt a major blow to its tourism industry. The United States imposed an embargo prohibiting all trade with Cuba in 1962, three years after revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro unseated the countrys U.S.-backed president and less than a year after the failed Bay of Pigs invasion. The hostile relationship between the two nations remained largely unchanged until 2014, when the Obama administration moved to restore diplomatic ties with Cuba while easing economic sanctions, reducing travel restrictions and removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. Those policies were mostly reversed by President Donald Trump during his first year in office. Why theres debate Some expertsbelieve the recent change in leadership in both the U.S. and Cuba is an opportunity to cool tensions between the two countries they say have endured for decades longer than was necessary. In March, before Ral Castro announced he would step down as party leader, a group of 80 Democrats in Congress called on President Biden to assist struggling Cuban families and promote a more constructive approach by ending Trumps restrictions and resuming efforts to foster a more cooperative relationship. Story continues There are also hopes that Cuba may be more open to diplomacy now that the Castros are no longer in charge. Daz-Canel, though far from a reformer, has made small changes since taking over as president like increasing internet access and allowing more private businesses to operate that could suggest he might be willing to further open up Cubas economy in exchange for relief from the embargo. Experts also say younger Cubans are growing increasingly discontent with socialism and are more willing to embrace change than older generations. Skeptics say Daz-Canel represents an extension of Castroism rather than a departure from it. This is a phony, pathetic transfer of power to the very same murderous and corrupt monsters who have destroyed the island for the past 62 years, said U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, a Cuban American who represents parts of Miami in Congress. Politics also make it tricky for Biden to take a softer approach to Cuba. Cuban Americans in Florida, a critical constituency in the swing state, remain firmly opposed to normalizing relations with Cuba, polls suggest. Whats next During the campaign, Biden said he would reverse the failed Trump policies that undid the diplomatic gains made during the Obama administration. It doesnt appear, however, that any new approach to Cuba is imminent. A Cuba policy shift or additional steps is currently not among the president's top foreign policy priorities, press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters earlier this month. Perspectives Optimists New leadership in both nations is an opportunity to mend a broken relationship A new leader in Havana is an opening for those advocating for major change largely the nation's young people to push for reform more forcefully; a new leader in Washington offers a glimmer of hope to loosen restrictions even more. Elena Sheppard, NBC News Opening up the relationship would give the U.S. leverage to promote change in Cuba I think that if the United States were to go back to the policies that we saw started under president Obama, where you engage in trade, the power asymmetry is so great that the Cuban economy starts getting more influenced and more dependence on all of the things that the dominant American economy would provide, the pressure on the Cuban Communist government to collapse would be very high. Ian Bremmer, GZERO Change is happening in Cuba even without a change to U.S. policies [Political] sentiments make it more difficult for Biden to initiate his own Obama-style thaw. But they cannot stop the changes at work in Cuban society. Joseph J. Gonzalez, Conversation Now is the perfect time for the U.S. to lift the embargo The United States, meanwhile, has clung to the embargo largely out of habit. Two generations post revolution, it is a propitious time to end the madness. Open the gates, flood Cuba with U.S. goods and goodwill, and trust that freedom will speak for herself. Kathleen Parker, Washington Post Younger Cubans are eager for a new approach Many older Cubans remember the poverty and inequality they faced before the Castros, and remain loyal to the revolution despite decades of hardship. But younger generations, who grew up with the achievements of socialism, including access to education and health care, chafe at its limits. They are demanding less government control and more economic freedom. Maria Abi-Habib and Ed Augustin, New York Times Skeptics The communist system is too entrenched for any substantive change to happen Theoretically, yes, change is possible. But as any good historian or insurance actuary will tell you, theoretical possibilities fall into the realm of faith rather than reason, and it is safest not to expect miracles. Given all that has been set into place in Cuba, change is not likely any time soon, so the safest bet is to be highly skeptical. Carlos Eire, Washington Post Maintaining hardline restrictions is the best way to bring an end to Cubas communist regime No matter how weak the dictatorship has become, it wont just give way spontaneously to a democratic transition. It must be pushed. Send your suggestions to the360@yahoonews.com. Read more 360s Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Win McNamee/Getty Images, Sven Creutzmann/Mambo Photography/Getty Images
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https://news.yahoo.com/can-the-us-and-cuba-get-along-now-that-the-castros-are-gone-141956095.html
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Who are my parents?
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In Texas, this story is all too typical. Many adults in this position can expect to jump through hoops to obtain their original birth certificates, often without success. Texas law seals a childs original birth certificate when the child is adopted and the adoptive parents are issued a new birth certificate listing them as the childs parents. As adults, the adoptees then must ask for access to their original birth certificate in a court in the county that granted the adoption and demonstrate to a judge that they have a need to know this information. Failing that, adult adoptees often suffer in silence or pursue expensive DNA tests and investigations when easy access to their original birth records would answer what might well be the most important question of their lives. House Bill 1386 and its identical counterpart, SB 1877, would allow adoptees who are at least 18 and were born in Texas to obtain their original birth certificates from the state without a court order, removing a major hurdle that had been on the books in Texas since 1957. The national trend toward sealing adoption records began in the 1930s and gained momentum with an increase in out-of-wedlock wartime births. By the 1970s, adoptees began advocating for access to their birth certificates and some states created programs that would allow a court-appointed middleman to appoint someone to confidentially search for birth parents and, if they agreed, arrange contact with adoptees. In Texas, adoption rights advocates for years have pushed for an easier process for adoptees to obtain their original birth certificates. State lawmakers resisted and said secrecy protected the privacy of birth parents and prevented adoptive parents from confronting birth mothers. The interests of adopted children, who are now adults, clashed with the law. A birth certificate is more than a piece of paper; it also is a window into a persons heritage, race and ethnicity and can be useful in establishing family medical history. One adoptee, who wrote to lawmakers in support of the bill, put it this way: Though family reunification is not the main purpose or goal of the adoptee rights bill, it is not right that legal, tax-paying, voting ADULTS are treated differently under the law just because they were adopted as children. And if there is the possibility of finding members of their biological families, the state of Texas should not hinder that. Not all family histories will be pleasant, but the state shouldnt get in the way of adults making the decision to learn more about their families. In recent years, lawmakers in several states have made birth certificates more accessible. Texas should do the same this session. Send a letter to the editor, and you just might get published.
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https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/editorials/2021/04/29/who-are-my-parents/
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Can Justin Fields be the NFL franchise quarterback the Chicago Bears and Ohio State both need?
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CLEVELAND Chicago Bears officials attended both of Justin Fields Pro Day workouts at Ohio State, scrutinizing the quarterback they later traded up to select in Thursdays first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Fields nailed his first impression with Bears general manager Ryan Pace long before that, though. Pace attended The Game at Michigan Stadium on Nov. 30, 2019. He watched Fields crumple to the field when a teammate rolled up his left leg, aggravating a knee injury he had suffered the week before. Then Pace watched Fields, seven snaps after entering the medical tent, return to the field with a new, larger brace on his knee. He drifted out of the pocket to his left, turned and fired an in-stride strike to Garrett Wilson in the back of the end zone. That touchdown helped define Fields two seasons with the Buckeyes, and showed Pace the quarterbacks essence. This guys toughness on a scale of 1-10s an 11, Pace said. You just love that about him. And oh by the way, he runs a 4.44 (in the 40-yard dash). You throw that all in together it just feels good. Fields will need all of those attributes the physical toughness, the mature makeup, the unique skill set to accomplished what has eluded Ohio State and Bears quarterbacks for generations. If Fields becomes the first modern Buckeye quarterback to star in the NFL, he will solve a quandary that has frustrated one of the leagues historic franchises. Justin Fields will break Ohio States NFL quarterback curse, and one statistic all but guarantees it Ohio State footballs Justin Fields on 2021 NFL Draft slide: It was Gods plan for me to be a Bear The Bears made Fields their fourth first-round quarterback since 1999, following Cade McNown, Rex Grossman and Mitch Trubisky. They traded away three other first-round picks when acquiring Rick Mirer and Jay Cutler. All of that draft capital yielded one Super Bowl appearance and no victories, extending a drought that dates back to Mike Ditka, Walter Payton and the Super Bowl shuffle in 1985. Fields likely could not yet grasp the depths of Bears fans yearning on Thursday night. However, he reassured them he shares their high expectations. Asked what makes him the quarterback who can change the Bears fortunes, Fields said, The way I carry myself. The way I care about the game. The grit I have. The determination I have to be great. Nobody has the story that I have. Everything inside of me wanting to be a great quarterback, wanting to be a franchise quarterback, of course dreaming for this moment my whole life. All of those intangibles my work ethic and all that together will be different for me. Five Bears quarterbacks have made Pro Bowl rosters since 1951. Two came in the Super Bowl era Jim McMahon, who quarterbacked those 1985 champs, and Trubisky in 2018. Back in 2017, Pace sent four picks to San Francisco to move up one spot and take Trubisky. He now backs up Josh Allen in Buffalo. That costly failure did not dissuade the Bears from taking another shot. Pace said he planned for multiple contingencies in Thursdays first round. He spoke with New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman in the morning about possibly trading up to the No. 11 pick if certain scenarios unfolded. Quarterbacks Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson and Trey Lance went to the Jaguars, Jets and 49ers, respectively, with the first three picks. The next seven teams either had their quarterback in place or apparently felt they could not pass up someone else. We got excited when the quarterbacks came off that way and Justin continued to fall, Pace said. For us it was executing our plan at the right spot in the draft. The blueprint Pace said offensive coordinator Bill Lazor and assistant director of player personnel Champ Kelly attended Ohio States first Pro Day. Pace, coach Matt Nagy and director of player personnel Josh Lucas attended the second. The Bears came away impressed with the natural velocity of Fields throws, his muscular build, his focus and determination. Pace reiterated that recently signed free agent Andy Dalton is Chicagos starter. Nick Foles also remains on the roster. Those two have combined for 197 NFL starts, four Pro Bowl selections and Foles Super Bowl LII victory with the Philadelphia Eagles. Nagy, though, has done this before. It did not work with Trubisky, but his previous project set a new standard for success. Nagy served as Andy Reids offensive coordinator in 2017 when the Kansas City Chiefs selected Patrick Mahomes with the 10th pick. The Texas Tech quarterback learned under veteran Alex Smith for one season before taking over as the starter in 2018. He won the MVP that season, the Super Bowl the next and repeated as AFC champion in 2020. Getting (Fields) is one thing, but for us to surround him and develop him is the other thing, Pace said. You can draft players, but you have to develop them the right way, and thats what I love about the environment we have. Matt he has the blueprint. Nagy played quarterback in a record-setting career at Delaware. The Blue Hens were ranked No. 2 in I-AA in 2000 when New Hampshire quarterback Ryan Day yes, that Ryan Day led a comeback from a 31-3 deficit with under two minutes left in the third quarter for a 45-44 victory. Chicago Bears coach Matt Nagy, right, and general manager Ryan Pace have placed the franchise's future in the hands of Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields.AP Nagy learned the West Coast offense from Andy Reid, serving as his quarterbacks coach in Philadelphia and Kansas City. As with Reids offense, Nagy extensively utilizes run-pass options. Yet he also likes to take shots downfield, and inaccuracy there contributed to Trubisky losing his job. Football Outsiders Derrik Klassen graded Fields adjusted accuracy weighted for depth of target as the best in college football dating back to 2016. Some of the quarterbacks he eclipsed: Mahomes, DeShaun Watson and Joe Burrow. Pace likes Fields aggressive approach to the vertical passing game. Now, the Bears must refine those talents into NFL production. Getting to know how he communicates with his quarterbacks and his learning style, thats going to make me a better quarterback, a better player, Fields said of Nagy. Hes going to teach me a lot. Im excited to get up there and learn. Big moment, big stage Ohio State fans have long waited for an NFL quarterback to carry the programs name with honor. Michigan has Tom Brady. Purdue has Drew Brees. Even sub-Hall of Famers such as Michigan States Kirk Cousins and, reaching back a bit farther, Penn States Kerry Collins established sustained NFL value. The Bears have tried the OSU quarterback thing before. They picked up Mike Tomczak as an undrafted free agent in 1985 and he started games in five consecutive seasons. Craig Krenzel won three games as a rookie after injuries forced the fifth-round pick into action in 2004. They both go on the short and uninspiring list of Buckeye success stories in the NFL. After last years draft, Day made changing that narrative central to his long-term goals at Ohio State. Troy Smith, a Heisman Trophy winner, could not do it. Dwayne Haskins, a first-round pick only two years ago, quickly slipped off of that path. The responsibility now falls to Fields, as it did in 2019 when a potential national championship team had a hole at quarterback. As it did when the Big Ten canceled the 2020 season during the COVID-19 pandemic. As it did when a Clemson defenders helmet cannonballed into his ribcage in the playoff semifinals, briefly interrupting his 385-yard, six-touchdown masterpiece. When big moments present themselves, another thing kicks inside of me, Fields said. Capitalizing in big moments and playing well on big stages, thats one of my strengths for sure. The big moment has arrived for Fields, for the program he leaves behind, and for the city that wants nothing more than to embrace him. Get Ohio State Sugar Bowl champs & CFP gear: Check out shirts, hats and more merchandise commemorating Ohio States Sugar Bowl win over Clemson, as well as gear on the Buckeyes advancing to the College Football Playoff national championship game. Could OSU 2022 class provide first No.
