2 hurt in explosion at California courthouse and 1 person of interest detained

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SANTA MARIA, Calif. (AP) — An explosive device that authorities said was intentionally set has injured two people at a California courthouse on Wednesday, authorities said.

One person of interest was detained following the blast reported shortly after 8:45 a.m. at the Santa Maria Courthouse in Santa Maria, sheriff’s officials said. The small city of about 110,000 people in Santa Barbara County is in California’s central coast region.

“We have two reports of non-life-threatening injuries. One person of interest detained immediately. Scene remains active. Please continue to avoid the area,” Santa Barbara County Sheriff Public Information Officer Raquel Zick said on the social platform X.

Zick later said the person detained was a man and the blast came from “an intentionally set” explosive device.

Shane Mellon told KSBY-TV that he was at the courthouse when he heard what sounded like chairs falling over.

“It was a loud bang,” he said, adding the bailiff escorted him and others out.

Mellon said he saw what looked like a sweater smoldering and a man screaming while four or five people got on top of him, trying to keep him restrained.

“I think this could have been way worse than it was if not for the deputies just jumping on top of that guy,” Mellon said.

A spokesperson for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department declined to immediately provide additional information.

The office of California Gov. Gavin Newsom said it was monitoring the situation and coordinating with local law enforcement.

The website for the Superior Court in Santa Barbara County said the courthouse complex was closed for the day and all courtroom calendars were canceled. Phone and email messages were left for Darrel Parker, the court’s executive officer.

Santa Maria City Hall, which is located near the courthouse, was closed Wednesday due to the ongoing investigation, said Mark van de Kamp, a spokesperson for the city. So were other nearby city offices in addition to branch libraries that depend on the city’s main library for support, he said.

The courthouse holds state and county courts in the city of Santa Maria, which is about 150 miles (240 kilometers) northwest of Los Angeles. Two decades ago, the courthouse was where Michael Jackson was tried and acquitted of sexual abuse.

Conquer the trails with these top trail running shoes

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Which trail running shoe is best?

Trail running allows those who enjoy the hobby to get needed exercise while enjoying the outdoors, but it’s easier to appreciate and enjoy something when you are comfortable. Purchasing the best trail running shoe for both comfort and durability will make all the difference in long-distance runs through rugged terrain.

When purchasing a good pair of trail running shoes, consider the material, traction and size of the shoe. A top choice, the Saucony Women’s Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoe, is a favorite among many due to its durable make and light weight.

What to know before you buy a trail running shoe

Material

Trail running shoes are made with materials that can withstand more wear and tear than normal running shoes due to the rough terrains they encounter. Mesh fabric is breathable and helps prevent rips in the shoe while the presence of rubber lugs in the outsole provide better off-road traction.

Traction

The traction of a trail shoe is specifically designed to grip onto rugged terrain and allow for convenient runs through dirt, mud, gravel and roots. Traction can determine other factors, such as balance and where you are able to hike. If you are hiking an icy winter trail and a shoe does not have grip or traction, you will lack stability.

Size

Get your foot sized before purchasing a good pair of trail running shoes. Shoes that are too small can cause blisters and foot pain. Your left foot and your right foot may not be the same size and can differ by as much as a full shoe size. When you have found the right-sized shoe for each foot, the trail run will be more comfortable.

What to look for in a quality trail running shoe

Cushion

In general, shoes with built-in protection and cushioning provide more comfort and support than other options. If you do not run long distances and are most concerned with comfort, look into a thicker outsole. If you run a lot, look for a 0mm drop heel for a greater range of motion and added comfort.

Outsole support

The soles of trail running shoes are designed to grip an uneven trail surface. Large lugs, teeth and a stickier rubber offer better traction to get you over and through dirt, mud, rocks, plants and all sorts of other natural debris. Most trail running shoes have rock plates made out of hard plastic located in the midsole area that protect your foot from rocks and sharp sticks.

Weather protection

A good trail running shoe has enough traction to make it easier to run in slick or rough conditions, but it is often not waterproof. Waterproof trail-running shoes are usually not needed, even if the area you’re running in is wet or rain is in the forecast. Waterproof shoes tend to trap water inside the shoe, causing the feet to overheat and sweat. It’s important that the shoe is breathable but not waterproof.

How much you can expect to spend on a trail running shoe

Runners on a budget can find trail running shoes between $70 and $80, and midrange shoes usually are $90-$100. Premium trail running shoes that include all the best features cost $100-$130.

Trail running shoe FAQ

What’s the difference between a trail shoe and a road shoe?

A. Trail running shoes are designed for tough, rugged, rocky and natural surfaces. Due to the various terrains they will be used on, they are more durable and heavier than an everyday running shoe. Road shoes are designed for paved paths with very few environmental factors, meaning they don’t have the extra grip or durability needed for the rough terrain of natural trails in the great outdoors.

