Posts made in June 2020

Madeira Getaway

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Madeira is opening July 1st for the perfect post pandemic escape.

Starting July 1st, Madeira and Porto Santo, Portugal, will be open to international travelers. To ensure security for both visitors and residents, all people traveling to the Atlantic islands will have to
either present a negative test. The test must be done within 72 hours prior to departure or be tested upon arrival and the costs of COVID-19 tests will be paid by the Madeira Government.

The Madeira Islands are focused on being a Covid-safe destination and are working with SGS, the world leader in certification, to ensure good practice across the destination to minimize risk in the wake of Covid-19.

Madeira was a pioneer in developing a good practices document to deal with Covid-19. These measures will provide comfort to those who travel and it is ultimately for the wellbeing of all. These three initiatives, to cover testing costs, partner with SGS in certification and develop a good practices document, form the destination’s plan to ensure a safe vacation for all visitors.

The Portuguese island of Madeira had very few cases of Covid-19 and acted quickly to control the virus on the archipelago (Portugal has been praised for its rapid response). It is an island in the south Atlantic, with numerous villas and private estates for rent, making Madeira a safe vacation option. A 1-stop destination with a sub-tropical climate and year-round warmth. Even when the summer season is over, the sun continues to shine in Madeira. Madeira has a modern airport, well equipped to welcome private jets.

Madeira is sparsely-populated outside the capital of Funchal, with some of the Europe’s most striking landscapes, classified as a World Natural Heritage site in December 1999. A rural, safe, and relaxing destination. Recently referred to as Europe’s adventure capital with numerous world-class outdoor pursuits, from canyoning to trail running – perfect for those who have increased their fitness levels during lockdown.

Porto Santo, the stunning beach island off Madeira, only two and half hour away by ferry, was the first beach in Europe to officially reopen after Covid-19 and has the added benefit of therapeutic sands – with scientifically proven properties to ease all manner of ailments. There are currently no restrictions to travel between the two islands. Outstanding accommodation and outdoor restaurant options, with Funchal having a charming and cosmopolitan atmosphere. At present, Madeira has registered ninety (90) positive cases of COVID-19, sixty-seven (67) recovered cases, and no deaths.

About the Madeira Archipelago

Considered The Best Island Destination in the World (World Travel Awards), Madeira is a small Portuguese paradise located amid the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean. Of volcanic origin, its privileged location provides a mild climate and sea with pleasant temperatures all year round, in addition to unique scenery of mountains, valleys and cliffs, all covered by the exuberant Laurissilva vegetation, named Natural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The archipelago is formed by a set of islands, the main and only inhabited being Madeira and Porto Santo. There are excellent options for spas, historic monuments and great hotels and restaurants, where you can sample local cuisine and award-winning Madeira wines.

For more information, visit www.madeiraallyear.com

Glickenhaus Confirms Two-Hypercar Team

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Two Glickenhaus 007 LMP-Hypercars will race at Le Mans and the WEC in 2021.

“In 2017 we stood up and said we would race the new Hypercar class,” the Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus team announced, “We are moving rapidly to fulfill that goal.”

The engineering of their chassis is complete, and engineering on other components is being finalized. The first set of physical wind-tunnel testing has been completed in one of the world’s top wind tunnels.

“We have already met several of our engineering targets, and are applying the lessons learned to move us towards additional targets. We will start dyno testing our Pipo engine next month, and we will be testing our 007’s before the end of this year,” the team said.

Now, SCG has announced that they will be adding a second car and racing a two-car factory team with their 007’s starting with Sebring, Spa, and then the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Jim Glickenhaus, Founder of SCG, said “Ever since I listened to the 24 hours of Le Mans on my ham radio as a young boy I’ve dreamed of building a car to compete at Le Mans. I’m so happy that we are getting there.”

Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest added “This exciting announcement emphasizes the allure of our new top class. Incidentally, I should underline Glickenhaus’s great achievements both in building and promoting this machine. I would also like to thank Glickenhaus and all our manufacturers for their contribution to the discipline and their faith in our plans for the future of endurance racing.”

“If it can’t race the 24 Hours of Le Mans, it’s not that hyper. I would love to see other manufacturers join this incredible race. And we look forward to joining fans from around the world on this new challenge,” Jesse Glickenhaus stated.

