Victor D. Infante |Telegram & Gazette

There was every reason to believe that 2020 would be a big year for Ricky Duran. A onetime fixture of the Worcester music scene who grew up in Grafton, Duran garnered attention with his spectacular journey on the televised singing competitionThe Voice, where he placed second overall. In the conventional wisdom of the music industry, that's often as good as winning: You get all the PR benefits of the win, with none of the contractual entanglements. Duran had talent, visibility and freedom, and was well-poised for a success.

Then COVID-19 hit the pause button on everything, but he hasn't been idle during the pandemic.

I've been working a lot on all this music behind the scenes since COVID started, said Duran, in a phone call from Los Angeles, where he was working on an EP due out next year. I've been trying to use this time to write as much as possible, record as much as possible.

All of that labor will soon bear fruit, beginning with his first single since his time on The Voice, She Closed Her Eyes, which will be released on Dec. 4 on all platforms. Duran says the single is already available for preorder on Amazon and Apple Music.

I've had a tug of war with some record deals, says Duran, but I've decided to go ahead and release it on my own to start. I feel I owe it to the people who supported me to give them some new music.

He's not just starting with any song, though. He's starting on a deeply personal note: She Closed Her Eyes was written for his late mother, Odette Duran, who died from breast cancer in 2018.

It's a song I wrote about two years ago, says Duran, recounting how he wrote the song shortly after his mother's death. I grabbed my guitar and the lyrics just sort of flowed out.

He says he thinks his fans who call themselves "Duranimals" will appreciate the song's honesty and emotional vulnerability. Those are important to Duran, who says he has been working on staying true to my art and not selling out, not making music for the purpose of pleasing anyone else besides myself and my fans.

Duran's Duranimals have been an enduringly loyal presence online, ever since his blind audition on "The Voice," where his soulful rendition ofLeon Bridges River caused all four judges to turn their chairs for him. Duran chose country star Blake Shelton to be his mentor for the season, and continued to succeed by putting his personal spin on such songs as Ray LaMontagne's "You Are the Best Thing," Tom Petty's "Runnin' Down a Dream," Tom Waits' "Downtown Train" and the Beatles' "Let ItBe."

Still, he's cognizant of the opportunities he's missed during the pandemic, including a sold-out show at The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts here in Worcester. He says he was looking forward to the show, which was postponed until March 2021, which was kind of a bummer. But now things seem to be moving for him again, at least in the virtual space, if not the real world.

In addition to the single being released Dec. 4, a music video will be released the same day. It was filmed at his mother's old house in Shrewsbury.

In addition, he's set to perform his first full-scale concert since his time on The Voice, which will stream live on Dec. 9.

It's basically my premiere concert, says Duran. It's going to be pro, as opposed to the shows he and other musicians have performed online from their living rooms in recent months. The show will stream live from the Continental Club in Austin, where he lives. He'll be backed in the concert by Jon Deas, who plays piano with Gary Clark Jr.; drummer Mike Braz of Worcester-local favorite bandthe Blue Light Bandits; Dakota Colby on bass; and Billy Blunt on backup guitar.

The concert will be streamed online athttps://boxoffice.mandolin.com/collections/ricky-duran. Tickets are available for $20-$75, with higher prices including a merchandise bundle and a Q&A afterward.

Duran admits it feels good to be getting back to business, even if it'sby necessityin a limited way.

I feel kind of anxious about getting out there, he says, especially after all the publicity I got on 'The Voice.' But it's just like anyone else. We're all in this together. Everybody feels the same. I'm just trying to zone in on my craft and to prepare for the what's next.

Read more here:
A year after 'Voice' success, Ricky Duran is ready to start with new single, 'She Closed Her Eyes' - Worcester Telegram

By: Michael Bamberger November 19, 2020

Tiger Woods resolve on Masters Sunday was something to behold.

getty images

This Thursday morning, on the one-week anniversary of Tiger Woods opening 68 at the Masters, I find myself thinking about his closing six holes, on Sunday. He made that 10 on the par-3 12th. (A moose, old golf hands were calling it by Sunday night, hands above the ears, fingers spread out.)

And then theres what he did from 13 to the house.

Two-putt birdie on the par-5 13th.

Two-putt par on the par-4 14th, after nearly holing his first putt, from 35 feet.

Up-and-down birdie on the par-5 15th: driver, 3-wood, chip, putt.

One-putt birdie on the par-3 16th, after stuffing a tee shot to the uncustomary back-right Sunday pin.

One-putt birdie on the par-4 17th, making a six-footer.

And then to the par-4 18th, where at last years Masters he made a leaking-oil bogey to win on Masters Sunday. This year, on Masters Sunday, he made a one-putt birdie on that hole, after an uphill take-that 315-yard drive and a holed putt from 5 feet.

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As youve read a hundred times by now: After making 10 on 12, Woods played the final six holes in five under par.

No two-hour period in his golfing life ever revealed more about the man.

The pride!

The athletic pride. The pride of the man. The ultimate secret to his success.

Tigers natural gifts are obvious to anyone who has been watching him over the past quarter-century. (Woods is 44, with a smooth face and scarred body.) But his fierce pride, his obsessive desire to make virtually every shot count, makes him one of the best grinders to ever play the game. It is why you can never count him out. Hell make the cut. Hes come back from physical injury and personal humiliation. He has been down but he has never been out.

Woods made that moose and you know what he had to be thinking to himself: thats not me. He got, to use a phrase of his fathers first game (baseball), the red ass. As he has his whole career, Tiger turned anger into focus and focus into superb golf.

Yes, it takes immense skill to do what he did on those final six holes. But if he had let that 10 settle in him, if he had let it define him even for the day, we would have seen him sleep-walk through those final six holes. He played like a man on fire, a man contending.

The whole thing brought to mind a famous Joe DiMaggio quote. A reporter asked the great Yankee centerfielder why he played so hard. Because theres always some kid who may be seeing me for the first time, DiMaggio said. I owe him my best. Thats Tiger, even if his gaze is more inward than to the rope lines. Tiger is going to show himself. Its not by coincidence that Tiger raises Bernhard Langers name on a regular basis these days. He sees himself in Bernhard. Bernhard has no quit.

At the Memorial Tournament this year, Woods had a solid first-round 71. He looked good. As is often the case these days, his body is day-to-day. In the second round it seemed like he might not break 80. He finished with two birdies and a par for 76 and made the cut on the number.

When he came in, he was in a grumpy mood but took questions from reporters anyhow. I happened to be last in line (there was a line) and asked him to define grinder.

Anyone who fights all day, Woods said. Guys that dont ever want to make bogeys.

Thats about perfect.

Thats why Woods made 142 consecutive cuts, a PGA Tour record, from 1998 to 2005. Grinding, grinding, grinding. The pride. The pride. The pride.

His pride helped him return to golfs pinnacle after he endured the humiliation of his private life being turned inside-out in 2009 and 2010.

His pride helped him win again at East Lake, at the Tour Championship, in September 2018 after yet another back surgery and the humiliation of a DUI arrest. His pride is his secret weapon. Its why hes always prepared. He always has a plan.

Have you noticed, over the years, every time you see him he looks like Tiger Woods? The pressed pants. The tucked shirt. The erect carriage.

The pride of the man.

Over the years, Tiger has had some random pairings on weekends, with players trying to make it in the game. More than once, these players have asked him for advice. He always says some variant of the same thing.

Stay with it.

Keep working.

Dont give up.

Michael Bamberger welcomes your comments at Michael_Bamberger@Golf.com.

Michael Bamberger writes for GOLF Magazine and contributes to GOLF.com. He also participates in podcasts, primarily in tandem with Alan Shipnuck. Earlier in his career, he was a senior writer for Sports Illustrated for 23 years and a reporter on The Philadelphia Inquirer for nine years before that. He has written a half-dozen books about golf and other subjects. His magazine work has been featured in multiple editions of The Best American Sports Writing. He holds a U.S. patent on a utility golf club called the E-Club. In 2016, he was given the Donald Ross Award by the American Society of Golf Course Architects, the organizations highest honor.

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The secret to Tiger Woods success was revealed in these 2 remarkable... - Golf.com

Issued on: 16/11/2020 - 12:49

This week, we speak to Isabelle Rabier, the founder and CEO of Jolimoi, a French start-up that's revolutionising how women get beauty advice thanks to a powerful algorithm that tells consumers which product is their best match.

