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Run with your dog using these hands-free leashes – Daily Press

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Which hands-free leash is best?

When you go running with your dog, you may find that a hands-free leash makes it easier to concentrate on your form while keeping your canine companion safe and secure. They’re also great for people who can’t hold standard leashes due to disabilities or medical issues.

If you’re looking for a strong and easily adjustable leash, the Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dog Leash is a top choice. 

What to know before you buy a hands-free leash

Types of hands-free leash

You can find three types of hands-free leash designs: waist, crossbody and adjustable versions. 

  • Waist: These leashes attach to belts that secure around your waist. They’re secure and comfortable to wear, making them the most popular hands-free dog leashes. While they’re size-adjustable, they still won’t fit every dog parent, so you need to check the measurements. 
  • Crossbody: Hands-free crossbody leashes have straps that sit across the body from the shoulder on one side to the waist on the other. They’re quick and easy to put on and take off, plus you can use them as a standard leash when needed.
  • Adjustable: If you’re not sure whether to buy a crossbody leash or one with a waist belt, consider an adjustable version you can wear either way. Most of these also allow you to use them as standard leashes

Durability

It’s extremely important that hands-free leashes are durable, especially if you’re running. If parts break, your dog could get loose and get in trouble. 

  • Belt and leash: The belt and leash should use a tough material that stays durable, such as nylon webbing. 
  • Hardware: The metal clips and other hardware should be tough enough to hold up under pressure or sudden sharp pulling. 
  • Stitching: Ideally, look for leashes with reinforced stitching, especially in places where the hardware attaches to the belt or leash. 

Shock-absorbing properties

Some hands-free leashes have shock-absorbing properties to keep you and your dog from getting jerked around. Leashes with a bungee section help absorb shock. These stay contracted while the leash is loose, but the bungee portion stretches as the leash gets tight. 

What to look for in a quality hands-free leash

Dual handles

Even if your dog is attached to you hands-free, you may occasionally need to hold the leash to cross roads or when around other dogs. Leashes with dual handles give you more control. Look for ones that have a handle near the top and another at the lower end of the leash. 

Reflective

Leashes with reflective strips or stitching are perfect for increasing your visibility when out and about in low light. 

Adjustable waist

You should be able to adjust the waist to accommodate your size for a snug fit. Look for one that will be tight enough on your waist without making you feel uncomfortable. 

How much you can expect to spend on hands-free leash

Most cost between $15 to $30, but you can find a handful of high-end versions for as much as $50. 

Hands-free leash FAQ

Are hands-free leashes good for dogs that pull? 

A. If your dog pulls on the leash a lot, using a hands-free leash isn’t a good idea. Even if your dog isn’t particularly big or heavy, the fact the leash is secured around your waist or across your body means it can injure your back. What’s more, big dogs can pull you over if they catch you off guard. If you want to walk your dog on a hands-free leash, it’s best to teach it to walk to heel first.  

Should dogs run in a collar or harness? 

A. If you’re planning to use a hands-free dog leash for running, make sure your dog runs in a harness rather than a collar. If you use a collar and stop quickly or your dog pulls suddenly at something, the sudden pressure can hurt the neck or damage the trachea. Choose a well-padded harness for long runs to avoid chafing.

What’s the best hands-free leash to buy?

Top hands-free leash

Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dog Leash

Our take: Durable and reliable, this hands-free leash is a great choice for running or walking. 

What we like: The bungee portion of the leash absorbs shock, while the dual handles are great for close control when you need it. There’s reflective stitching on the leash and waist strap for increased visibility. The gliding clip helps keep you from getting tangled up. 

What we dislike: Some people find the leash a little short — especially for dogs who like to stay a few steps ahead of you. 

Where to buy: Available at Amazon

Top hands-free leash for the money

Mighty Paw Hands-Free Bungee Leash

Our take: This versatile leash has two attachment points and comes in neon yellow and bright orange for good visibility. 

What we like: Not only are the dual handles great for close control, but they’re padded for your comfort. Thanks to the bungee attachment, this leash absorbs shock if your dog pulls or you stop too quickly for your dog. 

