How to get a free ride home on New Year’s Eve — and avoid a DUI - The Denver Post

Coloradans who plan to drink alcohol as they celebrate New Year’s Eve on Saturday night have several options to get a free or discounted ride home — avoiding the risk of getting a DUI arrest by driving.

Whether you go out to a bar or a friend’s party, several organizations, including the Colorado Department of Transportation and local law firms, are offering ways to ride free or get reimbursed for taking Lyft and Uber or calling a taxi. In metro Denver, the Regional Transportation District is waiving fares starting at 7 p.m. and running some trains later than usual.

Authorities warn that they’ve stepped up drunken-driving enforcement this weekend.

“The new year brings plenty of parties around town to celebrate, and troopers are prepared to keep Coloradans safe by removing impaired drivers from our roads,” Colorado State Patrol Chief Matthew C. Packard said in a news release. “Our DUI enforcement efforts are vital, but we’re counting on all Coloradans to make responsible choices this holiday. Don’t end the year with a DUI — make a plan to get home safe and stick with it.”

Here are the options available for free rides:

RTD services are free from 7 p.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Sunday

The zero-fare period is sponsored by Molson Coors, RTD says, and the promotion applies to all buses, train lines and on-call services, including Access-a-Ride and FlexRide.

While RTD is operating on normal weekend schedules, which have less frequent service, it says it has scheduled an extra late trip out of Union Station on the N-Line (12:56 a.m.) and the B-Line (1:09 a.m.), with two late trips for the G-Line, leaving at 12:31 a.m. and 1:01 a.m. The A, E and W lines already have final trips at 1 a.m. or later.

From the Central Business District’s 16th and Stout light-rail station, the D-Line has two late trips added (leaving at 1:15 a.m. and 1:45 a.m.) and the H-Line also has two extra late trips (1:21 a.m. and 1:51 a.m.).

But Union Station is the best bet for train service, since the D and H lines will have service interruptions starting at 8 p.m. because of the downtown fireworks shows. During the two shows, set for 9 p.m. and midnight, the MallRide shuttle won’t run.

CDOT offers code for $10 Lyft credits

Credits for $10 on Lyft are available in advance from CDOT under a promotion with the Governors Highway Safety Association, Lyft and Responsibility.org. As of Wednesday, CDOT said 1,300 credits had been used so far this month, and it was making 1,500 more available through Jan. 3. Until then, they can be redeemed any night, between 5 p.m. and 5 a.m.

To claim a credit, enter the code “NODUISNYE” on the Lyft app in the promotions or payments section (select “Add Lyft Pass”).

Reimbursements up to $35 for longer rides

There’s a better option for longer rides, or if CDOT’s credits are all claimed. The Sawaya Law Firm in Denver long has offered reimbursements of up to $35 for cab rides or Uber and Lyft rides home on New Year’s Eve to anyone who’s 21 or older and has a valid ID.

Keep the receipt and upload it within two weeks, along with a photo or scan of your photo ID, at www.sawayalaw.com/cab-program. Or you can send the receipt and photo ID copy via email to cab@sawayalaw.com.

The reimbursement will be sent to the address on the ID, unless another is specified in the request.

Southern Front Range option

In Colorado Springs and Pueblo, the McDivitt Law Firm covers taxi rides home on New Year’s Eve with partner cab companies. To take part, revelers in Pueblo can order a cab from City Cab at (719) 543-2525. In Colorado Springs, zTrip (formerly Yellow Cab) is available at (719) 766-4567, or via the zTrip app (select “pay in car” when booking). Riders should mention the promotion when they get in the cab.

Adblock test (Why?)

How to get a free ride home on New Year’s Eve — and avoid a DUI - The Denver Post
Read More

Which Remaining Free Agent Hitters Were Shifted The Most In 2022? - MLB Trade Rumors

It was announced back in September that Major League Baseball would be implementing some new rules for the 2023 season. One such change will be the limiting of defensive shifts, with teams required to have two infielders on each side of second base and all four on the near side of the outfield grass at the time the pitch is released.

The exact ramifications of these changes will be discovered as the 2023 season progresses, but the hope is that some routine grounders turn into hits instead. Those players who have been shifted the most could stand to reap the most benefit from the new environment. The prototypical example of the hitter that is the most harmed by the shifts has been a plodding and pull-happy left-hander who can be neutralized by having an infielder in deep right field. However, each player is unique and will have been attacked in different ways, so let’s look at the data, with a minimum of 100 plate appearances required to be considered here. Which free agents were shifted the most in 2022? (Quick note that Stephen Vogt has been excluded since he previously announced 2022 would be his last season.)

