A poignant tale of crabs attending a grandfather's funeral captivated readers and won the prestigious 2023 Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize. The winning story, "Carapace," written by Matthew Ryan Frankel, skillfully weaves the intricacies of family, loss, and the human spirit.
The story unfolds on a warm Carolina summer day as three Atlantic blue crabs make an unexpected appearance at the funeral. Amidst laughter and memories, the family pays tribute to the departed. Frankel masterfully captures the essence of his characters, including the strict yet poetic demeanor of the deceased grandfather, who instilled chivalric illusions of King Arthur and Guan Yu in the narrator.
As the family members gather near a milk crate filled with crabs, they engage in improvised prayers, reminiscing about their generous grandfather. The author adeptly blends the physical world with the spiritual, personifying the crabs as if they are the soulful carriers of messages from the afterlife. The narrator's contemplative attempt to connect with his grandfather's spirit through the crabs adds depth and emotion to the narrative.
Through vivid imagery and poetic language, Frankel explores the complexities of life, aging, and communication. The story moves seamlessly between the present and past, revealing the intimate moments shared between the narrator and his grandfather during the latter's decline. The tale delves into the grandfather's battle with stroke-induced physical limitations and his indomitable spirit to embrace knowledge even in his frailty.
Frankel's prose highlights the poignant moments of understanding shared between the narrator and his grandfather, emphasizing the power of love and compassion. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into the emotional depth of human connections, reminding us of the frailty and beauty of life.
Ultimately, "Carapace" tugs at the heartstrings, inviting readers to ponder the universality of loss and the resilience of the human spirit. The story's touching conclusion serves as a testament to the enduring love and the transformational power of storytelling.
As the deserving winner of the 2023 Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize, "Carapace" offers a moving and evocative reading experience. Matthew Ryan Frankel's poignant narrative leaves an indelible impression on readers and stands as a touching tribute to his grandfather, Khye Weng Ng.Source
HARVEL, Ill. — A massive cloud of soil, carried by winds exceeding 40 mph, blanketed a busy stretch of Interstate 55 south of Springfield on May 1, causing an 84-car pileup that killed eight people, injuring at least three dozen others. The incident has brought the state's farming practices under scrutiny, raising concerns about soil conservation and its impact on public safety.
At Richard Lyons' 300-acre family farm, the techniques developed over his half-century of experience, including cover crops and minimal-till practices, have kept his soil fertile and crop yields high. While some farmers have adopted such methods, Illinois lags behind other states in implementing soil conservation practices, exposing farmland to erosion risks.
Farmers face challenges in adopting conservation practices, given thin profit margins and volatile weather patterns due to climate change. Reluctance to invest in expensive changes stems from the fear of potential yield dips that could threaten livelihoods. Additionally, state and federal agencies tasked with supporting farmers have struggled with limited resources.
The tragic event in May has sparked renewed calls for farmers to reevaluate planting practices. Farm fields regularly tilled and left bare are more susceptible to soil erosion. Methods like no-till and cover crops can reduce erosion risks and boost soil health. However, only 24% of Illinois fields used no-till in 2018, and cover crops were planted on just 2% of surveyed farms.
Farmers and conservationists agree that greater investment in programs and incentives is crucial to drive change. The federal Environmental Quality Incentive Program aims to support farmers adopting conservation practices, but Illinois ranked 37th in program funding from 2009 to 2019. Organizations like the American Farmland Trust advocate for increased funding and technical assistance to help farmers adopt soil conservation methods.
The road to adopting such practices won't be without challenges. Farmers might resist change due to cultural pressures or financial concerns. However, there are efforts to incentivize change, like the incentive program that offers farmers a $5-per-acre discount on insurance premiums for planting cover crops. Still, any move towards regulating farming practices may face resistance.
Illinois must strike a balance between preserving its farmland and implementing conservation practices that protect both the environment and public safety. As debates continue, farmers like Richard Lyons strive to preserve their land's legacy and promote sustainable practices for future generations.Source
Mortgage rates in the UK have been surging recently as the Bank of England (BoE) raised borrowing costs over the past 18 months. The latest increase pushed the average two-year loan's interest rate above 6 per cent, driven by frenzied speculation in financial markets about the central bank's next move due to persistently high inflation.
