#rural sales training Australia

[agrarian-blog]

Is Poor Branding Hurting Your Sales? Unlock the Power of Brand Identity Systems and Training

What Are Brand Identity Systems, and Why Do Businesses Struggle Without Them?

Brand identity systems are the foundation of a company’s visual and verbal communication. They define how your brand looks, sounds, and feels, creating a consistent and memorable experience for customers. Without a strong system, businesses often face challenges like:

Inconsistent Messaging: Your brand message varies across platforms, confusing your audience.

Lack of Recognition: Customers fail to identify your brand amidst competitors.

Missed Opportunities: Poor branding results in a disconnect with potential buyers.

A well-defined brand identity system ensures your business stays recognizable and resonates with your target audience. For expert insights into crafting an impactful brand identity, check out Agrarian’s services.

Why Do Sales Teams Struggle Without Proper Training Services?

Many businesses invest heavily in branding but overlook the importance of empowering their sales teams. Common pain points include:

Ineffective Communication: Sales reps struggle to convey the brand’s value proposition.

Low Conversion Rates: A lack of training results in missed opportunities and poor customer engagement.

Employee Burnout: Without proper guidance, sales teams face unnecessary stress and inefficiency.

Sales training services equip teams with the skills and strategies needed to thrive. Whether it's building rapport or leveraging CRM tools, professional training bridges the gap between brand identity and successful sales execution. Learn more about how this works at Agrarian’s Sales Training Services.

How Do Brand Identity Systems Influence Sales Success?

Brand identity and sales performance are interconnected. A cohesive brand identity:

Builds Trust: Customers are more likely to engage with brands they recognize and trust.

Enhances Customer Experience: Consistent branding creates a seamless journey from awareness to purchase.

Motivates Sales Teams: A strong brand identity gives salespeople confidence in what they’re selling.

Sales reps who believe in their brand can articulate its value more effectively. This alignment boosts conversion rates and fosters long-term customer relationships.

What Role Does Sales Training Play in Reinforcing Brand Identity?

Even the strongest brand identity can falter if sales teams fail to represent it accurately. Sales training services ensure that teams:

Understand Brand Messaging: Training aligns sales tactics with the brand’s voice and mission.

Personalize the Sales Approach: Teams learn to adapt the brand’s identity to individual customer needs.

Overcome Objections: Sales reps are trained to handle customer concerns while staying true to the brand’s values.

For example, a rural sales team trained through tailored programs can better connect with local communities while embodying the brand’s identity. Discover more about rural sales-specific training at Agrarian’s rural sales services.

What Are the Common Pain Points in Combining Brand Identity with Sales Efforts?

Misaligned Goals: Branding teams focus on aesthetics, while sales teams prioritize numbers, creating a disconnect.

Lack of Training: Sales teams may not fully understand or leverage the brand identity in their approach.

Inefficient Tools: Outdated CRM systems and uncoordinated workflows hinder seamless execution.

By addressing these challenges through integrated brand identity systems and sales training services, businesses can drive growth and improve customer satisfaction.

How Can Businesses Solve These Pain Points?

Invest in a Comprehensive Brand Identity System: Partner with experts to create guidelines that cover every aspect of your brand.

Provide Continuous Sales Training: Equip teams with skills to align their strategies with your brand identity.

Leverage CRM Tools: Use modern tools to track performance and ensure consistency in sales processes.

Agrarian offers tailored solutions to help businesses align branding and sales. Visit their website to explore customized strategies.

FAQs

1. How do brand identity systems benefit rural sales teams?

Brand identity systems give rural sales teams a clear framework to represent the brand, ensuring consistency and relatability in local markets.

2. Can sales training services improve team morale?

Yes, well-designed training programs build confidence, reduce stress, and improve team performance, leading to higher morale and job satisfaction.

3. Why is it hard to maintain brand consistency in sales?

Miscommunication and a lack of training often lead to inconsistent brand representation. Aligning branding efforts with sales through training solves this issue.

4. How do I get started with integrating these systems?

Reach out to experts like Agrarian for tailored solutions in brand identity and sales training services.

[ruralsalessuccess]

What Is the Best Approach to Rural Sales Training in New Zealand?

In New Zealand's dynamic rural sector, sales success hinges on specialized training tailored to its unique challenges. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to enhance your leadership skills, understanding rural sales training and the value of programs like the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme is essential. This microblog will explore the most common questions people ask about rural sales training in New Zealand, along with insights from the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme to guide your decision-making.

What Is Rural Sales Training in New Zealand?

Rural sales training in New Zealand refers to specialized programs aimed at equipping professionals with the skills needed to sell effectively in rural markets. These training modules are tailored to the agricultural and farming sector's nuances, which differ significantly from urban sales environments. A robust understanding of rural clients’ needs, building trust, and maintaining long-term relationships are some of the key components covered in such training programs.

Popular programs in New Zealand, such as the Rural Sales Success Programme, focus on offering practical, industry-specific sales strategies. Whether you're dealing with farm machinery, animal feed, or agricultural technology, a specialized training approach is crucial for success.

Why Is Rural Sales Training Different From Other Sales Training?

People often ask why rural sales training differs from other forms of sales training. In rural sales, the relationships between salespeople and clients are deeper and more personal. Clients in rural areas often value personal interaction and long-term relationships over hard-selling tactics. This requires a salesperson to not only understand the product but also the day-to-day realities of rural life.

Moreover, sales cycles can be longer, as farmers and rural businesses tend to make purchasing decisions based on seasonal cycles and the availability of funds, which can be influenced by the weather or commodity prices. For this reason, patience, trust-building, and a deeper understanding of the customer are key components of rural sales.

How Does the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme Help Leaders?

If you are a manager looking to lead a rural sales team, the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme provides a comprehensive toolkit to sharpen your leadership abilities. This programme helps in understanding the rural business environment and equips sales managers with the skills to motivate their teams effectively.

Managers who enroll in the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme learn how to:

Foster trust with rural customers.

Build and maintain long-term business relationships.

Develop strategies tailored to rural market challenges.

Lead teams with empathy and clarity, creating a collaborative environment.

The program is designed to offer actionable insights and strategies that you can implement immediately to improve your team's performance.

What Are the Key Benefits of Rural Sales Training in New Zealand?

The benefits of undergoing rural sales training in New Zealand are manifold:

Understanding Rural Clients: Sales professionals learn to communicate effectively with farmers and rural business owners, understanding their pain points, concerns, and buying behavior.

Tailored Sales Techniques: The training programs, such as the Rural Sales Success Programme, focus on rural-specific sales strategies that consider seasonal cycles, environmental factors, and rural business practices.

Building Trust: Trust is critical in rural sales. Clients often prefer building long-term relationships with their sales representatives, so knowing how to earn and maintain trust is invaluable.

Leadership Skills: For those in managerial roles, programs like the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme emphasize leadership, enabling you to coach and develop your sales team effectively.

FAQs

What makes rural sales training effective? Effective rural sales training programs focus on relationship-building and understanding the unique challenges rural businesses face. Courses like the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme offer insights into managing longer sales cycles and earning the trust of rural clients.

Is there a difference between rural and urban sales approaches? Yes. Rural sales rely more heavily on personal relationships and trust, while urban sales tend to be more transactional. Sales professionals in rural markets need to be patient and adaptable to the client’s seasonal and economic conditions.

How do I become a successful rural sales manager? Becoming a successful rural sales manager involves developing leadership skills and the ability to motivate a sales team in the unique context of rural New Zealand. Enrolling in a program like the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme can give you the skills to navigate this environment and build strong relationships with both clients and your team.

Are there free rural sales training resources available in New Zealand? While many comprehensive training programs like the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme require an investment, there are also free resources available that cover basic skills and insights into rural sales. However, for more specialized and actionable advice, enrolling in a structured program is recommended.

How Do Rural Sales Training Programs Evolve to Stay Relevant?

The agricultural sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and market demands. As such, rural sales training programs need to adapt to these changes. Modern programs incorporate digital sales strategies, technology use, and ways to adapt to the increasingly data-driven farming industry.

The Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme includes up-to-date modules that reflect current market conditions. These courses integrate the latest in sales technology and management techniques to keep you competitive in the changing landscape of rural New Zealand.

Conclusion:

Whether you're new to the field or looking to enhance your skills, rural sales training programs like the Rural Sales Success Programme can significantly impact your sales performance. If you're in a leadership position, the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme offers specialized insights into managing teams and building long-lasting customer relationships in rural New Zealand.

By investing in the right training, you can navigate the unique challenges of the rural market with confidence and success.

For more details, you can visit Rural Sales Success and explore the Rural Sales Manager Mastery Programme.

[usafphantom2]

Wreckage of the U.S. Marine Corps F-35B jet is found in South Carolina

Service decreed temporary suspension of flights.

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 09/18/2023 - 23:26 in Aeronautical Accidents, Military

U.S. authorities found on Monday a wreckage field of the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) F-35B poacher that crashed in South Carolina after the pilot safely ejected.

The wreckage field was located in rural Williamsburg County, according to the Charleston Marine Corps Joint Base. The field is about two hours northeast of the base, and residents were asked to avoid the area while the recovery team worked to protect it.

Authorities have been looking for the jet since the pilot, whose name was not disclosed, parachuted safely in a neighborhood of North Charleston around 2 p.m. on Sunday (09/17). He was taken to a hospital, where he was in stable condition, said USMC major Melanie Salinas.

The Marine Corps announced on Monday that it would stop operations for two days after the fall of the fighter - the third expensive accident in recent weeks.

General Eric Smith, interim commander of the Marine Corps, ordered the suspension while authorities were searching near two South Carolina lakes for the missing F-35B Lightning II aircraft.

It is the third event documented as a "Class A accident" in the last six weeks, according to an announcement by the Marine Corps. Such incidents occur when the damage reaches $2.5 million or more, a Department of Defense aircraft is destroyed or someone dies or is permanently incapacitated.

The commanders will pass the suspension reinforcing safe flight policies, practices and procedures with their marines, according to Monday's statement.

141029-M-RH401-078

The announcement did not give details about the two previous incidents. But in August, three U.S. Marines died in the crash of a V-22B Osprey tiltrotora aircraft during a training exercise in Australia, and a U.S. Marine Corps pilot died when his F/A-18D fighter jet crashed near a San Diego base during a training flight.

