July 4, 2022 - The Chicago Journal

Gordon Andan: The Expert Cosmetic Surgeon With a Passion for Natural Results

Claire Peterson on July 4, 2022

Over the years, the stigma surrounding cosmetic surgeries has lessened significantly. Given this, many are no longer afraid to undergo various aesthetic solutions that help enhance their physique and boost their confidence. While this is generally regarded as positive progress, this newfound freedom can inadvertently push some to go overboard in their quest for beauty. As a result, they end up having exaggerated features due to unnecessary and excessive procedures. Cognizant of this, Gordon Andan, MD, has dedicated his practice to providing clients with natural-looking bodies.

The expert believes that the surgical arts are not just about enhancements and corrections. But rather, it is a fine craft that helps bring out a person’s natural beauty. On top of that, the self-professed perfectionist rejects mediocrity and uses his keen and artistic eye to ensure exceptional results. Because of this, he has established his reputation as an industry authority and is recognized as one of the top cosmetic surgeons in the country.

He utilizes the same impressive philosophy in his brand New York Surgical Arts. The enterprise has offices in Garden City and Madison Ave, New York. It specializes in providing a wide range of services such as facial rejuvenation, breast enhancements, body contouring, medical spa services, and even plastic surgery for men.

As a testament to Dr. Gordon Andan’s proficiency, he has helped thousands of patients regain their confidence, especially women after childbirth. Moreover, he continues to meet and exceed his patient’s expectations by creating impeccable work in the operating room daily.

Alongside his passion for his craft, what sets the visionary apart from the rest is his extensive education and work experience of more than 15 years. He completed his residency at Columbia University College of Physicians at Harlem Hospital Center and Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

On top of that, he is fellowship-trained by some of the most distinguished experts in the field. During the mentorship, the professional perfected his skills by performing over 750 major body and facial cosmetic surgery procedures. Finally, he is a board-certified surgeon by the American Board of Surgery as well as a Diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.

Aside from these impressive distinctions, Dr. Gordon Andan possesses an admirable work ethic rooted in hard work and dedication. In fact, he started his cosmetic surgery practice from scratch with no money and bad credit. He was even denied business financing. However, because of his relentless drive, the inspiring surgeon has successfully scaled his brand.

Asking to share an important piece of advice, the insightful man said, “Don’t settle for less. There is a price for everything. If you are willing to pay the price, you will achieve your dreams. Patience, sacrifice, consistency, hard work and learning from failure are key to success.”

Moving forward, Dr. Gordon Andan remains steadfast in his goal of creating natural-looking work and helping boost his clients’ self-esteem. In addition, he aims to grow New York Surgical Arts and bring it to the national and global scene as the gold standard in cosmetic surgery.

Jeff Bezos Once Again Calls Out President Joe Biden for “Misdirection”

Claire Peterson on July 4, 2022

2022 has brought in a wide array of problems, and the United States is struggling to keep up with the burden of inflation and increasing gas prices. President Joe Biden has been addressing the problems, and he recently took to Twitter to discuss gas prices, attracting the attention of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who slammed his post.

“My message to the companies running gas stations and setting prices at the pump is simple: this is a time of war and global peril,” tweeted the President. “Bring down the price you are charging at the pump to reflect the cost you’re paying for the product, and do it now.”

Bezos quote-retweeted Biden’s post with a few words of his own, slamming the President’s call.

“Ouch. Inflation is far too important a problem for the White House to keep making statements like this,” he said. “It’s either straight ahead misdirection or a deep understanding of basic market dynamics.”

The Amazon founder’s accusation that Biden missed the mark on high gas prices earned him criticism from the White House.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House Press Secretary, elaborated Biden’s statement on Twitter.

“Oil prices have dropped by about $15 over the past month, but prices at the pump have barely come down,” Jean-Pierre tweeted. “That’s not ‘basic market dynamics.’ It’s a market that is failing the American consumer.”

Jean-Pierre also took the time to take a dig at Jeff Bezos, saying:

“But I guess it’s not surprising that you think oil and gas companies using market power to reap record profits at the expense of the American people is the way our economy is supposed to work.”

Another White House official shot Bezos down on Sunday when John Kirby, the National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, said he was wrong and that Biden “tells exactly what he’s thinking in terms that everybody can understand.”

Last month, President Biden criticized Exxon Mobil for “making more money than God this year,” alluding to the company’s record-breaking profits while Americans are forced to pay record-high prices at the pump.

