Before becoming a chart-topping singer, 22-year-old Benson Boone was known for his talent in the classroom and onstage.
MONROE, Wash. — This Sunday, all eyes will be on the 2025 Grammy Awards, and a small town in Washington will be cheering on one of its own. Benson Boone is from Monroe and is nominated in the Best New Artist category, marking a major milestone in his rising music career.
Boone, 22, was born and raised in Monroe, where he attended Monroe High School and honed his passion for music. Before becoming a chart-topping singer, Boone was known for his talent in the classroom and onstage — particularly during his senior year, when he starred as Buddy in the local school’s production of “Elf.”
His natural stage presence was clear from the start.
“He just shines in front of humans,” said Stephen Loewen, the teacher who cast and directed Boone in the play.
Long before his Grammy nod, Boone was known for his backflips, a hobby his dad, Nate Boone, says he started at just 3 years old.
“We just could never stop from having him do backflips off the couch or flips wherever he could,” Nate Boone told KING 5 over the phone.
But it wasn’t until later in high school that Boone discovered his passion for singing. After performing in the school’s “Battle of the Bands” competition, he realized music was his true calling. He went on to compete on “American Idol,” while amassing a sizeable following on Tiktok. His rising presence caught the attention of Dan Reynolds, lead singer of Imagine Dragons. Boone soon signed with Reynolds’ record label, launching him into a whirlwind music career that included a world tour and opening for Taylor Swift.
For Boone, his roots in Washington are never far from his mind. Last spring, he awarded two local seniors his namesake Benson Boone Scholarship, reinforcing his commitment to supporting the community that helped shape him.
“Washington – we all love it here,” Nate Boone shared with KING 5, expressing excitement at the possibility of his son returning to perform in his home state after earning Grammy recognition.
As the 22-year-old continues to rise in the music world, those who have known him for years believe there is much more to come. “He’s got years ahead of him of a successful career,” Loewen added.
In Monroe, it’s clear that the excitement for Benson Boone’s success goes beyond the Grammy nomination. His journey from a small-town high school to the biggest stage in music serves as an inspiration to others in his community.
For now, all eyes are on the Grammys — but Benson Boone’s story is just getting started.
“He hasn’t stopped writing. He’s still putting out new work. And just seeing the stuff he’s continuing to create and the emotions he’s continuing to tap into, is enormous. And I think he’s really he’s connecting with so many different humans on so many different levels,” said Loewen.
His former Student Leadership teacher at Monroe High School, Jaime Johnson, said Benson Boone still exemplifies the qualities that matter most– even after his rise to fame.
“He’s also incredibly humble. He doesn’t realize all the talent that he has at all times,” said Johnson. “He’s also very loyal to, like, his group and to his people.”
She added, “I would say, as he’s at the Grammys, like… just to enjoy it! And to take it all in, you know? And just be present, yeah. And show love, win or lose… he’s gonna win eventually. If he doesn’t win this time, he will later.”
Rising artist Benson Boone is making waves in the music industry, and his western Washington hometown couldn’t be prouder. The talented singer-songwriter has been gaining attention for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, and now he’s setting his sights on the ultimate prize: a Grammy award.
Benson’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of inspiring. Growing up in a small town in western Washington, he always had a passion for music. He started writing songs at a young age and honed his craft by performing at local open mic nights and talent shows. His hard work paid off when he caught the attention of music industry insiders, who were impressed by his raw talent and undeniable star quality.
Now, Benson is on the fast track to success, with his debut album receiving critical acclaim and earning him a loyal fan base. His powerful voice and emotional lyrics have struck a chord with listeners around the world, and he’s quickly becoming a household name in the music industry.
As Benson’s star continues to rise, his western Washington hometown is rallying behind him, cheering him on every step of the way. The community is buzzing with excitement as they watch one of their own chase his dreams and make a name for himself on the global stage.
With his sights set on a Grammy award, Benson Boone is proving that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of talent. And as he continues to dazzle audiences with his music, his hometown is bursting with pride, knowing that they played a part in shaping the career of a future music legend.
The 2025 MLS
season is barely three weeks away! Ahead of the league’s 30th year, we’re moving full steam ahead into prediction season. Starting with the Western Conference today and the Eastern Conference, GIVEMESPORT‘s Ben Wright makes his predictions for the final standings.
Note: these predictions are as of January 31, 2025. With the transfer window still in full swing, a lot can change before the first ball is kicked.
