Category Archives: general

general

Pullman neighborhood groups stepping up as government shutdown casts shadow on Park Service facilities

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As visitors descended upon the Pullman neighborhood to delight in the vintage lavish homes that threw open their doors last weekend for the Historic Pullman House Tour, a few notable structures remained closed due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, now well into its third week.

One favorite site, the Administration Clock Tower Building in Pullman National Historical Park, remained closed as the park’s seven rangers, who typically staff the site and offer tours and other programming, were furloughed.

Organizers of the 52nd annual Historic Pullman House Tour, held on October 10 and 11, reported a roughly 30% decrease in ticket sales. They speculated this drop was a direct result of the shutdown and the park closure, with potential visitors possibly assuming the event had been canceled.

“Everyone sees there’s a closed sign across the street,” said Lynn McClure, vice president of the Historic Pullman Foundation. “We have no rangers.”

McClure noted the closures had a significant impact on the neighborhood, its residents, and visitors alike. “Traditionally, national parks have been the first place many people experience the shutdown as a personal impact,” she said. “It’s personal.”

The timing of the shutdown is particularly unfortunate, McClure added. “This is the fall, when schools start setting up programs and tours with educational components,” she explained, while helping out at the recent House Tour. “This is high travel season.”

To help mitigate the effects of the shutdown, the Historic Pullman Foundation has been stepping in to fill gaps. They are assisting with some school tours after being informed by the Park Service which schools had already signed up.

As a “National Park friends group” with official partnership status, the Foundation sees this as a vital way to support Pullman National Historical Park and its mission. “So when something like the government shutdown happens, we have to spring into action, and we’re doing what we can,” McClure said.

More visitors are expected in Pullman on Saturday when several buildings are featured in Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Open House Chicago 2025. Participating sites include the Historic Pullman Foundation headquarters at 614 E. 113th St., Greater Tabernacle Cathedral at 11300 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Pullman Artspace Lofts at 11137 S. Langley Ave., and Pullman Tech Workshop at 11314 S. Front Ave.

However, similar to last weekend’s home tour, the visitor center inside the Clock Tower—operated by the National Park Service—will remain closed during Open House Chicago, according to Alfonso Quiroz of the Historic Pullman Foundation.

“However, the rest of the Pullman National Historical Park will be open, including the grounds around the Clock Tower (operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources), as well as the Exhibit Hall and the Florence Lowden Miller Center, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Collections will be on display throughout the day,” he said.

Despite the decreased attendance last weekend, the Historic Pullman House Tour was still a hit among Pullman fans. The tour started at the Historic Pullman Exhibit Hall and included visits to eight homes, a home under restoration, and the Block House Gallery—with its homes, gallery, classrooms, community areas, and storage spaces. The tour also featured the historic Greenstone Church and the George M. Pullman School.

Additional highlights included live jazz performances, a classic car show, and food options. Visitors could also stop by the Pullman House Project Welcome Center, located inside the former home of Henry Sessions, the first general superintendent of the Pullman Palace Car Company. The house was later used as a social club for Pullman executives and as the Pullman Club Coffee Shop.

Cindy McMahon, co-chair of the House Tour, mentioned that even before the shutdown, rangers’ hours had been reduced in May. To help compensate for these cutbacks, the Exhibit Hall extended its hours to be open to the public Thursday through Sunday.

“We did have a lot of people call to see if the House Tour was still going to take place,” said McMahon, whose home was showcased on the tour. “People can still come and visit the partner sites and still get a Pullman experience, and hopefully they’ll return when the park is open.”

Alongside the Historic Pullman Foundation, other neighborhood organizations such as the Pullman House Project are stepping up to support visitors.

“We’re here to give everyone who comes to Pullman a good visitor experience,” McMahon emphasized.

Nancy Johnson, a Pullman resident of 12 years who volunteered during the tour, expressed her love of the area’s history, architecture, and friendly neighbors.

