Zucchini-Parmesan Cheese Fritters

I was a really adventurous eater as a kid .
I would eat foods that many other kids would turn their noses up at – seafood and mushrooms were no problem for me .
But the one food variety that I couldn ’ t stand was squash , and zucchini was definitely a no-go .
Thankfully , my tastebuds continued to mature over the years , and zoodles became a thing just as I was starting my adult life .
Sauteed zoodles became one of my favorite meals in my early twenties .
Because of those developments , I can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which are to die for .
Anyone with a vegetable garden knows that they ’ ll end up with an abundance of zucchini near the end of the summer .
It ’ s difficult to figure out what to do with all of it , but this recipe takes care of that problem .
These zucchini-Parmesan cheese fritters are the perfect summer comfort food .
They ’ re filling but not too heavy , and they make use of an in-season vegetable .
Reminiscent of the German potato pancakes you might eat at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manage to be both comforting and fresh .
Since they ’ re made mostly of zucchini , you don ’ t have to worry too much about downing a few ( or a lot ) of these fried treats .
Zucchini-Parmesan cheese fritters are the perfect starter for a summer dinner or even a side dish for your next backyard barbecue .
All of your guests will be begging for this recipe and impressed that it ’ s so easy to make !
Enjoy these tasty cheese fritters and try not to down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour ( can substitute gluten-free if necessary ) • None Grate the zucchini .
Combine it in a bowl with ½ teaspoon salt .
Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes so the salt can draw the water out of the zucchini .
Pour the zucchini-salt mixture into a cheesecloth or clean dishcloth .
Squeeze the cloth to drain completely .
Be diligent about this step because reducing the amount of water in the zucchini will make the fritters easier to fry and prevent them from becoming soggy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ medium-sized bowl .
Add the flour , Parmesan cheese , ¼ teaspoon salt , and ground black pepper .
Whisk the ingredients together until they are fully combined , without lumps .
Stir in the drained zucchini .
• None Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat .
Add the batter to the oil in heaping tablespoons , keeping the cooking fritters from touching each other .
Fry the fritters until they are golden brown on both sides , about 5 minutes each .
Transfer the fritters to a paper-towel-lined dish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finish frying the other batches .
• None Transfer the fritters to a serving dish .
Sprinkle them with salt and Parmesan cheese .
Serve the fritters while warm with sour cream on the side .

I was a really adventurous eater as a kid. I would eat foods that many other kids would turn their noses up at – seafood and mushrooms were no problem for me. But the one food variety that I couldn’t stand was squash, and zucchini was definitely a no-go. Thankfully, my tastebuds continued to mature over the years, and zoodles became a thing just as I was starting my adult life. Sauteed zoodles became one of my favorite meals in my early twenties. Because of those developments, I can now enjoy these zucchini-Parmesan cheese fritters, which are to die for.
Anyone with a vegetable garden knows that they’ll end up with an abundance of zucchini near the end of the summer. It’s difficult to figure out what to do with all of it, but this recipe takes care of that problem. These zucchini-Parmesan cheese fritters are the perfect summer comfort food. They’re filling but not too heavy, and they make use of an in-season vegetable.
Reminiscent of the German potato pancakes you might eat at an Oktoberfest, these zucchini-Parmesan cheese fritters manage to be both comforting and fresh. Since they’re made mostly of zucchini, you don’t have to worry too much about downing a few (or a lot) of these fried treats.
Zucchini-Parmesan cheese fritters are the perfect starter for a summer dinner or even a side dish for your next backyard barbecue. All of your guests will be begging for this recipe and impressed that it’s so easy to make! Enjoy these tasty cheese fritters and try not to down them all at once!
Zucchini-Parmesan Cheese Fritters Recipe
Ingredients
3 large zucchini
½ teaspoon salt
For the batter:
1 egg
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free if necessary)
4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
ground black pepper, to taste
1 quart oil, for frying
Toppings:
a pinch of salt
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste
¼ cup sour cream
Directions


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-24--Pensacola Beach’s First Sea Turtle Hatchlings Of The Season Emerge From Nest

Finally , we have a little good news among all the craziness of 2020 !
Early in August , the first of Pensacola Beach ’ s Loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings made their way from nest to sea .
The official count was 129 baby sea turtles , which is a nice big nest .
Several more are expected to hatch soon , along a strip that ’ s protected by Pensacola Beach patrols .
These protections are offered in hopes of bolstering the population of these important sea turtle hatchlings .
( 1 ) Notices posted throughout the surrounding area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turtle nests hatching nearby and to be mindful of their effect on the surroundings .
The hatchlings need quiet , darkness , and for their area to be free of obstructions like beach furniture and coolers .
Imagine trying to emerge from the darkness into this big wide world , take your first breaths and start your life , only to run headlong into the leg of a beach chair !
So it ’ s lights out at night , and pack out whatever you pack in .
These are the two main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newborn marine life .
( 1 ) Pensacola Beach officials have something to be proud of where these sea turtle hatchlings are concerned .
The baby Loggerheads who made their way into the Gulf of Mexico are a key part of the region ’ s ecosystem .
In fact , the Loggerhead is known as a “ keystone species ” , which means that other animals literally need them to survive .
How ?
A few different ways .
One of the main sources of nutrition in the Loggerhead ’ s diet is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down , it takes the whole shell and everything in one gulp .
Those shells end up as waste material , scooped up from the ocean bottom by other hungry marine life , who glean calcium from it .
Of course , some sea turtle hatchlings become prey themselves , so they are an integral part of the ecosystem in that way too .
Loggerheads also have no problem with renting out their shell space to hitchhikers .
Barnacles , algae , and even little crabs love to catch a ride on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too ) in their big bumpy shells .
( 2 ) The Loggerhead is just one of many species of sea turtle , some of which are in real danger of losing population numbers .
Often the danger has to do with we humans , hence the notices around Pensacola Beach .
Humans encroach on the sea turtle ’ s territory , and when that happens , it disrupts the natural flow of things .
Someone doesn ’ t move their cooler at the end of the day , and it happens to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nest that ’ s trying to hatch .
Or they leave their beach house porch light on , and the sea turtle hatchlings become confused by the artificial source of light .
The beach is certainly a lovely place to relax and spend some quality time .
But the animals need to be able to exist there too .
Being mindful of our marine counterparts , and our impact on them , will ultimately help everyone to thrive .

Finally, we have a little good news among all the craziness of 2020! Early in August, the first of Pensacola Beach’s Loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings made their way from nest to sea. The official count was 129 baby sea turtles, which is a nice big nest. Several more are expected to hatch soon, along a strip that’s protected by Pensacola Beach patrols. These protections are offered in hopes of bolstering the population of these important sea turtle hatchlings. (1)
Precious Sea Turtle Hatchlings
Notices posted throughout the surrounding area let visitors know to be aware of turtle nests hatching nearby and to be mindful of their effect on the surroundings. The hatchlings need quiet, darkness, and for their area to be free of obstructions like beach furniture and coolers. Imagine trying to emerge from the darkness into this big wide world, take your first breaths and start your life, only to run headlong into the leg of a beach chair! So it’s lights out at night, and pack out whatever you pack in. These are the two main rules of thumb when coexisting peacefully with newborn marine life. (1)
Sea Turtle Hatchlings – A Keystone Species
Pensacola Beach officials have something to be proud of where these sea turtle hatchlings are concerned. The baby Loggerheads who made their way into the Gulf of Mexico are a key part of the region’s ecosystem. In fact, the Loggerhead is known as a “keystone species”, which means that other animals literally need them to survive.
How? A few different ways. One of the main sources of nutrition in the Loggerhead’s diet is invertebrates. When the hungry turtle chows down, it takes the whole shell and everything in one gulp. Those shells end up as waste material, scooped up from the ocean bottom by other hungry marine life, who glean calcium from it.
Of course, some sea turtle hatchlings become prey themselves, so they are an integral part of the ecosystem in that way too. Loggerheads also have no problem with renting out their shell space to hitchhikers. Barnacles, algae, and even little crabs love to catch a ride on a loggerhead, finding refuge (and food too) in their big bumpy shells. (2)
Official Protection For Sea Turtle Hatchlings
The Loggerhead is just one of many species of sea turtle, some of which are in real danger of losing population numbers. Often the danger has to do with we humans, hence the notices around Pensacola Beach. Humans encroach on the sea turtle’s territory, and when that happens, it disrupts the natural flow of things. Someone doesn’t move their cooler at the end of the day, and it happens to be sitting right on top of a nest that’s trying to hatch. Or they leave their beach house porch light on, and the sea turtle hatchlings become confused by the artificial source of light.
The beach is certainly a lovely place to relax and spend some quality time. But the animals need to be able to exist there too. Being mindful of our marine counterparts, and our impact on them, will ultimately help everyone to thrive.