Baron Davis Virtual Conversation

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Baron Davis Enterprises and Business Inside The Game (B.I.G.) are bringing the conversation online to continue its function as an educational and engaging platform for investors and industry experts to connect and collaborate with the mission to enrich our communities. As the world around us is quickly changing,insightful leaders look to invest in the next generation of trailblazers and create wealth and opportunity in young entrepreneurs as well as minority businesses and communities. B.I.G. has been curating thought-provoking conversations around innovation, diversity, and entrepreneurship for years and now NBA All-Star and Serial Entrepreneur Baron Davis has drafted an impressive line-up to discuss investment, education, and activism.

The four-part virtual conversation series will be moderated by Baron and will bring together successful business executives, athletes and civic leaders to engage in intimate conversations around taking the next step to invest in the future of this country and create opportunities in all communities.

June 8 at 6:30 p.m. PST▪ Part One – Put Money Where Your Mouth Is: Investing in the Future of Minority Entrepreneurso

June 15 at 6:30 p.m. PST ▪ Part Two – Sports & Culture: Athletes For Justice: A Conversation with Athletes about Prison Reform, Laws and Activismo

June 22 at 6:30 p.m. PST▪ Part Three – Education: Each One Teach One: A Discussion with Teachers, Philanthropists and Community Leaders on the Future of EdTecho

June 29 at 6:30 p.m. PST▪ Part Four – Where Is Our Hollywood: Exploring how People of Color are Portrayed in Media & How to Break Barriers to Tell Our Stories

“I believe we have a responsibility to use our voice and platform to not only encourage change but to invest in change, said Baron Davis. “Together we need to revolutionize the mindset of our communities, while leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs and leaders from all backgrounds and walks of life.”

The virtual panel will be hosted by B.I.G in collaboration with ALL Def Digital. The series will stream on our LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube,and Twitch channels every Monday in June at 6:30 p.m. PST.

About BUSINESS INSIDE THE GAME (B.I.G.)

B.I.G. is a series of highly curated summits, panels and immersive experiences that explore how to create an impact in social enterprise and solve real business problems. B.I.G. assembles a network of thought-leaders, industry experts, athletes, and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to connect, learn, and engage in dynamic environments.

B.I.G. is a platform for entrepreneurs, investors and disruptors in sports, media, technology, business, and culture to create opportunities, connections and collaborate in a professional setting. The summit provides accessibility and resources to experts in these fields. The ideas that are sparked at Business Inside the Game strives to affect industries and enrich our communities.

B.I.G. was founded by two-time NBA All-Star, Serial Entrepreneur and Master Connector, Baron Davis. His vision is to create a traveling power summit that connects experts, visionaries, and entrepreneurs across multiple platforms in sports, media, technology, and finance.

1st Amendment

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On June 1st, thirty minutes before DC’s curfew, Attorney General Barr ordered an escalation of police force to clear protestors on a public street outside of the White House. That’s not just an abuse of power — it’s a violation of our constitutional rights.

Sign your name here to condemn breaking up peaceful protesters and stand with the folks fighting for change:

Anyone brave enough to stand up for justice peacefully right now is a hero, not a threat. Police and law enforcement should be working to protect our rights to free assembly, not attacking peaceful protesters.

Our history is full of moments like these — where protesters and demonstrations have helped us correct systemic injustices. Standing up like this is not hurting our country, it’s part of our very foundation.

Tzu Chi X Grocery Giveaway

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Tzu Chi USA Grocery Giveaway in Huntington Park, CA

WHO

Jackson Chen, CEO of Tzu Chi USA

Kimberly Ortega, Arts and Special Projects Deputy of First District Offices

Guadalupe Camberos, Field Deputy of First District Offices
Antonio Chapa, District Director/ Veterans & Homeless Liaison of First District Offices

Cora Watkins, Principal of Miles Ave Elementary School
Ernesto Castillo, Field Deputy of Senator Lena Gonzalez Office
Manny Avila, Mayor of Huntington Park
Graciela Ortiz, Vice Mayor of Huntington Park
Karina Macias, Council member of Huntington Park
Marilyn Sanabria, Council member of Huntington Park
Eddie Martinez, Council member of Huntington Park
David Manzo, Principal of Gage Middle School
Dr. Marbea Dazo, Dental Care of Cerrito

WHAT

Tzu Chi USA, Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, US Congresswoman Lucille Roybal Allard and the City of Huntington Park are joining forces to host a grocery giveaway on Sunday, June 7th, 9am at Miles Avenue Elementary School, in Huntington Park, CA. We will distribute a total of 1,000 packages of
groceries to whoever is in need in a drive-thru/pick-up only format.

