The leaders of America’s two largest teachers unions, which fought to keep public schools closed during COVID and have pushed to bring radical leftist ideology to the classroom, spoke at the final night of the Democratic National Convention Thursday. American Federation For Teachers president Randi Weingarten claimed that former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance “can’t claim they’re pro-child while gutting funding for public schools,” and that “being pro-family means we support access to good union jobs, affordable housing, health care, and higher education.” Weingarten, who claimed last month that Trump was an “existential threat to democracy,” heads the nation’s second-largest teachers union. The labor leader has come under fire in recent months for asserting that she fought to keep schools open during the coronavirus pandemic, when in fact she did the exact opposite. Weingarten in 2020 called the Trump administration’s push to reopen schools “reckless,” “callous,” and “cruel.” Though research showed as early as 2020 that children could safely return to the classroom, teachers unions fought to keep schools closed. School closures caused significant learning loss across the country, studies have shown. Joining Weingarten on stage was National Education Association President Becky Pringle, who told the crowd in Chicago that Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are the best hope for American students. Tickets for “Am I Racist?” are on sale NOW! Buy here for a theater near you. “They will strengthen our schools, support our educators, and help our students live into their brilliance,” Pringle said, hours before the vice president is slated to officially accept the Democratic presidential nomination. “Donald Trump and J.D. Vance are not just wrong — they’re dangerous,” Pringle said. Pringle last month was slammed for delivering a “totally unhinged speech” in which she said “we have to transform” the public education system “into something it was never designed to be — a racially and socially just and equitable system that prepares every student!” A known partisan, Pringle heads the nation’s largest teachers union, which in 2022 gave $1 million to Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s (D) re-election campaign. Whitmer was one of several Democratic governors who pushed to keep schools closed during COVID. She was joined in those efforts by Walz, who as Minnesota governor instituted some of the nation’s strictest COVID lockdowns. Walz, who in March 2020 established a hotline and encouraged Minnesotans to snitch on neighbors who violated lockdowns by attending worship services, kept schools closed and mandated students wear masks well into the COVID pandemic. Critics challenged those restrictions in court, though the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled they were constitutional. Pringle pointed to Walz’s work as a public school teacher to underscore her claim that the Harris-Walz ticket is the best thing for American students. The Daily Wire reported this week that Walz has made misleading claims about winning “teacher of the year awards,” just days after he caught flak for making similarly misleading claims about his military service and his wife’s use of in vitro fertilization. The Harris campaign has emphasized Walz’s work as a teacher, though his positions on education as governor have come under scrutiny. As governor, Walz signed legislation requiring that Minnesota public schools put tampon dispensers in boys bathrooms, and slammed school choice as a “scheme” that “leaves our teachers in the lurch.”

Former Illinois Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger appeared in support of Vice President Kamala at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday night, claiming voting for her would be in support of America’s “bedrock values.” Kinzinger, who previously vowed to support far-Left Democrats if he believed their Republican opponents were “anti-democracy,” claimed that Democrats “are as patriotic” during his speech in support of Harris, who was labeled as the most liberal senator during her time in the Senate. “I am proud to be in the trenches with you as part of this sometimes awkward alliance that we have to defend truth, defend democracy, and decency,” he said. “I was a Republican for 12 years in Congress and I still hold onto the label. I never thought I’d be here, but listen, you’d never thought you’d see me here, did you.” He said that Democrats “love this country just as much as we do. And they are as eager to defend American values at home and abroad as we conservatives have ever been.” The former Republican representative also claimed that the Republican Party is “no longer conservative” while claiming that Harris shares his devotion to the Constitution, rule of law, and democracy. Much of his speech focused on talking about democracy in religious terms, claiming that it “knows no party” and is a “living, breathing ideal.” He said that the January 6 riot was a “desecration of our sacred tradition.” Tickets for “Am I Racist?” are on sale NOW! Buy here for a theater near you. He also attacked former President Donald Trump, claiming that he was a “weak man pretending to be strong.” Harris has been seen as one of the most far-Left candidates to ever run for president, from her close association with Planned Parenthood to her positions on illegal immigration and fracking. Earlier this week, the Republican National Committee paid for the domain kamala2024policies.com and created a website listing some of Vice President Kamala Harris’ “dangerously liberal policies.” “Kamala Harris is weak, failed, and dangerously liberal,” the website states. “Not only does Kamala Harris own the weakness, failure, and chaos of the Harris-Biden administration, she is so radical that she makes ‘the Squad’ look like moderates. She wants to abolish our borders, let criminals control our streets, surrender our communities to cartels and a plague of fentanyl, wage war on American energy, and destroy the American Dream.”