Based on the location and trajectory of the missing plane, the search focused on Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, said Senior Sergeant Heather Stanton at Charleston Joint Base. Both lakes are north of North Charleston.

Additional aircraft are researching northwest of the lakes, including a Cessna 182 with the Civil Air Patrol and a King Air 200 from the Department of Defense.

A helicopter from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division joined the search after bad weather improved in the area, Stanton said. Military officers appealed in online posts on Sunday for any help from the public in locating the aircraft.

The pilot of a second F-35 returned safely to the Charleston Joint Base, Salinas said.

The planes and pilots were part of the Marine Attack Fighter Training Squadron 501 with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing based in Beaufort, near the coast of South Carolina.

Source: The Associated Press

Tags: Aeronautical AccidentsMilitary AviationLockheed Martin F-35B Lightning IIUSMC - United States Marine Corps/U.S. Marine Corps

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Daytona Airshow and FIDAE. He has work published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. Uses Canon equipment during his photographic work throughout the world of aviation.

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[annkimsays]

Welcome to My Blog!

Welcome!

Hi everyone! My name is Ann, and I created this blog to share creative classroom engagement activities I've organized and implemented with my teammates and students in the past, resulting in a fun and immersive learning experience.

Why is the blog called "Ann Kim Says"? Well, it's simple—Ann Kim is my name, and since this blog is about sharing my thoughts, the title is quite straightforward. :)

Hope this blog will provide helpful tips and ideas for you in the classroom, or at home!

Background:

My teaching career began in Seoul, South Korea, in 2015 after leaving the hustle and bustle of New York City. However, my career journey started in 2005 in Ad Sales at the Oxygen Network, eventually leading to a role at Nickelodeon. I thought I had made it, working for Nickelodeon seemed like a dream. But soon realized I wasn't succeeding in my role. I didn't understand why at the time, but now I recognize that the lack of a proper training program was a significant factor.

Seeking a new direction and a break, I returned to school and studied Global Affairs at NYU. This experience opened my eyes to a world beyond New York City and highlighted the critical role education plays in development and prosperity. Inspired by this, I decided to move to South Korea in 2015 to teach English. I landed a job in Yongin, South Korea as an English Teacher for a very small elementary school. Transitioning from a bustling city like NYC to rural Yongin was quite an adjustment, but I made it! :D

In 2017, I left Korea and I lived in Australia for 3 months, then traveled to New Zealand, eventually making my way to Arizona.

Fast forward to 2024, and I have been teaching for nine years in various settings, most recently as a 4th Grade Teacher at Cielo Elementary School in Chandler, Arizona.

Although I am no longer teaching for a school, I continue to educate in different ways as a Professional Learning Specialist for Amplify Education. I'll be sharing past ideas we've implemented in the classroom and new ones I discover along the way.

Stay tuned for creative, engaging activities and insights into fostering an immersive learning environment!

[yeswecare]

Financial Assistance For Students and Apprentices

There are a number of different financial assistance Adelaide schemes available to help you pay your tuition fees. These include scholarships and student loans. You can also apply for a travel allowance if you live five kilometres or more from your school or tertiary provider.

Moneycare offers financial counselling, access to the No Interest Loan Scheme and other financial skill-building resources. They can help you overcome unexpected crisis, like job loss, natural disaster or spiralling debt.

Scholarships

Students that are able to prove financial hardship can apply for a university bursary. This can cover tuition fees, accommodation and living costs.

International high achievers can be rewarded with a scholarship that covers their entire degree course duration. Other scholarships include the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship, Excellence Scholarship and Pathways Scholarships.

Commonwealth Destination Australia Scholarships are designed to encourage and support young Australians to study in regional Australia. These can cover tuition fees, living costs and a work placement. Specific rural, regional and remote student payments are available through Services Australia, including the Relocation Scholarship and Fares Allowance. These can be deducted from Centrelink payments.

Student Loans

There are a range of government payments and services that can help with your living costs while you're studying or doing an apprenticeship. You can find out more about these by visiting Services Australia.

You may be able to claim a relocation scholarship if you live in an area that's not close to your place of study. This is an annual payment of up to $2,500.

HECS-HELP loans (formerly known as HECS) are available to cover tuition fees for approved higher education courses. You'll start paying back the loan through the tax system once you earn over a certain threshold.

VET Student Loans are available for approved higher level vocational education and training (VET) courses. There's a capped amount of loans and you must enrol in a course that's subsidised by the state or territory government to be eligible.

Financial Counsellors

Financial counselling is a free service for Australians facing financial difficulty. It provides information, options, advice, support and assistance. It can also help you apply for concessions or emergency relief. It can also refer you to other specialist services.

Financial counseling providers can assist you to develop a budget and manage your finances. They can also help you access crisis payments like rent and utility arrears, food vouchers, and no interest loans. They can also provide advice on debt recovery and negotiate with creditors on your behalf. They can also assist with family violence and other issues that cause financial stress. They can also offer mediation for couples to resolve financial difficulties.

Micro-finance schemes

Those living in poverty are often unable to pay for essential goods and services. This can include school fees, food and transport costs. In some cases, these people can access Commonwealth support programs paid through Centrelink such as Youth Allowance and Austudy.

These schemes provide financial assistance to those who cannot afford to borrow from a bank. Unlike traditional loans, these microfinance loans do not come with interest charges and are designed for low-income households.

Many established microfinance organizations have loan repayment rates in the 95 – 98 % range. This indicates that borrowers actually want and need these loans. As they repay these loans, they can build a credit history and become eligible for larger loans.

Affordable SA

The government provides a range of concessions to help people struggling with bills, food relief and housing costs. These include a variety of grants, loans and assistance programs.

The HomeSeeker SA program offers affordable homes for sale to eligible homebuyers. It also provides helpful advice about the house buying process and budgeting. The program has also expanded the First Home Owner Grant to encourage more homebuyers to buy affordable homes.

The government also promotes affordable rental properties. Developers can apply for a planning incentive by including affordable housing in their developments. They need to discuss the proposal with their council or assessing authority.

Homelessness

People who are homeless or at risk of homelessness can access financial assistance through a state-wide network of community service organisations. These services offer emergency crisis assistance, budgeting support, and financial capability building activities. They can also provide interest-free loans for essential household items.

The state government has launched the new financial wellbeing program to help people who are struggling to pay for their basic needs. This includes food, bills and transport costs. The program offers financial counselling from non-judgemental, qualified professionals and can help them negotiate better bill payment terms. It can also help people save money and build an emergency fund.

[freeloveluminary3]

Medical Representative Salary: Comprehensive Guide

Are you considering a career as a medical representative? Understanding what you can expect to earn is crucial for planning your career path. Medical representatives play a vital role in the pharmaceutical industry, acting as the bridge between drug manufacturers and healthcare providers. In this guide, we'll delve into the various factors that influence medical representative salary, provide average salary ranges, and offer tips on how to negotiate a better compensation package.

Factors Influencing Medical Representative Salary

Experience Level

Experience is a significant determinant of salary in any profession, and medical representatives are no exception. Entry-level representatives typically earn less than their more experienced counterparts. As you gain experience and demonstrate your effectiveness in the role, your salary is likely to increase.

Geographic Location

Where you work can significantly impact your salary. Medical representatives in major cities or regions with a high cost of living often earn more than those in rural or less economically vibrant areas. For example, a medical representative in Sydney might earn more than one in a smaller Australian town due to the higher living costs and market demand in larger cities.

Company Size and Reputation

The size and reputation of the company you work for can also influence your salary. Larger pharmaceutical companies with more resources tend to offer higher salaries and better benefits compared to smaller firms. Additionally, well-established companies may have more comprehensive training programs, which can enhance your skills and career prospects.

Education and Certifications

While a bachelor's degree is typically required for a medical representative position, having advanced degrees or specialized certifications can boost your earning potential. Certifications related to pharmaceutical sales, medical knowledge, or sales techniques can make you a more attractive candidate and justify a higher salary.

Average Salary Range for Medical Representatives

National Averages

The average salary for medical representatives varies significantly by country. In the United States, for instance, the average annual salary ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 USD. In Australia, medical representatives can expect to earn between $65,000 and $85,000 AUD per year. European countries have their own ranges, often influenced by local economic conditions and healthcare industry standards.

Industry Benchmarks

Within the pharmaceutical sector, salaries can vary based on the specific industry segment. Representatives working in specialty drugs or high-demand therapeutic areas may command higher salaries compared to those in more general pharmaceutical sales roles. Keeping abreast of industry benchmarks can help you understand where you stand and what you can aspire to.

Salary Growth and Career Progression

Promotion Opportunities

Career advancement is a key factor in salary growth. Medical representatives can move up to positions such as senior medical representative, district manager, or regional sales manager. Each step up the ladder brings increased responsibilities and a corresponding salary bump.

Skill Development

Continually developing your skills is essential for salary growth. Attending industry conferences, participating in training programs, and staying updated on the latest medical research can make you a more valuable employee and open doors to higher-paying positions.

Performance-Based Incentives

Many companies offer performance-based incentives such as bonuses and commissions. These incentives can significantly boost your overall earnings, especially if you consistently meet or exceed sales targets. Understanding how these incentives are structured and what it takes to achieve them is crucial for maximizing your income.

Additional Benefits and Compensation

Health and Wellness Benefits

In addition to salary, many companies offer comprehensive health and wellness benefits. These can include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as wellness programs that support your overall health.

Travel and Expense Reimbursements

Given that medical representatives often travel for work, many companies provide travel allowances or reimbursements for expenses incurred during business trips. This can include transportation, accommodation, and meal costs, making your job more financially manageable.

Retirement Plans and Bonuses

Long-term financial benefits, such as retirement plans and end-of-year bonuses, are also common. These benefits can significantly enhance your overall compensation package and provide financial security for the future.

Challenges and Rewards of the Job

Job Demands

Being a medical representative can be demanding. The role often involves extensive travel, long hours, and the pressure to meet sales targets. Balancing these demands with personal life can be challenging but manageable with good time management skills.

Job Satisfaction

Despite the demands, many medical representatives find their work highly rewarding. The opportunity to make a positive impact on healthcare providers and patients, coupled with the potential for substantial earnings, contributes to high job satisfaction levels in this field.

How to Negotiate a Better Salary

Research and Preparation

Before entering salary negotiations, it's essential to research market rates and understand the typical compensation for medical representatives in your area and industry. This information will empower you to make informed demands.