1.  Rougned Odor – 93.8%
2. Kole Calhoun – 93.4%
3. Zack Collins – 88.9%
4. Brett Phillips – 88%
5. Brandon Belt – 85.2%
6. Mike Ford – 84.6%
7. Jed Lowrie (as a lefty) – 83.5%
8. Robbie Grossman (as a lefty) – 82.6%
9. Michael Perez – 81.8%
10. Mike Moustakas* – 81%
11. Tommy La Stella* – 80.5%
12. Josh VanMeter – 79.7%
13. Luke Voit – 76.9%
14. Colin Moran – 75%
15. Adam Duvall – 71.7%
16. Gary Sánchez – 70.5%
17. Dominic Smith – 70.4%
18. Jackie Bradley Jr. – 64%
19. Jurickson Profar (as a lefty) – 63.8%
20. Didi Gregorius – 60.3%

(* – Moustakas and La Stella technically aren’t free agents right now. However, they were both recently designated for assignment and are likely to be released given their onerous contracts.)

Odor has been quite awful at the plate recently, with his batting average finishing at .207 or below in each of the past four years. However, his batting average on balls in play has been at .244 or below in each of those seasons, well below his earlier career marks and the .290 league average in 2022. Perhaps the shift bans could get him closer to his earlier career number when he hit between .259 and .271.

Belt hit .285/.393/.595 over 2020 and 2021, good enough for a wRC+ of 162 which trailed only Juan Soto and Bryce Harper among all MLB hitters in that time. He was actually shifted more in those two seasons than he was in 2022. Injuries limited him to just 78 games and tepid production this year, but perhaps better health and some more open space on the field could help him return to being one of the best hitters in the league.

As for the rest, some of these guys are role players or aging veterans, but a few of them could be sneaky value pickups in the latter half of the offseason. Like Belt, many of them are coming off disappointing and/or injury-marred years and will be looking to bounce back in 2023. Grossman posted a 118 wRC+ over 2020 and 2021 but just an 82 this year. Voit had a 153 wRC+ in the shortened 2020 season but dipped to 112 and 102 in the past two campaigns. Duvall had a 108 wRC+ over 2019-2021 but an 87 here in 2022. Sánchez recorded a 143 wRC+ in his first two seasons but just a 96 in the following five years, including an 89 in the most recent campaign. Smith posted a huge 150 wRC+ over 2019 and 2020 but has slid to just 82 since. Profar is coming off a decent campaign and is arguably the best free agent still unsigned.

Adblock test (Why?)

Which Remaining Free Agent Hitters Were Shifted The Most In 2022? - MLB Trade Rumors
Read More

Daron Payne is one the NFL’s top free agents in 2023 - Yahoo Sports

The Washington Commanders have one of the NFL’s best defensive lines. Having spent four consecutive first-round picks on the defensive line, you should have a dominant group.

But it wasn’t until the 2022 season that Washington’s defensive line seemingly put it all together to become one dominant unit. A big reason for Washington’s defensive surge this season is fifth-year defensive tackle Daron Payne.

Through 15 games, Payne has already established career-highs in tackles for loss and sacks. Payne has 9.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss, which is tied for No. 3 in the NFL — with teammate Jonathan Allen.

The bad news for Washington is Payne is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in March. While there was talk last offseason that Washington would let Payne walk, head coach Ron Rivera has said at every turn how much the Commanders want and need Payne back.

If the season were to end today, where would Payne rank among potential free agents?

According to Pro Football Focus, which ranked the top 25 prospective free agents for 2023, Payne comes in at No. 12. This, of course, is before teams use the franchise tag to keep players off the market.

Payne showed early in his NFL career that he could be a stout run-defender from the nose tackle position, with his 86 defensive stops against the run the most in the NFL from 2018-20. And he has now continued to build on his pass-rush arsenal to the point where he’s now a problem for interior offensive linemen trying to keep their quarterback upright. Payne has 80 quarterback pressures since the start of 2021, 10th-most among interior defenders, with his 11.9% pass rush win rate a very respectable figure on the inside.

Payne still needs to put all his tools together for a complete season where he’s a positive factor in both facets, and he’s shown he has the talent to do just that.

What Washington fans do not want to hear is the franchise tag. However, with Payne this close to free agency, it’s difficult to believe he and the Commanders will agree to a new contract, making the tag an option.

It should be another interesting offseason for Washington.

Story originally appeared on Commanders Wire

Adblock test (Why?)

Daron Payne is one the NFL’s top free agents in 2023 - Yahoo Sports
Read More

How to get a free ride home on New Year’s Eve — and avoid a DUI - The Denver Post

Coloradans who plan to drink alcohol as they celebrate New Year’s Eve on Saturday night have several options to get a free or discounted ride home — avoiding the risk of getting a DUI arrest by driving.

Whether you go out to a bar or a friend’s party, several organizations, including the Colorado Department of Transportation and local law firms, are offering ways to ride free or get reimbursed for taking Lyft and Uber or calling a taxi. In metro Denver, the Regional Transportation District is waiving fares starting at 7 p.m. and running some trains later than usual.

Authorities warn that they’ve stepped up drunken-driving enforcement this weekend.

“The new year brings plenty of parties around town to celebrate, and troopers are prepared to keep Coloradans safe by removing impaired drivers from our roads,” Colorado State Patrol Chief Matthew C. Packard said in a news release. “Our DUI enforcement efforts are vital, but we’re counting on all Coloradans to make responsible choices this holiday. Don’t end the year with a DUI — make a plan to get home safe and stick with it.”

