Julia Bouwsma, librarian at Webster Library for nearly a decade, spearheads numerous initiatives, including expanded programming, a digital catalog system, and community-focused resources like a 24/7 food pantry. Submitted photo KINGFIELD — For nearly a decade, Julia Bouwsma has directed the Webster Library, transforming it into a vital community hub while also serving as Maine’s Poet Laureate , a role she was appointed to in 2021. Bouwsma is the sixth person to hold the title, following Stuart Kestenbaum, Wesley McNair, Betsy Sholl, Baron Wormser and Kate Barnes. “Webster Library is a small nonprofit with limited resources, but we are always adapting and extremely committed to growing and changing to meet the evolving needs of our community,” Bouwsma said. Under her leadership, the library transitioned from a paper card catalog to a digital system, expanded its operating hours, and introduced enhanced programming for adults and children. A weekly tech-help drop-in program is among its most popular offerings, held Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. “This program is part of the Greater Franklin Digital Literacy Initiative, which is a collaboration between Greater Franklin Economic and Community Development, Franklin County Adult Education and Spruce Mountain Adult Education,” Bouwsma said. “We are delighted to be a host site for this wonderful program and encourage everyone in our community to come visit us for assistance with technology support and skills.” The library is also a valuable resource for homeschool families, offering access to its collection, interlibrary loans and printing services. Bouwsma encouraged homeschool families to reach out directly for support. “We invite any homeschooling families in the Kingfield area to reach out to us directly about your programming or materials needs, and we will do our best to try to accommodate,” she said. For young readers, Hank the therapy dog provides a unique opportunity to practice literacy skills in a judgment-free environment. “Hank is the newest therapy dog to regularly visit Webster Library, but we’ve been offering this program for a few years now,” Bouwsma said. “It’s a great chance for beginning readers to practice their reading skills by reading to a nonjudgmental canine audience [who is also very soft and enjoys getting some pats along with hearing a story].” “Hank visits the library for an hour several times a month,” she continued. “Visits are always announced in the Webster Library Facebook group, and patrons young and old can come to the library and read him a book or just spend a little time with him. Hank is calm and sweet and always eager for some love or a cookie!” The annual Letters to Santa event Dec. 15 brought holiday cheer to families, with activities including holiday stories, crafts and letter writing with a special mailbox connecting to the North Pole. Bouwsma said they provide the materials for writing a letter to Santa, as well as a special mailbox with direct access to the North Pole. seen here Feb. 16 in 2022: Julia Bouwsma, Maine’s Poet Laureate, at Webster Library where she works as the library director, Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer Bouwsma emphasized the library’s role as a welcoming space for the entire community, particularly during colder months. “Our library is very warm and cozy, has a lovely gas fireplace and we are able to provide games, puzzles, coloring supplies, and coffee/tea,” she said. Residents are welcome to stay as long as they need during the library’s hours. Volunteer efforts are crucial to maintaining the library’s services and upkeep, Bouwsma said, noting the importance of community involvement. “As a small nonprofit library, we love our volunteers and will take all the help we can get; with everything from programming to yard and building maintenance!” she said Currently, the library is seeking donations for its food pantry and preparing for a January calendar raffle fundraiser. “We have some amazing prizes on offer [everything from cash to gift certificates for local restaurants to firewood to water skiing lessons], and we are so grateful for the many businesses and individuals who have donated to make this raffle possible,” Bouwsma said. Looking ahead, the library is developing a strategic plan to guide its growth over the next few years. “As part of this process, we will be offering a survey in the coming weeks to collect community feedback and help us understand how we can best serve our community going forward,” she said. Through her work as Poet Laureate and librarian, Bouwsma continues to enrich the cultural and educational life of Kingfield. “One of the really special things about Maine is its proliferation of small libraries,” she said. “Each one is special and unique and in many ways, they really are the hearts of our small towns.” We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use . More information is found on our FAQs . You can modify your screen name here . Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve. Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe . Questions? Please see our FAQs . Your commenting screen name has been updated. Send questions/comments to the editors. « Previousjmnl168 。

