#ABC North Coast

[afeelgoodblog]

The Best News of Last Week - March 27, 2023

🐢 - Why did the 90-year-old tortoise become a father? Because he finally came out of his shell!

1. New Mexico governor signs bill ending juvenile life sentences without parole

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed a bill into law that prevents juvenile offenders from receiving life sentences without eligibility for parole. The bill, known as the No Life Sentences for Juveniles Act, allows offenders who committed crimes under the age of 18 and received life sentences to be eligible for parole hearings 15 to 25 years into their sentences.

This legislation also applies to juveniles found guilty of first-degree murder, even if they were tried as adults. The move puts New Mexico in a group of at least 24 other states and Washington, DC, that have enacted similar measures following a 2021 Supreme Court ruling.

2. Promising pill completely eliminates cancer in 18 leukaemia patients

An experimental pill called revumenib has shown promise in curing terminal leukemia patients who were not responding to treatment in a long-awaited clinical trial in the United States. The drug works by inhibiting a specific protein called menin, which is involved in the machinery that gets hijacked by leukemia cells and causes normal blood cells to turn into cancerous ones.

The pill targets the most common mutation in acute myeloid leukemia, a gene called NPM1, and a less common fusion called KMT2A. The US Food and Drug Administration granted revumenib "breakthrough therapy designation" to fast-track its development and regulatory review based on the promising results of the trial.

3. Spain passes law against domestic animal abuse

Spain has passed a new law on animal welfare, accompanied by a reform of the penal code that increases prison sentences for those mistreating animals. The law will make compulsory training for dog owners, and will prohibit them from leaving their dogs alone for more than 24 hours.

It also mandates the sterilisation of cats, with exceptions for farms, and increases the penalties for mistreatment of animals to up to two years in prison, or three years in the event of aggravating circumstances.

4. Bravery medals for women who raced into 'rough, crazy' surf to save drowning girls

Elyse Partridge (far left) and Bella Broadley (far right) raced into dangerous surf to save Chloe and Violet from drowning.(ABC North Coast: Hannah Ross)

Bella Broadley and Elyse Partridge saved two 11-year-old girls from drowning at Angels Beach near Ballina, an unpatrolled beach in Australia. The younger girls, Chloe and Violet, became trapped in a rip and overwhelmed by waves and the current. Bella and Elyse jumped into action, using an esky lid as a flotation device to help them swim to the girls. Elyse helped Chloe back to shore while Bella swam further out to help Violet.

Elyse and Bella were on Wednesday named on the Governor General's Australian Bravery Decorations Honours List, which recognised 66 Australians for acts of bravery.

5. Almost every cat featured in viral Tik Tok posted by Kansas City animal shelter adopted

Let's find homes for the rest

6. A 90-year-old tortoise named Mr. Pickles just became a father of 3. It's a big 'dill'

These critically endangered tortoises are native to Madagascar and have seen their numbers decline due to over-collection for illegal sales on the black market. Captive breeding programs have helped produce new radiated tortoises, but the species still faces extinction in the wild.

That's why the arrival of these hatchlings, born to 90-year-old Mr. Pickles and his 53-year-old partner Mrs. Pickles, is such great news. Mr. Pickles is considered the most genetically valuable radiated tortoise in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, and the births represent a significant contribution to the survival of the species.

7. EU strikes ‘ground-breaking’ deal to cut maritime emissions

The European Parliament and EU ministers have agreed on a new law to cut emissions in the maritime sector. The law aims to reduce ship emissions by 2% as of 2025 and 80% as of 2050, covering greenhouse gas, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions.

The European Commission will review the law in 2028 and will decide whether to place carbon-cutting requirements on smaller ships. The agreement will also require containerships and passenger ships docking at major EU ports to plug into the on-shore power supply as of 2030. Penalties collected from those that fail to meet the targets will be allocated to projects focused on decarbonising the maritime sector.

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That's it for this week :)

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[disparition]

Why do you pick parts of California you do for In.A.Walled.City?

How do you come up with concepts like a mile wide highway nation that exists in the legacy of a Amazon delivery driver turned communist general?

There's so much imagination to extrapolate what these places should look like, does it just come from looking around and earnestly thinking about what comes next for the places we live in?

Thanks!

Yes, I spend a lot of time thinking about the future of the places I travel to. I've always been into speculative fiction of various kinds as well as more grounded theorizing about the future shapes of human societies, and when I started touring regularly I began thinking a lot about this in a more physical and direct sense.

I noticed for example that a lot of strip malls and outdoor shopping centers throughout the US - especially on the west coast - have a physical structure that can be easily converted into a small fortified community. Many of them even have decorative watchtowers and borrow the aesthetics of medieval and early modern fortifications, even if these are very superficial. This comes up in several places in the story and is part of the origin of the name, but the first one I thought about (briefly referenced in episodes 5 and 8, and it will come up again much later) was the Tejan outlet mall just north of the grapevine pass, which would be a strategically crucial area for a number of reasons.

One idea for the series came from reading a firsthand account of Napoleon's Russian campaign, written by his aide de camp Philippe Henri de Segur. It was a fascinating and very personal portrait of a huge humanmade disaster. So the first sketch I wrote, which will not appear in the series until episode 17 (Mia Marisol and the Last Governor of California) is a similarly personal account written by an aide to one of the most famous generals of the period. She was a UPS driver by the way, not Amazon. Marisol is not the same kind of figure as Napoleon and her career takes a different turn, but she is a similarly divisive and transformative figure of her time.

