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  • Android 15 will finally catch up with iOS when it comes to notifications

    Android 15 will finally catch up with iOS when it comes to notifications

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    Have you ever been annoyed by receiving a ton of expired notifications on your Android tablet? You are not alone. However, with Android 15, Google is finally introducing a solution to the problem by syncing your notifications across devices.

    Android 15 might bring notification syncing across devices

    Buried deep in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1, Mishaal Rahman of Android Authority found evidence that Google is working on the said feature. It will allow you to sync notifications, so once you dismiss them on one device, they will disappear from the notification shade on your other Android devices assigned to your Google account.

    Unfortunately, nothing is certain. We don’t know whether the feature will arrive with Android 15, in a later version or if at all. The good news is that if it arrives, it won’t be a Pixel-exclusive feature and will be available to all Android-running devices.

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  • Hundreds of Amazon drivers in NYC join the Teamsters union

    Hundreds of Amazon drivers in NYC join the Teamsters union

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    Hundreds of drivers in New York City have joined the union in the hope of obtaining better pay and working conditions. The union says a majority of drivers at each of three delivery service partners (DSPs) working out of a Queens warehouse have signed authorization cards.

    According to a , the drivers have been organizing for a year to secure fair pay, consistent schedules, reasonable workloads and proper pay maintained trucks. They as part of a nationwide protest against Amazon’s alleged unfair labor practices and union-busting efforts.

    At least on paper, joining the union should give the drivers more leverage as they push Amazon for better working conditions. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the company will play ball. The Amazon Labor Union, one of the within the company in the US, has yet to secure a union contract, . The group .

    However, the union has found some success on behalf of Amazon workers. Last month, a regional National Labor Relations Board director that Amazon is a joint employer of some third-party drivers in Palmdale, California. The Teamsters hope that finding will set a precedent for the rest for DSP drivers elsewhere. The Queens drivers are the first Amazon workers to organize with the Teamsters following that decision.

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  • FF16 Producer Doesn’t Want ‘Inappropriate’ Mods In PC Port

    FF16 Producer Doesn’t Want ‘Inappropriate’ Mods In PC Port

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    A screenshot shows a man from FF16 screaming.

    Screenshot: Square Enix

    On September 17, the previously PS5-exclusive RPG Final Fantasy 16 finally arrives on PC. Of course, that means that people will start to mod the game, adding or tweaking content. But if you are one of those modders, please know that the game’s producer doesn’t want any naughty stuff, okay?

    The Top 10 Most-Played Games On Steam Deck: November 2023 Edition

    Final Fantasy 16 is Square Enix’s latest entry of its award-winning RPG franchise. It arrived on PlayStation 5 in June 2023 to mostly positive reviews. We here at Kotaku enjoyed the game’s combat, wicked cool pause menu, and the music. However, it did a poor job of handling heavy topics like slavery and for some felt like a superficial entry in the series. Perhaps, though, your biggest FF16 complaint is a lack of nudity. Well, modders will soon be able to remedy that issue, but don’t tell the game’s producer Naoki Yoshida.

    While talking to PC Gamer about the upcoming FF16 PC port, Yoshida was asked what mods the producer would want to see the community create. Instead of saying what he wanted, he pleaded with modders and fans to not be “inappropriate.”

    “If we said ‘It’d be great if someone made XYZ,’ it might come across as a request, so I’ll avoid mentioning any specifics here,” Yoshida told PC Gamer.

    “The only thing I will say is that we definitely don’t want to say anything offensive or inappropriate, so please don’t make or install anything like that.”

    Yoshida either didn’t elaborate on what kind of mods would be “offensive” or “inappropriate” or PC Gamer didn’t ask because that’s all the info we get from the interview.

    So, go ahead and make your naked Clive mods, or add a sexy and weird Star Wars alien to FF16 on PC. Just know that Yoshida will be very disappointed in you for not listening to him.

    .

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  • How Schools Can Implement Mindful Media –

    How Schools Can Implement Mindful Media –

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    Information and Communication Overloading (ICO) and “Mindful Media”

    contributed by Dr. Domenico Meschino

    In today’s digital age, children are immersed in many online activities that shape their daily lives.

    Social media has become integral to their social landscape, with platforms like YouTube capturing their attention. These platforms serve as virtual gathering places where children connect with friends, share photos and videos, and express themselves through posts and stories. It’s not uncommon for children to follow and interact with influencers, celebrities, and content creators, seeking inspiration and attempting to emulate their lifestyles and trends.

    Another realm of children’s digital engagement lies in online gaming. Whether it’s console and PC games on platforms like PlayStation 5, Xbox (affiliate links), or computers, or the popular multiplayer online games such as Fortnite, Minecraft, Roblox, and Among Us, children find themselves exploring diverse genres and interacting with both friends and strangers in virtual worlds. The rise of eSports, has further captivated their interest, with children watching or participating in organized tournaments and leagues.

    Mobile devices have become gateways to a myriad of mobile apps and games. Children enjoy playing games specifically designed for smartphones and tablets, ranging from puzzle and casual games to simulation games and augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) experiences. Additionally, educational apps have found their place in children’s digital repertoire, promoting learning in various subjects such as language, math, science, coding, and creativity.

    See also Roles For Artificial Intelligence In The Education

    In the realm of online content consumption, streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ provide children with access to a vast library of movies, TV shows, and animated series. Online videos have become a go-to entertainment source, with platforms like YouTube and Twitch offering various content ranging from vlogs and tutorials to gaming streams, music videos, and animated content.

    Communication and messaging have also taken on a digital form. Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, WeChat, or Discord allow children to connect with friends, create group chats, and share media content, keeping their social connections alive. Video calling platforms such as Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype enable children to interact face-to-face, bridging the distance between friends, family, and classmates.

    While these digital activities provide children with opportunities for connection, entertainment, and learning, navigating them mindfully is crucial. Understanding the influence and impact of these activities on children’s well-being is paramount. By promoting mindful media practices, we can create a harmonious balance between their digital engagement and their overall mental and emotional health.