WBLA: What you need to know as REG, APR carry Rwandan flag in Dakar

Crop Protection Chemicals Market Growth Drivers, Latest Trends, Opportunities, Challenges, Recent Developments, Key Segments, Regional Insights, and Revenue Forecast 12-19-2024 11:48 PM CET | Arts & Culture Press release from: ABNewswire MarketsandMarkets� Crop Protection Chemicals Market by Type (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides & Bactericides), Origin (Synthetic & Biopesticides), Form, Mode of Application (Foliar, Seed Treatment, Soil Treatment), Crop Type and Region - Global Forecast to 2029 The global crop protection chemicals market [ https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/crop-protection-chemicals-market-worth-101-0-billion-by-2029--exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302181635.html ] is expected to grow from USD 79.3 billion in 2024 to USD 101.0 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.0%. Climate change is altering weather patterns, resulting in new and more persistent pest and disease threats. For example, warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are expanding the range of pests like the Fall Armyworm, which has caused widespread crop damage in Africa and Asia. These emerging threats drive the demand for crop protection chemicals to safeguard agricultural yields. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), 20-40% of global crop production is lost annually due to pests, emphasizing the need for effective crop protection. Governments worldwide are supporting the agricultural sector with policies and subsidies, such as India's Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), which provides insurance to farmers against crop loss from pests and diseases, indirectly promoting the use of crop protection chemicals. Additionally, regulatory frameworks ensure the safe and effective use of these chemicals, fostering their adoption. Image: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Images/crop-protection-chemicals-market.webp Crop Protection Chemicals Market Drivers [ https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/08/15/2931023/0/en/Crop-Protection-Chemicals-Market-Size-Share-and-Global-Forecasts.html]: Increasing Food Security Needs for a Growing Population As the global population rises, food demand is also increasing, necessitating higher agricultural productivity and efficiency. Crop protection chemicals are essential for maximizing yields by protecting crops from pests, diseases, and weeds, which can cause significant losses. Ensuring a stable food supply is crucial for addressing food security challenges, and the use of crop protection chemicals helps enhance crop resilience and productivity. This growing need for increased agricultural output to feed the population is driving growth and innovation in the crop protection chemicals market. Crop Protection Chemicals Market Opportunities [ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/crop-protection-chemicals-market-size-share-industry-overview-scott-ubfaf/]: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers significant opportunities for the crop protection chemicals market by promoting a balanced, sustainable approach to pest control. IPM combines chemical, biological, cultural, and physical methods, advocating for the limited use of chemicals alongside other control strategies to minimize environmental impact and prevent pest resistance. This approach is fostering the development of environmentally friendly and targeted chemical products that align with IPM principles, creating avenues for innovation in the market. Companies are increasingly focusing on formulating new products that meet the demand for sustainable and effective pest management solutions. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=380 Seed Treatment Segment Expected to Grow the Fastest Seed treatment, which involves applying crop protection chemicals to seeds before planting, aims to protect them from pests, diseases, and other stressors during germination and early growth stages. This method offers several advantages, including targeted application, efficient use of chemicals, and minimal environmental impact compared to traditional spraying methods. As precision agriculture and seed coating technologies advance, the popularity of seed treatments is growing. The method ensures uniform coverage, enhanced crop establishment, and improved yield potential, making it a cost-effective and sustainable solution. As farmers seek efficient ways to maximize productivity, the seed treatment segment is expected to grow significantly. Solid Formulation Segment to Grow Steadily Solid formulations, such as granules, pellets, and powders, offer several advantages over liquid formulations, including better stability, easier storage, and reduced risk of spillage during handling and transportation. Solid formulations are particularly effective in soil treatments and controlled-release applications, where precise application and long-lasting efficacy are critical. With ongoing advancements in formulation technologies, solid products are becoming more versatile and attractive to farmers seeking cost-effective and environmentally sustainable solutions. This steady growth in the solid segment reflects the preference for formulations that optimize agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Asia Pacific Region to Dominate the Crop Protection Chemicals Market Share [ https://www.marketsandmarketsblog.com/crop-protection-chemicals-market-insights-emerging-trends-competitive-dynamics-and-forecasts.html ]. The Asia Pacific region is expected to lead the crop protection chemicals market due to its large agricultural base and growing demand for enhanced crop yields to