Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Showing posts with label community. Show all posts

Empowering Youth: The BCC Initiative (International English Edition)

The BULAWAYO Vendors and Traders Association along with the local government have teamed up to equip young people with technical abilities aimed at initiating self-reliance ventures.

The Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association Executive Director, Michael Ndiweni, stated that this program aimed to remove young people from the streets.

"We have involved our local authorities because we have an initiative where young individuals aged between 18 and 24 will receive education on solar panel installation and home electrical work, equipping them with essential skills to improve their job prospects," he stated.

Ndiweni stated that the local administration had provided vocational training centers for this program.

"We have approximately 150 young individuals eligible to participate in this program, and the local authorities have allocated three vocational training centers for us located in Mzilikazi, Makokoba, and Pumula," he stated.

By early next week, the students could begin learning new skills since our orientation concluded at the end of last week.

Ndiweni said thousands of youths were wallowing in poverty without any source of income.

"We plan to keep collaborating with our local authorities to carry out initiatives that bring progress to our city, just like when we previously worked alongside them to construct the Nkulumane marketplace, an endeavor aimed at boosting economic development," he stated.

Councillor Adrian Moyo from Ward 2 praised the program as an essential step in combating drug and substance abuse.

"The solar initiative program will enable our local government to undertake socially responsible projects for the community, thereby equipping young people with skills and engaging them constructively, thus steering them clear of drugs and substance misuse," he stated.

Moyo indicated that this initiative would equip young people with necessary skills and provide them with improved methods for earning an income, thus fostering development within the city.

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Local Non-Profit Aims to Tackle Food Insecurity in Upcoming Draft

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) -- An upcoming local nonprofit initiative seeks to create an impact during the NFL Draft by salvaging surplus food that would otherwise be discarded and channeling these resources toward aiding individuals in the region who are facing difficulties securing their next meal.

If "Rooted In" Inc. has a single aim when the NFL Draft kicks off on April 24, it is to ensure that nobody worries about where their next meal will come from.

"We aim for visitors to comprehend the issue of food insecurity affecting individuals in Wisconsin when tourists come here. This understanding might inspire them to return to their own communities and take action towards addressing this problem," explained Selena Darrow, the Executive Director and Founder of Rooted In Incorporated.

On Draft day, this not-for-profit group will organize their Local Lineup: Draft Day Food Fest within the premises of the Bellin Health Titletown Sports Medicine and Orthopedics Clinic’s parking area.

You'll discover 10 local food craftsmen along with five food trucks, all set up so that any leftover provisions not utilized by the Green Bay Packers daily during the Draft can be distributed as planned. Any excess food collected at the event will be donated to community organizations and placed inside communal refrigerators for those in need.

Jeanette Knill, who volunteers, mentions that this type of work gives you the feeling of genuinely making a difference.

"As a volunteer, it gives me a sense of fulfillment knowing that I'm making a difference in someone's life, and simultaneously assures them that members of our community genuinely care about their well-being. Hopefully, once they're no longer facing such challenges, they will also choose to contribute," stated Knill.

A phase in somebody's life that Selena Darrow knows well.

I spent two decades as a single mother and depended on social service programs to assist me in becoming self-sufficient so that I could contribute to my community," stated Darrow. "People turn to food pantries out of necessity. Nobody chooses to rely on these services.

Almost two years since it began, this organization has contributed more than 14,000 pounds of food to various communities across Brown County.

Junior League Transforms BPD Locker Room Into a Haven, Honoring Fallen Officers

The unveiling of the revamped women’s locker room at the Beaumont Police Department turned out to be an emotional affair, marking its transformation into a tranquil haven called The Legacy Lounge.

Due to the efforts of the Junior League of Beaumont, the department’s old 1970s-era locker room has been entirely refurbished.

Once a bare room adorned with brick walls, metal lockers, and wooden panels, this area has transformed into a haven exclusively for women officers.

They have thoroughly updated and renovated a space originally constructed in the '70s that still felt like it belonged to that era," stated Officer Haley Morrow. "It used to be nothing more than a brick-walled chamber with some lockers inside.

Currently, the area features new wallpaper, comfortable seating, yoga mats, and a marble vanity, establishing a soothing ambiance for officers to rejuvenate.

"There's a couch, a table, and even yoga mats," Morrow described, highlighting the additional features.

The renovation initiative was led by the Junior League of Beaumont, with their members gathering funds and completing an Amazon wishlist with assistance from the local community.

"They entered the neighborhood and encouraged our community members to contribute to an Amazon wishlist," Morrow mentioned additionally.

