There’s a notable omission from the acclaimed documentary 20 Feet from Stardom. Cidny Bullens should qualify for cast inclusion simply based on the fact he launched his career backing up one of the biggest music stars on the planet back in the mid-‘70s. Making the jump from seemingly unknown studio singer to having to decide whether to join Bob Dylan’s Rolling Thunder Revue or Elton John’s Rock of the Westies tour is no small feat. Spoiler alert: he would choose Elton. And let’s not overlook the fact that Bullens’ voice shifts to front and center on three tracks on a certain mega-million-selling film soundtrack called Grease. Yep‚ that singer pining and crooning on “Freddy‚ My Love‚” “Mooning‚” and “Raining on Prom Night‚” is none other than Bullens himself. While John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John dominate the soundtrack’s aesthetic and packaging‚ it’s Bullens who perfectly encapsulates the thoughts and yearnings of the average teenager. Forty-five years ago‚ Bullens would make the brave leap to front-person status by releasing his debut album Desire Wire. At the time‚ Cidny Bullens was actually Cindy Bullens‚ holding the distinction of being one of the very few female solo rockers to garner the music industry’s attention — and spotlight. “Basically‚ when I came out it was The Runaways and Fanny‚ who were a female group. Suzi Quatro was close; Blondie and all that‚ but they were different than me as well‚” Bullens told me recently in a video interview from his Nashville home. “I was pretty much the first solo female rocker out there. None of the books say that but that was the way it was.” The New England native first cut his musical chops in the studio backing up everyone from Byrds member Gene Clark to the Everly Brothers to Rod Stewart on his Atlantic Crossing album. As recounted in his new memoir‚ TransElectric: My Life as a Cosmic Rock Star‚ the androgynous rocker with a penchant for Superman T-shirts saw his music career take off after meeting famed producer Bob Crewe (the man who helped Frankie Valli and the 4 Seasons score chart gold) while accidentally intruding a dinner in Hollywood. It wouldn’t be long before Bullens would be on official nickname terms with Sir Elton (who dubbed him “Blanche”). Yet solo status was beckoning. “I really felt like I was ready to be out there‚ to be doing my own thing. I kind of knew what the pitfalls were. I had been through my drug and alcohol stage‚ so by the time I had my own record deal I was clean and sober‚” Bullens says. “This was an experience that I could fully appreciate and experience with all of my facilities and with support‚ so I wasn’t going to go off the rails somewhere.” Looking like every team idol rolled into one with a floppy blonde lion’s mane of hair to match‚ Bullens would let his guitar rip in tandem with his powerhouse vocals. Working with collaborator Trevor Veitch‚ the origins of Bullens’ first solo album began with a trio of songs — “Survivor‚” “Anxious Heart‚” and what would become the title track. Bullens would also secure a manager‚ Tony DeFries – the man who helped turn David Bowie into a musical god and convinced John Mellencamp to adopt “Cougar” as a replacement surname. “Being a solo artist and making my own record was a totally new experience. I’ve never been‚ ‘OK‚ I’m going to sit down and write a hit song.’ That’s not me. I sit down and I write and then whatever happens happens‚” Bullens says. “Tony took a liking to me. He saw something in me that had been rejected by most other people and that was celebrating my androgyny‚ celebrating my different look and different appeal and the fact that I played electric guitar and wrote all of my own songs and so on. That’s why I went with Tony even against some business people’s opinions.” “Desire Wire was recorded on spec‚” Bullens adds. “I did not have a record deal for Desire Wire.” On first and repeated listenings‚ Desire Wire is brimming with confidence and boasts some great musical moments – particularly the catchiness of the title track‚ the pointed edge of “Mean in Your Heart‚” and the Wall of Sound meets Sha Na Na-worthy nostalgia of “High School History.” For Bullens though‚ any acclaim surrounding the album is bittersweet. “I will say I really love that album; I really love the songs on that album; I’m very proud of the album but I can’t listen to it‚” Bullens says. “The reason I can’t listen to it is because I don’t sing it in my natural voice. I had this pure voice and Bob [Crewe] really encouraged me to sing in the high voice. He said it had more energy. Think Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons — he’s the one who made Frankie have a falsetto voice‚ which he didn’t have originally. I believed him. I was young‚ I didn’t know any better.” Desire Wire kicks off with the anthemic “Survivor.” Replete with an Andrew Gold-worthy piano lick and Bullens’ dynamic presence (which can still be felt even if not seen) the track would secure Bullens a Grammy nomination in 1979 for “Best Female Rock Vocal Performance” where he would be up against icons like Carly Simon‚ Rickie Lee Jones‚ and Bonnie Raitt. Unfortunately‚ he would lose out to Donna Summer