The Natural History Museum of Utah Hosts
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration for Families
Ring in the new year at noon, not midnight with music, a confetti-drop and special activities
SALT LAKE CITY, Dec. 12, 2016 – The Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center is hosting a New Year’s Eve Party for the whole family, and the kids don’t have to stay up late to celebrate! It’s the Museum’s annual Noon Year’s Eve party on Saturday, Dec. 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 301 Wakara Way in Salt Lake City.
For the price of regular admission, families can explore the Museum galleries and the mysterious Power of Poison special exhibition, and enjoy hands-on activities, rockin' music, a DJ-led countdown, and an explosion of confetti to welcome in 2017... at 12 noon, not 12 midnight!
The first 1,000 children in the door will receive free Party Packs that include a noise maker, hat and a variety of celebratory toys. Hot chocolate and decorative cookies will be available for $3 each. And, visitors will receive a 10 percent discount at the Museum Store. Museum members will receive 20 percent off store purchases.
“We always look forward to ringing in the new year at the Museum,” said Sarah George, executive director of the Natural History Museum of Utah. “We invite families to come inside where it’s warm and spend the day discovering new and interesting objects in our 10 galleries, visiting their favorite dinosaur, and if they haven’t already done so, seeing the poisonous animals and plants and Enchanted Book of Spells, in the Power of Poison exhibit.”
Admission tickets may be purchased at the door or online:
Adult: $12.95
Young Adults 13-14: $10.95
Ages 3-12: $7.95
Ages 2 and under: FREE
University of Utah Students, Faculty and Staff with Valid ID are FREE
For additional information and to buy tickets in advance, visit nhmu.utah.edu or call 801.581.4303.
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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, USA, December 12, 2016 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Joseph E. Fournier, JD, MHA, has been named vice president of Human Resources and chief Human Resources officer at Intermountain Healthcare. Fournier will be joining Intermountain January 30, 2017.
Before becoming a nationally recognized leader in human resources, Fournier was an accomplished attorney and Air Force officer. Most recently he held the position of chief Human Resources officer for the University of Michigan Health System. Prior to that, Fournier was vice president and chief Human Resources officer for UMass Memorial Medical Center and UMass Memorial Medical Group, and senior Human Resources officer for UMass Memorial Health Care in Worcester, Massachusetts. Earlier he held positions as a military prosecutor, and in-house counsel and general counsel for the Air Force Medical Service, one of the nation’s largest integrated healthcare delivery systems.
“Intermountain is nationally recognized for delivering world-class care and for its ability to transform in anticipation of changes in healthcare,” Fournier said. “When I met with several members of the team, I sensed an incredible commitment to Intermountain, its people and to working together. Everyone is committed to making a difference by helping people live the healthiest lives possible. That excited me—and I can’t wait to be a part of it.”
Fournier holds a law degree from Suffolk University Law School, a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Worcester State University and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Providence College. He is an active member of the Health Management Academy and member of the GE Fellows Advisory Committee, University Health Consortium, and American College of Health Care Executives.
Intermountain Healthcare is a Utah-based, not-for-profit system of 22 hospitals, 185 clinics, a Medical Group with about 1,500 employed physicians and advanced practitioners, a health plans group called SelectHealth, and other health services. With a mission of helping people live the healthiest lives possible®, Intermountain is widely recognized as a leader in transforming healthcare through high quality and sustainable costs. For more information about Intermountain, visit intermountainhealthcare.org.
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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, USA, December 14, 2016 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Park City, Utah, is known for its world-class snow, world-class resorts and world-class athletes. But this quaint mountain town can also boast world-class accolades in another category: medical care.
Since opening in 2009, Intermountain Park City Hospital has received numerous awards for its high-quality care and excellent clinical outcomes. That’s just one of the many reasons the US Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) named the hospital an official medical provider.
"With hundreds of athletes training regularly at our Center of Excellence, it's a great benefit to have access to world-renowned physicians, laboratory services, and surgical and emergency care right here in Park City," said USSA Medical Director Kyle Wilkens. “And having a designated trauma center just steps from our training center is really reassuring to our coaches, our athletes, and their parents.”
