Latest news with #Earnest
Otago Daily Times
a day ago
- Sport
- Otago Daily Times
Earnest, Wayman secure top-10 finishes
Two top-10 elite placings for emerging teenagers Sacha Earnest and Luke Wayman highlighted New Zealand performances in the downhill finals in France for the second round of the UCI world series yesterday. Earnest, 19, and Wayman, 18, both finished 10th in the elite finals on a challenging and blown-out downhill test at Loudenvielle in the French Pyrenees. It was the first top-10 finish for the teenagers in elite racing as the rising New Zealand talent continued to make their mark among the gravity racing fraternity. Earnest, the two-time junior world championship medallist, is in her first year in elite company. She was the only Kiwi to make it through the double qualifying system, producing a solid performance for her 10th place, 18sec behind winner Gracey Hemstreet (Canada). Only two New Zealand riders made it through double qualifying for the elite men's final, the first for Christchurch rider Wayman. He produced a strong run on the challenging course, where speed was vital in the opening flat section before giving way to a demanding and twisting section through the forest. Wayman finished just 5.314sec behind winner Jackson Goldstone, a good return for the young professional riding for the respected Continental Atherton team. Fellow New Zealand rider Tuhoto-Ariki Pene, who qualified with an impressive run, finished 22nd after a mistake on the bottom part of the course after he was fastest in the initial open section. The sole podium for Kiwi riders went to Hawke's Bay teenager Tyler Waite who claimed his second runner-up finish in the junior men's grade, where he is now second in the overall standings. Waite, the Yeti-Fox professional from Clive, was just half a second behind winner Bode Burke (USA). The dry and dusty track produced some holes in the racing line that caught out some riders, notably Kaikoura's Oli Clark, who was fastest on the junior men's course when he flatted his front wheel which ended his hopes. There were strong performances from Queenstown's teenaged pair of Rory Meek and Malik Boatwright, who finished sixth and eighth respectively. Palmerston North's Jonty Williamson was 11th. Rotorua 17-year-old Bellah Birchall was the best of the Kiwis in the junior women's final, finishing fourth, just 0.6sec outside the podium. Outstanding Tauranga rider Eliana Hulsebosch was the fastest on the course near the end of her run, until she fell but remarkably recovered to complete the course in fifth with Queenstown's Indy Deavoll, 17, finishing sixth. — APL
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Yahoo
Jury convicts Des Moines man of first-degree murder for beating girlfriend
DES MOINES, Iowa — A Polk County jury convicted a Des Moines man of first-degree murder for beating his girlfriend to death in 2024. 61-year-old Derrick Andray Earnest was convicted of beating his girlfriend, 49-year-old Holly Snowgren, to death on April 19, 2024. The incident occurred in an alley east of Good Park between 14th Street and 14th Place, according to Polk County. Ring and Nest cameras in the area captured the defendant arguing with the victim and then beating her with a wooden 2-by-10 board, punching, and kicking her, according to the Polk County court. In the recordings, Earnest can be heard threatening to kill her, while Snowgren said his name and pleaded for him to stop. Des Moines man dies after Webster County crash Polk County says evidence showed that approximately 40 minutes after the assault, around 2:42 a.m., the defendant took the victim to the Methodist Medical Center emergency room. Snowgren suffered broken ribs, lacerations, a stab wound, and other injuries. She was pronounced dead the same day, later in the morning. Earnest was arrested later on April 19 and charged with first-degree murder. Polk County says the jury deliberated around two hours before announcing the verdict on Friday. Earnest faces life in prison without parole. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 23. The case was prosecuted by Assistant County Attorneys Shannon Bogolin and Caleb Copley, assisted by Lindsay Scott. The investigation was led by Detective Brad Youngblut of the Des Moines Police Department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Forbes
22-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Price Of Graduation: Why Gen Z College Grads Are Drowning In Debt—and What Brands Can Do About It
getty As millions of new college graduates step into adulthood, they face a financial landscape that is both challenging and complex. The excitement of landing a first job or moving into a new apartment is often overshadowed by the burden of student loan debt. With the average debt load hovering around $30,000—and one in five federal borrowers already struggling with default or delinquency just months after repayments resumed—Gen Z college grads are under financial pressure from day one. Add rising living costs and stagnant wages, and it's clear: this generation is entering adulthood in an economic pressure cooker. For retailers and stakeholders across the commerce ecosystem, this isn't just a challenge: it's a wake-up call. Young consumers represent long-term value and influence. But to earn their trust and loyalty, brands need to understand their realities and meet them with empathy, transparency and action. 