for “Hot Stuff.” “The album got great reviews. The New York Times gave it a wonderful review. “Survivor” was rising up on the Billboard charts until the record company [United Artists] folded into another one and then it disappeared‚” Bullens says. “I was totally surprised when I got nominated for the Grammy because by that time the record was gone.” Desire Wire would open doors for Bullens‚ including television appearances on “American Bandstand‚” “Don Kirschner’s Rock Concert‚” and “The Merv Griffin Show‚” as well as club dates as a headliner. He would even open shows for corporate rock favorites Styx. Following the dissolution of United Artists‚ Bullens would join the roster at Casablanca Records and release his second solo album Steal the Night in 1979. That album wouldn’t garner much by way of fanfare or attention. While Bullens would record a third album – his second for Casablanca ─ it would never be released. “Neil Bogart signed me and really liked me and wanted me to really flourish there‚ but he left soon after. The new president came in and said‚ ‘We don’t want you to write your own songs‚ we don’t want you to look the way you look‚ we don’t want you to produce‚ we don’t want you to do anything. We just want you to sing like a girl‚ basically‚” Bullens says. “I didn’t and I couldn’t. I left without that third album ever being released. I couldn’t compromise. That was the end of my career for almost 10 years.” *** Was it simply drive? Tenacity? All Cidny Bullens knew from the time he was a kid‚ he wanted to be a rock and roller. His dream would take him from Massachusetts to New York to Hollywood to eventually a place most of us dream of but never experience. “That was my dream‚ to be the frontperson. But I loved being a backup vocalist and learning about this in the studio and everything‚” he told me. “I wasn’t saying‚ ‘Oh shoot‚ I’m singing backup vocals and I should be singing lead.’ It wasn’t anything like that. I loved it because I learned so much. The only person I ever sang live backup vocals with in terms of a job was Elton John. I started at the top doing that.” Photo: Mike Hewitson Joining Elton on tour would prove a heady experience for a then 25-year-old‚ given that Captain Fantastic‚ but the time 1976 rolls around‚ has albums debuting at number one on the US charts and is selling out every stadium he plays. This is the time when tennis legend Billie Jean King‚ a star of her own‚ would be a frequent presence in the Elton posse. Bullens would take the opportunity to soak everything up and use these experiences as a primer for how to grab and enthrall an audience. “The part about being on stage and engaging an audience was a complete education with Elton because he could do it better than anybody pretty much‚” he says. “But also what it was like to be a rock and roll star on the personal level – seeing behind the scenes and spending time with him personally while not on stage‚ that was an education for me.” After his tenure with Elton (who writes the forward to TransElectric)‚ Bullens’ next claim to fame is singing lead on the three aforementioned tracks on the Grease soundtrack. To bury the lead‚ the soundtrack would hit number one‚ sell millions of copies worldwide‚ make “greased lightning” part of the cultural – and sexual — lexicon‚ and secure a Grammy nomination for “Album of the Year” in 1979. As Bullens describes: “I have Bob Crewe to thank for that. He called me one day in 1977 and he said‚ ‘You’re going to get a call from a guy named Louis St. Louis and he wants you to sing on a movie soundtrack. And I’m like ‘OK.’ Didn’t know anything about it. I got a call from Louis St. Louis and he gave me the time and the studio. I went in and in my mind‚ I was going to be singing backup vocals because that’s what I was doing at the time … The reason that Louis St. Louis called Bob Crewe is he wanted to know if Bob knew somebody who could sing in a ‘little girl voice.’ “I was shocked that I was singing lead … I left the studio having sung lead vocals on three songs from the Grease movie soundtrack not knowing what it was‚ what it was going to be. I didn’t know anything about it. “It took like three hours‚ that was it. I thought‚ ‘Oh good‚ I’m going to be paid 90 bucks for a session.’ It turned into a phenomenon and the rest is history. That’s why I was at the Grammy’s the next year sitting with everybody in the third row for best album of the year. It’s followed me around my whole life.” To date‚ Bullens has released 10 solo albums; the latest one having been released at the end of October entitled Little Pieces (via Kill Rock Stars). The album is Bullens’ first to bear the name Cidny Bullens and address his transition from female to male‚ which began more than a decade ago. Though Americana in nature‚ the album also boasts traces of rockabilly‚ rock‚ and country music. Photo: Travis Commeau Back in the 1980s and 1990s‚ Bullens would live a more traditional life‚ married to Bob Crewe’s brother Dan and living in Connecticut and Maine. While Bullens would release the albums Cindy Bullens and Why Not? In 1989 and 1994‚ respectively‚ his fifth album‚ Somewhere Between Heaven And Earth (Artemis