    What is ICO and how does it relate to media consumption?

    Information and Communication Overloading (ICO), as coined by Dr Domenico Meschino refers to the potential side effects of excessive exposure to information and communication technologies in children. While technology offers numerous benefits, it’s important to recognize that there can be negative consequences when children are overwhelmed or overloaded with information. Here are some of the side effects associated with OIC:

    What Are The Effects Of Too Much Screen Time?

    The effects of excessive screen time can vary depending on the amount of screen time, what’s actually being done on the screen (that is, what it’s being used for), the user’s age, and so on.

    But some of the most common effects of hours of skimming social media, TikTok videos, and other common media forms are general enough. 

    Cognitive Overload

    The constant stream of information can overwhelm children’s cognitive capacity, leading to difficulties in processing and retaining information. It can affect their ability to concentrate, make decisions, and think critically.

    Reduced Attention Span

    Excessive exposure to fast-paced, attention-grabbing media can contribute to shorter attention spans in children. They may become accustomed to quick information gratification, making it challenging to focus on tasks requiring sustained attention.

    Emotional Distress

    Continuous exposure to disturbing or distressing content, such as violence or explicit material, can hurt children’s emotional well-being. It may lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, or desensitization to real-world issues.

    Social Disconnection

    Excessive screen time and online interactions can hinder face-to-face social interactions and the development of important social skills. Children may experience difficulties in establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships offline.

    Sleep Disruptions

    The use of screens close to bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns and affect the quality and quantity of sleep in children. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

    Physical Health Issues

    Sedentary behaviors associated with excessive screen time can contribute to physical health issues like obesity, poor posture, and musculoskeletal problems. Lack of physical activity and outdoor play can have long-term consequences for children’s overall health and well-being.

    Dependency and Digital Addiction

    Constant access to digital devices and the internet can lead to dependency and addiction-like behaviors in children. They may develop an inability to self-regulate their screen time, leading to difficulties in managing their overall well-being.

    Recognizing these potential side effects and taking proactive measures to mitigate them is crucial. As discussed earlier, by implementing mindful media practices, parents, schools, and teachers can help children develop a healthy relationship with technology, promote balanced media consumption, and safeguard their well-being.

    Note: Dr. Domenico Meschino coined the term ‘Information and Communication Overloading’ (ICO) to explore the potential side effects of excessive exposure to information and communication technologies in children.

    What is Mindful Media?

    Description

    The concept of ‘Mindful Media’ aims to address the issue of information overload and excessive communication for children in today’s digital age. It promotes a balanced and intentional approach to consuming and engaging with media and communication platforms.

    Key Elements

    Digital Well-being Education

    Integrate digital well-being education into school curricula and programs to raise awareness about the potential negative impacts of information overload and excessive communication on mental health and overall well-being.

    Mindful Media Consumption

    Encourage children to develop mindful media consumption habits by promoting selective and purposeful engagement with digital content. This involves teaching them how to evaluate the credibility and relevance of information, prioritize quality over quantity, and set healthy limits on screen time.

    Critical Thinking Skill

    Emphasize the development of critical thinking skills to help children navigate the vast amount of information available to them. Teach them how to question, analyze, and evaluate information critically, enabling them to make informed decisions and form their own opinions.

    Digital Detox and Self-Care

    Advocate for regular digital detox periods and self-care practices to help children find balance in their digital lives. Encourage activities like spending time outdoors, engaging in hobbies, reading books, practicing mindfulness, and building face-to-face social connections.

    Parental and Educator Involvement

    Involve parents and educators in promoting mindful media practices by providing them with resources, workshops, and guidance on supporting children in managing information overload. Foster open communication channels to address concerns and provide guidance on healthy media habits.

    Designing Child-Friendly Platforms

    Collaborate with technology companies and developers to create child-friendly platforms and applications that prioritize age-appropriate content, implement privacy protections, and offer tools for managing screen time and filtering information.

    Media Literacy Programs

    Implement media literacy programs in schools to equip children with the skills to critically analyze media messages, identify misinformation, and understand the persuasive techniques used in advertising and online content.

    Emotional Intelligence and Empathy

    Incorporate emotional intelligence and empathy-building activities into educational settings to help children develop resilience, empathy, and the ability to navigate online interactions with kindness and respect.

    By promoting the concept of ‘Mindful Media,’ we can empower children to become discerning consumers of information, enhance their digital well-being, and foster healthier relationships with technology and communication platforms.

    Actions that parents can take to implement MIndful media practices at home

    Set screen time limits

    Establish specific screen usage time limits and clearly communicate these limits to your children. Encourage them to engage in other activities such as outdoor play, reading, or hobbies that promote creativity and physical exercise.

    Create media-free zones and times

    Designate certain areas in your home, such as bedrooms or the dining table, as media-free zones. Establish specific times when screens are turned off during meals or before bedtime to encourage family interactions and promote better sleep.

    Be a role model

    Practice mindful media habits yourself. Show your children the importance of being present and engaged by limiting your own screen time and actively participating in activities that don’t involve screens. Children often learn by observing their parents’ behavior.

    Encourage critical thinking at home

    Teach your children to question and evaluate the content they consume. Help them develop critical thinking skills by discussing media messages, biases, and the potential impact of media on their emotions and beliefs. Encourage them to seek diverse perspectives and think critically about the information they encounter.

    Curate age-appropriate content

    Take an active role in selecting age-appropriate and educational media for your children. Look for media that promotes positive values, social-emotional learning, and educational content. Avoid excessive exposure to violent or inappropriate content.

    Engage in co-viewing and co-creating

    Watch or engage in media activities together with your children. This allows for shared experiences, promotes discussions, and helps you understand their media preferences. Encourage your children to create media content, such as videos, stories, or artwork, fostering their creativity and self-expression.

    Balance screen time with other activities

    Encourage a balanced lifestyle by providing a variety of activities beyond screens. Engage in outdoor play, encourage reading, provide art supplies, or encourage participation in sports or other hobbies that foster physical and mental well-being.

