The White House was abuzz with excitement as President Joe Biden bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom upon two distinguished individuals from NASA. Dr. Ellen Ochoa, former center director and astronaut at Johnson Space Center, and Dr. Jane Rigby, senior project scientist for the James Webb Space Telescope, were set to receive this esteemed recognition for their remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of space exploration.

Praise for Ochoa and Rigby:

In his speech, President Biden acknowledged Dr. Ochoa’s impressive career, emphasizing her groundbreaking role as the first Hispanic woman in space. He lauded her years of service to NASA, including her dedication as an astronaut and her invaluable contributions as a center director and director of Flight Crew Operations at Johnson Space Center. Likewise, he commended Dr. Rigby for her pivotal work on the James Webb Space Telescope, a revolutionary observatory that has made profound discoveries about our vast universe.

Administrator Bill Nelson also expressed his pride in Ochoa and Rigby, recognizing their invaluable roles in inspiring future generations of scientists and space explorers, and further establishing NASA’s legacy of excellence.

Dr. Ellen Ochoa:

Dr. Ochoa, hailing from California with a doctorate in Electrical Engineering, dedicated over three decades to NASA, assuming various notable positions. From being the director of Flight Crew Operations to becoming the second female director of Johnson Space Center, Dr. Ochoa’s contributions were undeniably impactful. Her impressive resume boasts four spaceflights as a veteran astronaut, including her notable mission aboard the space shuttle Discovery during STS-56 in 1993.

Dr. Jane Rigby:

Dr. Rigby, originally from Delaware, played a pivotal role as an astrophysicist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. She significantly contributed to the success of the James Webb Space Telescope, an ambitious project that has rewritten our understanding of the cosmos. Dr. Rigby’s dedication extended beyond her scientific endeavors, as she has actively championed diversity and inclusion within the scientific community.

The Emotional Ceremony:

Amidst heartfelt speeches, President Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to both Ochoa and Rigby. The two awardees were visibly moved, expressing their gratitude for the recognition of their hard work and dedication to both NASA and the nation.

Dr. Ochoa conveyed her surprise and honor while expressing appreciation for her NASA colleagues and the seven schools named after her, considering it one of her greatest achievements.

Dr. Rigby, in her emotional acceptance speech, acknowledged the outstanding collaboration and teamwork that made the James Webb Space Telescope a resounding success. She gratefully mentioned her family, colleagues, and the president of the American Astronomical Society, symbolizing the collective efforts of many.

The James Webb Space Telescope:

The James Webb Space Telescope, launched on December 25th, 2021, has already made substantial discoveries within its initial two years of operation. With its extraordinary capabilities, this awe-inspiring telescope is expected to continue unraveling the mysteries of the universe for years to come.

As President Biden concluded the ceremony, he once again congratulated Dr. Ochoa and Dr. Rigby, expressing his immense pride in their remarkable achievements. Leaving the White House with heads held high, Ochoa, Rigby, and the other 17 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom left an indelible mark on science and space exploration, forever to be remembered and celebrated.

Learn more about NASA’s missions at: https://www.nasa.gov

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In a heartwarming display of commitment to the environment and the Plover community, McCain Foods has fulfilled its promise by planting 18,000 trees throughout Wisconsin. This inspiring initiative was part of the company’s pledge to replace and increase the number of trees cut down for the expansion of their appetizer processing plant in Plover.

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony:
Celebrating this remarkable achievement, McCain hosted a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in Plover last Friday. Howard Snape, the president of McCain Foods North America, expressed his pride in the company’s contribution. “With this initiative, McCain has added three times the number of trees we had to clear in Plover, beautifying the community while increasing its sustainability,” Snape shared. This event not only marked a milestone for McCain but also highlighted their dedication to fostering thriving communities.

Tree Planting Locations:
The 18,000 newly planted trees can be found in various locations, including the Douglas County Forest and throughout the Plover community. This carefully planned distribution ensures that the positive impact of the initiative is widespread. Local elementary schools, homes of growers, and the residences of McCain employees have all benefited from this sustainability effort. By incorporating trees into these areas, McCain aims to enhance the overall beauty and vitality of the community.

