I-76 Eastbound and I-295 Northbound Ramp/Lane Closures Begin Tonight

(Trenton)(February 13, 2020)–

– New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials today announced a series of ramp and lane closures on I-76 eastbound and I-295 northbound as the Direct Connection project advances in Camden and Gloucester counties.

Beginning at 10 p.m., tonight, Thursday, February 13 until 5 a.m. tomorrow, Friday, February 14, NJDOT’s contractor, South State, Inc., is scheduled to close and detour the ramp from I-76 eastbound to I-295 southbound to replace damaged concrete construction barrier. The following signed detour will be in place overnight:

I-76 eastbound ramp to I-295 southbound detour:

(10 p.m. Thursday, February 13 until 5:00 a.m. Friday, February 14)

Motorists traveling on I-76 eastbound to I-295 southbound will be directed to take Exit 1B (which comes before the closed exit 1A) to Route I-295 northbound

Take Exit 28/Route 168 to I-295 southbound

Beginning at 10 p.m. tomorrow, Friday, February 14, until 5 a.m. Saturday, February 15, all lanes on I-295 northbound are scheduled to be closed and detoured between Exits 26 and 27 to reset construction barrier for daytime work and repair damaged bridge parapets. The following signed detour will be in place overnight:

I-295 northbound detour:

(10 p.m. Friday, February 14 until 5:00 a.m. Saturday, February 15)

Motorists traveling northbound on I-295 between Exits 26 and 27 will be directed to keep left and take Exit 26 to I-76 westbound

Continue on I-76 westbound and take Exit 2 towards I-676 northbound

Continue on I-676 northbound and take Exit 1 to Collings Avenue

Turn right onto Collings Avenue

Turn left onto the ramp towards I-676 southbound/I -76 eastbound

Continue on I-76 eastbound to Exit 1B towards I-295 northbound

The work is part of the $900 million Direct Connection project that will provide a seamless route for I-295 motorists traveling through the interchange of I-295, I-76, and Route 42. The Direct Connection project has been divided into four construction contracts, with completion expected in the fall of 2024. NJDOT\’s project website provides

construction activity schedules and updates

Variable message signs are being utilized throughout the project limits to provide advance notification to motorists of traffic pattern changes associated with Direct Connection.

The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT\’s traffic information website

www.511nj.org

for real-time travel information and for NJDOT news follow us on Twitter

@NJDOT_info

or on the

NJDOT Facebook page

Booker, Cornyn Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand School Nutrition Education

Proposal would increase investments in hands-on projects for student health, nutrition

Roughly 15 percent of New Jerseyans experience food insecurity

WASHINGTON, DC

—U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) today introduced a bipartisan bill to establish a new pilot program for school nutrition programs to fund nutritional education in schools. The

Food and Nutrition Education in Schools Act of 2020

would allocate federal funding for projects that educate students while connecting them to healthy food practices, with a priority given to schools in neighborhoods with high rates of childhood diet-related illnesses and those in which 40 percent of students qualify for free or reduce-priced meals.

Nutritious, healthy foods are critical to the wellness and academic performance of students. Several studies have shown that children are more likely to eat healthier foods when given the opportunity to participate in hands-on lessons that let them try a food multiple times and connect the dots between the classroom, the cafeteria, and the school garden. . Because dietary illnesses can adversely impact school attendance and academic performance, equitable access to nutrition education can better prepare students for success in the classroom and beyond. Yet the typical elementary school student receives less than 5 hours of nutrition education per year. This legislation seeks to reduce barriers to hands-on food and nutrition programs that help get more kids to eat the food already available to them at school and to continue to improve the food as kids learn to love it.

“As Ron Finley, an inspiring black leader and urban farmer in South Central Los Angeles once said, ‘In South Central, we got drive-bys and drive-thrus, and the drive-thrus are killing more people than the drive-bys.’ Countless studies have demonstrated that a lack of access to nutritious food – particularly in underserved communities – manifests itself in all areas of human development, from increased rates of diet-related diseases to reduced academic performance,”

Booker said.

“We must do more to ensure our kids have consistent and equitable access to healthy foods, and the education that will help them make healthy diet choices throughout their lives. By prioritizing communities disproportionately impacted by food insecurity and diet-related illnesses, this bipartisan legislation would bring equitable access to food and nutrition education to children across the country.”

“Teaching students how to prioritize their health by choosing nutritious foods is an invaluable lesson that will serve them for years to come,”

said Sen. Cornyn.

