*Mornings Archives

Happy Headline from United Federal Credit Union – Wednesday, December 23

December 23, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
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It was a big year for six-year-old Summer Grace Cernoch. After battling leukemia for almost half of her life, she finished her last treatment in February — and it looks like she beat the disease.
Knowing how scary and painful the surgeries and treatments are, Summer Grace wanted to spread some holiday cheer to other kids who are still going through it, so she and her family started a foundation to help others.
The foundation raised a bunch of money in the community, which was used to buy toys. Then, last week, Summer Grace and her family drove around the area and distributed the gifts to cheer up other children who are battling cancer this holiday season.
The toy drive was a big success. So now, the hope is to use the foundation to continue brightening the days of others throughout the year with a music scholarship program for cancer patients.
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The Daily Dish – Wednesday, December 23

December 23, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
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Jennifer Lopez may never marry Alex Rodriguez.
On Andy Cohen‘s Deep & Shallow Interviews, J-Lo said that after they canceled their wedding this year, she and A-Rod have thought about staying engaged forever.
Their wedding was supposed to take place in Italy in June, but was canceled because of the pandemic.
Asked if they ever considered following in the footsteps of Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, who’ve never married, Lopez said, “Oh yeah, we’ve talked about that for sure. I mean at our age, we’ve both been married before, it’s like: Do we get married? Do we not? What does it mean for us? And it’s just, it comes down to like personal [choice], like: What do you want to do?”
J-Lo adds, “There’s no rush. It’ll happen when it happens.”
NeNe Leakes is going to war with Bravo.
Three months after leaving The Real Housewives of Atlanta, the reality star tweeted a link to the #BoycottBravo petition.
The petition, on Change.org, said it’s putting the network “on notice,” claiming Bravo has treated its African-American talent unfairly, specifically NeNe and Mariah Huq of Married to Medicine.
The petition adds, “This action by Bravo network is affirmation of systemic racism and inequality that the African American community faces and struggles with currently in society.”
NeNe has said “systemic racism” played a role in her departure from the show.
She called on her followers to sign the petition, tweeting, “Y’all ready to start this boycott yet? What has happened behind the scenes is WRONG! While others were being promoted, BLACK WOMEN who created shows, created genres, built franchise and built networks were being DEMOTED…TURN OFF YOUR TV’S.”
E! News says Leonardo DiCaprio may soon settle down with longtime girlfriend Camila Morrone. A source tells the network, “Leo and Cami are still going strong and doing really well. He’s very cozy with Cami and they’re serious. He is filming right now, but Leo has been settling into this domestic life with Cami, as opposed to all the time he used to spend out with his boys. He does really like his life with her and they’re a lot more coupley than they used to be.”
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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Wednesday, December 23

December 23, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
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TODAY IS:
Roots Day: A day to celebrate your family’s history, heritage, and ancestry.
Festivus Day: Time to celebrate, Seinfeld fans, because today, December 23rd, is Festivus Day.
If you never watched Seinfeld and have no idea what we’re talking about … In a December 1997 episode of Seinfeld, Frank Costanza (played by the late Jerry Stiller) reveals that he created Festivus in response to the commercialism of Christmas. The slogan is: “A Festivus for the rest of us.”
How is Festivus celebrated? Instead of a decorated tree, there is an unadorned aluminum pole. There is also a Festivus dinner – meatloaf on a bed of lettuce – during which you participate in the “Airing of Grievances,” where you tell others at the table how they have disappointed you in the past year. The celebration ends with the “Feats of Strength,” which involves wrestling the head of the household. The holiday is not complete unless the head of the household is pinned.
Hating romantic holiday movies? Holiday rom-coms are a staple of the season, but in this year of challenging dating and season of no holiday parties, is it hard for you to watch them? In fact, would you rather watch anything BUT a cheesy holiday rom-com? If you feel that way, you’re not alone. Clinical psychologist Laurie Betito told Cosmo that it’s because romantic comedies can trigger feelings of loneliness. And because plenty of singles are stuck in their apartments of parents’ home this year because of COVID, those feelings of loneliness are heightened.
Didn’t get around to sending a Christmas card this year? No problem – send a New Year’s card instead. This year, especially, people will be happy to ring in a new year … and hear from you, since being together for New Years isn’t happening anywhere. (Huff Post)
Gifts that don’t cost a dime … It’s Christmas, and we all want to give the people who mean the most to us to something they’ll love and cherish. But for many of us, things are tough this year.
Here are some gifts that are pretty awesome — and don’t cost any money at all:
  • Encouraging (and helping) someone to pursue their dreams.
  • Complimenting someone for a talent they don’t even realize they have.
  • Becoming a peaceful, calming influence in an emotionally charged situation.
  • Repairing a strained relationship.
  • Erasing a debt someone owes you.
  • Tackling a chore that someone important to you is struggling to accomplish.
Though these might seem like strange “gifts” at first, these are the kinds of things that loved ones will remember fondly for years to come. (Lifehack)
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Music News – Wednesday, December 23

