*Mornings Archives

The Happy Headline of the Day – Friday, January 22

January 22, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
Last year, the staff at Kenneth Carberry Elementary School in Emmett, Idaho, welcomed seven-year-old Pete Goers as a student. But because of a condition he was born with, Pete deals with special challenges each day, including the need for a wheeled walker to get around.
The walker seemed to work fine inside the school and in the classroom, but Pete was having a hard time getting to the playground — even with the help of his twin brother, Dane.
So, the school staff started a fundraising campaign, that led to $32,000 being raised to build a special path — which they call “Pete’s Path” — in the school yard that allows Pete to get to and from the playground each day.
Thanks to the attention and hard work of those who work with Pete each day, he’s now able to enjoy daily routines that put a smile on his face — and allow him to spend time with his classmates, both inside the classroom and out. (KTVB-TV)

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The Daily Dish – Friday, January 22

January 22, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
Coming February 5th to the FX Network, The New York Times presents Framing Britney Spears.
The documentary examines the dirty details of her conservatorship. The manipulation. The conflicts of interest. Where the money goes and Britney’s court battle to remove her father as conservator.
Framing Britney Spears features interviews of showbiz insiders, attorneys and a #FreeBritney organizer.
FX teased the episode on Thursday with the promo: (quote) “Her rise was a global phenomenon. Her downfall was a cruel national sport. People close to Britney Spears and lawyers tied to her conservatorship now reassess her career as she battles her father in court over who should control her life.” (Billboard)
Dave Chappelle has tested positive for COVID-19, forcing him to cancel his shows this week in Austin, Texas. This comes a few days after the comedian was photographed with Joe Rogan, Elon Musk and Grimes at Stubb’s Ampitheater. None of them wore a mask. (TMZ)
Kim Kardashian knows how to create drama, especially when it comes to her reality show.
According to reports, Kim is keeping quiet about her divorce, so she can use her breakup with Kanye West for Keeping Up With the Kardashians storyline.
BuzzFeed News theorizes that a few weeks back Kim deleted a photo of herself not wearing her wedding ring to keep “quiet” on the divorce rumors “because she was planning to address the subject on the upcoming 20th and final season of Keeping Up With the Kardashians.”
As the site puts it, “After all, for 14 years the family have followed the same tradition of stoking media gossip in the run up to each season premiere before leaving the big reveal to the show. And Season 20 will be their last chance to maximize the drama before KUWTK ends.
The theory seems valid as Page Six reports that Kim and Kanye’s marital issues will be a key storyline in the show’s final season. A source said, “The Kardashians intend to go out with a bang.”
Filming on Season 20 ended two weeks ago, so we should find out soon.

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Furry Friends Friday with “Turkey” from Al-Van Humane Society – January 22

January 22, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Furry Friends, The Coast Social Network

Hi friends! My name is Turkey!  I came to Al-Van Humane Society as a stray close to Thanksgiving of 2019, hence my name Turkey. I am a smart guy – I know sit, shake, lay down and am working on other commands. I LOVE treats – I mean who doesn’t? Treats are the way to my heart!  I like to go outside and be active, play with stuffed toys, and be spoiled. I am ready to fall in your lap and brighten your mood.  I am looking for a home that will be patient, work at my pace, and slowly introduce myself to new things.  Do you think I could become part of your flock? Start by filling out an adoption application online at www.al-van.org/adopt. Once reviewed, the humans at Al-Van Humane Society will contact you to schedule a meet and greet with me.... [Read Full Story]

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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Friday, January 22

January 22, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
TODAY IS:
  • National Hot Sauce Day: A good day to spice things up.
     
