#Southwestern Insurance

[southwesterninsurance]

As a commercial truck driver, understanding how your cargo affects your insurance premiums is crucial for managing operating costs. At Southwestern Insurance, we regularly work with both experienced operators and CDL Insurance for New Drivers, helping them navigate the complex world of commercial vehicle coverage

[allthecanadianpolitics]

A database containing information on 5.6 million patient visits to Bluewater Health and the social insurance numbers of as many as 1,446 Chatham-Kent Health Alliance employees are among the data taken in the ransomware attack on five southwestern Ontario hospitals, officials said in a lengthy update Monday.  The update — including specific information about what was stolen from each hospital — comes after some data was published by the hackers online.   "All hospitals have some degree of patient and employee information affected," the hospitals said in a joint afternoon statement. "All of our hospitals are diligently investigating the stolen data to determine who is impacted." The cyberattack on Oct. 23 has led to a system outage involving patient records, email and more at Windsor Regional Hospital, Erie Shores HealthCare, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, Bluewater Health and Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. It has also delayed appointments for patients. Neither the hospitals nor TransForm — the hospitals' IT and payroll administration organization, which is at the centre of the attack — have paid ransom demanded by attackers. 

Continue Reading.

Tagging @politicsofcanada

[yourreddancer]

The 10 states where abortion rights will be on the ballot this fall

After months of gathering signatures, filing petitions and navigating lawsuits, constitutional amendments that would protect or expand abortion rights are officially set to appear on the general election ballot in 10 states.

Voters in the swing states (Arizona and Nevada), blue-leaning states (Colorado, Maryland and New York) and red-leaning states (Florida, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska and South Dakota) will have the ability to directly decide the future of abortion access this fall. Among the organizers who submitted signatures to qualify an abortion rights amendment for this year's ballot, only those in Arkansas fell short.

These 10 initiatives will be the latest to pursue enshrining abortion access in a state's constitution since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

Here is what the proposed amendments would do if passed — and how they would impact current abortion care laws in those states.

Arizona

The proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot in this crucial southwestern battleground would create a “fundamental right” to an abortion up until fetal viability, or about the 24th week of pregnancy. After that point, the measure would bar the state from restricting abortion in situations when the health or the life of the pregnant person is at risk, according to the treating health care professional.

Under current Arizona law, abortion is legal up until the 15th week of pregnancy, with an exception after that to save the woman’s life and no exceptions after that for rape or incest. If voters approve the proposed ballot measure in November, it would effectively undo the 15-week ban. It needs a simple majority of support to pass.

Colorado

The proposed amendment in Colorado would declare formally that “the right to abortion is hereby recognized” and that “government shall not deny, impede or discriminate against the exercise of that right.”

It also explicitly states that the government may not prohibit health insurance coverage for abortion, including insurance plans for public employees and publicly funded insurance plans. That provision would effectively undo a 1984 law that barred people from using their health insurance to pay for abortion care.

The ballot measure in Colorado — where there are no laws restricting abortion and no gestational limits at all for women seeking an abortion — is intended to formally enshrine those rights, a move organizers say is crucial to prevent lawmakers from having any future opportunity to undo them.

To pass in November, the measure requires the support of 55% of voters under state law, not just a simple majority.

Florida

The state's ballot initiative would bar restrictions on abortion before fetal viability and would include exceptions past that point for “the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider.”

Passage of the amendment would effectively undo the state’s six-week ban on abortion, which includes exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the woman.

Under Florida law, the measure must receive the support of 60% of voters in November, rather than a simple majority, to pass.

Maryland

Lawmakers, who control the amendment process in Maryland rather than citizens, voted to place a measure on the ballot that would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution.

It would add language to guaranteeing the right to “to make and effectuate decisions to prevent, continue, or end one’s own pregnancy.”

Abortion is already legal in the state through fetal viability, with exceptions afterward when the woman’s life or health is at risk, or when a fetal anomaly is detected. A simple majority is needed for passage.

Missouri 

Missouri's amendment would enshrine language in the state constitution to protect abortion rights up until fetal viability, with exceptions after that point for the life and health of the mother.

The amendment specifically states that the government “shall not deny or infringe upon a person’s fundamental right to reproductive freedom,” which the amendment defines as all decisions related to reproductive health care, explicitly including “birth control,” “abortion care” and “miscarriage care” — up until fetal viability. The proposal also deems any “denial, interference, delay or restriction” of such care as “invalid.”

After that point, the government may regulate abortion except in cases where a treating health care professional has judged the “life or physical or mental health” of the mother to be at risk.

At the same time, the amendment would allow lawmakers and state officials to restrict or limit abortion rights in situations in which doing so “is for the limited purpose and has the limited effect of improving or maintaining the health of a person seeking care, is consistent with widely accepted clinical standards of practice and evidence-based medicine, and does not infringe on that person’s autonomous decision-making.”

Missouri currently has one of the strictest abortion bans in the U.S. in place, with exceptions to protect the life of the mother and for medical emergencies. If the amendment were to pass, it would effectively undo that law. A simple majority is needed for passage.

