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California school district informs parents ******* products are in bathrooms for ‘any student who menstruates’ California school district informs parents ******* products are in bathrooms for ‘any student who menstruates’ A California school district contacted parents via email on Thursday to let them know that all public schools containing grades 3 through 12 will have menstrual products in girls’ bathrooms, all-gender bathrooms and at least one boys’ bathroom. California law previously required the same thing of all public schools that teach grades 6 through 12, but that order now extends to include schools with grades 3 through 5. An email allegedly sent from the Long Beach Unified School District to parents, guardians and caregivers said the system is “committed to reducing barriers to learning and fostering a supportive environment for all students.” The availability of ******* products in girls’ bathrooms and at least one boys’ bathroom is to “ensure that any student who menstruates-including transgender boys and nonbinary students-can access these necessary products with dignity and discretion,” per the email. California Requires Menstrual Products In Public Schools California law requires public schools with grades 3 through 12 to provide pads and tampons in girls’ bathrooms, gender-neutral bathrooms and at least one boys’ bathroom under its “Menstrual Equality for All Act.” Long Beach USD asked for patience as dispensers are “currently being installed in restrooms across our school sites.” It also encouraged families to discuss “appropriate and safe” use of ******* products with their children. Read On The Fox News App The email concluded with, “Thank you for your support in fostering a healthy, equitable and inclusive learning environment for all students.” Emerson College Adds ******* Products To Men’s Restrooms, Meeting Group’s Demand For ‘Menstrual Equality’ The “Menstrual Equality for All Act,” which was passed in October 2023, said the changes must be enacted on or before the start of the 2024-2025 school year. The following text was added to the state’s education code when the bill was passed: “On or before the start of the 2024–25 school year, a public school, including a school operated by a school district, county office of education, or charter school, maintaining any combination of classes from grades 3 to 12, inclusive, shall stock the school’s restrooms at all times with an adequate supply of menstrual products, available and accessible, free of cost, in all women’s restrooms and all-gender restrooms, and in at least one men’s restroom.” Menstrual products were defined in the bill as pads and tampons specifically “for use in connection with the menstrual cycle.” The “Menstrual Equality for All Act” defines ******* products as pads and tampons specifically used during the menstrual cycle. The bill also said it is the state legislature’s intent “to promote ******* equity through adequate access to menstrual products in schools also serving grades 3 to 5, inclusive.” Fox News Digital has reached out to the Long Beach Unified School District for comment. Original article source: California school district informs parents ******* products are in bathrooms for ‘any student who menstruates’ Source link #California #school #district #informs #parents #******* #products #bathrooms #student #menstruates Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Review (PS5) – The Truth Is Out There, Maybe | Finger Guns Urban Myth Dissolution Center Review (PS5) – The Truth Is Out There, Maybe | Finger Guns “The Tokyo-based (Japan) indie games publisher SHUEISHA GAMES and indie games developer Hakababunko, are today very delighted and excited to announce that their mystery adventure game “Urban Myth Dissolution Center”, is coming to PC (Steam) and the Nintendo Switch in February next year (2025).” – Jonas Ek, TGG. Source link #Urban #Myth #Dissolution #Center #Review #PS5 #Truth #Finger #Guns Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Shortage of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic drugs is resolved Shortage of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic drugs is resolved Boxes of Ozempic and Wegovy made by Novo Nordisk are seen at a pharmacy. Hollie Adams | Reuters The long-running U.S. shortage of Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster weight loss injection Wegovy and diabetes treatment Ozempic is resolved after more than two years, the Food and Drug Administration said on Friday. The FDA’s decision will threaten the ability of compounding pharmacies to make far cheaper, unbranded versions of the injections over the next few months. Many patients relied on unapproved versions of Wegovy and Ozempic since compounding pharmacies are allowed to make versions of branded medications in short supply. Novo Nordisk’s stock rose about 5% on Friday. Meanwhile, shares of Hims & Hers, a a telehealth company offering compounded Wegovy and Ozempic, fell roughly 20%. The active ingredient in both of Novo Nordisk’s injectable drugs, semaglutide, has been in shortage in the U.S. since 2022 after demand skyrocketed. That has forced Novo Nordisk and its rival Eli Lilly to invest heavily to expand their manufacturing footprints for their respective weight loss and diabetes drugs – and it may be paying off. The FDA determined that Novo Nordisk’s supply and manufacturing capacity for semaglutide injections can now meet the current and projected demand in the U.S. Still, the agency noted that patients and prescribers may still see “intermittent and limited localized supply disruptions” as products move through the supply chain to pharmacies. “We are pleased the FDA has declared that supply of the only real, FDA-approved semaglutide medicines is resolved,” Dave Moore, Novo Nordisk’s executive vice president of U.S. operations and global business development, said in a statement. He added that “no one should have to compromise their health due to misinformation and reach for fake or illegitimate knockoff drugs that pose significant safety risks to patients.” The FDA’s announcement comes just months after the the agency declared the shortage of tirzepatide – the active ingredient in Eli Lilly’s weight loss injection Zepbound and diabetes counterpart Mounjaro – over. The FDA’s decision on Friday decision could better position Novo Nordisk to compete with Eli Lilly in the booming weight loss drug market, which some analysts say could be worth more than $150 billion annually after 2030. Threat to compounded medications The agency’s decision, based on a comprehensive analysis, essentially marks the end of a ******* where compounding pharmacies could make, distribute or dispense unapproved versions of semaglutide without facing repercussions for violations related to the treatment’s shortage status. Compounding pharmacies must stop making compounded versions of semaglutide in the next 60 to 90 days, depending on the type of facility, the agency said. That transition ******* will likely give patients time to switch to the branded versions of the medications. But, in compliance with FDA rules, compounders can still make alternative versions of the drugs if they modify doses, add other ingredients or change the method of giving the treatment to meet a specific patient’s needs. Some patients rely on compounded versions because they don’t have insurance coverage for Novo Nordisk’s drugs and can’t afford their hefty price tags of roughly $1,000 a month. While Ozempic is covered by most health plans, weight loss drugs such as Wegovy are not currently covered by Medicare and other insurance. Source link #Shortage #Novo #Nordisks #Wegovy #Ozempic #drugs #resolved Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Scientists Describe Rare Syndrome Following Covid Vaccinations – The New York Times Scientists Describe Rare Syndrome Following Covid Vaccinations – The New York Times Scientists Describe Rare Syndrome Following Covid Vaccinations The New York TimesImmune markers of post vaccination syndrome indicate future research directions Yale NewsResearchers Describe Rare Syndrome After COVID Vaccine Medpage TodayYale Scientists Link Covid Vaccines To Alarming New Syndrome With Long-Term Effects AOLYale scientists link Covid vaccines to alarming new syndrome causing ‘distinct biological changes’ The Times of India Source link #Scientists #Describe #Rare #Syndrome #Covid #Vaccinations #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Heaven Burns Red celebrates its 100-day anniversary with special rewards and more Heaven Burns Red celebrates its 100-day anniversary with special rewards and more Heaven Burns Red is receiving a 100-day anniversary special event Explore a new side story that takes you into the past, and a summer resort now under threat of invasion Check in for exclusive rewards, new Memoria and more If you’re a fan of the RPG Heaven Burns Red, you may be yearning for more news on what’s coming up with those recent releases. Fortunately, you won’t have to wait long as the team behind it have unveiled a host of new rewards and updates as part of its 100-day anniversary with an event running until March 20th! Starting off with Chapter 4, Part 2, this newest update is also accompanied by a side story in the form of Thou Art This Summer’s Fairy, A Sight I Shall Record in My Eyes (snappy name, I know). You’ll be able to jump into this enchanting side story alongside your favourite characters as they travel back in time for a summer vacation at a resort which turns out to be one of the first victims of the ******* Invasion. But that’s not all because, as you might expect, there are also top login bonuses when you check into Heaven Burns Red. The 100-Day Celebration SS-Guaranteed Ticket event means that when you collect and use 10 tickets for a 10-pull you’ll be guaranteed an SS Memoria on the special recruitment banner. In memoria Not only that but this event will also come with a host of SS and S-level Memoria. With formidable new abilities to add to your lineup, keep an eye out for three platinum recruitment events taking place from February 21st to March 13th, February 28th to March 20th and March 7th to March 20th for guaranteed pulls of certain characters! While I’m not sure where a summer-themed event can fall in a fairly frigid time of year for most of us, I’ve no doubt this snapshot of warmer months will be welcome to some. In the meantime if you’re only just being introduced to Heaven Burns Red why not dig into our tier list and reroll