This report addresses: Saharan Dust Storm Impact

This information can be used to monitor the impact of natural disasters on ecosystems and to help manage natural resources in the aftermath of a disaster.

One of the primary benefits of weather satellites is their ability to provide accurate and up-to-date information about weather patterns.

WeatherThis Week in Weather History

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Winter 1948-1949 | The Worst Winter in Nebraska History

Relentless blizzards, wind, and cold
Posted at 1:44 PM, Jan 31, 2024
and last updated 2024-01-31 14:44:00-05

In Nebraska legend, there are certain winters that grandparents relate to their grandkids about "the hard times" of yesteryear.

Of those, the Long Winter of 1880-1881, the Schoolchildren Blizzard of 1888, the Armistice Day Blizzard of 1940, and the Great Blizzard of 1975.

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne reported the record low was -26 degrees Fahrenheit early in the morning Thursday, which persisted until past 7 a.m.

Lavoie said the last cold outbreak of this magnitude was in the late 1970s for the Riverton area, but Casper had the all-time coldest temperature recorded since 1939.

This report addresses: Saharan Dust Storm Impact

Title:

Content: Importance of Weather Satellites in Disaster Management

Weather satellites have become an essential tool in disaster management and emergency response. These satellites are used to monitor weather patterns and provide real-time data to help predict and respond to natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and wildfires.

The importance of weather satellites in disaster management cannot be overstated. These satellites provide critical information that can help emergency responders and disaster management teams make informed decisions about evacuation, rescue, and relief efforts. They can also help to minimize the impact of natural disasters on communities and reduce the loss of life and property damage.

One of the primary benefits of weather satellites is their ability to provide accurate and up-to-date information about weather patterns. This information is crucial in predicting the path and intensity of natural disasters, which can help emergency responders and disaster management teams prepare for and respond to these events. For example, weather satellites can provide information about the strength and trajectory of hurricanes, which can help communities prepare for the storm and evacuate if necessary.

In addition to providing information about weather patterns, weather satellites can also provide data about the environment and natural resources. This information can be used to monitor the impact of natural disasters on ecosystems and to help manage natural resources in the aftermath of a disaster. For example, weather satellites can provide information about the extent of flooding in a particular area, which can help emergency responders and disaster management teams identify areas that are in need of assistance.

Another benefit of weather satellites is their ability to provide real-time data. This data can be used to track the movement of natural disasters and to provide updates to emergency responders and disaster management teams. This information can help these teams make informed decisions about where to focus their efforts and how to allocate resources.

Despite the many benefits of weather satellites, there are some challenges associated with their use in disaster management. One of the main challenges is the cost of launching and maintaining these satellites. Weather satellites require significant financial investment, which can be a barrier for some countries and organizations.

Another challenge is the need for trained personnel to interpret and analyze the data provided by weather satellites. This requires specialized knowledge and expertise, which may not be readily available in all areas.

Despite these challenges, the use of weather satellites in disaster management and emergency response is essential. These satellites provide critical information that can help to save lives and minimize the impact of natural disasters on communities. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that weather satellites will become even more important in disaster management and emergency response.

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Content: WeatherThis Week in Weather History

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Winter 1948-1949 | The Worst Winter in Nebraska History

Relentless blizzards, wind, and cold
Posted at 1:44 PM, Jan 31, 2024
and last updated 2024-01-31 14:44:00-05

In Nebraska legend, there are certain winters that grandparents relate to their grandkids about "the hard times" of yesteryear. Of those, the Long Winter of 1880-1881, the Schoolchildren Blizzard of 1888, the Armistice Day Blizzard of 1940, and the Great Blizzard of 1975. However, one particular winter stands out, the winter of 1948-1949.

Nebraskans endured a siege of blizzards beginning in November and lasting through March. Each blizzard brought heavy snow, screaming winds, and brutal cold. Snow piled up so high in spots it covered houses, crippled transportation, and trapped cattle in the elements. It took a massive federal government operation to dig out those stranded finally. The worst affected areas was the Panhandle into northern Nebraska, but Omaha and the rest of Nebraska/Iowa were not spared. In this installment of This Week in Weather History we look back at the worst winter in Nebraska state history.

NEBRASKA IN THE LATE 1940S

After enduring the hardships that were the 1930s with the Depression and the Dust Bowl, Nebraskans entered the 1940s with a dim sense of hope. In World War II, Nebraskans joined the front lines, assisted the war effort in munitions facilities, and growing food for the troops. The post-war brought on new international tensions with the Soviet Union, and the Cold War came into being by the late 1940s. The era of the "Red Scare" and McCarthyism was here.

Besides the darkened political landscape, Nebraska enjoyed an economic boom brought about by the war in the later 1940s. Unemployment was low, wages were slowly rising, and Nebraskans had more money to spend. Purchases of appliances like Refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers soared; as well, luxury items such as more ornate clothing, vacations, and home decor were also purchased. The 1940s was the spread of the television, now cheap enough for middle-class families to afford. It quickly became a household staple as families gathered around the TV to watch shows and relax. On September 1, 1949, KMTV came on the air, the second oldest TV station in Nebraska.

Although it did not accelerate until well into the 1950s, Nebraskans were moving from the city to the suburbs. In the Omaha metro, towns such as Bellevue, Millard, Valley, and Ralston saw large population increases in the 1940s, only to continue into the 50s. Other cities like Lincoln, Hastings, Grand Island, and Sidney also saw significant population gains through the decade.

Rural areas saw big changes in the 1940s too. The latter 1940s was hallmarked by a major push to bring electricity to rural homes, brought about by the Rural Electrification Act (REA) in 1936. In December 1947, only 36% of Nebraskan homes had electricity. By 1954, that number had ballooned to over 96% of homes. Many rural Nebraskans earned a living in agriculture, as farms expanded due to mechanization, the number of farms also shrunk. Seeking better opportunities, many younger people left the countryside for the cities or outside the state. Most counties in the 1940s saw a population drop, a trend that continues today.

Coming out of the Dust Bowl, life in Nebraska was changing in many significant ways both for good and ill. It would take the most brutal winter in the history of the state to push even more change, and it began early in November 1948.

NOVEMBER 16-22, 1948: THE PRECURSOR

November 15, 1948, was a warm day across Nebraska with many locations hitting the 70s, Omaha recorded a high of 71 that day. On November 16, a cold front began to move across the state, but it was still mild with temperatures in the 50s statewide. Beginning on the afternoon of November 17, a low-pressure system began moving out of Colorado into Kansas and strengthened. As cold air continued to filter in, snow started to fall in the Panhandle, stretching its way eastward. By November 18, a ferocious blizzard began over central Nebraska, one that would drop up to 2' of snow and be the first of many big snowstorms that winter.

Older residents compared the storm to the Children's Blizzard of 1888 in that relatively warm conditions lulled people outside. Motorists were driving, children were in schools, and others went to work before the storm hit. Once the wind and snow began, it fell for almost four straight days, trapping many people. In O'Neill, it took a teacher three days to get home from her school. Hundreds of motorists were stranded across the state, forced to seek shelter in hotels. Others braved the conditions to get home. One hunting party walked over 30 miles in the storm to get home near O'Neill. Tragically, the storm took the lives of six Nebraskans, most of whom were stranded in cars.

The storm stranded many cities, cut off transportation, and downed many power lines. In Lexington, power was out for over 30 hours as crews worked to restore them. Other communities in northern Nebraska were out of power for longer. Snowfall totals were highest in northeast Nebraska, where upwards of 2 feet fell in cities like Hartington. There was a sharp cut-off in snow totals as one moved further southeast, Fremont received 10", Omaha 4", and southeast Nebraska barely a trace.

In their annual report, the Weather Bureau described the storm as thus:

From the 17th to 20th one of the most severe early season snow storms of record occurred in the central Great Plains, resulting in millions of dollars damage and a loss of at least 9 lives. The storm was at its worst in western Kansas and Nebraska where a heavy snowfall of 4 to 20 inches, blown by gale force winds into drifts up to 20 feet deep, blocked many railroads and highways, stranded motorists, disrupted communications, isolated many communities, and caused much loss of livestock
Monthly Weather Review, Dec 1948

As temperatures warmed towards the end of the month, most Nebraskans were able to dig out and life got back to normal. It was only a foretaste of the winter to come.

