Facebook, Instagram are using your data to train AI: Learn how to protect it

-

June 25, 2024

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Let’s face it, social media has become a mixed bag. Sure, it promised to connect us all in ways we never imagined, but let’s be real: The downsides are starting to overshadow the upsides.

It’s funny how your birth year can totally shape your view on this digital playground. Some of us might shrug off the issues, thinking, “No big deal,” while others are going to extremes, ditching their smartphones for old-school flip phones just to escape the social media circus. It’s like we’re all trying to figure out our own social media survival strategies.

And then there are the parents. Oh boy, are they in for a ride, especially if they’ve got teenagers. They’re busy crafting rules faster than you can say “TikTok,” hoping to keep their kids safe in this wild digital world. But here’s the kicker: It feels like they’re running a never-ending race. Just when they think they’ve got a handle on things, boom, another app or platform pops up, and they’re back to square one. It’s like trying to nail jelly to a wall – frustrating, messy and seemingly impossible.

Welcome to the social media age, folks, where the only constant is change.

Why US surgeon general wants warning label on social media

Mom and daughter looking at social media (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The dangers of social media

Social media platforms have become integral to our daily lives, but the impact they have had on mental health, productivity and even politics has gotten progressively worse over the years. Though awareness has been raised on this issue, which has helped people learn how to create boundaries for it, we’re still not able to stay ahead of what social media will do next.

Here are just some of the dangers of social media:

1) Exposure to scammers: Children and adolescents are vulnerable to online scams and fraudulent schemes.

2) Excessive screen time: Prolonged use of social media can lead to physical and mental health issues, including eye strain, poor posture and disrupted sleep patterns.

3) Dopamine-driven notifications: Frequent notifications can create addictive behavior patterns, leading to increased anxiety and reduced ability to focus.

4) Negative body image: Social media often promotes unrealistic body standards, contributing to body dissatisfaction and eating disorders.

5) Cyberbullying: Many young users face harassment and bullying online, which can lead to severe psychological distress.

6) Exposure to inaccurate news: The spread of misinformation and fake news on social media can influence young minds and contribute to anxiety and confusion.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

What the US surgeon general wants to put into place

This isn’t the first time that issues concerning social media have reached the government. Most recently, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called on Congress to introduce a warning label on social media apps to highlight the potential harm these platforms pose to young people.

Murthy’s push for this warning label aligns with longstanding concerns from youth advocates and lawmakers who have criticized social media giants like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat for their detrimental effects on children. These effects include contributing to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, cyberbullying, vulnerability to predators, and, in the worst cases, suicide.

In fact, according to the NIH, “…age-adjusted suicide rates have steadily increased over the past decade in the United States with suicide being the second most common cause of death in youth. Hence, the increase in suicide rate parallels the simultaneous increase in social media use. In addition, the rate of non-suicidal self-injury ranges between 14% and 21% among young people.”

In the meantime, according to the article, “New York state lawmakers this month passed legislation to bar social media platforms from exposing “addictive” algorithmic content to users under age 18 without parental consent.”

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMMERS

Teenager looking at social media (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BALANCING THE PROS AND CONS OF SOCIAL MEDIA SCREEN TIME

What we can expect to happen if this goes through

If this warning does get approved through Congress, it would, of course, take some time before we actually see “warning labels,” and it’s unclear what that would actually look like. But if it did happen, here’s what could potentially happen:

Pros:

Increased awareness: Warning labels could make parents and adolescents more aware of the potential mental health risks associated with social media use.

Behavioral change: Similar to the impact of tobacco warning labels, these could encourage healthier social media habits and reduce usage among vulnerable groups.

Pressure on social media companies: Companies may be compelled to implement stricter safety measures and better content moderation practices to avoid legal and public relations issues.

Cons:

Resistance from tech companies: Powerful social media companies may lobby against the legislation, leading to protracted legal battles and potential delays in implementation.

Perceived insufficiency: Warning labels alone may be seen as a minimal effort, insufficient to address the deeper, systemic issues of social media’s impact on mental health.

Potential stigma: Warning labels could unintentionally stigmatize social media use, leading to fear or anxiety rather than informed, balanced usage.