December 23, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News Podcast
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A federal judge in Chicago has set a new trial date for the sexual abuse charges against R. Kelly.
The trial has been tentatively set for September 13th, 2021, which is contingent on his New York trial moving forward in April. A status hearing which will confirm the trial start date in fall will be on March 25th. Kelly has served 17 months in jail at the Metropolitan Correctional Facility in Chicago and faces charges in Illinois, Minnesota and New York. (ABC News – Chicago)
Madonna posted a selfie highlighting the “beautiful scar” from hip surgery. It’s high enough on her thigh that only an intimate partner would ever see it.
Also seen in her Instagram Story was the remnant bruising from “cupping” massage therapy on her thighs.
Last month, she repaired damage from her decades of dancing on stage. At this time last year, Madonna was forced to cancel several Madame X concerts due to her nagging injuries.
She’s currently walking with a cane. But apparently is well enough, based on an Instagram post on Monday, to twerk with her adopted children. (People)
In a recent Instagram post, Pink says she was hospitalized after fracturing her ankle. She says, “As if surviving covid wasn’t enough. I was actually running down the stairs trying to see the Christmas star! Ha! 2020 is the gift that keeps on giving!”
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Happy Headline from United Federal Credit Union – Tuesday, December 22

December 22, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
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An anonymous shopper came into a Walmart in Bristol, Tennessee — and donated $65,000 to pay the balance of items placed on the store’s layaway. Amazingly, the donation was enough to pay for ALL the layaway items at the store.
The manager sent out notifications to customers, letting them know that their items had been paid off by this generous secret Santa.
And while the man who donated the money wishes to remain anonymous, he did allow the manager to pass along a message to the customers: “He wants me to tell you that he loves you, God bless you, and Merry Christmas.” (TimesNews)
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The Daily Dish – Tuesday, December 22

December 22, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
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Who needs a stimulus check when we have Kim Kardashian?
The mogul said on Monday that she’s giving away $500,000.
In a tweet, she wrote, “I know 2020 has been really hard and people are struggling, worried about how they’re going to pay rent, put food on the table, or a gift under the tree for their kids. I want to spread the love by sending $500 to 1000 people.”
For a chance to win, Kim asked fans to reply to her post with their $Cashtag and the hashtag #KKWHoliday.
Standup Comedian and former SNL writer John Mulaney has fallen off the wagon.
The comedian has checked into rehab for alcohol and cocaine addiction. According to Page Six, he’ll spend the next 60 days at a treatment facility in Pennsylvania.
The Big Mouth star, who has said he started drinking at 13 years old, didn’t fight rehab. A source says, “John’s friends and family are happy that he’s finally getting some help and focusing on his health.”
John had been sober for the last 15 years, but the lockdown was apparently too much for him. The insider explains that “unfortunately he has struggled again during the pandemic.”
OK! magazine claims Lori Loughlin’s daughters, Bella and Olivia Jade, have allegedly been partying while she and her husband are in jail. A source tells the magazine, ”The two have been “partying the pain away and have been treating themselves to ‘five-star spa retreats, drinking wine every night and enjoying fabulous dinners at high-end restaurants. Olivia was downing glassfuls of wine while binge-watching The Bachelorette while Bella was focusing on “R&R. They’re more spoiled than ever. They had nothing to do with their parent’s scandal, and figure they have every right to have fun.”
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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Tuesday, December 22

December 22, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
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TODAY IS:
National Cookie Exchange Day: A good day to share some fresh-baked cookies.
A new study from Rutgers University found that coronavirus has had a huge impact on the drinking habits of college-age students. Basically, when coronavirus forced college kids to move off campus and back in with their parents, their drinking habits were hugely curtailed.
“Drinking is a social behavior for college students, and without social interaction students are less likely to drink heavily,” says Helene R. White, lead researcher and distinguished professor emerita with the Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies at Rutgers University. “Living with parents may especially interfere with social interaction with peers and thereby be protective against heavy drinking.”
Wanna get away? You’re not alone. A survey by Apple Vacations found that 84% of respondents said they’ve really missed traveling this year. How bad to people miss traveling? 63% of the people surveyed said they’d rather spend three hours every day in a TSA line than be stuck indoors for the rest of the year. And maybe this is the reason people are so anxious to travel. The survey found that the average American has gone 14 months without a vacation. For 70% of those surveyed, that’s the longest they’ve ever gone without traveling. (SWNS)
Lots of us have gotten very lax about our eating habits since the pandemic started … but that doesn’t mean we don’t have guilt about it – especially during the holidays. A new survey found that a whopping 63% said they deal with “food guilt” every holiday season. And get this – 48% of the people polled said food guilt was a bigger holiday stressor for them than family drama or finding the right gifts for everyone.
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Music News – Tuesday, December 22