guide to help you get started? Source link #Heaven #Burns #Red #celebrates #100day #anniversary #special #rewards Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Shortage of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic drugs is resolved Shortage of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic drugs is resolved Boxes of Ozempic and Wegovy made by Novo Nordisk are seen at a pharmacy. Hollie Adams | Reuters The long-running U.S. shortage of Novo Nordisk‘s blockbuster weight loss injection Wegovy and diabetes treatment Ozempic is resolved after more than two years, the Food and Drug Administration said on Friday. The FDA’s decision will threaten the ability of compounding pharmacies to make far cheaper, unbranded versions of the injections over the next few months. Many patients relied on unapproved versions of Wegovy and Ozempic since compounding pharmacies are allowed to make versions of branded medications in short supply. Novo Nordisk’s stock rose about 5% on Friday. Meanwhile, shares of Hims & Hers, a a telehealth company offering compounded Wegovy and Ozempic, fell roughly 20%. The active ingredient in both of Novo Nordisk’s injectable drugs, semaglutide, has been in shortage in the U.S. since 2022 after demand skyrocketed. That has forced Novo Nordisk and its rival Eli Lilly to invest heavily to expand their manufacturing footprints for their respective weight loss and diabetes drugs – and it may be paying off. The FDA determined that Novo Nordisk’s supply and manufacturing capacity for semaglutide injections can now meet the current and projected demand in the U.S. Still, the agency noted that patients and prescribers may still see “intermittent and limited localized supply disruptions” as products move through the supply chain to pharmacies. “We are pleased the FDA has declared that supply of the only real, FDA-approved semaglutide medicines is resolved,” Dave Moore, Novo Nordisk’s executive vice president of U.S. operations and global business development, said in a statement. He added that “no one should have to compromise their health due to misinformation and reach for fake or illegitimate knockoff drugs that pose significant safety risks to patients.” The FDA’s announcement comes just months after the the agency declared the shortage of tirzepatide – the active ingredient in Eli Lilly’s weight loss injection Zepbound and diabetes counterpart Mounjaro – over. The FDA’s decision on Friday decision could better position Novo Nordisk to compete with Eli Lilly in the booming weight loss drug market, which some analysts say could be worth more than $150 billion annually after 2030. Threat to compounded medications The agency’s decision, based on a comprehensive analysis, essentially marks the end of a ******* where compounding pharmacies could make, distribute or dispense unapproved versions of semaglutide without facing repercussions for violations related to the treatment’s shortage status. Compounding pharmacies must stop making compounded versions of semaglutide in the next 60 to 90 days, depending on the type of facility, the agency said. That transition ******* will likely give patients time to switch to the branded versions of the medications. But, in compliance with FDA rules, compounders can still make alternative versions of the drugs if they modify doses, add other ingredients or change the method of giving the treatment to meet a specific patient’s needs. Some patients rely on compounded versions because they don’t have insurance coverage for Novo Nordisk’s drugs and can’t afford their hefty price tags of roughly $1,000 a month. While Ozempic is covered by most health plans, weight loss drugs such as Wegovy are not currently covered by Medicare and other insurance. Source link #Shortage #Novo #Nordisks #Wegovy #Ozempic #drugs #resolved Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Champions Trophy 2025: England’s Jamie Smith selection explained Champions Trophy 2025: England’s Jamie Smith selection explained The move looks to be the latest aggressive tactic employed by England under coach Brendon McCullum. Smith is yet to score a fifty in his seven one-day internationals but impressed in his first summer in Test cricket last year. His 67 in the third Test against Sri Lanka, when he took 52 runs from his last 18 ****** with powerful yet technically correct boundary hitting, was the clearest example of why England view his batting as potentially game-changing. And while he replaces arguably England’s greatest number three in ODI cricket in Joe Root, who excelled in the role up to and during the 2019 World Cup win, the hierarchy clearly believe Smith is the better option to attack the powerplay if a wicket should fall in the first 10 overs. That would leave Root to play his more measured role after two wickets have fallen rather than one. “That top three of Duckett, Salt and Smith can be really aggressive and impose themselves and try and play a match-defining innings, with the blanket of Root, Brook and myself and Livi [Liam Livingstone] behind,” captain Jos Buttler explained. Australia used a similar tactic during their 2023 World Cup win with Mitchell Marsh coming in at three ahead of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne. Source link #Champions #Trophy #Englands #Jamie #Smith #selection #explained Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Connor McDavid’s 4 Nations dagger emphatically opens Team Canada’s next chapter Connor McDavid’s 4 Nations dagger emphatically opens Team Canada’s next chapter BOSTON – “You’re happy he was born in Canada. Thank god.” Amid the euphoria of the Golden Goal, that’s how Joe Thornton described teammate Sidney Crosby after he froze the clock on a 3-2 overtime victory over an upstart Team USA 15 years ago in Vancouver. Those words came to mind here again. The symbolism was unmistakable when Connor McDavid delivered the moment that kept Team Canada atop the podium to cap the NHL’s reintroduction to top-tier international competition at the 4 Nations Face-Off. Same countries. Same score. Another once-in-a-generation player delivering the dagger. “I’m sure this one means a lot to him,” Crosby said of McDavid. “And it meant a lot to us.” You’re just happy he was born in Canada. We clamor so enthusiastically for best-on-best competition to see what happens when you gather so many greats. Canada was pushed to the absolute limit in this competition, losing once to the U.S. in round-robin play and coming within a converted Auston Matthews chance (or three) in overtime from a hollow ending on Thursday night. GO DEEPER How Connor McDavid, Jordan Binnington lifted Canada to 4 Nations title over U.S.: Takeaways It was no foregone conclusion that McDavid would make sure the cups being passed around the visiting dressing room at TD Garden would be filled with celebratory beer. After opening the scoring for Canada in the previous two games, the world’s best player was having a tough night in the championship. He uncharacteristically bobbled pucks. He saw Mitch Marner move up to his line midway through the game to provide a spark. He backed opponents off with his speed but didn’t find the most dangerous pockets of the ice. At least, that is, until a little more than eight minutes into overtime, when Marner found him all alone in the slot and McDavid made no mistake with his cleanest look of the entire tournament. “Yeah, just couldn’t believe it, really,” he said. “Just excited for our group. Honestly, everybody was so dug in. It starts months and months and months ago, with management going out and picking the team, the coaching staff coming together, and then obviously the players doing what we do. It’s been a big production, and it’s just sweet to have it all come together.” This was the fourth straight ********* win in best-on-best competition, following the 2010 Olympics, 2014 Olympics and 2016 World Cup of Hockey. But, really, it’s the start of a new era. If we learned anything from the 12 days that vaulted hockey into a brighter spotlight than it’s accustomed to, it’s that this U.S. team is poised to be a handful for years to come. Canada’s grip on the gold medals and championship trophies isn’t as firm as it once was. The difference was a great moment from the greatest player. Twelve months out from the return of NHL players to the Milan Cortina Olympics, Canada must prove itself yet again with McDavid as the centerpiece of this new generation. “That’s a confidence builder, obviously, knowing that we can play and we can beat anybody,” he said. “That American team is as good as you’re going to find. They’re solid all around but we just found a way in a tough building just to get it done. It was special.” GO DEEPER ‘That’s the big one’: Team USA, stung by 4 Nations loss, draws inspiration from Olympics McDavid may have been the most vocal player in calling on the NHL and NHL Players’ Association to create an event like this after enduring an agonizingly long wait to pull on the maple leaf sweater in this environment. It allowed him to play alongside Crosby, his idol, and the opportunity to secure what he hopes will be the first of many big wins. He’s already got five scoring titles and three Hart Trophies in his trophy cabinet. All that matters to him now is driving team success, especially after getting to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final last June with the Edmonton Oilers and losing to the Florida Panthers. In Canada, he is already the best at the game the country loves most. A goal like the one he put past Connor Hellebuyck here simply adds to the growing legend. The mythology. It will be recreated in driveways across the nation. “Connor is the best player in our game, and for him to put it in like that in such an intense atmosphere in a hostile environment for Canadians was special,” Nathan MacKinnon said. “Hopefully he can do that again next year, too.” “He’s a driven player,” Cale Makar said. “He’s clutch. He scores those goals when you need him to.” “He’s got that ability every single night to change a game,” Crosby said. “He’s proven it time and time again, and he proved it in one of the biggest moments tonight.” There was a sense of relief mixed into the celebration as Team Canada cranked Nickelback’s “Burn It To The Ground” in its cramped dressing room while standing in a circle sipping beers and champagne. Part of the final message delivered from head coach Jon Cooper when the music was turned down was about the importance of getting this experience under their belts together before returning to the