Records) would be his most heartfelt and heartbreaking. The album‚ which features appearances from Bryan Adams‚ Lucinda Williams‚ and Bonnie Raitt‚ was released in the wake of his youngest daughter Jessie’s death in 1996 at age 11 from complications from Hodgkin’s disease. “It’s not a morbid album‚ it’s not a downer album. Each of those songs came through me in a moment of my grief over the first two years after her death‚” Bullens told me. “I would sit down and start playing the guitar and a song would come out. It consumes you. That’s it. That’s what’s going on‚ is the loss of your loved one for however long it takes for you to take a breath. For me‚ it was years. Even though I created those songs within first two years after her death‚ that was what saved me. “That album is my legacy or at least a big part of my legacy because it still‚ to this day‚ affects people‚” he adds. “I have heard from people on literally every continent on Earth except Antarctica. And probably every state. And many‚ many countries around the world. Somehow by word of mouth‚ it has gotten to people around the globe and affected people around the globe. For that I’m very grateful.” Now remarried with four grandchildren‚ Bullens relishes being a more acoustic artist‚ not just on his solo records but also as part of a longstanding trio called The Refugees (which features Animal Logic frontwoman Deborah Holland). “I’m an old rocker but I’ve been an acoustic artist too‚” he says. “I started using my acoustic guitar in 1990 and that’s when I decided I would be a singer-songwriter with just an acoustic guitar and piano and not need a band. For the last 33 years that’s what I’ve done.” Still when I mention at the top of our interview that Bullens had minimal female company in the rock world (i.e.‚ Joan Jett) at the time of his solo start‚ he makes one thing clear: “I was the first. Joan Jett came a lot after me.” *** Share your feedback and suggestions for future columns with Ira at vinylconfessions84@gmail.com. Ira’s new book‚ “Hello‚ Honey‚ It’s Me”: The Story of Harry Chapin‚ is available for purchase here.   The post Ira Kantor’s Vinyl Confessions: Bird On A Desire Wire first appeared on VintageRock.com.

Review &; photos by Ron Lyon It’s strange that growing up‚ I wasn’t a huge Pink Floyd fan. In 1973‚ Pink Floyd released The Dark Side Of the Moon. Of course‚ LA radio flooded the airwaves with the music from the album. Me? I was still coming to terms with The Rolling Stones‚ The Who‚ Queen‚ and that old Motown sound. Fast forward to 1977‚ high school. So many bands. So many styles of rock. Punk rock was calling my name. Disco? Not on your life. Well maybe just a little. It was the 70s‚ the Golden Age of Rock. That year‚ Pink Floyd released Animals. When my friend picked me up to go surfing‚ he had the new cassette in the tape deck. That was when I really began to pay attention to Pink Floyd. A few years later‚ The Wall was unleashed on the world. All my friends went to the shows in LA and I was left out‚ pondering what that experience must’ve been like to see firsthand. I never got to see the classic lineup of Pink Floyd‚ but I have seen both David Gilmour and Roger Waters in concert. Each time I see a Pink Floyd “experience‚” the love returns. There was the Australian Pink Floyd‚ and the cover band Which One’s Pink. This time it’s Brit Floyd with members who have had had personal touring experiences with the real Pink Floyd tours. This version is billed as “The Greatest Pink Floyd Experience” was a 26-song event using original video and laser light effects authorized by Pink Floyd. Nearing the end of a lengthy North American tour‚ Brit Floyd arranged to have a number of musicians and vocalists who have toured with Pink Floyd including 1988 tour Backing Vocalist Durga McBroom‚ saxophonist Scott Page‚ vocalist PJ Olsson of the Alan Parsons Project‚ and Roger Waters’ son Harry on piano and vocals. The nearly three-hour show included all but one song from The Dark Side Of The Moon‚ and other Pink Floyd classics covering their entire catalog of music. Highlights were “Hey You” with Harry Waters on piano‚ “The Great Gig In The Sky” with Durga McBroom’s soaring vocals‚ “Money” and “Us  And Them” with Scott Page on saxophone‚ and “Wish You Were Here” and “Comfortably Numb” with PJ Olsson on lead vocals. Without a doubt‚ the night was about the songs and the musicians carried the night. Brit Floyd’s touring band include Musical Director Damian Darlington (guitars/vocals)‚ Ian Cattell (bass)‚ Edo Scordo (guitars)‚ Matt Riddle (keyboards)‚ Ray Saranich (sax‚ percussion)‚ Harry Waters (piano‚ vocals)‚ and Randy Cooke (drums). On backing vocals were‚ McBroom‚ Jesse Lee Houllier‚ Genevieve Little and Eva Avila. Special thanks to Brit Floyd band and management for the VIP access and hospitality. Also‚ thanks to Shawn Perry at VintageRock.com‚ Vanessa Kromer and Quinn Kim at the YouTube Theater‚ and Andrea Faulk and Marcee  Rondan at SRO PR for the help in getting access to the show. The post Brit Floyd: 50 Years Of The Dark Side Of The Moon | November 30‚ 2023 | YouTube Theater | Inglewood‚ CA – Concert Review &; Photo Gallery first appeared on VintageRock.com.

