Hasan is so vile, he even got fired from MSNBC. Isn’t it odd that Mehdi Hasan’s immediate reaction to the beeper joke was “did you just say I should die?” Shouldn’t he have said “did you just call me a terrorist?” Weird.pic.twitter.com/2yYM4jIByh — L A R R Y (@LarryOConnor) October 29, 2024 I guess CNN […]

Officials in the Biden-Harris White House altered the official transcript of President Joe Biden’s remarks earlier this week where he referred to tens of millions of supporters of former President Donald Trump as “garbage.” The Associated Press reported that the fraudulent alteration of official government records drew objections from the federal workers who document all of the president’s remarks for historical reference. Official White House stenographers recorded Biden stating: “The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters — his — his demonization of Latinos is unconscionable, and it’s un-American.” However, Biden-Harris officials altered the quote by adding an apostrophe, changing it to “supporter’s” instead of “supporters.” The change was made only after the White House press team “conferred with the president,” according to an email obtained by the publication. Federal officials pushed back, noting that the interference by the White House was “a breach of protocol and spoilation of transcript integrity between the Stenography and Press Offices.” MATT WALSH’S ‘AM I RACIST?’ NOW STREAMING ON DAILYWIRE+ “If there is a difference in interpretation, the Press Office may choose to withhold the transcript but cannot edit it independently,” the supervisor wrote. “Our Stenography Office transcript — released to our distro, which includes the National Archives — is now different than the version edited and released to the public by Press Office staff.” The supervisor, who is a career White House employee, said that urgency of a transcript’s release was not their concern and that what mattered was that it was authentic and legitimate. The edit came as the administration tried to contain the fallout from Biden’s remarks during the final days of the presidential race. House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and House Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-KY) on Wednesday accused White House staff of “releasing a false transcript” of Biden’s remarks, and said that they were considering opening an investigation into the matter. “Unsurprising too were the White House’s actions after he said them,” they said in a joint statement. “Instead of apologizing or clarifying President Biden’s words, the White House instead sought to change them (despite them being recorded on video) by releasing a false transcript of his remarks.” “The move is not only craven, but it also appears to be in violation of federal law, including the Presidential Records Act of 1978,” they added. “White House staff cannot rewrite the words of the President of the United States to be more politically on message. Though President Biden’s relevance continues to diminish, his words continue to matter, even as they become increasingly divisive and erratic.”

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM As climate-related disasters worsen and the need for renewable energy grows, the United States has resorted to large-scale battery storage to help maintain its power grid. According to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), more than 20 gigawatts (GW) of battery capacity have been added to the US electric grid in the last four years. This rapid expansion is equivalent to the production of 20 nuclear reactors and is crucial for averting power disruptions, especially in states that rely significantly on intermittent renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. In the first seven months of 2023, the United States deployed 5GW of battery capacity, and the pace of growth shows no indications of slowing. According to the EIA, assuming present growth plans continue, battery capacity could increase again to 40GW by 2025. As states like California and Texas lead the charge, batteries are increasingly being viewed as a dependable backup for renewable energy, maintaining grid stability even when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining. Batteries: a lifeline for power grids The growing adoption of utility-scale batteries represents a substantial shift in the way power is generated, stored, and used. Traditionally, energy generation has been a real-time operation, with power generated and consumed concurrently. However, the emergence of massive batteries has altered this paradigm by allowing energy to be stored during periods of excess generation and released during times of high demand or low output. “It’s been extraordinary growth,” said John Moura, director of reliability assessment and performance analysis for the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). “It’s still technology that we are getting used to working with because the system wasn’t designed for it, but from a reliability perspective, it presents a golden opportunity. This changes the whole paradigm of producing electricity, delivering it, and consuming it.” California, in particular, has seen firsthand the advantages of battery storage. In prior years, the state faced electricity rationing and blackouts during heatwaves, when demand for air conditioning increased and wildfires damaged power lines. This summer, however, California was able to keep the lights on, thanks largely to the new battery infrastructure. “We can leverage that stored energy and dispatch it when we need it,” said Patti Poppe, CEO of California’s largest utility, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Addressing renewable energy’s challenges The rapid expansion of wind and solar energy has provided various benefits, but it has also created new issues for grid management. Renewable energy sources are fundamentally variable—solar power is created only when the sun shines, whereas wind power is weather-dependent. Without the ability to store excess energy, these variations can put a burden on the grid, causing power outages or instability. “Batteries can smooth out some of that variability from those times when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining,” Moura explained. He used the German term Dunkelflaute, which represents periods of low renewable energy output. “If you have a four-hour storage battery, that can get you through a Dunkelflaute.” While current battery technologies may handle short-term changes, they do not provide a complete answer. Longer-duration storage and a significant improvement to the US transmission network will be required to complete the transition to a clean energy grid. These transmission enhancements would allow renewable energy to be quickly moved from high-production areas to high-demand areas, but they are subject to regulatory constraints. Many environmental groups are concerned that lighter permission restrictions will favor fossil fuel interests, sparking a heated discussion over how to proceed. The role of batteries in the energy transition Despite these challenges, utility-scale batteries are becoming a critical component of the worldwide energy revolution. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently highlighted batteries as “a key source of dispatchable capacity globally,” predicting that they will account for 40 percent of the world’s short-term energy flexibility by 2050. This flexibility is critical for balancing the peaks and troughs of renewable energy output, guaranteeing a consistent and dependable power supply. “There are a lot of changes happening but monstrous action is still needed if we are going to make this energy transition,” Moura said. Although great progress has been made, particularly in the United States, much more work needs to be done to scale up renewable energy and incorporate it seamlessly into the grid. However, batteries are already demonstrating their usefulness. As their capacity grows, they provide a possible answer to one of renewable energy’s main challenges: intermittency. With more batteries installed, the US grid can rely less on fossil fuels and more on clean energy, hastening the transition to a sustainable future. The future of battery storage The advancements in battery deployment are exciting, but experts caution that they are only one piece of the issue. The coming years will be critical in determining how successfully the United States and the globe can reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy. Innovations in battery technology, improvements in grid infrastructure, and regulatory changes will all play critical roles in this shift. As additional governments and countries invest in battery storage, lessons from early adopters like as California and Texas will help determine the future of sustainable energy. While the path to a fully renewable energy system is far from complete, the rapid expansion of utility-scale batteries is a crucial step in the right direction.The post In 4 years, US power grid increased battery storage to the equivalent of 20 nuclear reactors first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Every day on the Optimist Daily, we report on solutions from around the world. Though we love solutions big and small, the ones happening locally, and being driven by our communities often make the greatest impact. Today we are excited to publish the fourth round of The Optimist Daily’s Local Changemakers series. This is our way of expressing gratitude to our Optimist Daily community. We hope you enjoy learning about these solutions-oriented individuals and organizations as much as we did. Reviving Hawaii’s endangered ecosystem: the mission of the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative The Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative is tackling one of the toughest environments on earth—Hawaii’s lowland dry forest. Since its formation in 2011, this nonprofit has worked tirelessly to restore this fragile ecosystem, protecting native species like the wiliwili and uhiuhi trees. As the nominator, who wished to remain anonymous, put it, “Forest restoration is among the most important work on earth, and this is the toughest place to do it.” Jen Lawson’s vision: connecting people to nature Jen Lawson, the Executive Director and first employee of the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative (WDFI), has been at the heart of this organization’s vision and growth. Known for her deep passion for connecting people to nature, Lawson facilitates synergy between the community, conservation agencies, and businesses. According to the nominator, Lawson’s passion shines through her work: “She’s interested in facilitating synergy among the community, conservation agencies, and businesses… and the conservation of biodiversity and biocultural resources.” Her leadership has turned what seemed impossible—restoring a dry, rocky lava landscape—into a success story. The community has rallied around this cause, supporting the reforestation efforts and educational programs. “They’ve been at this for many years… and working on a very small budget and doing wonderful things. The forest looks great,” remarked the nominator. Impactful programs: bio-cultural talks and community education The Initiative not only focuses on the physical restoration of the land but also plays a significant role in education. Their bio-cultural talk series has become a platform to engage the community and raise awareness about Hawaii’s unique ecosystems and biocultural heritage. These talks help to foster a deeper connection between the community and their environment. The initiative also educates keiki (children), ensuring future generations understand and value their natural heritage. Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative’s Future Foresters; courtesy of WDFI   Overcoming challenges: restoring a forest in rocky lava Restoring a forest in the middle of rocky lava is no small feat, but WDFI has made incredible strides in reviving the land. With limited resources, the initiative has transformed this rugged landscape into a thriving native forest. A call for support: recognizing the need for funding Despite their impressive accomplishments, the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative operates on a limited budget. Their work, however, has the potential to expand exponentially with more financial support. By investing in WDFI, supporters can help ensure the preservation of one of Hawaii’s most endangered ecosystems and further the organization’s vision of a sustainable, biodiverse future. Learn more about the WDFI and how to support their cause here.   