Surprise Carrot Cake

Carrot cake is my sister ’ s favorite dessert , so I ’ m always looking for new recipes to make for her birthday .
I love this carrot cake recipe because , while it retains the classic taste of the cake , it comes with a surprise !
When you cut into the middle of this cake , you ’ ll find a surprise cream cheese center .
Between the moisture of the carrot cake and the richness of the filling and frosting , you won ’ t be able to get enough of this cake !
Make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also known as a bundt pan ) on hand for this recipe .
And leave yourself plenty of time to shred the three cups of carrots that give this cake its name .
Whether you ’ re making this carrot cake for a family party or someone ’ s birthday , it ’ s sure to be a hit .
I can ’ t wait to make it for my sister for her next birthday .
I know she ’ ll love the flavor of the cake and have fun with the surprise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit .
Grease and flour a 10-inch fluted tube ( bundt ) pan and set it aside .
• None In a large bowl , beat the carrots , sugar , oil , and eggs together until they are well-blended .
• None In another large bowl , stir the flour , baking soda , cinnamon , and salt together until they are well-blended .
• None Gradually beat the flour mixture into the carrot mixture until they ’ re fully combined .
Stir the pecans into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the batter into the fluted tube pan .
• None For the filling , beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a small bowl until they are fully combined and smooth .
Beat in the egg .
Spoon the filling over the batter that ’ s already in the pan .
Spoon the filling into a 1 1/2 to 2-inch ring around the middle of the cake batter so the filling will bake in the middle of the cake .
It will look like a ring through the cake when you cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the filling .
• None Bake the cake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 55 to 60 minutes .
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake .
If it comes out clean , the cake is done .
Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan .
Move the cake to a wire rack to cool completely .
• None For the frosting , beat the cream cheese , butter , and vanilla together in a small bowl until the mixture becomes fluffy .
Add @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until smooth .
• None Frost the cake .
Store it in the refrigerator until you ’ re ready to serve it .
( 1 )

The Perfect Carrot Cake with a Surprise
Carrot cake is my sister’s favorite dessert, so I’m always looking for new recipes to make for her birthday. I love this carrot cake recipe because, while it retains the classic taste of the cake, it comes with a surprise!
When you cut into the middle of this cake, you’ll find a surprise cream cheese center. Between the moisture of the carrot cake and the richness of the filling and frosting, you won’t be able to get enough of this cake!
Make sure you have a fluted tube pan (also known as a bundt pan) on hand for this recipe. And leave yourself plenty of time to shred the three cups of carrots that give this cake its name.
Whether you’re making this carrot cake for a family party or someone’s birthday, it’s sure to be a hit. I can’t wait to make it for my sister for her next birthday. I know she’ll love the flavor of the cake and have fun with the surprise filling in the middle!
Surprise Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the cake batter:
3 cups shredded carrots
1 ¾ cups sugar
1 cup canola oil
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour, if needed)
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped pecans
For the filling:
1 8-oz package of cream cheese, softened
¼ cup sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
For the frosting:
1 8-oz package of cream cheese , softened
¼ cup butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
Surprise Carrot Cake
Directions


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-27--Baby Gorilla Born At Bristol Zoo

Baby Gorilla Born At Bristol Zoo

Animal lovers rejoice , we have exciting news coming out of the UK !
In the wee hours of the morning on August 19th , 2020 , the stork made a very special delivery to Bristol Zoo Gardens .
While the delivery of any baby is a special one , this particular baby is a critically endangered western lowland gorilla .
( 1 ) The proud mama , nine-year-old Kala , is doing a great job with her newborn baby .
She gave birth naturally with the whole family and father Jock looking on from a few yards away .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gorilla House arrived for work in the morning , the baby was nestled sweetly in Kala ’ s arms .
Lynsey Bugg , Curator of Mammals at Bristol Zoo , said : “ She is being very attentive and taking good care of her baby .
It ’ s very early days but we are cautiously optimistic .
The early signs are good and the baby looks to be a good size and is strong.
” ( 1 ) This is fantastic news , not just for the immediate family , but for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The baby gorilla joins a family of six , all part of a breeding program sponsored by the Bristol Zoological Society that helps bolster the numbers of this critically endangered gorilla .
They ’ re doing great work , and not just locally in the UK .
One of their most important projects focuses on the western lowland gorilla population in Monte Alén National Park .
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature ( IUCN ) notes this region as critical for the conservation of these gorillas .
Another of the Zoological @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 years old , supporting a sanctuary in Cameroon that cares for orphaned gorillas and chimpanzees .
Bristol Zoo Gardens is fortunate to be owned and operated by the Bristol Zoological Society , who does all this incredible work and more .
So we know that this baby gorilla will be loved and cared for right .
Which is how it always should be but unfortunately is not .
Traditionally adult gorillas are hunted for their meat , while the juveniles are often taken from them and sold as pets .
We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adopt exotic pets .
Give them a few months and they discover they are in over their heads .
They end up surrendering the animal to a rescue facility .
This is not an ideal situation , as the poor thing then requires human care and attention for the rest of its natural life .
Speaking of “ natural ” the gorilla won ’ t be able to live in the wild , and truly be free .
Even worse , some negligent owners do choose in favor of abandoning them to fend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course , that never ends well .
It ’ s wonderful that Bristol Zoo Gardens and the Bristol Zoological Society can be a beacon of hope for these critically endangered gorillas .
Lynsey Bugg said it best : “ We are all thrilled .
There is something very special about seeing a new-born baby gorilla , they are such an iconic and charismatic species.
” ( 1 )

Animal lovers rejoice, we have exciting news coming out of the UK! In the wee hours of the morning on August 19th, 2020, the stork made a very special delivery to Bristol Zoo Gardens. While the delivery of any baby is a special one, this particular baby is a critically endangered western lowland gorilla. (1)
Baby Gorilla Welcomed With Open Arms
The proud mama, nine-year-old Kala, is doing a great job with her newborn baby. She gave birth naturally with the whole family and father Jock looking on from a few yards away. By the time the keepers at the Gorilla House arrived for work in the morning, the baby was nestled sweetly in Kala’s arms.
Lynsey Bugg, Curator of Mammals at Bristol Zoo, said: “She is being very attentive and taking good care of her baby. It’s very early days but we are cautiously optimistic. The early signs are good and the baby looks to be a good size and is strong.” (1)
This is fantastic news, not just for the immediate family, but for the whole western lowland gorilla population. The baby gorilla joins a family of six, all part of a breeding program sponsored by the Bristol Zoological Society that helps bolster the numbers of this critically endangered gorilla. They’re doing great work, and not just locally in the UK.
Little Baby Gorilla, Great Big Movement
One of their most important projects focuses on the western lowland gorilla population in Monte Alén National Park. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) notes this region as critical for the conservation of these gorillas. Another of the Zoological Society’s projects is more than 20 years old, supporting a sanctuary in Cameroon that cares for orphaned gorillas and chimpanzees.
Bristol Zoo Gardens is fortunate to be owned and operated by the Bristol Zoological Society, who does all this incredible work and more. So we know that this baby gorilla will be loved and cared for right. Which is how it always should be but unfortunately is not.
Traditionally adult gorillas are hunted for their meat, while the juveniles are often taken from them and sold as pets. We have all heard the stories of people who adopt exotic pets. Give them a few months and they discover they are in over their heads. They end up surrendering the animal to a rescue facility. This is not an ideal situation, as the poor thing then requires human care and attention for the rest of its natural life. Speaking of “natural” the gorilla won’t be able to live in the wild, and truly be free. Even worse, some negligent owners do choose in favor of abandoning them to fend for themselves in the wild. Of course, that never ends well.
It’s wonderful that Bristol Zoo Gardens and the Bristol Zoological Society can be a beacon of hope for these critically endangered gorillas.
Lynsey Bugg said it best: “We are all thrilled. There is something very special about seeing a new-born baby gorilla, they are such an iconic and charismatic species.” (1)
Definitely a species worth protecting.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-27--Woman Finds Gorgeous ‘Flower Mantis’ Living In Her Garden

There is no shortage of creepy crawlies to be found in our gardens .
Most of the time we avoid them or barely give them much thought .
However , there are some pretty impressive insects wandering around this great planet of ours , and not all of them are as scary as we might think .
While most of us shudder at the sight or even thought of the freaky praying mantis , the mantis family has some pretty cousins out there .
Although mantises are infamous for the murderous females that unceremoniously eat the heads of their mates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Flower Mantis is a lovely sight to behold .
Just ask Margaret Neville .
( 1 ) The lovely Flower Mantis made an appearance in a patch of lavender in Margaret Neville ’ s garden .
Margaret almost missed the little creature , thanks to its natural camouflage of flowery , delicate legs and classic camou wings .
Once she spotted her fashionable guest she shot video of the insect , naming her “ Miss Frilly Pants ” on her social media post .
( 1 ) The nickname is perfectly suited to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outdoes other mantis species .
Flower Mantis ’ camouflage is unique to the female who sits in wait for her next meal hidden among the flowers .
While nature tends to favor males in the animal kingdom in the looks department , the female is the true beauty of the Flower Mantis sexes .
The male is plain and depends on the hunt to catch their victims .
They are also smaller than the females .
Considering the distinctly ladylike look of the frilly pantaloons , I ’ m sure the male is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1,2 ) According to experts the gender differences in this variety of mantis is common in insects and spiders , but a rarity in most other species .
( 2 ) In the case of the Flower Mantis , evolution provided the female with a way to attract prey commonly frequenting flowers .
Research shows that females hunt pollinating insects using their camouflage .
As well , because they are larger , they can eat larger prey .
Meanwhile , males remain drab in greens and browns , to make it easier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) “ We think the males remain small because they need to move around the environment to find females and mate , ” says Gavin Svenson of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History .
“ If you look like a giant conspicuous flower and you ’ re actively moving around , you give yourself away.
” ( 2 ) According to Svenson and the team , the Flower Mantis evolved in a vastly different way than other arthropods .
Although this group of insects and spiders might see common differences between males and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the evolution of the Flower Mantis is unique .
The female adopted a different feeding method then the males , leading to the flowery legs and camouflage she shows off today .
( 2 ) As scary as the feeding habits of Miss Frilly Pants and her sisters might be , they post no threat to humans .

