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  • Handy Tips for Long-Lasting Kitchen Cabinets

    Handy Tips for Long-Lasting Kitchen Cabinets

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    Your remodeling team has completed your installation on schedule and the results are stunning. You already knew that refacing a kitchen cabinet remodel is a time-saving and cost-effective solution, but now you can see the results in person. Wow! Your kitchen is beautifully transformed beyond expectations. So, how do you keep those stunning cabinets looking showroom-worthy at all times? Let’s have a look!

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  • Twitter Failed to Give Promised Severance to Laid-Off Workers: Lawsuit

    Twitter Failed to Give Promised Severance to Laid-Off Workers: Lawsuit

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    • Laid-off Twitter employees are suing the company saying they were promised a range of severance benefits.
    • The lawsuit says they were assured these benefits would hold after Elon Musk bought Twitter.
    • However, recently laid-off employees say Twitter reneged on the promised severance pay.

    Laid-off Twitter employees suing the social media platform say the company — now owned by Elon Musk — reneged on previously promised severance benefits.

    Five employees — who filed a class-action suit against Twitter on November 1 — now say they were promised at least two month’s severance pay, bonus plan compensation, cash value of vested Twitter equity, and healthcare coverage, but these promises were not kept when Musk laid off about 3,700 staffers on November 4.

    The fresh allegations were made in updated court filings to the San Francisco federal court on Tuesday, which were also seen by Insider. 

    According to the Tuesday update, Twitter’s management previously said at several all-hands meetings, wrote in a recent FAQ, and stated in a merger agreement that employees would get at least the equivalent of the originally promised package if they were laid off after Musk acquired the company. 

    Twitter employees “reasonably relied” on this promise in the weeks leading up to Musk’s purchase and chose not to look for jobs elsewhere, the lawsuit shows. 

    However, Twitter later told employees affected by November’s mass layoffs that they would only get one month’s base pay after their termination, the updated lawsuit alleged.

    This claim appears to contrast a November 4 tweet from Musk, which said that all exited employees were offered three months’ severance.

     

    Musk has worked every day to find new ways to screw over Twitter staff, attorney says

    In response to queries from Insider, Shannon Liss-Riordan — the attorney who filed the lawsuit — said Musk is counting an extra two months of severance pay because some workers were told on November 4 that they would be laid off in two months’ time.

    These employees, which include three of the plaintiffs, were locked out of their company accounts on November 3, but were told they would be paid until January 4, 2023, their lawsuit said.

    “This pay is not severance pay,” Liss-Riordan wrote in the lawsuit, accusing Musk of using this period of payment only to comply with federal and state labor laws. The WARN Act, or the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, is a federal law that requires businesses with 100 or more employees to give 60 days advance notice of mass layoffs or other work disruptions.

    Liss-Riordan filed an emergency motion on behalf of the five employees on Wednesday evening. It seeks to compel Twitter to tell laid-off employees about the pending lawsuit before it can reach any separation agreements with workers.

    The motion accused Twitter of trying to get employees to release all claims on their compensation benefits in exchange for their one month of severance pay.

    “Since taking control of Twitter just two weeks ago, it seems Elon Musk has worked every day to find new and creative ways to screw over the company’s workers,” Liss-Riordan said in a statement to Insider. “This emergency motion that we just filed is an effort to protect the employees Twitter is laying off from signing away their rights to get what they are owed by the company.”

    Twitter’s former top four executives — Parag Agrawal, Ned Segal, Vijaya Gadde, and Sarah Personette — stood to gain a collective $88 million from being fired by Musk. On October 31, Musk denied reports that he fired the top executives “for cause” in order to avoid giving them hefty severance payouts.

    Musk did not immediately respond to Insider’s request for comment, which was sent after-hours. Twitter’s no longer employs its communications department.



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  • Dermaplaning Regret And How To Avoid It

    Dermaplaning Regret And How To Avoid It

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    Some swear by the silky smooth results of dermaplaning but is this viral skin care trend both effective and safe? Absolutely, if you visit a spa professional for your treatment. Read on to discover some dermaplaning misconceptions, some not-so-ideal outcomes and our best advice for avoiding any dermaplaning regret.

    What Is Dermaplaning? | Dermaplaning Without Regrets | Why Dermaplaning Should Only Be Done By An Esthetician | Who Benefits From Dermaplaning?6 Common Dermaplaning Regrets

    What Is Dermaplaning? 

    Also known as “microplaning” or “blading,” dermablading is a professional skin care treatment that skims the face with an exfoliating blade, specifically created for use on the skin. The process removes dead skin, product build-up and the vellus hairs (also known as peach fuzz) found on the cheeks and chin. After, you should notice and feel rejuvenated and smooth skin on the face. 

    Eminence Organics Regional Sales & Education Representative Tamara Hughes says mistaking dermaplaning for shaving is a common error. “A dermaplaning treatment and shaving at home are completely different and use different tools to achieve different goals,” she says. “Although they both use a blade that moves across the skin, this is about all they have in common.” 

    “Despite the amount of at-home blades available,” says Hughes, “Dermaplaning should always be done by a certified dermaplaning technician.”

    Want a more in-depth explanation on dermaplaning? Check out our guide to a dermaplane facial here

    Dermaplaning Without Regrets

    According to Healthline.com, dermaplaning can minimize the appearance of acne scarring, pockmarks and fine lines. It can also give you a smooth and radiant complexion after the treatment. As a result, applying and removing makeup should be much easier. Even skin care products can be applied more easily, with some believing the product absorbs into the skin better. 

    Unlike laser hair removal and other cosmetic treatments, there is little to no recovery time other than making sure you apply sunscreen and watching how much time you spend in the sun. As dermaplaning only affects the top few layers of skin, it is considered a minimally invasive treatment, involving less risk than other treatments. According to Hughes, freshly dermaplaned skin can be perfect to enhance the results of chemical peel treatments, facials and microneedling. 

