Latest news with #SMART
Reuters
2 hours ago
- Business
- Reuters
Largest US rail union intends to oppose Union Pacific's buy of Norfolk Southern
July 29 (Reuters) - The largest rail union in the United States said on Tuesday it intends to oppose Union Pacific's (UNP.N), opens new tab proposed $85 billion acquisition of smaller rival Norfolk Southern (NSC.N), opens new tab in regulatory proceedings, citing concerns about how the largest-ever buyout in the sector will affect U.S. workers and infrastructure. At the same time, other interested parties - from soybean farmers to retailers and the Port of Los Angeles - see potential harm from rising shipping costs as well as the potential benefit of speedier, seamless service if regulators allow the companies to create the nation's first railroad stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The transportation division of SMART, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, said it plans to oppose, opens new tab the merger when it comes before the Surface Transportation Board for review. SMART represents 230,000 members across several sectors including transportation, construction, and manufacturing. "We approach this development with measured skepticism rooted in the real-world impact such consolidation could have on rail workers, safety, service quality, and the long-term health of the freight rail industry," the union said in a statement. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern said in announcing the deal that they intend to preserve union jobs and aim to be the safest railroad in the country. The deal, announced earlier on Tuesday, drew mixed reactions from Republicans in Congress. U.S. Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, said he was concerned. 'I don't know enough to know, but if they're concerned, I'm concerned,' Hawley told Reuters, referring to SMART, which endorsed him for reelection in 2024, citing his support for rail safety. 'It's going to be a great deal for America, it's going to be a great deal for Nebraska,' Senator Pete Ricketts, a Republican from Nebraska, where Union Pacific is based, told Reuters. Union Pacific shares were down 3.3% at $221.64 on Tuesday afternoon, while Norfolk Southern shares were down 3.4% at $276.97. If approved, the deal would create the country's first coast-to-coast freight rail operator, combining Union Pacific's stronghold in the western two-thirds of the United States with Norfolk's 19,500-mile (31,382 km) network that primarily spans 22 Eastern states. Union Pacific has had the most accidents, injuries, and fatalities in the industry in recent years, and has shown a willingness to lay off workers including engineers and conductors even during periods of stability, SMART's Transportation Division said. The union also raised concern that Union Pacific's practice of leasing out its infrastructure could affect service quality. Union Pacific spokesperson Kristen South said the railroad is the safest in the industry when it comes to personal injuries for the first five months of 2025 and has improved 30% on its derailment rate year to date. The labor union said the deal could lead to a duopoly in U.S. rail. Competitors BNSF, owned by Berkshire Hathaway (BRKa.N), opens new tab, and CSX (CSX.O), opens new tab are exploring merger options, Reuters has reported. "Both history and logic suggest this would drive higher rates, fewer service options, and diminished competition. Shippers and communities deserve more than a monopoly in disguise," SMART said. U.S. railroads have merged from thousands in the late 1800s to just a few players today. A merger of this scale would be a landmark moment for U.S. supply chains, as the resulting railroad would account for almost half of all containerized rail traffic in the country, said Jess Dankert, the Retail Industry Leaders Association's vice president of supply chain. "There are two elements to be watched closely: the promise of greater efficiency but also the risk of increased costs," Dankert said. "A lot of the consolidation that has occurred in the rail industry has resulted, at times, in higher rail rates and a decrease in service," said Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. "We want people competing for our business, that's good for us," Steenhoek said. At the busiest U.S. seaport in Los Angeles, about 25% of cargo enters or leaves the docks via rail - work that is split roughly equally between Union Pacific and Berkshire Hathaway-owned BNSF, said Gene Seroka, the port's executive director. Seroka supports the proposed merger, saying it has the potential to create a seamless service that could reduce costs and improve service, in part by reducing the number of times a rail car is handed off to a new train operator. Quick cargo clearance means the port can process more cargo. When it comes to supply chains, minimizing cargo hand-offs that add time and potential complications is vital. "It doesn't like to be passed around like a baton in a relay race," Steenhoek said.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
Ceramic Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers: Which One Is Better?