While the USSA partners with other medical providers around the country, it shares a campus with Intermountain Park City Hospital, making this partnership as convenient as it is valuable. “There’s something to be said for knowing our athletes are recovering from their injuries and, more importantly, receiving preventive care, just up the street from the Center of Excellence,” added Wilkens. “It allows for a more seamless experience and transition back to our training program.”
Athletes who have trusted their knees, ankles, backs and shoulders to Intermountain Park City Hospital include, Olympic gold medalist Ted Ligety, world champion ski jumper Sarah Hendrickson, and aerials World Cup champion and two-time Olympian Ashley Caldwell.
“We are thrilled to be an official medical provider for the USSA athletes,” noted Intermountain Park City Hospital administrator Si Hutt. “This partnership means the best skiers and snowboarders in the world trust our doctors and our facility to get them fixed up and back on the hill as quickly as possible, and that’s a pretty powerful endorsement.”
Intermountain Park City Hospital is part of the Intermountain Healthcare system of not-for-profit hospitals and clinics. More information can be found at: www.ParkCityHospital.org
The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) is the national governing body of Olympic skiing and snowboarding. It is the parent organization of the U.S. Ski Team, U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing. The USSA operates out of its national training and education facility, the Center of Excellence, in Park City, UT. More information can be found at www.ussa.org.
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educed charges for torturing, killing multiple cats upsets Humane Society of Utah
HSU asks that Henry’s Law is upheld
Spencer Jens Pedersen, a 26-year-old male, was arrested by Provo police officers Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, on reports of torturing and killing up to 11 cats in Provo, Utah. Pedersen was charged with two counts of torture of a companion animal and one charge of possession of heroin with intent to distribute, all third-degree felonies. On Tuesday, Dec. 13, Pedersen pleaded guilty to one count of animal torture and one drug count; the other charges were dismissed. The Humane Society of Utah made the following statement in response to hearing that Pedersen’s charges were reduced.
“The Humane Society of Utah spent eight years helping fight to make animal torture a felony charge,” said Gene Baierschmidt, HSU executive director. “We hoped that this law, known as Henry’s Law, would be a deterrent for animal abuse and bring justice to those who committed such egregious acts. Spencer Pedersen committed disgusting acts of violence and premeditated torture, and our legal system will set the example of what is tolerable behavior by their treatment of this case. If Pedersen’s charges are reduced, and he is not sentenced to the full extent of the law, we feel this sends a message to our community that this behavior is not taken seriously.”
Pedersen will be sentenced Jan. 24, 2017, by Judge Thomas Low and prosecuted by Julie Thomas of Utah County Attorney’s Office.
“Multiple studies have found that people who abuse animals are more likely to commit violent crimes against humans,” said Baierschmidt. “The Humane Society of Utah respectfully requests that Pedersen receives the maximum possible sentence with no recommendation for early release; substantial fines; court-ordered psychological evaluation and appropriate prison-administered follow-up therapeutic intervention.”
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The Harrison Regent wins Best of 2017 Award from SeniorAdvisor.com
Local retirement community recognized a top tier senior living provider
Ogden, Utah (Dec. 14, 2016) — The Harrison Regent a Holiday Retirement community was recently recognized by SeniorAdvisor.com as part of the “Best of 2017 Awards.” The local senior living community was honored by the largest ratings and reviews site for senior care and services for receiving consistently high ratings from residents and their families throughout 2016.
“This award is not something that just happens; it is a direct result of the Holiday Retirement team at The Harrison Regent and the associates’ hard work and compassion for our residents,” said Lilly Donohue, CEO at Holiday Retirement. “This recognition is well-deserved and demonstrates not only the quality of service the community provides, but also what we refer to as the ‘Holiday Touch,’ which this team provides to residents every day.”