Commitment to Rural Areas:
With a network of 3,500 farmer partners worldwide, McCain has a significant presence in rural areas, often serving as the largest employer within those communities. The company values its role in creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering community development through donations, volunteering, and similar initiatives. The tree planting project is yet another testament to McCain’s dedication to these principles.

Sustainable Mission:
Sustainability lies at the core of McCain’s mission, as the company strives to celebrate real connections through delicious, planet-friendly foods. In line with global efforts to combat climate change, McCain has committed to reducing its emissions by 50% by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with the international push to limit the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C.

A Greener and More Sustainable Community:
McCain Foods’ tree planting initiative showcases the company’s dedication to the environment and the communities it serves. By fulfilling their promise and planting 18,000 trees, McCain has not only beautified Plover but has also helped create a greener and more sustainable community. This initiative reflects their ethos of promoting environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.

McCain Foods’ commitment to replanting and increasing the number of trees cut down for their expansion project in Plover is truly commendable. By planting 18,000 trees throughout Wisconsin, they have not only fulfilled their promise but have also made a significant positive impact on the environment and the Plover community. McCain has once again demonstrated their dedication to sustainability, showcasing their determination to make a difference for future generations.

About McCain Foods USA
McCain Foods USA is a leading supplier of frozen potato and snack food products for the foodservice markets, retail grocery chains and private label brands in restaurants and supermarket freezers across the country. McCain Foods USA Inc., headquartered in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, employs 4,000 people and operates production facilities in Idaho, Maine, Nebraska, Washington and Wisconsin. https://www.mccainusafoodservice.com/

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Exciting news for Hyundai enthusiasts! The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2024 Hyundai Kona have been named winners of the prestigious Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX award by WardsAuto. Making Hyundai the only manufacturer with two vehicles on the list.

The Wards 10 Best Interiors and UX competition focuses on identifying driver interfaces that are user-friendly, navigation systems that are easy to program, and smartphone integration that allows for safe access to various features while on the road. This award evaluates the overall quality and comfort of the vehicles’ interiors, as well as the user-friendliness of driver-assist technologies.

This isn’t the first time Hyundai has been recognized by WardsAuto. Last year, the Hyundai Palisade took home an award, cementing the brand’s commitment to creating innovative and desirable vehicle experiences.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona stands out for its dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens, offering a versatile interior that is both visually appealing and technologically advanced. With a price point of $35,000, the Kona provides great value for its modernist aesthetic and abundance of features.

The 3-row Santa Fe, on the other hand, impresses with its spacious interior, perfect for urban and outdoor activities. The Calligraphy grade’s ivory and olive-green geometric interior sets a new standard for vehicle interior design, revolutionizing the industry.

Wards judge, Christie Schweinsberg, praises both vehicles for their exceptional features and value. The Kona’s affordability makes it an accessible choice for many, while the Santa Fe’s thoughtful additions such as a drawer for second-row passengers and a UV-C sterilization tray for phones further elevate its appeal.

The evaluations for the 2024 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX competition took place during winter and early spring, giving judges ample time to experience the vehicles in their daily driving routines. Metrics such as design and aesthetics, comfort, materials, connectivity, and infotainment are taken into consideration, along with advanced driver-assist system content and overall value.

To celebrate the achievement, the 2024 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX awards ceremony will take place on June 6, 2024, during the AutoTech: Detroit Conference. This event promises to be a showcase of innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.

Hyundai continues to listen to its customers and push the boundaries of vehicle design and technology. With these awards, the brand proves its commitment to providing innovative, intuitive, and desirable vehicle experiences.

So if you’re in the market for a Hyundai, the 2024 Santa Fe and Kona should be at the top of your list. Not only do they offer exceptional interiors and user experiences, but they also represent the cutting-edge innovations that Hyundai stands for.

About Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company’s Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai’s 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

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