5-13-21 CV19 Insights: Texas Has 2 Counties on Hot Spots List
Sat, May 15, 2021 01:27 EDT
Antibody Positivity Rates Jump to ~20%, while PCR Rates Drop to ~5% Summary Antibody percent positivity rates climbed to just under 20% while PCR dropped to about 5%. PCR testing volumes were down again this week, while antibody volumes were up slightly. Few states had a rising infection risk for the week, based on hc1 Local Risk Index trends. Texas has two counties on the hc1 Local Risk Index Top Counties. Weekly COVID-19 Lab Testing Insights will cease publishing at the end of May, although access to the Dashboard will continue for those who are registered. May 13, 2021 Weekly COVID-19 Lab Testing Insights from hc1 Introduction The CV19 Lab Testing Dashboard™ powered by hc1 provides local lab testing insights that include state, county, and sub-county views of Local Risk Index, COVID-19 testing rates and results, and key demographic filters for those tested (age, gender). Data used in the dashboard comes from more than 20,000 lab ordering locations from a coalition of laboratories performing up to 40% of the nation's laboratory testing. Register at http://www.cv19dashboard.org/ for free access to more insights into state, county and sub-county testing trends. Viral PCR Testing As of May 13, 2021, the national percent positivity rate for COVID-19 Viral PCR was down to about 5%. Testing volumes also declined for the week. This can be seen in the following chart showing the weekly national trend in SARS-CoV-2 Viral PCR testing volume and % detected rate among the hc1 CV19 Coalition of Laboratories.
Web video expert on how to get your share of $100 million from YouTube
Fri, May 14, 2021 15:03 EDT
YouTube has announced that it will pay $100 million dollars to people who make popular videos for its new TikTok competitor, called Shorts, which aims to compete with TikTok and Snap. The company's new social network platform, which uses short-form videos, is already garnering 6.5 billion daily views, according Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai. With the explosion of YouTube, Facebook Live, Tik Tok, Instagram Stories, Snapchat, and Zoom, we are increasingly being bombarded with video; some are compelling but most keep you scrolling. YouTube has over Two Billion monthly users and over 15% of all Facebook posts are videos. How do you cut through all the clutter, and score your share of the big bucks? Matt Johnston has the answer. Matt is a coach, author, speaker, and CEO and Founder of social video ad agency Guide Social . Matt helped invent the format, system, and science of viral videos in the publishing world at Business Insider, NowThis, New York Magazine, Men's Health and others. He is also the author of "Producing Empathy; The Secret Method I Us to Get 100 Million Views on Videos Online". He has helped produce viral videos for the NFL, Toyota, Campbell's, Chase Bank, Verizon, Adobe, Tidal, Fresh Direct, and many more. Matt has also proudly grown and scaled dozens of Shark Tank companies, helping grow sales thorough his proven online video wizardry. Whether you are a budding videographer or a marketer planning to use more video in your marketing campaigns, Matt Johnston has a proven track record to get results Talk with Matt Johnston about: -- The top 3 ingredients behind every viral video --The biggest mistakes in home grown video production --How to make your Zoom meetings more productive and interesting --How to make more money in video production without losing creative freedom For media requests for video marketing expert Matt Johnston to discuss this red-hot topical story, please contact Allen Media Strategies Jeff Johnson by email at jeff@allenmediastrategies.com or call 703-819-6777
Family Scholar House Class of 2021: Meet Briana Lee
Fri, May 14, 2021 12:40 EDT
Each year since its establishment in 1995, Family Scholar House (FSH) has served disadvantaged residential and nonresidential single moms, dads, and their children with a comprehensive, holistic continuum of care that meets them where they are and empowers them toward their educational, career and family goals. These individuals and families have experienced poverty, unstable housing, and, most often, domestic violence. Regarding education, participants enroll in the accredited colleges of their choice to pursue their chosen courses of study, intending to obtain a post-secondary degree. FSH helps participants access financial assistance to pay for classes and books. Through financial aid, Pell grants, scholarships, and sometimes student loans, participants attend school on a full-time basis. Many of the participants also obtain work-study assistance through their colleges or universities. All participants meet regularly with their Academic Coach to review educational progress. And one of those who are about to embark on her dream career due to the efforts of FSH is Briana Lee, a senior at the University of Louisville. An anthropology major with an impressive 3.5 GPA, Briana was selected to be a UofL Anthropology Research Fellow and is currently a researcher at Corn Island Archeology, Inc., a female-owned and operated small business providing cultural resources consulting services. She is very active at UofL and Family Scholar House, where she and her 2-year-old daughter Miah moved in October 2018. Briana's love of nature and the world around her have played a massive role in her career choice. Her plans include owning her farm one day and residing in another country where she can be exposed to other cultures and ways of life. For the immediate, Briana has accepted a position with the Freedom Preparatory Academy in Memphis, Tennessee, starting this summer. Freedom Academies are some of the best schools in the south whose mission is to prepare all students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 12 to excel in college and life. "I am so thrilled for my move to Memphis this summer, and it wouldn't be possible without Family Scholar House," says Briana. "Thanks to them, my future is something for my daughter and me to look forward to, which I couldn't imagine just a few short years ago."