Can you wear road shoes to run trails?

A. This largely depends on how often you run on trails. If you’re a runner who constantly runs on trails, road shoes won’t last as long and can quickly be ruined. Consider purchasing shoes specifically for trail hiking to protect your feet and ankles, make your shoes last longer and be the most comfortable on your run.

What’s the best trail running shoe to buy?

Top trail running shoe

Saucony Women’s Peregrine 11 Trail Running Shoe

What you need to know: These shoes are designed with aggressive rubber lugs that conform to and dig into various terrains.

What you’ll love: The rock plate ensures additional protection for pushing uphill and driving downhill when running trails. The mesh makes them ultra light and durable.

What you should consider: Some users have experienced arch pain and blisters during long runs.

Top trail running shoe for the money

Inov-8 Women’s Terraultra G 270 Trail Running Shoes

What you need to know: These shoes feature durability, comfort and grip for long-distance runs.

What you’ll love: The 0mm drop between heel and toe allows the greatest range of motion in the ankle. The shoe is very cushioned, with a wider-fitting toe box and an ultra-thin outsole, which is great for various terrain and traction.

What you should consider: The extra cushion adds weight to the shoes, and some wearers noticed foot pain after running.

Worth checking out

La Sportiva Men’s Bushido II Running Shoe

What you need to know: These trail running shoes combine stability and comfort with great traction and a sticky outsole.

What you’ll love: This product’s tongue and heel are padded to stay in place like a no-slip sock and provide good breathability.

What you should consider: Some users claim these shoes aren’t fit for rough terrain and run small.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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The best wine aerators for full-bodied flavor

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Which wine aerator is best?

Wine has two natural enemies: light and air. Although the best way to preserve your favorite vintage is to keep it in a dark, cool place, when you’re ready to drink it, letting it breathe for at least 30 minutes unleashes the wine’s delicious bouquet and complex flavors.

If you have neglected to decant the wine ahead of time and you’re ready to have a taste, a wine aerator can save the day. These simple tools swirl air through the wine to help develop its fullest flavor in just seconds. For effortless aeration at the touch of a button, the Aervana Original Electric Wine Aerator is a good choice.

What to know before you buy a wine aerator

Method of aeration

A wine aerator may seem like an odd expense. After all, doesn’t wine become aerated on its own with time? Yes, but sometimes you need a faster way to unlock the wine’s complex tasting profile.

The key is to choose the aeration method that works best for you. Budget aerators may not perform much better than simply letting a wine sit for a while. These have a small hole that introduces air into the wine but no method for swirling the air into the wine.

More expensive aerators push and blend air into the wine. You know it’s working when your wine gurgles. This method of multi-stage aerator also removes sediments that can influence the wine’s taste.

Full bottle aeration vs. one glass at a time

If you are a party of one, there’s no sense in introducing air into an entire bottle of wine. Look for an aerator that delivers one delicious glass at a time.

On the other hand, if you’re having a dinner party, it seems unnecessary to use a single-service aerator. A full bottle aerator is the best choice in that situation.

Materials

You have choices when it comes to wine aerator materials. They are commonly made from:

Acrylic
Stainless steel
Plastic
Rubber

Most high-end aerators are made from stainless steel, which is easier to clean and more durable. However, these come with a sometimes hefty price tag.

What to look for in a quality wine aerator

Solid construction

Wine aeration is not a full-contact sport, but the aerator you choose should still be sturdy and well-made. Look for seamless pouring spouts and sturdy attachment points built from high-quality metals and plastics.

Food-safe materials

Anything made from plastic and designed for food or drink service must be labeled as food-safe. If your wine aerator is plastic, it should be BPA-free.

Multiple uses

It’s a terrible waste of a beautiful vintage when an open bottle is spoiled by too much air. Look for a wine aerator that also doubles as a stopper or cork. This keeps wine fresh.

Universal fit

Although most wine bottles follow industry standards in terms of openings for easier corkage, some are slightly larger or smaller than others. Wine aerators with a flexible silicone piece that enters the mouth of the bottle are more useful than a rigid plastic insert that does not conform to variations in size.

How much you can expect to spend on a wine aerator

The price of an aerator will vary depending on a few factors  (e.g., if it’s electric or if it aerates a full bottle or single glass of wine). Expect to spend $10-$50.

Wine aerator FAQ

Do wines that are decanted still need aeration?

A. Yes. Heavy-bodied wines should be aerated as they are decanted and allowed to sit for a few more minutes.

If a wine is not fully in flavor after it’s decanted, aeration can help.

Do you have to use a wine aerator?

A. No. Nathan Myhrvold, author of the seminal molecular gastronomical book “Modernist Cuisine” suggests a simpler method that uses an immersion blender.

