Latest news with #Barlow
Miami Herald
a day ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Rebuilding HBCU Adds SEC Football Games to Schedule
Tennessee State University is loading its schedule with heavyweight matchups-not by accident. TSU Athletic Director Mikki Allen confirmed this week that the HBCU will take on three Southeastern Conference (SEC) powerhouses. Georgia, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and a trip to Middle Tennessee State over the next four years. These are not just football games; they're potential turning points in a new era for the HBCU program. In March, Tennessee State parted ways with NFL legend Eddie George and handed the reins to another former pro, Reggie Barlow. Barlow arrives with Super Bowl credibility and HBCU coaching roots at Alabama State. TSU sits near the bottom of the projected 2025 OVC/Big South standings. These SEC matchups could expose or elevate the program under Barlow's leadership. And that's the point. 'You're talking about SEC games. You're talking about great tradition programs like Georgia, like Tennessee, and, of course, like Vanderbilt,' Barlow said. 'It's a huge task and a huge challenge. But I just look forward to being in that atmosphere and that environment.' Barlow replaces George, who brought star power but struggled to gain consistent traction on the field. Now, the Tigers hope that Barlow's coaching acumen and connections-he coached at Alabama State from 2007 to 2014 and was part of a UFL championship with the Birmingham Stallions-can translate into wins and visibility for TSU. These games will help with both. 2026 TSU will travel to Athens to face the Georgia Bulldogs, the back-to-back national champions. Then, in 2027, the Tigers are tentatively scheduled to play the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. However, Allen is lobbying to make that a historic showdown in Nashville's soon-to-be-opened Nissan Stadium. "It's going to be a special game," Allen said. "We're here by the state capital and would love to play that game in the inaugural year at the new Nissan Stadium." That's a meaningful matchup for Allen personally. He played on Tennessee's 1998 national championship team and has been working behind the scenes to make it happen. TSU will follow those up with Middle Tennessee State in 2028 and Vanderbilt in 2029, continuing a strategy of early-season, high-profile matchups that offer exposure and guaranteed paydays. "That's strong, that's really strong," Allen added. "We've got some Super Bowl champs [on staff]… so that gave us a lot of connections with some of these bigger programs to work these games out." For a Tennessee State University program that hasn't played an FBS opponent since a 56–3 loss to Notre Dame in 2023, the leap back into this competition tier is bold and strategic. While wins in these contests might be long shots, the experiences, recruiting implications, and national exposure can be transformative for an HBCU program like TSU. These are measuring stick moments, especially for Barlow as he begins rebuilding trust, culture, and competitiveness in Nashville. He's not shying away from the pressure. 'Just being able to go and play in those stadiums and get that experience for our young men here and our coaches is going to be exciting,' Barlow said. Tennessee State may be near the bottom of the OVC/Big South preseason rankings, but they aim for the top of the conversation. These SEC showdowns won't just test their talent. They'll define the early chapters of Reggie Barlow's regime and reaffirm TSU's ambition to become a rising force among HBCUs and beyond. The post Rebuilding HBCU Adds SEC Football Games to Schedule appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Otago Daily Times
09-07-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Go Bus community fund offering $10,000 grants
Grants to support local groups are being offered by a local transport company. Bus operator Go Bus, a subsidiary of Kinetic, is offering grants of up to $10,000 plus in-kind support to non-profits, sporting clubs and organisations making a difference in Otago communities. Its Moving Communities Fund aims to help local organisations that are making a difference by supporting wellbeing and uplifting communities. In a statement, Go Bus chief operating officer Ben Barlow said the fund supported organisations that championed youth and disadvantaged groups, promoted equity, diversity and inclusion, addressed pressing local needs through non-political, community-based solutions and aligned with Kinetic's dedication to social and environmental sustainability. "Our drivers and depot teams are out in Otago every day, so they get to see up close the incredible efforts of local community groups," Mr Barlow said. "The Moving Communities Fund allows us to support these grassroots efforts to grow their impact and keep making a difference." Since launching in Kinetic's Australian operations last year, the fund had supported 40 grassroots projects, enabling practical solutions and uplifting communities often overlooked in traditional funding cycles. Kinetic New Zealand managing director Calum