County Rejects Cesar Chavez Blvd Name as Tensions With City Escalate

Tensions between the city and county governments of Fresno boiled to the surface again Tuesday, when the Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 not to rename south Fresno streets in honor of Cesar Chavez.

The debate was whether to follow the city’s lead and name portions of California Avenue and Kings Canyon Road under county jurisdiction after Chavez.

Supervisors also used the Chavez debate to lecture on how the city should have conducted its business — and to say that the county is sticking up for residents.

Supervisor Brian Pacheco, one of the sponsors of the resolution not to rename the streets, said normally he believes the county should “(stay) in our lane” and out of city business.

“As the representative of southwest Fresno, I could not idly sit by as the people of southwest Fresno felt their voices were not being heard,” Pacheco said from the dais.

Several supervisors said they are in favor of honoring Chavez, but not with a street name, and not at its proposed location.

Miguel Arias, the Fresno City Councilman who supported the name change and spoke at the county meeting, said there is an ulterior motive for the county’s decision.

“The county Board of Supervisors would never name a street, or a park or anything after a labor leader who fought for farmworkers because of their disdain for the labor movement and the farmworker movement. But they can, you know, cover that as much as they want and put as much lipstick on a pig as possible. But it’s still a pig,” Arias told GV Wire after the meeting.

Arias talks about local control, and the importance of Cesar Chavez in the community. pic.twitter.com/xfeeYtTF5G

— David Taub (@TaubGVWire) April 11, 2023

City Renames Three Continguous Roads for Cesar Chavez

Last month, the Fresno City Council voted to change portions of California Avenue, Ventura Street, and Kings Canyon Road for Chavez. But, because portions of the roadway contained county islands, the Board of Supervisors had to consent as well.

Watch: A Road With Many Names End-to-End Timelapse

The board withheld that consent. That means a motorist would see 10 name changes, from California and Marks avenues, to Kings Canyon Road and Temperance Avenue.

“I want to be very clear that our city does not need, nor do we seek the permission of the county of Fresno to proceed with our action to recognize the contributions of Cesar Estrada Chavez, a Latino hero in our city,” Arias said during public comment.

Pacheco, and his co-sponsor Steve Brandau said the city never reached out to residents and businesses notifying them of the potential change. The city resolution in 2022 to start the process called for the formation of a committee “to engage the public and receive input, recommendations.”

“When Miguel says that, you know, everybody was included, you got noticed. Not very accurate,” Brandau said.

Brandau said that when an issue is “sketchy,” community meetings are scarce.

“This one was done on the down low,” Brandau said. “This was not a transparent situation.”

Several speakers, living in west Fresno near California Avenue, said they were never notified.

Luis Chavez, a Fresno City councilman who sponsored the city name change, pushed back on that narrative. Several community groups knew about the proposed name change, and the council publicly discussed it three times, he said.

“I’m not sure who gave the supervisors that misinformation that outreach was not done, but it was wrong information that made them provide false statements from the dais,” Chavez texted GV Wire.

Arias called out the supervisors for not practicing what they preach.

“It’s quite hypocritical for the county to suggest that we don’t listen to community voice when it’s a body that has voted to place a hazard toxic waste in west Fresno, approved liquor licenses in west Fresno, when west Fresno is a more saturated area for both liquor licenses and toxic sites against the opposition of the same residents,” Arias said.

Arias said he’s held more communications on the Chavez Boulevard issue than the county has on any topic.

Quintero Said Chavez Would Reject

Supervisor Sal Quintero told every story in the book about Cesar Chavez. At one point, he even held up Chavez’s autobiography.

Quintero shared anecdotes of befriending Chavez in the 1980s.

“I believe I got to know him that well. That I believe if he were alive today, he would decline the name change, and the $1 million to help businesses and residents with the address changes. I believe he would say there are greater needs in our communities. Instead, I believe he might ask the money be given to a nonprofit that is helping Fresno County’s homeless population,” Quintero said.

Chavez, who is running against Quintero for the District 3 supervisor seat in 2024, disagreed.

“We don’t honor great leaders because they ask for it, but because they don’t ask for it. We honor them because of what they did for others and the community. I think his statement was a cop-out and typical of his lack of leadership when it counts,” Chavez said. “We are honoring Cesar Chavez’s legacy of helping hardworking farmworkers. It was encouraging to hear folks acknowledge that and there was consensus on that matter, the only disagreement was the location.”

City/County Friction Continues

Friction between the city council and supervisors is nothing new. The members have frequently taken shots at each other either on the dais, or in media interviews.

On the dais, Pacheco quipped “(the city) can do anything they want within the city limits of Fresno because the people elected them and you get what you pay for.”

Still, Tuesday’s episode got the attention of those who make a living dealing with both city and county governments.

“The lack of communication is staggering,” said Scott Miller, president and CEO of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce.

Said Chavez: “Bottom line, the city and county need to work at communicating much better. Now that they made their voice heard we will honor their vote within shared jurisdiction.”

The post County Rejects Cesar Chavez Blvd Name as Tensions With City Escalate first appeared on GV Wire – Explore. Explain. Expose.