At the core of this initiative is a deep sense of commitment. This space pays tribute to two deceased officers, Lisa Beaulieu and Sheena Dae Yarbrough-Powell, which gave additional significance to the ceremony revealing it.

"We genuinely thank the Junior League of Beaumont for refurbishing this space specifically for Lisa and Sheena. I am certain they will adore this room and have a great time in it," stated Samantha, who is a relative of one of the deceased officers.

Sheila Yarbrough-Powell, the mother of Officer Yarbrough-Powell, expressed her thankfulness and emotions during the ceremony.

“I believe women tend to absorb more emotions, so having a space where they can relax seems fantastic. It exceeded my expectations,” stated Yarbrough-Powell.

The Legacy Lounge serves not just as a practical area but also as a symbol of respect, remembrance, and support for the female officers serving in the Beaumont Police Department.

Friends Mourn Greensboro Woman Killed in Tragic Murder-Suicide

GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) — At the Burn Boot Camp located on North Elm Street in Greensboro, Thalia Santiago and her friends formed strong connections as they worked out together while juggling roles as dedicated mothers.

Currently, her friends are banding together to back her young children.

"I've never had a friendship end like this," stated Courtenay Mossa, who is friends with Santiago.

When talking about the instant she learned that her friend Santiago had passed away, Mossa’s voice trembled and tears welled up in her eyes.

"I think the initial feeling is one of shock. Simultaneously, I experience surges of anger and sorrow," Mossa stated.

Santiago, Mossa, and Leah Hulsman connected while exercising at Burn Boot Camp.

As a close friend of Santiago, Hulsman empathizes with the suffering Mossa is experiencing. This understanding has led the gym members to join forces and organize a fundraising initiative for her young kids.

"Simply attempting to find methods where we can contribute and support her family while respecting everyone's limits. It's an incredibly emotionally charged period for all," Hulsman stated.

The chemistry between these three was evident from their initial meeting.

“There is a day care room, and both of us were bringing our small children almost every day. Our kids hit it off. They played together often,” Mossa said.

Before long, their camaraderie extended beyond the gym.

"We regard it as part of the Burn family," Hulsman stated.

The duration spent with Santiago was too brief.

The Greensboro Police Department reports that she was fatally shot by Ines Dokou, who later took his own life with the same weapon on March 30.

Santiago’s acquaintances claim that they were in a relationship, and the couple had two children together.

Santiago's friends have pledged to support the two children.

"I hope they truly understand her strength and dedication, as she did absolutely everything for those children and loved them immensely," Mossa stated.

The fundraising campaign will run through April 15.

Should you wish to donate items such as clothing, toys, or books, the designated drop-off point is located at Burn Boot Camp on North Elm Street in Greensboro. This site accepts donations from Monday through Friday, with hours of operation being 5 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., and again from 4:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This content must not be republished, rebroadcast, rewritten, or distributed without permission.

To get the most recent updates on news, weather, sports, and live streams, visit FOX8 WGHP.

Thai Restaurant Faces Backlash for Controversial 'Skinny Discount' Amid Body-Shaming Accusations

A restaurant in Chiang Mai, Thailand, has sparked public outrage with a contentious discount offer that critics claim promotes body shaming.

Chiang Mai Breakfast World provided discounts of up to 20% to patrons who could successfully navigate through progressively tighter spaces between vertical metal bars. Thaiger reported.

The campaign faced significant backlash across social media platforms following its coverage by prominent British travel bloggers through an Instagram video posted on April 6. This clip quickly gained traction, amassing upwards of 58,000 likes along with more than 2,000 comments. The Straits Times reported.

A picture taken from an Instagram clip by @amonthego15 captures a scene of a woman attempting to maneuver between metal bars marked with discount prices at a dining establishment in Thailand.

Users of social media swiftly criticized the eatery's unconventional promotional strategy.

A comment from Instagram user Jennifer_pwnnington read, "This represents some of the most severe cases of body shaming I've seen," whereas another commenter named iamqfrost remarked, "People who find such content amusing can expect their own reserved spot in hell."

Kardinal Suharyo Ingat Mgr Petrus Turang: Sang Gembala yang Terus Memperkuat Hingga Akhir Hari

DIWIDA, JAKARTA- Uskup Keuskupan Agung Jakarta Kardinal Igantius Suharyo telah mengenal mendiang Mgr. Petrus Turang, Uskup Emeritus Keuskupan Agung Kupang itu sejak tahun 1977 ketika keduanya kuliah di Roma.