The story goes that Mott The Hoople‚ after releasing four albums‚ were ready throw in the towel when David Bowie came along with a song and a desire to help the elevate the group. The result was All The Young Dudes‚ produced by Bowie‚ who also wrote the title track‚ which became the group’s biggest single. Some 50 years later‚ All The Young Dudes remains the definitive Mott The Hoople album that seamlessly weaves together rock‚ glam‚ and even hints of proto-punk‚ creating a sonic tapestry that defies easy categorization. All The Young Dudes‚ released in 1972‚ is getting its due from Madfish with a limited edition five-disc (two LPs‚ two CDs‚ and 12” single) deluxe box set that includes rare tracks and previously unreleased. The original nine-track album is remastered‚ sounding as pristine and vital as ever. Lifting off with a cover of Lou Reed’s “Sweet Jane‚” it’s difficult to gauge where things go next‚ but as the rest of the record unfolds‚ it’s easy to understand why Bowie‚ Queen and Def Leppard have a such a love and affinity for the band. “All the Young Dudes” is easily the most identifiable song on the album. Its anthemic chorus and defiant lyrics captured the zeitgeist of the early 70s‚ an era marked by social upheaval and a search for identity. The opening riff‚ dripping with Mick Ralphs’ distinctive guitar work‚ immediately announces a departure‚  signaling a rebirth. Once you’re in for the long haul‚ it’s hard to resist the groove of “Momma’s Little Jewel” or the insular muscle and sultry sax that drives “Sucker.” Singer Ian Hunter and his distinctive cockney-laced vocals provide the angst and urgency the group needed to excel. He effectively brings all those strengths to each song‚ wile simultaneously showcasing Mott The Hoople’s newfound energy and creative vigor. “Momma’s Little Jewel” exudes swagger‚ while “Jerkin’ Crocus” and “Soft Ground” pivot around the band’s instrumental prowess and penchant for crafting infectious hooks. “One Of The Boys” puts the burden on Hunter‚ who angles around the cutting edges and takes charge without pushing his luck. Mick Ralphs takes the lead and vocal on “Ready For Love / After The Lights‚” which he would later recut with Bad Company. “Sea Diver” closes the album with a sense of introspection‚ a departure from the bombastic energy that precedes it. The lyrics hint at vulnerability and the cyclical nature of life‚ adding depth to an album often associated with its anthemic qualities. All The Young Dudes marked a turning point not only for Mott The Hoople but also for glam rock as a whole. It revitalized the band’s career‚ propelling them to newfound fame and influencing a generation of musicians who would go on to shape the evolving landscape of rock music. The album’s impact reverberated far beyond its initial release‚ solidifying its status as a classic that continues‚ all these years later‚ to resonate with listeners across the decades. ~ Calvin Sulkenfiar   The post Mott The Hoople | All The Young Dudes (50th Anniversary Edition) – Reissue Review first appeared on VintageRock.com.

The saying “less is more” has never rung truer than during these unpredictable and tumultuous times. If our collective concern for the environment isn’t enough to encourage us to minimize our carbon footprints by rejecting consumerism‚ then the financial stress and/or job instability that the past couple of years have put on a great number of us should motivate us to want to simplify our holidays this year. If you want to eliminate (or reduce!) material gifts this year‚ then here’s how to make that request of friends and loved ones. Start with a thank you Gratitude is a wonderful way to frame this conversation‚ especially because some people express love through gift-giving. Let your friends and family know that you’ve truly appreciated the gifts you’ve received from them in the past. Be honest Honesty is the best policy as they say. Let people know that you’re focused on simplifying and decluttering your life‚ or if your reasons are financial‚ there’s no shame in letting them know that you’re on a tighter budget this year. Try framing the situation with positive language like: “I’m excited to keep things simple this year‚” to help get everyone on board with your holiday needs. Offer alternatives Some people may be at a loss of what to do if you simply say: “no gifts!” Instead‚ offer alternatives to people who still want to extend their generosity in some way. Some alternatives that you can ask for are: Experiences Instead of material items‚ let your friends and family know that experiences are the way to go this year. Ask them for movie tickets‚ a gift card to your favorite restaurant‚ or concert passes. DIY something together Ask to spend some quality time together by starting a project together. It can be as simple as baking cookies‚ decorating a gingerbread house‚ or participating in a wine and paint night! Give fewer gifts Instead of making purchases for your entire social circle‚ suggest selecting names from a hat and focusing your energy on getting just one or two people a gift that they really want. Then everyone can go home happy with one terrific gift. Consider consumables There are plenty of sets out there that are stocked with specialty items like wines‚ teas‚ hot chocolates‚ or even soup mixes and baking mixes. So‚ if your loved ones are set on getting you a gift‚ then suggest they give you something you’ll love sipping or snacking on. Exchange services If you think shoveling snow is the best seasonal full-body workout but hate cooking‚ then perhaps offer a service-exchanging gift with your friend who is an expert in the kitchen! Volunteer together Instead of exchanging gifts this year‚ get some people together to volunteer as a group at an animal shelter‚ nursing home‚ or soup kitchen. If it’s not safe yet to volunteer in person‚ suggest hopping online to donate some needed items or give a group monetary donation to a charity you all can get behind. Coordinate donations If there’s a charitable organization that you care about‚ consider asking friends and family to make a contribution to them rather than spending their resources to give you a gift. You can also ask for non-perishable food items and warm clothes instead of gifts so that you can bring them to a community organization in need. The post Want to declutter your holidays? Here’s how to ask for no gifts this year first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