What we dislike: The clip doesn’t glide, which can be annoying if your dog moves from one side to the other. 

Where to buy: Available at Amazon

Worth checking out

Kurgo Six-in-One Reflect and Protect Quantum Nylon Hands-Free Dog Leash

Our take: If you’re looking for a hands-free leash without a bungee section, this is an excellent choice. 

What we like: You can use it around the waist, across the body or as a standard leash. It’s made from an extremely rugged nylon with high-visibility reflective trim. The floating handle gives you control over your dog in any leash configuration.

What we dislike: The handle may not be durable enough if your dog is a puller. 

Where to buy: Available at Amazon

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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Run with your dog using these hands-free leashes – Daily Press

0

Which hands-free leash is best?

When you go running with your dog, you may find that a hands-free leash makes it easier to concentrate on your form while keeping your canine companion safe and secure. They’re also great for people who can’t hold standard leashes due to disabilities or medical issues.

If you’re looking for a strong and easily adjustable leash, the Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dog Leash is a top choice. 

What to know before you buy a hands-free leash

Types of hands-free leash

You can find three types of hands-free leash designs: waist, crossbody and adjustable versions. 

  • Waist: These leashes attach to belts that secure around your waist. They’re secure and comfortable to wear, making them the most popular hands-free dog leashes. While they’re size-adjustable, they still won’t fit every dog parent, so you need to check the measurements. 
  • Crossbody: Hands-free crossbody leashes have straps that sit across the body from the shoulder on one side to the waist on the other. They’re quick and easy to put on and take off, plus you can use them as a standard leash when needed.
  • Adjustable: If you’re not sure whether to buy a crossbody leash or one with a waist belt, consider an adjustable version you can wear either way. Most of these also allow you to use them as standard leashes

Durability

It’s extremely important that hands-free leashes are durable, especially if you’re running. If parts break, your dog could get loose and get in trouble. 

  • Belt and leash: The belt and leash should use a tough material that stays durable, such as nylon webbing. 
  • Hardware: The metal clips and other hardware should be tough enough to hold up under pressure or sudden sharp pulling. 
  • Stitching: Ideally, look for leashes with reinforced stitching, especially in places where the hardware attaches to the belt or leash. 

Shock-absorbing properties

Some hands-free leashes have shock-absorbing properties to keep you and your dog from getting jerked around. Leashes with a bungee section help absorb shock. These stay contracted while the leash is loose, but the bungee portion stretches as the leash gets tight. 

What to look for in a quality hands-free leash

Dual handles

Even if your dog is attached to you hands-free, you may occasionally need to hold the leash to cross roads or when around other dogs. Leashes with dual handles give you more control. Look for ones that have a handle near the top and another at the lower end of the leash. 

Reflective

Leashes with reflective strips or stitching are perfect for increasing your visibility when out and about in low light. 

Adjustable waist

You should be able to adjust the waist to accommodate your size for a snug fit. Look for one that will be tight enough on your waist without making you feel uncomfortable. 

How much you can expect to spend on hands-free leash

Most cost between $15 to $30, but you can find a handful of high-end versions for as much as $50. 

Hands-free leash FAQ

Are hands-free leashes good for dogs that pull? 

A. If your dog pulls on the leash a lot, using a hands-free leash isn’t a good idea. Even if your dog isn’t particularly big or heavy, the fact the leash is secured around your waist or across your body means it can injure your back. What’s more, big dogs can pull you over if they catch you off guard. If you want to walk your dog on a hands-free leash, it’s best to teach it to walk to heel first.  

Should dogs run in a collar or harness? 

A. If you’re planning to use a hands-free dog leash for running, make sure your dog runs in a harness rather than a collar. If you use a collar and stop quickly or your dog pulls suddenly at something, the sudden pressure can hurt the neck or damage the trachea. Choose a well-padded harness for long runs to avoid chafing.

What’s the best hands-free leash to buy?

Top hands-free leash

Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dog Leash

Our take: Durable and reliable, this hands-free leash is a great choice for running or walking. 

