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94-year-old grandma takes on huge travel challenge

"Grandma Joy" Ryan was 91 when she first got her passport, and she hasn't stopped travelling since. Now aged 94, she is embarking on a new global challenge with her grandson Brad Ryan, 42, with the intergenerational duo planning to travel to all seven continents in the world together. "I don't have many years left, [so] you hop to it," Grandma Joy told CNN Travel. "If you slow down, you don't get anything done." The pair, who are from the US, have already travelled to three continents, visiting Banff National Park in Canada last year to "represent North America well beyond just our own country", and Africa in 2023, visiting both Amboseli National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Their most recent trip was to South America, where they travelled to Ecuador, and spent time in the Galapagos Islands, as well as Chile. "It was amazing to see those huge tortoises," Grandma Joy recalled. "They could raise their shells up just like a convertible or something." Prior to travelling the world together, the grandma-grandson duo were actually estranged for around a decade due to a family rift that occurred after Ryan's parents divorced. After reconnecting in 2010, Ryan was telling his grandma about his previous hiking adventures on the Appalachian Trail and Mount Kilimanjaro, when he learnt that his grandmother "had never set eyes on a mountain." "That was one of her lifelong regrets," he said. "Her travel had been limited to just a few road trips to Florida with my grandfather when he was alive. "Her view of the world was always what she saw on the Travel Channel or just on the news." That conversation stuck with him and the pair embarked on their first journey together in 2015, when Ryan decided to take a weekend road trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. "At 85, she saw her first mountain, climbed her first mountain and went camping for the first time and fell off the air mattress a couple of times and didn't complain," he said. He added, that having to move more slowly as he was travelling with his grandma, meant that he was able to appreciate everything in a more meaningful way. "I wasn't rushing through the places that I was visiting. I was really taking the time to appreciate smaller details. "The lens through which she is seeing the world is very different to most people my age. She doesn't visit a place thinking, 'Well, I'll be back again,' so there's more presence." They kept the adventure going and decided to travel to the 62 other US National Parks, and while it took them almost eight years with two-month long breaks between each trip, Grandma Joy made history last year. She became the oldest person to visit all 63 National Parks in the US. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CsU_w4-rqyP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CsU_w4-rqyP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Grandma Joy’s Road Trip — Brad and Joy Ryan (@grandmajoysroadtrip)</a> </div> </blockquote> "Being an old person sitting on the porch, this makes you feel like, 'Well maybe I did accomplish something.' So I enjoyed every bit of it," she said. Ryan himself is very proud of his grandmother's achievement, and after going viral with their national parks quest in 2023, he said that travelling with her has been a life-changing experience. "She shattered my preconceived notions about what it means to be an older person," he said. "Because she wasn't just sitting in the passenger seat looking out the window, although we did that too." He then described how Grandma Joy went ziplining at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia and whitewater rafting at Wrangell St. Elias National Park in Alaska at the age of 91, and how she reminded him of all the possibilities that come with getting older. "I think we all have this sort of innate dread about getting older," he said. "And we think about the limitations instead of the possibilities. She [Grandma Joy] reminds us of the possibilities that still exist." While the pair are currently "still recovering" from their latest trip to South America, they shared their plan to visit Australia later this year, and hope to "hop over to Asia" after. Once they've ticked off Australia and Asia off their list, they plan to visit Europe and hope to end their trip in Antarctica. "Antarctica is the one that's like the wildcard," Ryan said. "We would love that, but getting there is challenging. "I'd like to end big, and I think Antarctica would be the cherry on top of this adventure." The duo document all their adventures on their Instagram account, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/grandmajoysroadtrip/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">grandmajoysroadtrip</a> and despite people wondering when they would wrap it up, Grandma Joy's "willing spirit" keeps her going. "I just take one step at a time, one day at a time, and thank the Lord every morning for giving me one more day," she said. "I try to be an optimist. The glass is half full, not half empty. And the people that you meet along the way lift your spirits. "You see people in worse shape than you, and I just think 'I've got a lot to be thankful for.' "Not everybody's lucky enough to have a grandson that's willing to drag them around." Images: Instagram

International Travel

Princess Beatrice reveals the “most terrifying moment” in her life

Princess Beatrice has shared the “most terrifying moment” that she encountered at work. The 35-year-old royal has been open about her struggles with dyslexia, and has opened up on a podcast about a major challenge she faced at work. "I was anecdotally talking about how difficult it was at work," Beatrice, who works for US-based technology firm Afiniti, told podcast host Kate Griggs. "Sometimes you get handed a whiteboard pen and you've got to do the group think again and collaborate and off you go to the whiteboard." "And I was thinking that's the most terrifying moment for me in my life, and please don't ever make me do it. I'll do a speech tomorrow but don't give me a pen and a whiteboard." Beatrice also shared the difficulties she faced as a child, and having to go through school before being formally diagnosed with dyslexia. "The early days of school really, really stand out as to those moments where you just don't fit in and you can't figure out what it is about you," the royal said candidly. "I remember trying to do extra lessons with teachers and just sort of blankly staring up at her face, and she was like, 'why are you looking at me? The words are not on my face' [and] I said 'well, they're not on the page either'." "So the early days, in and around that understanding that my brain worked slightly differently, I remember them being a real challenge." Princess Beatrice became emotional when talking about the teachers who helped her during her schooling career, saying she "probably wouldn't be the person I am today if they hadn't been there in my life". The princess also paid tribute to her mum, Sarah Ferguson, for championing her to find a new way to do things. "My family and I are incredibly close, so I would say that all throughout our lives, we've been able to go through everything with humour and with joy and my mum really instilled that," Beatrice said. Image credits: Getty Images

Mind

"I'm not afraid to challenge myself": J-Lo's secret to staying physically and mentally fit

