Granola is a popular breakfast and snack option that has gained a reputation for being a healthy choice that can be added to any meal. However, we need to be watchful of several factors, including its ingredients, serving size, and how it’s consumed, which will have an impact on how healthy this ingredient is. Let’s delve into the components of granola and its nutritional value to better understand its health implications.
Ingredients
Granola typically consists of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, sweeteners, and sometimes additional flavorings like spices or chocolate. Each ingredient contributes to its overall nutritional value. The following list details the usual ingredients found in granola.
Rolled Oats: Oats are a good source of fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. They also provide complex carbohydrates, which offer sustained energy.
Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can contribute to satiety and provide essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids (in walnuts and flaxseeds) and magnesium (in almonds and sunflower seeds).
Dried Fruits: Dried fruits offer natural sweetness and can provide additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, they are also concentrated sources of sugar and calories, so moderation is key.
Sweeteners: Some granolas contain added sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or cane sugar. While these can enhance flavor, they also contribute to the overall sugar content of the granola.
Add some blueberries, strawberries, or other fruity items to your dish to make it even healthier.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value of granola can vary widely depending on the specific ingredients and their proportions. Generally, granola provides a mix of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Please read the label to confirm what ingredients are in it. Also, it’s important to be mindful of serving sizes, as granola can be calorie-dense.
Carbohydrates: Granola is typically a carbohydrate-rich food due to the oats and added sweeteners. Carbohydrates provide energy, but excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates (e.g., granola with high sugar content) may lead to blood sugar spikes and energy crashes.
Protein: Nuts, seeds, and occasionally grains in granola contribute to its protein content. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and promoting satiety.
Fat: Granola contains nuts, seeds, and sometimes added oils, which provide healthy fats. These fats are important for brain health, hormone production, and nutrient absorption. However, some granolas may contain unhealthy fats from added oils or processed ingredients.
Fiber: Oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits in granola contribute to its fiber content. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, promoting satiety, and regulating blood sugar levels.
Vitamins and Minerals: Granola can provide various vitamins and minerals, mainly if it contains nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. These may include vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.
Health Considerations
While granola can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
Added Sugars: Some granolas contain high amounts of sugars, which can contribute to excess calorie intake and negatively impact health if consumed in large quantities. Opt for granolas with minimal added sugars, or choose unsweetened varieties.
Portion Size: Granola is calorie-dense, so it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes. A small serving can provide a satisfying crunch and nutrient boost without excessive calorie intake.
Processed Ingredients: Some commercial granolas may contain processed ingredients, preservatives, and additives. Choose granolas with simple, whole-food ingredients whenever possible.
Allergens: Granola contains nuts and gluten-containing grains. If you have food sensitivities or allergies, be mindful of potential allergens.
Summary
Granola can be a nutritious and convenient option for any meal, providing a mix of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, choosing varieties with wholesome ingredients, minimal added sugars, and moderate portion sizes is essential. Be aware of the sugar and calorie intake, especially if you are on a diet or have certain allergies.
By incorporating a balanced amount of granola into your meal or snack alongside other nutrient-dense foods, you can enjoy its health benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks.
Measles(MeV) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that typically spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles primarily affects children, but it can occur in people of any age who haven’t been vaccinated or previously infected.
Symptoms
Photo: iStock
The symptoms of measles usually appear about 10 to 14 days after exposure and can include:
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)
A red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
On Its Way Back
Once considered nearly eradicated in the US and many developed countries, the disease has recently seen a surge in cases. This resurgence poses a significant public health threat, particularly to vulnerable populations like young children.
A Disease We Thought We Conquered
Maculopapular rash on the abdomen after 3 days of measles infection
Before widespread vaccination campaigns were initiated, measles was a common illness mainly affecting children. In the United States alone, an estimated 3-4 million cases occur annually, resulting in hundreds of deaths. However, the introduction of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine in 1963 dramatically changed the landscape of these diseases. By 2000, measles was declared eliminated in the US, meaning continuous transmission was no longer occurring.
Why Measles is Back
The resurgence of measles is attributed to several key factors:
Decreased Vaccination Rates: Vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and mistrust in science, has led to declining vaccination rates in some communities. This creates pockets of susceptible individuals where the virus can quickly spread. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated this issue, disrupting routine vaccinations and lowering overall vaccination rates.
Global Travel: Measles is still prevalent in many parts of the world. Travelers infected with the virus can quickly bring it into countries with lower vaccination rates, sparking outbreaks.