“There’s a lot of misinformation; people think Pullman is closed altogether,” Johnson said. “People show up baffled.”

—
Janice Neumann is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/10/17/pullman-historic-park-government-shutdown/

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Illnesses at Hawaii schools potentially linked to milk rise to 15

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As of Thursday morning, the state Department of Health (DOH) has received reports of approximately 15 individuals experiencing gastrointestinal illness potentially linked to the recently recalled Meadow Gold chocolate milk. Most cases involve mild symptoms, including stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. This marks an increase from Wednesday, when nine illnesses had been reported.

The reported illnesses have affected four school facilities on Oahu. Additionally, two more schools—one on Maui and another on Oahu—have reported product quality issues but no confirmed illnesses at this time.

Health officials emphasize that the investigation is ongoing, and the numbers may change as more information becomes available. Currently, no confirmed link has been established between the recalled milk and the reported illnesses. Laboratory testing of milk samples, including checks for bacterial toxins, is underway.

Preliminary inspections at the affected schools have not identified any food safety violations. The investigation began after Meadow Gold Dairy voluntarily recalled about 70,000 half-pint cartons of chocolate milk with an October 16 expiration date.

This milk, made and packaged out of state, was distributed on September 29 to nearly 200 schools and institutions across Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. The recall was issued due to “potential quality control issues,” according to a DOH news release on Tuesday night.

DOH officials have also confirmed reports that some of the milk had an unusually thick texture, resembling chocolate pudding. Meadow Gold officials stated that the company is coordinating with the Health Department and the state Department of Education to collect and replace the affected products.

Residents are urged to call the DOH Disease Reporting Line at (808) 586-4586 if they or their child experience symptoms after drinking the recalled milk. Those experiencing severe or concerning symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

Officials also advise consumers not to drink Meadow Gold chocolate milk marked “OCT 16” and to discard any product that looks, smells, or tastes unusual.
https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/17/hawaii-news/illnesses-potentially-linked-to-milk-climb-to-15/

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Samsung Is Now On The Cusp Of Revealing Its Galaxy Z TriFold

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**Samsung to Unveil Its All-New Triple-Folding Smartphone: Galaxy Z TriFold**

South Korea is set to host the APEC Summit at the end of October in the historic city of Gyeongju. The event will attract world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, making it a significant gathering on the global stage. Alongside the summit, the APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025 will take place from October 28 to October 31, focusing on important topics such as energy transition, digital and AI transformation, trade, and biotechnology.

Amidst this global highlight, Samsung plans to capture attention by unveiling its latest innovation: the Galaxy Z TriFold. This all-new triple-folding smartphone is expected to generate significant media buzz as it makes its debut at the summit.

### A First Look at the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold

The Galaxy Z TriFold introduces a pioneering design featuring three display sections connected by two hinges. This design allows the device to transform seamlessly into a full-sized tablet when fully unfolded. The phone will boast a 10-inch OLED inner display alongside a 6.5-inch outer display.

Unlike Huawei’s Mate XT, which combines both inward and outward folds, Samsung’s new foldable adopts a U-shaped folding mechanism. This design choice emphasizes screen protection, ensuring that the outer display does not merge with the inner display when the device is opened.

### Key Features and Specifications

– **Display:** A sizeable 10-inch OLED inner screen coupled with a 6.5-inch outer display.
– **Folding Mechanism:** U-shaped with two hinges for durable, user-friendly folding.
– **Build:** A titanium shell enhances durability and premium feel.
– **Battery:** Equipped with three batteries, delivering a combined capacity exceeding 5,000mAh for extended usage.
– **Processor:** Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC for top-tier performance.

### Availability and Event Details

While attendees at the APEC Summit will get a first look at the Galaxy Z TriFold, Samsung will showcase the device behind glass panels, meaning the phone will not be available for hands-on use during the event.

The Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to launch in multiple countries, including the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam, soon after its official unveiling.