Jennifer Lopez has shared an insight into her gruelling workout routine, revealing it is the best thing for both her physical and mental wellness. The 53-year-old singer and actress told US Weekly how important moving her body is to help keep a positive mental attitude. "It's no secret that fitness is a very important part of my life... I think there's a positive correlation between exercise and mental health," she said. J-Lo's claims have long been backed up by healthcare professionals, with the MentalHealth.org website reading, "Research shows that people who exercise regularly have better mental health and emotional wellbeing, and lower rates of mental illness." "Taking up exercise seems to reduce the risk of developing mental illness... and seems to help in treating some mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety." Lopez went on to say, "When you find a good balance through determination and focus, we're naturally pushing to be the best version of ourselves." She usually begins her workouts "first thing in the morning", which usually means rolling out of bed before 5am. J-Lo regularly mixes up her workouts, explaining, "I'm always evolving and looking for things that keep me excited and motivated." "I'm not afraid to challenge myself, so I'm open to pushing myself, which is what I'm doing right now as I rehearse for my new album, [This Is Me… Now], coming out this summer." Even Jennifer's trainer Tracy Anderson said the pop star goes above and beyond for her health and fitness, pushing herself for maximum results. '"She shows up no matter what, she takes the time seriously, she knows her body, she wants to be herself," Anderson has said. "She knows that putting in the hard work to get her workout in is part of it." Image credits: Getty Images

Body

Priscilla Presley challenges Lisa Marie’s will

Priscilla Presley has taken her late daughter’s trust to court mere weeks after Lisa Marie’s death on January 12. Priscilla allegedly discovered a document from 2016 that concerns an amendment to the trust. The actor and business woman reportedly filed documents that challenge this “purported 2016 amendment” to Lisa Marie’s will, and has asked that it be deemed “invalid”. Said amendment ousted Priscilla as trustee, instead naming Lisa Marie’s eldest daughter, Riley Keough, and her late son, Benjamin Keough, as co-trustees. However, Benjamin Keough passed away in 2020, leaving Riley as the sole trustee to their late mother’s estate. Priscilla claims that she and Barry Siegel, Lisa Marie's former business manager, were appointed co-trustees in 1993. Lisa Marie was the sole heir to Elvis Presley’s fortune after his death in 1977. The Graceland mansion is reported to be worth more than $100m USD (approximately $141m AUD). Priscilla questions the “authenticity and validity” of the amendment, and alleges that her daughter’s signature “appears inconsistent with her usual and customary signature” on the document from 2016, and even argues that Lisa Marie’s name had been spelled incorrectly. On top of this, Priscilla claims that the document wasn’t notarised. According to court documents, “Lisa Marie Presley appointed her mother, Petitioner, and her former business manager, Barry Siegel, as co-Trustees effective as of the date of the 2010 restatement. “The 2010 restatement further provides that Petitioner and Barry Siegel shall continue to serve as co-Trustees upon Lisa Marie Presley’s subsequent incapacity and/or death. “The Purported 2016 Amendment removed and replaced Petitioner and Barry as both current and successor Trustees of the Trust with Lisa Marie Presley as the current Trustee and naming Lisa Marie Presley’s daughter, Riley Keough, and son, Benjamin Keough, as successor co-Trustees of the Trust upon Lisa Marie Presley’s incapacity and/or 10 death.” Priscilla’s legal move comes less than one week after a memorial service for Lisa Marie at the Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee. Images: Getty

Money & Banking

Mentally challenging work might actually be really good for you

Mentally challenging work, despite feeling draining at the time, could help to better protect people from memory and cognitive decline in old age, according to a new study. Published in Neurology, the research suggests that workers, who are required to speak more, develop strategies, manage others, and resolve conflict may be better off than their colleagues who do less of the same activities. Author study, Francisca Then, from Germany’s University of Leipzig explains, “Our study is important because it suggests that the type of work you do throughout your career may have even more significance on your brain health than your education does. Education is a well-known factor that influences dementia risk.” It has been shown in the past that, just like education, staying mentally active with puzzles and games, as well as maintaining a healthy social life may delay dementia’s onset, and reduce mental decline. The study assessed 1,054 individuals aged 75 or older from the Leipzig Longitudinal Study of the Aged, which is a representative population-based cohort study. Each of the study’s participants underwent cognitive testing every 18 months to evaluate their memory and thinking abilities for eight years in total. They were also asked to discuss their work history, categorising the types of tasks they did into one of three groups: <ul> <li>Executive tasks, like conflict resolution, or strategy development</li> <li>Verbal tasks, such as interpreting and evaluating information</li> <li>Fluid tasks, like data analysis</li> </ul> The research showed that participants who had performed tasks at the highest level of all three categories during their careers scored highest on the memory and thinking evaluation. They were also found to have the slowest rate of cognitive decline over the eight-year study. The study’s authors concluded that, “The results suggest that a professional life enriched with work tasks stimulating verbal intelligence and executive functions may help to sustain a good cognitive functioning in old age.” Source: <a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/293325.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Medical News Today</a> Image: Getty

Mind

10 great tips for surviving challenging moments in relationships

While it can be tempting to turn tail and run when the going gets tough, studies have shown time and time again that taking a deep breath and trying to work through your issues gives you the best chance of salvaging and maintaining your relationship. Here are our top 10 tips for working it through when times get tough. <ol> <li>Remove your emotions from the equation – It may be tricky but an emotionally charged conversation never ends well. If you’re feeling furious, try and put a pause on things till you’ve calmed down.</li> <li>Forget right or wrong – Delegating parties as “right” or “wrong” is a great way of ensuring arguments remain unresolved. It’s important to bot take responsibility for your actions.</li> <li>Walk the high road – Work out what works best for you as an individual couple. It’s all about equality and contentment in your own circumstances.</li> <li>Be humble, always – We all make mistakes. Reminding or gloating over the ones your partner makes never ends well.</li> <li>Agree to disagree – A healthy relationship will often have topics where each party holds a differing view to the other. This is normal and can be a great vehicle for discussion. It’s important though that you both value and respect the others opinion, even if it differs from your own.</li> <li>Be mindful of others – Difficult conversations are best held in private, away from those whose input may be unhelpful.</li> <li>Consider all your options – If you’re facing an issue as a couple, remember to consider all your options for a resolution. This often requires some brainstorming and partnering together to find a positive solution.</li> <li>Don’t rush into a decision – If you’re struggling to reconcile what you think with certain actions, take a step back and sleep on it.</li> <li>Stay optimistic – Approaching a discussion positively can make the process much easier.</li> <li>Review and consolidate – When you reach a conclusion, reaffirm it a few times before agreeing to move on.</li> </ol> Image: Getty