1. Gen Z Is Under Extreme Financial Strain, And It's Impacting Major Life Decisions Today's grads are navigating a landscape defined by persistent economic stress. Many are graduating into jobs that don't pay enough to keep up with the cost of living, let alone make a dent in student loans. According to a 2024 survey by Earnest, many recent graduates feel financially unprepared for life after college. An overwhelming 97% say they lack the tools to budget or repay their loans, 35% regret taking on debt without fully understanding it, and 92% would have approached college differently had they known the extent of their future debt. And with housing costs, groceries, transportation, and healthcare costs steadily climbing, many are relying on side gigs or moving back home just to stay afloat. Financial stress isn't just about immediate expenses—it influences long-term decisions, from homeownership to retirement savings, and even impacts mental health. A recent Harvard report found that 56% of young adults regularly experience financial anxiety, a stark reminder of the pressures facing this demographic. This kind of pressure doesn't just delay milestones, it rewrites them. The idea of homeownership feels out of reach. Starting a family or building savings can feel unrealistic. For industries tied to life-stage milestones—mortgages, travel, insurance and retail—this presents both a threat and a challenge. Brands that fail to understand the broader impact of financial strain risk alienating a key generation of future customers. 2. Gen Z College Grads Crave Clarity and Control in Their Finances While every generation has faced economic challenges, Gen Z has come of age during a uniquely turbulent stretch, marked by the Great Recession's aftermath, a global pandemic and historic inflation—all during their formative years. They've learned to be cautious, and many are skeptical of traditional financial systems. What they want isn't more credit; it's more control. Flexible financial services have surged in popularity not just because they offer convenience, but because they offer predictability. Brands should recognize that Gen Z's loyalty lies with those that respect their boundaries and financial realities. Offering transparent payment options with no hidden fees, tools to track spending, and financial literacy content builds more than engagement: it builds trust. And when consumers feel in control, they're more likely to return, recommend and invest in long-term relationships with brands. 3. Trust Isn't a Buzzword, It's a Buying Trigger More than any generation before them, Gen Z uses brand values as a filter for where they shop. In a crowded marketplace, authenticity becomes currency. In fact, a 2023 survey found that 80% of Gen Z and millennial consumers are likely to base purchases on a brand's mission or stated purpose, a clear sign that trust is a critical differentiator. Conversely, they're quick to disengage from brands that fall short, whether through misleading marketing, poor customer service or unclear pricing. To succeed, companies must treat transparency as a core brand value, not a feature. That means plain-language pricing, flexible return policies, clear terms and honest messaging about what your product or service delivers. If Gen Z sees your brand as a partner in their financial journey, these new college grads will reward you with something far more valuable than a one-time transaction: long-term loyalty. 4. Empowerment Over Offers: Help Gen Z Make Smarter Financial Moves Discounts and promos might get Gen Z in the door but empowerment is what keeps them there. This generation is hungry for tools and content that make them feel informed and confident in their choices. Whether it's a financial planning resource hub, interactive budgeting tools or community forums for money talk, brands that prioritize education and empowerment will stand out. Companies can also add value through partnerships. Collaborating with financial wellness platforms, student loan advisors, or nonprofit educators can help brands offer credible, helpful content without needing to build it all from scratch. Empowerment doesn't mean turning your business into a bank. It means acknowledging your customer's reality and helping them navigate it better. The companies that rise to meet Gen Z's financial needs will do more than win market share, they'll earn something even more valuable: trust. And in today's highly competitive, loyalty-driven landscape, trust is the foundation for sustained growth. For brands ready to engage this next generation of consumers, the message is clear: respect their reality, meet them with empathy and build solutions that empower—not pressure—them to thrive.
New Indian Express
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Kochi to host 'south India's biggest' Afro dance festival
For two days, Cherai beach will turn into a hub of dance, music, and revelry with the enthralling beats of Afro music and dance. The ThekKINDian Festival, set to be held on May 31 and June 1, will shine light on immersive Afro-dance experiences. Featuring workshops, battles, performances, and parties, the event brings together a diverse mix of artists from across India and beyond with one goal — to create a meaningful cultural bridge between African and Kerala dance traditions. The organisers were adamant about one thing — they didn't want to hold the fest in a closed venue. 'Cherai, a popular and easily accessible destination, allows more people to engage, experience, and celebrate the culture. And this will be South India's biggest Afro fest,' says one of the organisers. The festival is being curated by a team of artists and educators from Kerala's emerging Afro dance community in collaboration with groups from Chennai and Bengaluru. Together, they have prepared a lineup that includes sessions by international instructors, dance battles, live music and a fashion show. 'Kerala has always had a deep love for dance and percussion, which naturally connects us to Afro-dance styles,' says Earnest Ignus Paul, a dancer and one of the core organisers. 'Traditional African movements can easily resonate with our culture, both artistically and spiritually.' Workshops during the tw-day event aim to build that connection from the ground up. International instructors such as Champion Rolie and Amaleya Osei from Ghana along with Ryan Martyr and the Afrontal crew from Bengaluru will lead sessions. These will be complemented by dance battles.