    See also Alternatives To ‘How Was School Today?’

    Foster open communication

    Create an environment where your children feel comfortable discussing their media experiences. Encourage them to share any concerns or questions they may have. Open to their perspectives and engage in meaningful conversations about media and its impact.

    Remember, implementing mindful media practices is an ongoing process that requires consistency and open communication. By taking these actions, you can help create a healthy media environment for your children at home.

    Adding mindfulness time and peace circles at home

    Adding mindfulness time and peace circles to your family routine can greatly contribute to creating a more mindful and peaceful media environment at home. Here’s how you can incorporate these practices:

    Mindfulness time

    Designate a specific time each day for mindfulness practice as a family. It could be in the morning, before bed, or any other convenient time. Create a calm and quiet space where everyone can sit comfortably. Use guided mindfulness apps or videos designed for families to help guide the practice. Engage in activities like deep breathing exercises, body scans, or guided visualizations. Encourage everyone to focus on the present moment, observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, and cultivate a sense of calm and relaxation.

    Peace circles

    Set aside regular time for peace circles where the family comes together to share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This can be done structured, with a designated talking object passed around or more informally.

    By doing this, you can create a safe and non-judgmental space where each family member can express themselves freely. Use prompts or questions to guide the discussions, such as “What made you feel peaceful today?” or “How can we create a more mindful environment at home?” Allow each person to speak and actively listen to one another without interruption. Encourage empathy, understanding, and respectful communication.

    Tech-free zones during mindfulness and peace circles:

    Make these mindfulness and peace circle times tech-free zones. Keep all devices, including smartphones, tablets, and TVs, away during these dedicated moments. This will minimize distractions and promote focused attention to the present moment and meaningful interactions with family members.

    Incorporate mindfulness into daily activities

    Extend the practice of mindfulness beyond dedicated sessions by incorporating it into daily activities. Encourage mindful eating by savoring and appreciating each bite during meals. Practice mindful walking or engage in mindful chores together, where each family member pays attention to the sensations and movements involved in the task at hand. This helps foster presence and awareness throughout the day.

    By incorporating mindfulness time and peace circles into your family routine, you provide dedicated moments for self-reflection, connection, and relaxation. These practices can strengthen family bonds, promote open communication, and create a more mindful and peaceful atmosphere at home.

    What can schools do to implement Mindful Media?

    Schools can play a crucial role in implementing mindful media practices and creating a mindful environment for students. Here are some actions schools can take:

    Integrate mindfulness education

    Incorporate mindfulness education into the curriculum, either as a standalone subject or integrated into existing subjects. Teach students about mindfulness techniques, the benefits of mindful media consumption, and how to cultivate awareness and presence in their digital interactions. Provide resources such as books, videos, and guided meditations that students can access both in the classroom and at home.

    Create mindful media guidelines

    Develop clear and comprehensive guidelines for mindful media usage within the school. This can include policies on screen time limits, appropriate content, responsible digital citizenship, and respectful online behavior. Educate students on these guidelines and regularly reinforce them through discussions and workshops.

    Offer mindfulness programs or clubs

    Establish mindfulness programs or clubs where students can actively engage in mindfulness practices. These can include guided meditation sessions, mindful movement exercises (such as yoga or tai chi), and discussions on mindful media consumption. Encourage student participation and provide a safe space for open dialogue and sharing experiences.

    Provide professional development for teachers

    Offer professional development opportunities for teachers to learn about mindfulness techniques and strategies for integrating mindful media practices into their teaching. This can help them model mindful behavior and effectively guide students in navigating the digital world in a mindful manner. Collaborate with mindfulness experts or organizations to provide training sessions and workshops.

    Foster a mindful school culture

    Create a school culture that promotes mindfulness and well-being. Encourage regular moments of silence or reflection throughout the school day, such as mindful breathing exercises or short guided meditations. Establish mindfulness practices during transitions or before important activities to help students and staff center themselves and focus their attention.

    Engage parents and caregivers

    Involve parents and caregivers in the conversation about mindful media. Offer workshops or information sessions to educate them about the importance of mindful media consumption and provide practical tips for creating a mindful media environment at home. Collaborate with parents to reinforce consistent messaging and practices between home and school.

    Collaborate with media and technology provider

    Educators can work with media and technology providers to promote and develop mindful media content and platforms. Encourage the creation of educational apps, websites, or digital resources that prioritize mindfulness, positive mental health, and responsible digital engagement. Advocate for features that enable parental controls and limit exposure to inappropriate or harmful content.

    By implementing these actions, schools can create a supportive environment that encourages mindful media consumption, fosters digital well-being, and equips students with the skills to navigate the digital world in a responsible and mindful manner.

    What can teachers do to implement Mindful Media?

    Teachers play a vital role in implementing mindful media practices in the classroom. Here are some actions teachers can take to promote mindful media consumption among their students:

    Educate students about mindful media: Take time to teach students about the concept of mindful media and its benefits. Discuss the importance of being present, aware, and intentional in their media consumption habits. Help them understand how media influences their emotions, thoughts, and overall well-being.

    Model mindful media behavior

    As a teacher, be a role model for mindful media consumption. Demonstrate healthy digital habits, such as using devices intentionally and purposefully. Show students how to take breaks from screens, engage in offline activities, and practice being fully present in the moment.

    Integrate mindfulness activities

    Incorporate short mindfulness activities into daily routines. Begin or end the class with a brief mindfulness exercise, such as a guided breathing exercise or a mindful moment of reflection. These activities can help students cultivate focus, calmness, and self-awareness before engaging with media.

    Teach critical media literacy

    Help students develop critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate media content. Teach them to question the authenticity, credibility, and biases present in media messages. Encourage them to explore diverse perspectives, challenge stereotypes, and make informed decisions about the media they consume.

    Encourage media balance

    Guide students in finding a healthy balance between media use and other activities. Encourage them to engage in physical exercise, creative pursuits, social interactions, and nature experiences. Discuss the importance of setting boundaries and self-regulating screen time to maintain overall well-being.

