theheartysoul--2020-09-05--Half of Singles Don’t Want a Relationship or Even a Date

For decades , marriage has been glorified as one of life ’ s greatest achievements .
For this reason , single people ( women in particular ) have historically been shamed for not being in a romantic relationship , being made to feel as though something was wrong with them .
This is what psychologist Bella DePaulo , Ph.D. , refers to as “ mental blanketing ” - the relentless glorifying of marriage and the shaming of single people [ 1 ] .
It turns out , however , that not only are single people no longer buying into that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people are choosing to remain single .
Why ?
Just because they want to .
Over the last several years there has been an interesting trend emerging : more and more Americans are staying single .
According to US census data , in 2017 there were 110.6 million people aged eighteen or older in the United States who were single- that is 45 percent of all US adults [ 2 ] .Advertisement Of that 110 million , more than sixty percent of them had never been married .
23 percent were divorced , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] .
These numbers have been climbing steadily since the 1960s , and every year when the census data is released there appear to be more single people than the last [ 3 ] .
Read : Study Shows Women Who Are Surrounded By Plants Are Happier And Live Longer Survey Says : Singles Like Being Single What ’ s perhaps even more interesting is that a lot of these single Americans are reportedly happy being that way , and have no interest in a serious romantic relationship .
This flies in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who are single wish that they weren ’ t .
While you may be thinking that this cultural shift is recent , we know that it has actually been the case for at least the last fifteen years .
In 2005 , the Pew Research Center asked over one thousand unmarried Americans ( who were either always single , divorced , widowed , or separated ) two questions : • Whether they were in a committed romantic relationship • Whether they were currently looking for a romantic partner AdvertisementAdvertisementThe survey found that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a committed relationship , nor were they looking for one .
For women that percentage was even higher at 65 percent .
Only sixteen percent of the people surveyed said they were single and looking for a partner .
This was the smallest percentage of respondents , which indicates that the idea that singles are looking for a committed relationship is completely false [ 4 ] .
Recently , the Pew Research Center released another similar study which sheds even more light on the state of romance in America .
This one used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adults in the US and found that half of the single people in the country are not interested in being in a committed relationship , or even going on a date [ 5 ] .
The survey also found that another ten percent just want casual dates , and 26 percent of single people would be interested in either casual dates or a committed relationship .
Only fourteen percent of the people in the sample were looking for a serious romantic partner [ 5 ] .
This trend is happening all over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United Nations study entitled “ Progress of the World ’ s Women 2019-2020 : Families in a Changing World ” , the organization concluded that marriage is on the decline everywhere [ 6 ] .
This report found that more and more women all over the world were reaching their late forties without ever having been married , that the average age of people who do get married is increasing , and that the number of people in their late forties who are divorced or separated is also increasing [ 6 ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
DePaulo reviewed studies about romantic relationships for years , and has found one strong and consistent finding : people who have already been married once before but are either divorced or widowed are the least interested in getting married again [ 7 ] .
In fact , 56 percent of divorced people said they were uninterested in a romantic relationship or even a date , and that number was even higher for widowers , at 74 percent .
DePaulo says that the high level of disinterest among people who were widowed is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed by the study ’ s findings that found that 75 percent of people over the age of 65 were not interested in a relationship or a date .
Even in younger groups , though , there was still a strong cohort of individuals who said they did not want to be in a committed relationship- 39 percent for 30 to 49-year-olds , and 37 percent for eighteen to 29-year-olds .
But why do these people want to stay single ?
The two most popular answers in the Pew study were that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they simply like being single .
People under the age of fifty were especially likely to say that they had more important priorities , with 61 percent of respondents in the age category giving this response .
Other reasons for wanting to stay single included : • 17 percent : feel like no one would be interested • 18 percent : haven ’ t had luck in the past • 17 percent : not ready after losing a spouse or ending a relationship • 17 percent : feel like I am too old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that make it difficult [ 5 ] The Pressure is Off The results of the Pew study make one thing abundantly clear : an increasing number of Americans are no longer feeling the pressure from our traditionally matrimonial society to get married or find a romantic partner .
This is particularly true for older people .
Whether it ’ s because they have other priorities , like getting an education , advancing their career , or travelling the world , or if it ’ s because they simply enjoy being unattached , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be decreasing just about everywhere .
For decades , never getting married and “ dying alone ” was a fear held by many , but as it turns out , not only is being single pretty great , many people actually prefer that way of life .
So if you ’ re single and loving it , you ’ re not alone- you ’ re part of a growing trend that does not appear to be changing anytime soon .
Keep Reading : 8 Qualities Independent Women Have In Common

For decades, marriage has been glorified as one of life’s greatest achievements. For this reason, single people (women in particular) have historically been shamed for not being in a romantic relationship, being made to feel as though something was wrong with them.
This is what psychologist Bella DePaulo, Ph.D., refers to as “mental blanketing”- the relentless glorifying of marriage and the shaming of single people [1].
It turns out, however, that not only are single people no longer buying into that mentality, but an increasing number of people are choosing to remain single. Why? Just because they want to.
The Rise of Singledom
Over the last several years there has been an interesting trend emerging: more and more Americans are staying single. According to US census data, in 2017 there were 110.6 million people aged eighteen or older in the United States who were single- that is 45 percent of all US adults [2].
Of that 110 million, more than sixty percent of them had never been married. 23 percent were divorced, and 13 percent were widowed [2].
These numbers have been climbing steadily since the 1960s, and every year when the census data is released there appear to be more single people than the last [3].
Survey Says: Singles Like Being Single
What’s perhaps even more interesting is that a lot of these single Americans are reportedly happy being that way, and have no interest in a serious romantic relationship. This flies in the face of the generally-accepted idea that all people who are single wish that they weren’t.
While you may be thinking that this cultural shift is recent, we know that it has actually been the case for at least the last fifteen years. In 2005, the Pew Research Center asked over one thousand unmarried Americans (who were either always single, divorced, widowed, or separated) two questions:
Whether they were in a committed romantic relationship Whether they were currently looking for a romantic partner
The survey found that 55 percent of Americans were not in a committed relationship, nor were they looking for one. For women that percentage was even higher at 65 percent. Only sixteen percent of the people surveyed said they were single and looking for a partner. This was the smallest percentage of respondents, which indicates that the idea that singles are looking for a committed relationship is completely false [4].
Newer Data Agrees
Recently, the Pew Research Center released another similar study which sheds even more light on the state of romance in America. This one used a random sampling of nearly five thousand adults in the US and found that half of the single people in the country are not interested in being in a committed relationship, or even going on a date [5].
The survey also found that another ten percent just want casual dates, and 26 percent of single people would be interested in either casual dates or a committed relationship. Only fourteen percent of the people in the sample were looking for a serious romantic partner [5].
This trend is happening all over the world. In a recent report by the United Nations study entitled “Progress of the World’s Women 2019-2020: Families in a Changing World”, the organization concluded that marriage is on the decline everywhere [6].
This report found that more and more women all over the world were reaching their late forties without ever having been married, that the average age of people who do get married is increasing, and that the number of people in their late forties who are divorced or separated is also increasing [6].
Why Are People Uninterested in Marriage?
DePaulo reviewed studies about romantic relationships for years, and has found one strong and consistent finding: people who have already been married once before but are either divorced or widowed are the least interested in getting married again [7].
In fact, 56 percent of divorced people said they were uninterested in a romantic relationship or even a date, and that number was even higher for widowers, at 74 percent. DePaulo says that the high level of disinterest among people who were widowed is possibly due to age, which is confirmed by the study’s findings that found that 75 percent of people over the age of 65 were not interested in a relationship or a date.
Even in younger groups, though, there was still a strong cohort of individuals who said they did not want to be in a committed relationship- 39 percent for 30 to 49-year-olds, and 37 percent for eighteen to 29-year-olds.
But why do these people want to stay single? The two most popular answers in the Pew study were that they have more important priorities, and that they simply like being single. People under the age of fifty were especially likely to say that they had more important priorities, with 61 percent of respondents in the age category giving this response.
Other reasons for wanting to stay single included:
20 percent: too busy
17 percent: feel like no one would be interested
18 percent: haven’t had luck in the past
17 percent: not ready after losing a spouse or ending a relationship
17 percent: feel like I am too old
11 percent: have health problems that make it difficult [5]
The Pressure is Off
The results of the Pew study make one thing abundantly clear: an increasing number of Americans are no longer feeling the pressure from our traditionally matrimonial society to get married or find a romantic partner. This is particularly true for older people.
Whether it’s because they have other priorities, like getting an education, advancing their career, or travelling the world, or if it’s because they simply enjoy being unattached, the need for romance and partnership seems to be decreasing just about everywhere.
For decades, never getting married and “dying alone” was a fear held by many, but as it turns out, not only is being single pretty great, many people actually prefer that way of life. So if you’re single and loving it, you’re not alone- you’re part of a growing trend that does not appear to be changing anytime soon.