Relationships

Dannii Minogue reveals the challenges she faced while filming Young Talent Time

Dannii Minogue has shared the challenges she faced while appearing on Young Talent Time as a child. Speaking with Kyle and Jackie O, the 50-year-old entertainer said she felt immense pressure to balance her school work and time spent at rehearsals. "I was the biggest nerd when I was on Young Talent Time. I was in the library at lunch doing my homework so I could go straight to rehearsals after school," she said during an interview on Tuesday. "I was obsessed with getting good grades and if I didn't finish [my homework] at lunch time I'd have to do it when I got home and I wouldn't sleep till 11pm." Dannii starred in Young Talent Time from 1982 to 1988, as well as Young Talent Time: The Next Generation which was launched in America. Following her six year run on the show, she went on to play the role of Emma Jackson in Home & Away in 1989. She stayed with the Aussie soap for a year before launching her music career, like her famed sister Kylie Minogue, in 1990. Young Talent Time featured a core group of young performers who would sing both classic songs and hits of the day while hopefuls competed in a weekly talent quest. The series was hosted by Johnny Young and aired from 1971 to 1988, and proved to be hugely popular after spawning no less than 15 albums and a slew of merchandise. Image credits: Seven

Two years on from the first COVID case, New Zealand’s successful pandemic response still faces major challenges