CNET
10-05-2025
- Business
- CNET
Refinancing Your Student Loans With a Private Lender Only Makes Sense in This One Situation
Pla2na/CNET With wage garnishment for defaulted student loans starting up this summer and SAVE borrowers gearing up for higher monthly payments, you might be considering a private student loan as a more affordable way to pay down your debt. Private student loan companies have been advertising tempting offers for anyone struggling to afford monthly payments. SoFi, for example, unveiled SmartStart, a new refinancing program designed to help ease borrowers into the repayment process by only requiring them to pay interest for the first nine months. Another loan company, Earnest, offers benefits like the ability to skip a monthly payment, if needed. But student loan experts warn borrowers to be cautious before refinancing with any private lender. "I get asked this question a lot," said Elaine Rubin, a student loan policy expert at Edvisors. "Typically, it is not recommended to refinance with a private lender for a federal student loan." Rubin admits there is an exception, though. Here's when it makes sense to refinance your student loans with a private lender, and alternatives you can explore if refinancing is too risky for you. Read more: There's Still Time to Stop Your Wages From Being Garnished for Defaulted Student Loans When financing with a private student loan servicer makes sense There's one specific type of borrower who could benefit from refinancing federal student debt, said Rubin. "An extremely financially stable individual who wants to repay a loan quickly and secure a lower interest rate might find this option appealing," said Rubin. "This would typically apply to someone who cannot pay off the loan immediately but plans to do so within a few years." Some examples Rubin provided are a dentist or doctor who earns enough to more than comfortably afford their student loan payments, but can't pay off the full balance just yet. Refinancing could help them lock in a lower interest rate and save on interest charges, in certain cases. Even if you fall into this category, you should always compare rates and terms from different private lenders to make sure you're getting the best offer. It may not make sense to refinance if you find you'll pay less over time with your federal student loan repayment plan. Why refinancing your student debt with a private lender is risky For everyone else, Rubin recommends steering clear of private lender refinancing offers, especially if you're enrolled in an income-driven repayment, pursuing public student loan forgiveness or living paycheck-to-paycheck. You'll be giving up too many benefits and could land in a dangerous situation if you face financial hardship, like a job loss or medical issue. Here are some other caveats to consider. 1. You'll lose federal student loan protections Refinancing to a private lender means you won't have access to federal student loan benefits, such as access to income-driven repayment plans, administrative forbearances and any future federal student loan forgiveness opportunities. "Some lenders in the Family Federal Education Loan program provide discounts for borrowers who make their loan payments on time without missing a payment," Kantrowitz said. Federal student loans also offer hardship benefits, such as loan deferment and forbearance, which can keep your loans in good standing for a period of time when you're unable to make payments. Private student loans may offer some hardship assistance but don't offer the same benefits. 2. You may pay more in interest and fees If you're able to get a lower monthly payment, you'll likely be extending your loan's repayment term -- this means you'll be paying off your debt for a longer time. Even if your interest rate is lower, you could end up paying more in interest and other fees. That means you'll make debt payments for longer, which could hold you back from growing your savings, putting money away for a down payment on a house or car, or getting approved for a mortgage or other loan. 3. You might not qualify for the advertised interest rate You might see a private lender advertising rates or rate discounts that are lower than your current federal student loan interest rate -- but that doesn't mean you'll qualify for them. Most lenders require good to excellent credit to lock in the best rates. If your credit score isn't in the mid-to-high 700s, your rate will likely be higher. Before applying with a private servicer see if you can get pre-qualified so you have an idea of what your rate will be. Otherwise, you may need a cosigner to qualify for a lower rate. 4. Your credit score may be too low When you refinance, you're essentially moving your debt from one loan to a new one. Refinancing still means you'll need to meet lender requirements, including credit requirements. Some lenders require a 665 or better to get approved for a loan. If you're already in default on your student loans, it will be challenging to refinance your loans with a private lender -- you'll likely need a cosigner, said Rubin. Alternatives to refinancing your student loan debt If you're struggling to repay your student loans, you have a few options you can explore before you consider refinancing. Talk to your loan servicer. If you're at risk of falling behind on your student loans, contact your student loan servicer as soon as possible for any alternative repayment or hardship options to avoid going into default. If you're at risk of falling behind on your student loans, contact your student loan servicer as soon as possible for any alternative repayment or hardship options to avoid going into default. See if you qualify for lower monthly payments. Check out all of the repayment options available to you, including income-driven repayment plans, using the Department of Education's Loan Simulator. Check out all of the repayment options available to you, including income-driven repayment plans, using the Department of Education's Loan Simulator. Consider consolidating your loans. If you have multiple loans with different interest rates, you may qualify to consolidate them into one direct loan with one interest rate. This could also help lower your interest rate or overall monthly payment. If you have multiple loans with different interest rates, you may qualify to consolidate them into one direct loan with one interest rate. This could also help lower your interest rate or overall monthly payment. Look into loan rehabilitation. If your loans are in default, you can avoid having your wages garnished. The Office of Federal Student Aid offers loan rehabilitation, which can get your loans out of bad standing if you make nine consecutive payments on time under the agreement.