What we like: The bungee portion of the leash absorbs shock, while the dual handles are great for close control when you need it. There’s reflective stitching on the leash and waist strap for increased visibility. The gliding clip helps keep you from getting tangled up. 

What we dislike: Some people find the leash a little short — especially for dogs who like to stay a few steps ahead of you. 

Where to buy: Available at Amazon

Top hands-free leash for the money

Mighty Paw Hands-Free Bungee Leash

Our take: This versatile leash has two attachment points and comes in neon yellow and bright orange for good visibility. 

What we like: Not only are the dual handles great for close control, but they’re padded for your comfort. Thanks to the bungee attachment, this leash absorbs shock if your dog pulls or you stop too quickly for your dog. 

What we dislike: The clip doesn’t glide, which can be annoying if your dog moves from one side to the other. 

Where to buy: Available at Amazon

Worth checking out

Kurgo Six-in-One Reflect and Protect Quantum Nylon Hands-Free Dog Leash

Our take: If you’re looking for a hands-free leash without a bungee section, this is an excellent choice. 

What we like: You can use it around the waist, across the body or as a standard leash. It’s made from an extremely rugged nylon with high-visibility reflective trim. The floating handle gives you control over your dog in any leash configuration.

What we dislike: The handle may not be durable enough if your dog is a puller. 

Where to buy: Available at Amazon

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.

Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Baltimore block party shooting leaves 2 dead and 28 injured, including 3 critically hurt, police say – Daily Press

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BALTIMORE (AP) — Two people were killed and 28 were wounded when gunfire erupted at a block party in Baltimore Sunday morning, including three who are in critical condition, police said.

Baltimore Police Department Acting Commissioner Richard Worley told reporters there were a total of 30 victims during a press conference at the scene.

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area in the southern part of the city, Worley said.

All of the victims were adults. Nine victims were transported by ambulance and 20 victims walked into area hospitals with injuries from the shooting, Worley said.

An 18-year-old woman was found dead at the scene and a 20-year-old man was pronounced dead at a hospital shortly after, police said.

“I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly,” Mayor Brandon Scott said at the scene. “We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.”

No arrests were made immediately after the shooting. Scott asked anyone with information to come forward to assist investigators locate the “cowards” who were responsible for the shooting.

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it will take some time for detectives to work it.

“Treat this as if it were your family,” Scott said. “How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at. We want you to treat it that way because that’s how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans.”

How to grill your favorite veggies on any type of grill – Daily Press

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Summer means grilling season is in full swing. By now, you’ve probably enjoyed quite a few burgers, hot dogs, and steaks — but side dishes deserve just as much attention.

While chips and dip are a popular choice, you might be wondering how to incorporate healthy alternatives. Veggies have likely crossed your mind, but grilling them is totally different than cooking them indoors. But once you learn a few simple techniques, you’ll be grilling greens (and plenty of other colorful veggies) in no time.

Here are our top tips and tricks for grilling all types of veggies on all types of grills.

How to grill vegetables

Basics of grilling veggies

Grilling veggies isn’t hard, but you’ll need to take a few things into consideration for the most successful outcome.

Having the right tools or utensils, such as skewers or grill baskets, makes it infinitely easier to grill certain vegetables. You can also use the tinfoil method, in which you cut veggies into uniform pieces, toss them in a marinade, and grill them enclosed as a packet.

Preparation is the key to tasty grilled vegetables. Use salt and pepper, spices, rub, or marinade to draw out a vegetable’s natural flavor or introduce new ones. If you’re using skewers, be sure to let them soak in water for 15 minutes prior to use.

Heat control is everything when it comes to grilling, especially vegetables, which tend to be softer than meats. Start by preheating your grill for 10 to 15 minutes. Monitor heat to ensure it maintains temperature and avoids dangerous flare-ups.

Grilling veggies requires ongoing attention. Some veggies take longer to grill than others, such as root or fibrous vegetables. Those with higher water content, like summer squash, tend to cook more quickly. This means you may need to flip or toss veggies while they’re grilling, or continuously rotate them.