Another idea, for the setting, came in the form of trying to reconcile the history and present of Judaism and various Jewish communities, to address our cycle of being both victims and perpetrators of violence and oppression and nationalism. This is the core of episode 2, as well as the final section of episode 6, and is the reason that the story is set in the Hebrew year 6000 (or, the 23rd century according to the Gregorian calendar). It is a theme that will be interwoven throughout the work, and is the other part of the meaning of the name.

The first actual story I wrote in this world was what became episode 8. The first line of the episode, "first it was Borders, then it was Barnes&Noble, then it was nothing", came to me in the middle of the night and I had to get up and start writing, and The Historian was the eventual result. That episode is largely based on my own experiences in the world of publishing (I worked for Barnes&Noble.com managing their online community and customer reviews, then later for a book publishing house that was part of the Disney/ABC conglomerate) as well as my own predictions about future intersections of literature, fandom, and religion. Episode 4, The Marketer, is also part of that particular thread.

Starting in late 2020, due to a number of family crises, I had to drive between LA and SF every week or two. It was during these drives that I came up with the idea of a road as a nation in and of itself and a culture of constant travellers who maintain and regulate that road. The story of that nation is arguably the most "gimmicky" episode since it's about the future of interstate 5, it's episode 5, and musically speaking it's in 5/4. It was also the most fun to work on.

As you might guess, each episode takes a very long time to make. But I am still working on the next one. Thank you very much for listening!

[snowlessknitter]

Just a heads-up that I won’t be covering tonight’s episode of The Masked Singer due to Hurricane Milton. While I’m located a ways north of Orlando, this storm will be bringing at least tropical storm force sustained winds and hurricane force gusts as well as rain and a heightened risk of severe weather such as tornadoes in my area. And the southern parts of Central Florida (places like Kissimmee, Lakeland, and Haines City as well as out towards the Atlantic coast in places like Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach) will be feeling more of the brunt of Milton. All of the local news stations will likely be doing wall-to-wall coverage and preempting primetime programming. My area may be at risk of losing power as well, there’s still a lot unknown. Hopefully things will turn out okay and I can get ready to cover Group B when they begin competing next week.

Anyways, it looks like it will be a double elimination in tonight’s episode, with the act with the lowest number of audience votes being eliminated first, and then the other two competing in a battle royale to determine who advances to the Quarterfinals. So, I’ll just go ahead and make my predictions on who advances, and who I think each masked singer (or singers) is.

I think Woodpecker 🐦 will be eliminated first. Based on past clues and suggestions, as well as the fact that her Black-ish costar Anthony Anderson previously appeared on the show as a bird character (“Rubber Ducky”), I’m going to say that Woodpecker is Marsai Martin.

Which puts Ship ⛵️ and Buffalos 🦬 in the Battle Royale. If it’s just the judges deciding this one again, they’re going to have a very tough decision on their hands, as I think they like both acts a lot. But we haven’t seen a group act win this show yet (although Wilson Phillips came close as the Lambs 🐑), and I think the Buffalos might have the best shot at it in quite a while.

So, who are they?

I think Ship ⛵️ narrowly leaves the competition tonight. She’s got a really good voice, and based on certain clues such as the cowboy hat and boots and the fact that she was her class president in high school, I truly think this is none other than ‘90s pop singer Paula Cole. If you watch her videos on YouTube and TikTok, you can tell she’s taken great care of her voice as she’s gotten older (she’s in her fifties now) and she can still hit some relatively high notes for her age.

And finally…the Buffalos 🦬. I’ve had the vibe that they’re Boyz II Men from the beginning, and the clues of the football player being “On Bended Knee” (which was a number 1 hit for Boyz II Men), as well as the references to Motown (both their record label as well as their debut single “Motownphilly”) are keeping me in that direction. The bottle of poison does refer to Bell Biv DeVoe (“Poison” was their biggest hit), but that is because Michael Bivins of Bell Biv DeVoe was Boyz II Men’s first manager and record producer. Boyz II Men additionally named themselves after a New Edition (the group that Bell Biv DeVoe spun off from) song called “Boys to Men”. And the group’s connection to Nick Lachey? Members of Boyz II Men appeared with 98 Degrees (Nick’s group) as well as members of some other boy bands in an ABC holiday special called A Very Boy Band Holiday in 2021.

I’ll be posting again once the storm has passed and it’s safe for me to do so. Fingers crossed we don’t lose power, but I can’t guarantee it right now.

[abcnewspr]

ABC NEWS ANNOUNCES JACLYN LEE AND MELISSA ADAN AS MULTI-PLATFORM REPORTERS 

Wendy Fisher, ABC News senior vice president of Newsgathering, sent the following note to the news division announcing that Jaclyn Lee and Melissa Adan are joining ABC News as multi-platform reporters.  

Pictured from left: Jaclyn Lee, Melissa Adan 

I am excited to share that two new multi-platform reporters are joining our team this week. Jaclyn Lee begins today in New York, and Melissa Adan starts later this week and will be based in Los Angeles.   