Posted 19 Apr 2023 16:31 by | News | No comments

Popular Boyle Heights jogging path blocked by RV dwellers; some residents complain

As he walked briskly around Evergreen Cemetery in Boyle Heights, Tony Marquez used his cane to bat away empty soda and beer bottles.

Then, he reached the RVs parked next to the brick red, rubberized path.

Gardens planted next to the curb by RV residents, complete with fencing and planters, spilled onto the path, as did bicycles, power tools and appliances.

Marquez, 70, edged close to the cemetery wall as he stepped off the path and maneuvered around the obstacles.

A lifelong Boyle Heights resident, he has been walking the 1.4-mile loop every day since 2008, when he was diagnosed with arthritis in his right knee and needed a low-impact workout.

“You feel like you’re walking into someone else’s backyard instead of a public walkway,” said Marquez, a retired distributor of Sears catalogs and Verizon yellow pages, who is a member of the Boyle Heights Historical Society. “This used to be a great place for seniors to exercise, for friends to catch up, and now everything is cluttered and there’s so much trash. It’s sad.”

Longtime Boyle Heights resident Tony Marquez takes his daily walk around the 1.4-mile jogging path.
(Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

Marquez is among the residents calling for the motor homes to be removed from beside the jogging track, which has long been one of the few exercise options in an area that desperately needs them.

Some members of the Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council have reached out to the area city councilmember, Kevin de León, and Mayor Karen Bass’ office. They are also trying to come up with creative solutions, such as paid parking meters or a parking curfew.

Nadine Diaz, vice president of the neighborhood council, said the city does not enforce parking rules against the 20 or so RVs on North Lorena Street.

“There are never any fines or penalties, so of course they’re going to stay,” Diaz said. “It’s free.”

There aren’t enough trucks to tow or space to park large vehicles. But those issues pale in comparison to changing the mindset of many who live in RVs.

Some who live in the RVs say they try to be considerate and that the trash doesn’t come from them.

“None of them have spoken to us in the trailers,” said one RV dweller, Martha Batista. “Let them come in and see how clean we are. How can they throw us out without even talking to us?”

The route around the cemetery has been used by walkers and joggers since the 1940s. After Diaz and other residents formed the Evergreen Jogging Path Coalition and collaborated with then-Councilmember Nick Pacheco, the path opened in 2003 with the addition of decorative streetlamps and a rubberized surface.

It became popular with everyone from seasoned runners to grandmothers battling diabetes in a mostly Latino, working class neighborhood where obesity and other chronic health problems are common.

Joggers go to the track around L.A.’s Evergreen Cemetery for fitness and camaraderie. Maria Ruiz is drawing on both in a race against illness.

“When you look at rates of high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity in Boyle Heights, we needed to provide a place where people could exercise,” said Diaz, who lives 100 yards from the path.

A stroll on the path has never been completely free of hazards. In 2005, the Times profiled a 58-year-old woman who carried a broken broomstick to ward off dangerous strangers.

Los Angeles Police Department Sgt. Guillermo Galvan, who is in charge of community relations at Hollenbeck Division, said that as long as the RVs are inhabited and not spilling sewage, law enforcement has little recourse.

An LAPD official said law enforcement would have little recourse on the RVs unless they were uninhabited or spilling sewage.
(Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

“The solution here isn’t the police but the community,” Galvan said. “They’ll have to figure something out.”

The city’s transportation department can cite and tow inhabited RVs that create an environmental, public or traffic hazard but must first see if the resident will voluntarily move.

For those who insist on staying, parking officers will notify homelessness authorities to connect them with assistance.

The department received 51 calls from the public about abandoned vehicles near the cemetery last year and towed four, said spokesperson Colin Sweeney.

A few weeks ago, a Winnebago and a Volkswagen Jetta caught fire and were eventually towed away, Sweeney said.

Glass and debris shot onto the pathway, which was singed by flames that also ignited a nearby tree. Joggers with dogs detoured into the street so the broken glass wouldn’t cut the animals’ paws.

Gilbert Espinoza, 66, sweeps around his RV parked along the Evergreen Cemetery in Boyle Heights.
(Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

Gilbert Espinoza, who lives in an RV, said he helped clean up after the fire.

“This area is my home, and I like to keep it clean,” said Espinoza, 66, a retired mechanic who moved his RV to Boyle Heights three months ago to be closer to his brother. “Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Two years earlier, a fire chased Espinoza and his wife out of their one-bedroom Whittier apartment.

They stayed in hotels for a year, hoping to return, but after it was rebuilt, the apartment cost $300 more than before.

“We just couldn’t afford it,” said Espinoza, who lives on Social Security and disability payments. “It was too expensive to pay $75 a day for a hotel and too expensive to move back to where we lived.”

City officials voted to lift a moratorium on towing illegally parked campers, citing complaints from residents of human waste, drug use and trash.

Instead, Espinoza bought a motor home for $2,200. They first parked in Santa Fe Springs, moving after three months because they were fined by police.

They are now close to saving enough for move-in fees for an apartment.

“All I’m asking is for some patience, and we’ll get back on our feet,” he said. “Nobody wants to be here, but it’s not right to be thrown out.”

Batista, an unemployed waitress, has bounced around different neighborhoods in her RV since the home she rented in Westlake was sold to a developer in 2020. She has parked on North Lorena Street for more than a year.