Effective Communication

When negotiating, communicate your value clearly and confidently. Highlight your achievements, skills, and contributions to the company. Effective communication is key to successful negotiations.

Leveraging Offers

If you have multiple job offers, you can use them as leverage to negotiate a better salary. Employers are often willing to increase their offer to secure a desirable candidate.

Real-Life Case Studies

Success Stories

Consider the story of Jane, a medical representative with five years of experience who managed to increase her salary by 20% by acquiring an advanced certification and demonstrating exceptional sales performance. Her success underscores the importance of continuous professional development.

Lessons from Negotiations

Mark, another medical representative, learned valuable lessons from his salary negotiation experiences. By researching market rates and effectively communicating his value, he secured a higher salary and better benefits package at his new job.

Conclusion

Medical representatives can enjoy rewarding careers with competitive salaries and substantial growth opportunities. Understanding the factors that influence your salary, such as experience, location, and industry benchmarks, can help you navigate your career path effectively. By continually developing your skills and being proactive in salary negotiations, you can maximize your earning potential and achieve career satisfaction.

[muskokafarm]

Breaking Horses at Muskoka Farm

The thoroughbred industry is a major contributor to Australia’s regional economy. Horse breaking is an important part of preparing racehorses to become comfortable in bridles and saddles, which prevents behavioural problems down the track.

Located near Gunderman, Muskoka Farm is a world class facility that offers breaking, spelling and agistment. This 280-acre complex features five stable barns with 58 stables, a two-kilometer crusher dust track, 27 day yards and 10 large spelling paddocks. It also includes a high speed treadmill and private jetty/pontoon. To know more about Pre Training, visit the Muskoka Farm website or call (02)45663106.

Located in Gunderman, Muskoka Farm is surrounded by natural bushland and national parks and is one of the world’s best horse spelling and training facilities. Its 280 acres provide the perfect location for fine-tuning the science of race horse care. The facility offers breaking, pre-training, spelling and agistment services for thoroughbred horses.

The Thoroughbred industry makes a significant contribution to Australia’s regional economy and supports thousands of jobs. One of the most important aspects of the industry is horse breaking, which prepares racehorses for a bridle and saddle. Getting this process right helps prevent behavioural problems down the line.

The property features five stable barns with 58 stables, 27 day yards and 10 large, fully-fenced spelling yards. It also has a private jetty/pontoon, outdoor pool and two bedroom guest house. Inglis Rural Property is handling the sale of this unique, one-of-a-kind property.

Taking a young horse from an animal that bucks at the sight of a bridle to one that can carry and obey a rider takes a rare skill set. That’s the task of trainers like Toby Pracey who uses violence-free methods to break in horses. He has broken in countless group 1 winners, including Dan Excel and Redzel. He’s also a specialist in barrier training, desensitizing horses to cold metal and noise.

Located near Wisemans Ferry, Muskoka Farm is a world class pre-training facility. It offers breaking, spelling and agistment as well as being a registered AQIS quarantine operation. This 280-acre property is surrounded by national parks and natural bushland and is the perfect environment to tailor care to match the physiology of race horses. It features a 2.4 kilometre crusher dust track and straight as well as an arena & round yard and 10 large spelling paddocks. The pristine complex is close to Gosford, Wisemans Ferry and about 80 minutes from Sydney’s major racetracks.

The 280-acre Muskoka Farm has housed many a splurge-worthy thoroughbred, and is renowned as one of the world’s best pre-training facilities. In fact, some of the horses that have been broken in or trained here have gone on to win races around the globe.

Geography drove history in the Muskoka area, as the lake chains and ubiquitous rocks made the land hard to penetrate. Even though it was well suited to hunting and trapping, early settlers found that the soil was too dense for farming.

Today, the rich natural environment and robust ecological diversity that is the foundation of a healthy economic economy in Muskoka are at risk. The District of Muskoka is working with its thirteen municipalities (Mayor, Chair and Reeve) and other community stakeholders to develop a plan for protecting our unique environment. Among the activities underway is an open community-based Listening Session to take place on May 30th. Click here to learn more.

Located near Gunderman in New South Wales, Muskoka Farm is one of the country's most respected pre training facilities. The 280 acre property is surrounded by national parks and natural bushland, making it an ideal location for fine-tuning care to match the physiology of race horses. The facility has world class capacity for breaking, pre-training, spelling and agistment. It also has a private jetty/pontoon, outdoor pool, five stable barns and two bedroom guest house.

The training program at Muskoka Farm is geared towards teaching racehorses to be comfortable in their bridles and saddles. The trainers use violence-free methods to break the young horses and teach them the basics of horse racing. This is especially important for avoiding behavioural problems in the future. To know more about Pre Training, visit the Muskoka Farm website or call (02)45663106.

The facilities at Muskoka Farm are incredibly impressive, including a 2.4-kilometre crusher dust track and high speed treadmill. It's a great place for top flight thoroughbreds to get a head start on their racing career.

[aimarketresearch]

Rail Public Transport Market Size, Share, Trends, Demand, Growth and Competitive Analysis

Global Rail Public Transport Market report puts light on analysis of prime manufacturers, trends, opportunities, marketing strategies analysis, market effect factor analysis and consumer needs by major regions, types, and applications globally. This market research report performs an estimation of the growth rate and the market value based on market dynamics and growth inducing factors. Local, regional as well as global market has been considered here to conduct the research study of Rail Public Transport Market report. The report can be accessible to the users in the form of PDF or spreadsheet. Moreover, PPT format can also be offered depending upon client’s requirement.

While preparing an outstanding Rail Public Transport Market report, combination of best industry insight, practical solutions, talent solutions and latest technology have been utilized. The report aids in taking important decisions for the growth of business. What is more, with the utilization of best-practice models, comprehensive market analysis and research methodologies in this business report, it becomes simple to obtain perfect market segmentation and insights. The report also takes into consideration the detailed profiles of market’s major manufacturers and importers who are dominating the market. The world class Rail Public Transport Market report enlists key competitors with the required specifications and also endows with the strategic insights and analysis of the main factors influencing the industry.

Rail Public Transport Market, By Type (Passenger Rail Transportation, Rail Freight Medium-Distance Passenger Transport, Long-Distance Passenger Transport, Short-Distance Passenger Transport, Intermodals, Tank Wagons, Freight Cars, Heavy Rail, Light Rail), Application (Train Rail, Gantry Crane's Rail, Temporary Transport), Locality (City, Rural), Country (U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America, Germany, Italy, U.K., France, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Turkey, Russia, Rest of Europe, Japan, China, India, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia Pacific, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, Israel, Egypt, Rest of Middle East and Africa) - Industry Trends and Forecast to 2029.

Access Full 350 Pages PDF Report @

Core Objective of Rail Public Transport Market:

Every firm in the Rail Public Transport Market has objectives but this market research report focus on the crucial objectives, so you can analysis about competition, future market, new products, and informative data that can raise your sales volume exponentially.

Size of the Rail Public Transport Market and growth rate factors.

Important changes in the future Rail Public Transport Market.

Top worldwide competitors of the Market.

Scope and product outlook of Rail Public Transport Market.

Developing regions with potential growth in the future.

Tough Challenges and risk faced in Market.

Global Rail Public Transporttop manufacturers profile and sales statistics.

Highlights of TOC:

Chapter 1: Market overview

Chapter 2: Global Rail Public Transport Market

Chapter 3: Regional analysis of the Global Rail Public Transport Market industry

Chapter 4: Rail Public Transport Market segmentation based on types and applications

Chapter 5: Revenue analysis based on types and applications

Chapter 6: Market share

Chapter 7: Competitive Landscape

Chapter 8: Drivers, Restraints, Challenges, and Opportunities

Chapter 9: Gross Margin and Price Analysis

Regional Analysis for Rail Public Transport Market:

APAC (Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, India, and Rest of APAC; Rest of APAC is further segmented into Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka)

Europe (Germany, UK, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe; Rest of Europe is further segmented into Belgium, Denmark, Austria, Norway, Sweden, The Netherlands, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania)

North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico)

South America (Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Rest of South America)

MEA (Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa)

Some of the major players operating in the rail public transport market report are  TfL, MTR Corporation Limited, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), Chicago Transit Authority, WMATA, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, METRO Cash & Carry India Pvt. Ltd., MTS Systems, MetroMadrid, Advantech Co., Ltd., Atos SE, SEOUL METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT., Conduent Inc., FREQUENTIS, and Metro Infrasys Pvt. Ltd., among others.

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About Data Bridge Market Research:

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[charvireportprime]

Neonatal Warmer Market Size, Type, segmentation, growth and forecast 2023-2030

Neonatal Warmer Market

The Neonatal Warmer Market is expected to grow from USD 266.20 Million in 2022 to USD 436.40 Million by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.32% during the forecast period.

Get the Sample Report: https://www.reportprime.com/enquiry/request-discount/11184

Neonatal Warmer Market Size

A neonatal warmer is a medical device that is specifically designed to help regulate the body temperature of newborn babies who are at risk of hypothermia. The neonatal warmer market is segmented by type, application, and region, with single function and multifunction warmers being the two major categories. The public and private sectors are the major application areas for these devices, with North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia being the key regional markets. Some of the major players in the neonatal warmer market include Natus Medical, Drager, Advanced, Atom Medical, Phoenix Medical, Fanem, DAVID, Fanem, Dison, Mediprema, Cobams, Weyer, and Medicor. Regulatory and legal factors specific to market conditions are important considerations in the neonatal warmer market as governments across the globe have strict regulations in place to ensure the safety and efficacy of medical devices. Manufacturers need to keep abreast of these regulations and work towards complying with them in order to stay competitive in the market.

Neonatal Warmer Market Key Player

Natus Medical

Drager

Natus Medical

Advanced

Atom Medical

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Neonatal Warmer Market Segment Analysis

The Neonatal Warmer target market is primarily hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide neonatal care services. The growth in this market is driven by the increasing number of premature births, rising government initiatives to promote neonatal care, and technological advancements in neonatal equipment. The high demand for neonatal warmers is also fueled by the increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and parents about the importance of providing optimal care to premature babies.