DECEMBER 1948

December started quite warm for Nebraska, Omaha hit a high of 63 on December 4th. That warm spell ended abruptly when a cold front brought high winds and a few inches of snow over central Nebraska. Near Grand Island, a bus slid off the road and overturned, injuring 26 people but fortunately killing no one.

In the days leading up to Christmas, a large storm system began to develop over the southwest United States and move eastward. Snow overspread Nebraska on December 23 and continued into Christmas Eve. The snow totals ranged from around 8" in Omaha to nearly a foot in locations west of the metro, the highest snow total was in the Panhandle at Alliance with 16". Surprisingly, despite the heavy snow, there were no significant issues for travel or Christmas festivities.

A few days after Christmas, an area of freezing drizzle developed over Nebraska, they were causing travel issues and power outages due to the ice. In Kearney, power outages delayed the newspaper going to print by a day, and the city was without power for many hours. Roads that were just opened in the wake of the November blizzard were closed as the high winds whipped up snow drifts back onto the roads, covering the ice. By December 30, 109 communities in Nebraska were cut off from telephone lines, that number had dropped to 49 by New Year's Eve.

In the good feeling of missing both major blizzards in late 1948, the editor of the Chadron Record said, "Good old Chadron! We've again missed the second big blizzard in the state.". He would come to regret this almost immediately as Chadron became the epicenter of not only the largest blizzard of the 1948-1949 season but one of the greatest blizzards in Nebraska history.

JANUARY 2-5, 1949: THE GREAT BLIZZARD

The year 1949 began on a quiet note as temperatures rose into the 30s across Nebraska, but it wasn't expected to last long. The forecast from the Weather Bureau called for "a moderate [snow]fall" for the next 5 days. The weather map on January 2 showed a cold front from Wyoming to California with cold air and snow behind it, and that would begin to move through the state starting that evening.

The culprit was a large low-pressure system that moved along the Nebraska-Kansas border on January 3, then turned due north over eastern Nebraska on the 4th, arriving in southeast South Dakota on the 5th before finally moving away. This subjected the western half of the state to days of heavy snow, bitter cold, and screaming winds for up to 72 hours.

It was described by some who witnessed it as a gray cloud as it moved into the Nebraska panhandle as early as the lunch hour on the 2nd, within minutes everything went from clear to snow cover. Those caught out in it had only a few hours to get places, by evening all roads and rail lines became blocked. For some families in western Nebraska, it began a multi-week stretch of being isolated from the world.

Transportation effectively halted. Rail lines were severed, including the big ones between Omaha and Denver. Many trains were stranded, some needing relief trains to help dig out of the snow, some of those getting stuck. Many buses were stranded, one farm near Scottsbluff had to take in 30 passengers from a bus that was left stranded in a drift 17 feet high. The National Guard helped to locate those stuck in cars, of which there were hundreds over the Panhandle alone.

Harmon Holleman of Gordon in northwestern Nebraska left to transport gas when his car got stuck. He tried to find refuge in a haystack but never made it, being found by a patrolman days later. Harriet Brown had her door in Gordon blown open, where she froze to death in her living room. Claude Hannibal also had his car stuck near Alliance, he left to grab fence posts for traction and never made it back. A fourth person was also found dead in western Nebraska.

The snow totals across Nebraska were astounding. Many locations in the Nebraska panhandle received up to 2' of snow, with Chadron picking up an eye-popping 41" of snow by the time the snow ended. The 24-hour total of 26.7" on January 3 at Chadron is the highest 24-hour snow recorded from an airport in Nebraska history. Snow totals drop off dramatically the further east, with Omaha receiving only rain through the entire blizzard.

There were drifts as high as 30 to 40 feet, taller than some trains. Planes had to airdrop supplies to homes and towns if the winds permitted. Thousands of cattle were left stranded in pastures, exposed to the elements. The cold air continued, not allowing any of the snow to melt, and the wind was relentless. The blizzard also crippled parts of southeastern Wyoming, northeastern Colorado, and western South Dakota. It is the worst blizzard in Wyoming state history, as well as being one of the worst in South Dakota's history.

The Weather Bureau summarized the storm thus:

Worst experienced in [Nebraska], with reference to force of wind, amount of snow and drifting, and the duration of severe conditions. Even worse than storm itself were the conditions that followed. Winds redrifted snow over roads many times. Ice mixed with snow made use of ordinary equipment for snow removal limited. Private, county, State, and federal agencies worked continously for many days. Losses to railroads immense. Livestock losses estimated at 4 percent; this may require division as reports come in. Relief operations, and opening and reopening of roads requiring expenditures running into the millions. Several lives lost.
Monthly Weather Review, Jan 1949

THE BLIZZARD THAT HIT OMAHA: JANUARY 27-28

For the next several weeks in January 1949, quieter conditions allowed crews to work to clear many roads. By January 15, most of the major highways in the state were open, although many rural roads remained impassable. Train service slowly returned to normal, with most routes running by January 25. Those in Omaha read the reports in the paper, thankful the eastern half of the state has escaped the worst of the winter so far. That luck would change come January 27.

A low-pressure system moved from Oklahoma into Missouri, bringing the heaviest snowfall over eastern Nebraska for the first time that winter. Omaha received 13.2" of snow, while a broader swath of eastern Nebraska into western Iowa received over 8" of snow.

Blizzard conditions brought Omaha to a standstill on January 27 as roads became snow-covered and travel impossible. Many businesses closed hours early as people started to go home, one Omaha official said the traffic issues seen that night were the worst the city has seen in a snow.

By the morning of the 28th, the city was shut down as over a foot of snow continued to fall. Omaha now joined the rest of Nebraska in being snowbound. As the blizzard raged in Omaha, the federal government began to swing into action as Nebraskans continued to suffer, Operation Snowbound was about to begin.

OPERATION SNOWBOUND

By the end of January 1949, Nebraska was truly feeling the weight of the major blizzards back to November. Some rural schools were closed for weeks, extending the Christmas holiday until February. Rail workers worked around the clock to clear the lines from the snow that kept drifting back onto them. Roads were continually in need of re-plowing. Many hadn't left home since Christmas, cattle were starving and exposed to the elements. People began to run out of food, and feart of starvation set in for some. It was a daunting task to bring Nebraska back to normal, a task that became too great for the state resources to handle.

It began with "Operation Haylift" which formally began on January 24. Operation Haylift was a way to provide food and resources to the roughly 2 million cattle and sheep that were stranded across Nebraska and surrounding states. Using C-47 and C-82 Cargo Planes, hay bales would be dropped out of the sky to herds to graze on. Over the following weeks, planes would fly over farms and a "kicker" would kick the hay out of the planes for cattle.

That same day, Governor Val Peterson appealed to the US Army Corps of Engineers and the federal government to grant aid to clear the state. The next day, the legislature granted $500,000 in aid to clear roads, and Peterson issued a State of Emergency for 22 full counties and parts of 7 others. Next, Peterson appealed to the Fifth Army stationed in Chicago to bring equipment and manpower to clear the state. After some setbacks, at 11 am on January 29, President Harry S. Truman announced "Operation Snowbound" where the Fifth Army would move out to the affected states with bulldozers and clear the snow.

Over the next several weeks, over 6000 people spread out across Nebraska, Wyoming, South Dakota, and North Dakota with over 1000 pieces of equipment. It remains one of the largest bulldozer operations in history. Most of the operations was run from Omaha, with regional offices in other cities. By the end of Operation Snowbound, over 190,000 acres of land in Nebraska had been cleared of snow, roughly 300 square miles.

Through February, those who had been trapped at home for over a month were finally able to leave. Luckily, the weather cooperated as temperatures warmed and snow stopped falling (for the most part). Operation Snowbound ceased operations on March 15, when their work was done in digging out Nebraskans and surrounding states. The winter had one more major snow up its sleeve in late March, but by that point things were back to normal. All the snow led to river flooding during the spring and summer months. Over northern Nebraska, it took until June to finally melt away the biggest drifts.