Waning Immunity: The effectiveness of the measles vaccine weakens over time. Booster shotsare crucial for long-term protection, but some individuals may neglect getting them.
The Impact of the Resurgence
The return of measles is concerning for several reasons:
Serious Complications: Measles is not a benign illness. It can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. These complications are dangerous for young children and those with compromised immune systems.
Outbreaks: When vaccination rates fall below a critical threshold (around 95%), “herd immunity” (those areas where the diseases have been mostly eradicated) weakens. The virus can easily spread through a community, even infecting vaccinated people.
Strain on Healthcare Systems: Measles outbreaks can significantly burden healthcare systems, requiring hospitalization for some patients and diverting resources from other critical medical needs.
The Importance of Vaccination
Photo by Frank Merino from Pexels
Many of us, especially if we live in New York State, probably don’t remember getting a measles vaccine when we were young, but rest assured we did! It is mandatory in New York State; however, that does not mean we won’t get it again. According to experts, the chances are unlikely that you will acquire it, but even if you do, your symptoms will be much milder than someone who wasn’t vaccinated. The best advice would be to talk to your doctor and see if you need a booster shot.
The good news is that measles is an entirely preventable disease through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, offering long-term protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.
Here’s what you can do:
Get Vaccinated: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your MMR vaccinations. Consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Educate Yourself: Seek reliable information about vaccine safety and effectiveness from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Advocate for Vaccination: Encourage others to get vaccinated and dispel myths or misinformation surrounding vaccines.
By working together to increase vaccination rates, we can prevent the spread of measles and protect ourselves and our communities from this potentially devastating disease.
You Go to the Dentist to Have Your Teeth Checked, Right, So Why Not Your Dog?
Ensuring dogs’ dental health is a crucial aspect of pet ownership. While it might not be the first thing that comes to mind when caring for our furry companions, dental care plays a significant role in their overall well-being.
Dogs, like humans, are susceptible to various dental issues, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and oral infections. Ignoring dental health can lead to discomfort, pain, and potential systemic health problems such as heart disease. Therefore, regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent your pet from acquiring a worsening situation.
In this article, we will explore why dogs should have their teeth checked, the importance of dental hygiene, signs of dental problems, preventive measures, and how veterinary professionals can assist in maintaining optimal oral health for our canine friends.
Start with Tooth Brushing
Photo: SMS
Yes, you heard it right. Your dogs should brush their teeth regularly. But you need to intervene if they are having difficulty reaching their mouths with their paws.
Use toothpaste formulated for dogs and do it on a routine basis.
Additional dental care methods should also be used, such as feeding them a diet that promotes dental health, such as dry kibble or dental-specific diets, and giving them toys they can chew on.
Dog owners must be aware of the signs of dental problems in their pets. These may include:
Bad breath: Persistent foul breath can indicate dental issues such as periodontal disease or oral infections.
Visible tartar buildup: Yellow or brown deposits on the teeth indicate the presence of plaque and tartar, which can contribute to gum disease.
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: Inflammation and bleeding of the gums are common signs of gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease.
Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat: Dental pain or discomfort can make chewing painful for dogs, leading to changes in eating habits.
Tooth discoloration or loose teeth: These can indicate advanced dental disease and may require immediate attention from a veterinarian.
What Diseases can dogs get if Their Teeth are not Healthy?
Periodontal Disease
This is a common issue among dogs. It starts with the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can lead to gingivitis and gum inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition involving destroying the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Ultimately, this can result in tooth loss.
Regular dental check-ups by a veterinarian are crucial for early detection of periodontal disease. During these examinations, the veterinarian will assess the dog’s teeth, gums, and oral cavity for any signs of disease or abnormalities.
Being proactive about your dog’s dental health can help prevent serious dental issues and maintain your pet’s overall well-being. Regular dental check-ups and proper at-home dental care are crucial in ensuring that dogs have healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives.
Veterinary professionals also play a crucial role in assisting dog owners with dental hygiene. The vets can guide you on proper dental practices, recommend appropriate dental products, and perform thorough examinations and cleanings as needed.
In cases where dental problems are detected, veterinarians can offer treatment options to address the issue and alleviate any discomfort or pain the dog may be experiencing.
In April 2023, New York City officials revealed several technologically advanced law enforcement tools. One is the robotic police dog known as ‘Digidog,’.