theheartysoul--2020-09-05--This area in Detroit is now America’s first 100% organic, self-sustainable neighborhood

In Detroit , Michigan , “ the first sustainable urban agrihood ” in the U.S. centers around an edible garden , with easily accessible , affordable produce offered to neighborhood residents and the community .
Each year , this urban farm provides fresh , free produce to 2,000 households within two square miles of the farm .
They also supply food to local markets , restaurants , and food pantries .
The concept of agrihoods isn ’ t new —the Urban Land Institute estimated that about 200 agrihoods had been or were under construction across the U.S. — but this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first truly urban agrihood .
It plans to operate in a sustainable way and is more accessible than most other agrihoods .
Agrihoods , also called agritopias or community-supported development , are an exciting concept because they create a remarkable improvement to the dominant food system .
They help tackle food insecurity and other community problems .
They make it easy for people in low-income communities to get fresh , healthy food .
And they give people a connection with the food they eat , the earth , and each other .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ The first sustainable urban agrihood , which recently debuted in Detroit , is the project of the Michigan Urban Farming Initiative — an all-volunteer nonprofit , which seeks to empower urban communities using sustainable agriculture .
AdvertisementThe three-acre development has vacant land , along with occupied and abandoned homes centered around a two-acre urban garden , with more than 300 organic vegetable varieties , like lettuce , kale , and carrots , as well as a 200-tree fruit orchard , with apples , pears , plums , and cherries , a children ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The nonprofit is also working on other projects that go beyond farming , including : • Turning a long-vacant building into a community resource center , which will offer educational programs , event and meeting space for the neighborhood , a nonprofit incubator , and two commercial kitchens • Restoring a home into student intern housing and an off-grid shipping container .
Other projects to make the place more sustainable include : • Converting a basement into a water harvesting cistern that will automatically irrigate the garden • A retention pond made from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supply the farm with water .
Could Sustainable Agrihoods Work In Other Urban Areas ?
In the U.S. , food travels 25 % farther than it traveled about 20 years ago .
With all this travel , freshness suffers and so does the environment .
But more and more people are seeking out locally grown food , so communities that solve this problem in a sustainable way could make a big difference .
With its agrihood in Detroit , the Michigan Urban Farming Initiative is rethinking how urban spaces are developed and redefining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like .
And perhaps other communities will look to this agrihood as a model to increase healthy , local food and to solve community problems , like hunger and access to fresh food — all while giving people a greater sense of community and happiness , creating more sustainability for cities , and improving our food system .
Here ’ s a video about the agrihood in Detroit : Could fresh , healthy , affordable food be the future of urban neighbourhood development ?

In Detroit, Michigan, “the first sustainable urban agrihood” in the U.S. centers around an edible garden, with easily accessible, affordable produce offered to neighborhood residents and the community.
Each year, this urban farm provides fresh, free produce to 2,000 households within two square miles of the farm. They also supply food to local markets, restaurants, and food pantries.
The concept of agrihoods isn’t new —the Urban Land Institute estimated that about 200 agrihoods had been or were under construction across the U.S. — but this agrihood is unique because it’s the first truly urban agrihood. It plans to operate in a sustainable way and is more accessible than most other agrihoods.
Agrihoods, also called agritopias or community-supported development, are an exciting concept because they create a remarkable improvement to the dominant food system.
They help tackle food insecurity and other community problems. They make it easy for people in low-income communities to get fresh, healthy food. And they give people a connection with the food they eat, the earth, and each other.
All About The First Sustainable Neighborhood, or Agrihood
The first sustainable urban agrihood, which recently debuted in Detroit, is the project of the Michigan Urban Farming Initiative — an all-volunteer nonprofit, which seeks to empower urban communities using sustainable agriculture.
The three-acre development has vacant land, along with occupied and abandoned homes centered around a two-acre urban garden, with more than 300 organic vegetable varieties, like lettuce, kale, and carrots, as well as a 200-tree fruit orchard, with apples, pears, plums, and cherries, a children’s sensory garden, and more.
Read More: What Is Organic Gardening?
The nonprofit is also working on other projects that go beyond farming, including:
Turning a long-vacant building into a community resource center, which will offer educational programs, event and meeting space for the neighborhood, a nonprofit incubator, and two commercial kitchens
Developing a healthy food cafe, and
Restoring a home into student intern housing and an off-grid shipping container.
Other projects to make the place more sustainable include:
Installing solar panels,
Converting a basement into a water harvesting cistern that will automatically irrigate the garden
A public composting toilet, and
A retention pond made from the foundation of a blighted home to supply the farm with water.
Could Sustainable Agrihoods Work In Other Urban Areas?
In the U.S., food travels 25% farther than it traveled about 20 years ago. With all this travel, freshness suffers and so does the environment. Even worse, some urban areas become food deserts. But more and more people are seeking out locally grown food, so communities that solve this problem in a sustainable way could make a big difference.
With its agrihood in Detroit, the Michigan Urban Farming Initiative is rethinking how urban spaces are developed and redefining what life in an urban environment looks like.
And perhaps other communities will look to this agrihood as a model to increase healthy, local food and to solve community problems, like hunger and access to fresh food — all while giving people a greater sense of community and happiness, creating more sustainability for cities, and improving our food system.
Here’s a video about the agrihood in Detroit:
Could fresh, healthy, affordable food be the future of urban neighbourhood development?


theheartysoul--2020-09-08--A Mysterious Crater Suddenly Opened Up in the Arctic Tundra

A 50 meters-deep arctic crater has suddenly opened up in the Arctic tundra .
The potential cause behind it is both mysterious and fascinating .
Since 2014 , scientists have been discovering craters in the Arctic tundra .
The most recent of these is an arctic crater reported by Siberian media that has suddenly appeared and is a whopping 50 meters deep .
It was discovered by a TV crew from station Vesti Yamal who was on the tundra for an assignment .
( 1 ) Scientists have been researching craters like this that have been appearing on the Yamal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe that they may be the result of something called cryogenic eruptions , also known as ice volcanoes .
( 1 ) Previously observed on other planets but thought to not exist here on Earth , cryogenic eruptions , or cryovolcanoes ( aka ice volcanoes ) , are really quite similar to the regular lava-filled volcanoes we are used to hearing about .
( 1 ) Typically , these volcanoes ( 2 ) : Advertisement • Rise up from the earth What sets cryovolcanoes apart from the others is that instead of magma @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different ingredients .
( 2 ) These include ( 2 ) : The “ rock ” that builds up the volcano itself is the solid ice equivalents of all of those liquids .
The “ magma ” or mixture of those liquids gather beneath the surface and rise up as they get warmer and less dense than the outside of the volcano .
( 2 ) As the magma rises , it contains bubbles of gas , chunks of ice or rock , and crystals .
In an effort to restore the balance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the volcano will blow either through and already open top or it will force its way out of the earth ’ s surface , causing an earthquake or giant crater to open up .
( 2 ) When those craters are dormant or extinct , they eventually fill up with water and become another one of the many lakes found around the tundra ’ s surface .
( 2 ) Is This Arctic Crater an Ice Volcano ?
Though ice volcanoes have been recorded and studied on other planets , they have not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they aren ’ t sure yet if a cryogenic eruption is the cause of this arctic crater , Lomonosov Moscow State University geologist Andrey Bychkov says this would provide an ample explanation .
( 1 ) A cryogenic eruption is not the only potential cause of an arctic crater like this one .
Meteorite impact or deep migration of gas under the earth ’ s surface also could cause one to suddenly open up .
( 1 ) In the past , it has been thought that these arctic craters are formed when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 1 ) There are a few steps that cause this to occur ( 1 ) : • An area of unfrozen ground surrounded by permafrost called a talik , forms underneath a thaw lake .
This takes thousands of years .
• The surface of the talik freezes while methane and carbon dioxide build-up in the core .
• This causes a huge amount of pressure to press up on the frozen talik , which eventually bursts and creates a crater .
These craters eventually fill up with water and become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pingos are usually associated with a warmer-than-usual summer , though any connection such as this to a cryovolcano is still unknown .
( 1 ) The more pertinent part of studying an arctic crater isn ’ t as much about whether or not it is an ice volcano , but rather at the various life forms and organisms that live inside them.AdvertisementAdvertisement Studying organisms such as those can help us better understand the arctic world and hopefully find more clues as to how we can protect it .
Keep Reading : Dozens of @ @ @ @ @ @ @