Hotter than expected inflation data led investors to reconsider how much the BoE might raise interest rates, resulting in a sell-off in short-term UK government debt. As a result, two-year gilt yields rose above 5 per cent for the first time since 2008, impacting the closely linked market for interest rate swaps and, subsequently, mortgage lending.
Interest rate swaps are crucial for banks as they help manage the balance between fixed-rate assets like most UK mortgages and floating-rate liabilities such as interest paid to account holders. When rates rise on swaps, banks pass on the cost to mortgage borrowers to maintain profitability.
Although many factors impact mortgage pricing, swap rates essentially act as a floor for mortgage rates. As swap rates have surged, mortgage rates are expected to continue rising before eventually coming down.
However, analysts predict that mortgage rates will remain high until the market is confident that the BoE has brought inflation under control. On Wednesday, inflation figures for May will be published, influencing borrowing costs, and on Thursday, the BoE is expected to raise rates by 0.25 percentage point to 4.75 per cent, with a chance of going further to 5 per cent.
Some investment banks believe that markets have been too optimistic in their rate expectations, leading to higher swap rates. If swap rates pull back, mortgage rates could begin to fall even as the BoE continues to raise interest rates. However, the lag between swaps and the mortgage market is typically longer on the way down, as banks aim to safeguard their profit margins.
The day was eternally long for Richarlison, lying alone in the physical therapy room, grappling with pain that seemed to have no origin. The physical agony mirrored the emotional weight he carried. Alone and in pain, his mind wandered to the heart of Brazil, a place he loved with unparalleled fervor.
As he awaited MRI results that could shape his World Cup destiny, Richarlison found solace in memories. Memories of a bustling training ground, of childhood dreams, and of the unwavering love from his countrymen. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, one thing became clear—the love for football, for Brazil, and for the people who stood by him would guide his path.
Richarlison's narrative takes us beyond the glitz of the football world into the heart of Brazil's reality, a stark contrast to the romanticized version seen on the World Cup stage. He draws our attention to the disparities, the hunger, and the struggles faced by many, even as the nation revels in the magic of football.
Football, Richarlison acknowledges, is a crazy and magical force. Yet, he prompts us to imagine a Brazil where no one dies of hunger, where children go to school without fear, and where the beauty of the land remains untouched by destruction. This, he realizes, is a dream worth fighting for—a dream inspired by the love he has received from his homeland.
As he shares his personal journey, Richarlison weaves a narrative that transcends borders. From the days of playing with friends in New Venice to the heights of the football world, his story resonates with the universal theme of overcoming adversity fueled by an unwavering passion.
The turning point, perhaps, was the day he scored a goal in the World Cup, a goal that echoed his love for Brazil and the sport. In that moment, as he looked at the faces of his father, Leticia, grandfather, uncle, and friends, Richarlison felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for the sacrifices made and the support received.
Today, Richarlison stands as a symbol of triumph—a testament to the power of love, determination, and the beautiful game. His journey, with its highs and lows, speaks to the hearts of many, inviting us to embrace our dreams, no matter how distant they may seem.
So, as we cheer for Brazil in the World Cup, let's not just witness a football match but celebrate a love story—a love story written in the blood, sweat, and tears of a boy from New Venice, now a shining star on the world stage. Richarlison's story is a reminder that love, in all its forms, has the power to transform, inspire, and conquer even the darkest of days.
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In a recent referendum, the majority of Swiss citizens voiced support for a bill targeting new climate measures to reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions. According to final results from public broadcaster SRF, 59.1% of voters favored the bill, with 40.9% against.
The drive for the referendum arose from a campaign by scientists and environmentalists concerned about the rapid melting of Switzerland's glaciers. Campaigners initially proposed more ambitious measures but later aligned with a government plan mandating "net zero" emissions by 2050. Over 3 billion Swiss francs ($3.357 billion) were earmarked to assist companies and homeowners in transitioning away from fossil fuels.
The nationalist Swiss People's Party, instigators of the referendum, argued the proposed measures would escalate electricity prices. Supporters contended that Switzerland, already witnessing the impact of rising temperatures on its glaciers, must address the looming threat of global warming.