The current global pandemic has changed consumer expectations in a big way. As lockdowns were imposed across the world, personal safety and hygiene became top concerns. And in that context, one area in particular has seen unprecedented growth: online sales.

All industries are concerned by this transformation, including the beauty sector. One success storyis Jolimoi. This Paris-based French startuphas harnessed artificial intelligence to assist women in finding the right beauty products online. It hosts 40 beauty brands and has more than1,000 beauty ambassadors in France and Belgium and is set to expand tothe rest of the world.We speak to the founder and CEO of Jolimoi, Isabelle Rabier.

Our tech editorPeter O'Brien also gives us his insightinto the type of competition the French startup is facing.

But first, all eyes have been on Covid-19 this year, but other diseases continue to kill hundreds of thousands of people across the globe. Malaria is one of them. We tell you more about aUK government-fundedproject which uses satellites and drones to help counter the disease.

Finally, we test BOB by Daan Tech. It's without a doubt the world's smallest dishwasher!

Read more here:
Tech 24 - Jolimoi: The success story of a French beauty startup - FRANCE 24

November 20, 2020 12:50 ET | Source: Hemp, Inc.

Las Vegas, NV, Nov. 20, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire--Hemp, Inc.(OTC PINK: HEMP) a global leader in the industrial hemp industry with bi-coastal processing centers, announced today it expects to roll-out its Midnight Express-Find Your Freedom pre-roll brand in honor of Billy Hayes who made the name famous in the 1978 movie Midnight Express that chronicles his five years behind bars and eventual escape from a Turkish prison for trying to smuggle hashish out of Turkey. The company expects to aggressively ship out the line to stores across the country over the next 30-60 days. To date, theKing of Hempproduct line consists of Bubba Kush hemp;CBD Pre-rolls, Fortified CBD Pre-rolls, CBD and CBG Caviar/Moon Rocks; and Diamonds (which are 96%-98.7% CBD, the only product like this in the marketplace today).

Bruce Perlowin, CEO of Hemp, Inc. (OTC: HEMP), says, Its an honor to launch theMidnight Express-Find Your Freedompre-roll line. This is the second brand. There will be a total of 50 which includes theDaring and Dashing Smith Brothers (the legendary and infamous smugglers from South Florida); the Doc Master; The Barron of Barges; The Duke of Dope; Carol the Courier; Al the Good Bad Guy; The Golden Dragon Lady; Randy the Racer; Boston Billy; Dopey Don the Genius; and, more. They are the smugglers of yesteryear and will each have their own special strains, blends and flavors.

Hayes, who is an American writer, actor, and film director, is best known for his autobiographical bookMidnight Expresswhich chronicles his experiences in and escape from a Turkish prison, after being convicted of smugglinghashish. He was one of hundreds of US citizens in foreign jails serving drug charge sentences, following a drug-smuggling crackdown by foreign governments.His book was later adapted into the 1978 film of the same name starring Brad Davis as Hayes. The film was directed by Alan Parker, with a screenplay by Oliver Stone. Hayes has since written the sequelsMidnight Return (Escaping Midnight Express)andThe Midnight Express Letters - from a Turkish Prison, 1970-1975, which is a collection of the original letters written home to family and friends during his imprisonment.Midnight Express Epilogue: The Train Keeps Rollingwill be published in 2021.

According to Perlowin, Natural Blum Farms, in the Applegate of Southern Oregons Rogue Valley, had a successful CBG (non-detectible THC) grow this year. We plan to use 500 pounds of it to package the Billy Hayes line. Natural Blum Farms has been very resilient despite unpredictable weather. They believe having a drying facility on site really made a difference as they raced to complete this years harvest. The size of the colas was huge. Most have already been bucked and trimmed and some will be trimmed at our facility in Las Vegas... from field straight to the consumer!

Its a very busy time for Hemp, Inc. with the Company revving up to launch one of its most aggressive marketing campaigns to date. Its goal has always been to produce top-of-the-line CBD and CBG smokable products and CBD consumption options that fit consumer lifestyles and deliver unparalleled results.

The other King of Hempproducts already in the market are itsDiamondsandCrumbles(smaller Diamond pieces) are dabbable CBD products, derived from a golden-hued high CBD, THC-free distillate taken directly from the hemp plant that includes blends of valuable terpenes. Diamonds and Crumbles promise to deliver the strongest, most potent effects of any other product from the line containing between 96% and 98.7% pure CBD.

Consumption methods include, but are not limited to, utilizing a dab rig or a wax vaporizer for the fastest, strongest results. (While Hemp, Inc. does not cultivate, manufacture or produce any type of THC product, consumers of the Companys CBD product Diamonds report that mixing Diamonds with a THC concentrate helps to mellow THCs effects).

The Diamonds and Crumbles are the perfect way for its customers to get a pure, clean CBD dabbing experience with instant results that last. Hemp, Inc.sCaviar, similar to Moon Rocks, is a highly potent and rich tasting smokable product with less than 0.3% THC. It is made from Hemp, Inc.s high-quality Southern Oregon-grown Bubba Kush hemp flower, which is covered with a THC-Free distillate (with and without added terpenes), and then rolled in CBG-rich kief. The product contains over 45% CBD and over 10% CBG.

Many people prefer to smoke their hemp products due to the speed and effectiveness of the delivery system. By entering the body through the respiratory system, there is a dramatic increase in bioavailability as compared to oral consumption. It is the fastest way to receive CBD and CBGs potential calming and pain-relieving benefits.

Consumption methods include but are not limited to vaporizing Caviar in an all-ceramic or stainless steel vaporizer to capture the full terpene profile and cannabinoid effects; or using a glass water pipe. While Caviar is not a cannabis product, smoking it the way hash is smoked is recommended to achieve the best results.

Caviar exemplifies the variety of ways consumers can enjoy CBD and CBG and reflects our brand vision of providing a superior, royal experience, said Perlowin.

King of Hemppre-rolls use A and B hemp colas which are derived from Pre-98 OG Bubba Kush hemp, one of the top selling cultivars on the market. The strain, rich soil and climate lend themselves to these colas being among the highest quality buds, positioning them to be some of the best tasting for consumption.

The Companys website for its King of Hempline (www.kingofhempusa.com) also hasCBD oil tincturesavailable for purchase. The tinctures are available in two flavors, Natural and Peppermint, and contain full-spectrum hemp oil extracted from the flowers and leaves of hemp plants sustainably sourced from Colorado. They are also compliant with the regulations created by the Colorado Department of Agriculture in regards to industrial hemp. The tinctures contain 0.3% or less THC and are compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill.

To learn more, go to the King of Hempwebsite,here.

According to Nielsen, market researchers project 2020 sales in the current smokable-hemp market to reach $70 million to $80 million. This category includes loose CBD flower, hemp-CBD pre-rolls, cigars and other inhalables.

To see one-minute videos of Hemp, Inc.s current activities, visit Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook fan page, where he shares posts of Hemp, Inc.s activities around the country. Additionally, follow Hemp, Inc. on Instagramhereand on Twitterhere.

Those interested in King of Hemppre-rolls; hemp-derived CBDtinctures; Caviar; Diamonds; should visitwww.kingofhempusa.comor email sales@kingofhempusa.com.

To view the webinar featuring Hemp, Inc.s CEO, Bruce Perlowin, clickhere.

WHAT IS HEMP, INC.?

What is Hemp, Inc.?With a deep-rooted social and environmental mission at its core,Hemp, Inc.seeks to build a business constituency for the American smallhemp farmer, the American veteran, and other groups experiencing the ever-increasing disparity between tapering income and soaring expenses. The Company is on a mission to be a powerful engine for social change and economic revival, worldwide, by providing hemp products that are eco-friendly, sustainable and healthy. Hemp, Inc. executives believe there can be tangible benefits reaped from adhering to a corporate social responsibility plan.

HEMP, INC.S TEN DIVISIONS

It has been Hemp, Inc.s intent to continually invest in building its hemp infrastructure, especially since none existed previously. In fact, the Company has instinctively been following the same path as Amazon reinvesting profits and operating capital back into building the infrastructure. This is a business strategy that has been proven and works well.