When it comes to enhancing your smile, veneers are among the most popular cosmetic dental solutions available. They offer a quick and effective way to correct discolored, chipped, or uneven teeth. But with several materials to choose from, one question comes up often: Ceramic veneers vs. porcelain veneers—which is better? Both options have their strengths and limitations, and the right choice often depends on your personal goals, budget, and dental condition. Let's break it down. Veneers are ultra-thin shells placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. They are commonly used to: Whiten stained teeth Close small gaps Fix chipped or broken teeth Create symmetry Improve overall smile aesthetics Among the many types of materials available, ceramic and porcelain are the most requested for premium aesthetic results. Ceramic veneers refer to restorations made from various types of dental ceramic materials. These include zirconia-based ceramics and lithium disilicate (like IPS They are known for their High strength Durability Natural translucency Biocompatibility Ceramic veneers are often considered a premium option, offering a balance between beauty and toughness. Porcelain is actually a subtype of ceramic, but in dentistry, the term 'porcelain veneers' usually refers to ultra-thin laminates made from feldspathic porcelain—a traditional, hand-layered material known for its outstanding esthetics. Porcelain veneers are ideal for: Patients who want the most natural look Minor cosmetic corrections Light reflection that mimics real enamel They're especially popular among actors, models, and professionals looking for that perfect Hollywood smile. Key Differences Between Ceramic and Porcelain Veneers Reference: Dr. Nico Kamosi (accredited member of IAOMT, SMART certified) – London Specialist Dentists clinic in Knightsbridge, London. Address: Unit A, 4th Floor, 193-195 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1NE If your primary focus is natural beauty and translucency, then porcelain veneers might be the better choice. Their ultra-thin nature and ability to reflect light make them virtually indistinguishable from natural enamel. However, modern ceramic materials have come a long way. High-end ceramics like lithium disilicate offer both strength and good aesthetics, making them ideal for patients who want a balance of both. Ceramic veneers—especially those made from zirconia—are known for their strength and longevity. They are less likely to chip or crack, which makes them better suited for patients who grind their teeth or have bite issues. Porcelain veneers, while strong, can be more prone to chipping under pressure and are generally best for front teeth that experience less bite force. One of the major advantages of porcelain veneers is that they can be applied with minimal tooth reduction. In many cases, the natural tooth structure is barely altered, making the procedure more conservative. Ceramic veneers may require slightly more tooth preparation, depending on the thickness of the material and the desired outcome. Both porcelain and advanced ceramics are biocompatible, meaning they won't irritate the gums or surrounding tissue. However, some patients report better gum response with high-grade ceramic veneers, especially zirconia-based options. Porcelain veneers, particularly those crafted by hand in a dental lab, may take more time to design and fit. Ceramic veneers, especially those made using CAD/CAM technology, can sometimes be fabricated faster—even on the same day in some clinics. Porcelain veneers are typically more affordable than zirconia-based ceramic veneers. However, prices vary depending on: Location Lab expertise Dentist experience Number of teeth being treated Ceramic veneers may come at a higher price but often provide greater durability in the long run. Reference: Dr. Nico Kamosi (accredited member of IAOMT, SMART certified) – London Specialist Dentists clinic in Knightsbridge, London. Address: Unit A, 4th Floor, 193-195 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1NE There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best veneer for you depends on your specific needs, expectations, and dental condition. Choose porcelain veneers if: You want a highly aesthetic, natural-looking result Your cosmetic concerns are minor You prefer a minimally invasive procedure Choose ceramic veneers if: You prioritize strength and durability You have bite issues or clenching habits You're okay with a slightly thicker restoration Consulting with a skilled cosmetic dentist ensures that you receive the material that best suits your smile goals, facial structure, and lifestyle. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
CBS News
22-07-2025
- Business
- CBS News
SMART expanding as North Bay transit agency sees ridership increase