Olympics next February. Before scattering back to their NHL teams, the players scarfed down pizza and posed together for photos. Many of them looked and sounded exhausted after emptying the tanks in a mid-season tournament played at the highest level imaginable. There was no denying how tight the margins were at the end of a night when they fell behind 2-1 and saw the Americans outshoot them 6-4 in the overtime. “You can’t write it better, really,” goaltender Jordan Binnington said. “That finish was so special, for us, for the country, for our families.” GO DEEPER Jordan Binnington quiets doubters with all-time overtime performance for Canada As McDavid and Crosby walked together to the interview area with gold medals around their necks, they bumped into Patrice Bergeron. The Boston Bruins legend won two Olympic gold medals and a World Junior Championship with Crosby and brought his kids to TD Garden wearing No. 63 Brad Marchand sweaters to take in Thursday’s final. Patrice Bergeron greets Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid after the #4Nations victory. He says to Crosby: “You just keep winning, huh?” pic.twitter.com/igCL8F2WLs — Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) February 21, 2025 When he saw Crosby, he hugged him and said: “You just keep winning, huh?” Then he shook McDavid’s hand and congratulated him on scoring a golden goal that will be remembered by the next generation. Like any proud *********, he was buzzing about what he’d just witnessed from a 4 Nations tournament that started with questions and ended with an exclamation mark. “I thought it was incredible – almost better than advertised,” Bergeron told The Athletic. “We all were waiting for it and I think it was actually beyond any expectations. It was beautiful hockey. It was fun to watch. It was intense, it was physical, it was pretty plays and smart plays. “Yeah, it was incredible.” And what about No. 97 finishing it off in a fashion reminiscent of No. 87 all those years ago? “I think that’s pretty cool,” Bergeron said. “It’s only fitting.” (Photo: Maddie Meyer / Getty Images) Source link #Connor #McDavids #Nations #dagger #emphatically #opens #Team #Canadas #chapter Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Wall St set for weekly declines as investors parse data Wall St set for weekly declines as investors parse data All three main indexes are set for weekly declines despite the S&P 500 hitting record highs twice earlier this week. Source link #Wall #set #weekly #declines #investors #parse #data Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

2025 NFL Draft consensus Big Board: Abdul Carter overtakes Travis Hunter for No. 1 spot 2025 NFL Draft consensus Big Board: Abdul Carter overtakes Travis Hunter for No. 1 spot As the 2025 NFL Draft class continues to take shape, it’s time to take stock of which prospects are going to dominate the conversation between now and April. Our consensus Big Board combines rankings from a wide range of NFL Draft experts to identify how the top prospects are viewed relative to the rest of their class. In theory, by the time we reach draft weekend, these rankings should help give us a handle on how the picks could (or, at least, should) play out. GO DEEPER NFL beat writer mock draft 2025: Giants, Raiders secure their futures at QB Last week, The Athletic draft expert Dane Brugler released his latest draft board. How does the consensus board compare? (Note: Our previous consensus board only included rankings 1-50.) NFL Draft consensus board (Feb. 20) RK Player POS School Prev RK 1 Abdul Carter Edge 2 2 Travis Hunter CB 1 3 Ashton Jeanty RB 3 4 Mason Graham DT 4 5 Tyler Warren TE 14 6 Will Johnson CB 6 7 Tetairoa McMillan WR 5 8 Will Campbell OT 10 9 Mykel Williams DT 8 10 Jalon Walker LB 18 11 James Pearce Jr. Edge 12 12 Cam Ward QB 13 13 Kelvin Banks Jr. OT 11 14 Luther Burden III WR 15 15 Colston Loveland TE 22 16 Shemar Stewart Edge 27 17 Walter Nolen DT 28 18 Mike Green Edge 23 19 Armand Membou OT 28 20 Malaki Starks S 7 21 Josh Simmons OT 9 22 Emeka Egbuka WR 16 23 Kenneth Grant DT 24 24 Jihaad Campbell Edge 31 25 Tyler Booker G 30 26 Derrick Harmon DT 33 27 Jahdae Barron CB 35 28 Shedeur Sanders QB 17 29 Josh Conerly Jr. OT 21 30 Matthew Golden WR 36 31 Omarion Hampton RB 34 32 Donovan Jackson G/OT 43 33 Nick Emmanwori S 32 34 Nic Scourton Edge 20 35 Tyleik Williams DT 19 36 Donovan Ezeiruaku Edge NR 37 Carson Schwesinger LB NR 38 Jack Sawyer Edge 37 39 Alfred Collins DT NR 40 Shavon Revel Jr. CB 25 41 Benjamin Morrison CB 26 42 TreVeyon Henderson RB NR 43 Landon Jackson Edge 44 44 Mason Taylor TE NR 45 Quinshon Judkins RB NR 46 Grey Zabel OT NR 47 T.J. Sanders DT NR 48 Maxwell Hairston CB NR 49 JT Tuimoloau Edge 45 50 Xavier Watts S 50 51 Azareye’h Thomas CB NR 52 Marcus Mbow OT NR 53 Josaiah Stewart Edge NR 54 Shemar Turner DT NR 55 Kaleb Johnson RB 38 56 Aireontae Ersery OT 48 57 Princely Umanmielen Edge 47 58 Tre Harris WR 40 59 Jaxson Dart QB NR 60 Trey Amos CB 49 61 Jordan Burch Edge NR 62 Jayden Higgins WR NR 63 Jonah Savaiinaea G/C 39 64 Jalen Royals WR NR 65 Cameron Williams OT 41 66 Elijah Arroyo TE NR 67 Jack Bech WR NR 68 Elic Ayomanor WR NR 69 Dylan Sampson RB NR 70 Deone Walker DT NR 71 Demetrius Knight Jr. LB NR 72 Joshua Farmer DT NR 73 Kevin Winston Jr. S NR 74 Jared Ivey Edge NR 75 Emery Jones Jr. OT NR 76 Kyle Kennard Edge NR 77 Isaiah Bond WR NR 78 Ozzy Trapilo OT NR 79 Bradyn Swinson Edge NR 80 Wyatt Milum OT 42 81 Darius Alexander DT NR 82 Gunnar Helm TE NR 83 Jalen Milroe QB 46 84 Smael Mondon Jr. LB NR 85 Tate Ratledge G/C NR 86 Darien Porter CB NR 87 Omarr Norman-Lott DT NR 88 Cameron Skattebo RB NR 89 Barrett Carter LB NR 90 Savion Williams WR NR 91 Harold Fannin Jr. TE NR 92 Jaylin Noel WR NR 93 Ty Robinson DT NR 94 Chris Paul Jr. LB NR 95 Tez Johnson WR NR 96 Xavier Restrepo WR NR 97 Jordan Phillips DT NR 98 JJ Pegues DT NR 99 Anthony Belton OT NR 100 Quinn Ewers QB NR (Photo of Abdul Carter: Kevin Abele / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Source link #NFL #Draft #consensus #Big #Board #Abdul #Carter #overtakes #Travis #Hunter #spot Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Life is Strange Creator Rejecting Netflix Binge and Splitting Bloom & Rage Was Influenced by Apple TV’s Weekly Episode Drop Life is Strange Creator Rejecting Netflix Binge and Splitting Bloom & Rage Was Influenced by Apple TV’s Weekly Episode Drop Don’t Nod Entertainment has finally launched their new game Lost Records: Bloom & Rage on February 18, and it is everything you expect from the creators of Life is Strange. Lost Records: Bloom & Rage was officially set to release in late 2024 but was delayed because it was clashing with the release date of Life is Strange: Double Exposure, a direct sequel of the original title. Don’t Nod Entertainment’s new game left players craving for more | Image Credits: Don’t Nod Entertainment Now that Lost Records is finally in the hands of gamers, it seems like they are a little dissatisfied, considering only the first part of the game has been released to the public. The second part of the title will be released in April 2025, leaving the players hanging like a piñata at a rather exciting birthday party. Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is split into two Bloom & Rage is very cozy and feels very nostalgic | Image Credits: Don’t Nod Entertainment All games from Don’t Nod Entertainment have a cozy feeling to them, and Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is no stranger to that. The game takes you on a whimsical and magical journey through the fictional Michigan town of Velvet Cove, where four teenagers are on their quest for self-discovery and coming to age. From the art style to the homely atmosphere, the game is a trip to memory lane focused on giving players the much-needed whiff of nostalgia they deserve. However, it did not last long for the players, who were stoked to have the experience on their hands. The two-part release of the game has desperately made fans want more of the title, but according to the creative director of the game, the suspense was absolutely intentional. In a 2024 EuroGamer interview with Michel Koch, the creative director of both Life is Strange and Lost Records, he exclaimed how he does not feel as much invested in binging media. For Koch, consuming the media slowly makes it much more memorable. I noticed that I’m not invested as much in Netflix shows, I binge them and then forget them very quickly sometimes. And then I was watching some TV shows on Apple TV and HBO, where they are sticking to weekly releases, and I found that I was investing way more. And we were thinking, we made some good episodic games, why not still go for at least a part of that? In the same interview, Koch also added how the game always highlighted two different stories, which are revealed in the title, Bloom & Rage. According to him, the splitting of the title will give players the time to stop and reflect on what they experienced before proceeding to the next part of the adventure. Koch wants players to theorize about the second tape The different choices give the players different endings | Image Credits: Don’t Nod Entertainment The branching narrative of the game gives players the power to choose and shape their own course of action. This will affect how the story evolves and ultimately determine the ending that they will receive. This element of choice adds an extra layer of anticipation to the game and urges players to delve deeper into Swann’s life. While the release of the next tape is still two months away, Koch encourages fans of the game to dive into theories and speculate about what lies ahead of Swann and her friends in the next installment. Seems like the Don’t Nod team is back on track after a massive crisis and is particularly looking forward to what thoughts and ideas they will get to see before they release take two of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage. Source link #Life #Strange #Creator #Rejecting #Netflix #Binge #Splitting #Bloom #Rage #Influenced #Apple #TVs #Weekly #Episode #Drop Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