In the bustling alleys of Togo’s capital‚ Lomé‚ Joseline de Lima found solace in an unexpected place—the vibrant salon of her hairdresser‚ Tele da Silveira. As a single mother dealing with bereavement and the weight of her many responsibilities‚ professional therapy felt out of reach. But‚ behind the neon lights and colorful shelves‚ Tele became into more than just a stylist—she became an empathetic listener‚ providing a safe space for Joseline to communicate her problems. What is the driving force behind this transformation? Bluemind Foundation‘s non-profit training program equips hairdressers with mental health counseling skills in West and Central African cities. This novel strategy intends to close a significant gap in mental health treatment in one of the world’s poorest places. Mental health care in Africa’s periphery Togo and its neighboring countries confront an uphill battle in an area where mental health treatments are sparse. A lack of resources has resulted in a staggering gap in mental health support‚ which has been worsened by violent conflicts‚ drug use‚ adolescent unemployment‚ and climate-induced displacements. With only five psychiatrists for over eight million people in Togo‚ traditional treatments are frequently the sole option for many people suffering from severe mental illnesses. One of Togo’s few psychiatrists‚ Daméga Wouenkourama‚ underscores the ongoing struggle: “Mental health remains a foreign concept to most people‚ including our leaders and fellow doctors.” Hair salons as mental health havens Organizations are utilizing atypical yet accessible spaces—hair salons—to meet this important need. Hairdressers are taught to recognize distress signals‚ provide compassionate listening‚ and‚ most importantly‚ refrain from harmful advice or gossip through customized training sessions. Clients discover not only a hair makeover but also a nonjudgmental space to disclose their emotional concerns‚ ranging from financial difficulties to domestic violence. Marie-Alix de Putter‚ the visionary behind the Bluemind Foundation‚ understands the significance of such spaces: “Society expects them to be beautiful‚ and hair often comes first. We go where women are.” Redefining mental health support While these hairdressers are designated as “mental health ambassadors‚” their goal is not to replace trained therapists‚ but rather to direct customers to appropriate mental health care. However‚ the barrier remains high—therapy is still out of reach for many people‚ with sessions costing more than a day’s wages for a large section of the population. Despite increased awareness and vows from African countries to address mental health issues‚ social stigma remains a serious impediment. Togo’s first female psychiatrist‚ Dr. Sonia Kanékatoua‚ acknowledges the tough battle: “People are becoming aware of mental health issues‚ but social stigma remains.” The impact of compassionate listening Joseline de Lima’s metamorphosis demonstrates the initiative’s enormous influence. She faces her obstacles with increased tenacity‚ pushed by her hairdresser’s gentle nudges toward spiritual music and therapeutic walks. Joseline‚ having recognized the significance of formal therapy‚ intends to seek professional assistance as a result of her hairdresser’s advice. The emotional toll on these stylists‚ however‚ cannot be underestimated. Despite receiving their treatment sessions‚ people sometimes reach a point when they are unable to assist due to their mental health issues. In the midst of playing puppies and awaiting clients‚ Tele da Silveira ponders aloud‚ “Why does it feel like everyone suffers from mental health issues?” By empowering hairdressers to become more than just stylists‚ this pioneering approach fosters a sense of community and support in spaces where beauty and empathy interlace. The post How West African hairdressers offer mental health support and a pathway to healing first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

In a significant move towards sustainability‚ House of Hackney recently appointed a ‘nature guardian’‚ marking a pivotal step in integrating nature’s voice into corporate decision-making. Frieda Gormley‚ co-founder of the London-based interiors firm‚ regarded this as a natural evolution for a brand with a strong connection to nature. Nature’s seat at the table Gormley emphasizes the role of the nature guardian‚ stating‚ “If we choose not to take their advice‚ we’re actually bound to give a reason publicly as to why we haven’t. This is very much about accountability.” This project is inspired by the eco-beauty company Faith In Nature‚ which was a pioneer in designating a nature guardian. “Having a presence there speaking for nature is huge‚” says Simeon Rose‚ creative director of Faith In Nature. “You know that nature is there‚ not necessarily judging you‚ but getting you to raise your game.” Nature’s voice amplified Brontie Ansell‚ senior lecturer in law at Essex Law School‚ director of Lawyers for Nature‚ and the first Faith In Nature nature guardian views her position as demanding. Initially monitoring debates‚ she gradually voices and votes in favor of nature‚ resulting in an empowering shift in board dynamics. Rose underscores