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https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2021/04/can-justin-fields-be-the-nfl-franchise-quarterback-the-chicago-bears-and-ohio-state-both-need.html
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Did an avant-garde French artist sell the first NFT?
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In March the third-most-expensive work ever sold at auction by a living artist went for $69m. The sum was particularly striking because the artwork in question wont hang in the buyers super-yacht, or even his hallway. It exists only online: anyone with an internet connection can see it, whenever and wherever they want. They can even copy it and share it with others. Free. Everydays: the First 5000 Days was made by Mike Winkelmann, an American graphic artist who goes by the name of Beeple. It is a digital collage of 5,000 images Beeple has designed over the years, which together form a dizzying spectacle. Anyone can find this image on the internet, so the buyer of this item was not acquiring the artwork itself, but a receipt showing that he is the owner of the original digital file. These digital receipts, known as non-fungible tokens ( NFT s), have now become the talk of the art world. Since the transaction occurred at Christies, a leading auction house, it carried special weight. If this sounds absurd to you, youre not alone. I dont really know. Some in the art world sneered at Beeple. One critic described Everydays in the New York Times as indiscriminately collated pictures of cartoon monsters, gross-out gags and a breastfeeding Donald Trump. Many were simply confused about why anyone would pay so much to buy something that can never truly be theirs. The art world has a history of subverting our understanding of art and beauty. When the Impressionists held their first exhibition in 1874, critics despaired at the paintings by Monet, Degas and others, calling them ugly and formless. Yves Klein convinced an American couple to hand over 14 gold ingots worth around $2,000 today in exchange for nothing but fresh air Beeple is not the first person to stretch the idea of what can be sold as art. In 1962 Yves Klein, a French avant-garde artist and former coach of the Spanish judo team, persuaded an American couple to hand over 14 gold ingots worth around $2,000 today in exchange for nothing but fresh air. The buyers, a screenwriter called Michael Blankfort and his wife, received a receipt confirming that they had bought a Zone of Immaterial Pictorial Sensibility. Klein then asked the Blankforts to burn the receipt, threw half the gold into the Seine and melted the rest to use in other works. An art dealer and a museum curator looked on, conferring a measure of artistic legitimacy on the proceedings. Yves Klein, a French avant-garde artist, pictured in 1961 ( opening image ). Klein sold a Zone of Immaterial Pictorial Sensibility to Michael Blankfort and his wife in 1962 ( above ) French newspapers were incredulous at the sale, printing headlines such as Sorcery at Notre Dame and Klein Sells Wind! But this was not Kleins first such stunt. In 1958 he emptied a Parisian gallery, white-washed the walls and invited people in to see his immaterial artwork. Guests at the exhibition, which was entitled The Void, were served a cocktail that turned their urine blue for a week. On opening night Klein reportedly sold two non-existent works of art. Klein claimed that he wanted to challenge the idea of what art could be, by breaking the distinction between an artistic object and the world around it. The Blankforts did not buy an item that could be transported and sold on, but an experience. No physical artefact needed to exist for the Zones to be considered an artwork, Klein thought. Some European intellectuals praised his ingenuity, but America had little time for such high-minded wackiness: Time magazine called him a fad when he visited New York in 1961. The citys art crowd mostly steered clear of Kleins shows. The pursuit of nothingness One of the artworks at The Void, Kleins exhibition of immaterial art, held in Paris in 1958 ( above ) The Blankforts receipt, like the NFT issued for Beeples work, proved ownership of something that no one can exclusively possess. In Kleins case this applied to fresh air; in Beeples it is a JPEG file that anyone with an internet connection can download. The owner might claim that the $69m version of Beeples artwork has an authenticity that copies of the file do not. Buyers get bragging rights but also, some people have argued, a unique encounter that viewers of a mere copy do not. After buying Parisian air from Klein, Michael Blankfort wrote that there was no other experience in art equal to the depth of feeling caused by buying his Zone, and that he felt an explosion of awareness of time and space. Yet there is an important difference between Klein and Beeple. Klein made his buyers burn their receipt. He wanted them to relinquish evidence of their claim to the work and prevent the receipt from itself becoming an art object, accruing value through its association with him. He threw away gold, which had been the ultimate store of value for millennia, showing that his art was not a financial asset to be sold for profit. Eye-watering Everydays: the First 5000 Days, Beeples digital collage sold for $69.3m ( top ). One of the 5,000 works that formed Everydays ( above ) Beeple has given his buyers no such encouragement to destroy the digital receipts. NFT s are stored on a blockchain, a digital database that publicly records online transactions, providing proof of ownership. A blockchain is impossible to tamper with because it is not controlled by a single entity, as a banks ledger is. This means that an NFT can never be deleted, but it can be transferred to another owner, as is already happening with other NFT s. The buyer of Everydays seemed more interested in the work's financial potential than its artistic value. Vignesh Sundaresan, the cryptocurrency investor based in Singapore known as MetaKovan who bought Everydays, boasted that it is going to be a billion-dollar piece someday. He made little mention of its aesthetic qualities in interviews. MetaKovan runs an investment fund that has already bought up other NFT s, including many issued by Beeple. The high price MetaKovan paid for Everydays also pushed up the price of other Beeple NFT s. That made MetaKovans fund even more valuable. It just so happens that Beeple himself was given around 2% of that fund by MetaKovan. Klein fleeced the art world in order to critique it, Beeple seems keen to cash in MetaKovan is perhaps right not to lay stress on the power of the artwork itself. You can buy NFT s linked to any digital item, from a video clip to a music file. In March 2021 Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, sold an NFT linked to the first-ever tweet, which he sent in 2006, for almost $3m (he gave the money to charity). But the emphasis on commerce over content indicates an important difference between past and present. Klein was often ridiculed during his lifetime. These days he is regarded as an influential avant-garde artist. In 2002 a receipt book for Zones of Immaterial Pictorial Sensibility sold at auction for 14,300; in 2015 a monochrome blue rectangle that Klein painted fetched 6.1m. Kleins efforts to prevent his works being treated as commodities actually made them more valuable. Beeple, by contrast, has embraced the commercial potential of his art. He was paid for Everydays in Ether, a volatile cryptocurrency, though quickly converted it into dollars after the sale. Klein fleeced the art world in order to critique it, Beeple seems keen to cash in. Bo Franklin is The Economists Explainers editor
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https://www.economist.com/1843/2021/04/29/did-an-avant-garde-french-artist-sell-the-first-nft
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Why Is Ed Helms Leading the First Native Sitcom?
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In one sense, there has never been a show like Rutherford Falls before. Streaming on NBCs service Peacock, Rutherford Falls is focused on the fictional titular northeastern town and the also-fictional Minishonka Nation. Brought to life by Parks and Rec and The Good Place creator Michael Schur, The Office star Ed Helms, and Navajo showrunner Sierra Teller Ornelas, the series features the first-ever Native-majority writing staff on a big-studio comedy series. Not only that, but half of the cast consists of Native actors playing Minishonka citizens, and the seasons best episodes are directed by Native directors. In another sense, however, there is a lot that is familiar about the show, which follows Helmss character, Nathan Rutherford, a descendant of the towns founder and the self-appointed champion of a statue that stands at the center of both Rutherford Falls and the towns original treaty with the Minishonka Nation. His best friend, Reagan Wells (Jana Schmieding), is trying to find her way back into her community after leaving the Minishonka rez to chase her personal and professional dream of running a museum. Helping her on that mission, while working to accomplish his own ambitious goals to expand both Minishonka lands and his own companys reach, is Terry Thomas (Michael Greyeyes), the CEO of the Minishonka casino. In Reagan and Terry, in particular, its easy to see how the show is building uponand improvingthe relationship mold popularized by Parks center-left government enthusiast, Leslie Knope, and libertarian Ron Swanson. But there is a deeper familiarity that ends up preventing the show from being the best version of itself. I want to be precise in what I write here, because I very much admire and am inspired by the Native showrunner, writers, actors, and crew behind this show. Jana Schmieding shines in every scene as Reagana brief shot of her in the second episode calling the winning number of a bingo card is so full of joy that its impossible not to give a full-on toothy grin in response. Greyeyes is great, too: Every cocked eyebrow, eye roll, nod, squint, and incredulous stare feels natural and punctuating. Everyone involved understands the assignment, and they manage to deliver so many beautiful expressions of Native humor out of otherwise heavy material.
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https://newrepublic.com/article/162189/ed-helms-native-sitcom-rutherford-falls
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Why Is Greg Gutfeld Still on Television?
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On April 5, Fox News debuted a weeknight show called Gutfeld! in the 11 oclock hour, a slot that other networks reserve for the likes of Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and Stephen Colbert. Hosted by a longtime Fox contributor named Greg Gutfeld, the new show promises to take on the liberal late-night hosts who have the market cornered in calling Americans stupid. The show was a crowning achievement for its host, and it logged high ratings on its first night, but Gutfelds presence in the Fox lineup mostly just underscores how far the conservative media has drifted from anything that can remotely be called comedy. Greg Gutfeld has been around for a long time, and he has always been a conservative, but his career has been more picaresque than partisanmore Tucker Max than Tucker Carlson. In the early 2000s, he cultivated a reputation as a media industry prankster, once hiring three dwarfs to invade a magazine conference. He later did a short stint overseas as the editor of the British mens monthly Maxim before returning to the States in 2006 to become the sole conservative blogger in the Huffington Post dugout. All the while, he pumped out the kind of books sold in airport bookstores: In The Scorecard, he established a tally system for heterosexual relationships (a man who picked up the dry cleaning scored three points), while he exposed the hipster elite and their war on you in Not Cool. In 2007, Gutfeld landed a spot as the anchor of the late-late-late-night Fox News show Red Eye, an insane comedic farce that mixed the vitriol of Rush Limbaugh with the giddiness of a tween high on Mountain Dew. Gutfeld speculated about fornicating with roadkill, said we should invade Canada, and chatted with a hand-drawn creature named Fluffy McNutter. His mother sometimes called in as the senior correspondent. When he left the show in 2015, even The New Yorker praised his unorthodox sense of humor.
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https://newrepublic.com/article/162224/greg-gutfeld-fox-news-not-funny
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Should Investors Sell In MayOr Sit Tight?
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Photo Credit: Shutterstock With summer just around the corner, investors find themselves with quite a few reasons not to be cheerfulinflation, taxes, and the deficit, just to name a few. Once could argue that there are a couple of reasons not to sell. First, markets still tend to go up in the summer. According to a recent newsletter from Bespoke Investments, over the past 20 years, the S&P 500 has gone up 1.5 percent from May to October. Thats not as good as the rest of the year, but it is still a win. Second, selling creates additional problems. Taxable accounts will pay on the gains, and you now have the problem of deciding when to reinvest. Beyond these specific (and, in my mind, sufficient) reasons to sit tight, there are also more general ones. First, the economy and corporate earnings are likely to keep improving over the next couple of quarters. It makes little sense to bet against the market in those circumstances. More than that, however, this kind of calendar-based numerology is simply based more on a good story than anything else. In this case, the story is that, in the summer, investors are on vacationlikely at the beach. There is truth to this, and I have written my share of lobster roll posts from the beach. But the notion that no one is paying attention, or investing, is false. But because there is some truth here, sometimes the story looks to be true and works. And sometimes it doesnt. There is no consistent effect. As an example of how weak the effect is, over time, look what happens if you shift the focus by one month. When you shift from being in for November to April and out from May to October to being in for June to December and out from January to May, the effect vanishes. As such, the real problem may be the month of May itself, although that doesnt really work either. At the end of the day, no matter what data set you look at, over time, you do better overall by simply staying in, rather than trying to move in and out. Which brings us to the question of how the story and the adage got started. There are a couple of possibilities. As a Wall Street adage, it started there, possibly to give the traders on the Street a rationalization for those summer vacations. Second, if you look at the data, over some periods, it does work. But the major contributor to this idea, especially in recent decades, is some well-known October crashes. Obviously, those will weigh on returns. If you missed them, for whatever reason, you would have done better. In recent years, it has been more about a handful of extraordinary events than a fundamental pattern. Risks Not on the Calendar And that is the real problem here: this kind of simplistic calendar-based analysis misses what really controls, which are fundamental factors. Another good example is the seven-year market cycle, which I discussed here. Investing really isnt about the calendar; it is about real economic factors. You can make rational decisions based on those factors. You cant make those decisions based on the calendar. Of course not. Although I do think conditions are favorable, there are a number of risks we have to deal with. That is, however, always the caseand those risks have nothing to do with the calendar.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/bradmcmillan/2021/04/29/should-investors-sell-in-may-or-sit-tight/
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Who Can Travel To Europe And The UK?