TIPS can provide an investor protection against inflation TIPS can provide an investor protection against inflation Although inflation has eased considerably, in many ways, it is still alive and well. The consumer price index, which measures the cost of a wide-ranging basket of goods and services, has fallen gradually from a 9.1% pandemic-era peak in June 2022 to 3% in January. But it is still above the Federal Reserve’s 2% goal. “The progress toward 2% inflation has stalled out, and the Fed knows it,” said Greg McBride, chief financial analyst at Bankrate.com. Federal Reserve officials have also expressed concern about the impact tariffs may now have on inflation. How TIPS work TIPS are issued and backed by the U.S. government like typical Treasury bonds, however, these securities are meant to hedge against rising consumer prices. To compare, regular Treasury bonds could lose value over time if the interest they earn is below the rate of inflation. Currently, the bellwether 10-year Treasury bond is yielding just below 4.5%. (The same goes for the low yields on certificates of deposits when it comes to protecting long-term buying power.) Alternatively, the principal portion of a TIPS increases with inflation and decreases with deflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index. In this case, as inflation rises, the value of the principal will rise as well to maintain its value. More from Personal Finance:Credit card debt hit a record $1.21 trillionHere’s the inflation breakdown for January 2025Wholesale egg prices have ‘blown way past’ record highs For example, an investor buys $1,000 in TIPS at a fixed rate of 1%. If inflation rises by 2%, the principal will rise to $1,020. The rate will stay the same 1%, but future interest payments are multiplied by the new principal amount of $1,020, so payments are $10.20 for the year (or $5.10 every six months, since TIPS pay interest twice a year). TIPS are issued in 5-, 10- and 30-year maturities and when a TIPS matures, you are paid the adjusted principal or original principal, whichever is greater. TIPS are a ‘valuable tool’ The threat of tariffs on imports is causing more investors to consider increasing their exposure to TIPS to mitigate inflation concerns, according to a recent report by Wells Fargo Investment Institute. “TIPS continue to be a valuable tool for protecting purchasing power in an inflationary environment,” said certified financial planner Douglas Boneparth, president of Bone Fide Wealth in New York. “With yields currently near decade highs, they’re certainly more attractive than in recent years,” said Boneparth, a member of the CNBC Financial Advisor Council. US President Donald Trump speaks while signing an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House to impose 25% tariffs on all US imports of steel and aluminum, broadening his trade restrictions to some of the country’s top trading partners. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images However, TIPS aren’t immune from losses even in an inflationary environment, according to Colin Gerrety, a certified financial planner and client advisor at Glassman Wealth Services in Tysons Corner, Virginia. “Just look at 2022 as an example,” he said. “Let’s say inflation spikes and interest rates rise at the same time,” he said, as they did that year. “TIPS might actually lose money if the negative impact from the rise in rates exceeds the adjustment that occurs due to inflation.” In 2022, rising interest rates hurt TIPS and other bonds; TIPS had a -11.85% return that year, although that was still better than U.S. Treasurys. How to use TIPS as an investment option Consider the potential impact of tariffs on inflation going forward, said Winnie Sun, co-founder and managing director of Sun Group Wealth Partners, based in Irvine, California. She recommends a strategy that combines fixed-income TIPS with dividend-paying stocks and laddered CDs for short-term cash flow needs. Sun is also a member of CNBC’s Advisor Council. “I usually advise clients to view TIPS as one part of a diversified portfolio rather than a standalone solution,” Boneparth also said. “While they offer the benefit of inflation-adjusted returns, it’s important to consider factors like tax treatment and the potential for lower returns if inflation moderates,” he added. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Source link #TIPS #provide #investor #protection #inflation Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel to Aim for Most Realistic Crowd System Ever Seen in a Video Game Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel to Aim for Most Realistic Crowd System Ever Seen in a Video Game ashendafiremyst23d ago Except that it WAS playable at launch. I played NMS at launch on PS4. I have videos to prove it. I streamed from launch, and know others that did. I absolutely loved it, and platinumed it before pathfinder. Now, I will agree that the updates were needed, and have added to it. Heck, Worlds 2 looks like it’ll be out any day now. (I think it’ll be Worlds 2, he’s emoting planets). Either way, they are a small team, who’s only other game credits were Joe Danger. No Man’s Sky was a beast all of it’s own. Sean has learned from his mistakes. I played Cyberpunk at launch as well. I beat the game. I didn’t find it too buggy. Then again, I didn’t go out looking for bugs, or really going nuts either. I’m not a Cyberpunk fanatic, so I played through the story, and that’s it. I haven’t gone back and played Phantom Liberty. Source link #Cyberpunk #Sequel #Aim #Realistic #Crowd #System #Video #Game Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Understanding intersectionality: Inclusion and employees’ whole life experience Understanding intersectionality: Inclusion and employees’ whole life experience The reason diversity is so important for tech teams is because difference in opinions and life experience can lead to more innovative ideas, as well as ensure technology is developed with features that better reflect the needs of its user base. For those campaigning for diversity and inclusion in the technology industry, the past decade has focused on helping businesses understand the benefit of encouraging underrepresented groups into tech. But the result has been diversity and inclusion initiatives only focused on hiring a specific group of people, such as women or people of colour, overlooking how an overlap of these characteristics can affect their experience in the technology sector. During a panel at the 2024 Computer Weekly and Harvey Nash Diversity in Tech event, experts discussed why it’s important to consider a person’s whole experience when trying to develop an inclusive and equitable tech culture, acknowledging the intersectional nature of many in the industry and how that plays a part in forming their perspective and approach to tech. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines intersectionality as “the complex, cumulative way in which the effects of multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism and classism) combine, overlap or intersect, especially in the experiences of marginalised individuals or groups” – an idea introduced by civil rights scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw. As an example related to the IT sector, it’s difficult to be a woman in tech, it’s difficult to be a person of colour in tech, and it’s even more difficult to be a woman of colour in tech. Sonya Barlow, founder and director of diversity, inclusion and belonging at the Like Minded Females (LMF) network, explained: “It’s really about what different experiences you have. In simple terms, is the fact that you have so many layers to you either going to help you or hinder you? Everyone here is intersectional, because we all have different layers. Diversity is about differences; intersectionality is the different layers that we bring to the table.” The business benefit of including these individuals in the tech workplace is no different to the benefits of increased diversity in tech overall – diverse teams better reflect technology users, and the more mixed a group is, the more likely they are to come up with different – and therefore more innovative – ideas. As explained by Megan Goodwin, co-founder of The Vision: “If you create an environment which actually embraces and seeks challenge, and seeks change, and difference of opinion, that is only going to be positive for your firm. All the stats that everybody’s given [during the Computer Weekly diversity event] are that the more diverse the leadership team, the more revenue it will generate.” The challenge comes during the inclusion piece – developing a culture where people can thrive no matter their background. She continued: “How many companies seek out very different opinions when they’re making massive strategic decisions? How many businesses really incentivise people to have a different view and to put their hand up? “The quietest people in the room are the people who are probably the most unrepresented. How do you change that? I think that you need a culture shift of ‘difference is good’.” Implications of intersectionality on individuals Without this cultural shift, the working world is even harder for underrepresented individuals. Barlow used some of her own overlapping characteristics as an example of intersectionality, highlighting that she’s of Pakistani heritage, is a British Asian, has ADHD and experiences chronic migraines. “I not only face issues being a woman,” she said. “Turns out, I face issues being a brown woman, then I’m a loud brown woman, which no one really likes. You know what I mean? I’m ambitious on top of that, and then on top of that, turns out I didn’t know I had ADHD. I didn’t even know I had chronic migraines.” Barlow also highlighted that her life and work experience will be different to others with different characteristics – and this is also true of what people need out of technology: different people will need different things depending on their experience. But in the workplace, the more characteristics you have, the more difficult things become to navigate, clarified Gill Cooke, inclusion, equity and diversity consultant, associate, advisor, and trainer. “The more different identities that you identify with, the more likely you are to have additional challenges, additional obstacles, probably additional discrimination, abuse, harassment, etc,” she said. “So, actually, the scales are really weighed against you. And really what we want to talk about is that, how do we recognise that and open the doors to more people?” Support and inclusion Recognition was the first piece of advice the panel gave to ensure underrepresented groups are supported and included – acknowledging someone has challenges is one step towards helping build a better environment for them. Many elements of difficulty, such as neurodivergence, can be invisible, so it’s unhelpful to make assumptions about the challenges people are facing. Next, the panel explained that adaptations need to be made, and that’s not always a one-size-fits-all situation. Tab Ahmed, founder and CEO of EmployAbility, told the audience she often hears excuses from employers when talking about disability, such as: “‘Oh, there’s nobody of disability who works here because we can’t see them.’” “Okay, they’re not in a wheelchair,” she said. “That’s true, but that’s 5% of people of disability who might be in a wheelchair. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Or the other thing I get is, ‘It’s okay, we have a ramp’. That’s great for somebody in a wheelchair. It doesn’t help ADHD so much.” But the problem with non-visible differences, especially disabilities, is the challenge of disclosure. Ahmed urged businesses to ensure people have a safe and clear way to ask for help if they need it. “One of the really key important things is, is there a safe, robust accommodations process in place that is well signposted that people can go to and be comfortable to engage with, knowing that their privacy is going to be protected and that information is only going to be shared with people that need to understand that information to provide the correct accommodations they might need in the workplace?” she said. While there isn’t a single solution that will suit everyone, Ahmed pointed out that catering for those with disability and neurodivergence means businesses usually “get it right for the other diversity strands as well. Because I think sometimes disability and neurodivergence is one of the most complex strands to actually address.” Education was also mentioned as a key tool for ensuring colleagues are supported in the workplace, whereby ensuring employees are informed about differences in working patterns and the reasons behind them it helps everyone to be more understanding, flexible, and supportive, and in the end may result in helping everyone. In fact, Cooke claimed both a holistic and a specific approach is best, suggesting firms make “reasonable adjustments” for those who need it, then make those adjustments available to everyone. She also pointed out many are so focused on getting diverse candidates into the tech workforce, they forget to focus on implementing the inclusive culture needed to keep them, and an overall flexible and supportive culture will be beneficial regardless of whether someone is from an underrepresented group or not. She explained: “I think inclusion is more important than diversity. Inclusion creates diversity. I think in the past, people have brought people in, but then people who do have extra needs or are maybe, a little bit loud, or a little bit this, or a little bit that, and they don’t fit in, and therefore they leave. “If you want people to stay, start with inclusion, start with the inside, and then other people will want to come to the to the party.” At the end of the day, Barlow claimed, it comes down to “common sense”. She said: “If you just take it a step back. It really is about being empathetic. Would you like it if you were in that situation? Ask people what they want, ask people how they like to work.” Source link #Understanding #intersectionality #Inclusion #employees #life #experience Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

TIPS can provide an investor protection against inflation TIPS can provide an investor protection against inflation Although inflation has eased considerably, in many ways, it is still alive and well. The consumer price index, which measures the cost of a wide-ranging basket of goods and services, has fallen gradually from a 9.1% pandemic-era peak in June 2022 to 3% in January. But it is still above the Federal Reserve’s 2% goal. “The progress toward 2% inflation has stalled out, and the Fed knows it,” said Greg McBride, chief financial analyst at Bankrate.com. Federal Reserve officials have also expressed concern about the impact tariffs may now have on inflation. How TIPS work TIPS are issued and backed by the U.S. government like typical Treasury bonds, however, these securities are meant to hedge against rising consumer prices. To compare, regular Treasury bonds could lose value over time if the interest they earn is below the rate of inflation. Currently, the bellwether 10-year Treasury bond is yielding just below 4.5%. (The same goes for the low yields on certificates of deposits when it comes to protecting long-term buying power.) Alternatively, the principal portion of a TIPS increases with inflation and decreases with deflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index. In this case, as inflation rises, the value of the principal will rise as well to maintain its value. More from Personal Finance: Credit card debt hit a record $1.21 trillion Here’s the inflation breakdown for January 2025 Wholesale egg prices have ‘blown way past’ record highs For example, an investor buys $1,000 in TIPS at a fixed rate of 1%. If inflation rises by 2%, the principal will rise to $1,020. The rate will stay the same 1%, but future interest payments are multiplied by the new principal amount of $1,020, so payments are $10.20 for the year (or $5.10 every six months, since TIPS pay interest twice a year). TIPS are issued in 5-, 10- and 30-year maturities and when a TIPS matures, you are paid the adjusted principal or original principal, whichever is greater. TIPS are a ‘valuable tool’ The threat of tariffs on imports is causing more investors to consider increasing their exposure to TIPS to mitigate inflation concerns, according to a recent report by Wells Fargo Investment Institute. “TIPS continue to be a valuable tool for protecting purchasing power in an inflationary environment,” said certified financial planner Douglas Boneparth, president of Bone Fide Wealth in New York. “With yields currently near decade highs, they’re certainly more attractive than in recent years,” said Boneparth, a member of the CNBC Financial Advisor Council. US President Donald Trump speaks while signing an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House to impose 25% tariffs on all US imports of steel and aluminum, broadening his trade restrictions to some of the country’s top trading partners. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images However, TIPS aren’t immune from losses even in an inflationary environment, according to Colin Gerrety, a certified financial planner and client advisor at Glassman Wealth Services in Tysons Corner, Virginia. “Just look at 2022 as an example,” he said. “Let’s say inflation spikes and interest rates rise at the same time,” he said, as they did that year. “TIPS might actually lose money if the negative impact from the rise in rates exceeds the adjustment that occurs due to inflation.” In 2022, rising interest rates hurt TIPS and other bonds; TIPS had a -11.85% return that year, although that was still better than U.S. Treasurys. How to use TIPS as an investment option Consider the potential impact of tariffs on inflation going forward, said Winnie Sun, co-founder and managing director of Sun Group Wealth Partners, based in Irvine, California. She recommends a strategy that combines fixed-income TIPS with dividend-paying stocks and laddered CDs for short-term cash flow needs. Sun is also a member of CNBC’s Advisor Council. “I usually advise clients to view TIPS as one part of a diversified portfolio rather than a standalone solution,” Boneparth also said. “While they offer the benefit of inflation-adjusted returns, it’s important to consider factors like tax treatment and the potential for lower returns if inflation moderates,” he added. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Source link #TIPS #provide #investor #protection #inflation Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump Moves to Slash Presidio Trust, Striking at a Beloved Jewel of San Francisco Parks – KQED Trump Moves to Slash Presidio Trust, Striking at a Beloved Jewel of San Francisco Parks – KQED Trump Moves to Slash Presidio Trust, Striking at a Beloved Jewel of San Francisco Parks KQEDTrump Targets the Presidio Trust in San Francisco, a Pelosi Achievement The New York TimesTrump to scrap US African Development Foundation, US Institute of Peace Devex Source link #Trump #Moves #Slash #Presidio #Trust #Striking #Beloved #Jewel #San #Francisco #Parks #KQED Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Warren Buffett’s eagerly anticipated annual letter lands Saturday. Here’s what to expect Warren Buffett’s eagerly anticipated annual letter lands Saturday. Here’s what to expect Warren Buffett is about to address shareholders and countless admirers following a series of market-moving events — a fresh trade war, devastating wildfires as well as a shocking stock-selling spree at his own Berkshire Hathaway . The 94-year-old “Oracle of Omaha’s” must-read annual letter will be released Saturday at 8 a.m. ET along with Berkshire’s fourth-quarter earnings. Investors are more eager than ever to hear from Buffett about his thinking on the broader market as well as any impact he sees from President Donald Trump ‘s punitive tariffs and the California wildfires on Berkshire’s sprawling businesses. Wildfire exposure While Berkshire, an insurance giant, doesn’t have a huge footprint in the California markets, its large reinsurance business could still see a hit as it absorbs some of the insured losses from the Los Angeles wildfires, which are likely to be the costliest in U.S. history. “It appears that insured losses are going to be in excess of $40 billion. So that’s pretty substantial losses here that are yet to be disclosed,” said James Shanahan, Berkshire analyst at Edward Jones. “Berkshire could have some exposure here to the California wildfires, and it could be large.” Analysts and investors are watching closely for disclosures related to the wildfires in the earnings report. UBS’ Brian Meredith estimated $1 billion in insured loss for Berkshire Reinsurance and a $150 million loss for Berkshire Primary, whose coverage includes commercial property, health-care liability and business owners’ insurance. CFRA analyst Catherine Seifert expects that Geico, a leading auto insurer in California, will incur claims from the California wildfires, but it will be manageable. Tariff impact Buffett, who opined at length in 2018 and 2019 about the trade conflicts that erupted during Trump’s first term, could again comment on the president’s latest high-stakes battle. Trump slapped 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada , and 10% tariffs on goods imported from China . (The Mexico and Canada