There is no shortage of creepy crawlies to be found in our gardens. Most of the time we avoid them or barely give them much thought. However, there are some pretty impressive insects wandering around this great planet of ours, and not all of them are as scary as we might think. While most of us shudder at the sight or even thought of the freaky praying mantis, the mantis family has some pretty cousins out there. Although mantises are infamous for the murderous females that unceremoniously eat the heads of their mates, their pretty South African cousin the Flower Mantis is a lovely sight to behold. Just ask Margaret Neville. (1)
A Visit From The Flower Mantis
The lovely Flower Mantis made an appearance in a patch of lavender in Margaret Neville’s garden. Margaret almost missed the little creature, thanks to its natural camouflage of flowery, delicate legs and classic camou wings. Once she spotted her fashionable guest she shot video of the insect, naming her “Miss Frilly Pants” on her social media post. (1)
Camouflage Of Flower Mantis
The nickname is perfectly suited to this lacy insect whose sense of fashion outdoes other mantis species. Flower Mantis’ camouflage is unique to the female who sits in wait for her next meal hidden among the flowers. While nature tends to favor males in the animal kingdom in the looks department, the female is the true beauty of the Flower Mantis sexes. The male is plain and depends on the hunt to catch their victims. They are also smaller than the females. Considering the distinctly ladylike look of the frilly pantaloons, I’m sure the male is happy to don his humble attire. (1,2)
Gender Differences In Flower Mantis
According to experts the gender differences in this variety of mantis is common in insects and spiders, but a rarity in most other species. (2)
In the case of the Flower Mantis, evolution provided the female with a way to attract prey commonly frequenting flowers. Research shows that females hunt pollinating insects using their camouflage. As well, because they are larger, they can eat larger prey. Meanwhile, males remain drab in greens and browns, to make it easier to find a mate. (2)
“We think the males remain small because they need to move around the environment to find females and mate,” says Gavin Svenson of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “If you look like a giant conspicuous flower and you’re actively moving around, you give yourself away.” (2)
Flower Mantis Rare Evolution
According to Svenson and the team, the Flower Mantis evolved in a vastly different way than other arthropods. Although this group of insects and spiders might see common differences between males and females such as size and coloring, the evolution of the Flower Mantis is unique. The female adopted a different feeding method then the males, leading to the flowery legs and camouflage she shows off today. (2)
As scary as the feeding habits of Miss Frilly Pants and her sisters might be, they post no threat to humans.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-27--‘Like Armageddon’: Rotting Food, Dead Animals And Chaos At Postal Facilities Amid Cutbacks

If you like the United States Postal Service , you ’ re in the majority .
According to an April 2020 PEW Research Center poll , 91 % of Americans have a favorable view of the service .
However , President Donald Trump ’ s recent war with USPS and subsequent cutbacks of their funding threatens the USPS .
( 1 ) The Conditions Of USPS , Due To Cutbacks At the mail processing plant where Florence Avenue and Central Avenue meet in Los Angeles , there are some grisly conditions .
Before things got bad , Aukushan Scantlebury , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 had overwhelmed their facility .
The postal workers were working six days a week because of how many people turned to online shopping in the wake of the pandemic .
Whether to avoid going out to get needed supplies or just for something to do , people were ordering at higher than usual volumes .
( 2 ) The Postmaster General , Louis DeJoy , then gave the order–less overtime .
If the post office was swamped before , this devastated it .
There were too many packages and not enough people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Animals , which can be shipped through USPS , died .
Eddie Cowan is president of his branch of the National Postal Mail Handlers ’ Union .
He works as a mail sorter in the L.A. area .
Sometimes , he says , people ship live crickets , which are often used to feed lizards , iguanas , and other reptiles .
Usually , you can see them hopping in their packaging .
Now , “ you can see in the packages those crickets are dead.
” Another postal worker said that boxes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joyously are now silent .
Scantlebury said his “ whole building was filled with gnats , ” due to all the decaying packages .
( 2 ) Sumi Ali runs a coffee subscription company .
As a result , he ’ s in and out of the mail sorting facility all the time .
It takes a lot to shock him , but this did .
“ It was like Armageddon .
It was a total maze .
You could not walk through the facility without having to move things out of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I don ’ t know how they got forklifts through there .
There were only inches of space between containers.
” This could perhaps be due to the fact that 10 % of USPS sorting machines are to be removed from facilities as part of their cutbacks .
Western regional coordinator for the American Postal Workers Union , Omar Gonzalez , says that 70 % of the bar code scanners in the Florence and Central processing plant have been closed down .
( 2 ) Bob Ferguson , Attorney General of Washington State @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in suing over the cutbacks , which he says violate the law .
“ For partisan gain , President Trump is attempting to destroy a critical institution that is essential for millions of Americans , ” claims the AG .
According to the Washington Attorney General ’ s office ’ s statement , “ law requires that changes at the U.S .
Postal Service that cause a nationwide impact in mail service must be submitted to the Postal Regulatory Commission .
.
.
.
The Trump Administration ’ s failure to perform this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statutory right to notice and comment on USPS ’ nationwide service changes.
” ( 3 )

If you like the United States Postal Service, you’re in the majority. According to an April 2020 PEW Research Center poll, 91% of Americans have a favorable view of the service. However, President Donald Trump’s recent war with USPS and subsequent cutbacks of their funding threatens the USPS. (1)
The Conditions Of USPS, Due To Cutbacks
At the mail processing plant where Florence Avenue and Central Avenue meet in Los Angeles, there are some grisly conditions. Before things got bad, Aukushan Scantlebury, a 47-year-old mail sorter, said that COVID-19 had overwhelmed their facility. The postal workers were working six days a week because of how many people turned to online shopping in the wake of the pandemic. Whether to avoid going out to get needed supplies or just for something to do, people were ordering at higher than usual volumes. (2)
USPS Overtime Cutbacks
The Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, then gave the order–less overtime. If the post office was swamped before, this devastated it. There were too many packages and not enough people. Food rotted on the floor. Animals, which can be shipped through USPS, died. Eddie Cowan is president of his branch of the National Postal Mail Handlers’ Union. He works as a mail sorter in the L.A. area. Sometimes, he says, people ship live crickets, which are often used to feed lizards, iguanas, and other reptiles. Usually, you can see them hopping in their packaging. Now, “you can see in the packages those crickets are dead.”
Another postal worker said that boxes with baby chicks in them once peeped joyously are now silent. Scantlebury said his “whole building was filled with gnats,” due to all the decaying packages. (2)
USPS Sorting Machine Cutbacks
Sumi Ali runs a coffee subscription company. As a result, he’s in and out of the mail sorting facility all the time. It takes a lot to shock him, but this did. “It was like Armageddon. It was a total maze. You could not walk through the facility without having to move things out of your way,” he says. “I don’t know how they got forklifts through there. There were only inches of space between containers.”
This could perhaps be due to the fact that 10% of USPS sorting machines are to be removed from facilities as part of their cutbacks. Western regional coordinator for the American Postal Workers Union, Omar Gonzalez, says that 70% of the bar code scanners in the Florence and Central processing plant have been closed down. (2)
The USPS Cutbacks Lawsuit
Bob Ferguson, Attorney General of Washington State, is leading a group of states in suing over the cutbacks, which he says violate the law. “For partisan gain, President Trump is attempting to destroy a critical institution that is essential for millions of Americans,” claims the AG. According to the Washington Attorney General’s office’s statement, “law requires that changes at the U.S. Postal Service that cause a nationwide impact in mail service must be submitted to the Postal Regulatory Commission . . . . The Trump Administration’s failure to perform this mandatory duty deprived the states of their statutory right to notice and comment on USPS’ nationwide service changes.” (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-26--Widower Takes Photo Of Late Wife To The Beach Every Day ‘As A Symbol Of A Love That Does Not End’

Many of us encounter the same strangers in our lives , passing them daily on our way to work , in the local coffee shop or walking their dogs in the evening .
We rarely take much notice of them , as they simply become part of our life ’ s landscape .
When Giorgio Moffa noticed the same elderly man quietly seated looking at the ocean each day , he snapped a photo of him and posted it on social media .
Interestingly , the image quickly went viral .
However , it was the framed picture placed gingerly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stirred interest .
Giorgio , a 54-year old pizzeria owner in Gaeta , Italy finally decided to approach the man and was touched by his story .
( 1 ) The lonely man was Giuseppe Giordano , a 70-year-old widower .
Giorgio learned the man visits the same spot every day with the picture of his late wife Ida by his side .
He told Giorgio the picture was a symbol of his never-ending love .
Giorgio was saddened by his story and the man ’ s unhidden tears .
( 1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every day for seven years .
After losing his wife Ida to cancer , he missed her so much he decided to carry her image with him .
They sit by the beach together enjoying the view from a spot they once frequented as teens .
Now , they continue to enjoy the sunsets together although it is in a very different way .
( 1 ) The Giordanos married in 1969 .
At the time of his wife ’ s death , they had been together for over half a century .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 16 and were together ever since .
They enjoyed a happy marriage and raised three children .
( 1 ) When the image of Mr. Giordano went viral , Giorgio sensed there was something more to the story .
That motivated him to chat with the gentleman .
“ I saw him , and I was sure there was a great love story .
Men like him do not exist anymore , ” says Giorgio .
“ I absolutely understood his pain and was very sad for him.
” ( 1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved one .
“ I have also lost my two little brothers and a son of five months , so I knew what he was going through , ” he says .
“ I think that everyone in this world has at some point lost someone special to them.
” Following their encounter , Giorgio invited people interested in meeting Mr. Giordano to pop into Antica Pizzeria Ciro , the restaurant he owns by the beach .
“ So each of us has these moments of grief , it ’ s just that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to show it , ” he says .
He found a way to stay connected with his lost love to help ease his pain .
( 1 ) When we hear stories like this , it should provide an incentive to hold the ones we love closer , and pay closer attention to the people we encounter every day .
It also shows the power of love and that it truly can be everlasting .

