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Deere & Co. to Lay Off Nearly 600 Workers Amid 15% Revenue Decline

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WASHINGTON — Deere & Co. to Lay Off Nearly 600 Workers Amid 15% Revenue Decline

Deere & Co. announced on Monday that it will lay off nearly 600 workers due to decreasing demand for its farm equipment, following a 15% decline in revenue. The layoffs will affect production positions primarily at two factories in Iowa and at its headquarters in Moline, Illinois, where 280 employees will be laid off effective August 30. An additional 310 workers will be let go at the Iowa locations.

In its second-quarter earnings report released in May, Deere reported a revenue decline of over 15%, marking the third consecutive quarter of year-over-year sales drops. Company executives indicated that they anticipate further sales declines in the second half of the fiscal year and will continue to take proactive measures to reduce production and inventory.

Deere & Co. reported a quarterly profit of $2.37 billion, down from $2.86 billion in the same period the previous year, and has lowered its full-year 2024 profit forecast for the second time. The decline in demand for tractors and other equipment is attributed to falling crop prices.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) expects net farm income for 2024 to total $116.1 billion, down 25.5% from the previous year. Adjusted for inflation, net farm income is projected to decrease by 27.1%, with farmers facing lower prices for soybeans and corn. The USDA also noted that reduced direct government payments and higher production costs are impacting farmers’ profits.

The recent layoffs represent about 14% of the more than 4,000 production and maintenance jobs at the three affected facilities. Deere employs over 80,000 people globally.

Deere’s shares fell 1.6% in morning trading and are down approximately 7.5% since the beginning of 2024.

Earlier in June, Deere announced plans to move its skid steer and track loader manufacturing from Dubuque, Iowa to Mexico by the end of 2026. The company is in the process of acquiring land in Ramos, Mexico, to build a new factory. Additionally, over 120 production employees at its seeding and cylinder operations in Moline were informed of indefinite layoffs effective June 28.

Michigan Mom Tortured Mentally Challenged Son With Ice Baths, Hot Sauce & Zip Ties

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MI v. Shanda Vander Ark: Tortured Son Murder Trial

MUSKEGON, Mich. (Court TV, Scripps News West Michigan) — Jury selection begins on Tuesday for a Michigan mother facing trial for the murder and child abuse of her teenage son with special needs.
Shanda Vander Ark, 43, is facing first-degree murder and child abuse charges for the death of her 15-year-old son, Timothy Ferguson, who police found dead and severely malnourished inside the family’s home.

Shanda Vander Ark

Shanda Vander Ark booking photo (Muskegon County Prosecutor’s Office)

Timothy’s older brother Paul, 20, had also been charged days after his mom’s arrest. Together, Vander Ark and her son Paul are accused of a sinister pattern of abuse that may have lasted for years.

On July 6, 2022, the Norton Shores Police Department responded to a report of a suspicious death and found the 15-year-old in an ice bath, malnourished and showing significant signs of abuse.

“As punishment – for I’m not sure what behavior – but as punishment, our 15-year-old was subject to ice baths, was subject to not being fed food other than bread or bread soaked in hot sauce,” Muskegon County Prosecutor D.J. Hilson said in July.

Hilson confirmed that text messages were read in court, including messages between Vander Ark and Paul, about Timothy’s symptoms being fake.

Vander Ark had moved her family to Michigan from Oklahoma, where she had a history with child protective services, but was never ordered to give up parental rights or contact with her children.

“Instead of having her parental rights terminated, she voluntarily left the house,” said Hilson, “and from what we can tell, that’s where the case kind of ended.”

At her initial court appearance, Judge Ladas Hoopes stated that Vander Ark had been working as a law clerk for the Newaygo Circuit Court up until her arrest.

Vander Ark has pleaded not guilty and is currently being held without bond. At her hearing, her defense attorney hinted at a possible defense, saying, “There is a potential lack of memory in this case to the allegations.” Vander Ark’s son Paul, who is also charged, is expected to testify against his mother at her trial.

If you or someone you know is suffering from abuse or neglect, call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at (800)-799-7233 or visit their official website at thehotline.org. 

DAY 1 – 12/13/23

 

Rosalynn Carter, the former first lady and champion of mental health care, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 in her home,

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Rosalynn Carter, the former first lady and champion of mental health care, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 in her home, as announced by the Carter Center. The devoted advocate and wife of the 39th president, Jimmy Carter, played a pivotal role in his achievements.

In a statement, Jimmy Carter expressed, “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it. As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me.”

Survived by her children Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy, along with 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, Rosalynn Carter’s impact extended beyond her roles as a loving mother and exceptional First Lady. Her son, Chip Carter, emphasized her humanitarian contributions, stating, “Her life of service and compassion was an example for all Americans. She will be sorely missed not only by our family but by the many people who have better mental health care and access to resources for caregiving today.”

Rosalynn Carter, diagnosed with dementia six months prior, had entered hospice care at home in November 2023, following her husband’s similar care since February of that year. The Carter Center acknowledged her significant advocacy for mental health, spanning her time in the Georgia Governor’s Mansion, the White House, and The Carter Center. The statement highlighted her efforts to promote improved access to care and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues.