As Bay Area public transit struggles to deal with shrinking commuter demand, one agency is about to expand its service. It's the result of a study showing that people prefer to take a train rather than a bus, and it's creating an opportunity to reorganize how people use transit up and down the Highway 101 corridor. All roads in the North Bay lead to San Rafael, at least for most of the public transit providers. The San Rafael Transit Center is one of the busiest in the Bay Area, second only to the Salesforce Center in San Francisco. The hub is the meeting point for Marin Transit, Golden Gate Transit and the SMART commuter train line. "It's already very important and will continue to be important," said Paulo Cosulich Schwartz, spokesperson for Golden Gate Transit. "And we're actually undertaking a project to redesign and relocate the San Rafael Transit Center to accommodate a growth in transit service." That growth may be a case of addition by subtraction. A recent study shows that transit in the North Bay has a lot of duplication of service. For example, Golden Gate Transit has buses going clear up to Santa Rosa, the same service area as SMART. It also has stops in the same urban areas as Marin Transit. So, a new plan has been developed called "MASCOTS," short for Marin-Sonoma Coordinated Transit Service, that will, hopefully, cut out the redundancy. "MASCOTS really refocuses Golden Gate on the regional trips," said Marin Transit Planning Director, Cathleen Sullivan. "So, Golden Gate will have fewer stops and really focus on express service and getting people between major transit hubs in Marin County, into San Francisco and into the East Bay. And Marin Transit will really refocus OUR resources on making sure the local stops are covered." "One of the most interesting findings of the study," said Cosulich Schwartz. "Is that 70 percent of Marin/Sonoma travel to San Francisco originates from San Rafael or south." So, Golden Gate will focus on that area, limiting its service only up to Novato, requiring travelers to use SMART from any place farther north. It's only happening because SMART, after some initial bumps along the way, has proven itself to be a fairly popular transit option. "We're seeing that in our ridership numbers right now. SMART is experiencing record ridership. People have embraced that this as a very reliable way to get around. It's economical, it's a green alternative. It's just an easy service to use," said communications manager Julia Gonzalez. "We too, here at SMART, have tried to stay agile in response to changed commute patterns, where people are maybe commuting to work part of the week. Maybe doing a two-three split, three days at home and two days in the office. We've tried to stay agile by creating monthly passes that take into account that you're not traveling, necessarily, five days a week." Because of MASCOTS, SMART will see an increase in service of nearly 20 percent and will begin hiring new people to begin training almost immediately. The hope is that the coordinated effort will not only provide a less confusing system for riders but also save some much-needed money for the operators. "It's not just happening here in the Bay Area," said Metropolitan Transportation Commission spokesperson John Goodwin. "This is happening in metro areas all over the country, that the old model for operating transit, the different business models, are under a great deal of pressure. Transit agencies all over the region are re-examining decades-long service plans because the travel patterns have changed in a big way all over the Bay Area. And at the same time, transit agencies are strapped for operating cash, so they need to operate more efficiently." Except for the planning process, the new program shouldn't cost anything. In fact, it should save money. And the cost of expanding SMART is expected to be covered by the increase in ridership, after the MASCOTS plan goes into effect, sometime in April. In the meantime, a series of community meetings are being planned with the first on Tuesday, July 22, at 5:00 pm at the Marin City Library.
New Paper
21-07-2025
- Sport
- New Paper
July 22 South Africa (Kenilworth) form analysis
Race 1 (1,200m) (9) MOUNT AUGUSTUS ran a lovely race on June 12 at Kenilworth. He is improving with every start. Good each-way chance. (8) WORLD WARRIOR finished just over seven lengths behind Saudi Cat on June 17. Strong say. (4) IKO IKO was a touch disappointing last time behind October Storm. He was one-paced late. Place claims on his best form. (5) TIME HONORED ran a much better race against decent young horses on June 12. Will go close. Race 2 (1,800m) (2) BATON ROUGE won very impressively at Kenilworth on June 17. Carries big weight of 64kg, but he should go very close again. (1) MELA STRENGTH finally cracks a decent draw. He will be running on strongly. (3) STATE CAPITOL ran super behind Midway on June 17. Threat. (4) NARETOI definitely ran a better race last time with blinkers and tongue tie on. Include in exotics. Race 3 (1,600m) (4) MIGHTY MARY ran on late for second to Take It As Red last time. Claims with step-up to 1,600m. (7) SESAME has improved over more ground. She will power home late, include her in all bets. (3) HEAVENLY MAFIA ran a fair race behind Paralegal on June 12. On that run, she will love the step-up in trip to 1,600m. (5) ZENA'S ACT improved in her last start at Fairview on June 20. On that run, she has a place chance. Race 4 (1,600m) (1) GOLD GIBOSKI ran a cracker last time behind Star Major. From a good draw, he will go very close. (3) SMART HORSE ran a fair race behind Captains Alliance on June 24. The cheek pieces stay on, he should run well from a neat draw. (10) ROYAL DAWN improved when second behind Midway. If he can beat the tricky draw, he will have