Batista, 59, who is originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, said the trash on the path is mostly left by passersby, including customers from the nearby El Mercadito marketplace.

Martha Batista fills plastic jugs at a water fountain along the jogging path, where the 59-year-old lives in an RV.
(Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

Residents sometimes dump mattresses, televisions and other broken appliances near the trailers, “knowing we’ll get blamed for the trash,” she said.

Pete Brown, a spokesperson for De León, said the streets surrounding the jogging path are cleaned weekly, while the path itself is cleaned at least twice a month.

The aging path needs to be resurfaced at some point, which could cost more than $2 million, according to Brown.

Brown said that the city doesn’t have a place to park RVs that are towed.

“I know some people want them gone, but you can’t just bully them out of town,” he said.

Diaz and Evergreen Jogging Path Coalition co-founder Diana Tarango, both fourth-generation Boyle Heights residents, said they are surveying locals and will discuss the issue at an upcoming neighborhood council meeting.

“We had to plan, organize and rally for this pathway over 20 years ago,” Tarango said. “If we have to do it again, we’ll do it again.”

Posted 19 Apr 2023 15:31 by | News | 1 comment

15 Classical Crossover Songs of Faith

This weekend Easter and Passover celebrations will be taking place around the world. Whether joined together as a community or privately in homes music is a powerful force for uniting and lifting our thoughts above. Here is our list of some of our favorite Faith based crossover songs.

1. Sarah Brightman – Hymn

The Queen of Crossover released “Hymn” by John Leese on her album of the same title in 2018. The video combines her delicate soprano with a distinct contemporary worship feel and beautiful nature and church scenery.

2. Laura Bretan – Via Dolorosa 

This week former America’s Got Talent contestant Laura Bretan released a brand new cover of “Via Dolorosa” (or Way of Suffering). It was written by Bily Sprague and Niles A Borop and made popular by the Gospel singer Sandi Patty. Laura’s version is simple but filled with a sincere passion.

3. Daniel Emmet – The Lord’s Prayer

Albert Hay Malotte’s famed “The Lord’s Prayer” was recently released by Daniel Emmet. The meditation has been sung many times both operatically and by crooners such as Frank Sinatra and Andy Williams. Daniel’s new single, is a nod to both with his trademark easy singing, clear enunciation and powerful climax.

4. Katherine Jenkins – Peace in the Valley

Katherine Jenkins’s rendition of Thomas A. Dorsey’s “They’ll Be Peace in the Valley for Me” shows the mezzo-soprano at her best. Although often using the more operatic portion of her voice here we are treated to a relaxed popular tone which fits perfectly with the choral accompaniment.

5. Céline Dion, Andrea Bocelli – The Prayer

Arguably one of the most famous crossover hits, “The Prayer” is composed by David Foster, Carole Bayer Sager, Alberto Testa and Tony Renis. The piece was originally part of the animated film “Quest for Camelot” but its impossible to forget the earnest, soaring tenor equally matched by one of the most expressive and powerful pop diva’s of our time.

6. Nathan Pacheco – Come As You Are

Nathan Pacheco, Leo Z and Nicole Pinnell perform “Come As You Are” by Ben Glover, David Crowder and Matt Maher. The lyrics will touch audiences with it’s message of hope and acceptance and shows Nathan’s range to adapt his classical training to suit the contemporary ballad.

7. Celtic Woman – Amazing Grace

John Newton’s “Amazing Grace” is given a Celtic nod from David Downes in this arrangement for Celtic Woman. “Amazing Grace” is performed in harmony by Lisa Kelly, Lynn Hilary, Alex Sharpe, Chloe Agnew and Máiréad Nesbitt on the stage at the Powerscourt House and Gardens.

8. Susan Holloway – O Sacred Head, Now Wounded

“O Sacred Head, Now Wounded” composed by Hans Leo Hassler and Johanna Sebastian Bach is performed elegantly by Susan Holloway on violin. She is accompaniment by soft guitar and surrounded by gentle waves.

9. Julie Mae Hales – Wonderous Love

Julie Mae Hales sings “What Wonderous Love is This” on her 2020 album “Light a Candle.” Based on an American folk song, the simple tune is arranged to capture the adoration and joy of it’s lyrics and sung beautifully in Julie’s dramatic soprano.

10. Amira Willighagen – Nearer, My God to Thee

The touching “Nearer, My God to Thee” written by Sarah Flower Adams is performed by former Holland’s Got Talent Winner, Amira Willighagen. Her soprano is lovely and refreshingly natural, without any affectations to tone or interpretation. For a young performer, Amira already has a strong sense of who she is and her faith makes her well suited to cover this kind of material.

11. Ellen Williams – Calon Lân (A Pure Heart)

Ellen William’s cover of “Calon Lân” on her latest album “Inspire” is one of simplicity and elegance. The piece is a traditional Welsh hymn written by Daniel James and John Hughes. Ellen’s voice is effortlessly beautiful befitting the lyrics of a humble seeker.

12. Anna Hawkins – Wayfaring Stranger / Yea Though I Walk

The haunting American folk song has been sung by Jo Stafford and Emmylou Harris and is given new life with Anne Hawkins’ rendition on her 2021 album “Dreamer.” Anna uses her considerable songwriting talent to create a new original portion, “Yea Though I Walk” which effortlessly blends.