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Many people want to travel to Europe again to see the historical sites and enjoy the rich culture and culinary delights. United States citizens haven't been able to cross the Atlantic for leisure since the opening weeks of the pandemic. However, things may finally be changing for tourists. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - 2021/04/23: The London Eye and cherry blossom trees on a clear day, London. ... [+] (Photo by Vuk Valcic/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images Countries That May Fly To Europe Now The European Union currently has relaxed entry requirements for select "third countries" outside of Europe. Current countries on the list (as of April 29, 2021) include: Australia New Zealand Rwanda Singapore South Korea Thailand China (subject to confirmation of reciprocity) It's possible for international travelers to self-quarantine in these countries first for at least ten days so that they may enter the EU for non-essential travel. This self-quarantine also waives a mandatory self-quarantine. Travelers can anticipate needing to take a pre-travel diagnostic test no longer than 72 hours before departure. Vaccinated Americans May Visit Europe This Summer Most of continental Europe has only been open to essential travelers since the start of the pandemic. Even for people who could get into Europe, countries have had rolling lockdowns and non-essential service closures when infection rates rise. That means no bars, restaurants or museums are open to patronize. Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is becoming more available, governments are more receptive to restarting leisure travel. In an April 25, 2021, interview, European Union President Ursula von der Leyen said that fully vaccinated Americans may be able to visit Europe as soon as mid-July. A critical threshold seems to have at least 70% of the U.S. population vaccinated for international travel. The U.S. can reach the 70% mark by mid-June if current vaccination trends continue. Currently, the United States is outpacing the EU with vaccinations. As the populations in both continents increase their vaccination rates, the borders may reopen. Europe Travel Opens To European Residents First The first step to restarting tourism and leisure travel across Europe is forming a joint agreement between the Schengen nations. This framework is currently called the "Green Pass." Leaders are working together to make a reopening plan that lets EU residents travel between countries. The initiative hopes to launch this pass to residents in the second half of May 2021. Since the pandemic began, each country has its own travel restrictions. It is common for many to only allow visitors from bordering nations. Another requirement to travel can be having a vaccine passport. European residents will need to show proof of receiving a vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). If the nations reach an agreement, an EU resident from any country can travel to another EU bloc nation once fully vaccinated, similar to pre-pandemic travel in the Schengen Zone. It's unclear if travelers can present a paper proof of vaccine like the current CDC form or if there will be a mobile app that verifies the vaccine to help prevent fraud. There may be a scannable QR code that lets travelers quickly move about. Non-EU Residents May Return Later The European Union is committing to allowing U.S. travelers to return to the EU in the foreseeable future. There isn't a target reopening date, but it can be as soon as summer 2021 if the health threat reduces. Americans might be some of the first international travelers to have the chance to come to continental Europe for leisure travel. A Guardian news report indicates the EU is in advanced talks about launching a vaccine passport with the United States. Unfortunately, the United States hasn't made contact with the United Kingdom for a similar move. American visitors can expect to follow the same vaccine passport protocols as EU residents once a travel system launches. The European Medicines Agency currently approves these COVID-19 vaccines: Moderna Pfizer Johnson & Johnson Because of the post-Brexit chasm, Americans will probably only want to stay within the EU bloc to avoid unnecessary self-quarantines if they are taking an extended tour of Europe and want to fit a stop in the UK too. Current Europe Travel Restrictions In general, Americans cannot travel to the Schengen Zone of the European Union. This 27-member bloc is primarily the western and central European countries that most tourists visit, like France, Italy and Spain. Other nations are open to leisure travelers, but local social distancing guidelines and entry requirements may apply. Here is a look at some European destinations that Americans can fly to before the EU reopens. Iceland Iceland was one of the first non-continental European countries to reopen to international travelers. The one caveat is that incoming visitors must be fully vaccinated and travel at least 14 days after receiving the final dose. Greece Greece is open again to leisure travelers from select nations, including the United States. Travelers can waive the mandatory quarantine and a diagnostic test by being fully vaccinated. The unvaccinated will need to take a pre-travel test to avoid the 10-day self-quarantine. France France currently isn't open to unessential international travel, but President Emmanual Macron mentions the country is developing a special travel relationship with the United States. This pass may allow U.S. travelers to visit in summer 2021 if the broad EU agreement fizzles out. Other nations that heavily depend on tourism have similar desires to make travel corridors with the United States until a continent-wide approach passes. United Kingdom The United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) hopes to reopen to American travelers as soon as May 17, 2021. Now that Brexit is complete, the UK travel restrictions are separate from what the EU does. Other European Nations Several nations not part of the 27-member EU bloc in central and eastern Europe are welcoming American tourists. Travelers will need to be fully vaccinated or have a negative COVID test within 72 hours before arrival. Some of these nations include: Croatia Cyprus Estonia Georgia Montenegro Serbia The entry requirements vary by nation, and it's critical to complete the necessary steps before flying. Overlooking a mandatory action can result in a 10-day self-quarantine. These requirements are similar to most Caribbean and Latin American nations that are open to American tourists. US Entry Requirements Re-entering the United States can be similar to the steps necessary to fly into Europe. Returning Americans age two or older will need to obtain a re-entry test no more than 72 hours before flying back to the United States. Summary The first leisure flights to Europe may resume from the United States to Europe as soon as this summer, but travel for EU residents must resume first. American tourists hoping for a multi-nation European getaway should expect to be fully vaccinated to cross the Pond. Until the European continents reopen, travelers can visit select countries like Iceland and Greece by meeting the nation's entry requirements. Related Articles:
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/geoffwhitmore/2021/04/29/who-can-travel-to-europe-and-the-uk/
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Will Companies Mandate Workers To Get Vaccinated Now That Employees Are Told To Return To The Office?
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The challenge leaders confront is that not everyone is convinced about getting an injection. About ... [+] 17% of Americans, according to a study, are taking a wait-and-see approach toward vaccinations and roughly 20% arent inclined to get vaccinated. getty The U.S. is reopening much faster than most people thought possible. Leading corporations, including Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Uber, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan, have expedited their return-to-office plans. The next big issue that needs to be addressed by companies is whether or not theyll mandate employees to get vaccinated. Executives would most likely want to require workers to get their shots, as it would help their companies avoid potential legal liabilities over the chance of an infected person passing along Covid-19 to co-workerswho, in turn, could give it to family members. Having a fully vaccinated workforce would also make things easier with respect to alleviating the concerns of other workers. The challenge leaders confront is that not everyone is convinced about getting an injection. About 17% of Americans, according to a study, are taking a wait-and-see approach toward vaccinations and roughly 20% arent inclined to get vaccinated. The states of Florida and North Dakota introduced legislation that would prohibit businesses from demanding that workers get vaccinated Companies face unfamiliar and uncharted territory. The Covid-19 vaccines were approved by the FDA through an Emergency Use Authorization. This means, unlike past vaccinations, this new shot is given with an advisory that it's completely voluntary. Nevertheless, it seems that companies can legally require vaccines as a condition of employment. Although, there are certain exemptions. For instance, companies need to accommodate religious beliefs or medical conditions. One prominent executive recently weighed in on the topic. JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon said in a webcast last week that the company couldnt yet require employees to be vaccinated before returning to the office. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, the largest human resources membership group, The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has weighed in with guidance that answers some workplace vaccination questions. Employers may encourage or possibly require Covid-19 vaccinations, but policies must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) and other workplace laws, according to the EEOC. The EEOC said employers should evaluate four factors to determine whether a direct threat exists: The duration of the risk. The nature and severity of the potential harm. The likelihood that the potential harm will occur. The imminence of the potential harm. It's a tough call for managers. If an employee falls into the category in which they dont or cant be vaccinated, but could potentially be a health threat to colleagues, the supervisor has to come up with solutions. This could include making reasonable accommodations, such as isolating the person from others, which isnt too practical or polite. They may elect to ask the unvaccinated person to work remotely. It could get complicated and uncomfortable. It's unfair for her to be forced to choose between a job or the health and welfare of both the mother and child. The issue gets even more complicated when companies require their customers to be vaccinated. Airlines, sporting events, restaurants and cruise lines may call for vaccine passports. Like many issues lately, the decisions become politicized. Some groups will claim that they dont want their rights and privacy abridged and others may feel uncomfortable and put-upon to be in close proximity with someone who could potentially spread the virus. As companies are planning to soon have people back in the office by May, June or July, executives have to quickly figure out how to navigate these difficult decisions.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2021/04/29/will-companies-mandate-workers-to-get-vaccinated-now-that-employees-are-told-to-return-to-the-office/
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Is The Pininfarina Battista Better Than The Tesla Roadster?
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Once upon a time, electric cars were mostly incredibly worthy all about zero emissions and saving the planet. But they never had to be. Now we have electric cars that are challenging the pinnacle of road vehicle performance achievement hypercars. One of the most exciting electric hypercars to arrive is the Pininfarina Battista, which has been doing the rounds in the UK in the last week of April, after Jardine Motors Group became the London and South East England vendor for the car. The Pininfarina Battista Anniversario on show in London in April 2021 Pininfarina I recently had a chance to talk to Automobili Pininfarinas Product & Platform Director Paolo Dellacha about the new Battista, which has very similar characteristics to Croatian electric hypercar, the Rimac C_Two. That is not surprising because the Battista is based on the latters technology, which Automobili Pininfarina licensed from Rimac for $91 million. However, this only includes the chassis, battery, and motor. Pininfarina has added what it has traditionally been famous for a stunningly beautiful body and interior design. Pininfarina claims the Battista will reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in under two seconds, which is the same as the Rimac C_Two. However, where the Rimac hypercar will allegedly reach 258mph, the Battista has been limited to a top speed of 350 km/h (219 mph), which Pininfarina seems to think is enough for anyone. These abilities are thanks to an unfeasible 1,900hp and a gobsmacking 2,300 Nm of torque, delivered by four electric motors, one for each wheel. Even the battery is considerable at 120kWh, supposedly providing a 500km (310 mile) range, on par with a Volkswagen ID.4. The Pininfarina Battista made an appearance at the former BBC Television Centre. The obvious comparison is the Bugatti Chiron, which costs a similar 2.5 million ($3 million) to the Anniversario edition of the Battista that was on show in the UK in April. In terms of engine power, the Chiron is way behind, with 1,400hp and 1,600 Nm of torque, and this makes its acceleration slower, dispatching 0-100 km/h in 2.4 seconds, although that is hardly leisurely. However, the top speed of 261mph is considerably ahead of the Battista, although the Rimac C_Two is only a few mph behind. Top speed is one area where electric cars in general arent yet competing with their internal combustion alternatives. This is always an area where internal combustion lovers like to criticize electric cars, but it doesnt really apply to performance cars, or any other vehicle with similarly poor fuel economy. The Bugatti Chiron is definitely in this class. It has a sizeable 100-litre fuel tank (22 Imperial gallons, or 26 US gallons) but does around 12.55mpg (10.45 miles per US gallon), so youre only getting 275 miles of range out of that. In fact, a few years ago it got an EPA rating of just 100 miles, but that was based on a smaller 9.5-gallon fuel tank. Even with the bigger tank, the Chiron wont go so far as the Battista if you use it as a GT car, although it will refuel more quickly. Pininfarina is claiming the Battista will recharge from 20 to 80% in 25 minutes, so you will have to stop for a coffee and a bun while you charge rather than a quick refuel. Not much of a hardship every 2-3 hours. You don't buy a $3 million hypercar just on the specification. It needs to look amazing. Pininfarina This brings us to the question in the headline of this article. While the Pininfarina Battista does appear to be a match for Bugatti Chiron in most respects, Tesla as always intends to raise the stakes much further. If the Roadster 2.0 arrives with the abilities Elon Musk has promised, it will sprint 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds (so about the same as the Battista), have a top speed over 250mph (so about the same as the Rimac C_Two) and a 620-mile range (twice as far as both). But Tesla is promising all this for $200,000, 30 times less. People dont buy hypercars based on value, though. Pininfarina only plans to sell 150 of the Battista, and there are plenty of options for unique customization. These cars will be highly exclusive status symbols as much as they are about their leading performance specification. Were also comparing vehicles that arent completely available. The Pininfarina Battista, Rimac C_Two and Tesla Roadster 2.0 havent reached customers yet. The Battista seems closest to shipping, having sat in one myself, but with only ever 150 on the road, they wont be regular sightings at your local supermarket. Handling is as important as raw performance with a hypercar, and we don't know how the Battista ... [+] compares in this area yet. Pininfarina In raw statistics, the Tesla Roadster 2.0 should be faster and with much longer range. Despite its performance, the Roadster is in a different market. It will be a car you use on a much more regular basis than a Pininfarina Battista. Its even supposed to have four seats, so you could take your kids to school in it. Even if the Roadster is likely to be technically superior in many areas and it still may not be faster round a track, because there are handling dynamics to consider it will never be an exotic hypercar in the same class as the Bugatti Chiron or Pininfarina Battista. Ask someone with a painting collection if they select their art based on the technology of the paint used. Better is the wrong word. Theyre aimed at different people. Either way, the fact that these cars exist (and I havent even mentioned the Lotus Evija) shows that there are few areas now where internal combustion cars can claim superiority over electric ones.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesmorris/2021/04/30/is-the-pininfarina-battista-better-than-the-tesla-roadster/
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Should Manchester United Sign West Hams Declan Rice This Summer?