Optimizing cook time

While you can cook vegetables simultaneously, keep in mind that no two vegetables cook the exact same way. To optimize your time, you’ll probably average out the cook time as well as the temperature — which is six to 10 minutes at approximately 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

As far as knowing when veggies are done, sometimes it’s easy enough to tell by the char or noticeable change in color and aroma. If you’re not exactly sure, you can piece the veggies to gauge the texture and tenderness to determine whether it’s cooked to your preference.

Cooking vegetables in batches

If you’d like to give individual attention to veggies, cooking in batches is an ideal option. This helps you to achieve the correct char and tenderness without worrying about plucking certain veggies from skewers or grill baskets to let the others continue cooking.

Group veggies together based on similar cooking times and temperatures. It’s common, for example, to group eggplant, mushrooms, and squash. You can also cook certain veggies on their own, like onions, since they often require continuous rotation.

Techniques and tips by grill type

While grilling has foundational methods and techniques, there are a few tweaks and adjustments you’ll need to make depending on the type of grill you have.

Grilling veggies on a gas grill

When it comes to gas grills, the key to successful veggie grilling boils down to proper heat control. Since you can control the flame with dials, you’re able to make adjustments to maintain temperature — and to control flare-ups. If possible, grill veggies in their own medium-heat zone. Not only does this help maintain temperature, but it also prevents cross-contamination with foods grilled at higher temperatures like meats or seafood.

Grilling veggies on a charcoal grill

Tap into your brick-zoning skills to maximize your veggie grilling experience on charcoal grills. For the most part, batched veggies grill best at medium-high heat. Since many charcoal grill owners are used to assembling two zones — high heat and low heat — it’s recommended to sear veggies in the hot zone and then transfer them to the lower heat one to finish cooking.

Roasting veggies in a Big Green Egg or smoker

It’s best to cook veggies on the top rack of the smoker in a grill pan or basket, and most definitely above any meats or seafood you’re cooking at the same time. This gives them enough distance from the heat source to smoke without burning, plus it’s a great opportunity for the foods below to catch flavorful drippings.

Grilling veggies with cast iron pans

If you’re already a fan of cast iron cooking, you’ll be pleased to know that you can saute veggies with cast iron pans. Set your grill to medium heat, and once it reaches the optimal temperature, place the cast iron pan on it to preheat for five to eight minutes. Add a few tablespoons of butter, toss in the veggies, and let them saute until they reach your preferred tenderness.

Grilling veggies on an electric grill

Perhaps the easiest grilling method is using a nonstick electric grill. Simply spray the grill plates with non-stick spray, then set it to preheat to medium-high. While you’re waiting, prepare your veggies. You can cut them in large, slender pieces or you into one-inch cubes for kebab cooking. Cook time varies with these grills, so follow the cook time guide included with your user manual for reference.

Our favorite grilled veggie recipes

The sky’s the limit when it comes to grilling, so here are some of our favorite pairings of popular summer veggies. For most of these recipes, you can cook them on skewers, in a grill basket, or enveloped in tinfoil.

Classic kebabs: Round up bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and zucchini, and soak skewers for 15 minutes. Chop each veggie into two-inch pieces and toss them in a light coating of olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Deconstructed cucumber-tomato salad: Pick up firm red onions, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, and cut them into uniform pieces for a grill basket. Toss them in a light marinade of red wine vinegar, olive oil, fresh dill, mint, and garlic salt.

Tri-squash delight: Go colorful with yellow squash, summer squash, and zucchini, and dice them in quarter-inch medallions. Add Vidalia onions, chopped in two-inch cubed pieces. Toss veggies in a light coating of olive oil, garlic powder, freshly ground black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg.

Grilled rosemary potatoes and button mushrooms: Parboil halved baby red potatoes. Add potatoes and mushrooms to a bowl and toss in light olive oil with fresh rosemary, salt, and freshly ground pepper.

Tinfoil veggie medley: Slice red peppers, red onions, and carrots into thin, uniform pieces. Grab your favorite marinade (we like garlic teriyaki) and toss the sliced veggies with string beans in a bowl. Transfer the medley into tinfoil, fold it into a packet, and cook for 20 minutes.