Here are the options available for free rides:

RTD services are free from 7 p.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Sunday

The zero-fare period is sponsored by Molson Coors, RTD says, and the promotion applies to all buses, train lines and on-call services, including Access-a-Ride and FlexRide.

While RTD is operating on normal weekend schedules, which have less frequent service, it says it has scheduled an extra late trip out of Union Station on the N-Line (12:56 a.m.) and the B-Line (1:09 a.m.), with two late trips for the G-Line, leaving at 12:31 a.m. and 1:01 a.m. The A, E and W lines already have final trips at 1 a.m. or later.

From the Central Business District’s 16th and Stout light-rail station, the D-Line has two late trips added (leaving at 1:15 a.m. and 1:45 a.m.) and the H-Line also has two extra late trips (1:21 a.m. and 1:51 a.m.).

But Union Station is the best bet for train service, since the D and H lines will have service interruptions starting at 8 p.m. because of the downtown fireworks shows. During the two shows, set for 9 p.m. and midnight, the MallRide shuttle won’t run.

CDOT offers code for $10 Lyft credits

Credits for $10 on Lyft are available in advance from CDOT under a promotion with the Governors Highway Safety Association, Lyft and Responsibility.org. As of Wednesday, CDOT said 1,300 credits had been used so far this month, and it was making 1,500 more available through Jan. 3. Until then, they can be redeemed any night, between 5 p.m. and 5 a.m.

To claim a credit, enter the code “NODUISNYE” on the Lyft app in the promotions or payments section (select “Add Lyft Pass”).

Reimbursements up to $35 for longer rides

There’s a better option for longer rides, or if CDOT’s credits are all claimed. The Sawaya Law Firm in Denver long has offered reimbursements of up to $35 for cab rides or Uber and Lyft rides home on New Year’s Eve to anyone who’s 21 or older and has a valid ID.

Keep the receipt and upload it within two weeks, along with a photo or scan of your photo ID, at www.sawayalaw.com/cab-program. Or you can send the receipt and photo ID copy via email to cab@sawayalaw.com.

The reimbursement will be sent to the address on the ID, unless another is specified in the request.

Southern Front Range option

In Colorado Springs and Pueblo, the McDivitt Law Firm covers taxi rides home on New Year’s Eve with partner cab companies. To take part, revelers in Pueblo can order a cab from City Cab at (719) 543-2525. In Colorado Springs, zTrip (formerly Yellow Cab) is available at (719) 766-4567, or via the zTrip app (select “pay in car” when booking). Riders should mention the promotion when they get in the cab.

Adblock test (Why?)

How to get a free ride home on New Year’s Eve — and avoid a DUI - The Denver Post
Read More

Life-changing experience leads Minneapolis woman to offer free haircuts to homeless - CBS News

A Minneapolis woman became inspired by a life-changing haircut she got when she was younger, and found a way to help others in her community look their best — even if they couldn't afford it.

Katie Stellar said growing up, her mother would cut her hair since she was one of six children. The home haircuts weren't the most stylish.

"My mom was awful and I have pictures to prove it. But I never really had any desire to do anything with my hair," she said.

That was until Stellar was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease when she was 11 years old, which took a toll on both her body and her hair. She began losing her hair and eyelashes.

"I really didn't realize how important it was to me until I was losing it," she said.

Her mother, Julie Stellar, then searched for anything that might make her daughter feel just a little bit better. She decided to get her daughter a real haircut with someone who had their license.

For Stellar, the experience was life-changing. She credited the hair stylist for making her feel comfortable and safe throughout the appointment.

"What she did for me was she sat me down in this chair and talked to me as a person, not as an illness," Stellar said.

The experience lit a fire for Stellar. She herself became a hair stylist, but one with a mission — to make others feel the way she felt that day. She opened a salon, which led to the start of the Red Chair Project.

Steve Hartman interviews Katie Stellar, the founder of the Red Chair Project, as she offers free haircuts to the homeless. CBS News

Stellar said the idea behind the movement came as she was preparing to open her new salon. She always wanted red chairs in her salon and wasn't willing to compromise, but the opening of the salon was delayed, leaving her with a hoard of equipment in her house.

"I remember looking at the chairs and being, like, 'This is kind of a waste,'" she said. "Like, what if I stuck this in my car and went and offered haircuts."

Stellar said she wanted to offer haircuts to anyone who asked, as she's seen people in her community of downtown Minneapolis struggle with homelessness.

"I think Red Chair Project definitely kind of stemmed from that feeling of wanting to show up for people who might be struggling or being alone," she said.

Stellar would approach anyone she drove past and offer them a haircut. She said while some people politely turned down the offer, others were more than eager to get a fresh look, including a man called Beetlejuice.

"The one thing I crave more than anything after being homeless for so long and not having a significant other… it's just that closeness, just human contact," he said.

Heather Jacobs, who was once homeless and the leader of a makeshift homeless community, said Stellar would come around and ask if anyone needed a haircut. 

