Latest news with #WillRogers
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Ryan Walters uses Education Department to further his own political career
There's something wrong when state officials treat the rules like suggestions — and even worse when the Legislature lets it happen. Take the recent social studies standards. I'm not here to argue the content — that's another debate. But they were not properly presented to the Oklahoma State Board of Education before being voted on. Whether that was a mistake or intentional, it undermines the process and casts doubt on the validity of the outcome. That matters. Process matters. Transparency matters. But this isn't a one-time error. It's part of a pattern. We've seen state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters hand out taxpayer-funded bonuses, hire out-of-state political operatives and turn the Oklahoma State Department of Education into a staging ground for his next campaign. These aren't the actions of a leader focused on students — they're the moves of someone chasing national political ambitions on the public's dime. Oklahomans aren't willing to sit idly by while the superintendent rides off into the sunset chasing his political dreams at the expense of Oklahoma taxpayers. And yet, the Legislature continues to let it happen. The governor has raised concerns. The attorney general has spoken up. The people of Oklahoma are paying attention. But from the body with the clearest authority to provide oversight — radio silence. Opinion: Where is education going in Oklahoma? Nowhere, just like hall of fame portraits As Will Rogers said, 'If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.' Well, we're in a hole. And the longer the Legislature waits, the deeper it gets. Opinion: Youngest students in Oklahoma schools need qualified teachers — not beginners This isn't about party or politics. It's about responsibility. It's about honoring the trust Oklahomans put in their elected officials to safeguard our institutions and protect our tax dollars. It's time to act — not later, not next session, but now. Because we're watching. And we're waiting. Mark McBride, R-Moore, served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 2012–2024 and was chairman of Education Appropriations from 2018–2024. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Okla. schools chief Ryan Walters puts politics over process | Opinion
News18
26-04-2025
- Health
- News18
World Veterinary Day 2025: Theme, History, Significance And Quotes
World Veterinary Day recognises the vital contributions of veterinarians to animal health, public well-being, and society as a whole. World Veterinary Day 2025: Every year on the last Saturday of April, people around the world unite to observe World Veterinary Day, a special occasion dedicated to recognising the vital contributions of veterinarians to animal health, public well-being, and society as a whole. In 2025, this significant day will be marked on April 26. There are many thoughtful ways to mark World Veterinary Day. You might express gratitude to your local veterinarians with a heartfelt note or token of appreciation, share informative content about animal care on social media, or contribute to animal shelters and veterinary support organisations. Schools and communities can host events or workshops to promote responsible pet ownership. Even simple actions—like scheduling a routine check-up for your pet or volunteering at a local shelter—can go a long way in celebrating the dedication of veterinary professionals. Every gesture, big or small, helps highlight their essential role in our lives. World Veterinary Day 2025: Theme This year's theme is 'Animal Health Takes a Team". It emphasises the collaborative spirit behind veterinary medicine. It reminds us that animal health is not maintained by veterinarians alone—it's a collective effort involving veterinary nurses, technicians, researchers, animal caregivers, and other health professionals. Together, they form a unified team dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of animals everywhere. This theme highlights the importance of partnership, communication, and cooperation across all areas of animal care. In the year 2000, the WVA established World Veterinary Day to raise awareness of the essential services provided by veterinary professionals. Held annually on the last Saturday of April, the day brings attention to vital issues in veterinary science and celebrates the tireless efforts of those who protect animal health and public well-being. Each year, a specific theme is chosen to spotlight different aspects of veterinary practice—from preventive care and disease control to sustainability and one-health initiatives. These themes help educate the public and encourage responsible pet ownership. World Veterinary Day 2025: Significance World Veterinary Day serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role veterinarians play. They not only care for pets and livestock but also safeguard public health, biodiversity, and global food security. Their expertise helps prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, ensures safe food systems, and supports environmental health. World Veterinary Day 2025: Quotes The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated. — Mahatma Gandhi I have always felt that the best doctor in the world is a Veterinarian. He can't ask his patients what is the matter…he's just got to know — Will Rogers You can judge a man's true character by the way he treats his fellow animals. — Paul McCartney Some people talk to animals. Not many listen though. That's the problem. — A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh If having a soul means being able to feel love, loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans — James Herriot. First Published:
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Looking for a Brand To Call Its Own