    Is dermaplaning safe to do at home? No! Always go to a spa to do this treatment, don’t try to do it at home. In terms of the results, they last about three weeks and, because your skin is in a fragile state, your skin is at a risk of sun damage in the days following. Because of the skin’s fragility, you should avoid using retinol or tingly skin care products for a few weeks following the treatment. Those with some skin conditions (see below) shouldn’t attempt dermaplaning treatments.  

    Why Dermaplaning Should Only Be Done By An Esthetician

    According to Hughes, dermaplaning is typically performed by a certified technician. This is because dermaplaning is a professional treatment and removes two to three weeks of dead skin cells as well as vellus hair. She explains the difference between professional dermaplaning and using a razor at home: “In the treatment, they use a surgical blade at a 45-degree angle for the main purpose of exfoliation. In comparison, facial razors are tools that feature a safety guard and sit on the skin at a 35-degree angle and were designed to be used at home. Its main purpose is hair removal and ONLY removes the hair on the surface of the skin.”

    Who Benefits From Dermaplaning? Who Should Avoid It?

    Every skin type could respond well to dermaplaning, and the practice can be particularly beneficial for those with:

    • Acne scars and pock marks
    • Dull skin
    • Dry skin
    • Sun-damaged skin
    • Fine wrinkles
    • Concerns about their vellus hair, which can thicken naturally due to age or conditions such as polycystic ovaries. 

    Who Should Avoid Dermaplaning? 

    According to WebMD and Healthline.com, you should avoid dermaplaning if you’ve recently experienced or regularly experience:

    • Severe sunburn
    • Active breakouts
    • Sensitive skin
    • Accutane or tretinoin application in the past 6 months
    • Cancer, and are undergoing cancer treatment
    • Keloids 
    • Eczema
    • Rosacea
    • Spider veins
    • Cystic acne
    • Hirsutism
    • Viruses such as chicken pox or shingles

    6 Common Dermaplaning Regrets

    Dermaplaning Regret #1: You “wing it” and try it at home

    It’s not hard to find an at-home dermaplaning blade but just because you can try a dermaplaning facial treatment on yourself, doesn’t mean you should. 

    “Dermaplaning should always be done by a certified dermaplaning technician in order to avoid injury and adverse reactions,” Hughes says. “You will want to make sure that you research certified technicians that were trained with proper techniques. Make sure to read the reviews and discuss the treatment with them before you start.”

    Without the proper training, sanitizing knowledge, or knowing how to angle the tool, you’re at risk of damaging the delicate skin on your face, which may prompt an infection, irritation, scratches or even scarring. 

    YouTuber Natalies Outlet mentions her own bad experience after dermaplaning with an old blade, describing the results as feeling like “ingrown hairs.” “I had bumps for months,” she says in her video.

    Dermaplaning Regret #2: Your Breakouts Worsen 

    According to the Cleveland Clinic, the sliding motion of dermaplaning can make breakouts worse by spreading bacteria around. In time, this can even cause more breakouts and agitate existing acne. We always recommend avoiding dermaplaning if you’re living with acne, active breakouts or using acne treatments like Accutane or Isotretinoin. However, if you think your skin is clear enough to attempt the practice, ensure you’re working with a professional to keep dermaplaning tools far away from any broken skin or blemishes.

    Dermaplaning Regret #3: Dermaplaning Irritates Your Skin 

    Although you might be impressed with an initial feeling of smoothness, a few hours later, your skin can feel tight and scraped if dermaplaning has worked a little harder then your sensitive skin would prefer. We always recommend talking to your dermaplaning professional or dermatologist before the treatment to discuss whether it’s right for you. 

    However, if your skin only occasionally suffers from sensitivity, consider an oil planning treatment that applies a layer of facial oil to the skin before dermaplaning to reduce any friction. And always remember, your treatment should be slow, careful and very light on the skin to avoid scratches and irritation.

    Dermaplaning Regret #4: It Reignites An Old Cold Sore

    Unfortunately, dermaplaning the wrong area can awaken an old cold sore site, reactivating the herpes simplex virus on the skin. To avoid this, visit a doctor to secure an oral anti-herpes medication or antibiotic to prevent any outbreaks, and always let your skin specialist know about your cold sore history prior to your treatment. 

    Dermaplaning Regret #5: Neglecting Your Skin After Treatment 

    As dermaplaning has removed a layer of older skin to expose a new one, a restorative routine is necessary in the weeks following your treatment. According to SELF.com, the skin cells in the epidermis take about 14 days to turn over, so follow your dermaplaning facial treatment with a routine that replenishes the skin barrier to maintain smooth, healthy skin in the long term. 

    This means a focus on:

    • Hydrating serums and hyaluronic acids to add moisture to the skin
    • Moisturizing in the weeks following the treatment 
    • Sunscreen, as your skin is even more susceptible to UV damage
    • Avoiding skin care products that make your skin tingle
    • Avoiding retinol
    • Gentle cleansing

    With proper care and professional help, dermaplaning rejuvenates the skin and leaves it looking perfectly smooth. If you are interested in exploring this innovative treatment, visit our Spa Locator and call your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner to check if they offer dermaplaning services. 

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  • The Ultimate List of Dog Sports – Dogster

    The Ultimate List of Dog Sports – Dogster

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    Dogs are doers. It is in their history and bloodlines to be guardians of their families, to hunt for their food and to chase what catches their eye. These instincts led to the evolution of dog sports into such a wide variety that a sport exists for just about any purebred and mixed breed dog and their human.

    Any dog breed can participate in sports. Choose the sport based on the trainability and physical capabilities of your dog. The following list compiles a variety of dog sports offered in North America. Use this and some research of your own to find the sport that best suits your dog.

    See the top dog athletes from recent years. 