"Saya kenal bapa Uskup Turang ini sejak tahun 1977. Dulu kami belajar bersama-sama, beliau belajar ilmu sosiologi Roma. Dan pulang sebagai bagian hidupnya diabdikan untuk mengembangkan masyarakat,"kata Kardinal Suharyo, Jumat (4/4/2025) usai mengantar Presiden Prabowo yang datang melayat mendiang Mgr. Petrus Turang di Gereja Katedral.

Kardinal Suharyo mengatakan Mgr Petrus Turang pernah menjabat sekertaris ekskutif Konferensi Waligereja Indonesia (KWI) di Komisi Pengembangan Sosial Ekonomi (PSE).

"Jadi beliau menjadi sekertaris eksekutif di KWI. Namanya Komisi PSE, tugasnya adalah berkeliling di seluruh Indonesia untuk berusaha mencari jalan pemberdayaan masyarakat,"ungkapnya.

Uskup Turang, sapaan akrab kardinal terhadap mendiang, diangkat menjadi uskup bersamanya pada tahun 1997. Tugas Mgr. Petrus Turang  di KWI dalam pemberdayaan umat.

Ia melihat imam asal Manado ini mengabadikan hidupnya untuk pemberdayaan umat hingga akhir hayatnya. Menjalankan semboyannya ketika menjadi uskup ''Seperti Yesus yang Berkeliling Sambil Berbuat Baik''.

"Beliau dalam KWI mempunyai tugas seperti ini, jadi pemberdayaan pemberdayaan umat. Semboyan beliau ketika menjadi uskup adalah ''Seperti Yesus yang Berkeliling Sambil Berbuat Baik'' jadi itulah yang dikerjakan sampai akhir hidupnya,"kenang Kardinal Suharyo.

Kardinal Suharyo juga menceritakan sempat bertemu Mgr Petrus Turang saat menjalani masa rawat. Ia mengatakan, beliau masih berbicara mengenai tugasnya hingga kemiskinan yang menjadi tantangan yang sangat kuat.

"Ketika saya bertamu kepada beliau seminggu lalu, ia masih berkata-kata dengan kesadaran separuhnya tentang tanggung jawab tersebut dan bagaimana kemiskian tetap menjadi suatu tantangan besar. Ini sesuai dengan komitmenannya sebagai seorang imam, uskup, serta warganegara Indonesia dalam upaya membentuk masyarakat Indonesia lebih baik lagi," jelasnya.

Di samping itu, Kardinal Suharyo menyatakan bahwa hadirnya Presiden Prabhowo untuk berduka atas meninggalnya Mgr Petrus Turang disebabkan oleh adanya ikatan keluarga.

"Pak Presiden Prabowo telah lama kenal dengan Mgr Petrus Turang berkat adanya ikatan keluarga. Oleh sebab itu, ia sempat mampir untuk menjenguknya walaupun dalam keadaan sibuk dan hanya singgah selama beberapa menit saja," tutupnya. (KAN)

Berita DIWIDALainnya di Googel News

Penrith Stun Parramatta Before Title Defence Showdown

For years considered the territory of their longtime rivals in Parramatta, Penrith players have now been advised to adopt CommBank Stadium as their own home ground as they aim for an unprecedented fifth consecutive premiership title.

Moreover, the club has taken extraordinary steps to ensure that the Panthers players feel at ease in what used to be hostile ground for the upcoming two years, during which time their new stadium will be constructed.

At the conclusion of their pre-season training camp, the athletes were placed right in the heart of Parramatta Park and informed that reaching CommBank Stadium was their ultimate objective.

They were instructed to finish a boxing course, accomplish a 10-kilometre run, and carry their equipment to their new residence.

Over there, they participated in a smoking ceremony on Burramattagal land and were reminded of the significance of the location and greeted warmly.

The players proceeded to explore their new sheds prior to strolling barefoot onto the pitch, selecting a blade of grass and imagining themselves competing there.

The Panthers aim to turn their homecoming into an unforgettable celebration as they welcome the Sydney Roosters on Friday evening.

"We understand that's our home now for the next two seasons," Penrith captain Isaah Yeo told aynur1015.blogspot.com.

It's crucial to become acquainted with all aspects and recognize that there will be substantial effort invested at that venue.

Ultimately, everything will pay off since we now have a completely new stadium in Penrith.

Despite all the focus on players like Jarome Luai and Nathan Cleary, or James Fisher-Harris and Moses Leota, one significant connection severed this year has been between the Panthers and Penrith Park.

Over the course of Penrith's five-year reign, they have suffered defeats at their home ground only seven times.

Whenever they were close to their best lineup with Cleary and Luai in the attacking positions, the record was 32 wins to 4 losses.

"Ivanka Cleary from Penrith mentioned that they have quite an impressive track record at BlueBet, which they really enjoy, however, they also maintain strong performances at various other locations too," he stated.