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM We’re all aware that being connected with others is critical for our health and happiness. In fact, strong social relationships can help us live longer lives, whereas loneliness can be as bad for our health as smoking a pack of cigarettes every day. But what if socializing leaves you feeling drained rather than energized?  If you require days to recover after spending time with others, you are not alone. Fortunately, there are strategies to strengthen your social relationships without depleting your energy. Here’s how to accomplish it. Why does socializing feel so draining? 1. Over-connectivity takes its toll In today’s hyper-connected society, it’s easy to stay connected at all times. Whether it’s replying to work emails, checking social media notifications, or sliding into DMs, the constant stream of activity can be exhausting. The continual connection can impair your sleep and make you less open to meaningful conversations. According to Dr. Perpetua Neo, a clinical psychologist, “The energy cost of switching your attention all the time trumps whatever dopamine boost you get from receiving another like.” One approach to manage this is to turn off unneeded notifications and designate particular times to check your devices, allowing yourself to recharge. 2. You ignore your unique social rhythm Everyone has a varied attention span, and we all have our own “social rhythm.” Some people may spend hours socializing, while others are exhausted after only a short time. Understanding your social rhythm allows you to make better judgments about how and when to interact with people. Dr. Neo offers an idea: “Consider your social attention span and start tweaking your interactions based on that.” For example, if extended gatherings leave you exhausted, try scheduling shorter, more regular meet-ups that correspond to your typical energy flow. 3. You try to be an extrovert when you’re not Not everyone thrives during big social situations, and that’s absolutely fine. If you are more introverted, you may prefer to engage in deep, meaningful talks with one or two people rather than mingle in a throng. Dr. Neo highlights the necessity of understanding and respecting one’s social style: “Stop second-guessing your neural wiring and embrace it.” By focusing on smaller, more intimate interactions, you can enjoy socializing without feeling exhausted. 4. You subject yourself to too much emotional labor Being the go-to person for people’s concerns can be emotionally draining. While it’s good to be a supportive friend, continually listening to others’ problems might leave you exhausted. Dr. Neo recommends creating limits and asking yourself, “Does this person deserve my attention?” It’s also useful to determine whether someone needs a listening ear or is looking for solutions, which will help you manage your emotional energy more effectively. 5. Social obligations weigh you down Sometimes we continue to socialize with others out of obligation rather than true enthusiasm. These relationships can be exhausting, especially if they aren’t fulfilling. Dr. Neo recommends gently discussing any concerns in these relationships and limiting how frequently you meet. If particular social ties are no longer bringing you joy, it may be time to reassess their role in your life. 6. Background stressors drain your energy Even before we start socializing, life’s obstacles can leave us exhausted. Work stress, personal issues, or simply a hectic schedule can make social plans feel more like a chore than a pleasure. It’s best to be honest with your friends about your present energy levels. Dr. Neo suggests letting friends know that you have been a bit unfocused lately and that due to life circumstances, you may be less available. That keeps the guesswork out of it and might help you maintain your relationships without overextending yourself. 7. Social media exhaustion For some, the socializing does not stop when the event ends; it continues on social media. Sharing memories online can be enjoyable, but it can also be exhausting. If you feel compelled to document everything, Dr. Neo recommends being careful about who you interact with on social media, focusing on what actually strengthens your friendships rather than feeling driven to post everything. Reclaiming your social energy: tips for a balanced social life 1. Choose activities that energize you Not all social activities are created equal. Consider the types of interactions that make you feel energized rather than depleted. Whether it’s a gentle walk, a relaxed coffee date, or a shared errand, finding ways to socialize that match your energy level can make a big impact. 2. Say no to overly demanding social events It’s okay to say no to things that feel more like a chore than a joy. For example, having a dinner party may sound appealing, but if the planning, cooking, and cleaning fatigue you, seek simpler alternatives or outsource tasks to others. Sharing tasks with friends can make gatherings more fun for everyone. 3. Make a “To-Don’t” list Knowing what you don’t want to do is as vital. Make a “Don’t” list of certain people and/or things that routinely sap your energy. This list will help you prioritize your time and concentrate on what actually makes you happy. 4. Figure out your social energy quotas Determine how much social engagement you require to feel satisfied without becoming overwhelmed. Dr. Neo proposes categorizing your social energy as “basic minimum,” “regular levels,” and “awesome to have” levels. This strategy allows you to tailor your social calendar to your present energy and attitude. 