    What is Dog Agility?

    One of the fastest growing dog sports showcases the dog’s ability to jump, climb and race through tunnels while listening to a handler’s sometimes subtle cues for what obstacle to perform next. Most purebreds and mixed breeds find Agility exciting and enjoy performing in the standard obstacle courses and jumpers with weaves. The most popular and most decorated breeds in the sport include Border Collies, Papillons, Shetland Sheepdogs, Australian Shepherds and mixed breed dogs.

    Flatwork training for agility can start prior to a dog’s first birthday. Due to concerns for the joints of young, growing dogs, many trainers delay training over jumps until after the dog turns 1. Competing can begin as early as 15 months of age. With proper care for the dog’s health, dogs can compete into their middle age.

    Agility takes place at a variety of competition venues, so find the venue that best fits your lifestyle and location.

    (Want to read more about dog agility training? Check out Dogster’s sister publication Whole Dog Journal’s e-book Beginner’s Guide to Agility Training.)

    What is Barn Hunt?

    While some may shudder at the idea of participating in a sport that involves rats, Barn Hunt is the type of sport that encourages a dog’s natural instinct of smelling out vermin. Barn Hunt started as a sport mostly for terriers, capitalizing on their ratting instinct to chase down the scent of a rat in the barn or in fields. The sport has gained popularity among other breeds and their owners because all canines use their nose.

    The Barn Hunt Association (BHA) invites pet parents and their dogs of all breeds — purebred and mixed — to take part in the age-old sport.

    “Barn Hunt is open to any dog of any breed or mix who wishes to play the game and can fit through an 18-inch wide by hale bale height tunnel,” states the BHA website. In fact, Barn Hunt might be one of the most inclusive sports for dogs of all ages and abilities and owners of all ages and abilities. It is a timed sport, but it does not require blazing speeds. This gives older dogs and older handlers a sport to enjoy, as well as tripod dogs, deaf dogs, blind dogs and dogs using wheeled carts.

    Don’t worry, the rats are not turned loose, but kept in large plastic, aerated tubes with holes for air drilled in. In fact, the rats are treated as beloved family pets and enjoy their jobs of “hiding” as much as the dogs enjoy their jobs of seeking.

    What is Conformation?

    Perhaps the only sport where routine baths are a necessity, Conformation shows pit purebred dogs against each other by breed to find the best representative of that particular breed. Conformation shows are sanctioned by kennel clubs and breed parent clubs to preserve the breed’s standards. Each breed has a set of “standards” that describes what makes that particular breed what it is and acts as a guide for breeders, owners and judges. Within each breed standard are descriptions regarding every part of the dog’s body from the set of the ears on his skull to the way the tail is held. The dog’s personality can be included in that standard as well.

    Puppies as young as 6 months can be entered to compete in Conformation shows, and there is no limit as to the maximum age. For many dogs, Conformation shows are their first foray into sports. They can earn a championship title in the show ring before moving along to learning new events, such as obedience, agility or herding. Many dogs compete in those different sports while also competing in Conformation.

    Conformation dogs cannot be spayed or neutered. This is because a goal of Conformation is to find the best specimen of the breed to continue those desired traits in future generations.

    What is Coursing Ability or Fast CAT or Lure Coursing?

    Do you have a runner in your home? Does your dog channel the mantra “I am speed” at various times of the day? Events such as Fast CAT or the Coursing Ability Test are perfect for your dog.

    What started as just Lure Coursing, an event restricted to Sighthounds only, has captured the excitement of all breeds and mixed breeds, who love the thrill of the chase. Fast CAT is a 100-yard dash where a dog chases a lure and is timed from start to finish. The Coursing Ability Test allows any breed or mix to chase a lure through a track that mimics a rectangular racetrack. Coursing Ability Tests are pass/fail tests — if your dog can chase the “bunny” throughout the course, he passes. Fast CAT is timed, and points are accrued from the rated speed the dog runs to chase the bunny.

    Lure Coursing is for Sighthound breeds only. It pits three Sighthounds against each other, and they are judged on their speed, chasing ability and more.

    What is Dock Diving?

    Sporting breeds aren’t the only ones that like to jump into any body of water they see. Measured a lot like when an athlete competes in the long jump, only instead of jumping and landing in sand, the dog jumps into the water, with his distance measured from the end of the dock to the splash zone.

    Any dog that loves the water can make a good Dock Diving dog. “Like any other dog sport, the dogs who love it will do very well in it,” says Hillarey Kriegler, owner of Dobby, a Golden Retriever who has competed at the regional championships three years in a row. “Toy drive helps some dock diving dogs, but honestly I think Dobby would jump without the toy.”

    Hillarey says the breed she feels excels at the sport is the Whippet because of their speed and their sleek, aerodynamic bodies. There is not a lot of training outside of the pool for dock diving. Instead, it relies a lot on instinct and natural talent. “However, you can work on toy drive and the dog’s fitness,” says Kriegler. “We work to improve hind-end strength and a lot of stretching.”

    What is Herding?

    Toy breeds need not apply to the sport of Herding. Herding breeds such as the Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog, Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis, German Shepherd Dogs and more are able to hone their natural instincts of gathering and moving groups of animals (mostly sheep or ducks) from one location to another.

    Don’t have access to livestock to move? This is how the sport of Triebball was invented, where dogs learn to follow their handler’s cues to retrieve blown up exercise balls, pushing them back to their handler and the start line.

    What is Schuntzhund?

    Schutzhund, more recently called IGP, is a three-phased sport comprised of tracking, obedience and personal protection. It started as a breed suitability test for German Shepherd Dogs in the early 20th century, but now it is a competitive sport across the world.