It began way back in 2021 during our time in Queensland due to the pandemic, where we found ourselves playing at Suncorp Stadium almost every week.

We had some successes there as well, making it yet another area of achievement.

Approximately 15,000 people are anticipated for Friday evening, marking a smaller turnout compared to all previous figures recorded at Penrith Park after the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

However, Penrith is well aware that shifting 35 kilometers to the east could serve as a means to make things feel distinct come 2025, just as it has been pivotal during each season of their celebrated four-peat championship run.

"Surely it does," Yeo stated.

I don't believe this constitutes a hardship. However, it could potentially be less one-sided for Penrith when considering supporters and the atmosphere.

Whenever you have the chance to experience settings different from those at home, I believe it will prove beneficial over time.

The best cities to live in Tennessee and raise a family

Choosing the right city to raise a family requires careful consideration of various factors such as safety, education, job opportunities, and overall quality of life. Tennessee, known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming communities, offers several cities that stand out as ideal places for families. So, which are the best cities to live in Tennessee and raise a family?

Tennessee offers diverse cities and towns ideal for families looking to settle down. From the bustling streets of Nashville to the scenic views of Chattanooga, each city has its unique charm and advantages.

10 best cities to live in Tennessee

This list of best cities to live in Tennessee was compiled using data from Niche and New Home Source. Our analysis is based on various factors, including quality of life, crime rates, healthcare access, and overall community well-being. So, which are the best cities in Tennessee?

City Quality of Life (Index Score up to 10)
Chattanooga 7.5/10
Knoxville 7.3/10
Memphis 7.1/10
Nashville 6.7/10
Franklin 6.6/10
Jackson 6.4/10
Hendersonville 6.3/10
Collierville 6.2/10
Clarksville 6.1/10
Union City 6.0/10

1. Chattanooga

  • Area code: 423
  • Demonym: Chattanoogan
  • Elevation: 676 ft (206 m)
  • Incorporated: 1839

Chattanooga has been acknowledged as the top location to reside in Tennessee, placing 27th nationwide in the United States. This recognition highlights its remarkable metamorphosis from being known as "the filthiest city in America" into a dynamic center with an invigorated downtown area.

The city thrives due to a robust communal spirit, beautiful natural landscapes, and a cost of living that falls beneath the national average. Key elements like high quality of life, good value, attractiveness, and favorable employment opportunities contributed significantly to securing this ranking.

2. Knoxville

  • Area code: 865
  • Demonym: Knoxvillian
  • Founded: 1791
  • Incorporated: 1815

Knoxville ranks among the best parts of Tennessee to live in. The city is praised for its affordability, with housing costs below the national average, making it a great value for residents.

Knoxville offers a vibrant community with diverse cultural and recreational activities, including proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains. Additionally, its accessibility to major highways and a youthful population influenced by the University of Tennessee further enhance its appeal as a desirable place to live.

3. Memphis

  • Demonym: Memphian
  • Elevation: 337 ft (103 m)
  • Founded: May 22, 1819
  • Incorporated: December 19, 1826
  • Named for: Memphis, Egypt

Memphis is among the best areas in Tennessee to live, primarily due to its affordability and community atmosphere. Although it has a lower quality of life score than other cities, Memphis offers a cost-effective living environment, with housing costs significantly lower than the national average.

Memphis's cost of living is approximately 13% lower than the national average. For example, food prices are generally lower, with grocery costs about 8% less than the national average. The city fosters a small-town feel, which appeals to families seeking a close-knit community.

4. Nashville

  • Area code: 615
  • Demonym: Nashvillian
  • Elevation: 554 ft (169 m)
  • Founded: 1779
  • Named for: Francis Nash

Among the most favored cities in Tennessee, Nashville takes a prominent position. It stands as the 50th most notable out of the leading 150 large American urban areas. The city known as Music City excelled particularly in its bustling culinary and musical landscapes along with an expanding employment sector.

In contrast to many other urban areas, Nashville experienced a decline in rankings due to its unaffordability, scoring only 6.7 out of 10 points. According to research from 2024, an individual would require an annual income of $99,757 to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in the city.

In order to buy an average-priced house in Nashville, households require a yearly pre-tax income exceeding $100,000. Nonetheless, the city presents a comparatively manageable cost of living when contrasted with other expanding urban centers.

5. Franklin

  • ZIP Code(s): 37064, 37065, 37067, 37068, 37069
  • Area code: 615
  • Elevation: 643 ft

Franklin is the nicest city in Tennessee to live in due to its unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Located 20 miles from Nashville, it offers a rich historical backdrop alongside a vibrant economy bolstered by major employers like Nissan and Mars Petcare.