To qualify for a Best of 2017 Award, winning communities must offer either assisted living, Alzheimer’s care, independent living, low-income senior housing, skilled nursing or in-home care in the United States or Canada, and have maintained an average overall rating of at least 4.5 stars and have received three or more new reviews within 2016.
This is the second consecutive year The Harrison Regent has been awarded a Best of Award by SeniorAdvisor.com.
“Congratulations to Holiday Retirement and its 91 communities recognized in this year’s ‘Best of 2017 Awards,’” said Eric Seifert, president of SeniorAdvisor.com. “The number of Holiday Retirement communities honored each year has grown consistently since 2015, and this recognition reflects directly on the commitment of Holiday Retirement’s associates to provide unparalleled, compassionate service to their residents. We are honored to highlight all of Holiday’s communities and thank them for the wonderful work they do.”
SeniorAdvisor.com provides easily accessible resources and information to help families educate themselves about senior living options and make informed decisions about senior care.
To discover more about life at The Harrison Regent, call 801-479-1653 or visit holidaytouch.com/our-communities/the-harrison-regent.
About Holiday Retirement
Since 1971, Holiday Retirement has endeavored to provide its signature “Holiday Touch” to residents and their families. Today, Holiday is a trusted name in senior living—providing security, comfort, and value to seniors seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Holiday operates more than 300 retirement communities, making it the second largest senior housing operator in the United States. For more information about Holiday Retirement, please call 800-322-0999or visit www.holidaytouch.com
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Medi-Weightloss® Opens in Riverton, Utah
The Nation’s Premier Weight Loss Brand Opens New Location
Riverton, UT – Physician-supervised weight loss brand Medi-Weightloss® is now open in the Riverton area at 13348 South Market Center Drive, Suite 200 in Riverton.
According to 2016 data, 25.7% of Utah adults are obese – which dramatically increases their risk of developing a host of life-threatening diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. With the opening of Medi-Weightloss® Riverton, those in the community seeking a healthier lifestyle now have a powerful and knowledgeable resource ready to help.
Known as The One That Works!®, the Medi-Weightloss® Program is a three-phase eating and lifestyle plan in which physicians and other medical professionals supervise and support patients in achieving their health goals. On average, compliant patients lose 6.4 pounds in their first week and 14 pounds their first month. †
About the Medical Team at Medi-Weightloss® Riverton
Scott Epstein, DO
Dr. Scott Epstein is the Medical Director for Medi-Weightloss® Riverton. Dr. Epstein graduated with honors from the Southeastern College of Osteopathic Medicine in Miami, Florida. He completed his residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. His love of the outdoors brought him and his wife to Salt Lake City in 2004. Dr. Epstein has practiced medicine for twenty years and has always wanted to incorporate his interest in exercise, nutrition and fitness into his medical practice. After finding out about Medi-Weightloss® Dr. Epstein knew he had found the perfect fit.
His hobbies include: biking, snowboarding, hiking with his wife and son, and photographing the beautiful scenery in Utah. He was recently asked to be on the Board of the Gifted Music School, in Salt Lake City, where his son is a conservatory violin student. Dr. Epstein is thrilled to be able to help people on their journey to better health.
About Medi-Weightloss®
Established in 2005, Medi-Weightloss® offers a physician-supervised weight loss program known as The One That Works!® Physicians and medical professionals provide individualized care based on patients’ goals, health, and medical history. The program includes weekly consultations that focus on nutrition, lifestyle, and exercise. In addition to weight loss programs for adults that have resulted in more than 3 million pounds lost nationwide, Medi-Weightloss® has specialized weight loss programs for adolescents and diabetics. The company also offers Corporate Wellness programs, the InterActiveexercise program, and Signature Supplements & Products. The Medi-Weightloss® franchise opportunity allows healthcare professionals and investors to offer the nation’s premier medical weight loss program. There are over 85 locations in the U.S and one in Dubai.
The Medi-Weightloss® Riverton office is accepting new patients.