Treasure House Fashions: empowering women with dignity and style At Treasure House Fashions in Pittsburgh, second-hand clothing becomes more than just apparel—it’s a way to help women regain their confidence and sense of self-worth. This nonprofit is committed to providing high-quality, gently-used clothing to women navigating life transitions, such as homelessness, domestic violence, or financial hardship. But the heart of Treasure House lies in its approach. The boutique-style setting ensures that women who visit can shop with dignity, selecting pieces that make them feel strong, beautiful, and ready for the next chapter of their lives. Founded by Sally Power, Treasure House Fashions partners with over 70 local agencies to ensure women in need have access to this vital service. These women come from various backgrounds—some recovering from trauma, others preparing to re-enter the workforce, or those simply needing a boost as they rebuild their lives. Power’s belief that every woman deserves to feel confident drives the mission: “It’s more than clothing, it’s about rediscovering self-worth.” A unique approach to support Unlike typical donation centers, Treasure House Fashions creates a warm, boutique experience where women are invited to shop as they would in a regular store. There’s no stigma attached, only a sense of empowerment. “We’re a sisterhood here,” explains Power. “We provide more than clothing—we provide support, care, and community.” Partnerships for change The organization’s impact reaches far beyond clothing donations. Through partnerships with local social service agencies, Treasure House serves women from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that help is given to those who need it most. Whether through providing clothing for job interviews, new beginnings, or personal milestones, the work of Treasure House Fashions helps women take bold steps forward in their lives. The power of community The Treasure House community of donors, volunteers, and supporters plays a pivotal role in its success. Donations of clothing and time help the organization thrive, while volunteers create a warm, welcoming space for each visitor. Through these community-driven efforts, Treasure House can stretch its limited resources to reach more women every year. Expanding the mission While the work at Treasure House is already changing lives, there’s always room to grow. Operating on a small budget, the nonprofit seeks additional support to expand its services and reach even more women in need. With financial backing and donations, Treasure House can continue to make a powerful impact on the women of Pittsburgh. Treasure House Fashions is an inspiring reminder that when women are allowed to feel good about themselves, they can accomplish extraordinary things. Through community support, partnership, and a mission rooted in dignity, Treasure House is making sure every woman who walks through its doors feels seen, valued, and ready to take on the world. To learn more about Treasure House Fashions and to offer support, visit their website here.The post Changemakers of the week: The Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative and Treasure House Fashions first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

We have major developments coming out of O-Town

Midwifery is a practice and tradition that has been carried through many years. I suppose you could say that it’s the art of caring for a woman during her pregnancy. The midwife is responsible for helping birth the child and the aftercare. Midwives were typically women but male midwives weren’t unheard of. Many families still choose to have a home birth rather than to deliver in a hospital or a delivery room. Midwifery: Caring For Mothers Then And Now Long before Obstetricians and Gynecologists were being trained to deliver babies Midwifery was passed down from person to person in their own homes. Today in places like the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Japan midwives actually outnumber obstetricians. In colonial America between 1492 and late into the 1700’s a midwife was present for almost ALL births. A midwife studied and practiced from home handing down their knowledge and skills to the next midwife to be. There were no textbooks or worksheets used to study, you learned through experience. Granny Midwives West Africans brought over to the United States on slave ships became midwives all throughout the antebellum south. Once emancipation took place the practice of midwifery continued and the women continued to be a part of both black and white women’s deliveries. They helped birth many babies, mostly in poor rural areas in the south and were referred to as Granny-Midwives. Hospital Practice | Midwifery laws were on National levels in Europe and Britain whereas in the United States midwives practiced without laws concerning education until after the 1920’s. There are laws in place currently here in the U.S. but they vary according to state. Somewhere between the years 1910 and 1920 American Obstetricians aka OBGYN’s were found to be terribly trained. In order to provide “Proper” training, the OBGYN’s began recommending that ALL deliveries take place in hospitals. This was all just a part of the plan for the doctors to get practice. Twilight Sleep For all those years many babies were brought into this world without a hospital or doctor’s office. In 1914 obstetricians began using something called “Twilight Sleep” which was a concoction of morphine and Scopolamine. The morphine was said to be for the pain and the Scopolamine was for amnesia. Twilight sleep was administered to the mothers in order for them to feel nothing nor have any memories at all of their child’s birth. Infant deaths, as well as, the mother dying giving labor and delivery issues spiked. Founding Of The Frontier Nursing Service In 1925 Mary Breckinridge founded the Frontier Nursing Service. Mary was a public health nurse in France working for the Red Cross during the end of the first World War. Here is where she learned about midwifery from British nurse-midwives. A nurse-midwife had a combination of training and education from both the midwifery and the obstetrician aspects. She took the time to learn from the British nurse-midwives which sparked the idea for the foundation of FNS in order to help poor families in Kentucky. Baby Boom