Montana

The ballot measure in Montana would amend the state constitution to provide a right to “make and carry out decisions about one’s own pregnancy, including the right to abortion.” It would also “prohibit the government from denying or burdening the right to abortion before fetal viability,” and  “prohibit the government from denying or burdening access to an abortion when a treating healthcare professional determines it is medically indicated to protect the pregnant patient’s life or health.”

Abortion is currently legal in Montana until fetal viability, so enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution would serve to make it more difficult for lawmakers to undo current protections in the future. A simple majority is needed for passage.

Nebraska

In Nebraska, two dueling constitutional amendments will appear on the November ballot.

One of the ballot measures, known as “Protect the Right to Abortion,” would amend the state’s constitution to state that “all persons shall have a fundamental right to abortion until fetal viability, or when needed to protect the life or health of the pregnant patient.”

The other, called “Protect Women and Children,” bars abortions in the second and third trimesters, except in the case of a medical emergency or when the pregnancy is a result of sexual assault or incest.

Nebraska law currently bans abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions for rape, incest and saving the mother’s life. The pro-abortion rights measure would effectively undo that law, while the other would basically codify the law in the state constitution.

For a ballot measure to pass in Nebraska, it needs to receive a majority of the vote and at least 35% of the total votes cast in the election in favor of it. If both amendments pass, the one with the most votes prevails.

Nevada

In Nevada, abortion is already legal until the 24th week of pregnancy. But fearing that such rights could be undone in the future, reproductive rights advocates succeeded in placing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot that would enshrine similar language, protecting abortion rights up until fetal viability.

Under state law, even if the measure passes in November, voters would need to approve it again in 2026 before the Nevada constitution is formally amended.

New York

As in Maryland, lawmakers, not citizens, control the amendment process in New York. State legislators voted to put a measure on the ballot that would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution.

The Equal Protection of Law Amendment doesn’t actually explicitly mention abortion, but would enshrine rights in the state constitution designed to protect against anything the government does to affect a person’s “pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare and autonomy.”

In New York, abortion is legal up to around the 24th week of pregnancy. Passage of the proposal — which requires a simple majority — would effectively cement those projections constitutionally.

South Dakota

The proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot in South Dakota would make abortion legal in all situations in the first trimester of pregnancy. It would allow “regulation” by the state of abortion in the second trimester of pregnancy, but such regulation “must be reasonably related to the physical health of the pregnant woman.”

The amendment would allow “regulation or prohibition” by the state in the third trimester, except in cases when a physician has determined that the care would be necessary to “preserve the life or health” of the woman.

If it passes, the amendment would effectively undo the state’s near-total ban on abortion, which snapped back into effect after Roe v. Wade was struck down in 2022. The law, which abortion advocates say is among the harshest in the U.S., prohibits all abortions except when necessary to save the woman’s life.

The ballot measure will need to win a simple majority to pass.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

[beardedmrbean]

There are over 3,600 students enrolled at the University of Helsinki who have not completed any coursework in the past year, according to the educational institute's data.

This number of 'ghost students' has nearly doubled in three years, rising from just under 2,000 in 2021.

However, this figure includes students with multiple study rights, numbering in the dozens, as well as those who enrolled in courses before 2005, who have perpetual study rights.

There are a total of over 30,000 students at the University of Helsinki.

A similar situation has been noted at Tampere University, where about 2,500 enrolled students earned zero credits in the 2023–2024 academic year, marking a slight rise in the number of 'inactive' students.

According to Anu Haapala, Director of Development at the University of Helsinki, the students' situations are diverse and many factors contribute to this situation.

Financial challenges may drive students to work instead of studying, family situations can change, and health-related reasons could disrupt studies. Sometimes, students may need time to consider if their chosen field is right for them.

"As a university, we aim to enable smooth progression of studies. However, it is ultimately up to the student to decide how and when they will complete their studies," Haapala said.

Enrolling in courses for student benefits and discounts

Those with a student card in Finland are entitled to significant discounts on meals, public transportation, gym memberships, and various retail purchases, as well as access to subsidised health services, university IT resources, and professional union memberships with insurance coverage.

Yle spoke to Jani, 33, who after graduating with a master's degree in engineering from the Tampere University of Technology in 2017, applied for a new degree in mechanical engineering at Lappeenranta.

He was accepted into the programme and registered as an active student at the beginning of the following autumn without any intention of completing his studies.

Jani, who lives in southwestern Finland, said having a student status gives him access to numerous discounts and benefits for the many services he regularly uses in his daily life.

He estimated that he saves around 2,000 euros a year from these discounts and benefits.

While Jani acknowledged that his actions might be seen as depriving other students of a study spot, he said that any system will inevitably be exploited by some individuals.

"It may require a bit of moral flexibility. I personally feel that since the system allows this, I am just as entitled to use student benefits as anyone else," he said.

While he is no longer a student at Lappeenranta, Jani enrolled in the University of Tampere in 2021 to study mathematics and statistics. After his study period ends, he plans to apply to another university.

"Sometimes I wonder how much longer I will dare to eat at the student canteen," he said.