Jaclyn Lee joins us from our very own WPVI-TV in Philadelphia, where she served as an anchor/reporter since 2020. During her tenure, she spent time in the field, reporting on COVID-19, civil unrest, the 2020 presidential election and the unprecedented 2021 winter storm in Houston. Additionally, in response to the increase in anti-Asian American hate crimes nationwide, Jaclyn pitched and carried out an anti-Asian hate crime PSA that aired on OTV stations across the country. 

Prior to WPVI, Jaclyn worked as a general assignment reporter and anchor at WVEC-TV, the ABC affiliate in Norfolk, Virginia. There she sharpened her investigative skills, reporting from the Virginia State Capitol on the blackface scandal and sexual assault allegations facing top state politicians. Jaclyn also spearheaded investigations into crucial shortages in the U.S. Navy, which caused officials to take action. Jaclyn’s work has also taken her around the globe. She reported on protestors against Machu Picchu tourism in Peru, the effort to preserve minority cultures in China, and the large number of sea lions dying in Chile, and she researched the aftermath of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. Before relocating to Virginia, Jaclyn worked in Raleigh, North Carolina. She holds a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. 

Melissa Adan comes to ABC from NBC 7 and Telemundo 20 in San Diego, where she worked as a general assignment news reporter and anchor since 2018. She is bilingual in English and Spanish, and her reporting has taken her worldwide. She recently traveled to Vatican City to cover Pope Francis’ appointment of new cardinals, has reported from Mexico on the immigration crisis at the border in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez, and covered the 2018 migrant caravan in Tijuana. Her reporting in Australia on climate change in the aftermath of destructive wildfires won her a regional Emmy. She received the Al Neuharth Investigative Journalism Award from the National Association of Hispanic Journalists for her report on sex abuse and money mismanagement at migrant youth shelters in San Diego. 

Previously, Melissa was a reporter/multimedia journalist at NBC 6 in South Florida. She covered many breaking news events, such as the mass shooting at the Fort Lauderdale airport, Hurricane Irma and the death of José Fernández, star pitcher for the Marlins. Melissa is a Miami, Florida native and a first-generation Cuban American. She has a master’s degree in criminal justice from Florida International University, a B.S. from Boston University's College of Communication and an A.A. from Miami Dade College, The Honors College. 

Both Melissa and Jaclyn are skilled investigative reporters and great additions to our talented teams on both coasts. 

Please join me in congratulating and welcoming Melissa and Jaclyn. 

Wendy 

[okgooglenews]

U.S. intercepts Russian, Chinese bombers off Alaskan coast - CBS News

* U.S. intercepts Russian, Chinese bombers off Alaskan coast  CBS News * NORAD intercepts Russian and Chinese bombers operating together near Alaska in first such flight  CNN * NORAD says it tracked Chinese and Russian military planes off Alaska  ABC News * US, Canada Jets Intercept China, Russia Planes Near Alaska  Barron's * NORAD detects, tracks and intercepts Russian and PRC aircraft operating in the Alaska ADIZ  North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) http://dlvr.it/TB2S9w

[whyvisitaruba]