All the years leading up to this point were building and finishing the largest hemp infrastructure in America and now the Company is focusing 90% of its efforts on marketing and generating revenues. The result, so far, has been almost crossing the million dollar mark in revenue in just 10 weeks.

Hemp, Inc.s ten divisions are as follows:

Division One The Industrial Hemp Infrastructure

Division Two The Hemp Farming Infrastructure

Division Three The Hemp Extraction & Pre-Roll Blending Infrastructure

Division FourThe Hemp Educational Infrastructure

Division Five The Hemp Marketing Infrastructure

Division Six Accessories, Products and Services

Division Seven Research and Development

Division EightIndustrial Hemp Investments and Joint Ventures

Division NineIndustrial Hemp Consulting

Division Ten Educational Entertainment

Division OneThe Industrial Hemp Infrastructure

The Industrial Hemp Infrastructure(Division One)currently consists of two hemp processing facilities across the country, with two more under development, which will include an in-house third party testing laboratory. The largest of the two is its multi-purposeindustrial hempprocessing facility and milling operation inSpring Hope, North Carolina. Its the largest industrial hemp processing center in the western hemisphere and has grown to become one of the pre-eminent centers of the industrial hemp industry. The 85,000 square foot facility sits on 9-acres.It is environmentally sustainable and was built from the ground up in hopes of Making America Hemp Again." With a patent pending manufacturing process, the North Carolina facility is operating full time to process millions of pounds of the Companys unique kenaf-hemp blend, to manufacture all-greennatural loss circulation material (LCMs), calledDrillWall . The DrillWall is to be sold to the oil and gas drilling industry, along with an all-green natural oil spill absorbent, a second industrial kenaf-hemp product calledSpill-Be-Gone.

"We currently have 769,794 pounds of raw kenaf bales, 363,225 pounds of DrillWall; and, 453,000 pounds of Spill-B-Gone. Thats a total of 1,586,019 pounds of product which translates into finished product that will be sold for $1 - $4 per pound," said Perlowin.

In addition to the companysindustrial hemp processing facility in Spring Hope, North Carolina, Hemp, Inc. also rents one of the most sophisticated local processing centers (LPC) in White City, Oregon which focuses on hemp harvesting, drying, curing, trimming, bagging, storing, and in some cases selling high CBD hemp for local farmers and the Companys own hemp grows in that area, and post processing for the CBD industry. The Companys main focus is the King of Hemppre-rolls and high CBD smokable buds a new phenomenon of smoking hemp which has caught the marketplace by storm.

Hemp, Inc. and their associates also have 4,500 acres of land in Golden Valley, Arizona(100 miles from Las Vegas, 20 miles north of Kingman, AZ). Out of the 4,500 acres of land, 500 acres are designated for the Veterans Village Kins Community (VVKC) for Arizona. Hemp, Inc. is preparing 80+ acres, of the 500 acres, for hemp cultivation. The company aims to boost the economies of these towns by offering affordable hemp processing services, which incentivizes local growers to add hemp to their crop rotation. The company is continuing to scout new locations for local processing centers in Florida, Kentucky, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, North Carolina and several other states.

Thus far, Hemp, Inc.s Local Processing Center (LPC) in Oregon has employed over 200 employees during its 2018 harvest season and over 300 employees during its 2019 harvest season. As of first quarter 2020, the Company has employed close to 50 employees who are bucking, trimming, sorting, bagging and shipping the Companys high quality premium Pre-98 OG Bubba Kush hemp.

Division One Products:

DrillWall (a loss circulation material)

Spill-Be-Gone (an oil spill cleanup product)

Hemp bioplastics

As of first quarter 2020, Hemp, Inc. is fulfilling a $1 million dollar sales agreement, through its subsidiary, Industrial Hemp Manufacturing (IHM), for itsDrillWall. According to CEO,Bruce Perlowin, the Company has executed a sales agreement to sell $1 million worth of DrillWall over the course of one year. IHM received its first $30,000 payment and shipped the first batch of DrillWall out in December, 2019 and another $60,000 payment was received for the second batch of DrillWall in February, 2020 and a $30,000 payment in March, 2020. We expect the remaining balance from the $1,000,000 over the next few months, said Perlowin. IHM is based in Spring Hope, North Carolina, and is the production facility forDrillWall, along with other industrialhemp products.

Division TwoThe Hemp Farming Infrastructure

The Hemp Farming Infrastructure(Division Two)consists of hundreds of acres of hemp and kenaf growing in multiple locations, farm equipment, cloning rooms, clones and seeds, grow rooms, greenhouses, hemp drying facilities and a huge amount of peripheral farming tools and equipment. The progress Hemp, Inc. has made in its agricultural endeavors, over the course of four years, has been amazing. This year marks the fifth year that Hemp, Inc. has been growing hemp.(To see Hemp, Inc.s agricultural progress from2016through May, 2020, visit Bruce Perlowins personal Facebook page athttps://www.facebook.com/kingofpotand scroll through posts from2016to the present. Visithttps://www.hempincpresents.com/to see the videos of Hemp, Inc.s grows in multiple locations.)

Hemp, Inc. also has two Small Family Hemp Farm models. The Small Family Hemp Farm in North Carolina is situated on 12 acres and consists of a cloning room, a greenhouse, and enough land to grow 2,000-3,000 high CBD or CBG hemp plants.(This model farm can be seen onBruce Perlowin's Facebook page, in the Aug. 22nd - 26th, 2018 posts.)The model shows farmers how to grow high CBD and CBG hemp plants, operate a greenhouse and turn a barn into a cloning room to earn up to $100,000+ a year. This shows an example of how the Small Family Hemp Farm can be duplicated and reappear on the American landscape. After all, the original small family farms in America were able to survive economically by growing hemp as their main cash crop and the first five presidents of the United States were allhemp farmers.

A model Small Family Hemp Farm is located Dolan Springs, Arizona. This Small Family Hemp Farm is referred to as The Orchard since it has a sizable organic orchard. There are 2 acres on which hemp will be grown; a cloning room; cold storage; and a greenhouse that is planned to be installed. This year mostly CBG hemp will be grown.

This year, according to Perlowin, the company is consulting on a 55-acre grow in Oregon, partnering with Tractor Richard for 40 acres of CBG hemp and 100 acres of kenaf in Mohave Valley, Arizona.(See Bruce PerlowinsFacebookpage post for May 19, 2020.)The 10 40 acres in Golden Valley, Arizona for the Veteran Village Kins Community is based on how many people will sign up for the Hempathon(1 acre joint venture grows with Hemp, Inc.), hundreds of acres in North Carolina(a combination of hemp and kenaf), and an undetermined amount in other states.

It should be noted that the number of acreage and the amount to be grown has fluctuated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Perlowin says collective sales from all of these grows will be extremely significant in terms of pre-rolls, high CBD and CBG buds, distillate, isolate, biomass and many other products. This year is about sales and marketing for us. Right now, I believe we have the largest footprint of bio-diverse hemp products with vertical integration in the hemp industry in America today. We are always looking for joint ventures where we have or can expand our footprint, commented Perlowin.

Moreover, A to Z services for the farmers are available - from harvesting to drying, curing, bucking, machine trimming, hand trimming, bagging, storing, nitrogen sparging, and selling creating a one stop shop for the small to large family farms.

Division Two Products include:

Thesuper-premiumKing of Hemppre-rollsare in full production and use Hemp, Inc.s A and B hemp colas. The A and B hemp colas are derived from Oregon-grown Pre-98 OG Bubba Kush, one of the top selling cultivars on the market. The strain, rich soil and climate lend themselves to these colas being among the highest quality buds, positioning them to be some of the best tasting for consumption.

Advocates say Oregon has a uniquely suited climate, politically and agriculturally, to dominate the fast-growing industry. Given that Oregon farmers have demonstrated the ability to grow world-renowned products, it makes sense that they would be able to produce some of the best hemp buds in the world. Hemp Inc.s grow operation in Oregon is among the best in the state and has yielded some of the highest quality hemp colas on the market. The company believes that they will hit the 20% mark of their grade A buds and the rest of the Companys high-quality colas will be used for their new line of pre-rolls.

