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Examining Harris’s Media Strategy
The Wall Street Journal talked to Mark Lukasiewicz, dean of the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, about Vice President Kamala Harris’s media strategy in the weeks leading up to Election Day. Up to now, Harris has been selective about media. She was recently interviewed on 60 Minutes and the hit podcast Call Her Daddy, and she is in New York to appear on The Howard Stern Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. “That does increase the risk level for the campaign on each singular appearance,” said Dean Lukasiewicz. “If the candidate does an interview that doesn’t go well, there are fewer opportunities to clean that up, to correct that record.”
Expert Opinion - The Undisclosed Risks of Off-brand Ozempic and Other Weight Loss Products
The popularity -- and price -- of brand-name injectable drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound has skyrocketed. But the soaring demand for these drugs -- used for weight loss as well as to control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease -- and the limited supply as well as lack of generic options has also led to a flood of non-brand alternatives in the market. In a recent article for The Conversation, UConn expert C. Michael White, Distinguished Professor of Pharmacy Practice, issued a warning to consumers about the potential undisclosed risks of these off-brand products: High demand is driving GLP-1 wannabes The dietary supplement market has sought to cash in on the GLP-1 demand with pills, teas, extracts and all manner of other products that claim to produce similar effects as the brand names at a much lower price. Products containing the herb berberine offer only a few pounds of weight loss, while many dietary supplement weight loss products contain stimulants such as sibutramine and laxatives such as phenolphthalein, which increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes and cancer. The role of compounding pharmacies Unlike the dietary supplements that are masquerading as GLP-1 weight loss products, compounding pharmacies can create custom versions of products that contain the same active ingredients as the real thing for patients who cannot use either brand or generic products for some reason. These pharmacies can also produce alternative versions of brand-name drugs when official drug shortages exist. Since the demand for GLP-1 medications has far outpaced the supply, compounding pharmacies are legally producing a variety of different semaglutide and tirzepatide products. These products may come in versions that differ from the brand-name companies, such as vials of powder that must be dissolved in liquid, or as tablets or nasal sprays. Just like the brand-name drugs, you must have a valid prescription to receive them. The prices range from $250-$400 a month – still a steep price for many consumers. Compounding pharmacies must adhere to the FDA’s sterility and quality production methods, but these rules are not as rigorous for compounding pharmacies as those for commercial manufacturers of generic drugs. In addition, the products compounding pharmacies create do not have to be tested in humans for safety or effectiveness like brand-name products do. Proper dosing can also be challenging with compounded forms of the drugs. Companies that work the system For people who cannot afford a compounding pharmacy product, or cannot get a valid prescription for semaglutide or tirzepatide, opportunistic companies are stepping in to fill the void. These include “peptide companies,” manufacturers that create non-FDA approved knockoff versions of the drugs. From November 2023 to March 2024, my team carried out a study to assess which of these peptide companies are selling semaglutide or tirzepatide products. We scoured the internet looking for these peptide companies and collected information about what they were selling and their sales practices. We found that peptide sellers use a loophole to sell these drugs. On their websites, the companies state that their drugs are for “research purposes only” or “not for human consumption,” but they do nothing to verify that the buyers are researchers or that the product is going to a research facility. By reading the comments sections of the company websites and the targeted ads on social media, it becomes clear that both buyers and sellers understand the charade. Unlike compounding pharmacies, these peptide sellers do not provide the supplies you need to dissolve and inject the drug, provide no instructions, and will usually not answer questions. Peptide sellers, since they allegedly are not selling to consumers, do not require a valid prescription and will sell consumers whatever quantity of drug they wish to purchase. Even if a person has an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa, the companies will happily sell them a semaglutide or tirzepatide product without a prescription. The average prices of these peptide products range from $181-$203 per month. Skirting regulations Peptide sellers do not have to adhere to the rules or regulations that drug manufacturers or compounding pharmacies do. Many companies state that their products are 99% pure, but an independent investigation of three companies’ products from August 2023 to March 2024 found that the purity of the products were far less than promised. One product contained endotoxin – a toxic substance produced by bacteria – suggesting that it was contaminated with microbes. In addition, the products’ promised dosages were off by up 29% to 39%. Poor purity can cause patients to experience fever, chills, nausea, skin irritation, infections and low blood pressure. In this study, some companies never even shipped the drug, telling the buyers they needed to pay an additional fee to have the product clear customs. If a consumer is harmed by a poor-quality product, it would be difficult to sue the seller, since the products specifically say they are “not for human consumption.” Ultimately, consumers are being led to spend money on products that may never arrive, could cause an infection, might not have the correct dose, and contain no instructions on how to safely use or store the product. Dr. C. Michael White is an expert in the areas of comparative effectiveness and preventing adverse events from drugs, devices, dietary supplements, and illicit substances. Dr. White is available to speak with media -- click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