December 22, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News Podcast
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Taylor Swift isn’t only on top of the album charts, she’s topped the singles chart as well.
Evermore‘s first single, “Willow,” debuts at number-one on the Billboard Hot 100. That makes Taylor the first person to debut atop both the album and single charts simultaneously twice. She became the first artist ever to do it when Folklore and its single “Cardigan” bowed on top in August.
This is her seventh number-one, coming after “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” in 2012, “Shake It Off” and “Blank Space” in 2014, “Bad Blood” in 2015, “Look What You Made Me Do” in 2017 and “Cardigan” from this past August. Swift is the 21st artist in the Hot 100‘s history with at least seven number-ones.
“Willow” is also Swift’s 29th Top 10 song, putting her sixth all time behind Drake (42), Madonna (38), The Beatles (34), Rihanna (31) and Michael Jackson (30).
Bono of U2, Halsey and Pharrell Williams have joined the cast of the animated film Sing 2.
The sequel to the 2016 smash is set to be released December 22nd, 2021. The Hollywood Reporter says that Bono will play the lion Clay Calloway, the “world’s most reclusive rock legend.” The wolf Jimmy Crystal, played by Bobby Carnavale, tries to coax him “out of self-imposed seclusion after the death of his wife and persuade him to perform.” Halsey plays Jimmy Crystal’s daughter.
The movie will also feature the voices of Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton, Tori Kelly and Nick Kroll.
Ed Sheeran dropped a surprise single on Monday morning.
It’s called “Afterglow” and it comes with a one-take performance video that Sheeran filmed outside. He says, “‘Afterglow’ is a song I wrote last year that I wanted to release for you. It’s not the first single from the next album, it’s just a song I love, and hope you love too. Enjoy! Have a safe and happy festive break and New Year’s. Back to dad land for me now.”
This is Sheeran’s first new music since the No.6 Collaborations Project was released in July 2019. Sheeran and his wife Cherry Seaborn welcomed their first child, Lyra Antarctica Seaborn Sheeran, at the end of August.
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Happy Headline from United Federal Credit Union – Monday, December 21

December 21, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
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A neighborhood in Chesterfield County, Virginia, went out of their way to honor UPS driver Anthony Gaskins while he was on his route. Hundreds of residents lined up alongside the road, cheering him on when he turned the corner.
Those in the neighborhood appreciate Anthony for his kindness, reliability, and that he always delivers their packages with a wave and a smile.
So, the residents showed up and gave him an emotional “thank you.” They held up signs, screamed his name, honked their horns and rang bells.
They even arranged for Anthony’s supervisors to show up and present him with a gift.
Not surprisingly, Anthony was visibly moved by the gesture. He spoke briefly to the crowd, thanking them — and then got right back to work.
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The Daily Dish – Monday, December 21

December 21, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
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Miley Cyrus has plans for New Year’s Eve. She’ll perform on ABC’s annual celebration Dick Clark‘s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2021.
Ryan tweeted an announcement on Sunday, (quote) “Ready for @MileyCyrus to put the rock in #RockinEve! 11 more days….”
Jennifer Lopez headlines the event from New York City’s Times Square. Cyndi Lauper will duet with Billy Porter from the Kinky Boots songbook. Ciara hosts the celebrations in Los Angeles, where Miley might be on New Year’s Eve. (Billboard)
Mossimo Giannulli has been placed in solitary confinement, but the fashion mogul didn’t do anything wrong.
A source tells People magazine that Lori Loughlin‘s husband has been put in “COVID-19-related protective custody as he continues to serve his five-month prison sentence for his involvement in the high-profile college admissions scandal.”
On Friday, his son Gianni revealed that his father “has been locked in solitary confinement for one full month” and has been “only let out every 3 days for a few moments to shower.”
Mossimo was booked into Lompoc federal prison, which reported hundreds of COVID-19 cases in the summer, on November 19th.
George Clooney finds it physically painful to watch ‘Batman And Robin’. The New York Post quotes him as saying, “The truth of the matter is, I was bad in it. Akiva Goldsman wrote the screenplay, and it’s a terrible screenplay, he’ll tell you. I’m terrible in it, I’ll tell you. Joel Schumacher, who just passed away, directed it, and he’d say, ‘Yeah, it didn’t work.’ We all whiffed on that one”. People magazine, citing ‘The Howard Stern Show’, claims George Clooney told Ben Affleck not to play ‘Batman’. George says, “Ben called me up and said he’d been offered ‘Batman’ and asked if he should take it. I told him no to go near the role. Ben didn’t listen to me, and he ended up doing a great job and I was wrong. But hey, I can only impart my wisdom from my experience and I just said, ‘Don’t have nipples on the suit.’ “
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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Monday, December 21