tariffs were paused for 30-days on Feb. 3.) A 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports is set to take effect in March. Years ago, the CEO and chairman of Berkshire called tariffs “a tax on consumers” in an interview. He said back then that aggressive trade policies could cause negative consequences globally, including triggering inflation that could hurt consumers. Investors will also be looking for any color on tariffs in the 10K from Berkshire’s portfolio companies. For example, a materials and construction business may be experiencing a challenging time importing lumber from Canada. Dumping stocks It appears Buffett is not yet done with his stock-selling spree as Berkshire offloaded more Bank of America shares in the fourth quarter. The stake, about 680 million shares at the end of 2024, is now below the important 700 million threshold, which is the number of shares Berkshire acquired through low-priced warrants in 2011. “The thought has been that if the stake fell below 700M, then there might be more to go,” Piper Sandler’s analyst R. Scott Siefers said in a note. BAC 1Y mountain Bank of America Overall, Berkshire’s stock sales have exceeded stock purchases for nine consecutive quarters, according to Shanahan. As a result, the conglomerate’s monstrous cash pile topped a record $300 billion in the third quarter of 2024. “There hasn’t been any opportunity to buy any operating company and he hasn’t been making substantial investments in new public stocks. The cash balance continues to grow and grow and grow,” Shanahan said. “I think he’s telling us here that he thinks that markets are expensive, stocks are expensive, even his own stock.” Succession Buffett also spent the past year or so settling outstanding litigations and issues on Berkshire’s balance sheet, paving the way for his successor Greg Abel to eventually take over. Berkshire bought out the remaining 8% of Berkshire Hathaway Energy from Walter Scott’s family, now owning 100% of the utility unit. Meanwhile, the Haslam family has sold its remaining 20% ownership interest in truck-stop giant Pilot Travel Centers to Berkshire after settling a billion-dollar lawsuit. “He could be setting up the company for transition and leadership,” Shanahan said. “He’d want to give Greg Able an opportunity to be successful by reducing outsized investments in the equity portfolio, by settling outstanding litigation, by building a big cash balance to be able to immediately go to the market and make some major investments that would put his fingerprints all over the business.” Source link #Warren #Buffetts #eagerly #anticipated #annual #letter #lands #Saturday #Heres #expect Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

AFL player charged with ***** and other serious ******* offences in Geelong area AFL player charged with ***** and other serious ******* offences in Geelong area An AFL player has been charged with ***** and other serious ******* offences, according to reports out of Victoria. Source link #AFL #player #charged #***** #******* #offences #Geelong #area Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

HP intentionally made customers hold for 15 minutes for telephone customer service, then quickly canceled it due to backlash HP intentionally made customers hold for 15 minutes for telephone customer service, then quickly canceled it due to backlash According to The Register, HP put up a 15-minute waiting time for its customer service to encourage its customers to move to digital channels like the support.hp.com website or its virtual agent at virtualagent.hpcloud.hp.com. However, a subsequent report says that the company has canceled the policy due to customer and staff backlash. HP recently instituted a mandatory 15-minute wait time for customers calling its hotline for service. The interactive voice response (IVR) says, “We are experiencing longer waiting times and we apologize for the inconvenience. The next available representative will be with you in about 15 minutes,” even if there’s no telephone ******. The 15-minute hold policy first went live in HP’s ***, Ireland, France, Germany, and Italy contact centers earlier this week but was canceled just one day after The Register published its story. Thus, the company seems to have finally caved into external pressure. Still, a source previously said to the publication, “Many within HP are pretty unhappy [about] the measures being taken and the fact those making decisions don’t have to deal with the customers who their decisions impact.” Customer service staff likely gave this feedback as they would have to deal with irate customers who, on top of encountering an issue with their HP device, are made to unnecessarily wait a quarter of an hour to talk to a human being. The company defended its previous action by saying, “We’re always looking for ways to improve our customer service experience. This support offering was intended to provide more digital options with the goal of reducing time to resolve inquiries.” HP then added, “We have found that many of our customers were not aware of the digital support options we provide. Based on initial feedback, we know the importance of speaking to live customer service agents in a timely fashion is paramount. As we result, we will continue to prioritize timely access to live phone support to ensure we are delivering an exceptional customer experience.” Get Tom’s Hardware’s best news and in-depth reviews, straight to your inbox. HP’s support website and virtual agent are often helpful for basic troubleshooting; however, not everyone is technologically inclined to find and follow these solutions. Furthermore, those who know their way around computers would likely already have visited these support pages and are calling telephone support as a last resort. So, adding a 15-minute wait time is like HP shooting itself in the foot to reduce its customer service personnel. Source link #intentionally #customers #hold #minutes #telephone #customer #service #quickly #canceled #due #backlash Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Most unlikely American tourist hot spots emerge as deadly risk Most unlikely American tourist hot spots emerge as deadly risk The Caribbean has long been a popular spring break destination for Americans, with islands featuring a variety of different cultural experiences, high-end resorts, clear-water beaches and other beloved tourist attractions. The islands depend largely on tourism to help fuel their economies. The Caribbean Tourism Organization estimates that there were approximately 16.3 million overnight stays booked by U.S. citizens in 2023. While many Caribbean islands are considered safe for spring-breakers, tourists should still exercise caution in the region, according to former DEA senior special agent Michael Brown, currently the global director of counter-narcotics technology at Rigaku Analytical Devices. “The Caribbean, although it’s an excellent place to vacation, you have to be aware that it also represents one of the largest drug hubs in the Western Hemisphere,” Brown told Fox News Digital. “It’s also one of the best places — if not the best place in the world — to launder drug proceeds and create offshore accounts. So, again, although it’s a nice place to vacation, many of the islands have been compromised. Some are safer than the others.” Man On Vacation With Family Goes Overboard On Norwegian Cruise Ship In Bahamas Seascape showing islets and azure-blue water on the north side of the island Tortola, British Virgin Islands, Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean Sea. Brown mentioned the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, the Alabama teenager last seen alive on May 30, 2005, leaving a bar in Aruba with her killer, Joran van der Sloot. The Dutch national confessed to killing Holloway on the beach after she refused his ******* advances. He also confessed to killing Stephany Flores Ramírez in Lima, Peru, years later. Read On The Fox News App Faa Suspends Air Traffic To Haiti For 30 Days After 2 Flights From Us Hit By Gunfire Here are the State Department’s respective travel advisory rankings for popular Caribbean island destinations: The State Department’s Level 1 Travel Advisory represents the lowest travel security risk. The Department notes that while there is some risk in any travel, conditions may vary at any time in countries outside the United States. Taylor Casey Case: Fbi Expert Breaks Down Search For American Woman Missing In Bahamas The Caribbean islands under the Level 1 Advisory designation include Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Sint Maarten, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Saint Lucia. The Level 2 Travel Advisory warns tourists to “be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.” Caribbean islands listed under Level 2 include the Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Netherlands Antilles and Turks and Caicos. Americans Arrested In Turks And Caicos Bunk, Pray Together While Awaiting Sentencings: ‘A Big Family’ “Especially for young women, these areas, these resorts are where predators will look for unsuspecting individuals where they are for vacation,” Brown said. “[Visitors] may be drinking too much. They may choose the use of narcotics. Their guard has been let down. The risk, to some extent, is the same.” A view of the beach in Bimini, Bahamas, on May 1, 2024. Last year, Turks and Caicos made headlines when five unsuspecting Americans were arrested and detained for months after being caught with ammunition in the linings of their luggage. The islands have since repealed a mandatory 12-year prison punishment for people accused of carrying ammo. An Illinois deputy was recently killed by a stray bullet while vacationing on the islands. WATCH: OKLAHOMA FATHER FREED FROM TURKS AND CAICOS The Dominican Republic, while a relatively safe and popular tourist destination for Americans, borders “Level 4” Haiti. The DR recently bolstered its security at its border with Haiti. “There are significant drug trafficking organizations in the Dominican Republic that move tons of narcotics from the cartels. But the difference is, I believe those groups understand the red line that they should not cross, which can affect tourism. If those groups affect tourism, then the government will come down very hard on them,” Brown explained. Jamaica is the only island in the Caribbean with a Level 3 Travel Advisory, meaning tourists should “reconsider travel due to serious risks to safety and security,” according to the State