A 50 meters-deep arctic crater has suddenly opened up in the Arctic tundra. The potential cause behind it is both mysterious and fascinating.
A Sudden, Massive Arctic Crater
Since 2014, scientists have been discovering craters in the Arctic tundra. The most recent of these is an arctic crater reported by Siberian media that has suddenly appeared and is a whopping 50 meters deep. It was discovered by a TV crew from station Vesti Yamal who was on the tundra for an assignment. (1)
Scientists have been researching craters like this that have been appearing on the Yamal and Taymyr tundra for years. They believe that they may be the result of something called cryogenic eruptions, also known as ice volcanoes. (1)
What Are Cryogenic Eruptions?
Previously observed on other planets but thought to not exist here on Earth, cryogenic eruptions, or cryovolcanoes (aka ice volcanoes), are really quite similar to the regular lava-filled volcanoes we are used to hearing about. (1) Typically, these volcanoes (2):
Rise up from the earth
Spew out liquid contents when active
What sets cryovolcanoes apart from the others is that instead of magma or molten rock, the volcano contains different ingredients. (2) These include (2):
Water
Ammonia
Methane compounds
Chlorine compounds
The “rock” that builds up the volcano itself is the solid ice equivalents of all of those liquids. The “magma” or mixture of those liquids gather beneath the surface and rise up as they get warmer and less dense than the outside of the volcano. (2)
As the magma rises, it contains bubbles of gas, chunks of ice or rock, and crystals. In an effort to restore the balance between the outside and inside temperatures, the volcano will blow either through and already open top or it will force its way out of the earth’s surface, causing an earthquake or giant crater to open up. (2)
When those craters are dormant or extinct, they eventually fill up with water and become another one of the many lakes found around the tundra’s surface. (2)
Is This Arctic Crater an Ice Volcano?
Though ice volcanoes have been recorded and studied on other planets, they have not been on earth until now. Though they aren’t sure yet if a cryogenic eruption is the cause of this arctic crater, Lomonosov Moscow State University geologist Andrey Bychkov says this would provide an ample explanation. (1)
Other Explanations
A cryogenic eruption is not the only potential cause of an arctic crater like this one. Meteorite impact or deep migration of gas under the earth’s surface also could cause one to suddenly open up. (1)
In the past, it has been thought that these arctic craters are formed when an ice-cored hill called a pingo explodes. (1) There are a few steps that cause this to occur (1):
An area of unfrozen ground surrounded by permafrost called a talik, forms underneath a thaw lake. This takes thousands of years. The surface of the talik freezes while methane and carbon dioxide build-up in the core. This causes a huge amount of pressure to press up on the frozen talik, which eventually bursts and creates a crater.
These craters eventually fill up with water and become lakes. (1)
The exploding pingos are usually associated with a warmer-than-usual summer, though any connection such as this to a cryovolcano is still unknown. (1)
An Unexplored World
The more pertinent part of studying an arctic crater isn’t as much about whether or not it is an ice volcano, but rather at the various life forms and organisms that live inside them.
“It is a closed world with evolution separated from oxygen for thousands of years. Special microbes can live at low temperatures and produce gases, which provide cryovolcanism. This world has not been explored.” Bychkov explains. (1)
Studying organisms such as those can help us better understand the arctic world and hopefully find more clues as to how we can protect it.
Keep Reading: Dozens of Previously Unknown Viruses Discovered in 15,000-year-old Glaciers


theheartysoul--2020-09-08--A Gender Reveal Party Sparked Wildfire In California That’s Gutted Over 7,000 Acres

Gender reveal parties are meant to be a fun way for a couple to announce to their friends and family the biological sex of their unborn child .
They are not meant to cause mass destruction of the natural landscape and force hundreds of people to evacuate their homes .
This wildfire , or “ gender reveal wildfire ” , did just that .
The Gender Reveal Wildfire that Decimated 7,000 Acres of Forest In California , wildfire season is no joke .
Wildfires happen frequently in the state and are becoming increasingly difficult to control as global warming rapidly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 ) In El Dorado , the wildfire season is in full swing , meaning that residents have to be extra careful to avoid potentially fire-causing activities .
For this family ’ s gender reveal party at El Dorado Ranch Park , a pyrotechnic device used to make the announcement ended up sparking a forest fire that destroyed over 7,000 acres of land .
( 1 ) The family was still there when the firefighters arrived on the scene , and security footage from the park shows how the fire began .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a state of emergency , and now the family could potentially be held criminally responsible for it .
( 1 ) Advertisement Due to their mistake , the family could face ( 1 ) : • Millions of dollars in fines ( the cost of putting out the fire ) • Up to nine years in prison for arson This is not what you want to be going through right before you are bringing a new child into the world .
A spokesperson for CalFire Bennet Milloy says he knows they didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the situation is very serious and people need to be held accountable for their negligence .
( 1 ) Not the First Gender Reveal Wildfire This trend of throwing parties to reveal whether a couple is having a boy or a girl has been around since 2008 .
( 1 ) Often , these parties involve shooting confetti or other substances out of a cannon of sorts that is either blue or pink , revealing the sex of the baby .
In 2017 , Dennis Dickey caused $ 8 million worth of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arizona when a fire broke out after he shot at a target containing blue-colored explosives to reveal the sex of his baby .
The target was placed in tall , dry grass .
( 2 ) Dickey had to pay $ 220,000 in restitution for the fire he caused .
( 2 ) It was broken down as follows ( 2 ) : • $ 500 per month for the next 20 years The repercussions for this California family , who have not yet been identified , are still to be determined .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ next few days for the public to be extra careful to avoid the trouble this family now finds themselves in .
The coming days are high-risk for fires for several reasons ( 1 ) : These conditions make fires catch easily , spread quickly , and are extremely difficult to be extinguished .
( 1 ) If you live in an area prone to fires , follow the warning systems carefully and refrain from using fireworks and explosives , having bonfires , or even smoking in these places .
Dispose of flammables such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reading : Amazon tragedy repeats itself as Brazil rainforest goes up in smoke

Gender reveal parties are meant to be a fun way for a couple to announce to their friends and family the biological sex of their unborn child. They are not meant to cause mass destruction of the natural landscape and force hundreds of people to evacuate their homes. This wildfire, or “gender reveal wildfire”, did just that.
The Gender Reveal Wildfire that Decimated 7,000 Acres of Forest
In California, wildfire season is no joke. Wildfires happen frequently in the state and are becoming increasingly difficult to control as global warming rapidly changes the climate in this area. (1)
In El Dorado, the wildfire season is in full swing, meaning that residents have to be extra careful to avoid potentially fire-causing activities. For this family’s gender reveal party at El Dorado Ranch Park, a pyrotechnic device used to make the announcement ended up sparking a forest fire that destroyed over 7,000 acres of land. (1)
A Criminal Offense
The family was still there when the firefighters arrived on the scene, and security footage from the park shows how the fire began. Their accident pushed the Governor to announce a state of emergency, and now the family could potentially be held criminally responsible for it. (1)
“The fire began at 10:23 am on September 5, 2020, in the El Dorado Ranch Park in Yucaipa,” before spreading north, read a statement by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. “With the dry conditions and critical fire weather, it doesn’t take much to start a wildfire. Those responsible for starting fires due to negligence or illegal activity can be held financially and criminally responsible,” (1)
Due to their mistake, the family could face (1):
Millions of dollars in fines (the cost of putting out the fire)
Up to nine years in prison for arson
This is not what you want to be going through right before you are bringing a new child into the world. A spokesperson for CalFire Bennet Milloy says he knows they didn’t intend to cause this, however, the situation is very serious and people need to be held accountable for their negligence. (1)
“They genuinely believed it was an accident but I think now they understand the gravity of the situation,” he said. “We need to keep the firefighters we do have focused on firefighting and not on managing people,” (1)
Not the First Gender Reveal Wildfire
This trend of throwing parties to reveal whether a couple is having a boy or a girl has been around since 2008. (1) Often, these parties involve shooting confetti or other substances out of a cannon of sorts that is either blue or pink, revealing the sex of the baby.
In 2017, Dennis Dickey caused $8 million worth of damage to 47,000 acres of forest in Arizona when a fire broke out after he shot at a target containing blue-colored explosives to reveal the sex of his baby. The target was placed in tall, dry grass. (2)
Dickey had to pay $220,000 in restitution for the fire he caused. (2) It was broken down as follows (2):
An initial payment of $100,000
$500 per month for the next 20 years
The repercussions for this California family, who have not yet been identified, are still to be determined.
Extra Caution During Wildfire Season
CalFire has issued a warning for the next few days for the public to be extra careful to avoid the trouble this family now finds themselves in. The coming days are high-risk for fires for several reasons (1):
Dry vegetation
Steep terrain
Hot weather
These conditions make fires catch easily, spread quickly, and are extremely difficult to be extinguished. (1)
“CAL FIRE reminds the public that with the dry conditions and critical fire weather, it doesn’t take much to start a wildfire,” read a press release by the agency. “Those responsible for starting fires due to negligence or illegal activity can be held financially responsible and criminally responsible.” (1)
If you live in an area prone to fires, follow the warning systems carefully and refrain from using fireworks and explosives, having bonfires, or even smoking in these places. Dispose of flammables such as cigarettes safely and appropriately.
Keep Reading: Amazon tragedy repeats itself as Brazil rainforest goes up in smoke


theheartysoul--2020-09-08--Universal Basic Income Trial Starts Giving Some Citizens $1400 A Month For 3 Years