“This legislation would invest in programs that educate Texas children to make healthy choices, which can help lower the incidence of disease linked to obesity and, in turn, save taxpayer money.”

“As a food service director, I wholeheartedly support the bill to establish food and nutrition educators in schools,”

said Warren DeShields, Director of Food Services at Bridgeton Public Schools.

“This will bridge the gap between education and nutrition programs in an effort to increase the acceptance and consumption of healthy appetizing meals in our cafeterias. It will also be exciting to see students encouraged to participate in evidence-based interventions like school gardens, farm to school initiatives, and nutrition education that can be built into their everyday curriculum for learning!”

\”The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics believes that well-coordinated, comprehensive, integrated nutrition programs in preschool through high school are essential to improve the health, nutritional status and academic performance of our nation\’s children,\”

said registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy President Terri J. Raymond

. \”This legislation is a good step in supporting efforts to make food and nutrition education a priority in our country\’s schools.\”

“Together with communities, FoodCorps envisions a future in which all our nation’s children––regardless of race, place, or class––know what healthy food is, care where it comes from, and eat it every day,”

said Kumar Chandran, Policy Director at FoodCorps

. “We have seen firsthand how food and nutrition educators can make a difference by delivering high-quality hands-on opportunities in classrooms, cafeterias, and gardens, changing kids’ relationship with food for the better. Students in FoodCorps schools with more hands-on learning activities are eating up to three times the amount of fruits and vegetables as students who receive less of that hands-on learning. This bipartisan bill proposes to expand evidence-based food and nutrition education resources and programming to even more schools, ensuring school nutrition professionals have greater support to get kids excited about eating healthy school meals. We applaud Senators Booker and Cornyn for their leadership and vision to lift up the health and well-being of students by investing in food and nutrition education, and we look forward to collaborating with them to build support for the bill to be passed into law.”

The Act provides grant funding to local educational agencies for projects that (1) hire full-time food and nutrition educators to implement programs in schools that have the goal of improving student health and nutrition and (2) that fund school gardens or other evidence-based interventions relating to student health and nutrition to create hands-on learning opportunities for students.

Pilot programs must incorporate teaching techniques proven to maximize healthy food consumption, including hands-on learning, school gardens, taste testing, student engagement and farm-to-school practices. Projects must be in a variety of rural, suburban, and urban settings and at least one project must be located on an Indian reservation or at a school in which the majority of students are members of an Indian tribe.

The

Food and Nutrition Education in Schools Act of 2020

is endorsed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Advocates for Children of New Jersey, Afterschool Alliance, American Heart Association, Community FoodBank of New Jersey, FoodCorps, Hunger Free New Jersey, National Farm to School Network, and New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children.

As Mayor of Newark, Booker witnessed first-hand how our broken food system harmed local residents, as large sections of Newark were essentially “food deserts,” where communities had no access to healthy foods. He was instrumental in

helping to bring several supermarkets

to the area that helped increase access for Newarkers to healthy foods. He also

spearheaded the creation of community gardens

Help Wanted: Seasonal Jobs at NJ State Parks, Forests and Historic Sites

TRENTON – The New Jersey State Park Service and the State Park Police are accepting applications for hundreds of peak-season jobs throughout state parks, forests and historic sites, the Department of Environmental Protection announced today.

Available positions include lifeguards, trail stewards, naturalists, historic educators, general maintenance, visitor service assistants, office workers and State Park Police visitor service assistants.

Applicants for all positions are encouraged to check with the park office of their choice by Monday, March 2 about specific positions, scheduling and other job-related inquiries. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible.

\”The New Jersey State Park Service and State Park Police rely on seasonal employees to ensure our visitors have an enjoyable visit to our state parks, forests, recreation areas and historic sites during our most busy time of year,\” said Division of Parks and Forestry Director Olivia Glenn. \”Besides having the opportunity to work outside during the summer months, these positions provide valuable experience for all age groups who are looking to further their careers.\”

Peak season is Memorial Day through Labor Day, although some parks fill positions April through October depending on operational need. The State Park Service and State Park Police will work with applicants, such as students and teachers, whose availability may be limited to weekends during certain periods of the year.

The type and number of positions vary by location, depending on the types of recreational opportunities each site offers. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older to apply. Salary rates start at $11 per hour for most positions.

Seasonal staff are required to work weekends and holidays because park facilities are open seven days a week. Most jobs are outdoors.