During her tenure as the country’s first lady from 1977 to 1981, Rosalynn Carter played a profound role at the White House, serving as an envoy and political surrogate for her husband. She also managed the responsibilities of raising four children, 12 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

In 1982, following Jimmy Carter’s electoral defeat to Ronald Reagan, the couple founded The Carter Center, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing human rights and alleviating human suffering.

ALL Pandas in the U.S. retrieved by China — diplomatic gifts of Trust reclaimed.

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SMITHSONIAN’S NATIONAL ZOO |  D.C. –

The last China’s giant pandas in the U.S., symbols of diplomacy and goodwill for over 50 years, have arrived in Chine by FedEx. Air,. The reclaiming of the gift raises concerns about the evolving U.S.-China relationship. Despite political tensions and disputes, pandas have been a resilient pillar of diplomatic ties between the two nations, strategically deployed to foster alliances and build international rapport. The imminent departure of the last pandas from the U.S. marks a potential shift in this relationship.

Pandas, initially gifted by China to foreign nations, including the U.S., have served as more than just cute attractions. They became diplomatic assets, with China often charging substantial fees for panda loans. Studies reveal correlations between panda exchanges and significant agreements, emphasizing the strategic use of these beloved creatures in international relations.

As the last pandas in Washington prepare to return to China, questions linger about the future of panda diplomacy between the two countries. The departure is seen by some as a subtle but powerful message amid heightened geopolitical tensions. Panda diplomacy, characterized by subtle messaging, has played a role in shaping perceptions without overtly conveying political statements.

For individuals like Frances Nguyen, the pandas at the National Zoo held personal significance, offering joy, purpose, and a sense of connection. Beyond the diplomatic strategy, these animals have touched the lives of many, bringing people together and fostering a unique form of cross-cultural understanding.

The departure of the pandas may signal a deeper strain in U.S.-China relations.

China’s Panda Diplomacy and the Unsettling Shift in U.S.-China Relations

For over five decades, China’s giant pandas have served as more than just adorable attractions; they have been strategic diplomatic tools fostering goodwill and solidifying alliances. The impending departure of all pandas from the United States marks a significant shift in this diplomatic relationship, raising questions about the future and the potential impact on the already tense ties between the two nations.

Historical Significance: Since 1972, pandas have played a vital role in U.S.-China relations, weathering political storms such as trade wars, accusations, and geopolitical tensions. They have become iconic figures in Washington, attracting tens of thousands to the National Zoo and millions nationwide. Yet, the last three pandas at the National Zoo are now set to depart for Chengdu, China, joining others from San Diego and Memphis in recent years.

Symbolism and Diplomacy: Pandas, a relatively recent symbol in Chinese culture, offered a neutral image as China distanced itself from imperial symbols post-1949. Russia and North Korea were early recipients, followed by the U.S. and Japan in 1972, representing China’s attempt to build partnerships with former adversaries. Over the years, pandas became diplomatic assets, strategically lent to other nations, with the number of pandas bestowed correlating with a country’s trade volume with China.

Personal Connections and Emotional Impact: Frances Nguyen’s two-decade-long connection with the pandas at the National Zoo reflects the profound impact these animals have had on individuals. For her, watching the pandas served as a therapeutic experience, healing scars from her own childhood during the Vietnam War. The pandas became more than diplomatic tools; they became symbols of love, joy, and cultural bridge-building.

Complications and Controversies: The recent deaths and controversies surrounding pandas in U.S. zoos, notably Lele in Memphis, added strain to the U.S.-China relationship. Accusations of mistreatment fueled public anger on Chinese social media, illustrating how panda diplomacy can become entangled in broader geopolitical tensions. The recent acrimony, including comments from U.S. politicians about “taking back” pandas and criticizing Chinese land purchases, further complicates the situation.

Message in the Departure: As the last pandas leave U.S. soil, experts speculate on the unspoken message behind China’s decision. Panda diplomacy, known for its subtlety, could be China’s way of signaling the current state of U.S.-China relations. The departure serves as a non-explicit, yet potent, reminder of the strained ties between the two nations.

In the end, the departure of pandas from the United States goes beyond the realm of cute, cuddly animals. It marks the conclusion of a unique chapter in diplomatic history, raising questions about the future trajectory of U.S.-China relations and whether these beloved bears will ever return to American soil.

Despite denials of being a cult, the docuseries sheds light on the controversial methods employed by the group and its leaders,

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The Netflix docuseries, “Escaping Twin Flames,” delves into the controversial world of the Twin Flames Universe, a YouTube school promising to help individuals find their true love. This three-part series follows the Vanity Fair exposé by Alice Hines and includes insights from investigative journalist Sarah Berman. The documentary explores the group’s practices, such as the “Mind Alignment Process,” which some experts argue serves to isolate members from their families.

Former members share their experiences, revealing the impact of the group on their relationships and identity. The series also highlights the efforts of mothers seeking to reunite with their children who have become estranged after joining the Twin Flames Universe. Despite denials of being a cult, the docuseries sheds light on the controversial methods employed by the group and its leaders, sparking a deeper conversation about the fine line between spiritual guidance and manipulation.

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