An adult on social media (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How you can protect yourself in the meantime

Depending on what your own stance is on social media, the fact of the matter is that it does have the potential to harm too many vulnerable people, especially children and teenagers. And if you’re not in this demographic but still struggle with managing your social media usage, then there are some ways you can limit your time:

1) Set boundaries: This is not easy for everyone, but make it your goal to limit screen time and establish specific times of day for checking social media to prevent overuse. You can check how much time you’re on the screen by looking up the “screen-time” function on your device.

2) Manage notifications: Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce constant interruptions and the dopamine-driven urge to check your phone.

3) Don’t give away sensitive information online: Always be careful of what information and photos you put online. It’s never too difficult for someone to find.

4) Log out of social media on your phone: Not having the social media apps installed on your device and logging off of them on the browser (they make it easy to log back in with one click, so you’ll need to go the extra mile) can help you get off social media.

5) Don’t take things personally: Though social media can be a dangerous tool, and any harassment, stalking or other misconduct should be reported to the authorities, most negative people on social media are “trolls.” Ignore them, don’t engage with them, and report them to the platform, if need be.

6) Set blocks on your phone/laptop: If you don’t have too much self-control when it comes to limiting your social media time, that’s understandable. That’s why apps like Freedom.to exist, which actually prevent you from logging into these sites.

7) Get a dumb phone: Many people are trading in their smartphones for a dumb phone, which helps them to get off of social media.

8) Install parental controls: Phones, laptops and other tablets come with parental controls that parents can use to limit their child’s social media activity. But it’s important to also talk about the dangers of social media with them, and if they are allowed on it, what the ground rules are. Get my top four child monitoring programs of 2024.

HOW TO TAME THE BARRAGE OF STEALTHY SOCIAL MEDIA NOTIFICATIONS AND REGAIN CONTROL

Kurt’s key takeaways

Social media is fine if used appropriately, responsibly and in moderation. But its potential to do harm is something that’s important to take seriously, especially if you’re a parent and/or someone who has already suffered from anxiety or depression. Essentially, if what it’s taking from you is more than what it’s giving to you, it may be time to reconsider your relationship with your social media platforms or at least put some restrictions on it.

Do you enforce social media restrictions on yourself and/or your children? If so, why? And what are your thoughts on putting a warning label on social media platforms? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Source link

Eco Promo Products Continues To Dominate The Eco Friendly Promotional Products Sector

By

-

June 25, 2024

With over 20 years of market experience, their aim at Eco Promotional Products is to offer the highest possible customer service, at the lowest prices, the fastest turnarounds while also making sure their products offer an eco-friendly promotional product option.

Northwich, United Kingdom, June 25, 2024, Promotional products that bear the ECO Brand are designed to have a positive impact on the environment. Businesses all over the planet are backing the cause of sustainability by using Eco-friendly promo items.

Their goal is to build a long-term relationship with their customers as they develop an understanding of their requirements and what products work best for them. The team at ECO Promotional Productsis always there to help with any last-minute orders and to make sure client events run as smoothly as possible.

They are also continuously looking to develop environmentally friendly products and they want to take customers on that journey as they bring new products to market for them to choose from. Their in-house design team is always happy to help with artwork designs.

It would be a challenge to find as many Eco-friendly promotional products anywhere else on the Internet.

ECO Promo Products is most sought after for:

Branded Coasters
Branded Fridge Magnets
Branded Lanyards
Branded Pens
Branded Promotional Badges
Branded Promotional Bags
Branded Promotional Notepads
Branded Reusable Coffee Cups
Branded Trolley Coins
Branded Umbrellas
Branded Wristbands
Promotional Clothing
Promotional Drink Bottles
Promotional Socks
Reusable Bags
Biodegradable Pens
Recycled Notebooks
Seeded Products *

Their seeded products are made in the UK, and they offer an eco-friendly, seed-based promotional product option. Seeded promotional products offer sustainable options in the promotional merchandise industry. ECO has a range of seed-based products including seed-embedded business cards, bookmarks, postcards, and more. They also supply a variety of seed balls and seed bombs, in addition to seed packets. If there is a product you don’t see on their website, please get in touch as they can make any seeded promotional product.

They’re committed to offering innovative and sustainable solutions that promote your brand while simultaneously contributing to the environment. By doing so, they hope to lead the way and inspire others in the promotional merchandise industry to do the same. Their wildflower seed is grown in the UK, and they champion ethical and eco-conscious practices aimed at minimizing their carbon footprint.