CALCPA INVITES REPORTERS COVERING NONPROFIT 501(c)(3) AND CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS TO ATTEND UPCOMING VIRTUAL CONFERENCE ON MAY 18-19, 2021 ON UPDATES ON TAXATION, ACCOUNTING AND AUDIT
Fri, May 14, 2021 12:36 EDT
MEDIA ADVISORY: The California Society of Public Accountants (CALCPA ) is holding its annual Virtual "Not-For-Profit Organizations Conference" on May 18-19, 2021 and you are invited to attend for FREE as a working member of the press to better understand key taxation and compliance issues related to Federal COVID-19 Relief targeted to the nonprofit sector in the United States delivering services to the public. More details on this specific conference, topics and speakers for this upcoming virtual conference. How Significant is the Nonprofit Sector? California NFPs generates $273 Billion in annual revenue, and one in every 14 California jobs is at nonprofits. Nationally, according to the National Council of Nonprofits there are more than 1.2 million 501(c)(3) public charities/ organizations employing more than 12 million employees (third largest private employer) paying more than $45 billion in payroll taxes to state and local government. Hundreds of Billions of New Funding Is Now Being Directed to Nonprofits to Assist the Public During COVID-19 Because of the overall effectiveness of the nonprofit sector in the United States in delivering key services to both federal and local government -- In late December of 2020 - President Trump signed into law the Omnibus Appropriations and Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act , that incorporates twelve annual spending bills to fund the federal government, a collection of long-delayed COVID relief measures, and a wide variety of tax and other provisions typically thrown into the last bill of the year. The legislation funds the federal government through September with spending of $1.4 trillion and largely follows the bipartisan spending agreement reached last year. The bill had significant taxation provisions to support nonprofits and the people and communities they serve. Additionally -- President Biden signed the $1.9-trillion American Rescue Plan Act (H.R. 1319) to provide additional financial support to nonprofits serving the public. Congress is currently debating additional provisions in the Infrastructure Bill proposed that also contains additional funding for nonprofits. Accounting, auditing and taxation are critical components needed by nonprofits to access funding within the approved COVID relief assistance. Accessing these funds also require new compliance procedures and requirements handled by the accounting function for nonprofits to prevent fraud and maximize taxpayer funds in providing services to the public. With this funding directed to charitable nonprofits - more than ever nonprofits are expected to do so much more for so many Americans for so much longer with new specific provisions on how these funds can or can't be spent with detailed compliance provisions. CPA nonprofit experts in accounting, audit and taxation skills are working overtime to help nonprofits meet these critical goals expected from government to assist the public. As such the California Society of Public Accountants is holding its annual Virtual Not-For-Profits Conference on May 18-19, 2021 California CPAs will be discussing key taxation and audit issues contained with various pieces COVID-19 Relief Legislation such as: Charitable Giving Incentives : The legislation reestablishes the temporary $300 above-the-line deduction for people who do not itemize their deductions and establishes a $600 deduction for couples filing jointly in 2021. It imposes a penalty for overstating contributions. The bill also extends for one year the increased limits on deductible charitable contributions for individuals who itemize and for corporations. Relief for Reimbursing Employers : Congress approved a 10-week extension - until March 14 - of a provision that requires the federal government to cover half of the costs of unemployment benefits paid to laid-off and furloughed employees of "reimbursing" employers. Nonprofits that self-insure under their state's unemployment systems had faced an automatic doubling of unemployment costs payable to their states starting January 1, 2021. Coronavirus Relief Fund : The bill removes the risk that state and local governments would have had to return unspent CARES Act money by December 30 by extending the deadline until the end of 2021. Charitable organizations lobbied for this extension because numerous states and cities have used some of their Coronavirus Relief Funds to create grants programs for nonprofits and businesses. Others have contributed CARES Act dollars to their unemployment trust funds and reduced the unemployment costs of nonprofits. PPP Reforms: Most notably, the legislation authorizes a Second Draw of Paycheck Protection Program loans for qualified employers. Charitable nonprofits (as well as for-profit businesses) may qualify for a Second Draw loan of up to $2 million if they a) employ 300 or fewer employees and b) experience a decline in gross receipts of 25% in one of the four quarters in 2020 compared to the same quarter in 2019. This second round is much narrower than the PPP loans granted under the CARES Act, both in terms of maximum loan amounts and eligibility factors. The drafters of the bill did eliminate numerous impediments to nonprofit eligibility that had been proposed in earlier versions of the legislation. In the area of PPP loan forgiveness , the legislation expands the types of expenses eligible for forgiveness to include the costs of personal protective equipment and workplace modifications. It also authorizes a short-form approval of forgiveness for loans of $150,000 or less. Economic Injury Disaster Loan Grants : The bill allocates $20 billion for additional $10,000 grants. It also repeals retroactively a requirement that EIDL grant recipients must pay back the $10,000 grants even when PPP loans were forgiven. Save Our Stages : Congress dedicated $15 billion to aid performance venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. Covered organizations may seek grants of up to $10 million. Employee Retention Tax Credit : The bill extends the earlier credit for retaining employees for six months (to 7/1/2021) and expands the usefulness of the refundable payroll tax credit, particularly for nonprofits excluded from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) participation. It reduces the required decline in gross receipts from 50% to 20%, increases the refundable payroll tax credit from 50% to 70%, and covers up to two quarters for a total benefit of $14,000 per covered employee. It also provides that employers who receive PPP loans may still qualify for the ERTC with respect to wages that are not paid for with forgiven PPP proceeds. Paid Sick Leave Tax Credit : The bill extends through 3/31/2021 the refundable payroll tax credits for paid sick and family leave that were established in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The bill also extends through 2025 the 12.5% to 25% income tax credit for paid family and medical leave originally enacted in the 2017 tax law. If interested in talking with a California CPA about these tax issues directed to nonprofits; new audit requirements to protect taxpayer funds under new COVID-19 Relief and/or would like to attend for free the Virtual Conference on Not-For-Profit Organizations on May 18-19, 2021 - please send me an email at: dcolgren@colcomgroup.com or call me. CPAs are available to discuss other topics of interest to your audience in taxation, personal finance, and other topics of interest to your audience.