13. Chris Pinnella – Hallelujah 

Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has been embraced by many inspirational artists for it’s haunting and beautiful melody. Cohen is said to have written at least 80 different verses, and the ones most widely sung today are complicated to say the least. It’s rare to find an artist who performs this with the brokenness required but in this Chris Pinnella excels. There is no doubting his vocal talent and paired a raw interpretation ranging from anger, to pain and doubt, it is one of most moving covers of this piece.

14. Charlotte Church – The Holy City

Originally written by Stephen Adams and Frederic Weatherly, “The Holy City” is a beloved sacred piece that has been covered by some of the finest voices including Jeannette MacDonald – a soprano from the Golden Age. This particular version is special not only for the pure voice of a young Charlotte Church, but also the spectacular venue The Tower of David in Jerusalem.

15. Jonathan Antoine – How Great Thou Art

This list could truly be endless as crossover performers with their classical training are well suited to cover swelling inspirational material. However, we will end with a fan favorite in former Britain’s Got Talent contest, Jonathan Antoine. This performance of “How Great Thou Art” by Carl Boberg is about as restrained (ha) as you can expect from this powerhouse. His inflection and phrasings are reminiscent of Elvis on the verses but when the song reaches it’s final chorus Jonathan’s operatic side is unleashed.

If you’d like even more Inspiration music, do check out the Classical Crossover Magazine virtual concerts with the ‘Songs of Inspiration’ theme below.

Posted 19 Apr 2023 14:31 by | News | No comments

Code-free Amazon Vendor Central Software

New Data and Analytics Amazon Software for Vendors

Amazon Vendors can take a lot of time and effort to work with their ecommerce data manually. With the help of Amazon Vendor Central software, you can stay ahead of the competition.

This post will show you how to leverage software tools to harness and automate vendor data to drive growth and efficiency. We’ll discuss best practices for collecting vendor data and give examples of using the information to inform your purchasing decisions.

What Is Amazon Vendor Central Software?

Unlike Amazon Vendor Central and Amazon Seller Central EDI integration of old, there have been significant improvements in the Selling Partner API capabilities Amazon offers to Vendors and Sellers.

One of those improvements has been the release of the Amazon Selling Partner API and Amazon Advertising APIs. These new APIs have unlocked tremendous opportunities for Amazon Vendor Central software data automation in three key areas;

Amazon Vendor software for data automation provides a wide variety of features, including the ability to view which items are selling best, sales history, glance views, and other Amazon Vendor Central reports. Automation will automatically generate reports, process, route, and load to your private data destination so you can manage and optimize your sales and inventory.

With data unified and accessible, quickly optimize for poor conversion rates, ordered product sales, identify gaps in operational performance, uncover the percentage of customers converting, refine advertising efforts on and off Amazon, or discover key customer metrics that impact purchase decisions.

Most importantly, data automation unlocks the ability to use BI tools that can spot trends and adjust your business in response to changing market conditions.

There are several options these days for Amazon Advertising analytics for Vendors. For example, you can use your tools for e-commerce insights like business intelligence, data visualization, SQL, or data science tools. Examples are Google Data Studio, Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, Looker, and Amazon Quicksight.

You are using tools like these for performance insights is possible because you can now unify your data to a leading data lake or cloud warehouses like Databricks, Redshift, Redshift Spectrum, Google BigQuery, Snowflake, Azure Data Lake, Ahana, and Amazon Athena for a unified, analytics-ready single source of truth to fuel informed decisions on product, media, and customer demand.

Avoid Scraping, Bots, RPA, and Other “Hacks” For Amazon Vendor Central Integration Software

Participation in formal, certified developer programs from companies like Amazon is critical for transparency, consistency, and security.

Amazon clearly states that hacks, data scraping, RPA, bots, and other tools that bypass the official APIs should be avoided. Only leverage Amazon Vendor software based on official Amazon APIs and in verified Vendor developer program(s).

Official Amazon Vendor software tools must comply with all applicable program terms;

  • Amazon Advertising Partner Network Terms & Conditions

Trusted third-party software and services

Any Amazon tool you use should comply with Amazon software policies.

Using data scrapers, bots, and other hacks to automate data for inventory levels, accessing Amazon’s customers’ order information, or sales channels is a violation of Amazon AUP and DPP.

Openbridge invests significant time and energy in working through official developer programs established by Amazon that require developers to undertake rigorous audits, reviews, and compliance monitoring to be approved as a user of their systems.

See our Bot Free Promise for more information.

Start Your Amazon Vendor Central Software Data Automation Efforts Today — For Free

Ditch the manual Amazon Vendor Central report downloads for product research, inventory analysis, or sales channel insights. Using Amazon Vendor Central software will enable you to adapt to new opportunities and challenges, which can mean the difference between success and fail­ure for vendors.

Openbridge is an Amazon Vendor Central, Amazon Seller Central, and Amazon Advertising verified partner that offers code-free data automation, one of the most potent Vendor software tools you can tap into.

Openbridge is a cloud-based Amazon Vendor Central software tool designed specifically for Amazon Sellers and Vendors. It allows you to manage multiple accounts simultaneously, monitors sales performance across all channels, and automate inventory management and shipping processes.