Where in the Caribbean is Aruba? Location Guide

https://tinyurl.com/28p8nnmn Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” of the Dutch Caribbean, is a small yet captivating spot. It’s located just off the northern coast of South America. This island nation is a unique mix of Caribbean life and European culture. Key Takeaways Aruba is a Caribbean island nation located just off the northern coast of South America. Aruba is part of the Dutch Caribbean, with a strategic location in the southern Caribbean Sea. The island’s proximity to Venezuela and other Caribbean islands makes it a popular tropical getaway. Aruba’s geography and climate offer a mix of Caribbean and European influences. Aruba’s location is a key factor in its popularity as a tourist destination. Introduction to Aruba’s Location Aruba is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, located south of the Caribbean Sea. It’s near the Paraguaná Peninsula in Venezuela. This spot makes Aruba special, giving visitors a unique island experience. Geographical Position in the Caribbean Aruba is part of the ABC islands, along with Bonaire and Curaçao. It’s about 15 miles off the Venezuelan coast. This makes it the closest Caribbean island to South America. Being outside the hurricane belt, Aruba is a perfect spot for travelers. They come for the sun, sand, and peace all year round. Proximity to Other Islands and Mainland Aruba is 1,700 miles south of Miami, Florida. This makes it easy to get to from big airports in North America and Europe. It’s close to South America and other Caribbean islands too. This location gives Aruba a special mix of Dutch and Caribbean culture. It offers a unique island experience you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean. Destination Distance from Aruba Venezuela 15 miles (24 km) Miami, Florida 1,700 miles (2,700 km) Bonaire 50 miles (80 km) Curaçao 80 miles (130 km) “Aruba’s close proximity to the South American mainland and its position outside the Caribbean hurricane belt make it a unique and desirable destination.” The “One Happy Island” of the Dutch Caribbean Aruba is a beautiful island known as the “One Happy Island.” It has a special political status in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In 1986, it became an autonomous country within the Kingdom, after being part of the Netherlands Antilles. Part of the Netherlands Antilles Before becoming autonomous, Aruba was part of the Netherlands Antilles. This group included Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Sint Maarten, and Saba. It was a part of the aruba netherlands antilles region. In 1986, Aruba chose to leave the Netherlands Antilles to become an aruba autonomous country. This move was made for more self-rule and independence. The aruba dutch caribbean island became its own country on January 1, 1986. The Netherlands Antilles was dissolved in 2010. Now, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten are the three countries in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This setup lets Aruba be its own country but still be part of the Kingdom. It keeps its aruba political status. “Aruba is a unique destination within the aruba netherlands antilles region, offering visitors a blend of Dutch-influenced culture, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant island lifestyle.” Being an autonomous country has helped Aruba become a top tourist spot. It’s known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and rich culture. Visitors can enjoy the island life and see the natural beauty of Aruba. Where in the Caribbean is Aruba? Aruba is a beautiful island in the southern Caribbean Sea. It’s just outside the hurricane belt, making it a safe spot all year. It’s about 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, part of the Leeward Antilles islands. Geographically, Aruba is positioned about 1,700 miles (2,700 km) south of Miami, Florida, and 50 miles (80 km) north of the Venezuelan mainland. This spot lets Aruba mix Caribbean and South American vibes in its culture and scenery. Looking at where is aruba located in caribbean on a map shows it’s on the southern edge of the Caribbean Sea. It’s outside the hurricane path. This makes Aruba a top pick for those wanting sun, sand, and peace. Aruba’s aruba geography is flat and dry, unlike many other Caribbean islands. Its unique landscape and aruba location map make it stand out in the Caribbean. “Aruba is a small island, but it’s packed with natural beauty, cultural richness, and an unparalleled sense of relaxation.” Aruba’s Climate and Natural Wonders Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, has a great climate and diverse nature. It draws visitors from all over with its warm, sunny, and dry weather. This makes it a top spot for escaping daily life. The aruba climate has temperatures from the mid-80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit all year. It gets very little rain, with about 16 inches annually. So, you can expect lots of sunny days and clear blue waters. The aruba landscape is full of different natural sights. You’ll see desert-like areas and beautiful white sand beaches. The island is also home to unique plants and animals like the divi-divi tree and the Aruban burrowing owl. “Aruba’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking. The combination of the island’s arid landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters is simply unparalleled.” – John Smith, travel writer One of the top sights in aruba natural attractions is its unique rock formations and cacti. You can visit Arikok National Park to see the island’s varied ecosystems and geological wonders. Looking for a beach vacation or an adventure? Aruba’s great aruba weather and beautiful landscapes make it a memorable trip for everyone. Getting to Aruba: Air and Cruise Travel Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, is easy to get to for travelers worldwide. It’s in a great spot with good transport links, making it simple to visit. You can choose to fly or take a cruise to get there, depending on what you like. Major Airports and Flight Routes Queen Beatrix International Airport is Aruba’s main airport, near Oranjestad. It has many flights from big cities in the US, Canada, and Europe. You can fly from places like Miami, Atlanta, New York, and Amsterdam with different airlines. Getting to Aruba is easy because of its location in the southern Caribbean. You can take direct or connecting flights, depending on where you’re coming from and what you prefer. Cruise Ship Ports and Itineraries Aruba is also a key stop for cruise ships. The main cruise terminal is in Oranjestad, making it easy for ships to dock. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line often stop here on their Caribbean trips. Visitors love Aruba for its beautiful beaches, lively culture, and many things to see. When in port, you can really experience what makes Aruba special. Airport Airlines Destinations Queen Beatrix International Airport American Airlines, JetBlue, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, KLM Miami, New York, Atlanta, Houston, Toronto, Amsterdam Cruise Ship Ports Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line Southern Caribbean Itineraries “Aruba is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a seamless and unforgettable Caribbean experience. With its well-connected airports and cruise ports, reaching this stunning island has never been easier.” Exploring Aruba’s Beaches and Landscapes Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, is famous for its beautiful beaches and varied landscapes. The island boasts iconic spots like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, drawing visitors with their untouched coastlines and blue waters. Beyond the shores, Aruba’s desert-like terrain is full of natural marvels waiting to be discovered. Top Beaches and Coastal Areas Aruba’s beaches are a true wonder. Palm Beach is a favorite for those who love sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, thanks to its soft sand and palm trees. Eagle Beach, often named one of the world’s top beaches, offers vast sandy stretches and calm waves. Malmok Beach, on the northwest coast, is a go-to for snorkelers and divers, with its rich underwater life. Aruba’s Arikok National Park is another gem, showing off the island’s unique geology and varied landscapes. Here, visitors can wander through desert-like terrain, see rare cacti and wildlife, and be amazed by the park’s natural beauty. “Aruba’s beaches are truly a destination unlike any other, with their pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes.” – Lonely Planet Looking for relaxation, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature? Aruba’s beaches and landscapes have it all. From the famous Palm Beach to hidden coastal spots, the island’s aruba beaches, aruba coastal areas, aruba landscape, and aruba nature will leave a lasting impression. Discovering Aruba’s Culture and History Aruba’s culture is a mix of Dutch, Spanish, and Arawak influences. This shows its history as a Dutch Caribbean island. The capital, Oranjestad, has Dutch-style buildings. The food, music, and festivals show the island’s rich heritage. Before Europeans came in the 16th century, the Arawak people lived in Aruba. They left a lasting cultural impact. The Spanish and then the Dutch colonized the island, making it part of the Netherlands Antilles. Now, Aruba celebrates its Dutch-Caribbean identity with cultural events, museums, and landmarks. Arawak Heritage and Dutch Influence The Arawak people, Aruba’s first inhabitants, greatly influenced the island’s culture. Their art, like pottery and basket weaving, is still seen today. The Arawak language also added words and phrases to the local dialect. The Dutch influence is clear in Aruba’s architecture, food, and celebrations. Oranjestad’s buildings show Dutch style with their bright colors and narrow streets. Dutch dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and funchi (cornmeal fritters) are popular. Aruba’s festivals and events show its diverse culture. The Carnival mixes Dutch, Spanish, and Arawak traditions. There are parades, music, and colorful costumes. Museums like the Aruba Archaeological Museum and the Aruba Historical Museum offer insights into Aruba’s history and its heritage. “Aruba’s cultural tapestry is a testament to its resilience and the blending of diverse traditions, creating a truly unique and captivating island experience.” Outdoor Adventures and Activities in Aruba Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It has clear waters, gentle winds, and varied landscapes. This makes it perfect for many exciting activities. Water Sports and Land Excursions Activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are popular in Aruba. They let visitors see the colorful marine life and underwater sights. If you prefer staying on land, there are hiking trails, ATV tours, and horseback riding for an adrenaline rush. Aruba also offers birdwatching, off-road adventures, and exploring its natural beauty. Don’t miss the Casibari Rock Formations and Arikok National Park. They are stunning examples of Aruba’s unique landscapes. FAQ Where is Aruba located in the Caribbean? Aruba is in the southern Caribbean Sea, 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It’s part of the Leeward Antilles, along with Curaçao and Bonaire. What is Aruba’s political status? Aruba is its own country but is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It shares this status with the Netherlands, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. Before, it was part of the Netherlands Antilles. What is Aruba’s climate and landscape like? Aruba has a warm, sunny, and dry climate all year. Temperatures range from the mid-80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. The island has a varied landscape with desert-like areas, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. How can travelers get to Aruba? Getting to Aruba is easy with flights from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The main airport is Queen Beatrix International Airport near Oranjestad. Cruise ships also stop here, with the main terminal in Oranjestad. What are some of the top attractions and activities in Aruba? Aruba is famous for its beautiful beaches like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. It also has the Arikok National Park. You can enjoy water sports, land tours, birdwatching, and exploring natural spots. What is the cultural and historical background of Aruba? Aruba’s culture mixes Dutch, Spanish, and Arawak influences. Oranjestad shows off Dutch-style buildings. The island’s food, music, and festivals reflect its rich heritage.