Katie Stellar hopes the Red Chair Project continues to inspire more stylists to give out free haircuts throughout Minneapolis — and beyond. CBS News

"The smiles on their faces are irreplaceable," said Jacobs, adding that it gave people something to look forward to.

Throughout Minneapolis, Stellar's Red Chair Project has inspired more stylists with more chairs to give more free haircuts. She said she's happy seeing other people carrying on the work she started.

"I've had somebody ask me like, 'Well, do you get kind of threatened when you see people doing it?'" Stellar said. "I'm like, 'No. Competitive kindness. That is my kind of competition right there. Outdo me. I dare you. Like, please!'"

For some, that touch of kindness can be life-altering, just as it had been for Stellar years earlier. CBS News tracked down the stylist, whose name is Amy White, to bring the two together for the first time since Stellar got her life-changing haircut.

White said she doesn't remember doing anything different during Stellar's visit, but remembered that she was special. Stellar believes that what White gave her that day was a gift.

"It's one of those things I can never repay," she said. "I can put it forward. How can I use my life to alleviate someone else's pain, even just for a moment?"

Kindness 101 with Steve Hartman

More

More

Steve Hartman

Steve Hartman has been a CBS News correspondent since 1998, having served as a part-time correspondent for the previous two years.

Adblock test (Why?)

Life-changing experience leads Minneapolis woman to offer free haircuts to homeless - CBS News
Read More

Mets Worst Free-Agent Signing No. 10: Roger Cedeño - metsmerizedonline.com

This offseason, we’ve been looking at the Mets’ history with free agency. We began with the team’s best signings. Now we’re saving the worst for last. At No. 10 is an outfielder whose second act with New York was nothing like his first. 

The Mets have not been averse to reunions. Rarely has it ever worked out. José Reyes, Jeromy Bernitz, Kevin McReynolds are just a few failed retreads.

Roger Cedeño‘s first stint in New York lasted one season, but it was a terrific one in 1999. For a team that made its first postseason appearance in 11 years, Cedeño set what then was a club record with 66 stolen bases. He also had a slash line of .313/.396/.408.

The Mets used Cedeño as a trade chip, dealing him a package that resulted in the acquisition of left-handed starter Mike Hampton and outfielder Derek Bell.

As brilliant as the move was by general manager Steve Phillips to acquire Cedeño from the Los Angeles Dodgers prior to the ’99 season, it was equally as misguided to bring him back before ’02. In those two seasons with the Mets, Cedeño hit .263/.319/.362 with 39 steals.

Coming off a year in which the Mets offense was the major league’s worst, Phillips was determined to make several offseason splashes aimed at fixing the lackluster run production of 2001. Cedeño was inked to a four-year, $18 million deal with the hopes he could be the same spark to the lineup as he was in 1999.

Although fellow newcomers Mo Vaughn and Roberto Alomar were high-profile faces in the disastrous 2002 campaign, Cedeno was not immune from drawing the ire of Mets fans who grew increasingly frustrated. There was plenty of blame to go around. Several played far below their potential, with Cedeño among the most underwhelming.

His salary wasn’t the only thing that got bigger. There was visible weight gain — not exactly the ideal training plan for a supposed speedster. It didn’t help that his hitting declined too, with a horrid on-base percentage of .318 and an OPS+ of 78. Did we mention his fielding was terrible also? Cedeño’s defensive WAR was -1.0 with -10 defensive runs saved.

It didn’t get better in 2003 — both for the Mets and for Cedeño. That low stolen base total? It got lower: from 25 to 14. His on-base percentage and OPS+? Both went up…to .320 and 84. And he was still lost in the outfield.

There was nothing to justify keeping him past ’03, even if it meant eating the remainder of his contract. The Mets eventually cut their losses. Just prior to Opening Day 2004, Cedeño was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. Just over a year later, he was out of baseball.

Roger Cedeño is proof that a second look can lead to a bad final impression.

Adblock test (Why?)

Mets Worst Free-Agent Signing No. 10: Roger Cedeño - metsmerizedonline.com
Read More

Japan’s Ski Mecca, Niseko, Is Desperate for Workers - The New York Times

Japan reopened its borders just in time for the winter season. The Niseko area is straining to meet the pent-up demand.

Along with its bountiful, gossamer-light snow, the Japanese ski resort area of Niseko has come to be known for luxury hotels charging upward of $2,000 a night and high-end shops selling Moncler and Bogner jackets for even more.

But this season, amid the art galleries and Instagram-ready coffee kiosks, there is another inescapable sight, one that attests to the pandemic’s lingering economic mayhem: “help wanted” ads.

At Tamashii, a bar where dozens of empty liquor bottles hang from the ceiling, fliers advertise jobs for kitchen help, dishwashers and cashiers at about 70 percent above minimum wage. Hanazono, one of four main ski resorts on Mount Annupuri, is offering ski passes, free accommodations and “the best powder, as much as you need” to those willing to fill its openings for ski instructors, shuttle bus drivers, lift operators and rental shop staff. Reju Spa is looking for massage therapists and will offer flight ticket rebates worth $750.