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LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: Declan Rice of England looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar ... [+] qualifying match between England and Poland on March 31, 2021 at Wembley Stadium in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images) The FA via Getty Images Approaching the end of the season allows fans to start thinking about what the summer months will bring to their football club in the transfer window. Manchester United certainly have work to do over the summer break, with a variety of positions needing to be strengthened if they have any ambition in attempting to close the gap between themselves and Manchester City. One of those positions is a defensive-minded midfielder. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has routinely been using Fred and Scott McTominay, but fans are crying out for more dynamism to be had in midfield. Paul Pogba has, at times, been ushered to the left wing when attacking and tucking into midfield when defending, but rarely starts in a two-man midfield when the stakes are high. Against AS Roma in the first leg, Pogba occupied the left-hand side of pitch, with McTominay and Fred closing down the middle. LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 21: Declan Rice of West Ham United shoots whilst under pressure from Emile ... [+] Smith Rowe of Arsenal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal at London Stadium on March 21, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) Getty Images West Ham Uniteds Declan Rice has been mentioned a number of times at Manchester United when shopping this summer, even if the Hammers are reluctant to sell him for anything less than 80 million. Rice, who is now an England mainstay under Gareth Southgate, has had another stellar season for the Claret and Blue, racking up 32 appearances in all competitions and captaining his side. West Ham have had their best campaign in many a year, with eyes on a top four finish to reach the Champions League next season. Even if they fall to those around them, the Hammers should claim a Europa League spot, which is still a mighty improvement from where they left last season. MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 15: Nemanja Matic of Manchester United in action during the UEFA Europa ... [+] League Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester United and Granada CF at Old Trafford on April 15, 2021 in Manchester, England. Sporting stadiums around Europe remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Getty Images Manchester United need a younger version of Nemanja Matic which could well be Rice. A player who can mop up and disrupt the oppositions attacks, while being mobile and agile enough to dribble past opponents at ease and put Manchester United on the front foot. With Matic being only able to play certain games and not at the frequency at which Manchester United would want, it is time to dip into the market and look at defensive midfielders. With Rice being their first choice, a fantastic option in behind him is Leicester Citys Wilfried Ndidi. But, again, it will have to be an eye-watering amount to prize him away from the Midlands-based club. Rice, at just 22 years of age, has a wealth of experience in the Premier League PINC have risen through West Hams academy system and has his whole future ahead of him. He is destined for the very top of European football and will hope that he can become an undisputed starter under Southgate this summer in the European Championship. Manchester United absolutely need to purchase a defensive midfielder, which, in turn, would allow Pogba to roam forward with a sense more security, as well as play more adventurous players around him. Rice, in essence, can do two players jobs in the team and is of the age where the strain of two games a week is not taking an unhealthy toll on his body. It will take an enormous fee to sign Rice, but Manchester United will be desperate to take him away from East London and give him the platform to blossom on a European stage.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/liamcanning/2021/04/29/should-manchester-united-sign-west-hams-declan-rice-this-summer/
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Does Rick Santorums Controversial Comment About Indigenous People Point To U.S. Exceptionalism, White Guilt, Or Racist Ignorance?
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UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 25: Former Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., testifies during a Senate Finance ... [+] Committee hearing on the proposal by Sens. Bill Cassidy, R-La., Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act on September 25, 2017. (Photo By Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call) CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images On Tuesday, the internet went ablaze when the former Senator of Pennsylvania and CNN contributor, Rick Santorum, made racially offensive comments against Indigenous people during a speech at a right-wing summit. During his speech, Santorum contended that America was birthed from nothing and dismissed the genocide that took place against the Native community during the inception of the Americas. Needless to say, his comment received widespread backlash, and critics have accused him of racist ignorance. Why are whites in America especially those in power allowed to hurl racist insults like frisbees with little consequence. Perhaps, the pervasive and insidious nature of U.S. exceptionalism and white guilt in America can help explain. Last week, Rick Santorum gave a controversial and what some are considering hateful speech at a summit for the Young Americas Foundation, a right-wing conservative youth organization. During his address, he repeated a widely held myth of U.S. exceptionalism. "We birthed a nation from nothing. I mean, there was nothing here. I mean, yes, we have Native Americans, but candidly there isn't much Native American culture in American culture," Santorum said. Both historians and scholars widely refute this belief, and there is a large body of research that has proven its inaccuracies. Yet, the former Senator went on to perpetuate and reaffirm this destructive and dismissive myth about American history. But this is not the first time a white politician has made racially controversial or insensitive remarks. Former President Donald Trump regularly found himself under fire over racially inflammatory comments. Perhaps, Santorums statement received such widespread criticism because it was not only racially offensive, but it was also inaccurate. In an average U.S. high school history class, students typically learn about various genocides and mass acts of violence that have taken place in other nations. One such example is the Holocaust. The Diary of Anne Frank is a usual go-to for high school History and English teachers to assign budding minds to educate them about some of the historical accounts of devastation and unthinkable violence inflicted upon others. Yet, somehow the history of violence and genocide in the U.S. is rarely told as it was. Around Thanksgiving, children are typically taught a catchy jingle about the Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria to tell the triumphant tale of how Christopher Columbus sailed the ocean blue to discover the Americas. What most U.S. school curricula do not include in their lesson plans are the gory details of violence, slavery, and rampant spread of disease that Christopher Columbus and his army inflicted upon the Indigenous communities who had already settled in the Americas actions that continue to reverberate in those same communities to this day. Perhaps, there is more behind Santorums comment than U.S. exceptionalism or racist ignorance. The tendency that some white Americans have to whitewash U.S. history and not acknowledge the monumental contributions that the Indigenous community, Blacks, and other people of color have made toward the establishment and development of this country might also be fueled by white guilt. Providing a truthful account of how the U.S. was founded not only conflicts with the superiority complex that insulates U.S. exceptionalism, but it also speaks to the vile and reprehensible history of violence and bully tactics that have been used to rape, exploit, pillage, enslave, and violate communities of color to acquire power and privilege. The truth tells a story of heinous behavior that did not begin with George Floyd or even Rodney King, for that matter. Acknowledging that the Americas were founded on the same hatred and genocide that so many Americans speak adamantly against might cause some white Americans a level of guilt and shame that they are not prepared to reconcile. Perhaps, Santorum is one of those people.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/maiahoskin/2021/04/29/does-rick-santorums-controversial-comment-about-indigenous-people-point-to-us-exceptionalism-white-guilt-or-racist-ignorance/
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Why Wont Environmentalists Speak Out Against Forced Labor For China-Made Solar Panels?
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Environmental organizations routinely denounce abuses of human rights and call for environmental ... [+] justice. (National Climate Advisor and Former Natural Resources Defense Fund President & CEO, Gina McCarthy, Uyghur Muslims in concentration camp in China, and Columbia University's Jeffrey Sachs." NRDC, Wikimedia, Jeffrey Sachs/Columbia University Americas leading climate and environmental groups including Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Energy Foundation, and Environmental Defense Fund have not responded to repeated queries about evidence that China is forcing Uyghur Muslims to choose between forced labor at factories which make solar panels which all three groups promote, or being sent to concentration camps. NRDC, Environmental Defense Fund, and Energy Foundation are the three most influential environmental organizations within the Biden Administration and among Democrats in Congress. In December President Joe Biden named NRDC President & CEO Gina McCarthy as his National Climate Advisor. The organizations routinely denounce abuses of human rights and issue regular calls for environmental justice. Conflicts of Interest CNN reported last year that China is torturing many of the two million Muslim that are being held in ... [+] concentration camps in Xinjiang. CNN Yesterday, the Solar Energy Industries Association issued a set of guidelines, or a protocol, for solar panel companies to use to avoid the use of genocide labor. Solar customers expect their products to be ethically produced, and this protocol helps ensure that solar products coming into the United States are not made using forced labor, it says. But conditions in Xinjiang are determined by the Chinese government which is repressing the Muslim population. It has become almost impossible to talk of voluntary labor among a group of people who are in immediate danger of being incarcerated for no reason whatsoever, said a Xinjiang expert. Notes the Wall Street Journal, Chinese manufacturers arent always transparent about where they are getting their raw materials, and wafer makers sometimes mix polysilicon from Xinjiang and other regions together." China supplies more than 80% of the worlds polysilicon, the base ingredient for panels. Xinjiang produces half of global production, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance. The U.S., by contrast, produces less than 5% of the worlds solar-grade polysilicon. And the Association did not respond to my query as to whether or not it would support a ban on solar panels from China until the protocol can be implemented. Republicans have introduced legislation to ban solar panels made in China but have not been joined by Democrats. Meanwhile, the Chinese government shows no sign of supporting a relocation of its solar panel industry from Xinjiang, and continues to deny claims of genocide. NRDC, EDF, and Energy Foundation receive over $100 million each from mostly anonymous donors. One of EDFs largest donors is oil, gas and renewables investor Julian Robertson, who has donated $60 million to EDF and sits on EDFs governing board. And NRDC had at least $70 million of its own funds directly invested in natural gas and solar panel companies through BlackRock, a shadow bank whose former senior official, Brian Deese, is head of President Bidens National Economic Council. All three have large offices in China. People close to the organizations told me on background that their offices would be jeopardized if any of these groups criticized China for genocide. a book which praised the country for leading the development of a global system of green finance. After NRDC was criticized by members of Congress for being too cozy with China, an NRDC spokesperson said, Were proud of our work, in China and elsewhere, helping to create a more sustainable future for everyone. NRDC in the 1990s successfully promoted the deregulation of the electricity sector, which resulted in blackouts in California in 2000 and 2001, and promoted the financialization of energy markets through cap and trade climate legislation from 2000 to 2010, when it failed in the Senate. Last year, BlackRock raised $5 billion for its Global Energy & Power Infrastructure Fund which invested in businesses connected with renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro and waste-to-energy). The same relationships bind EDF. EDF has served as an advisor on China's highest international advisory body on the environment, the organizations Chinese staff boast, which reports directly to the Premier every year. Jeffrey Sachs Says Its Not Genocide Some environmentalists like Columbia Universitys Director of the Center for Sustainable Development Director, Jeffrey Sachs, recently called the genocide claim flimsy. There are credible charges of human rights abuses against Uighurs, he adds, but those do not per se constitute genocide. However, the parliaments of the United Kingdom, Canada, the Netherlands and many other nations have described Chinas policy as one of genocide. After I emailed Sachs, who was head of Columbias Earth Institute from 2002 to 2016, to ask if he accepted funding from the Chinese government, he replied, I have no funding from the Chinese government. When I asked if he had received funding in the past, or if his Earth Institute at Columbia University had received money, from the Chinese government, Sachs said, None at the Center, and none of my projects when I was director of the Earth Institute. Of the approximately 850 staff of more than 25 centers at the Earth Institute, I do not know. In 2018, Sachs wrote the foreword to a policy position paper, used for lobbying regulators and policymakers, by telecommunications giant Huawei, and shortly after penned a column urging the Trump administration to back off of efforts to restrict the Chinese company. On Twitter, Sachs wrote, I respect Huaweis technologies, its vision of ICT for development, and the many benefits of Huawei technologies for sustainable development. I was not and am not paid by Huawei. Then, 13 days later, Sachs abruptly deleted his Twitter account. The Chinese government claims that it is fighting terrorism in Xinjiang, an argument Sachs repeated. Some Democrats recognize that Chinas treatment of the Uyghurs is a problem for solar. We know we have a solar supply chain program, said Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) at a Senate hearing last month. But, noted Bloomberg, Biden cant just flip a switch to make the problem go away. Instead, his team may have to come up with a phased strategy to address the issue, and that would take years to implement. And even if China were to move all of its solar panel production out of Xanjiang, Chinas genocide would continue. Episodes of forced labor have also been reported in Chinese facilities outside Xinjiang, notes the New York Times. So Much for Never Again Chinese manufacturers arent always transparent about where they are getting their raw materials, ... [+] and wafer makers sometimes mix polysilicon from Xinjiang and other regions together," notes Wall Street Journal CNN CNN reported last year that China is torturing many of the two million Muslim that are being held in concentration camps in Xinjiang. Like reporters from Vice and Bloomberg, CNN reporters were constantly followed and harassed by secret Chinese police, including demands for identification at 1 am in the reporters hotel room. Its nearly impossible to freely report on the hundreds of thousands of people that are likely languishing in camps right now, the CNN correspondent repeated. And that means that the rest of the world can't really see what's going on there. Chinas genocide is high-tech, reports CNN, and global. The government uses facial recognition, GPS tracking devices, and collecting DNA samples from all residents between 12 and 65 years old. The Chinese government is even harassing Chinese nationals in other countries around the world. Like other researchers and journalists who have been to Xinjiang, the CNN reporter became emotional and spoke in very strong language about the situation. This is one of the biggest human rights stories on earth. And as we saw firsthand, China is actively trying to cover it up. For decades, Hollywoods leading lights, university professors, and environmentalists have defended the rights of oppressed racial and religious minorities, including Muslims, and promised never again in the context of genocide. And yet all three institutions Hollywood and the entertainment industry, academic institutions, and environmental groups have sacrificed never again, and concerns about genocide for money, access, and power. Columbia University reported none of the money it received for The Confucius Institute to the US Education Department, which is part of a network of chapters believed to be quietly undermining academic freedom on campuses across America, writes a Columbia graduate student. Confucius instructors, hired and trained by Beijing, have always banned certain topics including Xinjiang, where up to 2 million Uyghur Muslims languish in concentration camps, he noted. Sachs, for his part, criticizes the researchers who allege genocide. The genocide charge is being fueled by studies like the Newlines Institute report, he says, which has an apparently conservative policy agenda. Sachs makes no mention of any financial conflict of interest.