TheKing of Hemp pre-roll line offers high-end products that are an effective and flavorful, smokable alternative to cigarettes and other hemp consumption methods. The remaining A and B colas used in the newly launchedKing of Hemppre-rolls are compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill, federal regulations, and regulations in the markets where they are available for purchase. TheKing of Hemppre-rolls can be purchased individually or in packs of 6. Each pre-roll is 1 gram and does not exceed 0.3% THC.

As of the first quarter, sales from the pre-rolls total $3,435. The packaging (boxes) for the pre-rolls were delayed for two months due to COVID-19 but executives say everything is back on track and they have 100,000 boxes in inventory as well as 100,000 tubes for the pre-rolls in inventory. With everything back on track, pre-roll sales are expected to explode with massive revenues to be generated next quarter.

Consumers can also shop on the newly redesigned websitewww.kingofhempusa.comfor theKing of Hemppre-rollsandhemp tinctures. Each pre-roll contains a smooth, nearly odorless natural hemp smoke. They are tightly rolled into a filtered cigarette rice paper for the ultimate discreet smoke. Many users have said theKing of Hemppre-rolls present a calming experience, perfect for alleviating feelings of anxiousness and gaining mental clarity.

TheKing of Hemptinctures also hit the market with steady sales. While there was a slight interruption in sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic, sales are now back on track. The tinctures available onwww.kingofhempusa.comare fast-acting CBD oil tinctures that contain the full spectrum of hemp oil extracted from the flowers and leaves of hemp plants grown by the Company. It contains .3% or less THC so its federally legal nationwide.

Within the next 30 days, the Company expects to roll-out the second product in theKing of Hemp(KOH) product line Midnight Express in honor of Billy Hayes who made the name famous in the 1978 movie Midnight Express chronicling his suffering at the hands of Turkish authorities for trying to smuggle hash shish out of Turkey.

Hemp, Inc. is also hosting the Hempathon at theVeteran Village Kins Communityin Arizona. Contestants are growing 1 acre of hemp in a contest with other growers from around the country. Hemp, Inc. is providing land, water, security, and live streaming video coverage for participants. The Hempathon entry fee is $5,000 and a 50/50 revenue split. Winners of the Hempathon will share in several awards and prizes of up to $50,000.

The Veteran Village Kins Community in Arizona has 6 domes and the overnight RV camping sites(seeBruce Perlowins Facebook page post on 5/16/20)are being set up so people can stay on the land during the Hempathon grow. Live streaming video cameras are also ready, so the world can watch the The Great American Hempathon in real time.

Also, as part of the Hempathon, Hemp, Inc.s Hemp Academy (Arizona) will offer classes in one of its geodesic domes during the Hempathon, which will include hemp experts, product developers, field trips to the grow area, and more. This hands-on, interactive, educational experience is the chance of a lifetime for people to learn about this new emerging multi-billion dollar industry from hemp industry experts.

A 44-ft geodesic dome will be set up to show movies, documentaries and courses on everything from bio-dynamic farming, permaculture, organic farming practices to bees, predator pest control, soil amendments, cloning, grafting and other peripheral agricultural course materials.

Knowledge is power and by sharing knowledge, we all grow together, says CEO Perlowin.

Those interested in signing up for the Hempathon should contact Chris Tinney ctinney@hempinc.com.

Division ThreeThe Hemp Extraction & Pre-Roll Blending Infrastructure

The Hemp CBD Oil Extraction & Pre-Roll Blending Infrastructure(Division Three)originally consisted of a Supercritical C02 Extractor. After operating for over a year it has been determined that Hemp, Inc. will not be involved in the extraction industry and has changed its direction to focus primarily on theKing of Hemppre-rolls and TheKing of Hemphigh CBDsmokable flower. The CBD oil that was extracted from the 2018 hemp grows in North Carolina has been made into pure crystalline CBD isolate which was added to the Companys King of Hemp branded line of pre-rolls that are now in the marketplace across all 50 states.

In lieu of building its own extraction laboratories, Hemp, Inc. plans to utilize the facilities of other labs in the industry to manufacture its own line of CBD oil products while they continue to build and expand the infrastructure for pre-rolls and high CBD smokable buds. The Company will hire or joint venture with other, already existing, labs to manufacture CBD, CBG, CBC, CBN, and other products in its future cannabinoid line. With 150 different cannabinoids, over 300 terpenes, and more of each being discovered almost monthly, the product range and possibilities in this area are endless.

Division FourThe Hemp Educational Infrastructure

The Hemp Educational Infrastructure(Division Four)includes Hemp, Inc.'sHemp Universitywhich focuses on educating and empoweringHemp farmers and entrepreneurswith knowledge, processing, infrastructure and support. Theeducational seminars, through the Hemp University, are held periodically (as needed). These seminars teach farmers and landowners how to create a profitable income stream by maximizing the per-acre crop revenue. Through this division,Hemp, Inc.has trained well over 500 farmers in its first two years by doing a total of nine Hemp University seminars in North Carolina and Oregon, which included:

The New Leaf Symposium and Golden Grow Awards Gala- January 26, 2020 (Jacksonville, Oregon)

The New Leaf Symposiumsfocus was Regeneration" to celebrate optimism and resilience in the industry, the power of the plant, and faith in the hemp-producing community. The event sold out with over 180 attendees. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly possible and the speakers were hailed as the best yet. The educational symposium concluded with the Golden Grow Awards Gala. The Golden Grow Awards Gala honored Oregon's top cultivars and put Oregons best farmers head-to-head for some of the most prestigious hemp-industry accolades.There were four categories judged in the awards: Top CBD, Top Terpenes, Judges Favorite, and Peoples Choice.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 1/28/20for a short video on this symposium.)

The Pre-Harvest Symposium September 8, 2019 (Oregon)

The Pre-Harvest Symposiumworkshop at Southern Oregon University was expertly designed for both farmers and entrepreneurs of all experience levels, focused on harvesting, processing and profit channels within the hemp industry.The third edition of the Southern Oregon Hemp University brought an abundance of insight into innovations within the realm of harvesting and processing to the forefront. Additionally, the symposium touched on traditional practices in agriculture.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 9/9/19for a short video on this symposium.)

Pre-Plant Support Workshop May 4, 2019 (Oregon)

The Pre-Plant Support Workshopwas an incredible success that filled the entire venue to capacity with attendees. In total, there were close to 200 attendees, including 20 vendors in attendance. The workshop was designed to help hemp farmers or those who are interested in the hemp industry learn the best pre-planting practices prior to the planting season.The Hemp University Pre-Planting Support Workshop was an interactive and informative workshop that covered the various details hemp farmers should know prior to planting in the 2019 season and beyond.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 5/9/19for a short video on this workshop.)

The Hemp University Educational Seminar- March 23, 2019 (Oregon)

This was the first Hemp University held on the West Coast. The seminar provided attendees with a full day of networking, education, and support.The seminar helped others in the area who were interested in the hemp industry learn more about the Industrial Hemp Revolution and how this movement can not only transform Southern Oregons economy, but also revive family farms and small businesses in the surrounding areas.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 3/28/19for a short video on this seminar.)

Growing Hemp for Profit March 10, 2018 (North Carolina)The Hemp Universitys first educationalsymposiumevent of 2018 entitledGrowing Hemp for Profittook place on Saturday, March 10, 2018. Attendees learned from the Universitys industrial hemp experts as they shared their lessons from their experiences in growing industrial hemp.Growing Hemp for Profit,which took place from 8:30am to 5 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn in Charlotte, North Carolina.(See Bruce Perlowinspersonal Facebook post on 3/17/18for a short video on this symposium.)

Hemp Money Event: Economics, Lessons & Planning for 2018 December 2, 2017 (North Carolina)

The fifth most vital and anticipated educational symposium of the year was Hemp Money Event: Economics, Lessons & Planning for 2018. This symposium was held on Saturday, December 2, 2017 from 8:30am to 5:00pm at the Shrine Club (320 Airport Rd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804). Attendees learned the economics of growing industrial hemp for fiber, seeds, and CBD; learned about other master POD growers experiences and lessons; and, learned how to prepare for the 2018 industrial hemp growing season with a well-defined blueprint for success.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 12/23/17for a short video on this symposium.)