What would you do if you knew you had a universal basic income that you could always rely on every month ?
Would you cut back on your working hours to take care of your children or an aging family member ?
Would you take a lower-paying job in a field you were more passionate about ?
Give back to your community ?
Take some extra classes to improve your job skills ?
Proponents of a universal basic income argue that all of these scenarios are possible when you take away a person ’ s financial stress .
Researchers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to determine if this is true .
A universal basic income ( UBI ) is a government-guaranteed payment given to citizens .
The intention is to provide enough money to cover the basic cost of living and provide financial security [ 1 ] .
There have been many different iterations of this plan , with some paying every citizen , some paying only those below the poverty line , and some paying only those whose jobs have been replaced by technology .
Advertisement Some plans call for an increased tax on the wealthiest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others argue that corporations should be the ones to foot the bill .
There have been many famous supporters of a UBI , including Martin Luther King Jr .
He said in 1967 that a guaranteed income would abolish poverty .
Economist Milton Friedman proposed a negative income tax scheme , wherein those who fell below the poverty line received a tax credit .
In his book , “ Fair Shot ” , Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes argued that workers , students , and caregivers making less than fifty thousand dollars per year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , financed by taxes on the top one percent of income-earners .
Others say that a universal income is inevitable , and is the only solution to an increasingly automated economy .
The German Institute for Economic Research is about to begin a three-year-long trial to determine how a UBI affects the economy and recipients ’ well-being .
Through private donations , 120 citizens will receive 1200 euros ( 1430 US dollars ) every month for three years , which is just above Germany ’ s poverty line [ 2 ] .
Researchers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with another group of 1380 people who will not receive the monthly payment .
The participants will complete questionnaires about their lives , work , and emotional state , to find out if the basic income has a noticeable impact .
Jürgen Schupp , the lead researcher for the study , says that it will improve the debate over a UBI by adding some new scientific evidence to the discussion .
Schupp says that both sides of the debate are operating off of assumptions and not facts .
Those against a UBI say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those for a UBI say it will do the opposite .
A group in Finland led a similar experiment from January 2017 to December 2018 , in which they gave unemployed participants 560 euros per month .
The researcher behind this trial , however , concluded that while the money did improve recipients ’ happiness , it did not lead to increased employment [ 2 ] .
Read : Finland Ends Homelessness and Provides Shelter For All in Need .
The Pros and Cons of a Universal Basic Income A universal basic income @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a number of years now , and both sides of the argument present valid points .
Let ’ s have a look at them : A UBI could allow workers to wait for a better job and negotiate better wages .
It could also replace the existing welfare program , in which recipients lose their food stamps , medical care , and housing vouchers if they start making too much money .
With a basic income , citizens could return to school , or reduce their working hours to take care of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It would also give young people enough money to start a family , and would help to stabilize the economy during recessions [ 1 ] .
Opponents of a UBI say that giving everyone a basic income could cause an increased demand for goods and services and lead to inflation .
They argue that it would not increase the standard of living in the long run , because inflation would make the basics even more expensive , and therefore unaffordable .
They also say that a free income would not incentivise people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are opposed to giving handouts to people without jobs [ 1 ] .
The answer to that question is unclear .
Economic journalist Annie Lowrey believes a UBI in the United States would have to be one thousand dollars per month , which would equal about 3.9 trillion dollars per year .
Lowrey suggests that new taxes on income , carbon , estates , pollution , and other areas would be required to pay for a UBI like this .
She also notes , however , that other major initiatives in US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet still happened , insisting that if the country wants something to happen , they make it happen .
So far , however , a program like this has not been tried on a national scale .
Pilots have run in Finland , Canada , the Netherlands , Scotland , and Iran , and there are a few trials set to start in various municipalities in the United States , but the results from many of these studies have yet to be realized .
Interestingly enough , a UBI actually gets a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country ’ s wealthiest citizens .
Elon musk says it will be necessary , and Richard Branson says it will provide a sense of self-esteem for people .
Because it gives everyone a boost from the beginning , the wealthiest individuals in a society can believe they amassed their wealth based solely off of their own merit , and feel less guilty as they gain more wealth .
So will a universal basic income become a reality in the United States ?
As of now , it is difficult to say yes with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many among both wealthy , middle , and lower-class who support the idea , and those who believe that it is the only way forward .
As the world becomes increasingly technological , and the job market begins to shrink , something will need to be done in order for people to cover their basic needs .
There is little doubt that the experiment in Germany will yield happier people , but will it benefit the economy ?
Only time will tell .
Keep Reading : Not so random acts : Science finds @ @ @ @ @

What would you do if you knew you had a universal basic income that you could always rely on every month? Would you cut back on your working hours to take care of your children or an aging family member? Would you take a lower-paying job in a field you were more passionate about? Give back to your community? Take some extra classes to improve your job skills?
Proponents of a universal basic income argue that all of these scenarios are possible when you take away a person’s financial stress. Researchers in Germany are now starting a small trial to determine if this is true.
Universal Basic Income
A universal basic income (UBI) is a government-guaranteed payment given to citizens. The intention is to provide enough money to cover the basic cost of living and provide financial security [1].
There have been many different iterations of this plan, with some paying every citizen, some paying only those below the poverty line, and some paying only those whose jobs have been replaced by technology.
Some plans call for an increased tax on the wealthiest members of society for funding, while others argue that corporations should be the ones to foot the bill.
There have been many famous supporters of a UBI, including Martin Luther King Jr. He said in 1967 that a guaranteed income would abolish poverty. Economist Milton Friedman proposed a negative income tax scheme, wherein those who fell below the poverty line received a tax credit.
In his book, “Fair Shot”, Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes argued that workers, students, and caregivers making less than fifty thousand dollars per year should receive five hundred dollars each month, financed by taxes on the top one percent of income-earners.
“a small group of people are getting very, very wealthy while everyone else is struggling to make ends meet,” he said [1].
Others say that a universal income is inevitable, and is the only solution to an increasingly automated economy.
UBI in Germany
The German Institute for Economic Research is about to begin a three-year-long trial to determine how a UBI affects the economy and recipients’ well-being. Through private donations, 120 citizens will receive 1200 euros (1430 US dollars) every month for three years, which is just above Germany’s poverty line [2].
Researchers will then compare the recipients’ experiences with another group of 1380 people who will not receive the monthly payment. The participants will complete questionnaires about their lives, work, and emotional state, to find out if the basic income has a noticeable impact.
Jürgen Schupp, the lead researcher for the study, says that it will improve the debate over a UBI by adding some new scientific evidence to the discussion.
“The debate about the basic income has so far been like a philosophical salon in good moments and a war of faith in bad times,” he said [2].
Schupp says that both sides of the debate are operating off of assumptions and not facts. Those against a UBI say that it will make people lazy, those for a UBI say it will do the opposite.
“We can improve this if we replace these stereotypes with empirically proven knowledge and can therefore lead a more appropriate debate.” [2]
A group in Finland led a similar experiment from January 2017 to December 2018, in which they gave unemployed participants 560 euros per month. The researcher behind this trial, however, concluded that while the money did improve recipients’ happiness, it did not lead to increased employment [2].
Read: Finland Ends Homelessness and Provides Shelter For All in Need.
The Pros and Cons of a Universal Basic Income
A universal basic income has been the topic for heavy debate for a number of years now, and both sides of the argument present valid points. Let’s have a look at them:
Pros
A UBI could allow workers to wait for a better job and negotiate better wages. It could also replace the existing welfare program, in which recipients lose their food stamps, medical care, and housing vouchers if they start making too much money.
With a basic income, citizens could return to school, or reduce their working hours to take care of an aging or sick loved one. It would also give young people enough money to start a family, and would help to stabilize the economy during recessions [1].
Cons
Opponents of a UBI say that giving everyone a basic income could cause an increased demand for goods and services and lead to inflation. They argue that it would not increase the standard of living in the long run, because inflation would make the basics even more expensive, and therefore unaffordable.
They also say that a free income would not incentivise people to get jobs, and there are many who are opposed to giving handouts to people without jobs [1].
Is a UBI Financially Possible?
The answer to that question is unclear. Economic journalist Annie Lowrey believes a UBI in the United States would have to be one thousand dollars per month, which would equal about 3.9 trillion dollars per year.
Lowrey suggests that new taxes on income, carbon, estates, pollution, and other areas would be required to pay for a UBI like this. She also notes, however, that other major initiatives in US history were not paid for, and yet still happened, insisting that if the country wants something to happen, they make it happen.
“The Bush tax cuts were not ‘paid for.’ The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were not ‘paid for.’ ” she said [3].
So far, however, a program like this has not been tried on a national scale. Pilots have run in Finland, Canada, the Netherlands, Scotland, and Iran, and there are a few trials set to start in various municipalities in the United States, but the results from many of these studies have yet to be realized.
Interestingly enough, a UBI actually gets a significant amount of support from many of the country’s wealthiest citizens. Elon musk says it will be necessary, and Richard Branson says it will provide a sense of self-esteem for people.
Because it gives everyone a boost from the beginning, the wealthiest individuals in a society can believe they amassed their wealth based solely off of their own merit, and feel less guilty as they gain more wealth.
UBI: A Future in America?
So will a universal basic income become a reality in the United States? As of now, it is difficult to say yes with one hundred percent certainty. There are many among both wealthy, middle, and lower-class who support the idea, and those who believe that it is the only way forward.
As the world becomes increasingly technological, and the job market begins to shrink, something will need to be done in order for people to cover their basic needs. There is little doubt that the experiment in Germany will yield happier people, but will it benefit the economy? Only time will tell.