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https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelshellenberger/2021/04/29/why-wont-environmentalists-speak-out-against-forced-labor-for-china-made-solar-panels/
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What Are the Differences Between HOAs, Condo Associations and Tenants in Common?
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sturti / Getty Images Youre planning to purchase a new home, and while browsing online, youve noticed many of the listings youre interested in contain unfamiliar real estate terms. Specifically, you want to learn more about homeowners associations (HOAs), tenants in common and condo associations before moving forward. Read: Real Estate Investing Guru Mindy Jensen Says To Avoid These Types of Properties This is important because you want to choose a new home where you feel comfortable. The last thing you want is to purchase a property and quickly realize its attached to rules or fees you didnt completely understand. HOAs Broadly defined, a homeowners association manages a planned community, which might include single-family homes, condominiums or townhouses. Basically, a governing body for the group, the HOA enforces set rules and manages certain aspects of the community for a fee. Increasingly common, nearly 60% of recently built single-family homes and 80% of houses in new subdivisions are part of an HOA, according to the 2019 study The Rise and Effects of Homeowner Associations, conducted by Wyatt Clark and Matthew Freedman, published in the Journal of Urban Economics. See: 25 Worst Things About Homeowners Associations No two HOAs are the same. Some charge an annual fee, while others require owners to pay monthly dues. The average HOA fee is approximately $200-$300 per month, according to Trulia. However, this varies wildly, according to factors such as geographic location and the amenities provided. Services covered under the HOA vary just as much but often include maintenance of common areas, building upkeep, neighborhood amenities and insurance for shared spaces within the community. As noted above, being part of an HOA also requires adhering to community rules. This might include ensuring your lawn is always neat and tidy, limiting the number of people who can reside in your home, noise restrictions and parking regulations. Check Out: 50 Cities Where Its Cheaper To Buy a Home Than Rent Story continues Condo Associations Essentially a different term for an HOA, a condo association is a governing body for housing that is typically attached. Owners purchase their individual units and part of the common areas owned by all residents. Fees are collected on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis, covering costs shared by all owners. As with HOAs, fees vary greatly according to factors like geographic location and services provided. Common services provided may include interior and exterior maintenance, shared utilities i.e., sewer and garbage collection insurance and community amenities. More: Condos vs. Tenants in Common An entirely different real estate term, tenants in common refers to a situation where at least two independent owners share one property. In this type of setup, each person has equal ownership of all parts of the property. However, the co-tenants may have different ownership stakes. For example, one person could own 75% of the property, while the other owns just 25%. This type of arrangement can be created at any time. Owners also have the right to independently sell or borrow against their stakes of the property. Read: 17 Dumb Home-Buying Mistakes That Hurt Your Wallet Understanding HOAs vs. Condo Associations Jason Gelios, a realtor in Southeast Michigan, said services provided tend to differ between condo associations and HOAs. Many people who decide to live in a condo association are looking for the convenience of the included tasks which include lawn maintenance, snow removal and upkeep of the exterior, said Gelios, who is also the author of the book Think Like a REALTOR. In my local market of Southeast Michigan, I see either younger couples starting out or senior citizens downsizing looking to purchase a condo with an association. On the other hand, he said HOAs i.e., those covering single-family homes dont always provide as many services. See: 50 Housing Markets That Are Turning Ugly Many newer subdivisions have HOAs as part of their community, he said. In a subdivision, an HOA may only cover snow removal and blight laws, but only require an annual fee. When searching for homes attached to an HOA or a condo association, its important to read the fine print to really understand what the fees cover. You want to make sure you can afford your mortgage, association expenses and other ownership costs not included in the community fee. For example, you might pay a monthly condo fee of $300 that includes some outdoor maintenance i.e., lawn care services and gutter cleaning but still be responsible for the cost of a new roof or painting your home. Find Out: What Homes Will Be Worth in Your State by the End of 2021 This is important to know because you want to go into the situation with a full snapshot of the financial obligations associated with ownership. HOAs, condo associations and tenants in common each have their advantages and disadvantages, so choose whats right for your unique situation. Being as informed as possible will allow you to make a decision that best fits your lifestyle.
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https://news.yahoo.com/differences-between-hoas-condo-associations-110010901.html
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Whats Really the Best Way To Handle Splitting the Check?
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andresr / iStock.com After more than a year of pandemic lockdowns and social distancing, were all jumping at the chance to meet up for food and drinks with loved ones. But when it comes to divvying up that check at the end, that age-old dilemma of how to split the bill will undoubtedly rise again. Going out for a meal and cocktails with friends, family and colleagues should be a joyous occasion something you look forward to and not feel like an obligation, said Tami Claytor, owner of Always Appropriate: Image & Etiquette Consulting. However, once the bill arrives, joy often turns to stress. The thought of negotiating who pays for what eclipses the fond memories that were created. So to ensure that your next group dining experience isnt soured by disagreements over the bill, these experts shared their best tips for splitting a check. Manage Your Expectations Any time you go out for a meal or drinks as a group, you may have to compromise a bit. Claytor said that if youre sharing a meal with a group, you should understand that youre probably going to end up spending a bit more than just your individual meal. Knowing that ultimately, you will end up paying for items you did not consume, will reduce the likelihood of resentment overshadowing the evening, she said. If youre on a strict budget or cant accept the possibility of doling out a few extra dollars, it may be better to take a rain check. Decide On a Game Plan Ahead of Time If you want to split the check, decide ahead of time how this will be accomplished, advised Liz Bryant, an etiquette expert. And make sure everyone agrees on the split. If you can, its a good idea to arrange the financials before arriving at the restaurant or at the beginning of the meal, Claytor added. This way, the meal and the company can be enjoyed and you dont spend the next two hours worrying about the bill, she said. If youre the one arranging the meal and you expect everyone to pay for themselves, make sure thats clearly stated in the invitation. Story continues Find Out: 19 Unspoken Gift-Giving Etiquette Rules There are a couple of ways you can go about splitting up the check. For example, if youre going out with close friends or family members, you might agree to split the check evenly among everyone. So a group of five with a $100 check would each toss in $20. Of course, if you ordered a ribeye and a couple of beers while your friend just had a salad, that strategy might not seem very fair. In particular, Claytor said that if some people in your party order adult beverages, alcohol costs should be shared among that group exclusively and not shouldered by the non-drinkers. If you are drinking wine or cocktails, at the beginning of the meal, let the other members of your party know that you fully intend on paying for your beverages, she said. You can also choose to split up the entire bill down to the dollar, where everyone pays for just what they ordered. This can be a little more complicated, especially if the table shared appetizers or everyone plans to pay with a credit card. However, its the best way to ensure no one feels like they overpaid. Give Your Server a Heads Up However you decide to split the check, it should be communicated to the server before any orders are placed, Bryant said. The restaurant may have rules about how checks may be split, she explained. By speaking with the server when you arrive, that will avoid any confusion or annoyances when the check is presented. Plus, your server can track everyones individual orders and tally their totals, avoiding that awkward moment at the end of the meal when everyone has to calculate their portion of the bill. Dont Forget Tax and Tip Splitting the order total is one thing, but there may be other line items to account for that arent obvious. For instance, if your state charges a sales tax, thats an additional cost that needs to be included in your total. Read: Surprising Things You Never Knew About Tipping Tipping is also important. Dont be that person who only pays for their base meal costs and leaves everyone else to come up with the tip. To figure out tax or gratuity when everyone spends a different amount of money, calculate the tax after adding up each persons total order, said money-saving expert Andrea Woroch. You can do the same with the tip once you determine the percentage youre planning to leave (make sure everyone is on board with 18% or 20%, for instance). Claytor added that you should plan to over-tip the wait staff for excellent service at lower price-point restaurants. They make less money than those who work at high-end restaurants. Cash tips are always appreciated, but you can also easily add one to a credit card transaction, which also gives you the freedom to tip whatever percentage you feel is appropriate for your portion of the bill. See: Heres How Much Restaurants Mark Up Your Food Theres an App for That To save some time at the end of the meal and ensure you dont make any math mistakes, use technology to your advantage. Claytor suggested using the calculator on your phone or even bill-splitting apps to assist with divvying the total. Some good options designed specifically for splitting a check include Plates by Splitwise and Tab. Get Rewarded If you dont mind being the point-person for collecting everyones funds and paying the bill, you can take advantage of the opportunity. Discover: 30 Sneaky Ways Restaurants Trick You Into Spending More Money Offer to cover the entire bill and have friends pay you through Venmo or Zelle, Woroch suggested. This way, you benefit from earning all the rewards on your credit card. Just ask everyone if theyre OK with this option at the beginning. And be sure to pay off your balance by the end of the billing cycle so interest charges dont eat up (pun intended) all the points you earned.
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https://news.yahoo.com/really-best-way-handle-splitting-110005415.html
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Is Russias Covid vaccine anything more than a political weapon?