The Hemp Oil Event: The Art and Science of CBD Oil September 30, 2017 (North Carolina)

The Hemp Oil Event (The Art & Science of CBD Oil) was The Hemp Universitys fourth symposium in North Carolina, held on Saturday, September 30, 2017 from 8:30am to 5:00pm at the Peachtree Hills Country Club, 3512 Peachtree Hills Road, Spring Hope, NC 27882.The symposium brought attendees up to speed on all business and scientific aspects of Industrial Hemp CBD cannabinoids by disseminating current, reliable information that continues to shape the revolutionary CBD market. Attendees also got a chance to go to Hemp, Inc.s, then, 70,000 square foot multipurpose industrial hemp decortication facility for the first live public demonstration of its Supercritical CO2 Extraction System using North Carolina-grown CBD industrial hemp. Representatives from NuAxon Bioscience were also on-site to allow those interested in purchasing their own CBD extraction system.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 9/30/17for a short video on this symposium.)

The Art and Science of CBD Greenhouse Growing June 24, 2017 (North Carolina)

The3rd Hemp Universityeducational symposium held on June 24, 2017 focused on The Art and Science of CBD Greenhouse Growing.The educational symposium was held at Louisburg College in Louisburg, North Carolina.A team of experts engaged attendees through the greenhouse and indoor growing process from cultivation to harvest and from processing to distribution. Dr. Robert Bruck, Dean of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and Distinguished Professor of Environmental Science at Louisburg College, was The Hemp Universitys special guest who lectured on soil microbiology during the symposium.Attendees were able to spend half of the course at Hemp, Inc.s, then, 70,000 square-foot Industrial Hemp Hub, in a 3,000 square-foot cloning room.There, attendees had the opportunity to experience a more hands-on learning approach.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 6/30/17for a short video on this symposium.)

Farming Hemp for Profit April 29, 2017(North Carolina)

Hemp, Inc.s second, sold out, educationalsymposium(Farming HEMP for Profit), through its Hemp University, was a phenomenal success. Thesymposiumtook place on Saturday, April 29, 2017, from 8:30am 5:00pm, at the Hampton Inn & Suites located at 3920 Arrow Drive, Raleigh, NC27612 and drew over 100 attendees. The one-day educational symposium and tour of Hemp, Inc.s, then, 70,000 square-foot multipurpose industrial hemp facility was an opportunity for landowners and farmers to learn how to apply real business building tactics with a specific step-by-step blueprint on how to grow, sell and profit from farming industrial hemp.This event accomplished its mission to help landowners and farmers add a new viable and profitable income stream by maximizing the per-acre crop revenue.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook post on 4/30/17for a short video on this symposium.)

Farming Hemp for Profit March 18, 2017 (North Carolina)

This was Hemp, Inc.s firstHemp University symposium. The symposium was a sold out event and was a huge success with 100 attendees who rated the quality of information presented as excellent.The symposium took place on Saturday, March 18, 2017, from 8:00am 5:00pm, at Hemp, Inc.s wholly owned subsidiary,Industrial Hemp Manufacturing, LLC, located at 1436 Highway 581 North, Spring Hope, North Carolina, 27882.The one-day educational symposium was an opportunity for landowners and farmers to receive a specific step-by-step blueprint on how to grow, sell and profit from farming industrial hemp by using real business tactics and principles, presented by industry experts.(See Bruce Perlowins personalFacebook posts on 3/18-19 and 3/21-26, 2019 for a short videos on this symposium.)

To listen to past Hemp University workshops, please visithemp-university.teachable.com. Also visithttps://www.hempincpresents.comto see highlights from Hemp, Inc.s inaugural Hemp University held in North Carolina, which sold out in two weeks.

The Hemp Universitys twelveonline educational masterclassesare $10 each and each masterclass is under an hour in length. The online courses include lectures from industry leaders who have educated attendees at the Hemp University workshops in Oregon. These online masterclasses provide farmers who were either not able to attend the first Hemp University or who would like to revisit certain topics presented by the event speakers.

Those interested in Hemp, Inc.sonline courses, including experts in any aspect of the industrial hemp industry, should contact Chris Tinney on (855) 554-6834 or via email at (ctinney@hempinc.com).

Since The Hemp Universitys initial launch with the educational symposium, the number of attendees grew tremendously and was an overwhelming success, each time.The interactive, hands-on learning approach was invaluable. By learning inan interactive cohort format, students gained the necessary skills they needed to immediately implement them on their farm or in their organization. Its the perfect mix of quality instruction, relevant educational content and a high level of commitment, to ensure the educational success of each attendee, said Perlowin.

The Hemp University has helped transformthe livelihoods of North Carolina and Oregon farmers transitioning from tobacco and other crops to industrial hemp by providing them with the tools and support needed to gain a foothold in this burgeoning industry.

Division FiveThe Hemp Marketing Infrastructure

While marketing is a critical facet of any business operation for increasing revenues, Hemp, Inc. believes there must be a keen focus on the infrastructure. The demand for CBD, CBG and other hemp products is massive, some even say the demand is insatiable. In order to supply that type of volume/demand, there has to be a strong foundation or infrastructure in place. While Hemp, Inc. continues to grow a rock solid Hemp Marketing Infrastructure, CEO Perlowin reminds us that this infrastructure has to be able to support a meteoric industry growth.The cannabidiol (CBD) market is on track to grow to $23.7 billion through 2023, according to theBrightfield Group. The firm also estimated thesmokable hempmarket to be valued at $11.5 million in 2018, a growth of 250% from 2017. This is why we consistently focused on infrastructure for so long. Since we made that a priority, we are now positioned to go into an aggressive marketing mode, says Perlowin.

In late January, 2020 the firstKing of HempStore had a soft launch in Kingman, Arizona. This 5,000 square foot Wells Fargo bank building is in the heart of Old Town Kingman next to historic Route 66 and will showcase everything hemp, including the KOH pre-roll line, flower, tinctures, health and beauty products, and Hemp Blues hemp denim jeans (www.hempblue.com). The retrofitted, once Wells Fargo Bank building, will also retain the working vault.

The company has also recently joint-ventured with the retail store Hemp Healthcare, in Dolan Springs, Arizona, to sell high-end cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp-based products. Hemp Healthcare is home to an array of renowned CBD and hemp products, including Hemp, Inc.s cosmetic and wellness line that includes shampoos, conditioners, lotions, candles and more. The retail storefront is conveniently located off Highway 93 in Arizona, in a highly trafficked tourist area. Specifically located on Pierce Ferry Road, Hemp Healthcare is next to Dolan Station a location that welcomes numerous tour buses daily with visitors from around the world that stop there on trips to the Grand Canyon. On some days, up to 40 tour buses stop at this location, filled to the brim with tourists on their way to the Sky Walk at the western realm of the Grand Canyon. The Company expects a very good return later this year. It should be noted that due to COVID-19, tour buses are not currently running but the store has become incredibly active due to COVID-19.

Read more here:
The Legend of Billy Hayes Lives on through Hemp, Inc.'s CBG Pre-Rolls - GlobeNewswire

Samantha Swann |Herald-Journal

Fundraising is usually a challenge for many organizationsand it has become even more difficult during the coronavirus pandemic.

Organizerssaid since the pandemic began in March, they have been struggling with raising money for their causes.

"Many organizations typically raise a large portion of their operating expenses through in-person fundraising events. With the onset of COVID-19, nonprofits have had to re-think how they fundraise and how effective virtual fundraising will be," saidAshley Whitt, senior program officer with The Spartanburg County Foundation.

For Kathryn Harvey, principal and founder at Neue South Collective, a local marketing company, 2020 has become a year of fundraising, with many of her clients making marketing a low priority as budgets shrink.

"I've been in a professional communication role in the nonprofit sector for 20 years and I have never seen a year where there's so much competing," Harvey said. From the pandemic to the election, the census to natural disaster relief, potential donors are receiving asks from all corners, making it that much more difficult for any individual organization to be heard."

Collaboration has been key, she said, withnonprofits applying for grantsor fundraising together. Partnering with matching donors can also help ensure success. Both will bekey parts of efforts for this year's Giving Tuesday on Dec. 1, said Harvey, whose company is creating a joint website for Spartanburg's nonprofits to use on the day.