theheartysoul--2020-09-09--11-year-old Builds Her Own Playhouse in an Old Camper

Kids , like most adults , enjoy their space .
Forts and clubhouses are magical areas where kids could play and relax and feel entirely themselves .
There ’ s something special about having your own tailor-made space in an adult-run world .
In a way , kids were the groundbreakers of the tiny house movement .
Lauren Nelson , an 11-year old from Attica , New York , craved a nook for herself and her family to play during the lockdown from the current pandemic .
“ I kind of just wanted my own space , ” Lauren said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that clubhouses and such are expensive .
The specific ideas she had in mind would have been costly .
She also wanted to buy toys from American Doll that resembled an Airstream and a VW Bus , which was $ 650 .
Her parents said she could buy a real camper for less money .
They thought they were dissuading Lauren from her dream , but little did they know , she loved that idea .
[ 1 ] So Lauren bought a camper with her own money that she had saved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events .
“ I had an envelope where I kept all my money from birthdays and Christmases , and I saved it all up , and that ’ s what I bought the camper with , ” said Lauren .
AdvertisementThe family taught their kids a system they learned from expert Dave Ramsey .
Each family member was given three envelopes to hold money , one for saving , one for spending , and one for giving .
Lauren used the contents of both her spending and saving envelopes , which contained $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , a neighbor down the street was trying to sell a 1988 Sunline Sunray camper .
Lauren recalled squealing when she heard about it .
Lauren was able to negotiate the price down from $ 500 to the $ 400 she had .
“ It wasn ’ t very hard .
He said $ 500 and I said $ 400 because that was the money I had in my bank account and he said sold , ” said Nelson .
“ I ’ m going to live in this forever , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the first time .
The dream was far from completion , however .
The camper was full of mice , feces , and garbage consisting of old camping gear and clothes .
This didn ’ t deter Lauren , who put in a lot of effort to clean out the space and renovate it into her play area .
She found four mice nests under the beds and in the oven .
“ I thought the mice were adorable , ” Lauren said .
“ I was very sad that we possibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they were not doing very well when we found them.
” Fortunately , another neighbor helped the Nelsons clear out the mice and dispose of the feces .
Then came time for deep cleaning .
Lauren ’ s father caulked the leaking windows , and the family scrubbed the mattresses and cushions outside with rug shampoo .
Read : A Couple Spend $ 3K to Turn an Old RV Into a Cozy Home For Five Then came the fun part : the decorating .
Lauren said , “ I got to design @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whatever I wanted for it.
” She got much of her interior decorating ideas from Pinterest once she settled on a beachy , boho aesthetic .
Her mother , Aimee Nelson , assumed she wanted a design with shells and starfish , but Lauren , already the interior decorator , explained that she wanted an aesthetic with bright colors and greenery .
While Lauren worked on the décor , her family chipped in an extra $ 500 for the renovation .
Aimee also uses the Dave Ramsey ’ s money envelope system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Laurent to sleep-away camp , but it was canceled because of the coronavirus .
So Aimee used that money for the renovations .
The $ 500 covered new flooring , paint , cushion covers , and a peel-and-stick backsplash from Home Depot .
Plus , Lauren picked up a picture frame from Dollar General .
Lauren shopped around her house as well .
For example , she took plants from the garden and driftwood from her dad ’ s taxidermy office .
“ She was very frugal , ” Aimee said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Camper Becomes the Dream Clubhouse After two months of hard work , the camper is a beautiful , clean , and inviting playroom for the family to enjoy .
The family keeps the camper in their house ’ s front yard , and Lauren loves to hang out in it during the day .
She said it ’ s the clubhouse that she ’ s always wanted .
The camper is equipped with an oven , fridge , and sink , although it ’ s not connected to any power or water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fit it with solar panels in the future .
Additionally , the camper has four beds , perfect for napping and chilling .
“ I just love to relax in there and take a nap , ” Lauren said .
Using the Camper in the Future Ever since she has finished fixing the camper , she has rented it out for $ 50 .
The money went straight int other savings envelope , but that ’ s not the end of her business ideas .
Lauren also plans on make an American Girl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admittance fee .
“ She has a lot of plans , ” Aimee said .
“ She even has a business plan written up.
” When she gets a little older , Lauren plans to live in the camper while she ’ s in college to save money on housing by parking it near the campus .
Whatever happens in the future , Lauren is extremely proud of her camper , and so is her family .
“ I feel more grown-up now , ” Lauren said .
“ We do not have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gives me a small space of my own to draw , read , and create.
” “ This was always something she wanted .
It was a lot of fun to work with her on the space and to follow her lead , ” said Aimee .
“ She had great ideas and a vision right from the beginning , and we were just there to help her achieve her dream.
” [ 2 ] Keep Reading : Bicycle Camper Could Be a Micro RV for Your E-Bike

Kids, like most adults, enjoy their space. Forts and clubhouses are magical areas where kids could play and relax and feel entirely themselves. There’s something special about having your own tailor-made space in an adult-run world. In a way, kids were the groundbreakers of the tiny house movement.
Lauren Nelson, an 11-year old from Attica, New York, craved a nook for herself and her family to play during the lockdown from the current pandemic.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
“I kind of just wanted my own space,” Lauren said. However, the cold hard fact is that clubhouses and such are expensive.
The specific ideas she had in mind would have been costly. She also wanted to buy toys from American Doll that resembled an Airstream and a VW Bus, which was $650. Her parents said she could buy a real camper for less money. They thought they were dissuading Lauren from her dream, but little did they know, she loved that idea. [1]
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
Buying a Camper to Create the Perfect Playhouse
So Lauren bought a camper with her own money that she had saved from birthdays, Christmases, and other events.
“I had an envelope where I kept all my money from birthdays and Christmases, and I saved it all up, and that’s what I bought the camper with,” said Lauren.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
Read: People Live In Oldest Mall In America After 48 Abandoned Shops Are Turned Into Homes
The family taught their kids a system they learned from expert Dave Ramsey. Each family member was given three envelopes to hold money, one for saving, one for spending, and one for giving. Lauren used the contents of both her spending and saving envelopes, which contained $400 altogether.
As fate would have it, a neighbor down the street was trying to sell a 1988 Sunline Sunray camper. Lauren recalled squealing when she heard about it. Lauren was able to negotiate the price down from $500 to the $400 she had.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
“It wasn’t very hard. He said $500 and I said $400 because that was the money I had in my bank account and he said sold,” said Nelson.
“I’m going to live in this forever,” Lauren said when she toured the bus for the first time.
Renovating the Camper
The dream was far from completion, however. The camper was full of mice, feces, and garbage consisting of old camping gear and clothes. This didn’t deter Lauren, who put in a lot of effort to clean out the space and renovate it into her play area. She found four mice nests under the beds and in the oven.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
“I thought the mice were adorable,” Lauren said. “I was very sad that we possibly brought home a camper without their parents as they were not doing very well when we found them.”
Fortunately, another neighbor helped the Nelsons clear out the mice and dispose of the feces. Then came time for deep cleaning. Lauren’s father caulked the leaking windows, and the family scrubbed the mattresses and cushions outside with rug shampoo.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
Read: At Only 9-Years-Old She Built Tiny Homes for The Homeless
Choosing Decorations for the Camper
Then came the fun part: the decorating.
Lauren said, “I got to design it, and I got to pick whatever I wanted for it.” She got much of her interior decorating ideas from Pinterest once she settled on a beachy, boho aesthetic. Her mother, Aimee Nelson, assumed she wanted a design with shells and starfish, but Lauren, already the interior decorator, explained that she wanted an aesthetic with bright colors and greenery.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
While Lauren worked on the décor, her family chipped in an extra $500 for the renovation. Aimee also uses the Dave Ramsey’s money envelope system, and she had saved up to send Laurent to sleep-away camp, but it was canceled because of the coronavirus. So Aimee used that money for the renovations.
The $500 covered new flooring, paint, cushion covers, and a peel-and-stick backsplash from Home Depot. Plus, Lauren picked up a picture frame from Dollar General. Lauren shopped around her house as well. For example, she took plants from the garden and driftwood from her dad’s taxidermy office.
“She was very frugal,” Aimee said. “She didn’t buy much.”
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
The Camper Becomes the Dream Clubhouse
After two months of hard work, the camper is a beautiful, clean, and inviting playroom for the family to enjoy. The family keeps the camper in their house’s front yard, and Lauren loves to hang out in it during the day. She said it’s the clubhouse that she’s always wanted.
The camper is equipped with an oven, fridge, and sink, although it’s not connected to any power or water now. However, Lauren plans to fit it with solar panels in the future. Additionally, the camper has four beds, perfect for napping and chilling.
“I just love to relax in there and take a nap,” Lauren said.
Courtesy of Aimee Nelson
Using the Camper in the Future
Ever since she has finished fixing the camper, she has rented it out for $50. The money went straight int other savings envelope, but that’s not the end of her business ideas. Lauren also plans on make an American Girl Doll tea party with a $25 admittance fee.
“She has a lot of plans,” Aimee said. “She even has a business plan written up.”
When she gets a little older, Lauren plans to live in the camper while she’s in college to save money on housing by parking it near the campus.
Whatever happens in the future, Lauren is extremely proud of her camper, and so is her family.
“I feel more grown-up now,” Lauren said. “We do not have a large house, so the camper gives me a small space of my own to draw, read, and create.”
“This was always something she wanted. It was a lot of fun to work with her on the space and to follow her lead,” said Aimee. “She had great ideas and a vision right from the beginning, and we were just there to help her achieve her dream.” [2]
Keep Reading: Wait Until You Peek Inside These Colorful Little Campers
Sources
“11-year-old Attica girl buys and renovates her own tiny home.” Taylor Epps. WKBW. August 19, 2020. “An 11-year-old girl bought an old camper for $400 and turned it into a chic tiny house on wheels — here’s how she did it.” Frank Olito. Insider. August 26, 2020.
This article originally appeared on The Hearty Soul in October 2020 and has been published here with permission.