This 4-legged, 70-pound robot initially faced criticism for its “eerie presence” when introduced 2 1/2 years ago., but the new addition, which includes a GPS tracker, was introduced in a manner that prioritizes transparency and collaboration with the community, according to Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell. The unveiling occurred at a Times Square press conference attended by Mayor Eric Adams—the exact location where the K5 robot was displayed sometime after this.
“Digidog is back in action,” announced Adams, emphasizing that it is now an integral part of the city’s law enforcement toolkit” said Adams. He also advised that Digidog would only be deployed in high-risk situations, such as hostage standoffs.
Protests
Adams implied that he would not be influenced by the small group of people who protested the robot due to its dystopian image, but he did say he would consider their concerns. Adams noted that his commitment was based on the city’s best interests rather than bowing to a vocal minority.
No doubt Mayor Adams is an admirer of the latest technology that the city can offer to battle law enforcement, but his opponents have several complaints, namely:
Privacy: Critics fear the Digidog could be used for surveillance, potentially infringing on citizens’ privacy. They worry about its ability to record video and audio, especially in public spaces.
Escalation of Force: Some see the Digidog as a symbol of increased militarization of the police, potentially leading to an escalation of force in situations that could otherwise be handled peacefully.
Ethical Concerns: The ethical implications of using robots in law enforcement. Critics argue that using machines for activities like entering potentially dangerous situations removes the human element of judgment and compassion.
Effectiveness: Some question the Digidog’s effectiveness in crime-fighting, arguing that its high cost outweighs any potential benefits.
Proponents of Digidog
Privacy: Supporters of Digidog have pointed out that cameras are currently everywhere, used by both private and government entities. They also say that these cameras have helped in countless arrests and prosecutions.
Escalation of Force: Proponents state this is a subjective viewpoint and not a “carved in stone” scenario.
Ethical Concerns: Mayor Adams has highlighted the strategic use of Digidog in situations involving armed suspects or barricaded individuals, presenting it as a technologically advanced approach to law enforcement where it could potentially save the lives of police officers who would otherwise have to face the suspects themselves.
Effectiveness: This is a wait-and-see to see if the robot’s functionality will outweigh the costs. Supporters state that this is progress and robots and AI are here to stay now and in the future.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding the Digidog highlights the complex issues surrounding the use of technology in law enforcement, balancing potential benefits with concerns about privacy, ethics, and responsible use.
Despite the advancements, civil libertarians and police reform advocates raised concerns about the necessity and cost of these high-tech devices. Critics questioned the allocation of resources to such technologies, highlighting other pressing needs in the community, such as food access and housing, and criticized the perceived overspending on law enforcement technologies.
Alaskapox is a recently discovered virus from the orthopoxvirus genus family (viruses obtained by human contact with animals). The disease is mainly known for causing skin lesions.
The Alaska Department of Health sent out a notice of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) epidemiologist Julia Rogers, who has been assigned to the Alaska Division of Public Health, stated, “Orthopoxviruses are zoonotic viruses, meaning that they circulate primarily within animal populations and occasionally spill over into humans.”
While it shares similarities with other orthopoxviruses like the variola virus (smallpox) and monkeypox, Alaskapox is still a mystery, with only a handful of cases reported.
Alaskapox Cases
The first individuals to acquire the disease were in Fairbanks, Alaska, in 2015. Since then, only seven other cases have been documented as of February 2024, and all of them are in Alaska, most notably in the city of Fairbanks, which is perplexing.
Symptoms and Treatments
Symptoms typically involve one or more skin lesions resembling bumps or swelling accompanied by swollen lymph nodes. Additionally, joint or muscle pain may accompany it. Some cases involve the lesion persisting for six months or more, while others are resolved within weeks.
So far, there has been only one fatality in 2023, but this was an individual with an underlying health condition who succumbed to the virus. No specific treatment exists, and recovery relies on the body’s immune response, indicating that those with more healthy immune systems stand a better chance of recovering early.
Ongoing Research
Much research is required, but scientists suspect small mammals like voles and flying squirrels might be carriers, although the transmission process between animals and humans is unclear. While close contact seems a possibility, further investigation is still needed.
Also, the extent of the virus’s geographic distribution and potential for broader spread is undetermined.
