A misdirected emergency call tragically claimed the life of Tammie Pickelsimer in Georgia after police rushed to respond to a false bomb threat at Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s home. This incident, which resulted from a swatting hoax, underscores the lethal dangers and costly misallocation of emergency resources caused by such malicious acts. The Deadly Costs of Swatting Swatting, where false threats lure emergency responders to a scene, drew the police to Congresswoman Greene’s residence. Unfortunately, the emergency response culminated in Officer David Metroka’s car colliding with Pickelsimer’s vehicle en route to handle the threat. This fatal accident starkly highlights the immense risks of swatting, a practice increasingly recognized as dangerously wasteful and hazardous. A bomb threat email targeting Greene’s home sparked the emergency. The email missed initially due to it landing in a junk folder, forcing law enforcement to act on outdated intelligence. Although the bomb squad was dispatched, no explosives were found, affirming the threat’s invalidity. The sad irony is the preventable loss of life resulting from a malicious, unfounded threat. Swatting is when a crime is falsely reported to emergency services with the intent to draw a law enforcement presence to a particular location. Just last week, several elected officials and Trump cabinet nominees were targets of multiple different swatting incidents. My… — Rep. David Kustoff (@RepDavidKustoff) December 4, 2024 Political Threats and Law Enforcement Strain Rep. Greene voiced concerns about these acts, emphasizing they impose undue stress on law enforcement and pose real dangers when officers must react to protect citizens’ lives. Greene directly attributed Pickelsimer’s tragic death to the fraudulent effort to harm her, an outcome reflecting the critical repercussions of swatting tactics. The Rome Police Department extended its condolences to Pickelsimer’s family. Officials underscored the need to apprehend the individual responsible for the hoax email, which was traced back to a Russian IP address. Law enforcement, in collaboration with the federal authorities and Greene’s office, is resolutely pursuing justice for the needless tragedy. Calls for Legislative Action Against Swatting Criminal justice experts like John Bandler advocate for harsh penalties against swatting perpetrators, recognizing their actions as felonious. These episodes squander law enforcement’s invaluable time and resources, risking both civilian and officer safety. Until legislative and judicial processes address these reckless hoaxes decisively, the potential for similar consequences remains distressingly high. Congresswoman Greene iterates the importance of safeguarding Americans from politically driven hoaxes that aim to incite fear and disorder. As legislative bodies and law enforcement refine strategies, they remain vigilant in thwarting these menacing incidents to prevent future casualties akin to Pickelsimer’s untimely death. Sources: Woman killed in crash after swatting attempt on Rep. Greene’s home – DNyuz The post What Happens When Emergency Services Get Pulled into a Dangerous Prank? appeared first on The Conservative Brief.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM California launched the nation’s first Southeast Asian Studies Model Curriculum, allowing students to learn about the rich histories and accomplishments of Hmong, Vietnamese, and Cambodian Americans. While the lessons are not required, K-12 instructors throughout the state now have access to a vast database of lesson plans that explore the nuances of refugee experiences and cultural resilience. “It’s really important to center the people who experienced those histories and cultures,” says Marika Manos, history and social sciences manager for the Orange County Department of Education. This program, the first of its kind in the country, has already sparked interest among educators, intellectuals, and community members. A missing chapter: addressing gaps in history education For many Southeast Asian Americans, the traditional history curriculum in schools has been a glaring omission. Stories about war and genocide frequently dominate the narrative, obscuring refugee populations’ larger cultural legacy and resilience. Savannah Thy, a Cambodian American student, recalls that the only thing she ever learned about Cambodia was the Khmer Rouge. “There’s so much more to our culture than just that piece of history.” The