Automation accelerates performance and the speed at which your team can gain valuable insights to deliver data-driven growth and profit.

Sign up for a 30-day free trial of our Vendor Central Software automation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Amazon SP-API support Amazon Seller Central and Amazon Vendor Central?

Yes, the API broadly supports the Amazon Marketplace for Vendors and Sellers.

Do I have to use a legacy EDI solution?

No, the new SP-API is meant to replace any legacy EDI solution in the market. However, switching from the EDI to the API may be complete depending on your Amazon business situation.

Can I use my Amazon Seller Software for my Vendor Central account?

While Vendors and Sellers both use Amazon for product sales, they do so in very different contexts. For example, an Amazon listing for a vendor is managed differently than one for an Amazon FBA seller. While there are some shared capabilities (see Amazon Advertising), most Amazon Seller Tools are designed to support the specifics of FBA retail vs. Vendors.

Openbridge offers a no-code, seamless integration with the Amazon Vendor Central Software API.

Does your Selling Partner application support Seller Central and Vendor Central?

We support a common method and best practice for Amazon automation on Seller Central or Vendor Central via the Selling Partner APIs and Amazon Advertising APIs. See our Bot Free Promise for more information.

Do you support Amazon Brand Analytics for vendors?

Yes, we do. Access to this data requires you to enroll in the Amazon Brand Registry.

Do I need to hire a software developer to work with your system?

No, Openbridge offers no-code automation software that allows you direct access and ownership of data to determine sales performance trends, sales history, Amazon Advertising data for marketing initiatives, and much more.

Code-free Amazon Vendor Central Software was originally published in Openbridge on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Posted 19 Apr 2023 14:11 by | Amazon | No comments

Shenseea – Curious (Official Music Video)

Stream Shenseea’s latest single “Curious” here:
https://shenseea.lnk.to/Curious

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#Shenseea #Curious

Music video by Shenseea performing Curious. © 2023 Rich Immigrants/Interscope Records

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Posted 19 Apr 2023 13:39 by | News | No comments

Aston Villa 0-1 Chelsea: Sam Kerr bags second half winner as Blues advance to Women’s FA Cup final | Daily Mail Online

Sam Kerr had barely had a sight of goal for the best part of an hour. But as Chelsea and opposition teams know all too well, she only needs one chance.

As Guro Reiten’s cross hung in the air, Kerr drifted away from Maz Pacheco to the back post before leaping to head the ball past Hannah Hampton.

That was all it took to book Chelsea’s place at Wembley for a third successive FA Cup final and to end Aston Villa’s dream of making history.

The finish, the defending and the performance from Chelsea was efficient rather than exciting. That has been the story for much of their season.

Injuries to Fran Kirby and Pernille Harder have affected the way they have played for much of the campaign but they have enough experience to get over the line in games like this.

Sam Kerr scored the only goal of the game on Sunday as Chelsea beat Aston Villa

The win takes Emma Hayes’ side into their third successive FA Cup final where they will play Manchester United

Harder was back on the bench today and her return to fitness could prove crucial in the run-in. 

They also coped admirably without centre back Millie Bright and Kadeisha Buchanan, though Villa did come agonisingly close to a late equaliser, with Sarah Mayling hitting the post with a shot from just inside the box.

Villa have made considerable progress under Carla Ward but, ultimately, this proved a step too far.

‘I’m heartbroken for the players tonight, I thought we were outstanding today,’ Ward said.

‘I thought we were the better team over 90 minutes. I said to the players, if we can go out there, leave everything out there and do everything that we’ve asked of them, we come off knowing we’d be happy and if the best team won, the best team won. But I don’t think the best team did win today.’

Chelsea will look to get the better of Man United as they gun for a fifth win in the competition

Villa did not allow the Blues many chances but ultimately could not see them off

Chances were few and far between in a tight first half. Lauren James fizzed a shot just wide of the right post before Rachel Daly went close for Villa at the other end. The best chance of the half fell to Eve Perisset but the defender could only send a volley over the bar from close range.

After missing a great chance before half time, Chelsea nearly opened the scoring 15 seconds after the break, with Jelena Cankovic sending a half volley against the crossbar.

But Cankovic was involved when the Blues did find the breakthrough. The midfielder played two quick passes with Reiten, who sent in a hanging cross for Kerr to head home.

Villa almost forced extra-time when Mayling hit the post but Chelsea held on to set up what will be an exciting final against Manchester United on May 14.

MATCH FACTS

Aston Villa: Hampton, Mayling, Turner, Patten, Pacheco, Dali, Staniforth, Nobbs, Lehmann, Daly, Hanson

Subs: Allen, Boye-Hlorkah, Gregory, Bron, Leat, Magill, Keitley, Littlejohn

Chelsea: Musovic, Perisset, Mjelde, Eriksson, Carter, Leupolz (Ingle, 64), Cuthbert (Fleming, 70), James (Charles, 65), Cankovic, Reiten, Kerr

Subs: Kanneryd, Harderm Abdullina, Orman

Aston Villa 0-1 Chelsea: Sam Kerr bags second half winner as Blues advance to Women’s FA Cup final

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Posted 19 Apr 2023 11:31 by | News | No comments

Dominican Republic’s New Flagship Airline Arajet Takes Off

Arajet, the Dominican Republic’s new low-fare airline, officially launched operations in the Caribbean skies, leading the rebirth of the Dominican aviation with a powerful connecting hub in Santo Domingo.

