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Erik Ten Hag: Lindelof is ready to play

Solomon Shehata
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Erik Ten Hag: Lindelof is ready to play

Manchester United’s Victor Lindelof “has energy and is ready to play” after the tragic events in Brussels, which led to the abandonment of the Belgium v Sweden qualifying match. 

Lindelof was captaining the Swedish side on the night that two Swedish fans were tragically involved in a fatal shooting, later deemed to be an act of terror. As captain, the defender had the role of staying in front and giving statements. 

Now back in England and training with his United teammates, boss Erik Ten Hag spoke about including his defender in his matchday squad.

He said: “It is a terrible situation – sad for the victims and the relatives, and friends of the victims there in Brussels.

“It’s a crazy world. 

“Of course, Victor had a problem; it’s a bad experience; as Sweden’s national team, he was the captain; he had to stay in front and give statements, but he dealt with it.

“He’s exhausted after it. He didn’t sleep overnight. He returned, and yesterday, he was back in training. 

“He dealt with the situation. Our thoughts are with Victor, the victims’ relatives, and the victims. 

“Victor has energy and is ready to play this game.”

From Adversity to Achievement: The Derek Ross Story

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From Adversity to Achievement: The Derek Ross Story

Derek Ross’s career trajectory is witness to his resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in one’s vision. At 18, he faced the daunting task of transitioning out of foster care and leaving high school, only to find himself homeless in a tent six months later. However, rather than succumbing to the challenges life threw at him, Derek harnessed his enterprising spirit to pave his path. Today, he is the CEO of the largest privately held vertically integrated cannabis company in the Northeast of the US. In this interview, we explore his remarkable journey, lessons from failure, and commitment to making a difference through the ‘Aged Out Foundation.’

At 18, you faced some tough choices, leaving foster care and high school. Six months later, you were homeless, living in a tent. Can you take us back to that time and describe the challenges you faced?

It is a period in my life I will never forget. It was incredibly challenging, but I was driven to succeed. At that time, the odds of success for former foster kids were just 4%. I realised early on that a conventional 9-to-5 job was not for me.

Your journey is inspiring. What kept you going?

It was not easy, but it was a combination of grit, vision, and belief in myself that kept me going. I knew I had to prove to myself and to the world that I could overcome these challenges.

Your early career was marked by several business ventures, some of which failed. Can you share some of the valuable lessons you learned from those experiences?

Absolutely. I have worked in various service industries, from hosting to bartending, and even in construction and landscaping. I ventured into nightclubs, and retail, and eventually founded Cannatech, a consulting company specialising in helping businesses develop advanced indoor cannabis cultivation facilities. Each failure taught me invaluable lessons, and they all contributed to my eventual success in the cannabis industry.

When did you realise that the cannabis industry was your calling, and how did you seize the opportunity?

I saw that federal legalisation was on the horizon, and the industry was about to explode. I gathered a team of experts and decided to set up a vertically integrated cannabis company. It was all about timing and recognising the potential of the industry.

What was the driving force behind growth and turning down acquisition offers?

Our commitment to our vision and our belief in the potential of the industry were driving forces. We wanted to capitalise on our momentum and dominate the competition. Winning prestigious awards like the High Times Cannabis Cups gave us the confidence to keep going.

You expanded your company into several states- can you tell us about your strategy for this expansion?

We focused on solidifying our presence in each market rather than spreading ourselves too thin. It was a carefully planned expansion strategy, and we made sure to outperform our competitors.

Can you tell us about the Aged-Out Foundation and your mission to support foster kids ageing out of the system?

I made a promise to myself that I would make a difference when I could. I founded the Aged-Out Foundation to support young individuals transitioning out of the foster care system. That 96% failure rate statistic haunted me, and I knew I had to do something about it.

What is next for you and Nova Farms?

I am excited to take Nova Farms to the next level. When we break $100 million in revenue next year, I plan to take the company public and further expand our reach.

Can you tell us more about your approach to nurturing the company’s culture and values?

