Daily News

Blue Origin’s NS-25 Mission: Launch Date Set and Historic Inclusion of First Black Astronaut Candidate

Blue Origin’s NS-25 Mission: Historic launch date set with America’s first Black astronaut candidate onboard. Stay tuned for details!

Published

8 months ago

May 15, 2024

Rod Washington, Daily News Staff

New Shepard’s Crewed NS-25 Mission Targets Liftoff on May 19
Blue Origin announced today its seventh human flight, NS-25, will lift off from Launch Site One in West Texas on Sunday, May 19. The launch window opens at 8:30 AM CDT / 1330 UTC. The webcast on BlueOrigin.com will start at T-40 minutes.

"Blue Origin's NS-25 mission launch featuring America's first Black astronaut candidate and a diverse crew." — NS-25 mission patch

Additionally, Blue Origin released the NS-25 mission patch. A few of the symbols embedded include:

The Gemini spacecraft represents Ed Dwight’s aerospace training era. The hand lifting the crew capsule is a nod to his extensive artwork.

The sunrise represents Mason Angel and Carol Schaller’s desire to experience the overview effect.

The mountains symbolize Carol Schaller, Gopi Thotakura, and Sylvain Chiron’s passion for climbing and skiing.

The crew capsule’s leaf design reflects the groundbreaking family heritage software Kenneth L. Hess developed.

NS-25 Mission Crew

New Shepard’s 25th Mission Includes America’s First Black Astronaut Candidate
April 4, 2024

Blue Origin today revealed the six-person crew flying on its NS-25 mission. The crew includes Mason Angel, Sylvain Chiron, Kenneth L. Hess, Carol Schaller, Gopi Thotakura, and former Air Force Captain Ed Dwight, who was selected by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 as the nation’s first Black astronaut candidate but was never granted the opportunity to fly to space.
Meet the Crew
Ed Dwight

In 1961, Ed was chosen by President John F. Kennedy to enter training at the Aerospace Research Pilot School (ARPS), an elite U.S. Air Force flight training program known as a pathway for entering the NASA Astronaut Corps. In 1963, after successfully completing the ARPS program, Ed was recommended by the U.S. Air Force for the NASA Astronaut Corps but ultimately was not among those selected. He entered private life in 1966 and spent a decade as an entrepreneur before dedicating his life’s work to using sculpture as a medium to tell the story of Black history. He’s spent the last five decades creating large-scale monuments of iconic Black figures, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, among many others. His more than 130 public works are installed in museums and public spaces across the U.S. and Canada. Ed was born in 1933 and raised in Kansas City, KS.

Ed’s seat is sponsored by Space for Humanity, a nonprofit changing global perspectives by democratizing access to space for all of humanity, with additional support from the Jaison and Jamie Robinson Foundation.

Mason Angel

Mason is the founder of Industrious Ventures, a venture capital fund supporting early-stage companies that enable or progress new industrial revolutions. Mason is an active member in his family’s foundation and will use this mission to inspire children and advance partnerships with nonprofits focused on STEM in early education. He spends his free time skiing or hiking in the Rocky Mountains and can often be found with his dog Leo, named for low Earth orbit.

Sylvain Chiron

Sylvain is the founder of the Brasserie Mont Blanc, one of the largest craft breweries in France. Sylvain was born in the French Alps and is a lifelong aviator and skier. He earned his pilot’s license at age 16. After spending several summers in Florida taking additional flying lessons and watching Space Shuttle launches, Sylvain entered mandatory service in the French military, where he served as a ski instructor for the French Air Force and NATO pilots. Following the military, he pursued an international MBA at Temple University and moved to Tokyo to study business in Japan. Sylvain and his family are based in Savoy, France, where he’s also involved in philanthropy focused on children’s education and nature preservation.

Kenneth L. Hess

Ken is a software engineer and entrepreneur who shaped today’s technology-based family history industry when he developed the Family Tree Maker product line in the 1990s. The company was acquired by Ancestry.com in 2003. In 2001, Ken gave back by founding Science Buddies, a K-12 nonprofit created to level the playing field and improve STEM literacy by inspiring students through free, personalized, hands-on projects in all areas of science, including space exploration. Science Buddies has reached one-quarter billion users. Ken’s lifelong passion for space exploration is in his DNA, with numerous early American pioneers in his mother’s lineage and many engineers and technicians in his father’s.

Carol Schaller

Carol is a retired CPA. In 2017, her doctor told her she would likely go blind. She has since traveled to 25 countries around the world, visited Mount Everest Base Camp, trekked to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest of Uganda to see mountain gorillas, visited the South Pole, and camped in a tent in the desolate Antarctic plain at -20 degrees. Seeing Earth’s thin layer of atmosphere in the blackness of space will fulfill a lifelong dream. Carol and her husband of 40 years live on a farm in Lumberville, PA, with a view of the stars, two cows, 100 chickens, a dog, and a dancing parrot.