15
FC Dallas
2024 finish: 11th
FC Dallas
have essentially gutted their roster. Gone are Jesús Ferreira
, Paul Arriola
, Alan Velasco
and Nkosi Tafari
. They’ve made a few signings, but overall haven’t come close to replacing the exodus of key players from last year. It looks set to be a long season in Eric Quill’s first season in charge.
14
San Diego FC
2024 finish: N/A
Credit: San Diego FC
It’s typically hard to judge expansion teams before they’ve ever played a match. San Diego FC
are no different. Some of their moves have been intriguing, like the additions of DP wingers Hirving Lozano
and Anders Dreyer
. There are still plenty of question marks, though, like how Mikey Varas will fare in his first season as a senior head coach. At the end of the day, it’s just really hard to be good as an expansion team.
13
Portland Timbers
2024 finish: 9th
The Portland Timbers
have a ton of questions heading into the season. For starters, will Evander
be back? The 2024 Best XI midfielder ended last season publicly frustrated at the club, and seems like a prime candidate for the league’s new Cash Trade rule. If Evander leaves, Portland’s ceiling falls into the basement.
12
Sporting Kansas City
2024 finish: 13th
Sporting Kansas City
are another team who’ve had a major exodus of players this winter. Johnny Russell, Tim Melia
, Alan Pulido
and Fontàs
may have been past their primes, but they were all key players for Sporting, and haven’t been replaced so far this winter… sike! Signing Dejan Joveljic
from the Los Angeles Galaxy
as the first cash trade in league history is a huge move that brings them one of the best goal-scorers in MLS, and immediately raises their ceiling.
11
Vancouver Whitecaps
2024 finish: 8th
Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images
The Vancouver Whitecaps
are another team with major question marks. Are you sensing the trend here? Vanni Sartini was fired after the 2024 season. The club was put up for sale. Fafà Picault
left in free agency, and Stuart Armstrong
has been sold to Sheffield Wednesday
. There are more questions than answers this point, and while the ‘Caps have been on the bubble of being a contender for the last several seasons, 2025 feels like it has the potential to sour quickly.
10
San Jose Earthquakes
2024 finish: 14th
How quickly can Bruce Arena turn around one of the worst teams in MLS history? That’s the big question for the San Jose Earthquakes
, and honestly one of the biggest questions of the 2025 season. The ‘Quakes were awful in 2024, finishing last in the Supporters’ Shield standings, losing a record 25 matches, and conceding a record 78 goals. They’ve been wildly active in the transfer market, signing Josef Martínez
and Cristian Arango
, as well as bolstering several other areas. Arena has a history of getting production quickly, but will it be enough to get them into the playoffs?
9
Austin FC
2024 finish: 10th
Austin FC have overhauled their Designated Players, signing their three current DPs ( Osman Bukari
, Brandon Vázquez
and Myrto Uzuni
) in the last two windows. Sebastián Driussi
is gone, transferred out as Nico Estévez comes in to manage a new-look roster. They don’t have much depth at any position, though, and there are real questions about who is going to create the chances for Vázquez and Uzuni to finish.
8
Houston Dynamo
2024 finish: 5th
Hector Herrera and Adalberto Carrasquilla
are gone. Can Houston Dynamo
still play Ben Olsen’s possession-based style without them? The Dynamo led MLS with 59.3 percent possession last year but scored the seventh-fewest goals. They need to figure out who is going to control the game for them while also hoping Ezequiel Ponce
takes a big step forward in year two. Don’t be surprised if they take a step back in 2025.
7
Real Salt Lake
2024 finish: 3th
Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
It’s Diego Luna
‘s team now. With Chicho Arango traded, Real Salt Lake
have moved on to a new chapter. Diogo Gonçalves
wears the number 10, but I suspect Luna will carry the weight of chance creation for an RSL side that should be in the playoffs, but will have trouble challenging at the top of the table.
6
Colorado Rapids
2024 finish: 7th
Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
The Colorado Rapids
might not have the highest ceiling in the West, but under Chris Armas they’ve proved to have a very high floor, especially if Djordje Mihailović
is able to stay healthy for a full season. Chidozie Awaziem
was savvy pickup from Cincinnati, and he should improve a defense that was decent-if-suspect last year.
5
St. Louis City SC
2024 finish: 12th
Mandatory Credit- Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
St. Louis CITY SC
have had a quiet winter window, but that’s because they did most of their business in the summer. Marcel Hartel
and Cedric Teuchert
look like stars, and Timo Baumgartl
should be a fantastic addition at the back. They’re one to watch, and one of my two dark horse picks in the West this year.