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Russias Sputnik V vaccine has yet to win EU regulatory approval and is likely to play little part in the blocs rollout, but it has already achieved what some observers say is one of its objectives sowing division among, and within, member states. Sputnik V has become a tool of soft power for Russia, said Michal Baranowski, a fellow with a US thinktank, the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Its planted its flag on the vaccine and the political goal of its strategy is to divide the west. Sputniks makers say the shot has been approved in 61 countries and exported to 40. But safety concerns linger, and many EU leaders are sceptical of Russias intentions when it has administered fewer than 19m doses to its population of 144 million. Amid growing European concern over repeated Russian cyber-attacks against the west, the Kremlins treatment of the opposition leader Alexei Navalny and escalating tensions on the Ukraine border, EU observers say Moscow is deploying Sputnik as another weapon of geopolitical influence. Russias low vaccination rate just doesnt tally with it having a supposedly cheap, easy-to-make and effective vaccine, one EU diplomat said. Either Moscows being altruistic, which seems unlikely. Or its prioritising geopolitics over Russians needs. So far, only two EU member states, Hungary and Slovakia, have broken with the blocs collective approach by ordering the shot, and only Hungary has used it although Bulgaria is about to open talks, Austria has said it is ready to buy 1m doses and Germany is negotiating for 30m. Others are decidedly less enthusiastic, even frankly hostile. Frances foreign minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian, has described the shot as more a means of propaganda and aggressive diplomacy than of solidarity and assistance. The prime minister of Lithuania, Ingrida imonyt, tweeted in February that Russias president, Vladimir Putin, saw the shot not so much as a cure for the Russian people as another hybrid weapon to divide and rule. Boxes of the Russian vaccine Sputnik V are prepared to be given to patients in Saint Margit Hospital in Budapest, Hungary. Photograph: Zoltn Balogh/EPA After a lamentably slow early rollout that has only recently started to pick up speed, meanwhile, the European commission says Sputnik V is unlikely to play a part in the EUs rollout simply because it will not be available in sufficient quantities until the end of 2021, when most Europeans will already be vaccinated. Thierry Breton, the commissioner in charge of vaccine procurement, has said the European Medicines Agency (EMA) is evaluating Sputnik but still lacks essential data, while factories in Italy, Spain and Germany that have been named as putative manufacturing sites would take months to come on stream. Hitting back via its official Sputnik V Twitter account, Russia has denied the vaccine is a political tool, or that safety or production capacity are potential issues. Politicisation of vaccines is unethical and costing lives, read a typical recent tweet. Sputnik is undoubtedly one of the best vaccines in the world, said another. The account has accused EU officials of bias and fake storytelling and sought to play down the safety concerns that have plagued other viral vector jabs such as AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. Biased western media cannot forever ignore real data from the real world that shows Sputnik V is safer and more efficient than mRNA vaccines, the account said, accusing Breton of continually misleading the public over production capacity. An EU study released this week accused Russian and Chinese media of systematically seeking to sow mistrust in western vaccines by sensationalising safety concerns, making unfounded links between shots and deaths in Europe, and promoting Russian and Chinese vaccines as superior. But whether or not the EMA approves Sputnik V and whether or not it ever arrives in sufficient numbers, observers argue it has already done significant damage, with EU national and regional leaders leveraging it for their own political ends. In some countries, it has caused mayhem: the Slovakian prime minister, Igor Matovi, was forced to resign this month amid a bitter dispute over a secret deal to buy 2m doses despite the disagreement of many in his four-party coalition. Former Slovak prime minister Igor Matovi, right, and health minister Marek Krajci at Kosice airport as Russias Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine arrives. Photograph: Frantisek Ivan/AP Making matters worse, the Slovak medicines agency subsequently said the first 200,000 doses were different from the vaccine in the Lancet study and refused to approve them, prompting Matovi to say Slovakia would use a Hungarian lab instead. Sputnik has also cost the health and foreign ministers of the Czech Republic both opposed to the shots deployment without EMA approval their jobs, fired by the prime minister, Andrej Babi, following remarks by the pro-Russian president, Milo Zeman. Only in the wake of a furious diplomatic row last week over Czech allegations that Russia was behind a deadly 2014 blast at an ammunitions warehouse did Prague announce it would no longer be seeking to purchase any of the vaccine. Elsewhere in post-communist Europe, Hungarys Brussels-baiting leader, Viktor Orbn, who has long fostered close relations with Russia, has gleefully bypassed both the blocs joint procurement programme and EMA authorisation to buy 2m doses, while outside the EU, Serbia has become a champion vaccinator thanks to Sputnik. In western Europe, regional politicians have also sought to score points against national governments through Sputnik deals: the conservative leader of Madrid in Socialist-led Spain; the far-right president of the Provence-Alpes-Cte dAzur region in France; the opposition Democratic party leader of Italys Campania region. In Germany, where federal elections in September have turned the countrys early shortage of vaccines into a particularly burning issue nationwide with politicians of all colours under heavy pressure to find solutions, three states including Bavaria have either struck or are negotiating Sputnik deals. The federal health minister, Jens Spahn, has said Berlin is in talks on a national deal but stressed any rollout will depend on EMA approval and Sputnik V supplies would have to arrive within the next couple of month or be too late. For Baranowski, Sputniks rushed approval, online propaganda and carefully selected destinations add up to a Russian strategy that is neither innocent nor humanitarian. It is part of exactly the same game, of dividing the west, that we see in Moscows use of military power, cybersecurity, energy security. Viktor Koronelli, the Russian ambassador to Mexico, marks the arrival in the country of the first batch of 200,000 doses of Sputnik V. Photograph: Gerardo Vieyra/NurPhoto/REX/Shutterstock And its working, he said: Its dividing various European actors pretty well. Until Sputnik V has EMA approval at which stage, of course, theres no problem: the world needs vaccines its become a political litmus test for whether you are for or against the EUs programme. Thats eroding confidence. And thats what Putin wants. Early western doubts about Sputnik Vs efficacy after Russia approved it last August without the results of full clinical trials were partly dispelled by a peer-reviewed late-stage trial published in the Lancet in February which showed it was almost 92% effective. Moscows Gamaleya Institute laboratory and the Russian Direct Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund backing the shot, have since said scientists had found Sputnik V 97.6% effective in real-world data from 3.8 million people. The EMAs director, Emer Cooke, however, confirmed last week the agencys approval process, which began late because of a lack of manufacturer data, was really at a very early stage, saying the agency had yet to start reviewing any real-world safety records, for example on potential side-effects of the vaccine. Among other things, the agency is looking into whether clinical trials met so-called good clinical practice standards after some soldiers and state employees Russia said took part in them reportedly claimed they had been pressured into doing so.
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https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/apr/30/is-russias-covid-vaccine-anything-more-than-a-political-weapon-sputnik-v
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Was Boris Johnson the real Line of Duty baddie all along?
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The front page of the Sun on 27 April had the headline Lying of Duty stamped across a mocked-up case file from AC-12, the police anti-corruption unit featured in BBC Ones Line of Duty. The conceit is that Adrian Dunbars Ch Supt Ted Hastings, scourge of bent coppers in the show, should investigate multiple allegations of impropriety against Boris Johnson. This joke escalates a metaphor introduced by Keir Starmer at prime ministers questions on 14 April, when the Labour leader suggested Hastings could be hired to look at David Camerons lobbying of Johnsons government on behalf of the finance company Greensill. Its common for the media and politicians to invoke popular TV tropes to mocking effect Del Boy Trotter of Only Fools and Horses for economic dodginess, Corporal Jones of Dads Army for panicky calls to calm but the connection between Johnson and Jed Mercurios twisty thriller is deeper and stranger; internal as well as external. The final and pivotal conspirator in the high-level web of corruption likely to be exposed in Sundays sixth-season finale was first known as H and then the fourth man. But there is increasing evidence that the ultimate villain of this series is really J AKA first lord of the Treasury, as he identified himself in recently leaked email exchanges about tax policies with the vacuum-cleaner supremo Sir James Dyson. This series trailer intercut the tagline Lies Cost Lives with clips of Hastings complaining about a bare-faced liar promoted to our highest office and asking: When did we stop caring about honesty and integrity? It immediately seemed clear that Mercurio who has said that each series of Line of Duty has its own sub-theme was looking beyond the leadership of his fictional Central police towards Westminster, and a politician who for eight years had regulatory oversight of the Metropolitan police (one of the duties of the mayor of London). But, as the series went on, and the bare-faced liar the chief constable, Philip Osborne, played by Owen Teale became the likeliest candidate as hub of the corruption at the very top, it has become clear how precise the political identification is. Its probably a coincidence that, like Johnson, Teale is a former UK foreign secretary (the actor played a holder of the office in the 2012 BBC drama Kidnap and Ransom), but other overlaps feel strikingly precise. The most specific example of Osbornes dishonesty points directly to Johnson. In the third episode of the sixth series, the TV journalist Gail Vella (whose murder is the structural subplot of this run) was seen in a clip from an unbroadcast report confronting the chief constable with having lied about increasing the number of police in his force: the figure for new recruits, Vella alleges, was falsely inflated and, even then, does not compensate for previous cuts. On the case Ted and team in series six of Line of Duty. Photograph: Screen Grab/World Productions In a show noted for procedural realism, this felt slightly off. Real chief constables are more likely to ask for an increase in their ranks than boast about having more cops than they have. But that is because the scene is not really about the police. Peter Oborne, in his recent book The Assault on Truth, an investigation of Johnsons faithless relationship with facts, explores the prime ministers claim, speaking in Oldham during the 2019 general election campaign, that 20,000 more police are operating on our streets to fight crime and bring crime down. In fact, Oborne points out, the government was merely saying it would add that number over three years and, even if the target was achieved, it would barely replace the fall in force numbers since the Conservatives came to power in 2010. While this was the Johnson falsehood easiest to include directly in Line of Duty, Mercurio, a former hospital doctor who wrote two of the best medical TV dramas (Cardiac Arrest, Bodies), was also possibly influenced by the politicians history of inaccurate statements on the NHS. Obornes book notes eight whoppers, of which the most serious was Johnsons repeated claim to be building 40 new hospitals, when, in truth, funds had been allocated for some rebuilding work at six sites. Another case Vella was pursuing against Osborne involved his closing down of attempted investigations into his conduct or that of associates. Again, this charge goes beyond a fictional thin blue line. In the 15 months since coronavirus emerged, Johnson has become notorious for agreeing that a full inquiry into his handling of the pandemic will be necessary, but probably not before the Twelfth of Never. And, as the cabinet secretary, Simon Case, admitted in evidence to MPs on Monday, while the prime minister has authorised multiple leak inquiries in Downing Street, it is unlikely they will uncover culprits. The prime minister has been pursued throughout his career by allegations of lying, deceit and misrepresentation perhaps most grievously over his insistence that there would be no borders or new import and export costs on the island of Ireland after Brexit, which businesses have found to be ruinously untrue. Johnson has also so far survived claims of corruption (including business favours as mayor of London to Jennifer Arcuri, who says she was his lover), multiple offensive references about race in newspaper columns and public comments, and an unknown quantity of off-the-record offspring. For Line of Duty to conclude in the week when the net may be closing in on Johnson feels thrilling Common journalistic convention at this point would be to say that Mr Johnson denies these charges, but he never really has; he either ignores them or declares that British voters are more interested in some other issue. But now he is being called to account in the highest-profile TV drama of the day. In November 1990, Andrew Davies BBC One adaptation of Michael Dobbs novel House of Cards, a thriller about Tory infighting after the fall of Margaret Thatcher, began transmission in the week that Thatcher resigned. For Line of Duty to conclude in the week when the net may be closing in on Johnson (although he has always escaped until now) feels an equally thrilling synchronicity. But it results from judgment (in two senses) rather than luck. Mercurio, though working in genre traditions, is an acute political writer; his 2018 series, Bodyguard, turned on a Westminster conspiracy. It seems likely that, in the denouement of Line of Duty, Osbornes regime will be revealed to have promoted lies and liars, blocked favoured cronies, disadvantaged people of colour and blocked inquiries precisely the rap sheet against the Johnson administration. It is also possible after the sixth-episode revelation that DCI Joanne Davidson grew up believing her absentee dad was a bent copper that Osborne will prove to have an unacknowledged child. Certainly, paternity denied or hidden by senior figures, has been a bubbling undercurrent in this season. The conspiracy in Line of Duty extends to censorship of TV stations Vellas investigations into the police were never broadcast. In commendable contrast, the BBC has been willing to screen across seven weeks a series that can be viewed as an unprecedentedly sustained criticism of the integrity of a serving prime minister. Although, as Mercurio has worked through canny parallels, its possible that BBC bosses did not spot the subtext. In a notoriously opaque show, it seems increasingly clear what is going on. Whether or not Osborne turns out to be H, he is surely bare-facedly J.
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https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2021/apr/30/was-boris-johnson-the-real-line-of-duty-baddie-all-along
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Will the Jets Trade Back From No. 34 in the Second Round?
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After trading away two third-round picks to go get Alijah Vera-Tucker 14th overall on Thursday, the Jets have a decision to make. Will New York stay with the No. Joe Douglas was asked that very question on Thursday night and the general manager said he and his team are going to discuss all possible options heading into the second day of the draft on Friday night. "We've been able to acquire a lot of picks and you saw the flexibility that that gave us tonight. We'll see how tomorrow goes," Douglas told reporters. "Obviously, we're gonna have discussions, we'll see if the phone rings, we're open to any discussion, as I've told you guys in the past. We'll see how it plays out over the next two days." Douglas has a point. We've talked for months about the draft capital that this organization has accumulated, a surplus of picks that allows a team to a make a move like the one they did on Thursday. In other words, if the Jets elect to stay put at No. 34, they'll sit through the third round, waiting until the 108th overall pick in the fourth to be on the clock again. Even then, the Jets would still have a few picks at their disposal in the later rounds of this draft (and, of course, the early rounds of next year's draft as well). Besides, picking second in the second round means New York will be choosing from the likes of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Azeez Ojulari, Devonte Williams, Asante Samuel Jr. and more. Those are first-round caliber players that slipped to this point in the draft. The other option would be to accept a tempting deal from a club eager to trade up and get one of those aforementioned players. If New York can snag a third-rounderin addition to a pick later in the secondin return for No. 34, it would be hard for Douglas to say no. It just depends on New York's internal evaluations of who is available at the start of the second round. If they look at any of those prospects in the same light as Vera-Tuckerwho they went after in round onethen there's much less of a reason to trade back. Douglas hinted at trading up in the first when he was asked a few weeks ago about the possibility of making a move, saying he was laying the groundwork for a transaction just in case. The Jets will certainly field some calls throughout the day on Friday and once again, they're in the driver's seat. MORE: Follow Max Goodman on Twitter (@MaxTGoodman), on Facebook (also @MaxTGoodman), be sure to bookmark Jets Country and check back daily for news, analysis and more.
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https://www.si.com/nfl/jets/news/will-the-new-york-jets-trade-back-from-no-34-in-second-round-of-nfl-draft
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Can Mercks new boss maintain the drugmakers winning streak?
