Latest news with #Balser
Winnipeg Free Press
15-05-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
No action against Nova Scotia rent loophole out of fears for housing supply: minister
HALIFAX – Service Nova Scotia Minister Jill Balser says her department won't crack down on instances of abuse involving fixed-term rental leases because it doesn't want to affect the housing supply. Balser says that could be an 'unintended consequence' of a crackdown on landlords who abuse fixed-term leases to get around the province's five per cent cap on rent increases. However, she was unable to specify exactly how the housing supply would be affected, despite repeated questioning by reporters. The Opposition NDP and the Liberals both say Balser's explanation for not acting doesn't make sense. Interim Liberal leader Derek Mombourquette has suggested the government wants to give landlords a loophole to get around the rent cap that is in place until the end of 2027. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Balser denies that suggestion. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 15, 2025.
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Regional National Civics Bee competition held in Colorado Springs
(COLORADO SPRINGS) — El Paso County hosted the Regional Competition for the annual National Civics Bee on Saturday, March 29. Out of 20 finalists, three advanced to the State Competition in May. On Saturday, middle school students from all over the area showcased their knowledge and spirit for the region when they were tasked with writing an essay on how they would improve their community. The goal of the competition is to get students involved in Civics and their community. 'I think this is important because it helps me realize and learn about my country and how I can become an active member in it and how I can change laws for the better,' said Camilla Balser, who scored first place. Balser emerged as the regional champion with her 'thoughtful and compelling' essay. 'I think it's great getting our kids involved in our community,' said Michael Lordino, President of the Eastern Plains Chamber of Commerce. 'I'm always amazed in the depth of knowledge these students have of their community and how they want to better it, so it is always just very impressive to hear them talk about it.' The winners will have the chance to compete on May 30 at the State level in Denver. Those who win will then pass on to the National Civics Bee in Washington D.C. in the fall. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Axios
27-03-2025
- Business
- Axios
Vanderbilt University Medical Center braces for $250M budget cut as Trump admin slashes spending
Vanderbilt University Medical Center is preparing to reduce its budget by a whopping $250 million as a result of federal policy changes under the Trump administration. Why it matters: VUMC is one of the world's leading research institutions, the largest health care provider in the Nashville area and a massive economic engine for the region. Driving the news: VUMC president and CEO Jeff Balser announced the cost reductions in a sobering video message to staffers on Wednesday. Axios acquired a copy of Balser's message. In response to "actions being taken in D.C.," Balser said VUMC's "research enterprise" would experience a hit, as well as administrative areas such as human resources and IT. Zoom out: The Trump administration has proposed cuts to National Institutes of Health research grants and to the Department of Health and Human Services. Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid payments are on the table as well. State of play:"Some [research] programs will experience reductions — particularly those that cannot be fully supported on grants or the generous gifts from our donors," Balser said. "And some people working in those programs will be unable to continue at VUMC." Balser said VUMC will not cut back on its clinical enterprise, which delivers health care to people throughout the region. He stressed that the $250 million in reductions are "a conservative approach." "Revenue reductions of more than twice this amount are possible in the coming year," he said. VUMC recorded operating revenue of $7.6 billion and expenses of $7.4 billion in fiscal year 2024. By the numbers: The drastic cut in expenses comes as VUMC and Vanderbilt University unveiled an economic impact report detailing the institutions' value to Middle Tennessee. VUMC and VU combined for $22.13 billion in economic impact on Nashville and the state, according to the independent analysis. The institutions combine to provide 120,000 jobs. VUMC hosted 3.3 million patient visits in fiscal year 2024, with 80,000 hospital discharges, 81,000 surgical cases and 213,000 emergency department visits, according to the report. What he's saying: "In my 15th year as your leader, I well understand the importance of all our programs in patient care, training and research," Balser told employees in his message. "I know they are vital to the health and well-being of the people in this region, nationwide and worldwide. VUMC will withstand these economic shock waves while sustaining our missions and our culture." "In this chaotic atmosphere, our success will depend upon many things, but two are fundamental: remaining focused on the people we serve and sustaining our trust and support for one another," he said.
