Daily Archives: September 3, 2017


John Ashbery, Celebrated and Challenging Poet, Dies at 90

John Ashbery, an enigmatic genius of modern poetry whose energy, daring and boundless command of language raised American verse to brilliant and baffling heights, died early Sunday at age 90. Ashbery, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and often mentioned as a Nobel candidate, died at his home in Hudson, New York. His husband, David Kermani, said his death was from natural causes. Few poets were so exalted in their lifetimes. Ashbery was the first living poet to have a volume published by the Library of America dedicated exclusively to his …


Grand Canyon Lives up to its Name

The Grand Canyon — one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — is one of nature’s most stunning creations. Located in the southwestern state of Arizona, the majestic site has inspired adventurers, poets and painters for hundreds of years. Whether looking down from its massive rim or up from the rushing waters of the Colorado River, it’s easy to see how it got its name. National parks traveler Mikah Meyer, who’s on a mission to see all 417 National Park Service sites, can see why. “It’s grand! That’s the …


San Diego County Declares Emergency to Fight Hepatitis Outbreak

Officials in San Diego County have declared a public health emergency because of the spread of the liver disease hepatitis A.   Infections have killed 15 people and hospitalized nearly 400 more, with the homeless population hit hardest since the outbreak started last November.   The Union-Tribune reports that Friday’s emergency declaration helps the county request state assistance and gives legal protection for new sanitation measures. Hand washing, street cleaning   Those measures include about 40 portable hand-washing stations for areas with concentrations of homeless. The virus lives in human …


Internet of Things Relying on Personal Assistants

The world of smart appliances capable of communicating with humans is slowly taking shape, thanks to the increasing popularity and ubiquity of so-called personal assistants. At the International Consumer Electronics Trade Show now being held in Berlin, manufacturers are promoting a new generation of gadgets from smart refrigerators to window cleaning robots. VOA’s George Putic reports. … From: MeNeedIt