When taken into account, the winter of 1948-1949 can be considered one of the worst in recent memory, compared to the historic winters of the 1880s. Snowfall totals ranged from between 30-40" on the lower end to above 80" on the higher end. The highest snow totals were over northern Nebraska, with the lowest close to the Kansas border. Many locations saw their top 20 snowfall, with cities like O'Neill, Hartington, and Chadron in the top 3.

So, what made this winter so unique? The wind and cold! According to all accounts, this winter was exceptionally windy with many days having an average wind speed of between 10-20 mph with gusts over 30 mph. The constant wind brought snow drifts many feet high, covering roads and railways, and prevented people from leaving. Although there were no major arctic blasts during the season, the continued cold did not allow any snow to melt. This, combined with the limited technology of 1949, was what made this winter so nasty. Hopefully, if Nebraska ever has to deal with a winter like that, we would be able to handle it today.

SOURCES/FURTHER READING

  • A comprehensive account of the Winter of 1948-1949 in Nebraska can be found in a 2002 issue of Nebraska Life magazine called "I'm Never Going to be Snowbound Again, the Winter of 1948-1949" and this article can be found online
  • Much of the weather data was found using climatological data from various sites, many of which can be found on the National Weather Service website
  • Many newspapers were used for details: the primary newspapers used were the Omaha World-Herald, Grand Island Independent, O'Neill Frontier, The Gordon Journal, the North Platte Tribune, and the Rock County Leader
  • Details on Operation Snowbound were taken from an official military report on the matter submitted to Washington DC when the operation ended

Title:

Content: CHEYENNE — Southeast Wyoming and other parts of the state broke low temperature records Thursday morning following the arrival of an extreme cold front.

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne reported the record low was -26 degrees Fahrenheit early in the morning Thursday, which persisted until past 7 a.m. This doesn’t account for windchill, which was -51 with wind gusts of 21 miles per hour.

“This was a record for us,” said NWS Cheyenne meteorologist Matt Roberts. “The last time we saw this, we had a previous record of a 64-degree temperature drop. That was in 1950.”

He said that record was beaten with a 67-degree temperature drop in 24 hours since Wednesday in the Capital City.

Roberts noted this was also only the fourth time the state has experienced -50 or colder wind chills since 1948.

Central Wyoming broke records of its own late Wednesday night.

Meteorologist Treevor Lavoie told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle that Riverton observed a low of -31, and Casper broke records at -42.

Lavoie said the last cold outbreak of this magnitude was in the late 1970s for the Riverton area, but Casper had the all-time coldest temperature recorded since 1939. He said that is as far back as the meteorological reports go.

The weather did have an impact on transportation throughout the state.

Wyoming Department of Transportation public relations specialist Jordan Achs said it was “a wild weather day,” and parts of Interstate 80 experienced wind gusts as strong as 87 mph. She said there were blow-over crashes, as well as limited visibility when the snow came in.

“The texture of the snow made it really conducive to blowing around and creating visibility issues,” said Achs. “That was the main thing they were fighting all night.”

Snowplow drivers were working across the state and will continue to work, as more snow is expected through the end of the week and into the weekend.

She said visibility is important, so snowplows can be delayed until it improves.

The Wyoming Department of Transportation also wants to remind residents traveling for the holiday to watch for snowplows. There have been six snowplow hits this season, and Achs said they want to keep the number low.

Local law enforcement didn’t experience an increase in calls for service related to the weather, but Cheyenne Police Department public information officer Alex Farkas said it always encourages citizens to remain alert and vigilant.

She said officers patrolled the streets for transient individuals to advise them of the drop in temperatures and encourage them to seek refuge. They worked closely with the local COMEA House homeless shelter this effort and continue to recommend safety precautions.

Cold temperatures are expected to continue through the weekend, but meteorologists in both southeast and central Wyoming said they will not be as extreme.

Roberts said temperatures in Cheyenne should rise into the low teens and 20s, although wind chill warnings remain in effect until Friday afternoon.

He said dangerously low wind chill temperatures could be close to -44, which can cause frostbite on exposed skin within five to 10 minutes.

“If you’re going outside, you need to limit your exposure by dressing appropriately for it,” Roberts said. “Have extra precautions inside your vehicle, if you travel.”

He and local law enforcement officials reminded residents to check wyoroad.info before traveling for the holidays and to keep the extreme weather in mind.

There are webcams and route information, as well as road impact weather forecasts available at the website and on the Wyoming 511 app.

“Our best advice is to check road conditions before traveling and prepare an emergency kit for your vehicle,” said Farkas. “It is also important to remove ice and snow from the windshield, hood and top of the vehicle. With any winter storm, we encourage citizens to adjust their speed to the road conditions and allow additional time to reach destinations.”

Christmas Day should be significantly warmer, with a forecast high temperature in the low 40s.

However, Lavoie said the model forecasts may be too optimistic, and the temperature could stay below that.

But “we won’t be having the dangerous cold temperatures that we’re currently experiencing during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day,” said Lavoie.

This story was published on Dec. 23, 2022.


This report addresses: MBS and Saudi Arabia's vision of 2030

Ronaldo took to social media to appreciate his partner's achievement and wrote on Instagram:

"Proud of you my love."

The first season of Rodriguez's show was released last January and provides an in-depth and close-up look at the lives of Cristiano Ronaldo and his family.

The Argentine model has even opened up about the couple's relationship, touching upon the fact that they are not married yet.

In a press release, WWE added: ‘This marks the first King Of The Ring Premium Live Event to be held since 2015 and the first crowning of a Queen since the inaugural Queen’s Crown Tournament which took place at WWE Crown Jewel in Riyadh in 2021.’

The company also noted that ‘more details’ on the show ‘will be announced in the coming weeks’.

‘It was something people were gonna remember pretty much forever, because I was at the end my career at that time – at least coming up on it,’ he previously told Metro.cco.uk

‘But I wanted to make King Booker a character that when people thought about the King of the Ring tournament, the first King that they would think about was King Bookah and lovely Queen Sharmelle – more lovely than the queen of Sheba.

Such a special opportunity Lacey and I had to open a door that in 2019 had never been opened before for women and girls in Saudi to keep dreaming big dreams!

Natalya recently took to Instagram to share the 3-year anniversary of her match with Lacey Evans at WWE Crown Jewel, which saw women compete in a match in Saudi Arabia for the first time ever.

This report addresses: MBS and Saudi Arabia's vision of 2030

Title:

Content: Create

"Proud of you my love" - Cristiano Ronaldo sends heartfelt message to partner Georgina Rodriguez after release of her show 'I am Georgina'

Cristiano Ronaldo has posted a heartfelt story on Instagram commending his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez for her Netflix show 'I am Georgina'.

The Argentine influencer's show released its second season on Friday (24 March) and a teaser was displayed on a billboard in Times Square, New York City. Ronaldo took to social media to appreciate his partner's achievement and wrote on Instagram:

"Proud of you my love."

The first season of Rodriguez's show was released last January and provides an in-depth and close-up look at the lives of Cristiano Ronaldo and his family. The Argentine model has even opened up about the couple's relationship, touching upon the fact that they are not married yet.

Rodriguez insists that, although they are legally yet to tie the knot, she still considers herself married to Ronaldo in the eyes of God. She said (via The Sun):

"I really couldn't be more married. Cristiano and I are married in the eyes of God. That's all that matters to me. He protects us and keeps us together. One day though, a ceremony will follow. I'm lucky I can show you dreams really do come true. I appreciate the opportunities God has given to me."

Rodriguez also opened up about the death of one of her children at birth last year, revealing how Ronaldo helped her cope with their loss. She said (as per the same report):

"Life is hard, life continues. I have reason to carry on and be strong. Cris encouraged me massively to carry on with all my commitments. He said: ‘Carry on with your life, it’s going to do you good.'"

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Argentine partner currently reside in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following the Portuguese superstar's move to Al-Nassr.

"It's a wonderful country" - Georgina Rodriguez opens up about life in Saudi Arabia following Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo had a massive fallout with his former team Manchester United after he featured in a bombshell interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan. The 38-year-old's contract was terminated with mutual consent after he hit out at the club's hierarchy and manager Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo then secured a lucrative move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in December. The Portuguese star and his girlfriend seem to have settled into life in Riyadh, a very safe and hospitable city, according to Rodriguez.