December 21, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
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TODAY IS:
Humbug Day: Today is a day to release the stress of the season – by embracing your inner Scrooge.
Winter Solstice: It’s the shortest day of the year and officially the first day of winter.
Were you on the naughty or nice list this year? Seems most Americans think they belong on the nice list. A YouGov poll revealed that 75% of people surveyed said they are definitely on Santa’s nice list for 2020. Of course, that was self-identified, so we’ll really see how things go this Friday morning…
Are you a terrible gift giver? Two in five people surveyed admitted that they are terrible gift givers. 60% said they always struggle to find the perfect gift and 51% wait until the last minute to do their Christmas shopping. OK, bad gift givers, your gifts aren’t THIS bad … are they? According to the survey, here are some of the worst last-minute gifts people have purchased:
  • A jar of peanuts
  • An oven mitt
  • Windshield wipers
  • A bottle of shampoo
  • A Chia pet
  • Mouthwash
  • Toilet paper
  • Multivitamins
  • Plastic silverware
How often do you start sentences with “When this is all over …”? A new survey found that 40% of adults said they start at least one sentence every week with those words. 13% of those polled said they say the phrase every day. (SWNS)
And… How often do you tell yourself this is the day, week, or month that you are going to start eating healthy? A new survey found that the average person promises themselves four times a month they are going to start eating healthy … but they never do. So why do people never follow through with their diet plans? 37% of respondents said they quit a diet because they hated cutting out foods they love. 35% said the diet they tried was too restrictive for them to stick with. 69% of those surveyed said not seeing results soon enough made them quit. And 73% admitted that giving in to junk food cravings derailed their dieting attempts.
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Music News – Monday, December 21

December 21, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News Podcast
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Ariana Grande is engaged. This time around, the guy is Los Angeles real estate agent Dalton Gomez. The couple started dating in January then quarantined together.
An insider told People magazine (quote) “They couldn’t be happier, they’re just so excited. This is a happy time for them, both sets of parents are thrilled.”
Ari and Dalton announced the engagement Sunday morning on Instagram. She flashed her huge diamond ring with the caption (quote) “Forever n then some.”
Her manager, Scooter Braun, commented (quote) “Congrats to these two amazing souls. Ari we love you and could not be happier for you. Dalton you are a lucky man.” (People)
Days after blasting Shia LaBeouf for “tricking” her into sleeping with him even though he was involved with someone else, Sia has gotten revenge — by firing him from her new movie.
Sia tells Australia’s Studio 10 that she booted him from Music because of the incident, replacing him with Kate Hudson. She says, “I asked for a meeting with her, and she said she was born to do it. She could sing, she could dance, she could do it all.”
Accusations against Shia started piling up after his ex-girlfriend FKA Twigs accused him of “relentless abuse” including sexual assault.
Sir Paul McCartney revealed that Taylor Swift shifted the Evermore album release date — twice — so not to conflict with his, McCartney III.
The pair connected for the Rolling Stone cover photoshoot. Each shared what projects were on the horizon. Taylor privately told McCartney about her secret album. Out of professional respect, she did not want to overshadow his latest release.
Paul recalled an email exchange with Taylor during an interview with Howard Stern. (quote) “She said, ‘I found out you were going to put yours out on December 10th. So I moved Evermore to the 18th.’ Then she found out we were coming on the 18th and moved hers back to the 10th. People do keep out of each other’s way. It’s a nice thing to do.” (NME)
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Furry Friends Friday from the Mason Jar Cafe with Artemis from Cass Co Animal Control – December 18

December 18, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Furry Friends, The Coast Social Network
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It’s Furry Friends Friday from The Mason Jar Cafe!
 