    “We primarily try to highlight the balance of precision and power in our routines,” says Marla Stickel, trainer and owner of Radical K9 in Elwood, Indiana. “For me, IGP is all about the bond I establish with my dogs through training and the power of a routine we train for together. For example, my current competition dog, Iggy, and I have trained together since she was 8-weeks old, and we are headed to Denmark in October to compete in the World Championships.”

    Any breed can compete in the sport. There are breed specific competitions and all-breed competitions, depending on the organization and event. German Shepherd Dogs and Belgian Malinois excel the best, but any breed with the heart and desire can compete. Stickel has competed with German Shepherd Dogs, Belgian Malinois and a Pit Bull Terrier. Training can begin as early as 8 weeks old, but dogs cannot compete until they are at least 15 months old. Stickel points out that patience and dedication is a virtue with Schutzhund, because it may take several years to prepare a dog to compete in the sport.

    The best place to get started is with a local club. Finding an encouraging and educational club to train with is essential to having fun and succeeding in this sport. You can find a list of clubs with the United Schutzhund Clubs of America (USCA), on its webpage. You can also find a list of trials or competitions with that organization and go and watch a club training day or trial.

    Jump into dog sports and competition

    If any of these sports piqued your interest, take a cue from agility handlers and just “Jump!” Working toward a goal with your canine best friend is the best way to strengthen your relationship, as well as help make new friends (human and dog) while learning how you can help better the dog world.

    “Dock diving has strengthened my relationship with my dog,” says Hillarey. “When we train together and play together, it gives him a job and a purpose, all while getting exercise. Nothing makes me happier than seeing him happy!”

    Don’t forget these popular sports

    There are so many dog sports that we can’t fit them in our pages, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t list these more standard and popular dog sports:

    Earthdog: Best suited for small Terriers and Dachshunds to gauge how good a hunter the dog is, without injury to the rat

    Field Events: Hounds are scored according to how successful they are at scent trailing, showcasing endurance and drive over rough terrain with scents of varying ages

    Obedience: Any purebred or mixed breed eligible, great starting base for all of the listed sports

    Rally: Any purebred or mixed breed eligible, very similar to obedience and is the perfect introduction to more dog sports

    Scent Work: Based on professional detection dog training (i.e., drug dogs), scent work taps into the natural sense of smell in all breeds of dogs while the handler must learn to read the dog’s body language to announce when the dog has found the scent.

    Top dog athletes from 2021 and 2022

    AgilityTop AKC Masters Agility Champion in 2022 Bee (Registered name: MACH2 Apex Meant to Bee MXS MJS MXF TQX T2B), Shetland Sheepdog, handled by Jennifer Crank.

    Barn Hunt2021 Fastest Open Dog Zaria’s Mystic Dreams Of Ewe, Border Collie, owned by Pam Eckstein

    Dock Diving2021 NADD Open Longest Distance Jumped Sounders, Whippet (at 36 feet 11inches), owned by Laurel Behnke

    Lure Coursing2021 Best in Field National Champion Oxota Storm On The Mountain JC, Borzoi, owned by Dr. Karla Smith and Leonore Abordo

    Obedience2022 AKC National Obedience Champion Baker (Registered name: OTCH12 High Times Shake N Bake UDX8 OGM SH), Golden Retriever, owned by Kori Bevis

    Rally2022 AKC Rally National Champion Zayne (Registered name: OTCH9 HC AGCH MACH5 RACH Norwood Color Me Zayne UDX9 OGM RM3 RAE3 HSAd HSBd HXAd HXBd MXC PDS MJC PJS MFG TQX T2B5), Border Collie, handled by Kim Berkley

    Schutzhund2021 USCA GSD National Champion Argo Von Schweizer, German Shepherd, handled by Laurie Schweizer

    Tracking2021 AKC National Tracking Invitational Successful Trackers CT Hob Nob Super Hawk CGC, TKN, Border Collie handled by Matt Uhry and OTCH/CT DD’s Paws Before You Leap VCD3, UDX3, OM4, BN, RM, RAE2, TDU, JH, NJP, OF, SWD, SWM, SHDA, CGCA, Golden Retriever, handled by Megan Hundley

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  • Tokyo warehouse revamped into Koffee Mameya Kakeru cafe

    Tokyo warehouse revamped into Koffee Mameya Kakeru cafe

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    Tokyo-based Fourteen Stones Design has designed the Koffee Mameya Kakeru cafe for barista Eiichi Kunitomo in a former water transportation hub in Kiyosumi Shirakawa.

    Set in the Kiyosumi Shirakawa area of Tokyo, the coffee shop occupies a warehouse which Fourteen Stones Design renovated and extended “to preserve the appearance of the old warehouse as much as possible”.

    Koffee Mameya Kakeru cafe by Fourteen Stones Design
    Koffee Mameya Kakeru is in an old warehouse

    The studio removed the shutters from the front of the warehouse, adding a glass facade. The rest of the building, including the interiors, remains as it was – with minimal repairs made to the walls.

    It aimed “to make everyday coffee an extraordinary experience” with a full “course of coffee” served by baristas and the renovation has been designed to facilitate this.

    A coffee counter in black granite with a timber frame
    The white oak structure frames the coffee bar

    A staggered rectangular frame of white oak at the entrance of the cafe, which echoes the coffee package design, dominates the interior space and provides a central visual motif for the scheme.

    This frame divides the entrance space from the main cafe where a U-shaped bar surrounding the barista workstations was placed.

    The barista’s workbenches, which were made from black granite, were deliberately placed at the centre of the space to create “a stage set-up, which enables baristas to fully demonstrate their skills”.

    Besides the new seating area, restrooms, a kitchen, a laboratory and office space have all been renovated.

    Baristas work at black granite counters

    The service and bar countertops were made from “Jura Yellow” limestone. Featuring fossils from the Jura period, it was chosen for its texture and also for allusions to the passage of time – not only echoed in the coffee growing, roasting and brewing processes but also the journey of the brand from its inception 10 years ago.