the subtle transformation: “By knowing that there is ultimately going to be this lens at the end‚ where nature’s asked its view‚ you find that it starts trickling in much earlier in the decision-making process.” Taking on a greater mission This strategy is consistent with a broader trend in which businesses reframe their organizational missions beyond financial profit. In the United Kingdom‚ the Better Business Act campaign aims to match business goals with societal and environmental benefits. Faith In Nature’s idea has acquired popularity‚ prompting several requests from diverse sectors looking to emulate it. Rose goes on to say‚ “All organizations that have governance models can apply it in their own way.” Tangible outcomes The impact is already obvious for Gormley‚ as the firm recently denied a lucrative collaboration that did not satisfy their environmental criteria‚ demonstrating their dedication to nature’s principles. Ansell‚ who also represents nature in the House of Hackney‚ recognizes the honor of being the initiative’s pioneer: “Like anything pioneering‚ you never really know if it’s going to fall into the long grass‚ but the reality is it’s absolutely got a life of its own.” A paradigm shift What once required explanation has now become an accepted habit in just a year. “A year ago‚ we were having to explain the mechanics of this‚” Rose says‚ “but already we’re in a phase where this isn’t weird anymore.” The inclusion of a nature guardian in corporate structures is a significant step toward a more sustainable and conscious approach to business‚ underlining that every action influences more than just the bottom line‚ but also on the world around us.The post Another UK company gives Nature a voice in its boardroom first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy‚ the Alliance Center for Independence (ACI) in Edison‚ New Jersey‚ responded to the dismal truth that emergency shelters were often inaccessible to individuals with disabilities‚ resulting in fatal outcomes. Carole Tonks‚ ACI’s executive director‚ remembers the devastating consequences: “When Sandy hit‚ so many people with disabilities died in their apartments because shelters weren’t accessible.” Finding critical gaps During Hurricane Sandy‚ stories of frightening instances arose‚ ranging from wheelchair users stuck in rising water to persons who felt uncomfortable seeking shelter due to previous inaccessible experiences. ACI pioneered a proactive approach to filling these gaps‚ understanding that waiting for calamities to hit was no longer an option. The answer was a one-of-a-kind shelter simulation exercise in which community members with disabilities and disaster management professionals worked together. “We brought together local disabled people and emergency management professionals for an overnight shelter simulation exercise‚” said Tonks. The goal? To immerse both groups in the shelter experience‚ fostering mutual learning. Exclusion from emergency planning Excluding people with disabilities from emergency planning exacerbates the problem. Despite federal attempts such as FEMA‘s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination‚ individuals with disabilities continue to be underrepresented in official emergency spaces. This marginalization translates into insufficient care during disasters‚ yielding startling statistics: those with disabilities are two to four times more likely to face fatal outcomes during crises. “Disabled people should be involved in emergency management conversations‚” says Tonks. Their presence contributes vital insight based on lived experiences‚ filling critical gaps created by the law and basic accessibility guidelines. Above and beyond the minimum access requirements While guidelines exist for basic access‚ gaps remain. Lawsuits‚ such as those filed in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene‚ cast light on unmet basic needs‚ such as inadequate signs for the visually impaired and inaccessible ramps. ACI’s deputy director‚ Luke Koppisch‚ underlines a bigger issue: a lack of training among staff and volunteers‚ which leads to dismissive attitudes toward disabled individuals seeking shelter. A comprehensive approach Tonks and Koppisch call for a more comprehensive strategy‚ highlighting the necessity of safe spaces and post-disaster support services. ACI’s shelter simulations aim to produce comprehensive recommendations and highlight the need to include people with disabilities in planning processes. The impact of simulation exercises These simulations‚ which began nearly a decade ago‚ have grown into a model that has been adopted by several New Jersey counties. Collaboration with emergency management agencies has resulted in dramatic results. Joseph Geleta‚ director of emergency management at the New Jersey Department of Human Services‚ underscores the benefits: “We identified different resources that we can keep in stock when we activate our shelters to make sure everyone’s welcome and taken care of.” Future directions  Participating counties‚ such as Burlington‚ attest to the effectiveness of the simulations in broadening perspectives. An emergency management coordinator‚ Phyllis Worrell‚ emphasizes the diverse nature of accommodation needs‚ from language interpretation to dealing with acute medical needs. ACI’s strategy includes roundtable conversations during simulations‚ allowing people with disabilities to express their shelter needs. These conversations form the foundation for rules promoting inclusivity in temporary housing. These simulations have a significant impact‚ as indicated by survey findings showing enhanced preparedness among participants. Geleta envisions this approach as a national standard‚ highlighting its importance in identifying critical components for effective emergency plans ahead of time. Finally‚ ACI’s pioneering work in developing reproducible shelter simulations highlight the vital necessity for inclusive disaster response. These efforts attempt to ensure that no one is left behind during times of crises by focusing on true teamwork.The post Emergency shelter transformation for disability-inclusive disaster response first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