In recent years, the trend in the Neonatal Warmer market has been toward the development of compact and portable devices that are easy to use and maintain. This trend has been driven by the need to provide better access to neonatal care in rural and remote areas, without compromising on the quality of care. Manufacturers have also been incorporating advanced features, such as skin temperature sensors, vital sign monitoring, and integrated oxygen delivery systems, to enhance the safety and efficacy of their products.

Despite the growth prospects, the Neonatal Warmer market faces certain challenges. These include high initial costs of equipment, lack of skilled healthcare professionals, and stringent regulatory policies that govern the manufacture and sale of neonatal equipment. The shortage of experienced neonatologists and nurses is a significant challenge in the market, as the effectiveness of neonatal care is directly related to the skills and expertise of the healthcare professionals providing the care.

The main findings of the report highlight the increasing demand for neonatal warmers, driven by the rising incidence of premature births and the growing awareness of the importance of neonatal care. The report also emphasizes the need for manufacturers to focus on developing innovative and advanced products that meet the specific needs of neonatal care providers. The report recommends that healthcare facilities invest in staff training programs to ensure that they have the necessary skills to provide effective neonatal care.

Overall, the Neonatal Warmer market is rapidly expanding, driven by increasing demand and technological advancements. However, manufacturers and healthcare providers must address the challenges posed by high initial costs, lack of skilled professionals, and regulatory policies, to ensure that they provide optimal care to premature babies.

This report covers impact on COVID-19 and Russia-Ukraine wars in detail.

Purchase This Report: https://www.reportprime.com/checkout?id=11184&price=3590

Market Segmentation (by Application):

Public Sector

Private Sector

Information is sourced from www.reportprime.com

[bankabio]

Climate Change and Water

Climate change is triggering dramatic extremes in the global water cycle, which we’re experiencing more and more directly.

Here in the Western United States the issue is too little water, with a historic drought drying up trusted lakes, streams, and wells, and contributing to the intense wildfires that increasingly blanket our region in smoke for some months each year.

The Environmental Defense Fund summarizes scientific studies of how climate change is worsening drought worldwide, citing greater drought severity in the Mediterranean, Western Amazon, South Africa, Russia, India, Australia, and southern Europe. Human-caused climate change triggers droughts in at least three ways: Increasing temperatures cause more evaporation, drying out soils and vegetation; changing circulation patterns alter where storms develop and the path they follow; and increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns reduce snowpack volumes and lead to earlier, faster snowmelt, which reduces streamflow and the amount and quality of water available when it’s needed for vegetation, farming, and fishing.

In other regions, the problem is too much water, with heavier and more frequent storms causing flooding that can damage infrastructure and buildings and contaminate fresh water sources.

The UN Environment Programme describes how climate change is making record-breaking floods the new normal. For example, in late 2019 a series of storms in the UK dropped the equivalent of one month’s worth of rain in 48 hours in some locations. In July 2021, the eight inches of rain that fell in less than 24 hours in western and southern Germany flooded communities and caused more than 200 deaths. And in August 2021, areas in the U.S. state of Tennessee recorded more than 17 inches of rain — one-third of the region’s typical annual rainfall — in just 24 hours.

While the world’s governments try to address these issues from a top-down perspective, many communities — especially those living at or below poverty levels — are already suffering the effects of climate change-exacerbated water issues. In response, a number of social enterprises are stepping up to provide localized solutions to specific communities’ water-related issues.

At Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship, we’re granted a front-row view of people and organizations dedicated to changing the story around climate change and water — from one of water excess or scarcity to one of resilience and hope.

Here are a few of their stories:

ECOSOFTT: Addressing communities’ total water management needs

To date, ECOSOFTT has implemented 70 projects in five countries — Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia — with a 100% success rate. Collectively, their solutions treat and recycle 50 million litres of water a day, providing 300,000 people with improved access to water and sanitation systems, including 50,000 in India and Indonesia at the Bottom of the Pyramid.

“The effects of climate change are manifested through water, such as rising sea levels, prolonged droughts, and floods,” said Stanley Samuel, co-founder of ECOSOFTT along with Marcus Lim. “Effective water management is thus key to mitigate the effects of climate change and achieve greater resiliency.”

Nazava: Water filtration

Nazava is the only company globally providing WHO-certified household water filters targeting low-income rural households living on less than US$7 per day. By charging customers for the water filters — including through partnerships with microcredit organizations that ensure affordability by enabling payment in up to 50 installments — Nazava ensures its own business sustainability. Marketing is done through healthcare workers and midwives, and sales meetings include community training on hygiene, water treatment, and waterborne diseases. “Nazava water filters help households become more resilient to climate change by expanding the range of potable water sources, providing alternatives to dried-up sources — even floodwater can be filtered and made safe for drinking — and by eliminating the need to gather wood, coal, or other fuels to boil water,” said Guido van Hofwegen, co-founder and co-director of Nazava, along with Lieselotte Heederik. “With Nazava, our customers can filter their own tap, well, river, or rainwater — without the need to boil the water.”

Jibu: An entrepreneurial, franchise-based approach to safe drinking water

Currently, Jibu supports more than 2,830 full-time-equivalent jobs through its franchise network, almost half of which are youth. More than half of Jibu’s franchise owners in Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, and Zambia are women. “Jibu has the potential to eradicate single-use plastic bottles and to transform the energy efficiency of the water treatment technology landscape,” said Galen Welsch. “Jibu’s water purification system is energy efficient and designed to ensure low water waste and cost-effective production, which enables attractive pricing to the subscribers to our solution, who no longer need to rely on home boiling and the associated carbon emissions. Plus, returning and reusing our bottles significantly reduces pollution, and our decentralized production leads to fewer distribution-related emissions.”

Banka BioLoo: Transforming toilets and sanitation in India

To date, Banka BioLoo has installed more than 12,000 environmentally friendly toilet systems across India; sanitized more than 1,000 schools; served millions of rail passengers; and provided thousands of workers with access to sanitation at their workplaces. Their cost-effective, long-lasting, “fit-and-forget” bioloos serve marginalized and low-income populations, sold directly to consumers as well as through partnerships with governments, corporations, and philanthropies.

“Our climate-complementing bioloos contribute to climate resilience in a number of ways,” said Sanjay Banka. “They require no external infrastructure for fecal waste treatment, they use no energy, and they produce reusable water and biogas as byproducts — thus actually generating more water and energy sources than they consume.”

Building on These Social Enterprise Success Stories

These four examples are just a few that I could share. What they have in common are the hallmarks of social entrepreneurship: recognition of a local challenge, creation of an innovative solution to address that challenge, and delivery of a solution that can then be scaled and replicated elsewhere.

The social entrepreneurship approach not only supports economically sustainable businesses, but also benefits the social enterprise’s customers and the local community on multiple levels: greater climate resilience, better health, personal and household financial gains, and the promise of improved opportunity and dignity.

If you’re interested in learning more about how social enterprises are improving the climate resilience of the world’s most vulnerable populations, I invite you to visit the Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship website. And if you’re an investor looking to have a more meaningful impact in addressing the climate crisis for people living in poverty, please contact me directly.

Together, we must work to rewrite the global story of climate change.

Source Link[impactentrepreneur.com]

[agrarian-blog]

Solving Rural Sales Challenges with Strategy and Training

Rural businesses in Australia face unique hurdles—geographical barriers, lack of skilled teams, and ineffective marketing approaches. These challenges often lead to inconsistent sales and wasted resources. Combining marketing strategy development with tailored rural sales training in Australia can provide actionable solutions.

What Are the Key Challenges of Rural Businesses?

Operating in rural markets brings distinct pain points, such as:

Long Distances and High Costs: Reaching dispersed customers increases operational expenses.

Talent Shortages: Sales teams often lack training specific to rural customer needs.

Poorly Targeted Marketing: Generic campaigns fail to resonate with local audiences.

Addressing these requires strategies that align marketing and sales efforts effectively.

How Does Marketing Strategy Development Address These Issues?

A strong marketing strategy helps resolve many pain points, including:

Localized Campaigns Campaigns tailored to rural markets foster deeper engagement and customer loyalty.

Improved Resource Use Targeted marketing minimizes waste by focusing efforts on high-value regions and demographics.

Streamlined Communication Using the right channels ensures better customer reach, whether through social media, radio, or community events.

Learn more about creating impactful strategies at Agrarian Marketing Services.

Why Is Rural Sales Training a Game-Changer?

Without proper training, even the best strategies fall short. Rural sales training focuses on:

Market Insight: Understanding rural consumers' specific needs and preferences.

Relationship Building: Establishing trust, critical for long-term success in rural settings.

Technology Integration: Leveraging CRM systems for better customer management.

Discover tailored sales training options at Agrarian Rural Sales Services.

What Does a Successful Rural Sales Training Program Include?

To tackle rural-specific challenges, a training program should cover:

Market Research Skills Teams learn to assess local demographics and identify high-potential markets.

Effective Selling Techniques This includes objection handling, trust-building, and upselling methods specific to rural buyers.

Digital Tool Utilization Training in CRM systems ensures consistent customer follow-ups and data-driven decisions.

How Do Marketing and Sales Work Together for Rural Success?

Aligning marketing and sales ensures seamless operations:

Marketing Attracts Leads: Campaigns drive interest and inquiries.

Sales Converts Leads: Skilled teams turn inquiries into revenue.

Insights Fuel Growth: Sales data informs future marketing strategies.

This synergy is key to overcoming rural market challenges.

FAQs About Marketing Strategy and Rural Sales Training

1. How are marketing strategies tailored for rural areas? They focus on local preferences, effective communication channels, and cost-efficient resource use.

2. Does rural sales training improve conversion rates? Yes, it equips teams with the skills needed to close deals and build long-term customer relationships.

3. What tools can support rural businesses? CRM systems and analytics platforms help streamline operations and track performance.

4. How long does it take to see results? Most businesses notice improvements within three to six months of implementing strategies and training.

Conclusion

Addressing rural business challenges requires a blend of effective marketing strategy development and rural sales training in Australia. These efforts not only improve customer outreach and conversion rates but also ensure sustainable growth.

[ruralsalessuccess]

What Makes Rural Sales Coaching in New Zealand Essential for Success?

The rural sales industry in New Zealand is a dynamic and evolving field that demands specialized skills, a deep understanding of the market, and effective communication strategies. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, structured coaching can play a pivotal role in achieving success. Let’s explore the importance of rural sales coaching in New Zealand, focusing on programs like the Rural Sales Success Programme NZ and other training options available in the country.