    Fourteen Stones Design’s Yosuke Hayashi designed the custom furniture for the cafe in the same white oak as the frame structure. It was manufactured by Japanese company E&Y for the project.

    Barista working at coffee bar with staggered timber frame
    The space aims to create a “gastronomic experience” for coffee drinkers

    The cafe’s owner Kunitomo believes baristas “act as a bridge between the customer and the roastery” and should be given “a social status comparable to that of a sommelier”.

    Baristas at Koffee Mameya Kakeru will serve single cups of coffee through to full courses of coffee, “elevated by the newly designed space to the realm of gastronomy”, according to the practice.

    Fourteen Stones Design has been shortlisted in the restaurant and bar interior category of this year’s Dezeen Awards. Other projects in the running include a rattan restaurant in Bangkok by Enter Projects Asia Co. and YODEZEEN’s Japanese restaurant in Kyiv’s city centre.

    The photography is by Ooki Jingu.

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  • Ukraine to Rebuild World’s Biggest Cargo Plane at $500 Million Cost

    Ukraine to Rebuild World’s Biggest Cargo Plane at $500 Million Cost

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    • The manufacturer of the world’s largest cargo plane has announced plans to rebuild the aircraft.
    • The Antonov An-225 was destroyed by Russian forces in February. 
    • The plane, which is also known as “Mriya,” is said to cost over half a billion dollars to rebuild.

    The manufacturer of the largest cargo plane in the world announced plans on November 7 to rebuild the massive aircraft.

    Antonov Co., the state-owned Ukrainian manufacturer of the An-225 cargo plane, said in a statement posted on Facebook that design work has begun on a second unit of the aircraft. The An-225, also known as “Mriya,” was destroyed by Russian forces in an airfield near Kyiv in February. The rebuild is currently in the design stage, the company wrote on Facebook.

    “According to available expert estimates, currently there are about 30% of components that can be used for the second model of the aircraft,” the company said, adding that the exact details of reconstruction will only be released “after Ukraine wins this war.”

    The An-225, which was in service for over 30 years before its destruction, was built in the Soviet era. The aircraft first took flight in 1988. It was built to transport the Soviet spacecraft Buran before being used to charter international cargo flights.

    The reconstruction costs of the 330-tonne An-225 are estimated to exceed 500 million euros, or $500 million, according to Antonov’s statement. It’s the heaviest aircraft ever built.

    The destroyed Ukrainian Antonov An-225 "Mriya" cargo aircraft, which was the largest plane in the world, among the wreckage of Russian military vehicles at the Hostomel airfield on April 8, 2022 in Hostomel, Ukraine.

    The destroyed Ukrainian Antonov An-225 “Mriya” cargo aircraft, which was the largest plane in the world, among the wreckage of Russian military vehicles at the Hostomel airfield on April 8, 2022 in Hostomel, Ukraine.

    Alexey Furman/Getty Images



    “The work on the machine is ongoing in a secret location,” Eugene Gavrylov, Antonov’s general director, told German newspaper Bild.

    Construction of the original An-225 started in Kyiv, but the maintenance and manufacturing of its parts was eventually moved to China.

    Ukrainian state defense company Ukroboronprom initially estimated the reconstruction of the aircraft to cost more than $3 billion and said it would take at least five years, according to a company statement on February 27.

    Antonov Co. did not explain how the aircraft’s reconstruction would be financed. Gavrylov said the company plans to sell airplane merchandise to obtain additional funds and attract sponsors, per Bild.

    Back in February, Ukroboronprom said it expected Russia to finance the rebuild.

    “Our task is to ensure that these costs are covered by the Russian Federation, which has caused intentional damage to Ukraine’s aviation and air cargo sector,” it said in a February 27 statement.

    Antonov Co. did not immediately respond to Insider’s request for comment.

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  • Clients Ask: What Does Comedogenic Mean?

    Clients Ask: What Does Comedogenic Mean?

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    If you’ve ever helped Clients suffering from acne, you’ve probably come across the term “comedogenic.” Skin care products are formulated with a wide range of ingredients that can be classified as comedogenic or non-comedogenic, among other categories. When Clients suffer from breakouts, it’s essential that you understand the science behind what’s considered comedogenic and what skin care products to avoid. Read on for tips and products to use for Clients concerned with their blocked pores.

    What Does Comedogenic Mean? 

    Put simply, comedogenicity is the tendency of an ingredient or product to clog pores. The root of this word is “comedone.” According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, comedones are small, flesh-colored, white, or dark bumps that give skin a rough texture. Comedogenic ingredients cause the pores to get filled or “blocked,” leading to blackheads, congestion and breakouts over time. As HowStuffWorks.com explains, when your body produces excess sebum, it mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria to potentially plug up the pore. This results in a pimple — a comedo. 

    HowStuffWorks states: “If the comedo is closed at the skin’s surface, it’s called a whitehead. When it’s open at the skin’s surface, and you can see the plugged follicle darkened by melanin buildup, it’s called a blackhead.” If you’re noticing tiny, white bumps prominent on the skin, you may be developing this type of comedone. Individual skin types and conditions can influence the extent of an ingredient’s comedogenicity, so skin reactions vary differently between each person. As Skin Inc states, “One person may have no reaction, while another may have excessively clogged pores in a few weeks.” 

    The Difference Between Comedogenic And Non-Comedogenic 

    What’s the difference between comedogenic ingredients and non-comedogenic ingredients? To find out, we asked Dr. Hooman Khorasani, MD, a quadruple board-certified dermatologic and skin cancer surgeon in New York City.

    “Common examples of comedogenic ingredients are lanolin, petroleum jelly and talc,” says Dr. Khorasani. “These ingredients slow the desquamation” meaning your skin’s cellular ability to turn over “of skin cells, causing them to stick together, trapping dirt and bacteria in the pores, leading to congestion and breakouts, allowing acne (anaerobic) bacteria to thrive.”    