new curriculum addresses this imbalance by including stories of refugees’ journeys, the struggles they faced in rebuilding their lives, and the thriving communities they created in the U.S. Khatharya Um, a professor of ethnic studies at UC Berkeley, emphasizes the importance of this context. “Most Americans have little understanding of … how the refugee community came to be formed in the U.S.,” she explains, highlighting the deep connection between U.S. foreign policy and the displacement of Southeast Asian populations. Built by and for the community One of the curriculum’s most distinguishing elements is its collaborative design. It is based on the lived experiences and voices of the Hmong, Vietnamese, and Cambodian Americans. “The beauty of this project is that it’s built by the community and for the community,” says Tori Phu, a curriculum specialist with the Orange County Department of Education. Phu, whose parents rarely discussed their experiences during the Vietnam War, thinks the teachings can transcend generational gaps. “As you’re going through the curriculum, you’re hearing stories that might be related to your uncle, your aunt, your mom, your dad, your grandpa,” she shares, her voice thick with emotion. From the killing fields to classrooms: stories that resonate The curriculum’s stories are relevant to children from many backgrounds, not only Southeast Asians. “It’s not just for the Vietnamese students or students born from Vietnamese refugees,” according to Phu. “There’s a thread that can connect to other cultures too.” For teachers like Tauheedah Graham, the curriculum has been eye-opening. Graham reflected on the initiative’s impact following a recent conference. “As an African American, I know that there’s my story,” she says. “Then I [listened to] stories of the Killing Fields… It just opens up the fact that we all have so much trauma.” A curriculum for healing and bridging cultures Beyond schooling, the curriculum provides opportunities for healing and understanding. For many Southeast Asian Americans, structural neglect and historical erasure have resulted in disadvantaged and misunderstood communities. “When you’re not aware of different communities and what they’ve gone through, we’re also not getting federal dollars to fund different community initiatives,” explains Laura Ouk, a writer for the Cambodian American curriculum. The lessons are a step toward rectifying this trend, exposing the hardships that Southeast Asian refugees confront while also applauding their perseverance. Resilience in focus: a testament to Southeast Asian communities Chia Vang, a history professor and vice-chancellor of inclusiveness at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, believes the curriculum makes a significant message about the vitality of these communities. “People never thought that we would survive in this country because we were from a more agrarian background,” Vang explains. “A curriculum like this is completely contradictory to these predictions. In fact, we have not only survived but really thrive to tell our own stories in this fashion.” The initiative has already inspired other states. Wisconsin recently enacted legislation requiring Hmong American and Asian American studies in schools, indicating a potential nationwide ripple effect. Looking ahead: a legacy for future generations For students like Thy, the new curriculum is more than just a history lesson; it’s a connection to their roots. Thy embraced her culture while growing up and performed Cambodian classical dances with the Modern Apsara Company, but she understands that many others have not had the same opportunity. “It’s very sad to see some kids my age not be able to talk to their grandparents because of the language barrier,” she laments. Now, she hopes that younger generations, such as her infant cousin, will have access to similar stories at school. “I’ve been waiting for this to happen for a very long time,” she adds. “I’m just hoping that future generations will be able to know more about their culture.”The post California introduces groundbreaking Southeast Asian curriculum in schools first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The holiday season is here, bringing twinkling lights, festive parties, and let’s be honest—a lot of food. From decadent roasts to rich desserts, holiday feasts are one of the highlights of the season. But with all those indulgent meals comes the not-so-festive aftermath: bloating, fullness, and general stomach