4
LA Galaxy
2024 finish: 2nd
Remember that MLS Cup
-winning roster? Yeah… it’s dismantled. Aside from the fact that Riqui Puig
will miss most of the 2025 season, Gastón Brugman
, Jalen Neal
, Marky Delgado
and now Dejan Joveljic
are gone. With the Galaxy up against cap constraints, they haven’t really been able to reload, although Joveljic’s sale should give them a bit of wiggle room. They should be able to make a couple of additions, but having them in fourth feels like a risk.
3
Minnesota United
2024 finish: 6th
Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Minnesota United
maybe shouldn’t count as a dark horse, but I’m calling them one. Kelvin Yeboah
looked like a Golden Boot-caliber No. 9 in his half season, Robin Lod
remains one of the best and most overlooked playmakers in the league, and Eric Ramsey has built a solid system to maximize his players’ potential. Count on the Loons finishing towards the top of the Western Conference table.
2
Seattle Sounders
2024 finish: 4th
The Seattle Sounders
quietly had one of the best winter windows in MLS. Re-signing Albert Rusnák
and João Paulo
was excellent business, Paul Arriola
will raise their level in multiple positions, and Jesús Ferreira
is a proven MLS goal-scorer who hasn’t even reached his prime. Pair that with an all-time elite defense and you have a winning formula. The Sounders were just minutes away from making MLS Cup in 2024, and no one should be shocked if they make it all the way in 2025.
1
LAFC
2024 finish: 1st
Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Los Angeles FC
are another side that have made tons of changes this winter. Their midfield, in particular, has been completely gutted, with Timothy Tillman the only returning midfielder from 2024. Normally, this would be a massive red flag. But John Thorrington has build up a lot of credit with six seasons of exceptional roster building, endlessly able to replace players at a high level and always good for one massive summer move. Even with the changes, they still have loads of talent in this squad, an MVP-caliber attacker in Denis Bouanga
, and the ability to go out and add a game-changing DP in the summer. It’s the blueprint they’ve followed for years, and it always seems to work.
The 2025 MLS Regular Season is only weeks away; here’s what every club needs to round out their rosters ahead of Opening Day.
As we look ahead to the 2025 MLS season, the Western Conference is shaping up to be as competitive as ever. With talented teams and star-studded rosters, fans can expect an exciting race for the playoffs.
Here is a preview of the top teams in the Western Conference and my prediction for the final standings:
1. LA Galaxy: With a strong core of players and a proven track record of success, the Galaxy are poised to finish at the top of the conference. Led by key players like Chicharito and Jonathan dos Santos, they have the talent and experience to make a deep playoff run.
2. Seattle Sounders: The Sounders have consistently been a powerhouse in the Western Conference and I expect them to be right in the mix again in 2025. With a balanced roster and strong coaching, they will be a tough team to beat.
3. Portland Timbers: The Timbers have a solid roster and a passionate fan base that always gives them a boost at home. With key players like Diego Valeri and Sebastian Blanco leading the way, they should be in contention for a playoff spot.
4. FC Dallas: Dallas has a young and talented roster that has been steadily improving in recent years. With a focus on developing their own talent through their academy, they have the potential to surprise some of the more established teams in the conference.
5. LAFC: After a disappointing season in 2024, LAFC will be looking to bounce back and regain their status as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. With Carlos Vela leading the way, they have the firepower to compete with anyone in the league.
6. Real Salt Lake: RSL may be flying under the radar, but they have a solid core of players and a strong team culture that could propel them into playoff contention. With a well-rounded roster and a hard-working mentality, they could be a dark horse in the conference.
7. Vancouver Whitecaps: The Whitecaps have made some key additions to their roster in the offseason and should be a team to watch in 2025. With exciting young players like Ryan Gauld and Lucas Cavallini, they have the potential to surprise some of the more established teams in the conference.
8. San Jose Earthquakes: The Earthquakes have struggled in recent years, but they have made some key acquisitions in the offseason that could help them improve in 2025. With a revamped roster and a new coaching staff, they will be looking to make a statement in the Western Conference.
Overall, the Western Conference is shaping up to be highly competitive in 2025, with several teams vying for playoff spots. While the Galaxy may be the favorites to finish at the top, there are plenty of talented teams that will be looking to challenge them for supremacy. It’s sure to be an exciting season ahead for MLS fans.