These days, a lot of Democrats are feeling like Will Rogers, who said on the eve of the Great Depression, "I am not a member of any organized political party. I am a Democrat." Today, the Democratic Party faces an identity crisis that is eroding its national appeal. Recent polls show that less than 30% of Americans, including lifelong Democrats, struggle to define what the party stands for. While there have been some recent victories in Wisconsin and closer margins in Florida congressional races than two years ago, it would be a mistake to assume that the party is on the brink of some sort of miraculous comeback. This time of record-low popularity presents an opportunity for constructive reinvention. Democratic politicians across the country should seize this moment to develop a brand identity that resonates with the day-to-day struggles of most Americans. Its time for the Democrats to move away from largely defining themselves in opposition to Donald Trump and Elon Musk. As Saul Alinsky once wrote, "Thepriceofa successful attack isaconstructivealternative." The Democratic Party needs to offer voters a clearly articulated alternative vision that fosters a coherent and compelling brand - a vision that addresses basic American needs and values, and looks to the future: Economic Opportunity - Every American should have the opportunity to get a good job by having access to education and training, regardless of their economic circumstances. This includes vocational training and community college, as well as traditional four-year and advanced educational programs. Economic Fairness and Security - Cutting taxes for low and middle-income earners so they can afford increased grocery prices and housing costs. Raising taxes on people making more than $1 million annually in net income to generate net savings to cut the deficit and national debt. Reducing red tape to facilitate building affordable homes and help provide affordable mortgages. Access to Medicare for all who want it, while continuing to protect Social Security and Medicaid. Freedom of Choice - Including reproductive choice and lifestyle choice. Freedom From Fear - Funding law enforcement, including local and state police and national law enforcement agencies. Enacting the Democrat-Republican Bipartisan Border Security Bill. Freedom To Enjoy Clean Air and Water- In addition to focusing on the changing climate, Democrats should expand the conversation to include curbing pollution, which will give young Americans a brighter, healthier future. Respecting the Rule of Law - Guarantee enforcement of the law, regardless of the political whims of any administration. The core message should be narrowed down to one or two concise phrases or slogans. Then make sure every spokesperson, particularly governors and members of Congress, uses those phrases seamlessly. If every instrument in a symphony orchestra is playing from a different song sheet, listeners only hear a cacophony. Repeat the message over and over. Message consistency has its greatest impact in memorable slogans. (See "Make America Great Again"). In defining its brand identity, Democrats must label their initiatives carefully. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was the master at creating positive context for initiatives designed to address major national problems. For example, FDR labeled his jobs program "The Work Progress Administration," which stressed putting people back to work. He did not call it "The Unemployment Progress Administration," which would have reminded everyone of the nations unemployment. In contrast, Democrats labeled their 2022 legislative centerpiece the "Inflation Reduction Act," which only served to remind voters every day about inflation. Importantly, in this rebranding process, Democrats will need to be open to reinventing government to ensure that it is fit for its purpose in the modern era. Former Colorado Sen. Gary Hart once said in regard to U.S. military spending, "We must stop debating whether more or less defense spending is better. Better is better." The size of government is less important than the effective delivery of services to Americans. Democrats wont get a chance to achieve these goals unless they can figure out how to win more elections. All the talk of engaging in more digital communications, less broadcast TV, greater streaming, or greater door-to-door voter contact is less important than establishing a compelling brand with simple, effective messaging; in business terms, it is better to have a good product than a large sales force or advertising budget. In the end, success will depend at least in part on appealing to voters by fitting the message into the context of diverse American cultures, rather than demanding that voters accept the culture of Democratic Party politicians and campaign consultants. Musicians ranging from heavy metal to country, along with podcast hosts, other cultural icons, and state and local politicians with large followings, can help build cultural bridges and validate commonsense Democratic ideas. Even with an effective message, Democrats will still need a long-term strategy to rebuild the party up and down the ballot and in every state. Without such a plan, and a commitment of sufficient resources to implement it year in and year out, Democrats risk losing control of the U.S. Senate for a generation, thus preventing the enactment of progressive legislation and ensuring conservatives dominate the Supreme Court for the foreseeable future. Ultimately, America needs a strong Democratic Party capable of solving the many economic, social, security, and environmental challenges facing the country. The first step in this process is devising a compelling vision - one that will enable Democrats to win more governorships and state legislative seats, while restoring Democrats to the White House and to majority control of Congress. Rick Ridder is a former presidential campaign manager and senior consultant for five other Democratic presidential campaigns. He is the president and co-founder of RBI Strategies & Research. &
Daily Mail
23-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Revealed: The multi-million pound upgrade that locals hope will breathe new life into Britain's 'worst' seaside town