For more information, contact us:
Medi-Weightloss® Riverton
13348 South Market Center Drive, Suite 200
Riverton, UT 84065
https://www.mediweightloss.com/locations/riverton/
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LGBTQ Secondary Students Still Face Hostility at School, But Considerable Improvements Show Progress
GLSEN’s Biennial National School Climate Survey Further Confirms School-based Supports Improve School Climate and Educational Outcomes for Students
NEW YORK (December 14, 2016) – U.S. middle and high schools remain hostile environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) students, according to GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey. However, the report, which documents school climate, its effects on student outcomes and the availability and benefits of school-based supports for LGBTQ students, also shows significant signs of improvement in these areas since 2001.
“This research provides further evidence for the positive effect of school-based supports – comprehensive anti-bullying policies, Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), supportive educators and LGBT-inclusive curriculum – on LGBTQ students’ experiences with harassment and discrimination and, ultimately, their educational outcomes,” said Dr. Joseph Kosciw, GLSEN’s Chief Research & Strategy Officer. “Although many LGBTQ students still experience harassment and discrimination, these supports can be vital for transforming school climates and helping all students thrive.”
The biennial report, which began in 1999, includes a sample of 10,528 secondary students from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The report shows:
For the first time, GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey also includes insights on bisexual student experiences, school policies that specifically affect transgender students, and anti-bullying student education. The survey also asks students about discriminatory policies and practices around extracurricular activities and traditions like graduation, portraits, homecoming and prom.
Registration is open for a free webinar on the findings, to be held 3-4:30 EST on January 10.
An executive summary, the complete report and shareable infographics can be found at glsen.org/nscs.
About GLSEN
GLSEN champions safe and affirming schools for all students. We envision a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. Each year, GLSEN programs and resources reach tens of thousands of K-12 schools across the United States, and our network of chapters brings GLSEN’s expertise to their local communities. GLSEN's progress and impact have won support for our work at all levels of education in the United States and sparked an international movement to ensure equality for LGBTQ students and respect for all in schools. For more information on GLSEN’s policy advocacy, student leadership initiatives, public education, research and educator training programs, please visit glsen.org.
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Milken Institute Announces 2016 Best-Performing Cities
San Jose Is on Top, Second Year in a Row
LOS ANGELES—The Milken Institute’s annual Best-Performing Cities index for 2016 shows that tech is still tops, as cities that excel in innovation drive the nation’s economic dynamism. With an ecosystem for entrepreneurship, San Jose, CA, claimed the top spot again.
“America’s best-performing cities yet again demonstrated their innovation advantage aligned with high levels of entrepreneurship,” says Ross DeVol, chief research officer of the Milken Institute and one of the report’s authors. “That is witnessed not just in ‘traditional’ technology but in medical and financial services.”
The Best-Performing Cities index, compiled since 1999, uses a comprehensive, fact-based set of criteria to rank 200 large and 201 small metros across the United States. As an outcomes-based index, growth in employment, wages and technology output are heavily weighted; metrics such as cost-of-living and quality-of-life conditions, often highly subjective, are not included.
Highlights from the report “2016 Best-Performing Cities: Where America’s Jobs Are Created and Sustained” include:
“While technology still powers the top performers, we also see the return of real estate, tourism and auto-manufacturing related jobs on our 2016 index,” says DeVol. “Top-performing metros have cohesive strategies that allow them to distinguish themselves from others. They offer important lessons for other cities.”
Top 10 Best-Performing Large Cities
Metropolitan statistical area (MSA) /metropolitan division (MD)
2016 rank
2015 rank
Change
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA (MSA)
1
1
0
Provo-Orem, UT (MSA)
2
3
+1
Austin-Round Rock, TX (MSA)
2
4
+2
San Francisco-Redwood City-South San Francisco, CA (MD)
4
2
-2
Dallas-Plano-Irving, TX (MD)
5
5
0
Raleigh, NC (MSA)
6
6
0
Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, TN (MSA)
7
18
+11
Fort Collins, CO (MSA)
8
14
+6
Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL (MSA)
9
28
+19
Seattle-Bellevue-Everett, WA (MD)
10
7
-3
"2016 Best-Performing Cities: Where America’s Jobs Are Created and Sustained," by Ross DeVol, Joe Lee, and Minoli Ratnatunga is available for download at http://best-cities.org. Data for all metros is available on the interactive Best-Performing Cities website. Join the Twitter conversation at #bpcfor2016.