Head trauma and long-term impacts
Last week, NFL great Brett Favre revealed publicly that he has Parkinson's disease. It was an announcement that has also put the devastating affliction back in the media spotlight, and has experts and the public wondering if there's a link between high-impact sports like football and Parkinson's. It's why researchers like Christopher Watts from TCU are getting contacted by national media looking for answers. Head trauma alone is not the sole risk factor for Parkinson’s. Experts say the disease has also been linked to environmental factors, like exposure to certain pesticides or chemicals, and genetic mutations. “If all the ingredients in the recipe come together, you may develop Parkinson’s disease,” said Christopher Watts, Texas Christian University's Dean of the Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences, who researches the disease. “The reason why we know is because not every boxer develops Parkinson's disease… it has to be other things that are acting along with that exposure to head trauma.” The median age for a Parkinson’s diagnosis is about 65, Watts said. At 54, Favre is on the younger end of that spectrum. Parkinsonism – an umbrella term for brain conditions that cause slow movement, rigidity and tremors – has been well studied in boxers, Watts said. One of history’s most legendary boxers, Muhammad Ali, was diagnosed with the disease. However, the research among football players isn't as robust. A 2023 study published in JAMA found participants with a history of playing organized football had higher odds of Parkinsonism or Parkinson's disease compared with those involved in other organized sports. But other studies have reported mixed findings, Watts said. He said researchers must determine if there is a link. “Football is such a big part of American society,” he said. “We need to know the answers to this.” September 25 - USA Today With the NFL season in full swing - this will be a subject that will be receiving ongoing coverage throughout the season. And if you're a journalist looking to know - then let us help with your stories, questions and coverage. Chris Watts is the Marilyn & Morgan Davies Dean of Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Texas Christian University and is an expert in the areas of neurological disorders. Chris is available to speak with media about this important topic - simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
AU study shows participation in civil society groups lowers suicide rates
A new study by Lance Hunter, PhD, professor of social science in Augusta University’s Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, reveals a direct link between voluntary involvement in civil social groups and a lower risk of suicide. In the study, published in Cross-Cultural Research, Hunter looked at data gathered from 2000 to 2019 from 156 countries with varying levels of development from Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and South America and found that participation in civil society groups, both political and non-political, may produce positive social and psychological benefits that are associated with lower suicide rates. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, during which mental health advocates, prevention organizations and other community groups promote suicide prevention awareness. “The greater the voluntary participation in civil society groups within the country, the lower the suicide rates are for that country,” said Hunter. “Voluntary civil society participation is a great way for people to connect with other individuals with similar interests and possibly find meaning and purpose to some degree. That in turn decreases feelings of social isolation, which can decrease the likelihood of suicidality or suicide.” Based on the research, he noted that social isolation is a major factor in suicide ideation and attempted suicide but it’s not the only factor. “It is important to note there are many psychological, biological, social and mental health factors that can contribute to suicide risk. Civil society participation and social isolation are just two factors among many that can affect suicidality,” said Hunter. Meredith Rausch, PhD, associate professor in the College of Education and Human Development’s Department of Research, Counseling and Curriculum, said research shows ideation and deaths by suicide in the United States tend to rise between February and April and again in August and September. “I have found the change in seasons often leads to people feeling overwhelmed when it comes to thinking about enduring another season,” said Rausch. “While the advent of spring or autumn may seem enjoyable or hopeful to some people, others find it to represent an entirely new season and the idea of experiencing that is exhausting.” Rausch also notes it’s important to note how these times of the year also coincide with the academic year, causing an increase in bullying, frustration with academics or other negative experiences for school-aged children. According to a 2023 study by the World Health Organization, more than 700,000 people worldwide die each year by suicide, and suicide is the fourth-leading cause of death among people 15 to 29 years old. Interested in learning more - let us help. Lance Hunter, PhD, is available to speak with media about this important topic - simply click on his icon to arrange an interview today.