Lifeguard positions are anticipated at 13 swimming areas across the state. Lifeguard salaries begin at $12 per hour in most areas. Oceanfront guards at Island Beach State Park start at $13 per hour.

While candidates must pass running and swim tests prior to employment, prior experience is not necessary. The State Park Service will train lifeguards in cardiopulmonary resuscitation/Automated External Defibrillators, first aid and other medical matters. Each lifeguard will also receive a U.S. Lifesaving Association certification. State swimming areas open Saturday, May 23.

Trail Steward positions are available in D & R Canal State Park, Liberty State Park, Ringwood State Park, Wawayanda State Park and Worthington State Forest. Eligible applicants must be 18 years of age or older and able to hike strenuous distances daily. Applicants should be assertive and professional as they work with intense crowds and educate visitors on the Leave No Trace concept and park regulations. Trail stewards must be able to work 40 hours per week, on shifts from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. or noon to 8:30 p.m. The starting salary is $14 per hour.

Office workers and visitor service assistants help register campers, answer phone calls, provide recordkeeping, handle sales transactions, and do other customer service duties as required. Naturalists and historic educators work with park naturalists and historians at interpretive centers to educate visitors. Typical activities include leading or assisting with programs, demonstrating or explaining a craft, and preparing materials. These positions may also be assigned specific projects by their supervisor. General maintenance helps to maintain grounds and buildings and remove litter. The starting salary for these positions is $11 per hour.

State Park Police visitor service assistants patrol assigned areas, direct both pedestrians and vehicular traffic, and report unlawful acts to appropriate State Park Police personnel. Other duties may be required as under State Park Police supervision. Applicants must be 18 years of age and able to work weekends and holidays. The number of positions vary park to park based on the type of recreation at each location. Salaries start at $11 per hour for most positions but can be increased based on experience.

The Division of Parks and Forestry oversees more than 50 state parks, forests, recreation areas, battlefields, historic sites and marinas that annually draw millions of visitors and are a key contributor to the state\’s tourism economy. The State Park Police protects the natural and historic resources of New Jersey\’s state parks, forests and historic sites, and the safety, security and well-being of all visitors.

To learn more about which locations are accepting applications or to apply for a specific position, visit

http://www.nj.gov/dep/workinparks

or your local park office. The lifeguard testing schedule is also posted at this link.

NEW JERSEY SPORTSBOOKS HAVE NEVADA IN REACH WITH IMPRESSIVE JANUARY

(ATLANTIC CITY, N.J.) — After a month of milestones and a new record handle that topped $50 million, New Jersey’s online and retail sportsbooks are positioned to overtake Nevada for the first time since August 2019, according to analysts from

PlayNJ.com

“New Jersey could very well top Nevada, not just in January, but for the foreseeable future,” said Dustin Gouker, lead analyst for

PlayNJ.com

. “And assuming that happens, we could be seeing the beginning of New Jersey’s more permanent place as the top market in the country.”

Spurred by basketball, New Jersey’s online and retail sportsbooks generated $540.1 million in bets, up 71.3% from $385.3 million in January 2019, according to official reporting released Wednesday. In December 2019, sportsbooks generated $557.8 million in bets.

With the NFL Playoffs and college football’s national championship, football generated $129 million in bets. But basketball generated $177.5 million, or 32.9% of the state’s January handle.

Nevada has outdone New Jersey in monthly handle for four consecutive months, beginning with the kickoff of the NFL season. But New Jersey appears to be tracking ahead of Nevada, which generated $497.5 million in January 2019 and has never enjoyed a $500 million January in its history.

“While still the most popular sport in New Jersey, football does not quite command the same share of the sports betting market as it does in Nevada,” Gouker said. “Meanwhile, basketball has proven to be a big winner for the state. That puts New Jersey in prime position over the next few months in its race to become the country’s largest legal sports betting jurisdiction.”

January’s handle yielded a record $53.6 million in revenue, up 285% from $18.8 million won in January 2019 and up from $29.4 million in December. January resulted in $6.6 million in tax revenue for the state.

During the month New Jersey reached three impressive milestones: $6 billion in bets ($6.4 billion), $400 million in revenue ($447.1 million), and $50 million in sports betting taxes ($53.4 million) since the industry launched in June 2018.

Online betting remains the key vehicle for growth, generating $471.1 million, or 87.2% of the state’s January handle. In addition, new betting opportunities could help grow New Jersey’s market in February, including online-conducive Super Bowl prop bets, Oscars betting, and even a modest spike in interest from the XFL.