Tzu Chi USA has invited the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, Food Forward and 99 Ranch Market to join in this event and help provide the fresh produce, dry goods, and pantry items we will divvy and distribute to care recipients.

Baby2Baby too, will provide essentials for children ages 0-12, including diapers and infant formula.

WHEN

On Sunday, June 7, the grocery giveaway will begin at 9 AM to 12 PM; the opening ceremony will start at 8:45 AM. Reporters are welcome to conduct interviews. Please refer to the map for parking at the VIP parking lot.

WHERE

Miles Elementary School

6720 Miles Avenue

Huntington Park, CA 90255

WHY

The US Census estimates the rate of poverty in Huntington Park at 26% higher than the overall state rate for California at 15.1%.
Huntington Park is part of LA County’s “Gateway Cities, which has a relatively high proportion of low-income households. Many include factory workers with employment in nearby Vernon and Commerce, which have been seriously impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. What’s more, households have been severely disrupted economically, with nearly 65% of parents of Miles Avenue Elementary students who have lost their jobs or suffered reduced income.

To help families now in crisis, Tzu Chi USA, Los Angeles County
Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, US Congresswoman Lucille Roybal Allard, and the City of Huntington Park are teaming up to distribute 1,000 packages of groceries of food to local residents. Each package consists of 60 lbs of food to be served on a first-come-first-served basis and comes through the generous donations of Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, Food Forward, 99 Ranch Market, and Baby2Baby.

HOW

We are prioritizing everyone’s safety, especially those of our volunteers and those who will be assisting us. Residents must arrive in a vehicle as the distribution will be in drive-thru format. We ask that all attendees and care recipients wear masks or facial coverings and remain in their vehicles. Once it is their turn, volunteers will assist in loading the groceries into the care recipient’s car to minimize contact.

Martell Vs. Single Distillery

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About Martell VS Single Distillery

Martell VS Single Distillery combines spirits from a single distillation source in France’s Cognac region for a richer and more intense expression of the Martell distillation style. Martell is the only great cognac house to double distill exclusively clear wines, from which all sediments have been removed, in order to preserve the authentic fruity aromas of the grapes and reveal their incredible subtlety. These are hallmarks of the Martell style.

The Color: Rich, clear gold.
The Aroma: Intense aromas of plum, apricot, and candied lemon.
The Taste: The luscious fruity notes associated with Martell are taken to new heights with this supremely smooth blend.
MSRP: $26.99

Martell Cordon Bleu

About: The legendary cognac Martell Cordon Bleu in an international emblem of excellence. Ideal for special occasions, the taste of this French cognac is an explosion of spicy fruit notes and elegant richness.
The Color: Deep, golden copper.
The Aroma: Vibrant, rich and complex, with orchard fruit – candied plum and apple – harmonizing with roasted notes of mocha coffee, toasted almonds and vetiver.
The Taste: An exceptionally rounded, mellow sensation further enhanced by Borderies eaux-de-vie, which lend elegance and complexity. An impressively long finish characterized by notes of fruit and spices. Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
MSRP: $129.99

Excalibur Reopening

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MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) announced it will reopen Excalibur Hotel & Casino Thursday, June 11 following its closure earlier this year amidst the COVID-19 crisis. Excalibur joins MGM Resorts’ Bellagio, New York-New York, MGM Grand Las Vegas and The Signature, which all opened their doors in Las Vegas Thursday, June 4.

“We are very pleased by the enthusiasm we are seeing from guests ready to come back to Las Vegas,” said Bill Hornbuckle, MGM Resorts’ Acting CEO and President. “As business demand increases, we are able to open additional properties and bring more of our employees back to work.

Getting people back to work coupled with providing a safer environment for our employees and our guests are our top priorities.”