Sports Betting: High Stakes at a Young Age
While life may feel like a game, gambling addiction is far from child’s play. Young people are particularly vulnerable and at higher risk for gambling disorders. For those still engaged in their athletic days or recently cut from the team, sports betting may be a particular draw by familiarity. The rush from gambling is not all about winning but about the excitement and thrill of the gamble itself. It can quickly become a behavioral disorder. Why are young people at risk? Young people are particularly at risk since their brains are not yet fully developed, and they indulge in more risk-taking and reward-seeking behaviors. Also, they may have fewer responsibilities and lesser accountability for their losses. The rise of smartphones has made sports betting more accessible than ever. Young people are particularly attached to their phones. It’s not mobile phone addiction but cell phone dependence coupled with the fact there is no judgment when gambling online. The anonymity can make them more likely to take the risk. Recognize red flags It is crucial to identify problem behaviors. Warning signs include: Emotional – increased anxiety and irritability, limited frustration tolerance, inability to concentrate on other activities when not gambling. Behavioral – negative effects on personal, social and work or school responsibilities. If you see or experience these signs, seek help. You or your loved one may benefit from counseling that involves cognitive behavioral therapy, which can reframe their thinking and reinforce positive behaviors over gambling.
Five ways going green can improve your bottom line: A guide for West Midlands SMEs
As sustainability becomes a central focus for businesses across the globe, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands are uniquely positioned to benefit from going green. Whether you're running a corner shop, a hairdressing salon, a manufacturing operation, or any other type of small business, sustainable practices can significantly enhance your bottom line. Here are five key ways that adopting green strategies can lead to financial gains. Reduced operational costs One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of going green is the reduction in operational costs. Energy efficiency, waste reduction, and resource conservation are all areas where small changes can lead to significant savings. For instance, simply switching to energy-efficient lighting can reduce electricity bills by up to 75 per cent—a substantial saving for any business, particularly for small retailers or service providers where margins can be tight. Additionally, the UK government offers incentives to help businesses transition to more energy-efficient operations, making it easier for SMEs to invest in these changes. Join Aston University’s workshop on 18 September and take advantage of a free energy assessment for your business. Learn practical steps to audit your energy use and uncover cost-saving opportunities tailored to your specific industry needs. Access to new markets and opportunities As the UK government and local authorities push for a greener economy, there are growing opportunities for businesses that align with these goals. SMEs that adopt sustainable practices may qualify for grants, tax reliefs, and other incentives designed to support green initiatives. For example, local councils in the West Midlands have programmes such as ‘BEAS and Decarbonisation Net Zero’ aimed at helping small businesses reduce their carbon footprint, which can be especially beneficial for almost all sectors where environmental impact is a growing concern. At the workshop, we’ll delve into the funding options and partnerships available to West Midlands SMEs committed to sustainability, helping you unlock new growth opportunities. Increased marketability Consumers are increasingly favouring businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. According to a study by Nielsen, 66 per cent of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable goods, and this trend is evident in the UK as well. By adopting green practices, SMEs in the West Midlands can enhance their brand reputation. This can translate to increased sales, customer loyalty, and even the ability to charge premium prices for sustainable products or services. In a competitive market, your environmental credentials can be a powerful differentiator. Attend Aston University’s workshop to learn from real-life success stories and see how businesses are already turning sustainability into a competitive advantage. Long-term resilience and competitiveness Sustainability isn’t just about immediate financial gains; it’s also about future-proofing your business. As regulations around carbon emissions and environmental impact become stricter, businesses that have already integrated green practices will find it easier to comply, avoiding potential fines and disruptions. For SMEs in sectors like manufacturing, where regulatory pressures are particularly high, adopting sustainable practices now can help ensure long-term competitiveness and resilience. A prime example of this shift is the NHS, which is actively working towards a Net Zero supply chain by 2045. The NHS is