Harley-Davidson recently announced that it had officially trained one million riders through its Riding Academy program (previously known as the […] The post Harley-Davison Riding Academy Trains One Million Motorcycle Riders appeared first on Hot Bike Magazine.

How Much Does God Love You? But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – >Romans 5:8 A man was commissioned by a rich art lover to paint a picture of the story of the Prodigal Son from Luke chapter 15. After months of work, the day came when the picture was complete, and he unveiled the finished painting. The scene was set outside the father's house, and showed the open arms of each as they were just about to meet and embrace. But one thing stood out in the painting above everything else – the father was wearing one red shoe and one blue shoe. The wealthy man was incredulous. How could the painter make such an error? He asked the painter, who simply smiled and nodded, assuring the man, "Yes, this is a beautiful representation of the love of God for His children." "What do you mean?" he asked. "The father in this picture was not interested in being color-coordinated or fashion-conscious when he went out to meet his son. In fact, he was in such a hurry to show his love to his son, he simply reached and grabbed the nearest two shoes that he could find. He is the God of the unmatched shoes." That's the kind of God we have – one who loves us with such abandonment, such fervor that He would stop at nothing to welcome us back to Him. Find peace and comfort in that truth today – that your Creator loves you so much that He'd do anything, even give up His own Son, to get you back! Prayer Challenge: Thank God for His incredible love for you. Ask Him to help you find peace and rest in His arms. Visit the Senior Living Ministries website The post How Much Does God Love You? – Senior Living – August 14 appeared first on GodUpdates.

1597 - Cornelis de Houtman's Dutch fleet arrives back in Holland, the 1st Dutch visit to Java 1756 - French capture Fort Oswego, NY 1816 - Great Britain annexes Tristan da Cunha 1862 - Abraham Lincoln receives the first group of African Americans to confer with a US president 1901 - SS Islander hits iceberg near Alaska and sinks killing 70 1936 - The Berlin Olympics rowing competition concludes with Germany winning 5 of 7 gold medals, although the United States wins the coveted eights gold 1944 - British Prime Minister Winston Churchill arrives at Corsica 1971 - Cards Bob Gibson, 35, no-hits Pirates, 11-0 1975 - King of Norway Olav V opens Svalbard Airport near Longyearbyen, the northernmost airport in the world with scheduled public flights 2020 - Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda breaks Ethiopian legend Kenenisa Bekele’s 16-year-old 5,000m world record with a run of 12:35.36 at the Diamond League meet in Monaco More Historical Events »

Driving across deserts, owning polo ponies, making and losingfortunes, influencing generations of musicians… Ginger Baker‘s story nothing was like no one else's