Meet Artemis! If you’re searching for a companion to keep you warm during the winter months, then Artemis may be the cat for you! Artemis was brought in as a stray, so unfortunately we do not know much about his past. Artemis is an adult unaltered male with a sweet demeanor. He enjoys daily scratches and lying around in his comfy bed. Please contact Cass County Animal Control/Shelter at 269-446-3701 for more our very handsome fellow, Artemis.
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Happy Headline from United Federal Credit Union – Friday, December 18

December 18, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
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A Secret Santa is surprising essential workers across the country with Christmas cash.
This Secret Santa — of course — wishes to remain anonymous. It is known by those who help him with his mission that he’s a businessman.
In years past, he personally handed out hundreds of $100 bills to random strangers.
But this year he had a different idea — to mail packages to carefully selected essential workers across the nation.
For example, Kimberly Davis, who cleans rooms at a hospital in Houston, Texas, received $1,000 cash.
So did Ashton Dooley, a sanitation worker from Sarasota, Florida, and Elgin Thrower, a security guard from Kansas City.
In the coming weeks, this Secret Santa has promised to give away $100,000 — all to total strangers.
The man says he’s just trying to give away kindness, with no expectation in return. And along the way, he’s changing the lives of those who are receiving his special gifts in the mail.
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The Daily Dish – Friday, December 18

December 18, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
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Tom Cruise has had enough on the Mission: Impossible set. He’s shutting down production early.
A source on the movie set revealed, (quote) “Tom decided he’s ready for a break. They will wind up filming for 2020 on Friday. Then Cruise flies to Miami over the weekend on his private jet to spend Christmas with his son, Connor.”
This was an abrupt change in the schedule after tensions flared this week on the movie set. Cruise had back-to-back days with outbursts. At least five crew members abruptly quit rather than work under abusive conditions.
Cruise decided in his role as producer to give the cast and crew an early Christmas break. The hope is that everybody returns in a better mood. (The Sun, UK)
Ellen DeGeneres is recovering from COVID with severe back pain. Meanwhile, one of her previous guests chose to quarantine far away from his pregnant wife and their three-year-old toddler.
Leslie Odom Jr. appeared on The Ellen Show just one day before she tested positive. He’s not taking any chances in spreading the infection to his family.
Odom Jr. won a Tony Award for playing Aaron Burr in the Broadway musical Hamilton. This winter, he stars in the movie One Night in Miami. On Friday, Odom will tell The Today Show in a pre-taped interview, (quote) “The virus can affect pregnant ladies differently. We’re doing our best. I got my mask in the house — double-masking in the house.”
Odom could be free for Christmas, if he remains virus-free, after a 10-day quarantine. He taped with Ellen on December 9th. (E! News)
OK! magazine says a romance may be brewing between former SNL cast member Jason Sudeikis and Jennifer Aniston. A source tells the magazine,  “Jennifer always says Jason makes her laugh the way no else can. Oh, Jason would love to ask her out. But so many folks in their inner circle think they’re perfect for each other, and they’ve already done kissing scenes to know the lay of the land.” Jason recently separated his engagement from actress Olivia Wilde. The two have starred in several movies together in the past 10 years, including their roles in Mother’s Day, and We’re the Millers.
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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Friday, December 18

December 18, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
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TODAY IS:
Answer the Phone Like Buddy the Elf Day
Here are just some of the ways you can greet people today …
  • “The best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”
  • “I am a cotton-headed ninny-muggins!”
  • “I just like to smile. Smiling’s my favorite.”
  • “You did it! Congratulations! World’s best cup of coffee! Great job, everybody! It’s great to be here.”
  • “You stink! You smell like beef and cheese. You don’t smell like Santa.
  • “We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup.”
  • “You sit on a throne of lies.”
You really do need to wake up and smell the coffee … As we all know by now, one of the symptoms of COVID-19 is losing your sense of taste and smell. Well, now experts are suggesting you do a little “self test” in the morning – by seeing if you can smell the coffee. According to James Schwob, a professor of developmental, molecular, and chemical biology at Tufts University School of Medicine, “One of the things that can be done pretty easily, pretty objectively by someone at home would be to take some ground coffee and see how far away you can hold it and still smell it.” (Delish)
For those of you looking to get quick and easy access to a COVID vaccine, The Chicago Tribune says Walgreens and CVS believe covid-19 vaccines will be available at their stores beginning this Spring. The shots will be available by appointment only.
Well, here’s one bright spot in what has been an awful year … Seems Americans exercised a lot more in 2020. According to research by fitness tracking app Strava, there were big increases in running and cycling as well as walking, hiking, yoga, weightlifting, and water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. According to the company, 2 million new users joined the free app every month this year, and more than 1 million joined Strava’s monthly 5K challenge in May – that’s the most ever for a single challenge on the app.
And women were the driving force for the uptick in exercise. According to app data, between April and September, women between the ages of 18-29 had a 45% increase in the median number of activities uploaded to the tracker compared to a 27% increase by men in the same age group. Women were also cycling more, with a 72% increase in bike rides logged compared to 2019. (ESPN)
And, in the strangest headline I’ve read today, The NY Daily News says Pepsi is launching a new chocolate soft drink called Cocoa Cola. The company released a statement saying, “There is nothing more classic than hot cocoa on a winter day, but this year has been anything but typical. So why not bring together the delicious taste of a Pepsi with the delicious, wintry taste of chocolate and marshmallow and bring some unexpected joy to our fans this season? We are confident we nailed Pepsi ‘Cocoa’ Cola and can’t wait to get this in the hands of cola fans this winter.”
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Music News – Friday, December 18

