How coronaviruses interfere with California meat plants

Published

5 years ago

May 17, 2020

How coronaviruses interfere with California meat plants

There is no shortage of demand for beef.

Prices have gone up. Wholesale stores limit how much each customer can buy. Last week, more than 1,000 Wendy restaurants ran out of hamburgers.

There is also no shortage of livestock intended for conversion to beef.

But prices for those animals have dropped. Sales decline. At the recent cattle auction in San Joaquin Valley, only a handful of buyers bothered to appear.

The problem is in the middle of this pipe: the crisis at the meat processing plant.

Cattle are moved to the Overland Stock Yard holding area

Employees in these factories work closely together, and thousands of people across the country have been infected with the new corona virus. At least 20 have died. When workers fall ill, factories reduce capacity or are temporarily shut down.
The reduced capacity of the plant means some beef cannot be processed, and that has made cold water on the market for livestock: Why pay dearly for animals if you might not be able to sell it later?

That’s a problem for California, the country’s fifth largest cattle producer. In a good year, commercial breeders can aim to earn more than $ 1 per pound for premium calves. Now, the expected price has dived 15% to 25%, said Mark Lacey, president of the California trading group Cattlemen’s Assn.

“We have experienced some major droughts, we have had bad market years, but this is not like anything I’ve ever seen,” said Megan Brown, a sixth generation cattle rancher and Brown Ranch manager in Plumas and Butte districts. “Even in family history, nothing compares to this.”

A hamburger journey from the farm to a long and winding plate.

Farmers who produce calves, such as Brown and his family, are at the beginning of the chain. Calves are usually raised with the mother to weigh 500 to 600 pounds. Then they are sold to a spreader – a breeder who will continue to grow cows by feeding them grass until they reach about 900 pounds.

Then the cattle go to the feedlot to be fattened before being sold for slaughter, slaughtered in meat processing plants and sold to wholesalers, supermarkets and restaurant chains.

The whole process – from agriculture to the fork – can be likened to an hourglass shape, said Dave Daley, administrator for Paul L. Byrne Memorial University of Agriculture at Cal State Chico. The processing plant is always the narrowest point; if one is turned off – especially a large one – it can back up the entire system.

Factory traffic is always tight, “but now it’s really tight because of COVID-19,” he said. “We have livestock stock at the top end. We must solve it through narrow constriction. “

Feedlots have been severely blown away by bottlenecks. With a slowdown in the processing plant, feed yard operators are forced to keep cattle longer. That means more feed and maintenance costs.

A few months ago, the price of livestock was $ 1.19 per pound for cattle scheduled for delivery in May and June to a meat processing factory. Prices have since dropped to 92 cents per pound, said Jesse Larios, who operates two feed yards in Imperial County.

Larios said his cows are now worth less than what he paid for them. Not counting on what he had spent on food and other expenses, he said that he saw a loss of $ 365 per cow – and he had thousands of them.

Larios said he did not plan to buy any cattle next month. There is too much uncertainty in the market, especially because feeders usually buy cattle with the aim of selling them for slaughter six months to a year later.

“We are trying to learn and understand where this virus will be in that time frame,” said Larios, who – following in the footsteps of his father and three uncles – has worked in feedlots for 22 years. “Will the restaurant reopen in six to 12 months? Will they serve the same number of customers, or will they have social distance? We cannot buy animals with the same capacity if we are not sure what the production rate will be. “

When the feedlot operators stop buying, commercial farmers see cattle prices drop. Hard forced choices: Raising livestock for longer in the hope of a better market, spending additional costs on feeding animals while waiting? Or immediately sell at a loss?

Lacey, president of the trade group, did not have much choice. Dry weather earlier this year in the Lacey Livestock of his family in Mono and Inyo districts meant that less vegetation grew on the grassland where his cattle graze.

During the 2014 drought, Lacey recalled, livestock prices were much higher, so farmers could rent pasture land in other states and move their livestock there.

“This time, that’s not the case,” said Lacey, who is the family business manager. “Price isn’t there.” He managed to move some of his cattle to the Midwest and sell others, taking more than he expected.

Cows are usually sold in several ways: in a private agreement between the seller and the buyer or at auction.