Biden also met with several executives and CEOs from oil companies, encouraging them to take action to lower gas prices.

Last Saturday was not the first time the Amazon founder butted heads with figures from the White House. He had already sparred with them various times, always regarding inflation.

A Truck with 50 Dead People Found at an Intersection in San Antonio

Edward Anderson on July 4, 2022

The bodies of more than 50 people were found in a tractor-trailer near Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. 16 others had been taken to hospital by the time that police arrived on the scene.

The discovery was made near an intersection in Southwest San Antonio between Quintana Road and Cassin Drive.

The investigation is still ongoing and three people have been taken into custody. It’s unclear if they are connected to the incident.

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has announced that they are collaborating with San Antonio police in order to lead a criminal investigation.

It has been reported that the victims were believed to be migrants.

The United States and Mexico have a long history of dealing with people who attempt to cross into the other country illegally. These problems are nothing new, but they’ve recently received more attention as border security has increased.

The San Antonio Police Chief, William McManus, described this as one of the most significant human smuggling incidents in recent memory.

“Horrified at this tragic loss of life near San Antonio,” said Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Chris Magnus in a statement. “This speaks to the desperation of migrants who put their lives in the hands of callous human smugglers who show no regard for human life.”

“We will be working with our federal, state, and local partners to assist in every way possible with this investigation.”

The authorities were called to the scene before 6 pm when a worker in close proximity heard cries for help and investigated.

According to a law enforcement official, it is possible that people attempted to jump out of the tractor-trailer because some of the deceased were found along several blocks.

It looks like the trailer had a refrigeration system, but it doesn’t seem to have worked, according to the official.

It is unclear what caused the people found inside to be sprinkled with steak seasoning, but it’s likely an attempt at covering up their smell.

When authorities arrived at the scene, they discovered a body outside the vehicle as the trucks’ doors were partly open.

When San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood saw the survivors were too weak to exit their truck themselves, he speculated they didn’t have access to water.

“We’re not supposed to open up a truck and see stacks of bodies in there,” he said. “None of us come to work imagining that.”

The authorities are still unsure about the total number of people inside, but William McManus believes that not everyone was accounted for.

Twelve adults and four children were taken to the hospital.

The survivors were reported to be suffering from heat exhaustion and stroke, but Hood shared his hopefulness that they would survive.

Companies with Abortion-Related Benefits Lambasted by the GOP

Claire Peterson on July 4, 2022

The US Supreme Court passed the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, making waves throughout the country and raising concerns regarding safer abortions. However, major US companies have stepped up, improving their benefits to give employees the access they need.

The major companies may be earning praises from people throughout the country, but the Republican Party have been reportedly discontent with corporate America, especially with how close they are to winning back the US House later in the fall.

Conservatives are criticizing the companies’ pledge, which sees employees and dependents getting coverage for travel expenses going outside their state for an abortion. Lawmakers suggested that they improve their parental leave policies instead of the abortion-related benefits.

The dissension started as early as May when a draft opinion in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case was leaked. Republican members of the Texas Legislature wrote a letter to transport services company Lyfy, informing them they would introduce bills in the next legislative session targeting companies that still offer abortion-related benefits in Texas.

“After Dobbs, the alliance between social conservatives and neoliberal corporatists in the GOP is over,” said Republic Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri. “Look no further than mega-corporations caving to the far-left and offering to cover all abortion-related expenses for their employees.”

“Republicans sought to focus on pro-family policies to support mothers and their children, not corporate welfare for big business and the ultra-wealthy.”

When major companies made the announcement to implement abortion-related travel benefits, critics were quick to chime in with their thoughts.

Most critics are under the impression that it is a hostile move towards social conservatism by boardrooms across the country. They also see it as part of a growing trend wherein companies are more susceptible to progressive causes and political activism.

In the past, the GOP were supportive and promoted tax cuts and subsidies that benefited major businesses and allowed industry money to flow, but the recent decision to implement abortion-related benefits have caused an uproar from Republicans, especially those with presidential ambitions like Hawley.

Heritage Action for America’s Jessica Anderson pointed out how Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis moved to disintegrate Disney’s special governing powers in April, viewing that move as retaliation to the company’s opposition to a GOP-backed law, which restricts lessons in public schools that focus on sexual orientation and gender identity for students as early as kindergarten up to the third grade.