[cruiseworld]

Introducting San Juan

In 1508 the Spanish expedition leader Juan Ponce de Leon established Caparra, a small settlement close to a protected bay on the north coast of the island of Puerto Rico. In 1521 the town was vacated and resited to the present location of Old San Juan. In the 16th century, San Juan was the origin for Spanish exploratory trips to little known parts of the Caribbean.

Nowadays the old section of San Juan has an authentic Old World feel with over 300 restored Spanish 17th century town houses. The area also contains many shops, restaurants, bars, and casinos for cruise passengers to sample.

Touring San Juan

Characterful Old San Juan sits on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean northwards, and the port southwards. This walled and fortified area, now a major historical landmark, was established in 1510. Old San Juan is compactly sized, easy to get around on foot. If your energy runs out take the free bus that runs around the main attractions. Take time to stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the brightly colored houses, craft shops, and go to the interesting museums.

El Morro Fort

El Morro, a huge fort dating from 1539, defends San Juan from sea pirates. Its full name is Castillo San Felipe del Morro, after the patron saint of King Philip of Spain. You'll find six sets of gun platforms and huge walls that loom over San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

La Fortaleza

Don't miss La Fortaleza, San Juan's oldest fort, founded in 1540. Later it was to become the official residence of the governor. Informative tours take you through the sumptuous building, with gilded banqueting hall, tall galleries, and rooms furnished in period fashion.

Cathedral de San Juan

This impressive cathedral dates back to 1592, on the site of the previous cathedral which was destroyed by a storm. Situated on Calle Cristo, this structure with a unique gothic pavonine facade contains the crypt of Ponce de Leon, a Spanish seaman, and the first ever governor of Puerto Rico.

Shopping

Most of the shopping in Old San Juan is to be found in the many shops along Cristo, Fortaleza and San Francisco streets. As an alternative go to the two markets where you'll find a big choice of jewelry, fashions, art and souvenirs. One is located at the Plaza de la Darsena, in front of pier 1, the other on the Paseo de la Princesa, just along from pier 1.

Bacardi Rum Distillery

Rum drinkers may prefer its nickname the Cathedral of Rum. There's a free guided tour and enjoyable trolley ride. After the boring talk about the distillery's early years enjoy a drink or two.

El Yunque

The only tropical rain forest in the US National Forest system. Very beautiful with a totally sylvan atmosphere. Situated about 45 minutes from San Juan.

Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve

A fascinating ecological reserve with 7 different tropical habitats. Be warned though, visitor numbers are limited, so a reservation is essential.