“New Jersey has been on the leading edge since the sports betting market first launched in 2018,” said Eric Ramsey, analyst for

PlayNJ.com

. “No market has been as innovative, and that is a significant contributor to the rapid maturity of New Jersey’s sports betting industry.”

FanDuel Sportsbook/PointsBet topped the online market once again with $22.2 million in gross revenue, up from $12.1 million in December. Resorts Digital, which is anchored by DraftKings and Fox Bet, generated $15.9 million, up from $9.1 million.

The online market leaders were followed by:

Monmouth/William Hill/Sugarhouse/TheScore ($2.8 million, up from $1.9 million in December)

BetMGM/Borgata ($2.5 million, up from $995,096)

Ocean Casino/William Hill ($2 million, up from $1.2 million)

Caesars Sportsbook/888sport ($491,164, up from $64,759)

Golden Nugget/BetAmerica ($431,643, up from $102,524)

Hard Rock/Bet365/Unibet ($340,933, up from -$294,442)

Tropicana/William Hill ($74,379, up from $32,958)

FanDuel Sportsbook at The Meadowlands continued to take advantage of its proximity to New York — posting $4.3 million in gross revenue, up from $2.4 million in December — to continue its hold on the retail market. FanDuel was followed in gross revenue by:

Monmouth Park ($883,716, up from $617,410 in December)

Borgata ($723,927, down from $1.3 million)

Ocean Casino ($377,369, up from -$68,035)

Bally’s AC ($164,575, up from $108,437)

Resorts AC ($163,436, up from -$406,493)

Golden Nugget ($116,266, up from $66,306)

Harrah’s AC ($107,424, up from -$107,646)

Tropicana Casino ($100,288, up from $71,460)

Hard Rock AC (-$4,467, up from -$51,182)

ONLINE CASINOS BLOW PAST $50 MILLION IN JANUARY

New Jersey’s online casino and poker industry enjoyed a $50 million month for the first time, generating a record $55.1 million in January. The total is up 64% from $33.6 million in January 2019.

After posting eight record months in 2019, the market is showing no signs of slowing down. The state’s online casinos recently launched live online slots, adding a new avenue for growth. If online casinos continue their current trajectory, the industry will easily generate more than $650 million in revenue in 2020. That would smash 2019’s record of $482.7 million.

“$700 million in revenue is within reach in 2020, which would have been inconceivable just a few years ago,” Ramsey said. “The industry’s ability to find new areas of growth, along with the symbiotic relationship that exists with online sports betting, will keep online casino gambling moving forward.”

Some other important online casino and poker data from the January report:

Online casinos injected $8.3 million into state coffers.

The Golden Nugget generated a record $21.2 million in online revenue to lead the market. That again outpaced its own New Jersey casino, which produced $15 million in revenue.

Online casinos and poker generated $1.8 million per day during the 31 days in January, up from $1.1 million per day in January 2019.

Online casino games attracted $53.3 million in bets, up from $31.7 million in January 2019. Online poker posted $1.8 million, down from $1.9 million in January 2019.

For more information and analysis on regulated sports betting and online gaming in New Jersey, visit

PlayNJ.com/news

About the

PlayUSA.com

Network:

The

PlayUSA.com

Network is a leading source for news, analysis, and research related to the market for regulated online gaming in the United States. With a presence in over a dozen states,

PlayUSA.com

and its state-focused branches (including

PlayNJ.com

and

PlayPennsylvania.com

) produce daily original reporting, publish in-depth research, and offer player advocacy tools related to the advancement of safe, licensed, and legal online gaming options for consumers. Based in Las Vegas, the PlayUSA Network is independently owned and operated, with no affiliations to any casino — commercial, tribal, online, or otherwise.

The Garden State Film Festival

ASBURY PARK, NJ

– Celebrating its 18th Anniversary, the artistic philosophy of the

Garden State Film Festival

is rooted in the celebration of the independent film genre and celebrates this spirit through dramatic screenings and unparalleled film collaborations attracting a diverse audience from around the world. From

Wednesday, 25

–

Sunday, 29 March 2020

Asbury Park, New Jersey

, GSFF unveils world premieres, Hollywood stars, industry panels, and as a nonprofit enterprise, serves as an added economic engine for Asbury Park’s vitality through art, commerce and culture. Make your plans to be a part of intriguing panel discussions and can’t miss parties, all held in numerous locations all over the city by the sea.