For complete information, visit: https://ecopromotionalproducts.co.uk/

Media Contact:

ECO Promotional Products
Attn: Media Relations
Fir Tree Farm, Crowley,
Northwich CW9 6NX,
United Kingdom
01565 777 062
press@ ecopromotionalproducts.co.uk

ECO — Eco Promo Products Continues To Dominate The Eco Friendly Promotional Products Sector 19

ECO2 — Eco Promo Products Continues To Dominate The Eco Friendly Promotional Products Sector 20

US Surgeon General declares firearm-related violence a public health crisis

By

-

June 25, 2024

SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS FEDERAL GUN BAN FOR THOSE UNDER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESTRAINING ORDERS

The United States surgeon general is declaring gun violence a national public health crisis.

Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an advisory on Tuesday stating that firearm-related violence and its immediate psychological ramifications on victims and bystanders has severely compromised public health.

“Today, for the first time in the history of our office, I am issuing a Surgeon General’s Advisory on firearm violence,” Murthy said in a video announcement. “It outlines the urgent threat firearm violence poses to the health and well-being of our country.”

U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released a special advisory on firearm violence on Tuesday, calling gun-related incidents a public health crisis. (Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)

“As a doctor, I’ve seen the consequences of firearm violence up close and the lives of the patients that cared for over the years,” the surgeon general continued. “These are moms and dads, sons and daughters, all of whom were robbed of their physical and mental health by senseless acts of violence.”

The advisory states that 54% of adults in America have experienced a firearm-related incident. These experiences with firearm violence include individuals who have been threatened with a gun (21%), lost a family member in a gun-related death (19%), witnessed a shooting (17%), and been wounded by a firearm (4%).

The 54% figure also includes adults who have fired a gun in self-defense (4%). The gun-related death statistic includes those who committed suicide via firearm.

The report noted different demographics are affected in different ways by gun violence.

Black individuals suffer the highest rate of gun deaths. American Indians, Alaskan Natives, elderly white people, and military veterans are at the highest risk suicide by firearm.

“Beyond these precious lives that are lost to firearm violence, there are wider ripples of harm to those who are injured, who witnessed the incidents, who live in urban and rural communities where such violence takes place, and who constantly read and hear about firearm violence,” Murthy stated.

MARYLAND GOVERNOR SIGNS BIDEN-INSPIRED BILL ESTABLISHED ‘CENTER FOR FIREARM VIOLENCE PREVENTION’

Murthy wrote in the report that the direct casualties of gun violence are compounded by psychological ramifications inflicted on victims and bystanders. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

He added, “The collective trauma and fear that Americans are experiencing is contributing to the mental health challenges that we are facing today. Nearly 6 in 10 U.S. adults say they worry about a loved one being a victim of firearm violence.”

The public advisory on firearm-related violence is the first document of its kind released by the Surgeon General’s Office.

Timothy Nerozzi is a writer for Fox News Digital. You can follow him on Twitter @timothynerozzi and can email him at timothy.nerozzi@fox.com

Teenage typing phenom hits insane 305 words per minute

By

-

June 25, 2024

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

At just 17 years old, “MythicalRocket,” or simply “Rocket,” has achieved an astonishing typing speed of 305 words per minute (WPM), more than seven times faster than the average person’s 40 WPM. This blazing pace allowed the high school student to type the entirety of “The Hobbit” in less than six hours.

Rocket’s journey began around three years ago when he realized his gaming hobby had inadvertently made him a fast typist. He started practicing on free typing websites like Monkeytype and Typeracer, spending 15 to 30 minutes daily typing “going ham” on random word strings. Through dedicated practice, his speed rapidly increased from 140 WPM to more than 300 WPM.

Teenage typing phenom hits insane 305 words per minute

MythicalRocket typing on computer (MythicalRocket) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Shattering world records

In a video posted to his YouTube channel (@mythicalrocket), Rocket demonstrated his mind-boggling 305 WPM pace, leaving viewers in awe of his “insane” and “mind-boggling” skill. He currently holds the world record for the fastest typing speed, over 60 seconds and 15 seconds on Monkeytype.

To achieve these superhuman speeds, Rocket uses a high-tech Apex Pro keyboard, though he admits that switching keyboards initially made him the “slowest I’ve ever felt” because he had to relearn muscle memory, as he told PC Mag.