Virginia Society of CPAs Announces Officers and Board of Directors
Fri, May 14, 2021 12:32 EDT
The Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA) is pleased to announce its officers and Board of Directors for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The officers and directors were sworn in at the VSCPA's annual business meeting held virtually May 13. Anne B. Hagen, CPA, CGMA, MBA , of The Masonic Home of Virginia in Henrico, is the new chair of the board. George D. Forsythe, CPA, CGMA , of WellsColeman in Richmond, is chair-elect. The following VSCPA members were named vice chairs: Nammy K. Lee, CPA, Ph.D. , of the University of Virginia in Falls Church; Jennifer S. Lehman, CPA, CGMA , of Hantzmon Wiebel LLP in Charlottesville; Aaron L. Peters, CPA , a sole proprietor in Falls Church; and Christine B. Williamson, CPA , of CohnReznick LLP in Tysons. VSCPA President & CEO Stephanie R. Peters, CAE, serves as secretary-treasurer of the Board. At-large board members include Courtney M. Arrington, CPA , of Genworth in Richmond; Michael Brunson Sr., CPA , of Virginia Credit Union in Richmond; Daniel P. Hudgens, CPA , of Deloitte in Richmond; LaToya D. Jordan, CPA , of the Auditor of Public Accounts in Richmond; Andrew T. Martin, CPA , of Corbin & Company, PC, in Chesapeake; Thomas L. Milburn, CPA , of Yount, Hyde & Barbour, PC, in Winchester; John W. Reynolds, CPA , of Tracepoint in Fredericksburg; Neena Shukla, CPA, CFA, CGMA, FCPA , of PBMares, LLP, in Fairfax; Gregory W. Wallig, CISA, CISM , of Grant Thornton in Arlington; and John M. Waters, CPA , of Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer, PC, in Norfolk. For more information about VSCPA leadership, visit www.vscpa.com/About .
Clubhouse Renovation Marks Latest Phase of Multi-Million Investment at the Springs
Fri, May 14, 2021 12:27 EDT
The transformation of The Springs Resort & Golf Club into Oxfordshire's leading golf venue has moved a step closer with the reopening of its stunning golf clubhouse following a major renovation and extension.
Henley Décor Fair 2021 May 27th-31st
Fri, May 14, 2021 10:02 EDT
Treat yourself to a day out, with a most unique shopping experience at the Henley Décor Fair, over this May bank holiday weekend. The Henley Décor Fair returns on 27th-31st May and is the perfect time to get out and socialise with friends and family, in a picturesque riverside location. With over 180 of the top UK traders, many who have featured on Salvage Hunters and many other TV shows, bringing goods including Antiques, reclaimed items, Art, one off design pieces, Bronzes, Decorative mirrors, lighting, fireplaces, garden statuary, vintage fashion, leather jackets and quirky items not found on the high street to classic boats, cars and motorbikes. This is also a great opportunity for members of the public to meet the TV celebrities in person, selling their goods. With the relaxation of Government Covid restrictions, life returns to normal. This is the perfect place to find some unique and spectacular pieces for your home and garden. Gary Wallis, reality TV personality from Restoration Workshop, says "This year's outdoor event, has been embraced with open arms. Exhibitors have been holding back stock throughout lockdown, and the majority will be bringing their best goods to the fair. The Yew Tree from Frieth, will be providing some amazing flavoursome foods, including vegetarian options. Other concessions include, The Funky Elephant, with a taste of Caribbean. The Pizza project are back again, with their amazing stone baked pizzas. The Frying Squad, famous for the best traditional fish and chips and the Lawlors Sushi. Local refreshments provided by Jessica Prosecco, Fill Your Flutes, The Marlow Rebellion Beer company alongside vintage coffee vans, such as The French Coffee Company and La Kordun Vintage Coffee. With the new riverside Time for Tea Vintage Café, providing you with afternoon teas and cakes. We will have the usual live acoustic background music playing, to create a relaxed ambiance, to this unique riverside event. The event will be filmed for series 2 of Restoration Workshop. Anyone who would be interested in Sponsoring this, one-of-a-kind event in the future, please make contact for VIP PASSES." Tickets on sale now, at www.henleydecorfair.com .