discomfort. Thankfully, there’s a simple way to keep your digestion on track while still enjoying all the holiday cheer: post-meal drinks that support your gut health. Amanda Sauceda, RD, a gut health nutritionist, shares her favorite beverages to sip after a hearty holiday meal. Festive feasts, full stomachs: why holiday digestion matters During the holidays, it’s easy to get carried away by second helpings and sugary treats. While these indulgences are part of the fun, they can also put a strain on your digestive system. “After a big meal, your gut might need a little extra help to process everything,” says Sauceda. Choosing the right drink after eating can make a big difference, helping ease bloating, improve nutrient absorption, and keep discomfort at bay. 6 drinks to sip your way to comfort this season 1. Water: the unsung hero of the holidays Amid all the eggnog and mulled wine, don’t forget about good old water. Staying hydrated is crucial for digestion, as it helps break down food and keeps things moving. “Water is always my go-to,” Sauceda says. To jazz it up for the holidays, try infused water with festive ingredients like cranberry, orange slices, or a sprig of rosemary. It’s simple, hydrating, and even Instagram-worthy. 2. Ginger tea: a spicy holiday staple Ginger tea is a holiday classic that doubles as a digestive powerhouse. Known for its ability to ease bloating, gas, and cramping, ginger is a go-to for post-meal relief. “Homemade ginger tea is the best way to get the most benefits,” Sauceda says. To make it: Add a one-inch piece of peeled ginger to eight ounces of water. Boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and sip while it’s still warm. Not only will it settle your stomach, but its spicy aroma will fill your kitchen with cozy holiday vibes. 3. Peppermint tea: a calming treat Peppermint tea is a refreshing option for soothing an upset stomach, especially after heavy holiday meals. It’s particularly effective for easing abdominal discomfort and helping digestion along. However, Sauceda cautions that peppermint may trigger acid reflux in some people. If you’re not prone to heartburn, steep fresh mint leaves in hot water for a drink that’s both calming and festive. 4. Kombucha: a festive fizzy option If you’re craving bubbles after dinner, kombucha is the perfect choice. This fermented tea not only delivers a dose of gut-friendly probiotics but also offers a refreshing fizz to cleanse your palate after a rich holiday meal. “Kombucha is a great way to get some probiotics while enjoying a fun, flavorful drink,” says Sauceda. Look for seasonal varieties like cranberry or spiced apple to keep with the holiday theme. Just be mindful of its carbonation if you’re prone to acid reflux. 5. Kefir: creamy comfort after spicy dishes Holidays often mean indulgent, spicy foods—and kefir, a fermented milk drink, can help cool things down. “I like kefir because it’s packed with probiotics and is naturally lower in lactose, making it easier to digest than regular milk,” says Sauceda. For a festive twist, opt for unsweetened kefir and mix it with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, holiday-inspired drink. 6. Digestive bitters: a time-tested tradition Digestive bitters, made from herbs like artichoke leaf and licorice root, are a classic remedy for post-meal discomfort. They stimulate digestive juices, helping food move smoothly through your system. “A few drops in water can be a game-changer for gas or bloating,” Sauceda says. Add bitters to sparkling water with a slice of citrus for a sophisticated, festive mocktail. Savor every bite—and every sip The holidays are a time to celebrate, indulge, and enjoy the company of loved ones. By adding these gut-friendly drinks to your routine, you can keep your digestion in check and focus on what really matters: the joy of the season. So, whether it’s a warm cup of ginger tea or a bubbly glass of kombucha, raise a toast to your health—and to a happy, comfortable holiday season!The post 6 drinks that will help you digest festive feasts with ease first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

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Nostalgia. That bittersweet emotion that someone gets when they remember something from their past with fondness and a bit of sadness. For most people, a core part of feeling nostalgic is hearing a song from CONTINUE READING... The post ’80s Tunes To Nail At Home On the Piano: A Guide For Beginners appeared first on The Retro Network.