December 18, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News Podcast
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It took a Herculean effort on Blake Shelton’s part to propose to Gwen Stefani. She confessed to dragging her feet without realizing what he had planned.
Gwen nearly canceled her trip to Blake’s farm. She told Kelly Clarkson, (quote) “I was trying to get out of going to Oklahoma because it was getting too complicated with COVID and the family.”
Even on the day of proposal, coordinating schedules became difficult. Blake barely pulled it off. He asked Gwen to help with starting a fire. He told her to grab matches from the cupboard. On the shelf was her engagement ring inside the box. (Billboard)
Mariah Carey’s 1994 holiday anthem is back at the top of the hot 100 chart. This comes almost a year to the day after it reached number one for the very first time. Mariah is thanking fans for the 812-million streams this season. In a tweet, she says she doesn’t want a lot for Christmas, just “a bit more joy and holiday spirit for all, especially this year.”
“Star Wars” actress Naomi Ackie will play the iconic Whitney Houston in the upcoming biopic, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” But don’t expect her to sing. They’ll be using Houston’s original tracks in the movie. Co-producer and Whtiney’s sister-in-law, Pat Houston, tells “Entertainment Tonight” there is going to be a new album with the movie. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” comes out Thanksgiving 2022.
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Happy Headline from United Federal Credit Union – Thursday, December 17

December 17, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
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For the second year in a row in Salt Lake City, a special event at a local park is helping those in need get warm clothing.
The event — called Scarves in the Park — involves donated scarves, hats and mittens being tied to a fence with an invitation for anyone to take anything they need — no questions asked.
Each clothing item also includes a special tag with an uplifting message.
So far this year, the group organizers have collected more than 2,000 items — and hope to collect even more.
The event brings together many people in the community and — more importantly — impacts the lives of each and every person who visits the park.
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The Daily Dish – Thursday, December 17

December 17, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
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One day after Tom Cruise exploded in a temper tantrum, five crew members walked off the movie set.
Rather than take abuse from Cruise, they took an early Christmas break. In Tom’s immortal words, they’re “freakin’ gone.”
A source on the set said tensions had been running high. Then Cruise erupted with anger under the stress of trying to finish Mission: Impossible 7 under strict regulations established by the British government. And, more importantly, before Christmas Eve.
The insider claimed, “Since Tom’s outburst became public, there has been more anger. He’s upset others aren’t taking it as seriously as him.” (The Sun, UK)
Three months ago, Cruise reportedly chartered a docked ship so that the movie crew could isolate in relative comfort.
The Lizzie McGuire revival is dead at Disney Plus. Star Hilary Duff broke the news on Instagram on Wednesday, saying, “I know the efforts and conversations have been everywhere trying to make a reboot work but, sadly & despite everyone’s best efforts, it isn’t going to happen. I want any reboot of Lizzie to be honest and authentic to who Lizzie would be today. It’s what the character deserves.”(Variety)
In more reboot news,  NBC is developing a sequel series to Night Court, according to Variety. Original series star John Larroquette will return as Dan Fielding, while Big Bang Theory star Melissa Rauch will executive-produce. The sitcom will follow “unapologetic optimist judge Abby Stone, daughter of the original series character Harry Stone.”
Meanwhile, Seth MacFarlane is producing a reboot of Revenge of the Nerds. Keith and Kenny Lucas, the identical twin brothers best known for co-starring in 22 Jump Street, are set to write and star.
According to Variety, the movie won’t be a remake. “Instead, the contemporary reimagining will pontificate about today’s nerd culture and what even constitutes a geek in the 21st century.”
Christopher Walken is a bit behind the times. The 77-year-old says he’s never owned a cellphone or a computer.
Appearing virtually on The Late Show, Walken said he doesn’t do many video chats because he avoids technology. He explained, “Yeah, somebody had to come and set this up because I don’t have a cell phone or a computer.”
Stephen Colbert asked if he was “morally, philosophically or emotionally opposed” to such things. But Walken said, “No, no I just got to it too late. I think I‘m right at a certain age where it just passed me by. I never got involved in it because it would be strange to have any 10-year-old be much better at it than I am.”
What if Walken needs to make a call? “People are nice about letting me borrow things,” he says.
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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Thursday, December 17