This year\’s notables include

Linda Hamilton

(

Terminator

) who will receive the

Icon Award

Matthew Modine

(

Stranger Things

) who will receive the

Lifetime Achievement Award

Robert Patrick

(

Terminator

)

Patriot Award

Ashley Platz

(

Grey’s Anatomy

)

Rising Star Award

, director

Tara Wood

Independent Spirit Award

David Burke

Home Grown Hero Award

Perry Lang

Renaissance Award

Rock & Roll Forever Foundation

Broader Vision Award

Arianna Bocco

Exceptional Women in Film

Robin Kampf

Educator of the Year Award

Nick Falcone

MVP

Jack Ford

Honorary Chair

, alongside films that feature

John Goodman

(

The Big Lebowski

Harry Shearer

(

Spinal Tap

Jodie Foster

(

Taxi Driver

Dash Mihok

(

Ray Donovan

Uzo Abuda

(

Orange is the New Black

Vanessa Williams

(

Ugly Betty

Richard E. Grant

(

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

Devon Bostick

(

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Frank Stallone

(

Rocky

Cathy Moriarity

(

Raging Bull

M Emmet Walsh

(

Blade Runner

Xander Berekely

(

The Walking Dead

Jessica Siposa

(

DC’s Legend’s of Tomorrow

Joel McHale

(

Ted

Jason Mewes

(

Clerks

), Supermodels

Chanel Iman

Elsa Hosk

Jessica Stam

Nadine Leopold

John Carter Cash

(

Walk the Line

Sam Waterston

(

Law & Order

Catherine Hardwicke

(Director,

Lords of Dogtown

Lou Gossett Jr

(

Officer and a Gentlemen

), E

van Handler

(

Sex and the City

Gary Pastore

(

The Sopranos

Barry Primus

he Irishman

Charles Dance

(

Game of Thrones

Chad L. Coleman

(

The Walking Dead

Kevin Kane

(

Inside Amy Schumer

Natalia Dyer

(

Stranger Things

Tate Donovan

(

Argo

), memorial music video for

Avicii

Chris Martin

(

Coldplay)

, original music by

Patrick Carney

(

The Black Keys

The Bouncing Souls

, members of

Gaslight Anthem

Travis Barker

(

Blink 182

James Arthur

(musician), NBA superstar

Shaquille O’Neal

’s award-winning film

Foster Boy

and many more.

This 5-day event brings a large number of producers, directors, actors, investors, distributors, and industry talent to the State of New Jersey, the birthplace of American filmmaking.

In one weekend, you can enjoy over 240 films on all subjects, in a variety of lengths, showing in numerous locations all around Asbury Park, plus parties, celebrities, seminars, networking, free shuttle rides, and lots more. It’s a fast-paced weekend of non-stop fun for all ages. Films are shown in two-hour-long screening blocks that include a variety of works like shorts, feature-length, music videos, and trailers. Each screening block concludes with a question and answers session with the filmmakers and actors. Other events held throughout the festival include panel discussions and seminars on topics such as

SAG-AFTRA Contracts 101 for Filmmakers

ESports & Virtual Reality

Demystifying SAG-AFTRA for Actors

, Directors Panel entitled

Small Screen, Big Screen: Directing Choices Different or not,

and film distribution. Planning ahead and using the Garden State Film Festival App will help you not miss a thing. For more information including schedule, tickets, and travel visit

Home

Jersey City Woman Sentenced To Prison Smuggling Fentanyl Into Prison, Resulting In Inmate Overdose

NEWARK, N.J. – A Hudson County, New Jersey, woman was sentenced today to 135 months in prison for her role in conspiring to distribute fentanyl, which resulted in the overdose of an inmate at a New Jersey State prison, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.

Jasmir Humphrey, a/k/a “Jasmir Jackson,” 31, previously pleaded guilty to an information charging her with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

Noel Salgado, a/k/a “Kuko,” who is the leader of the “Loyal Hoody Gang” subset of the Neighborhood Rolling 20 Bloods, a nationwide street gang, was previously incarcerated as an inmate at Bayside State Prison. While incarcerated, Salgado directed Humphrey, gang members, and associates to provide narcotics proceeds to him and his associates and to smuggle narcotics and other contraband into the prison in order to distribute to other inmates.