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Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Richmond graduation marred by shooter’s faulty programming – Daily Press

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High school graduations are joyous events. Graduating seniors are dressed in that strange looking academic four-cornered cap with a tassel hanging in the front and that weird-looking gown, both in school colors. Some students wear additional capes, medallions and cords depicting special academic accomplishments. There are smiles all around as graduates, family members and friends celebrate one of the first symbols of kids becoming adults and entering the “real world.”

That celebration for Richmond’s Huguenot High School ended in tragedy on June 6 as an 18-year-old graduate was shot and killed outside just 20 minutes after receiving his diploma. Also shot and killed was that student’s 36-year-old stepfather. Five other attendees were shot and one 31-year-old sustained a life-threatening wound but is expected to recover. Ages of the other victims are 14, 32, 55 and 58.

Robert N. Holt is chair of the Franklin City School Board.

A Richmond school board member and friend of mine reported the scene as graduates, teachers, family and friends fled the area. A 9-year-old girl was hit by a car as she and others ran across the street. People fell and others stepped over them, shoes were everywhere, and there was a lot of crying and yelling.

Since the graduation ceremony was held at the Altria Theater near the Virginia Commonwealth University campus in west Richmond, that campus was placed on lockdown. Huguenot’s graduation was scheduled from 4-6 p.m. and Thomas Jefferson High School graduation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m.; that latter graduation was postponed.

Richmond Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras said that “this is supposed to be a joyous day when our kids walk the stage and get their diploma, which is what they all did at Huguenot today. They walked out the doors into their families’ and friends’ arms, taking pictures, and then tragedy struck.”

Kanras added “I’m just tired of seeing people get shot and I beg of the entire community to just stop. The teachers can’t take it, our families can’t take it anymore. I beg of you to stop.”

VCU student Saadat Bahrami was walking nearby headed to the library when he heard the shots. He felt it was a wake-up call and a sign that much more needs to be done to prevent this type of violence and that our priorities may be misplaced.

Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney stated his administration will do everything in its power to make certain justice prevails.

The alleged shooter is 19 years old and believed to be an acquaintance of the 18-year-old victim. He has been arrested and remains in police custody.

Richmond schools have dealt this year with several shootings near school property.  George Wythe High School Principal Kevin Olds stated that “what’s really happening here isn’t starting in the schools. It’s starting in the streets and spilling over into the schools.”

In some ways, human beings are like laptop computers. Both come with basic operating systems for normal and necessary daily functions. Then we load programs into both.  For the laptop, those added programs are applications (apps) that the user wants to perform specialized functions. For the human beings, those loadings come from a multitude of sources — family, schools, colleges, television, churches, social media, gangs and peers, just to name a few.

In the case of the Richmond shooter, some of the systems loaded into his mind told him it was acceptable to take the life of an acquaintance just 20 minutes after that young man received his diploma.

The issue is not the gun; that is an inanimate object incapable of thinking and moving on its own. The real issue is in the mind of the shooter where he determines what is proper and what is not.

Robert N. Holt is chair of the Franklin City School Board.

Dwindling number of physicians puts health care at risk – Daily Press

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While I waited on the telephone to make an appointment at my family physician’s office, I heard the recorded message: “We are no longer accepting new patients and we will no longer have extended hours until 7 p.m. on weekdays. We will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays.” The doctors in this practice were having difficulty recruiting new doctors to join them and were having to make tough decisions to restrict access to needed primary care.

Unfortunately, this is a national problem for the United States and is particularly acute in rural and poor inner-city areas. There is a shortage of adult primary care doctors (family physicians and general internists) as practices close to new patients and have long wait times for appointments. Nearly a third of Americans do not have a source of basic medical care and thus skip needed care or use an expensive urgent care center or emergency department.

Dr. Bob Newman, a University of Virginia Medical School graduate and U.S. Navy veteran, is a clinical professor of family medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk.