support its expanding population. The region is home to more than 60% of the world's population, with countries like China and India being major agricultural producers. Agriculture plays a crucial role in the GDP of these countries, making efficient crop protection solutions essential for ensuring food security and economic stability. The region faces significant pest and disease pressures due to its diverse climatic conditions, further increasing the demand for crop protection chemicals. For instance, the widespread impact of pests like the Fall Armyworm has prompted governments and farmers to invest in effective pest management solutions. Additionally, the adoption of modern farming practices and technologies, including precision agriculture, is further boosting the market for advanced crop protection products. Leading Crop Protection Chemicals Manufacturers [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/crop-protection-chemicals-market.asp]: Key players in the crop protection chemicals market BASF SE (Germany), Bayer AG (Germany), FMC Corporation (US), Syngenta Group (Switzerland), Corteva (US), UPL (India), Nufarm (Australia), Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd (Japan), Albaugh LLC (US), Koppert (Netherlands), Gowan Company (US), American Vanguard Corporation (US), Kumiai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd (Japan), PI Industries (India), and Chr. Hansen A/S (Denmark). BASF SE (Germany) BASF SE Group operates globally with 234 production sites, including six Verbund sites, and relies on approximately 112,000 employees worldwide. Its operations encompass diverse segments such as Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care, and Agricultural Solutions. Offering a wide array of system solutions and services, BASF SE caters to industries ranging from chemicals, automotive, and building to agriculture, oil, plastics, electrical, electronics, furniture, and paper. Within its Agricultural Solutions division, BASF SE specializes in providing crop protection products. BASF SE, a leader in the crop protection industry, had a broad portfolio of fungicides, insecticides, herbicides, seed treatments, and pest control products. Additionally, the company provided biological crop protection products and solutions for improving plant health and nutrient management in the soil. Through its digital services, BASF SE helped farmers manage and interpret a wide range of farm and field-related information more efficiently, facilitating better crop management decisions. In May 2024, BASF introduced Cimegra, a new insecticide designed to offer Australian farmers robust, adaptable, and enduring crop protection. This insecticide delivers rapid and potent control over challenging insect pests, including the notorious Diamondback moth. By launching Cimegra, BASF strengthens its position in the crop protection chemicals market, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and providing farmers with effective solutions to safeguard their crops, thereby enhancing productivity and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. Syngenta Group (Switzerland) Syngenta Group, a leading player in the crop protection industry, operates globally with 150 subsidiaries and a rich legacy spanning over 250 years. With around 60,000 employees across 100 countries, the company is committed to advancing agriculture through science-driven innovations, aiming for increased productivity, food quality, and environmental sustainability. Embracing Regenerative Agriculture, Syngenta collaborates closely with farmers to enhance soil health, preserve natural resources, and promote biodiversity while enhancing farm profitability. Headquartered in Shanghai, China, with administrative offices in Switzerland, Syngenta Group comprises four main divisions: Syngenta Crop Protection, Syngenta Seeds, ADAMA, and Syngenta Group China. These divisions collectively offer state-of-the-art solutions to meet diverse customer needs worldwide. These divisions also provide a range of crop protection products to farmers globally. In February 2024, Syngenta Crop Protection, a pioneer in agricultural innovation, and Lavie Bio Ltd., a subsidiary of Evogene Ltd. and a prominent ag-biologicals company, announced a partnership to discover and develop new biological insecticidal solutions. This collaboration will utilize Lavie Bio's advanced technology platform to quickly identify and refine bio-insecticide candidates, combined with Syngenta's vast global research, development, and commercialization expertise. This strategic alliance enhances Syngenta's position in the crop protection chemicals market by expanding its portfolio with cutting-edge biological solutions, addressing growing demand for sustainable and effective pest control methods. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=380 About MarketsandMarkets Trademark MarketsandMarketsTM has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets Trademark is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore Trademark (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. Media Contact Company Name: MarketsandMarkets Trademark Research Private Ltd. Contact Person: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=crop-protection-chemicals-market-growth-drivers-latest-trends-opportunities-challenges-recent-developments-key-segments-regional-insights-and-revenue-forecast ] Phone: 18886006441 Address:1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 City: Florida State: Florida Country: United States Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/crop-protection-380.html This release was published on openPR.Bombshell House Judiciary Report: Criminals, Sex Traffickers Used Biden-Harris Parole Pipeline to Get into U.S.