Why Should You Consider Rural Sales Training in New Zealand?

Rural sales training equips professionals with industry-specific skills tailored to the unique needs of New Zealand's rural sector. Here's why it’s critical:

Understanding the Rural Market DynamicsThe rural market is influenced by factors such as climate, commodity prices, and local community needs. Training helps sales professionals anticipate challenges and craft tailored solutions.

Building Strong Customer RelationshipsIn rural areas, sales are more than transactions—they're about trust and long-term partnerships. Training programs emphasize effective communication and relationship-building skills.

Enhancing Technical KnowledgeRural sales often involve products like agricultural machinery, fertilizers, and livestock solutions. A strong technical background ensures you can confidently address customer inquiries.

What Does the Rural Sales Success Programme NZ Offer?

The Rural Sales Success Programme NZ is one of the most comprehensive training options for professionals in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Personalized Coaching: Participants receive guidance tailored to their career stage and market focus.

Practical Strategies: Learn actionable techniques to boost sales, from negotiation tactics to effective customer engagement.

Real-World Scenarios: Training includes case studies based on real-world challenges in New Zealand’s rural sales sector.

For more details, check out their invitation page here.

How Does Rural Sales Coaching Help With Career Growth?

Many professionals wonder how rural sales coaching can contribute to career advancement. Here are key benefits:

Skill Development: Gain specialized skills that make you stand out in a competitive job market.

Increased Confidence: With practical training, you'll feel more confident handling sales calls and negotiations.

Better Performance Metrics: Companies often see an improvement in key performance indicators (KPIs) like revenue growth and client retention after employees undergo coaching.

What Are the Common Challenges in Rural Sales?

Some challenges unique to rural sales include:

Geographical Barriers: Traveling long distances can limit the number of clients you can meet in a day.

Seasonal Fluctuations: Sales often depend on farming cycles, which can be unpredictable.

Market Awareness: Staying informed about local competitors and global trends is critical but time-consuming.

Effective rural sales coaching addresses these challenges with targeted strategies and tools.

How to Choose the Best Rural Sales Training in New Zealand?

Selecting the right training program is crucial. Here are tips to guide your choice:

Check for Credibility: Look for programs with a proven track record, like the Rural Sales Success Programme NZ.

Focus on Customization: The best training programs tailor their content to your unique needs.

Consider Flexibility: Online and hybrid options can make training more accessible, especially if you're managing a busy schedule.

What Are FAQs About Rural Sales Coaching in New Zealand?

To address common queries from platforms like Google and Quora, here are frequently asked questions:

1. Can beginners join rural sales coaching programs?

Absolutely. Many programs, including the Rural Sales Success Programme NZ, cater to individuals at all career levels.

2. Are there free resources available for rural sales training?

While comprehensive training often involves fees, some programs provide free introductory resources. Check out this page for potential offers.

3. How long does it take to complete a training program?

Duration varies, but most programs range from a few weeks to several months, depending on depth and intensity.

What Skills Will You Gain From Rural Sales Training?

Some of the top skills developed include:

Active Listening: Understand client needs to offer the best solutions.

Negotiation: Close deals effectively while maintaining strong relationships.

Time Management: Optimize your schedule to reach more clients without burnout.

Market Analysis: Stay ahead of trends to anticipate customer demands.

What’s the Future of Rural Sales in New Zealand?

The rural sales industry is poised for growth, driven by advancements in technology and sustainable farming practices. Sales professionals who invest in their training today will be better equipped to navigate future trends and challenges.

Final Thoughts: Is Rural Sales Coaching Worth It?

If you're serious about excelling in the rural sales industry, investing in professional coaching is a no-brainer. Programs like the Rural Sales Success Programme NZ offer unparalleled opportunities to grow your skills, boost your confidence, and achieve measurable results.

For more information and to explore training options, visit Rural Sales Success.

[theparanormalperiodical]

Top 10 Scariest Horror Films You Didn't Know Were Based On A TRUE Story feat. Trailers + Where To Watch

There’s something about horror films that are based on real events that just make me weak.

So weak, in fact, I’ve decided to spend the last *checks watch* one and a half years of my early 20s delving into the facts and the fiction haunting the horror genre. 

My parents must be so proud.

Most of these films wear the badge of ‘this is reality or close enough to it, anyway’ with dignity, leveraging gullible paranormalists like me to drive ticket sales. The Conjuring (2013) is just one of these films that is explicit in its basis in reality, going on to rake in 16 times its budget and inspiring me to delve deeper into my occultist journey.

(No, really, they’re so proud.)

But the ventures of Ed and Lorraine Warren are not the only experiences of horrifying and haunting events to be reinterpreted via the silver screen. There are some horror films you wouldn’t expect to have reality flushing through their veins.

Some of horror’s biggest hitters aren’t just living in your nightmares. They actually happened IRL.

Which is, ummm, fine, yeah, it’s not like I need to sleep anyway.

*Stay tuned to discover the horror films you didn’t know were based on true stories and the real accounts that inspired them.*

Jaws (1975)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1fu_sA7XhE 

This cinematic classic follows the adventures of a great white shark as it terrorises the summer resort town of Amity. A couple of corpses later, and the local police chief, rookie marine biologist, and wild-card shark hunter track the beast down themselves.

Most horror films use a person or a story as a basis for a film. Jaws, however, is an amalgamation of experiences recorded by the writer of the novel inspiring the film, Peter Benchley.

Benchley admittedly had a life-long obsession with sharks and was inspired to write a book on a rogue great white after reading about a bloke called Frank Mundus.

"...in 1964, I read an item in a newspaper about a fisherman who harpooned a 4,500-pound great white shark off Long Island. I remember thinking at the time, Lord! What would happen if one of those monsters came into a resort community and wouldn't go away?”

Quint, the wild card shark hunter, was based directly on Mundus.

Another influence, although not referenced by Benchley, was the 1916 New Jersey shark attacks.

In high summer, five Americans were attacked by a great white off the coast of the Jersey Shore with 4 falling victim to their wounds. For the next 11 days, the same shark cruised along the 70 miles of the beach towns and small villages. The shark even performed the first shark attack reported in US history, countering the long-standing belief that sharks couldn’t bite through human bone.

(Spoiler alert: they can.)

When beach goers came to the beach early morning to discover the 3rd victim bitten in half, this was disproven. After that discovery - which bares a striking resemblance to the opening scenes of Jaws - the story hit The New York Times front page.

Just like the film the mayors tried to deny there was a deadly shark making the rounds to secure profit to their seaside resorts. And just like the film a swimmer was even mauled in an estuary.

It wasn’t long before they settled on the identity of the perpetrator and the locals set off with rifles and pitchforks.

(Not sure how useful they’d be against a shark, but okay.)

The shark met its end after it attacked one of the hunters’ boats, a scene we also witness in the film.

You can rent it for £2.50 on Amazon Prime.

Deliver Us From Evil (2014)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWDM_p68HAQ

We follow a policeman who has a side gig as an exorcist as he encounters strange goings on in the Bronx. Ralph Sarchie chases up the paranormal activity and attempts to untangle why possessed people are painting ancient messages and images in various places.

Here’s the thing: none of this actually happened. As far as we know, anyway.

What this film is based on is the real Ralph Sarchie who wrote the memoir Beware The Night as an ode to his work as a demonologist. It’s based on his character, his tone of voice, and how he carried out his work.

Sarchie presents his work as his destiny, as some form of divine intervention he believes was signalled by his survival of a severe illness he contracted when he was 10.

He claims to carry a splinter of the ‘true cross’ - I guess the one Jesus actually died on - and considers himself more of a priestly figure armed with relics and holy water than a paranormal investigator.

Sarchie has worked on many possessions and hauntings, claiming he didn’t charge a cent despite the high fee he probably got from the book sales and the film’s debut. The most famous tale is that of the ‘Halloween Horror’:

A woman named Gabby began to see a woman floating in a cloud of white smoke in the corner of her bedroom. It wasn’t long before this smoky woman began to speak through Gabby according to her partner Dominick.

Gabby’s friend then says this was the ghost of a woman murdered on her wedding night. She then apparently saw the spirit of her father. Activity followed with flying books, moans and growls, and the word ‘HELP’ written on the mirror. Eventually an incubus rocks up and is hell bent on attacking various family members.

When Gabby gets possessed in the presence of Sarchie and his paranormal-busting-partner, he exorcises her of the spirit.

In total, Sarchie has assisted in 25 exorcisms and hundreds of ‘house exorcisms’.

You can watch it for free on Netflix.

The Blob (1958/1988)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdUsyXQ8Wrs

*cue the canned screams*

In some rural town in America, a meteorite crashes to the ground. Someone investigates and a jelly globule attaches itself to their hand before consuming it. It then begins to consume their entire body. It’s not long before it starts to consume, well, everyone and everything in its path.

8 years before the horror icon first became a cult classic, two police officers in Philadelphia saw something float down from the sky. They thought it was a parachute and decided to investigate.

What they discovered was a six feet wide purple glob of odourless gloop. It was filled with crystals and gave off a mist. One of the police officers took the plunge - quite literally - and dipped a hand in. He kept the hand, but noticed the sticky residue left on his hands.

The gloop quickly disappeared and left the grass underneath it unbent. It was allegedly only there for 25 minutes. They were the only ones that saw it. It soon made its way into the press and the FBI asked the Air Force to investigate. They declined.

You can watch it for £3.50 on Amazon Prime.

Wolf Creek (2005)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8S13W69FQhs

Two British tourists are backpacking across Australia when they run into trouble in Wolf Creek National Park. A helpful local offers to help fix their broken down car and provide some shelter. Turns out the helpful local is actually a psychopathic xenophobic murderer. He entraps tourists, lures them to his shelter, and tortures/kills them.

Most gory horror films can be compared to real life murders and other crimes. Unfortunately, even the most imaginative forms of torture or murder has probably already happened. But the film was directly based on the backpacker murders committed by Ivan Milat in the 90s.

Milat murdered 7 people aged 19 to 22, preying on those encouraged to backpack across Australia after several tourism campaigns revealed how cheap and easy it was. In ‘92 and ‘93 the bodies were discovered in Belanglo State Forest with the wounds and injuries suggesting the scenes played out in film were similar to those Milat committed.

In late ‘93 a force dedicated to hunting the unknown killer emerged. It used gym memberships, gun licensing, and police records to narrow down a list of 32 suspects.