December 17, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
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TODAY IS:
National Maple Syrup Day
National Re-gifting Day
Did you pick up a bad habit (or four) since the pandemic started? You are not alone. In fact, a new survey found that 53% of the adults polled said they’ve been drinking more alcohol than usual since coronavirus started. Nearly 50% of adults working from home said they have secretly clocked off the job early to have a drink. And 45% of respondents admitted they’d had a drink during working hours. It’s no surprise, then, that 60% of respondents said they were making a resolution to drink less in the new year.
Drinking isn’t the only bad habit people have picked up during the pandemic. 40% said they’ve been snacking more throughout the day, 33% said they weren’t eating as many fruits and vegetables as they should, 32% said they were eating more junk food, 32% said they were consuming too much caffeine, 25% said they weren’t exercising, 23% admitted they stayed in pajamas all day, and 11% of those working from home said they had overslept on a workday. (SWNS)
OK, be honest. Are you secretly kinda happy you don’t have to host a holiday party this year? It’s OK. Lots of people feel the same way you do. A survey by Velveeta found that while 56% of respondents said they are disappointed that they’ll miss out on holiday parties this year because of COVID, 70% confessed that they are secretly happy they don’t have to host a holiday party this year. (SWNS)
Here’s a good reason to get your kid involved in sports … A new study out of Norway found that kids who play sports have a lower risk of depression. “Being active, getting sweaty, and roughhousing offer more than just physical health benefits. They also protect against depression,” study author, Dr. Tonje Zahl said.
And, some of us look forward to Christmas Dinners quite a bit each year, but one woman looks forward to them so much, she has them every day! A woman from Bristol, England has eaten a Christmas dinner every day for the past 20 years. Jane Wintringham has eaten 7,300 Christmas dinners over the course of her life.
“A roast is my favorite meal – it’s a classic British dish. I think it’s a balanced meal – you’ve got meat, carbohydrates and vegetables – plus, I’m cooking everything myself fresh, so I know exactly what’s going into my food. I don’t eat takeaways or anything like that, which I think are far more unhealthy. I’m a size 10, and have been for all my adult life, so I’ve not put on any weight through eating so many Christmas dinners.’’
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Music News – Thursday, December 17

December 17, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News Podcast
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Could Adele launch her new album at the Grammy Awards on January 31st?
That’s the rumor from Hits Daily Double, which also says that the show’s new booker, Ben Winston, has already secured Taylor Swift, Harry Styles and Dua Lipa for show. And Winston has “made nice with Beyonce” to get her on board after hubby Jay-Z got shut out with his eight nominations back in 2018.
Winston already has a track record reeling in big stars — he was the first booker for James Corden‘s Carpool Karaoke.
Gwen Stefani is finally giving details on Blake Shelton’s proposal. She tells ‘Entertainment Tonight’ he popped the question next to the fireplace at their Oklahoma Ranch.  Blake Shelton revealed he was carrying around the ring for a week before he gave it to her. The two got engaged in October. They say they want to wait till after the pandemic to get hitched.
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Happy Headline from United Federal Credit Union – Wednesday, December 16

December 16, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Happy Headline of the Day
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Over 1,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, took part in the second annual All-American Presents from Paratroopers toy drive (aka A2P2) — which resulted in thousands of toys being donated to local children in need.
The event involved the paratroopers jumping out of helicopters and a cargo plane into drop zones — led by a jumpmaster from the country of Chile.
The soldiers who jumped were awarded Chilean wings — and all the toys were delivered to different organizations throughout the state of North Carolina. “It’s great to get your foreign [wings] and all, but [A2P2] has a bigger purpose: giving back to the community and being able to bring the unit together … and that’s what brings us all joy,” said Army 1st Lt. Blake Wilson.
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The Daily Dish – Wednesday, December 16