HOW TO PICK THE PERFECT LAPTOP IN 2024

MythicalRocket typing on computer (MythicalRocket) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

Future plans for the typing phenom

Despite his incredible accomplishments, Rocket believes he can still push past 305 WPM with more practice. He plans to continue breaking records over the summer before starting software engineering studies, where his elite typing abilities will likely prove invaluable.

MythicalRocket typing on computer (MythicalRocket) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEST COOLING PADS FOR YOUR LAPTOP

Kurt’s key takeaways

The typing phenom’s meteoric rise demonstrates how consistent practice and an early start can develop extraordinary skills. At just 17, MythicalRocket has cemented himself as one of the fastest typists on the planet. His incredible 305 WPM video left viewers stunned, with many finding his speed “insane” and “mind-boggling.” While he plans to study software engineering, Rocket shows no signs of slowing down his typing journey, aiming to break even more records over the summer. With his dedication and natural talents, it seems the sky is the limit for this teenage typing savant.

How has technology (apps, games, online platforms, etc.) enabled you to practice and improve skills in new ways compared to previous generations? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Source link

For diabetes patients, inhaled insulin is shown just as effective as injections and pumps

By

-

June 25, 2024

EATING YOGURT COULD HELP PREVENT ONE COMMON DISEASE, ACCORDING TO THE FDA

Join Fox News for access to this content

Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge.

By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.

Please enter a valid email address.

Most of the 38 million people living with diabetes in the U.S. use daily injections or insulin pumps to keep glucose at safe levels — but new research suggests that a third option could be just as effective.

In a study led by Dr. Irl B. Hirsch, M.D., medical director of the Diabetes Care Center of the University of Washington Medical Center, an inhaled form of insulin — similar to an asthma inhaler — worked just as well as injections or pumps to control type 1 diabetes.

The research was presented last week at the American Diabetes Association (ADA)’s 84th Scientific Sessions in Orlando, Florida.

The clinical trial tested a product called Afrezza, an inhaled basal insulin made by MannKind Corporation in California.

Afrezza, the only inhaled insulin on the market, has been available since getting FDA approval in June 2014.

An inhaled form of insulin worked just as well as injections or pumps to control type 1 diabetes in a recent study. (iStock/MannKind)

Benefits of a third option

“In those with type 1 diabetes, insulin is required for survival,” Hirsch told Fox News Digital in an interview.

“With continuous glucose sensing, glucose control has been dramatically improved — but not everyone reaches the target with multiple injections or pumps, and there are many pros and cons with each therapy,” he said.

EATING ONE TYPE OF FRUIT REGULARLY COULD REDUCE DIABETES RISK IN WOMEN, STUDY SUGGESTS: ‘INCREDIBLY HEALTHY’

With pumps, people must wear the device, which can lead to skin problems.

They also have to purchase extra accessories.

Blood glucose levels can also drop with exercise, Hirsch warned, which can be problematic.

Afrezza, an inhaled basal insulin pictured here, is made by MannKind Corporation in California. (MannKind)

“Injections overall can be more convenient for some, but they don’t do as well as pump patients,” he said.

With Afrezza, the product is inhaled into the lungs before meals, and the fast-acting insulin minimizes the glucose spike often seen after eating, Hirsch noted.

“Patients with type 1 diabetes should consider this as another option for their mealtime insulin, and talk to their doctor about this choice.”

During the 17-week study, researchers evaluated the results of 141 adults who were assigned to either use the Afrezza inhaler or continue with traditional methods of injection or pump delivery.

At the 17-week mark, all participants switched to the inhaler for another 13 weeks.

Dr. Irl B. Hirsch, M.D., medical director of the Diabetes Care Center of the University of Washington Medical Center, led the new study. (MannKind)

All groups were assessed with continuous glucose monitoring at the start of the study, at 17 weeks and again at 30 weeks.

Among the inhaled insulin group, 30% of participants reached their target glucose levels (less than 7% blood sugar) compared to 17% of the people using injections and pumps.

There was no difference in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) between the groups.

UTAH MOM FIGHTS FOR HER DAUGHTER’S ACCESS TO DISCONTINUED DIABETES MEDICATION: ‘LIFE-SAVING’

“In general, there was no difference in our primary endpoint, HbA1c, a reflection of average blood sugar,” Hirsch said.