Thailand, Barbados, and Cyprus Join More Than 275 Destinations To Adopt the WTTC Safe Travels Stamp
Fri, May 14, 2021 09:52 EDT
Abu Dhabi, Jersey, and French Polynesia also join the ever-growing list of destinations to get world's first global safety and hygiene stamp Following its launch just 12 months ago, the highly popular Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) has now been adopted by more than 275 destinations around the world. WTTC, which has continually led the private sector to rebuild global consumer confidence and encourage the return of Safe Travels, made history when it launched the world's first ever global safety and hygiene stamp, just 12 months ago. The stamp was developed to help restore confidence in travellers and aims to revive the global Travel & Tourism sector which has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now it is being used by destinations around the world, with the hotspots of Thailand, Barbados, Cyprus, Abu Dhabi, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Mongolia and Kyrgyzstan, among the latest to join WTTC's ever-growing list. The WTTC Safe Travels stamp, and its global protocols have been embraced by more than 200 Travel & Tourism CEOs, and many of the world's major tourism groups. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO said: "We are delighted that our Safe Travels stamp continues to grow from strength to strength and has been adopted by destinations from all corners of the world. "From Portugal to Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka to Slovenia, Tunisia to Tobago, our stamp is now recognised around the globe, which is testimony to the hard work which has been put in to make the stamp work for both destinations and holidaymakers. "As the global vaccine rollout picks up pace around the world and with travel restrictions beginning to be relaxed, we believe the stamp will prove a key component of destination recovery and restoring consumer confidence. "The success of the stamp shows the importance of global coordination to help rebuild and revive the international Travel & Tourism sector which has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. "However, we are finally beginning to step into the new normal of a post-COVID world, and we are proud to be leading the way for globally coordinated efforts in recovery." Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: "The Tourism Authority of Thailand is delighted that the World Travel & Tourism Council has approved the use of the TAT's Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) logo in tandem with the WTTC Safe Travels stamp. "Together, they share a common objective to ensure that all visitors feel safe, as Thailand continues to open its tourism industry to international travel in the new normal. "The Safe Travels stamp has reaffirmed the Amazing Thailand SHA and serves to further motivate travel-related enterprises in Thailand to maintain their health and safety standards, as the country rebuilds traveller confidence while also protecting the Thai workforce that serves them." The WTTC Safe Travel stamp protocols were designed following guidelines from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and taking best practices from WTTC's Members into account.
⚔️ 54 Hours of Super Squad Starts Today!
Fri, May 14, 2021 08:25 EDT
Just a reminder that servers open globally today at 18:00 UTC!
Dancing bear sanctuaries in India struggle to survive Covid crisis.
Fri, May 14, 2021 06:31 EDT
Dancing b ear sanctuaries in India struggle to survive Covid -19 crisis. Ph otos of bears and keepers: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/cv088omtxkp1a8f/AADwggu90PTKo8gIf_EbB2sFa?dl=0 Two s anctuaries for rescued dancing bears in India have been hit hard by a second wave of the deadly Covid-19 virus . Several members of the animal care teams at the centres in Agra and Bannerghatta are seriously ill with the disease and in isolation. In addition, widespread disruption to logistics systems is making it increasingly difficult to procure food and medical supplie s for the bears and the staff who care for them. The sanctuaries are funded by UK charity International Animal Rescue (IAR ) ) . A message from Kartick Satyanaraya n, head of IAR's Indian partner Wildlife SOS which manage s the day to day running of the sanc tuaries , described just how desperate the situation is: " The dark Covid cloud is taking a severe toll with people dying all around us. There are no beds available in hospitals for Covid patients and no space left to bury the dead. I am extremely worried by the current situation. At Wildlife SOS we're in desperate need of help. " At the bear rescue cen tres in Agra and Bangalore, we' re facing a lot of problems on the ground. Our dedicated and committed staff are doing their best to work courageously, but several members have tested positive for Covid . We've had to quarantine these staff for their own safety and also to prevent exposure to other staff and th e animals. We desperately need three or four oxygen concentrators and about 10 oxygen cylinders as critical care need for our staff. Doctors have advised us that we will be facing a medical disaster if we can't get hold of this equipment. " We already have a strict curfew and lockdown imposed in Delhi. We are having to use animal ambulances to move critical medicines and food supplies for the animals at the bear rescue centres. We urgently need to stock up on food and medicines t o last us at least for the next 3 or 4 months so we can survive the imminent lockdowns that are looming over us i n Agra and Bannerghatta . " IAR is appealing for help from its supporters and from the public to raise £80,000 to buy the oxygen concentrators and enough food and medical supplies to last at least four months. Alan Knight OBE, IAR Chief Executive, said: "We rescued the bears before from pain and hunger - now they need our help again to keep them safe. " Ever since they were taken from the wild, the bears have been forced to rely on people for everything. When they were dancing on the streets, they were at the mercy of their cruel handlers. And since they've been rescued, they've depended on us for all their food and care. And, thanks to our supporters, we've never had to let them down . IAR has already raised sufficient funds to buy seven oxygen concentrators which are in use supporting sick staff at the sanctuary. Now the fundraising focus has changed to the need to stock up on food and medicines for bears and staff. It's feared that Agra and Bangalore will be put in lockdown before too much longer. "With lockdown looming, we need to ensure the bears and the bear carers are well provi ded for during the months ahead," Knight added. "I know everyone at the sanctuaries is working hard to maintain their normal high level of care for the bears. At IAR we are intent on supporting their efforts and making sure the bear carers are well cared for too!" Ends.