Haslop said the programme reflected Kinetic's ongoing commitment to making a meaningful difference across the country. "We're proud of the great relationships we've built with partners across New Zealand and launching the Moving Communities Fund here feels like a natural next step in making an even bigger, more meaningful impact. "Through the fund, we're committed to supporting frontline solutions to real challenges at the grassroots level, particularly in the regions we operate. "Whether it is $1000 to help a regional rugby team get to their next competition or larger support for a youth programme facing tough times, we want to continue supporting those who uplift their communities every day." Applications are open at and close on July 31. Successful recipients will be announced in September. — APL
Leader Live
06-07-2025
- Business
- Leader Live
Maes Mynan Park, Flintshire, to host open day next weekend
Maes Mynan Park in Afonwen, near Caerwys, will welcome visitors on Saturday, July 12 as part of the National Open Garden Scheme (NGS). The event will raise funds for charities including Hospice UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Parkinson's UK. The privately owned 120-acre park, set within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape, features panoramic views, woodlands, freshwater lakes, and a sequoia grove. The privately owned estate spans 120-acres (Image: Supplied) Peter and Louise Barlow of Acorn Leisure, owners of Maes Mynan Park, hope the open day will help raise awareness and funds for the NGS. Ms Barlow said: "This is a truly magical place that harmoniously blends luxury and nature. "With its tranquil parkland, amazing panoramic views, lakes and woodland, and a history steeped in legends of Welsh princes, Tudor royalty, and local industry, Maes Mynan Park offers a setting unlike any other, so we are delighted to share that with the public in support of such worthy causes." Peter Barlow said: "Alongside the beauty of the estate and the significant investment we've made into its development, we believe in sharing this special place with second homeowners who want to be part of a naturally beautiful landscape. "Opening up the park to the public for charity, so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of the hard work we, as a small team, have undertaken to change this old sand and gravel quarry into a hidden gem, that some call 'Little Switzerland', will be a great experience day for everyone who attends." The private sequoia woodland (Image: Supplied) More than 30 artisan producers and independent businesses from across North Wales and the North West are set to showcase their work at the open day. Stalls will offer handcrafted goods and food from names including Wernog Wood, Little Welsh Aromas, SheepFloof, Karen's Kakes and Confections, Kirsty Williams Ceramics, Cariad Gin, and Griff's Big Ribs BBQ. The Barlows hope the event will help raise both awareness and funds for the NGS and its supported charities. Ms Barlow said: "Guests will have the chance to engage with some of the region's finest producers. "With handcrafted items, gourmet treats, and seating to admire the views and walks, it promises to be an inspiring and unforgettable day for everyone." Visitors will be able to explore walking trails, discover a variety of plant and tree species, and immerse themselves in the private sequoia woodland. READ MORE: Plans for city centre modernised payphones containing defibrillators given go-ahead The estate is home to an array of wildlife, from songbirds to deer. The Maes Mynan National Open Garden Scheme Day will run from 10.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday, July 12. Entry is £4 for adults, with all proceeds donated to the NGS and its supported charities. Children can enter for free, and on-site parking will be available. Limited wheelchair access is available along the tarmac road behind the lodge holiday homes.
Perth Now
03-07-2025
- General
- Perth Now
‘Crazy bushman' reveals hidden population in western suburbs
A crazy bushman is revealing the hidden population in Perth's western suburbs. The area is regarded as the city's famed and charmed 'golden triangle' — where facial spas are more frequent than petrol stations, income is generational, and long-necked turtles live in backyards. Well, not literally in backyards. But closer than one may think, according to self-titled 'Crazy Bushman' Ian Barlow. 'When I show people just how many turtles are actually just living in the parks and waterways they've been visiting every week for years, they are definitely surprised to say the least,' he said. For the past seven years, whenever possible outside his 9-5 workday, Mr Barlow has been photographing Perth's expansive wildlife — keeping a digital scrapbook of some of the city's rarest and at times forgotten species. 'I soon got the name 'the crazy bushman' from my mates because I would just get into the most horrendous and hilarious spots when I'm out bush. And from then on, it just kind of stuck,' he said. Aside from embracing the brand, Mr Barlow's passion for wildlife has also led him to become one of Perth's leading unofficial experts on the long-necked 'oblong' turtle. Snake Neck Turtles inhabit Bunbury's Big Swamp marshlands. Credit: Anthony Santoro / RegionalHUB 'I started photographing them because no one knew about them. No one was photographing them. And that was such a mysterious creature,' he said. 