    In comparison, non-comedogenic ingredients are specifically formulated to prevent blockages from occurring, minimizing your chances of developing these skin care conditions, explains Dr. Khorasani. Some acne-prone individuals may find that strictly avoiding comedogenic ingredients is the only way to avoid developing breakouts.

    The term non-comedogenic that you see on products is a label that remains unofficial by legal or regulatory standards, but it is still a good guideline for those who are worried about blocked pores. According to Dermletter.com: “Products labeled non-comedogenic indicate that the manufacturer considers the product to be designed for people with oily or acne-prone skin and is less likely to cause acne.”

    Tips For Dealing With Comedones

    Tip 1: Identify 

    Need a refresher on identifying comedones? According to Verywellhealth.com, there are several types of comedonal acne blemishes. Closed comedones, or whiteheads, emerge when an oil plug develops beneath the opening pore of a hair follicle. They are whitish in color and are covered by a layer of skin cells. You are unable to pop them. In comparison, open comedones, or blackheads, occur when the oil plug is near the opening of a pore. 

    Once you identify the skin does indeed have comedones, consider offering the following advice and skin care products to improve your Client’s complexion.  

    Tip 2: Advise Clients To Avoid These Ingredients

    It is recommended that individuals prone to acne and clogged pores avoid lanolin, petroleum jelly and talc. You can also check the order of ingredients on the label. The order listed can give you a rough idea of the concentration level of a comedogenic ingredient in a product. If the final ingredient can block pores, you can gather that this ingredient exists in the lowest percentage of all ingredients in a product. 

    Although you want your Client to avoid comedogenic ingredients, you can advise them to seek out non-comedogenic ones, which are non-clogging and hydrating. A few examples of non-comedogenic ingredients include grapeseed oil, hemp oil, salicylic acid and Vitamin A. Dr. Khorosani says: “These ingredients may encourage your skin’s desquamation, minimizing the risk of build-up, and maintain skin hydration to prevent dryness, sensitivity, and irritation.” 

    Tip 3: Skin Care Products To Reduce Blemishes And Breakouts

    Acne-targeting products work well with non-comedogenic ingredients to minimize active and future breakouts. Reduce blemishes with the Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser. This cleanser includes almond milk and yogurt to reduce the visible signs of problem skin, acne and breakouts. It is also formulated without synthetic ingredients like parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs and triclosan. 

    You can also tone your Client’s skin using the Lime Refresh Tonique. Lime juice acts as an astringent while citrus fruit oils (lemon & grapefruit) tone and clear the complexion. The Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel gently exfoliates with salicylic acid to clear away dead skin cells and contains willow bark that calms the appearance of the skin. 

    The Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser contains lactic acid to help remove dead skin cells to reduce the chances of breakouts. Three of our strawberry products can also greatly assist. The Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant also contains lactic acid as well as a Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex to remove oil and impurities. 

    Our award-winning Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum also contains lactic acid as well as Biocomplex2™ to bring back a look of radiance and strength to your skin. You will also love our other award-winning Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator which contains lactic acid and a Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex that deeply hydrates and preserves moisture in the skin. 

    Watch our Lead Skin Care Trainer, Natalie Pergar, as she provides much-needed advice on extracting whiteheads as well as tips on how to prevent and remove whiteheads once and for all.

    How regularly do you see Clients with comedones? Share your experiences with us in the comments below and join the conversation on social media. You can also find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner here. 

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  • Best Dog Friendly National Parks – Dogster

    Best Dog Friendly National Parks – Dogster

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    Do you love the great outdoors, hiking, camping and traveling with your pup? Let’s talk about the different ways to enjoy America’s most beautiful natural places and spaces with your dog. National parks are managed by the federal government. There are more than 400 parks in the National Park System, preserving some of America’s most famous, beloved, precious, historic and natural wonders across the country. Examples include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the country’s most-visited national park, Yellowstone National Park, the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and other monuments along the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

    State parks, managed by individual state governments, feature many equally stunning landscapes and natural areas. Local parks are also fun green spaces owned and operated by cities, counties or towns. One of the most famous examples may be New York City’s Central Park, which allows dogs in most areas, provided they’re on a leash, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

    Why embark on visiting a dog-friendly national park?

    People are drawn to parks for many reasons — travel and vacations, a love of nature and the great outdoors, plus fun recreation such as hiking, swimming, camping and more. And according to TripAdvisor, 53% of pet parents worldwide bring their pets while traveling!

    But before you blaze just any trail with Buster, do your research. Before heading to a national or state park, make sure you can answer these questions:

    • Does this park allow dogs?
    • What rules are in place for dogs and dog owners to follow
    • Do I have the necessary gear and supplies to make sure my dog stays safe?
    • What type of wildlife can I expect to see and how does that affect my dog?

    Your dog can become a B.A.R.K Ranger

    Many of the national parks have B.A.R.K Ranger programs. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/pets/bark-rangers.htm It’s a pretty simple concept that welcomes pets into the parks. Basically, when families pledge to follow the four rules, then complete park activities such as pet-friendly hikes, they often earn a certificate or keepsake from that park and some pretty cool swag to boot.

    B.A.R.K stands for four key concepts:

    Bag your pet’s poop.
    Always keep your pet on a leash.
    Respect wildlife.
    Know where you can go.

    Even if a national park is mostly pet-friendly, there are bound to be specific trails, beaches, waterways and other areas that are off-limits to dogs. This is often for your pet’s own safety to avoid treacherous areas such as hot springs and dangerous rocks, or to protect wildlife or waterways that supply drinking water, says Kathy Grant, supervisory park ranger at Acadia National Park in Maine.

    Dog-friendly national parks in Maine: Acadia National Park

    Acadia, says Kathy, was one of the early adopters of the NPS B.A.R.K Ranger program, and since launching the program in 2016, it has advised many other national parks on how to add B.A.R.K Ranger programs too.