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MLS Western Conference Standings Prediction 2025
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Key Matchups in the 2025 MLS Western Conference
Top Contenders in the 2025 MLS West Conference
MLS Western Conference Standings Forecast 2025
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2025 MLS Western Conference Season Preview & Analysis
A month of relatively little snowfall in the mountains of western Montana took snow depth in the region from above average a month ago to below average for late January. But now a weekend storm is set to deliver a foot or more of fresh powder at high elevations, and possibly a few inches at middle elevations. Valleys are expected to see less than 1 inch.
The incoming weather system, expected to begin impacting the area Friday afternoon, is likely to snarl vehicle travel over mountain passes and elevate avalanche danger in the backcountry as fresh snow builds up on top of a snowpack that contains weak layers unable to support the extra weight.
“Heavy snowfall and strong winds may be sufficient to overload very weak snow layers and cause a widespread cycle of avalanches large enough to bury, injure, or kill a person,” the watch stated. “Some of these avalanches could release naturally, and it will become very easy for backcountry travelers to trigger them.”
The Flathead Avalanche Center in northwest Montana also issued an avalanche watch on Friday, cautioning on Facebook that “we have all the necessary ingredients to develop dangerous avalanche conditions in the next 24 hours.”
However, forecasters will issue an updated general information product online Saturday morning, advising backcountry recreators on what they are likely to encounter as the storm adds weight to the snowpack. That information will be available at missoulaavalanche.org.
As of midday Friday, the National Weather Service predicted 10-20 inches of snow would accumulate around Lolo Pass, on U.S. Highway 12 southwest of Missoula, from Friday afternoon through Saturday evening. Another 2-4 inches could accumulate Sunday night into Monday.
Lookout Pass, on Interstate 90 west of Missoula, was predicted to get 14-25 inches by Saturday evening. Lost Trail Pass, on U.S. Highway 93 south of Missoula and Hamilton, was predicted to get 5-11 inches in the same timeframe, but with an additional 3-7 inches coming Sunday into Monday.
Mountain temperatures were predicted to be in the mid-20 degrees Fahrenheit overnight from Friday into Saturday, with predicted highs on Saturday in the upper 20s and low 30s, just below freezing. Beginning Saturday evening, an incursion of arctic air is expected to drop overnight lows into the low to mid-teens. Sunday’s highs were predicted to be in the low 20s, with overnight lows into Monday in the low teens or single digits.
From a snowpack-loading standpoint, that means the storm is likely to come through “right-side-up,” said Avalanche Forecaster Cam Mackenzie, with heavier, higher-density snow falling at the beginning of the storm and lighter, drier snow falling toward the end.
Regardless, he said, “We have potential for avalanche hazard to increase.”
Avalanches are possible on any slope 30 degrees or steeper, and can be triggered remotely and without warning from above, below or adjacent to a slope that steep. Avalanches are most likely to begin on slopes between 35 and 45 degrees.
Avalanches are the leading cause of death by any natural hazard on national forests, killing an average of 25-30 people in the U.S. each year, according to the National Avalanche Center, a program of the U.S. Forest Service. Almost all of the deaths occur on lands in the National Forest System, where nearly all backcountry winter travel like ski touring, snowmobiling, mountaineering and ice climbing takes place.
As of the past week, public observations and information from the West Central Montana Avalanche Center indicate layers of crusts and loose, angular, faceted snow crystals exist near the top of the snowpack in many locations across the region. There was also widespread surface hoar — vertical, leaf-like ice formations atop the snow. Any of those things could become a dangerous weak layer within the snowpack once buried Friday night into Saturday, although wind could blow the surface hoar down as the storm rolls in.
Mackenzie said his mindset when new snow accumulates is to consider what it’s falling on. In this case it’s potential weak layers.
“If you come across 6 inches of more of new snow,” he said, “or you’re seeing signs that snow is being transported by the wind and developing slabs, then avalanches are possible.”
Joshua Murdock covers the outdoors and natural resources for the Missoulian. He previously served as editor-in-chief of The Boulder Monitor in Jefferson County, Montana, and has worked as a newspaper reporter and photographer in rural towns in Idaho and Utah.