Can you guess the booziest city in the country? If you said Reno, you would be right. The Biggest Little City was number one on Men’s Health’s list of 100 Booziest Cities in the U.S. The editors analyzed a number of factors, from percentage of excessive drinking reports, to DUI-related fatalities, to percentage of underage drinking.
Here are the Top 10:
  1. Reno, Nevada
  2. Denver, Colorado
  3. Billings, Montana
  4. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  5. Fargo, North Dakota
  6. Madison, Wisconsin
  7. Portland, Maine
  8. Toledo, Ohio
  9. Washington, D.C.
  10. Charleston, South Carolina
Speaking of booze … You might not be traveling right now … but you can get onboard with the American Airlines Wine Club. Yep, the airline is offering its in-flight wines to consumers, via a wine club. “Each year, a dedicated team of wine experts carefully reviews nearly 2,000 bottles to select those that will join the award-winning American Airlines wine program,” an AA statement says. “For the first time ever, travel and wine enthusiasts can enjoy these premium wines by having them delivered straight to their door with American’s new Flagship Cellars at-home wine experience.” You’ll get three bottles a month – that you can choose or have a sommelier choose for you – for $100. (Food & Wine)
This is a question for all of you working from home. Are you happy being at home – or are you missing the office? According to a new YouGov poll, home is where the heart – and home office – is. A whopping 80% of respondents said they enjoyed working from home, and 86% who are working from home who weren’t before the pandemic said they would like to keep working from home … at least some, or most, of the time. Only 5% of those surveyed said they want to be back in a physical workplace full-time after the pandemic.
Speaking of working from home … Apparently there is now a wristband that lets your boss know how you’re feeling. No joke. The bracelet, called a Moodbeam, is designed to allow remote workers to let their bosses know their emotional state. The wristband, which links to an app on your phone, has two buttons, one yellow and one blue. Apparently, you press the yellow one if you’re happy, and the blue one if you’re sad. Yeah, no … (BBC)
With online dating pretty much the norm these, there isn’t much talk of people being “set up” on blind dates anymore. But it still happens … and even at our highest levels of government. According to a 2020 survey by DatingAdvice.com, 43% of Americans said they’ve been on at least one blind date — and that includes President Joe Biden and VP Kamala Harris. (Insider)

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Music News – Friday, January 21

January 22, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News
Lewis Capaldi may be ready to shake up his personal life in a big way — by changing his underwear preference from boxers to briefs.
The ‘Someone You Loved’ singer swung by the On With Mario Lopez podcast to discuss his hits, his upcoming album and, most importantly, his underthings. Lewis took his usual self-mocking stance, saying: “I like a Calvin Klein brief but I don’t need them for the support, there’s nothing going on down there.”
Even so, he’s willing to follow Justin Bieber and Shawn Mendes into Calvin-land, and says. “I think this year, I’m going to be 25 in October, I’m going to graduate from being a boxer man to a brief. I want my budgie to be smuggled, get the goodies on show. I’m very much looking forward to it.”
For those who don’t speak British, a budgie is a parakeet.
Blake Shelton tells NBC that he is nervous about becoming a step-father to Gwen Stefani’s children. “That’s a scary moment for me, because it’s one thing for me to be with the kids all the time and be their buddy. But then, you do have to consider after a while that they’re starting to listen to things that you say. And there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with that, which is new to me.”
Jon Bon Jovi tells Forbes magazine that he failed when singing his own song on Guitar Hero. “I decided to try ‘Wanted Dead Or Alive. I failed–it buzzed me down. So I stood up off the couch and I said, ‘All right, press play.’ They did it again, I failed again, and I said, ‘Everybody’s going to bed. That’s the end of this. Turn that off!””

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The Happy Headline of the Day – Thursday, January 21

January 21, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Newport, Rhode Island, does a lot of good for families in the community. It provides food for the hungry, educates young people – and helps senior citizens stay healthy and strong.
And thanks to Jane Mead Timken, the center will be able to do even more good things as Jane sold her house – and handed over the $1.7 million in proceeds.
It was the largest gift to the organization in its 100-year history.
The idea for the donation started when all this coronavirus stuff started. Jane learned that demands for programs at the center were increasing in a big way – and fast.
So, she made the commitment and gave the center a huge boost, allowing the group to operate on firm financial footing – both now and for many years in the future.

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The Daily Dish – Thursday, January 21

January 21, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
President Trump pardoned more than 100 people on his last day in office, including rapper Lil Wayne, but “Tiger King” Joe Exotic wasn’t among them.
Back in April, Trump said he’d “take a look” at the issue — which kickstarted a campaign to get Joe released. In September, Joe’s legal team tried to hand-deliver Joe’s pardon request in D.C.
On Wednesday, Team Tiger said, “We are as disappointed that the President did not sign Joe’s pardon, as we were confident yesterday that he would.”
One person who isn’t disappointed is Joe’s nemesis, Carole Baskin. She tells BuzzFeed News, “I think only Joe’s team and the media were ever even thinking about a pardon for Joe. There is no benefit, other than a feeble attempt to deflect attention, for anyone to pardon someone who walked up to five tigers and shot them in the head in order to clear cage space for the circus, who was going to pay him to board their tigers during the offseason.”
Joe was convicted of plotting to murder Carole, among other charges.
Mossimo Giannulli has been released from solitary confinement, Us Weekly reports.
The fashion designer, and husband of Lori Loughlin, is now in the minimum security area of the Federal Correctional Institution, where he was supposed to be placed when he entered the prison in November. Instead, he spent an “extended period” in quarantine because of the pandemic.
Mossimo, who’s serving five months for his role in the college admissions scandal, is believed to have caught the virus behind bars.
His lawyers have asked for a reduction to his sentence because of his time in solitary. A judge has yet to make a decision.
Lori completed her sentence in December after two months behind bars.
The National Enquirer claims Chris Hemsworth and Jason Momoa are allegedly feuding as both are filming new movies in Australia. A source tells the magazine, “They both have huge egos, and they’ve been sniping at each other since Jason has been making himself comfortable on Chris’ home turf in Australia. Now things are getting a little personal. Chris has gotten a little jealous of all the attention Jason’s gotten in his own backyard.”
OK! magazine says Kelly Clarkson is plotting a revenge makeover to make her estranged husband, Brandon Blackstock, jealous. A source tells the magazine, ”Playing around with her look is a welcome distraction. She was tired of seeing the same old face and person in the mirror and felt she needed a boost. She’s moving on to an edgier, sleek and sexy look for both her show and her personal life. It won’t be anything over-the-top, but she’s ditching the jeans, sweats, and long-sleeved shirts and splurging on clothes that let her flash a little flesh and show off her curves. She figures it’s well overdue.”