Preventive Measures
Given the lack of current information, practicing general hygiene as we did with COVID-19 is recommended, especially in Alaska. Frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with sick animals remains prudent, and handling wild animals or keeping them as pets is not recommended. If you experience unexplained skin lesions, particularly if you’ve been in areas where Alaskapox is known to occur, consult your doctor promptly!
Looking to the Future
Continued research is crucial to understand the virus’s biology, transmission dynamics, and potential for wider spreading of the disease, and developing diagnostic tools and potential treatments would be vital for effective management. Public health awareness campaigns educating individuals about Alaskapox and preventive measures should be enacted.
Summary
Like other diseases, scientists suspect Alaskapox was acquired through animal contact; however, the virus appears rare. At least at this time, vigilance and ongoing research are crucial to ensure preparedness for future outcomes. Consult your healthcare provider or local public health department for accurate and up-to-date information if you have concerns.
While the virus remains a mystery, ongoing research will undoubtedly contribute to better preventative care and lead to a solution, such as a vaccine. We have to wait and see!
Sarcoidosis is a rare disease that can affect multiple organs within the body—characterized by the formation of small abnormal masses known as granulomas, which are part of thebody’s immune system.
Wikipedia CC
This condition can impact various organs, leading to a variety of symptoms. Although the precise cause of sarcoidosis remains elusive, researchers believe it involves an abnormal immune response, but that is not conclusive.
In one case, a 55-year-old man who has a strong immune system was diagnosed with the disease. An MRI found he has lymph nodesin his lungs, causing him to run out of breath by just walking up a flight of stairs. Although this condition is not fatal, the question arises how a physically fit individual be infected with the disease? More studies are needed.
Granulomas – The Explanation
As mentioned, one of the primary trademarks of sarcoidosis is the development of granulomas, a tight cluster of cells to fight off an infection or foreign substance commonly known as inflammation.
Granuloma development can be caused by pathogens, damaged cells, toxic compounds, and other conditions that infect the body. This inflammation can form in organs such as the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, eyes, heart, liver, and nervous system. The distribution of granulomas throughout the body contributes to the variability in symptoms and clinical manifestations.
This organ is the most commonly affected by sarcoidosis disease, and pulmonary symptoms are among the most prevalent. Individuals may experience persistent cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. In some cases, the ailment may advance to pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that results in the scarring of lung tissue, compromising respiratory functions.
Skin
Rashes and lesions are common symptoms of this disease. The manifestations on the skin can vary in appearance and include painful red nodules. Lupus pernio is one of these manifestations that can cause potential disfigurement. It is not essentially painful, but if other organs are affected, other symptoms could occur.
Heart and Nervous System
Cardiac sarcoidosis is a rare form of the disease, but it is concerning for individuals who have it as it can lead to cardiac complications. Studies have shown that cardiac sarcoidosis occurs in approximately 5-25% of people with sarcoidosis. However, it is a bit harder to diagnose since the developing symptoms are common with other heart-related ailments, such as arrhythmia.
Individuals who believe they may have this form of sarcoidosis should confer with their cardiologist regularly.
Treatments
Corticosteroids, the term used to group anti-inflammatory medications, are the most commonly prescribed drugs to reduce immune activity. Prednisone is one of the most popular meds prescribed in this group. A spray may be prescribed for those with pulmonary (lung) sarcoidosis.
Conclusion
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disorder that can affect various organs but is most commonly found in the lungs. The exact cause is unknown, but many medical researchers believe it involves an abnormal immune response.
Other factors may be from inheritance, and scientists are not ruling out environmental triggers, such as exposure to certain chemicals or infectious agents.
Research is ongoing to find the specific causes of this disease. Regular monitoring and medical follow-ups are crucial for individuals with this rare condition.
Not exactly, but it’s a start! New York City Mayor Adams has maintained his pledge to keep the city high-tech, and in so doing, he unveiled an autonomous robot that will patrol Times Square.
K5, as it is called, stands about 5′ high and about 4′ wide and will act as the eyes and ears of the police. It has four cameras and a button that can be pushed in an emergency.
The robotics company Knightscope created this autonomous machine. It stood beside Adams as he promoted it at a press conference in the Times Square subway, adorned with the NYPD colors. As the mayor demonstrated it, its cameras pointed directly at the reporters who attended the conference.
In keeping with the latest technology to fight crime in the city, the mayor said, “The NYPD must be on the forefront of technology and be two steps ahead of those who are utilizing technology to hurt New Yorkers,” Adams said. “And trust me. They are.”
