Wait, what

Amid new information on the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein coming to light this week, one thing is certain: Much more is still to come.  The only question is, how much more? Late Tuesday, the Justice Department, responding to pressure from the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, produced its first release of 33,295 redacted pages of evidence that included images and video.  Still, some members of Congress are demanding more.  Epstein died in a federal prison cell by hanging, which the Justice Department concluded was a suicide. Here’s what we know so far and what’s ahead.  1. Releasing Information Two House Republicans from Kentucky are taking a leading role in the Epstein drama on Capitol Hill. Rep. Thomas Massie wants everything released and has complained about excessive redactions. The Trump administration has pushed back, saying that exposure should be measured to protect the names of innocent victims.  Meanwhile, House Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer is pushing for more to come out, but is working with the Department of Justice on the gradual release of information, which the DOJ says has to be done to protect victims. Massie filed a discharge petition in the House of Representatives that he is hoping will gather enough signatures to force a full House vote on releasing all of the Justice Department’s files on Epstein. Discharge petitions are a means to get a floor vote even when it is House leadership that usually determines which bills go before the full House for a vote. Massie said most of the tens of thousands of pages recently released were “so redacted as to be useless.”  “I appreciate the effort they’ve undertaken,” Massie said of the House Oversight Committee when speaking to reporters Wednesday. “But the scope of their investigation is to investigate the investigators. … They are not going in to identify who these perpetrators were, of these heinous sexual abuse crimes.”  The committee has subpoenaed former U.S. attorneys general and FBI directors, as well as a former federal prosecutor who handled the Epstein case, to determine whether the Justice Department mishandled the prosecution.  Massie said the White House is “calling it a hostile act” for House members to sign the discharge petition.  Speaking before the House Rules Committee on Wednesday, Comer asked the panel to support House Resolution 668, which continues the Oversight Committee’s investigation. He explained why the Justice Department should be held accountable.  “Their [the sexual abuse victims’] stories are heartbreaking. What they have suffered and endured should never have happened and is sickening. They were not only victims of crimes, but were betrayed by their own government,” Comer said of the Epstein survivors. “Since 1996, the FBI ignored tips. Then, U.S. attorneys gave Epstein a sweetheart deal to avoid significant jail time. The government simply disregarded the law and ignored the victims of these crimes.” 2. ‘We Know the Names’ During a Capitol Hill news conference Tuesday, Massie and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., introduced Epstein survivors, some of whom also met in a private session with the full House Oversight panel.  While the Justice Department has said there is not a “list” of Epstein clients, the victims vowed to release their own lists of culprits. “Several of us Epstein survivors have discussed creating our own list of names,” said Lisa Phillips, an alleged Epstein victim, at the news conference. “We know the names. Many of us were abused by them. Now, together as survivors, we will confidentially compile the names we all know were regularly in the Epstein world, and it will be done by survivors and for survivors; no one else involved. Stay tuned for details on that. History is watching, and so are the women who come after us.” 3. The Missing Minute Commentators have frequently questioned the missing minute of prison security video footage outside Epstein’s cell on the night of his death.  The committee revealed video of the previously missing minute on the night of Epstein’s death. The missing video had sparked considerable speculation.  However, the recovered footage of the previously missing video on the night of Epstein’s death did not show any unusual activity inside the cellblock.  Attorney General Pam Bondi in early July told reporters at the White House, “What we learned from [the] Bureau of Prisons was, every night the video is reset, and every night should have the same minute missing.” However, the disputed minute—from 11:58:59 on Aug. 9, 2019, to midnight—did show up in the newly disclosed information. Fox News Digital reported it used the committee’s camera data and combined two clips to observe the previously missing minute from the night of Epstein’s death. Fox reported the video footage showed “there was indeed no lapse in footage,” as Bondi had asserted.  4. Oversight Probing Epstein Estate, Bank Records The Oversight Committee has also asked the Treasury Department for suspicious activity reports of Epstein and Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Banks make these reports to the Treasury Department if potential criminal activity is detected. The committee has subpoenaed Maxwell to give a deposition and has subpoenaed the Epstein estate for unredacted documents and communications in its possession, custody, or control. Comer issued subpoenas to former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton to be deposed in October. Also, former FBI Director James Comey and former Attorneys General Loretta Lynch, Eric Holder, Jeff Sessions, and Merrick Garland were called to provide information to the committee. Former Attorney General Robert Barr already sat for a deposition from the committee. Comer also subpoenaed Alexander Acosta, former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Florida and a former secretary of labor, who was criticized for giving a light deal to Epstein when he prosecuted him for prostitution charges in 2008. Acosta will appear for a transcribed interview later this month.  Former FBI Director Robert Mueller was excused from meeting with the committee because of his health. He was scheduled to meet on Tuesday.  The post ‘Stay Tuned’: 4 Keys to Understanding What’s Next in Epstein Probe appeared first on The Daily Signal.