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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Thursday, January 21

January 21, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
TODAY IS:
National Hugging Day: A good day to hug it out … with someone in your pandemic pod, of course.
This is really cute … Apparently when Mindy Kaling‘s three-year-old daughter, Katherine, saw Kamala Harris being sworn in as Vice President, she asked, “Is that Mommy?” Kaling posted about the cute moment on Instagram, writing, “I was at work, but apparently she said: ‘Is that Mommy? It looks like Mommy.’ Best compliment I ever got! It matters. Happy Inauguration, everyone.” (Pop Sugar)
As they enter the White House, the Bidens are bringing along their two German Shepherds, Champ and Major. Not only do “first dogs” Champ and Major mark a return of pups to the White House, but they are entering the White House as stars in their own right, as subjects of a new children’s book called Champ and Major: First Dogs by Joy McCullough. In addition, Major has made history by becoming the first shelter dog in the White House. (People)
Super Bowl 55 is still more than two weeks away but is already making history. The teams haven’t been decided yet, but the officiating crew has been announced and it includes Sarah Thomas, the first female official in NFL history. On February 7th, she will become the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl. The NFL issued a statement saying, “Sarah Thomas has made history again as the first female Super Bowl official. Her elite performance and commitment to excellence has earned her the right to officiate the Super Bowl. Congratulations to Sarah on this well-deserved honor.” (NBC Sports)
Well, it turns out money actually does buy happiness … According to Matthew Killingsworth, a researcher from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, the more money you make, the happier you are. The reason? Having money gives you more freedom and more choices. “When you have more money, you have more choices about how to live your life,” says Killingsworth. “You can likely see this in the pandemic. People living paycheck to paycheck who lose their job might need to take the first available job to stay afloat, even if it’s one they dislike. People with a financial cushion can wait for one that’s a better fit. Across decisions big and small, having more money gives a person more choices and a greater sense of autonomy.”

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Music News – Thursday, January 21

January 21, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News
Camila Cabello is launching a new mental health effort with a very specific goal — helping frontline workers of all kinds overcome their issues.
The “Havana” singer donated the seed money for the Healing Justice Project, and has matched all donations dollar-for dollar — a total of $250,000 so far. The initial round of 10 organizations will receive grants to cover six months’ worth of mental health care for workers.
Camila has promised to use her massive social media presence to promote the groups she’s helping fund. (Hollywood Reporter)
Lady Gaga was in Washington, DC Tuesday night on the eve of her historic national anthem performance at yesterday’s Presidential Inauguration, and she took some time to visit the U.S. Capitol and say a prayer.
Gaga tweeted a photo of herself praying inside the empty rotunda, which was filled with rioters two weeks ago. She wrote, “I pray tomorrow will be a day of peace for all Americans. A day for love, not hatred. A day for acceptance not fear. A day for dreaming of our future joy as a country. A dream that is non-violent, a dream that provides safety for our souls.”
Cher may do a virtual concert. She posted: “Was thinking of doing virtual Concert.. Some Of My favorites that were Never Hits & Some that were…. only Problem … BEEN SINGING 50+ YRS… TOO MANY SONGS”
Stevie Nicks tells NPR.org that being in a band is like being on a basketball team. “In the Fleetwood Mac world … it’s like you’re on a basketball team. You have to be a team player when you’re in a band. You’re never going to be able to be like that freewheeling, roller-skating woman that I am in my own world.”