It is all about the people who make the difference. We prioritise hiring individuals with a keen sense of opportunity and nurturing their growth, and that has been instrumental in Nova Farms’ success.

What message do you have for others who may be facing their own challenges?

Regardless of the obstacles you face, always remember that you have the power to shape your destiny.

Derek Ross’s story is an inspiration and proves that regardless of the obstacles we face, with grit, vision, and a belief in ourselves, we have the power to overcome adversity and shape our destiny. Derek’s commitment to his vision and dedication to giving back through the Aged-Out Foundation highlights the profound impact one person can have on the world when they refuse to give up. As he plans to take Nova Farms public and expand its reach, we can expect to see even more success and positive change on the horizon for Derek Ross.

Messi and Haaland both deserve Ballon d’Or – Guardiola

Jon Fisher
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Messi and Haaland both deserve Ballon d’Or – Guardiola

Pep Guardiola wishes there could be two recipients of this year’s Ballon d’Or – Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi.

The most prestigious individual award in men’s football will be handed out in 10 days’ time with Manchester City striker Haaland and Inter Miami forward Messi – already a seven-time winner – among the favourites.

Haaland scored 52 goals in all competitions last season as Guardiola’s City claimed a domestic and continental treble while Messi played a leading role in Argentina winning the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Asked who he would vote for, Guardiola said: “I always said the Ballon d’Or should have two sections: one for Messi and one for everyone else.

“So, yes Haaland should win it. We won the treble and he scored 50 million goals.

“But the worst season for Messi is the best for the rest of the players. Both deserve it. I want Haaland to have it because he helped us achieve what we achieved. But Messi won the World Cup.

“It’s good that players here are up for the award, it makes us so proud.”

Tyler Grange joins All Party Parliamentary Group board on Environmental, Social and Governance

Helen Greaney
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Tyler Grange joins All Party Parliamentary Group board on Environmental, Social and Governance

Manchester-based environmental consultancy Tyler Grange has been appointed to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Advisory Board on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).

ESG, or corporate sustainability practices, have never been higher on the agenda.

As a member, Tyler Grange leaders meet with parliamentarians, regulators, think tanks, investors and other business heads to drive forward the nation’s ESG policy agenda and provide technical and practical advice to the government.

The B Corp four-day week firm – located on Deansgate in the city – has long been committed to ESG and believes that development is a key source of social mobility – to level-up communities across the country.

As experts in arboriculture, ecology and landscape planning, Tyler Grange works with UK architects, housebuilders and developers to ensure that construction projects are delivered with optimal benefits to people and the environment.

To reduce its carbon footprint, and meet its ESG goals, Tyler Grange has made its supply chain and business practices more sustainable, which has also resulted in increased productivity and profitability.

In preparation for trialling a four-day work week, the firm significantly reduced its bureaucracy, unnecessary meetings and mileage and other inefficiencies – resulting in such success that it’s been adopted permanently.

Tyler Grange also places great importance on the mental health and wellbeing of its 100+ team, who are supported by an in-house psychologist and mindfulness and resilience coaches, as well as having many opportunities to volunteer for the causes that they care most about in their local communities.

Simon Ursell, managing director of Tyler Grange (pictured) said: “We’re obviously absolutely thrilled to have been invited to become one of the select sponsors for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on ESG. And we’re very proud that the brilliant work we’re doing to operate most sustainably has been recognised by our invitation to join.

“As a B Corp certified organisation, we’re part of a global community that believes business should be a force for good. We’ve always been committed to treating our people, our communities and the environment as they should be treated, and we have a responsibility to help other businesses to do the same. By joining this APPG, we have yet another opportunity to help create a more sustainable and inclusive economy and the many benefits this will bring.

“We’re staunch believers that development is a source of social mobility, and the ‘social’ or ‘S’ element of ESG is a real focus for us across all touchpoints of the business. By joining this APPG, we’re well placed to support the development of ESG at a national and policy level – helping to develop frameworks and other tools to shape legislative and Government thinking.”