The Argentine model said on Spanish television program El Hormiguero:

"It's a wonderful country. It's very safe, very familiar, and they take great care of their women and their children. People are very thoughtful and loving. A friend of mine had no water in a hotel and decided to go out to a booth. A gentleman paid for it. They are very thoughtful and generous people."

Cristiano Ronaldo has also come into his own on the football pitch at Al-Nassr. The Portuguese international has bagged nine goals and two assists in eight appearances in the Saudi Pro League, the country's top-flight in football.

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Edited by Akshay Saraswat

Title:

Content: WWE has announced the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments will take place in Saudi Arabia this year.

The company will returned to Jeddah on May 27 with both crowns on the line as the men and women of WWE face off in two separate knockout tournaments at the Jeddah Superdome.

The double header has been rumoured for months, but the news was made official during this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw.

In a press release, WWE added: ‘This marks the first King Of The Ring Premium Live Event to be held since 2015 and the first crowning of a Queen since the inaugural Queen’s Crown Tournament which took place at WWE Crown Jewel in Riyadh in 2021.’

The company also noted that ‘more details’ on the show ‘will be announced in the coming weeks’.

WWE previously held the King of the Ring and Queen’s Crown Tournament finals in Riyadh two years ago, with Xavier Woods and Zelina Vega emerging victorious.

This will mark the first time the company has officially held a Queen of the Ring tournament.

Previous winners of the men’s edition over the years include ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, William Regal, Sheamus, Booker T and more.

The latter had one of the most memorable runs of all time with the crown on his head, with his fake English accent still remembered fondly by fans today.

‘It was something people were gonna remember pretty much forever, because I was at the end my career at that time – at least coming up on it,’ he previously told Metro.cco.uk

‘But I wanted to make King Booker a character that when people thought about the King of the Ring tournament, the first King that they would think about was King Bookah and lovely Queen Sharmelle – more lovely than the queen of Sheba. I remember JBL saying that and it just stuck in my head.

‘But I tell you, it was a great time – and that’s what wrestling is. It’s to be embellished, it’s to become whatever we want it to be. I think that’s the beauty of it at the end of the day.’

WWE King and Queen of the Ring will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on May 27. Tune in via the WWE Network or BT Sport.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : WWE Raw results, grades: Jey Uso betrays Sami Zayn and rejoins The Bloodline

MORE : John Cena will return to WWE ring at WrestleMania after accepting Austin Theory’s challenge

Title:

Content: Create

Natalya sends a message to 19-year-old star who was recently released by WWE

Following the recent release of NXT star Sloane Jacobs, many performers, including Natalya, have sent messages to the young performer.

Over the past year, the Pennsylvania native has made sporadic appearances on both AEW and WWE TV, and despite not having any particular major storylines, the 19-year-old star created a great impression with many of the superstars backstage.

One seasoned performer who sent out a message of condolences on social media after she was released yesterday was the former SmackDown Women's Champion, Natalya. She met Jacobs earlier this year whilst working on WWE's third brand, NXT.

Given that she is only 19 years of age, Jacobs undoubtedly has plenty of time left to make a name for herself in the wrestling business, with a comeback to WWE being an eventual possibility.

Natalya recently celebrated a major WWE achievement of hers

The Canadian star has been with the company for more than 15 years, and during this time has won nearly every possible championship available to her.

Natalya recently took to Instagram to share the 3-year anniversary of her match with Lacey Evans at WWE Crown Jewel, which saw women compete in a match in Saudi Arabia for the first time ever.

"On this day in history! 💚🖤 One of the most special matches/moments of my career being one of the first women to compete in Saudi Arabia with @laceyevanswwe. Such a special opportunity Lacey and I had to open a door that in 2019 had never been opened before for women and girls in Saudi to keep dreaming big dreams! It’s still sometimes surreal to think about all the incredible progress that’s been made in our women’s division."

Whislt the Queen of Hearts has won many personal accolades over the years, a historic victory that both her and Evans shared that night has helped pave the way for women's sport on a global level.

Where does Natalya rank amongst the greats in WWE's women's division? Give us your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Edited by UJALA

How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions


This report addresses: MBS and Saudi Arabia's vision of 2030

Ronaldo took to social media to appreciate his partner's achievement and wrote on Instagram:

"Proud of you my love."

The first season of Rodriguez's show was released last January and provides an in-depth and close-up look at the lives of Cristiano Ronaldo and his family.

The Argentine model has even opened up about the couple's relationship, touching upon the fact that they are not married yet.

In a press release, WWE added: ‘This marks the first King Of The Ring Premium Live Event to be held since 2015 and the first crowning of a Queen since the inaugural Queen’s Crown Tournament which took place at WWE Crown Jewel in Riyadh in 2021.’

The company also noted that ‘more details’ on the show ‘will be announced in the coming weeks’.

‘It was something people were gonna remember pretty much forever, because I was at the end my career at that time – at least coming up on it,’ he previously told Metro.cco.uk

‘But I wanted to make King Booker a character that when people thought about the King of the Ring tournament, the first King that they would think about was King Bookah and lovely Queen Sharmelle – more lovely than the queen of Sheba.

Such a special opportunity Lacey and I had to open a door that in 2019 had never been opened before for women and girls in Saudi to keep dreaming big dreams!

Natalya recently took to Instagram to share the 3-year anniversary of her match with Lacey Evans at WWE Crown Jewel, which saw women compete in a match in Saudi Arabia for the first time ever.

This report addresses: MBS and Saudi Arabia's vision of 2030

Title:

Content: Create

"Proud of you my love" - Cristiano Ronaldo sends heartfelt message to partner Georgina Rodriguez after release of her show 'I am Georgina'

Cristiano Ronaldo has posted a heartfelt story on Instagram commending his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez for her Netflix show 'I am Georgina'.

The Argentine influencer's show released its second season on Friday (24 March) and a teaser was displayed on a billboard in Times Square, New York City. Ronaldo took to social media to appreciate his partner's achievement and wrote on Instagram:

"Proud of you my love."

The first season of Rodriguez's show was released last January and provides an in-depth and close-up look at the lives of Cristiano Ronaldo and his family. The Argentine model has even opened up about the couple's relationship, touching upon the fact that they are not married yet.

Rodriguez insists that, although they are legally yet to tie the knot, she still considers herself married to Ronaldo in the eyes of God. She said (via The Sun):

"I really couldn't be more married. Cristiano and I are married in the eyes of God. That's all that matters to me. He protects us and keeps us together. One day though, a ceremony will follow. I'm lucky I can show you dreams really do come true. I appreciate the opportunities God has given to me."

Rodriguez also opened up about the death of one of her children at birth last year, revealing how Ronaldo helped her cope with their loss. She said (as per the same report):

"Life is hard, life continues. I have reason to carry on and be strong. Cris encouraged me massively to carry on with all my commitments. He said: ‘Carry on with your life, it’s going to do you good.'"

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Argentine partner currently reside in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following the Portuguese superstar's move to Al-Nassr.

"It's a wonderful country" - Georgina Rodriguez opens up about life in Saudi Arabia following Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo had a massive fallout with his former team Manchester United after he featured in a bombshell interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan. The 38-year-old's contract was terminated with mutual consent after he hit out at the club's hierarchy and manager Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo then secured a lucrative move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in December. The Portuguese star and his girlfriend seem to have settled into life in Riyadh, a very safe and hospitable city, according to Rodriguez.

The Argentine model said on Spanish television program El Hormiguero:

"It's a wonderful country. It's very safe, very familiar, and they take great care of their women and their children. People are very thoughtful and loving. A friend of mine had no water in a hotel and decided to go out to a booth. A gentleman paid for it. They are very thoughtful and generous people."

Cristiano Ronaldo has also come into his own on the football pitch at Al-Nassr. The Portuguese international has bagged nine goals and two assists in eight appearances in the Saudi Pro League, the country's top-flight in football.

Quick Links

Edited by Akshay Saraswat

Title:

Content: WWE has announced the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments will take place in Saudi Arabia this year.

The company will returned to Jeddah on May 27 with both crowns on the line as the men and women of WWE face off in two separate knockout tournaments at the Jeddah Superdome.