Department. Jamaica Spike In Murders Triggers Travel Warning To Americans Visiting Caribbean Island Nation An aerial view of Montego Bay, Jamaica. The State Department is warning U.S. citizens to reconsider traveling to the island amid a spike in murders. “I recently was in Jamaica for a conference, and although I stayed at a five-star resort, we were told: absolutely do not leave the resort,” Brown recalled. “Jamaica has probably one of the highest crime rates and ******* rates in the Caribbean.” If Americans do venture outside their resorts or hotels in high-crime areas, they should use precaution and consider carrying a tracking device, like an Apple Airtag, so that their loved ones know where they are at all times, Brown suggested. When Americans are no longer within U.S. borders, they no longer have access to “U.S. protection,” he explained. The Jamaican flag is seen flying over the U.K.’s Raydale Park. “You’re dealing, perhaps, with governments who are not concerned about your safety — governments that have certain levels of corruption. You can just disappear,” Brown said. The only Caribbean country with a Level 4 Travel Advisory, meaning that Americans are advised not to travel there at all, is Haiti, as it could present “life-threatening risks,” and the U.S. government has “very limited ability to provide assistance, including during an emergency.” Haiti Prime Minister Ousted By Transition Council After Just 6 Months In Power Police patrol the streets of Port-au-Prince amid rampant gang violence, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, April 23, 2024. In fact, the State Department encourages Americans currently in Level 4 territories to leave “as soon as it is safe to do so.” The Department also recommends Americans in Level 4 countries write wills prior to traveling and “leave DNA samples in case of worst-case scenarios.” “It is completely lawless at this point,” Brown said of Haiti. He noted that its neighbor, the DR, takes “extensive precautions to keep the bad elements in Haiti out of the Dominican Republic.” Gang violence in the country has reached record levels, killing at least 5,600 people in 2024. A report from the Office of the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights said an additional 3,700 were injured or abducted last year. Brown noted that “numerous drug trafficking groups” operating within the Caribbean islands “assist the Colombian, Peruvian and ******** cartels with moving narcotics through the Caribbean.” “I don’t want to be an alarmist, but in many cases, drug and sex traffickers and other criminal elements are based in the Caribbean because of the high volume of narcotics that transit through them all the way to the U.S.,” he explained. “That creates a very dangerous environment related to the individuals who are there to prey upon what I call the unsuspecting.” Original article source: Spring break warning: Most unlikely American tourist hot spots emerge as deadly risk Source link #American #tourist #hot #spots #emerge #deadly #risk Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

NASA Lowers Risk of Asteroid 2024 YR4 Impact NASA Lowers Risk of Asteroid 2024 YR4 Impact Concerns regarding asteroid 2024 YR4 have diminished, as NASA has revised the probability of its impact on Earth in 2032 from 1 in 32 to 1 in 360. The asteroid, which has an estimated diameter of 55 meters, was initially considered the most hazardous object on NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) Sentry Risk Table. New observational data gathered between February 18 and February 20 led to a reassessment, significantly lowering the projected threat level. According to NASA, the asteroid now holds a 99.72 percent chance of missing Earth entirely. Orbital Data Leads to Reassessment According to information provided by NASA, the latest findings were based on additional telescope observations, refining previous predictions. The data confirmed that the asteroid’s trajectory has been better understood, resulting in its classification at Level 1 on the Torino Scale, a system used to gauge the risk posed by near-Earth objects. Richard Binzel, the creator of the Torino Scale, told Space.com that further observations are expected to move 2024 YR4 to Level 0, indicating no cause for concern. Comparisons with Other Asteroids Despite the significant drop in risk, asteroid 2024 YR4 remains at the top of the Sentry Risk Table. The next most concerning object is 1950 DA, with a 0.039 percent chance of impacting Earth in the year 2880. Experts have emphasized that continued monitoring will provide further clarity on the asteroid’s path as it makes another approach in 2028. Scientific Observations and Future Monitoring David Rankin, an astronomer from the Catalina Sky Survey, explained that minor variations in measurement precision can cause large shifts in projected trajectories. Speaking to Space.com, he noted that uncertainties in an asteroid’s position are similar to moving a long stick slightly at one end, causing dramatic shifts at the other. Rankin reassured that further data collection would likely continue to reduce any remaining impact probability. NASA has also noted a minor possibility that 2024 YR4 could impact the Moon, but the likelihood remains low. As the asteroid moves away from Earth, it will not be visible again to ground-based telescopes until 2028, when additional observations will refine its projected path. Scientists remain confident that its most probable outcome is to continue its orbit around the Sun without incident. Source link #NASA #Lowers #Risk #Asteroid #YR4 #Impact Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Gold: Can Miners and ETFs Take Investors to $3,000? Gold: Can Miners and ETFs Take Investors to $3,000? The market is experiencing a ******* of “Gold Mania,” with record-breaking prices and significant volatility. This excitement is reflected in the precious metal reaching an all-time high of $2,954.69 per ounce on February 20, 2025. This was the twelfth time in 2025 that gold has broken all-time highs, illustrating the bullish environment within the gold market. This trend impacts not only physical gold but also sector-related investment vehicles. A combination of geopolitical and macroeconomic factors, along with unusual market dynamics, suggests that the gold bull run may continue, presenting opportunities for investors. Golden Catalysts: Geopolitics, Economics, and Central Banks Several interconnected forces are combining to create a “perfect storm” for gold prices. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a significant driver of safe-haven demand for gold. Russia’s invasion in 2022 triggered an initial flight to safety, and the continuing instability, coupled with President Trump’s recent statements, is fueling further uncertainty. These developments underscore the situation’s fragility and reinforce gold’s traditional role as a refuge in times of international crisis. Economic anxieties are also significantly contributing to gold’s rise. Global inflation concerns are prompting investors to seek assets that can preserve purchasing power. Trump’s proposed policies, including tariffs and potential increases in fiscal spending, are seen as inflationary, further bolstering the case for gold. The US national debt, which has ballooned by $13 trillion since the pandemic, and the accompanying depreciation of the US dollar (down approximately 25% since the pandemic) are also significant factors. Central banks worldwide have been on a gold-buying spree, providing a strong foundation of support for prices. Since 2009, central banks have been net buyers of gold, and this trend has accelerated dramatically since 2022. China and India, in particular, have been aggressively accumulating gold, with China’s reserves reaching a record $73.5 billion in January 2025 and India’s hitting an all-time high of $70.9 billion in February 2025. This buying is driven by a strategic shift to diversify reserves away from the US dollar and hedge against economic and geopolitical risks. Signs of Stress in the Gold Market The current “Gold Mania” is reflected in rising prices and unusual market activity, which suggests increasing demand and potential challenges. A significant premium has developed between COMEX prices (traded in New York) and London spot gold prices, reaching as high as $40 per ounce before Trump’s inauguration. As of February 20, 2025, COMEX futures were trading $15 per ounce higher than London bullion. This disparity shows a strong demand for gold in the US, potentially driven by concerns about trade policies and a desire to hold gold within US jurisdiction. This price difference is further highlighted by a massive flow of physical gold from Switzerland to the US. In fact, Swiss gold exports to the US in January 2025 reached 192,933 kilograms, the highest in at least 13 years, leading to a 116% increase in gold stockpiles in COMEX-approved warehouses. The surge in demand and the shift of gold to New York have strained the London market, the traditional hub for physical gold trading. This is shown by a dramatic increase in gold lease rates in London, which indicates a higher cost to borrow gold and is often a sign of limited availability. Reports have also surfaced suggesting potential liquidity issues and a “shortage” of bullion in London, further highlighting the strain on the market. Mining Stocks and ETFs in the Gold Rally Gold mining stocks and gold-backed ETFs offer distinct avenues for investors seeking to participate in the gold market, each with its own risk/reward profile. Barrick Gold: A Leveraged Play Barrick Gold Corp (NYSE:) provides leveraged exposure to rising gold prices. As a mining company, its profits are directly tied to the price of gold, and its stock price tends to amplify gold price movements. Barrick’s earnings report for Q4 2024 met consensus estimates, and the company authorized a $1 billion stock buyback program on February 12, 2025. Analysts have a consensus Moderate Buy rating on GOLD, with an average price target of $23.75, representing a potential upside of over 26%. Barrick’s relatively low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14 suggests financial stability. However, investors should be aware of the inherent risks associated with mining, including operational challenges, geopolitical risks in mining jurisdictions, and sensitivity to operating costs. Newmont Corporation: Global Diversification Newmont Goldcorp (NYSE:) offers another avenue for leveraged exposure to gold. Like Barrick, Newmont’s profitability