Urs Bieri of the GFS Bern Institute acknowledged the victory for supporters but highlighted dissent over concerns about associated costs. Greenpeace Switzerland expressed satisfaction with the result, emphasizing the legal anchoring of the goal to achieve net zero emissions. Georg Klingler, a climate and energy expert at Greenpeace Switzerland, emphasized the citizens' commitment to limiting global warming and preserving vital natural resources.
The referendum result comes against the backdrop of Swiss glaciers experiencing record melting, losing over 6% of their volume last year. This significant loss alarmed scientists who assert that a 2% reduction would have once been deemed extreme.
Experts like Matthias Huss, a glaciologist at the Swiss Institute for Technology in Zurich, are leveraging social media to spotlight these changes. Posting dramatic snapshots of retreating glaciers and rockslides caused by melting permafrost, they underscore the transformations unfolding in the Alps.
Amid these developments, Huss, in a recent Twitter post, urged collective action to forestall the worst consequences of climate change. The Swiss populace's endorsement of the climate bill reflects a broader recognition of the urgent need to address environmental challenges and underscores the nation's commitment to a sustainable future.
In the late 19th century, amidst the roaring engines of industrialization and the clinking of gold coins, Andrew Carnegie, a titan of industry, penned an essay that would echo through the corridors of wealth for generations to come. Titled "The Gospel of Wealth," Carnegie's words were not just a reflection of his era but a timeless call to action for the affluent and powerful.
Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist who amassed immense wealth in the steel industry, published "The Gospel of Wealth" in 1889. At the heart of this essay was Carnegie's profound belief that the wealthy had a moral obligation to use their fortunes for the betterment of society.
In a tone reminiscent of a wise elder sharing hard-earned truths, Carnegie argued that the accumulation of wealth was not an end in itself but a means to a greater purpose. He believed that the rich were trustees of their wealth, holding it for the benefit of society rather than merely for personal indulgence.
Carnegie's philosophy on wealth can be summarized in one powerful statement: "The man who dies rich dies disgraced." It wasn't a condemnation of wealth but a challenge to its possessors to recognize their societal duty. He implored the wealthy to actively engage in philanthropy, to use their resources to tackle the profound issues of the day.
One of Carnegie's primary arguments was the idea of providing opportunities for self-improvement. He believed in funding educational institutions and libraries, seeing knowledge as the key to societal progress. Indeed, Carnegie himself funded the construction of thousands of libraries across the United States, leaving an indelible mark on education.
In the spirit of his essay, Carnegie, through his charitable acts, sought to bridge the gap between the privileged and the less fortunate. He envisioned a society where the benefits of industrialization and progress were not confined to the boardrooms but spread across all echelons of society.
Carnegie's essay ignited a philanthropic fervor among his contemporaries, inspiring a wave of benevolent actions that shaped the foundations of institutions we still benefit from today. His ideas were a catalyst for the rise of modern philanthropy, influencing figures like John D. Rockefeller and later generations of billionaires who committed to giving away the majority of their wealth.
As we reflect on "The Gospel of Wealth" today, its relevance endures. In an age of unprecedented wealth accumulation, Carnegie's call to philanthropy remains a guiding light. The challenge he laid down to his fellow tycoons is not bound by the pages of history but resonates in the choices made by today's billionaires.
While the world has evolved since Carnegie's time, the fundamental question posed by "The Gospel of Wealth" remains: What responsibility do the wealthy bear towards society? In the ongoing conversation about wealth and its consequences, Carnegie's words echo as a reminder that with great affluence comes an even greater responsibility to uplift and improve the human condition.
"The Gospel of Wealth" is not just a relic of the past; it is a living document challenging us to consider the impact of our wealth on the world around us. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, Carnegie's essay invites us to ponder not just how we accumulate wealth but, more importantly, how we choose to use it for the betterment of humanity.
The debate surrounding the fate of AM radio has intensified as Congress proposes a mandate to include AM radio receivers in every new vehicle. While some politicians argue that this move is crucial for public safety and emergency alerts, trade groups representing the automotive and technology industries disagree, stating that the plan is ill-conceived and obstructive to progress.
AM radio, a broadcasting veteran that has outlived various entertainment options like vinyl, cassettes, and CDs, now faces the challenge of keeping up with modern trends. As new vehicle models, especially electric cars, hit the roads, streaming audio is becoming the preferred choice, leaving AM radio trailing behind.