Debut for Maya Weug at Paul Ricard
Fri, May 14, 2021 06:21 EDT
Maya Weug is the first female driver selected to join the Ferrari Driver Academy Fornaroli and Armanni ready for the first race of the season Iron Lynx gears up for a full weekend of GT and Formula 4 racing in France and Austria Italian racing team Iron Lynx will propel a young racer on her first step towards single-seater glory this weekend, as she competes in her first ever car race. Dutch-Spanish driver Maya Weug is 16 years old and having triumphed in last year's "FIA Girls on Track - Rising Stars" programme, has become the first girl to join the prestigious Ferrari Driver Academy.
Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole - keeping the Blue Flag flying!
Fri, May 14, 2021 06:09 EDT
News release Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole - keeping the Blue Flag flying! May 14 2021: Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole beaches have been awarded more blue flags than any other UK authority in this year's awards. Environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy announced its iconic Blue Flags and Seaside Awards to the UK's very best beaches, and Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole have been confirmed with 23 awards in total. Earlier this year, according to TripAdvisor's Travellers Choice awards, Bournemouth beach was ranked among the best 25 beaches in the world and rated as having the fifth best beach in Europe. With these latest accolades Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole continue to boast a combined total of 9 Blue Flags and 14 Seaside Awards. The area's Blue Flag beaches are Alum Chine, Branksome Chine, Canford Cliffs, Durley Chine, Fisherman's Walk, Sandbanks, Shore Road, Southbourne and Manor Steps. On top of this, all nine Blue Flag locations have the added honour of receiving Seaside Awards, as well as the beaches at Bournemouth, Boscombe, Friars Cliff, Avon and Highcliffe. Councillor Mohan Iyengar, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: "We're so proud of the number of awards we've received so far this year. The team works incredibly hard to care for our beaches and there has been a phenomenal amount of work done behind the scenes to roll out this year's summer readiness plans. We consider ourselves lucky to be the guardians of such a breath-taking stretch of coastline and it's great to know that Keep Britain Tidy have given us their stamp of approval." With the May bank holidays heralding the start of the season across the resort, BCP Council has already launched its £3.5million seasonal response summer readiness plans - preparing the resort for this summer's much anticipated bumper summer. Plans include a multi-agency command control centre (MACC) in operation until the end of September, overseeing the seasonal plan's day and evening operations, responding in real time to issues that arise when the resort experiences an increase in visitor numbers. An additional 75 seafront staff on hand to welcome people, keep the beaches clean and safe, and provide a greater security presence; and 400 triple-sized bins installed along the seafront to deal with waste, with more daily collections taking place. Keep Britain Tidy's Chief Executive Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: "This year, more than ever, we are going to be relying on our country's beautiful beaches to escape for a much-needed break after all the stresses and strains of the past year. "Whether it's camping in Cornwall, renting a cottage in North Yorkshire or simply having a day out at the seaside in Sussex, a fantastic beach is an essential part of a holiday for so many of us. "Last year, due to the pandemic, we did not have the opportunity to celebrate all the great award-winning beaches around the coast so this year we are delighted to have even more winners than we did in 2019, thanks to the incredible work of the teams around the country that make our beaches clean and safe for us all to enjoy. "From environmental education for the local community and ensuring responsible beach use, to cleaning regimes and an increasing number of recycling facilities, it is a full-time commitment to create beaches worthy of these awards. "As we all plan our 2021 holidays much closer to home, thanks to the Blue Flag and Seaside Award those choosing to holiday at a destination with an award-winning beach can be assured it will be clean and safe and meet the highest standards for water quality and management." -ends-
Confusion & Chaos for Passengers Over Testing & Entry Protocols Into 'Green List' Destination Countries - Grant Shapps Blasted Over Shambolic System
Fri, May 14, 2021 05:57 EDT
NORTHERN HEALTHCARE BOSSES WARN OF CONFUSION & CHAOS AHEAD OVER COVID TESTING & ENTRY PROTOCOLS INTO 'GREEN LIST' DESTINATION COUNTRIES TRANSPORT MINISTER GRANT SHAPPS BLASTED OVER SHAMBOLIC 'GREEN LIST' & TRAFFIC LIGHT SYSTEM Leading British healthcare company SALUTARIS PEOPLE has warned of the potential chaos which could unfold from next week when the Government is expected to formally lift the ban on 'illegal travel' on the 17 th May. The Cheshire and Tyneside based company - which provides rapid PCR testing for Liverpool John Lennon Airport - warned of passenger chaos and confusion over Covid testing protocols to 'green-list' destination countries. The company has also blasted Transport Minister Grant Shapps and the Government for its shambolic communication of the traffic light system for travel and its 'green list' of 12 designated countries. It said that the Transport Minister and the Government had failed to communicate testing and vaccination protocols for entry into the 12 designated countries and which were open to receiving passengers from the UK. It said this was going to leave airline passengers in complete confusion and disarray over which Covid tests they are expected to have for entry into their destination country and whether the country will even accept inbound travel and receive them. Ross Tomkins MD of Salutaris People said, "The Government communication around the 'green list' and traffic light system has only dealt with the quarantine restrictions for re-entry back into the UK. It has not communicated clearly and effectively what the