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The Happy Headline of the Day – Wednesday, January 20

January 20, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
Last month, Evelyn Topper lost her wallet at a coffee shop in San Rafael, California. Somehow, some way, that wallet ended up in a dumpster — which was found by a homeless man named Sean Curry.
Well, Sean ended up tracking down Evelyn to make sure she got her wallet back.
Evelyn and her 12-year-old granddaughter were so touched by the efforts Sean took — and the situation Sean was in — that they started a GoFundMe campaign to help him out. The campaign was a huge success.
Amazingly, more than $50,000 has been raised so that Sean, who has been living inside his SUV, can find a home. The money is also being used to build shelters for others who are dealing with homelessness.
All this fundraising and charity was unexpected, but it happened anyway, simply because Sean wanted to do the right thing — and return a wallet to a stranger. (The Mercury News)

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The Daily Dish – Wednesday, January 20

January 20, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
Kanye West is finally lawyering up.
A source tells People magazine that the rapper and wife Kim Kardashian have “completely” stopped going to marriage counseling. They had been going to therapy to save their relationship, but now it’s apparently over.
The insider adds that Kanye “is talking to divorce lawyers this week.”
Kim has already been in talks with high-profile divorce attorney Laura Wasser.
As another source puts it, “The love story between Kim and Kanye has been over for a long time. They adored each other but have too many differences.”
Alec Baldwin has left Twitter amid his wife’s Spanish heritage scandal.
Alec’s last tweet read, “Twitter is like a party where everyone is screaming. Not much of a party. Goodbye for now.”
This comes a few weeks after wife Hilaria Baldwin’s was accused of pretending to be Spanish, though she was born Hillary Lynn Hayward-Thomas in Boston and has no Spanish ethnicity.
Alec defended his wife in an Instagram video saying “when you love somebody, you wanna defend them” and urged people to “consider the source.”
If you loved the Muppet Show back in the day here’s a special treat. All five seasons of Jim Henson’s popular variety show will be streaming on Disney+ starting Friday, Feb.19th. The series originally aired from 1976 to 1981 on CBS and in the U.K. on ITV. In addition to the show’s first three seasons, seasons 4 and 5 will also be available to stream for the first time.

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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Wednesday, July 20

January 20, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
TODAY IS:
  • Inauguration Day
  • National DJ Day
  • National Cheese Lovers Day (The favorite cheese of Michiganders? Swiss cheese)
For the first time ever, a vegan restaurant has been awarded the coveted Michelin Star rating. ONA, located near the Bordeaux region in France, doesn’t just avoid meat based foods in their cuisine. According to the New York Times they forego all animal products completely including leather and wool textiles in their seating and décor.
And speaking of Vegan … How do you feel about meat grown in a lab? With more people going vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian, and others cutting back on meat consumption due to health reasons or concerns about the treatment of animals, there’s a new choice – meat grown in a lab. Researchers from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, say they’ve developed a new form of lab-grown meat that tastes better and has a better texture than other types of “alternative meat.” According to the researchers, the meat can even be “tuned” to have whatever fat content or marbling you like. “We are creating slabs of meat,” said researcher Ravi Selvaganapathy. “Consumers will be able to buy meat with whatever percentage of fat they like — just like they do with milk.” He says, “It felt and tasted just like meat.” (EurekAlert)
Now you’ve got a good reason to turn off the camera during your video chats … According to a new study from MIT, Yale, and Purdue University, those video calls are bad for the environment. According to researchers, just one hour in a video conference or streaming shows in high-definition emits between 150 and 1,000 grams of carbon dioxide and requires two to 12 liters of water. However, leaving your camera off during calls will reduce your carbon footprint by 96%. And streaming in standard definition rather than HD could bring an 86% reduction, according to researchers.
Celebs are struggling with their weight during quarantine too. Singer Ciara, who is married to NFL quarterback Russell Wilson and recently gave birth to her third child during the pandemic, has joined Weight Watchers as an ambassador to help with her weight loss and fitness journey. Adapting for safety measures, Ciara says she exercises mostly at home with her children, husband, and pets. She also says that marking down her goals and celebrating with little wins are great ways to stay motivated. (USA Today)
Speaking of goals… TikTok is helping us take on the new year with the 3-6-9 method on how to manifest our goals. Here’s how it works: First, pick what it is that you want to manifest. In the morning, shortly after waking up, write down that manifestation three times. In the afternoon, write it down six more times. Finally, at night, write it down nine times. Seems frequency and repetition are important factors in manifestation practices — and can help turn your wishes into reality. (Yahoo)

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Music News – Wednesday, January 20