“But that alone is misleading — many patients did better with their glucose control, while others did worse.”

With Afrezza, the product is inhaled into the lungs before meals, and the fast-acting insulin minimizes the glucose spike often seen after eating, a doctor said. (MannKind)

“The point is, inhaling insulin isn’t for everyone, but some did better than they did on their pumps.”

The people who saw the best results inhaled insulin between meals and at bedtime, Hirsch added.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

At the end of the study, more than half of the participants said they would opt to stay on the inhaled insulin therapy.

“The biggest takeaway is that patients with type 1 diabetes should consider this as another option for their mealtime insulin, and talk to their doctor about this choice,” he recommended.

‘Adds value’

The American Diabetes Association acknowledged the promise of the study findings in an email to Fox News Digital.

“We look forward to our Scientific Sessions every year to see data like the INHALE-3 study’s findings, which have the potential to expand diabetes care,” Raveendhara Bannuru, M.D., PhD, the ADA’s vice president of medical affairs and quality improvement outcomes in Boston, Massachusetts, told Fox News Digital via email.

“With continuous glucose sensing, glucose control has been dramatically improved,” a doctor told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

“We are hopeful for the continuous development of alternative insulin delivery methods that could offer options for people living with diabetes,” the group also said in the statement.

“The INHALE-3 trial demonstrated that inhaled insulin, combined with insulin degludec, effectively reduces A1c levels without increasing hypoglycemia or weight gain in people with type 1 diabetes. This adds value to the options in insulin therapy.”

Potential risks and limitations

While more people met their glycemic targets with Afrezza, some subjects saw worse readings when switching from usual methods to inhaled insulin — “potentially due to missing doses of inhaled insulin during the day and/or underdosing going into bedtime,” the researchers wrote.

“We didn’t see any concerns,” Hirsch said when asked about side effects.

“As expected, a few people coughed immediately when dosing their insulin, but no major concerns were seen and everyone continued on their inhaled insulin.”

“Not everyone reaches the target with multiple injections or pumps, and there are many pros and cons with each therapy,” a doctor said. (iStock)

The most common side effects noted in the study were hypoglycemia, cough and throat pain or irritation.

Afrezza has been linked to a risk of acute bronchospasm in patients with chronic lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, according to the manufacturer.

“Inhaling insulin isn’t for everyone, but some did better than they did on their pumps.”

Before starting Afrezza, patients should see a doctor for a physical examination and testing to measure lung function.

Patients who smoke or who recently quit smoking should not take the inhaled medication.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Fox News Digital reached out to MannKind requesting additional comment.

GOP lines up culture war-heavy spending bills targeting military abortions, drag shows

By

-

June 25, 2024

ILLINOIS ELECTION RESULTS: DEMOCRAT SORENSEN WINS TOSS-UP HOUSE RACE FOR OPEN SEAT

Join Fox News for access to this content

Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge.

By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.

Please enter a valid email address.

House Republicans are using three key government funding bills to pass conservative priorities on abortion, diversity and drag performances.

The House is expected to consider appropriations bills this week funding the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the State Department and foreign operations for fiscal year 2025.

It’s part of an ambitious schedule House GOP leaders have laid out to have their 12 individual appropriations bills passed by August recess.

But in addition to funding the government by the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30, Republicans are also eyeing the spending race as an opportunity to get at least some conservative social policies over the line before the November election, when they risk losing the House majority.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson is expected to hold votes on three culture war-heavy spending bills this week. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

That includes pushing for former President Trump’s border wall – there is $600 million in the DHS appropriations bill for funding its construction, along with a policy provision to force Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to erect physical barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border as quickly as possible.

Both the DHS and defense bills also block their respective funds from being used for abortion services.

The defense bill stops use of “paid leave and travel or related expenses of a servicemember or their dependents to obtain an abortion or abortion-related services,” according to the House Appropriations Committee’s defense subcommittee.

The former prohibits federal dollars from being used to perform abortions for noncitizen detainees of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Likewise, that bill also stops funding from going toward transgender health care-related measures for ICE detainees.

The defense spending bill also bans funding from being used for programs like drag queen story hour, and prevents hiring of drag performers as military recruiters. The subcommittee’s bill summary argues such programs “bring discredit upon the military.”