theheartysoul--2020-09-09--Girl With Down Syndrome Models for New Kids Clothing Campaign

An adorable toddler with Down syndrome has become a model and the face of a children ’ s clothing brand campaign .
Two-year-old Eleanor Manton from Leamington Spa , Warwickshire , was “ discovered ” through her family ’ s Instagram account .
When JoJo Maman Bébé , a U.K. mother and baby brand , contacted Eleanor ’ s mom , Helen Manton , she recalled “ screaming and jumping for joy ” .
The retailer wanted her baby for their autumn/winter 2020 campaign .
[ 1 ] The Cutest Baby Model with Down Syndrome To comply with quarantine restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clothing and shoes to photograph in their own home .
Helen took the photos herself on her iPhone .
Eleanor ’ s father , Craig Manton , played another vital role in the shoot : “ the chief smile coordinator ” .
In the pictures in the outdoor photo shoot , the toddler wears a huge smile along with the company ’ s adorable red sweater , leggings , and cute little booties .
[ 2 ] “ When I saw those campaign images I don ’ t think the phrase ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Helen explained .
“ Just seeing her little beaming face , she ’ s just a ray of light , was incredible , it makes me really , really proud.
” Eleanor has made a lot of progress during the lockdown , which her mother said was aided by having so much interaction with her home-stuck parents .
In May , her mother posted a video of Eleanor walking on her own for the first time .
“ That ’ s the reason why Eleanor is progressing so much , she has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” she said .
[ 3 ] Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition in the United States .
About 6,000 infants are born with Down ’ s syndrome in the U.S. every year .
Accordingly , this syndrome is found in about 1 in every 700 babies .
[ 4 ] Babies with Down syndrome usually have telling characteristics of flat facial features , eyes that slant upward , poor muscle tone , and small heads and ears .
Infants can be born a typical size , but they tend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this condition .
Many people with this syndrome are often accompanied by other health problems , like hearing loss , hearing defects , obstructive sleep apnea , eye disease , and ear infections .
They may also suffer from mild to moderate developmental disabilities .
Despite all of these potential difficulties , people with Down syndrome can live healthy and fulfilling lives .
Recent medical and societal advances can provide more opportunities to help them overcome the challenges of their condition .
[ 5 ] Representing People with Disabilities in Ads and Media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be more inclusive , ” Mrs. Manton said .
Although the fashion industry has made some strides , there are very few models with disabilities .
Representation of kids with disabilities in media can help them be included in their personal lives .
However , there seems to be a cultural perception that physical disabilities can ’ t encompass the power and magnetism needed in advertisements .
Therefore , companies avoid including such people , although doing so can be beneficial to able-bodied people and those with disabilities .
[ 4 ] The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and media contributes greatly to how viewers perceive them in reality .
That ’ s why portrayals with characters that are “ better off dead , ” “ pathetic , ” “ a burden to society , ” and “ unable to lead a good life , ” can do more harm than good .
Having a wide array of disabled characters can break stereotypes and display the very different lives these people can have .
[ 5 ] Another form of negative portrayal is when physically disabled people are used for “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disabilities are used to motivate able-bodied individuals through inaccurate and problematic portrayals .
These pity-hero traps can stigmatize these people and create the expectations that they should be inspiring in real life as well .
[ 6 ] “ If children like Eleanor are seen in the fashion industry , it ’ s going to keep raising awareness… and when people see children like Eleanor it ’ s not a shock to them , ” Helen said .
It ’ s heart-warming that Eleanor recognize can herself in the pictures and she would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I just want to raise awareness , that she is just like any other little girl and that having a child with Down ’ s syndrome is a positive thing , not a negative , ” she added .
Keep Reading : Dentistry Student Shares Touching Story of Being Raised by Father with Down Syndrome

Girl With Down Syndrome Models for New Kids Clothing Campaign
An adorable toddler with Down syndrome has become a model and the face of a children’s clothing brand campaign.
Two-year-old Eleanor Manton from Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, was “discovered” through her family’s Instagram account. When JoJo Maman Bébé, a U.K. mother and baby brand, contacted Eleanor’s mom, Helen Manton, she recalled “screaming and jumping for joy”. The retailer wanted her baby for their autumn/winter 2020 campaign. [1]
The Cutest Baby Model with Down Syndrome
To comply with quarantine restrictions, they sent the Manton’s the clothing and shoes to photograph in their own home. Helen took the photos herself on her iPhone. Eleanor’s father, Craig Manton, played another vital role in the shoot: “the chief smile coordinator”. In the pictures in the outdoor photo shoot, the toddler wears a huge smile along with the company’s adorable red sweater, leggings, and cute little booties. [2]
“When I saw those campaign images I don’t think the phrase ‘bursting with pride’ cuts it,” Helen explained. “Just seeing her little beaming face, she’s just a ray of light, was incredible, it makes me really, really proud.”
Eleanor has made a lot of progress during the lockdown, which her mother said was aided by having so much interaction with her home-stuck parents. In May, her mother posted a video of Eleanor walking on her own for the first time.
“That’s the reason why Eleanor is progressing so much, she has interaction with us both all the time,” she said. [3]
Children with Down’s Syndrome
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition in the United States. About 6,000 infants are born with Down’s syndrome in the U.S. every year. Accordingly, this syndrome is found in about 1 in every 700 babies. [4]
Babies with Down syndrome usually have telling characteristics of flat facial features, eyes that slant upward, poor muscle tone, and small heads and ears. Infants can be born a typical size, but they tend to develop more slowly than kids without this condition.
Many people with this syndrome are often accompanied by other health problems, like hearing loss, hearing defects, obstructive sleep apnea, eye disease, and ear infections. They may also suffer from mild to moderate developmental disabilities.
Despite all of these potential difficulties, people with Down syndrome can live healthy and fulfilling lives. Recent medical and societal advances can provide more opportunities to help them overcome the challenges of their condition. [5]
Representing People with Disabilities in Ads and Media
“Hopefully more companies are going to be more inclusive,” Mrs. Manton said. Although the fashion industry has made some strides, there are very few models with disabilities. Representation of kids with disabilities in media can help them be included in their personal lives.
However, there seems to be a cultural perception that physical disabilities can’t encompass the power and magnetism needed in advertisements. Therefore, companies avoid including such people, although doing so can be beneficial to able-bodied people and those with disabilities. [4]
The portrayal of people with disabilities in films and media contributes greatly to how viewers perceive them in reality. That’s why portrayals with characters that are “better off dead,” “pathetic,” “a burden to society,” and “unable to lead a good life,” can do more harm than good. Having a wide array of disabled characters can break stereotypes and display the very different lives these people can have. [5]
Another form of negative portrayal is when physically disabled people are used for “inspiration porn”. This is when disabilities are used to motivate able-bodied individuals through inaccurate and problematic portrayals. These pity-hero traps can stigmatize these people and create the expectations that they should be inspiring in real life as well. [6]
“If children like Eleanor are seen in the fashion industry, it’s going to keep raising awareness… and when people see children like Eleanor it’s not a shock to them,” Helen said.
It’s heart-warming that Eleanor recognize can herself in the pictures and she would say “that’s me”.
“I just want to raise awareness, that she is just like any other little girl and that having a child with Down’s syndrome is a positive thing, not a negative,” she added.
Keep Reading: Dentistry Student Shares Touching Story of Being Raised by Father with Down Syndrome


theheartysoul--2020-09-09--Their Dream Was a Working Farm (But They Weren’t Farmers)