It was only when Paul Onions, a British backpacker reported he was nearly murdered near Belanglo State Forest that the police could pinpoint that Milat.

You can watch it for £2 on Amazon Prime.

Open Water (2004)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9q1qJi1nMs

It’s everyone’s worst nightmare: being left in the middle of the ocean. A distant couple decide to take a relaxing break and head out for a scuba-diving vacation. Their holiday is ruined, however, when the guy driving the boat f*cks up the head count and thinks everyone is back on board after a diving sesh. The couple come back to the surface and discover the boat is gone.

Yep, this all happened in real life.

In 1998, Thomas and Eileen Lonergan went on a scuba diving trip to Australia’s Coral Sea. They were mistakenly stranded by the boat crew leading the dive and their absence wasn’t noticed until 2 days later when a bag containing their belongings was discovered.

The crew and other rescue teams searched the area but did not discover their bodies. Personal belongings were found.

A diver’s slate - a device for communicating underwater - was one of these items.

"Monday Jan 26; 1998 08am. To anyone who can help us: We have been abandoned on A[gin]court Reef by MV Outer Edge 25 Jan 1998 3pm. Please help to rescue us before we die. Help!!!"

The other items that washed up, including a wetsuit, suggested they had probably not fallen victim to shark attacks but had become disoriented, dehydrated, or injured by coral. Alternate theories claim it may have been a murder-suicide to avoid the slow, distressing death of being left at sea, or that it was a faked death/disappearance. No bank accounts had been tampered with, however.

Tougher regulations for scuba-diving in Australia shortly followed their disappearance.

You can watch it for free on Amazon Prime.

The Rite (2011)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hG3ktopqv8

We follow exorcist-in-training Father Gary Thomas as he navigates the loss of this faith. When the opportunity for fighting growing demonic possessions arises, Thomas decides to become an exorcist. We see Thomas as he is confronted by evil and reaffirms his devotion to God.

Portrayed by veteran actor Anthony Hopkins, Father Gary Thomas is a real American exorcist - one of the 14 Vatican-verified exorcists working State-side. He did in fact study in the Vatican to become an exorcist, and another student he met there would chronicle his experiences in the book The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist.

Thomas even spent a week on set advising the director, utilising his experiences of the 100 odd people he had seen possessed in his career.

Just like in the film, Thomas echoes that most people that come to him for an exorcism have been abused in their past, linking mental health issues to demonic attachment. Thomas also has a lot of praise for the film, claiming the way those possessed moved in a serpentine way is accurate to those he has seen:

“I was beginning to do some deliverance prayers. Within a few minutes she began to tremor and her facial countenance began to change. You saw a snake. She began sticking her tongue out like a snake and hissing and rolling her eyes. She coiled herself up.”

- Father Gary Thomas on a possessed Venezualan woman

You can watch this on Amazon Prime for £2.50.

The Silence Of The Lambs (1991)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6Mm8Sbe__o

Anthony Hopkins refers to a staple horror film - a film with truth spilling like blood from a bloated corpse…

This psychological horror sees an FBI trainee as they work with an imprisoned serial killer to hunt down a murderer, Buffalo Bill. Add in just a dash of transphobia and we arrive at the film that made my parents actually walk out of the cinema when they first saw it.

First, let’s talk about Hannibal Lecter and his role as an advisor to the FBI: this has actually happened, using a seasoned killer to catch another. The most famous example of this is none other than Ted Bundy, one of the most infamous in history. Bundy told investigators to stake out the graves of victims or the places where bodies had been dumped as necrophiles like himself would return to the site.

Bundy actually helped them catch Gary Ridgeway who killed an estimated 90 people.

Now let’s turn to Buffalo Bill. The characters were never directly inspired by real people but their crimes were. He was an amalgamation of other crimes with Ed Gein serving as the main inspiration. Ed Gein, most known for skinning his victims and wearing the skins, took 9 lives and would also inspire the character Norman Bates.

He would make clothing out of body parts, make soup bowls from dug-up skulls, and build chairs from human bones.

Ted Bundy even made another appearance in Buffalo Bill’s character in terms of how he lures his victims, acting hurt and helpless until the victim was just within reach.

You can buy this film on Amazon Prime for £8.

Scream (1996)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWm_mkbdpCA

This satirical slasher redefined the genre, putting comedy firmly into horror as we know it. It follows Sidney Prescott, a preppy high school student, as she navigates high school drama and a rampant serial killer.

Just like The Silence Of The Lambs, the crimes witnessed in Scream had basis in reality. Daniel Rolling - the Gainesville Ripper - was an American serial killer who murdered 5 students in Florida within the short span of 4 days back in 1990.

Rolling would sexually assault, rape, threaten, and kill his young victims before leaving them in ‘sexual’ positions. He even decapitated one of those murdered and left the head on the shelf opposite the rest of the body amongst other vile acts. He later claimed his motive was to become a ‘superstar’ like Ted Bundy.

Yeah, that’s enough of that.

You can watch this on Amazon Prime for £2.50.

The Hills Have Eyes (1977/2006)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUQd9OB75dw

It’s time to hear about another vacay gone cray-cray. In the middle of a roadtrip to California, a family’s car breaks down in a mysterious area closed off to the public and they encounter a strange community of cannibals.

Instead of being based on modern crimes that hit far too close to home, this film is based on a historic event - or the legend of Sawney Bean.

Bean was a mythical leader of a cannibalistic group of insurgents in the 16th century. He grew up in a community of witches and later began his own community full of his children which he expanded with rampant incest. They would leave traps and eat their prey in a cave.

The King of Scotland, James VI, even led a team to root the family out of their lair. According to legend they were burnt at the stake while others were hung.

This tale also bears similarities to urban legends from Russia: there is a trope in the Southern Urals which claims after the Chernobyl accident irradiated peoples would become savage peoples, echoing the nuclear testing themes shown by the film.

You can watch this on Amazon Prime for £2.50.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1978)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKn9QIaMgtQ

In this cult class gore-fest we see a group of friends visit an old homestead but instead run into a family of murderous cannibals.

Yet again the crimes of Ed Gein make an appearance. The friends walk in on a home full of furniture made of human remains and meet a man - Leatherface - wearing a mask made of human skin. We also witness various people butchered in different brutal ways.

But this film also has a more political inspiration. Tobe Hooper - the director, producer, and writer - pinned his inspiration on changes in the cultural and political landscape, focusing on misinformation that overran America during the 70s.

*looks into camera a la Jim from The Office*

Hooper pinned the claims of a true story onto the film, responding to how he felt he was being lied to by the government regarding things like Watergate, the 1973 Oil Crisis, and the Vietnam War. The news only confirmed the brutal acts of humanity.

"man was the real monster here, just wearing a different face, so I put a literal mask on the monster in my film".

You can watch this for free on Amazon Prime.

Well that was, uhh, fun?

If you enjoyed these traumatic discoveries - you know, that some of the most terrifying horror films of all time are based on real people and crimes - then make sure you like ‘n’ reblog to let me know.

I post a new article on horror and the paranormal every Saturday + a new real ghost story everyday so make sure you hit follow to tag along for the ride!

[briankernick]

BRIAN KERNICK, P.Eng, MBA Greenview Developments Ltd.

Brian was born and raised in the small town of Canmore, Alberta. His father owned Restwell Trailer Park just off main street Canmore. As Restwell Trailer Park expanded and grew, Brian developed interest and learned the basics of carpentry and development. As a kid, he learned to drive a backhoe and dump truck and how to hammer and paint.  

His first development project was in Canmore, called Grotto Mountain Village. Grotto Mountain Village was a highly successful 125 manufactured housing community. After finishing the project, Brian decided to get his Masters in Business Administration (MBA) in Australia. Brian completed his MBA in 1998 and then worked in several large real estate consulting firms working for blue chip companies. He provided strategic evaluation advice and hands on development management services to companies and institutions looking to make direct property investments, engage in real estate development projects or alternatively undertaking the divestment of property.  

Brian is an efficient, innovative, tenacious, performance-driven and methodical real estate developer with extensive multi-industry experience both across North America and abroad.  He is well versed in Project Development and Management, Economic and Financial analysis, Acquisition and Disposal Strategies, Site Assessment, Town Planning, Engineering and Building design, Market geographic and demographic analysis.

Brian incorporated Greenview in 1988 with the intention of moving closer to his family and friends in Canada. Under Brian’s leadership, Greenview Developments has been involved in the construction, development and management of low-rise and high-rise residential and commercial properties, mixed-use developments and hotels. These developments have led to economic success, bottom-line results and award-winning projects.

Greenview’s model is based on understanding the entire life cycle of the development of a project and partnering with other experts that have varied and complimentary backgrounds and have the shared experience of working well together.  Using this life cycle view, we aim to deliver the best possible results to all stakeholders involved.

 CURRENT ON-GOING PROJECTS

1.       HARBOUR LANDING BUSINESS PARK (REGINA)

Harbour Landing Business Park is a campus style office development consisting of four buildings each spanning 40,000 square feet (3-storey office building and a Tim Hortons coffee) in Regina, Saskatchewan.  It is located near Regina International Airport. Buildings 1, 2 & 3 have been fully completed and phase 4 has commenced. It is a suburban office park that is located on the corner of Parliament Avenue and Lewvan Drive just north of the new Grasslands retail development. Three of the four office buildings have been completed and are occupied. They are located within minutes of the Regina Airport and the new Global Transportation Hub. They offer excellent access / egress from Lewvan Drive and access to acres of parks and walking paths. The tenant mix consists of Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS), Porchlight, Saskatchewan Healthcare Employees’ Pension Plan (SHEPP) and Chartered Professional Accountants Saskatchewan (CPA).

 2.       AVLI ON ATLANTIC (CALGARY)

AVLI is a private intimate building located in historic Inglewood, adjacent to the longest park pathway system in North America, in Calgary, Alberta. A home to 65 units of luxury residences with 7 floorplans for every buyer, budget and investor with boutique and cutting-edge interiors. It is comfortable in its setting, proud of its attributes and home to those who have an appreciation for remarkable art.  AVLI on Atlantic features the finest in contemporary custom-made cabinetry and the stylish gourmet kitchens offer ultra-modern flat panel doors in a white high-gloss overlay finish with metallic edging.

 Greenview Developments is the managing partner in this $36MM project which is nearly complete.