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Winter storm warning issued for western Montana as heavy snow and potential avalanches expected to hit the region. Stay safe and be prepared for hazardous conditions. #MontanaSnowstorm #AvalancheWarning
With as large a body of work as Patrick Swayze had to his name, it’s sort of surprising that he wasn’t in many Westerns. In fact, he wasn’t in any Westerns at all, save for one: a long-forgotten Disney movie called Tall Tale. Though some may consider Road House a modern Western of sorts, as far as traditional horse operas go, only this Disney fantasy flick fits the bill — Pecos Bill, that is. In this 1995 adventure, Swayze plays none other than Pecos Bill, a legendary cowboy who comes to the aid of a young boy named Daniel Hackett (played by a young Nick Stahl). Is Pecos Bill real or imagined? Well, Tall Tale (sometimes called Tall Tale: The Unbelievable Adventures of Pecos Bill) offers few clear answers, but they don’t matter much anyway. Patrick Swayze played a cowboy here, and the truth is that we wished he’d played a few more…
‘Tall Tale’ Brought the Myths of the American West to Life
Image via Disney
In American history and culture, there have always been folk heroes. Swayze’s Tall Tale character Pecos Bill has been in the American pop culture zeitgeist for over a century, and some of the other notable figures in this film — namely Paul Bunyan (played by Oliver Platt) and John Henry (Roger Aaron Brown) — have been around for even longer. But part of the charm of Tall Tale is that these folk heroes, whether real or not, represent the sheer ingenuity, tenacity, and larger-than-life nature of the American spirit, with Swayze perfectly embodying them all. As Daniel finds himself far away from home with little faith in the “tall tales” his father often told him, he encounters these very myths for himself in the Wild West. It’s only when he chooses to embody the very traits these mythical figures represent that Daniel effectively grows up, and can stand against the villainous land developer J.P. Stiles (Scott Glenn).
There is almost a Wizard of Oz-like quality to this production, as Daniel awakens in a land far from his own, with three new companions who are truly otherworldly. It’s clear that Disney intended Tall Tale to be a children’s fable, one with an over-the-top cast who embody the iconic roles they’ve been given. If you were like this author and grew up with Tall Tale, then you may have some fond memories of Disney’s chief attempt to bring these mythic figures to the live-action screen. (Less than a decade later, the studio would revisit these American tall tales with Disney’s American Legends, a collection of animated short films that revisited characters like Bunyan, Henry, and Johnny Appleseed.) Despite being a box office bomb that garnered mixed reviews from critics, it’s easy to find the diamonds in the rough here, especially so far as Patrick Swayze’s performance (and mustache) is concerned. Indeed, Roger Ebert once called it “a warm-blooded, high-spirited family adventure film,” offering a three-out-of-four star rating.
Patrick Swayze Proved He Was True Western Material
Of course, what makes Tall Tale especially notable is Patrick Swayze himself. Sure, his Pecos Bill is a bit hot-headed and maybe a little full of himself, but the way Swayze tackles this legendary cowboy is flawless. Armed with an iconic appearance, a horse named Widowmaker, and enough gumption to carry the entire picture, Tall Tale is as fun an adventure as it is largely because of his mentorship of young Daniel. Through Swayze’s portrayal and Pecos Bill’s pure Western convictions, Daniel discovers the strength within himself to stand up for what’s right, even if it costs him everything. Frankly, it’s easy to watch this flick and wish that Patrick Swayze had tackled more Western roles. Though he was more well-known for his action pictures and coming-of-age dramas/romances, he settles into the Old West with ease, bringing a lighthearted charm to an otherwise desolate place.
While Swayze nearly overlapped with the Western genre on an occasion or two — he also starred in the Civil War series, North and South, and his 1989 thriller Next of Kin ventured dangerously close — Tall Tale is his only pure horse opera, even if it doubles as a fantasy. The actor, who was known off-camera for being something of a real-life cowboy himself (he owned ranches in California and New Mexico before his death in 2009), looked just as comfortable on the back of a horse as he did wielding a six-shooter with a wide grin and an even wider-brimmed hat. While the Western was far less popular in the 1980s and 1990s than it was in its heyday in the early-to-mid 20th century, it would’ve been grand to see Swayze appear in classics like Tombstone or Dances With Wolves, even if just in a smaller capacity. Nevertheless, Tall Tale: The Unbelievable Adventures of Pecos Bill mythologizes Patrick Swayze’s cowboy persona, solidifying the actor as a one-time Western star.
Tall Tale
Release Date
March 24, 1995
Runtime
98 minutes
Director
Jeremiah S. Chechik
Writers
Robert Rodat
Producers
Bill Badalato, Joe Roth
In the world of film criticism, Roger Ebert was known for his insightful and often colorful reviews. One of his lesser-known reviews was of Patrick Swayze’s only Western movie, “Tall Tale.” In his review, Ebert described the film as a “warm-blooded” adventure that captured the spirit of the Old West.
“Tall Tale” was released in 1995 and followed the story of three legendary American folk heroes – Pecos Bill, John Henry, and Paul Bunyan – as they come to life and help a young boy save his family’s farm from an evil land baron. Patrick Swayze starred as Pecos Bill, a larger-than-life cowboy with incredible strength and charisma.