NYPD Chief of Transit Michael Kemper said, “It’s very important that the public knows what this robot is and what its capabilities are.”
Is K5 a Buy or Lease?
The city is leasing the drone robot. It will roam the Times Square station between midnight and 6 a.m. but not go onto subway platforms.
The robot will capture video footage only. It does not have audio, but it does have an emergency button that allows commuters to contact the police department with questions or to report an emergency. No facial recognition software is attached to the machine.
Some are Not Enthused
Civil rights advocates have alleged that the police department is not following the required protocols. Some say that a public review, as outlined in a law called the POST Act, is not being followed.
The statute requires the Adams administration to publish detailed descriptions of a new technology’s capabilities, how it will be used, and what will be done with any collected data. The public is supposed to have weeks to weigh in.
However, the NYPD stated that if this type of technology is similar to one already in use (the Digidog mobile robot), it should be incorporated into its existing impact statement.
The Legal Aid Society is questioning the NYPD and alleging that they are bypassing the concept of this law. Legal Aid attorney Shane Ferro stated, “What happens when the 400-pound autonomous robot hits somebody or falls down the stairs?”.
Mayor Adams counters these concerns by stating that these advancing technologies will increase safety in policing and help the NYPD become more efficient.
He also said that K5 saves money.“This is below minimum wage,” Adams quipped. “No bathroom breaks. No meal breaks. This is a good investment.” and “… eventually, this is going to be part of the fabric of our subway system.”
At the End of the Day!
Will these new technologies help or hinder the New York City Police Department? The answer remains to be seen, but the mayor appears hopeful they will benefit the city and increase safety for its citizens.
Pharmaceutical company Moderna has said that its new vaccine booster works against this new virus variant, and as of September 2023, you can get the booster at your local pharmacy.
Most of us believe that the Sars-CoV-2 Coronavirus (COVID-19) is behind us and that we can go about our regular daily routines without having to worry about catching it again. Well, maybe that’s true. Then again, maybe not.
A new variant called Pirola, technically labeled BA.2.86, is starting to show its ugly face, and according to some sources, it is spreading rapidly around the United States and the world.
The BA.2.86 variant was first detected in Denmark and Israel in late August 2023 and has since been found in several other countries, including the United States.
According to researchers, this particular virus is a subvariant of Omicron, the most dominant variant ofSARS-CoV-2. BA.2.86 is more transmissible than the other Omicron subvariants.
How Transferrable is this Variant?
3D medical animation of Spike S protein, HE protein, viral envelope, and helical RNA. Wikipedia Commons
Scientists say that it may be more resistant to the current vaccines and antibody treatments. This is because BA.2.86 has a number of mutations in its spike protein, which is the part that the virus uses to attach to your cells. However,
How severe is BA.2.86?
It is still too early to say whether this variant is more severe than the others. More studies are needed to determine its severity. However, some early studies have suggested that it may be more resistant to current vaccines and antibody treatments.
How can I protect myself from BA.2.86?
Maintain the standard methods of keeping clean, which include washing your hands frequently, carrying an antibacterial cleanser, avoiding large crowds, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick, to name a few.
Additionally, get vaccinated and boosted. Vaccines are still very effective at preventing serious illnesses and hospitalization from COVID-19, even against the new variants.
Although most people have stopped using masks, if you feel more comfortable wearing one when outside, by all means, do, especially when in crowded areas.
As with all the Covid-19 viruses or, more generally speaking, with any viruses, if you are elderly, have health issues, or have a compromised immune system, you should be vigilant and take all the recommended precautions.
Additionally, when any new disease is circulating in your area, you should also speak to your medical provider for any additional precautions you may need to take.
Conclusion
Staying attentive to COVID-19 is nothing new. Even though a new variant has materialized, that doesn’t mean you have to run to your bed and hide. Research is determining that this virus may be more transmissible than the previous subvariants and possibly more resistant to the current vaccines, but as research continues on the BA.2.86 virant, it may turn out that it is not as contagious as the other. It is just a wait-and-see game.
The general recommendations are to just stay vigilant and maintain the COVID rules of keeping clean and safe, especially if you are in the high-risk health category.
You won’t be getting a college degree nor will this help you to get a job, but these trivia notes will surely raise an eyebrow or two! Not to mention it will stimulate your brain.
We’re not saying you will rule the world or become the next billionaire tomorrow, but the better we understand the world around us, the better decision-makers we become.