    Engage in media discussions

    Initiate open discussions about media topics that are relevant to the curriculum or students’ interests. Encourage students to share their thoughts, opinions, and experiences related to media. Discuss the potential impact of media on mental health, relationships, and society as a whole.

    Provide mindful media assignments

    Design assignments that promote mindful media consumption. Assign tasks that require students to critically analyze media content, create media with intention, or reflect on their personal experiences with media. Encourage them to consider the ethical implications of their media choices and the potential effects on themselves and others.

    Collaborate with parents

    Maintain open lines of communication with parents or caregivers regarding mindful media practices. Share resources, articles, or tips on how to create a mindful media environment at home. Collaborate with parents to reinforce consistent messaging and provide support for students in developing healthy media habits.

    By implementing these strategies, teachers can empower students to be mindful media consumers, helping them navigate the digital landscape with intention, critical thinking, and a focus on their overall well-being.

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  • Monterey Chicken Recipe | The Recipe Critic

    Monterey Chicken Recipe | The Recipe Critic

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    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

    This mouthwatering Monterey chicken is slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, covered in melty cheese, and topped with crisp bacon and sweet tomatoes. The combination of all these flavors creates a satisfying dish your family will want on repeat!

    Overhead shot of Monterey chicken in a baking dish. Overhead shot of Monterey chicken in a baking dish.

    Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Family-Friendly: This recipe is seriously so good and your whole family, the kiddos to the old guys will love it! Its probably because of the delicious combo of chicken, cheese, bacon, and BBQ sauce!
    • Simple and Easy: Marinate the chicken the night before, and you’ll have a quick, tasty dinner ready to go on those busy weeknights.
    • Money Saver: Love dining out but want to save some cash? This copycat of Chili’s Monterey chicken tastes even better—and won’t break the bank!

    Easy Monterey Chicken Recipe Ingredients

    The ingredients needed for this Chili’s copycat recipe are simple and work so well together. Scroll to the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken is my favorite protein for recipes like this. It absorbs the flavor so well and is so tender and juicy when it’s baked!
    • Honey: This adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors happening in this dish.
    • Soy Sauce: I feel like no marinade is complete without soy sauce! it just gives the perfect amount of flavor and saltinesss.
    • Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a complex depth of flavor you can’t get anywhere else.
    • Minced Garlic: Garlic is one of those ingredients you can measure with your heart! It adds so much delicious savory flavor.
    • Salt: Enhances everything in the marinade.
    • Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the other flavors in the dish.
    • Applewood Smoked Bacon: Provides a rich, smokey flavor and a delightful texture to this Monterey chicken.
    • Barbeque Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce. It adds so much moisture and flavor.
    • Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: With the name Monterey in the title you know this cheese is perfect for this recipe! It gives the perfect salty, cheesy goodness on top of the chicken breasts.
    • Diced Roma Tomatoes: Add a burst of freshness with a tangy flavor and a hint of sweetness
    • Chopped Green Onions: This gives the dish a pop of color and a punch of onion flavor.
    Overhead shot of labeled ingredients. Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.

    Chili’s Copycat Monterey Chicken

    This Monterey chicken dish is so easy to put together. You make the marinade, bake the chicken, then broil the cheese and sauce, and dinner is served! Just make sure to give yourself enough time to let the chicken marinate.

    1. Make Marinade: Mix the honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large sealable bag or bowl.
    2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and marinate for at least an hour or overnight.
    3. Bake Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, then place the marinated chicken into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken has fully cooked.
    4. Cook Bacon: While the chicken is baking, fry the bacon, roughly chop it, and set it aside.
    5. Top Chicken: Take the chicken out of the oven, then remove the foil, and top each breast with BBQ sauce, shredded Monterey jack cheese, and cooked bacon.
    6. Broil Chicken: Set the broiler to high and broil the chicken until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    7. Serve: Garnish with the diced tomato and green onion. Serve fresh, and enjoy!
    Overhead shot of marinade in a bowl. Overhead shot of marinade in a bowl.
    Overhead shot of chicken breasts in marinade in a bowl. Overhead shot of chicken breasts in marinade in a bowl.
    Overhead shot of marinated chicken in a baking dish. Overhead shot of marinated chicken in a baking dish.
    Angle shot of cooke bacon cut on a cutting board. Angle shot of cooke bacon cut on a cutting board.
    Overhead shot of cooked chicken in a baking dish with BBQ sauce spread on top. Overhead shot of cooked chicken in a baking dish with BBQ sauce spread on top.
    Overhead shot of a baking dish with chicken breasts with BBQ sauce and cheese spread on top. Overhead shot of a baking dish with chicken breasts with BBQ sauce and cheese spread on top.

    Monterey Chicken Variations

    • Chicken: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just be sure to bake them enough and that the chicken is thoroughly cooked. 
    • Bacon: This recipe calls for applewood smoked bacon, but you can use any bacon you prefer. 

    Close up shot of cooked Monterey chicken breast being lifted out of the baking dish, Close up shot of cooked Monterey chicken breast being lifted out of the baking dish,

    Ideas for What to Serve with Monterey Chicken

    Let me help you put together the simplest and most delicious dinner ever!

    • Side: Start with my super easy crock pot mashed potatoes. They are rich and creamy; you just have to set it and forget it!
    • Salad: Let’s make another fun copycat recipe with this Olive Garden salad copycat. It’s fresh and tangy and will go perfectly with the Monterey chicken.
    • Vegetable: You will love how quick and easy this air fryer corn on the cob recipe is. The buttery sweetness of corn will complement the savory chicken and the tangy salad.
    • Dessert: Finish your night with this sweet, simple, no-bake key lime pie. It will be the perfect fresh end to your delicious night!

    Storing Leftover Monterey Chicken

    Side shot of plated Monterey chicken cut in half. Side shot of plated Monterey chicken cut in half.