Cruise Ideas

Enthusiastic cruise vacationers pick San Juan as an alternative to a Florida port. Thanks to its central Caribbean location, the island provides quick access to wonderful Southern Caribbean ports, like the Netherland Antilles and the Windward Isles. A short flight is a better alternative to the long cruise to these areas from mainland US. The range of cruises on offer from San Juan is wide, including the Leeward Isles (USVI, St Maarten, St Kitts, Guadeloupe), the Windward Isles (Dominica, St Lucia, Barbados, St Vincent, Grenada,Tobago), and the Leeward Antilles off the north coast of Venezuela (the ABC islands ie Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao). See San Juan cruises for detailed cruise departure information. Several major cruiselines offer cruises from San Juan, such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, PO Cruises, Princess Cruises, Silversea and Celebrity Cruises.

Cruise Ship Terminals

There are three major pier areas in San Juan port. Old San Juan piers 1 through 6, the Pan American pier, and Navy Frontier pier. Most times cruise ships visiting San Juan berth at the Old San Juan Piers, so passengers can walk into Old San Juan. Cruise ships leaving from San Juan will berth at Old San Juan pier 4, or the Pan American Pier, 15 minutes by cab from Old San Juan.

Getting to the Port

From the Airport

San Juan airport is located about nine miles from the Pan American pier and 12 miles from the Old San Juan piers. It usually takes about three quarters of an hour in a cab for the journey. The cost is around twenty dollars. Additional charges apply for luggage, some drivers charging by item.

Resources

San Juan Port https://www.prpa.pr.gov/

[t-jfh]

Aurora australis

Aurora australis as seen in north-west Tasmania in the early hours of the morning.

(Photo: Facebook - Ryan Shan)

Squeaking Point in Tasmania played host to deep blue and violet skies.

(Photo supplied: Tony Liu)

The aurora australis is captured at Port Arthur in south-east Tasmania.

(Photo:supplied: Jules Witek Photography)

The aurora australis at Howden, in southern Tasmania.

(Photo supplied: Ian Stuart)

The aurora australis as seen in Horsham, Victoria.

(Photo: Facebook - Lynton Brown Landscapes)

The aurora australis turned the sky red over Walkaway in Western Australia.

(Photo: Facebook - Katie Ann Thoars)

Aurora borealis

The aurora borealis glowed on the horizon at St Mary's Lighthouse in Whitley Bay on the north-east coast of England.

(Photo: PA / Owen Humphreys via AP)

Aurora borealis shines in the night sky over East Brandenburg, Germany on Saturday.

(Photo: DPA / Patrick Pleul via AP)

Aurora borealis appears above Lausanne, Switzerland, as seen from the Tour de Gourze lookout.

(Photo: Reuters / Denis Balibouse)

Northern lights in the skies over Loire-Atlantique, as seen here in Riaille, France.

(Photo: Estelle Ruiz/Hans Lucas via AFP)

Aurora borealis and australis dazzle viewers across the world for three consecutive nights, as massive solar geomagnetic storm hits Earth

Striking hues of green, pink, red and yellow have transformed the world's skies over the past three days.

The phenomenon, known as aurora australis in the southern hemisphere, and borealis in the northern hemisphere, was triggered by the first extreme geomagnetic storm in 20 years.

From Friday to Sunday, the world got to witness the most spectacular show of northern and southern lights many have ever seen.

By Tessa Flemming, Georgie Hewson and Basel Hindeleh

ABC News - 13 May 2024

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Why April's total solar eclipse will be a historic event in the US - ABC News

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Guinness World Records declares world's heaviest blueberry grown at Costa Berries on NSW Mid North Coast - ABC News

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Cyclone Jasper to bring strong winds north of Gladstone from today as it tracks towards Queensland - ABC News

[onenettvchannel]

FLASH REPORT: Floridan bettor sold Mega Billions jackpot prize to nearly U$D1.6B [#DisneyXDNewsEXCLUSIVE]

(Written by Hailey Alohilani Banks / University of Central Florida Colleges' Mass Communication News Intern for Disney XD News)

(Screengrab Courtesy: IAmJohnCrow / X Network PHOTO)

ORLANDO, FLORIDA -- The American lottery host named John Crow announced a record breaking, billionaire jackpot prize of Mega Billions, which temporarily dubbed as Mega Millions ballooning to U$D1.58B (PHP88.9B) last Tuesday night (August 8th, 2023 -- Atlanta local time).

Per exclusive results overnight on USA Mega, only one person got all 6 numbers right without a Mega-plier (shorten as the Mega Multiplier). The same state of Florida, including North Carolina got 5 numbers with the aforesaid Mega-plier but no match for the Mega Ball, and to be paid out worth U$D1M (PHP56.261M).

(Hailey is watching Mega Millions / via Disney Television Animation)

The numbers are: 13, 19, 20, 32, 33 - followed by the Mega Ball is 14, and the Mega-plier ends to 2x. Billionaire jackpot prize of Mega Millions is so deadly rare because of the odds beaten -- in a ratio of 1 in 302.6 million.

(Contributed File Photo Courtesy: Google Maps)

Disney XD's parent company of ABC News and Mass Communication News Intern in Orlando named Hailey Banks was found out that the winning billionaire ticket was reportedly sold in Publix Food & Pharmacy store at 630 Atlantic Boulevard, Neptune Beach, Florida, United States of America (U.S.A.) with a selling bonus of the store worth U$D100k (PHP5.641M).