January 20, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News
Ed Sheeran tells NME.com that his first manager wanted him to dye his hair. “The other management actually resigned from me because they didn’t think I was going anywhere. They told me I needed to drop the looping pedal, dye my hair black and give up the rapping.”
Phil Collins tells ConsequenceOfSound.com that he needs to practice how to write music again. “I mean, I haven’t written in such a long time that I need to get back into the groove of it, the rhythm of it. And I’ve got lots of ideas. I’ve got lots of bits that I haven’t developed that are just sitting there, and I’ve even got some lyrics that need music, so I’ve got things to start on.”
Garth Brooks is ready to help ring in a new presidency! The country legend announced that he will be performing at Joe Biden’s inauguration as part of the swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol building on Wednesday. In a ZOOM press conference with reporters, he called it an honor to play at the historic event. No word yet on which song Brooks will preform. He played “We Shall Be Free” at the Obama inauguration.

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The Happy Headline of the Day – Tuesday, January 19

January 19, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
Caitlin Gooch of Wendell, North Carolina, is using her passion for horses as a way to help raise literacy rates in her community by getting more kids interested in reading.
Caitlin was volunteering with young students in an after-school program and discovered that many kids couldn’t read or spell even simple words. She also realized that they loved looking at all of her photos of horses. So, she made a deal with them …
If they got all of their spelling words correct, they were invited to visit her father’s farm and meet the horses in person.
It worked. Many kids made it a priority to do better on the tests — and were rewarded with a visit to the special farm.
Caitlin then started a program called Saddle Up and Read. She now loads her truck and trailer with donated books and stuffed animals — along with a horse or two — and takes the show on the road to different neighborhoods, parks and parking lots so the kids can get a book and pet a horse.
As she sees the impact her work is having on children, Caitlin wants to expand the program in the future — and even create a permanent facility with the goal of raising literacy rates in North Carolina and beyond.

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The Daily Dish – Tuesday, January 19

January 19, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
People magazine reports that Ben Affleck and Ana de Armas have broken up.
Ana sold her modest home in Venice only five months ago and moved into Ben’s mansion. Surprisingly, sources told People (quote) “This is something that was mutual and something that is completely amicable. They are in different points in their lives.” (People)
Neighbors say they have not seen Ana since before the holidays. A second source said Ana dumped Ben during a phone call!
They argued over having children. He refused to give her babies. Ben has three pre-teens with Jennifer Garner. An insider confirmed (quote) “He would not commit to having more kids. She is in her 30s. It was a deal-breaker.”
Ana met Ben on the movie set of Deep Water. It’s scheduled for release in August, which could make red carpet arrivals awkward. (New York Post)
Lucie Arnaz wants everyone to just relax. The daughter of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz is trying to calm fans worked up about casting for the upcoming film, “Being the Ricardos.” The Amazon Studios movie will be written and directed by Aaron Sorkin. But fans got upset after Deadline reported that Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem will star in it. In a Facebook post, Lucie Arnaz seemed happy with the casting and said the film is not “a remake of I Love Lucy.” Instead, it’s the story about her parent’s real-life love story.
Female First says a limo is waiting outside of Joe Exotic’s prison because he believes Donald Trump will pardon him today. Joe’s lawyer, Eric Love, says, “We’re going to be celebrating. We’re confident enough we already have a limousine parked about half a mile from the prison. I’ve got make-up, wardrobe, the whole unit that will come up. The first thing Joe wants to do, he wants his hair done. He hasn’t had his hair done in two-and-a-half years. That’s the first order of business. Then we’ll probably go and get some pizzas, steak, maybe a McRib. I think the president has sided with us and I believe it will take most of the limelight away from president-elect Joe Biden.”

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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Tuesday, January 19

January 19, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News
TODAY IS:
Popcorn Day: A good day for a bowl of popcorn and a movie
Would you rather have a paid day off every month or an increase in your salary? A new poll found that 57% of employees would rather have the extra time off. And get this – this 57% would rather have that day off every month to deal with personal stuff like appointments and getting things done at home than get a 10% bump in salary. Younger people surveyed were even more inclined to choose the personal day. 69% of Gen Z and 64% of Millennials said they’d rather have a monthly “life admin” day than more money in their paychecks. Baby Boomers, on the other hand, would rather have the increase in salary. (SWNS)
Seems the Show Me state is stressed … According to new research, Missouri is the most stressed-out state in the country, with residents there spending three hours and 18 minutes per day worried or anxious. Missouri was followed closely by Mississippi; where folks spend three hours and 12 minutes every day stressed; and West Virginia, whose residents spend three hours and six minutes worrying every day.
The top five causes of their stress?
  1. Finances/their financial situation — 41%
  2. COVID-19 and the ongoing pandemic — 35%
  3. Politics and current news — 29%
  4. Work/their job — 21%
  5. Social life/personal relationships –19% (SWNS)
This is amazing … Researchers from New York’s Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai believe that eye stem cells from cadavers can be implanted in the eyes of live patients – potentially curing blindness.
We’re flexible … A new survey has found that 47% of respondents overall and 54% of respondents between the ages of 24 and 39 consider themselves “flexitarians” – meaning they are basically vegetarians but sometimes eat meat.
Speaking of flexibility ... According to researchers out of the University of Rochester, the happiest couples all have one trait in common … psychological flexibility. It sounds complicated, but according to experts it’s about being easy-going, keeping a positive outlook during difficult times, and basically being able to handle change effectively. According to the research, couples who are psychologically flexible “can roll with the changes much easier and deal with the curveballs that life throws at them.”  (Fatherly)