DRAG PERFORMER SPEAKS OUT AGAINST ALLOWING KIDS TO ATTEND DRAG SHOWS: ‘THIS IS AN ADULT VENUE’

Republicans are also eyeing the spending race as an opportunity to get at least some conservative social policies over the line before the November election, including funding for former President Trump’s border wall. (Fox News)

All three bills expected for consideration this week block federal dollars from going toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. It’s a priority House Republicans also pushed for in the last spending fight, which resulted in the shutdown of the House Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

Similarly, the defense and DHS bills place restrictions on those departments enacting critical race theory (CRT) programs.

While defense and DHS spending are set to get modest bumps in fiscal year 2025, Republicans are aiming to slash spending at the State Department.

House Republicans are working toward a topline of roughly $1.6 trillion in discretionary government funding. GOP leaders are guided by last year’s Fiscal Responsibility Act, a deal struck between then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and President Biden to raise the debt ceiling and limit federal spending.

AOC DEMANDS BIDEN ‘REVERSE COURSE’ ON BORDER WALL CONSTRUCTION AMID MIGRANT SURGE: ‘CRUEL POLICY’

But unlike last year, when the final numbers were inflated by McCarthy and Biden’s side deals, House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole, R-Okla., and Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., pledged to forge ahead on the topline number alone.

The defense bill and DHS bill are seeing roughly $9 billion and $3 billion increases from 2024, respectively, while the State Department bill is an 11% cut from last year.

President Joe Biden speaks at podium in Philadelphia

President Biden has already threatened to veto the bills. (Demetrius Freeman/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

All three are being considered by the House Rules Committee on Tuesday, the last stop before a bill faces a chamber-wide vote. Democrats have already come out in opposition to the House GOP’s plans, however.

Biden threatened to veto all three spending bills in a statement of administration policy on Monday.

“Rather than respecting their agreement and taking the opportunity to engage in a productive, bipartisan appropriations process to build on last year’s bills, House Republicans are again wasting time with partisan bills that would result in deep cuts to law enforcement, education, housing, health care, consumer safety, energy programs that lower utility bills and combat climate change, and essential nutrition services,” the White House said.

“The draft bills also include numerous, partisan policy provisions with devastating consequences, including harming access to reproductive health care, threatening the health and safety of… (LGBTQI+) Americans, endangering marriage equality, hindering critical climate change initiatives, and preventing the Administration from promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

Lake Compounce in Connecticut is America’s oldest theme park

By

-

June 25, 2024

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR A TRIP TO THE AMUSEMENT PARK

America’s oldest theme park lies in Bristol, Connecticut.

Starting out as a lakeside picnic park with stunning views, the space has evolved into a theme park housing over 35 rides and attractions.

Lake Compounce is named the oldest amusement park in the United States by the National Amusement Park Historical Association and the oldest continuously operating amusement park, according to the Library of Congress.

The National Amusement Park Historical Association recognizes the theme park as the fifth-oldest in the world.

Those that come before it are Bakken in Klampenborg, Denmark, Prater in Vienna, Blackgang Chine on the Isle of Wight, United Kingdom, and Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark.

A Lake Compounce water slide is shown. Starting out as a lakeside picnic park with stunning views, the space has evolved into a theme park housing over 35 rides and attractions. (Lake Compounce)

Lake Compounce first opened its doors to the public in 1846 as a park.

On Oct. 6, 1846, Samuel Botsford, a Bristol scientist, successfully persuaded property owner Gad Norton to allow him to hold “a series of beautiful experiments in electricity,” according to the theme park’s website. This display ended up drawing thousands of people to Lake Compounce.

Two parents swinging child in the air at amusement park

Theme parks such as Lake Compounce provide fun for the whole family. (iStock)

In 1895, the first permanent building, a casino with a restaurant on the lower floor and a ballroom on the upper was built, according to the source, with dinner costing 50 cents at the time.

THE OLDEST CHURCH IN THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES LIES IN SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO

It was 1914 when the first electric-powered roller coaster opened to the public, it was called the Green Dragon.

Lake Compounce’s carousel (not pictured) was originally built in 1898. (iStock)

This ride ended up being replaced by the Wildcat coaster in 1914, which guests can still take a thrilling journey on today. That particular ride did undergo restoration, providing a smoother ride for guests.

Another famed wooden roller coaster at Lake Compounce is Boulder Dash, which first opened in 2000.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

This ride has been named the best wooden roller coaster by Amusement Today five times.