a good each-way chance. (7) BLAME IT ON ME ran well behind Boundless Love last time. No weight on his back. Big say. Race 5 (2,200m) (1) SANSA STARK was disappointing on June 17. From a good draw, and the 4kg claim, she can atone. (5) TWICE THE MASTER ran a lovely race last time. Does not win out of turn, but he will go well. (4) WOOD WORLD ran a fair race behind Ariovistus on June 21. Place chance in this field. (8) HELIOTROPE is better than her start over 1,950m when three lengths off the winner. Keep safe. Race 6 (1,000m) (5) THE US OF A won impressively on June 17. Will take a lot of beating. (1) ELUSIVE WINTER had no luck last time at Kenilworth. Speedball who could be hard to fetch. (2) PEACE OF MIND got nabbed by Pink Pigeon last time. With the light weight, she can claim a place. (7) TANNERON caught the eye behind Dean Street on June 21. She will be running on powerfully late. Race 7 (1,200m) (5) LOVERS LANE fought really hard all the way to the line last time. He must have a good winning chance in this tricky race. (6) GRAVITY did not find too much late in the finish on June 12. Each-way chance at this level. (8) CHAMPAGNE MAC tried to go all the way on May 21, but faded. Freshened up, he can bounce back. (9) ROYAL LYTHAM can trouble them in the finish on her best form. Race 8 (1,200m) (7) HONOR OF KINGS returns to the Western Cape after two fair races in KwaZulu-Natal. He should be right there in the finish. (2) LATE DECEMBER quickened up smartly to win a good race last time. He could easily win again. (3) CARRIACOU has been rested for 150 days. If he does not need the run badly, he will go very close. (8) WINTER PEARL finished like a train for fourth behind Surge Of Power on June 1. On that form, he could certainly trouble them all. Race 9 (1,200m) (2) FIRINGONALLENGINES won a gutsy race on June 12. Jockey Richard Fourie gets the ride. He should go very close to winning again in this field. (9) RHYDIAN stayed on nicely for third behind Azzurri last time. He will go close again. (6) SOOTY was disappointing on June 24. If he can build on that poor run, he might run a place. (5) PARATROOPER has run two shockers in a row. Better than that.
Scoop
17-07-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Pacific News In Brief For 17 July
Samoa - dengue A dengue fever outbreak in Samoa has claimed the life of a second child. The Sāmoa Observer reports Faith Melchior, 8, died in hospital on Monday night. She is the second child to die from dengue in Sāmoa this year - 12-year-old Misiafa Lene died in April. Fiji, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Tonga, French Polynesia and American Sāmoa have also declared outbreaks. Tuvalu and Nauru are on alert for the disease. Pacific - trade A meeting of trade ministers from the Pacific Island Forum's African, Caribbean and Pacific States is underway in Suva. New Zealand's Nicola Grigg said it is a timely opportunity to discuss the importance of the rules-based trading system, with the World Trade Organisation at its core. She said the structure is vital for small Pacific island nations, including New Zealand. Vanuatu/France - cable France is committing around US$20 to new undersea technology linking Vanuatu and New Caledonia, which will better prepare the Pacific for natural disasters. SMART will be the world's first Science Monitoring And Reliable Telecommunications submarine cable. French Ambassador to Vanuatu Jean-Baptiste Jeangène Vilmer said the cable will be fitted with sensors to measure sea temperature and seismic activity. He said it will help monitor climate change and - crucially - provide early warnings for tsunamis. The Vanutu Daily Post reported that the cable is expected to be in operation sometime next year. It will link Port Vila with Lifou Island in New Caledonia's Loyalty Islands group, traversing the seismically active New Hebrides Trench. Vanuatu - election Vanuatu's Electoral Commission says the verification of ballot boxes for the recent Provincial and By-Elections should be completed later today. According to the Vanuatu Daily Post, once that is done, the Commission can officially announce final results. The election was held on 8 July and attracted good voter turnout. The Commission has thanked all who participated - describing the election process as smooth and peaceful. Political parties have already begun lobbying to form new provincial governments. Fiji - HIV Fiji's HIV prevention taskforce says the country's law enforcement is actively hindering public health efforts. The United Nations reports a massive surge in HIV cases last year - numbers are up 284 percent. Around half of all cases were caused by intravenous drug use. Taskforce chair Dr Jason Mitchell told Pasifika TV there is a concerning lack of cooperation between the health sector and police. Northern Marianas - cuts Schools in the Northern Marianas are bracing for a possible fiscal cliff, according to the Board of Education. Governor Arnold Palacios is planning substantial cuts to the education budget allocation. The government is proposing a US$40 million dollar grant but the Public School System has requested just over 49 million dollars. Board of Education has testified that if the government's proposal is implemented they could be forced to declare a state of emergency in education.