Currently, only 12.6% of medical students enter family medicine residencies, according to data from the Society for Teachers of Family Medicine. The 2023 graduating class at Eastern Virginia Medical School had only 5% of medical students entering family medicine training programs (7 students out of 160).

Since family physicians currently comprise half of Virginia’s primary care workforce and provide care to adults and children, the need to train more of them is obvious. The American Academy of Family Physicians set the goal of 25% of U.S. medical school graduates choosing family medicine training by 2030 to meet the primary care health needs of an aging population. Clearly, more needs to be done to meet this goal.

The value of primary care is well known and documented. The Commonwealth Fund compares the health systems of wealthy countries and has shown that systems with at least 50% of doctors in primary care perform much better than in the U.S., which has only 30% of doctors practicing in family medicine, general internal medicine and general pediatrics. States that spend more on primary care have much better health outcomes and much lower costs, according to data from the Patient Centered Primary Care Collaborative.

The 2021 report, “Implementing High-Quality Primary Care: Rebuilding the Foundation of Health Care” from the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine details the value of primary care and outlines strategies to bolster our faltering medical system. Providing a primary care medical home for all Americans and adequate reimbursement for these medical services are the report’s most important recommendations.

Local health systems are eager to hire graduates from the EVMS Family Medicine residency, knowing these doctors are trained in high-value, cost-conscious care. The residency provides some of the doctors to staff local offices, but demand is greater than the supply, particularly as many older doctors are retiring.

As EVMS and Old Dominion University work to merge (“Editorial: Promise of ODU-EVMS merger looms large for Hampton Roads,” June 3), part of the strategic plan should be to increase the number of medical students choosing to train in family medicine or general internal medicine. Loan repayment and forgiveness programs are effective recruitment tools and these programs should be expanded. The most powerful predictor of which students choose primary care is having a credible role model in that discipline with whom they can identify. Supporting those primary care doctors who serve as teachers for medical students should be a high priority. State legislative initiatives to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates and to limit administrative burdens would help make primary care a more attractive choice for medical students.

All of this will require smart strategic planning and coordination with multiple entities, but the goal of ensuring an adequate supply of primary care physicians should be an easily measured outcome. This will be an important investment in the future health of our population and a good way to lower health care costs.

Dr. Bob Newman is a clinical professor of family medicine at EVMS. He is the author of “Patient’s Compass,” which is a guide to navigating the U.S. health care system, available online at yourpatientcompass.com. Email him at [email protected] to order a paper copy. 

Matt Carter speeds to seventh victory of year in Modified Division at Langley Speedway – Daily Press

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On a Saturday night with fireworks at Langley Speedway in Hampton, fans got a familiar sight: Matt Carter in Victory Lane,

Carter re-established his usual stronghold in  the Modified Division, breezing to a 3.5-second triumph over runner-up Ryley Music in a 50-lap race that lasted more than 29 minutes.

DJ Valente placed third, 4.772 seconds behind Carter, who won for the seventh time in races this year.

In other races:

Legends: Tommy Jackson tightened his grip on the points lead, overcoming Devon Courtney by 0.212 of a second in a 25-lap race that took more than 35 minutes. Charlie Beals placed third, 988-thousandths of a second behind Jackson. Eight of the 17 starters finished on the lead lap.

Virginia Mini Cup: Tyler Warriner zoomed to a 25-lap victory in less than 8 1/2 minutes, beating Noah Matthews by 2.776 seconds. John Hager was third in the field of nine, 4.143 seconds behind Warriner.

Virginia Sprint Car Series: Jerald Harris took the checkered flag in a 13-driver, 25-lap race. Chris Humblet was the runner-up, while Matthew Leach took third.

Bandolero: Sarah Whitesell edged points leader Brian Rundstrom Jr. by 240-thousandths of a second in a 15-lap race that lasted almost 13 minutes, but the results were under review late Saturday night. All 11 drivers finished on the lead lap.

If the results stand, Whitesell will end Rundstrom’s four-race, season-opening winning streak.

Third-place Bryson Nichols was 0.479 of a second off the lead, and fourth-place Nevaeh Edwards was 918-thousandths behind Whitesell.