urging its suppliers to adopt sustainable practices, with a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions. Businesses that fail to align with these expectations risk losing contracts and falling behind competitors who are meeting these sustainability criteria. At the workshop, you'll learn more about sustainability strategy that can keep your business competitive and resilient in an ever-changing market. Enhanced employee engagement and productivity Increasingly, employees are seeking to work for companies that align with their personal values, including a commitment to sustainability. While this trend is more pronounced among larger companies, it’s also becoming relevant for small businesses, particularly those in industries where attracting and retaining talent is competitive. According to research, 74 per cent of employees feel more fulfilled when they work for a company that is making a positive impact on the environment. For small businesses, fostering a sustainable workplace can enhance employee morale, attract top talent, and reduce turnover rates. However, the degree to which this resonates can depend on your specific workforce. In sectors like tech, professional services, or among younger employees, sustainability is often a key consideration. On the other hand, in some more traditional industries, other factors like job security and compensation might be more important, though sustainability still adds value. Sign up for our workshop to discover how your small or medium business—regardless of sector—can implement effective sustainability practices and energy efficiency strategies to drive growth. This event is open to all SMEs across the West Midlands! Click here to register now. You'll also have the opportunity to book a free energy assessment on the spot and apply for match funding of up to £100,000 to make your business more energy efficient.
#Expert Opinion: 'Gun laws need an overhaul'
In the aftermath of last week's school shooting in Georgia, Jennifer Necci Dineen and Kerri M. Raissian from UConn’s ARMS Center contributed this compelling piece to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The entirety of the article is available here: On Sept. 4, the United States experienced its 45th school shooting of 2024, this time at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith called the shooting “pure evil” and reported the suspected shooter would be tried as an adult. Since then, the shooter’s father has also been charged. A criminal justice response is vital, but it cannot be our only response. Gun laws need an overhaul. The failure to do so means that we will continue charging shooters and their families and attending the funerals of those senselessly killed. Laws are the role of government. Should elected officials fail to act (again), we think it is also fair to hold them responsible for the firearm violence killing our nation’s children. Georgia lawmakers have passed legislation to protect children in other ways. Georgia requires that children be at least 16 years old and to have held a learner’s permit for a year before they can drive: minors under 16 cannot be employed in dangerous or harmful jobs; and those under 17 cannot marry. These restrictions recognize that children’s prefrontal cortex, the part of their brain responsible for reasoning, impulse control and decision-making, is not yet fully formed. Yet, despite firearms being the leading cause of death for children in the United States, Georgia has minimal regulations governing children’s firearm access. There is no minimum age for purchasing or possessing rifles or shotguns, no permit required for carrying firearms in public (whether open or concealed) and no mandate for secure firearm storage (such as unloading, locking and storing ammunition separately). Details of the shooting in Winder continue to emerge, but let’s start with what we know. Reports indicate that the shooter and his father were questioned by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office in May 2023 following multiple anonymous tips about online threats, including images of guns. The suspect’s father claimed that his child did not have unfettered access to the guns. The authorities did not have probable cause for an arrest, and so they left and the guns stayed. And, in fact, the father bought his son a new gun — an AR-15 — as a Christmas present. Perhaps more disturbing is that this kind of negligence and indifference is not an anomaly. A similar set of facts surround the Nashville Waffle House shooter and the Michigan Oxford High School Shooter. In both cases, parents ignored warning signs and helped their sons keep or procure firearms that were used in mass shootings. Moreover, almost three-quarters of guns used in gun-related incidents at schools come from the home or someone the shooter knows. It’s fair to ask: Where are the parents? However, we also want to know where are the elected officials charged with keeping us and our children safe when they are at school, the movies, a parade or otherwise living their lives? Laws mandating secure firearm storage, permitting, minimum age requirements and background checks have been proven to lower firearm homicide rates. Emergency risk protection orders, or red-flag laws, which temporarily prevent individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others from possessing or purchasing firearms, have also been effective in reducing firearm homicides. Georgia’s failure to implement such regulations, allowing a child with underdeveloped decision-making skills to access a gun, means the state shares the blame for the gun-related injuries and deaths at Apalachee High School. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp is right. It’s not the time to “talk about safety and policy.” The time was years ago, but it’s never too late to do the right thing. Kerri Raissian is an associate professor in the School of Public Policy at the University of Connecticut; director of the University of Connecticut's UConn’s Center for Advancing Research, Methods, and Scholarship (ARMS) in Gun Violence Prevention; and co-director of the Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP) Gun Violence Prevention Research Interest Group. Her research focuses on child and family policy, with an emphasis on understanding how policies affect fertility, family formation, and family violence. She is available to speak to media about this important topic - simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.
If You Hate University Rankings Here’s One You Might Like
If your university cares about fostering research and innovation and you haven’t heard of the PitchBook Startup Index, you might want to pay closer attention to this data. While it doesn't look like the PitchBook folks are aiming to be a big player in the world of academic rankings, their detailed tracking activity of startup investments, which includes deal size, school affiliation, and employees, gives us a window into how each institution is performing on startup activity. Why This Is a University Ranking We Can Trust It's Objective: These rankings are based on detailed startup data that PitchBook dutifully tracks as part of many paid services it provides for clients that include VC's, Private Equity Funds and government agencies. The investors who pay for access to the underlying data expect accuracy and there is a considerable amount of meta information available for tracking as startups raise money and hire employees. It's Simple: The PitchBook rankings are free of the typical complexity found in other rankings such as the US News & World Report. They simply use a few key metrics including the number of startup founders affiliated with new ventures created at each institution and how much investment capital they have raised. It's Revealing: Ranking this data as a Top 100 Index gives us a good comparative view of which Universities are doing a good job of creating an entrepreneurial environment that stimulates learning and research while attracting investment capital and creating high-value jobs. Universities Need to Tell the Story Behind this Data to Build Support for Their Research & Startups This data is followed closely by University Research and Tech Transfer Offices. However, it should also be actively used by other departments, such as University Marketing and Communications, Government Affairs, Enrolment and Fundraising/Development which need to build support with legislators, policymakers, funding agencies, donors, and corporate partners - and yes, new student prospects. The relevance and accuracy of these rankings make this an important opportunity for you to tell your story and engage these audiences. "Promoting stories about your startups provides the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the relevance of your programs and narrow the gap between "town and gown." It's an opportunity to show how your faculty experts and researchers are nurturing innovation through startups to improve the lives of people in your local community and beyond." Did Your University Make the List? If the answer is yes, congrats! We would be remiss if I didn't recognize our clients who made the Top 100. Take a bow University of Florida, Vanderbilt University, University of Massachusetts, Michigan State University, University of California, Irvine and Rensselaer Polytechnic. Now it's time to get to work. As someone who has worked closely with startups and Universities over the past two decades, I see the immense value they create. That's why I'm surprised whenever I see university marketing teams missing valuable opportunities for promoting their faculty and research through the lens of startup activities. The Benefits of Celebrating Startups Research on startups (Shenkoya, 2023) shows that key factors such as access to research funds, dedicated faculty, size of dedicated staff (academic and non-academic), access to practical entrepreneurship courses, and non-regular curriculum startup activities are key factors responsible for success of University startups. However, proper funding for these programs in a challenging environment requires that Universities more effectively communicate the value they are delivering. Here's where you can shine: Media: This is an obvious opportunity, especially with local outlets. It provides the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the relevance of your programs and narrow the gap between "town and gown." Show