Jani wished to be anonymous in the story due to the sensitive nature of the topic.

Anu Haapala told Yle that she is not in a position to assess the extent of the exploitation of student discounts and benefits.

"The message I get from student organisations is that the benefits and subsidies could be much better so that they better support the promotion of studies," she said.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Trudy Ring at The Advocate:

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, known for his anti-LGBTQ+ views, has sued a doctor in the state for providing gender-affirming care to young people, the first such suit in the nation. Paxton filed the suit Thursday in Collin County District Court against May C. Lau, MD, a professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and a practitioner at that city's Children's Health Center. He alleges that Lau violated Texas’s law against gender-affirming care for transgender minors by providing cross-sex hormones to at least 21 young people for the purpose of gender transition. He also claims she violated the state’s business and commercial code by engaging in “false, misleading, and deceptive acts and practices to mislead pharmacies, insurance providers, and/or patients by falsifying medical records, prescriptions, and billing records to represent that her testosterone prescriptions are for something other than transitioning a child’s biological sex or affirming a child’s belief that their gender identity is inconsistent with their biological sex,” as the suit puts it.

“Growing scientific evidence strongly suggests that ‘gender transition’ interventions prescribed to or performed on children in an attempt to anatomically or hormonally alter their biological sex characteristics have damaging, long-term consequences,” says a press release from Paxton’s office. “Additionally, the prohibited treatments are experimental, and no scientific evidence supports their supposed benefits.” Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, known for his anti-LGBTQ+ views, has sued a doctor in the state for providing gender-affirming care to young people, the first such suit in the nation. This is not true. Such treatments are not considered experimental, and they have been shown to have positive and even lifesaving effects on youth people. This care is supported by every major medical group in the U.S.

Anti-trans extremist Texas AG Ken Paxton (R) files a politically-motivated lawsuit against Dr. May C. Lau, MD, a practitioner at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s Children's Health Center for providing gender-affirming care services for trans youths.

The Texas v. Lau suit pushed the lie that gender-affirming care treatments are “experimental” and “dangerous.”

See Also:

LGBTQ Nation: Texas sues doctor for providing gender-affirming care in first of its kind lawsuit

[mariacallous]

So risky has the Red Sea become since Houthi militants started their attacks on shipping that, since late November, over 350 container ships—plus all manner of tankers, bulk carriers, car carriers, and other merchant vessels—have diverted to other routes. That means massive logistical challenges that involve not just new charts and more fuel but getting crews and cargo to alternative staging posts. Because shipping is extraordinarily efficient, most won’t notice a thing. But if the attacks on shipping continue, we’ll start paying for the service. And we would do well to anticipate Houthi-like campaigns in other waters.

Not a day passes without more turbulence in the Red Sea. Since Christmas Eve, the inlet that links countries including Egypt and Saudi Arabia has seen multiple Houthi attacks, including against a Swiss-owned container ship and a Norwegian tanker.

Drama in the Red Sea is, of course, nothing new, going all the way back to the biblical book of Exodus. Yet today’s users of the Red Sea can’t hope for divine intervention. To be sure, the U.S. military has launched Operation Sea Guardian to protect Red Sea shipping, and since Christmas Eve the force has, among other things, shot down 12 attack drones and five missiles launched by the Yemen-based, Iran-backed Houthis. But counterfire from Western navies in response to Houthi attacks doesn’t yield the sort of chartable sailing environment shipping lines need. It may help solve the problem in the long-term, but it does little right now.

What’s more, it’s unclear which ships can expect escort. The French Navy seems to prioritize French-flagged vessels, but—as I have often discussed in Foreign Policy’s pages—most vessels sail under a flag of convenience, are owned in one country and managed in another, have foreign crew members, and carry cargo between altogether other places.

What qualifies as a U.S., or French, or Norwegian vessel in the Red Sea can be deeply uncertain. And shipping—and most importantly, the insurers—is all about reducing risk. That means the largest shipping lines have instead begun diverting their ships to other routes. By Dec. 24, some 280 box ships had already been rerouted, as had lots of tankers, bulk carriers, car carriers, and other merchant vessels. (By Dec. 27, Maersk and CMA CGM had announced they would gradually returning to the Red Sea—but if the situation continues to deteriorate they can divert again.)

That means a sudden procession of ships taking the much longer route via the Cape of Good Hope on South Africa’s southwestern coast. “Shipping companies are extremely busy right now,” Cormac McGarry, a maritime analyst at consultancy Control Risks, told Foreign Policy. “They’ve been working over Christmas, changing routes. The first thing that happens when you divert is the legal aspect—a clause in shipping contracts allows shipping lines to divert if there’s a war risk. And then you have to decide where to divert your ships to.” The Cape of Good Hope route, which the Suez Canal’s construction once made redundant for long-distance cargo, is suddenly en vogue again.

As large parts of the global public now know, traveling via the Cape of Good Hope rather than the Suez Canal adds an additional 10 to 12 days of sailing—and a completely different route for captains and their top lieutenants to chart. But that’s perhaps the easiest part. “Planning a new route doesn’t take much time when working with electronic charts, but rounding the Cape does bring new considerations,” a senior officer who works on the largest types of container ships told Foreign Policy.