The double header has been rumoured for months, but the news was made official during this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw.

In a press release, WWE added: ‘This marks the first King Of The Ring Premium Live Event to be held since 2015 and the first crowning of a Queen since the inaugural Queen’s Crown Tournament which took place at WWE Crown Jewel in Riyadh in 2021.’

The company also noted that ‘more details’ on the show ‘will be announced in the coming weeks’.

WWE previously held the King of the Ring and Queen’s Crown Tournament finals in Riyadh two years ago, with Xavier Woods and Zelina Vega emerging victorious.

This will mark the first time the company has officially held a Queen of the Ring tournament.

Previous winners of the men’s edition over the years include ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart, William Regal, Sheamus, Booker T and more.

The latter had one of the most memorable runs of all time with the crown on his head, with his fake English accent still remembered fondly by fans today.

‘It was something people were gonna remember pretty much forever, because I was at the end my career at that time – at least coming up on it,’ he previously told Metro.cco.uk

‘But I wanted to make King Booker a character that when people thought about the King of the Ring tournament, the first King that they would think about was King Bookah and lovely Queen Sharmelle – more lovely than the queen of Sheba. I remember JBL saying that and it just stuck in my head.

‘But I tell you, it was a great time – and that’s what wrestling is. It’s to be embellished, it’s to become whatever we want it to be. I think that’s the beauty of it at the end of the day.’

WWE King and Queen of the Ring will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on May 27. Tune in via the WWE Network or BT Sport.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : WWE Raw results, grades: Jey Uso betrays Sami Zayn and rejoins The Bloodline

MORE : John Cena will return to WWE ring at WrestleMania after accepting Austin Theory’s challenge

Title:

Content: Create

Natalya sends a message to 19-year-old star who was recently released by WWE

Following the recent release of NXT star Sloane Jacobs, many performers, including Natalya, have sent messages to the young performer.

Over the past year, the Pennsylvania native has made sporadic appearances on both AEW and WWE TV, and despite not having any particular major storylines, the 19-year-old star created a great impression with many of the superstars backstage.

One seasoned performer who sent out a message of condolences on social media after she was released yesterday was the former SmackDown Women's Champion, Natalya. She met Jacobs earlier this year whilst working on WWE's third brand, NXT.

Given that she is only 19 years of age, Jacobs undoubtedly has plenty of time left to make a name for herself in the wrestling business, with a comeback to WWE being an eventual possibility.

Natalya recently celebrated a major WWE achievement of hers

The Canadian star has been with the company for more than 15 years, and during this time has won nearly every possible championship available to her.

Natalya recently took to Instagram to share the 3-year anniversary of her match with Lacey Evans at WWE Crown Jewel, which saw women compete in a match in Saudi Arabia for the first time ever.

"On this day in history! 💚🖤 One of the most special matches/moments of my career being one of the first women to compete in Saudi Arabia with @laceyevanswwe. Such a special opportunity Lacey and I had to open a door that in 2019 had never been opened before for women and girls in Saudi to keep dreaming big dreams! It’s still sometimes surreal to think about all the incredible progress that’s been made in our women’s division."

Whislt the Queen of Hearts has won many personal accolades over the years, a historic victory that both her and Evans shared that night has helped pave the way for women's sport on a global level.

Where does Natalya rank amongst the greats in WWE's women's division? Give us your thoughts in the comments section below.

Quick Links

Edited by UJALA

How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions


This report addresses: Slow Food Movement

They swish their tails around when they are annoyed and sometimes, when things are quiet and they’re feeling truly safe and content, they give us what’s called the “slow blink.”

Slow blinking is a gesture of trust and affection that cats use to communicate with each other.

The Meaning Behind Cat Slow Blinking · The Wildest

Skip to main content

Why Do Cats Slow Blink?

The Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced they would cover lecanemab and other Alzheimer’s medications in appropriate settings once they have full FDA approval.The vast majority of Alzheimer’s patients are on Medicare, and would otherwise have to pay out of pocket around $26,000 for the treatment.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed the drug, made by Eisai and Biogen, slowed the cognitive decline of patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease.

MK1 delivers what I would call a refreshing take on many of the series’ klassic formulas that blend well with new kontent, making it sing for veteran players or newcomers.

By on
Image via NetherRealm Studios

NetherRealm Studios always finds a way to keep kasual and hardcore fans returning with each new installment of Mortal Kombat, and the approach to Mortal Kombat 1 has been no different.

This report addresses: Slow Food Movement

Title:

Content: Why Do Cats Slow Blink? The Meaning Behind Cat Slow Blinking · The Wildest

Skip to main content

Why Do Cats Slow Blink?

Here’s what your cat’s favorite move means.

by Charles Manning
Updated November 26, 2023

Your pet wants you to read our newsletter. (Then give them a treat.)

Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights.

Cats communicate in lots of different ways. They meow to get our attention and purr to let us know we’re scratching them in just the right spot. They swish their tails around when they are annoyed and sometimes, when things are quiet and they’re feeling truly safe and content, they give us what’s called the “slow blink.”

Slow blinking is a gesture of trust and affection that cats use to communicate with each other. When a cat slow blinks at you, it’s a sign that they feel comfortable and safe around you. You can use slow blinking to communicate with your cat and build a stronger bond with them. With a little practice, you will be able to use slow blinking to communicate with your cat and connect with them more deeply.

What does it look like when a cat slow blinks?

The slow blink, for those who don’t know, is just what it sounds like: a leisurely closing and opening of the eyes that, to the uninitiated, probably looks like any other blink. But it’s not like any other blink. With a slow blink, your cat will completely or partially shut their eyelids for more than half a second.

What does the cat slow blink mean?

“The slow blink is a sign of trust,” says certified feline behavior consultant and The Wildest Expert Collective member Cristin Tamburo. “Your cat is showing that they are relaxed and comfortable in your presence.” Does that mean they love you? It’s probably better to think of the slow blink like the feline version of a gentle, welcoming smile.

What are the benefits of slow blinking with your cat?

The main benefit of slow blinking with your cat is that it lets them know they can trust you. “When I’m working with fearful cats or cats who do not know me, I always use the slow blink method to try and signify to them that I am not a threat,” Tamburo says. “Quite often, they will slow blink back, almost as if they truly understand. You will notice that many cats, when fearful or aggressive, have big, staring eyes, so the soft, slow blinks essentially let them know you are not there to harm them.”

How to slow blink back

Get your fix of The Wildest

We promise not to send you garbage that turns your inbox into a litter box. Just our latest tips and support for your pet.

Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights.

Indeed, according to a recent study by Dr. McComb and Dr. Tamsin Humphrey, cats are more likely to slow blink at their parents if their parents slow blink at them first. They are also more likely to slow blink at slow blinking strangers than those who just stare at them neutrally, and were generally much more likely to approach people who slow blinked at them first, whether they knew them or not.

As for how cats developed the slow blink, Dr. Humphrey suspects that, like many feline behaviors, it arose out of their interactions with humans. “It could be argued that cats developed the slow blink behaviors because humans perceived slow blinking as positive,” Dr. Humphrey says. “Cats may have learned that humans reward them for responding to slow blinking. It is also possible that slow blinking in cats began as a way to interrupt an unbroken stare, which is potentially threatening in social interaction.”

Do cats slow blink at one another?

Yes, it’s common to see cats slow blink at one another. When you see one cat slow blinking at another cat, it means they are communicating that they are friendly and not threatening to the other cat. On the other hand, a hard stare between cats is usually perceived as a threat or a challenge.

What does it mean when a cat stares with dilated pupils?

“There are lots of ways that cats communicate with their eyes,” Tamburo says. “Slit/squinty eyelids can be a sign of fear or aggression. Dilated pupils and staring can indicate a cat is aroused — asserting their dominance or about to become aggressive — and pupils that are small slits can be signs of pleasure, excitement, fear, or anger. Eye language can mean different things, so it’s always important to assess the whole cat — eyes, ears, whiskers, body, and tail posture to get a better understanding of what they are truly trying to tell us.”

But, in general, if you’re on the receiving end of a slow blink, it means that you are doing something right — your cat is happy and chill and right where they want to be, and that’s really all you need to know.