The Florida Governor is considered by many as a hero for his clash with Disney and tipped as a top contender for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination. DeSantis also led a poll in June by the University of New Hampshire for potential 2024 GOP presidential hopefuls.

“I think conservative voters see the action these companies are taking, and it’s one more thing that adds to their frustration,” offered Anderson. “If the November election goes the way we think it will, there will be a huge mandate for elected officials up and down the ballot to take seriously these companies going so woke.”

Questions To Ask Insurance Adjusters After a House Fire

Claire Peterson on July 4, 2022

After a house fire, it’s important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will send out an adjuster to assess the damage and begin the claims process. However, there are some things you should keep in mind when dealing with insurance adjusters. First of all, be sure to get everything in writing.

The adjuster may give you a verbal estimate of the damage, but you should make sure to get a written estimate as well. Secondly, don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s important that you understand the claims process and what your rights are.

Finally, don’t sign anything until you’re sure you understand it. A house fire is a stressful event, but if you’re prepared and know what to expect, dealing with the insurance company doesn’t have to be difficult. Visit webuyhousesfastnationwide.com to learn more.

What Should I Expect From My Insurance Company After A Fire?

If your home or business has been damaged by a fire, you may be wondering what to expect from your insurance company. The first step is to notify your insurer as soon as possible. Once the claim has been filed, an adjuster will be assigned to your case. The adjuster’s job is to determine the extent of the damage and to develop a plan for repairs.

In some cases, the adjuster may recommend that you hire a professional fire restoration company. If this is the case, your insurance company will typically reimburse you for the cost of the services.

In addition, your insurance company may also provide temporary housing assistance if your home is uninhabitable due to fire damage. Ultimately, your goal should be to work closely with your insurance company in order to get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

How Do I Get The Most Out Of My Fire Insurance Claim?

It is critical to take pictures or videos of the damage before you start the cleanup process. This will help your insurance company assess the extent of the damage and determine the amount of your claim.

You should also make a list of all of the damaged or destroyed items, including a description of each item, the estimated value, and when you purchased it. If possible, include receipts, photos, or other documentation to support your claims. Once you have gathered all of this information, you can contact your insurance company to start the claims process.

Each insurance company has its own procedures for handling claims, but there are some general tips that can help you get the most out of your claim.

First, be sure to file your claim as soon as possible after the fire. This will help to ensure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.

Second, be prepared to negotiate with your insurance company. They may try to lowball you on the settlement, so it is important to be firm in your demands.

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek help from a professional if you need it. A qualified public adjuster can represent you during the claims process and help you get the maximum settlement for your damages.

How Long Does It Take To Get Insurance Money After A House Fire?

The process of filing an insurance claim and receiving payment after a house fire can vary depending on the insurer and the severity of the damage. In most cases, however, claimants can expect to receive their payout within four to six weeks of filing their claim.

It is important to note, however, that this is an estimation only and that some claims may take longer to process. This is often due to complications with the claim itself or difficulties in obtaining the required documentation.

Claimants who need their payout sooner may be able to request an advance on their claim, although this will likely result in a lower overall payout. In any case, it is important to contact your insurer as soon as possible after a fire to begin the claims process.

Buffalo Starbucks Employees Released For Unionization Efforts, According to NLRB

Leah Cooper on July 4, 2022

Starbucks is currently experiencing some tension as its employees have banded together to form unions, creating friction between the workers and company.

The National Labor Relations Board has asked a court to reinstate seven workers from the Buffalo, New York area who were dismissed for unionizing. The reason behind this action prompts them into legal and illegal territory which could have major implications on future endeavors within America’s labor movement.

The employees of Starbucks are claiming that managers have targeted them for forming a union.

Angel Krampa, one of the seven who was dismissed from her position, revealed the release was a result of union organizing with other workers in the store.

The manager who hired Angel told her that the multiple nose piercings and suicide prevention pin were allowed during working hours, but a new one in January took issue with them.

Angel shared that she has been receiving written warnings for refusing to remove her piercings and pin, as well getting a warning about missing work because of car problems. However, Angel maintained that she called the manager.

The judge will most likely share her sentiments, said Angel who believes that her advocacy for a union was what led to these disciplinary actions.

“I don’t think that we’re going to lose either of these next two trials,” said Angel, referring to the filing for their workers and an upcoming hearing regarding Starbucks’ unfair labor practices on July 11.

When Angel and her co-workers voted to unionize on March 23, they were fired from their jobs on the 1st of April.