Many people who live in the city choose to have a place in the country to get away from the hustle and bustle .
Whether it ’ s a cabin in the woods , or a beach house on the ocean , a vacation home to get away on the weekends is a welcome escape for many city-dwellers .
One New York City couple decided they also wanted a place in the country but took a much more unconventional route : they chose to buy their dream farm .
The only catch ?
Neither of them are farmers .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eugene Kwak had been shopping at the Union Square Greenmarket for years .
During that time , they became increasingly curious about where their food was actually coming from .
Claire , a 38-year-old chief people officer at a cheese company , and 40-year-old Eugene , an architect , decided to take their curiosity to the next level .
Their idea ?
Buy some land , give most of it to a young farmer , and build a two-family house where they could all live together .
At least , that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and raised in Seoul , South Korea , Claire considered herself a city girl , and initially had some reservations.Advertisement Despite having no real rural-living experience , Eugene was much less deterred .
He had been exposed to the culinary scene living in the city , which sparked his interest in food systems .
Eugene spent the next two years learning everything he could about farming .
He also spent much of that time searching for a place to put his dream farm .
To help his learning process , he volunteered at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming , and attended farming workshops .
In march 2018 the couple bought a sixteen-acre plot in Crawford , New York , in Orange County for 175 thousand dollars .
The land used to be part of a dairy farm but was now unused .
They named the project Togather .
Eugene designed the home himself which contains two apartments .
The larger , two thousand-square-foot main unit was for them , and the smaller , one thousand-square foot unit would be for a farmer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 , with a total cost of 630 thousand dollars .
In an effort to help a farmer establish a farm , they decided to offer a free thirty-year lease on up to five acres of the land .
They put the rental price for the home at 1100 dollars per month , well below the average rental cost in the area .
They used a website called the Hudson Valley Farmland Finder , which connects landlords to farmers , to find their tenants .
After dozens of interviews , Eugene and Claire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phillips and Jack Whettam .
34-year-old Whettam had previously worked as director of sales at a golf company , and Phillips had a master ’ s degree in sustainability .
After giving birth to their daughter , however , the young couple realized they wanted something different out of life .
They then spent some time at Kern Family Farm in North Fork , California , where they learned about regenerative farming.AdvertisementAdvertisement Along with Claire and Eugene , they started Hidden Acre Farm .
They produce vegetables and flowers , which they sell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city .
Getting to that point , however , took a lot of hard work and money .
Whettam and Phillips put their entire savings into the farm , and also used a loan .
Initially , Kwok and Ko were splitting their time between the city and the country , but when the novel coronavirus hit New York City , the couple ended up staying at the farm for five months .
While the process was by no means easy , the level of joy they have received from the project has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high level of appreciation for what nature has to offer , and it ’ s possible that their dream farm has turned a city dweller into a countrywoman after all .

Many people who live in the city choose to have a place in the country to get away from the hustle and bustle. Whether it’s a cabin in the woods, or a beach house on the ocean, a vacation home to get away on the weekends is a welcome escape for many city-dwellers. One New York City couple decided they also wanted a place in the country but took a much more unconventional route: they chose to buy their dream farm. The only catch? Neither of them are farmers.
For the Love of Food
Claire Ko and Eugene Kwak had been shopping at the Union Square Greenmarket for years. During that time, they became increasingly curious about where their food was actually coming from.
Claire, a 38-year-old chief people officer at a cheese company, and 40-year-old Eugene, an architect, decided to take their curiosity to the next level. Their idea? Buy some land, give most of it to a young farmer, and build a two-family house where they could all live together. At least, that’s what Eugene began dreaming of.
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Claire considered herself a city girl, and initially had some reservations.
“I’ve only lived in cities. I don’t know anything about living in a house, or even a suburb,” she said [1].
Despite having no real rural-living experience, Eugene was much less deterred. He had been exposed to the culinary scene living in the city, which sparked his interest in food systems.
Eugene Kwak and Claire Ko (standing), with their tenant farmers, Melissa Phillips and Jack Whettam – Photo Credit: Eugene Kwak
“I wanted to combine food systems with my design abilities, and try to create something that was innovative,” he explained [1].
Eugene spent the next two years learning everything he could about farming. He also spent much of that time searching for a place to put his dream farm.
To help his learning process, he volunteered at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, at Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming, and attended farming workshops.
Read: Teenagers Gain Confidence Raising Bees and Growing Crops at North Carolina Farm
The Dream Farm
In march 2018 the couple bought a sixteen-acre plot in Crawford, New York, in Orange County for 175 thousand dollars. The land used to be part of a dairy farm but was now unused. They named the project Togather.
Eugene designed the home himself which contains two apartments. The larger, two thousand-square-foot main unit was for them, and the smaller, one thousand-square foot unit would be for a farmer tenant. Construction was completed in February 2019, with a total cost of 630 thousand dollars.
In an effort to help a farmer establish a farm, they decided to offer a free thirty-year lease on up to five acres of the land. They put the rental price for the home at 1100 dollars per month, well below the average rental cost in the area.
“I wanted to really support and empower young and beginning farmers,” Mr. Kwak said [1].
They used a website called the Hudson Valley Farmland Finder, which connects landlords to farmers, to find their tenants.
After dozens of interviews, Eugene and Claire chose to give the spot to Melissa Phillips and Jack Whettam. 34-year-old Whettam had previously worked as director of sales at a golf company, and Phillips had a master’s degree in sustainability.
After giving birth to their daughter, however, the young couple realized they wanted something different out of life. They then spent some time at Kern Family Farm in North Fork, California, where they learned about regenerative farming.
Hidden Acre Farm
Along with Claire and Eugene, they started Hidden Acre Farm. They produce vegetables and flowers, which they sell at farmer’s markets in the city. Getting to that point, however, took a lot of hard work and money. Whettam and Phillips put their entire savings into the farm, and also used a loan.
“When we arrived, it was just a field of weeds,” said Whettam. “You’ve got to dig a well, and then you’ve got to get the water from the well to the crops…We put in cold storage for our vegetables, greenhouses, fencing. We farm organically and regeneratively, so a lot of investment went into improving the soil and bringing in compost and other soil amendments.” [1]
Initially, Kwok and Ko were splitting their time between the city and the country, but when the novel coronavirus hit New York City, the couple ended up staying at the farm for five months.
“Because of Covid-19, we spent a lot more time during spring at the property,” Ms. Ko said. “We were able to help with getting the market ready, harvesting, weeding.” [1]
Hidden Acre Farm
Photo Credit: Jeff Cate
While the process was by no means easy, the level of joy they have received from the project has been immeasurable. They have built a high level of appreciation for what nature has to offer, and it’s possible that their dream farm has turned a city dweller into a countrywoman after all.


theheartysoul--2020-09-09--New Flying-V Plane Prototype Takes To Skies For The Very First Time

After decades of aircraft design staying the same , the future of flying might just be here .
Meet the new flying-v prototype from Royal Dutch Airlines .
A scaled model of Royal Dutch Airline ’ s ( KLM ) new airplane design has undergone its first-ever test flight .
Called the Flying-V after it ’ s v-shaped design , this may be the future of flying as we know it .
( 1 ) Rather than the traditional design of a single tubular body with wings on either side , this design , developed and tested by engineers at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Delft ) , the fuselage and wings are one and the same .
Passengers would be seated literally inside each wing .
Turbofan engines sit on top of the fuselage between the two “ wings ” rather than under the wings like on traditional aircraft .
( 1 ) The idea is to have a plane design that is more aerodynamic and therefore more fuel-efficient .
It can go further on less fuel and is better for the environment as a result .
( 1 ) Read : ‘ Flying car ’ gets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ KLM and TU Delft engineers went over to Germany for the first test flight of the scaled-down model of the Flying-V .
The flight was controlled by a drone pilot using a remote control .
The purpose of using a smaller , scaled version is to ensure that the aircraft does , indeed , fly before spending money , time , and resources on building a full-size prototype .
( 1 ) Other than a bumpy landing that caused some damage to the plane ’ s nose , the flight was a success @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gust of wind and the drone pilot ’ s ability to react to that gust , which is common with scaled test flights .
According to the company , one out of two scaled models is damaged this way during test flights .
( 2 ) Finding a way to make airplanes more fuel-efficient and air travel less damaging to the environment are top priorities for those in the industry .
According to researchers , the flying-wing design can lower fuel consumption by 20 % from even the most advanced planes that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says that the flying-v will have the same wingspan as the Airbus A350 .
This means that it would be able to use the same gates and runways as current planes .
The plane will fly further and with more passengers on less fuel .
( 1 ) The flying-v scaled prototype will go through a couple more test flights before KLM and TU Delft begin working on a full-size model .
The design and building of this will be an investment in the billions , and while KLM has not yet said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planes on the runway , normally the process from drawing the design to having the plane certified for commercial flight takes about a decade .
( 1 ) The United States military has its own version of the flying-wing design called the B-2 Spirit .
It is a stealth bomber that has been in use since 1993 .
The B-2 Spirit can fly up to 6,000 nautical miles non-stop and is designed both for speed and stealth .
( 1 ) Though it will be quite sometime before you and your family will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destination vacation , the future of aircraft is certainly going to be an innovative one .
Keep Reading : 17 Year Old Wins $ 250,000 Top Prize For Inventing Tool That Could Prevent Starvation