Many of us encounter the same strangers in our lives, passing them daily on our way to work, in the local coffee shop or walking their dogs in the evening. We rarely take much notice of them, as they simply become part of our life’s landscape. When Giorgio Moffa noticed the same elderly man quietly seated looking at the ocean each day, he snapped a photo of him and posted it on social media. Interestingly, the image quickly went viral. However, it was the framed picture placed gingerly by the man’s side that stirred interest. Giorgio, a 54-year old pizzeria owner in Gaeta, Italy finally decided to approach the man and was touched by his story. (1)
Framed Picture Symbol Of Love
The lonely man was Giuseppe Giordano, a 70-year-old widower. Giorgio learned the man visits the same spot every day with the picture of his late wife Ida by his side. He told Giorgio the picture was a symbol of his never-ending love. Giorgio was saddened by his story and the man’s unhidden tears. (1)
Symbol Of Love Offers Comfort
Mr. Giordano had been visiting the beach every day for seven years. After losing his wife Ida to cancer, he missed her so much he decided to carry her image with him. They sit by the beach together enjoying the view from a spot they once frequented as teens. Now, they continue to enjoy the sunsets together although it is in a very different way. (1)
The Giordanos married in 1969. At the time of his wife’s death, they had been together for over half a century. The couple met at the tender age of 16 and were together ever since. They enjoyed a happy marriage and raised three children. (1)
Symbol Of Love Helps Ease Pain
When the image of Mr. Giordano went viral, Giorgio sensed there was something more to the story. That motivated him to chat with the gentleman. “I saw him, and I was sure there was a great love story. Men like him do not exist anymore,” says Giorgio. “I absolutely understood his pain and was very sad for him.” (1)
Symbol Of Love A Message That Hits Home
Giorgio understands the pain of losing a loved one. “I have also lost my two little brothers and a son of five months, so I knew what he was going through,” he says. “I think that everyone in this world has at some point lost someone special to them.”
Following their encounter, Giorgio invited people interested in meeting Mr. Giordano to pop into Antica Pizzeria Ciro, the restaurant he owns by the beach. “So each of us has these moments of grief, it’s just that Giuseppe had the great courage and dignity to show it,” he says. He found a way to stay connected with his lost love to help ease his pain. (1)
When we hear stories like this, it should provide an incentive to hold the ones we love closer, and pay closer attention to the people we encounter every day. It also shows the power of love and that it truly can be everlasting.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-26--A Homeless Detroit Man Bought An Abandoned House For $1,500 And Spent 10 Years Renovating It For His

A Homeless Detroit Man Bought An Abandoned House For $1,500 And Spent 10 Years Renovating It For His Wife. Here’s How He Did It – And What It Looks Like Now.

Work hard and never give up .
It may sound trite , but perseverance can yield some amazing results .
Such is the case for one Detroit man , who found himself homeless .
With ten years of hard work , he was able to turn an abandoned house into a dream home .
The Road To The Abandoned House 67 years old , elegant-looking in a pinstripe suit and bow tie , Michael Gray cuts a fine picture .
Surprisingly , just ten years ago , he was homeless .
Struggling to find a job in Detroit , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things were tough .
“ I had been going through a rough time in my life , ” he confesses .
“ I was staying with my niece and sleeping in her basement.
” His difficulty finding jobs was due to the difficult economic situation of Detroit , rather than his own situation .
Gray had worked a variety of jobs in his life , as well as having a good education .
In 1986 , he graduated from Spring Arbor University with a double major in English and psychology .
While in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ began to craft my rehab skills working as a laborer for guys who were fixing up homes to rent , ” he says .
( 1 ) In spite of this , in 2008 , something life-changing happened .
While riding his bike , Gray was struck by a car .
For many of us , this would seem like one more misfortune in a long series of them .
Fortunately , Michael Gray is more resilient than most .
He took the settlement money he received from the accident and used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My wife had been with me through thick and thin , ” says Gray .
“ And I told her that I was going to give her a house that she would be really proud to keep , live in , and show off.
” At the time , Cynthia , his now-wife , was still his fiancee .
Gray purchased the abandoned property from his nephew , a broker for Global Property Investment Group .
The company deals in commercial real estate , but when properties in their holdings weren ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ private buyers–such as Gray .
( 1 ) The Condition of The Abandoned House Gray paid $ 1,500 for the abandoned house , but no one could be blamed for wondering if it was worth it .
Loose wires sticking out from the walls .
There were a variety of pests , including mites , mice , and spiders .
The paint was peeling .
The bathroom was covered in rust–not that it mattered because the plumbing was just not working .
Nevertheless , Gray moved in .
“ In Detroit , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you don ’ t have someone there , someone will come in and take your stuff , ” he explains .
“ It ’ s gone in a matter of 15 minutes , gone.
” Determined to “ make it a family home forever , ” Gray slept on an air mattress in one of the four bedrooms , while he “ tore everything out , all the way down to the studs.
” Gray did almost everything himself , and what he couldn ’ t do alone , friends assisted with .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of the abandoned house into the home he had dreamed of–although repairs and renovations are still ongoing .
( 1 )

Work hard and never give up. It may sound trite, but perseverance can yield some amazing results. Such is the case for one Detroit man, who found himself homeless. With ten years of hard work, he was able to turn an abandoned house into a dream home.
The Road To The Abandoned House
67 years old, elegant-looking in a pinstripe suit and bow tie, Michael Gray cuts a fine picture. Surprisingly, just ten years ago, he was homeless. Struggling to find a job in Detroit, where he had lived all his life, things were tough. “I had been going through a rough time in my life,” he confesses. “I was staying with my niece and sleeping in her basement.” His difficulty finding jobs was due to the difficult economic situation of Detroit, rather than his own situation. Gray had worked a variety of jobs in his life, as well as having a good education. In 1986, he graduated from Spring Arbor University with a double major in English and psychology. While in his niece’s basement, he “began to craft my rehab skills working as a laborer for guys who were fixing up homes to rent,” he says. (1)
His Nephew’s Abandoned House
In spite of this, in 2008, something life-changing happened. While riding his bike, Gray was struck by a car. For many of us, this would seem like one more misfortune in a long series of them. Fortunately, Michael Gray is more resilient than most. He took the settlement money he received from the accident and used it to purchase a house. “My wife had been with me through thick and thin,” says Gray. “And I told her that I was going to give her a house that she would be really proud to keep, live in, and show off.” At the time, Cynthia, his now-wife, was still his fiancee.
Gray purchased the abandoned property from his nephew, a broker for Global Property Investment Group. The company deals in commercial real estate, but when properties in their holdings weren’t suitable, they could be sold to private buyers–such as Gray. (1)
The Condition of The Abandoned House
Gray paid $1,500 for the abandoned house, but no one could be blamed for wondering if it was worth it. Loose wires sticking out from the walls. There were a variety of pests, including mites, mice, and spiders. The paint was peeling. The bathroom was covered in rust–not that it mattered because the plumbing was just not working. Nevertheless, Gray moved in. “In Detroit, if you’re not there, or you don’t have someone there, someone will come in and take your stuff,” he explains. “It’s gone in a matter of 15 minutes, gone.” Determined to “make it a family home forever,” Gray slept on an air mattress in one of the four bedrooms, while he “tore everything out, all the way down to the studs.”
Gray did almost everything himself, and what he couldn’t do alone, friends assisted with. In 2012, he’d transformed most of the abandoned house into the home he had dreamed of–although repairs and renovations are still ongoing. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-26--Holland Breaks Record As First Country Ever To Have Zero Stray Dogs

Stray dogs are a common feature of cities and communities around the world .
According to the World Health Organization , there are over 200 million of these homeless canines globally , and the problem is only getting worse .
Despite these alarming statistics , one country has become the world ’ s first to ensure that every pooch has a home–the Netherlands .
Commonly referred to as Holland , the collective provinces of the Netherlands have a long history of loving dogs .
Unfortunately , this love soured over time and led to a surge in homeless animal companions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the country has finally found a home for every stray dog within its borders .
( 1 ) Since the 1800s , the Dutch peoples ’ love of dogs has been evident .
Paintings from this era depict packs of stray dogs roaming the streets , fighting over scraps and leftovers .
Because it was considered a status symbol to own a dog as a pet or for sporting activities–with a pedigree , of course–canine ownership flourished .
Poorer populations weren ’ t to be left out , of course .
Mongrel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working dogs , often allowed to wander the streets and breed freely .
During the 19th century , an outbreak of rabies in Holland caused many stray dogs to be caught and killed .
Laws came into place requiring muzzles and leashes .
Dog taxes , aimed at curbing overpopulation , backfired : the people that couldn ’ t afford to pay turned their pups out into the streets .
In those early days , animal welfare was not established .
Dogs and humans were often seen more like master and slave than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 2 ) In 1864 , the Dutch established the first animal protection agency .
Animal abuse was made a crime in 1886 , and a 1912 organization advocated for dogs used as draught animals .
Years later , in 1962 , an animal protection act was established .
And finally , in the late 1990s , an animal health and welfare law passed .
Now , the Netherlands even has its own political party in parliament that ’ s primarily focused on animal rights .
( 2 ) These progressive steps led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make sure all Dutch dogs receive proper care and have a safe home .
Certain cities increased taxes on store-bought dogs as well , hoping to get citizens to adopt rather than buy .
Additionally , research into the best way to manage stray populations spurred on the use of a new program .
( 1 ) No More Stray Dogs For Holland Lastly , the Netherlands implemented a key program : CNVR .
An acronym for “ Collect , Neuter , Vaccinate , and Return , ” this program works to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much more effective than simply euthanizing unwanted animals ; the ones left on the streets only reproduce more .
Rather , adding sterile dogs to the population decreases their growth .
Combined with the Dutch people ’ s love of dogs and their animal welfare programs , they ’ ve effectively eliminated the stray dog population .
( 3 ) With such a long history between the Dutch and their dogs , the right balance has finally been struck .
These four-legged friends are now safe , warm , and well with families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streets .
It ’ s hoped that other countries find inspiration to do the same in correcting their stray dog problems .