Saturday’s results, with car numbers in parentheses.

Modified 50: (15 starters); 1. (78) Matt Carter; 2. (47) Ryley Music; 3. (18) DJ Valente; 4. (0) Chase Burrows; 5. (07) Shane Zupo.

Legends 25: (17 starters); 1. (17) Tommy Jackson; 2. (17) Devon Courtney; 3. (5b) Charlie Beals; 4. (80) Jake Harberts; 5. (3) Trey Williams.

Bandolero 15 (under review Saturday night): (11 starters); 1. (21) Sarah Whitesell; 2. (88) Brian Rundstrom Jr.; 3. (80) Bryson Nichols; 4. (02) Nevaeh Edwards; 5. (18) Tristan Burnelli.

Virginia Mini Cup 25: (9 starters); 1. (12) Tyler Warriner; 2. (11) Noah Matthews; 3. (22) John Hager; 4. (7) Nate Thomas; 5. (33) Harley Hatten.

Virginia Sprint Car Series: (13 starters); 1. (9) Jerald Harris; 2. (20) Chris Humblet; 3. (11) Matthew Leach; 4. (54) Matt Mullins; 5. (45) Chase Burrow.

Tides get one strike away from victory but see three-game winning streak end – Daily Press

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The Norfolk Tides suffered a rare heartbreaking loss on a warm Saturday night, falling 3-2 in 10 innings to Charlotte after being within one strike of victory before 8,110 at Harbor Park.

The defeat ended the Tides’ three-game winning streak and spoiled an excellent Norfolk home debut by Chesapeake’s Garrett Stallings.

The former Grassfield High and Tennessee Volunteers right-hander, in his second Triple-A start, struck out nine, walked none and gave up four hits in six innings.

The Tides (51-27, 3-1 in the International League’s second half) led 2-1 as reliever Logan Gillaspie (1-1) retired the first two Knights to bat in the ninth inning. But on an 0-2 count, Nate Mondou doubled to right field, and Erik Gonzalez followed with another double to right to tie the score at 2.

Norfolk loaded the bases with one out in the bottom of the ninth, but reliever Edgar Navarro (2-1) struck out Josh Lester and induced a groundout to third base by Joey Ortiz.

In the top of the 10th, Charlotte pinch hitter Victor Reyes grounded a single to center field, scoring designated runner Sebastian Rivero from second. In the bottom of the 10th, 2016 MLB All-Star Alex Colome retired Norfolk 1-2-3 to end the game, preventing Ortiz from scoring as the designated runner.

Until Gonzalez’s double, neither team had scored since the first inning, thanks to solid starts by Stallings and Charlotte lefty Nate Fisher, who also lasted six innings. Fisher gave up nine hits but no walks.

The Knights (36-43, 1-3 in the second half) went ahead 1-0 with two out in the first as Oscar Colas socked his third home run in two days, a blast to right-center.

In the bottom of the first, Ryan Mountcastle — still on a rehabilitation assignment from Baltimore as he recovers from vertigo — singled with one out and scored on Lester’s double to center. Plate umpire Anthony Perez ejected Charlotte pitching coach Donnie Veal before Ortiz lined a single to center to score Lester for a 2-1 Norfolk lead.

The six-game series continues with a 6:35 game Sunday night.

Bill Bramhall: Circular Logic

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Cartoon by Bill Bramhall for July 2, 2023.

General Daily Insight for July 02, 2023 – Daily Press

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General Daily Insight for July 02, 2023

Even powerful courses of action can be diverted. As the sensitive Moon empowers bold Mars, we’re gifted the confidence to break through any uncertainty or fear. Balanced Venus then squares off with shocking Uranus at 10:34 am EDT, knocking us off course and leading us astray if we aren’t careful. Finally, the Moon moves into serious Capricorn to give us a reality check and swiftly bring us back on task. We don’t have to wallow in regret, only learn from any mistakes we’ve made.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