FAQs (People also ask):

Can slow blinking help calm an anxious cat?

Yes, slow blinking can help calm an anxious cat. If you slow blink at a cat, it lets them know that you are not a threat and they do not need to be afraid.

Is slow blinking the same as a cat’s normal blinking?

No, slow blinking is not the same as normal blinking. A slow blink last more than half a second, which is longer than a regular cat blink.

Can slow blinking replace other forms of communication with cats?

No, slow blinking cannot replace other forms of communication with cats. Slow blinking is just one way to let a cat know that they can trust you.

References:

Charles Manning

Charles Manning is an actor, writer, and fashion/media consultant living in New York City with his two cats, Pumpkin and Bear. Follow him on Instagram @charlesemanning.

Related articles

Title:

Content: Newswise — The Food & Drug Administration granted full approval to a drug believed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. Lecanemab, marketed as Leqembi, previously had conditional approval, but full FDA approval will likely make the drug more accessible to those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. The drug, Leqembi, received conditional approval from the Food and Drug Administration in January based on early results suggesting it could slow Alzheimer’s progression by several months.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed the drug, made by Eisai and Biogen, slowed the cognitive decline of patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the amyloid protein, believed to play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s. Leqembi would be the first fully FDA approved  treatment that attacks the amyloid protein, shown to slow the rate of cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s.

Full approval is significant because it opens the door to the drug potentially being covered by most Medicare plans. The Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced they would cover lecanemab and other Alzheimer’s medications in appropriate settings once they have full FDA approval.The vast majority of Alzheimer’s patients are on Medicare, and would otherwise have to pay out of pocket around $26,000 for the treatment.

Manisha Parulekar M.D., Co-Director of Hackensack University Medical Center’s Center For Memory Loss & Brain Health, is encouraged by the slowing progression of Alzheimer’s Lecanemab offers, but says the treatment is not for everyone. Studies of the drug found some significant risks for brain swelling or brain hemorrhage. “Lecanemab shows a lot of promise for Alzheimer’s Disease. It appears to slow the progression of the disease giving families more time with their loved one. But it does need careful patient selection,” Dr. Parulekar said. “Many patients are not a good candidate for the drug including those at risk for brain bleeds. Taking the drug also involves a change in lifestyle.”

Lecanemab is administered by an infusion, and requires the patient to go to an infusion center every two weeks. Additional visits are needed for regular MRIs to monitor for brain bleeds. “It’s a big commitment and a change of lifestyle,” Dr. Parulekar said.

Hackensack Meridian Health was the first hospital system in New Jersey to offer lecanemab treatments. A patient was prescribed the medication in early March under emergency use due to rapidly progressing Alzheimer’s. “It’s too soon to determine its effectiveness, but this patient has experienced no side effects to date,” said Robert Stern, M.D., program director for Hackensack Meridian geriatric psychiatry fellowship training.

The health system has established a set of protocols to determine the right patients and monitor their safety. “With any medication it is important to have established protocols for administering it,” Dr. Stern said. “For lecanemab we have established a procedure of assessing the diagnosis, assessing treatment eligibility, administering the medicine, and closely monitoring for treatment safety and effectiveness.”

The physicians add as more research is being done, the medical community is working to fine tune the patient population this drug is a good fit for and how best to use it.

Doctors also warn this may only be part of the puzzle in unlocking Alzheimer’s Disease. “Alzheimer’s Disease is a very complicated disease,” said Gary Small, M.D., chair of psychiatry at Hackensack University Medical Center. “Targeting amyloid proteins is likely part of the solution, but there are other factors that play a role in Alzheimer’s Disease that likely need to be addressed by further studies.”

There is also another similar Alzheimer’s medication in trials that could soon get FDA authorization. Donanemab, by Eli Lilly has shown similar promise in slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Hackensack Meridian Health physicians are available to comment on these medications and the ongoing search for effective treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease.

Title:

Content: Mortal Kombat 1 review: Fresh flames burn out too soon

Let Mortal Kombat begin... again.

By on
Image via NetherRealm Studios

NetherRealm Studios always finds a way to keep kasual and hardcore fans returning with each new installment of Mortal Kombat, and the approach to Mortal Kombat 1 has been no different. MK1 marks another win in the studio’s almost 30 years of near-flawless victories.

When it comes to the FGC’s big three, MK has always been last on my list, but jumping into each new entry and seeing how NRS changes its storytelling and gameplay presentation has always been a fun pitstop. MK1 delivers what I would call a refreshing take on many of the series’ klassic formulas that blend well with new kontent, making it sing for veteran players or newcomers.

Whether you come for the stunning visuals, challenging battles, brutal Fatalities, or timeline-reshaping story, MK1 has plenty to offer.

Kameos aren’t only good on the big screen

MK1’s new spin on the klassic formula spices up combat through with Kameo Fighters, character assists you can call in during your match, enough to keep me coming back for at least a few extra sessions.

Each Kameo has three unique assists that vary between giving you new movement options, combo extenders, grabs, projectiles, and more. You can even call in a Kameo to bail you out of a sticky situation or use their own Fatality if you want to try something new.

This opens the door to plenty of mixing and matching as you try to find a character you like playing as and then experiment with different Kameos to see which complements their moveset or your playstyle best. For example, this lets me pair Johnny Cage with Cyrax to give the A-List rushdown fighter an actual projectile, allowing me to apply pressure new ways.

It’s a great way to bring different iterations of characters on the roster or fighters that didn’t make the cut for MK1 into the game via a unique twist. Klassics like Sonya and Jax still get some screentime, while Motaro and Shujinko make a return without taking up a full slot.

That decision worked wonders for MK1’s Kampaign too, as it allows certain characters to slot into the story or appear in various scenes without bogging down the pacing with extra fights or dialogue.

Other modes are good, but are left to history

Once you clear the Kampaign, you will probably look one of two ways for more kontent. Either you take your skills online to test your might against other players or want to explore the rest of MK1’s single-player offerings.

If you plan to play online, the netcode is great, and I experienced very few interruptions across several sessions through regular matchmaking and private lobbies. Unfortunately, the lack of cross-play at launch limited who I could play with, but everything ran smoothly on PS5, and NetherRealm has already said that feature is on the way.

Compared to SF6’s Battle Hub and extensive online options, however, MK1 does fall well short and will likely leave fans disappointed at a lack of variety beyond playing with friends or the few matchmaking modes.

Invasions is MK1’s big swing at additional solo kontent, and I enjoyed how the developer crafted a fun board game approach to play into the franchise’s strengths. It was fun for a few hours, but the challenges quickly started to feel repetitive, and I know I won’t be sticking to the game long enough to make the grind for new gear worth it.

I am much more likely to jump in and run through Towers, MK’s klassic arcade mode, to see the unique character endings than to try and navigate the slow-paced Invasions maps again—which is a bummer since I like the game a lot and want more.

The idea of Invasions paired with MK1’s Mastery system, a leveling mechanic tied to each individual character, was a great call. Using any character you want and grinding their Mastery to unlock new cosmetic options, Fatalities, and more should at least entice a few players to keep coming back, even if they don’t go online.

Bring your controller to a big-budget showdown

Mortal Kombat’s reputation for having the best story mode presentation in fighting games is well deserved. MK1 takes the ending of MK11 and not only spins it into an interesting reset for that timeline but opens the door to some very well-done moments a simple MK9-style reboot couldn’t allow for—even if the use of storytelling tropes is borderline egregious.

Because Liu Kang has shaped a new timeline, NRS has a mostly fresh slate to work with when it comes to characters. This has led to familiar fighters getting complete overhauls in a way that keeps their iconic identities and meshes them with original ideas in a way that complements the lack of newcomers.

Because of these changes, characters you might not expect are given new or expanded roles, while others will not shock you beyond a few twists—looking at you Shang Tsung and Sub-Zero. I really enjoyed the dynamic of this timeline’s Earthrealm Champions from start to finish, but that is really the only group that meshed.

The plot is, as expected, fun and fast-paced with little time to focus on small details, meaning you won’t get a lot of information about what is happening before you are bounced to another character or location to get the next plot device rolling. It isn’t that bad, but if you aren’t ready to roll with the punches like a big-budget action movie, it can be distracting.