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The Happy Headline of the Day – Monday, January 18

January 18, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
Inmates at Soledad State Prison in California raised a staggering $32,000 to help a high school student pay for his tuition.
For the past seven years, students from a nearby private school were part of a book club at the prison. The inmates were so thankful for the interactions with the students that they banded together and saved the very little money they earned behind bars — and turned that money into a scholarship for a student in need.
They found that student in Sy Green. Before his sophomore year, Sy’s mom and dad had to deal with some rough medical problems, and both of them lost their jobs.
But thanks to the scholarship, Sy was able to pay his tuition and continue going to the school.
Sy graduated and is attending college. He says he intends to pay it forward once he wraps up his studies and begins his career.
The inmates are proud of the help they were able to give to Sy — and look forward to continuing to do what they can, both while they are behind bars, as well as after they complete their sentences.

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The Daily Dish – Monday, January 18

January 18, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
Bella Thorne is the lone celeb defending Armie Hammer against accusations of having cannibalistic sexual fantasies.
The former Disney star headed to her Instagram Story to rant about “fake screenshots” going around about Armie. She says, “I honestly can’t believe this…people are crazy to fake this kinda [crap] this poor guy and his kids like leave him and his family alone. No way he’s a freaking CANNIBAL…..”
Last week, alleged screenshots of Armie talking about being “100% a cannibal” were posted on social media. We don’t know if the screenshots are real but ex-girlfriend Courtney Vucekovich recently told Page Six that Armie once told her that he wanted to “barbecue and eat” her. Armi calls the claims B.S.
Dustin Diamond, who’s been diagnosed with stage-four cancer, is being honored by NASCAR driver Josh Bilicki.
His car, which is being sponsored by Insurance King, will be wrapped to pay homage to Saved by the Bell and to wish the star well.
TMZ says the number-89 Ford Mustang hasn’t been wrapped yet, but a rendering of the paint job has been released. The car will debut later this year.
Dustin stars in Insurance King commercials.
People magazine says Jeopardy fans have started a petition to get the Jeopardy studio and stage named after Alex Trebek. The change.org petition reads, “He inspired millions of his fans ever since he started hosting the syndicated version of ‘Jeopardy!’ in 1984. He was seen by millions of fans over 37 years and his legacy will live on forever. Godspeed, Alex Trebek. We love you, then, now and forever. Having Stage 10 dedicated to him would be the ultimate posthumous honor.”

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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Monday, January 18

January 18, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
Today is:
  • MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY (3rd MONDAY IN JANUARY) — The nation pauses to honor the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The third Monday in January is dedicated as a day of service to celebrate the civil rights leader’s life and impact. He was assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968. The holiday was first observed as a federal holiday 25 years ago.
  • NATIONAL PEKING DUCK DAY
  • NATIONAL ‘WINNIE THE POOH’ DAY
  • NATIONAL THESAURUS DAY
They make smartphones and smart homes. How do you feel about a smart toilet? Toilet and bath manufacturer Toto unveiled a concept at C.E.S. last week – a toilet that can assess your health by examining what you leave behind. Ok, that’s a little creepy. Yep, based on your ‘business,’ the toilet’s sensors will track your mental and physical health, transmit the data to an app, then offer suggestions on how to eat healthier or alert you if it detects a possible illness. Still a little creepy. No date yet on when the wellness toilet will be available.
As it turns out, there may actually be some magic in those magic mushrooms after all. Researchers at the University of British Columbia are studying how the psychedelic drug found in magic mushrooms can help treat obesity. The drug psilocybin (sigh-luh-sigh-bin) has been shown to alter neural pathways in the brain that can help people shift their mindsets. The scientists hope the trippy drug can also be used for effective weight-loss purposes. Previous studies suggest that psilocybin is also effective in treating anxiety and depression.
If you’re planning on filing your tax returns early, you’ll have to wait a few weeks. On Friday the I.R.S. said they won’t start accepting 2020 individual tax returns until February 12th. The agency says they need more time to program and test their computer systems after Congress passed a tax relief law last month. The late start date also means you should expect late returns. The April 15th tax deadline, which was extended last year, remains unchanged this year.
The shelter where President-elect Joe Biden adopted his dog threw an “indoguration” to celebrate the pooch’s imminent arrival at the White House. It was all held over Zoom. Recording artist Josh Groban joined the virtual event, singing a version of “(How Much Is) That Doggie in the Window.” He adapted just for Major, a now 3-year-old German Shepherd. Major is the first shelter dog to ever to live in the White House.