Those new, and thorny, considerations include getting crews and cargo to where they need to be—because, in many cases, ships’ current crews are scheduled to finish their rotations and other seafarers are waiting to take over. “If you’re going around South Africa, you may need to stop somewhere during the journey for bunkering and change of crews,” McGarry pointed out. “And if you’re changing a crew out of somewhere in southern Africa rather [than] somewhere around Suez, you need to change where they fly to and from.”

McGarry said ordinarily ships might change crews and cargo near the canal; now, the changes will need to occur in places such as Mombasa, Kenya; Durban, South Africa; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; or Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands. Just before Christmas, Mombasa and Dar es Salaam were reporting a massive spike in ship arrivals; in the case of Dar es Salaam, the sudden rush had resulted in a 16-day wait to refuel. “ [Diversion] can be done, and the shipping lines are doing,” McGarry said. “But it brings additional costs.”

Those costs are there whatever route the ships take: Journeys through the Red Sea bring hefty war risk premiums, and the Cape of Good Hope route brings additional fuel costs, not to mention the costs of rerouting crews and cargo. Several shipping lines have already imposed surcharges for their services. The delays and extra costs may, in fact, merely be the first chapter in the geopolitically connected turbulence facing global shipping and, as a result, the globalized economy.

The Red Sea turbulence is also bringing trouble to nearby countries. With ships spending as little time as possible in the Red Sea, countries such as Sudan and Eritrea—whose only ports are located on the Red Sea—will struggle to get ships to call at their ports. Egypt, the custodian of the Suez Canal, is already suffering. And with less traffic through the canal, shipping to Mediterranean countries such as Greece, Italy, and Turkey will become especially cumbersome.

Iran, in fact, seems to have concluded that the Houthis’ experiment in the Red Sea has been so successful that it bears repeating in the Mediterranean. “They shall soon await the closure of the Mediterranean Sea, [the Strait of] Gibraltar and other waterways,” Brig. Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, the coordinating commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, told Iranian media on Dec. 23, apparently referring to the international community.

Spare a thought for the world’s seafarers and shipping logisticians—there’s no holiday break for 2024’s troubled waters.

[misc-obeyme]

yooo it’s ur weeb friend!!

lmao so asmo got banned from peru (and probably greece after the incident with helen BUT that’s water under the bridge) and levi got banned from japan for being too cringe-fail (the americans are already enough, NO MORE) but what about the others?

i feel like beel got banned from ireland after causing the great potato famine and from italy after eating all the pasta in the entire country once…

mammon got banned from vegas FOR SURE for causing a scene (not a country BUT he’s been banned from every casino in the US, and steadily working his way through canada and europe (starting with england) he’s making progress…

lucifer got banned from italy also for the vatican city incident. he wanted to see it cause he’d heard so much about it. no one is allowed to talk about it…but the brothers will tell you about it later if you want to know.

belphie and diavolo got banned from all of africa because due to a mix up they got blamed for spreading the sleeping sickness and malaria respectively (they didn’t actually do it but can’t seem to escape the allegations)

i think solomon got banned from mexico and all of south america and is the cause behind a lot of the superstitions based on devils/the occult there. people run from him in fear. he claims to not know why but you know there’s a reason. you can try to ask someone but they’re all too busy fleeing in terror.

barbatos claims he got banned from russia and china. no one knows why, not even diavolo. it’s one of the mysteries that he’s very secretive about, but legend has it that it’s related to something he did before he joined forces with diavolo.

i also think asmo got banned from india and some regions of france as well as various other european countries like spain and scotland but the stories behind those pretty much revolve around a party, drinking, and members of nobility. and they’re usually so long and crazy and asmo is always insistent he did nothing wrong and will leave out parts of the story to make himself sound good BUT if you’re a real history buff you can usually sus out what actually happened. or get him drunk. he always has loose lips when he drinks.

satan got banned from the americas (specifically north america) due to his rebellious streak/temper tantrum days resulting in the satanic panic. mostly caused by americans being rude and making him angry. he’s also a basis for a lot of mexico/south american superstition, though somehow…not as much as solomon?

just my silly lil ideas i wanted to share! what are your thoughts?? 🤔🤔🤔

Hello there, my friend!!

al;dskjfasdlksfj Beel causing the potato famine looool!

I definitely think they all have the potential to get banned for causing specific issues. Definitely Beel eating all of everything, Mammon causing trouble at casinos, and Asmo just getting drunk and partying too much.

I also think Mammon would be banned for doing something like insurance fraud. I don't know why but that just seems like something he'd get himself into. Or maybe it turns out he's the mastermind behind all the internet email scams asking you to send them thousands of dollars.

I think Lucifer has to be extra careful because uh... he's Lucifer. You would think he'd be banned from the Vatican before he ever even showed up there. Satan, too. Just stay away from religious locations when the religion in question considers you to be the source of evil, okay?? Though I would absolutely demand the story from the other brothers about the incident lol.