entry and testing requirements are into designated countries. This in itself has created utter confusion for the public and airline passengers wanting to book holidays to those destinations. Many airline passengers will be thinking they don't need to be tested - confusing re-entry protocols to the UK - when in actual fact the destination country will have its own entry criteria for testing and vaccination. Some passengers may also confuse the existing NHS testing as a secure test result to be Fit to Fly. Many of the countries on the list are not accepting airline passengers into their country at the moment." With the announcement of the 12-country 'green-list' there has been a huge surge of flight bookings with airlines in anticipation of the travel restriction and ban being lifted on the 17 th May. Extra flights have been put on by airlines and regional airports including Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Leeds Bradford to Portugal for next week, despite the fact that passengers from the UK are not permitted entry into Portugal at the moment.
RARUK Automation at IntraLogisteX 2021
Fri, May 14, 2021 05:51 EDT
At its first appearance at IntraLogisteX in July this year, RARUK Automation will showcase its new intelligent, small parts pick and storage system with huge time saving benefits. The new EffiMat® system with patented Box Mover Technology, can pick five items at the same time from different positions within its vertical shelving systems and deliver them all to the picking station on the same tray. This is in sharp contrast to established competitor systems that require a single item to be picked before the code can be entered for the next. RARUK Automation products always offer a unique edge and can be freely combined to create optimal, off-the-shelf automation solutions. Many of these will feature at IntraLogisteX 2021 on their stand 210. Among its most popular products are the MiR autonomous industrial robots. These autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) have taken industry by storm thanks to their extraordinary flexibility and smart technology. A key benefit of the MiR system is that it requires no network of expensive and inflexible wires or sensors to guide its path. So, it is simple to integrate and provides a fast return on investment. Several models cater for various payloads and are all designed to be collaborative. Multiple built-in safety features, including dynamic safe zone monitoring, ensure the robots manoeuvre efficiently around people and objects in highly dynamic warehouse environments. The latest addition to the range is the MiR 250, featuring compact dimensions, its specially engineered agility allows it to move under objects, navigate in narrow spaces and take corners quickly. Complementing the MiR range is the ROEQ cart, which will also feature on the RARUK Automation show stand. Several carts can be used in the same fleet to increase the flexibility, payload, capacity and efficiency of the AMRs.
Legendary Motorbike Ridden by Peter Fonda in Easy Rider Comes to Auction With 'No Reserve' From the Gordon Granger Collection USA Estimate $300,000 - $500,000
Fri, May 14, 2021 05:27 EDT
DAN KRUSE CLASSICS - SINCE 1972
Safety io's new and improved Grid Fleet Manager streamlines gas detection management
Fri, May 14, 2021 05:05 EDT
Safety io, a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) subsidiary of MSA, The Safety Company, has introduced a series of features to improve its customers' user-experience when it comes to gas detection and management. These include single sign-on (SSO) and a new dashboard design which makes navigating and identifying fleet concerns even easier for safety managers. Single sign-on (SSO) enables secure, easy access to the Grid SSO is an advanced, secure authentication method that enables smoother access to the Safety io Grid platform. Now, all Grid customers can use their company login details to access their Grid account, eliminating the need for different credentials for multiple applications. SSO is available today on the Grid web application, and will soon be integrated into the mobile application experience. All-new dashboard helps safety managers take proactive action All subscribers to Safety io Grid services will now have access to a new and improved dashboard which consolidates key data for its users. The new dashboard design displays information in a format that is easy to understand and analyze, enabling safety teams to make proactive decisions and streamline all aspects of their gas detection program management. Software improvements make accessing information and taking action even easier The Grid platform is already known by its users for being intuitive. But recent software improvements, such as automatic download and report sharing, make it even easier for users to get the information they need and take action. Streamlining gas safety management A raft of new Safety io features and benefits will help further streamline gas safety management: Safety managers can now determine the warranty status of a sensor remotely, without having the device to hand. Grid services now allow devices to be assigned to a specific department, worker and/or location via virtual device labelling. This can help improve worker accountability and identify training opportunities. The notification system now helps customers automate calibration gas refills and other maintenance concerns - something customers appreciate as it simplifies gas detection management. Gustavo Lopez, General Manager for Safety io at MSA Safety said: "To maximize the potential of data collected from their gas detectors, safety managers need cloud-based software that allows them to easily get the information they need, when they need it. Safety io's new and improved Grid service empowers safety managers by providing simplified, actionable insights to improve their gas safety program. This allows them to focus on what really matters - improving safety awareness and outcomes, and working toward an injury-free workforce. IMAGE CAPTION: Safety io's new features, including its Grid Fleet Manager dashboard, provide safety managers with an efficient and user-friendly experience, allowing them to address gas safety issues more effectively.