In particular, on October 17, 2015, Salgado called Rodgerick Garrett, a/k/a, “Fif,” a/k/a, “Boo,” from prison to arrange for the purchase and smuggling into the prison of heroin and fentanyl. Humphrey picked up the narcotics from Garrett and smuggled them to Salgado on October 18, 2015. The following day, an inmate of Bayside State Prison, to whom Salgado had distributed the narcotics, was found unresponsive in his cell suffering from a drug overdose. Despite rescue breathing efforts, the inmate remained unconscious for approximately 20 minutes. The inmate only regained consciousness after medical personnel administered an opiate antidote to revive the inmate. The inmate was hospitalized for two days following his overdose. Law enforcement’s investigation revealed that Humphrey had smuggled in drugs for Salgado on prior occasions. Charges against Salgado and Garrett are still pending, and they are both presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Martinotti sentenced Humphrey to three years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents with the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark, and investigators with the N.J. Department of Corrections, Special Investigations Division, under the direction of Commissioner Marcus O. Hicks, with the investigation leading to the charges resulting in today’s sentencing. He also thanked the Jersey City Police Department and the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher D. Amore and Elaine K. Lou of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark.

Defense counsel: Joseph M. Corazza, Esq.

Derek Sprague Named 2020 United States Junior Ryder Cup Team Captain

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.

(Feb. 13, 2020)

–

The PGA of America has named PGA Past President Derek Sprague, PGA as the Captain of the 2020 United States Junior Ryder Cup Team. The United States will face Team Europe in the 12th Junior Ryder Cup at Blue Mound Golf and Country Club near Milwaukee, Sept. 21-22.

A 2019 inductee into the PGA of America Hall of Fame, Sprague is the General Manager of TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where he has served since 2017. He previously was the Managing Director of Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey and oversaw the club’s preparation for the 2017 Presidents Cup. For 27 years prior, Sprague was the General Manager and Director of Golf at Malone (New York) Golf Club.

In 2019, he captained the United States PGA Cup Team to a stirring comeback victory over Great Britain & Ireland.

Through Sprague’s leadership as PGA President from 2014-16, the PGA was instrumental in growing the game through player development and youth programs, such as PGA Jr. League and the Drive, Chip & Putt Championship. In addition, he co-chaired the Ryder Cup Task Force, which created a long-term blueprint for success in the event. Sprague also served the Association as PGA Honorary President, PGA Vice President and PGA Secretary.

The American team is vying for its seventh straight victory in the biennial competition with Europe, and the United States holds an overall record of 7-3-1 in the event. Among the Junior Ryder Cup alumni are major champions, PGA Tour players and LPGA Tour players including: Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Hunter Mahan, Tony Finau, Lexi Thompson, Alison Lee and Brittany Altomare of the United States; and Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia, Nicolas Colsaerts, Suzann Pettersen, Emily Pedersen and Carlota Ciganda of Europe. The European Team recently named 1999 U.S. Open Champion Paul Lawrie as its Captain.

The U.S. Team will feature six boys and six girls who are U.S. citizens and members of the high school graduating class of 2021, or younger. All potential players must compete in the 2020 Girls or Boys Junior PGA Championship to be eligible unless exceptional circumstances prevent the player from competing. There will be 10 players who qualify as exemptions and two Captain’s picks. The final U.S. Junior Ryder Cup Team will be announced by the PGA of America on Monday, Aug. 3, following the 45th Girls Junior PGA Championship.

“It is a great honor to represent the United States and captain a team of the finest junior golfers in our country,” said Sprague. “I look forward to our team competing against Europe’s top players, led by their distinguished Captain Paul Lawrie, in this special international event.”

The idea for the Junior Ryder Cup came about in 1995, when a team of Europeans, including Sergio Garcia, played an informal exhibition match against the Central New York PGA Section and area juniors. Two years later, the Junior Ryder Cup was formally introduced as an event, at Alcaidesa Links Golf Course, in Cadiz, Spain, and won by the United States, 7-5.

The United States captured the 2018 Junior Ryder Cup at Disneyland Paris 12 1/2 to 11 1/2 for its sixth consecutive victory.

For more information on the Junior Ryder Cup, visit

JuniorPGAChampionship.com/junior-ryder-cup

or contact Championship Manager Trenton Blundell, PGA at (561) 624-8490.

Kratom for Pain Relief

Gloucestercitynews.net (February 13, 2020)–It is unfortunate that some of us have encountered accidents at some point in our lives. In some cases, we are blessed enough for the accident to not inflict any major injury. Sometimes, the injury is incessant enough to linger for longer than anyone would want it to be. Medications, too, seem to cease to

credit unsplash.com

provide any evident relief.