Stray dogs are a common feature of cities and communities around the world. According to the World Health Organization, there are over 200 million of these homeless canines globally, and the problem is only getting worse. Despite these alarming statistics, one country has become the world’s first to ensure that every pooch has a home–the Netherlands.
Commonly referred to as Holland, the collective provinces of the Netherlands have a long history of loving dogs. Unfortunately, this love soured over time and led to a surge in homeless animal companions. After decades of work, however, the country has finally found a home for every stray dog within its borders. (1)
How Stray Dogs Became A Dutch Problem
Since the 1800s, the Dutch peoples’ love of dogs has been evident. Paintings from this era depict packs of stray dogs roaming the streets, fighting over scraps and leftovers. Because it was considered a status symbol to own a dog as a pet or for sporting activities–with a pedigree, of course–canine ownership flourished. Poorer populations weren’t to be left out, of course. Mongrel mixes were used as guard dogs and working dogs, often allowed to wander the streets and breed freely.
During the 19th century, an outbreak of rabies in Holland caused many stray dogs to be caught and killed. Laws came into place requiring muzzles and leashes. Dog taxes, aimed at curbing overpopulation, backfired: the people that couldn’t afford to pay turned their pups out into the streets. In those early days, animal welfare was not established. Dogs and humans were often seen more like master and slave than companions–at least to the general population. (2)
Shifting Attitudes Towards Animal Welfare
In 1864, the Dutch established the first animal protection agency. Animal abuse was made a crime in 1886, and a 1912 organization advocated for dogs used as draught animals. Years later, in 1962, an animal protection act was established. And finally, in the late 1990s, an animal health and welfare law passed. Now, the Netherlands even has its own political party in parliament that’s primarily focused on animal rights. (2)
These progressive steps led to a shift in attitude and efforts to make sure all Dutch dogs receive proper care and have a safe home. Certain cities increased taxes on store-bought dogs as well, hoping to get citizens to adopt rather than buy. Additionally, research into the best way to manage stray populations spurred on the use of a new program. (1)
No More Stray Dogs For Holland
Lastly, the Netherlands implemented a key program: CNVR. An acronym for “Collect, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return,” this program works to lower stray populations. It’s much more effective than simply euthanizing unwanted animals; the ones left on the streets only reproduce more. Rather, adding sterile dogs to the population decreases their growth. Combined with the Dutch people’s love of dogs and their animal welfare programs, they’ve effectively eliminated the stray dog population. (3)
With such a long history between the Dutch and their dogs, the right balance has finally been struck. These four-legged friends are now safe, warm, and well with families instead of fighting it out on the streets. It’s hoped that other countries find inspiration to do the same in correcting their stray dog problems.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-25--Study Confirms That Painting Eyes On Cow Butts Helps Ward Off Predators

The most elegant solutions are often the most clever and simple .
In the case of iCow , you can add “ funny ” to the list of adjectives .
A conservation biologist named Neil Jordan , hailing from the University of New South Wales in Australia , came up with the idea to paint eyes on the butts of cows in order to stop predators .
And you know what ?
It really worked !
( 1 ) It all started when he was working in a small village in Botswana , Africa .
The big cats who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hunting the local cows , so , the farmers often shoot them .
They can ’ t necessarily be blamed for trying to protect their livelihood , and the cats are just part of the natural ecosystem .
They need to eat too !
But in recent years the African lion has become a vulnerable species , largely because of the farmers .
Back in the 1990s , there were more than 100,000 African lions , but by 2016 those numbers had dropped to less than 40,000 .
That ’ s a huge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given that there were no non-lethal options for farmers to try .
Conservation of another species isn ’ t really at the top of your mind when you ’ re trying to preserve your own livelihood .
The Eyes Have It Lions are ambush hunters , which means that they sneak up on their prey and use the element of surprise to catch them .
Mr. Jordan was watching a lion stalk an impala one day , and noticed that when the impala had clearly spotted the lion , it was game over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was when he came up with the idea to paint eyes on the cows .
To test the hypothesis he teamed up with local farmers for a 10-week study .
Within a herd of 62 cattle , eyes were stamped on the butts of one-third of them .
Upon returning to the farm each night , the cows were tallied up .
Just three of them were killed by lions during the study , and all of them were in the “ no eyes ” group .
Every one of the cows with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another day .
As it happens , Mother Nature has been painting eyeballs on things forever .
The incredibly beautiful ( and maybe a little creepy ) Atlas moth comes right to mind .
With a wingspan of up to a foot , the surface area of which is more than 60 square inches , it is recognized as the largest moth in the world .
Its huge , ornate wings are beautifully colored and patterned , each with a tip that looks exactly like a snake ’ s head .
In fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moth translates to “ snake ’ s head moth ” .
It ’ ll certainly make you do a double-take .
( 2 ) The iCow idea is so great because , just as Mother Nature already knows , everyone deserves a fighting chance in life… a little defense .
By giving the cows a leg-up on predators , it helps farmers too , all without costing more precious big cat lives .
It ’ s the perfect thing to bring balance to this ecosystem with predators and prey in such close proximity @ @ @ @ @ @

The most elegant solutions are often the most clever and simple. In the case of iCow, you can add “funny” to the list of adjectives. A conservation biologist named Neil Jordan, hailing from the University of New South Wales in Australia, came up with the idea to paint eyes on the butts of cows in order to stop predators. And you know what? It really worked! (1)
Predators Become Prey
It all started when he was working in a small village in Botswana, Africa. The big cats who are native to the area are notorious for hunting the local cows, so, the farmers often shoot them. They can’t necessarily be blamed for trying to protect their livelihood, and the cats are just part of the natural ecosystem. They need to eat too! But in recent years the African lion has become a vulnerable species, largely because of the farmers. Back in the 1990s, there were more than 100,000 African lions, but by 2016 those numbers had dropped to less than 40,000. That’s a huge decline, but not all that surprising given that there were no non-lethal options for farmers to try. Conservation of another species isn’t really at the top of your mind when you’re trying to preserve your own livelihood.
The Eyes Have It
Lions are ambush hunters, which means that they sneak up on their prey and use the element of surprise to catch them. Mr. Jordan was watching a lion stalk an impala one day, and noticed that when the impala had clearly spotted the lion, it was game over. The hunt was off. That was when he came up with the idea to paint eyes on the cows.
To test the hypothesis he teamed up with local farmers for a 10-week study. Within a herd of 62 cattle, eyes were stamped on the butts of one-third of them. Upon returning to the farm each night, the cows were tallied up. Just three of them were killed by lions during the study, and all of them were in the “no eyes” group. Every one of the cows with eyes on their butt lived to see another day.
Natural Markings Keep Predators At Bay
As it happens, Mother Nature has been painting eyeballs on things forever. The incredibly beautiful (and maybe a little creepy) Atlas moth comes right to mind. With a wingspan of up to a foot, the surface area of which is more than 60 square inches, it is recognized as the largest moth in the world. Its huge, ornate wings are beautifully colored and patterned, each with a tip that looks exactly like a snake’s head. In fact, the Cantonese name for the Atlas moth translates to “snake’s head moth”. It’ll certainly make you do a double-take. (2)
The iCow idea is so great because, just as Mother Nature already knows, everyone deserves a fighting chance in life… a little defense. By giving the cows a leg-up on predators, it helps farmers too, all without costing more precious big cat lives. It’s the perfect thing to bring balance to this ecosystem with predators and prey in such close proximity. An elegant solution indeed.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-25--New Mexico Girl Wins $250,000 Top Prize In Teen Science Fair for Inventing Tool That Could Prevent S

New Mexico Girl Wins $250,000 Top Prize In Teen Science Fair for Inventing Tool That Could Prevent Starvation In Africa

A 17-year-old New Mexico teen won the top award for the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2020 .
This is the most illustrious and longest-running award in the STEM community .
Supported by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals , Inc. , and Society for Science & the Public the $ 250,000 prize went to Lillian Petersen , for devising a tool that could help resolve global food insecurity .
( 1 ) The Regeneron Science Talent Search awards the brightest young minds for original research ideas used by leading scientists .
Their innovative ideas help the world resolve some of the most critical issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) “ Congratulations to the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2020 winners , ” said Maya Ajmera , President and CEO of Society for Science & the Public , Publisher of Science News and 1985 Science Talent Search alumna .
“ Students like Lillian Petersen are the stewards of our future .
The current pandemic has made it clear how important science is to our wellbeing .
With these finalists at the forefront of scientific and engineering discovery , I know we are in good hands .
They will be solving the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) Lillian ’ s contribution is a simple tool used to predict harvests in the early stages of the growing season .
It helps improve food distribution planning , which could assist those trying to resolve global food insecurity .
The tool analyzes daily satellite imagery based on the accepted measures of vegetation health .
She proved her tool effective first using known domestic crop data and then applying it to African countries .
Her predictions were highly accurate when compared to the country ’ s reported yields .
( 1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tenacity of this year ’ s Regeneron Science Talent Search finalists , many of whom are seeking solutions to our greatest global challenges , and who rolled with the punches while competing during an unprecedented global pandemic , ” said Leonard S. Schleifer , M.D.
, Ph.D. , Co-Founder , President and Chief Executive Officer of Regeneron .
“ Congratulations to the winners , and welcome to the community of Science Talent Search alumni who have displayed remarkable scientific curiosity and leveraged their experience to make a difference in the sciences and beyond.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Place Teens Win Big Prize There were forty finalists in the 2020 competition , sharing over $ 1.8 million in prizes .
Judges measure the “ scientific rigor of their projects ” in hand with their problem-solving skills and scientific leadership potential .
( 1 ) Other winners worthy of note include 18-year-old Jagdeep Bhatia , of Green Brook , New Jersey .
He won second prize and $ 175,000 for an idea that developed two fast and simple machine learning algorithms .
The algorithms could make robot and device training more efficient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Brendan Crotty , 18 , of Muskogee , Oklahoma was awarded $ 150,000 for creating an efficient hybrid gas burner .
His burner reduces polluting nitrogen dioxide gas by 19 percent when compared to conventional designs .
To produce his award-winning entry , he taught himself how to use computer design software , and perform metal casting and machining tasks .
( 1 ) These young adults have proven their worth in gold , sharing innovative ideas that can help make the world a better place .
The competition has provided cash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