Biden Admin Rushing to Auction Off Border Wall Materials to Stump Trump

Following the $787 million defamation settlement between Fox News and Dominion Voting Systems in 2023, CNN did a lot of gloating and spiking the ball as they used it as a cudgel to attack the credibility of their cable news rival. But that celebration seems to have come back to bite them as U.S. Navy veteran and Plaintiff Zachary Young won a motion, on Thursday, to cite CNN’s coverage as evidence that CNN supposedly took the possibility of defamation seriously, in his upcoming $1 billion defamation trial. In a filing on Monday, Young’s lead counsel, Vel Freedman explained the importance of examining CNN’s coverage of the Fox News settlement:  If CNN recognized the significance of the Dominion settlement as a cautionary tale and yet still chose to defame Young, that fact demonstrates the insufficiency of prior monetary amounts in deterring CNN’s misconduct. Such evidence illuminates the severity of CNN’s disregard for journalistic standards, underscores it knowingly undertook risk for clicks and viewers, and bolsters the argument that punitive award is necessary to deter CNN and others from future defamation. Freedman also noted that in reporting on the settlement, Jake Tapper (one of the CNN journalists partially responsible for putting CNN in hot water) “made these statements as a CNN agent acting within the scope of his employment. The statement is probative because it is CNN’s acknowledgement of proper journalistic standards.” In the reporting in question, Tapper proclaimed: “This is a time for all journalists to be extra careful about our own reporting, to make sure that we adhere strictly to facts and cogent analysis.” In a filing in support of their motion to bar mention of the Fox News-Dominion settlement, on Tuesday, CNN counsel Charles Tobin suggested that Young’s desires to cite CNN’s reporting on the matter “lay bare the fundamental gamesmanship at play.” However, he did note that “the reporting at issue in the lawsuit was published in November 2021, nearly a year-and-a-half prior to the April 2023 Fox-Dominion settlement” [emphasis his]. But that would also mean that CNN was doing a victory lap and mocking Fox News while they were embroiled in their own possibly costly defamation suit; a suit that has largely gone unmentioned in the wider media industry that reveled in Fox News’s embarrassment. In his order to allow the mention of the settlement, exclusively obtained by NewsBusters, Judge William Scott Henry of Florida's 14th Circuit Court said CNN’s “general request to exclude all references to the Dominion settlement appears to be overly broad.” “While the amount of the settlement would not be relevant to assigning an amount if punitive damages were to be awarded in this case, the Court can envision a myriad of ways in which the lawsuit could be brought up during the course of the trial that could be appropriate based on the circumstances,” he continued. Concluding: “ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that Defendant’s Motion in Limine to Exclude All References to Fox News’ Dominion Settlement, or Prior Statements About Fox News or President Donald Trump is DENIED. However, the subjects and areas of inquiry raised in the Motion may be subject to contemporaneous objection at trial.”

Florida police said that a man died in a car accident after he allegedly stabbed his ex-girlfriend 70 times. The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office said that officers were called to a residence on Hibbard Trail in Chuluota at about 12:45 a.m. on Friday over a report of a stabbing of two people. 'Stevens had been charged with domestic violence battery against Lindsay in November.' When they arrived, they found 40-year-old Kristin Stevens dead with up to 70 stab wounds from a kitchen knife, according to Sheriff Dennis Lemma. An unidentified man at the scene told them that he awoke to find 42-year-old James Christopher Lindsey on top of Stevens and stabbing her. He claimed that Lindsey had used a hammer to break into the home. That man tried to help her but was stabbed in the leg and fled to a neighbor's home to call 911. Lindsey's 16-year-old child was also in the home but was unharmed. At about 5 a.m. the suspect's body was found on Fort Christmas Road in the Orange County area after he had been ejected from a car crash. Police said he had been driving at speeds over 100 mph and lost control of the vehicle. Police said Lindsey and Stevens had been involved in domestic violence incidents since 2014. Stevens had been charged with domestic violence battery against Lindsay in November. A judge denied a request from police that he be required to wear an ankle monitor as a condition of his bond. “This is a heartbreaking and traumatic incident that will have a lasting impact on families and a community,” said Sheriff Lemma. "Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Our team will continue to work diligently to uncover the full details surrounding the case.” Lindsey's booking photo was included in a news video from WKMG-TV on YouTube. Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Perhaps I’m showing my age, but I maintain that the late ‘90s and early ‘00s marked the creative height of PC gaming. Half-Life, Deus Ex, System Shock 2, Fallout - the era gave birth to some of the greatest shooters and RPGs of all time. Thief and its two sequels are arguably the greatest works of this period. Stylish, challenging, and early pioneers for a type of environmental storytelling that dominates games to this day, the influence of Looking Glass and Ion Storm’s Thief trilogy is hard to overstate. And now, spiritually at least, it’s making a return. From PC legends Warren Spector, Greg LoPiccolo, and Paul Neurath, whose collective credits include Deus Ex, System Shock, Ultima, and of course Thief itself, this is a new stealth heist game built on the shoulders of Garrett. Welcome to Thick As Thieves. Continue reading Thief has a new spiritual sequel, built by the Deus Ex and System Shock devs