Okay see I headcanon Solomon spent a significant amount of time in the southwestern US just because he's always wearing that bolo tie lol. So I love the idea that he was also in Mexico and South America, just being the menace he always is. In the Devildom, the stuff he does isn't too weird, but can you imagine normal people in the human world encountering him and all his weird experiments? And if he was actually covered in pacts marks that look like demonic sigils? I have no doubt that he would be the source of years worth of superstitions.

I LOVE all ideas where Satan is the cause of any kind of Satantic activity anywhere. Like the Satanic panic was so ridiculous, but I love the idea of him causing it just by being angry about rude people.

I do think Satan could also have been banned from Japan - most specifically, Tashirojima where the cat population far surpasses that of the human one. Possibly also Hydra Island in Greece, which is another island known for its high cat population. I just think eventually they'd be like listen we appreciate how much you love the cats, but you need to leave now lol.

All of this seems more than enough to get any of them banned from the various human world locations they've caused trouble in. It's so funny to think about them running rampant in the human world. Lucifer out here probably acting like he'd never get banned, but he's caused his fair amount of problems, too.

[newsfromstolenland]

"Funds promised by Ottawa to help the Canadian Red Cross with relief efforts following post-tropical storm Fiona have not yet been received.

Public Safety Canada promised in September to match donations received by the Red Cross through the charity's fundraising appeal between Sept. 24 and Oct. 31.

Work is ongoing "to finalize the donations during this period eligible for federal fund matching, and to share the final amount raised thanks to the generosity of Canadians from coast to coast to coast," said department spokesperson Tim Warmington in an email Thursday.

The Canadian Red Cross says it has provided the federal government with a summary of the donations it feels are eligible to be matched.

"It's then the prerogative of the federal government, not the Red Cross, to announce the amount government has approved as a matching contribution," said charity spokesperson Dan Bedell in an email Wednesday.

Post-tropical storm Fiona tore through the East Coast on the morning of Sept. 24, causing widespread damage in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland. The storm knocked down trees and power lines across Atlantic Canada, and it washed away several homes in southwestern Newfoundland.

In Port aux Basques, N.L., a community of approximately 3,500 people, about 100 homes have been condemned because of the destruction wrought by Fiona. Most of those homeowners have been denied coverage from their insurance providers."

Full article

Tagging: @allthecanadianpolitics

[gefdreamsofthesea]

Annoying things about living in Canada (specifically Southwestern Ontario) that aren't related to bigotry:

The postal service (Canada Post) fucking hates you. Oh so you want to ship something to the next town over? It'll cost you $20, and don't even think about tracking and insurance. There's been a push to switch to community mailboxes so fuck you if you're elderly or disabled or both or hell even if you can walk and the weather is bad.

Oh sure officially we use the metric system and celsius but in practice the temperature outside is in celsius, my oven temperature is in fahrenheit (and also celsius) and I use cups and spoons to measure ingredients.

It is neither "tire center" nor "tyre centre" it's "tire centre".

I hate snow why do I live here. (Although honestly the ice is worst.)

I became aware of this while shopping but our "heavy cream" is usually sold as "whipping cream" (I swear I've seen heavy cream in stores and now I don't see it).

I'm here for the free healthcare. It's very nice. I like our rainbow money too it's easy to see what the denom is at a glance sometimes I have trouble telling the difference in American media.

[atlanticcanada]

Record-breaking downpours from thunderstorms cause flooding across Nova Scotia

An unusually long procession of intense thunderstorms dumped record amounts of rain across a wide swath of Nova Scotia on Friday and Saturday, causing flash flooding, road washouts and power outages.

Torrential downpours started Friday afternoon across the Halifax region, dumping more than 200 millimetres of rain in the Hammonds Plains, Bedford and Lower Sackville areas. The port city typically receives about 90-100 mm of rain during an average July.

Based on radar estimates and unofficial observations, Environment Canada said some areas may have received more than 300 mm in 24 hours. Radar maps show the heaviest rainfall extending along the province's southwestern shore to a point north of Halifax.

Widespread flooding has also been reported in Lunenberg County, which is west of the Halifax region.

As Emily Noseworthy surveyed a washed-out bridge on the Bedford Highway on Saturday afternoon, the Halifax resident said she was stranded in the suburb north of the city, unable to get to her job on the Dartmouth side of Halifax harbour.

"I'm sending them pictures," she said, referring to her employer at the Dartmouth Crossing big-box shopping area. "I can't move."

On Friday night, water levels rose so fast in the Bedford area that volunteers with Halifax Search and Rescue were using small boats to rescue people from inundated homes.

In the Hammonds Plains area, northwest of the city, flooding washed out driveways and the shoulders of many roads.

That's the same area where where 151 homes and businesses were destroyed by a wildfire that started on May 28th, forcing evacuations that affected 16,000 residents. And for much of the past week, the Halifax area has been sweltering under an immobile dome of humidity -- a rare event so close to the coast.

On Twitter, one resident wryly predicted: "Locusts next week."