December 16, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, The Daily Dish
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Jennifer Lopez will headline Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2021 on ABC.
Ryan’s co-host will be, for the second straight year, Lucy Hale.
Joining J-Lo on stage in New York City’s Times Square will be performances by Billy Porter, Cyndi Lauper and country singer Jimmie Allen.
In Los Angeles, Ciara will introduce performers, who often pre-record their act. ABC promised to release details of more performances from different locations very soon. (Just Jared)
Tom Cruise let the expletives fly after two crew members were found breaking COVID-19 protocols during filming of Mission: Impossible 7.
The Sun published an audio recording from the set. In the three-minute clip, Tom shouted, “If I see you do it again, you’re [bleeping] gone. And if anyone in this crew does it, that’s it.”
According to sources, the outburst happened because Tom saw two crew members not adhering to proper social distancing on the set.
Tom also argued that the entire film industry hinges on them following the protocols. The star said, “We are creating thousands of jobs, you [bleeps]. That’s it. No apologies. You can tell it to the people that are losing their [expletive] homes because our industry is shut down.”
Mission: Impossible 7 is set to open on November 19th, 2021.
Lily James and Sebastian Stan will play Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee in a new limited series for Hulu.
While their infamous sex tape will play a major part in the show, according to Deadline, the story will also chronicle their “relationship going back to their whirlwind romance that started with them marrying after only knowing each other for 96 hours in 1995.”
Seth Rogen will play the man who stole the tape, which was at the center of a huge legal dispute.
The Baywatch star and Mötley Crüe drummer are not involved in the production, which has the working title Pam & Tommy.
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Coffee Talk from Honor Credit Union – Wednesday, December 16

December 16, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Coffee Talk
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TODAY IS:
Chocolate Covered Anything Day: ‘Tis the season, after all …
Maybe it’s time to revisit that high school biology class … or at least a game of Operation. According to a new survey, 73% of people said they don’t know what most of their organs do or where they’re located. How bad is it? Only 38% of survey respondents were able to accurately describe what their colon does.
Where there’s a will, there’s a way … A 28-year-old man in Scotland broke lockdown rules by buying a jet ski and riding it for almost 25 miles to go see his girlfriend in the Isle of Man. The guy, Dale McLaughlan, had never even ridden a jet ski before. According to the BBC, it took him four hours to get to the island, where he had to walk another 15 miles to get to his girlfriend’s house. Unfortunately, he didn’t get a break for creativity … or perseverance. He was arrested, charged with illegally entering the island, and put in jail for four weeks. (Insider)
Thinking of ditching meat in 2021? This may be some motivation … A study by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine found that a low-fat, plant-based diet can boost fat burning and weight loss, as well as lower the risk of diabetes.
Speaking of plant-based … You may want to add some beans to your diet in the new year. Seems the people in the world who live the longest and are the healthiest all have one thing in common: They eat beans every day. According to Dan Buettner, longevity researcher and author of The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest, “Beans reign supreme in Blue Zones and are the cornerstone of every longevity diet in the world: black beans in Nicoya; lentils, garbanzo, and white beans in the Mediterranean; and soybeans in Okinawa.” He says people in these Blue Zones, who live to more than 100, eat at least four times as many beans as Americans do. They also eat mostly plants, lots of olive oil, not much meat or fish, and very little sugar. (Eat This, Not That)
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Music News – Wednesday, December 16

December 16, 2020 *Mornings, *Podcasts, Blogs, Music News Podcast
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Shawn Mendes is not gay. Camila Cabello is truly his girlfriend.
That’s one message that Shawn Mendes tried to send while chatting with Dax Shepard on his Armchair Expert podcast.
Shawn admitted that he’s been mistaken for gay since middle school. He called it frustrating. (quote) “It’s such a tricky thing. You want to say, ‘I’m not gay but it’d be fine if I was gay — but also there’s nothing wrong with being gay but I’m not.’”
Shawn exhibits a strong feminine side because he grew up surrounded by women. (quote) “I didn’t grow up wrestling. I grew up getting my hair braided on New Year’s Eve.”
During their one-hour conversation, Shawn said he’s been focused on his mental health. He’s gotten into meditation. And when that doesn’t work, he reaches for a joint. (People)
We all know the kind of tunes that end up on those sappy “wedding song” playlists, but what about the sounds of the bachelor and bachelorette parties?
Spotify has just dropped its 2020 list of songs that folks play during their bachelorette party, including hits like:
  • “Wannabe” – Spice Girls
  • “Jumpin’, Jumpin”– Destiny’s Child
  • “Truth Hurts”– Lizzo
  • “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper
  • “Crazy in Love (feat. Jay Z)” – Beyoncé, Jay-Z
  • “Run the World (Girls)” – Beyoncé
  • “Any Man of Mine” – Shania Twain
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