(Contributed File Photo Courtesy: Google Maps)

While a millionaire bettor however, in a same state without a Mega Ball and including the Mega-plier strikes a little rich at a small store of Kwik Stop (also has a selling bonus of U$D1k or PHP56,410), which located at 830 Columbus Parkway, Hollywood, the said state (but not for California in a different city name). Both of these locations are near Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale.

The winning bettor can choose to have the said billionaire amount to be fully paid in 30 annual installments within the next 3 decades by 2053 or take a one-time lump-sum of U$D783.3M (PHP44.1B), which is subject to federal taxes in America.

Disney XD News was learned that it was a largest billionaire jackpot in history since late-March 2018, 2 years before the Coronavirus Disease-19 (CoViD-19) pandemic in the United States of America (U.S.A.). The American Lottery ranked to #3 spot, ahead of Edwin Castro's win at the Joe's Service Service in Altadena, California for Powerball at #1 in November 2022.

(Screengrab Courtesy: WFLA-TV's NBC News Channel 8 via 1st Coast News / Facebook LIVE Video)

First Coast News reporter named Tristan Hardy urgently advised to a Floridan lottery billionaire: "If you're the winner, take this into consideration. You don't have to claim it now, unless you have 6 months to make it happen. And if you don't have to quit your daytime job as well, don't quit it until you get the money if you know what I mean", Hardy said.

Both bettors in Florida have not yet come forward until their own decision was made back-to-back. The upcoming press conference is potentially on its way sooner before the name has yet to be called out, with the exception of the anonymous bettor role.

It is legal to remain anonymous in several states including Florida within few to several months after lottery drawings were shown on national TV. Mega Millions resets to U$D20M (PHP1.125B) on Friday night (August 11th, 2023 at 11pm).

Mega Millions is played in 45 states including Washington, District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands excluding Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah. Here in the Philippines and around the world, players can purchase their lottery tickets exclusively through TheLotter website, with the exclusive partnership and official media broadcaster of DZKB-TV 9's CNN Philippines: Manila.

Miko Kubota and Rhayniel Saldasal Calimpong have independently contributed this news report.

SCREENGRAB COURTESY: USA Mega & Google Images

SOURCE: *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7fjBLSKjYc [Reference YT Video via MegaMillions46] *https://x.com/iamjohncrow/status/1689112992728690689 [Referenced X Network Captioned Video via John Crow] *https://x.com/floridalottery/status/1689033762703626240 [Referenced X Network Captioned Photo via the Florida Lottery] *https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/nation/2023/08/09/florida-lottery-player-wins-mega-millions-1-58-billion-jackpot/70556242007/ [Referenced News Article via North Jersey News] *https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/state/mega-millions-ticket-worth-1-58-billion-sold-in-florida-for-tuesday-august-9-2023-drawing [Referenced News Article via WFTS-TV 28’s ABC Action News: Tampa] *https://www.wsbtv.com/news/trending/mega-millions-here-are-numbers-tuesdays-drawing-158-billion/QGUUP4E725FUBLVFU2QDUGNPYU/ [Referenced News Article via WSB-TV’s ABC 2: Atlanta] *https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2023/08/09/record-158-billion-mega-millions-ticket-sold-at-neptune-beach-publix/ [Referenced News Article via WJXT-TV's News4Jax] *https://www.facebook.com/100064670474557/videos/826675408904499 [Referenced News Video Item via WFLA-TV's NBC News Channel 8, per relay of WJXX-TV 25's ABC 1st Coast News] and *https://www.local10.com/news/national/2023/08/08/155-billion-mega-millions-jackpot-is-3rd-largest-in-the-us/ [Referenced News Article via WPLG-TV’s ABC 10: Miami]

-- OneNETnews Team

*2nd UPDATE (August 9th, 2023 at 10:25pm -- Orlando local time): It seems that the press conference on both winners in Florida (excluding North Carolina) have not yet come forward as we furtherly confirmed exclusively to Disney XD News. Lottery winners in the said state needs more time to find an expert on how they can spend or invest that billionaire amount from Mega Billions.

[andronetalks]

Over 300 severe storm reports across US as dangerous weather continues

ABC News ByMax Golembo, Melissa Griffin, and Morgan WinsorJune 27, 2023, 8:28 AM There were more than 300 severe storm reports in the United States on Monday, mostly along the East Coast from New Hampshire to South Carolina, as threatening weather and dangerous heat plagues the nation. Gusty winds of 60 to 66 miles per hour were reported from New York to North Carolina, with golf ball-sized hail…

[bocsau]

NDIS Programs and Services | bocs.net.au

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a new way of funding and delivering support services for people with permanent and significant disability.

If you’re looking to access NDIS funding, our team can help you understand the system and get on track. Request a free NDIS overview today to see how we can support you.

EPIC Assist

EPIC Assist is a program run by ndis redcliffe that aims to help children build Emotional, Physical, Intellectual and Creative resilience. The program promotes a holistic growth strategy that combines emotional and physical strength, consistent innovation, creative confidence and authentic human connection. It is designed to help kids thrive in a changing world and prepare them for life after school.

Epics are a great way to organize your work and keep track of the progress you’re making on larger projects. They also allow teams to get on the same page and understand the high-level goals of the project. However, they can also lead to confusion and misunderstandings if not used correctly. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s important to understand what epics are and how to use them correctly.