At DogingtonPost, we know that developing good habits for dog training is key to success. Consistent, positive training methods can transform your pup’s behavior and strengthen your bond. In this post, we’ll explore practical strategies to establish effective training routines and master positive reinforcement techniques. Get ready to unlock your dog’s full potential and enjoy a harmonious relationship with your furry friend. Why Consistency Matters in Dog Training The Power of Routine Dogs thrive on routine. When you establish a consistent training schedule, your dog learns to anticipate and prepare for these sessions. This predictability reduces anxiety and increases focus. Routine helps them feel secure, reduces anxiety, and creates a foundation for consistent training and better behavior. A study found that dogs receiving weekly training required fewer training sessions and exhibited higher success rates at each level of training compared to dogs trained daily. This highlights the significant impact of routine on training outcomes. Building Trust Through Consistency Consistency in training is vital for your dog’s understanding and progress. When your dog knows what to expect from you, they feel more secure and are more likely to respond positively to training. Dr. John Bradshaw, an anthrozoologist at the University of Bristol, states that consistent behavior from owners leads to more confident and less anxious dogs. This trust extends beyond training sessions, improving your overall relationship with your furry friend. Long-Term Benefits of Regular Training Regular training sessions yield impressive long-term results. The American Kennel Club reports that dogs who receive consistent training are less likely to develop behavioral problems later in life. This underscores the importance of making training a daily habit. Moreover, consistent training helps your dog generalize learned behaviors across different environments. If you practice “sit” in various locations and situations, your dog will understand that the command applies everywhere (not just in your living room during training time). Keeping Training Fun and Engaging Consistency doesn’t mean rigidity. You can still keep training fun and engaging while maintaining a regular schedule. Mix up your training exercises, locations, and rewards to keep your dog interested and motivated. Try using different toys or treats (always in moderation) to add variety to your sessions. Now that we understand the importance of consistency in dog training, let’s explore how to establish an effective daily training routine that will set you and your furry friend up for success. How to Create an Effective Daily Training Routine Set Specific Training Times Creating a daily training routine for your dog will ensure consistent progress and long-term success. Research has shown that dogs trained 1–2 times per week had significantly better acquisition than daily trained dogs. This approach allows your dog to learn and practice new skills without becoming overwhelmed or bored. Maximize Everyday Moments While dedicated training sessions are important, don’t overlook the power of incorporating training into your daily activities. Use meal times as an opportunity to practice commands like “sit” or “stay” before placing the food bowl down. By using a dog’s natural food drive, you can impart lessons of leadership, calmness, impulse control, and respect. During walks, work on leash manners and recall. These small, frequent training moments reinforce good behavior throughout the day. Mix Structure with Spontaneity Balance structured training sessions with spontaneous learning opportunities. For example, if your dog becomes excited when guests arrive, use this as a chance to practice “calm greetings.” A study by the University of Lincoln found that dogs learn more effectively when training is integrated into real-life situations. Use High-Value Rewards To keep your dog engaged during training, use high-value treats that you reserve specifically for these sessions. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a renowned veterinarian and animal behaviorist, suggests using small, soft treats that your dog can consume quickly to maintain focus. (Remember to adjust your dog’s regular meal portions to account for these extra calories.) Track Progress and Adjust Keep a training journal to monitor your dog’s progress. Note which commands your dog has mastered and which need more work. This allows you to adjust your routine as needed and celebrate milestones. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers recommends reviewing and updating your training plan every two weeks to ensure continued progress. Consistency and patience are key elements in dog training. Every dog learns at their own pace, so it’s important to tailor your approach to your individual pet’s needs. As you establish your daily training routine, you’ll find that positive reinforcement techniques play a vital role in shaping your dog’s behavior. Let’s explore how to master these techniques in the next section. How to Use Positive Reinforcement Effectively The Science of Timing Positive reinforcement works best when you reward your dog immediately after the desired behavior. Dr. Sophia Yin, a renowned veterinary behaviorist, stressed that rewards should follow the desired action within half a second. This quick response helps your dog connect the reward with the correct behavior. You can use a marker word like “yes” or a clicker to signal the exact moment of success (especially useful when the reward can’t be given instantly). Selecting Motivating Rewards Dogs respond differently to various rewards. What motivates your dog depends on their personality and the situation. Some dogs prefer toys over treats, while others value praise and petting above all. Try different rewards to discover what excites your dog most. A University of Lincoln study found that dogs responded more positively to verbal praise when combined with physical affection. Don’t hesitate to pair a enthusiastic “good boy” with a belly rub for maximum effect. Progressive Training Techniques Start with simple tasks and increase difficulty gradually. This approach, known as shaping, involves rewarding small steps towards the target behavior. For instance, when teaching your dog to “stay,” first reward them for remaining in place for just a second, then slowly extend the duration. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends a variable reinforcement schedule as your dog becomes more skilled. This means you should reward the behavior intermittently rather than every single time, which can actually strengthen the behavior long-term. Consistency Across the Family For positive reinforcement to succeed, all family members must use the same cues and reward system. This consistency prevents confusion and helps your dog learn faster. Create a simple chart or guide for everyone to follow, ensuring uniform training methods throughout the household. Adapting to Different Environments As your dog progresses, practice commands in various locations and situations. This helps your dog generalize the learned behaviors. Start in a quiet room, then move to the backyard, and eventually to busier environments like parks. This gradual exposure ensures your dog responds reliably regardless of the surroundings. Final Thoughts Good habits for dog training require dedication and patience. Consistent training builds trust, reduces anxiety, and helps your dog understand expectations. Regular sessions, combined with spontaneous learning opportunities, keep training engaging for both you and your furry friend. Positive reinforcement encourages desired behaviors when you reward promptly and consistently. Adapt your techniques to different environments and increase task difficulty gradually to ensure reliable responses in various situations. Well-trained dogs become happier, more confident, and less prone to behavioral issues. We at DogingtonPost encourage you to implement these good habits for dog training today. With persistence and positivity, you’ll achieve amazing progress with your canine companion (every small step forward counts as a victory). Start your journey towards a stronger bond with your dog now!

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“Mental health is declining,” says psychologist Jonathan Haidt. This week, his book, “The Anxious Generation,” is number one on The New York Times bestseller list. His book has been a bestseller for more than a year. Haidt argues that smartphones and social media have “rewired childhood” and made kids more anxious and depressed. My son agrees. He brings Haidt’s argument to schools. Max Stossel’s nonprofit, “Social Awakening,” arranges for him to talk to students, parents, and teachers about how social media erodes kids’ sense of self, diminishing real relationships. Many teachers agree. Many schools, as well as some states, have banned the use of smartphones during school hours. But wait. We adults always worry about new things. When I was a kid, cops raided pinball arcades. They said the game caused delinquency. Then, politicians got upset about comic books. Sen. Estes Kefauver said they caused “a substantial amount of juvenile delinquency.” They cited an “expert” who said the government should ban the sale of comic books to children. Might the current worry about smartphones be just another overblown panic? Before Haidt published “The Anxious Generation,” he asked other researchers to review it. “My advice to him was not to publish it,” psychologist Chris Ferguson says in my new video. “Look at kids today,” he adds, “They’re less violent, they smoke less, they use drugs less. All that happened during the social media smartphone age ... We’re probably in the midst of another moral panic.” Why a moral panic? Because parents can cast themselves as noble warriors resisting evil. “Evil social media companies are the bad guys. I’m a good parent because I’m not letting my kid have a smartphone until they’re 37,” cracks Ferguson. Haidt does want governments