Ebert praised the film for its imaginative storytelling, vibrant characters, and thrilling action sequences. He noted that Swayze’s performance as Pecos Bill was particularly memorable, capturing the essence of a larger-than-life cowboy with charm and authenticity.
Overall, Ebert’s review of “Tall Tale” painted it as a fun and entertaining Western adventure that would appeal to audiences of all ages. While the film may not have been a box office hit, it remains a beloved cult classic for fans of Patrick Swayze and Western movies alike.
Tags:
Roger Ebert, Patrick Swayze, Western movie, Warm-Blooded adventure, film review, movie critique, actor, film analysis, iconic performance, classic cinema.
Qube has opened a new bulk storage facility in Picton, Western Australia.
With the capacity to store over 300kt of bulk minerals for export, the additional new bulk warehouse will be utilised for Iluka Resources’ significant operations across the South West region, boosting Picton’s under coverage storage capacity to 30,000 square metres.
Qube Bulk Director, Todd Emmert, was joined by Federal Member for Forrest, Nola Marino, Mayor of Bunbury, Jason Disan Miguell, Iluka Resources South West Operations Manager, Garry Green, and long term WA shed building partner, Q-Design, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the new building yesterday (30 January).
“As a long-term local employer, with over 400 employees across the South West, Qube is focused unlocking opportunities for current and aspiring importers and exporters,” Emmert said.
“Iluka is a great Australian company with large scale operations across WA including Narngulu, Catby and Capel.
“We are proud to support Iluka in their operations and ambitious endeavours.”
Exciting news for Western Australia as Qube, a leading logistics and supply chain solutions provider, has announced the opening of a new state-of-the-art facility in the region. The new facility is set to further enhance Qube’s capabilities in the area and support the growing demand for logistics services in Western Australia.
Located in a strategic location, the new facility will offer a range of services including warehousing, transport, and distribution solutions. With advanced technology and a focus on efficiency, the facility is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of industries, from mining and resources to agriculture and retail.
“We are thrilled to open our new facility in Western Australia and expand our presence in the region,” said a spokesperson for Qube. “This state-of-the-art facility will allow us to better serve our customers and provide them with the high-quality logistics solutions they need to succeed in today’s competitive market.”
The opening of the new facility is a testament to Qube’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the logistics industry. With its strategic location and cutting-edge technology, the facility is poised to become a key hub for logistics operations in Western Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates on Qube’s new Western Australia facility and the exciting opportunities it brings for businesses in the region.
Tags:
Qube, Western Australia, facility opening, logistics, supply chain management, transportation, storage, warehouse, Australia, new facility opening, Qube logistics, Western Australia facility, Qube expansion, Qube services, Qube operations, Qube news.
A mass fish kill spanning 9km along Western Australia’s Pilbara coast was likely caused by an ongoing marine heatwave, authorities have said.
An estimated 30,000 fish washed up earlier in January at beaches near Gnoorea Point, 50km south-west of Karratha.
The WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) said it was still investigating the fish kill but believed it “likely that prolonged thermal stress due to the conditions is associated with the deaths”.
Nathan Harrison, an executive director at DPIRD, said the nearshore waters along the Pilbara coast were currently about 31C, which was 2-3C above normal for this time of year.
“A warmer ocean off WA during 2024 has preconditioned a high marine heatwave risk scenario for the summer months when water temperatures naturally increase and peak,” he said in a statement.
Last week, DPIRD issued a strong (category 2) marine heatwave warning for WA’s north coast and Gascoyne bioregions. In the north coast, which takes in the Pilbara, sea surface temperatures were 4-5C above the long-term average.
There are concerns that the overheated water will cause damage to Ningaloo reef, Exmouth Gulf and Shark Bay in the Gascoyne. Coral bleaching occurred at Ningaloo in 2022.
Mardudhunera woman Raelene Cooper, a Karratha resident and Murujuga traditional custodian, visited 40 Mile beach near Gnoorea on Wednesday and described the fish kill as upsetting. “There are still dead animals that have been washed up,” she said.
“It’s quite evident that the water is heating up,” Cooper said, noticing the change while swimming with her family at her local beach. “We’re jumping in and jumping out because the water is so hot – it’s like the water that’s coming out of the shower.”
Marine heatwaves can last from days to months and have devastating impacts on marine ecosystems. One of WA’s worst marine heatwaves on record, in 2010-11, resulted in major losses to seagrass and kelp, and impacted abalone and scallop fisheries.