One feels utterly hopeless when even medical science has nothing to offer for a problem so troublesome. But, nature has a remedy for every crisis mankind faces. Its vast storehouse of herbs and shrubs are the answer to possibly every physical malady human faces. One such herb is Kratom. Kratom, or Mitragyna Speciosa, as it is called in the scientific community, is a native plant predominant in Thailand. It has been used for its medical applications since the nineteenth century. Kratom works very efficiently for pain relief. A study conducted on 10,000 Americans concluded that a staggering 68% of them used Kratom for self-treatment of pain. Here, we explain the pain-relieving properties and a bit about the

best Kratom for pain relief

. Read on!

The high concentration of Alkaloids

Humans experience pain due to the presence of pain receptors that travel to the brain. Kratom has a naturally high concentration of alkaloids. These alkaloids dull the pain receptors which results in an evident decrease in the pain a person is experiencing. Thus, no matter how old the pain is, kratom shows its effectiveness by attacking the very base of origin of pain. Maeng Da Kratom literally translates to \’pimp grade\’ kratom, which is suggestive of its very strong reserve of alkaloids.

Promotes the production of Serotonin and Dopamine

One of the curious effects of kratom is the enhanced production of Serotonin and Dopamine in the body. The initial of these neurotransmitters regulate a person\’s mood while the following elevates the feeling of happiness. This helps a great deal in chronic pain as it is often accompanied by persistent depression and anxiety. This also helps in coping with long lingering pain. Besides, it is always a good idea to be a bit more cheerful and happy.

Richness in Mitragynine

Kratom is known to be very rich in Mitragynine. Mitragynine is an alkaloid that has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. This is very effective in muscle stiffness, and therefore, is a terrific pain reliever. This is additionally effective in diseases such as fibromyalgia, arthritis and rheumatism, etc. Mitragynine is also known to produce euphoric and stimulating effects on the human body.

Helpful in managing Diabetic neuropathic pain

A lesser-known impact of kratom is its ability to control blood sugar levels. Pain is one of the leading consequences of diabetic neuropathy. Controlling blood sugar levels can be a bit tricky for a person who cherishes food. An unstable diet can result in blood sugar spikes which can be dangerous in several cases. Research has proven that alkaloids in kratom help in regulating insulin production and thus, control the amount of glucose in the blood. This helps in preventing sudden rises or troughs that diabetics face.

Non-harmful pain-relieving perks of opioids

There are multiple medical conditions where opiates are used to counter pain afflicted in the body. But, there are multiple side effects of opiates such as addiction, dependence, respiratory dependence, etc. Kratom can be used to derive all the positive pain-relieving perks of opioids while ruling out the potential negative effects it can impart in a human. Kratom can be used without the suspicion of unaccounted ill effects.

Increases energy levels

Excessive pain can reduce the circulation of blood and energy levels as well. Kratom optimizes specific metabolic processes and rebuilds energy levels and increases circulation, fighting the sensation of pain. This is exceptionally useful for the physically active workers as the grievance of low circulation and energy levels is commonly heard from them.

Conclusion

Kratom has been traditionally used for assistance with pain and distress. It comes loaded with natural antioxidants. Whether it is acute or chronic pain, it can help in managing both of them. While using chemical painkillers may introduce a number of side effects, such as nausea, dependence, etc, kratom is a safe and effective way of confronting pain. Tried and tested, Kratom is one of the best alternatives at your disposal to counter and cope with any kind of pain or discomfort you wish to get rid of.

Newark Resident Sentenced to Prison for Bribing Letter Carriers to Deliver \”Pot\” Parcels

NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, resident was sentenced today to 24

months in prison for bribing mail carriers from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to deliver to him parcels containing marijuana, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.

Glenn Blackstone, 50, of Newark, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas to an information charging him with one count of giving bribes and one count of conspiracy to distribute marijuana. Judge Salas imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From October 2014 to September 2017, Blackstone purchased marijuana from a conspirator, who produced the marijuana in California and shipped it in parcels to New Jersey. On multiple occasions, Blackstone bribed two USPS mail carriers to remove the parcels from the normal delivery stream and deliver them instead to him at various locations in Newark. These parcels had fictitious names and addresses on them and were not addressed directly to Blackstone. After receiving the packages from the mail carriers and paying the bribes, Blackstone then sold the marijuana to others in Newark.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Salas sentenced Blackstone to five years of supervised release.