You’re able to break through any present limitations. Even when you once felt unable to keep going before, a burst of energy or determination could be right around the corner, ready to boost you past whatever ceiling you had imagined for yourself. On the other hand, pushing through can come with some subsequent exhaustion, or highlight new limitations that hinder you, which can be discouraging. Instead of letting any fresh set of obstacles bring you down, congratulate yourself for how far you’ve come.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

You might be tackling difficult subjects with family members today. They may not be receptive to hearing something about themselves that’s less than savory, but these subjects could reach a breaking point if you don’t discuss them soon. Some situations can be given time to heal, but others require a reality check to avoid continuing down a negative road. Whether or not they decide to open their ears and listen to you is up to them, but your truth may need to be spoken.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Saying things out loud today can increase your internal motivation. When you don’t make the push to tell other people about your ideas, it’s all too easy for them to remain just that — formless ideas. However, once you talk them over with someone you trust, they can take shape more definitively. A peer might even have some creative input to give. At least put your ideas in a journal or on a vision board to allow them to become more tangible.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Growing up can happen at any time, no matter how old you are right now. You might normally shy away from taking on tasks requiring long-term commitment or projects needing consistent effort, as you may have felt overloaded by life already. That said, you also know that without your effort, the future that you’re trying to manifest won’t take place. Contemplate reaching out for help from someone who wants to reach a similar goal. You don’t have to go it alone, Cancer.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

You might have to conjure something out of thin air today. Your self-sufficient and resourceful side could come out in a situation where there is a need for leadership, right when you weren’t expecting it. While it may be surprising that someone else is calling on you for aid at that moment, your instincts will likely kick in and allow you to do your thing with grace. After you’ve helped the situation reach a more positive conclusion, it’s back to business as usual.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

A spiritual block may be moments from dissolving. A possible grudge, whether held against you or by you, is finally ready to heal — if you’re ready to let it. Recovery can come through dialoguing with whoever you’re worried about. Closure may not be able to come for every pain point, but simply talking about it and hearing what the other person has to say can make a world of difference. Saying the difficult words should let you move on with a more positive outlook.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Friendships can currently reinvigorate you. You might have been struggling with isolation or spending too much time spiraling inward, but a pal can bring you out of this funk with a surprise invitation. You’re allowed to feel taken aback and decide not to go, since you didn’t get much notice, but you’re likely to have a better outcome to the day if you take the opportunity to focus on your connections. The time you share with them can revitalize your perspective on your life.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

You’re now able to make positive decisions for your future. Whether you’re investing in a large purchase that increases your overall security or setting up back-ups for your backup plans, you’re making decisions that the future you will be grateful for. The potential pitfalls could arrive if you start listening to other people, especially nosy acquaintances who are trying to sell you something that you didn’t originally plan to buy. Stick with what you initially decided on — don’t be swayed.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

A step outside your comfort zone could make you feel more like yourself. You may have recently been staying inside your home or your workplace to be responsible, without much time for adventure. Luckily for you, adventure is still out there, and now might be the time to take advantage of it! Whether you fly to an exotic island or just drive to the next town over, find a way to change up your scenery and re-energize your sense of self.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

You have to set your own rules at present. As you mature, you might discover that you’ve swung in one direction or the other, with one branch growing toward a life of constant work and anxiety, and the other wilting into stagnancy and lack of motivation. Neither would be good for you in the long term! There may not be any authority figure to tell you how to manage your life in a functional, stable way. Be your own boss by setting yourself up for success.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Your loved ones might try to be helpful today. While you may be met with encouragement and positive words of affirmation from the people who love you, or even gifts that are meant to uplift you, it might not be totally helpful. Good intentions can’t make up for a lack of understanding regarding what would really support you. It’s the thought that counts, so thank them, but later on, consider gently showing them your needs so that they can better know your wishes.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Current life could feel particularly repetitive. You’re working to ensure that you continue down a good path, but the end result that you’re trying to reach is still far away. Distractions abound as well, enticing you to leave your positive habits behind and go back to past habits that aren’t so beneficial. No one’s perfect, so don’t beat yourself up if you fall short of your standards! Pick yourself back up and try, try again. If you need a little help, ask for it.