Although the park has gone through changes since its inception, like being acquired by Palace Entertainment in 2009, the historical atmosphere can still be felt throughout the park.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle

For example, the carousel that kids and adults alike adore was first built in 1898 and was brought to the theme park in 1911.

Girlfriend feeding boyfriend cotton candy

Families, couples and friends will all find something they enjoy at Lake Compounce. (iStock)

Also part of Lake Compounce is Connecticut’s largest water park. Admission to Crocodile Cove is included in every ticket purchase.

Lake Compounce contains a good balance of rides ideal for children and adults with plenty of coasters and kid-friendly rides for a full day of fun.

Ashlyn Messier is a writer for Fox News Digital.

Ask a doctor: ‘Is it ever OK to take someone else’s prescription medication?’

By

-

June 24, 2024

MEDICINE CABINET MUST-HAVES: 9 ESSENTIALS EVERY HOUSEHOLD SHOULD HAVE ON HAND

Join Fox News for access to this content

Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge.

By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.

Please enter a valid email address.

Most of us have, at some time or another, asked a friend or family member for some over-the-counter medicine to treat a headache or an upset stomach, as the dosage and directions are fairly universal.

But is the same protocol appropriate when it comes to taking someone else’s prescription medication?

The resounding answer from medical doctors is an emphatic “no.”

There are specific reasons why.

“Taking someone else’s prescribed medication can be very harmful,” LaTasha Perkins, M.D., a family physician at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital.

Doctors agreed that sharing prescription medications with others is a bad idea. (iStock)

“You need to take only your own medicine and not someone else’s, because so much goes into figuring it out.”

Numerous considerations are involved in prescribing medication to a patient, Perkins said — including health status, medical history and blood work — which can be completely different from one person to the next.

Even if you take the same medication as someone else, the other person may be on a different dose of it, the doctor noted.

TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY? IT COULD BE ILLEGAL TO BRING ALONG THESE MEDICATIONS, ACCORDING TO A PHARMACIST

“A lot of medications also look and sound the same, so you have to take what was specifically prescribed to you,” she cautioned.

Numerous factors go into prescribing medication to a patient, including health status, medical history and blood work, according to doctors. (iStock)

Drug interactions present another concern.

“If you’re taking vitamins or any other medication that may interact with a prescription medicine, that should be taken into account when tailoring your prescription,” Perkins said.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Allergies are yet another key consideration, the doctor warned, as some people are allergic to the additives in medications.

“There’s a reason the medication is prescribed — because it’s personalized to each individual based on a variety of health factors,” Perkins said.

The consequences of sharing prescription medication — which is never a good idea — can range from severe allergic reactions to medication interactions and overdosing, one doctor warned. (iStock)

Chad Weston, M.D., a physician with Novant Health Oceanside Family Medicine & Convenient Care – Brunswick in Shallotte, North Carolina, agreed that taking a medication prescribed to a different individual, even for seemingly similar symptoms, can be harmful and have unintended consequences.

“These consequences range from severe allergic reactions to medication interactions and overdosing, causing damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys,” he said in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Instead of seeking symptom relief by taking someone else’s medication, you should see a doctor to get an accurate medical diagnosis and prescription, Weston advised.

Instead of seeking symptom relief by taking someone else’s medication, you should see a doctor to get an accurate medical diagnosis and prescription, a doctor advised. (iStock)

In the event that you’re traveling and don’t have your medicine with you, Perkins said the best thing to do is call your doctor.

“If you don’t have your medicine, we can call it into a pharmacy wherever you are,” she said.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

“This is why it’s so important to have a family physician,” she said.

“Having a relationship with your doctor can help you navigate situations like this.”

Russian official cites Islamic ‘sleeper cells’ as death toll in attacks on synagogues, churches climbs to 20

By

-

June 24, 2024

RUSSIA OPENS TERROR PROBE AFTER ATTACKS ON SYNAGOGUES, ORTHODOX CHURCHES; PRIEST AND POLICE OFFICERS KILLED

A Russian official pointed to Islamic “sleeper cells” after gunmen carried out coordinated attacks on synagogues and churches in two cities in the southern region of Dagestan, killing at least 20 people Sunday.