how these startups are looking to improve the lives of people in the community. Corporate Partners: Startups are a natural focal point for conversations with industry partners, especially when you can speak to key market sectors and breakthrough research that faculty are focused on. Speak to how you are giving them more direct access to a pool of talented graduates. Also, don't forget to speak to programs you may be running in the areas of internships, mentorship programs, sponsored research, and curriculum development. Don't forget that engaging in educational partnerships helps companies improve their CSR profile, which can enhance their public image and brand. Also, explore how partners can financially support needed infrastructure improvements on the campus with funding for new facilities or new equipment. Students: Giving startups an opportunity to tell their stories and celebrate their achievements is one of the best ways to demonstrate how you are aligning your educational and entrepreneurship programs with industry needs. And don't forget to include your corporate partners. As employers, they are in the best position to show how you are preparing students for next-generation jobs. Show students how they will get direct exposure to the industry through programs you may be running, such as co-op terms, internships, and mentorships, and startup events such as boot camps and pitch competitions. Government: The data clearly shows that startups create high-value jobs and contribute to GDP growth. But governments today need constant reassurance that the funds they put into education and research are generating impact. You have to show the relevance of your startups by outlining how they are solving big societal problems that matter to voters. How are your startups leading socio-economic transformation for local communities and competing effectively on a global stage? Tips for Telling Your Startup Stories Focus on People Humanize your story by speaking directly to how founders and their teams are approaching key market and societal challenges. Focus on important "origin story" elements such as their personal challenges or insights that led them to their first discovery. Focus on notable collaborations they formed. How were faculty members or alumni involved in helping with research and market development or industry relationships? Create a story arc. Give your audience an appreciation for how hard startups are and the amount of uncertainty and risk they face in developing new innovations. Startups are not an overnight success. People are even more inspired by non-linear journeys that show the grit and determination that founders need to bring to their startups. Focus on Programs Always be thinking about how founders and their stories can help boost student enrolment by connecting their origin stories to specific experiences they had on the campus. Ask them how specific courses and programs prepared them for their entrepreneurial journey. Also ask them what other experiences such as campus mentorship programs, hackathons or pitch competitions helped them achieve specific breakthroughs and milestones. Focus on Photos & Videos Startups provide a great opportunity to engage your audience visually. Go beyond boring headshots, monolithic campus buildings, and staged stock images. Instead, use imagery that shows people creating new and exciting things together. This is not a time to be shy about asking founders, faculty, and funders to get in the shot and be recognized for their contributions. While you may think photo ops are overly promotional, they often help your partners communicate back to their constituency the importance of supporting your work. Walk the campus to get behind the scenes and show lab facilities, technology prototypes, and in-field work. Partners Profile notable investors, faculty, foundations, government agencies, alumni and corporate partners who may have invested time, money and other resources that help validate the quality of the startups you are helping build. Remember, startups are like a barn-raising, that involves a larger community. Give these partners an opportunity to be visible part of the story and they will celebrate with you and amplify your message to reach a bigger, more engaged audience. Proof Show evidence that the startups you are supporting are making a difference. Use your startups as an opportunity to speak to the bigger picture of why your institution matters. Speak to how they are tackling bigger challenges in areas such as environment, healthcare, social justice, the economy, physical infrastructure, security, election integrity and social innovation. Also make sure to demonstrate measurable impact in key areas such as: Total Addressable Market Job creation Investment activities Industry Awards Partnerships Patents Customer /Revenue Milestones It's Your Time to Shine In an era where impact is increasingly measured by the ability to translate research into real-world applications, universities have a unique opportunity to show the value of their startup ecosystems. But you need to get the stories out beyond the campus. Use your momentum to build a compelling narrative that makes your startups the heroes of your institution's story.