Arajet will build a robust route network of 22 destinations in 12 countries in the upcoming months, proudly carrying the Dominican flag, and providing a customer-oriented service across the continent.

After two days of successful operations on September 15th and 16th with flights to Barranquilla and Cali in Colombia and to Aruba, Arajet marked its first official flight to San Salvador in El Salvador, in an event hosted by Mr. Luis Abinader, President of the Dominican Republic, and Mrs. Morena Valdez, Minister of Tourism of El Salvador.

“We celebrate the launch of Arajet as our newest national carrier,” said President Abinader.

“Our government will continue supporting Arajet and the overall aeronautical industry to assure its competitiveness and create an air hub that promotes tourism, trade and cultural exchange, and provides an opportunity for all Dominicans abroad to visit their country at affordable prices.”

Víctor Pacheco Méndez, CEO of Arajet, highlighted that the Low-Fare business model and designation as a national carrier for the Dominican Republic will attract more tourists, increase connectivity, and offer Dominicans the opportunity to travel at lower fares, aboard new aircraft with the highest standards of safety and distinctive warm Dominican customer service.

“We are excited to commence operations and provide Dominicans and all our guests with low fares, world class customer experience and a new growing network from and to Santo Domingo to major cities in The Americas,” expressed Mr. Pacheco.

“Our mission is to build services for our guests by utilizing state-of-the art aircraft fleet with the latest technology, to strengthen and facilitate the country’s connection to the world, while promoting domestic tourism internationally.”

Arajet will continue expanding its operations later this month with the addition of routes to Saint Maarten in the Caribbean, Lima in Peru, Mexico City, Monterrey and Cancun in Mexico and Guatemala City in Guatemala.

In October, Arajet will add Curaçao, San José in Costa Rica, Quito and Guayaquil in Ecuador, Medellín and Bogotá in Colombia as well as destinations in North America.

“From the perspective of the government of President Nayib Bukele, air connectivity is key to boost tourism, making it easier for travelers to move between countries and discover the wide range of options offered by El Salvador: from the permanent consistency of its surfing waves, its imposing volcanoes, and towns and cities with great historical value,” .

In the next 5 years Arajet plans to transport more than 7 million passengers, generating more than 4,000 direct and close to 40,000 indirect jobs in the region.

“With Arajet’s launch our country will begin to feel the impact the airline will have in the Dominican Republic,” said Tourism Minister David Collado.

“Arajet will contribute to the growth of the tourism industry and attract more visitors from new destinations so we can continue reaching record numbers in tourist arrivals and diversify the nationality of our visitors with fair rates that connect Santo Domingo with the continent.

“We reaffirm our commitment, assumed jointly with the Tourism Cabinet led by President Abinader, to strengthen public policies related to the tourism and the aeronautical sector to promote its development.”

Arajet has already received 5 of 8 direct leases of new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, and has a direct order for 20 new Boeing 737 MAX.

The carrier will continue to grow and invest in its fleet with 15 additional options to be delivered over the next 5 years.

“The 737 MAX family of airplanes is well suited to Arajet’s network with the 737-8 enabling profitable new routes and the 737-8-200 providing unrivalled efficiencies,” said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

“The flexibility of the 737 MAX ensures Arajet can meet its goal of making flying more affordable and accessible across the Caribbean and beyond, with safe, sustainable and reliable service.”

Arajet enters the market as the newest Low-Cost Carrier in the region, strategically supported by experienced global aviation investors Bain Capital and Griffin Global Asset Management to consolidate as a world-class airline for the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean.

“By working closely with our investors as well as with our strategic partner and leading global aerospace company Boeing, we are well-positioned for operational success and to provide Dominicans and international visitors with flights at affordable prices that connect the country with key destinations in the American continent and the Caribbean,” added Pacheco.

Arajet’s ultra-quiet and fuel-efficient CFM LEAP-1B engines reduce noise pollution and allow the airline to save on operational costs that support low fares so everyone can fly and easily book at Arajet.com

“We have prepared for years to efficiently and conveniently connect the Dominican Republic with key international markets,” Mr. Pacheco concluded.

“We are assuming the responsibility of the rebirth of the Dominican aviation as the new national carrier with an experienced international team that will ensure our operations meet the highest safety standards and customer service for our guests.”

The post Dominican Republic’s New Flagship Airline Arajet Takes Off appeared first on Airline Ground Services.

Posted 19 Apr 2023 10:31 by | News | No comments

4 Vegetable Garden Layout Designs to Consider | Architectural Digest

A subset of raised bed gardening is called square foot gardening. This mathematical approach aims to grow more in less space. The basics of this technique include utilizing 4×4′ raised beds that are sectioned into 12″ squares. Within each of these squares crops are planted based on spacing guidance found on seed or vegetable-start packaging. So if your plant needs 12 inches, put one in each square; if your plant needs four inches, plant three in each square. The back portion of the boxed-grid can hold trellises for climbing crops like beans, melons, or cucumbers. 