'Coming from a background in lake management, and seeing so little turtles actually in lakes, I felt the need to raise the awareness about our turtle populations and actually reveal the secret lives that they actually have.' The turtles can be found at and around waterways throughout Perth, where they breed, nest and live up to 100 years. Mr Barlow hosts free turtle tours through winter, where he shows small groups of people how and where to spot them, as well as raise awareness about the secretive species. 'It helps raise awareness about how important these species are for our entire ecosystem,' he said. 'Because turtles create magic, and that's what they're really good at doing.' Characterised by their long necks, oblong turtles or southwestern snake-necked turtles are one of two turtle species native to Perth. Relatively large in size, an adult oblong shell can grow up to 40cm long and an adult can live up to 80 years or more. 'Crazy bushman' Ian Barlow at Galup. Credit: Harriet Flinn They are considered vital contributors to wetland and river health, helping regulate populations of smaller aquatic animals and nuisance insects such as mosquitos and midges. Mr Barlow took PerthNow on a recent evening turtle tour and within a couple minutes of walking around Galup with his flashlight and makeshift GoPro tripod, he had already spotted his first subject swimming in the murky water. 'This one is a boy, he's been here for some time,' he declared. Moments later, the turtle's little head popped up out of the water, looking like it had a smile on its face. 'It looks so happy to see you, but it's just the way its face is. But you can't help but smile back,' the turtle tracker said. Despite their cute appearance, Mr Barlow said the swimming creatures remained under threat and faced serious dangers. 'Localised extinction is a very real thing. I have watched it with my very own eyes,' he said. 'The very first lake that I started with was in Hyde Park. I counted 17 turtles that were present, and that was about seven years ago. It was very heart-warming when people are willing to put themselves on the line to actually make a stand for our little guys. 'Researchers at the time said there were 300. But I was there every day for two years, and I could only find the exact same 17 turtles every day for two years. And that number is now actually down to nine.' A recent count at Bibra Lake showed more than 430 turtles had died in a 12-month period. Much of the blame was attributed to foxes but Mr Barlow believes a combination of factors is responsible, including continued development through wetlands. 'When it comes to development near or on wetlands, a lot of people don't actually realise that turtles are actually living there,' he said. 'It takes a very keen eye to actually find turtles and how to look for their signs. Aboriginals have been doing it for tens of thousands of years. 'Their whole existence is about being an ambush predator ... if they feel threatened, they will run away. So you won't even know that they're there unless you know what you're looking for.' In April, the State Government faced backlash from environmentalists over clearing a small suburban wetland to make way for a road extension between Hertha Road and the Mitchell Freeway. Locals were backed by Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas, who claimed dozens of long-necked turtles living within the wetland were at risk. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said an independent ecologist who monitored the wetland before the clearing had confirmed 'no sightings and presence of turtles', but Mr Barlow's research found otherwise. 'I counted about six turtles at the Hertha Wetland and sent footage of them to Main Roads,' he told PerthNow. 'But they said my footage that I collected was not adequate. And it all kind of went quiet once they started the works and fenced off the area.' Although the community failed to put a stop to the development, Mr Barlow said it was good thing more people were paying attention to the plight of Perth turtles. 'There were a lot of communities jumping up and willing to actually make a change for their local wetland,' he said. 'It was very heart-warming when people are willing to put themselves on the line to actually make a stand for our little guys, our saviours of the wetlands. Because they need our help.' Looking ahead, Mr Barlow said he was excited to embark on his second year of tours and hoped to maintain the momentum around the secret swimmers. 'There's a lot that's actually going on that's just flying under the radar when it comes to our natural environment, and these turtles are just one of them,' he said. 'But once you start looking, you'll actually start to see how beautiful it truly is. And then it just makes you appreciate the entire ecosystem just that little bit more.'