After closing its borders to inbound tourists for two and a half years, Japan finally reopened in October, ending an isolation that was among the longest of any top tourism destination in the world. Since then, international visitors have flooded the Niseko area, seeking to hit its globally renowned slopes.

The reopening, just before ski season, was a blessing for business owners in the area, which encompasses the towns of Niseko, Kutchan and Rankoshi on Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido. But it has also produced a perfect storm of challenges as they try to recruit someone, anyone, to fill gaping holes in their staff rosters and provide the kind of service that big-spending visitors expect.

The reopening of Japan to international tourists has left business owners in the area struggling to attract workers.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Skiers waiting to get on a lift at Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Ski resort in Kutchan.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

While the area’s year-round local population is only about 25,000 residents, more than 1.3 million tourists could descend on the area between November and March, according to the Kutchan Tourism Association. With the borders only recently reopening, employers who typically hire seasonal workers from abroad have struggled to obtain work visas. The weak yen has also deterred some workers who don’t want to take what amounts to a pay cut.

By The New York Times

And within Japan, people are not “interested in the ski industry or willing to spend three months in the snow-packed area,” said Satoshi Nagai, general manager of the Niseko Promotion Board.

The labor shortages have been a boon for workers, who are showered with perks. Markus Timander, 31, who obtained a working holiday visa from Sweden and traveled to Japan in the fall, snagged nine job offers within three days of posting his availability in a handful of Facebook groups aimed at Niseko workers.

He is now working as a driver for a new boutique hotel near the Hirafu ski resort. In addition to the use of a car during off hours, he has free accommodations — with his own bedroom — and a season ski pass.

“The response was much bigger than I have had before or than I thought it would be,” said Mr. Timander, who has worked at ski resorts around the world since graduating from high school.

Markus Timander, in blue, received nine job offers within three days of posting his availability in Facebook groups for people needing work in Niseko.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

A jam-packed cafeteria in Niseko. The scarcity of restaurants exacerbates staff shortages, leaving customers to wait in long lines.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

With Japan’s declining and rapidly aging population and strict immigration controls, labor shortages are not unique to Niseko. And Japan is far from alone in dealing with worker shortfalls that arose as countries around the world emerged from the pandemic and restarted their economies.

But the Niseko area is also grappling with an explosion of development, adding accommodations for over 5,600 people since 2017, an increase of more than 30 percent, particularly in luxury properties.

Newly built hotels range in style from international brands like Ritz-Carlton and Park Hyatt, where the average daily rate for a room is now $1,500 and ski valets meet guests when they come off the slopes; to Shiguchi, a remote complex of reconstructed traditional Japanese villas where some reservations run more than $2,000 a night.

Along the main street in Hirafu, a central village that shares a name with the area’s most popular ski resort, masses of glass walls intercut with clean lines of concrete and steel loom over the snowy landscape. An assortment of stores sell designer outerwear and artisanal lattes.

The luxury properties mainly target international customers, with an increasing number coming from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Many arrive with high expectations of Japan’s much-lauded service culture.

“It’s been interesting watching everybody wake up from their Covid-induced torpor, my staff included,” said Colin Hackworth, president of Nihon Harmony Resorts, which operates the ski resort at Hanazono. “The pressure’s actually on now.”

The lobby at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. The area is grappling with an explosion of development, particularly luxury properties.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Hidenori Uematsu cooking at Lupicia. The restaurant paid 1 million yen as a finder’s fee to recruit a new executive chef.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Some businesses have gone to extraordinary lengths to secure staff. Lupicia, a restaurant that opened its second Niseko location in a new boutique hotel in Hirafu, paid 1 million yen — around $7,500 — as a finder’s fee for an executive chef recruited from Tokyo, said Hidenori Uematsu, director and executive chef at the restaurant’s original Niseko location.

But many businesses are resigned to getting by with skeleton staffs and have cut back services. JoJo’s, a burger restaurant that has been in Hirafu for almost three decades, is now closed for dinner because it can’t sustain evening shifts, said Ross Findlay, 58, the restaurant’s Australian owner.

Despite paying 1,500 yen — about $11.50 — an hour, far above Hokkaido’s minimum wage of 920 yen, the Niseko Park Hotel, a 45-year-old no-frills property on Hirafu’s main street, has closed 49 of its 89 rooms, suspended dinner service and limited room cleanings to once every four days, said Chie Fukui, who owns and operates the hotel with her husband.

Local tourism boosters worry that the staff shortages could dent Niseko’s reputation.

“It’s one of the biggest fears we have for this season,” said Mr. Nagai, the promotion board general manager. “For these guests to come back, they really need to feel that omotenashi” — the Japanese word for “customer service.”

A ski instructor teaching children at Niseko Village, a resort.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Mr. Timander and others skiing and snowboarding at Niseko Village.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Some visitors have noticed the overextended staff.

Florian Mines, 55, a German man who has lived in Hong Kong for 14 years, and his son Felix, 17, waited 20 minutes to order a steak from a menu pockmarked with “sold out” stickers at Tamashii, a bar in Hirafu. They waited another 20 minutes for the food to be ready.