Stay tuned for more updates on Samsung’s groundbreaking foldable smartphone as the APEC Summit approaches!
https://wccftech.com/samsung-is-now-on-the-cusp-of-revealing-its-galaxy-z-trifold/

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More damage found on Route 109 bridge, MassDOT hopes to reopen by end of weekend

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SAUGUS, MASS. (WHDH) – Traffic troubles continue for drivers using the Route 107 bridge between Lynn and Saugus, as inspectors have uncovered more damage to the temporary structure.

Officials announced on Wednesday that the bridge would be closed until further notice after cracks were found in several deck panels. Further investigations on Thursday revealed additional concerns, leading to the decision that emergency repairs are needed before the bridge can safely reopen.

“Knowing the integrity of the bridge isn’t there, that’s the scary part, really,” said Gerson Argueta, owner of Ken’s Car Care Center located near the bridge. “Anyone coming into Lynn, Saugus, or Salem, this is the only route we have. Now with this closed, it’s causing a big jam here on this side.”

Officials indicated on Thursday that emergency repairs could take several more days. One driver told 7NEWS that their usual six-minute drive home took more than an hour due to all the detours.

MassDOT stated that their goal is to have the bridge back open to traffic by the end of the weekend.
https://whdh.com/news/more-damage-found-on-route-109-bridge-massdot-hopes-to-reopen-by-end-of-weekend/

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Bhagwat Chapter One Raakshas: Jitendra Kumar on learnings from Arshad Warsi, BTS moments and more [Exclusive]

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**Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas** stars Jitendra Kumar alongside Arshad Warsi in a gripping crime thriller that’s anything but ordinary.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill crime drama — it’s got some serious bite. Arshad Warsi plays Inspector Vishwas Bhagwat, a cop who finds himself neck-deep in a string of gruesome murders set against the backdrop of Robertsganj, Uttar Pradesh.

Jitendra Kumar takes on the role of Sameer, a character who definitely doesn’t fit the “normal guy” mold. There’s a lot more brewing beneath the surface with him, adding intriguing layers to the story.

In an exclusive interview, Jitendra Kumar opens up about his experience working with Arshad Warsi and shares insights about the making of the film.

Don’t miss the exclusive conversation to get a behind-the-scenes look at **Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas**.

The film is set to premiere on ZEE5 on **October 17, 2025**. Mark your calendars!
https://www.bollywoodlife.com/videos/bhagwat-chapter-one-raakshas-jitendra-kumar-on-learnings-from-arshad-warsi-bts-moments-and-more-exclusive-3266918/

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Micah Parsons sounds off on officiating when asked about lack of holding calls

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Packers coach Matt LaFleur said he plans to talk to game officials before the team’s game against the Cardinals on Sunday. The Packers are “frustrated” over the missed “egregious” and “blatant” holding penalties against Micah Parsons. The Bengals were called for no holding penalties on 46 dropbacks by Joe Flacco, including on a play when left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. tackled Parsons as he attempted to turn the corner. The Packers’ opponents have been called for holding five times this season. It’s nothing new. Parsons had an 11-game stretch last season with Dallas when he didn’t get a single holding call. He sounded off on the officiating Thursday in a rant that he conceded “might get a fine” from the league office. com. “I think I just got to keep going. That’s part of the challenges. Like, you’ve just got to keep going. That’s bothersome. That worries me. That’s part of being one of the best. That comes with some territory. “There are parts that you hate, and the parts that the league lets go. You can tell how they call the games. They don’t call offsides for offense, but they call it on defense. They won’t call offensive pass interference, but they’ll call defensive pass interference. We know what they’re trying to do. They want to load the points up so fans can be happy. They’ll call defensive holding, but they won’t call offensive holding. Let’s just wake up. It’s just one of those things that we know what the higher-ups is trying to do. The ref will say, ‘I know that’s a hold.’ What? Like, you’re not going to call it? Like, come on. It’s one of those things that I’m over, and I’m just going to have to keep going and just push through it.” Parsons went on to argue that the league’s concern about player safety is one-sided. “We put so much emphasis on protecting the offense. “A guy could be trying to catch the ball and you make a defensive player so he doesn’t catch it, and it’s targeting. It’s a flag now. But a defensive end could be rushing and engaged with another player, and a guy could come blow his ribs out. We’re not considered defenseless. But like we said, it’s an offensive league. I think a lot of the rules are bullshit. A guy damn near hurt [defensive lineman Lukas] Van Ness last week. Like, what are we doing? If you’re going to say it’s about protecting the players, then protect all players. Don’t just protect one side of the ball. I don’t mind guys chipping from the outside, but like running backs want to come and sneak players while we’re engaged with offensive linemen. That’s complete bullshit. That’s not good football. That’s not safe football if that’s what they want to preach.”.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/micah-parsons-sounds-off-on-officiating-when-asked-about-lack-of-holding-calls