Nearly 90% of marine heatwaves now are attributable to human-caused global heating. They are expected to increase in frequency, intensity and duration as fossil fuel emissions continue to rise.
Bill Hare, the chief executive of Climate Analytics, said marine heatwaves were known to trigger “extreme low oxygen events, which then create a bigger environmental mess”, though it was not yet clear whether low oxygen contributed to the Gnoorea fish kill.
Mia Pepper, the campaigns director at the Conservation Council of WA, said it was a “tragic irony” that the fish had washed ashore down the coast from Woodside’s North West Shelf gas processing plant, one of Australia’s biggest CO2 emitters.
“The timing and the location of this fish kill should raise eyebrows for most people,” she said, citing the WA government’s recent granting of a 50-year extension to the North West Shelf project.
“We’re not seeing emissions being reduced in WA … that’s a fundamental policy flaw,” she said, calling for the next state government to limit emissions in line with international obligations.
Paul Gamblin, the WA director of the Australian Marine Conservation Society, agreed that there was “a huge dissonance between what we’re seeing in the water and what governments are approving”.
Fish washed up near Gnoorea Point. Photograph: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
He described it as a “juxtaposition of clear, climate-driven damage and the prospect of multi-decadal, huge fossil fuel projects”.
“We’re talking about places like Scott Reef, [which] has been under bleaching alert over the last few months as well,” he said. A Woodside Energy proposal to bury 4m tonnes of CO2 a year from its Browse gas project underwater would involve drilling wells within about 3km of the reef.
“Government and industry need to start waking up to themselves and dealing with facts,” Cooper said. “There needs to be some accountability.”
The marine heat comes as much of WA continues to swelter in an ongoing heatwave, with extreme heat forecast for parts of the state in the coming days. On 20 January, Geraldton equalled its hottest ever day, with temperatures reaching 49.3C, while January records have also been broken in multiple towns.
Hare said while marine and terrestrial heatwaves were both driven by global heating, their individual causes differed.
In a recent statement by the Western Australia government, it was revealed that an ocean heatwave is believed to have caused the death of around 30,000 fish off the coast of Western Australia. The extreme temperatures in the ocean have been attributed to the mass mortality event, which has had a devastating impact on the local marine ecosystem.
The government has expressed concern over the implications of such events on the fragile marine environment and has called for urgent action to address the underlying issues leading to these heatwaves. Climate change and global warming have been identified as major contributing factors to the increasing frequency and intensity of such events, highlighting the need for immediate action to mitigate their effects.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on our oceans. The government has pledged to work towards finding solutions to prevent such events from occurring in the future and to protect the marine biodiversity of Western Australia.
The Red Wings practiced at Little Caesars Arena’s BELFOR Training Center on Wednesday morning before departing for Edmonton. Patrick Kane (upper body) and Vladimir Tarasenko (illness) both participated, but J.T. Compher (upper body) and Jeff Petry (undisclosed) did not.
Per McLellan, he doesn’t expect Kane to play on Thursday but expects Tarasenko to return to the lineup. Compher will travel with the team on this road trip, while Petry will not.
Tied with the Vegas Golden Knights for first in the Western Conference’s Pacific Division at 67 points apiece, the Oilers most recently defeated the Kraken, 4-2, on Monday.
Captain Connor McDavid, who scored a goal in his return from a three-game suspension on Monday, leads the defending Western Conference champions in assists (45) and is second in goals (21) and points (66) behind Leon Draisaitl (35-40—75) this season. In 33 games, netminder Stuart Skinner has a 19-11-3 record with a 2.69 goals-against average and a pair of shutouts.
“I had the luxury of coaching them,” McLellan said about McDavid and Draisaitl. “The two of them are elite separately and super elite together. They play a completely different game. One is fast, one slows it down with passing and vision.”
Seider said the best way to defend against Edmonton’s star power is to do so as a five-man unit.
“Really focusing on keeping them to the outside, eliminating chances from the inner slot and try to eliminate extended D-zone shifts,” Seider said. “I think the more we have the puck, the better we’ll be and the more offense we’ll play.”
The Detroit Red Wings are set to kick off the Western Canada leg of their four-game road trip as they face off against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday night. After a tough loss to the Vancouver Canucks, the Red Wings will be looking to bounce back and secure a much-needed win.
Edmonton has been playing well as of late, with star players Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the way. The Red Wings will need to bring their A-game if they hope to come out on top against this tough opponent.