A 17-year-old New Mexico teen won the top award for the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2020. This is the most illustrious and longest-running award in the STEM community. Supported by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Society for Science & the Public the $250,000 prize went to Lillian Petersen, for devising a tool that could help resolve global food insecurity. (1)
Teen Wins Big Prize
The Regeneron Science Talent Search awards the brightest young minds for original research ideas used by leading scientists. Their innovative ideas help the world resolve some of the most critical issues and challenges we face today. (1)
“Congratulations to the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2020 winners,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of Society for Science & the Public, Publisher of Science News and 1985 Science Talent Search alumna. “Students like Lillian Petersen are the stewards of our future. The current pandemic has made it clear how important science is to our wellbeing. With these finalists at the forefront of scientific and engineering discovery, I know we are in good hands. They will be solving the world’s most intractable problems.” (1)
Teen Wins Big Prize For Crop Prediction Tool
Lillian’s contribution is a simple tool used to predict harvests in the early stages of the growing season. It helps improve food distribution planning, which could assist those trying to resolve global food insecurity. The tool analyzes daily satellite imagery based on the accepted measures of vegetation health. She proved her tool effective first using known domestic crop data and then applying it to African countries. Her predictions were highly accurate when compared to the country’s reported yields. (1)
“I’m amazed by the tenacity of this year’s Regeneron Science Talent Search finalists, many of whom are seeking solutions to our greatest global challenges, and who rolled with the punches while competing during an unprecedented global pandemic,” said Leonard S. Schleifer, M.D., Ph.D., Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Regeneron. “Congratulations to the winners, and welcome to the community of Science Talent Search alumni who have displayed remarkable scientific curiosity and leveraged their experience to make a difference in the sciences and beyond.” (1)
First And Second Place Teens Win Big Prize
There were forty finalists in the 2020 competition, sharing over $1.8 million in prizes. Judges measure the “scientific rigor of their projects” in hand with their problem-solving skills and scientific leadership potential. (1)
Other winners worthy of note include 18-year-old Jagdeep Bhatia, of Green Brook, New Jersey. He won second prize and $175,000 for an idea that developed two fast and simple machine learning algorithms. The algorithms could make robot and device training more efficient. (1)
In third place, Brendan Crotty, 18, of Muskogee, Oklahoma was awarded $150,000 for creating an efficient hybrid gas burner. His burner reduces polluting nitrogen dioxide gas by 19 percent when compared to conventional designs. To produce his award-winning entry, he taught himself how to use computer design software, and perform metal casting and machining tasks. (1)
These young adults have proven their worth in gold, sharing innovative ideas that can help make the world a better place. The competition has provided cash prizes to brilliant young minds for 78-years.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-25--This Endangered Turtle Sports A Mohawk—Made Of Algae

If you ask any pet owner , they ’ ll tell you that their companion–be it dog , cat , hamster , or fish–has a personality of its own .
Sometimes , though , it ’ s harder to see a personality in wildlife .
People express themselves through their hair and clothing .
Well , one little turtle has taken a page out of that book–he has a green mohawk !
The green-mohawked turtle is the Mary River Turtle .
And it ’ s more than his rocking hairstyle that ’ s of interest .
This turtle is just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , has two fleshy nubs protruding from its chin like facial hair , and breathes through its cloaca .
A cloaca is an organ in reptiles that functions as both the anus and the genitals–but not usually the airways .
However , the Mary River Turtle has an unexpected benefit .
Due to specialized organs in the cloaca , the Mary River Turtle draws oxygen from the water around it .
As a result , it can stay underwater for up to three days .
The hair isn ’ t entirely what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made of many strands of algae , which also grows along their shells .
( 1 , 2 , 3 ) The EDGE For The Mary River Turtle The Zoological Society of London started the EDGE lists back in 2007 .
EDGE is an acronym for Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered .
The list ranks a variety of animals–amphibians , birds , corals , mammals , reptiles , and sharks and rays–from 1-100 .
The ranking is used to guide organizations on “ conservation priorities.
” The score is factored by looking at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are on an evolutionary scale .
The Mary River Turtle ranks # 30 for reptiles .
However , its conservation attention , according to the EDGE site , is “ low.
” ( 1 , 4 ) Rikki Gumbs , the coordinator for reptiles on the EDGE , bemoans this lack of attention .
“ Reptiles often receive the short end of the stick in conservation terms .
.
.it is vital we do our utmost to save these unique and too often overlooked animals , ” he says .
“ Many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ancient lineages , whose branches of the tree of life stretch back to the age of the dinosaurs .
If we lose these species there will be nothing like them left on Earth.
” He is also one of the co-authors of “ Tetrapods on the EDGE : Overcoming data limitations to identify phylogenetic conservation priorities , ” a paper published in the journal PLOS ONE , on April 11th , 2018 .
The aim of the paper is to explain how the EDGE coordinators arrive at their ranking numbers .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Mary River Turtle ’ s inclusion on the EDGE list could be how great they are .
Unlike some other species of turtle , the Mary River Turtle is a very gentle creature .
Because of this , the Mary River Turtle was often a victim of pet collectors , who raided their nests in the 1960s and ’ 70s .
“ In fact , ” according to Business Insider , “ Mary River turtles were kept as pets in Australia for over 20 years before they were formally described as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 )

If you ask any pet owner, they’ll tell you that their companion–be it dog, cat, hamster, or fish–has a personality of its own. Sometimes, though, it’s harder to see a personality in wildlife. People express themselves through their hair and clothing. Well, one little turtle has taken a page out of that book–he has a green mohawk!
The Mary River Turtle
The green-mohawked turtle is the Mary River Turtle. And it’s more than his rocking hairstyle that’s of interest. This turtle is just over 15 ½ inches (40 cm), has two fleshy nubs protruding from its chin like facial hair, and breathes through its cloaca. A cloaca is an organ in reptiles that functions as both the anus and the genitals–but not usually the airways. However, the Mary River Turtle has an unexpected benefit. Due to specialized organs in the cloaca, the Mary River Turtle draws oxygen from the water around it. As a result, it can stay underwater for up to three days. The hair isn’t entirely what it seems either. The mohawk is made of many strands of algae, which also grows along their shells. (1, 2, 3)
The EDGE For The Mary River Turtle
The Zoological Society of London started the EDGE lists back in 2007. EDGE is an acronym for Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered. The list ranks a variety of animals–amphibians, birds, corals, mammals, reptiles, and sharks and rays–from 1-100. The ranking is used to guide organizations on “conservation priorities.” The score is factored by looking at their risk of extinction and how unique they are on an evolutionary scale. The Mary River Turtle ranks #30 for reptiles. However, its conservation attention, according to the EDGE site, is “low.” (1, 4)
Why The Turtle Matters
Rikki Gumbs, the coordinator for reptiles on the EDGE, bemoans this lack of attention. “Reptiles often receive the short end of the stick in conservation terms . . .it is vital we do our utmost to save these unique and too often overlooked animals,” he says. “Many Edge reptiles are the sole survivors of ancient lineages, whose branches of the tree of life stretch back to the age of the dinosaurs. If we lose these species there will be nothing like them left on Earth.” He is also one of the co-authors of “Tetrapods on the EDGE: Overcoming data limitations to identify phylogenetic conservation priorities,” a paper published in the journal PLOS ONE, on April 11th, 2018. The aim of the paper is to explain how the EDGE coordinators arrive at their ranking numbers. (1, 5)
Pet Turtle
Part of the reason for the Mary River Turtle’s inclusion on the EDGE list could be how great they are. Unlike some other species of turtle, the Mary River Turtle is a very gentle creature. Because of this, the Mary River Turtle was often a victim of pet collectors, who raided their nests in the 1960s and ’70s. “In fact,” according to Business Insider, “Mary River turtles were kept as pets in Australia for over 20 years before they were formally described as a new species.” (1, 3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-28--Company Will Pay You $1,000 To Go Camping For 2 Days Without Internet

With much of the United States still on lockdown mode , Americans are spending more time in front of screens than ever before .
Zoom meetings and Facebook scrolling have replaced in-person connections .
And with many attractions and activities closed or open at a lower capacity , Netflix and social media are taking up more time in people ’ s lives .
For many of us , it ’ s time for a digital detox .
One company is trying to help Americans break the connection with their screens with a unique contest .
SatelliteInternet.com is offering one person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without the internet .
( 1 ) While being without wifi for two days may not seem like a big deal , initially , it ’ s a task that could be difficult for many people these days .
The more we use our phones , the more attached we get to them .
And as many of us are stuck at home , the dopamine our brains usually release during social interactions is now being released when we connect on social media .
The result mimics addictive behaviors .
( 2 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently recognized as an official addiction by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders , cell phone overuse is a real problem .
There are even new terms for issues related to overusing your phone , such as : ( 2 ) • None nomophobia , the fear of not having your phone • None textaphrenia , the fear that you won ’ t be able to send or receive texts • None phantom vibrations , the feeling that your phone is sending you alerts when it isn ’ t To help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one person randomly to spend a weekend camping in an RV without internet .
The lucky winner will either drive their own RV or rent one , which will be reimbursed by the company .
They ’ ll camp at the National Park of their choice on the dates they choose .
( 2 ) After camping for two nights , the winner will use a mobile hotspot to update the world about their wifi-free adventure .
While they won ’ t be able to document the trip on Instagram or update their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pretty sweet .
( 2 ) On the contest site , the company wrote , “ At SatelliteInternet.com , we know many folks who camp with RVs also need satellite internet to stay connected , but given how much time we ’ ve all spent online in 2020 , we wanted to find a way to help someone tune out the world and get back in tune with nature.
” ( 2 ) SatelliteInternet.com will pay the winner $ 400 upfront and $ 600 after they have completed their digital detox adventure .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ RV rental , food , and mobile hotspot , up to $ 1,000 .
( 2 ) Any person who is eligible to work in the U.S. , over 25 years or older , and able to legally drive in any state they ’ d pass through for the trip can enter the contest .
All you have to do is fill out a form on the contest page , and SatelliteInternet.com will randomly choose a winner on September 23 , 2020 .
( 2 ) In case you don ’ t win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ d just like to go screen-free for awhile at home , there are plenty of ways to do a personal digital detox .
Try deleting your most-used apps one day a week .
Charge your phone in a room other than your bedroom and use an alarm clock so you don ’ t start scrolling right when you wake up .
( 2 ) You can also change your settings so you get fewer notifications .
And set your phone to “ Do Not Disturb ” in your settings when you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family .
( 2 ) Phones and screens in general are important tools for learning , connecting , and entertaining during this time .
But with some awareness and boundaries , we can make sure that they don ’ t take over our lives .