About the Milken Institute
The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank determined to increase global prosperity by advancing collaborative solutions that widen access to capital, create jobs and improve health. It does this through independent, data-driven research, action-oriented meetings and meaningful policy initiatives.
milkeninstitute.org
@milkeninstitute
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New book combines waves of rhythm, rhyme to explore themes of love, loss, spirituality
PARKER, Colo. – Micah-Nahum Ferguson’s “Brighter This Time” (published by iUniverse) is an expression of the innermost thoughts of a confused but hopeful young man. Many spiritual aspects are brought into focus throughout to amplify feelings of existential identity and longing. Through this lens, several diverse stories are told. At its heart, this book is an exercise in self-examination and how a person fits into the world at large.
In graceful tone and spare format, Ferguson explores themes of love, loss, spirituality and identity with equal diligence in this collection. The poems attempt to connect the jagged stars of a young man’s subconscious. Pieces display questions and affirmations, introspection and observation, self and society, truth and fiction. “Brighter This Time” is a dreamy and fragmentary work of someone striving to shine.
This collection is paradoxical at its best. Its voice and tone are conversational yet abstract; it is easy to process yet creative. The format is very straightforward and reads smoothly so that any thoughtful young reader will understand the thoughts Ferguson conveys. Although no traditional narrative is employed, readers will tread through insightful and recurring motifs of change, questioning, reflection, turmoil and ultimately hope.
“In these times of political and spiritual distress, I feel it is necessary to start looking inward at ourselves first,” says Ferguson on why he is sharing this material. “These poems are woven in such a clear way that they mirror the simplicity we are all striving for. These thoughts and issues need to be addressed fearlessly.”
“Brighter This Time”
By Micah-Nahum Ferguson
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Quad Wednesdays are back this year! With a charitable donation you can purchase a lift ticket for only $20.
December 14, 2016 – Donate a warm article of clothing such as hats, jackets, pants or anything that will keep someone warm this winter! Proceeds go to The Road Home Charity.
December 21, 2016 – Donate a grocery bag of non perishable food items. Proceeds go to the Utah Food Bank.
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DENVER—In response to reports that Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke has accepted President-elect Donald Trump’s offer to lead the Department of the Interior, the Center for Western Priorities released the following statement from Executive Director Jennifer Rokala:
“During his political career, Representative Ryan Zinke has flirted with a broad spectrum of positions on public lands, only to change course when the people of Montana made it clear that siding with the land seizure agenda would permanently harm his electoral prospects. If he takes the helm at Interior, Montanans and all Westerners will continue to hold him accountable and will not forget decisions that undermine America’s public lands legacy.
“During his confirmation hearing, Rep. Zinke must reassure the American people that he will stand up to members of his own party and never tolerate any attempts to hand over the ownership or management of American lands to state or private hands.
“Last week, President-elect Trump told America he wants to follow in Theodore Roosevelt’s footsteps by conserving America’s parks and public lands. Ryan Zinke has also proclaimed ‘I’m a Teddy Roosevelt conservationist.’ If he’s confirmed as Interior Secretary, Zinke will have to finally choose whether his legacy will be one worthy of Teddy Roosevelt’s respect.”
As a candidate for lieutenant governor in 2012, Ryan Zinke signed the Montana Constitutional Governance Pledge, which states that federal lands in Montana are unconstitutional.
The pledge reads:
“The undersigned Candidates pledge to…. legally and administratively oppose the multitude of bureaucracies that have sprung up to enforce the unlawful seizure of our native land and its resources including, but not limited to: The Bureau of Land Management, The United States Park Service, The various bureaus of Wildlife and Fisheries, etc., and restore the rightful powers over the land to the State and private ownership.”