Two years ago today, the first confirmed case of COVID-19 was reported in Aotearoa New Zealand. Few of us could have imagined the huge impact this pandemic would still be having two years later. As New Zealand enters its third year of the pandemic, we are facing widespread community transmission as an epidemic wave of the Omicron variant sweeps across the country. A majority of New Zealanders <a href="https://cpb-ap-se2.wpmucdn.com/blogs.auckland.ac.nz/dist/c/828/files/2021/07/omicron-preliminary.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">may become infected</a> in coming months, but many with few or no symptoms. Australian experience suggests we might see a peak of around <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/covid-19-hospitalisation-peaks-in-australian-states-since-omicron-emerged-potential-relevance-to-aotearoa-nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1,100 people with COVID-19 in hospitals</a> during March and April. We have previously written about the challenges apparent after <a href="https://theconversation.com/6-months-after-new-zealands-first-covid-19-case-its-time-for-a-more-strategic-approach-144936" target="_blank" rel="noopener">six months</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-year-on-from-the-arrival-of-covid-19-in-nz-5-lessons-for-2021-and-beyond-155367" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one year</a> of the pandemic. Today, we examine what we’ve learned — the major challenges that have persisted or emerged and how New Zealand can manage them to achieve the best possible outcomes. Shifting strategies New Zealand has demonstrated the benefits of a science-informed response with a <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/371/bmj.m4907" target="_blank" rel="noopener">strong strategic focus</a>. During the first year of the pandemic when there were no vaccines available, the <a href="https://journal.nzma.org.nz/journal-articles/new-zealands-elimination-strategy-for-the-covid-19-pandemic-and-what-is-required-to-make-it-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">elimination strategy</a> protected people and the economy. Following the emergence of the Delta variant, <a href="https://journal.nzma.org.nz/journal-articles/the-next-phase-in-aotearoa-new-zealands-covid-19-response-tight-suppression-may-be-optimal-for-health-equity-and-wellbeing-in-the-months-ahead" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tight suppression</a> was also highly effective. Now, with the growing surge driven by the Omicron variant, New Zealand has been forced to shift to a <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/preparing-for-omicron-a-proactive-government-response-is-urgently-needed-to-minimise-harms/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mitigation strategy</a>. New Zealand’s strategic approach has supported the country in achieving some of the world’s <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/mortality-declines-in-aotearoa-nz-during-the-first-two-years-of-the-covid-19-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lowest COVID-19 mortality rates and increased life expectancy</a>. New Zealand has also had a relatively small amount of time in lockdown and comparatively <a href="https://www.oecd.org/economy/new-zealand-economic-snapshot/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">good economic performance</a>. To achieve these successes, New Zealand has had to deliver major public health interventions very rapidly and their limitations have become apparent over time. Border quarantine is <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2021/215/7/failures-quarantine-systems-preventing-covid-19-outbreaks-australia-and-new" target="_blank" rel="noopener">difficult to maintain</a> if not done well and creates <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/its-a-case-of-wait-and-see-grounded-kiwis-wrap-up-two-day-bid-for-judicial-review/X43JEMEEEL47I7JBPHTZIBJPFI/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">severe consequences for some</a>. The vaccine rollout has been <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/376/bmj.o180" target="_blank" rel="noopener">highly inequitable</a>. Mandates for vaccine and mask use have been divisive and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/feb/09/lets-remember-why-we-are-here-new-zealand-anti-vax-protest-splinters-into-jibes-and-jabs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sometimes vigorously opposed</a> by a vocal minority. Challenges and opportunities ahead The experience of the last two years highlights five major opportunities to enhance New Zealand’s pandemic response and achieve lasting benefits for our ability to manage other major public health threats. 1. Taking a precautionary approach in the face of uncertainty Possibly the biggest challenge has been the changing nature of the pandemic threat itself. The virus <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03792-w" target="_blank" rel="noopener">continues to evolve</a> and new variants of concern with increased infectiousness have emerged. We do not know whether future variants will be <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/will-covid-19-become-less-dangerous-as-it-evolves" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more or less virulent</a>. Omicron shows a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-022-00438-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">high capacity for reinfection</a> which will need to be managed if this variant remains dominant. Optimistically, we may see the <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(22)00100-3/fulltext?s=09" target="_blank" rel="noopener">end of the pandemic</a> though not the end of COVID-19. The full population impact of <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-02598-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">post-acute illness</a> (long COVID) is not yet known and evidence about <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-022-00177-5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">prevention</a> and management is still at an early stage. 2. Enhancing equity and better protecting the most vulnerable The move to mitigation (from elimination and suppression) shifts protection away from the collective, population-level focus to individual measures like vaccination, mask use and self-isolation. Despite a strongly stated commitment to equity, Māori and Pasifika have <a href="https://thespinoff.co.nz/business/23-02-2022/the-spinoff-covid-tracker-the-live-graphs-that-tell-the-story-of-delta-in-aotearoa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lower vaccine and booster coverage rates</a>. They are also <a href="https://www.health.govt.nz/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-data-and-statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">over-represented among COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations</a>. Mitigation aims to flatten the epidemic curve to protect the healthcare system from being overwhelmed. During such periods, there is potential for the most vulnerable (people who are Māori, Pasifika, low-income, living with other illnesses and disabilities) to miss out on care. There are multiple ways of improving equity in the response. These include greater support for Māori and Pasifika <a href="https://www.waitangitribunal.govt.nz/assets/Documents/Publications/Covid-Priority-W.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">health providers</a>, further efforts to <a href="https://www.newsroom.co.nz/ideasroom/eliminating-maori-inequities-in-covid-19-outcomes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">raise vaccine coverage for Māori</a> in particular, policies to <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/125804726/sick-leave-increase-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank" rel="noopener">support sick workers staying at home</a> and a <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/making-the-most-of-masks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">national mask strategy</a> that makes effective masks freely available. We also need a stronger focus on protecting children’s health and well-being, including a pivot to a whānau-centred approach and efforts to reduce transmission in <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/tag/ventilation-schools/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">schools</a> and <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/strengthening-omicron-mitigation-strategies-in-early-childhood-education-settings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">early childhood education</a>. 3. Improving communication, policy responsiveness and trust Pandemics are different from other public health emergencies because the behaviour of individuals directly affects the level of risk for the wider population. Inevitably, after two years, the response has become more contested and social cohesion has weakened. Some of this shift appears fuelled by the global pandemic of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/feb/26/so-many-rabbit-holes-even-in-trusting-new-zealand-protests-show-fringe-beliefs-can-flourish" target="_blank" rel="noopener">disinformation</a>. The New Zealand government can enhance public trust by showing that the response is risk-based, for example by phasing out travel restrictions and border isolation requirements now that Omicron infection is widespread. Some mandates are needed for critical public health interventions but require continuing review to ensure they are proportionate. Trust and <a href="https://informedfutures.org/social-cohesion/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">social cohesion</a> will also be improved by maximising transparency around the pandemic response, with clear statements about the rationale and level of risk, supported with evidence and local surveillance data presented in meaningful ways. We also need <a href="https://www.newsroom.co.nz/cracking-the-misinformation-code" target="_blank" rel="noopener">specific strategies</a> to reduce misinformation and disinformation on social media. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/448759/original/file-20220227-95880-851xvy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Tent and sign from an anti-mandate protest." /><figcaption>Anti-mandates protests have been partly fuelled by misinformation. Adam Bradley/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images</figcaption></figure> 4. Improving evidence-informed leadership and adaptability While New Zealand’s science-informed strategic response has been generally successful, it has at times been reactive rather than proactive in rapidly adapting to changes in the pandemic. We need better mechanisms, such as the multi-party <a href="https://www.parliament.nz/en/visit-and-learn/history-and-buildings/special-topics/epidemic-response-committee-covid-19-2020/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">epidemic response committee</a> of parliamentarians, and advisory processes that ensure high-level science input into the all-of-government response. This could include the formation of a COVID-19 science council/rōpu. Other measures include a <a href="https://www.mbie.govt.nz/science-and-technology/science-and-innovation/research-and-data/nzris/covid-19-research-database/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">well-resourced research strategy</a> to provide high-quality scientific evidence and an <a href="https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/five-key-reasons-why-nz-should-have-an-official-inquiry-into-the-response-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">official inquiry</a> to assess the pandemic response and drive wider system improvements. 5. Investing in public health infrastructure The current <a href="https://dpmc.govt.nz/our-business-units/transition-unit/response-health-and-disability-system-review/information" target="_blank" rel="noopener">health sector reforms</a> are an opportunity to establish essential infrastructure, including a Public Health Agency and Māori Health Authority. Investment in the national immunisation register may help with reversing the recent <a href="https://www.immune.org.nz/sites/default/files/publications/Coverage%20Report%20-%20July%202021.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">decline in childhood immunisations</a>. The pandemic also demonstrates that <a href="https://www.newsroom.co.nz/rethinking-rebreathing-how-to-end-the-pandemic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">clean indoor air</a> is as essential to health as clean drinking water. We should learn from other countries that have also delivered effective responses. <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/article/PIIS2666-6065(20)30044-4/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Taiwan is an example</a> we have previously documented. In summary, New Zealand is well placed to navigate the pandemic and the Omicron wave successfully. As we enter our third pandemic year, we can improve the effectiveness of our response by maintaining a precautionary approach in the face of uncertainty. We also need to improve equity, communication and trust, and evidence-informed leadership, as well as investing in public health infrastructure. These improvements will provide legacy benefits that <a href="https://ojs.victoria.ac.nz/pq/article/view/6550/5715" target="_blank" rel="noopener">prepare us well for other public health challenges</a> we face.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/177134/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michael-baker-169808" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Baker</a>, Professor of Public Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-otago-1304" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Otago</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amanda-kvalsvig-1143399" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amanda Kvalsvig</a>, Senior Research Fellow, Department of Public Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-otago-1304" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Otago</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/matire-harwood-1323164" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matire Harwood</a>, Associate Professor Department of General Practice and Primary Care, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-auckland-1305" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Auckland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nick-wilson-133898" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nick Wilson</a>, Professor of Public Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-otago-1304" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Otago</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/two-years-on-from-the-first-covid-case-new-zealands-successful-pandemic-response-still-faces-major-challenges-177134" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>. Image: Getty Images