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Music News – Monday, January 18

January 18, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News
Shawn Mendes has found a new way to bowl fans over — with a custom Chipotle bowl bearing his name.
The Canadian cutie is teaming with the chain for a charity initiative that will give “Wonder Grants” to young people working to promote sustainable lifestyles. As part of the plan, Chipotle has introduced a Shawn Mendes Bowl, which includes Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice, black beans, chicken, roasted chili-corn salsa, romaine lettuce and guacamole. One dollar from each bowl will go to fund the grants.
Demi Lovato believes space aliens are among us. She’s inspired Kesha to summon aliens to earth.
Kesha told Entertainment Tonight, “Demi mentioned to me a couple books and an app that I immediately downloaded. I told my family, ‘All I want for Christmas is for us all to meditate and try to channel extraterrestrials.’”
She gives full credit to Demi Lovato, who’s convinced while visiting Joshua Tree, California that she interacted with aliens just “20 or 30 feet away.” Kesha launched a podcast, Kesha and the Creepies, to chat about unexplained phenomena. (Billboard)
Ed Sheeran tells the BBC that he once got rid of his phone. “I was at a house party and 50% of the people were either Snapchatting or watching Snapchat. Someone said: “Why don’t you have a phone any more?” and I was like: “Look around you. This is exactly why I don’t have a phone.””

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The Happy Headline of the Day – Friday, January 15

January 15, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
When all this coronavirus stuff started, Katherine Kehrli of Seattle, Washington, realized that more and more people were baking at home. An avid baker herself, Katherine also realized that there was a way for all these talented people to help those in need.
She started a charity group — Community Loaves — with the mission of donating home-baked bread to a local food bank.
The project has been a huge hit. When it started, donations trickled in. But over the past months, donations have poured in from home bakers all over Seattle, which has resulted in the delivery of over 1,300 loaves of bread.
Katherine and her team of volunteers even developed a simple recipe that everyone can follow, with each batch making four loaves.
Volunteers are encouraged to donate three loaves — and then keep one for themselves — which rewards the volunteers for their time and also allows them to pay it forward to those in need. (Yahoo)

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The Daily Dish – Friday, January 15

January 15, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
Dustin Diamond’s worst fears materialized. Doctors diagnosed the 44-year-old Saved By the Bell actor with stage four cancer. Chemotherapy treatments were immediately started. (Entertainment Weekly)
Screech’s rep posted a message at Facebook. (quote) “At this time, we can confirm that Dustin does have cancer. Dustin will disclose more information once it is available and a plan moving forward is made.”
Shortly after his 44th birthday last week, Diamond was rushed to the hospital in excruciating pain. Most notable was a “huge lump on his throat.” (The Today Show)
Chris Evans is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Deadline reports.
A source says, “It’s still vague whether the deal is closed, but insiders say it’s headed in that direction for Evans to return as Steve Rogers aka Captain America in at least one Marvel property, with the door open for a second film.”
Insiders say it’s unlikely to be a new Captain America movie and “more likely to be like what Robert Downey Junior did after Iron Man 3, appearing in such films as Captain America: Civil War and Spider-Man: Homecoming.”
Chris didn’t seem to get the memo. He responded to the reports, tweeting, “News to me,” along with a shrugging emoji. Or maybe he’s keeping it close to the vest.
Chris had said he was done with the character, but sources say that “things changed in recent months as the idea was floated of Evans returning to the MCU as Rogers to see if there was any interest; as the weeks went by, Evans became more game to the idea, with the two sides coming to agreement at the top of the year.”
Tom Cruise has unleashed robots onto the set of Mission: Impossible 7 to maintain Covid-19 protocols. Yes, robots.
The Sun says T.C. is so serious about not getting shut down that he paid “huge sums” for two high-tech bots. As a source says, Tom “can’t be everywhere to ensure people are behaving themselves.”
The robots can also administer spot tests to the crew.
While filming in England last month, Cruise made headlines when he went off on two workers who stood too close together.
Shooting resumes this week in the U.K. and then heads to Dubai.
The source adds, “The robots are really sophisticated and rather intimidating. It’s like the Terminator only not as violent.”