Health & Safety

MGM Resorts’ comprehensive “Seven-Point Safety Plan” reflects a multi-layered set of protocols and procedures designed in conjunction with medical and scientific experts to mitigate the spread of the virus, protect customers and employees and rapidly respond to potential new cases. The company will continue to evaluate and evolve its safety protocols. Key initiatives include:

* Employee screening, temperature checks and COVID-19 specific training

* COVID-19 testing offered for employees as they return to work in partnership with the local medical community

* Employees will be required to wear masks; Guests are strongly encouraged to wear masks, and in some settings where physical distancing is more difficult and/or barriers do not exist, will be required to do so. Examples of where masks will be required include salons, table games where physical barriers are not in place and elevators, if riding with guests outside of their travel group. Masks will be provided, free of charge

* A physical distancing policy will be implemented, with floor guides serving as reminders

* For areas where physical distancing presents challenges, plexiglass barriers will be installed, or other measures will be used to reduce risks

* Standalone handwashing stations designed by MGM Resorts conveniently located on casino floors

* Contactless Check-In through the MGM Resorts App allows hotel guests to go through the check-in process on their personal devices, minimizing interactions

* Guestroom Attendants wear masks and gloves while cleaning each room and will change gloves between guestrooms

* In addition to increased and enhanced routine cleaning of guestrooms and public spaces based on CDC guidance, electrostatic sprayers are utilized in many large public spaces so that disinfectant is applied efficiently

* Digital menus are available to view on personal mobile devices via QR codes in the company’s food and beverage outlets

* To minimize groups congregating while they wait, restaurant guests will receive text message notification when their tables are ready

* MGM has compiled its own internal team and processes to respond if a guest or employee tests positive for COVID-19. They ask that if a guest tests positive after visiting one of our properties, they alert us through a special email address. They will immediately report any positive test results to the local health department and assist with contact tracing to support the health department investigators.

A glimpse at what guests can expect at Excalibur: Within Excalibur’s castle walls, in addition to a full casino experience, guests will enjoy the playful pool complex including the slide pool and the Drenched Pool Cafe, the popular Fun Dungeon Arcade, as well as a variety of bars and dining destinations. Hotel guests also will have access to the Fitness Center.

Hornbuckle added, “We will continue monitoring business trends in the weeks and months ahead and look forward to sharing news around additional property openings here in Las Vegas, and around the country, as it becomes available.”

About MGM Resorts International

MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is an S&P 500(r) global entertainment company with national and international locations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. MGM Resorts creates immersive, iconic experiences through its suite of Las Vegas-inspired brands. The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 29 unique hotel and destination gaming offerings in the United States and Macau, including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry such as Bellagio, MGM Grand, ARIA and Park MGM. The Company’s 50/50 venture, ROAR Digital LLC, offers U.S. sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands, including BetMGM and partypoker. The Company is currently pursuing targeted expansion in Asia through the integrated resort opportunity in Japan.

Through its “Focused on What Matters: Embracing Humanity and Protecting the Planet” initiative, MGM Resorts commits to creating a more sustainable future, while striving to make a bigger difference in the lives of its employees, guests, and in the communities where it operates. The global employees of MGM Resorts are proud of their company for being recognized as one of FORTUNE Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies(.

Zakat Gives Fresh Food

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Zakat Foundation of America will transport 23 tons of farm-fresh produce to New York for free distribution to low-income families, the jobless, and undocumented in all five boroughs – with volunteers from nearly 40 Islamic centers delivering grocery packages directly to the homes of those unable to reach designated food-sharing sites.

The global charity’s relief workers and volunteers from its local partners will give out 1,760 containers of farm-fresh produce – each package brimming with about 25 pounds of colorful fruit and vegetables – to families in need.

Zakat Foundation, headquartered near Chicago in Bridgeview, Illinois, will haul the much-needed fresh- food aid from Midwest farmers into the city, reeling in the wake of the Minneapolis police murder of George Floyd, followed by days of anti-police brutality, anti-racist protests, citywide curfews, and military- style crowd-dispersing tactics to thwart demonstrators. The unrest has shuttered stores, shut down municipal services, stranded countless of the most vulnerable, and separated many from access to food.

Hillside Islamic Center, at 300 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park, will serve as the central food-packages pick-up location for organization volunteers. They will take their produce and grocery allotments back to their home mosques and centers for distribution to their communities.

Produce crates hold fresh tomatoes, apples, oranges, cucumbers, lettuce, celery, carrots, asparagus, onions, potatoes, and other fruits and vegetables. Grocery boxes contain rice, oil, milk, pasta, sugar, noodles, and tea.

