The third annual Lip Sync Battle organized by the Actors Guild of Parkersburg was held on Saturday night, drawing local personalities and leaders to support various nonprofit organizations through an engaging contest. This unique event featured performances from community figures, all vying for cash prizes that would benefit their chosen charities. First, second, and third place winners received $500, $300, and $200 respectively, with additional funds awarded to other participants' causes. The evening not only entertained attendees but also highlighted the creative ways individuals can contribute to meaningful philanthropy.
Among the highlights of the event was a dynamic performance by Artsbridge's representatives, including President-elect Jeff DeWitt, Executive Director Lyndsay Dennis, and Community Outreach Coordinator Mary Smith. They delivered an electrifying rendition of “Proud Mary,” with DeWitt stepping into the iconic role of Tina Turner. Their efforts were rewarded with first place, securing valuable resources for their organization’s numerous programs across Ohio and West Virginia. DeWitt expressed excitement about using the prize money to address critical funding gaps within their initiatives.
Other notable acts included WVU Parkersburg President Torie Jackson and Vice President Olivia Reeder, who passionately lip-synced Barbara Mandrell’s classic hit. Meanwhile, Haley Hatfield and Treevee from the Humane Society of Parkersburg brought humor and energy with their take on Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog.” Each act contributed uniquely to the atmosphere, blending talent with heartfelt dedication toward helping others.
Event spokesperson Sherry Wilson Braid emphasized the importance of such events as they bring together familiar faces in unexpected settings. She noted how participants often exceeded expectations, transforming simple lip-sync routines into memorable theatrical experiences. Audience members played a crucial role in determining winners via live voting systems supplemented by pre-event online ballots.
Sponsorships played a pivotal part in ensuring the success of this year’s fundraiser. Notable supporters included Outback Steakhouse, Gran Azteca, Jimmy Colombo’s Italian Restaurant, and One Community Federal Credit Union. Their contributions allowed organizers to maximize proceeds going directly back into the community through designated beneficiaries.
This vibrant showcase of creativity underscored the power of collaboration between art and charity. By merging entertainment with altruism, the Lip Sync Battle Fundraiser exemplified how communities thrive when people unite around shared goals. As plans already begin shaping for next year’s edition, anticipation builds among both past competitors and potential newcomers alike.
In today's rapidly changing world, uncertainty has become a defining feature of both the economy and financial markets. Questions abound about the job market, the potential impact of tariffs on the economy, the role of artificial intelligence in employment, and the volatility of the stock market. These uncertainties can be overwhelming, making it crucial to seek guidance from experienced individuals who have weathered similar storms. Recently, insights from David Booth, founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors, shed light on how investing mirrors life itself—both are complex and uncertain. To cope effectively, tuning out the noise and focusing on what we can control is essential. This involves revisiting practical plans like the Panic Protection Plan, which provides a step-by-step process to maintain financial stability and achieve long-term goals.
David Booth’s reflections highlight the importance of making informed decisions based on current circumstances and available information. The 1960s at the University of Chicago saw a transformative era led by Booth and other academic pioneers, reshaping modern finance as documented in the film "Tune Out the Noise." In response to economic unpredictability, Booth emphasizes the need to focus on controllable elements. The Panic Protection Plan outlines actionable steps: establishing an emergency fund, reducing high-interest debt, maximizing retirement contributions, ensuring liquidity for short-term needs, reminding oneself of long-term investment objectives, seeking cost-effective investment options, and considering professional advice when necessary.
The first step involves securing an emergency reserve covering six to twelve months of living expenses while addressing outstanding consumer loans with high interest rates. Simultaneously, maximizing retirement contributions within one's capacity strengthens financial resilience. For those requiring cash in the near future, it is vital to avoid volatile investments such as stocks or bonds, opting instead for stable savings accounts.
Long-term investors must remember their ultimate objectives, often spanning decades. Even those nearing retirement should anticipate their accounts lasting another twenty to thirty years. Understanding this time horizon aids in enduring market fluctuations without panic. Another critical aspect is identifying areas where costs can be minimized, such as switching to no-commission index funds or evaluating advisor fees to uncover potential savings.
For individuals struggling to manage their finances independently, seeking professional assistance becomes prudent. When engaging advisors, clarity regarding services provided, compensation structures, and adherence to fiduciary standards ensures alignment with personal best interests. Resources like NAPFA.org, LetsMakeAPlan.org, and AICPA.org offer valuable guidance in finding suitable fiduciary advisors.
Uncertainty will persist in our economic landscape; however, adopting structured strategies empowers individuals to navigate these challenges confidently. By focusing on controllable factors and leveraging expert advice, one can remain steadfast in achieving financial aspirations despite market turbulence.
The city of New Haven has taken legal action against the Trump administration to secure federal funds that were recently frozen. The city lost access to tens of millions of dollars in grants for environmental and climate initiatives. Mayor Justin Elicker expressed frustration over this development, emphasizing the city's contractual rights to these funds. The lawsuit involves multiple cities across the nation, both red and blue states, challenging the executive orders that halted federal funding inconsistent with presidential policies. These funds were intended for various projects including sustainable home heating systems and infrastructure improvements.
Federal Grants Frozen: A City's Perspective
New Haven faces a significant setback as federal grant funding for essential environmental projects remains inaccessible due to administrative decisions. The city was set to receive over $30 million from the Environmental Protection Agency to support sustainability initiatives such as transitioning residents to eco-friendly heating systems and stoves. This decision by the Trump administration is seen as an impediment to community progress and financial savings for residents.
Mayor Elicker highlights the detrimental impact of withholding these funds on local communities. The city had planned comprehensive projects aimed at reducing reliance on oil-based heating and promoting energy-efficient alternatives. Furthermore, the transition from gas to induction stoves would have been facilitated through these funds. By freezing the grants, the administration is preventing the implementation of programs designed to improve living conditions and save costs for households. The frustration stems from the belief that the president's actions are contrary to established agreements and hinder opportunities for positive change within the community.
Nationwide Legal Battle Over Contractual Rights
In response to the funding freeze, New Haven has joined a coalition of cities pursuing legal recourse to challenge the suspension of their federal grants. This collective effort includes municipalities from diverse political backgrounds, united in their stance against what they perceive as unconstitutional interference with legally binding contracts. The dispute centers around the validity of executive orders affecting previously awarded grants.
The lawsuit asserts that the federal government cannot retroactively alter agreements without just cause or legal authority. Representative Steve Winter explains that the grants were structured as reimbursable, meaning the city must bear initial costs with the expectation of eventual compensation. This arrangement creates uncertainty and financial strain for local governments contemplating future projects. Additionally, the Community Change Grant valued at $20 million was earmarked for enhancing urban infrastructure, including bike lanes and increasing green spaces. Mayor Elicker argues that the unilateral cancellation of these contracts represents an overreach of executive power, undermining the trust and partnership between federal entities and local administrations. The case underscores the importance of honoring contractual obligations and respecting the autonomy of municipal planning efforts across the United States.