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Summer can be a joyful, sunny time, but that doesn’t mean it’s free from annoyances, such as mosquitos. But not all bites are created equal. While most bites cause stinging, itching, and swelling, some can lead to severe health issues. Understanding the red flags of a mosquito bite that requires medical treatment can help you prevent potentially serious complications. Big and painful: when a bite isn’t just a bite Mosquito bites are often little, itchy bumps, but if a bite swells more than usual or becomes extremely painful, it might suggest a more serious condition. Marshana Dahlia Spavento’s pleasant alfresco dinner in Miami turned into a nightmare when she discovered 52 bites on her legs. “The bites were as big as golf balls and felt hot to the touch,” she tells Self.  Spavento’s reaction was so extreme that the swelling took weeks to go down and the marks months to vanish. Skeeter syndrome, an uncommon allergic reaction to mosquito saliva, was the cause of this acute reaction. Dr. Zachary Rubin, a pediatric allergist in Chicago, adds that, while Skeeter syndrome is uncommon, its symptoms—swelling, redness, and pain—can be frightening and have a substantial impact on everyday life. “If you experience unusually large and painful bites, it’s worth consulting with a healthcare professional,” he advises. A doctor may prescribe a powerful topical steroid to reduce inflammation or an oral antihistamine such as Zyrtec or Claritin to relieve discomfort. “These treatments are often more effective than over-the-counter options,” Dr. Rubin explains. Early care can reduce the reaction, and help dodge further issues while making it easier to manage symptoms. When things are getting worse, not better Mosquito bites usually improve within a few days, but if the symptoms worsen, that’s cause for concern. Symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, or soreness, particularly if accompanied by yellow pus, blisters, or fever, may suggest an infection. Dr. Karen Blatman, an allergist at Dartmouth Health, warns that these symptoms could indicate cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that spreads rapidly if not addressed. “Scratching an itchy bite can introduce bacteria into the skin, leading to infections like cellulitis,” Dr. Blatman says. Though rare, mosquito bites can become entry points for bacteria, resulting in infections that require medical treatment. If you suspect an infection, seek medical assistance right away. Topical or oral antibiotics are commonly used for treatment, while more severe instances may require intravenous antibiotics. It might be difficult to tell whether a worsening bite is the result of an illness or an allergic reaction, such as Skeeter syndrome. Dr. Rubin suggests drawing a border around the bite with a pen to track its progress. “If the redness or swelling extends beyond this line, see a doctor,” he warns. This is especially critical for people who have underlying health issues, such as diabetes, which might raise the risk of complications. Feeling flu-like symptoms?  While stinging and swelling from mosquito bites are irritating, they can also suggest something more serious. Mosquitoes are known carriers of diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue fever, and malaria, which can produce symptoms ranging from minor to fatal. Dr. Rubin points out that bites from disease-carrying mosquitoes may not necessarily look different from other ones, which is why it is critical to monitor any unusual symptoms that occur thereafter. “If you experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headaches, muscle pains, or diarrhea after being bitten, it could be a sign of a mosquito-borne illness,” he suggests. Diseases such as dengue and West Nile virus are uncommon in the United States, but they do occur, particularly among visitors returning from countries where these diseases are more prevalent. For example, whereas only one in every four people with dengue exhibit symptoms, those who do can suffer serious problems within hours of being bit. Although West Nile virus is generally asymptomatic, it can cause catastrophic illnesses such as encephalitis (brain inflammation) in approximately one in every 150 cases. Early detection and treatment are critical in these cases. “If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms after a mosquito bite, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately,” Dr. Rubin advises. Prevention is the best cure The easiest method to avoid difficulties from mosquito bites is to avoid getting them in the first place. Simple precautions such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothes, and avoiding locations with standing water will dramatically lower your chances of being bitten. “Preventing bites is key to avoiding both minor annoyances and serious health issues,” Dr. Rubin explains. You can enjoy the summer without worrying about mosquito bites if you take care and are aware of the warning signs of more serious reactions.The post 3 signs you need medical attention for a mosquito bite first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The Paris 2024 Olympics brought together athletes from all across the globe, demonstrating sport’s ability to connect and inspire. Over 16 days, the world witnessed incredible athletic accomplishments, heartwarming demonstrations of sportsmanship, and unforgettable moments that encapsulated the essence of the Games. From record-breaking performances to unexpected viral stars, the Paris Olympics left a rich tapestry of memories. It’s hard to believe that the Games have already come to a close. Let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable highlights and viral moments from this year’s event. Team USA’s record-breaking performance Team USA once again demonstrated its supremacy on the global scene, winning an amazing 104 medals, including 30 gold, 38 silver, and 36 bronze. Notably, on July 31, the United States became the first country to win more than 3,000 Olympic medals in both the Summer and Winter Games, highlighting the country’s constant athletic success. Gymnastics: the year of redemption and triumph The Paris Games were a remarkable year in both men’s and women’s gymnastics. The United States women’s gymnastics team, led by Simone Biles, won gold in the team competition, capping off what they dubbed their “redemption tour” following Biles’ surprising withdrawal from Tokyo 2020. Biles, widely regarded as the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T.), contributed to her legacy with gold medals in the individual all-around and vault competitions, as well as a silver in the floor exercise. Suni Lee’s return to the Olympics after overcoming kidney disease was truly remarkable. She won bronze medals in the individual all-around and uneven bars, putting her among the best American female gymnasts of all time. Jade Carey and Jordan Chiles also made an impression, with Carey receiving bronze in vault and Chiles winning bronze in the floor exercise following a successful appeal by her coaches. On the men’s side, the American team of Paul Juda, Frederick Richard, Asher Hong, Stephen Nedoroscik, and Brody Malone broke their 16-year medal drought by winning bronze in the team event. The “pommel horse guy,” Nedoroscik, won the hearts of spectators all across the globe when he won bronze in his specialty. Swimming: Ledecky’s legacy, Marchand’s revenge Katie Ledecky’s performance in Paris cemented her position as America’s most decorated female Olympian, with 14 gold. Her Paris haul included golds in the 800m and 1500m freestyles, a silver in the 4x200m relay, and a bronze in the 400m freestyle. Ledecky’s accomplishments were highlighted by a new Olympic record in the 1500m freestyle, and she was selected to carry the Team USA flag at the Closing Ceremony. Leon Marchand, a 22-year-old swimmer who practices with Michael Phelps’ former coach Bob Bowman, garnered headlines for his miraculous return following a poor Tokyo debut. Marchand won four gold medals and set a record in the 200m individual medley at the Paris Olympics, confirming his place as one of the sport’s rising stars. Track and field: victories and setbacks American sprinter Noah Lyles lived up to much of the expectations surrounding him, winning gold in the men’s 100m despite catching COVID-19 during the Games, which impeded his bid for a double gold medal. Despite winning just bronze in the 200m, he demonstrated his resilience by withdrawing from the men’s 4x100m relay owing to the severity of his symptoms. Following her disqualification from the Tokyo Games, Sha’Carri Richardson made a remarkable return in her Olympic debut, earning a silver medal in the 100m and gold in the women’s 4x100m relay. Gabby Thomas also shone brightly, winning gold in the women’s 200m with a scorching 21.83 seconds. The Refugee Olympic Team’s historic achievement The Refugee Olympic Team, established by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2015 to highlight the global refugee crisis, has grown significantly, with 37 athletes competing in Paris. Boxer Cindy Ngamba made history by capturing the team’s first medal, a bronze, representing hope and resilience for millions of displaced people around the world. Fencing: a first for Team USA American fencers Lee Kiefer, Lauren Scruggs, Jackie Dubrovich, and Maia Weintraub made history by capturing the United States’ first-ever gold medal in team foil, a remarkable accomplishment given that the country had competed in fencing since 1904. The victory was especially sweeter since Kiefer and Scruggs won gold and silver, respectively, in the first all-American final in the women’s foil individual event. Basketball: continuing a legacy of domination The United States women’s basketball team extended their unprecedented Olympic winning streak to 61 games by defeating France in the final this past Sunday. They have been successful in continuing a domination that dates back to 1992. This year’s squad, which includes seasoned veterans as well as rising stars, has demonstrated exceptional collaboration and resilience, cementing their position as the dominant force in women’s basketball. Snoop Dogg, the unexpected star of the Games In an unexpected twist, rapper Snoop Dogg became one of the most talked-about individuals at the Paris Olympics. As a special correspondent for NBC, Snoop brought his characteristic comedy and passion to the programs, whether he was cheering for Team USA, swimming with Michael Phelps, or overcoming his horse fear with Martha Stewart. His participation adds a fresh and amusing element to Olympic coverage, and many are already hopeful he will return for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. The Paris 2024 Olympics featured amazing moments of triumph, resilience, and unity. As the globe thinks about these Games, the Olympic spirit continues to inspire, reminding us of the strength of endurance and the delight of working together to achieve success. With Los Angeles 2028 on the horizon, excitement for more exceptional exploits is already mounting.The post Paris 2024 Olympics: 8 highlights & viral moments that captivated the world first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