After Trump's win, Black women are rethinking their role as America's reliable political organizersAre You Facing YouTube Video Not Playing? Fix Now!Ex-DePaul guard leads N. Illinois against Chris Holtmann's Blue Demons

Akron 97, Alabama St. 78

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield calls off plan to cap anesthesia coverage in at least one stateThe North Carolina Teaching Fellows Commission has selected 210 individuals, including several from local Point area, to receive North Carolina Teaching Fellows awards for the Class of 2025 during its early-decision window. The following are among the early-decision recipients: The Teaching Fellows program is a competitive, merit-based forgivable loan program providing tuition assistance of up to $10,000 a year for qualified students committed to teaching elementary education, special education, science, technology, engineering, or math in a North Carolina public school. The purpose of the program is to recruit, prepare and support future teachers who attend institutions of higher education in North Carolina. The award winners may attend any of the program’s 10 partner institutions pending admission: Appalachian State University; East Carolina University; Elon University; Fayetteville State University; North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University; NC State University; Meredith College; University of North Carolina at Charlotte; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and University of North Carolina at Pembroke. The comprehensive list of the Class of 2025 Teaching Fellows awardees will be finalized in March.

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands (AP) — Kimani Hamilton led High Point with 18 points and Bobby Pettiford made a contested shot in the lane with 10.9 seconds remaining as the Panthers knocked off Hampton 76-73 on Tuesday. Hamilton also added eight rebounds for the Panthers (7-1). Trae Benham scored 17 points while shooting 4 for 5 (4 for 4 from 3-point range) and 5 of 5 from the free-throw line. Kezza Giffa shot 4 of 10 from the field and 2 of 3 from the free-throw line to finish with 11 points. George Beale led the way for the Pirates (3-5) with 17 points. Noah Farrakhan added 16 points for Hampton. Story continues below video High Point went into halftime ahead of Hampton 38-33. Giffa scored 11 points in the half. Hamilton scored a team-high 13 points in the second half. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

Lego Black Friday Sale: 10 Deals to Spruce Up Your Collection

How China Became the World’s Largest Gold Consumer and ProducerArticle content Quebec medical specialists are urging the provincial government to halt budget cuts to direct health services, saying the cuts are already undermining patient care. The Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec (FMSQ), which represents approximately 11,000 specialist doctors, has described the cuts as unacceptable and poorly planned. “Any cut that reduces access to services is unacceptable,” said FMSQ president Dr. Vincent Oliva in a statement. “We are calling for an immediate moratorium on cuts affecting patient services until a complete and rigorous analysis has been carried out.” Oliva also took aim at previous assurances from Health Minister Christian Dubé that the impact of the cuts would be minimal. The FMSQ’s demand comes as the government’s new provincial health authority, Santé Québec, plans to cut $1.5 billion from the health-care budget — up from the initially announced $1 billion. The Gazette learned in late November that Santé Québec was considering “ a selective reduction of services ” as a last resort. Now, however, the FMSQ says patient care is already being affected — an outcome health-care unions in Quebec had raised warnings about for months. “There’s a line not to be crossed, and right now they’re crossing it,” FMSQ vice-president Dr. Serge Legault told The Gazette. “If they continue like this, there’s going to be damage for the patients. It’s inevitable.” Legault pointed to waiting lists as the most pressing concern. More than 160,000 patients are awaiting surgeries, while 800,000 are waiting for consultations with specialists. “These numbers are mind-staggering,” he said. “If they keep treating their financial worries on the backs of patients, it cannot improve.” When pressed on which hospitals are facing the most strain, Legault did not specify but said that care is adversely affected across the province. The FMSQ is calling for these immediate measures: Dubé, however, has rejected the FMSQ’s approach and accused the federation of prioritizing doctors’ financial interests over patient care. “I’m happy to see that we have the same concern for patients, though we do not have the same solution,” Dubé told reporters on Thursday. “I will be very, very clear here: What the doctors are asking at the moment during the negotiation is more money, and I want this money to go for the patients,” he said. “So what I’m asking from the FMSQ is to sit down and negotiate seriously, to ensure that we find solutions together.” Earlier in the week, Dubé proposed legislation that would compel newly trained doctors to work in the public system for their first five years or face fines of $20,000 to $100,000 per day, with harsher penalties for repeat violations. Dr. François-Pierre Gladu, a family physician and vice-president of the Association des médecins omnipraticiens de Montréal, criticized the bill as little more than political “virtue signalling” by the Quebec government. hnorth@postmedia.com