Gopi Thotakura

Gopi is a pilot and aviator who learned how to fly before he could drive. He’s co-founder of Preserve Life Corp, a global center for holistic wellness and applied health located near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. In addition to flying jets commercially, Gopi pilots bush, aerobatic, and seaplanes, as well as gliders and hot air balloons, and has served as an international medical jet pilot. A lifelong traveler, his most recent adventure took him to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Gopi is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Each astronaut will carry a postcard to space on behalf of Blue Origin’s foundation, Club for the Future. This program gives students access to space on Blue Origin’s rockets, including an all-digital method to create and send postcards, which can be found here. The Club’s mission is to inspire and mobilize future generations to pursue careers in STEAM for the benefit of Earth.

From an environmental standpoint, nearly 99% of New Shepard’s dry mass is reused, including the booster, capsule, engine, landing gear, and parachutes. New Shepard’s engine is fueled by highly efficient liquid oxygen and hydrogen. During flight, the only byproduct is water vapor with no carbon emissions.

The flight date will be announced soon.

https://www.blueorigin.com/news/new-shepard-ns-25-mission-announcement

Follow Blue Origin on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and YouTube, and sign up on BlueOrigin.com to stay current on all mission details.

About Blue Origin

Blue Origin is a private aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos in 2000. With its headquarters in Kent, Washington, Blue Origin aims to make space travel more accessible and sustainable. The company’s mission is centered around developing technologies to enable human colonization of space and to protect the Earth by shifting heavy industry to space.

Source: Blue Origin

https://stmdailynews.com/category/science

Authors

Rod Washington

Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts
Daily News Staff

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Related Topics:#BlueOrigin #FirstBlackAstronaut #NS25Mission #SpaceLaunch

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Rod Washington, Daily News Staff

Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.

Consumer Corner

Capital One Customers Face Issues with Direct Deposits: What You Need to Know

Published

4 days ago

January 16, 2025

Rod Washington

On Thursday, a significant number of Capital One customers reported problems with their direct deposits, causing concern for many who rely on timely access to their funds. As of Thursday morning, more than 2,000 users had expressed frustration over the banking service’s failure to show their expected direct deposits, according to Down Detector, a reputable platform that tracks website and app outages.

By the afternoon, it appeared that some progress had been made, with reports of outages reducing to just over 1,700 by 4:10 p.m. Eastern Time. However, for those affected, the issue created a tense situation, as direct deposits are often critical for managing monthly bills and living expenses.

@stmblog
🚨 Having issues with direct deposits? We’re here to help! Contact our support team for quick assistance. #CustomerSupport #CapitalOne ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

Real Concerns from Real Customers

Social media was abuzz with complaints, as many customers turned to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustrations. One user summed up the sentiment succinctly: “Some of us have bills to pay and groceries to buy. At least keep us in the loop.” This highlights not only the inconvenience of the technical issue but also the anxiety it causes for individuals who count on their bank to provide reliable services.

Capital One’s Response

In response to the outcry, Capital One acknowledged the issue and assured its customers that it was actively working to resolve the glitch. While specific details about the nature of the technical difficulties have not been disclosed, the bank has expressed its commitment to restoring normal operations as quickly as possible. As financial tech failures can prompt feelings of mistrust, transparency in communication is key during these situations.

What Should Affected Customers Do?

For Capital One customers experiencing issues with their direct deposits, here are a few steps to consider:

Check for Updates: Stay informed by checking Capital One’s official social media channels and website for updates regarding the technical issues.
Contact Customer Support: If you haven’t received your expected payment, contact Capital One’s customer service for clarification on your account status.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your bank account for updates on your direct deposit status and any other service announcements.
Plan for Contingencies: If you anticipate payments may be delayed, consider adjusting your budget temporarily to accommodate any unexpected expenses.

Conclusion

Banking issues like those experienced by Capital One customers on Thursday serve as a reminder of our reliance on financial institutions for our everyday needs. While banks strive to deliver seamless services, technical hiccups can happen. For now, it’s crucial for customers to remain patient and informed as Capital One works diligently to resolve the situation and restore access to their funds.

If you’ve been affected, share your experience and solutions. Community support during these times can make all the difference!

CBS News Reporting on the issue: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/capital-one-direct-deposit-issues/

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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City

Developments in Phoenix: Valley Metro Begins Testing Trains on South Central Extension!

Published

6 days ago

January 15, 2025

Rod Washington

Great news for the residents of south-central Phoenix! As of November, 2024, Valley Metro has officially begun testing trains on the highly anticipated South Central Extension of the light rail. This new 5.5-mile route is set to enhance access to public transportation, connecting downtown Phoenix all the way to Baseline Road—bringing convenience and mobility to more neighborhoods than ever before!

Connecting Communities

The South Central Extension is more than just a transportation project; it’s a lifeline for connecting communities within Phoenix. By bridging the gap between downtown and southern areas of the city, Valley Metro aims to provide a seamless travel experience for commuters, students, and visitors alike. With access points along Washington and Jefferson streets, as well as 1st, 3rd, and Central avenues, this expansion is set to make daily commuting smoother and more efficient.

Safety First!