    More Cheese, Bacon, and Chicken Recipes

    I absolutely love the combination of chicken, cheese, and bacon! They are all just meant to go together. The salty, crispy bacon and melty cheese complement the tender chicken in the recipes below!

    Pin this now to find it later

    Pin It

    • Mix the honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large sealable bag or bowl.

    • Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and marinate for at least an hour or overnight.

    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the marinated chicken into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken has fully cooked.

    • While the chicken is baking, fry the bacon, roughly chop it, and set it aside.

    • Pull the chicken out of the oven, remove the foil, top each chicken cutlet with barbecue sauce, cooked bacon, and shredded Monterey jack cheese.

    • Set the broiler to high and broil the chicken until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

    • Garnish with the tomatoes and green onion. Serve fresh, and enjoy!

    Originally Posted on December 28, 2012
    Updated on September 13, 2024

    Calories: 700kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 63gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 199mgSodium: 2361mgPotassium: 1270mgFiber: 1gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 713IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 264mgIron: 3mg

    Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.



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  • Afrojack joins Loco Dice’s tech house label as Kapuchon

    Afrojack joins Loco Dice’s tech house label as Kapuchon

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    Afrojack joins Loco Dice’s tech house label as KapuchonCover Kapuchon Sven Fields Work Incl. Loco Dice Remi

    by: Andrew Spada


    Sep 12, 2024

    Tech house legend Loco Dice and his SB Recordings present a new release from Dutch artist AFROJACK, under his tech-house alias Kapuchon, and rising Dutch talent Sven Fields. Following releases from Chuckie, Carloh, and Chicks Luv Us, Kapuchon and Sven Fields’ track “Work” marks SB Recordings’ 10th release, showcasing the label’s rapid growth since its 2023 launch.
    The original version by Kapuchon and Sven, along with a remix by Loco Dice himself, offers listeners two distinct sonic experiences. This collaboration highlights the synergy between these dance music artists and underscores Loco Dice’s role as a tastemaker in the industry, a position he’s held since launching his Desolat label in 2007.
    “Work” features a driving four-on-the-floor bassline, vocals by A$AP Ferg, and a gritty, industrial atmosphere that’s likely to resonate on dancefloors worldwide. The track represents the continuing evolution of SB Recordings and hints at the exciting collaborations and musical innovations to come from this growing label.
    As SB Recordings gains momentum, it’s clear that Loco Dice is building on his extensive experience in the music industry to curate a diverse and dynamic roster of artists and releases. This latest thumper from Kapuchon, Sven Fields, and Loco Dice himself demonstrates the label’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the tech-house genre.

    Categories:



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  • Oral Care Routine (That Reversed My Cavities)

    Oral Care Routine (That Reversed My Cavities)

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    Many years ago, I shared my experience remineralizing my teeth. Since then, I’ve received hundreds of questions about my oral care routine. Although I’m not actively working to heal any cavities now, I still follow this routine to keep my teeth healthy.

    If you’re new to the idea of remineralization, this article goes in-depth on the specifics of whether you can remineralize teeth (you can!). This interview with a dentist about the body’s ability to remineralize teeth may be helpful too.

    Good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth decay and other issues like bad breath, gingivitis, and even oral cancer. Dental health also has a direct impact on the overall health and wellness of the rest of our bodies. It can cause fertility issues, pregnancy complications, heart disease, and more. It’s crucial to take care of our mouths!

    In addition to focusing on good dental care, I support a healthy mouth through diet and lifestyle. This podcast guest shares how oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. Using natural oral care products (as opposed to conventional ones) is also important for healthy teeth and dental hygiene.

    My Daily Oral Hygiene Routine

    This is the daily oral care routine I follow to help keep my mouth healthy. It helped remineralize my teeth years ago. Now, I use it to help avoid new cavities. Taking care of your teeth is an important part of remineralizing your teeth and avoiding decay. 

    Morning

    • Oil-Pulling – As soon as I wake up, I oil-pull with coconut oil and a few drops of Wellnesse Balanced Mouth Blend. I swish for 15-20 minutes, spit in the trash can, and rinse well with warm water. Don’t swallow this oil to keep any oral bacteria out of your body. This has really helped eliminate plaque and tartar buildup for me.
    • Mouth Rinse – If I don’t have time to oil-pull, I mix a few drops of the Mouth Blend with some water and use it as a mouth rinse. It’s a great alternative to conventional mouthwash.
    • Brush – After that, I brush with homemade remineralizing paste or tooth powder. I also use my Wellnesse Bamboo Toothbrush with firm bristles. Dentists often recommend daily brushing with a soft-bristled brush, but I find the firmer bristles clean teeth surfaces better. No time to make your own toothpaste at home? Try Wellnesse Whitening Toothpaste with hydroxyapatite, the mineral that makes up our tooth enamel. It’s fluoride-free and is the formula I created after years of making my own.
    • Supplements – I take this vitamin K2-7, which helps direct calcium to bones and teeth. And I also take a magnesium supplement, which is used for over 600 functions in the body. It’s so vital for health!
    • Probiotics – In the morning, I take a probiotic to support a healthy gut and overall health. I also take a Wellnesse Oral Microbiome Probiotic. It helps balance the good and bad bacteria in the mouth.

    Daytime

    • Hydrate – Our mouths need an alkaline pH to remain healthy. Drinking water helps produce more saliva and keeps the pH more alkaline. A 2013 study found those with a higher pH had worse gingivitis than those with a more alkaline pH. I drink 1/2 my body weight in filtered water.
    • Vitamin D – This is one of the most important vitamins for teeth health. And getting it from the sun is the best way to increase your vitamin D. Aside from going out at sunrise and sunset for 10-15 minutes, I aim to get 20-30 minutes of mid-day sun exposure too.