The city boasts highly-rated schools, a low crime rate, and numerous recreational options, making it ideal for families and the safest city to live in Tennessee. Franklin's picturesque downtown, filled with Victorian architecture, hosts various cultural events and festivals.

6. Jackson

  • Area code: 731
  • Elevation: 410 ft
  • Founded: 1821
  • Named for: Andrew Jackson

Jackson, Tennessee, is considered one of the best places to live in the state due to its rich history, affordable cost of living, and vibrant community. The city features numerous cultural attractions, including museums and parks, which enhance the quality of life for residents.

Jackson offers a diverse job market with healthcare, manufacturing, and education opportunities, making it economically viable. The neighbourhoods are characterised by friendly atmospheres and strong community ties, while the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape provides ample outdoor activities.

7. Hendersonville

  • Elevation: 640 m
  • Area code: 828
  • Incorporated: 1847

Hendersonville boasts of its strong community, excellent schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. Known as "The City by the Lake," it offers outdoor activities like fishing and boating on Old Hickory Lake.

The city has top-ranked schools, including Merrol Hyde Magnet School, and a low unemployment rate of 4.5%. Job growth is projected at 14% by 2025. Additionally, its proximity to Nashville provides residents easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a suburban feel.

8. Collierville

  • Population: 51,594 (2022)
  • Area code: 901
  • Elevation: 381 ft

Collierville may not be the wealthiest city in Tennessee. It is among the most popular Tennessee cities. This is due to its high quality of life, safe neighbourhoods, excellent schools, and various amenities.

The town is often highlighted for its family-friendly environment and community-focused living, making it appealing to residents of all ages. Furthermore, the cost of living in Collierville is relatively moderate compared to larger urban areas, with affordable home prices averaging around $468,200.

The town's affordability and amenities make it an attractive option for families and individuals looking to balance cost and quality of life.

9. Clarksville

  • Area code: 931
  • Elevation: 476 ft
  • Founded: 1784

Clarksville is categorised as a "New Boomtown" by Money Magazine, highlighting its rapid population growth and job opportunities. The city is experiencing significant investments from major companies.

The job market is projected to grow by 9% over the next four years, twice the national average. Fort Campbell, one of the largest military bases in the U.S., also bolsters the local economy, providing numerous job opportunities and attracting military families.

Housing in Clarksville remains relatively affordable compared to national averages. The median home price is approximately $325,000.

10. Union City

  • Area code: 731
  • Established: 1854
  • Named for: Local railroad junction

Union City, Tennessee, is considered one of the best places to live in the state, particularly because of its relatively low cost of living.

The median home value is $135,400, significantly lower than the national median of $281,900. Also, Union City is a good place for families, with above-average public schools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Union City offers a peaceful and quiet lifestyle at a slower pace than bigger cities. It has a sparse suburban feel.

Wrapping up

The best cities to live in Tennessee and raise a family include Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis, Nashville, Franklin, Jackson, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, Collierville, Clarksville, and Union City. These cities stand out for their family-friendly environments, boasting top-rated schools and low crime rates.

Blog.Diwida.co.ke shared an article about the most dangerous cities in Texas to live in. Despite its strong economy, driven by industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, and agriculture, Texas faces challenges such as income inequality and limited access to healthcare and education

Some cities struggle with high violent crime rates, influenced by poverty, gang activity, and the availability of firearms. So, which cities are dangerous in Texas? Find out here.

Camfed Ghana Empowers Women at Yong Dakpemyili Sensitization Event

By Comfort Sena Fetrie-Akagbor

On March 15, the Camfed Ghana Association (CAMA) organized a community awareness event focused on empowering women and promoting girls' education in Yong Dakpemyili, a neighborhood near Tamale.

This was a key component of this year's International Women's Day festivities.

Mr. Inusah Iddrisu, who serves as the Principal Investigator for the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, addressed those present at the event and encouraged women to take up significant positions to foster community growth.

He called upon community members to steer clear of all forms of gender stereotypes, particularly those targeting women and girls, and encouraged traditional and religious leaders to advocate for the education of the girl child as a means to enhance their well-being.

Mr. Sumaila Alhassan, who leads the Parents Support Group, urged mothers and fathers not to overload their daughters with housework once they came home from school.

Miss Ernestina Brenya, the Chairperson of CAMFED Association in Tamale, emphasized CAMA's contribution to advancing women's growth and girl's education.

She praised women for their efforts in enhancing community development and urged them to keep up their role as a supporting network in advancing girls' education.

GNA

EA/CA

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