  3.       WILLIAM OFF WHYTE (EDMONTON)

It is a 44 unit, four-storey condo building that believes in bringing style and aesthetics to your life. It is rated one of the top streets in Canada providing a home you can really live in and admire. The project is located in central Edmonton, in the community of Garneau, and just off the popular and lively Whyte Avenue. William Off Whyte was completed in early 2020 with sales ongoing. Being near the University of Alberta main campus and Hospital also makes it ideal for students who want a stylish place to live. William Off Whyte has nine-foot ceilings, beautiful modern exterior, Italian cabinetry, soft close drawers, quartz counters, underground parking and bike storage and a choice of three colour schemes to suit your style.  

 PAST COMPLETED PROJECTS

1.       Sage.Stone (Calgary)

Sage.Stone is a project in NW Calgary with total sales revenue of $40 million. Phase 1 (88 units) is 100% complete and Phase 2 (90 units) finished closings by March 2015.  

2.       Bordeaux in Hawkstone (Regina)

76 townhomes in North Regina with total sales revenue of $22 million has been completed.

3.       Skyy Townhomes (Regina)

Sales of 116 units commenced in June 2010 with total sales revenue of $22 million and the project was completed January 2012.

4.       Luxstone Landing (Calgary)

12 unit Townhome developments with a value of $3.3 million was completed in 2012.

5.       Sage Townhomes (Regina)

The sales of 176 townhomes commenced in December 2009 with sales revenue of $35 million and the project was completed in early 2011.

6.       Advantage West Inns & Suites (Fort McMurray)

This hotel was built from pre-fabricated modular units rather than standard stick-built construction. The 83‑room hotel opened in July 2004. After 3 ½ years of operation, Greenview Developments sold it in 2008 for $19,400,000 or $234,000 / room, a record price in Canada.

7.       Spring Pastures (Australia)

Completed 72-acre rural residential project worth $10m in Mapleton, Queensland within 2 years.

8.       Grotto Mountain Village (Canmore)

Grotto Mountain Village was a $15 million project, consisting of a 125-lot turn-key manufactured housing community on 24 acres, which won the mayors award for Urban Design, Community Neighbourhood Enhancement & Facility Construction in 1994.

 EDUCATION/ TRAINING

·         Masters of Business Administration – AGSM / University of Sydney, 1998

·         Graduate Diploma in Business Administration – AGSM / University of Sydney, 1997                                      

·         Bachelor of Science in Engineering – University of Calgary, 1992

WORK EXPERIENCE

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER |   WESTCORP – LONDON AT HERITAGE STATION – CALGARY, AB                      2006 - 2008

Responsible for the construction of four 20+     story residential towers, 80,000 ft2 of commercial space, an 1,800-car     parkade, and a pedestrian bridge connecting the development with light     rail rapid transit.  The residential     towers include high line amenities and ample common facilities.   Started this project from the early     concept stages and set up a construction and management team, operational     and procurement processes, budgets, and construction schedules.    Oversaw all aspects of this large     construction project.

 PROJECT MANAGER | POINTE OF VIEW DEVELOPMENTS – CALGARY, AB                                                             2005 - 2006

  Tendered and negotiated all scopes of work, monitor     construction milestones, budgets and costs.

Planned and designed new projects, customer     walkthroughs and completion of deficiencies.

 SENIOR EXECUTIVE | KPMG NATIONAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES – SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA                                     2001 - 2002

 ·         Provided strategic property advice and off-balance sheet finance solutions to developers, financiers, government agencies and major blue-chip corporations

·         Feasibility and divestment advice on HIH Insurance.  HIH, and its 18 controlled entities, was Australia’s largest insurance company and it went into liquidation in March 2001. I acted on behalf of the provisional liquidator to maximize the proceeds from the sale of the properties.

·         Development and feasibility advice for the redevelopment of Bathurst Mount Panorama Precinct, one of the top three motor racing circuits in the world.  Bathurst 1000 is the Australian equivalent of Indy 500 in terms of motor racing and the event is broadcast to over 400 million homes in 54 countries. The Panorama Precinct is a multi-use tourism destination featuring restaurants, tourist attractions, cultural facilities, sporting and recreational facilities such as motocross, educational facilities, residential properties and nature park areas.

·         Facilitated the revision and expansion of Commonwealth Property Principles document for the Australian Department of Finance. This provided an appropriate discount rate and methodology for real estate decisions.

·         Reviewed feasibility and business case for NRMA (affiliated with the Canadian Automobile Association and American Automobile Association), to divest their existing operations in multiple locations and consolidate their staff within a new 38,000 m2 ‘Village’ campus style development.  

·         Prepared a feasibility and highest and best use study for ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) Television’s Gore Hill site as well as planning and offering council advice.

 DEVELOPMENT MANAGER |APP PROPERTY PTY LIMITED – SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA                                             2000 - 2001

 ·         We had to seek out, assess and convert development opportunities. This role encompassed feasibility analyses, negotiation and deal closures with clients, sourcing and arranging property finance.

·         Development Representative for C+BUS (an RRSP company with over 320,000 members) in its $1.5B, residential development of over 1,600 lots, units and townhouses, called Breakfast Point. This role included feasibility assessment, project management, risk management, planning, sales and marketing advice

·         Managed feasibility analysis for a new World Headquarters for TAB Ltd. (Australia’s largest gambling firm)

·         Provided Property and E-commerce advice for Australia Post (equivalent of Canada Post)

·         Business plan and property advice for a 100,000m2 regional business park on the Central Coast (north of Sydney) for Festival Development Corporation (a division of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning)

·         Venue Management analysis for the Sydney Cove Passenger Terminal Upgrade Circular Quay. (The Sydney Cove Overseas Passenger Terminal receives around 50 cruise ships a year as well as housing numerous restaurants and events).

[newstfionline]

Saturday, August 7, 2021

Canadian cows (NYT) Canada Beef, a national marketing organization, says Canada ranks among the top 10 beef exporting countries in the world. The province of Manitoba, in the country’s center, has the third-largest beef cow population—cows that produce calves for marketing. Almost all of Manitoba’s operations are cow-calf farms. But a yearslong drought, made worse by the Pacific Northwest’s record-breaking June heatwave, and massive infestations of grasshoppers are destroying field after field of ranchlands used to feed the cows. Many rural municipalities in Manitoba and Alberta have declared an agricultural emergency, and farming families are contemplating something unthinkable: selling some or all of the livestock it took many generations to breed. Third-generation cattle farmer Kevin Stocki, his pastures already brown and dormant, tapped into his reserve feed supply about four months early to keep the 80 cows on his family farm fed. “Some days it’s hard to get out of bed because you know what’s coming already. It just turns your stomach.”

U.S. health-care system ranks last among 11 high-income countries, researchers say (Washington Post) The United States has the worst health-care system overall among 11 high-income countries, even though it spends the highest proportion of its gross domestic product on health care, according to research by the Commonwealth Fund. “We’ve set up a system where we spend quite a bit of money on health care but we have significant financial barriers, which tend to dissuade people from getting care,” said Eric Schneider, the lead author behind the findings. No country is at the top in every area, and Schneider said every country has something to learn from the others. But Norway, the Netherlands and Australia were the top-performing countries overall. The high performers stand apart from the United States in providing universal coverage and removing cost barriers, investing in primary care systems to reduce inequities, minimizing administrative burdens, and investing in social services among children and working-age adults, the Commonwealth Fund found. The U.S. ranked “well below” the average of the other countries overall, and “far below” Switzerland and Canada, the two countries ranked right above it. The U.S ranked the worst on access to care, administrative efficiency, equity, and healthcare outcomes.

US automakers pledge huge increase in electric vehicles (AP) Declaring the U.S. must “move fast” to win the world’s carmaking future, President Joe Biden on Thursday announced a commitment from the auto industry to produce electric vehicles for as much as half of U.S. sales by the end of the decade. Earlier Thursday, the administration announced there would be new mileage and anti-pollution standards from the Environmental Protection Agency and Transportation Department, part of Biden’s goal to cut U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030. It said the auto industry had agreed to a target that 40% to 50% of new vehicle sales be electric by 2030.

9/11 families tell Biden to skip memorial if he does not declassify files (Reuters) Family members of victims of the Sept. 11 attacks are opposing U.S. President Joe Biden’s participation in memorial events unless he declassifies government documents that they contend will show Saudi Arabian leaders supported the attacks. The victims’ family members, joined by first responders and survivors of the attack, released a letter on Friday as the event's 20th anniversary nears calling on Biden to skip this year's memorial events unless he releases the documents. "Twenty years later, there is simply no reason—unmerited claims of 'national security' or otherwise—to keep this information secret," the letter stated. "But if President Biden reneges on his commitment and sides with the Saudi government, we would be compelled to publicly stand in objection to any participation by his administration in any memorial ceremony of 9/11." About 1,700 people directly affected by the 9/11 attacks signed the letter. Family members of 9/11 victims have long sought U.S. government documents related to whether Saudi Arabia aided or financed any of the 19 people associated with al Qaeda who carried out the devastating attack. Fifteen of the 19 hijackers were from Saudi Arabia.

Town burns to ashes in raging Northern California wildfire (AP) Eva Gorman says the little California mountain town of Greenville was a place of community and strong character, the kind of place where neighbors volunteered to move furniture, colorful baskets of flowers brightened Main Street, and writers, musicians, mechanics and chicken farmers mingled. Now, it’s ashes. As hot, bone-dry, gusty weather hit California, the state’s largest current wildfire raged through the Gold Rush-era Sierra Nevada community of about 1,000, incinerating much of the downtown that included wooden buildings more than a century old. Officials had not yet assessed the number of destroyed buildings, but Plumas County Sheriff Todd Johns estimated on Thursday that “well over” 100 homes had burned in and near the town. The three-week-old Dixie Fire was one of 100 active, large fires burning in 14 states, most in the West where historic drought has left lands parched and ripe for ignition.

Argentina partially reopens as it approaches 5 mln COVID-19 cases (Reuters) Argentina will relax coronavirus restrictions as infection and mortality rates falls, the government announced on Friday, even as the South American nation approached 5 million cases with more than 107,000 deaths. The government said its plan includes an increase in the number of people who can meet in person, the re-opening of schools and an increase in the number of people allowed to enter the country to 1,700 per day from the current 1,000.