Another challenge for many nonprofits was the canceling of annual in-person fundraisers. However, Harvey hasfound that nonprofits and organizations across Spartanburg are coming up with creative ways to replace them. For instance, Spartanburg Area Conservancy has replaced itsannual oyster dinner fundraiserwith a photoshoot fundraiser highlighting itsnewly renovated boardwalk. Participants can get 10-12 photos on the boardwalk for $175 through the end of the month.

Harvey also hashelped develop socially distanced fundraising events like Spartanburg Science Center's movie night in Barnet Park. And the science center has another creative fundraiser in the works a calendar featuring itsanimals as a holiday fundraiser.

"A lot of it is just thinking about what would be useful for folks right now or engaging and how can we turn that into something that brings awareness of the organization," Harvey said.

Groups and organizations outside of the nonprofit sector are also working hard to raise funds for their causes during a year of financial strain.

The fundraisers for the Alexina Atkins JenkinsPine Street School Scholarshipfound a way to make donating a personal experience. Their latest campaign for the scholarshipasks former Pine Street alumni to donate in honor of their favorite teacher. The scholarship will provide moneyfor college each year to a Spartanburg High School student who attended the elementary school.

Alumni can designatea teacher when they donate to the top donation tier through The Spartanburg County Foundation, Fund 02215, on the organization's website or by mail.

The Pine Street teachers honored by these donations will have their names put on a plaque to be displayed in the school. Six teachers have been honored.

More: Pine Street Elementary School alumni honor school, favorite teacher with new scholarship

Cecilia Hanna donated in honor ofher former teacher Mott Ryan Bramblett.

"Miss Ryan was simply my favorite teacher. I remember being so comfortable in her classroom to ask questions. I was a timid student, and she kind of brought me out of my shell," Hanna said.

Scholarshiporganizers said they are limited to email and phone calls for spreading the word about the scholarship and their fundraiser since large fundraising events are not possible for now. Donor Marshall Jordan, who nominated his sixth-grade teacher Nan Dempsey, said he thinks the personal aspect of the fundraiser will be a boost to the initiative.

"I think it will help bolster donations if there's a specific reason to do it. Inciting some sort of happy memory might help you make that decision," Jordan said.

Pine Street Elementary School also held its own fundraiser for its extracurricular activities earlier this semester.

Principal Dennis Regnier said the school has held two fundraisers to replace itsBoosterthon Fun Run: a Charleston Wraps sale and a Virtual Dance Party.

"This year, we were not able to host our typical 'Fun Run'event so we held a Virtual Dance Party. It lasted for about 30 minutes and our students were all able to log on to the website and participate.Our partners at Boosterthon were on-site for nearly two weeks to help our students and families get involved.They worked within every classroom and guided students through character lessons as well as different fitness challenges to get them ready for the Dance Party," Regnier said.

The students' families and friends could log onto thefundraiser website and donate while the students danced. Regnier said both of the fundraisers were able to be completed almost 100% online.

Harvey emphasized the need forclear messaging and smaller, focused campaigns given the demand for donors' attention. She also said groups need to becreative and tie in sometangible aspect to the donation or a concrete goal for donors to meet.

"If you can find a matching donor, somebody that's willing to give say $25,000 and you can match that in your community, it gives a goal that you're setting for folks to donate," Harvey said."You can incentivize them with a little something for donating, or you can position it against an actual tangible item that you're raising money for."

United Way of the Piedmont President and CEO Paige Stephensonsaid that all of the successful workplace fundraisers she's seen have had a strong, optimistic push from the business's leaders.

"Stay true to your mission, tell your story, be honest about the need but also highlight your resiliency as an organization. When a donor can connect with your organization on a personal level, I believe it will matter less if theyare in-person or not," Whitt said.

While donations are needed, it's also important to remember, particularly in a year that has hit many individuals as hard as it's hit organizations,thatsupporters can help in ways beyond donating.

"It's OKto ask your board and your friends and family to share (your fundraising information)," Harvey said."That ask might be great for someone who can't monetarily donate to your campaign, but can share it out to 20 more people."

Most nonprofits and other groups are also seeing a need for unrestricted donations or donations to the organization's general or operating funds, which can at times be harder to fundraise for than specific projects, Stephenson said.

"We want to make sure that people understand that giving those unrestricted dollars that can be invested in the general operations of the nonprofit for their survival, for their overall organizational health, are extremely key," Stephenson said."It's great to have those specific gifts, but those specific gifts aren't going to make a difference if the organizationthat is trying to provide (the service)is struggling," Stephenson said.

Read the original:
Spartanburg groups tackle raising money during the COVID-19 pandemic - Spartanburg Herald Journal

She was a billionaire CEO whose luxurious lifestyle rivaled that of any movie star.

CONSTELLATION BRANDS, INC.

Elizabeth Holmes employed personal assistants to run her luxury shopping sprees, traveled by private jet, stayed at exclusive hotels and drove an expensive SUV.

As the CEO of Theranos, she was constantly in the limelight. Now facing a slew of fraud charges and prison, her defense attorneys don't want her wealthy past to be played out in the courtroom saying it'll prejudice a jury.

"The amount of money Ms. Holmes earned in her position at Theranos, how she chose to spend that money, and the identities of people with whom she associated simply have no relevance to Ms. Holmes' guilt or innocence," her attorneys wrote in a motion filed late Friday night.

Prior to her downfall, Holmes was once named the world's youngest female self-made billionaire and Theranos was one of Silicon Valley's unicorn startups privately valued at $9 billion.

The government alleges that Holmes "had her Theranos-paid assistants run personal errands, perform personal tasks, and purchase luxury goods," according to the filing.

In the motion, defense attorneys claim that the prosecutors' motive argument is based on the assumption that Holmes' luxurious lifestyle may have motivated her to "commit fraud to acquire or maintain that lifestyle."

"Many CEOs live in luxurious housing, buy expensive vehicle and clothing, travel luxuriously and associate with famous people as the government claims Ms. Holmes did," they wrote.

During her jet-setting days Holmes wore her signature black turtle neck in numerous media appearances and appeared to hold the key to revolutionizing the high-cost health-care system.

Holmes promised Theranos could diagnose anything from diabetes to cancer with just a drop or two of blood. The company shut down in 2018 after a Wall Street Journal investigation exposed its unproven technology and dubious business practices.

What followed was a fall from grace for Holmes who duped billionaire investors, board members and Walgreens.

Holmes and her co-defendant Ramesh "Sunny" Balwani are charged with a dozen felony fraud charges. Their trial is expected to start in U.S. District Court in San Jose, CA on March 9.

"The jury should not be subjected to arguments regarding Ms. Holmes' alleged purchase of luxury travel, 'fine wine,' or 'food delivery to her home'," attorneys for Holmes said.

Holmes faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

More:
Elizabeth Holmes wants to block jurors from hearing about her luxurious lifestyle as Theranos CEO - MSN Money

LAKEWOOD, Ohio -- Making up for lost seating is the restaurant game in 2020 where COVID-19 safety protocols have reduced inside capacity by half.

In an effort to help local businesses, communities loosened regulations permitting additional outdoor seating on sidewalks, parking lots and even adjacent streets for parklets.

Then theres the Georgetown restaurant, which unknowingly started planning for a pandemic a few years ago when hoping to extend the outdoor patio season it added a handful of outdoor igloos to its courtyard located at 18515 Detroit Ave. in Lakewood.

My brother, Ryan, and I work hard to be the trendsetters in the area, said Jennifer Krivosh Pressnell about the family-owned business. We started igloos at Georgetown three years ago and theyve been a hit for all ages.

Its just the newest trend. People are looking for something different and something fun to do with their friends. We have little heaters that keep everybody warm. We decorate the igloos based on the holiday -- Halloween, Christmas, Valentines Day and St. Patricks Day.

At a cost of $2,500 when you include furnishings, each igloo provides up to eight patrons with a warm, cozy and personal experience.

The igloos have been a great way to make up for the lost seating in the restaurant due to the COVID guidelines, Pressnell said. As a former registered respiratory therapist for the Cleveland Clinic, I knew we had to do whatever we could to keep our guests as safe as possible during the pandemic.