5. Set aside “me time” in your schedule Make sure you schedule time for yourself. This “Me Time” is critical for recharging your batteries, allowing you to be completely present when you do socialize. And if you receive an unexpected invitation that you are pleased about, feel free to accept it—but only if it does not interfere with your need for rest. 6. Plan ahead for super social seasons Think about the times in your life when social demands may be higher, such as holidays, peak periods at work, or family gatherings. You can avoid running on empty by scheduling breaks before and after these busy times. Consider including very chill social activities in your relaxation plan to keep connected without overextending yourself. Make socializing a joy again, not a drain Social relationships are important in life, but they do not have to come at the expense of your energy. Understanding your social requirements and setting smart boundaries allows you to sustain rewarding connections while also protecting your well-being. Dr. Neo reminds us that “we go further together.” So let us make our social encounters enjoyable and rejuvenating, rather than exhausting.The post Psychologist tips on how to keep being social (without feeling so drained) first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a key step toward improving public safety, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) implemented a new nationwide warning system designed expressly for missing and endangered Indigenous people. This effort intends to fill a critical vacuum in the current alert infrastructure, which has frequently left Indigenous communities with insufficient resources to locate missing loved ones. The new “MEP” (Missing Endangered Person) alert code will be a valuable tool in the prompt recovery of missing Indigenous people who do not fulfill the criteria for Amber or Silver Alerts. Why is the MEP alert necessary? Indigenous people in the United States endure disproportionate rates of assault, homicide, and disappearance, and they frequently receive less attention than other missing people. According to the FBI, about 10,600 American Indian and Alaska Native people went missing last year, with around 3,300 of them being adults. However, many of these cases did not meet the criteria for current alert systems such as Amber Alerts, which are generally used for missing children, and Silver Alerts, which are used for missing senior people. “The new MEP alert code harmonizes emergency alerts nationwide,” stated FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks. “Put simply, this Order will help save lives.” How does the MEP alert system work? The MEP alert, modeled after the Amber Alert system, will send urgent messages to cellphones, televisions, and radios, delivering critical information to the public when an Indigenous person goes missing. This system enables tribal, state, and municipal law enforcement organizations to send out notifications that reach the public quickly, increasing the odds of finding and retrieving missing people. Lavina Willie-Nez, Amber Alert coordinator for the Navajo Nation Police Department, emphasized the significance of the new system, saying, “Each time an Indigenous person goes missing, we lose a part of our heritage and culture.” She also stated that the MEP alert number “will greatly assist the Navajo Nation and other tribes where individuals go missing and are in danger.” The need for speed In cases involving missing persons, quick information distribution is paramount. “Time is always of the essence with these cases,” said Cara Chambers, head of the Wyoming Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Task Force. The sooner the public is informed, the greater the likelihood of a successful recovery. Chambers acknowledged the complexity of reporting missing persons, noting, “It’s better to notify local law enforcement of a person’s disappearance than to not. The worst that could happen is that they locate this person and [the person] is like, ‘No, I’m fine.’ If [the] family has a reasonable belief that there is reason to be concerned, I think we take that seriously.” State-level initiatives to protect vulnerable populations While the FCC’s MEP alert is a federal program, numerous states have previously established similar alert systems to safeguard vulnerable communities. In 2022, Washington state implemented its own Missing Indigenous Person Alert system, which notifies the public via highway reader boards, radio, and social media when an Indigenous person goes missing. This system has raised much-needed awareness about the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women. California has also made progress in this area, launching the “Feather Alert” system in 2022 for missing Indigenous people and the “Ebony Alert” system in 2023 for missing Black children and young women. These methods are intended to ensure that marginalized communities receive the same attention and resources as other missing persons situations. As California State Senator Steven Bradford stated, “The Ebony Alert will ensure that vital resources and attention are given so we can bring home missing Black children and women in the same way we search for any missing child and missing person.” A step forward for protecting Indigenous communities The FCC’s implementation of the MEP alert code represents a significant step forward in addressing the inequities that have long afflicted Indigenous communities in the United States. The MEP system, by giving law enforcement authorities a new tool to send urgent alerts, has the potential to improve the chances of retrieving missing Indigenous people and, as a result, protecting these vulnerable communities.The post The FCC launches nationwide alert system to protect and serve missing Indigenous people first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