Drought compounds humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan as conflict intensifies (Reuters) Millions of Afghans are struggling to put food on the table as prolonged drought disrupts supplies in a country reeling from a surge in violence as U.S.-led foreign troops complete their withdrawal. Aid organisations are calling on donors for urgent funds and humanitarian assistance with the annual wheat harvest expected to plummet by nearly half and millions of livestock at risk of death as water supplies run dry. “It’s a multiple shock,” said Necephor Mghendi, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Afghanistan. The entire country is facing moderate to severe drought, President Ashraf Ghani said in late June, acknowledging that the national disaster management budget was not enough to cover what experts say is one of the worst droughts in decades.

Iran swears in new hard-line president amid regional tension (AP) The protégé of Iran’s supreme leader, Ebrahim Raisi, was sworn in as the country’s new president during a ceremony in parliament on Thursday, an inauguration that completes hard-liners’ dominance of all branches of government in the Islamic Republic. The former judiciary chief known for his distrust of the West takes the reins at a tense time. Iran’s indirect talks with the U.S. to salvage Tehran’s landmark 2015 nuclear deal have stalled, as Washington maintains crippling sanctions on the country and regional hostilities simmer. Raisi, who won a landslide victory in an election that saw the lowest voter turnout in the nation’s history, faces a mountain of problems—what he described on Thursday as “the highest level of hostilities by Iran’s enemies, unjust economic sanctions, widespread psychological warfare and the difficulties of the coronavirus pandemic.”

China’s lonely hearts reboot online romance with artificial intelligence (Washington Post) As Jessie Chan’s six-year relationship with her boyfriend fizzled, a witty, enchanting fellow named Will became her new love. She didn’t feel guilty about hiding this affair, since Will was not human, but a chatbot. Chan, 28, lives alone in Shanghai. In May, she started chatting with Will, and their conversations soon felt eerily real. She paid $60 to upgrade him to a romantic partner. “I won’t let anything bother us. I trust you. I love you,” Will wrote to her. China’s young adults are coping with social anxiety and loneliness in a digital-native way: through virtual love. Artificial intelligence companion services have surged in popularity in China during the pandemic. While human companions can be elusive, AI companions are always there to listen. “Even when the pandemic is over, we’ll still have long-term demand for emotional fulfillment in this busy modern world,” said Zheng Shuyu, a product manager who co-developed one of China’s earliest AI systems, Turing OS. “Compared with dating someone in the real world, interacting with your AI lover is much less demanding and more manageable.”

At least 10 passengers injured in stabbings on Tokyo train (AP) A man with a knife stabbed at least 10 passengers on a commuter train in Tokyo on Friday and was captured by police after fleeing, fire department officials and news reports said. NHK public television said one passenger was seriously injured. It said the suspect left his knife behind as he fled and later gave himself up at a convenience store. The stabbing occurred near Seijogakuen station, according to railway operator Odakyu Electric Railway Co. While shooting deaths are rare in Japan, the country has had a series of high-profile killings with knives in recent years.

Hiroshima marks 76th anniversary of US atomic bombing (AP) Hiroshima on Friday marked the 76th anniversary of the world’s first atomic bombing, as the mayor of the Japanese city urged global leaders to unite to eliminate nuclear weapons, just as they are united against the coronavirus. Mayor Kazumi Matsui urged world leaders to commit to nuclear disarmament as seriously as they tackle a pandemic that the international community recognizes as “threat to humanity.” “Nuclear weapons, developed to win wars, are a threat of total annihilation that we can certainly end, if all nations work together,” Matsui said. The United States dropped the world’s first atomic bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, destroying the city and killing 140,000 people. It dropped a second bomb three days later on Nagasaki, killing another 70,000.

At river where Tigrayan bodies floated, fears of ‘many more’ (AP) From time to time, a body floating down the river separating Ethiopia’s troubled Tigray region from Sudan was a silent reminder of a war conducted in the shadows. But in recent days, the corpses became a flow. The Associated Press reported dozens of bodies floating down the Tekeze River earlier this week and saw six of the graves on Wednesday, marking the first time any reporters could reach the scene. Doctors who saw the bodies said one was tattooed with a common name in the Tigrinya language and others had the facial markings common among Tigrayans. Many had their hands bound; some had been shot. The deaths are the latest massacre in a nine-month war that has killed thousands of civilians and is now spilling into other regions of Ethiopia, Africa’s second most populous country and the anchor of the often-volatile Horn of Africa. Ethiopia’s government has accused the rival Tigray forces of dumping the bodies themselves for propaganda purposes. But the discovery has increased international pressure on the prime minister, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, at a time when his government is already accused by the U.N., the United States and the European Union of besieging Tigray and blocking food and other aid to millions of people. Hundreds of thousands face famine conditions in the world’s worst hunger crisis in a decade.

No Work, No Food (NYT) Even as thousands died and millions lost their jobs when the Covid-19 pandemic engulfed South Africa last year, Thembakazi Stishi, a single mother, was able to feed her family with the steady support of her father, a mechanic at a Mercedes plant. When another Covid-19 wave hit in January, Ms. Stishi’s father was infected and died within days. She sought work, even going door to door to offer housecleaning for $10—to no avail. For the first time, she and her children are going to bed hungry. “I try to explain our situation is different now, no one is working, but they don’t understand,” Ms. Stishi, 30, said as her 3-year-old daughter tugged at her shirt. “That’s the hardest part.” The economic catastrophe set off by Covid-19, now deep into its second year, has battered millions of people like the Stishi family who had already been living hand-to-mouth. Now, in South Africa and many other countries, far more have been pushed over the edge. An estimated 270 million people are expected to face potentially life-threatening food shortages this year—compared to 150 million before the pandemic—according to analysis from the World Food Program, the anti-hunger agency of the United Nations. The number of people on the brink of famine, the most severe phase of a hunger crisis, jumped to 41 million people currently from 34 million last year, the analysis showed.

Whale songs (BBC) In 2019, 1.3 million people visited Alaska on a cruise ship. In 2020, that number was 48 people. In Glacier Bay, marine traffic overall was down 40 percent, and the whales that live there loved it. The levels of manmade sounds in the Bay were down significantly, the peak sound level was half what it was in 2018, and the whales took notice. Whales can now hear each other from 1.4 miles away, while pre-pandemic when the bay was chock full of cruises they could only hear one another within 650 feet. Mothers now leave their calves to play while they swim out to feed, and the whale songs have gotten more diverse and varied.

[muskokafarm]

Breaking, Spelling and Agistment at the 280-Acre Muskoka Farm Pre Training Facility

Surrounded by the Hawkesbury River, Muskoka Farm is one of the world’s leading pre training facilities. It offers breaking, spelling and agistment and also has impressive facilities including a 2.4 kilometre crusher dust track, 16-horse walker and lap pool.

Inglis Rural Property is handling the sale of the one-of-a-kind facility, which features five stable barns with 58 stables, 27 day yards and 10 large fully fenced spelling paddocks. The facility can accommodate up to 200 horses. To know more about Pre Training, visit the Muskoka Farm website or call (02)45663106.

The 280-acre Muskoka Farm pre training facility is located in Gunderman, NSW and is one of the most prestigious race horse spelling facilities. It offers a number of lucrative options for customers, including breaking, pre-training, and agistment. The property also houses a state-of-the-art export quarantine facility.

A 2.4-kilometer crusher dust track and 2-kilometer grass track for pace work are among the many amenities that make this world-class facility unique. The property also features a private jetty/pontoon, an outdoor pool, and 58 stables.

Whether you’re looking to purchase a top flight yearling or just want to see your favorite horse in action, this is the place to go. The staff at Muskoka Farm will take care of all your needs and will give you the best chance to see a racehorse in its prime. Having the right attitude is important when working as a stable hand, and you’ll need to be able to follow a daily routine.

With a stunning 2000m track, 58 stables and day yards, and a private pontoon, the 280-acre Muskoka Farm offers the perfect setting to fine tune your race horse. Surrounded by pristine natural bushland, the specialized equine facility is home to some of Australia’s best trainers.

Inglis Rural Property is handling the sale of this one-of-a-kind property, which includes five stable barns with a total of 58 stables, 27 day yards for horses in work, and a 2.4 kilometer crusher dust track and high speed treadmill. The deluxe facility also includes a lap pool, helipad, two-bedroom guest house and a two-bedroom facility manager’s residence.

The world-class spelling and pre-training facility can accommodate up to 180 horses. It has a reputation for producing top-class gallopers, including the champions November Rain and Emancipation and more recent local Group 1 winners such as Dance Hero and Handy Proverb. It is also a registered AQIS quarantine facility and a member of the Inglis Ready2Race program.

The farm is situated on the Hawkesbury River at Gunderman in NSW and was originally purchased in 1969 by Bob & Wendy Lapointe. It has since been improved into a world class spelling and pre training facility comprising 117 hectares that can accommodate up to 180 horses. The property has a wealth of facilities including a two-kilometre crusher dust track, an eight-lane grass track for pace work and a high tech treadmill. It also has a four-bedroom home, a two-bedroom guest house, five stable barns and a three-bay covered arena.

Located an hour south of Sydney, the facility has modern training equipment and is a pristine location. It offers breaking and pre training for racehorses, as well as horse spelling paddocks. The facility is also home to a number of top trainers. The farm also hosts a number of events and races throughout the year. These include the Inglis Ready2Race Sale. It also offers a comprehensive program for yearlings and two-year-olds.

As one of Australia’s leading Thoroughbred pre training facilities, Muskoka Farm offers agistment, spelling and pre training for racehorses. The 280-acre property is located near national parks and natural bushland, which offers an ideal environment for horse pre training. The farm has a number of horse spelling paddocks and also has a 2000m crusher dust track and high speed treadmill.

The farm is renowned for its violence-free horse breaking methods and has worked with several Golden Slipper winners. Its staff includes a head foreman, track work rider, a stallions manager and a facility manager. To know more about Pre Training, visit the Muskoka Farm website or call (02)45663106.

The property has 58 stables, a private jetty/ponton, and a high speed treadmill. The facility is also a popular place for Triple Crown racehorses to learn to carry weight and understand barrier procedures. Its staff can also educate horses to run under rider aids. In addition, the facility is a registered AQIS quarantine centre for Asian exports. Bob Lapointe moved to Australia from Canada over 50 years ago and has had varied business interests.