Stay tuned for updates and highlights from the game as the Red Wings look to make a statement in Edmonton. Let’s go Red Wings! #LGRW #DetroitRedWings #NHL #EdmontonOilers #WesternCanadaTrip
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Red Wings, Western Canada, road trip, Edmonton, NHL, hockey, preview, game, Thursday, matchup, Detroit, Edmonton Oilers, Red Wings vs Oilers, NHL game preview
Price: $110.00 (as of Jan 30,2025 00:34:40 UTC – Details)
Product Description
A Western show saddle blanket made from New Zealand wool is a high-quality, attractive, and functional piece of equestrian equipment designed for use in Western horse shows and rodeo events. This type of saddle blanket is known for its durability, comfort, and style. Here’s a detailed description of a Horse Western Show saddle blanket made from New Zealand wool:
Material: New Zealand wool is renowned for its softness, strength, and warmth. Wool is a traditional material for saddle blankets due to its ability to wick away moisture, provide cushioning, and maintain its shape over time. New Zealand wool is often prized for its fine, high-quality fibers.Size and Shape: Western show saddle blankets typically come in a square or rectangular shape. We make All Sizes (Customization also possible). This size ensures that the blanket adequately covers the horse’s back while leaving a stylish overhang at the front and rear of the saddle. The exact size may vary depending on the manufacturer and your specific needs.Design and Patterns: These saddle blankets often feature intricate and eye-catching designs. New Zealand wool is known for its vibrant and rich colors, which can be incorporated into various patterns, such as geometric shapes, stripes, and other decorative motifs. These designs add a touch of elegance and flair to the Western show saddle.Quality – A high-quality Western show saddle blanket made from New Zealand wool is typically handwoven or machine-woven with meticulous attention to detail. The edges are often reinforced to prevent fraying and ensure longevity.Comfort- The saddle blanket serves several important functions. It helps distribute the weight of the rider and saddle evenly, reducing pressure points on the horse’s back. The natural moisture-wicking properties of wool help keep the horse dry and comfortable during extended rides. Additionally, the blanket protects the horse’s skin and the saddle from sweat and friction.Customization: Many equestrians and riders opt for customized saddle blankets, where they can choose the specific design, colors, and even monograms or logos to make the blanket unique to their horse and style.Care and Maintenance: To keep a New Zealand wool saddle blanket in good condition, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Wool should be hand-washed with mild detergent and cold water to prevent shrinkage. It should be allowed to air dry, and any wrinkles or creases should be smoothed out to maintain its shape and appearance.
In summary, a Western show saddle blanket made from New Zealand wool is not only a functional piece of equipment but also a stylish accessory for riders participating in Western horse shows and rodeo events. Its high-quality construction, rich colors, and traditional design make it a valuable addition to the tack of any Western rider, ensuring the comfort and well-being of their horse while enhancing their overall presentation in the show ring.
EASY TO CLEAN – This handmade wool saddle blanket is easy to clean – just throw in the washing machine for a hassle-free experience! This pad is perfect for your Western show horse. 100% NEW ZEALAND WOOL – – Get the best Western look and feel with this luxurious handmade saddle blanket crafted from genuine New Zealand wool. Soft, yet sturdy, for the perfect riding experience. HANDWOVEN PATTERNED DESIGN – Adorn your horse with this beautiful, hand-woven, patterned Western Show Horse Saddle Blanket. Featuring a bold New Zealand-inspired design, this wool saddle pad will make a grand statement! A SHOW WORTHY PAD – Make a statement at your next show with this saddle blanket. It’s handmade with New Zealand wool, making it extra soft and durable. This saddle pad will keep your horse comfortable all ride long. Stand out with style – order yours today! #saddleblanket STAND OUT IN THE RING – Unique New Zealand design handmade wool saddle blanket to help you stand out from the crowd! Crafted from top wool, this Saddle pad is perfect for the horse saddle of your dreams.
Introducing our newest addition to our Western Ranch Horse Saddle Blanket collection – the New Zealand Wool Western Design Handmade Saddle Blanket Top Wool Pad Sensor Flex (Customization Available) ZB-021!
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Western Digital WD TV Live Plus HD Media Player GENUINE Remote Control
Price : 9.99
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Looking for a genuine replacement remote control for your Western Digital WD TV Live Plus HD Media Player? Look no further! We have the perfect solution for you – the Western Digital WD TV Live Plus HD Media Player GENUINE Remote Control.
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Adapter for WD Western Digital MDL: WD800B002-RNN 80 GB FireWire 80GB Fire Wire
Price : 29.90
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