    Evening

    • Floss – I use Wellnesse Peppermint Silk Floss to make sure I get out all the food particles and remove plaque. This helps prevent periodontal issues like gingivitis.
    • Brush – After flossing, I brush again. If I want to whiten my teeth, I brush a few times a week with activated charcoal, which works wonders! You can also use Wellnesse Charcoal Toothpaste. I’ll often use the Bass brushing technique. 
    • Tongue Scraping – This is a popular Ayurvedic practice. You literally scrape your tongue to remove bacteria! I do this once a day to remove any buildup on my tongue and create a healthy mouth. Our Wellnesse Tongue Scraper is made from antimicrobial and long-lasting copper.
    • Bedtime – My bedtime is 10-10:30 pm to allow maximum restorative sleep and optimal hormone production. I spray myself with magnesium spray to improve sleep. Having trouble sleeping? Check out these helpful hacks for falling asleep.

    Oral Health Diet

    I strive to eat a healthy mix of proteins, fats, and vegetables each day. Believe it or not, diet is a key component in remineralizing teeth.

    Getting enough fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and minerals is important, so I focus on healthy fats and vegetables. Since collagen is the building block of our bodies, it’s important to get enough protein. I aim for one ounce of protein per pound of body weight (or ideal weight). I like to use protein and collagen powders.

    Limiting phytic acid is also important. Phytic acid is found in grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes. If you eat these things, soak and dehydrate them to lower the amount of phytic acid.

    Sample Diet

    Here’s what I aimed to eat each day to get the amount of vitamins, minerals, fat, and protein I needed to support good oral health. Since having my genes tested I’ve found I have the FTO genes and feel better with less saturated fat (though I still think it’s healthy!). The amount needed depends on the person but healthy fats and animal proteins are still important : 

    • 3-4 eggs with vegetables and meat or a collagen-based protein shake.  Sometimes I’ll also have healthy coffee with a boost of good fats for breakfast
    • Healthy proteins like grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, or wild-caught salmon at every meal for all meals
    • 2 cups total of homemade bone broth for lunch and dinner (No time to make bone broth at home? This is my favorite store-bought organic, grass-fed broth.)
    • 4-6 cups of vegetables, usually in soups or with meats. I’m sure to include lots of leafy greens and brightly colored vegetables
    • 2-4 tablespoons of coconut oil
    • 2+ tablespoons grass-fed butter
    • Coconut-based snacks like coconut cream
    • Other healthy fats like avocados, tallow for cooking, olive oil on salads

    The Difference of Natural Oral Care Products

    Conventional oral care products are loaded with harmful chemicals like fluoride, BPA, sodium lauryl sulfate, and phthalates. I also only use natural products on my teeth and gums. This made a big difference for me personally. After switching to natural oral care products, I realized that something in conventional ones was causing the gum irritation I’d had since I’d had braces as a teenager.

    If you want to try the DIY route, I’ve created so many great recipes over the years. In addition to the ones listed above, here’s a recipe for natural toothpaste and a squeezable recipe. And here’s a recipe for DIY herbal mouthwash.

    If you want to purchase something, check out my review of the most popular natural oral care brands. Wellnesse is the company I created after years of making my own recipes for my family. We offer everything from toothpaste to toothbrushes and dental floss to tongue scrapers.

    Importance of an Oral Care Routine

    A good oral care routine is so important to the health of your mouth and your whole body. Building good oral care habits helps you avoid things like tooth decay, plaque buildup, and gum disease. And you’ll promote good health throughout your body.

    Good dental care includes oral hygiene, natural products, and diet and lifestyle changes. This, along with regular dental check-ups by a holistic dental professional, gives you the best support in maintaining your clean mouth.

    What’s your oral care routine? Have you tried to remineralize your teeth? Did it work?

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  • Data Shows That Americans Increasingly Want to Live in Affordable Suburbs

    Data Shows That Americans Increasingly Want to Live in Affordable Suburbs

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    If you’re wondering which real estate markets make for the best investments going into 2025, the suburbs are where the action is. With affordability a major concern for buyers, low-priced suburban areas—often below $250,000—have seen a surge of new residents. 

    The good news for prospective investors is that, according to a recent report by GoBankingRates.com, these pockets of real estate gold are spread out throughout the country and represent some of the fastest-growing areas.

    The Lure of the Suburbs

    A recent Harvard study found that contrary to the demographic movements of previous generations in the 2000s and early 2010s, young adults in their 20s and 30s are the driving force behind the movement to the suburbs today. The reason? Cities are too expensive to live in. 

    “While there is extensive research and discussion about millennial preferences for walkable urban areas, we found that the places with the largest increases of early millennials were both suburban and on the periphery of metropolitan areas,” said Riordan Frost, a senior research analyst at Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies and one of the authors of a report about millennial migration with coauthors Whitney Airgood-Obrycki and Hyojung Lee.

    Before we get into the top five, it’s worth looking at the housing market’s landscape as things stand right now.

    As you can see, cash flow is tough to come buy, and prices are still elevated. That’s why finding affordable suburbs can really open the door to quality purchases.

    The Top Five

    To qualify for GoBankingRates.com’s list of hot suburban markets, each area needed a 9% or greater change in population from 2020 to 2022 and was required to be part of a metro area with at least 1 million in population. All home values had to be below $500,000, with all data collected as of Aug. 13. 

    When the top five of the 50 listed suburbs are examined, the first thing that becomes evident is the geographical and price diversity.

    1. Mooresville, North Carolina

    • July 2024 home value: $480,430
    • 2020 total population: 38,498
    • 2022 total population: 50,025
    • Two-year percentage change in total population: 29.94%
    • Median rent: $2,273

    A suburb of Charlotte, Mooresville generally skews on the higher price side, with homes close to $500,000. However, a Zillow search shows plenty of homes, even new-construction three-bedroom communities, below $250,000. 

    Mooresville is only a 30-minute commute (28 miles) to Charlotte, a hub for banking and financial services and manufacturing, energy, and automotive business.