Alexander Stafford MP, founder and chair of the APPG on ECG, said: “The APPG is delighted to engage with businesses who are committed to driving forward ESG policy. Tyler Grange has shown they share our passion for ESG and is an innovator in this space. I look forward to working with Tyler Grange to continue to develop, assess and implement ESG reforms, and I am delighted to welcome them to the APPG.”

Tyler Grange is also a member of the Better Business Network and supports the Better Business Act – both of which promote a cleaner, greener, fairer future for all.

It has five other UK offices located in Bristol, London, Birmingham, Exeter and Cirencester, in the Cotswolds.

£1.7 million funding to transform brownfield sites in Bury

Helen Greaney
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£1.7 million funding to transform brownfield sites in Bury

Bury is set to receive funding of £1,731,015 to turn unused land into housing.

The borough is one of 60 local authorities to receive cash from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. It is all part of the government’s £180m Brownfield Land Release Fund, aimed at utilising sites as part of the long-term plan for housing.

Bury’s derelict car parks, industrial sites and buildings in disrepair will all benefit from the cash boost.

A Bury Council spokesperson said: “Bury Council has historically worked to develop housing on brownfield sites, in the past 10 years 86 per cent of housing completions have been on brownfield land.

“Throughout 2023 work has been approved and begun construction for 366 affordable houses across the borough all on brownfield sites. This is a part of the council’s Business Growth and Infrastructure Service and Brownfield Housing Programme where affordable housing has been successfully negotiated.

“Bury Council will continue to seek out brownfield sites and is dedicated to creating more affordable housing throughout Bury.”

MP for Bury North, James Daly said he was delighted that the government is providing substantial funds to assist in the release of appropriate brownfield land for development.

He added: “This follows on from recent policy announcements that give Bury Council every opportunity to protect green belt land, currently under threat from the Places for Everyone masterplan for our area.”

Labour MP Bury South Christian Wakeford said: “People in this country are crying out for homes and opportunities to get on the housing ladder and have been badly let down by this government.

“The number of new social homes being built is down 90 per cent since they came to power and even if people can find a house they’re struggling to find a mortgage due to Liz Truss’ calamitous budget that caused interest rates to go through the roof.”

Locally, Oldham Council has been awarded £3.2 million and Rochdale gets £425,951.

Credit Scores and Holiday Loans: Weighing the Risks and Benefits

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Credit Scores and Holiday Loans: Weighing the Risks and Benefits

The idea of jetting off to your dream holiday destination is undeniably enticing. Whether that’s a tropical beach, a European city adventure or a remote mountain retreat with a view of the aurora borealis – a holiday provides a welcome and needed escape from the daily grind. However, not everyone has the necessary funds saved to finance their dream getaway – and this is where holiday loans can come into play. But what good of an idea are they? Before diving into them, it’s essential to understand how they can impact your credit score and weigh the associated risks and benefits.

The Basics of Holiday Loans

Holiday loans are a specific type of personal loan designed with the single purpose of covering the expenses of your travel. These loans are typically unsecured – meaning they don’t require collateral. Instead, the lender evaluates your creditworthiness and income to determine whether you qualify for a loan and at what interest rate.

What are the Benefits?

One of the primary benefits of a holiday loan is obviously the instant gratification that enables you to enjoy your vacation now and pay for it over time afterwards. They usually also come with flexible repayment terms, allowing you to choose a timeframe that really suits your budget, spreading it over several months or even years. And the fixed interest rates mean that your monthly payments remain consistent, making it easier to budget and plan for your expenses.

What are Commonly Associated Risks?

However, even though they offer immediate financial relief, the interest rates you get on them can be quite high in comparison to other types of loans – which means the longer it takes you to repay the loan, the more you’ll pay in interest. Accumulating debt for a non-essential expense like a holiday is also risky. It’s critical to ensure that you have a clear plan going forward to repay the loan without compromising your overall financial stability. And: taking out this type of loan can also have an impact on your credit score – but more on that below.