A seaside town, once named the worst in the country, is set for an exciting multi-million pound revamp. Skegness, on the Lincolnshire coast, picked up the unwanted accolade in the 2023 Which? Travel seaside resort survey where it was described as a 'vulgar hellhole with brown sea'. In 2024, it ranked fifth from bottom with tourists awarding it just one star for scenery and noise levels. But things could be looking up for 'Skeggy'. The town's railway station is currently undergoing a £3.3m overhaul, part of a project designed to make Skegness a 'spectacular gateway' to the Lincolnshire coast. Skegness' main station building, known as the old Red Star, is getting a 'full renovation' under the plans. The historic Red Star building 'fell into disuse' in the 1990s and the project is aiming to 'preserve the historic station building and bring it back into modern-day use'. The Connected Coast team behind the project has said that the station's internal concourse and taxi rank/drop off area will also be 'improved'. Exciting new facilities at the station will include a community cafe with an outdoor seating area, a community space which can be booked by the public and commercial units for businesses and offices. Passengers will also benefit from new toilet facilities and refurbished waiting rooms. Connected Coast explained that the station will also have an upgraded security system, WIFI and 'digital customer information'. Chris Baron, chair of Connected Coast, said: 'This is a really exciting project for the community and holidaymakers alike. We're incredibly fortunate in Skegness to have received this funding. 'One of the major projects is the revitalisation of the railway station, bringing it up to the 21st century. 'The current plain brick facade (at the station) will be redesigned to bring in natural light, with new facilites such as a waiting room, cafe space and left luggage area. 'It's fantastic to see these improvements, but we're also focusing on the needs of the community by creating rentable office spaces, offering local business owners a place to establish and grow their ventures. 'An essential part of the Connected Coast initiative is the installation of a Changing Places toilet, ensuring that disabled people have a fully accessible and appropriate facility upon arrival in Skegness.' The Connected Coast team behind the project has said that the station's internal concourse and taxi rank/drop off area will also be 'improved'. Pictured above is Skegness station in 2024 In another exciting development, East Midlands Railway recently unveiled its first fully refurbished Class 170 train. The upgrades are set to enhance and increase to Skegness on the Nottingham to Skegness via Grantham line. The refurbished trains have a range of modern features, including brand-new seating, updated flooring and toilets. Will Rogers, managing director of EMR, has said that the upgrades are 'just the beginning' with more improvements to come. Ever wondered what Skegness used to look like? Dive into the resort's history with this collection of fascinating photos which date back as far as 1900.
Daily Mail
23-04-2025
- Daily Mail
Major £23 million upgrade coming to Britain's seaside town
A Lincolnshire town - once labelled the 'worst' seaside hotspot in the UK - is set for a major transformation as part of a £23 million investment aimed at drawing in more tourists. Skegness, which has been described as a 'vulgar hellhole' with a 'brown sea,' ranked bottom in Which? Magazine's 2023 poll of seaside resorts in Britain. The following year, the once-popular holiday destination placed fifth in the survey which featured 120 UK seaside towns. Visitors gave Skegness just one star for its scenery and noise levels, and two stars for its food, drink, shopping and attractions. Despite its low scores in a number of categories, one area where Skegness consistently rated well was parking - an unlikely silver lining for visiting drivers. The town once thrived in the 19th century when railways first made it a popular escape for working-class families - but in recent decades, a lack of investment in tourism services and infrastructure has seen its appeal decline. However, the town's luck might be about to change, as a new rail upgrade by East Midlands Railway (EMR) is expected to bring a wave of improvements to the area. On April 15, EMR unveiled its first fully refurbished Class 170 train, part of a wider £60 million investment into its fleet, according to Lincolnshire World. These upgrades are set to enhance and increase travel to Skegness on the Nottingham to Skegness via Grantham line - a journey that takes just under two hours and can cost as little as £4.05 if booked in advance. The refurbished trains come with a range of modern features, including brand-new seating, updated flooring and refurbished toilets. Each carriage also includes a mix of 230V power sockets, Type-C and dual USB charging points, plus a dedicated bike storage area. The interiors have been redesigned to match the sleek aesthetic of EMR's upcoming Aurora trains, which are expected to enter service later this year. The Class 170 trains were formerly operated by West Midlands Railway and are now managed by the UK's leading rolling stock financier, Porterbrook. Will Rogers, managing director of EMR, called the upgrades 'just the beginning,' adding that visitors should expect to see more noticeable improvements across the network over the coming year. In addition to the new trains, the town's own railway station is receiving a £3.3 million redevelopment, due to be completed by May 25. Editor of Which? travel, Rory Boland, said following the 2023 poll: 'Clacton, Skegness, and Southend all received one star from visitors for the lack of peace and quiet, and some visitors complain that the boisterous atmosphere can tip into feeling unsafe.' 'That's a shame, because what Clacton, Skegness, and Southend offer is exactly the sort of seaside break many of us want. Big beaches, big entertainment, and small prices. More should be done to help them level up and become first-class holiday resorts.' In 2023, locals in Skegness defended their hometown , although families said a day out had rocketed in price.