Two clearly overwhelmed women at Tamashii toggled between roles as cashiers, bartenders and food servers, hustling to fill drinks and food orders. Rin Ebina, 23, the bar’s manager, said he wanted to hire about 15 more workers to cover four restaurants in the area.

The staff shortages are compounded by a dearth of restaurants, leaving customers to wait in long lines or resort to purchasing dinner at convenience stores.

“I booked all of our dinners one month in advance,” said Naho Tomioka, 36, a skier from Tokyo who was eating lunch in a jam-packed cafeteria at the Hanazono resort. “I think they need to build more restaurants to catch up with the amount of people gathering here.”

The demand for growth has split residents and developers, particularly in Kutchan, where the town council plans to implement new architectural codes restricting building heights in some parts of town.

Akihito Hoshika, manager of the landscape office in Kutchan, said the town had crafted a “master plan” to avert “the risk of overtourism.”

A bartender at Tamashii, which is struggling with a significant staff shortage.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Florian Mines and his son Felix waited 40 minutes to order and receive their food at Tamashii.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

But pro-development leaders say new rules could discourage hoteliers and others from bringing amenities to the area.

“When people go off it and start saying ‘Niseko is rubbish,’ word of mouth is very powerful,” said Craig Meikle, the New Zealand-born owner of Niseko Realty, an agency that has helped several foreign developers build projects.

Intense investor interest in Niseko drove up land prices by as much as 50 percent between 2014 and 2019, compared with an average of just 1.6 percent across Japan.

In the town of Niseko, strict building codes have been in place since 2001, said Kenya Katayama, 69, the mayor. At a time when tourism officials fret about the effect of climate change on the region’s snow, Niseko also requires that new buildings be carbon-neutral. Kutchan’s town council is not considering such environmental standards.

Takashi Hayakawa, a second-generation owner of Pension Alice, a 30-year-old guesthouse in Kutchan, said he worried new developers would not respect the natural spirit of the place.

“At the very beginning, even the foreigners who came in, they thought that Niseko was beautiful, and they loved the snow,” said Mr. Hayakawa, sitting in a cozy dining room decorated with stuffed animals and handmade wreaths. “Now there are people who don’t know anything about Niseko and just want to make money.”

Skiers enjoying the gossamer-light snow in Niseko.Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

Adblock test (Why?)

Japan’s Ski Mecca, Niseko, Is Desperate for Workers - The New York Times
Read More

Free expungement program offers people opportunity to wipe records clean, deadline Feb. 1 - KSAT San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO – Hundreds of people in Bexar County and surrounding areas may be eligible to have their criminal records wiped clean as the Texas Legal Services Center of Austin and the San Antonio NAACP Branch offer free expungement services.

“[It’s] Like being born again. What more can you ask for? The reason I did it is because I want to adopt my grandchildren,” said T.C., who is one of the hundreds of people to receive help from the expungement program team.

T.C. said an incident from 47 years ago is imposing challenges on his life today.

“When I was 15, they took me to the county jail and arrested me as an adult under the wrong name, and that’s on my record. So that’s stopping me from adopting my own grandchildren to give them a safe, secure future,” he shared.

The Texas Access to Justice Foundation awarded Texas Legal Services Center of Austin a $350,000 grant to give people a second chance.

“Oftentimes, people with criminal records have barriers to finding good employment and safe housing,” said Kevin Dietz, deputy director of Texas Legal Services Center.

The Bexar County District Attorney’s chief of litigation, Christian Henricksen, said there is a need for services like this to reintegrate people back into society.

“If we’re running a system in a way that’s keeping people from being able to get a job or to do the things that are going to allow them to be productive in society, that’s not good for the community,” Henricksen said.

It’s one reason the San Antonio NAACP branch partnered with Texas Legal Services Center to bring the expungement opportunity to Bexar County free of charge.

“Our goal in working with law enforcement is to create a better, safe community, but one in which that is void of disparities,” said San Antonio NAACP President Dr. Gregory Hudspeth.

For eligibility, you cannot be convicted, but there are certain circumstances for misdemeanors where you could still be eligible, and you must make below the federal poverty guideline. However, there are some ways people can qualify if they have medical needs, housing needs or other needs where income can be adjusted for eligibility.

Advocates are asking people to apply now because the grant supporting this program expires on Feb. 1.

“It is very rare that an opportunity like this comes forward in life, period. Take advantage of this opportunity. It may not come around again,” T.C. said.

To apply in person, visit the Barbara Jordan Community Center at 2803 East Commerce St, San Antonio, Texas 78203, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Click here to review the eligibility requirements for expungement in Texas.

Click here to apply online through the Texas Legal Services Center.

Adblock test (Why?)

Free expungement program offers people opportunity to wipe records clean, deadline Feb. 1 - KSAT San Antonio
Read More

Top 51 NFL free agents of 2023: Lamar Jackson, Roquan Smith, Geno Smith headline early rankings - NFL.com

The list of NFL quarterbacks headed for free agency in 2023 is long. The list of wide receivers, offensive linemen and cornerbacks is short. In general, this is a shallow crop of free agents at the top, but plenty of starters will hit the open market. I can't remember there ever being such a small gap between No. 10 on the board and No. 50.