    Visitors with dogs should make Acadia’s visitor center their first stop, Kathy recommends, because a ranger can explain which areas of the park are most pet-friendly. That information is also on Acadia’s website. Pup tent, anyone? Camping with dogs is allowed at Acadia. And with 150 miles of trails, Acadia’s hiking is one of the most popular dog-friendly activities.

    Specific dog-friendly trails, recommended by Kathy, include:

    There are two national parks that stand out in Amy Burkert’s memory as especially dog-friendly —Acadia and the Grand Canyon. And she should know, as founder of GoPetFriendly.com and author of “The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip: A Guide to the #1 Pet Friendly Attraction in 48 States & Washington D.C.

    Amy recommends Acadia for the wide variety of trails, coupled with Maine’s spectacular seaside scenery.

    The 10 most dog-friendly national parks

    Amy also has fond memories of exploring the entire 13-mile South Rim Trail of the Grand Canyon with her dogs. It’s a breath-taking experience that’s best shared with the ones you love — whether they’re walking on two or four feet.

    Nine of the 10 dog-friendly national park suggestions come from Amy’s travel experience. We’ve linked to each specific park’s B.A.R.K Ranger or dog policies.

    The 10 most dog-friendly national parks:

    1. Acadia National Park, Maine
    2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 
    3. National Mall, Washington, D.C.
    4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 
    5. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
    6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio 
    7. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas 
    8. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona 
    9. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska 
    10. Gettysburg National Military Park (GNMP), Pennsylvania 

    Dog-friendly national parks in Pennsylvania

    hiking with dog
    Most dog-friendly national parks require dogs to stay on leash. Karen’s husband, Bob Hendricks, explores with Luna at Fall Creek Falls state park. © Karen Hendricks

    The reasons we include Gettysburg? In addition to its significance in American history, its dog-friendly 33 miles of trails and more than 1,300 monuments and markers make it the largest collection of outdoor sculptures in the world — including two very special dog-related sculptures!

    The Irish Brigade Monument is considered one of the prettiest monuments at Gettysburg, says Jason Martz of GNMP. It’s topped with a large Celtic cross and has life size Irish Wolfhound sculpted at its base.

    The 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment includes Sallie, a bronze Terrier — a brindle-coated Staffordshire Bull Terrier to be exact. Sallie was given to the regiment as a puppy, and she took part in every one of the regiment’s Civil War battles. Jason says she was such a good girl that following the Battle of Gettysburg, as the story goes, Sallie was found with some of the regiment’s dead and dying soldiers until the living discovered her two days later.

    I also have to put a plug in for my home state and its outstanding state park system — one of the largest in the country that offers free admission to all. Although I’ve camped and hiked at many, one of our recent favorites is Black Moshannon State Park, near Penn State University, where we enjoyed some very unique hikes including the Bog Trail’s boardwalk with Luna.

    Dog friendly hiking in South Dakota

    During her cross-country travels, Amy says one of the most dog friendly state parks she visited was Custer State Park in South Dakota. There are miles of trails, and she describes pretty pine needle-covered paths along the creek. Wildlife is plentiful, including buffalo, so Amy recommends checking at the visitor center to ask where the herd is active before hiking with your dog. Buffalo generally don’t like dogs, and your dog’s behavior could be unpredictable when encountering one — or more — for the first time, even from a distance. So, Amy recommends attaching bear bells to dog collars. Putting that jingle-jangle into your pup’s step is sure to bring smiles, as well as safety, over the miles.

    Dog-friendly hiking in Tennessee

    I recently traveled to Tennessee with my husband and our Alaskan Malamute, Luna. We all loved the adventure of hiking to the base and numerous gorgeous vistas of Fall Creek Falls, the highest free flowing waterfall east of the Rockies. From a dog-friendly campground as our home base, we hiked to all four major waterfalls within Fall Creek Falls State Park, and Luna even trotted across two suspension bridges with us.

    Hiking in national forests

    Visiting national parks during peak season can take a lot longer than anticipated, Amy says, and can leave you and your dog frustrated. However, many national forests, often located adjacent to national parks, are pet friendly! And many offer similar vistas and scenery, but without the traffic and crowds.

    Amy recommends hiking in the Dixie National Forest, located between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks in Utah. Ultimately, she says, national forests offer an off-the-beaten-path nature experience. And what could be better than a little solitude with your furry soul mate?

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  • Top Benefits of Cabinet Refacing to Consider for Your Kitchen Remodel

    Top Benefits of Cabinet Refacing to Consider for Your Kitchen Remodel

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    An ideal kitchen remodel improves the aesthetics, functionality and, most importantly, your enjoyment of one of the most used spaces in your home. An updated kitchen design can also increase the real estate value of your property. So, how do you maximize budget and time when considering a kitchen remodel? The answer may be to choose refacing, or a cabinet remodel. Keep on reading if you’d like to learn more about all of the benefits you can get when refacing your cabinets.

    Is it worth it to reface kitchen cabinets?

    Sometimes kitchen remodels aim solely at changing the cabinets’ appearance. In case your cabinetry just looks dated or dingy, think again before you decide to tear them out.. Consider affordable refacing instead of replacing them and give your existing cabinetry a new lease on life. Plus- you will keep them out of the landfill!Kitchen Cabinet Refacing for Kitchen Remodel

    PHOTO CREDITChristian Giannelli Photography, 2020

    What, exactly, is cabinet refacing?

    Cabinet refacing is a time-and-money-saving process that has transformed countless kitchens for decades. This highly efficient method can save an impressive amount — potentially up to half the cost compared to all new cabinetry. Now that’s excellent news!

    Is cabinet refacing a good investment?