Pour wine into a bowl (or wide-mouthed decanter).
Use an immersion blender to aerate the wine for 30 seconds.

This is not the most sophisticated presentation of wine, but it does the trick in the pinch.

Alternatively, many people allow their wine to sit for longer. Air naturally enters the wine over time.

What’s the best wine aerator to buy?

Top wine aerator

Aervana Original Electric Wine Aerator

What you need to know: It is expensive, but wine connoisseurs swear by it.

What you’ll love: It’s electronic and aerates wine instantly with six times the aeration of non-electric gravity aerators. Plastic parts are food safe, and it comes with an easy operating manual. The design minimizes splashing and drips.

What you should consider: The tube is too short for large bottles.

Top wine aerator for the money

Haley’s Corker 5-In-1 Wine Aerator

What you need to know: It’s one tool to handle every aspect of wine service.

What you’ll love: It aerates and filters wine at the same time. You’ll have no more messy bits of cork floating in your final glass. The airtight stopper is spill-proof and keeps wine fresh. It’s also available in a screw-top version.

What you should consider: Even though this is billed as being leak-proof, you need to store wine bottles upright after opening, as some users report leaks.

Worth checking out

Rabbit Wine Aerator And Pourer

What you need to know: The Rabbit is a well-known tool recommended by wine pros and amateur oenophiles alike.

What you’ll love: It is silicone and stainless steel, which makes it both easy to clean and sturdy for years of use. An oversized bowl increases aeration for deeper, more complex flavors.

What you should consider: This fits most bottles but not all. Use caution if the opening is especially large.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Top Nest cameras to keep an eye on your property

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Which Nest cameras are best?

If you want a connected home, you may already be a fan of Nest products. The company makes smart devices to help you keep tabs on the many goings-on that occur when you’re not there. Nest of surveillance cameras live up to the company’s reputation for providing well-designed, attractive products that interface easily with a smartphone app. Peace of mind is just one benefit of having a Nest camera in your home. Read on to learn about the other benefits of owning a Nest camera.

What to know before you buy a Nest camera

Nest benefits

Nest cameras offer many advantages over some competing security cameras, including ease of use and clarity of video. What’s more, users can record 24 hours a day without interruptions — many other home surveillance systems only offer recording when movement is detected.

You can access your Nest camera remotely through your Nest phone app. With this feature, you can hear and talk to people or pets on the other side of the camera. With a subscription service, Nest will hold your video feed for up to 30 days. The company also gives you three-hour “snapshots” of what has been going on in your home.

Nest Cameras have a reputation for durability and reliability. Perhaps that’s one reason why they range in price from about $200 to $350, which is slightly more expensive than other surveillance camera options on the market. A Nest camera on the lower end of the price range could double as a baby or pet monitor; it’s easy to set this up with a simple plug into a wall outlet. Higher-end Nest cameras work with an “IQ” that enables them to identify human faces. Nest also offers a service called Nest Aware that can tell the difference between human movement and other movements. It can also learn to identify faces.

Nest camera FAQ

Q. Will a Nest subscription cost me more if I have more than one camera in my home?

A. Yes. With a subscription, Nest requires you to pay for each camera. However, after the first camera, each additional camera can be added to your service at a discounted rate.

Q. Does a Nest camera work with Alexa?

A. Yes. Nest builds connected devices. If you have the Amazon Echo Show, you can access your feed by simply asking Alexa to show you the area of your home it covers.

What’s the best Nest camera to buy?

Top Nest camera

Google Nest Cam Outdoor or Indoor, Battery – 2nd Generation

What you need to know: This Nest camera is made to withstand outdoor weather conditions (though you can also put it inside) and provides a high-quality image.

What you’ll love: It’s attractive and compact, can handle being outdoors, is wire-free and includes a magnetic mount. It’s also easy to install. If there’s an outage of power or Wi-Fi, it will store up to an hour of recorded events.

What you should consider: Though the battery makes installation convenient, some users say it can drain quickly.

Top Nest camera for the money

Nest Indoor Security Camera (2nd generation)

What you need to know: This camera is unobtrusive, easy to set up, and not exorbitantly expensive. It’s a great unit for someone on a budget who would like to keep tabs on home (kids, pets, and so on) when at work or away.

What you’ll love: It works with Alexa. The built-in mic/speaker combo allows you to chat with those at home and also monitor them.

What you should consider: Some customers had difficulty with the camera not recording all events.

Worth checking out

Google Nest Cam with Floodlight

What you need to know: This camera not only provides wide, clear views, but also acts as a security floodlight.

What you’ll love: This particular Nest camera can distinguish between a person, an animal or a vehicle and send alerts to your phone via the Google Home app. You can also customize the light settings and talk through this camera.

What you should consider: It’s the most expensive Nest camera.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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