Much will change between now and March -- three of the players I would have ranked in my top 30 (Elgton Jenkins, Jack Conklin and J.J. Watt) were re-signed or announced plans to retire in the last week alone. Expect a lot of movement as the regular season winds down.

In the meantime, here are my top 51 players.

• Players are listed with current teams.
• Each player's listed age represents how old he will be on Sept. 1, 2023, around when the next NFL season is poised to kick off.
• These rankings are not a prediction of how much money each player will get, but rather how much I'd want someone at market value.

Related Links

Baltimore Ravens · QB · Age: 26

There is absolutely no reason to believe the Ravens will let Jackson sniff the open market, but it’s fun for other teams to dream.

Baltimore Ravens · LB · Age: 26

Jackson's contract situation puts greater pressure on the Ravens to sign Smith before free agency. A great player in Chicago over the previous four seasons, the do-it-all linebacker has gone to another level in Baltimore since being traded there.

Seattle Seahawks · QB · Age: 32

While Geno's play has leveled off following his hot start to the 2022 season, it's only declined to the level of league-average starting quarterback who can't overcome poor surroundings. Pro Bowl quarterbacks with quality years left don't come available often. 

Philadelphia Eagles · DT · Age: 30

Undervalued in free agency in 2020, when he signed a three-year, $39 million deal with the Eagles, Hargrave could get bigger money this time after back-to-back monster seasons (17.5 sacks combined).

Kansas City Chiefs · OT · Age: 27

I'm not sure if left tackle is Brown's best position, but an above-average starter with great physical traits will get paid, even if Chiefs fans haven't always loved Brown. Kansas City offered Brown, who has played this season on the franchise tag, a big contract last offseason and figures to do the same again. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers · QB · Age: 46

For most of this season, Brady has played like a guy who would still excel if surrounded by the right coaching and pieces. The stretch run (7:7 TD-to-INT ratio since Week 13) has been cause for concern. 

Philadelphia Eagles · S · Age: 25

NFL general managers won't value an undersized slot corner/safety as highly as I do here, but Gardner-Johnson (eligible to return in Week 17 after going to injured reserve with a lacerated kidney suffered in Week 12) is a dog who is perfect for any secondary in this era. 

Philadelphia Eagles · CB · Age: 30

Available for too long after being released by the Giants last offseason, Bradberry signed a prove-it deal with the Eagles. He proved in Philadelphia that he's a top-shelf corner when on his game. 

New York Giants · RB · Age: 26

A running back with Barkley's receiving chops must be game-planned against. That has value, even if Barkley won't get the kind of money bound for some of the players below.  

Washington Commanders · DT · Age: 26

A plug-and-play, quality starter who has improved as a pass rusher and doesn't need to come off the field much. 

Cincinnati Bengals · S · Age: 26

Bates, playing on the franchise tag, is likely out of Cincinnati after the Bengals drafted his replacement (Daxton Hill) in Round 1 last year. Bates might have greater value to a team that plays more single-high safety, although there are fewer of those teams every year.

Free agent · WR · Age: 30

The two ACL tears Beckham has suffered since 2020 make it hard to assess his value as a player, especially in light of the Cowboys' hesitation to sign him this year without seeing him work out. Then again, he's the most dynamic receiver available in a thin market where everyone is looking for wideouts.

San Francisco 49ers · OT · Age: 28

It helps McGlinchey that nearly half the league is running a version of Kyle Shanahan's offense, in which the veteran has ably performed for 4,300 snaps since being drafted ninth overall in 2018 to play right tackle. The recent deals given to Jack Conklin and Elgton Jenkins made the O-line market even thinner. 

New York Giants · QB · Age: 26

It would be fascinating to see Jones operate with consistent pass protection and better weapons. He's shown this season he can limit mistakes and play efficient football. The deep quarterback market, however, could hurt his earning power. 

Denver Broncos · DT · Age: 26

He was in the top 20 in pressures among defensive tackles last year, according to Pro Football Focus, and was tied for fifth this season before suffering a hip injury in Week 14 that sent him to injured reserve.

Kansas City Chiefs · WR · Age: 26

Still just 26 years old, Smith-Schuster has great career production as a possession receiver who adds a physical run-after-catch element to any offense.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers · CB · Age: 26

He's probably been the Bucs' most consistent cornerback this season. While he doesn't have the physical skills of his teammate Carlton Davis, he's a young starting cornerback, and a contract similar to what Davis received in 2022 (three years, $45 million) would make sense. 

New England Patriots · WR · Age: 26

Meyers is somewhere between a solid No. 2 receiver and a perfect No. 3, able to win on the inside and outside with crisp routes. He'd fit in any offense. 

Arizona Cardinals · DL · Age: 26

Few players made themselves more money in 2022. In Year 4 with the Cardinals, Allen went from a quality innings-eater to a true ascending difference-maker who can play in any gap.

Dallas Cowboys · RB · Age: 26

Pollard is a weapon. One of the most effective per-touch running backs in football the last two years, he'd add juice to any offense.