Domestic Travel

Solar curtailment is emerging as a new challenge to overcome as Australia dashes for rooftop solar

Almost <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/environment/climate-change/australia-reaches-3-million-households-with-rooftop-solar-20211108-p59721.html">a third</a> of Australia’s estimated <a href="https://www.ibisworld.com/au/bed/number-of-households/31/">ten million households</a> now have solar on the roof. But as the nation moving fastest to produce energy on our homes, we are also encountering teething problems, such as “curtailment” of output. This issue will be one we have to overcome as ever more Australians install solar. Our grids were designed primarily for large fossil fuel power stations transmitting electricity in one direction, while solar households both consume and export power. That means in some conditions, household solar may contribute to spikes in voltage levels outside of the acceptable range, especially as voltage levels are typically already high. To counter this, your solar system can stop exporting to the grid or even shut down temporarily if voltage levels are too high. This is called “curtailment”. <a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/436513/original/file-20211209-21-qfm0ve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/436513/original/file-20211209-21-qfm0ve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Solar technicians installing panels" /></a> The rush for solar shows no signs of slowing – but curtailment could be a stumbling block. Shutterstock <h2>So what’s the issue?</h2> The average solar household lose less than 1% of its power production to curtailment – and even less for those with home batteries. While that sounds minor, an unlucky few households are losing as much as 20%. Why the drastic difference? It depends on factors like the house’s location, the local electricity network equipment, home wiring, the number of solar systems in the area, and the size of a solar system and inverter settings, which can vary depending on the date of installation. These findings are from <a href="https://www.racefor2030.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/CANVAS-Succinct-Final-Report_11.11.21.pdf">our scoping study</a> in South Australia, conducted in partnership with AGL, SA Power Networks and Solar Analytics as part of the <a href="https://www.racefor2030.com.au/">RACE for 2030</a> research centre. We analysed two out of three modes of automatic curtailment, with further research underway to assess the third mode, which may account for greater overall curtailment. This issue is set to get bigger, as more and more solar systems are installed and export to the grid at the same time. Given the different ways solar households experience curtailment, this research also raises issues of fairness. Our research interviewed and ran focus groups with South Australians who have solar. We found most participants didn’t know about curtailment and hadn’t experienced it or noticed it. But when we described curtailment, most people found it off-putting and questioned whether rooftop solar owners should be made to absorb any losses, given the contribution of rooftop solar to the renewable energy transition. Not only that, our participants told us they believed the issue could slow down the adoption of solar and potentially undermine faith in the system. <a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/436514/original/file-20211209-19-azcfvo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/436514/original/file-20211209-19-azcfvo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="Power pylons" /></a> Australia’s rapid renewable transition means challenges to overcome for the grid. Shutterstock <h2>Is this a problem for solar uptake?</h2> The issue of curtailment means people may not get everything they expect out of their solar system. But this may not be a deal breaker, given <a href="https://ecss.energyconsumersaustralia.com.au/behaviour-survey-oct-2021/purchase-intentions/">earlier research</a> and our study both show that people hope to benefit in many different ways from installing a solar system. For instance, some want to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner grid. Others want to be less reliant on electricity providers and enjoy producing and using their own energy. And some just want cheaper electricity, and don’t mind whether they get these savings through selling their power or just buying less of what they need from the grid. The good news is that as the solar sector matures, new ways are emerging of maximising value from our solar, including: <ul> <li>home energy management systems letting us time the use of appliances such as <a href="https://www.pv-magazine-australia.com/2021/09/06/unsw-study-channelling-rooftop-pv-into-water-heating-is-a-residential-super-saver/">hot water tanks</a> for daytime periods, when solar generates most power</li> <li>batteries letting us store power for use in the home when it is needed, such as in the evening</li> <li><a href="https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2017/09/virtual-power-plant/">virtual power plants</a> enabling households to be paid for allowing their solar and battery systems to help stabilise the electricity grid.</li> </ul> While attractive in their own right, these options can also reduce how much your solar system is curtailed, and have the potential to help tackle challenges at a grid scale. Other changes to electricity and grid access and pricing could also help us better manage curtailment. <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-15/sa-power-networks-to-control-solar-exports-in-adelaide-trial/100070068">Flexible export limits</a> being trialled in South Australia and elsewhere would mean households could export electricity to the grid when it is needed, while occasionally being prevented from doing so when the network does not have capacity. Flexible export limits also mean households can install larger solar systems regardless of their location within the network. They could stop curtailment affecting solar households in unexpected and uneven ways. Other responses include <a href="https://discover.agl.com.au/solar/helping-to-maximise-your-solar-savings/">programs to reward households</a> for having their export curtailed, recognising it as a service to the market and the network. There is no single solution to the issue of curtailment. But the different solutions described above may contribute to the successful integration of more rooftop solar energy and pave the way for a more renewable grid. Now is the time to talk about the future of solar in Australia, and the ways we can value it, use it and manage it when abundant.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/172152/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/sophie-adams-1203744">Sophie Adams</a>, Research Fellow, School of Humanities and Languages, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-1414">UNSW</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/baran-yildiz-1259582">Baran Yildiz</a>, Senior Research Associate, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-1414">UNSW</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/naomi-stringer-1296976">Naomi Stringer</a>, Research Associate, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-1414">UNSW</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/shanil-samarakoon-1295900">Shanil Samarakoon</a>, Lecturer, Centre for Social Impact, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-1414">UNSW</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/solar-curtailment-is-emerging-as-a-new-challenge-to-overcome-as-australia-dashes-for-rooftop-solar-172152">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Home Hints & Tips