    2. Hamtramck, Michigan

    • July 2024 home value: $167,930
    • 2020 total population: 21,704
    • 2022 total population: 27,842
    • Two-year percentage change in total population: 28.28%
    • Median rent: $1,050

    Your money goes a long way in Hamtramck, with many three- and four-bedroom homes priced below $200,000. The Detroit suburb is only 15 minutes (six miles) away from the city, allowing residents to enjoy suburban living while being a hop, skip, and a jump away from the action downtown.

    3. Buckeye, Arizona

    • July 2024 home value: $407,118
    • 2020 total population: 74,467
    • 2022 total population: 95,042
    • Two-year percentage change in total population: 27.63%
    • Median rent: $1,995

    In Buckeye, a Phoenix suburb, you can buy a stylish, renovated ranch for under $400,000. Buckeye is a 40-minute commute to Phoenix, now America’s fifth-largest city and one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Despite fears of extreme heat and water shortages, people are drawn to Phoenix for healthcare, leisure and tourism, tech, education, e-commerce, and finance employment opportunities. 

    4. Union City, Georgia

    • July 2024 home value: $259,054
    • 2020 total population: 21,976
    • 2022 total population: 26,869
    • Two-year percentage change in total population: 22.27%
    • Median rent: $1,829

    In another imminently affordable suburb, it’s easy to snap up a stylish new or recently renovated three-bedroom home for under $250,000. A mere 27 minutes (17 miles) from Atlanta, this is a great commuter suburb that allows you to work from home and still attend business meetings, socialize in the city, or commute daily.

    5. Canyon Lake, Texas

    • July 2024 home value: $461,779
    • 2020 total population: 26,338
    • 2022 total population: 32,035
    • Two-year percentage change in total population: 21.63%
    • Median rent: $1,688 

    Located about 40 miles from downtown San Antonio—like most of Texas—Canyon Lake requires a lengthy drive to go anywhere. However, San Antonio and its suburbs are booming. According to the Census Bureau, the metro area was one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., adding 22,000 residents in 2023 alone.  

    As the name suggests, Canyon Lake is a great place to cool off from the Texas heat. There are 8,200 acres of surface area water in Central Texas’ Hill Country, meaning water sports are a big attraction. Campgrounds and marinas make it a great place for family activities. The natural attraction skews many house prices into the mid-to-high $400,000s, but there are also plenty of decent homes in the $200,000-$300,000 range.

    Gen Zers Are Moving to Cities In Droves

    Interestingly, while millennials and older generations are moving out of cities, Gen Zers are moving in. Between 2021 and 2022, more than 42% of people moving to New York City were Gen Zers, according to Census Bureau data. Plus, major metropolitan areas, including New York, are experiencing population losses among all generations, except for Gen Z, a report shows.

    If cities are so expensive, how can Gen Zers afford them? To use today’s terminology, co-living. However, roommates are often only sustainable for singles or couples without kids. For those looking to start a family, the suburbs remain the big draw, and in doing so, they are changing the image of their parents’ suburbs with trendy bars, restaurants, gyms, and spas.

    Final Thoughts 

    The traditional concept of cash flow has been severely tested during the recent spike in housing prices and interest rates. The 1% rule for investing has seemed unrealistic for a while. However, in certain suburban markets, such as those mentioned here, it’s just about doable if you ignore the median house prices and hunt around the edges for deals. 

    The suburbs are great places to own rentals. They consist mostly of families who make stable renters because they live there to be in a decent school district. Thus, they are incentivized to pay rent and stay in the school district and not disrupt their kids’ lives and education while being close to a major city for work. Sought-after suburban areas usually maintain their coveted status for these reasons, meaning that investors should have no problem filling the vacancy when one tenant eventually moves out.

    Find the Hottest Markets of 2024!

    Effortlessly discover your next investment hotspot with the brand new BiggerPockets Market Finder, featuring detailed metrics and insights for all U.S. markets.

    Market Finder Site Module 1

    Note By BiggerPockets: These are opinions written by the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BiggerPockets.

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  • Funeral for son of Ukraine chief rabbi cited as rebuke to Putin’s claims of ‘de-nazification’

    Funeral for son of Ukraine chief rabbi cited as rebuke to Putin’s claims of ‘de-nazification’

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    (RNS) — Kyiv’s Brodsky Synagogue was packed with mourners Thursday (Sept. 12) for the funeral of Anton Samborskyi, who was killed in action in Russia in August after being drafted to the Ukrainian Army. 

    “Since the beginning of this terrible war, trouble knocked in the home of almost every Ukrainian — someone has lost a loved one, someone is fighting injuries,” said Samborskyi’s adoptive father, Rabbi Reuven Moshe Azman, in a memorial post on Facebook after learning that Samborskyi had been declared missing. His death was confirmed the following week. 

    Azman, one of two men who claim the title of Ukraine’s chief rabbi, is a member of the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic movement. Since the breakup of the Soviet Union, Chabad has risen to become the largest single Jewish organization operating in Eastern Europe, with hundreds of rabbis and centers serving Jewish communities across the former Soviet bloc, including 35 centers in Ukraine. 

    In the instability of the post-Soviet years, it was not uncommon for Chabad rabbis to adopt or foster Jewish orphans, as Azman and his wife did Samborskyi. “In 2002, my wife and I adopted an 11-year-old boy who had become an orphan,” said Azman Thursday. “His name was Anton Samborskyi, but we gave him the Jewish name Matityahu in honor of the heroic leader of the Maccabees’ uprising against the colonized empire more than 2,200 years ago — events that underlined the Hanukkah holiday,” Azman said in his August post.

    Matityahu (Anton) Samborsky. (Courtesy photo)

    Matityahu (Anton) Samborskyi. (Courtesy photo)

    “Moty lived in our family for about 10 years,” said the rabbi, using the nickname for Matityahu, “and when he became an adult, he decided to live on his own. He got married and had a daughter in May this year. But a week after the birth of his child, Moty was called to the army. After a crash course, the young fighter was immediately sent to the front.”

    Azman said he had last spoken to Samborskyi on July 17 and lost contact with him July 24th. It is believed he was killed soon afterward. He is survived by his wife and child.