Las Vegas Raiders · RB · Age: 25

Jacobs' breakout season in 2022 comes with a minor red flag because of his heavy usage (he's logged a career-high 353 touches through Week 16). But Jacobs has been durable as a pro, is excellent in the passing game and nearly always makes the first defender miss. 

New Orleans Saints · Edge · Age: 26

Pressure is production. Davenport creates pressure with a power game that is only ranked this low because he struggles to finish plays or play more than 500 snaps.

Jacksonville Jaguars · TE · Age: 28

It's amazing how much Engram's career has been helped by having a coach who knows what the explosive tight end does well. He's been durable, with nearly 200 receptions over the last three years.

Buffalo Bills · S · Age: 32

Could Poyer get better in his 30s like Devin McCourty? He seemed to show that he will in 2022, posting one of his best seasons. 

Tennessee Titans · LB · Age: 26

A December hamstring injury won't erase Long's breakout season as one of the most dynamic off-ball linebackers in football. Every team needs a dude who can stay on the field for all three downs.

San Francisco 49ers · QB · Age: 31

Jimmy G was playing his best ball since 2017 this season, but the foot injury that knocked him out in early December is an example of the kind of long-term viability issues that led Kyle Shanahan to draft Trey Lance in the first place. 

Pittsburgh Steelers · CB · Age: 28

An improving starting cornerback with plenty of experience is rare in this market.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers · LB · Age: 33

The only reason he’s not in the top 10 on this list is his age, and the idea that he has more value in Tampa than anywhere else. His play remains elite. 

Dallas Cowboys · TE · Age: 27

Although Schultz’s production declined this season, he’s a quality starting tight end who can play in-line, in the slot and out wide. The Cowboys essentially chose to tag Schultz over keeping Amari Cooper last year. 

Minnesota Vikings · DE · Age: 29

Sign me up for any 328-pounder who can rush the passer.

Indianapolis Colts · Edge · Age: 28

Ngakoue’s inability to stop the run is why he’s been on five teams in four years, but sacks and QB hits still sell.

Miami Dolphins · TE · Age: 27

More athletic than his rendition of the Griddy would indicate, Gesicki needs to get back in an offense that uses him like a slot receiver. 

Detroit Lions · WR · Age: 26

A lot of teams could use a player like Chark, who can stretch the field. The thin wideout market will help him.

Arizona Cardinals · CB · Age: 25

He played more on the outside this season, which should only help his value, but he can also play in the slot. 

Philadelphia Eagles · Edge · Age: 35

The Eagles’ decision to use Graham as a part-time pass rusher paid off in 2022, with the veteran producing incredible per-snap production. He makes for a fine one-year signing.

Buffalo Bills · LB · Age: 25

Throughout his up-and-down Bills tenure, Edmunds never lacked for energy. He improved his coverage skills and has had way fewer breakdowns in 2022.

Baltimore Ravens · OG · Age: 26

Powers went from a position battle in training camp to one of the most consistent interior lineman in football. Will other teams think he was a product of the Ravens' system?

Seattle Seahawks · DT · Age: 27

Ford is hitting free agency after a down year. He didn’t appear to fit in Pete Carroll’s new 3-4 scheme, but he’s shown a high level previously as a penetrator.

Tennessee Titans · OG · Age: 26

Arguably the Titans' most-reliable lineman, Davis should easily find a starting job. 

Las Vegas Raiders · CB · Age: 27

Traded from the Colts to the Raiders in exchange for Yannick Ngakoue, Ya-Sin can help out a team that likes to play press-man coverage.

Philadelphia Eagles · RB · Age: 26

He's averaging more that 5 yards per carry for his career and showed in 2022 he can lead a backfield.

Cincinnati Bengals · S · Age: 28

A terrific free-agent signing by the Bengals three years ago, Bell is a tight end stopper. 

Atlanta Falcons · OT · Age: 28

Another player who significantly improved his value in 2022, McGary has developed into a quality starter at right tackle, especially in the running game. 

Los Angeles Chargers · LB · Age: 28

He proved this season he's an every-down player, excelling in coverage and as a blitzer. 

Jacksonville Jaguars · Edge · Age: 27

When Key replaced an injured Travon Walker in the lineup, the Jaguars' pass rush improved. He is a perfect rotational piece for virtually any system.

Minnesota Vikings · CB · Age: 33

Playing on his second straight one-year contract in as many seasons, Peterson is Minnesota's best cornerback in the 2022 campaign despite his age.

Miami Dolphins · Edge · Age: 34

Every year I rank Ingram high, no NFL team seems to want him and then he balls out. Even if he goes off-script sometimes, the chaos is worth it.

Philadelphia Eagles · OG · Age: 29

He hasn’t always been a starter in Philadelphia, but his run blocking has been a big part of the Eagles' success this year. 

Cleveland Browns · Edge · Age: 30

It wouldn’t be a free-agent list without Clowney, still getting pressures after all these years.

Adblock test (Why?)

Top 51 NFL free agents of 2023: Lamar Jackson, Roquan Smith, Geno Smith headline early rankings - NFL.com
Read More