is closely linked to gold prices, and its stock tends to exhibit amplified price movements. Unlike Barrick Gold, however, Newmont’s earnings for Q4 2024 missed analyst consensus estimates. Despite the earnings miss, analysts maintain a consensus Moderate Buy rating on Newmont, with an average price target of $53.37, implying a potential upside of over 11%. Newmont’s global diversification, with operations in North and South America, Africa, Australia, and Papua New Guinea, may offer some mitigation of geopolitical risks compared to companies concentrated in fewer regions. SPDR Gold Trust: Direct and Liquid Exposure The SPDR Gold Shares (NYSE:) provides the most direct and liquid way for investors to gain exposure to the gold price rally without the complexities of physical gold ownership or the risks associated with mining stocks. The gold trust is designed to track the spot price of gold and holds physical gold bullion in secure vaults. As of February 20, 2025, the trust was trading at $271.35, with a year-to-date gain of 11.9%. The SPDR Gold Trust (P:) is highly liquid, with shares easily bought and sold on major stock exchanges, making it a convenient option for investors of all sizes. It also has a relatively low net expense ratio of 0.40%. The SPDR Gold Trust offers a lower-risk alternative to mining stocks, as it’s directly tied to the gold price, avoiding company-specific risks. The Gold Rush: Balancing Opportunity and Risk “Gold Mania” is being driven by a powerful combination of geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and central bank buying. While ambitious, the $3,000 per ounce gold price target is certainly within the realm of possibility, given the current market dynamics and analyst projections. However, investors must be mindful of the gold market’s inherent volatility and the potential for short-term corrections, even within a broader bullish trend. Original Post Source link #Gold #Miners #ETFs #Investors Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump names Alice Johnson, pardoned in his first term, to be “pardon czar” Trump names Alice Johnson, pardoned in his first term, to be “pardon czar” President Trump is tapping Alice Johnson, the 69-year-old grandmother he granted clemency in his first term over long-ago drug offenses, to be his “pardon czar.” The president made the announcement during a ****** History Month event in the White House East Room Thursday afternoon. Johnson spent over 21 years in prison for nonviolent drug-related crimes when Mr. Trump commuted her sentence and she was released in 2018. Mr. Trump later issued her a full pardon. “You’ve been an inspiration to people, and we’re going to be listening to your recommendation on pardons,” Mr. Trump told Johnson on Thursday. ” You’re going to go over and you’re going to be — you’re going to, she’s going to be my pardon czar, okay? And you’re going to find people just like you that should not this should not have happened. It should not have happened. So you’re going to look and you’re going to make recommendations, and I’ll follow those recommendations, okay? For pardons. All right?” Mr. Trump said Johnson was “in prison for doing something that today probably wouldn’t even be prosecuted.” Johnson was convicted in 1996 for “leading a multi-million-dollar drug ring that dealt in tons of ********”in the early 1990s, according to a report in The Tennessean at the time. She was tried on charges of ******** conspiracy and money-laundering charges. She was sentenced to life plus 25 years behind bars. Celebrity Kim Kardashian was pivotal in bringing Johnson’s case to Mr. Trump’s attention. So far in his second term, Mr. Trump has pardoned hundreds of Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol assault participants; Democratic former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who was convicted on public corruption charges related to attempts to sell former President Barack Obama’s old U.S. Senate seat; and Ross Ulbricht, who was sent to life in prison for his role in creating and operating the darknet market Silk Road. Presidents have broad authority to issue pardons and commutations, so long as the crimes are federal offenses and not state ones. Typically, the Justice Department’s pardon office vets pardon requests for the president to consider, but Mr. Trump thus far has often made his own pardon choices. Sara Cook contributed to this report. Kathryn Watson Kathryn Watson is a politics reporter for CBS News Digital, based in Washington, D.C. Source link #Trump #names #Alice #Johnson #pardoned #term #pardon #czar Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Ukrainian soldiers dismiss Trump’s Russian peace push Ukrainian soldiers dismiss Trump’s Russian peace push Peace talks this week between Russia and the US aimed at ending three years of war in Ukraine have not impressed front-line Ukrainian troops, who see no quick end to the fighting if Kyiv is left out of negotiations. Clutching an assault rifle, an infantryman who goes by the call sign Rugbyist recalled Ukraine’s fierce resistance in the first weeks of Russia’s February 2022 invasion, before Western support poured in, and suggested his country could do it again if needed. In any case, he had not placed high hopes in US President Donald Trump standing up for Ukraine saying: “you can’t be betrayed by a person you didn’t expect anything from”. Another soldier, known as Pruzhynka, was equally dismissive of the Russian-US talks held in Saudi Arabia and said he still plans to take the fight to the enemy when he returns to the front. “Maybe they decided something over there – but that’s their opinion,” the 21-year-old, whose call sign means spring, told Reuters at a training base in southeastern Ukraine. “Ukrainians won’t believe all that.” Trump’s push for a quick peace with Moscow while sidelining Ukraine has caused fear among many Ukrainians and their allies. But front-line troops say they are determined to fight on, citing three years of bitter sacrifices and the loss of tens of thousands of comrades-in-arms. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has dismissed any deals made behind Ukraine’s back and has sought strong security guarantees from Kyiv’s partners before agreeing to any settlement. Trump envoy Keith Kellogg said on Friday that he had “extensive and positive” talks with Zelenskiy during a trip to Kyiv but offered no further information. Also on Friday, the Kremlin hinted at a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin but said the details had yet to be worked out. On the battlefield, meanwhile, outmanned and outgunned Ukrainian troops are struggling to hold back Russian advances along much of the sprawling eastern front. Fighting has been particularly fierce near the embattled logistics hub of Pokrovsk, defended in part by troops from Ukraine’s 68th Jaeger Brigade. At their training ground, soldiers said they had little faith in the ongoing peace effort and saw no immediate end to the fighting. “There are many patriots among us – we’re descendants of the Cossacks,” said a soldier known as Alladin, who was training the troops. “We will fight till the end.” Source link #Ukrainian #soldiers #dismiss #Trumps #Russian #peace #push Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

‘We really are only beginning to understand it’ ‘We really are only beginning to understand it’ Scientists from the University of Oregon and other research teams have found a massive underground aquifer hidden beneath the central Oregon Cascades — way ******* than anyone expected. Using deep geological mapping, they discovered it holds at least 81 cubic kilometers of water. That’s almost three times the size of Lake Mead and more than half the volume of Lake Tahoe, according to ScienceDaily. Described as “a continental-size lake stored in the rocks at the top of the mountains, like a big water tower,” by Leif Karlstrom, the earth scientist who led the study, this finding reshapes how we understand water resources in the western United States. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, points to the Cascade Range possibly holding the biggest volcanic aquifer system on the planet. The timing couldn’t have been more important as rising global temperatures are shrinking snowpacks and making droughts more frequent across the western U.S., putting pressure on both the environment and the people who rely on these water sources. The McKenzie River, which provides drinking water to Eugene, Oregon, starts from mountain springs in the Cascade Range. Scientists found an underground aquifer beneath the central Oregon Cascades, holding at least 81 cubic kilometers of water. It’s a big discovery, but researchers still need to figure out how exactly this aquifer connects to the springs that feed the McKenzie River, which plays a key role in supporting both local communities and agriculture in the region. Watch now: How bad is a gas stove for your home’s indoor air quality? Even though the aquifer’s size seems promising, scientists aren’t ready to celebrate just yet. “Its longevity and resilience to change is set by the availability of recharging waters,” Karlstrom said. Since the aquifer depends a lot on snowmelt, shrinking snowpacks in the coming years could put its stability at risk. Places like California are dealing with similar problems, where managing groundwater during long droughts has shown just how critical it is to have sustainable water systems in place. There’s another layer to this discovery too — it sheds light on volcanic risks. When water mixes with magma it can trigger stronger eruptions, so scientists are keeping a close watch on the area. How often do you worry about the quality of your drinking water? Never Sometimes Often Always Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. But this huge aquifer is a reminder that there’s still so much we don’t know about the natural systems we depend on, especially with the climate changing. This could make a real difference for people living in places like Eugene that rely on water from the Cascades. Figuring out how this underground water connects to rivers and springs might help with future water planning, especially as the climate keeps changing. “This region has been handed a geological gift, but we really are only beginning to understand it,” said Gordon Grant, who is a geologist with the U.S. Forest Service and co-author of the study. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Source link #beginning #understand Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]