Starbucks has denied the anti-union allegations, despite their claims.

“As we have said previously, we believe these claims are false and will be prepared to defend our case,” said Starbucks spokesperson Reggie Borges.

Starbucks has raised wages and promised improvements to diminish plans of unionization, but stores with active union efforts will be exempted from these new policies, though.

According to a spokesperson from the NLRB, corporations have been sending managers in order to discourage union activity and close stores with active drive-for-unionization efforts.

If the recent filing by Starbucks union workers is successful, they will be able to organize and bargain collectively with their employer. The company must recognize union representation for all stores nationwide.

Similar cases have been reported from other states including Memphis, Tennessee, and Phoenix. The case in Memphis is still ongoing while the one involving Phoenix was denied earlier this month.

AppleCORE Out of Towson, Maryland, the Latest Union Organization Out of 2022

Claire Peterson on July 4, 2022

Months after Amazon and Starbucks employees formed unions, it seems that Apple witnessed a crack with workers at the Maryland store voting to organize one of their own.

The employees at Apple are set to vote on Wednesday for a union election in Towson, Maryland. The voting will occur at their store located in the vacant building where it’s currently headquartered.

The polls are open for voting between Wednesday and Saturday at selected times, with the count happening on Saturday evening.

In a show of solidarity, organized labor has created AppleCORE (the Apple Coalition Of Organized Retail Employees). The International Association Of Machinists and Aerospace Workers trade union supports this new organization as well.

It’s not just the AppleCore organizers who have tried to get a union vote. In Atlanta, they pulled their petition in April but there is hope for employees at the Grand Central Terminal Station store in New York as workers have started signing to start a union.

In a move that surprised many, the AppleCORE group wrote an open letter to CEO Tim Cook detailing their decision was about them as workers gaining access rights they currently don’t have.

It’s not just about the pay, it is also because workers want a seat at their table, according to a worker who has been working for seven years. The worker-organizer spoke with the Washington Post.

“More money is nice,” he said. “But it’s really about agency.”

The company has reemphasized the benefits and compensation it offers retail workers in a statement, noting that they are “personally engaged” with their employees.

“We are fortunate to have incredible retail team members, and we deeply value everything they bring to Apple,” the statement wrote. “We are pleased to offer very strong compensation and benefits for full time and part time employees, including health care,tuition reimbursement, new parental leave, paid family leave, annual stock grants, and many other benefits.”

Apple announced that it will be raising the minimum wage for workers in America to $22 per hour.

Elon Musk Reiterates He Never Encouraged Other People to Invest in Crypto

Edward Anderson on July 4, 2022

Elon Musk, the founder and CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, has always expressed his interest in cryptocurrency but recently it’s become a little problem as someone filed a case against him.

In the last week, Keith Johnson, a fellow Dogecoin investor and entrepreneur, blamed Musk for pushing DOGE to society and filed a legal case against him.

Musk’s purchase, development and promotion of Dogecoin has been a factor in this case. The Tesla CEO is also accused of acting like an “information pyramid scheme,” which is the reason Johnson believes he should pay over $250 billion to caused damages.

Johnson shared that he would remain an advocate for Dogecoin, even after the lawsuit. The coin surged 11% following his announcement and is now nearly $0.06 worth.

Elon Musk maintains that while he has always been vocally supportive of cryptocurrencies, he never urged others to invest in them.

When Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, would announce his thoughts on the crypto industry, he never thought about the influence his opinions would have on others.

Last year, Elon Musk pledged to put a literal Dogecoin on “the moon” and this pumped up its value by 35%. The mention of “Baby Doge Coin” in one tweet also led to a nearly 90% increase in its value.

In a recent interview, Elon Musk said that he never pushed others to invest their money into the crypto ecosystem despite his enthusiasm for cryptocurrency.

“I have never said that people should invest in crypto,” he told Bloomberg.

Elon Musk, who is best known for his work with Dogecoin, also owns Bitcoins and Ethereum. He reminded people that he holds other coins as well in an appearance on Bloomberg. Musk also informed viewers of the small portion Bitcoin accounts for in terms of his wealth.

“In the case of Tesla, SpaceX, myself, we all did buy some Bitcoin,” he said. “But it’s a small percentage of our total cash assets.”

USA and Canada Accounting Firm KPMG to Focus on the Metaverse

Edward Anderson on July 4, 2022

The metaverse has become a hot topic, with new virtual reality platforms and NFT brands trying to integrate themselves into this emerging industry. But they aren’t alone as established brands have been working towards the same goal.