If we follow our selfish ambition or conceit, it will lead to destruction—at breakneck speed. Jesus, on the other hand, teaches us that the road to life looks a lot more like walking, stopping, talking, and allowing ourselves to move at the speed of love.

A team of archaeologists and volunteers excavating Wroxeter Roman City near Shrewsbury in Shropshire have unearthed a beautifully preserved mosaic floor of fish and dolphins at swim. Established as a civilian settlement of a legionary fort around 90 A.D., Viroconium Cornoviorum grew into one of the largest cities in Roman Britain. At its peak, it had more than 200 houses, a public bath, a forum, basilica (in the sense of a government building/city hall and courthouse, not church). Only parts of the bathhouse and of the town’s defensive wall (the largest surviving section of Roman wall in Britain) are visible above ground today while the rest of the site remains unexplored. It hasn’t been overbuilt, thankfully, which gives archaeologists the opportunity to excavate previously unexplored areas unencumbered by modern construction. Earlier this year, the archaeological team excavated one of the previously unexplored areas. Geophysical surveys had detected the presence of a large building, which archaeologists hypothesized might be the city’s main civic temple, and the team dug several trenches hoping to uncover its remains. They found a large monumental building — 165 feet long and 26 feet wide — with thick buttresses supporting its back wall. They also found a small square shrine or mausoleum with painted plaster walls on the exterior. A third structure unearthed in the survey is a townhouse. It was in one of its rooms that the mosaic was discovered. It dates to the early 2nd century, shortly after the founding of the city, so it is about 2,000 years old. It survives in such good condition because the building was remodeled in the 3rd or 4th century and the room was filled with rubble to raise the level of the floor to match current street level. “Our excavations were in hope of discovering the walls of [the civic temple] building, but we never suspected we would find a beautiful and intact mosaic, which had lain hidden for thousands of years,” said Win Scutt, from English Heritage. “It’s always an astonishing moment when you uncover a fragment of beauty hiding just below the ground,” he added. The team also found coins and pottery and a painted plaster wall on one side of the mosaic, which experts said would help date the phases of the city, and the activities that took place there. The mosaic and other remains have been reburied for the protection, but the mosaic floor and frescoed walls have been scanned and a 3D model created for people to explore virtually.

Ukraine said Tuesday that its troops had advanced further into Russia's Kursk region and now control 74 settlements after launching a surprise cross-border incursion a week ago. The U.S. has approved…