World’s richest person, Elon Musk, issues challenge to the United Nations

Tesla CEO Elon Musk, whose net worth <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.afr.com/world/north-america/elon-musk-is-now-three-times-richer-than-warren-buffett-20211102-p5955u" target="_blank">just rose</a> by US$24 billion to reach a total of US$335.1 billion, has issued a challenge to the United Nations: prove that money will help solve global hunger, and I will give you that money, more or less. It was in response to a tweet made by David Beasley, director of the UN’s World Food Programme, which itself was a response to the news of Musk’s net worth soaring by <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-10-25/elon-musk-s-fortune-surges-to-281-billion-on-hertz-order" target="_blank">US$36 billion last week</a> after Hertz ordered 100,000 Teslas. The tweet from Beasley reads, “$36 billion in one day - @elonmusk 's net worth increase due to a @Tesla / @Hertz deal. Congratulations, Elon! 1/6 of your one day increase would save 42 million lives that are knocking on famine's door. Unprecedented crisis. Unprecedented wealth. Help!!” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> $36 billion in one day - <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>'s net worth increase due to a <a href="https://twitter.com/Tesla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tesla</a> / <a href="https://twitter.com/Hertz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hertz</a> deal. Congratulations, Elon! 1/6 of your one day increase would save 42 million lives that are knocking on famine's door. Unprecedented crisis. Unprecedented wealth. Help!! <a href="https://t.co/n4hfpl5NRE">https://t.co/n4hfpl5NRE</a> — David Beasley (@WFPChief) <a href="https://twitter.com/WFPChief/status/1453681782742818824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2021</a></blockquote> Responding to a ‘fact-check’ of Beasley’s claims posted by a Dr. Eli David a few days later, Musk wrote, “If WFP can describe on this Twitter thread exactly how $6B will solve world hunger, I will sell Tesla stock right now and do it." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> If WFP can describe on this Twitter thread exactly how $6B will solve world hunger, I will sell Tesla stock right now and do it. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1454808104256737289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote> Beasley responded, explaining that the CNN headline was inaccurate; while $6 billion won’t solve world hunger, it will “prevent geopolitical instability, mass migration and save 42 million people on the brink of starvation”. He invited Musk to have a chat, adding, “It isn’t as complicated as Falcon Heavy, but too much at stake to not at least have a conversation.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> .<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> With your help we can bring hope, build stability and change the future. Let’s talk: It isn’t as complicated as Falcon Heavy, but too much at stake to not at least have a conversation. I can be on the next flight to you. Throw me out if you don’t like what you hear! — David Beasley (@WFPChief) <a href="https://twitter.com/WFPChief/status/1454885078497103873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote> Musk is known for firing off off-the-cuff tweets with little forethought or expectation of follow-through, so it’s not clear whether Beasley’s response satisfies his criteria. His response was characteristically brusque: “Please publish your current & proposed spending in detail so people can see exactly where money goes. Sunlight is a wonderful thing.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Please publish your current & proposed spending in detail so people can see exactly where money goes. Sunlight is a wonderful thing. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1454921466500222977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote> Beasley invited Musk to meet him anywhere, “Earth or space”, to discuss the issue further and see the work the World Food Programme does. Time will tell whether tackling issues like world hunger is a genuine concern of Musk’s, or whether this was simply another day on Twitter for the tech mogul. It’s worth noting that $6 billion works out to be just over 2% of his current net worth. Image: Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images