Congress members, unhappy with the phase-out of AM radio in certain vehicles, have proposed the "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act." The bill seeks to mandate the inclusion of AM radio receivers as standard equipment in all new cars, with no additional cost to the buyer. Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) are among the co-sponsors of the legislation, stressing the importance of AM radio as a crucial channel for emergency alerts and disseminating information.
While the Federal Communications Commission and the radio broadcasting industry back the proposed law, the actual implementing industries are less enthusiastic. In a letter addressed to the bill's co-sponsors, organizations like the Zero Emission Transportation Association, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the Consumer Technology Association, and TechNet point out the flaws in the plan.
The legislation emphasizes the use of AM radio for emergency alerts, but critics argue that in the digital age, there are more effective and accessible ways to broadcast such alerts, like Wireless Emergency Alerts on cellphones. According to the trade groups, 97 percent of Americans already own cellphones, which are designed to receive such alerts and can even do so when cellular networks are down. Additionally, cellphone alerts can include embedded hyperlinks, providing recipients with instant access to vital information.
As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether Congress will succeed in pushing this legislation forward. While some champion the preservation of AM radio for its historical significance and local sports broadcasts, others believe it's time to embrace modern technology for more effective emergency communication.
In the realm of music, the elusive Meg White, the drummer of The White Stripes, has largely remained out of the public eye for over a decade. The question arises: could renewed attention from a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination draw her back into the limelight?
Attempts to engage with Meg White for an interview have been met with reticence. Reports suggest her aversion to interviews is not a recent development but a long-standing disposition. Despite a few hints that she might reconsider, the prospect remains uncertain.
Meg's discomfort with interviews is well-documented. Previously, she expressed her introverted nature in documentary footage and exhibited unease during public appearances. This discomfort has been a constant, underscoring her preference for a private life.
Reflecting on The White Stripes' journey, the band's origin story involves Jack White asking his then-wife, Meg, to join him in creating music. Their chemistry propelled them from Detroit's music scene to international acclaim. After divorcing in 2000, they rebranded as siblings, achieving substantial success with multiple albums, Grammy wins, and Billboard chart entries.
However, in 2007, Meg confided in Jack's nephew about what would become the final White Stripes show. A statement later cited Meg's acute anxiety as the reason for canceling their fall U.S. tour. The decision, pioneering at the time, prioritized mental health and contributed to the band's eventual dissolution in 2011.
While Jack White continued his musical journey with other projects, Meg retreated from the public eye. The recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination brought The White Stripes back into the spotlight. Though they didn't make the final list, the nomination sparked renewed interest.
The public discourse around Meg's drumming, often criticized as simplistic, resurfaced on social media. Critics, old and new, questioned her skill, prompting a swift response from musicians, including Questlove and Karen Elson, defending her contributions.
Meg White's influence extends beyond her musical prowess. Fans from diverse backgrounds credit her minimalist drumming style as an inspiration. Alt-pop star Olivia Rodrigo, born after The White Stripes' peak, acknowledges Meg's impact on her understanding of music simplicity.
Efforts to secure an interview with Meg have proven unsuccessful. Her friend, providing insight into Meg's current life, emphasizes her desire for privacy after years of intense touring and public scrutiny. Meg's unique approach, described as a "media blackout," is seen as a deliberate choice to maintain autonomy.
The narrative of Meg White remains one of resilience against societal expectations, emphasizing her commitment to walking to the beat of her own drum. Despite the persistent intrigue surrounding her, Meg White remains an enigmatic figure in the music world, embracing a rock 'n' roll ethos of defiance and individuality.
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Germany has reached its highest population level on record, with over 84 million people now calling the European Union's most populous country their home. This significant surge is largely attributed to the arrival of refugees from Ukraine, seeking shelter and safety following Russia's invasion in February.
Despite having one of the lowest fertility rates worldwide and an aging population, Germany's robust economy, demand for labor, and relatively open immigration policy have long made it an attractive destination for migrants. Even before the EU extended its welcome to Ukrainians fleeing the conflict, the country had drawn people from various regions seeking new opportunities.