The power of knowledge expands horizons and instills critical thinking, which can enhance our mental health. But probably most of all, having good intelligence works great for date nights! But if that is not useful to you, then at the very least, it can always help you finish your crossword puzzles or solve clues on Jeopardy!
On a more serious note, knowledge stimulates our brain which is a great benefit for our mental health. We can navigate challenges, solve problems, and build a better world for future generations through knowledge.
The oldest turtle in the world is Jonathan, who is 190 years old.
There are twenty quadrillion ants on planet Earth. That’s a million billion or the number 1 followed by 15 zeros.
Male penguins give pebbles to the females as a courtship.
Elephants are scared of bees.
Entertainment
Niblo’s Garden Theater was the first theater on Broadway (although it was located in what is now known as SOHO, about two miles south of Times Square). The play was called the Black Crook and began on September 12, 1866.
Bob Dylan is the only person to have won an Oscar and a Nobel Peace Prize.
Every Academy Award Oscar winner cannot sell their Oscar trophy. They would have to sell it back to the Academy for $1.
Over 106 million people watched the finale of MASH on February 28, 1983, which was the largest audience for a TV series finale.
Paul McCartney wrote the song Hey Jude to console John Lennon’s son, Julian, who was depressed from his parents’ divorce. McCartney changed the name from Julian (AKA Jules) to Jude because he felt it sounded better. He composed the song in his car while riding to Lennon’s house.
CNN broadcaster Anderson Cooper is the son of Gloria Vanderbilt.
Humphrey Bogart never said, “Play it again, Sam” in the movie Casablanca.
Newsmax Greg Kelly is the son of former NYPD Commissioner Raymond Kelly.
Mr. Potato Head was the first toy to be advertised on TV.
Finance
The average lifespan of a $1 bill is 6.6 years, that of a $20 bill is 7.8 years, and that of a $100 bill can extend up to 22.9 years.
The US Bureau of Engraving and Printing prints nine hundred ninety-six million dollars every day.
The grooved edges on coins help visually impaired people determine the type of coins they are.
78% of Americans prefer to bank digitally instead of physically going to the bank.
Despite popular belief, Henry Ford did not invent the automobile. That credit goes to Illinois residents, the Duryea Brothers, circa 1892.
Paul Revere never said, “The British are Coming.” It wasn’t customary to talk in this manner back in those days. He more likely would have said, “The regulars are coming.”
In 17th-century England, it was customary to have a long wooden table in the dining room, where the father would sit at the end and was the only chair with arms; hence, the expression chairman came into being. The tabletop was known as the board, which gives us the expression “Chairman of the Board and Boardroom.”
Shakespeare’s will stated that he left his wife, Anne Hathaway, his “second-best bed with the furniture.” Historians believe this suggested that Anne was merely the “second-best” woman in his life, implying that Shakespeare had other women.
Author David Foster Wallace’s novel ‘Infinite Jest‘ takes its title from a line in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
The Cosmetics company Avon was named after Stratford-Upon-Avon – Shakespeare’s birthplace.
The first American to win a Nobel Peace Prize was Theodore Roosevelt.
The only president to hold a Ph.D was Woodrow Wilson.
The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball has been dropped every year except for 1942 and 1943. During WWII, New York City would dim its lights in case of enemy attack.
The Mesozoic Era, which existed about 252 million to 66 million years ago, is the period when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. It is also the time when the Triassic, Cretaceous, and all-too-familiar Jurassic eras existed. Earth’s continents were breaking apart at this time, so we find remains of dinosaurs worldwide despite the vastness of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans that formed after it.
Nyasasaurus. Wikipedia CC
Nyasasaurus is the oldest dinosaur on record, originating from the late Anisian stage around 243 million years ago. This discovery places it approximately 10 to 15 million years ahead of any previously identified dinosaur specimens.
Geography
The center of the 48 contiguous United States is located north of Lebanon, Kansas, coordinates 39°50′N 98°35′W.
Wikipedia CC
The closest point between the United States and Russia lies in the Bering Strait, a body of water separating Russia’s northeasternmost point from Alaska. Within the Bering Strait are two small islands known as Big Diomede and Little Diomede. Russia owns Big Diomede, and the United States owns Little Diomede. These islands are 2.4 miles apart at their closest points, but timewise, they are 21 hours apart since the International Timeline cuts right through them.
Big Diomede and Little Diomede are the tiny islands located in the center of the map. nps.gov
It only takes six minutes for alcohol to affect your brain.