At the kick-off of a new school year, CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is reminding motorists to remain vigilant, especially when driving in school zones. Everyone has a responsibility to look out for those around them, including parents/guardians and children, as they travel to and from school. “Parents and guardians across Manitoba have reported seeing unsafe driving behaviours in school zones, including double parking, speeding and stopping in moving traffic. Not only are these behaviours dangerous, they also could come with stiff penalties,” says Ewald Friesen, manager, government & community relations for CAA Manitoba. Student buses in school zones and surrounding areas are common this time of year, and some drivers will be tempted to pass a stopped school bus when the vehicle’s arm is activated and lights are flashing. “Passing a school bus is not only illegal, but it also puts young lives at risk and is grounds for potential conviction of the driver,” says Friesen, “if convicted, a driver can face a hefty fine of $674 and two demerit points.” This school year, CAA Manitoba hopes to educate and inspire the public to make responsible driving choices to protect children as they travel to and from their schools. “CAA Manitoba continues to advocate for the safety of all road users, including the ones excited to see their friends at school today,” Friesen adds. Tips for responsible driving behaviours in school zone areas: • Help reduce traffic with active school travel: Encourage your kids to walk or wheel to school to ease traffic congestion. If your school is a further distance, CAA MB encourages parents and guardians to park a block away and walk to school to reduce traffic and make school zones safer. • Put away distractions: Pedestrian safety begins with drivers. It’s important to put away distractions such as phones and be extra attentive in school zones, whether a parent is driving, or a child is walking to school. • Slow down: Know and respect the speed limit in your neighbourhood’s school zones. Give yourself plenty of time to drop off your kids at school to avoid rushing. • Choose a safe spot to drop off and pick up your children from school: Follow your school’s rules and avoid double parking or stopping on crosswalks, dropping off or picking up your kids on the opposite side of the street, and stopping in moving traffic as kids rush out. Instead, use the designated drop-off areas or consider a spot a bit farther away from school that is easily accessible and safe. • Make eye contact with pedestrians: With the excitement of going back to school, anticipate that children may not easily see or hear your moving vehicle, so ensure to make eye contact with pedestrians crossing the road. • Stop for school buses: Never pass a stopped school bus with an activated stop arm and flashing red lights as children get on and off the bus. Passing a school bus as it loads and unloads children – not only is this dangerous, but it’s also illegal. • Watch for CAA School Safety Patrollers: When travelling to and from school, watch for CAA School Safety Patrollers in their lime green safety vests, as they play an important role in ensuring the roadway is safe before kids cross on their own. CAA supports safety in school zones through the CAA School Safety Patrol® program. The program was developed to protect, educate and empower elementary school children on safe road-crossing practices. To learn more, please visit http://www.caamanitoba.com/schoolzonesafety.
How vulnerable are US energy facilities
Earlier this month, alarm bells were ringing at the Justice Department after a Jordanian citizen was arrested for targeting and breaking into solar power facility farm in Florida. During that same time period, energy facilities in New Jersey and Idaho also came under attack. The attacks were politically motivated and have led national media outlets like USA Today to contact experts from Carnegie Mellon University to help explain the situation and break if all down. The Department of Homeland Security has issued warnings that domestic extremists have been developing "credible, specific plans" since at least 2020 and would continue to "encourage physical attacks against electrical infrastructure." Industry experts, federal officials, and others have warned in one report after another since at least 1990 that the power grid was at risk, said Granger Morgan, an engineering professor at Carnegie Mellon University. One challenge is that there's no single entity whose responsibilities span the entire system, Morgan said. And the risks are only increasing as the grid expands to include renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, he said. August 15, 2024 - USA TODAY Professor Granger's comments are startling as America's vulnerabilities to important infrastructure seem to be more exposed than ever. And if you're a journalist looking to cover this emerging topic - then let us help with your questions and stories. Morgan Granger is available to speak with media - simply click on his icon below to arrange an interview today. Photo Credit: Zbynek Burival