The Breakfast Club

Every school year, the beginning of a new term can be a stressful time. If you’re looking for some back to school inspiration, you can’t go wrong with one of the greatest teen films of all time – The Breakfast Club.

Directed by John Hughes, the 1985 teen comedy-drama stars Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald and Ally Sheedy as five teenagers from different high school cliques who spend an entire Saturday in detention with their authoritarian vice principal. Through the dreary day, each character is forced to reveal their true selves and come to realize that they have more in common with one another than they thought possible. Eminently quotable, The Breakfast Club is one of the most iconic films of the '80s and never fails to make me laugh.

CREST

CREST is a program run by ndis redcliffe that is designed to inspire and engage 5-19 year olds in the science and technology fields. It’s a mix of hands-on learning and leadership skills training, all of which is designed to give students a leg up when it comes to applying for university, getting jobs or simply being the best version of themselves.

The program consists of a variety of science, engineering and maths (STEM) learning activities and projects that are available to all ndis members. A hefty chunk of it is focused on the north coast area, while the rest is divvied up between the southern half of the county and the rest of NSW. There are also a few resources on offer that can be accessed from anywhere in the country.

Headspace

Headspace is a mental health app that helps you meditate and manage stress. It offers short meditations for busy days, long sessions to deepen your practice and tools for sleep.

It was founded by Andy Puddicombe and Richard Pierson in 2010. They both have backgrounds in meditation and marketing, and are based in Santa Monica and London.

In November 2012, Headspace founder Andy Puddicombe gave a TED Talk about the benefits of mindfulness. He described how taking 10 conscious minutes a day can help you live every moment more fully and calmly.

The company has been featured on UK and US television, including ABC News, BBC Breakfast News, and the Today show. It was also featured in the BBC documentary Horizon, which tested the effectiveness of mindfulness over an eight-week period.

Healthy North Coast

Healthy North Coast is a program run by registered ndis service providers redcliffe that aims to promote a healthier lifestyle and prevent chronic disease. It focuses on diet, nutrition and physical activity, with a particular emphasis on seafood. The program is also designed to help people develop more social and practical skills, while improving their general wellbeing. NDIS participants can access this service at Chermside and Burswood campuses, as well as Brightwater Redcliffe. It accepts Medicare rebates and HICAPS health fund claims.

[myteslaaccessoriescomau]

Standing ovation for Sam Stevenson

Samstevensonmusic

Bio

Sam is a performer from the Far South Shore of NSW. He plays a combination of contemporary blues, rock, and nation soul.

Sam burst onto the music scene after an exhibition on ABC's "The Recording Studio" TV program by which he recorded "A little assistance from my companions" with a portion of Australia's best performers in ABC's Sydney studios. This went live in mid-2019 and a video cut via online entertainment stages became a web sensation . Sam sent off his music vocation off the rear of this achievement.

Leap to 2022 and Sam was explored to perform on Australia has Ability and gotten a deeply heartfelt applause for his presentation of the Virus Etch exemplary 'When the Conflict is Finished'. He got 4 yes votes from the appointed authorities and this has relaunched him into his ongoing work of dropping another collection, 'From the Cinders' initial December 2022.

Sam was engaged with a show with ABC called "The Recording Studio" by which he recorded Joe Cocker's variant of "A little assistance from my companions" with a portion of Australia's best performers in ABC's Sydney studios. The Recording Studio won an ARIA Grant in 2019 for the soundtrack to this program. This was an incredible encounter and Sam utilized this valuable chance to transform his music into a vocation.

Sam followed this presentation by playing out a similar Joe Cocker exemplary inhabit a NRL match for Fox and Channel 9 at a bushfire recuperation benefit game in the Bega Valley. That evening Sam upheld Amy Shark and Brad Cox.

Coronavirus then influenced his vocation as it did with such countless demonstrations. Sam moved his concentration onto delivering and composing his own collection which was delivered in Dec 2022. This presentation collection named "From the Remains" will be the focal point of a local NSW visit in February and Walk 2023.

Sam was explored as a represent Australia Has Ability and was a piece of the show in 2022. He got a wildly energetic applause and 4 yesses from the adjudicators with his version of 'When the Conflict is Over' by Cool Etch.

Sam has been playing music expertly for north of 20 years. Sam was the house performer at the Canberra Press Club during 2004-2006. Sam was the house band for the blues club and upheld acts including Dutch Tilders, Geoff Achison, and numerous others.

Sam is a free, live performer who will astound crowds with his unique vocal capacity and circling specialty of both vocal and guitar cross tunes. He plays both acoustic and electric guitar and meshes stories into his music and takes crowds on an excursion with him in each tune. A remarkable entertainer who should be believed to be accepted.

Sam plays a mix of soul and blues that has suggestions of his childhood in the nation and being raised around the jazz scene. This is consolidated into a free strong that must be called Sam Stevenson.

Sam Stevenson

Local NSW Visit Feb 2023

My provincial NSW visit following from Canberra toward the South Coast to Batemans Straight and Pambula, climbing the coast to Tomakin and completing in Sussex Bay. Playing at astounding scenes, I will exhibit my presentation collection and offer my music with a bigger crowd across the provincial areas of south eastern NSW.

Visit for more information: - https://www.samstevensonmusic.com/