And it was only last fall that post-tropical storm Fiona descended on the Atlantic region, killing three people, flattening scores of homes and knocking out power to more than 600,000 homes and businesses. Fiona was the most costly weather event in the region's history, causing more than $800 million in insured damage.

"It's pretty obvious that the climate is changing -- from Fiona last year to the wildfires in the spring and now flooding in the summer," Halifax Mayor Mike Savage said in an interview.

"We're getting storms that used to be considered one-in-50-year events ... pretty regularly."

While the official statistics have yet to be recorded, it's believed the Halifax region has not seen this level of rainfall since Aug. 16, 1971, when hurricane Beth made landfall near the eastern tip of mainland Nova Scotia and then roared over Cape Breton. At that time, almost 250 mm of rain fell on the Halifax area, causing widespread flooding and$3.5 million in damage.

"I'm old enough to remember that one," Savage said. "But the consistent, violent nature of the thunderstorms last night and into this morning were frightening. It's put a lot of people in a tough position. If you've ever had water in your basement, it's not a fun situation."

At one point, more than 70,000 Nova Scotia homes and businesses were in the dark as lightning strikes knocked out electricity.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the widespread blackouts and damages at an unrelated afternoon event in Toronto, saying the federal government stands ready to provide whatever support the province and its residents may need.

"Obviously this is just a time when we're thinking of families going through an incredibly difficult moment," he said, noting federal officials have been in touch with their provincial counterparts. "We will be there for them while they are going through this, but also through the difficult days and weeks to come."

Meanwhile, residents in several communities were warned to stay off the roads, including several major highways. Online maps produced by the Halifax region show more than 30 road blockages, mainly to the north and west of the city.

When Chantal Blanchard and Travis Hartley-Cox left their Halifax-area subdivision around 7 p.m. Friday to head into the city, "all hell was breaking loose," Blanchard said, adding the water on the roads was like a "white-water rapid."

Their return trip took two hours as they carefully dodged abandoned vehicles on washed-out roads. But they eventually reached a roadblock.

"The police officer said the road was broken right up ahead," Blanchard said.

The pair then waded through waist-deep water, keen to get home to their three dogs.

Paula Finlayson, a 25-year resident who lives in the Hammonds Plains area, described the storm as "awe-striking." Surveying a washed-out bridge and overland flooding that looked more like a large lake, Finlayson said she felt claustrophobic when she realized she was trapped in her subdivision.

"It's so crazy, it's bizarre," she said, looking at the water rushing beneath the crumbling bridge. "This is major."

Rainfall warnings were still in effect Saturday for central and eastern Nova Scotia, including Cape Breton. And an additional 40 to 100 mm of rain was expected by Saturday night.

In some areas, submerged streets were littered with abandoned vehicles. Halifax RCMP said residents shouldn't leave home unless it's an emergency.

Scores of images shared on social media show cars plowing through deep water. And one video from the Windsor Junction area north of Halifax shows firefighters standing on the roof of their submerged pumper truck. On the normally busy Bedford Highway, a beaver was spotted Friday swimming across the submerged road.

In the Halifax area, two evacuation centres opened on Friday night and were kept open on Saturday.

"We knew there was some pretty strong rain coming," the mayor said, adding about 10,000 lightning strikes were recorded as the storm marched across the province. "But I don't think any of us expected what we got from last evening through this morning."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 22, 2023.

This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Meta and Canadian Press News Fellowship.

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/J4Kt6Va

[southwesterninsurance]

The Impact of Cargo Type on CDL Insurance Costs

Transporting hazardous materials, such as chemicals, explosives, or flammable liquids, poses substantial risks. These materials require specialized handling and strict adherence to safety regulations. For drivers new to the industry, transporting hazardous materials may not be the most economical choice due to the higher CDL Insurance for New Drivers associated with these loads. Read More

[carrentalkeralam]

Exploring Thiruvananthapuram with the Perfect Car Rental

Thiruvananthapuram, fondly known as Trivandrum, is a city where tradition meets modernity. Nestled along the southwestern coast of India, it boasts stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and lush greenery. If you’re looking to make the most of your visit, the best way to explore this vibrant city is to rent a car in thiruvananthapuram. This offers the freedom to travel at your own pace and dive deep into the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala’s capital.

Why Rent a Car in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram is not just a city of sights; it’s a gateway to some of Kerala’s most iconic destinations. Kovalam Beach, a favorite among sunseekers, is just a short drive away. The historic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Napier Museum, and the serene Veli Tourist Village are other must-visit spots. With a rental car, you can conveniently plan your itinerary and travel in comfort, especially if you’re with family or friends.

Convenience and Comfort

Public transportation in Thiruvananthapuram, though efficient, might not always align with your travel plans. Renting a car eliminates the need to depend on fixed schedules or routes. It’s perfect for those who wish to explore the lesser-known gems in and around the city, like the Neyyar Dam or Ponmudi Hills.

Choosing the Right Car Rental Service

When selecting a car rental in Thiruvananthapuram, look for services offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a compact car for city drives or an SUV for hilly terrains, ensure the rental service provides well-maintained vehicles, transparent pricing, and excellent customer support.

Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience

Book in Advance: Peak seasons can lead to high demand, so securing your vehicle early ensures you get the best options.

Check the Documents: Verify insurance, permits, and rental terms before hitting the road.

Opt for GPS: A reliable navigation system is essential to explore the city without getting lost.

Your Gateway to a Memorable Journey

With a rental car at your disposal, Thiruvananthapuram transforms into more than just a destination — it becomes an adventure. So, gear up, grab your keys, and embark on a journey that promises unforgettable experiences.

Make your visit to Thiruvananthapuram truly special by choosing the comfort and convenience of a rental car. Happy travels!

[brookemedbil]

Prominence and Coding Schools in Georgia: Your Guide to a Rewarding Healthcare Career

Top Billing ‌and Coding‌ Schools in Georgia: Your Guide to a Rewarding ⁢Healthcare Career

If you’re considering a career in healthcare, particularly in billing and coding, Georgia offers​ a wealth of educational ⁤opportunities. ⁣The ⁢demand ⁣for skilled​ billing‍ and coding professionals ⁢is on the rise, making ⁢this an exciting field to enter. In this article, we’ll explore the top billing and coding‌ schools in Georgia, what to expect from the programs, ‌the benefits of becoming a billing and coding ​specialist, and practical​ tips for embarking on your new career journey.

Why Choose a Career in Billing and Coding?

High Demand: The healthcare industry is experiencing a⁤ surge in demand for certified billing and coding⁢ professionals.

Competitive ‍Salary: According to ‍the Bureau of⁤ Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for⁤ health information technicians⁢ was $45,240 as of 2021.

Flexibility: Many‌ jobs ⁢in ​billing and‌ coding ⁣offer⁣ remote work options, providing work-life balance.

Job Security: As healthcare continues ⁢to‍ evolve, skilled billing and coding professionals remain essential.

Top Billing ​and Coding Schools⁣ in ⁢Georgia

Here are some of the‌ leading institutions⁣ offering billing and coding programs​ in Georgia:

School Name

Location

Program Length

Accreditation

Georgia Northwestern Technical College

Rome, GA

2 years

ACCSC

Southern‌ Crescent Technical College

Griffin, GA

2 ‍years

CAHIIM

Chattahoochee Technical College

Marietta, GA

2 ‌years

CAHIIM

Georgia Perimeter College

Decatur, GA

1-2 years

SACS

Emory University

Atlanta, GA

1 year

CAHIIM

What to Expect from Billing and Coding Programs

Billing and coding programs ‌typically ⁣cover a range of topics essential for success in the‍ field. Here are some common subjects you will study:

Medical Terminology

Anatomy and Physiology

ICD-10 and ‌CPT Coding

Health⁤ Insurance Portability and⁤ Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Medical Billing Procedures

Many programs also incorporate hands-on training experiences that provide practical skills in real-world settings. This can be an invaluable part of your education.

Certification Options

Upon completion of a⁣ billing and coding program, obtaining certification can significantly ‌enhance your job prospects. Among‍ the​ most recognized certifications are:

Certified Professional Coder ‍(CPC)

Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)

Certified Billing and Coding ⁣Specialist ⁤(CBCS)

Benefits‌ of ‍Attending a CODING School ‍in Georgia

Aside from⁢ the ‍academic knowledge, here are additional ⁣advantages⁤ of enrolling in⁤ a billing and‌ coding school ​in Georgia:

Networking Opportunities: ⁣ Schools⁢ often provide connections to local healthcare⁤ facilities.

Job Placement Assistance: Many‌ institutions offer support in ⁣finding⁢ employment post-graduation.

Real-World Experience: Internships or practicums for hands-on learning.

Practical Tips for Starting Your Healthcare‌ Career

Research Schools ⁣Thoroughly: ⁤ Consider factors like‍ curriculum,​ instructors, and reviews ⁢from alumni.

Stay Updated: The healthcare coding ⁢field changes ⁣frequently; continuing education is essential.

Join Professional Organizations: Groups⁣ such ​as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) provide resources⁢ and networking.

Consider Specializations: Explore subspecialties like outpatient coding, inpatient coding, or risk adjustment.

Real-Life Experiences:⁢ Success Stories

Many individuals have transitioned into billing and coding from ⁤different backgrounds. Here’s a short ‌success ⁤story:

“I was working as a medical receptionist and decided to enroll‌ in a⁢ coding program⁤ at Georgia Southwestern State University. The training not only ‌improved⁢ my knowledge‍ of healthcare processes but also enabled ⁤me to ⁤secure a job as a coding specialist in a reputable hospital soon after graduation. The journey was challenging, but the ⁤support from my instructors made all⁢ the difference!” – Jane D.