The convergence of global pressures‚ such as climate change and the mounting demands of a fast-growing population‚ has shone a bright light on agriculture’s critical role in addressing these challenges. This important priority was highlighted at the recent United Nations climate conference‚ which marked a historic moment in which food and agriculture took center stage for the first time. The commitment on December 1st of over 130 countries to prioritize food systems within national climate goals is a watershed moment in this period. However‚ while this commitment is symbolic‚ it lacks practical methods to address the impact of climate change on food production and emissions. The relationship between food‚ emissions‚ and global need The urgency stems from the dual role agriculture plays: as a victim of climate change’s disruptions and a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Extreme weather events rapidly threaten the global food supply‚ while the agriculture sector produces about a third of all human-caused greenhouse gases. Addressing this tension requires agricultural innovation‚ which is becoming increasingly important in international climate talks. While the existing food supply can feed the world’s 8 billion people‚ future population predictions call for a significant increase in cropland by 2050. This increase‚ however‚ predicts more deforestation‚ worsening climate worries. To make matters worse‚ conventional techniques such as synthetic fertilizers‚ which are critical for present yields‚ contribute significantly to climate change. Disrupting these practices in the absence of effective alternatives risks jeopardizing food supply and farmer revenue. The need for agricultural innovation Amid this problem‚ the Innovation Commission for Climate Change‚ Food Security‚ and Agriculture‚ chaired by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer‚ has identified seven key areas set to transform agricultural practices. These advances aim to secure enough food production‚ reduce greenhouse gas emissions‚ and feed hundreds of millions. Investigating game-changing innovations Accurate weather forecasts have a revolutionary impact‚ especially in low-income nations‚ allowing farmers to make informed decisions about planting‚ irrigation‚ and harvesting. Strategic investments in technology for mass prediction dissemination have yielded significant economic benefits‚ clearing the door for agricultural practices to be optimized. Microbial Fertilizers Significantly reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers‚ microbial fertilizers that use microorganisms to improve plant and soil nutrient uptake have become game changers. The effective use of rhizobia-based fertilizers in Brazil demonstrates their worldwide potential‚ offering healthier soils and farmer prosperity. Livestock Methane Reduction Addressing livestock emissions‚ a large contribution to agricultural greenhouse gases is a critical concern. Feed additive innovations promise to lower methane emissions‚ increase animal growth‚ and improve energy efficiency. Possibilities for innovation and future priorities Aside from these cutting-edge breakthroughs‚ the Innovation Commission has identified the following critical priorities: – Rainwater harvesting for enhanced irrigation in agricultural practices. – Cost reduction initiatives in digital agriculture for efficient resource utilization. – Advocacy for alternative protein sources to alleviate livestock dependency. – Provision of social protections to support farmers in extreme weather events. Navigating the innovation frontier: opportunities and challenges Despite their inventive potential‚ scaling these solutions has hit commercial roadblocks‚ particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Inadequate investment in novel agriculture solutions has hampered progress. Embracing innovation: a game-changing path forward However‚ history has demonstrated that investing in innovation yields significant societal benefits. A worldwide collective response has the potential to usher in transformational solutions for climate-resilient food systems‚ similar to Gavi‚ The Vaccine Alliance‘s pioneering accomplishment in changing vaccine accessibility and child mortality reduction. At COP28‚ the globe is prepared to combine efforts toward climate change‚ food security‚ and agriculture‚ laying out a radical path for the future.The post Cultivating climate resilience at COP28: 7 game-changing food and agriculture innovations first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

Your heart‚ a powerhouse organ‚ performs a monumental task daily‚ pumping gallons of blood throughout your body. However‚ if this critical organ fails‚ it can lead to heart failure‚ a disorder that affects millions of people in the United States. The heart’s function and the dangers of heart failure Dr. David N. Smith‚ cardiologist at Premier Cardiovascular Care in Charlotte‚ North Carolina‚ and clinical assistant professor at Yale School of Medicine‚ emphasizes the heart’s primary activities‚ which include circulating blood to be oxygenated in the lungs and then delivering oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood throughout the body.  