image via flickr It took a long time for this to catch on, seeing as it wasn’t until the mid to late 50’s that nurse-midwives began attending home births. It was around this time that obstetric professional leaders began developing midwifery services in order to help deal with all the babies being born during the famous Baby Boom. Midwives and nurse-midwives were a huge influence to the introduction of concepts such as family-centered maternity care, allowing the father into the room during birth (this was once a huge no-no), and encouraging breastfeeding. A Massive Comeback After the Baby Boom life went on as it did and midwifery was once again set on the back burner. The idea of having a midwife came to life again between 1960 and 1970. Midwifery has been fading in and out of history for many years and today in 2017 it is making a massive comeback. Today there are groups like The United States Midwifery Education, Regulations, and Association which makes it a little easier for one to learn the practice of being a midwife. I have several friends that have had home births and they loved it. The relationship between the midwife or a doula and the family is important which provide a growing experience for the whole family. The University of South Wales shows us a video on how to  deliver a baby – study of midwifery: Not all midwives deliver in the families homes. There are midwives who deliver in hospitals, birthing centers, and in an independent home practice. No matter where they work from they bring their own supplies and interestingly enough there are actually some insurance companies that will cover the medical coverage. I hope this time midwifery sticks around for good as I feel it is up to the patient to decide the place of child birthing. It is, however, a magical experience. Happy Throwback Thursday! Do you want to share anything about midwifery and how it has impacted our lives? Let us know in the comment section below. Here are 10 homemade baby products to make naturally! Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook! Featured Image via flickr

They took in a cat with kittens and later noticed she began following other felines, gaining courage. MiaSaltyAnimalRescueMia, the cat, was found living with a colony of cats that needed help. Kind-hearted people started feeding them and sought help for them.Natasha, a local animal rescuer, set out to find placement and assistance for the cats. When she noticed Mia was pregnant, she immediately searched for a rescue to take her in."Mia is young and looks quite far along. She will have her last litter ever safe inside," Karly Saltarski, cofounder of Salty Animal Rescue, shared. SaltyAnimalRescueMia was rescued and brought to the all-volunteer organization with Karly. Though initially frightened, she began to relax in her quiet space and appreciate the endless supply of food and comfort.Her swats and hisses began to wane, replaced by gentle purrs. SaltyAnimalRescue"Few things are more rewarding than those first purrs from a very scared kitty who originally lunged at you with a vengeance."Mia was still very shy but slowly warmed up to the comforts of indoor life. A few days later, she went into labor. Unsure of what to do when her first kitten was born, she looked at Karly with pleading eyes. Mia gave birth to six kittensSaltyAnimalRescueAfter Karly guided her through cleaning and caring for the kitten, Mia handled the next three well on her own but needed assistance with the rest of the litter. Thankfully, the kittens were born safely indoors, spared from the harsh fate they would have faced outside."Mia was exhausted but cozied up to her (six) babies. She's not the most attentive mom, but she's trying her best." SaltyAnimalRescueIn a loving foster home, the kittens flourished into bundles of energy. By four weeks old, they were running around, play-wrestling, mastering the litter box, and showing interest in their mom's food.The family of seven needed more care than anticipated due to an infection. Karly provided the necessary treatment, helping them heal and ensuring steady gains for all the kittens. SaltyAnimalRescueAs the little ones grew more independent, Mia started sneaking away to rest atop her box. She clearly craved human affection but remained a bit hesitant, purring one minute and hissing the next.The kittens were fearless and social, while Mia needed more time and understanding to find her courage. "She is so loving once she trusts you." SaltyAnimalRescueAs the kittens were ready to spread their wings and fly, Mia happily retired from motherhood. She moved into a new foster home (with Elaine), where she could socialize with the resident cats.Mia's eyes lit up at the sight of her new feline companions, and she eagerly followed them around. With their encouragement, she grew more confident, discovering that trying new things and trusting humans could be rewarding. Mia befriended the resident cats in her foster homeSaltyAnimalRescue"It has taken time to gain her trust, but under that scared shell, she is such a sweet girl. Recently, she's been allowing lots of petting and even purring and head bunts. she's happy with us being in the room and has made a ton of progress."When Elaine came home with another mother cat and two kittens, Mia was eager to help. Morticia and her kittens, Pugsley and OpheliaSaltyAnimalRescue"Morticia is one happy girl to finally get out of the shelter kennel after a month and a half. She has had some help raising her babies from Mia."With permission from the mom, Mia took the kittens, Pugsley and Ophelia, under her wing. She kitten-sat when Morticia needed a break, guiding the little ones and teaching them the ways of a cat. Mia watches the kittens when Morticia needs a break SaltyAnimalRescueMia has truly blossomed and gained confidence with the help of other cats, and she's ready to find a place of her own."She's continuing to understand humans mean extra love and care. She just needs a little time to become the more social kitty in her new home. As long as she has a cat tree or a bed in front of a window to snuggle up in, she's a happy girl." SaltyAnimalRescueShare this story with your friends. More on Mia and her feline friends and Salty Animal Rescue on Instagram and Facebook.Related story: Cat Follows His New Family from Room to Room, Guarding Them After Many Lonely Years Outside