Money & Banking

“It’s been a challenging year”: Princess Mary’s personal Christmas message

Princess Mary has posted a personal Christmas message on the Mary Foundation website. The Hobart-born royal reflects “back on the year that has passed” and admitted that 2020 has been a “very special” and “challenging” year for everyone. "For many people, the restrictions have led to a great social deprivation," the <a rel="noopener" href="https://honey.nine.com.au/danish-royal-family" target="_blank">Crown Princess of Denmark</a> writes. "But 2020 has also confirmed us in how much we need each other. How much it means to have someone close in life. And it has been a year in which many have shown great commitment and a willingness to go the extra mile to help others. It has been both touching and uplifting to experience." The 48-year-old also discussed how the foundation, like the majority of people, has had to adapt to working remotely. "We have had to readjust and think in new directions so that our projects and efforts could continue. And our work to combat social isolation has not diminished. On the contrary. "In close collaboration with our partners, we have moved around courses and teaching, experimented with digital formats, we have become experienced in online meetings — and we have encouraged parents to talk about 'Free from Bullying' and run the children's relay at home. "During the closure, there was extra pressure on the shelters, and we therefore quickly sent several backpacks away to children who come to the shelter with their mother." Princess Mary’s letter in full: Christmas greetings from the Crown Princess 2020 The Crown Princess looks back on the year that has passed in the Mary Foundation and wishes everyone a Merry Christmas. It has been a very special year. For all of us. It has been a challenging year. For many people, the restrictions have led to a great social deprivation. But 2020 has also confirmed us in how much we need each other. How much it means to have someone close in life. And it has been a year in which many have shown great commitment and a willingness to go the extra mile to help others. It has been both touching and uplifting to experience. In the Mary Foundation — like many others — we have had to readjust and think in new directions so that our projects and efforts could continue. And our work to combat social isolation has not diminished. On the contrary In close collaboration with our partners, we have moved around courses and teaching, experimented with digital formats, we have become experienced in online meetings — and we have encouraged parents to talk about 'Free from Bullying' and run the children's relay at home. During the closure, there was extra pressure on the shelters, and we therefore quickly sent several backpacks away to children who come to the shelter with their mother. In parallel with our projects, we have published analyses that contribute new knowledge about loneliness, domestic violence as well as bullying and well-being. Among other things, we have initiated a new major analysis of the Danes' readiness to act when they witness violence. Through our analysis work and in other ways, we have also helped to create awareness around our three focus areas. The campaign "See loneliness" In the Mary Foundation, we have worked for many years to fight loneliness. During the corona crisis, loneliness has naturally come on everyone's lips. Many feel alone and studies also indicate that loneliness is increasing as a result of the crisis. And the young are among the hardest hit. Therefore, during the summer, we launched a major communication campaign, where we encouraged young people to spot the loneliness around them and reach out to each other. We have also set up a youth panel, which has come up with recommendations on how we can fight loneliness and create well-being for young people during the corona. The school force There are still too many children in Denmark who are bullied and who do not thrive on going to school. That is why we have been working for several years together with Børns Vilkår and Save the Children to develop what we believe is needed to combat bullying and create well-being: A holistic program that involves everyone in and around the school in the important work of identify and combat bullying. This year, we launched the initiative, which has been named the School Force, because it provides the necessary tools and knowledge for the schools themselves to handle bullying and promote well-being for all. The program is currently being implemented at 20 schools. For next year, even more schools across the country can participate — we look forward to that. And we are pleased that the schools in the first evaluation report back that the School Force is a strong, coherent program, Together without violence Sometimes a pregnancy is not just a happy event. For some expectant parents, a pregnancy can trigger or escalate violence in their relationship — already during pregnancy. In collaboration with Dialogue against Violence, Amager and Hvidovre Hospital and Østifterne, we launched In 2019 Together without violence. The project will help to detect violence among pregnant women through a newly developed screening tool and at the same time offer the couples help and counselling. In 2020, the first midwives began using the tool. And we can already see that the tool has now helped us identify pregnant couples to whom we have been able to offer help to get out of life with violence. Thank you In the coming year, we will continue to work on our projects and initiatives, hopefully free of the shadow of the corona sooner or later.Although it is a hard and difficult time, there is also a lot to be grateful for — which gives hope: The will to be something for each other and the courage to stand up and ask for help is something I have had the pleasure to experience many times in the past year. It gives me the belief that we — together — can get through a dark time and out on the other side. I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and say a big thank you to those who have shown consideration, compassion and empathy - and also to those who have stood through the past in spite of great deprivation. Merry Christmas HRH The Crown Princess

Beauty & Style

Why some people are willing to challenge bullying, corruption and bad behavior even at personal risk

Utah Senator Mitt Romney voted in February to convict President Donald Trump on the charge of abuse of power, becoming the first senator ever to <a href="https://www.vox.com/2020/2/5/21125118/mitt-romney-impeachment-vote-history">vote against his own party’s president in an impeachment trial</a>. Two Theranos employees – Erika Cheung and Tyler Shultz – <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/549478/bad-blood-by-john-carreyrou/">spoke out about their concerns</a> regarding the company’s practices, even though they knew they could face lasting personal and professional repercussions. <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/05/us/harvey-weinstein-harassment-allegations.html">Actors Ashley Judd</a> <a href="https://deadline.com/2019/12/harvey-weinstein-moment-of-reckoning-silence-breakers-ashley-judd-rose-mcgowen-1202803517/">and Rose McGowan</a> came forward to report <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/02/24/us/harvey-weinstein-trial-verdict/index.html">Harvey Weinstein’s sexual harassment and assault</a>, despite his threats to ruin their careers if they did so. All of these people spoke up to call out bad behavior, even in the face of immense pressure to stay silent. Although the specifics of each of these cases are quite different, what each of these people share is a willingness to take action. <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=-dCo5lYAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao">Psychologists like me</a> describe those who are willing to defend their principles in the face of potentially negative social consequences such as disapproval, ostracism and career setbacks as “moral rebels.” <a href="https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674241831">Moral rebels</a> speak up in all types of situations – to tell a bully to cut it out, to confront a friend who uses a racist slur, to report a colleague who engages in corporate fraud. What enables someone to call out bad behavior, even if doing so may have costs? The traits of a moral rebel First, moral rebels generally <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/10508422.2015.1012765">feel good about themselves</a>. They tend to have high self-esteem and to feel confident about their own judgment, values and ability. They also <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167209346170">believe their own views are superior</a> to those of others, and thus that they have a social responsibility to share those beliefs. Moral rebels are also <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsp.2015.10.002">less socially inhibited than others</a>. They aren’t worried about feeling embarrassed or having an awkward interaction. Perhaps most importantly, they are far less concerned about conforming to the crowd. So, when they have to choose between fitting in and doing the right thing, they will probably choose to do what they see as right. Research in neuroscience reveals that people’s ability to stand up to social influence is reflected in anatomical differences in the brain. People who are more concerned about fitting in show <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2012.01.012">more gray matter volume in one particular part of the brain</a>, the lateral orbitofrontal cortex. This area right behind your eyebrows creates memories of events that led to negative outcomes. It helps guide you away from things you want to avoid the next time around – such as being rejected by your group. People who are more concerned about conforming to their group also show <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2013.12.035">more activity in two other brain circuits</a>; one that responds to social pain – like when you experience rejection – and another that tries to understand others’ thoughts and feelings. In other words, those who feel worst when excluded by their group try the hardest to fit in. What does this suggest about moral rebels? For some people, feeling like you’re different than everyone else feels really bad, even at a neurological level. For other people, it may not matter as much, which makes it easier for them to stand up to social pressure. These characteristics are totally agnostic as to what the moral rebel is standing up for. You could be the lone anti-abortion voice in your very liberal family or the lone abortion rights advocate in your very conservative family. In either scenario it’s about standing up to social pressure to stay silent – and that pressure of course could be applied about anything. The path of a moral rebel What does it take to create a moral rebel? It helps to have <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2005-08753-003">seen moral courage in action</a>. Many of the civil rights activists who participated in marches and sit-ins in the southern United States in the 1960s had parents who displayed moral courage and civic engagement, as did many of the Germans who rescued Jews during the Holocaust. Watching people you look up to show moral courage can inspire you to do the same. A budding moral rebel also needs to feel empathy, imagining the world from someone else’s perspective. Spending time with and really getting to know people from different backgrounds helps. White high school students who had more contact with people from different ethnic groups – in their neighborhood, at school and on sports teams – have higher levels of empathy and see people from different minority groups in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/josi.12053">more positive ways</a>. These same students are more likely to report taking some action if a classmate uses an ethnic slur, such as by directly challenging that person, supporting the victim or telling a teacher. People who are <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11292-010-9109-1">more empathetic</a> are also more likely to defend someone who is being bullied. Finally, moral rebels need particular skills and practice using them. One study found that teenagers who <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2011.01682.x">held their own in an argument with their mother</a>, using reasoned arguments instead of whining, pressure or insults, were the most resistant to peer pressure to use drugs or drink alcohol later on. Why? People who have practiced making effective arguments and sticking with them under pressure are better able to use these same techniques with their peers. Moral rebels clearly have particular characteristics that enable them to stand up for what’s right. But what about the rest of us? Are we doomed to be the silent bystanders who meekly stand by and don’t dare call out bad behavior? Fortunately, no. It is possible to develop the ability to stand up to social pressure. In other words, anyone can learn to be a moral rebel. <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/catherine-a-sanderson-1126074">Catherine A. Sanderson</a>, Poler Family Professor and Chair of Psychology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/amherst-college-2155">Amherst College</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/heres-why-some-people-are-willing-to-challenge-bullying-corruption-and-bad-behavior-even-at-personal-risk-140829">original article</a>.