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Furry Friends Friday with Timmy from Cass County Animal Control – January 15

January 15, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Furry Friends, The Coast Social Network

Timmy is a very timid 10 month old male cat looking for a patient owner. He enjoys playing hide ‘n seek and prefers to be the hider every game! Timmy also enjoys the comforts of a cozy place to lay where he can feel safe to quietly purr and knead his bed. It is unknown how he is around children or dogs, however, he has been around other cats. Timmy’s adoption fee is $55 for a Cass County resident of $60 for an out of county resident. Please contact Cass County Animal Control at 269-445-3701 to learn more about our sweet Timmy!... [Read Full Story]

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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Friday, January 15

January 15, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
TODAY IS:
  • National Bagel Day
  • National Strawberry Ice Cream Day
  • National Hat Day
A good day to wear a hat … eat a bagel … have some ice cream.
It’s also National Pizza Week (Thriilist)
According to a YouGov poll, these are the most popular pizza toppings
  1. Pepperoni – 53%
  2. Sausage – 34%
  3. Mushrooms – 31%
  4. (tie) Bacon – 20%; mozzarella cheese/plain – 20%
And these are the least favorite:
  1. Anchovies – 49%
  2. Eggplant – 30%
  3. (tie) Pineapple – 24%; Artichokes – 24%
Losing weight is always the top New Year’s resolution … but it seems people are really feeling the pressure to drop those quarantine pounds this year. 71% of respondents said weight loss was one of their top goals of 2021 — and 70% admitted they are feeling pressure to start eating better. Why is this year different than others? Mindless (aka bored/stressful) eating.
A survey by OnePoll, on behalf of Nutrisystem, found that 76% of those surveyed said they eat more during the day because of their easy access to their kitchen. 30% confessed that they go to their fridge more than 10 times a day. Basically, we’re mindless eating. The reason? We’re bored – and stressed.
According to the survey, these are the top reasons we’re eating worse during the pandemic:
  1. Being stressed out — 44%
  2. Having an inconsistent sleep schedule — 43%
  3. Not having a set eating schedule — 34%
  4. Needing more comfort food — 29%
Speaking of eating … Are you pretty much eating the same meals, over and over? A new survey found that nearly 60% of respondents are “stuck in a rut” when it comes to their meals, with the majority eating the same six meals over and over, usually just rotating them throughout the week. (SWNS)
If you’ve had enough of your boss, tonight’s Mega Millions jackpot is 750-million bucks. That’s the second largest pot in Mega Millions history. Saturday night’s Powerball jackpot is nothing to sneeze at either: it’s now 640-million bucks. And if you happen to somehow be the absolute luckiest person ever, winning them both would get ya a cool 1-point-4 billion dollars.

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Music News – Friday, January 15

January 15, 2021 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani would not be getting married had they listened to The Voice host Carson Daly.
On a Today show segment, Carson reminded Gwen of a conversation they had when she and Blake had started dating. He told Gwen, ‘You’re much, much too good for this guy. You’re smart. You’re intelligent. You’re one of my oldest friends. And then there’s Blake.”
Gwen didn’t take Carson’s advice to heart. She and Blake are expected to marry soon.
Adele is poised to release new music. An album is rumored to arrive next month.
One of Adele’s closest friends, British comic Alan Carr, got a private listening party invite. Lucky for us, she did not force a non-disclosure agreement on Carr, who revealed on Wednesday, (quote) “I’ve heard some tracks on it. Oh my gosh, it’s so amazing. It’s so amazing. There’s only one Adele.” (E! News)
Lady Gaga and J-Lo will perform at President-elect Joe Biden‘s inauguration next Wednesday at the U.S. Capitol.
Biden’s Presidential Inaugural Committee announced today that Gaga will perform the national anthem before Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris take the oath of office. J-Lo will also perform on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. Later in the evening, Tom Hanks will host Celebrating America — a 90-minute TV special featuring performances from Justin Timberlake, Jon Bon Jovi, Demi Lovato, and Ant Clemons.
Inaugural committee CEO Tony Allen said in a statement, “We are thrilled to announce an inspired group of dynamic participants for the 59th Inaugural Ceremonies. They represent one clear picture of the grand diversity of our great nation and will help honor and celebrate the time-honored traditions of the presidential inauguration.” (ABC News)

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