Winnipeg Free Press
02-07-2025
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Patience, perseverance pay off
Colby Barlow is living proof it's not how you start, but rather how you finish. The 20-year-old Winnipeg Jets forward prospect overcame a sluggish beginning to his 2024-25 season — and a notable Team Canada World Junior snub — to have a bounce back second-half and a monster playoff run. 'A clear head and more confidence,' is how Barlow described the turnaround as he spoke this week at the start of summer development camp, which runs through Friday at the Hockey For All Centre. JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS Winnipeg Jets prospect Colby Barlow produced 33 points in 21 games in last season's OHL playoffs with the Oshawa Generals. The 18th-overall pick in the 2023 draft played himself off the national-team radar last fall by going pointless through his first six games with the Oshawa Generals and scoring once in his first 10. It was a puzzling development from a guy who lit the lamp 40 times in 50 Ontario Hockey League games the previous year (and 46 times in 59 games in 2022-23). 'It's always your dream of playing in that (World Juniors) tournament. It was what it was. I didn't have that great of a start to the season. I own that,' said Barlow. Might a sudden change of scenery have played a role? Barlow had skated for three years with the Owen Sound Attack and was traded to Oshawa right after he was sent back to junior following Jets training camp. 'I thought I'd be better, and I just continued to work on myself and try to become better,' he said. Barlow said he got some valuable assists from Jets athletic trainer Jake Wolff along with Jimmy Roy and Mike Keane of the player development department. 'It's always your dream of playing in that (World Juniors) tournament. It was what it was. I didn't have that great of a start to the season. I own that.'– Colby Barlow 'Wolfie gave me a lot of things to work on in the gym and I think that all kind of came together in the second half of the season, near the end and the playoffs which really gave me that extra jump,' he said. 'And Jimmy and Keaner were there a lot helping me through it. You learn it's not going to be a clear path, you're not going to be amazing every night. I think it's important to learn that, understand that it's going to happen again at some point. That's just how it goes. But it was good for me to learn that and how to become a better version of me through that.' Barlow was producing at better than a point-per-game pace down the stretch, finishing with 61 (32G, 29A) in 62 games. The Orillia, Ont., native really found another gear in the playoffs with 33 points (14G, 19A) in 21 games as Oshawa made it to the OHL championship, falling to London which went on to win the Memorial Cup. 'I think it's good to go through stuff like that sometimes. You learn about yourself, you learn about adversity. You become better when you go through stuff like that,' said Barlow. 'It was such a great group of guys in Oshawa. It was a long playoff run, it was fun. We came up short in the finals which was disappointing but to get that experience, to get that kind of exposure was awesome.' He's looking to carry the momentum forward as he prepares to start his professional career this fall. Barlow will again attend Jets camp, but this time a demotion would be to the Manitoba Moose rather than back to junior. Of course, he's hoping to show he's ready for the big leagues sooner than later. 'This is going to be the hardest summer of my career. Pro is a whole other level.'– Colby Barlow 'This is going to be the hardest summer of my career,' said Barlow. 'Pro is a whole other level. Just focusing on how much stronger I'm going to have to be, how much faster I'm going to have to be. Just going to work as hard as I can.' Roy said growth doesn't always happen in a straight line and Barlow has learned patience and perseverance can pay off. 'He's a great kid. He's going to have some success here,' he said. 'There were some things that he had to figure out on his own. We try to help him with stuff like that but they had a great coaching staff and ownership in Oshawa that helped him too and made a good run.' Barlow, now a seasoned veteran of development camp, is embracing more responsibilities and opportunities. 'Obviously when you know people it's more of a comfortable situation. This is my third development camp, I've been to two main camps and played a few games in the AHL (with the Moose in the spring of 2024, scoring a goal and adding two assists in three games),' said Barlow. 'He's a great kid. He's going to have some success here.'– Jimmy Roy, director of player development for the Jets 'It's good to know everybody and make friendships like that.' Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Unfortunately one buddy he isn't seeing this week is Chaz Lucius, the 18th-overall pick of the 2021 draft who has had to retire from pro hockey as a result of being diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a genetic condition that makes your body's connective tissue weaker than usual. 'It's pretty heartbreaking to see that. He's a great guy. We hit it off right from the first camp,' said Barlow. 'I just wish him all the best. Health and family is No. 1. I hope he's healthy and does well and finds a path that's for him. Because he was a great guy for me when I was here. Can't take a day for granted because you never know what's going to happen. I just wish him the best.' X and Bluesky: @mikemcintyrewpg Mike McIntyreReporter Mike McIntyre is a sports reporter whose primary role is covering the Winnipeg Jets. After graduating from the Creative Communications program at Red River College in 1995, he spent two years gaining experience at the Winnipeg Sun before joining the Free Press in 1997, where he served on the crime and justice beat until 2016. Read more about Mike. Every piece of reporting Mike produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