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Was Extra Range The Only Point Of Pickup Trucks Having Two Gas Tanks?

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To today’s motorists an older Ford F-250 with two fuel filler doors on its flank might be an odd sight, but decades ago this wasn’t unusual for pickup trucks. Yes there actually were two fuel tanks behind those body panels, and the extra fuel capacity was there to increase the range of these workhorses. In the days before transmissions with overdrive, fuel injection, and other technological advancements, fuel economy wasn’t as good as it is today. When Congress enacted Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards in 1978, each automaker’s light trucks only had to average 17. 5 miles per gallon. The requirement for 2031 is 45. 2mpg for trucks and 65. 10mpg for passenger cars, reflecting the positive effects of the steadily-increasing requirement. CAFE standards remain in place for the future, although the recent budget bill took away the federal government’s ability to fine automakers for violating them. As for those older trucks, owners of 1978 Ford F-250 pickups report to Fuelly an average of just over 8 mpg. Adding extra fuel capacity to increase its driving range seems like an obvious solution, but why split that capacity between two tanks versus fitting one large tank? First off, it’s easier to design and install two smaller tanks compared to a single humongous one. Having two tanks also means the weight of the extra fuel 6. 1 pounds per U. S. gallon can be distributed more evenly around the chassis. Ford placed one tank under the front of the bed and another at the rear, which helped balance the truck and improve traction on some surfaces. On the other hand, Chevrolet favored placing one tank on either side of the truck, which turned out to be a deadly mistake. Chevy’s twin fuel tank design was appropriately called “side saddle” with the two tanks sitting outside the frame rails on either side of the truck. You may have realized this quicker than the engineers at General Motors, but placing 20 gallons of gasoline outside each frame rail with only body panels for shielding may not have been the smartest move. Between 1973 and 2009 hundreds of people were killed in Chevy C/K pickup truck crashes that resulted in fires. Beyond that fatal flaw in Chevy trucks there were plenty of other issues with other manufacturers’ dual-tank setups. Switches, gauges, and valves would sometimes malfunction, making one or both tanks unusable. Some drivers had trouble filling up, especially if the tanks were on opposite sides of the truck. If a driver had a quick memory lapse after hopping out of their truck, mistakes could lead to underfilling or overfilling one or both tanks. Nowadays, most manufacturers offer 30-plus gallon tanks on their pickup trucks, making dual-tank setups unnecessary. For example, the 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty pickup comes standard with a 34-gallon tank (a 48-gallon unit is optional). The EPA doesn’t test trucks that big, but most owner and expert reports place the F-250’s consumption at 15-20 mpg. That’s enough fuel to drive more than 700 miles between fill-ups with the larger tank. If you simply must have the long-haul capacity of dual tanks, there are bed-mounted aftermarket auxiliary tanks for most modern pickup trucks.
https://www.jalopnik.com/1996114/why-some-pickup-trucks-have-two-gas-tanks/