As trains start to roll out during this initial testing phase, safety remains a top priority. Valley Metro has issued important safety tips for both pedestrians and motorists to ensure everyone stays safe throughout the process:

Follow Traffic Signals: Always obey traffic signals and make use of designated crosswalks when crossing streets near the light rail.
Stay Alert: Listen for warning signals and train sounds. Light rail trains can approach quickly and quietly, so being attentive is crucial.
Keep Off the Tracks: Remember, light rail trains are designed to be silent, making it easy to overlook them. Avoid standing on or near the tracks—stay safe and keep a respectful distance.
Platform Access: Please refrain from entering the new station platforms during this testing phase as they are currently closed. Your safety and the safety of our testing crews is paramount.

Get Ready for 2025!

As testing ramps up towards the projected opening in mid-2025, excitement is building across the city. Whether you commute for work, school, or leisure, the South Central Extension promises to provide more accessible and efficient public transportation options. It’s a step forward in creating a more connected and vibrant Phoenix!

Stay tuned for updates from Valley Metro regarding the progress of the South Central Extension, and let’s celebrate the strides we’re taking towards a more connected, sustainable future. Phoenix, your public transport experience is about to get a whole lot better! 🚆✨

https://www.valleymetro.org/project/south-central-extension-downtown-hub

https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/valley-metro-testing-trains-new-expansion-into-south-phoenix/75-e832f4b8-bb44-4942-9cd9-b4604a7bd403

https://stmdailynews.com/

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News

Kohl’s Announces Closure of 27 Underperforming Stores by April 2025: What This Means for the Retail Giant

Published

1 week ago

January 11, 2025

Lynette Young, Daily News Staff

Kohl's store closures — Image Credit: Kingofthedead

In a significant move to bolster its long-term viability, Kohl’s has announced the closure of 27 underperforming stores across the United States by April 2025. This decision comes at a time when the retail landscape is continuously evolving, and industry giants like Sears and JCPenney are stark reminders of what can happen when businesses fail to adapt.

Why the Closures Matter

As department store chains face increasing pressure from online retailers and changing consumer habits, maintaining a lean and efficient operation is crucial. Tom Kingsbury, Kohl’s outgoing CEO, emphasized the importance of making difficult choices to ensure the health and future of the business. By selectively closing stores, Kohl’s aims to avoid the pitfalls that have befallen some of its rivals in recent years.

The closures represent less than 3% of Kohl’s approximately 1,150 locations, which shows that while the company is taking action, it’s also confident in the strength of its remaining stores. Kingsbury, who is set to step down on January 15th, will be handing over the reins to Ashley Buchanan, the current CEO of Michaels, signaling a potential shift in strategy as Kohl’s forges ahead.

The List of Closures

The upcoming store closures span multiple states, with several locations concentrated in California and Illinois. Below is a detailed rundown of the locations set to close:

Alabama: Spanish Fort – 21000 Town Center Ave.
Arkansas: Little Rock West – 13909 Chenal Parkway
California: Multiple locations, including San Diego, Mountain View, and Pleasanton among others.
Colorado: Arapahoe Crossing (Aurora) – 6584 S Parker Road
Georgia: Duluth – 2050 W Liddell Road
Idaho: Boise – 400 N Milwaukee St.
Illinois: Plainfield and West Dundee (Spring Hill).
Massachusetts: Stoughton – 501 Technology Center Drive
New Jersey: East Windsor – 72 Princeton Hightstown Road
Ohio: Blue Ash and Cincinnati (Forest Park).
Oregon: Portland Gateway – 10010 NE Halsey St.
Pennsylvania: Pottstown – 351 W Schuylkill Road
Texas: North Dallas – 18224 Preston Road
Utah: Riverton – 13319 S 3600 W
Virginia: Herndon and Williamsburg.

These closures reflect ongoing efforts to optimize Kohl’s portfolio, ensuring that its resources are concentrated in locations with the highest potential for growth.

@stmblog
📉 Kohl’s announces store closures, 🏬 shifting focus to e-commerce, 💡 led by CEO Tom Kingsbury, 🔍 adapting retail strategy, 🤝 prioritizing custome ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

The Bigger Picture

While the closures are indeed a challenge, they also present an opportunity for reinvention. As Kohl’s looks to sharpen its focus and adapt to changing consumer preferences, the company may shift resources toward strengthening its e-commerce platform, enhancing customer experience, and introducing more innovative store formats.

Kohl’s has already shown a willingness to experiment with partnerships and unique retail concepts, such as collaborations with major brands and shifts towards becoming a more experience-driven shopping environment. These closures may enable the chain to move forward with a more agile and responsive strategy.

Looking Ahead

As Kohl’s navigates this transitional period and under incoming leadership, all eyes will be on how it capitalizes on its strengths while learning from the complexities of the retail industry. The decisions made now could shape the future of the brand and its ability to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Ultimately, consumers can expect to see a more streamlined and efficient Kohl’s that is better equipped to meet the demands of the modern shopper. As the company moves through these changes, one thing is certain: it’s committed to evolving while keeping its loyal customers at the heart of its strategy.