BVI branch of global governance body rebrands as The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland - BVI Branch
Fri, May 14, 2021 04:12 EDT
The UK & Ireland division of the global governance body, The Chartered Governance Institute, has today announced a new name for its branch in the British Virgin Islands. The branch is now called The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland - BVI Branch. Sara Drake, Chief Executive of The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland explains the reason behind the change: "The renaming marks the completion of a rebranding process begun in 2018, following the decision by the global Institute's membership to change the name of the Institute from The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA) to The Chartered Governance Institute. The global body adopted its new name in 2019 and The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland division has now completed its own rebranding process. "Our brand connects the UK & Ireland division to the global body and its eight sister divisions. It represents who we are and what is unique about the Institute as the world's only chartered qualifying and membership body for governance professionals. The new name for the BVI Branch reinforces its link to the UK & Ireland division, a family of some 14,500 members and students spread across the UK, Republic of Ireland, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies, as well as many other countries including the Caribbean, parts of Africa and the Middle East." The British Virgin Islands branch will expand next month to include members and students from Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Bermuda and Dominica. This will make for a bigger, stronger and more diverse branch, and the ability to offer more CPD, networking and volunteering opportunities to more members. Gareth Thomas, Chair of the Institute's BVI Branch comments: "I truly welcome the expansion of the BVI branch of the Institute to include more countries from this region and look forward to working with my colleagues to continue to support the governance professionals working in the financial services industry. Although the original BVI branch was formally established in 2005, it has provided support, advice and networking opportunities to governance professionals working in BVI Financial Services since the 1990s. I am delighted with the completion of the rebranding process as The Chartered Governance Institute name better encapsulates what our members and students bring to the table in terms of governance expertise. "Our qualified members and those presently going through their exams are experienced governance professionals who help ensure and protect BVI branch's reputation as an excellent place to do business. Good governance is not only best practice but it is expected in all walks of life. The qualifications offered by the Institute are the perfect match for BVI branch financial service professionals as the majority of the service offering that BVI is renowned for globally is corporate services and corporate governance." The current branch committee comprises the following members: - Gareth Thomas FCG, Chair - Dr Derry Hodge FCG, Vice-Chair - Lorna Smith OBE, FCG, Public Relations Officer - Wayne Francis FCG, Treasurer - Adrian Mubangizi ACG, Secretary - Paul Oliver, Student Champion. Photos sent with this release: Sara Drake, Chief Executive of The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland Gareth Thomas, Chair of The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland - BVI Branch. Notes: 1 The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland is the professional body for governance and the qualifying and membership body for governance professionals across all sectors. Its purpose under Royal Charter is to lead 'effective governance and efficient administration of commerce, industry and public affairs' working with regulators and policy makers to champion high standards of governance and providing qualifications, training and guidance. As a lifelong learning partner, the Institute helps governance professionals to achieve their professional goals, providing recognition, community and the voice of its membership. One of nine divisions of the global Chartered Governance Institute, which was established 130 years ago, The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland represents members working and studying in the UK and Ireland and in many other countries and regions including the Caribbean, parts of Africa and the Middle East. Website: www.cgi.org.uk 2 BVI branch: The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland's BVI branch was established in 2005 to promote the work and profession of chartered governance professionals and chartered secretaries and the Institute's activities in BVI. More recently it has also taken on responsibility for the members and students in a number of other Caribbean sister countries and Bermuda. The branch supports members and students in matters relating to qualifications, the profession, corporate governance, business ethics and corporate social responsibility. In achieving its objectives the branch works with the members, students, training providers, employers, local government, regulators, public bodies and other professional bodies. Website: www.cgi.org.uk/british-virgin-islands
Mental Health: First RADical Game Day at Iona Prep
Fri, May 14, 2021 03:59 EDT
Iona Preparatory School will host the first ever RADical Game Day presented by RADical Hope, a foundation committed to improving the lives and futures of young adults by strengthening their connections and resilience. RADical Game Day will introduce students and guests to Bring Change to Mind, a RADical Hope mental wellness program partner that will be coming to Iona Prep in the fall. The four interscholastic athletic games will start at 11:00 AM on the home field in New Rochelle - lacrosse, baseball, volleyball and wrestling. When: Saturday, May 15th, 11:00AM Where: Iona Preparatory, 255 Wilmot Road, New Rochelle, NY 10804 Who: RADical Hope Foundation, Iona varsity lacrosse team, Bring Change to Mind student leaders. We expect around 200 guests, including all 4 games, parents, and faculty. Speech from Larry Bossidy at halftime. Why: RADical Game Day brings students together on and off the field for a goal that affects them all: Staying Well and Staying Resilient. The more we Talk About It the better we feel.