As Ramaswamy's security team directed the him away from the protesters, who appeared to be closing in, Abudayyeh led a chant

With MSNBC finally attending a party convention this cycle (they refused to do their show live from the Republican National Convention), host Ari Melber kicked off the fourth and final night of the Democratic National Convention by giving his hopeful requests for what Vice President Kamala Harris was going to address in her speech. He was apparently itching for her the attack the “phonies” and “fakes” in the MAGA crowd who claim they represent “real America.” He obnoxiously began with a spoken-word rendition of Jay Z’s Public Service Announcement and explaining what he meant by “shoot at you actors” (a questionable decision given the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump, which MSNBC had questioned the legitimacy of and Melber called a “spectacle”): But I'm remind of the song Public Service Announcement by Jay Z. Where he says, “allow me to reintroduce myself.” And that is something people do even in public life, even when you are well known. And this is a reintroduction on the grand stage with, as mentioned, just a month passing through this. And in that song, Joy, he says, “My homie dude told me finish your breakfast. Let me tell you what I do to protect this. Shoot at you actors like movie directors.” Which is not only a double entendre, it’s calling out his opponents, his foes as actors, as inauthentic while he's the real deal.   MSNBC's Ari Melber says what he's looking forward to in Kamala's speech is her "to speak on these actors, these phonies, these fakes" in the GOP who "steal and fake" real America, freedom, and family values. pic.twitter.com/kqlXBGNEE0 — Nicholas Fondacaro (@NickFondacaro) August 23, 2024   “I'm expecting her tonight to speak on these actors, these phonies, these fakes, not only Donald as a person but the part of the MAGA movement that has tried to steal and fake that they represent, quote, ‘real America,’ or ‘family values,’ or ‘football,’ or ‘freedom,’” he proclaimed. Melber further explained what he was “really looking for tonight is, how does Kamala Harris, both with the themes we know – and those of us who follow it more closely and the audience follows it closely – we've heard some of that from previous speeches and events, but also to the wider audience and perhaps with new details or vignettes for her to really prove up that case?” Co-host Joy Reid was looking forward to the partying of Harris’s sorority sisters. Meanwhile, Alex Wagner suggested she was feeling the same excitement reminiscent of “the run up to Christmas.” The transcript is below. Click "expand" to read: MSNBC Democratic National Convention August 22, 2024 6:04:43 p.m. Eastern (…) ARI MELBER: But I'm remind of the song Public Service Announcement by Jay Z. Where he says, “allow me to reintroduce myself.” And that is something people do even in public life, even when you are well known. And this is a reintroduction on the grand stage with, as mentioned, just a month passing through this. And in that song, Joy, he says, “My homie dude told me finish your breakfast. Let me tell you what I do to protect this. Shoot at you actors like movie directors.” Which is not only a double entendre, it’s calling out his opponents, his foes as actors, as inauthentic while he's the real deal. I'm looking for Kamala Harris to build on what Tim Walz did last night. Which, of course, it's her choice and her energy, she’s at the top of the ticket. I'm expecting her tonight to speak on these actors, these phonies, these fakes, not only Donald as a person but the part of the MAGA movement that has tried to steal and fake that they represent, quote, “real America,” or “family values,” or “football,” or “freedom.” And so, while all three days have been leading up to that and weaving through that. That's what I'm really looking for tonight is, how does Kamala Harris, both with the themes we know – and those of us who follow it more closely and the audience follows it closely – we've heard some of that from previous speeches and events, but also to the wider audience and perhaps with new details or vignettes for her to really prove up that case?” (…)

On April 14, 1912, the RMS Titanic fatefully struck an iceberg that broke off the coast of Greenland the same year that construction on the ship began. The post The Chilling Story Of The <em>Titanic</em> Iceberg — And Its Journey Toward The Doomed Vessel appeared first on All That's Interesting.

According to the Bible, Jesus Christ was crucified on a hill called Golgotha just outside of ancient Jerusalem — but where is it? The post Inside The Mysterious History Of Golgotha, The Alleged Crucifixion Site Of Jesus Christ appeared first on All That's Interesting.

Nicole Shanahan Claps Back at Keith Olbermann with a Priceless Retort

OOF! Jesse Watters Made Ex Obama Bro's Claim About Harris Being Moderate Age POORLY in RECORD Time