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F EW COMPANIES have a history as long and interesting as Merck. Founded in 1668 by Friedrich Jacob Merck as a pharmacy in Darmstadt, the worlds oldest apothecary has survived several European wars, two world wars and the Nazi regime. In 1917 Americas government confiscated its American subsidiary under the Trading with the Enemy Act. It has operated as a rival business, based in New Jersey but, confusingly, also named Merck, ever since. Listen to this story Your browser does not support the <audio> element. Enjoy more audio and podcasts on iOS or Android. Beln Garijo, the no-nonsense 60-year-old Spaniard who will take over as Mercks chief executive on May 1st, says she is keenly aware of her companys heritage and its unique ownership structure. Fully 70% of the company is still in the hands of the 13th generation of Mercks (the rest is owned by public investors). And it was at the familys instigation that Stefan Oschmann, the outgoing CEO , and Ms Garijo, his deputy, transformed Merck through a series of bold acquisitions from a drugmaker living off legacy medicines into a conglomerate that makes gear and chemicals for biotechnology labs as well as pharmaceuticals. Diversification is strength, insists Ms Garijo, who herself embodies diversity, becoming only the second woman ever to head a firm in the DAX 30 index of Germanys bluest chips. Investors applauded the strategic shift under Mr Oschmann (see chart). Mercks market value increased from 36bn ($41bn) in 2016 when he took the helm to 63bn, more than Bayer, another big German drugmaker, which has almost twice as many employees as Merck, and nearly as much as BASF , a chemicals giant. Last year the groups revenues rose by 9% to 17.5bn; net profit shot up by 51% to 2bn. The most immediate task for Ms Garijo is to manage a shake-up of the executive suite. The company is installing new heads of drugmaking, research and development, and the American pharmaceuticals business. It also recently replaced the head of the lab division; Udit Batra, who used to run it, left after Ms Garijo pipped him to the top job last year. The new boss must also ensure that the commercial potential of the course charted by her predecessor is realised, says Matthew Weston of Credit Suisse, a bank. Some big bets appear to have disappointed. Bintrafusp alfa, a drug to fight lung cancer that is in the late stages of development, did not show any benefit over a rival drug in trials. Only two other drugs are close to potential clinical use, a lung-cancer treatment and one to fight multiple sclerosis. In 2020 sales of the medicines business edged down by 1%. In the pandemic year this was handily offset by the strong performance of Mercks lab division, which has become the firms biggest arm. Its sales increased by nearly 10% to 7.5bn in 2020. In February Merck announced that it will significantly accelerate the supply of the fatty bubbles needed to make the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against covid-19. Few companies in the world are able to produce these custom lipids in large quantities for vaccine production. The company has also said it will invest in production capacity for disposable plastic materials for bioreactors, another essential ingredient for makers of covid-19 vaccines. The lab business should continue to thrive once the pandemic abates, thinks Mr Weston. That will let Ms Garijo focus on medicines, which as former head of the pharma division she is well placed to do. Mr Oschmann will be a tough act to followbut not an impossible one. Correction (April 23rd 2021): Merck is no longer looking for a new head of its lab division, as we originally suggested
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https://www.economist.com/business/2021/04/24/can-mercks-new-boss-maintain-the-drugmakers-winning-streak
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Is Chinas population shrinking?
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Editors note (April 29th 2021): This article has been updated to include denials that Chinas population is shrinking T HE COMMUNIST PARTY has long known that, partly as the result of its brutal birth-control policies, Chinas population would soon peak and start to shrink. It has been startled, however, by how rapidly that moment has drawn near. Now, it looks as if it might have arrived. Listen to this story Your browser does not support the <audio> element. Enjoy more audio and podcasts on iOS or Android. In November the country completed its ten-yearly census, and said it would announce the results in early April. As May arrives with no announcement, leaks suggest that the results have not been published because they are so shocking, and the party is in a flap about how to break the news. The Financial Times reported on April 27th that the census will show that the population has fallen below 1.4bn, still higher than the 1.34bn in the 2010 census, but lower than it was a year before. Leaks are sometimes wrong, or reflect early estimates which are revised upwards. Global Times, a party newspaper, denied the report in the Financial Times, saying census results are extremely unlikely to indicate shrinkage starting last year. Oddly, it said a result showing a lower population in 2020 than in 2019 is likely to be a statistical error. The paper also acknowledged that a decline is likely to occur by next year. On April 29th, in a one-line statement, the National Bureau of Statistics said the population continued to grow in 2020. Either way, Chinas demography is raising difficult questions for the party. In 2015 the government relaxed the one-child policy, allowing most people to have a second child. The birth rate briefly rose, but soon fell again. In 2019 the number of new sprogs was the lowest since 1961, when a Mao-made famine killed millions and the population was half its present size. A trickle of recent provincial data on birth numbers points in the same direction. Local figures on new birth registrations (separate from the census) offer a preview of what the census figures will probably show. For the first three quarters of 2020 the south-western city of Guiyang reported a 32% fall in births compared with the previous year. In the eastern city of Weifang births were down by 26% in the first half of the year. Hefty declines were reported elsewhere, unrelated to the coronavirus pandemic. There are also indications that Chinas total fertility rate (the number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime) has dropped faster and further than previously thought. Chinese planners have assumed a rate of 1.8, but some Chinese scholars (and the World Bank) say it is between 1.6 and 1.7. A working paper released in March by Chinas central bank suggests the rate is no more than 1.5. Such numbers make grim reading for the party. Chinas working-age population, defined as those between 15 and 59 years old, has been falling since 2011. Meanwhile the share of people aged over 60 has risen from 10.4% in 2000 to 17.9% in 2018. The latest guess is that by 2050 one-third of Chinese will be in their 60s or older. Supporting them will put a huge burden on the young, unless the oldies can be persuaded to work longer. In a report published in 2019 the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences warned that Chinas main pension fund could run out of money by 2035. A second demographic worry is the continued imbalance between men and women. Since the 1980s birth restrictions, combined with a preference for boys and easy access to prenatal scans, led to the widespread abortion of girls. In 2019 there were 30m more Chinese men than women and the disparity in the number of marriageable age will only grow. The government worries that young men who cannot find a mate may become a source of unrest. Low birth rates will put more pressure on the party to abandon all its coercive birth-control policies. Fines still apply for having more than two babies, though enforcement varies. Lately the loudest calls for this have come from officials in the three provinces that comprise Chinas north-eastern rustbelt. Birth rates in Heilongjiang, Jilin and Liaoning are only about half the national average. In February Chinas National Health Commission said those three provinces could start allowing people to decide for themselves how many children to have. That is a right people in other countries take for granted. But it is unlikely to boost the regions overall birth rate, or its flagging economy. A sociologist notes that local youngsters are fleeing to parts of China with better weather and more jobs. Most people want no baby or at most one baby, so even if you remove all the limits right now, it wont have much effect, says Zhang Xiaochen of Duke Kunshan University. Chinese have grown accustomed to the idea of a small family. High costs for housing, health and education further discourage fecundity. Child-rearing out of wedlock is both socially unacceptable and officially discouraged, even as young Chinese are delaying getting married or shunning it entirely. Last year the number of nuptials fell by 12% to a little over 8m, the lowest since 2003 and well down on the peak of 13.5m in 2013. In 2005 almost half of those who got hitched did so between the age of 20 and 24; in 2019 only about one-fifth did so. Officials are keen on policies such as cash payments to encourage parents to have a second child. But evidence from the 50 countries trying to boost birth rates suggests that this is hard. Providing cheap child care is perhaps the most effective policy. But that is much more costly and complex to deliver than handouts. James Liang, an economist at Peking University, believes that Chinas distorted demographics will limit the size of its market and talent pool and thus hinder its rise. China will never accept significant numbers of immigrants, he says, so America will have a big advantage. In the next ten or 20 years, China will continue to do well, but then America will retake leadership and China will never catch up. The falling birth rate will bring forward another battle. A new five-year plan includes vague proposals to increase Chinas retirement ages, which in cities is currently 60 for men and 55 or 50 for women, well below the rich-country average of 64. That will be deeply unpopular. And lengthening working lives also risks driving fertility down further, because many families rely on grandparents for child care. There are no easy ways out. A version of this article was published online on April 28th, 2021
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https://www.economist.com/china/2021/04/29/is-chinas-population-shrinking
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Has Europes BlackRock outgrown its pond?
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T HE PRACTICE of elevating a companys chief executive to chairman has come to be frowned upon, if only because a new boss often struggles to break free if her predecessor is looking over her shoulder. Not so at Amundi, Europes biggest money manager. In May Yves Perrier, its CEO since 2010, will move upstairs and Valrie Baudson, his current deputy, takes the helm as chief executive. Shareholders have reacted to the news rather well: Amundis share price has risen by 11% since it was announced in February. Listen to this story Your browser does not support the <audio> element. Enjoy more audio and podcasts on iOS or Android. That shows how much they value continuity at the firm. Under Mr Perrier Amundis assets under management and net income more than doubled, to 1.7trn ($2.1trn) and 962m by the end of 2020. Its market capitalisation has swollen from 7.5bn in 2015, when it went public, to around 15bn. The firm is still a cut below Americas titans: BlackRock, for instance, manages about $9trn in assets. Yet Amundi is nearly twice as big as its closest continental rival, and the only European firm in the global top ten. The question for Ms Baudson is whether the firm has much more room to grow. Three factors have underpinned Amundis rise since it came into being in 2010, a result of the merger of the asset-management arms of Crdit Agricole and Socit Gnrale, two French banks. One is the 650bn in assets it took over from its parents, which gave it the scale to spread out costs and pocket recurrent income. Cleverly, it signed quasi-exclusive distribution contracts with the banks, ensuring its role as the main manufacturer of investment products for their institutional clients, and that revenue would remain stable. Amundi then used its excess cash to acquire rivals, including the asset-management arms of UniCredit, an Italian bank, in 2016, and of Banco Sabadell, a Spanish lender, in 2020. Whereas the portfolios it inherited gave it a foothold in retail investment, where margins are higher, these deals allowed it to expand its distribution network further. Amundi made integrating those units smoother by developing its own data- and portfolio-management platform, rather than relying on suppliersits third smart choice and one that BlackRock has made too. That has curbed operating costs: at 51% of income, they are among the lowest in Europe. Ms Baudson can expect a benign few months. Unable to spend much during lockdowns, households have stashed record amounts at banks, some of which should flow to money managers. Yet beyond the short-term bump, being the biggest, most efficient manufacturing machine may not suffice, says Haley Tam of Credit Suisse, a bank. Unlike BlackRock, Amundi cannot tap a vast domestic market, and its routes to growth are narrowing. Some woes are common across the industry. Margins are being crushed. The shift to low-cost passive funds, which track an index, is accelerating in Europe and dragging managers average fees down. Competition is fierce. And lower interest rates (and therefore returns) are making active managers hefty fees more conspicuous precisely when regulators are demanding more transparent disclosure on costs and charges. Other concerns are specific to Amundi. Some of the contracts that it so cleverly signed with banks will soon expire. History suggests they are usually renewed, but on worse terms for the manager, says Mike Werner of UBS , another bank. And, in an attempt to seek extra returns for its clients, Amundi wants to grow its alternative-investment franchise. But it faces stiff competition from specialists. And its scale is a problem. The firm is too big for this comparatively tiny business to make much of a difference to the top line. Mr Perrier is unfazed by all this. Amundi has room to expand, he argues. Over half its assets still come from France (see chart). The firm already has a foothold in fast-growing markets, such as India, where it has a joint venture with the countrys largest bank, and China, where it has a tie-up with AgBank and Bank of China, two big lenders. It is targeting 500bn in Asian assets by 2025, up from nearly 300bn today. The idea that in the next five to seven years China becomes as important as France is not stupid, Mr Perrier says. Even in Europe, organic growth is possible. The shift from defined-benefit to defined-contribution pension schemes, which give savers more discretion over how they invest, should boost retail investment, says Tom Mills of Jefferies, an investment bank. The huge interest in environmental, social and governance products also helps: last year these accounted for around 70% of Amundis net inflows. Amundi also has about 1.2bn of excess capital available for acquisitions. The firm is in talks to buy Lyxor, Europes third-largest provider of exchange-traded funds ( ETF s), from Socit Gnrale for 825m. A merger would make Amundi the second-biggest provider of ETF s (after BlackRock). The firm is venturing out into new activities, too. Last year it set up a division to license its suite of software to smaller managers, putting it in competition with BlackRock (analysts expect Amundi to price its services more cheaply). It aims to increase such sales sixfold by 2025, to 150m. That would give the share price a leg up: Mr Perrier notes that such businesses are typically valued at 20-22 times earnings, compared with 13-14 times for the whole group. Done well, all this could sustain rapid growth. It helps that Ms Baudson brings experience of the fastest-growing parts of the business, notably the ETF unit, which she currently runs. She has relatively little experience of executing acquisitions. But if she needs advice, the consummate dealmaker will be just a flight of stairs away. Correction (April 25th 2021): A previous version of this article said Amundis net income was 962bn in 2020. It was in fact 962m.
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https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2021/04/24/has-europes-blackrock-outgrown-its-pond
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Why are American workers becoming harder to find?