How Holiday Loans Impact Credit Scores

When you apply for a holiday loan, the lender will usually review your credit history and credit score to assess your creditworthiness – so improving your credit score beforehand is always a good idea. This initial inquiry, known as the hard inquiry, can temporarily loweryour credit score by a few points – so it’s essential to be mindful of the timing of your loan application, especially if you’re planning to make a major financial move, like buying a home, in the near future, too. Your payment history also plays a significant role – consistently making on-time payments will have a positive impact, while late or missed ones can lower it.

Tips for Using Holiday Loans Wisely

If you decide that a holiday loan is the right choice for you, take your time to shop around for the best interest rates and loan terms, before you accept one. Create a budget that includes your loan payments to ensure you can comfortably repay it and make timely payments to avoid any negative impact on your credit score at all. But most importantly: consider other financing options, such as using a credit card with a low interest rate before committing to a holiday loan. It sure is a quick and convenient way to fund your dream vacation, but it does come with significant risks. Thoroughly assess your financial situation, weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision.

October half term fun rolled out by Manchester Council

Helen Greaney
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October half term fun rolled out by Manchester Council

School holidays can be a tough time for families struggling to buy food in the city.

But Manchester Council has launched an initiative for the October half-term to ensure that every child is adequately nourished even though school is not in session.

Kids will be offered a variety of enjoyable activities as well as nutritious meals.

The council has allocated additional funds beyond the government’s provision for support outside of term time.

Engaging activities

From engaging in sports activities to exploring creative arts and crafts, an array of cost-free options will be available to children aged 5 to 15 who receive free school meals. These activities are made possible through the joint efforts of the Council and MCRactive.

This effort follows the success of the Summer 2023 Holiday and Food (HAF) program, which catered to more than 15,000 children in over 3,000 sessions.

Notably, 94% of these participants received free school meals during regular terms. Compared to the previous year, the engagement during the summer holiday program increased by 20%, with a staggering 97,222 individual visits.

Furthermore, the 2023 summer holiday initiative extended its support to 971 children with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND), enabling them to participate in enjoyable holiday activities at no cost.

Additionally, starting from October 31, the city’s libraries will welcome those in need, offering a warm sanctuary and complimentary hot beverages throughout the chilly months. The success of last year’s warm banks, which distributed over 25,000 hot drinks during the four-month period, underscores the significance of this supportive program.

More support

Councillor Garry Bridges, said: “Providing an additional net of support for young people in Manchester during the autumn is an incredibly important piece of work we do.

“We know that through the school year the balanced and healthy meals that children get in schools are vital, and that their absence during breaks in the term can be keenly felt.

“Building on our successes from 2022 we now have more than 100 HAF providers working throughout the year to provide the same excellent level of support and care, as well as helping children make some amazing memories with their friends.”

Tiles & Trims Expands Its Expertise with the Launch of a New Tile Store

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Tiles & Trims Expands Its Expertise with the Launch of a New Tile Store

For over 2.5 years, Tiles and Trims, based in Buckley, has been a trusted partner for customers seeking tools and accessories for their tiling projects. Their deep knowledge and hands-on experience have established Tiles and Trims as the go-to source for tiling tools. Now, they are taking their business to new heights with the opening of a second location in Chester, offering an expanded range of products, including tiles.

This family-run business, led by Phil and Melanie Bowering, is proud to introduce exclusive tile designs to complement their existing selection of tools and accessories. This means that customers can find everything they need under one roof to transform their bathrooms, wetrooms, and shower rooms.

In keeping with their commitment to family values, both of the Bowering sons, Ian and Lewis, play integral roles in the daily operations. Lewis brings expertise in bathroom and shower room installations, while Ian leverages his industry contacts and product knowledge to ensure the business meets its customers’ needs.

This blend of expertise, coupled with their friendly team in the store, is a recipe for continued success for both the family and their cherished customers. Phil Bowering shares his enthusiasm, stating, “We’ve always been passionate about our business, and being able to offer a full range of tiles as well as accessories through our new store – Rossett Tiles and Bathrooms has been incredible.”