The protests have come on the heels of New York’s massive coronavirus outbreak, which struck marginalized communities and neighborhoods with appallingly high infection and death rates, hitting the poor especially hard economically with widespread job losses and little government relief.

Since the COVID-19 crisis began, Zakat Foundation has distributed at least 44,000 pounds of potatoes, hundreds of hot meals, and thousands of pounds of groceries to New York’s afflicted among African American, Latino, Bangladeshi, Indian, Arab, and other communities through 26 community organization partners.

In addition, the international humanitarian agency has distributed 3,000 masks to essential workers and 2,500 medical gloves to Stony Brook University Medical center.

EVENT DETAILS:

Location:

Hillside Islamic Center; 300 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY 11040

Time:

10 a.m. Sunday, June 7, 2020

Western River Expeditions

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With the official announcement from Grand Canyon authorities that river operations will again resume on June 14, many are looking to get a spot on an epic outdoor adventure this summer.

Snagging seats on 2020 Grand Canyon rafting trips was impossible just a few months ago. However, pandemic-driven cancellations by international travelers has opened up seats for some of Western River Expeditions’ 2020 departures.

“Select departures June through September of 2020 now have limited availability,” said Brandon Lake, company CMO. “Normally last-minute inquiries would be directed to 2021 or even 2022 selections. This is an incredible opportunity for those who are making last-minute plans and feel like an outdoor adventure may be the best choice for a summer adventure this year.”

Vacations that embrace fresh air and the healing powers of nature can work wonders on pandemic-driven nerves. “On these iconic expeditions our guests immerse themselves in a remote world that provides a much-needed escape from civilization,” explains Lake. “A trip through the Grand Canyon becomes not only a celebration of the river and its untamed surroundings, but of life, providing a way to reconnect and refresh.”

This is Western River Expeditions’ promise for a true trip-of-a-lifetime far removed from the stress and challenges of today’s world. The more time spent on the river, the more the canyon reveals its sublime mysteries.

Western River Expeditions’ 6 or 7 Day Grand Canyon Rafting Vacation carries guests 188 river miles in custom-designed J-Rig rafts, maneuvering Class III-V rapids and each day descending deeper into geologic time, before a helicopter transports them back to the rim. Their Grand Canyon 4 Day River & Ranch Tour and Grand Canyon 3 Day Lower Canyon Trip brings visitors down 100 river miles over Class II and III rapids. But first there’s a scenic helicopter ride to access the put-in. Guests on the 4-Day tour enjoy a pre-excursion overnight at Bar 10 Ranch on the North Rim of the Canyon, complete with horseback riding and optional ATV adventures.

Western River Expeditions for nearly 60 years has operated five-star-quality river rafting vacations. This year they are also applying their decades of professionalism to pandemic-related challenges. For more details on Western River Expeditions’ protocols please see https://www.westernriver.com/covid-19.

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2020/2021 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

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Project Veritas – #ExposeAntifa

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Antifa, the antifascist movement, has been in the news a lot recently as it was designated a domestic terrorist organization by President Trump, and now Project Veritas has released footage “exposing the violent nature of the New York-based Antifa chapter” and “further [proving] how structured Antifa is- it is an international organization with sophisticated admission requirements and paramilitary physical training.”

“Our second #EXPOSEANTIFA installment, demonstrates just how far the group will go to engage in physical combat, evade arrests and promote the most damage possible on the streets,” said James O’Keefe, CEO and founder of Project Veritas.

Chris, an Antifa Fight Instructor, can be heard in the video saying “If you get a good liver or kidney shot, it’s pretty much crippling them. They’re going to be doubled over and in a lot of pain. If you break one of the floating ribs, which are small and right down here. Those are also very painful, it’s hard to move after that, to catch a breath. So, one good body shot could potentially give you all the time in the world to run away while they’re doubled over in pain, or really put a beating on them after that if you really want to make it personal… We just kind of wanted to, in this space, reframe the idea of self-defense as not simply, you’re being acted upon by an aggressor. But it’s kind of a decision you make to fight back. In a lot of ways to say, I am human, and I occupy this space and I will not be f**ked with.”

He goes on to say “Yeah, yeah, yeah. So, if that doesn’t knock them out, then yeah. The nose, the eyes, poke the eyes… Absolutely… We call this a safe space to practice aggression. Not aggression against one another, but really just a space that, if you want to or if you want to challenge yourself, to kind of work on harnessing that kind of energy.”