    Are you pleased with your current kitchen layout? Are your existing cabinet boxes structurally sound? Are you adequately storing your belongings? If you answered yes to these questions, congratulations! You are a likely candidate for cabinet refacing. However, if you’re looking for a total kitchen overhaul, or custom cabinetry, then new kitchen cabinets may be just what you’re looking for.

    Do all cabinet refacing companies near me offer the same quality?

    Homeowners beware! Not all cabinet refacing companies are equal. Some remodeling companies may simply glue a single sheet of laminate or veneer over your existing cabinet doors. But, when laminate or veneer wears out, tears, or comes loose, the homeowner is left without recourse — and little or no measure for repair.  

    On the other hand, Kitchen Magic uses superior materials, expertly installed with an exclusive permanent double lamination process. For most cabinetry, all exterior cabinet frame surfaces are covered with a final layer of laminate or natural wood refacing material. The result is a more substantial, brand new look that transforms your kitchen into a truly unique space. 

    Can cabinet refacing offer stunning style too?

    Yes! You can select from hundreds of styles and colors. Want to reach to the ceiling with your new cabinetry? No problem. Need to add storage pullouts and other solutions? We can help! How about changing up your door style to the newest shaker look in the latest trending colors?

    Fashion Meets Interior Design by Kitchen Magic

    Does refacing cabinets last long?

    The average downtime for most homeowners who choose kitchen cabinet refacing is about a week. Installation of additional materials including – but not limited to – countertops, backsplash tile, and flooring may increase the amount of time required.

    Looking for a custom cabinet remodel in Milford & beyond?

    Over the decades, Kitchen Magic has assisted homeowners in Milford with a wide variety of kitchen refacing, remodeling and custom cabinetry needs. Often the best solution is a hybrid of more than one. For instance good quality cabinets can be refaced while a new pantry, island or soffit cabinets can add storage, workspace and enhance the aesthetic of your new kitchen while maximizing value.

    The best way to learn about the solution that will be best for you is a free consultation with a Kitchen Matic design consultant who will provide you with the best advice, free and without obligation whether or not we earn your business. 

    Our company serves Milford CT and surrounding areas in addition to the Tri State region so feel free to contact us whether you live near Silver Sands State Park or the vicinity.

    Thanks to years of experience in the field, our skilled kitchen design consultants who know how to combine kitchen finishes in a manner that’s both stylish and elegant, and create a space you’ve always dreamed of. Get a free, no-obligation design consultation by calling 866-339-9099, or schedule online now!

    Ultimate Kitchen Lookbook



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  • Ken Calvert Vs. Will Rollins, California’s 41st District US House Election

    Ken Calvert Vs. Will Rollins, California’s 41st District US House Election

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    • Explore more race results below.
    • Rep. Ken Calvert is running against Democrat Will Rollins in California’s 41st Congressional District.
    • The 41st District includes the city of Corona, Calvert’s hometown. 
    • Calvert, who has a history of opposing same-sex marriage, faces Rollins in a district that includes Palm Springs, a city that has a large LGBTQ community.  

    Senate
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    Republican Rep. Ken Calvert faces off against Democrat Will Rollins in California’s 41st Congressional District.

    Polls closed in the state at 8 p.m. local time, or 11 p.m. EST.

    2022 General Embeds

     

    California’s 41st Congressional District candidates

    Calvert is a senior member of the House Committee on Appropriations. First elected to the US House in 1992 to represent California’s 43rd Congressional District, Calvert is the longest-serving Republican of the state’s congressional delegation and one of the most senior members serving in the legislative body. 

    Prior to his time in Congress, the Riverside County Republican served in leadership roles with several local community volunteer organizations, including the Corona Chamber of Commerce, the Corona Rotary, and the Corona-Norco Family YMCA. 

    Calvert, who clinched former President Donald Trump’s endorsement along with endorsements from the California Republican Party and the state’s entire Republican House delegation, previously opposed same-sex marriage but joined 46 of his GOP colleagues to vote in support of the Respect for Marriage Act, which would codify the right to same-sex marriage in federal law. 

    Rollins, Calvert’s challenger, is a former federal prosecutor who focused on counterterrorism and counterintelligence cases in Southern California. He decided to run for Congress after witnessing the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and working on some of the insurrection cases. A gay man, Rollins lives and campaigns with his partner. 

    Rollins trailed behind Calvert in the nonpartisan primary, securing 30.4% of the vote to Calvert’s 48.2%. Both men advanced to the general election. A month after the primary, Rollins was added to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s “Red to Blue” program, which pumps resources into tight races that national Democratic party leaders believe can be flipped from Republican to Democrat.

    Voting history for California’s 41st Congressional District

    California’s 41st Congressional District, located in Riverside County, covers a swath of the Coachella Valley and includes Palm Springs, Lake Elsinore, and parts of Corona and Riverside. 

    Trump scored a 7 percentage point margin of victory over President Joe Biden under the district’s previous boundaries in 2020 before it was redrawn to excise solid GOP areas and take in a section of the Coachella Valley in redistricting following the 2020 Census, making it competitive and less Republican.

    The district lost solid red areas such as Temecula and Murrieta while gaining blue territory, most notably Palm Springs, the first city in America to elect an all-LGBTQ city council

    The money race

    According to OpenSecrets, Calvert has raised more than $3.3 million, spent $3 million, and has $730,000 on hand, as of October 19. His opponent, Rollins, has raised more than $3.3 million, spent more than $2.5 million, and has $755,000 cash on hand.

    As of late October, more than a dozen super PACs, national party committees, politically active nonprofits, and other non-candidate groups have together spent more than $900,000 to advocate for or against candidates in this race, including during the race’s primary phase. Most of the spending is in support of Rollins. 

    What experts say

    The race between Calvert and Rollins is rated as “lean Republican” by The Cook Political Report and “likely Republican” by Sabato’s Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics.

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