On a recent Thursday at the Overland Stock Yard in the city of Kings County, Hanford, the electric doors of a pen opened, and four calves flew to a large floor scale, stripped off from another part of the room. They were ushered around by a man with a long pole that ended in a red paddle, clicking.

When the cattle move in formation around the stable, Dustin Burkhart, auctioneer and co-manager of Overland Stock Yard, starts bidding. About 30 people sit on the indoor amphitheater – which has social distance – ready to bid. Many others watch online.

Finally, 21,000 head of cattle are sold on the online auction platform.

Jason Glenn, co-manager of Overland Stock Yard

“That’s an incredible number,” said Jason Glenn, co-manager of the auction house, but there is a warning: The cows will not be ready for slaughter until 2021.

For cattle that are closer to slaughter, that is a different story. The auction house was vacated, with only seven buyers left. Only 85 cows ready for slaughter are displayed, compared to 300 to 400.

Prices fluctuate between 46 cents and 55 cents per pound.

“We have never seen anything like it,” Glenn said. “Not after 9/11. Not after the last financial crisis. Never.”

During the same week last year, the auction house processed around 670,000 cattle, he said. This year, the weekly number has dropped to 425,000.

Even before the coronavirus outbreak hit, prices were depressed because there were many cattle on the market. The pandemic created more turmoil, said Kate Miller, owner of IMB Cattle Co. in Arkansas, which has been marketing beef for 10 years.

Other meat producers also experienced difficulties.

When closing Corona-related restaurants cut demand for pork products, and when slaughterhouses were temporarily closed to slow the spread of COVID-19 among workers, some US pig farmers – faced with a declining market and no room to accommodate additional pigs – forced to choose to kill piglets.

It is possible to slow the growth of livestock by pulling them from grain food and putting them on a breeding plan, Miller said, but that doesn’t work with pigs. And once a pig reaches about 325 pounds, it is too big to be processed in a factory.

Pigs also tend to be slaughtered at a much younger age than cows, which means pig farmers have less time to manage the ongoing crisis. Pigs can be ready for slaughter at the age of six months, when they weigh about 280 kilograms, according to the National Pork Board marketing program. In contrast, most cattle are between 18 and 24 months old, said Wade Lacque, co-owner and manager of the Orland Livestock Commission Yard in the Sacramento Valley.

Breeders and feeders strongly reject the idea of killing cows, noting that it will be a huge financial loss because animals are very expensive to raise.

As an alternative to selling at auctions, Brown, the sixth generation farmer, decided to try to slaughter his animals and sell beef directly to those who wanted to eat it.

Recently, he advertised “sharing hamburgers” on social media for friends, family, and residents nearby. The customer pays directly through PayPal, and he sends a pound of ground meat to their homepage.

He got the beef slaughtered and processed it in the U.S. Department of Agriculture facility. small ones that don’t handle the volume of meat done by larger plants.

The profit margin is “a drop in the bucket” compared to what his family usually makes at auction, and it takes a lot of time and work to send a cow to be processed, he said. But it’s better than nothing, and he said he hopes it will lead to the continuation of sales in the future. After all, the agriculture-to-table movement has grown strong lately.

In the past, he had done a few cuts of beef but had only butchered a handful of older calves that were not suitable for auction, such as the smallest or the ones with bad eyes. This is the first year he has access to cream plants.

“I don’t always make a lot of money, but that is good intentions for the community,” Brown said.

Like many California cattle ranchers, the Brown family has been in the business for a long time, around 100 years. Two of their farms cover 4,000 hectares.

“It’s a lifestyle,” said Lacque of the Orland Livestock Commission Yard. “People enjoy ranching … being out in the open, in the hills. Riding their horses and with cattle. “

The manager of the third generation auction page said he could not count the number of phone calls he had received last month from the farmer asking for advice on what to do. He said he did not have solid guidelines because no one had ever been in this situation before, and it was not clear what would happen in the future.

Business is also difficult for him. The auction page makes money from sales commissions, and for the last month only sold around 30% to 40% of the normal volume of cattle.

“This will be a difficult year,” he said. As for its customers, “hopefully most of them will succeed and will still farm next year. I am sure some of them will not like that. “

Rust reports from Hanford, Calif., Dan Masunaga and Parvini from Los Angeles.

All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

Published

2 months ago

October 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.

Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

Published

3 months ago

September 26, 2024

Herb Adkins

When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

3 months ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.