Equine welfare charity welcomes Government's Action Plan, citing opportunity to support real improvements to welfare of all equines.
Fri, May 14, 2021 03:36 EDT
Equine welfare charity welcomes Government's Action Plan, citing opportunity to support real improvements to welfare of all equines. World Horse Welfare welcomes the Government's Action Plan for Animal Welfare published this week and urges Government to use this once in a generation opportunity to bring in changes that truly protect horse welfare. Roly Owers, Chief Executive said: "We commend Government for putting animal welfare firmly on its agenda for the new Parliamentary session. Horses often fall through the welfare legislative cracks between the categories of companion animals and livestock, but now we have an opportunity to make changes in a number of areas concurrently that can support real improvements to the welfare of all equines." World Horse Welfare is delighted that it will now be enshrined in UK law that animals are sentient beings and also welcomes the introduction of new tools allowing fines to be given for animal cruelty, although it stresses that these penalty notices will need to be simple to use to be truly effective. Several significant parts of the Action Plan relate to issues World Horse Welfare has long campaigned around, including a ban on the export of live animals for slaughter, improved welfare at slaughter and the licensing of animal welfare establishments. To be truly effective, however, many of these laws will require linking a horse to an owner, so a fully digitised, frictionless and enforced equine ID system will be essential. For instance, to prevent horses circumventing the ban on export to slaughter by being moved under the guise of other reasons, each needs to be uniquely and easily identifiable and traceable. World Horse Welfare also welcomes the new powers for police to respond to cases of animal worrying, but would like to see it extended to all equines and more widely than just on agricultural land, to help tackle the problem of ridden horses and those at grass being attacked by dogs. ENDS Note to editors For more information please call Su Delve on 01953 497248, 07826 871682 or email sudelve@worldhorsewelfare.org About World Horse Welfare: Visit our website here: www.worldhorsewelfare.org World Horse Welfare (Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384), is an international horse charity that improves the lives of horses in the UK and worldwide through education, campaigning and hands-on care of horses. Since we were founded in 1927, our whole approach has been practical, based on scientific evidence and our extensive experience, and focused on delivering lasting change across the full spectrum of the horse world. In the UK our dedicated network of Field Officers investigate and resolve welfare problems, and we run four Rescue and Rehoming Centres where horses in need can receive specialist care, undergo rehabilitation and find loving new homes through our rehoming scheme - the largest of its kind in the UK. Our international programmes alleviate the suffering of thousands of working horses by providing essential knowledge for horse owning communities in the developing world. We also work tirelessly to change legislation and attitudes to horse welfare through campaigns and education, including our founding campaign to end the suffering endured by the tens of thousands of horses transported long-distance across Europe to slaughter each year. We support the responsible use of horses in sport, and are independent welfare advisers to the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and British Horseracing Authority (BHA). World Horse Welfare relies on voluntary donations. Our supporters are our lifeblood and we always aim to fundraise in a caring and responsible way. Our fundraising activity is governed by the Fundraising Regulator but we also go much further to ensure our supporters feel valued and protected. Find out more at: http://www.worldhorsewelfare.org/our-pledge-to-supporters
Healing River Ranch Saves Burro, Bull from Death
Thu, May 13, 2021 23:41 EDT
Burro shot in head, hit by car, survives; aging Salt River bull survives slaughter, finds sanctuary Milagro , or Miracle, as he now is known, was rescued by volunteers after being struck in the head and shoulder by a vehicle and bleeding profusely from his ears. Animal Guardian Network (AGN) founder Carrie Singer jumped into action and rushed the Lake Pleasant-based burro to a veterinary hospital for a diagnosis. Radiographs revealed Milagro had been shot in the head leaving behind the remainder of a high caliber hollow point bullet that was removed. Still wild and unhandled, the brave burro now is recovering from his twice life-ending trauma as he receives life-long care at AGN's Healing River Ranch. However, the sanctuary, which is home to 100 domestic and farm animals, never stops saving lives. Take Salty, for example. Living in the wild for years, Prime Rib as he was known, lived free and peacefully among the Salt River Wild horses. Captured in a random round up of unclaimed cattle, he was loaded onto a transport headed to auction. A group of determined wild horse advocates posted a fund-raiser to successfully outbid all buyers to save Prime Rib, now known as Salty , in hopes that an experienced and reputable sanctuary would offer him safe refuge. Salty's plight reached Singer. "I knew we could help, so AGN offered Salty a safe version of the only life he's ever known." After almost two weeks in quarantine, Salty reached Healing River Ranch and was released into a 10-acre habitat where he now lives his life alongside wild and domestic horses given the same life-saving refuge. Milagro and Salty are but two heartfelt life stories happening now at Healing River Ranch, among others.