However‚ when the heart weakens‚ even simple tasks become difficult. Dr. Keith C. Ferdinand ‚ professor of medicine at Tulane University School of Medicine‚ believes that difficulty climbing stairs or carrying groceries could indicate underlying heart trouble. Proactive measures become critical as worrying statistics indicate a 46 percent increase in heart failure cases by 2030. Strategies to protect your heart health Understanding the risk factors and applying preventative actions could lower the likelihood of heart failure dramatically. Here are four critical lifestyle changes to consider: 1. Keep blood pressure in check High blood pressure‚ a risk factor for heart disease and failure‚ causes arteries to become thicker and stiffer‚ disrupting blood circulation and putting strain on the heart. Dr. Ferdinand emphasizes the need to maintain normal blood pressure levels through exercise‚ nutritous diet‚ getting good sleep‚ limiting alcohol consumption‚ and quitting smoking. Regular monitoring at home with your doctor’s guidance aids in tracking progress and adjusting treatments accordingly. 2. Effective stress management Persistent stress raises stress hormones while also tightening blood arteries and increasing heart rate. Medical director of the Heart Transplant Service at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center Dr. David Majure underlines the significant influence of stress on heart health. Dr. Thea Gallagher‚ a psychologist and clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health‚ recommends stress-relieving activities‚ breathing exercises‚ and mindfulness practices to restore mental equilibrium. 3. Adopt heart-healthy eating patterns Simple dietary changes can have a big impact. According to Dr. Smith‚ reducing sodium intake and boosting potassium-rich foods like lentils and bananas counterbalances fluid retention and regulates blood pressure. In addition‚ eating omega-3-rich meals promotes heart health by lowering blood pressure and inflammation. 4. Make physical activity a priority Most days‚ spend 30 to 40 minutes doing fun‚ moderate-intensity workouts like walking‚ cycling‚ or dancing. Dr. Ferdinand encourages frequent exercise to increase circulation‚ improve heart efficiency‚ and control stress‚ all of which contribute to decreased blood pressure and stable cholesterol levels. A holistic approach to heart health While certain risk factors are uncontrollable‚ making some simple lifestyle changes improves heart health dramatically. Remember‚ it’s never too late to start these heart-healthy habits. You are investing in a healthy future by proactively caring for your heart.The post 4 science-backed strategies to reduce risk of heart failure first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

While the health benefits of a plant-based diet are well known‚ a recent pioneering study on identical twins has confirmed these advantages. Stanford University’s groundbreaking study‚ which included 22 sets of identical twins‚ highlighted the outstanding benefits of adopting a vegan diet over a traditional omnivore one. Redefining dietary health through insightful twin research Professor Christopher Gardner noted the study‘s uniqueness‚ noting the identical twins’ similarities in habits‚ appearance‚ and rapport. This eight-week trial systematically analyzed the impact of a healthy plant-based diet vs a healthy omnivorous diet‚ marking an important milestone in nutritional research. Comparing dietary effects: vegan vs. omnivorous For the first month‚ participants followed a controlled meal plan with tailored nutritionist-designed meals‚ followed by self-preparation in accordance with their specified diet directions. Throughout the trial‚ bloodwork and assessments showed fascinating findings. The vegan diet significantly lowered LDL cholesterol by 15.2 mg/dL more than the omnivore diet‚ demonstrating the significant cardiovascular advantages. Furthermore‚ the vegan group experienced a surprising 20 percent decrease in fasting insulin and lost 4.2 lb (1.9 kg) more than the omnivore group‚ demonstrating the diet’s holistic influence. The benefits of adopting a plant-based diet The study underlined the programs’ dietary similarities‚ emphasizing vegetables‚ legumes‚ whole grains‚ and the avoidance of processed sugars and carbohydrates. The vegan diet‚ which excluded all animal products‚ resulted in remarkable health benefits‚ whereas the omnivorous diet included fish‚ chicken‚ eggs‚ and dairy. The fact that 21 out of 22 individuals successfully adhered to the regimen demonstrated its accessibility and potential for widespread health benefits. Beyond health: The effect of the vegan diet on aging Excitingly‚ the study hinted at a promising element that went beyond health benefits. The vegans seemed to be biologically younger than their chronological age. Professor Gardner stressed the diet’s ability to reduce aging by improving gut bacteria and decreasing telomere loss—an attractive path for future research. A well-balanced approach Professor Gardner‚ who has been a “mostly vegan” for decades‚ emphasizes the importance of including plant-based foods into diets. He urges people to try other vegan cuisines‚ such as Indian masala and African lentil-based foods‚ highlighting the delight and variety that this dietary change provides. While the study does not advocate for full veganism‚ it does emphasize the effectiveness of eating more plant-based foods to improve cardiovascular health. The findings highlight the importance of decreasing saturated fats‚ boosting dietary fiber‚ and maintaining a healthy weight—all of which contribute to overall well-being. The study‚ which was published in JAMA Network‚ represents an important step in encouraging the adoption of plant-based diets for long-term health and vitality. Source study: JAMA Network— Cardiometabolic effects of omnivorous vs vegan diets in identical twinsThe post The vegan advantage: proven health benefits revealed in a rare identical twin study first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.