    On Friday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy mentioned Samborskyi in a speech to a gathering of world leaders’ spouses held in Kyiv this week, offering condolences to Azman. 

    More than 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed in action since the advent of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. But Samborskyi’s funeral became something of a media spectacle in Ukraine, with dozens of journalists in attendance, in part because Azman has become somewhat of a folk hero in Ukraine since the outbreak of the war. 

    Last year, Azman made waves when a video of him sheltering from rocket fire while volunteering at the front went viral.

    “Rabbi Azman became a symbol of the resistance of Ukrainian Jewry, because he’s just this tough guy. He’s running around the front lines, he’s on TV. He’s recording videos,” Vladislav Davidzon, a Ukrainian Jewish scholar and author of “Jewish-Ukrainian Relations and the Birth of a Political Nation,” told RNS. “The entire population has seen him on TV, and he has this remarkable eloquence, which he has been articulating his position and the position of Ukrainian Jewry. So he’s become a folk hero in this way that he’s a fighting monk — a fighting rabbi.” 

    But the funeral has also garnered the spotlight of Ukrainian media because it so starkly challenged Putin’s claims of “de-nazifying” Ukraine. 

    Zelenskyy’s comments about Azman’s loss came in a part of his speech in which he asked, “How long will the world accept the story that Putin fights against Nazism in Ukraine. What Nazis?”

    “The government understands very well that this is just one more point to counteract the pervasive propaganda that comes from the Russians, that this some sort of Nazi regime,” Davidzon said. 

    Rabbi Azman made similar points in his eulogy, as did Rabbi Mayer Stambler, rabbi of the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro. In comments to RNS referring to Putin, Stambler asked: “What does it mean to say the war is about fighting Nazism, when the Nazi himself of the world goes and kills a rabbi’s son?” 

    At the funeral, Olena Tolkachova, a fundraiser for the Ukrainian military’s Azov Brigade, told the Associated Press, “This is very important for Ukraine, because not only Ukrainians from the mainstream are fighting for our country, but different ethnicities and different religious groups — Orthodox and Catholics, Jews, and representatives of the Islamic faith.” 

    The Azov Brigade faced accusations of antisemitism and association with neo-Nazi groups when it was founded as a volunteer militia in 2014, but today is thought to have moderated into a regular military unit since being brought under Ukrainian military commanders. 

    Relatives and Ukraine's chief rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman, right, mourn at the coffin of Azman's adopted son, Matityahu (Anton) Samborsky, who was killed in the war with Russia, during a mourning service in the Brodsky synagogue in Kyiv, Ukraine, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky)

    Relatives and Ukraine’s chief rabbi, Moshe Reuven Azman, right, mourn at the coffin of Azman’s adopted son, Matityahu (Anton) Samborskyi, who was killed in the war with Russia, during a mourning service in the Brodsky Synagogue in Kyiv, Ukraine, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky)

    Samborskyi’s story also resonates with Ukrainians who have growing concerns about the recently increased rate of conscription. Despite significant strategic gains and opening a front inside Russia’s borders, the army is suffering a shortage of troops. In April, Zelenskyy signed a bill lowering the minimum recruitment age from 27 to 25. The age was initially set high to avoid depleting the population of working-age men, something the Soviet Union faced at the end of the Second World War.  

    In the early days of the war, Ukraine had a surplus of volunteers, but as the conflict has ground on, waning morale has slowed recruitment, as have allegations of corruption lodged against the army’s recruitment departments that led Zelenskyy to dismiss several officials. The low recruitment has meant draftees receive only abbreviated training before being sent to the front. 

    Reports of roving recruiters have put a chill on community life across Ukraine, including religious life. According to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, synagogues are seeing fewer and fewer men at prayers and community events, as military-age men are limiting non-essential outings. 

    Ukraine’s rabbis have shown support for the cause, especially Chabad’s. 

    In the early days of the war, many Chabad rabbis made a point of staying with their communities, even as some towns and cities fell under Russian occupation. “At the beginning of the war, many people escaped the country, but we, the rabbis, the rabbis of Chabad especially, stayed,” Stambler said. “This is actually what it says in the Torah, that every Jewish community must be as patriotic as we can and pray for the success of the country.”

    Stambler said that their presence has only increased Chabad’s profile in the country. “People appreciate it very highly, we feel it from the local community, from the local people and the government, and it is one more strong statement that we are an important part of the population for the good, and in tragedy,” Stambler added. 

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  • Ask Ethan: Could we determine if UAPs/UFOs are aliens? | by Ethan Siegel | Starts With A Bang! | Sep, 2024

    Ask Ethan: Could we determine if UAPs/UFOs are aliens? | by Ethan Siegel | Starts With A Bang! | Sep, 2024

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    There are many sights in Earth’s night sky that have been witnessed by humans that don’t have a clear and compelling scientific explanation. But an “unidentified object” doesn’t necessarily mean aliens, and might be evidence of an entity, government/military-based or otherwise, that doesn’t want to identify itself. (Credit: Annelisa Leinbach, Rémi Jacquaint / Unsplash)

    Although a great many unidentified sights have been seen in the skies, none have conclusively demonstrated the presence of aliens. So far.

    Whenever we’re outside on a clear, starry night, our eyes are inexorably, almost irresistibly, drawn skyward, as if we can’t help ourselves from pondering and contemplating the great expanse of space that lies above us, separated only by our thin atmosphere. Yet within that atmosphere, many sights appear that often confound us: streaks of lights, sometimes flashing and sometimes steady, sometimes colored and sometimes white, frequently appearing to move at angle that make it difficult to know precisely what the nature of this object is or how far away it truly is from us. Most of these phenomena turn out to have mundane explanations, but for a few of them, their presence remains unexplained.

    Could these hard-to-identify objects, normally called an unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) or an unidentified flying object (UFO), be signs of something beyond what modern science has the ability to explain? Could they even, potentially, be the result of activity by intelligent extraterrestrials? We shouldn’t let our imaginations run wild; we should figure out how to answer these questions scientifically…

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