Digital Detox Needed
With much of the United States still on lockdown mode, Americans are spending more time in front of screens than ever before. Zoom meetings and Facebook scrolling have replaced in-person connections. And with many attractions and activities closed or open at a lower capacity, Netflix and social media are taking up more time in people’s lives. For many of us, it’s time for a digital detox.
One company is trying to help Americans break the connection with their screens with a unique contest. SatelliteInternet.com is offering one person $1,000 to camp for two days without the internet. (1)
While being without wifi for two days may not seem like a big deal, initially, it’s a task that could be difficult for many people these days. The more we use our phones, the more attached we get to them. And as many of us are stuck at home, the dopamine our brains usually release during social interactions is now being released when we connect on social media. The result mimics addictive behaviors. (2)
While cell phone addiction isn’t currently recognized as an official addiction by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, cell phone overuse is a real problem. There are even new terms for issues related to overusing your phone, such as: (2)
nomophobia, the fear of not having your phone
textaphrenia, the fear that you won’t be able to send or receive texts
phantom vibrations, the feeling that your phone is sending you alerts when it isn’t
Wifi-Free Weekend
To help combat this problem, SatelliteInternet.com will choose one person randomly to spend a weekend camping in an RV without internet. The lucky winner will either drive their own RV or rent one, which will be reimbursed by the company. They’ll camp at the National Park of their choice on the dates they choose. (2)
After camping for two nights, the winner will use a mobile hotspot to update the world about their wifi-free adventure. While they won’t be able to document the trip on Instagram or update their friends over FaceTime, the setup sounds pretty sweet. (2)
On the contest site, the company wrote, “At SatelliteInternet.com, we know many folks who camp with RVs also need satellite internet to stay connected, but given how much time we’ve all spent online in 2020, we wanted to find a way to help someone tune out the world and get back in tune with nature.” (2)
SatelliteInternet.com will pay the winner $400 upfront and $600 after they have completed their digital detox adventure. They can also be reimbursed for their RV rental, food, and mobile hotspot, up to $1,000. (2)
Any person who is eligible to work in the U.S., over 25 years or older, and able to legally drive in any state they’d pass through for the trip can enter the contest. All you have to do is fill out a form on the contest page, and SatelliteInternet.com will randomly choose a winner on September 23, 2020. (2)
Personal Digital Detox
In case you don’t win the contest, or if you’d just like to go screen-free for awhile at home, there are plenty of ways to do a personal digital detox. Try deleting your most-used apps one day a week. Charge your phone in a room other than your bedroom and use an alarm clock so you don’t start scrolling right when you wake up. (2)
You can also change your settings so you get fewer notifications. And set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” in your settings when you’re working or spending quality time with your family. (2)
Phones and screens in general are important tools for learning, connecting, and entertaining during this time. But with some awareness and boundaries, we can make sure that they don’t take over our lives.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-28--200 Nebraska Farmers Remain Silent During Auction So A Young Man Can Buy Back His Family Farm

The world can be a dark place .
That ’ s why it ’ s always so nice to read a story that warms our hearts and uplifts our minds .
This story , about the selflessness of a group of Nebraska farmers , could be that story .
A young Nebraska man named David had come from a long line of farmers .
For untold generations , David ’ s family had owned a farm .
Passed from generation to generation , it was a central hub .
Unfortunately , something tragic happened .
Reports vary on exactly what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlets , such as The Bullvine , a website for “ informative and thought-provoking news and articles for the dairy industry , ” said an unscrupulous relative sold an 80-acre farm away from David ’ s family .
( 1 , 2 ) Straight From The Farmer Himself An article on Good News Network is written by someone who claims to have met David in a session she hosted .
Lauri Gwilt , who with former National Geographic photographer , Dewitt Jones , writes and hosts a course called “ The Habit of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acres was not the whole amount of land–merely a parcel .
It was separated from the rest , not by a conniving sale , but by a will that divided up the farm into portions , willing one portion to a far-distant relative .
The farmers of David ’ s family retained their farm , she says , but spoke often about the missing piece .
( 3 ) What The Stories Agree On Whether the whole or a part , whether within David ’ s lifetime , or generations before , every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commonality .
David was determined to resume the generations of farmers living on the land , just as it had been in the beginning .
While other relatives despaired , or told stories about the good old days , David believed wholeheartedly that he would be the one to make his Nebraska farm whole again .
( 1 , 2 , 3 ) David was in his 20s in 2011 , the date the lost land was announced for sale at a Nebraska Farmers ’ Auction .
“ Even though I dreamt of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as I could remember , ” David told Gwilt ’ s group , “ when the day came , I wasn ’ t ready.
” It would be a heartbreaking moment .
Yet , David was not willing to admit defeat .
He and his father pooled their resources and headed into the auction at the appointed time .
They would give reclaiming the Nebraska farm their best shot .
( 1 , 2 , 3 ) Upon entering the auction hall , David and his father despaired .
Over 200 farmers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for sale .
Unfortunately , one of those things was the desired 80 acres .
And these farmers were much financially better off .
When it came time for the land to be bid on , David made their bid without much hope .
However , when the auctioneer called for a better offer , no one else bid .
Three times , the auctioneer tried to solicit interest in the Nebraska farmland , with a break in between each attempt .
Three times , he failed .
No one else bid , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I ’ ve had two profoundly humbling days in my life , ” David said .
“ The first was the day my son was born .
The second was that unforgettable day at the Auction House.
” ( 3 )

The world can be a dark place. That’s why it’s always so nice to read a story that warms our hearts and uplifts our minds. This story, about the selflessness of a group of Nebraska farmers, could be that story.
A Dynasty of Nebraska Farmers
A young Nebraska man named David had come from a long line of farmers. For untold generations, David’s family had owned a farm. Passed from generation to generation, it was a central hub. Unfortunately, something tragic happened. Reports vary on exactly what it was, however.
Nebraskan Farmers’ Websites
Some news outlets, such as The Bullvine, a website for “informative and thought-provoking news and articles for the dairy industry,” said an unscrupulous relative sold an 80-acre farm away from David’s family. (1, 2)
Straight From The Farmer Himself
An article on Good News Network is written by someone who claims to have met David in a session she hosted. Lauri Gwilt, who with former National Geographic photographer, Dewitt Jones, writes and hosts a course called “The Habit of Celebration.” She says that the 80 acres was not the whole amount of land–merely a parcel. It was separated from the rest, not by a conniving sale, but by a will that divided up the farm into portions, willing one portion to a far-distant relative. The farmers of David’s family retained their farm, she says, but spoke often about the missing piece. (3)
What The Stories Agree On
Whether the whole or a part, whether within David’s lifetime, or generations before, every story about the 80 acres retains one commonality. David was determined to resume the generations of farmers living on the land, just as it had been in the beginning. While other relatives despaired, or told stories about the good old days, David believed wholeheartedly that he would be the one to make his Nebraska farm whole again. (1, 2, 3)
The Nebraska Farmers’ Auction
David was in his 20s in 2011, the date the lost land was announced for sale at a Nebraska Farmers’ Auction. “Even though I dreamt of getting the land back for as long as I could remember,” David told Gwilt’s group, “when the day came, I wasn’t ready.”
It would be a heartbreaking moment. Yet, David was not willing to admit defeat. He and his father pooled their resources and headed into the auction at the appointed time. They would give reclaiming the Nebraska farm their best shot. (1, 2, 3)
200 Nebraska Farmers
Upon entering the auction hall, David and his father despaired. Over 200 farmers were ready to bid on the things up for sale. Unfortunately, one of those things was the desired 80 acres. And these farmers were much financially better off.
When it came time for the land to be bid on, David made their bid without much hope. However, when the auctioneer called for a better offer, no one else bid.
Three times, the auctioneer tried to solicit interest in the Nebraska farmland, with a break in between each attempt. Three times, he failed. No one else bid, so David could reclaim the land. “I’ve had two profoundly humbling days in my life,” David said. “The first was the day my son was born. The second was that unforgettable day at the Auction House.” (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-31--Stop Springing Forward, Say Sleep Experts Pushing Standard Over Daylight Saving Time