There is a small element of replayability for MK1’s finale too, as you get to pick your fighter to face off against this game’s big bad and save the world. It even has you facing off against cool kustom fighters that mesh multiple members of the roster and their abilities together.

Overall, the biggest compliment I can give MK1’s story is that I didn’t skip a single cutscene and was smiling when the Earthrealm boys gathered for one last team dinner ahead of the credits.

The Konclusion

I loved my time spent with Mortal Kombat 1 and commend the way NetherRealm Studios continues to craft incredible narratives that feel perfect for the franchise and its corny, homegrown roots. I will be referencing moments of the kampaign with friends for months to come and will likely play it again at least a few times in the future.

The kombat enhancements from MK11 to MK1 are also stellar, with additions like the Kameo Fighters giving matches a unique feel for the series. It is the most fun I have had with an NRS title since the original Injustice in 2013.

Unfortunately, the lack of appealing single-player content beyond the story and barren online matchmaking variety will limit the time casual players spend with the game once their friends stop playing or if Invasions doesn’t grab their interest.

8

Mortal Kombat 1

Pros

  • Fun action-movie story that plays up the ham for older fans
  • Kombat feels fresh and refined
  • Visuals are incredible at every level

Cons

  • Lacking online modes and options
  • Single-player dries up after the Kampaign

A copy of this game was provided by Warner Bros. for review. Revied on PS5.

About the author
Cale Michael

Lead Staff Writer for Dota 2, the FGC, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and more who has been writing for Dot Esports since 2018. Graduated with a degree in Journalism from Oklahoma Christian University and also previously covered the NBA. You can usually find him writing, reading, or watching an FGC tournament.


This report addresses: Slow Food Movement

They swish their tails around when they are annoyed and sometimes, when things are quiet and they’re feeling truly safe and content, they give us what’s called the “slow blink.”

Slow blinking is a gesture of trust and affection that cats use to communicate with each other.

The Meaning Behind Cat Slow Blinking · The Wildest

Skip to main content

Why Do Cats Slow Blink?

The Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced they would cover lecanemab and other Alzheimer’s medications in appropriate settings once they have full FDA approval.The vast majority of Alzheimer’s patients are on Medicare, and would otherwise have to pay out of pocket around $26,000 for the treatment.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed the drug, made by Eisai and Biogen, slowed the cognitive decline of patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease.

MK1 delivers what I would call a refreshing take on many of the series’ klassic formulas that blend well with new kontent, making it sing for veteran players or newcomers.

By on
Image via NetherRealm Studios

NetherRealm Studios always finds a way to keep kasual and hardcore fans returning with each new installment of Mortal Kombat, and the approach to Mortal Kombat 1 has been no different.

This report addresses: Slow Food Movement

Title:

Content: Why Do Cats Slow Blink? The Meaning Behind Cat Slow Blinking · The Wildest

Skip to main content

Why Do Cats Slow Blink?

Here’s what your cat’s favorite move means.

by Charles Manning
Updated November 26, 2023

Your pet wants you to read our newsletter. (Then give them a treat.)

Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights.

Cats communicate in lots of different ways. They meow to get our attention and purr to let us know we’re scratching them in just the right spot. They swish their tails around when they are annoyed and sometimes, when things are quiet and they’re feeling truly safe and content, they give us what’s called the “slow blink.”

Slow blinking is a gesture of trust and affection that cats use to communicate with each other. When a cat slow blinks at you, it’s a sign that they feel comfortable and safe around you. You can use slow blinking to communicate with your cat and build a stronger bond with them. With a little practice, you will be able to use slow blinking to communicate with your cat and connect with them more deeply.

What does it look like when a cat slow blinks?

The slow blink, for those who don’t know, is just what it sounds like: a leisurely closing and opening of the eyes that, to the uninitiated, probably looks like any other blink. But it’s not like any other blink. With a slow blink, your cat will completely or partially shut their eyelids for more than half a second.

What does the cat slow blink mean?

“The slow blink is a sign of trust,” says certified feline behavior consultant and The Wildest Expert Collective member Cristin Tamburo. “Your cat is showing that they are relaxed and comfortable in your presence.” Does that mean they love you? It’s probably better to think of the slow blink like the feline version of a gentle, welcoming smile.

What are the benefits of slow blinking with your cat?

The main benefit of slow blinking with your cat is that it lets them know they can trust you. “When I’m working with fearful cats or cats who do not know me, I always use the slow blink method to try and signify to them that I am not a threat,” Tamburo says. “Quite often, they will slow blink back, almost as if they truly understand. You will notice that many cats, when fearful or aggressive, have big, staring eyes, so the soft, slow blinks essentially let them know you are not there to harm them.”

How to slow blink back

Get your fix of The Wildest

We promise not to send you garbage that turns your inbox into a litter box. Just our latest tips and support for your pet.

Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights.

Indeed, according to a recent study by Dr. McComb and Dr. Tamsin Humphrey, cats are more likely to slow blink at their parents if their parents slow blink at them first. They are also more likely to slow blink at slow blinking strangers than those who just stare at them neutrally, and were generally much more likely to approach people who slow blinked at them first, whether they knew them or not.

As for how cats developed the slow blink, Dr. Humphrey suspects that, like many feline behaviors, it arose out of their interactions with humans. “It could be argued that cats developed the slow blink behaviors because humans perceived slow blinking as positive,” Dr. Humphrey says. “Cats may have learned that humans reward them for responding to slow blinking. It is also possible that slow blinking in cats began as a way to interrupt an unbroken stare, which is potentially threatening in social interaction.”

Do cats slow blink at one another?

Yes, it’s common to see cats slow blink at one another. When you see one cat slow blinking at another cat, it means they are communicating that they are friendly and not threatening to the other cat. On the other hand, a hard stare between cats is usually perceived as a threat or a challenge.

What does it mean when a cat stares with dilated pupils?

“There are lots of ways that cats communicate with their eyes,” Tamburo says. “Slit/squinty eyelids can be a sign of fear or aggression. Dilated pupils and staring can indicate a cat is aroused — asserting their dominance or about to become aggressive — and pupils that are small slits can be signs of pleasure, excitement, fear, or anger. Eye language can mean different things, so it’s always important to assess the whole cat — eyes, ears, whiskers, body, and tail posture to get a better understanding of what they are truly trying to tell us.”

But, in general, if you’re on the receiving end of a slow blink, it means that you are doing something right — your cat is happy and chill and right where they want to be, and that’s really all you need to know.

FAQs (People also ask):

Can slow blinking help calm an anxious cat?

Yes, slow blinking can help calm an anxious cat. If you slow blink at a cat, it lets them know that you are not a threat and they do not need to be afraid.

Is slow blinking the same as a cat’s normal blinking?

No, slow blinking is not the same as normal blinking. A slow blink last more than half a second, which is longer than a regular cat blink.

Can slow blinking replace other forms of communication with cats?

No, slow blinking cannot replace other forms of communication with cats. Slow blinking is just one way to let a cat know that they can trust you.

References:

Charles Manning

Charles Manning is an actor, writer, and fashion/media consultant living in New York City with his two cats, Pumpkin and Bear. Follow him on Instagram @charlesemanning.

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Content: Newswise — The Food & Drug Administration granted full approval to a drug believed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. Lecanemab, marketed as Leqembi, previously had conditional approval, but full FDA approval will likely make the drug more accessible to those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. The drug, Leqembi, received conditional approval from the Food and Drug Administration in January based on early results suggesting it could slow Alzheimer’s progression by several months.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed the drug, made by Eisai and Biogen, slowed the cognitive decline of patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the amyloid protein, believed to play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s. Leqembi would be the first fully FDA approved  treatment that attacks the amyloid protein, shown to slow the rate of cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s.

Full approval is significant because it opens the door to the drug potentially being covered by most Medicare plans. The Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced they would cover lecanemab and other Alzheimer’s medications in appropriate settings once they have full FDA approval.The vast majority of Alzheimer’s patients are on Medicare, and would otherwise have to pay out of pocket around $26,000 for the treatment.