Your brain consists of 170 billion cells.
Spanish Flu didn’t originate in Spain. The first documented case was at an army base in Kansas.
The oldest person living today is 118-year-old Lucile Randon of France.
Brother Island is located just south of The Bronx, NYC, and no one can visit it. It was previously where people with contagious diseases were sent. The most well-known was Typhoid Mary.
Over 500 hours of videos are added to YouTube every minute.
You can have actual conversations with ChatGPT.
The most used word in the English language is “Time.”
The word most searched for on Google is “Love.”
The most powerful light beam in the world is in Las Vegas, at the Luxor.
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Spitsbergen, Norway, contains over 1 million seed samples, which will secure our food supply should a world disaster occur.
The copper framework of the Statue of Liberty weighs 125 tons.
The Pentagon in Washington, DC is the largest office building in the world. The Willis Tower in Chicago comes in at number 4, and One World Trade Center, AKA the Freedom Tower in New York City, comes in at number 8, above the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
The Citicorp Building in NYC could have fallen due to an engineering glitch, but the danger was caught in time by an engineering student at Princeton University.
The famous London Bridge was dismantled in London and reassembled in Arizona.
Astronomy
Scientists estimate there are over two trillion galaxies in the known universe.
If the sun blew up right now, we would still have another 8.3 minutes to live. That’s because light travels at a finite speed of 186,000 miles per second, so grab your beer or whatever strikes your fancy (legally of course) for the next 8.3 minutes and live it up. At least you will be happy for that one moment in time!
In a previous article, we spoke about Covid-19 scams. Now, with Covid practically over, we are going to discuss real-life examples of some common deceptions used by nefarious individuals with the sole intention of illegally extracting money from you.
How many times have you heard your phone ring only to see that it is a phone number you don’t recognize, but the ID says it is coming from your location? Or you get an email or text that tells you your subscription is overdue and to “click here” to update your information? Quite often, right?
Have you noticed that this is increasing and not decreasing? One might call it an epidemic of financial proportions! Well, here are a few real-life examples of how other people were getting scammed, how they responded to the scam, and what they did afterward.
We are not expecting you to become an expert on how to handle fictitious calls or emails by reading this article, but these incidents may just help you realize what is out there and help you stay on the side of caution when contacted by fraudulent individuals.
The Guy Told Me to Withdraw $140,000 – Wait What?
Photo: Unsplash
One might ask why any thief would be so stupid as to not anticipate the variables that can go wrong in an operation like this. Be that as it may, this is a true case of an elderly person being conned into summarizing over $140,000 in cold cash to give to an individual who told her that she needed to pay her taxes immediately and deliver the money to him. Believe it or not, these individuals exist, and they are out there!
The Details
A 70-year-old woman entered her local bank to withdraw $140,000 in cash. As per bank policy, the teller immediately advised the manager who asked the woman why she was withdrawing so much money in cash.
The woman responded that she received a call from a company she was affiliated with. They told her that she was behind on her taxes and that she needed to pay them $140,000 immediately. They said they would send someone to her house to pick up the money.
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The woman, obviously scared went to the bank to withdraw the money, and the bank, obviously aware that this was a scam, contacted law enforcement, and a sting operation was set up.
When the perpetrator came to the house, he was arrested and is currently serving time in prison, which, according to reports, is not “getting out any time soon”.
They Count on Your Vulnerability
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Loan Desperation
Joe, a 68-year-old married man with two children lost his job due to layoffs and was looking for work. Still, as the months proceeded, he realized that he was falling more and more behind on his debt, specifically his credit cards which were, at times, surpassing their 30-day delinquency period.
When a bank payment is delinquent for more than 30 days, an alert is sent to the credit bureaus, and it is noted on the credit report, subsequently lowering the credit rating. This can make it harder to prove creditworthiness when buying a car or applying for a loan. The man was getting very nervous with this credit score decrease. Time was of the essence for this individual.
Additionally, knowing that his credit cards were maxed out to their limit, he was worried about not having enough funds to support his household and he knew he had to do something about this fast, so he went online and searched for debt consolidation loans. He responded to a few of the listings that showed up. One of them was a website that looked for companies that listed a variety of companies that could possibly approve a loan based on his credit score, which was under 620.
He applied to numerous offers, but they all declined him. Later that day, Joe responded to an email offering him a loan for $6,000—just the amount he was looking for!