Sunday’s violence in Dagestan’s regional capital of Makhachkala and nearby Derbent was the latest that officials blamed on Islamic extremists in the predominantly Muslim region in the North Caucasus, as well as the deadliest in Russia since March, when gunmen opened fire at a concert in suburban Moscow, killing 145 people. The affiliate of the Islamic State group in Afghanistan that claimed responsibility for March’s raid at the Crocus City concert hall quickly praised the attack in Dagestan, saying it was conducted by “brothers in the Caucasus who showed that they are still strong.”

Dagestan Gov. Sergei Melikov, selected by Russian President Vladimir Putin to lead the region, blamed members of Islamic “sleeper cells” directed from abroad, but did not give any other details. He said in a video statement that the assailants’ goal was “sowing panic and fear,” and attempted to link the attack to Moscow’s military action in Ukraine – but also provided no evidence.

Putin had sought to blame the March attack on Ukraine, again without evidence and despite the claim of responsibility by the Islamic State affiliate. Kyiv has vehemently denied any involvement.

In this photo taken from video released by The Telegram Channel of the head of Dagestan Republic of Russia on Monday, June 24, 2024, an internal view of the damaged Kele-Numaz synagogue in Derbent. (The Telegram Channel of the head of Dagestan Republic of Russia via AP)

Of the 20 killed in the armed attacks in Derbent and Makhachkala on Sunday, at least 15 were police, according to the latest figures from Russian authorities on Monday.

Medical authorities in Dagestan said at least 46 people were injured. Of those, at least 13 were police, with four officers hospitalized in grave condition.

Among the dead was Rev. Nikolai Kotelnikov, a 66-year-old Russian Orthodox priest at a church in Derbent. The attackers slit his throat before setting fire to the church, according to Shamil Khadulayev, deputy head of a local public oversight body. The attack came as the Orthodox faithful celebrated Pentecost, also known as Trinity Sunday.

The Kele-Numaz synagogue in Derbent was also set ablaze.

Shortly after the attacks in Derbent, militants fired at a police post in Makhachkala and attacked a Russian Orthodox church and a synagogue there before being hunted down and killed by special forces, The Associated Press reported. The Investigative Committee, the country’s top state criminal investigation agency, opened a terrorism investigation and said all five attackers were killed.

FBI Director Christopher Wray warned earlier this month of a heightened terror threat following the Biden administration’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, coupled with the Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel by Hamas terrorists, warning of “the potential for a coordinated attack here in the homeland, not unlike the ISIS-K attack we saw at the Russian concert hall back in March.”

Appearing on CBS’s “Face the Nation” on Sunday, former CIA Deputy Director Mike Morell, who warned in a recent op-ed about the terror threat posed by vulnerabilities at the U.S.-Mexico border, did not address the attacks in Russia specifically but said the Biden administration and Congress “lack a sense of urgency” in responding to intelligence gaps stifling efforts to properly vet illegal immigrants.

“There needs to be a sense of urgency about this,” Morell said. “And I think the American public needs to understand what the threat is. That’s why we called for a public congressional hearing just on the terrorist threats to the homeland. Right, not a hearing on threats broadly, but threats to the homeland. And then we need to hear what the administration is doing about this in a broad sense, right. Not the details, but in a broad sense.”

FBI DIRECTOR WRAY WARNED OF TERROR THREAT POSED BY OPEN BORDER DAYS BEFORE 8 ISIS SUSPECTS ARRESTED ACROSS US

The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War argued that the Islamic State group’s North Caucasus branch, Vilayat Kavkaz, likely was behind Sunday’s attack, describing it as “complex and coordinated.”

Russian news reports said the attackers included the two sons and a nephew of Magomed Omarov, the head of the Dagestan regional branch of the pro-Kremlin United Russia party. Omarov was detained by police for interrogation, and United Russia quickly dismissed him from its ranks. Melikov later said Omarov had been removed from his post, Russian state news agencies reported.

In the early 2000s, Dagestan saw near-daily attacks on police and other authorities that were blamed on militant extremists. After the emergence of the Islamic State group, many residents of the region joined it in Syria and Iraq. The violence in Dagestan has abated in recent years, but in a sign that extremist sentiments still run high in the region, mobs rioted at an airport there in October, targeting a flight from Israel. More than 20 people were hurt – none of them Israelis – when hundreds of men, some carrying banners with antisemitic slogans, rushed onto the tarmac, chased passengers and threw stones at police.