Earlier this year, Rep. Zinke voted for a bill that would have transferred management of millions of acres of American forest lands to Western states. The policy—a precursor to the “transfer” of public lands—was widely panned by conservation and sportsmen organizations. At the same time, Rep. Zinke resigned his position as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in protest of the Republican Party platform, which advocated for disposing of American public lands into state and private hands.
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The INMA Global Media Awards are now officially open for entries:
Click here for 2017 categories and to enter online
Quick details:
What fantastic work in the space of innovation and growing audience, revenue, and brand stands out for you in the past year?
Please know that I am available to answer any questions you might have – along with any of my colleagues at INMA.
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MEDIA ADVISORY
VidAngel CEO to Make Major Announcement Tonight at Event in Provo
In wake of yesterday’s court decision, streaming service to hold launch party at new offices to celebrate bold new initiative
(Los Angeles, CA—December 13, 2016) VidAngel, the market-leading entertainment platform empowering users to filter language, nudity, violence, and other content from movies and TV shows, is engaged in a high-profile legal battle with Disney, Warner Bros, 20th Century Fox, and Lucasfilm. These Hollywood studios have taken legal action in an effort to eviscerate the 2005 Family Movie Act and prevent VidAngel from lawfully empowering parents and families to filter content on modern devices in their homes.
Yesterday, the United States District Court for the Central District of California—the Hon. Andre Birotte, Jr. presiding—upheld Disney’s motion for a preliminary injunction against the service. Tonight, the streaming service is hosting a launch party at its new offices in Provo, where CEO Neal Harmon is set to make a major announcement.
What: VidAngel Launch Party, Open to the Public
When: TONIGHT at 7pm MT
Where: 295 W Center Street in Provo
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he countdown to Christmas is on at JCPenney with only one full shopping weekend left before Santa arrives. Capture the last minute shopping scene on Super Saturday as customers rush to shop for everyone on their Christmas list. Early morning customers on Friday and Saturday will be greeted with an envelope containing a coupon worth $10 off $10, $20 off $20, or $100 off $100 or more purchase, while supplies last. We look forward to working with you on live segments, in-store interviews, trend stories and more. News photographers are welcome.
WHEN:
Super Saturday, Dec. 17: Power Penney Days Sale begins at 8 a.m. to midnight
WHERE:
Local JCPenney stores. (Go to jcp.com and click on “find a store” for nearest location.)
STORY ELEMENTS:
· Interview a local General Manager about the in-store shopping frenzy
· Showcase the best deals at JCPenney including:
o $5 cozy slippers or 2-pk. cozy socks select styles. Regularly priced $12-$14
o $9 Cooks power blender or programmable coffee maker after mail-in rebate. Regularly priced $40
o $9 Men’s microfleece flannel sleep pants. Regular $30
o $10 iLive Bluetooth speaker. Regularly priced $22-$30
o $18 Home Expressions 3-pc. comforter set. Regular $80
o $21.99 Kid’s puffer jacket. Regular $60
o $25 1/10 ct. t.w. diamond stud earrings for JCPenney Rewards members
o $28.12 cultured freshwater pearl earrings & necklace set with 25% off coupon. Regularly $99.98
o $59.99-$239.99 Samsonite luggage. Regular $120-$480
For your holiday gift stories, check out unique gifts at jcp.com or access the latest trend sheets.
HOW:
Contact: JCPenney Media Relations
972-431-3400 or jcpnews@jcp.com
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A leading provider of hotel accommodations, Reservation Counter Gives Another College Scholarship
Marco’s goals and community service for the past several years are impressive. We wish him the best as he pursues his university education in civil engineering and in his future career.
— Cameron Urry, Vice President of Product for Reservation Counter
LEHI, UTAH, UNITED STATES, December 12, 2016 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Reservation Counter announced today that Marco Lastra, of San Luis, AZ, will receive its $1,500 student scholarship. Reservation Counter awards a general scholarship for every fall and spring semester to a student pursuing a college education and who serves in his or her community.