The Federal Statistics Office revealed in a recent report that Germany's population increased by an impressive 1% or 843,000 people in the first half of 2022 alone. This substantial growth was in sharp contrast to the mere 0.1% increase observed throughout the entire year of 2021. Notably, over 750,000 people immigrated to Germany from Ukraine during the same period, further bolstering the numbers.
This level of growth is a rare occurrence in the country since its reunification in 1990, with such substantial increases typically linked to waves of refugees. For instance, in 1992, the population saw a boost of 700,000 due to the influx of refugees from the war in former Yugoslavia. Similarly, in 2015, Germany welcomed nearly one million refugees escaping conflicts in the Middle East.
The demographic dynamics of the incoming refugees from Ukraine are noteworthy. Germany's female population experienced a 1.2% growth, surpassing the 0.8% increase seen in its male population. This disparity can be attributed to the fact that many women and children were the primary groups seeking refuge from the war, while men of fighting age were often unable to leave the country.
The latest data from the Federal Statistical Office indicates that Germany's population expanded by a staggering 1.3% in 2022, totaling a net increase of 1.12 million people. All 16 states within the country reported population growth, with the highest proportional increases observed in Berlin and Hamburg, both seeing rises of 2.1%.
The end of 2022 saw Germany being home to 12.3 million people with foreign citizenship, and among them, Turkish citizens represented the largest group with 1.34 million individuals. Furthermore, there were 1.05 million Ukrainians, marking a substantial increase of 915,000 compared to 2021, and 883,000 Syrians, with an increase of 48,000.
In contrast, the number of German nationals declined by 309,000, primarily due to more deaths than births. Consequently, the proportion of the population without German citizenship rose from 13.1% to 14.6%.
The surge in Germany's population presents both opportunities and challenges for the country. While it benefits from an infusion of diverse cultures and talents, it also underscores the need for effective integration policies and strategies to ensure social cohesion and sustainable growth.
The iconic Big Boy restaurant chain, deeply rooted in U.S. history, is adapting to changing dining preferences with the introduction of a fast-food spin-off named Bob's Big Boy. The nearly 90-year-old company, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, has seen a significant reduction in its presence from almost 1,000 establishments nationwide to only 60, primarily in Michigan.
Bob's Big Boy is an experimental venture aimed at cost reduction, according to franchisee Ali Baydoun. The inaugural location is set to open at 32704 Grand River Ave. in Farmington, Michigan. The site, previously occupied by Burger King and Detroit Eatz, will retain a drive-thru and offer indoor seating for approximately 60 patrons.
Differing from traditional Big Boy locations, Bob's Big Boy will forego table service, breakfast, and salad buffets. Instead, customers will place orders at a counter. The menu will feature a scaled-down selection, including signature items like the Classic Big Boy double-decker burger, Slim Jim Sandwiches, fish and chips, shakes, and hot fudge cake.
Ali Baydoun, owner of a traditional Big Boy restaurant in Garden City, acknowledges the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his business, citing a substantial decrease in sales. The new format, requiring fewer workers, aims to enhance competitiveness in the challenging economic landscape.
The name "Bob's Big Boy" pays homage to the chain's first restaurant, Bob's Pantry, established in 1936 in Glendale, California. Over the years, the brand has undergone various iterations, including Bob's, Bob's Big Boy, and Bob's — Home of the Big Boy Hamburger. Corporate transitions, bankruptcy, and changes in ownership characterize the company's recent history.
Ali Baydoun, an immigrant from Lebanon, traces his connection to Big Boy back to his teenage years when he started working at a local establishment. His journey within the company led him to become a manager by age 17. Expressing gratitude for the "land of opportunity," Baydoun fulfilled a personal goal by acquiring a closed-down Big Boy in Garden City in 2018.
Despite recent challenges, Baydoun is optimistic about the fast-food concept's potential to revitalize the brand. The experimental model, if successful, could lead to widespread adoption, he suggests, emphasizing the brand's familiarity to those over 50 or 60 who grew up with Big Boy as a ubiquitous presence.
Amid reports of Big Boy facing financial difficulties and a potential bankruptcy risk, franchisees like Baydoun remain focused on the new venture's prospects. The fast-food format, with its potential for reduced labor costs and overhead, presents an opportunity for adaptation and growth in an evolving market. Baydoun envisions a future where successful models like Bob's Big Boy could proliferate, bringing a fresh perspective to an established brand.