The Nasdaq Composite Index, renowned for its tech-heavy portfolio, is making waves that might soon reverberate throughout the gaming industry. As emerging technologies continue to transform digital landscapes, the Nasdaq Composite’s influence could extend beyond traditional tech and finance sectors, permeating the gaming world in unprecedented ways. Technological Advancements: The Nasdaq is home to numerous companies at the cutting edge of technology, many of which are pioneering advancements in AI, cloud computing, and augmented reality. These companies are increasingly turning their attention to the gaming industry, exploring how their innovations can enhance gaming experiences and drive new trends. Imagine gaming experiences enhanced with AI that adapts gameplay in real-time or cloud-based platforms that eliminate the need for expensive hardware. Investments and Partnerships: Several Nasdaq-listed companies are already investing in gaming technology. By forming strategic partnerships, these companies are integrating technological innovations into gaming, creating opportunities for symbiotic growth. This trend is set to accelerate, offering gamers more immersive and interactive experiences. The Future of Gaming: With its track record of supporting technological leaps, the Nasdaq Composite is positioned to be a catalyst in gaming’s evolution. As tech giants continue to innovate, the gaming industry stands to benefit from augmented reality advancements, smarter AI, and seamless online ecosystems, potentially revolutionizing how games are developed and played. In conclusion, as the Nasdaq Composite continues to evolve, its impact on gaming could lead to a future where the boundaries between digital reality and gaming experiences blur, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in the industry. How Nasdaq’s Tech Giants are Shaping the Future of Gaming The intersection of the Nasdaq Composite Index with the gaming industry is set to redefine how we perceive interactive entertainment. This transformation, driven by technological innovations, investments, and industry collaborations, heralds a new era for gaming that promises to deliver richer and more immersive experiences. FAQs: How is Nasdaq Impacting the Gaming Industry? Q: What innovations from Nasdaq-listed companies are making an impact on gaming? A: Nasdaq-listed companies are pioneering advancements in AI, cloud computing, and augmented reality. These technologies are enhancing gaming experiences with real-time adaptive gameplay and cloud-based platforms that do not require expensive hardware. Q: How are investments from Nasdaq companies influencing the gaming sector? A: Investments are manifesting through strategic partnerships and dedicated gaming technology initiatives, enabling the integration of cutting-edge technologies into games for more immersive and interactive experiences. Trends and Insights in Gaming Technology Nasdaq’s influence on gaming is underscored by the emergence of several key trends. Cloud gaming, for instance, is gaining traction, allowing gamers to access high-quality gaming experiences from virtually any device. In parallel, AI advancements continue to transform game design, leading to personalized and dynamic gameplay. Pros and Cons of Technological Integration in Gaming Pros: – Enhanced Gameplay: AI-driven real-time adaptations and interactive narratives enhance user engagement. – Accessibility: Cloud gaming reduces the need for high-cost hardware, making gaming more accessible. Cons: – Privacy Concerns: Increased data collection from AI-driven platforms may raise privacy issues. – Dependence on Connectivity: Reliance on cloud services can be problematic in areas with poor internet infrastructure. Predictions for the Gaming Industry Looking ahead, the fusion of Nasdaq’s technological prowess with gaming is anticipated to further push the envelope on virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) advancements. Gamers can expect more immersive environments and a seamless integration of digital and physical realities. Compatibility and Market Analysis The expansion of Nasdaq influence in gaming suggests a future where multi-platform compatibility becomes the norm. This shift could expand market reach, with games becoming universally accessible across various devices. A thorough market analysis indicates potential growth opportunities in emerging markets due to increased accessibility. Preparing for the Future For gamers and developers alike, staying abreast of these advancements is crucial. Tutorials and educational resources can help bridge the gap between current capabilities and future potential. By engaging with these resources, stakeholders can better prepare for the technological shifts on the horizon. For comprehensive insights into market trends and future technologies, visit the Nasdaq website.King laughs at British comedian’s impression of Donald Trump at Royal Variety