KPMG, one of the top accounting firms and auditor to some of the biggest names in business in the United States and Canada, has just announced that they will be dipping their toes into virtual reality.

The company recently announced that it will be opening a collaboration hub connecting employees, clients and communities. This new development can allow them to explore opportunities in industries, which could lead to growth.

In 2022, the firm plans to invest $30 million into Web3 experiences with a major focus on the metaverse hub.

The collaboration hub is a new way for both firms to lead employees and clients into Web3.

The two KPMG firms have a combined team of professionals that can help clients develop and execute their metaverse strategy.

“The metaverse is a market opportunity, a way to re-engage talent and a path to connect people across the globe through a new collaborative experience,” said Laura Newinski, US deputy chair and chief operating officer at KPMG.

“The unique experience provided by our collaboration hub will tap the creativity and passion of our people and clients to accelerate innovation,” she added.

KPMG Canada recently delved into the world of crypto by adding Ethereum and Bitcoin as part of their corporate treasury program which will allow them greater access for investing in blockchain ventures through NFTs (non fungible tokens).

The US branch is on a mission to help new professionals understand the ins and outs of both NFTs as well as crypto training.

The firms are leveraging new technology like Chain Fusion to provide audit services for crypto-native and financial companies.

KPMG Canada and USA is set to implement an innovation strategy that will see them explore opportunities within crypto and Web3 space. They have plans on co-creating tools or solutions for critical insights as well as their own learning platforms which can provide immersive experiences into how these technologies work with physical and digital worlds.

Armughan Ahmad, president & Managing Partner of Digital at KPMG Canada expressed his enthusiasm for this exciting project, saying:

“The metaverse is making it possible for us to experience the ‘phygital’ world, where physical and digital worlds collide,” he explained.

“The metaverse is a $13 trillion market opportunity that could boast as many as five billion users by 2030.”

“Our first immersive metaversal experience will take our people, clients, and communities beyond the traditional two-dimensional virtual environment and offer new levels of social connection, mobility, and collaboration,” Ahmad added.

“Think of it as a world without borders that has the potential to enhance our lives by providing new opportunities to work, learn, and play.”

Ezra Miller Under More Heat After April Footage of Their Farm Where a Woman and Children Reside Emerged Online

Leah Cooper on July 4, 2022

When Rolling Stone reported that Ezra Miller was hosting a mother and her three children at their Vermont farm, the actor quickly found themselves deeper in trouble. The living arrangement has worried not only the father of the children but also two others who know about this situation.

The report revealed that two sources aware of the situation talked about how unsafe the farm is for children, saying there were unattended guns all over.

The two people who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retribution from the actor, and one of them revealed that they had seen a one-year old child pick up a loose bullet and put it in her mouth.

The mother says that Miller helped her escape from a violent ex, giving her the chance to find safety for her children.

“[Ezra’s] home ranch has been a healing haven for us,” said the mother. “They may have firearms for self-defense purposes and they are stored in a part of the house that the children never go in… My kids are able to relax more into their healing because of the safety and nurturing Ezra has been providing for them.”

She and her children have been living at the Stamford, Vermont farm since mid-April. They met Miller in Hilo, Hawaii where they found themselves arrested twice.

Miller managed to get themselves a flight, along with the woman and her children. However, the father didn’t know about it, and he has not seen or spoken to his children since then.

“I got a bad feeling in my stomach,” he said. “I do want to go get my kids, they mean the fucking world to me.”

According to Hawaii court records, the two had been at odds for a while when in May 2021, the mother pursued an active domestic abuse case that was later terminated because neither appeared before court. Another case was put on hold last October when it was found that the father wasn’t served.

More video footage from April emerged, showing eight assault weapons and rifles around the living room with some weapons set against a pile of stuffed animals.

It has been reported that Miller’s property had a cannabis farm, but it wasn’t listed in the state’s 25 licensed cultivators. It is also alleged there was frequent and heavy marijuana use near children with little concern regarding proper ventilation.

The dad has been trying to get his kids out of the farm since April after hearing about the weapons and drug use on the farm. He asked Vermont’s Department for Children and Families as well local police departments for help. Although a number from a Vermont social worker confirmed they were okay, there has been no other word.

Ezra Miller is on a steep decline in his career and it remains to be seen what will happen next.