Reservation Counter, part of TravelPass Group, is a leading provider of hotel accommodations. It helps travelers access more than 1 million properties and find the best deals online or over the phone with 24/7 customer support.
Lastra has been recognized for his academic achievements at San Luis High School, located in the southwest corner of Arizona. He has participated in sports, clubs, work and community service that has developed his leadership, communication, and organizational skills. He has given community service for multiple years at the San Judas Tadeo Parish and the San Luis Public Library and has also helped serve Thanksgiving meals at the Crossroads Mission to help homeless and at-risk individuals and families.
“Marco’s goals and community service for the past several years are impressive. We wish him the best as he pursues his university education in civil engineering and in his future career,” said Cameron Urry, vice president of Product for Reservation Counter. “We’re pleased that Reservation Counter is able to help.”
For more information about the Reservation Counter scholarship, visit www.reservationcounter.com/scholarship
More than 10,000 room nights are booked per day through Reservation Counter, a leading provider of hotel accommodations for hotels, wholesalers and the largest travel agencies worldwide. Based in Utah and part of the TravelPass Group, Reservation Counter offers travelers 24/7 customer support and access to more than 1 million properties and the lowest rates.
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EAKING: Monsanto Shareholders Approve Merger Deal with Bayer
Consumer Watchdog Warns Bayer-Monsanto Merger Could “Usher in a New Era of Sterile Crops Soaked in Dangerous Pesticides”
ST. LOUIS — Today, Monsanto shareholders voted to approve a bid by German pharmaceutical and chemical giant, Bayer, to purchase Monsanto for $66 billion, in a merger that would effectively create the world’s largest supplier of seeds and agricultural chemicals.
In reaction to the announcement, Toni Preston, campaigner for SumOfUs, an international consumer watchdog, issued the following statement:
“The merger between Bayer and Monsanto is a major threat to the global food supply and the global economy. While Monsanto shareholders have accepted Bayer’s controversial bid, the US Justice Department, state attorneys general, the US Congress and EU regulators must stand up for consumers and farmers and reject this deal as a major violation of antitrust protections.
“Plain and simple - this new mega corporation is set to be the world’s biggest seed maker and pesticide company, giving it unprecedented control over critical aspects of our food supply - undermining consumer choice and the freedom and stability of farmers worldwide.
“Nearly a million people around the world have spoken out against this dangerous deal that has the potential to usher in a new era of sterile crops soaked in deadly pesticides. Regulatory authorities in the EU and US should recognize the unique threats posed by this merger and move swiftly to reject this deal.”
Earlier this year, SumOfUs released a legal white paper, written by two former Justice Department officials from the Antitrust Division, that argued that a merger between Bayer and Monsanto would violate the Clayton Act, a law enacted by Congress to curb anticompetitive business practices.
READ THE LEGAL WHITE PAPER HERE: www.bayermonsantomerger.com
According to the legal white paper, a Bayer-Monsanto merger would also be in direct violation of a 2008 court order, where Monsanto was forced to divest itself of certain cottonseed and cotton breeding assets, which were sold to Bayer. If the merger proceeds, Monsanto would re-acquire these anti-competitive traits, thereby violating the US Department of Justice’s judgement. SumOfUs’ legal white paper also argued that:
The merger would eliminate direct competition between two of the largest players in the traited seed sector, with direct consequences for seed development, herbicide markets, and innovative and open research and development.
The merger will mean the new Bayer-Monsanto conglomerate will control nearly 70% of the cotton acreage in the United States – unacceptably high by antitrust standards. It would also have unacceptable market concentration in wide swaths of commercial seed development and sales for other commonly used varieties, including traited canola, soybeans, and corn developed in North America.
The new corporation would likely lead to higher input prices, with less choice and higher food prices for consumers, and fewer non-biotechnology options available to farmers and consumers.
More than 600,000 SumOfUs members around the world have signed onto a petition opposing the potential merger of Monsanto and Bayer.
VIEW THE PETITION HERE: https://actions.sumofus.org/a/stop-the-monsanto-bayer-mega-merger-nightmare
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