You can explore their new range of tiles and products on their website, and soon, you’ll be able to make purchases online as well:

Rossett Tiles and Bathrooms: https://rossetttiles.co.uk/
Tiles and Trims: https://www.tilesandtrims.co.uk/

Cracking the Code of Firefly Luminescence: Stanislav Kondrashov’s Breakthrough

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Cracking the Code of Firefly Luminescence: Stanislav Kondrashov’s Breakthrough

In his latest publication titled “The Enchanting World of Fireflies By Stanislav Kondrashov,” the author delves into the mesmerising universe of fireflies, focusing on their captivating flashes that effortlessly captivate every observer. Stanislav Kondrashov portrays it as a magical spectacle that unfolds in meadows and forests worldwide, often mistaken for the celestial choreography of stars or the ethereal dance of luminous fairies.

Kondrashov eloquently describes the firefly ballet as an inherently romantic display, particularly highlighting the unique courtship rituals of male fireflies. To court their potential mates, male fireflies emit flashes in a distinct manner, seeking to capture the female’s attention. When the female accepts the advances, she responds with her own distinctive glow.

Within Stanislav Kondrashov’s publication, he provides intricate insights into the structure and composition of fireflies’ bioluminescent organs, which are responsible for their remarkable ability to produce light. This singular organ, located in their abdomen, generates light through a chemical reaction. This extraordinary capability has piqued the interest of poets, artists, and scientists, who are meticulously exploring its properties and potential for creating environmentally friendly energy systems.

The author dispels urban legends associated with fireflies, such as the misconception that they emit only one type of light, typically golden. Kondrashov clarifies that fireflies’ luminescence can vary among species, encompassing shades of orange, green, or even enchanting blues.

Furthermore, each firefly species possesses its unique method of emitting light signals, each characterised by distinct patterns and precise rhythms, akin to a luminous Morse code. Remarkably, some firefly species have mastered the art of mimicking the luminous patterns of others to lure and prey upon them, resulting in the phenomenon known as aggressive mimicry.

Kondrashov concludes by underscoring the detrimental impact of artificial lighting on the natural radiance of fireflies, leading to a noticeable reduction in their luminous intensity. To delve deeper into this captivating subject, readers are encouraged to peruse the full publication and watch the related video.

International NGO and Solidarity Call for Immediate Cessation of Hostilities in Israel-Hamas Conflict

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International NGO and Solidarity Call for Immediate Cessation of Hostilities in Israel-Hamas Conflict

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began with a relentless rocket barrage on October 7, has resulted in a significant loss of life and raised concerns about the potential for further escalation into a global crisis. Various governments and international organisations have issued official statements urging an end to the conflict.

On the 12th of this month, the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international non-governmental organisation headquartered in South Korea, and affiliated with the UN Economic and Social Council and the Seoul Metropolitan Government, issued an official statement regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. This marks HWPL’s third official statement advocating for peace, following previous statements addressing the human rights crisis in Myanmar in March 2021 and the Russia-Ukraine War in February 2022.

In their statement, HWPL expressed, “It is the innocent civilians who become the victims in wars, and everyone in the world is witnessing this situation in real time. Failing to stop an unjustified war will result in thousands and tens of thousands of civilian casualties. Can anyone compensate for such devastating atrocities?”

HWPL further emphasised its call “for the two parties of the war to immediately cease the acts of aggression, protect the citizens, and actively engage in efforts to ensure recovery and peace”, and calls on “the UN and the international community to swiftly take necessary measures such as mediating peace between the two parties to bring them to a dialogue and providing humanitarian support.”

Back on March 14, 2016, HWPL collaborated with international legal experts from 15 different countries to formulate and announce the “Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)” as a framework for international peace law. This declaration advocates international cooperation, citizen involvement, and cultural approaches to prevent conflict, mediate disputes, and promote peace. HWPL has expressed its intention to submit the DPCW to the United Nations. Through peace initiatives conducted in over 170 nations, HWPL is developing detailed action plans to create a more peaceful world by establishing an institutionalised approach to the global community while raising awareness of peace among the general public.

For the complete statement, please visit HWPL’s official website at www.hwpl.kr.

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