We decided to invest in an electrostatic sprayer. We sanitize the igloos between seatings and also spray the restaurant nightly. Were going above and beyond to keep our staff and guests safe.

While a bit costly with a two-hour $40 rental fee and minimum spending amount that ranges from $125 weekdays to $250 on the weekends, the Georgetown igloos are currently booked through February.

Prior to the pandemic, Georgetown had a capacity of roughly 120 people, which was reduced to 60 patrons due to COVID-19 safety protocols. Pressnell said due to the igloos and any customer overflow being moved into the contiguous Vosh nightclub, capacity is at roughly pre-pandemic levels.

Now the family is also adding another handful of circular shacks to its other nearby establishment Around The Corner, which is located across the street.

The new igloos require a two-hour $40 rental fee, which includes a minimum spending amount of $100 weekdays and $200 on the weekends.

Our igloos sold out so quickly at Georgetown, we decided to purchase more Around The Corner, Pressnell said. Its a great time just hanging out.

Read more news from the Sun Post Herald here.

Here is the original post:
Lakewoods Georgetown finds success with heated igloos; owners adding more outdoor amenities to Around The Co - cleveland.com

The chairman announced he plans to transition to another role within the party and stay involved. Wagoner will cast one of Ohio's 18 electoral votes for Pres. Trump.

LUCAS COUNTY, Ohio Lucas County Republican Party Executive Chairman Mark Wagoner has announced he will be stepping down from his position effective Jan. 1.

Wagoner was elected as chairman by the central committee of the Republican party on June 9, 2018. In May of 2020, he was re-elected for a four year term.

In letters sent on Nov. 16 and 17 to Ohio's central committee chairman Chris Joseph, Wagoner cites upcoming commitments beginning Jan. 1, 2021 as the cause for his decision.

In addition, Executive Director Barb Orange will step down on Nov. 23.

"We (and I especially) owe a debt of gratitude for the hard work that Barb Orange has put in over the last few years as our Executive Director. To enable the next Chairman to select their own Executive Director, Barb will also be stepping down as Executive Director effective November 23rd," writes Wagoner.

Wagoner serves as an Elector in Ohio's Electoral College and will remain in that position to cast one of Ohio's 18 electoral votes for President Trump.

According to bylaws of the Lucas County Republican Party, Joseph will assume the role of Interim Executive Chair while retaining his position as Central Committee Chairman.

The search for Wagoner's replacement will begin with an appointed committee no later than Jan. 31 to consider a candidate.

The following is the full text of both letters sent by Mark Wagoner to the central committee chairman:

Some bittersweet, but (hopefully) unsurprising news. I attach the following letter to begin the transition to a new role within the Lucas County Republican Party. As I mention in the letter, I will continue to serve as Executive Chairman through December 31st of this year, and I will also serve as an Elector in Ohios Electoral College on December 12th to cast one of Ohios 18 electoral votes for President Trump. Effective January 1, 2021, the Bylaws of the Lucas County Republican Party provide that you will assume the role of Interim Executive Chair and remain as Central Committee Chairman. Given that you received near unanimous support in your election as Central Committee Chair in May of this year, I know the party has full confidence in your leadership. The mechanics of the transition are detailed in my attached letter.

This is an opportune time to transition, with the recent conclusion of the Presidential election cycle and the next Lucas County central committee elections more than 3 years away. After January 1, 2021, I plan to stay actively involved in the Lucas County Republican Party, but in a different capacity perhaps as a Finance Chair should you want me to

I have notified Chairman Jane Timken of the Ohio Republican Party and other national and state party officials of the forthcoming transition. As local party officials, you are the first to know in Lucas County. I will be reaching out to numerous people over the next few weeks to ensure a smooth transition. I ask the you keep the letter confidential until the news is released to a broader audience.

Due to the hard work of so many, Im able to transition with the party much better than I found it. And I pledge to provide the next Chairman a full running start for success something I did not receive at the outset of my term. Its been a long four years first fighting to win control of the party, then working to rebuild it from the ground up, and to now watching it poised for future success. Restoring a foundation is unglamorous yet necessary work. Visible growth and progress will soon follow.

We should be justifiably proud of our accomplishments. Lucas County played an important role in our statewide Republican success in 2018 and delivering Ohio for President Trump in 2020, and we have made strides in our municipal elections. We have also laid the foundation for future Republican success in the City of Toledo and Lucas County.

We (and I especially) owe a debt of gratitude for the hard work that Barb Orange has put in over the last few years as our Executive Director. To enable the next Chairman to select their own Executive Director, Barb will also be stepping down as Executive Director effective November 23rd. At that point in time, we will be largely closing our headquarters until it reopens (fully reenergized!) on January 2nd of next year to kickstart our 2021 municipal races.

Finally, I owe a major thanks to each member of the Lucas County Republican Party Central Committee for your support and friendship. This is not any one persons party but our collective party. None of this would have happened without you. The Lucas County Republican Party has a proud history dating back to Congressman James Ashley, the sponsor of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, to Chief Justice Morrison Waite of the U.S. Supreme Court, to numerous members of the U.S. Congress and the U.S. Cabinet, to our very own Donna Owens, the first woman mayor of Toledo. There are many more chapters left for the Lucas County Republican Party to write. I will be excited to read them.

And just as the Party has its next chapter to write, now so do I

With warmest personal regards,

The full text of the attached letter, mentioned above, is as follows:

As I have discussed with many Lucas County Republicans over the past six months, I write to confirm my intent to step down as Executive Chairman of the Lucas County Republican Party effective December 31, 2020. I have significant new commitments starting January 1, 2021 and, although I intend to remain involved with the Lucas County Republican Party, I believe it is important to have an Executive Chairman who can devote a majority of their time to handling the obligations of managing a major urban political party. At the request of many, I agreed to stay through this year to maintain stability during this recent Presidential re-election cycle, where we successfully delivered Ohio for President Trump.

The By-Laws of the Lucas County Republican Party provide that the Chairman of the Central Committee, Chris Joseph, will assume the role of Interim Executive Chair. A search committee to select a new Executive Chair needs to be appointed by you sometime before January 31, 2021 to conduct interviews and evaluate potential successors. Chris Joseph will remain as Interim Executive Committee Chair until that process is completed. The next elections for central committee members will be in March of 2024.

I leave as Executive Chairman with the Lucas County Republican Party much better than I found it. We have over $40,000 in our accounts, secured and furnished an outstanding headquarters, provided extensive training to precinct chairs, consolidated our information technology and websites, developed a strong social media presence with a Facebook account of over 3,850 followers and Twitter over 500 followers, reconstituted a functional Lucas County Board of Elections, developed a stable of new faces and candidates, and rebuilt relationships with our local Republican clubs. We have also re-established strong working relationships with the Ohio Republican Party and the Republican National Committee. I take particular pride that the Ohio Republican Party has recognized both the newly reconstituted Lucas County Young Republicans and the Lucas County Republican Womens Club as statewide chapters of the year in 2018. Much of this is the result of the hard work of so many and like any team -- these successes are a product of their collective effort, hardly mine alone.

I pledge to work with you and the committee to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. I offer a few suggestions during the selection process. The position of Executive Chairman is an unpaid, volunteer position that requires someone with a passion for selfless service, not someone who has an ulterior motive for personal gain. I hope the search committee will look for those traits in the next Executive Chairman.

I wish the Lucas County Republican Party success as we move forward.

Continue reading here:
Mark Wagoner to step down as executive chairman of Lucas County Republican Party at end of year - WTOL

A 1989 Portland High School graduate was featured on the nationally televised Tamron Hall Show featuring her successful weight loss journey, and she was on the Aug. 10 cover of Womans World Magazine along with her story inside.

Chellie Matchinske Beck began a weight loss program in October of 2018 and has lost 112 pounds using Dr. Steven Gundrys Plant Paradox program which she originally saw on the TV program The Doctors. The diet features eating foods low in lectin.

Beck had always tried to eat healthy, but while she was trying to eat gluten free and drinking water rather than sodas and sweet tea, she continued to gain weight.

When she went to her doctor, he assured her that her weight gain was normal for her age. He told her that various things were occurring that affected her such as her age, the environment, hormones and preservatives in foods.