After decades of aircraft design staying the same, the future of flying might just be here. Meet the new flying-v prototype from Royal Dutch Airlines.
The Flying-V From KLM
A scaled model of Royal Dutch Airline’s (KLM) new airplane design has undergone its first-ever test flight. Called the Flying-V after it’s v-shaped design, this may be the future of flying as we know it. (1)
Rather than the traditional design of a single tubular body with wings on either side, this design, developed and tested by engineers at the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), the fuselage and wings are one and the same. Passengers would be seated literally inside each wing. Turbofan engines sit on top of the fuselage between the two “wings” rather than under the wings like on traditional aircraft. (1)
The idea is to have a plane design that is more aerodynamic and therefore more fuel-efficient. It can go further on less fuel and is better for the environment as a result. (1)
The First Flight
KLM and TU Delft engineers went over to Germany for the first test flight of the scaled-down model of the Flying-V. The flight was controlled by a drone pilot using a remote control.
The purpose of using a smaller, scaled version is to ensure that the aircraft does, indeed, fly before spending money, time, and resources on building a full-size prototype. (1)
Other than a bumpy landing that caused some damage to the plane’s nose, the flight was a success. KLM attributed this to an unexpected gust of wind and the drone pilot’s ability to react to that gust, which is common with scaled test flights. According to the company, one out of two scaled models is damaged this way during test flights. (2)
“It’s been two years of intense stressful work to reach this moment,” Malcolm Brown, TU Delft’s chief engineer for the Flying-V testing program, said in the YouTube video KLM put out about the flight. “And then to have it confirmed that it flies, all of that hard work, it was worth putting in all of the hours making sure everything’s correct and built properly, built accurately, and it pays off.” (1)
A More Fuel-Efficient Future
Finding a way to make airplanes more fuel-efficient and air travel less damaging to the environment are top priorities for those in the industry. According to researchers, the flying-wing design can lower fuel consumption by 20% from even the most advanced planes that we have today. (1)
KLM says that the flying-v will have the same wingspan as the Airbus A350. This means that it would be able to use the same gates and runways as current planes. The plane will fly further and with more passengers on less fuel. (1)
The flying-v scaled prototype will go through a couple more test flights before KLM and TU Delft begin working on a full-size model. The design and building of this will be an investment in the billions, and while KLM has not yet said when we can expect to see these planes on the runway, normally the process from drawing the design to having the plane certified for commercial flight takes about a decade. (1)
Other Flying-V Models
The United States military has its own version of the flying-wing design called the B-2 Spirit. It is a stealth bomber that has been in use since 1993. The B-2 Spirit can fly up to 6,000 nautical miles non-stop and is designed both for speed and stealth. (1)
Though it will be quite sometime before you and your family will be boarding a flying-v for your test destination vacation, the future of aircraft is certainly going to be an innovative one.
Read More: World’s First Airport For Flying Cars And Drones To Open This Year
Sources:


theheartysoul--2020-09-10--Couple wears their original wedding attire for an adorable 60th anniversary photoshoot

Love is precious and finding a love that stands the test of time is incredible .
That ’ s what makes this 60th anniversary photoshoot as inspiring as it is heart-warming .
Check out the incredible photos this couple took in their original wedding day outfits .
Married in a little church in Nebraska in 1960 , Marvin and Lucille Stone have been married for 60 years .
At ages 88 and 81 , the pair have lived quite a life .
They have three children , six grandchildren , and now four great-grandchildren .
To celebrate their lasting love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Katie Autry to do a 60th-anniversary photoshoot .
( 1 ) Both Marvin and Lucille still had their suit and dress from their wedding all those years ago , and Lucille decided that it would be a fun idea for them to wear them for the photos .
Though weddings aren ’ t a big part of Katie ’ s business , she knew it would be easy to recreate a wedding-style photoshoot , down to flower bouquet and all .
( 1 ) Katie met the couple at their home for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s tux still fit perfectly , and Lucille just had to make a few minor alterations to the dress that she had hand-sewn 60 years prior .
( 1 ) This was easy for Lucille , who has been sewing since she was a little girl .
She continued to sew throughout college after which she became a home economics teacher .
It is at that school where she and Marvin met and were married a year later .
( 1 ) Lucille said that it was “ thrilling ” seeing her husband @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) Read : Couple with down syndrome celebrate 22 years of marriage – this is their secret to happiness Their special 60th anniversary shoot took place outside at sunset , where Katie directed Marvin and Lucille on how to pose to get the right shots .
She instructed them on where and how to stand , to turn their heads this way and that , all to get the most interesting and beautiful photos possible .
( 1 ) For Katie , capturing the love they share wasn ’ t hard at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the photos ( see below ) on her Facebook page where they quickly went viral .
( 1 ) Marvin and Lucille are still very much in love , just as they were 60 years ago when they said : “ I do ” .
( 1 ) She made it clear , however , that their marriage wasn ’ t all love all the time .
Like any couple , they had their difficult times .
She says that when they ran into “ snags ” , they opted to work on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple , rather than walk away .
( 1 ) The couple feels incredibly blessed to have shared their love for so long .
In terms of relationship advice , Lucille says her and Martin ’ s motto is this : Advertisement The pair both went into their marriage with the idea that it was ‘ till death do them part , and they have maintained that for the last six decades .
( 1 ) Perhaps all of us can take a little lesson from Marvin and Lucille ’ s love story @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love really can last forever .
This was a 60th anniversary photoshoot to remember – here ’ s to many more .

Love is precious and finding a love that stands the test of time is incredible. That’s what makes this 60th anniversary photoshoot as inspiring as it is heart-warming. Check out the incredible photos this couple took in their original wedding day outfits.
A Special 60th Anniversary Photoshoot
Married in a little church in Nebraska in 1960, Marvin and Lucille Stone have been married for 60 years. At ages 88 and 81, the pair have lived quite a life. They have three children, six grandchildren, and now four great-grandchildren. To celebrate their lasting love, they hired family friend and photographer Katie Autry to do a 60th-anniversary photoshoot. (1)
Both Marvin and Lucille still had their suit and dress from their wedding all those years ago, and Lucille decided that it would be a fun idea for them to wear them for the photos. Though weddings aren’t a big part of Katie’s business, she knew it would be easy to recreate a wedding-style photoshoot, down to flower bouquets and all. (1)
The Attire
Katie met the couple at their home for a sunset 60th-anniversary photoshoot. Marvin’s tux still fit perfectly, and Lucille just had to make a few minor alterations to the dress that she had hand-sewn 60 years prior. (1)
“I had to alter a little bit in the back for the waistline after three babies,” she told Insider. “I put a little inset with some white satin that matched.” (1)
This was easy for Lucille, who has been sewing since she was a little girl. She continued to sew throughout college after which she became a home economics teacher. It is at that school where she and Marvin met and were married a year later. (1)
Lucille said that it was “thrilling” seeing her husband in his wedding suit again. (1)
The 60th Anniversary Shoot
Their special 60th-anniversary shoot took place outside at sunset, where Katie directed Marvin and Lucille on how to pose to get the right shots. She instructed them on where and how to stand, to turn their heads this way and that, all to get the most interesting and beautiful photos possible. (1)
For Katie, capturing the love they share wasn’t hard at all. (1)
“You could just see their connection, and it was just so evident watching the two of them how much they care about each other. “They just were just so sweet, and you just don’t see that very often,” Katie explained. “They were such a breath of fresh air.” (1)
She shared the photos (see below) on her Facebook page where they quickly went viral. (1)
I had the pleasure of working with Marvin and Lucille to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary . This may be one of… Posted by Katie Autry Photography on Thursday, August 20, 2020
The Love
Marvin and Lucille are still very much in love, just as they were 60 years ago when they said: “I do”. (1)
“I still feel about him the same way as when we stood in front of the altar,” Lucille said. (1)
She made it clear, however, that their marriage wasn’t all love all the time. Like any couple, they had their difficult times. She says that when they ran into “snags”, they opted to work on them and fix them together as a couple, rather than walk away. (1)
The couple feels incredibly blessed to have shared their love for so long. In terms of relationship advice, Lucille says her and Martin’s motto is this:
“Do your best and keep on keeping on. Forgive what you are offended by and encourage each other.” (1)
The pair both went into their marriage with the idea that it was ‘till death do them part, and they have maintained that for the last six decades. (1)
Perhaps all of us can take a little lesson from Marvin and Lucille’s love story. They are a true testament that love really can last forever. This was a 60th-anniversary photoshoot to remember – here’s to many more.
Keep Reading: Bride ditches dress for wedding ‘bodysuit’
Sources