The morning after Daylight Saving Time begins is usually an unpleasant one .
Complaints of grogginess and “ losing an hour ” of sleep are commonly discussed in the office and among friends , sparking an annual debate about why we even follow this time change .
Although the United States has been observing this time switch for over 100 years , sleep experts are calling for an end to this practice .
The reason ?
It ’ s bad for our health .
As children , most of us learned some version of why Daylight Saving Time ( DST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summer hours for the benefit of farmers–however outdated–satisfied our young minds and meant more time to play in the evening .
When adult workloads and responsibilities became ours , shifting an hour forward or back seemed like an unnecessary burden on our already sleep-deprived bodies .
After much research , a team of doctors and sleep experts agree : evidence shows that this transition poses serious health risks .
Wherever the idea that DST began at the request of farmers developed , it ’ s not accurate .
The time switch began on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wartime measure .
Instead of helping farmers , it hurt them ; the sun was what dictated their day , not the clock .
The extra hour forward or back didn ’ t help .
Instead , it meant that time tables for milking , hay harvesting , and day laborers didn ’ t align with their original rhythms .
Throughout the years since , the actual reasons for Daylight Saving Time became muddled by economic and business reasons .
Whatever benefits DST was supposed to bring , anecdotal evidence shows that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s sleep cycles .
( 1 ) Sleep experts at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine , however , have gathered more than just anecdotal evidence .
An official position statement , published on August 26 , 2020 , called for an end to this practice .
Scientific evidence , they say , shows that Americans ’ health is significantly impacted by the time switch .
Because of this , the experts ’ call is that seasonal time changes should be abolished .
( 2 ) Why The Seasonal Time Switch Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Sleep Medicine ( AASM ) focuses on sleep care and health to improve lives .
According to their study , the time switch causes a disruption in the natural circadian rhythm of the human body .
The circadian rhythm is a roughly 24-hour cycle that dictates the function of the body–especially the sleep-wake cycle .
This cycle is largely influenced by light .
( 2 , 3 ) Exposure to morning light and evening darkness give signals to our body that regulate our overall health .
Shifting from standard time to DST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Evidence shows that DST can lead to a risk of heart problems , mood disorders , and other health problems .
Even traffic accidents increase in the first few days after the switch , with fatal crashes increasing up to 6 % .
And when the circadian rhythm is misaligned , a number of unhealthy cellular reactions take place .
These can result in a higher heart rate and blood pressure , as well as decreased sleep .
Because DST results in more darkness in the morning and more light in the evening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its rhythms .
This can even lead to “ social jetlag , ” where the demands of our daily schedule conflict with our own circadian rhythm .
Studies show that this correlates to an increase in depression and obesity , among other problems .
Because of all these reasons , the AASM is called on the U.S. government to end these seasonal time changes .
While there may be debate into what clock to follow–standard time or DST–the overall health benefits would be well worth the change .
( 2 )

The morning after Daylight Saving Time begins is usually an unpleasant one. Complaints of grogginess and “losing an hour” of sleep are commonly discussed in the office and among friends, sparking an annual debate about why we even follow this time change. Although the United States has been observing this time switch for over 100 years, sleep experts are calling for an end to this practice. The reason? It’s bad for our health.
A Fresh Look At Daylight Saving Time
As children, most of us learned some version of why Daylight Saving Time (DST) started. Vague notions of longer summer hours for the benefit of farmers–however outdated–satisfied our young minds and meant more time to play in the evening. When adult workloads and responsibilities became ours, shifting an hour forward or back seemed like an unnecessary burden on our already sleep-deprived bodies. After much research, a team of doctors and sleep experts agree: evidence shows that this transition poses serious health risks.
Wherever the idea that DST began at the request of farmers developed, it’s not accurate. The time switch began on March 31, 1918, as a wartime measure. Instead of helping farmers, it hurt them; the sun was what dictated their day, not the clock. The extra hour forward or back didn’t help. Instead, it meant that time tables for milking, hay harvesting, and day laborers didn’t align with their original rhythms. Throughout the years since, the actual reasons for Daylight Saving Time became muddled by economic and business reasons. Whatever benefits DST was supposed to bring, anecdotal evidence shows that it has only brought an interruption to America’s sleep cycles. (1)
Sleep experts at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, however, have gathered more than just anecdotal evidence. An official position statement, published on August 26, 2020, called for an end to this practice. Scientific evidence, they say, shows that Americans’ health is significantly impacted by the time switch. Because of this, the experts’ call is that seasonal time changes should be abolished. (2)
Why The Seasonal Time Switch Is Bad For Our Health
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) focuses on sleep care and health to improve lives. According to their study, the time switch causes a disruption in the natural circadian rhythm of the human body. The circadian rhythm is a roughly 24-hour cycle that dictates the function of the body–especially the sleep-wake cycle. This cycle is largely influenced by light. (2, 3)
Exposure to morning light and evening darkness give signals to our body that regulate our overall health. Shifting from standard time to DST, however, interrupts those cycles. Evidence shows that DST can lead to a risk of heart problems, mood disorders, and other health problems. Even traffic accidents increase in the first few days after the switch, with fatal crashes increasing up to 6%. And when the circadian rhythm is misaligned, a number of unhealthy cellular reactions take place. These can result in a higher heart rate and blood pressure, as well as decreased sleep.
Because DST results in more darkness in the morning and more light in the evening, the entire body has difficulty shifting its rhythms. This can even lead to “social jetlag,” where the demands of our daily schedule conflict with our own circadian rhythm. Studies show that this correlates to an increase in depression and obesity, among other problems. Because of all these reasons, the AASM is called on the U.S. government to end these seasonal time changes. While there may be debate into what clock to follow–standard time or DST–the overall health benefits would be well worth the change. (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-31--Blueberry Farmers Warn Of ‘Disaster’ Crop

What a year .
Now , even the blueberries are struggling .
But , for once , it doesn ’ t really have to do with COVID-19 .
Did you know there are two kinds of blueberries ?
There are wild blueberries , which are found in north-eastern states , and Canada .
Then , there are cultivated blueberries .
They can grow pretty much anywhere .
( 1 ) Wild blueberries are , well , wild .
But how can they be harvested ?
The short answer is ‘ carefully.
’ But , less flippantly , these berries are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where they are growing in the wild , and care for them there , harvesting them when they are ripe .
This year , “ It has been terrible , ” according to Professor David Yarborough .
He ’ s the man to ask .
David has spent 28 years in the field .
He ’ s also the University of Maine ’ s Professor Emeritus of Horticulture and Wild Blueberry Specialist .
“ Currently , ” says the University of Maine ’ s website , he is “ working for wild blueberry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maine and the Wild Blueberry Association of North America to educate the public on the many attributes of the wild blueberry.
” ( 1 , 2 ) These plants can be commercially planted , which leads to higher yields .
They also don ’ t mind the heat .
Not only that , but the cultivated blueberries are bigger as well .
The fact they ’ re easier to harvest means they are planted all over the United States , as well as countries like Peru .
( 1 ) We ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultivated varieties–and it may seem there ’ s a clear winner .
That impression might deepen when you hear that wild blueberries can cost up to 60 % more in stores .
However , wild blueberry advocates say the rich and intense taste of wild blueberries is worth any price .
“ Wild blueberries are different in every way , ” says Marie Emerson , of Columbia Falls , Maine .
“ We have to let the world know that.
” She puts her money where her mouth is , joining the Wild @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring attention to wild blueberries .
( 1 ) “ We had a series of frosts at the beginning of June , and then significant drought for the whole of the summer , ” says David Yarborough .
“ So we have much less fruit , and the berries are much smaller .
It is a disaster.
” According to the BBC , “ Maine ’ s 2020 crop of wild blueberries could be as low as 50-60 million lb ( 22,680-27,200 tonnes ) in weight , ” which is less than 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultivated blueberry production .
( 1 ) Unfortunately , it ’ s not the first time that wild blueberry harvesters have suffered .
Last summer , in the wake of President Trump ’ s trade war with China , exports of wild blueberries stopped .
Previously , wild blueberries were being frozen and shipped to China , meaning wild blueberry harvesters no longer had to convince American markets that the taste was worth the price .
If that wasn ’ t enough , wild blueberry harvesters did not qualify for the US Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Farmers working with wild blueberries despaired .
“ We just keep losing everything , ” says farmer Leon Perry .
( 3 )

What a year. Now, even the blueberries are struggling. But, for once, it doesn’t really have to do with COVID-19.
What’s The Deal With Blueberries?
Did you know there are two kinds of blueberries? There are wild blueberries, which are found in north-eastern states, and Canada. Then, there are cultivated blueberries. They can grow pretty much anywhere. (1)
What’s The Deal With Wild Blueberries?
Wild blueberries are, well, wild.
But how can they be harvested? The short answer is ‘carefully.’ But, less flippantly, these berries are not planted, insomuch as farmers find where they are growing in the wild, and care for them there, harvesting them when they are ripe. This year, “It has been terrible,” according to Professor David Yarborough. He’s the man to ask. David has spent 28 years in the field. He’s also the University of Maine’s Professor Emeritus of Horticulture and Wild Blueberry Specialist. “Currently,” says the University of Maine’s website, he is “working for wild blueberry growers at the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine and the Wild Blueberry Association of North America to educate the public on the many attributes of the wild blueberry.” (1, 2)
What’s The Deal With Cultivated Blueberries?
These plants can be commercially planted, which leads to higher yields. They also don’t mind the heat. Not only that, but the cultivated blueberries are bigger as well. The fact they’re easier to harvest means they are planted all over the United States, as well as countries like Peru. (1)
Where’s The Comparison In Blueberries?
We’ve already seen some differences between wild and cultivated varieties–and it may seem there’s a clear winner. That impression might deepen when you hear that wild blueberries can cost up to 60% more in stores.
However, wild blueberry advocates say the rich and intense taste of wild blueberries is worth any price. “Wild blueberries are different in every way,” says Marie Emerson, of Columbia Falls, Maine. “We have to let the world know that.” She puts her money where her mouth is, joining the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine in order to bring attention to wild blueberries. (1)
Wild Blueberries This Summer
“We had a series of frosts at the beginning of June, and then significant drought for the whole of the summer,” says David Yarborough. “So we have much less fruit, and the berries are much smaller. It is a disaster.”
According to the BBC, “Maine’s 2020 crop of wild blueberries could be as low as 50-60 million lb (22,680-27,200 tonnes) in weight,” which is less than 10% of the United States’s cultivated blueberry production. (1)
Wild Blueberries Last Summer
Unfortunately, it’s not the first time that wild blueberry harvesters have suffered. Last summer, in the wake of President Trump’s trade war with China, exports of wild blueberries stopped. Previously, wild blueberries were being frozen and shipped to China, meaning wild blueberry harvesters no longer had to convince American markets that the taste was worth the price. If that wasn’t enough, wild blueberry harvesters did not qualify for the US Department of Agriculture’s bailout money. Farmers working with wild blueberries despaired. “We just keep losing everything,” says farmer Leon Perry. (3)