Careful garden planning can yield beautiful results.

Bryn Bird, who is an expert in this approach, explains that square foot gardening is so productive due to the very specific mix of soil used: ⅓ compost, ⅓ peat moss, and ⅓ vermiculite. The compost provides a shot of fresh nutrients, the peat moss allows for better drainage so the roots can grow wider, and vermiculite expands to hold moisture so the plants get an even watering.

Like more traditional gardening, this layout can create a beautiful geometry. Bird describes one square foot garden she visited where the “boxes were turned so they looked diamond-shaped, colorful pebbles were laid between the aisles, and the grids were painted so it looked almost like a beautiful flower.” She favors square foot gardening for its ease, precision, and because it avoids rows that can easily get overgrown and unwieldy for the home gardener.

3. Foodscaping

You can grow edible gardens in underutilized spaces in your yard.

Foodscaping incorporates edible plants into existing landscapes. Brie Arnold explains she started foodscaping because it looked normal enough to be “100% homeowner association approved.” Edible landscapes like this take advantage of traditional underutilized spaces like the beds abutting houses that are convenient to garden, as well as space between shrubs, trees, and perennials. “Landscapes that are predominantly shrubs and mulch aren’t that interesting to look at, so by using edible annuals, you can create really interesting color-texture combinations,” says Arnold. 

Creative arrangements, like this sweet potato arch from Brie Arthur, add obvious visual intrigue.

She notes that banishing vegetables to the backyard is relatively new in our collective history, and encourages people to use their yards to their fullest potential. In this method, the existing landscape acts as the bones of the garden and the food crops are what Arnold calls “the seasonal shining stars.” Also, foodscaping doesn’t leave fallow beds to fill with weeds during winter months since ornamentals are active over multiple seasons. “I call [traditional raised beds] plant coffins because they’re ugly for a portion of the year, disrupting the design infrastructure,” says Arnold. 

4. Nonliving aesthetics 

Nonliving elements elevate a vegetable patch into something more. Art dots Michelle Fahmy’s landscape, which she refers to as a “little boutique backyard edible farm.” She has sculptures, hanging pots, as well as painted masks that poke out from her bougainvillea. Fountains and bird baths also add visual variety.

Janice Parker creates paths and space between raised beds out of crushed stone, mulch, or well-maintained grass. If you have a fence to keep critters out, she suggests a symmetrical one with a gate dead center. Fences don’t have to be dull—use this opportunity to grow flowering vines or food crops like peas. Parker also suggests the addition of a bench or other seating because “when you see a bench…[it] says, ‘You’re welcome here.’”

The bottom line: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to growing crops. Whether you sow an edible landscape throughout your yard, opt for raised beds, or map out a square foot garden, there is room to play and get creative with your vegetable garden layout. 

Posted 19 Apr 2023 10:26 by | Vegetables | No comments

Safety and security is the leading problem for net consumers today.

Protection is the primary worry for net buyers today.

That’s where SSL (Secure Socket Layer) comes right into play. Comprehending exactly how SSL influences shopping organization can likewise possibly assist you to unlock (even more) cash from your consumers.

You require SSL if …
– Your service companions visit to secret information on an extranet.
– You have workplaces that share secret information over an intranet.
– You procedure delicate information such as address, birth day, permit, or ID numbers.
– you have an on the internet shop or approve on the internet orders as well as charge card
-You require to adhere to personal privacy and also safety demands.
-You worth personal privacy and also anticipate others to trust you.

If you are doing on-line service where delicate details such as charge card, Personal information will certainly be moved, you definitely require to safeguard your internet site. Getting your consumers trust fund is of miraculous significance. If they really feel secure and also confidant concerning you, your clients will just acquire the item.

Prior to the intro of SSL it was challenging to make certain personal privacy over the internet in on-line purchases. There was a basic question of the capability to perform on the internet deals and also an anxiety that a person’s charge card info might be gotten by a 3rd party and also made use of for unapproved acquisitions.
SSL must be passed on web pages calling for a password or may have individual information most customers wish to maintain exclusive. Some websites will certainly position SSL on some web pages as well as neglect various other web pages that are similarly as delicate. For your individual experience with ecommerce, you need to apply SSL method.

Any kind of site that performs organization online and also has ecommerce purchases ought to make use of SSL (Secure Socket Layer). It is the common method to protect purchases by supplying and also securing information verification over the internet. SSL avoids cyberpunks from accessing individual details, restrain abuse of info.

A certification authority (CA) is a certified firm or person for that issue that has the capacity to provide as well as validate electronic certifications. There are numerous of sites that provide an electronic certification. Among the prominent Global Certification authorities is MindGenies (www.sslgenie.com).

Recognizing just how SSL impacts shopping organization can likewise possibly assist you to unlock (even more) cash from your clients.

SSL must be established on web pages needing a password or may include individual information most customers would certainly such as to maintain exclusive. Some websites will certainly put SSL on some web pages and also neglect various other web pages that are similarly as delicate. Any type of web site that carries out service over the Internet and also has shopping deals ought to utilize SSL (Secure Socket Layer). SSL stops cyberpunks from accessing individual info, hinder abuse of info.