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They gave him an 800 phone number to call. He called them, and they told him that they don’t use the credit bureaus to check creditworthiness but a different method. They said the first step was to deposit money into his checking account to verify that it was a valid account.
Afraid and anxious that he wouldn’t be able to support his family under his current financial conditions, he hastily followed their instructions and gave them his bank account information.
The next morning, he noticed that $3000.00 had been deposited into his checking account, and shortly thereafter, a “financial representative” called him to verify that the money was there.
What happened next would have been obvious to many; however, Joe’s state of mind caused him to bypass this red flag and not think there was any issue with the process. This is one of the methods that scammers pray on—emotional stress!
Joe was told that he needed to send them the money back. They requested that he go to a local store that provides wire transfers. He proceeded to go to the local Rite Aide down the block from him; however, it was 8:45 AM, and they had not opened yet. So he went to CVS, but they also didn’t open until 9:00 AM.
The caller was persistent (another red flag) and told him to find an open store, but he told them he would prefer to wait until the store opened. While he was waiting in his car for the store to open, he thumbed through his email messages on his iPhone and saw a message from J.P. Morgan Chase – the bank where he has his account.
The message said that they were sorry to hear that money had been illegally withdrawn from his account and that they replenished the account with the $3000 that was “missing” until an investigation was completed.
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Now Joe woke up. It hit him like a ton of bricks, and he realized he had been scammed. He ignored the spammer’s phone calls and drove directly to Chase.
The manager helped him place a report to their fraud department and Chase immediately withdrew the message that they received about a $3000 loss. In the end, no harm was done. Joe was saved from losing a lot of money and there was no record held against him from Chase, but had CVS or Rite Aide been open at the time, Joe would have most likely proceeded with the wire transfer.
Behind Your Bills Scare Tatic
Alexa was laid off from her job and she started falling behind on her bills. She was not that worried about her credit cards or FICO score so much as her utility bills, and she was most concerned about her electric bill.
Being two months behind on your electric bill is sure to concern even the most optimistic of people. Then the dreaded phone calls come in. Alexa is no exception to this.
But Alexa was no fool. She never answers phone calls that don’t have a caller ID, and even when the caller ID shows up, she won’t pick up if she doesn’t recognize the name of the company calling.
In Alexa’s situation, combining these two factors wasn’t enough to catch her off guard. Being delinquent on her utility bill was certainly enough to make her ill-prepared for what was to come.
The utility company called, and she answered. Why would she not? The ID showed up who it was, so she had no reason to believe it was not a fraudulent phone call.
The woman told Alexa that she was delinquent and that she needed to bring the account up to date, or her electric bill would be suspended. Alexa had no choice but to decide to use part of her mortgage money to pay for the electric bill, and she reiterated that message to the woman, who transferred her to a man who called himself “Dave.”
Dave explained to her in perfect English (no accent) the procedure where they could receive the money today by using Zelle. A quick and legitimate application where the recipient can receive money in a matter of seconds and most banks offer this method of money transfer.
Scared, Alexa complied and followed his directions. She went online to her bank app and clicked Zelle as directed by Dave. He told her that she should type in the box asking for the amount of cash to be sent with the last four digits of her utility account number and that their algorithm would read it and know how to handle it; other words, by reading the utility code, the past-due amount and only the past-due amount would be withdrawn from her bank account.
Alexa followed his directions, and the result was that it took out the amount that was listed as the code and not the past-due balance, so she ended up paying $347 more than she needed to pay.
When she told Dave what happened, he replied that this happens sometimes and he directed her to go back to the Zelle app. On the app, Alexa told him that she saw the Request Money button and asked him if she should enter the code in this box or request the exact amount that was withdrawn.
Dave corrected her and told her not to use the Request Money button but to use the Send Money button as she did before and the algorithm will correct itself and return her the amount she overpaid.
This is where Alexa drew the line. She realized that she had been scammed and hung up on Dave, not before telling him what she thought of him.
Alexa immediately contacted her bank and they initiated a return sequence via Zelle and Alexa was lucky. She had the band reverse the amount back into her bank account.
Zelle scams are on the rise and take many forms!
Conclusion
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Spammers can approach you from anywhere in the world. Email, websites, and phone calls, or they could even approach you in the street. They prey on the elderly and hope their phone calls will reach vulnerable individuals, no matter what their age is.
Be wary of anything that even seems suspicious, and never send anyone any money until you are sure they are the legitimate party!
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