Not only was she gaining weight, she was having other health issues. She had no energy and her body ached. She couldnt climb steps or carry her grandson to bed after rocking him to sleep. It took a trip to the hospital with high blood pressure to help her realize that she could do something about her health.

During that time, Gundrys interview on TV kept popping into her head, and at the same time, posts about him and the Plant Paradox program would appear on her Facebook page. She felt she was being directed to the program, and she is passionate about showing her gratitude to God for leading her to the program.

According to Beck she turned to Gundrys Plant Paradox program and it changed her life. She lost 70 pounds in the first four months. She credits the program with clearing her body of inflammation from the inside out. In addition, she says her skin has become healthier than it has ever been.

She said she could feel the healing process as it was occurring. She was gaining more energy and she was able to be more active. She says she can out play her 5-year-old grandson now. She sees the program as a life style change.

Beck sent her testimony and pictures to an email address hoping it would get to Gundry because she wanted him to know how thankful she was for his program and how it had changed her life.

To her surprise, the email went directly to him and he contacted her. Her testimony led to national recognition that she did not seek; however, she uses it as an opportunity given her to help others.

Becks story and pictures of her success are on her Instagram page titled Notafraidoffifty, which has resulted in many people contacting her with one as far away as Sydney, Australia.

She said she feels she is on a spiritual journey to help others. As she becomes a cheerleader for them, she shares personal success stories for encouragement. One of her favorites is telling them about saving the dress she wore when she graduated from high school because her husband always liked it.

According to Beck, the dress is actually a little big on her now that she is in a size 6-8 dress and size 4 jeans. In addition, she shares her motto with them - Be your best you for your best day and be your best you for your worst day.

I am very thankful for God leading me to Dr. Gundry, Beck said.

See the article here:
Portland woman receives national attention for weight loss - The Portland Sun

19 hr 36 min ago Trump takes credit for "success" in Kenosha

From CNN's Betsy Klein

In a tweet Friday, President Trump took credit for what he described as "success" in Kenosha, Wisconsin, furthering his law and order message.

Trump still has yet to address the shooting of Jacob Blake, a 29-year-old Black father, who was shot by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Read the President's tweet:

CNNs Suzanne Malveaux is reporting from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, where activists are gathered to commemorate the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington.

She told CNN's Kate Bolduan that she spoke to Martin Luther King III about what his father, Martin Luther King Jr., would think about todays march.

Malveaux said she also asked Luther King III what keeps him up at night.

"He said it's the fact thathis 12-year-old daughter hasalready asked him the question,'why do we still have to do this?I thought granddaddy had put thisto bed, put this to rest,' andhe says it's because we have to.We have to continue this fight."

Watch more:

Activists have gathered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, today, the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington. Speakers are addressing the crowd now.

CNN's Suzanne Malveaux, who's at the event, said it's an emotional day for many of the protesters.

Today's event is dubbed the "Get Your Knee Off Our Necks" Commitment March, a reference to the police killing of George Floyd, who died after held down with police officer's knee as he protested that he couldn't breathe.

The Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network began planning the march in partnership with the NAACP and others after heannouncedthe event during Floyd's funeral in June. But it comes during a week that has seen intensified called for social justice and police reform following the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin.

Blake, a 29-year-old Black father, was shot by police on Sunday. His family says he is now paralyzed from the waist down.

Today's march comes during the coronavirus pandemic. Here's a look at the socially distanced protest:

From CNN's Melissa Alonso

The suspect in theKenosha, Wisconsin, fatal shootingwill stay in Lake County, Illinois, for a month anda hearing on the status of his extradition has been set for Sept. 25,according to the Illinois judge presidingover matters of hisextradition.

Kyle Rittenhouse, 17, did not appear at his videoextraditionhearing, which lasted only a few minutes.

Rittenhouse is not waiving extradition proceedings, according to a court appointed attorney in Illinois.

The public defender said the delay would allow Rittenhouse to meet with a private attorney and for that attorney to file an appearancewith the court.

Rittenhouse faces multiple charges for the shooting incident during a night of unrest in Kenosha earlier this week that left two people dead and a third person seriously injured, authorities have said.

Correction: A previous version of this post said Rittenhouse would be extraditedon Sept. 25.His hearing will beon Sept. 25.

Jacob Blake, a 29-year-old Black father, was shot by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on Sunday. The shooting sparked protests in Wisconsin and across the country.

If you need to read in, here's what we know about the shooting, the aftermath and the ongoing protests for social justice:

From CNN's Melissa Alonso

Jacob Blake's father, Jacob Blake Sr., is in Washington for the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s march there.

Blakeshared his family's history in civil rights with CNN'sAlisyn Camerota

Thousands are expected to gather in Washington, DC, today for the 57th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic I Have a Dream speech.

From CNN's Veronica Stracqualursi

Tens of thousands of people are expected to gather today at the Lincoln Memorial to commemorate the historic 1963 civil rights March on Washington.

The demonstration, taking place on the 57th anniversary of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic"I Have a Dream" speech, seeks "to restore and recommitto the dream Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. defined" that year.

Here are key things to know about today's event:

Read more here.

From CNN's Scott Gloverand Casey Tolan

Before he was identified as the police officer captured in a viral video in which he shoots a Black man multiple times in the back, Rusten Sheskey pedaled around the lakeside city of Kenosha, Wisconsin, as part of the bike patrol and walked the shopping mall beat during the holidays.

He'd occasionally bring a squad car home from work and turn on the siren for neighborhood kids, one neighbor recalled. An American flag flies outside his home in a middle-class neighborhood.

But five days after Sheskey's shooting of 29-year-old Jacob Blake prompted protests and rioting in the typically quiet streets of Kenosha, much remains unknown about the seven-year veteran officer and what prompted him to open fire.

Authorities have declined to provide information on a number of critical questions in the turbulent days since Blake was shot. Most importantly, they have not offered any detailed explanation for why Sheskey used deadly force on Blake as he leaned into a parked car.

Police and city officials also have not responded to public records requests for Sheskey's history with the department, including any previous uses of force or disciplinary issues. According to a memo from the police chief published on the city's website, Sheskey received a one-day suspension in 2017 for a violation regarding "safe operation of department vehicles."

Meanwhile, Blake remains handcuffed to a hospital bed. He was left paralyzed from the waist down in the aftermath of the shooting, which took place in front of three of his young children who were in the car.

Dispatch records indicate that Sheskey and other officers responded to a complaint from a woman saying that Blake was not supposed to be at her residence and would not leave. She also said he had taken her keys and would not give them back.

At a news conference Wednesday, Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul said officers fired a Taser at Blake before the shooting, but that it was "not successful." Kaul said Blake admitted possessing a knife and officers recovered one from the floor of the car he was leaning into when Sheskey opened fire. Kaul did not say if Blake had brandished the weapon or what precise reason Sheskey gave for firing multiple shots.

Blake's family has demanded answers, too, wondering why Sheskey decided to use a gun to resolve the situation. At a news conference on Tuesday, Blake's family attorney Ben Crump called for the officer's arrest.

"We are demanding that the prosecutor arrest the officer who shot Jacob Blake. And we are also asking that these officers who violated the policies and their training be terminated immediately," he said.

Read more here.

Hear more from the Wisconsin attorney general on the investigation:

From CNN's Melissa Alonso, Jill Martin, Leah Asmelash and David Close

Jacob Blake's father, Jacob Blake Sr., told CNN's Alisyn Camerota that his son is in and out of consciousness and he's not aware of the situation in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Blake Sr. said the focus is on his son's recovery and he does not want to upset his son with news of unrest Kenosha.

Blake Sr. also said his son received a gift from his favorite team.

"The thing that made him smile was the Milwaukee Bucks. That made him smile, and I'm from Chicago. But now I am truly a Milwaukee Bucks fan because they reached out to my son, sent a jersey that was signed by the whole organization," Blake said.

Some background: The Milwaukee Bucks' decided to boycott their playoff game following Blake's shooting in the team's home state a move that cascaded into a wave of similar protests across the American sports.

Soon after the Wisconsin-based team decided to not play,the NBA announcedit would postpone Game 5 of three different playoff series Bucks vs. Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers vs. Portland Trail Blazers.

Blake's father thanks the Milwaukee Bucks:

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Live updates: Jacob Blake shooting and the March on Washington - CNN