to prohibit kids from using social media, not “until they’re 37,” but until they’re 16. “Kids will just buy fake IDs,” I push back. “Kids can still get an older brother to buy them beer,” replies Haidt. “But does that mean we should get rid of minimum age laws and let every kid buy alcohol?” Ferguson reminds people that “experts” wanted similar limits on pinball, comics, and rock music: “We are raising our children on a massive diet of violence,” complained Tipper Gore, Al Gore’s wife. Then lawyers piled on. “Ozzy Osbourne got sued over the idea that he had caused some kids to commit suicide ... music needed to be regulated, tamed by the government. The irony is that as people began to try to censor rock music, suicides among youth actually went up.” Politicians moved on to video games. “Violence at the time was actually going down,” I note. “Absolutely ... It turns out that mass homicide perpetrators actually play fewer violent video games.” Maybe they were wrong about pinball, comic books, rock music, and video games. But this time, I suspect Jonathan Haidt and Max are right about smartphone addiction. “I get hooked watching videos!” I tell Haidt. The social media algorithms have learned what I’ll look at a second longer, so they send me more of those. “We adults are hooked, too,” he replies, “but at least we made it through puberty.” With kids, however, “Sleep goes down, time with friends goes down, exercise goes down.” Ferguson argues that most kids are doing fine. “They drink less. They stay in school more. They volunteer in their communities more. We look for the bad news and only attribute the bad news to something like social media or smartphones, and we don’t attribute any of the good news.” “What’s the cost of banning it in schools?” I ask Ferguson. “Unintended negative consequences. ... A lot of schools suspend kids for cellphone use, and that can cause real harm.” Also, “people get convinced that they fixed a problem when they didn’t. That’s going to waste a lot of time rather than looking at what might actually work.” I push back. “In the court of public opinion, (Haidt’s) winning. You’re losing.” “Give it 15 years,” he replies. “We’ll be panicking about something else.”

Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo made a major announcement concerning mandatory vaccinations during a press conference on Wednesday, which was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.'They do not have the right. Do not give it to them.'Ladapo began his speech by praising Governor Ron DeSantis (R) for resisting government overreach during the COVID era. He then revealed a significant win for medical freedom, stating that the Florida Department of Health and DeSantis would work in partnership to end "all" vaccine mandates in Florida law.The crowd reacted to Ladapo's announcement by standing up and bursting into applause."Every last one of them," Ladapo clarified. "Every last one of them is wrong and drips with disdain and slavery.""Who am I as a government, or anyone else — or who am I as a man standing here now, to tell you what you should put in your body?" he continued. "Your body is a gift from God. What you put into your body is because of your relationship with your body and your God. I don't have that right. Government does not have that right. They want you to believe they have that right. And unfortunately, they've been successful."RELATED: Where’s the outrage?! This whistleblower's vaccine injury lawsuit demands national attention Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo. Photo by Paul Hennessy/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesLadapo noted that nearly every state has vaccine mandates. "They do not have the right. Do not give it to them. Take it away from them," he declared. "And we're going to be starting that here in Florida."He emphasized the importance of allowing Americans to make informed decisions about vaccines. Ladapo explained that the Florida Department of Health has the power to initiate the process by eliminating rules established under the previous administration that required certain vaccines. "It'll be wonderful for Florida to be the first state to do it," he said.RELATED: Study: COVID-19 vaccination is 'strongly associated with a serious adverse safety signal of myocarditis' Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty ImagesAlso during the Wednesday press conference, DeSantis unveiled the establishment of the Florida Make America Healthy Again commission, which will be chaired by first lady Casey DeSantis and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins (R). DeSantis referred to Florida as the “national model for medical freedom.”"The Florida MAHA commission will prioritize reforms that empower Floridians, reduce regulatory burdens, and hold actors accountable for their conduct, while fostering incentives for healthy living and innovation," he stated during the press conference.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

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