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T HE PANDEMIC has led to all sorts of weird economic outcomes. The latest oddity is the growing chorus of complaints in America about a shortage of labour, even though 8m fewer people are in work today than before covid-19 struck. In early April Bloombergreported that Delta Air Lines had cancelled 100 flights for lack of staff. People are so hard to find that one caf in Florida has turned to robots to greet customers and deliver food. A branch of McDonalds is paying potential burger-flippers $50 just to turn up for a job interview. Listen to this story Your browser does not support the <audio> element. Enjoy more audio and podcasts on iOS or Android. The data back up the anecdotes. Total vacancies are running at their highest level for at least two decades (see chart), indicating that firms have plenty of unfilled positions. Furthermore, job openings are leading to fewer hires than you would expect based on the historical relationship between the two. And even accounting for changes in the composition of the workforce, wage growth, at about 3%, has been surprisingly robust, suggesting that firms are offering bigger pay packets to tempt workers. If they persist job shortages could eventually fuel inflation, threatening the economic recovery. There are three potential explanations for the puzzling shortages: over-generous benefits; fearful workers; and a reallocation of labour between industries. Start with Americas huge fiscal handouts. The latest stimulus cheques, posted in the spring, were for up to $1,400 per person. Seemingly every American knows of a neighbours cousins boyfriend who received a stimmy cheque, then quit his job in order to sit on the sofa. A federal supplement to unemployment insurance ( UI ), currently $300 a week, ensures that four in ten unemployed people earn more from benefits than they did in their previous job. Economic research has long concluded that more generous benefits blunt incentives to look for work. Yet this relationship appears to have weakened during the pandemic. The fact that increases in UI payments have been time-limited may make workers reluctant to turn down a job with longer-lasting rewards. In the early part of the pandemic the UI supplement was even more generous, at $600, but its expiry in the summer had little effect on overall employment, according to a paper published in February by Arindrajit Dube of the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Likewise, in the areas where the current $300 is a relatively larger boost to income, employment growth has not weakened since January, when that uplift was introduced. This suggests that the second factor, fear, may be important in explaining Americas shortage of staff. Nearly 4m people are not looking for work because of the coronavirus pandemic, according to official data. And consider which industries are experiencing the most acute worker shortages. Jobs in health care, recreation and hospitality report the highest level of job openings, relative to employment. Many of these involve plenty of person-to-person contact, making their workers especially vulnerable to infection (a study from California earlier this year found that cooks were most at risk from dying of covid-19). By contrast, in industries where maintaining social distancing or being outside is often easier, labour shortages are less of an issue. The number of job openings per employee in the construction industry is lower today than it was before the pandemic. The final reason for worker shortages relates to the extraordinary reallocation of resources under way in the economy. The headline growth in vacancies represents the rise in opportunities in some industriessay, clerks in DIY storesas others decline, reflecting changing consumer demands. Analysis by The Economist of over 400 local areas also finds a wide variation in job churn across geographies: the gap between jobs growth in the most buoyant areas and that in struggling ones is twice as wide as it was before the pandemic. Workers may take time to catch up with this creative destruction. A former bartender looking for work in downtown Manhattan, for instance, may not quickly spot and secure a position as a delivery driver in farther-out Westchester. As vaccinations continue to reduce hospitalisations and deaths from covid-19, and limit the spread of the disease, Americans fears about taking high-contact jobs should fade too. But if shortages are to dissipate fully, and the threat of inflation is to be contained, some of the unemployed will also have to take up work in sectors and areas that are new to them. A version of this article was published online on April 27th, 2021
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https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2021/04/29/why-are-american-workers-becoming-harder-to-find
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Will an attack on Iran derail efforts to revive the nuclear deal?
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O N APRIL 10th Iran had two occasions for cheer. One was the resumption of talks, earlier in the week, in Vienna to revive the multinational nuclear deal that Donald Trump, then Americas president, abandoned in 2018. The other was the celebration of National Nuclear Technology Day, which featured performers dressed as nuclear scientists, huddled around centrifuges at Natanz, a facility in Isfahan province, singing paeans to Irans scientific prowess. Iranian officials announced they had finally rebuilt part of the facility struck by a mysterious explosion last year. Then, on April 11th, the facility was struck again. Listen to this story Your browser does not support the <audio> element. Enjoy more audio and podcasts on iOS or Android. This attack destroyed the power source for the centrifuges, which spin uranium to extract fissile isotopes suitable for use in reactors or, if concentrated enough, in bombs. Thousands of the machines were damaged. Iranian officials blamed Israel, claiming explosives were smuggled into Natanz inside a table. In contrast with previous incidents, Israeli officials acknowledged to reporters that Mossad, Israels intelligence service, was indeed involved. The big question now is what effect the attack will have on the talks in Vienna. President Joe Biden has said that he wants to re-enter the deal, under which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of international sanctions. First, though, he wants Iran to reverses steps, taken in response to Mr Trumps actions, that are not in compliance with the agreement. Iran wants Mr Biden to lift sanctions, imposed on it by Mr Trump, first. Enter Binyamin Netanyahu, Israels prime minister, who is no fan of the deal. Notably, the attack occurred as Lloyd Austin, Americas secretary of defence, was in Israel. Iran has indeed promised to increase its nuclear activity in response. It had already begun testing IR -9 centrifuges, 50 times faster than the IR -1s that make up most of the capacity at Natanz. Since January it has acquired 55kg of uranium enriched to 20% purity, nine-tenths of the way to weapons-grade. Both moves were in breach of the deal. After the attack Iran said it would replace the destroyed centrifuges with newer models and begin enriching uranium to 60% purity at Natanz. That would go even further to reducing the time that it would take Iran to produce a bombs worth of highly enriched uranium, were it to seek to do so. But Muhammad Javad Zarif, Iran's foreign minister, said the latest breach, like the earlier ones, would be reversed if America lifted its sanctions on Iran. A decade ago Israel drew a red line against Iran obtaining 240kg of uranium enriched to 20% purity (about enough to make one bomb). But it may have calculated that the renewed growth of Iran's nuclear programme was reason enough to strike Natanz now. Mossad has shown astonishing freedom of manoeuvre on Iranian soil. In 2018 it pulled off an audacious heist in Tehran of thousands of documents related to Irans nuclear programme. Last year it was blamed for a series of attacks and explosions on missile and nuclear sites, including Natanz, and two high-profile assassinations in or around Tehran: that of Abu Muhammad al-Masri, an al-Qaeda operative, in August; and Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, Irans most senior nuclear scientist, in November. Beyond Iran, Israel has intensified air strikes against Iranian targets in Syria and, more recently, Iraq. Israeli forces have also attacked Irans ships to disrupt its oil exports and arms shipments. Israel is increasingly open about what it calls this campaign between the wars. There is also the possibility that Mr Netanyahu was guided more by political convenience than strategic necessity. Three weeks after Israels fourth parliamentary election in two years, the prime minister, who is on trial for corruption, lacks a majority to form a new government. With coalition-building talks bogged down and the opposition anxious to unseat him, he is appealing to potential allies. Mr Netanyahu may feel he has little to lose. For over a year Mossad has been working on the assumption that Irans leaders are eager for relief from American sanctions and will therefore avoid any big escalation. After the attack on Natanz, Iran threatened revenge in appropriate time, but that vague formulation has in the past provided cover for relatively muted responses. A reported missile strike on an Israeli-owned commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman on April 13th did little damage. Irans desire for sanctions relief is real. The IMF estimated this month that its accessible foreign reserves fell from $123bn in 2018 to just $4bn last year. (Gross reserves are much higher, but most of that sum is unusable because of sanctions.) But if America and Iran cannot reach a deal in the next few weeks, talks may be shelved for the summer. Last year Irans parliament passed a law that would suspend international inspections of its nuclear facilities; it is meant to take effect next month. By then candidates will also be campaigning in a presidential election that will see the incumbent, Hassan Rouhani, forced out by term limits. His successor will not take office until September. Another complication is that Irans establishment is mired in infighting. On March 21st state television began airing the second season of Gando, a thriller believed to have been produced with the help of the hardline Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ). In the show imaginary diplomats who bear a strong resemblance to Mr Zarif and his team are accused of espionage. (Mr Zarif is rumoured as a possible presidential candidate; he denies any interest.) Many Iranians are probably wondering what the countrys security services are up to, says Mohammad Ali Shabani, editor of Amwaj.media, a website that monitors the Middle East. While Israel blows things up, the IRGC is commissioning fictitious spy thrillers targeting Irans own government amid sanctions and a deadly pandemic. A version of this article appeared online on April 12th, 2021.
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https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2021/04/12/will-an-attack-on-iran-derail-efforts-to-revive-the-nuclear-deal
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Why are there so many unfinished buildings in Africa?
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L IKE AN ENORMOUS grey skeleton, a six-storey apartment building looms over a quiet street in Dakar, the capital of Senegal. Concrete balconies and bedrooms are discernible. But there are no windows, doors or lights. And the only painting is of the scatological variety from the sole residents: crows. Five or six years, says the guard. Property in Senegal has been booming, but concrete is frequently poured into buildings only for construction suddenly to stop, often for many years. Listen to this story Your browser does not support the <audio> element. Enjoy more audio and podcasts on iOS or Android. Half-made buildings are everywhere in African cities. In Abuja, Nigerias capital, the government last year said it would take over 600 of them because they had been unfinished for so long. Dakars skeletal structures illustrate many of the reasons why unfinished buildings are so commonand the costs of this problem. Putting up walls is not cheap. The concrete and materials for a five-storey apartment building cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Senegal is desperately short of finance. Around 40% of firms say access to cash is their biggest obstacle, compared with 14% in the rest of the world. Across sub-Saharan Africa it is businesses largest problem (see chart). Savings are low and bank lending is limited. Yet money is still poured into buildings which earn nothing for years. Whatever the pop star Pharrell Williams says, few prospective tenants feel like a room without a roof. Start with the lack of finance. Many Senegalese developers struggle to obtain loans without hefty collateral. Instead, some start building, hoping to tempt buyers to put down deposits on flats and then use that to help finance the rest of the building. But buyers are wary of making a commitment based on a construction site. These unfinished projects often tie up prime land, too. For Senegalese hoping to build their own homes, mortgages are rare. In all they cover only about 20% of the need. Across many African countries even the cheapest newly built house is unaffordable for most people. Instead, people break ground knowing they do not yet have the funds to finish. When they earn a little more money they add more bricks. The shortage of finance makes a vicious circle. Many Africans, in effect, save in concrete. Thus money gets tied up for years in unfinished buildings earning nothing, rather than being put into a business or bank where it could earn a return which could allow would-be homeowners to build more rapidly later. The lack of liquidity in the financial system then further limits what banks can lend to builders. Only 33% of sub-Saharan Africans had a bank account in 2017. Many are suspicious of financial instruments. Here it is mine, it is more secure, says Mansour, a resident of Dakar, pointing to the house he is building. In countries with high inflation, saving in concrete is particularly appealing. And investments in buildings often escape the notice of African tax collectors, since enforcement is weak. Pouring concrete makes sense for other reasons, too. When you start building the neighbourhood respects you, says Cheikh Abdoul Faty, who has been trying to finish the second floor of his home in Dakar for a decade. If you have millions in the bank, people do not see it, points out Mamadou Diagne, a consultant. If you just start building they appreciate you more. Relatives are also more likely to pitch in to help you finish, once construction has started. Half-built walls also offer protection from grasping cousins. In much of Africa, social pressure to help even distant kin is high. Mr Faty sends money to his mother every month. However, by putting the rest of his spare cash into plaster and tiles he sidesteps some requests from other relatives. If you have money in your pocket, under your bed or in the bank you have to go and take it and help them, explains Mr Diagne. But if you put it in your concrete, he says, you can say you have no money. Weak property rights also matter. In Kampala, Ugandas capital, the predominant land-tenure system often gives both the occupant and the owner rights to the land. That can gum up land markets, hampering new developments. But it can also spur people to pour concrete to try to strengthen their claims. Similarly, in the suburbs of Dar es Salaam, Tanzanias commercial capital, formal land titles are rare, so people start building to try to secure their rights. Bigger building projects tend to stall for other reasons. Many developers are caught short by the fluctuating prices of materials or by flaky contractors who spend the budget but dont finish the job. Still, some want to turn cash hastily into concrete, regardless of whether they can finish the buildingbecause they are laundering money. In Dakar property is a target, says Khady Dia Sarr, who advises the mayor. A lot of people are investing behind [fake] names. In a recent case a Guadeloupean drug-trafficker with multiple aliases is accused of stashing cash in edifices. Many other African countries are affected, too. In 2019 Leilani Farha, then the UN s special rapporteur on housing, fretted that in Nigeria the thousands of buildings that stood empty were used to launder money. More money in the financial system and less idling in unfinished buildings would help business and aspiring homeowners alike. That would require improvements to taxes and regulations, expanded access to banking services, and clearer property rights. In Senegal the government is starting by trying to make borrowing more affordable by giving banks guarantees on home mortgages. Meanwhile, few Senegalese can predict when their homes will be finished. That depends on God, says Mansour, as he places one more cinder block in the wall.
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https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2021/05/01/why-are-there-so-many-unfinished-buildings-in-africa
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