Posted 19 Apr 2023 09:03 by | Uncategorized | No comments

The Era of Digital Branding: Building Your Brand Identity Online

In this digital age, having a strong online presence is vital for businesses to thrive. The era of digital branding is upon us, and businesses must learn how to establish and maintain their brand identity on the internet. This article is a detailed guide on how to build your brand identity online, and it is divided into the following sections:

  1. What is Digital Branding?
  2. Importance of Online Brand Identity
  3. Strategies for Building Your Online Brand Identity
  4. Tips for Successful Online Branding
  5. Challenges and Solutions in Digital Branding

What is Digital Branding?

Digital branding refers to the process of establishing and maintaining a brand’s presence online. It combines elements of marketing, design, and technology to foster customer engagement, brand awareness, and loyalty. Online brand identity is the perception customers have of your brand, based on their interaction with your digital assets, such as your website, social media accounts, and online content.

Importance of Online Brand Identity

Building a strong online brand identity holds immense value for businesses. Here are some crucial reasons why:

  • Global Exposure: A solid online brand enables you to tap into a global audience, significantly expanding your market reach.
  • Brand Recognition: A consistent online identity makes your brand easily recognizable across all digital channels, reinforcing your presence in the customers’ minds.
  • Differentiation: In a saturated market, a well-defined digital brand allows you to stand out from competitors and showcase your unique value proposition.
  • Customer Trust: A robust online brand identity builds customer trust by showcasing your company’s authenticity and commitment to fulfilling customer needs.

Strategies for Building Your Online Brand Identity

There are several fundamental strategies for creating a compelling brand identity online:

1. Define Your Brand Vision and Values

Establishing a clear brand vision and set of values is crucial for the foundation of your online brand identity. Your brand vision defines your company’s ultimate goals and aspirations, while your brand values define the principles that guide your business operations. These components serve as the basis for all your digital branding efforts.

2. Develop a Consistent Visual Identity

Visual elements, such as logos, color schemes, and typography, play a vital role in creating memorable online brand experiences. Develop a consistent visual identity that embodies your brand’s vision, values, and character, and apply it across all digital channels.

3. Create Engaging and Relevant Content

Content marketing is integral to successful digital branding, as it helps establish your brand’s authority and credibility, keeping your audience engaged and informed. Create a diverse range of content, including blog posts, social media updates, videos, and infographics, that reflects your brand’s voice, values, and expertise.

4. Optimize Your Website and Social Media Presence

Your website and social media accounts serve as the hub of your online brand identity, providing valuable information and interactions for your customers. Ensure that they are optimized with user-friendly navigation, responsive design, and clear calls-to-action. Additionally, utilize search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your website’s visibility.

4.1. Website Optimization

Here are some key elements to optimize on your website:

  • Responsive Design: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and accessible across various devices and browsers.
  • Page Load Speed: Fast-loading pages improve the overall user experience, reducing bounce rates and increasing conversions.
  • Clear Calls-to-Action: Include prominent and straightforward calls-to-action (CTAs) to guide your customers towards desired actions, such as signing up for a newsletter or purchasing a product.

4.2. Social Media Optimization

Follow these tips to optimize your brand’s presence on social media:

  • Consistent Branding: Ensure all social profiles display consistent logos, color schemes, and descriptions.
  • Engagement: Interact with your followers by responding to comments, sharing user-generated content, and encouraging discussions.
  • Post Frequency: Maintain a consistent publishing schedule to provide a steady stream of content to your audience.

Tips for Successful Online Branding

Here are some additional tips to ensure that your digital branding efforts yield positive results:

  1. Monitor and analyze your online brand performance regularly using analytics tools, such as Google Analytics, to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions.
  2. Stay informed about the latest digital branding trends and best practices to maintain a competitive edge.
  3. Test different branding elements, such as messaging, visuals, and content formats, to determine what resonates most effectively with your target audience.
  4. Collaborate with influencers and partners within your industry to expand your brand’s reach and credibility.

Challenges and Solutions in Digital Branding

While digital branding offers immense opportunities, it also comes with challenges. Here are some common challenges faced by businesses, along with their respective solutions:

1. Challenge: Maintaining Brand Consistency Across All Digital Channels

Solution: Develop a comprehensive brand style guide to ensure that all team members are aligned with your brand’s visual and messaging standards. Utilize project management and collaboration tools to facilitate communication across different departments and platforms.

2. Challenge: Staying Relevant and Engaging Amidst Digital Noise

Solution: Focus on creating high-quality, value-driven content that targets customer pain points and preferences. Utilize email marketing and social media to maintain direct contact with your customers, regularly updating them about your brand and its offerings.

3. Challenge: Responding to Negative Reviews and Comments

Solution: Adopt a proactive approach to online reputation management by promptly addressing negative feedback and resolving any issues. Use negative comments as opportunities for improvement, showcasing your brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous growth.

In conclusion, the era of digital branding offers immense opportunities for businesses to strengthen their brand identity online, reaching wider audiences, and fostering customer loyalty. By adopting the strategies and tips outlined in this guide, you can successfully build and maintain a powerful online brand presence that drives business success.

Posted 19 Apr 2023 08:57 by | Brand Building | 2 comments

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