Conclusion

Starting a career in billing and coding in Georgia is not only a pathway ⁣to a rewarding job, but it also opens doors‍ to numerous opportunities in the healthcare field. The schools listed above stand out for their strong curricula, experienced faculty, and a commitment to student‍ success. By ⁢choosing the right⁢ program and gaining the necessary certifications, you can embark on a fulfilling ‌career that contributes significantly to the healthcare ⁤industry. Research thoroughly, stay persistent, and take advantage of ‍every resource‌ at ‌your disposal. Your⁣ future ⁤in billing and coding awaits!

https://medicalbillingcodingcourses.net/prominence-and-coding-schools-in-georgia-your-guide-to-a-rewarding-healthcare-career/

[theankoletimes]

Insurance Provides Financial Security for Banana Farmers in Uganda

(Kampala) – Ugandan banana farmers are adopting innovative insurance solutions to enhance their resilience against climate change. This initiative comes in response to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events that threaten their livelihoods. Ahumwire Justine, a banana farmer from Shuku in southwestern Uganda, experienced firsthand the dangers of climate change when a rain and hailstorm…

[dillonstravel]

Why a Metal Roof is the Best Investment You’ll Ever Make for Your Hamilton Ontario Home!

What should i know about Metal Roofs in Ontario?

When it comes to protecting your home against the unpredictable weather in Southwestern Ontario, a metal roof stands out as one of the best investments you can make. While the initial cost may seem higher, the long-term benefits—from durability to energy savings—quickly add up. Let’s break down the real costs of metal roof shingles, what the installation process looks like, and why features like snow stops are essential for Ontario winters.

Understanding the Real Cost of Metal Roofing

For many homeowners, cost is the first question. Although metal roofs come with a higher price tag than asphalt shingles, they offer significant long-term savings, lasting two to three times as long and requiring far less maintenance.

Here’s what to expect:

Corrugated Metal Roofing: $6 to $12 per square foot

Metal Roof Shingles: $8 to $14 per square foot

High-End Standing Seam: $15 to $20 per square foot

While these prices may feel steep initially, consider that a metal roof can last 50+ years—double or triple the lifespan of asphalt shingles.

Client Spotlight: One of our clients in Halton was initially hesitant due to the upfront costs but went ahead with a metal roof. Ten years in, they’re delighted, having saved on both repair costs and energy bills.

Metal Roof Shingles: A Stylish, Long-Lasting Option

If you appreciate the look of traditional shingles but want something more durable, metal roof shingles offer the best of both worlds. They provide the aesthetic of wood shakes or asphalt shingles, with the lasting protection of metal. Available in various styles and colors, metal shingles can elevate your home’s curb appeal and save you from constant repairs.

Recent Project: We installed metal roof shingles for a family in Hamilton, who loved the look and were thrilled to say goodbye to the leaks and frequent repairs their old roof required.

How Metal Roof Installation Works

One common misconception is that metal roofs are harder to install. With experienced professionals, however, the process is straightforward. Here’s what our installation approach typically involves:

Removing Old Roofing: We’ll remove existing shingles if needed or install the metal roofing over them.

Laying Underlayment: This provides an added layer of protection.

Installing Panels or Shingles: Metal roofing panels or shingles are carefully positioned and secured.

Adding Snow Stops: Essential in snowy regions, snow stops prevent heavy sheets of snow from sliding off suddenly, protecting gutters and walkways.

For instance, we recently completed a metal roof installation in Burlington, which took just a few days and left our client thrilled with the minimal disruption.

Snow Stops for Metal Roofing: A Must-Have in Ontario Winters

One question we frequently receive from Ontario homeowners is how well metal roofs handle snow. While metal roofs naturally shed snow, snow stops prevent large snow sheets from sliding off at once. This feature helps protect your gutters, landscaping, and walkways during heavy snowfalls.

Client Story: A Milton homeowner reached out after their old roof let dangerous snow build up last winter. After we installed a metal roof with snow stops, they enjoyed the peace of mind that their roof could handle Ontario’s harsh winters.

What to Expect in Terms of Price

While the initial investment for metal roofing is higher than asphalt shingles, the long-term savings can be significant. Most metal roofing projects range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on roof size and complexity. Here’s how you save:

Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect sunlight, which keeps your home cooler in the summer and reduces AC costs.

Low Maintenance: Metal roofing requires minimal upkeep compared to asphalt shingles, meaning fewer repair costs.

Insurance Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for metal roofs due to their fire resistance and durability in extreme weather.

What Ontario Homeowners Say About Metal Roofing

Our clients in Southwestern Ontario have found that metal roofs deliver exceptional value. Here’s what some of them have to say:

Laura W., Hamilton: “We were hesitant about the cost, but the savings on energy and repairs have been worth it. Plus, the roof looks fantastic!”

John M., Burlington: “The snow stops have been a game changer. Now we don’t have to worry about heavy snow damaging our gutters or landscaping.”

Is a Metal Roof Right for You?

In the end, while the initial cost may be higher, the longevity, energy savings, and low maintenance of metal roofing make it an ideal choice for Ontario homeowners. Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s durability, lower your energy bills, or handle the winter snow safely, a metal roof could be the answer.

At Platinum Roofing, we’ve installed hundreds of metal roofs across the Hamilton and Halton areas, helping homeowners enjoy peace of mind and long-term savings. If you’re considering upgrading to a metal roof, contact us today for a free estimate!

[gershartmaster]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: New Rare & Unique Men's SouthWestern "Apalachee Cherokee" Jacket.