One of the mail carriers, Leonard Gresham, 52, of Rahway, New Jersey, also was sentenced by Judge Salas today to three years of probation for taking bribes from Blackstone. Another mail carrier, Fred Rivers, 47, of Newark, was sentenced to three years of probation with a condition of one year of home confinement by Judge Salas on Jan. 23, 2020 for his role in the bribery scheme.

U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito credited special agents with the USPS-Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, Northeast Area Field Office, and inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge James Buthorn, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencings.

The government is represented by Lee M. Cortes Jr., Chief of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Farrell of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Special Prosecutions Division.

What You Need To Know About Starting A Business

Gloucestercitynews.net (February 12, 2020)–Last year, stats showed that there were

around 30 million small businesses

in the USA alone. That’s a pretty impressive number, and when you apply it to other countries around the world, it’s clear that business ownership is on the up. There’s something deeply appealing about starting your own business; you get to decide your own hours, you’re never in thrall to a boss (although you may have to deal with some nightmare clients), and you can truly say you’re what makes your business great. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though. Here’s what you need to know about starting a business.

It takes money

You’d be amazed at how many people seem to forget that starting a business is a costly endeavor. You’ll need money if you want to make it in the world of entrepreneurship; even starting up your business and getting established will set you back a considerable amount of money. You could look to many sources to shore up some cash. Business loans are a good idea, but if you’re looking for a cash injection quickly,

why not consider logbookloans

? It’s a site that offers quick cash against your vehicle, which is a great way to drum up some money for your first business endeavor.

It’s not easy

We know it sounds extremely obvious, but many people don’t seem to realize that a business won’t be plain sailing. Not only will you have to source the aforementioned funding, but you’ll also encounter many pitfalls and problems along the way, and they’ll come in lots of shapes and sizes depending on whereabouts you are in your business journey. Before you set out to start your company, make sure that you understand this will be hard. It’s no good quitting your day job only to realize you’ve got a much bigger task in front of you than you thought.

It might fail

Around 50% of businesses fail within their fifth year of operation, while a staggering 20% fail within their first year. This number isn’t anywhere near the oft-reported 90% that some outlets like to claim as gospel, but it’s still pretty high. With that in mind, you need to remember that there’s every chance your business will fail. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you did a poor job or that you aren’t a good entrepreneur; it could be down to a dip in the market or any number of other things that are out of your control. Accept failure and move on if it does happen.

Being in charge is exhilarating

If you’ve spent your whole life as an employee, then starting your own business can be incredibly exhilarating, but also very intimidating. Where do you begin when your hours aren’t being dictated to you by an external boss figure? Working without a boss is a skill you can acquire, but it’s going to take time and effort to do so. You’ll need to divest yourself of the mentality that you’ve got someone to answer to. Once you do, though, you’ll find the feeling of making all the decisions and being in charge utterly exhilarating and thrilling.

It’s not for everyone

There is every chance that you’re simply not the right person to start a business. That’s completely fine, and it’s not something you should fight. Some are born leaders and entrepreneurs, while others are much better suited to desk work. That’s not a slight on your personality at all; knowing your strengths and understanding how to play to them is very important. If you get a few weeks or months into your business endeavor and realize it’s not for you, there are steps you can take to quit. Just remember: you’re never trapped, and this is never the end of your career if you don’t want it to be.

It’s extremely competitive

This will, of course, vary from business to business, but the vast majority of enterprise

is incredibly competitive

. You won’t find it easy to establish yourself and your business if you’re not willing to go the extra mile as far as marketing is concerned. Building a name and brand identity for yourself is one of the most important things you can do as a business owner, but you won’t do it unless you’re willing to stick your neck out for your company. Obviously, don’t resort to anything underhanded or illegal, but you should do everything in your power to ensure your business succeeds.

It’s a team effort

Whether your business is an entirely solo endeavor or you’ve got staff, remember that starting and

operating a small business is a team effort

. If you don’t have staff, you’re working as a team with your clients, any freelancers to whom you’re outsourcing, and other individuals and businesses you need to work with. Don’t shut others out, especially if they have important critical feedback that could help you improve the day-to-day operation of your business. Allow yourself to work in a team with others and you’ll reap the benefits.

It requires you to be ruthless…with yourself

Contrary to popular opinion, starting a business does not require you to be ruthless with your staff members. It does, however, need you to be strict – almost ascetic – with yourself. Curb any bad spending habits you may have and work on negative personality traits that could seriously affect how you’re doing business. Are you quick to anger? Do you give up easily? These are characteristics that won’t be good for your business in the short- or long-term. Know that if you’re going to start a business, there’s a great deal of character development involved on your part.