Manisha Parulekar M.D., Co-Director of Hackensack University Medical Center’s Center For Memory Loss & Brain Health, is encouraged by the slowing progression of Alzheimer’s Lecanemab offers, but says the treatment is not for everyone. Studies of the drug found some significant risks for brain swelling or brain hemorrhage. “Lecanemab shows a lot of promise for Alzheimer’s Disease. It appears to slow the progression of the disease giving families more time with their loved one. But it does need careful patient selection,” Dr. Parulekar said. “Many patients are not a good candidate for the drug including those at risk for brain bleeds. Taking the drug also involves a change in lifestyle.”

Lecanemab is administered by an infusion, and requires the patient to go to an infusion center every two weeks. Additional visits are needed for regular MRIs to monitor for brain bleeds. “It’s a big commitment and a change of lifestyle,” Dr. Parulekar said.

Hackensack Meridian Health was the first hospital system in New Jersey to offer lecanemab treatments. A patient was prescribed the medication in early March under emergency use due to rapidly progressing Alzheimer’s. “It’s too soon to determine its effectiveness, but this patient has experienced no side effects to date,” said Robert Stern, M.D., program director for Hackensack Meridian geriatric psychiatry fellowship training.

The health system has established a set of protocols to determine the right patients and monitor their safety. “With any medication it is important to have established protocols for administering it,” Dr. Stern said. “For lecanemab we have established a procedure of assessing the diagnosis, assessing treatment eligibility, administering the medicine, and closely monitoring for treatment safety and effectiveness.”

The physicians add as more research is being done, the medical community is working to fine tune the patient population this drug is a good fit for and how best to use it.

Doctors also warn this may only be part of the puzzle in unlocking Alzheimer’s Disease. “Alzheimer’s Disease is a very complicated disease,” said Gary Small, M.D., chair of psychiatry at Hackensack University Medical Center. “Targeting amyloid proteins is likely part of the solution, but there are other factors that play a role in Alzheimer’s Disease that likely need to be addressed by further studies.”

There is also another similar Alzheimer’s medication in trials that could soon get FDA authorization. Donanemab, by Eli Lilly has shown similar promise in slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Hackensack Meridian Health physicians are available to comment on these medications and the ongoing search for effective treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease.

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Content: Mortal Kombat 1 review: Fresh flames burn out too soon

Let Mortal Kombat begin... again.

By on
Image via NetherRealm Studios

NetherRealm Studios always finds a way to keep kasual and hardcore fans returning with each new installment of Mortal Kombat, and the approach to Mortal Kombat 1 has been no different. MK1 marks another win in the studio’s almost 30 years of near-flawless victories.

When it comes to the FGC’s big three, MK has always been last on my list, but jumping into each new entry and seeing how NRS changes its storytelling and gameplay presentation has always been a fun pitstop. MK1 delivers what I would call a refreshing take on many of the series’ klassic formulas that blend well with new kontent, making it sing for veteran players or newcomers.

Whether you come for the stunning visuals, challenging battles, brutal Fatalities, or timeline-reshaping story, MK1 has plenty to offer.

Kameos aren’t only good on the big screen

MK1’s new spin on the klassic formula spices up combat through with Kameo Fighters, character assists you can call in during your match, enough to keep me coming back for at least a few extra sessions.

Each Kameo has three unique assists that vary between giving you new movement options, combo extenders, grabs, projectiles, and more. You can even call in a Kameo to bail you out of a sticky situation or use their own Fatality if you want to try something new.

This opens the door to plenty of mixing and matching as you try to find a character you like playing as and then experiment with different Kameos to see which complements their moveset or your playstyle best. For example, this lets me pair Johnny Cage with Cyrax to give the A-List rushdown fighter an actual projectile, allowing me to apply pressure new ways.

It’s a great way to bring different iterations of characters on the roster or fighters that didn’t make the cut for MK1 into the game via a unique twist. Klassics like Sonya and Jax still get some screentime, while Motaro and Shujinko make a return without taking up a full slot.

That decision worked wonders for MK1’s Kampaign too, as it allows certain characters to slot into the story or appear in various scenes without bogging down the pacing with extra fights or dialogue.

Other modes are good, but are left to history

Once you clear the Kampaign, you will probably look one of two ways for more kontent. Either you take your skills online to test your might against other players or want to explore the rest of MK1’s single-player offerings.

If you plan to play online, the netcode is great, and I experienced very few interruptions across several sessions through regular matchmaking and private lobbies. Unfortunately, the lack of cross-play at launch limited who I could play with, but everything ran smoothly on PS5, and NetherRealm has already said that feature is on the way.

Compared to SF6’s Battle Hub and extensive online options, however, MK1 does fall well short and will likely leave fans disappointed at a lack of variety beyond playing with friends or the few matchmaking modes.

Invasions is MK1’s big swing at additional solo kontent, and I enjoyed how the developer crafted a fun board game approach to play into the franchise’s strengths. It was fun for a few hours, but the challenges quickly started to feel repetitive, and I know I won’t be sticking to the game long enough to make the grind for new gear worth it.

I am much more likely to jump in and run through Towers, MK’s klassic arcade mode, to see the unique character endings than to try and navigate the slow-paced Invasions maps again—which is a bummer since I like the game a lot and want more.

The idea of Invasions paired with MK1’s Mastery system, a leveling mechanic tied to each individual character, was a great call. Using any character you want and grinding their Mastery to unlock new cosmetic options, Fatalities, and more should at least entice a few players to keep coming back, even if they don’t go online.

Bring your controller to a big-budget showdown

Mortal Kombat’s reputation for having the best story mode presentation in fighting games is well deserved. MK1 takes the ending of MK11 and not only spins it into an interesting reset for that timeline but opens the door to some very well-done moments a simple MK9-style reboot couldn’t allow for—even if the use of storytelling tropes is borderline egregious.

Because Liu Kang has shaped a new timeline, NRS has a mostly fresh slate to work with when it comes to characters. This has led to familiar fighters getting complete overhauls in a way that keeps their iconic identities and meshes them with original ideas in a way that complements the lack of newcomers.

Because of these changes, characters you might not expect are given new or expanded roles, while others will not shock you beyond a few twists—looking at you Shang Tsung and Sub-Zero. I really enjoyed the dynamic of this timeline’s Earthrealm Champions from start to finish, but that is really the only group that meshed.

The plot is, as expected, fun and fast-paced with little time to focus on small details, meaning you won’t get a lot of information about what is happening before you are bounced to another character or location to get the next plot device rolling. It isn’t that bad, but if you aren’t ready to roll with the punches like a big-budget action movie, it can be distracting.

There is a small element of replayability for MK1’s finale too, as you get to pick your fighter to face off against this game’s big bad and save the world. It even has you facing off against cool kustom fighters that mesh multiple members of the roster and their abilities together.

Overall, the biggest compliment I can give MK1’s story is that I didn’t skip a single cutscene and was smiling when the Earthrealm boys gathered for one last team dinner ahead of the credits.

The Konclusion

I loved my time spent with Mortal Kombat 1 and commend the way NetherRealm Studios continues to craft incredible narratives that feel perfect for the franchise and its corny, homegrown roots. I will be referencing moments of the kampaign with friends for months to come and will likely play it again at least a few times in the future.

The kombat enhancements from MK11 to MK1 are also stellar, with additions like the Kameo Fighters giving matches a unique feel for the series. It is the most fun I have had with an NRS title since the original Injustice in 2013.

Unfortunately, the lack of appealing single-player content beyond the story and barren online matchmaking variety will limit the time casual players spend with the game once their friends stop playing or if Invasions doesn’t grab their interest.

8

Mortal Kombat 1

Pros

  • Fun action-movie story that plays up the ham for older fans
  • Kombat feels fresh and refined
  • Visuals are incredible at every level

Cons

  • Lacking online modes and options
  • Single-player dries up after the Kampaign

A copy of this game was provided by Warner Bros. for review. Revied on PS5.

About the author
Cale Michael

Lead Staff Writer for Dota 2, the FGC, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and more who has been writing for Dot Esports since 2018. Graduated with a degree in Journalism from Oklahoma Christian University and also previously covered the NBA. You can usually find him writing, reading, or watching an FGC tournament.