Mind

Why weather forecasts could become more challenging during the coronavirus storm

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted several sectors and meteorology is no exception. The quality and quantity of the observational data that feed into weather forecasting models could well be affected by the pandemic, according to the <a href="https://public.wmo.int/en/media/press-release/wmo-concerned-about-impact-of-covid-19-observing-system">World Meteorological Organization (WMO)</a>. Knowing the state of the atmosphere is essential for good weather forecasting. In addition to announcing rain or sunshine, weather forecasts allow us to better prepare for risks and other weather hazards such as <a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-communities-across-canada-prepare-for-doubled-crises-of-flooding-in-a/">spring flooding</a> and hurricanes. The pandemic has curtailed a number of these observations in a variety of ways. But scientists around the world are finding ways to fill some of those gaps. International collaboration The <a href="https://public.wmo.int/en/programmes/global-observing-system">WMO Global Observing System</a> provides observations of the atmosphere, such as wind speed, and the ocean surface, namely sea surface temperature. The system comes from the close collaboration between national and international agencies that provide measurements from different observing instruments. <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/330858/original/file-20200427-145566-1ccwtmw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="" /> The World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) Global Observing System is composed of a large number of in situ and satellite observing systems. (World Meteorological Organization) The <a href="https://public.wmo.int/en/our-mandate/what-we-do/observations">WMO Global Observing System</a> relies on observations taken on land, in the air, on the ocean and from space. More than 10,000 surface-based stations, 1,000 weather balloon stations, 3,000 commercial aircraft, 7,000 ships, 100 moored buoys, 1,000 drifting buoys, 30 meteorological satellites and 200 research satellites gather information about the Earth. The frequency and spatial distribution of these measurements vary enormously depending on the type of observation. For example, a surface weather station can collect precipitation measurements every five minutes, while the <a href="https://cloudsat.atmos.colostate.edu/education/faq">CloudSat</a> satellite, dedicated to global cloud observation, takes measurements covering the same geographical area every 16 days. How forecasts are made Atmospheric models are a set of equations that describe the changing state of the atmosphere. They require information about the initial state of the atmosphere and the Earth’s surface (land and ocean) in order to provide weather forecasts. Unfortunately, observational data alone are not sufficient to provide a complete picture of the state of the atmosphere because they are distributed irregularly over space and time, and sometimes contain errors. This is where a technique known as “<a href="https://research.reading.ac.uk/met-darc/aboutus/what-is-data-assimilation/">data assimilation</a>” comes into play. It involves combining observational data with data obtained from an atmospheric model to get the best estimate of the state of the atmosphere. In other words, one starts from a weather forecast made with the model and corrects it with the observational data. The result of the data assimilation is a coherent complete image of the atmosphere and the Earth’s surface at a given time. Once the initial state of the atmosphere and Earth’s surface is known, an atmospheric model can be applied to predict its evolution. The impact of the pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a <a href="https://public.wmo.int/en/media/press-release/wmo-concerned-about-impact-of-covid-19-observing-system">decrease in observations</a> made by commercial aircraft, due to the decrease in air traffic. In Europe, for example, there has been a <a href="https://www.eurocontrol.int/Economics/DailyTrafficVariation-States.html">90 per cent</a> decline in the daily number of flights. There has also been a drop in manual observations at surface weather stations in several developing countries, which have not switched to fully automated measurements. In the long term, other components of the observing system could be negatively affected if maintenance, repair and replenishment work cannot be done. Each type of observation has a different impact on the quality of forecasts. <a href="https://www.ecmwf.int/en/about/media-centre/news/2020/drop-aircraft-observations-could-have-impact-weather-forecasts">Studies</a> conducted by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) have shown that in the absence of aircraft meteorological data, the quality of short-term wind and temperature forecasts at cruising altitude decreases by 15 per cent, which can affect the prediction of the jet stream and, consequently, forecasts of winter storms and heat waves. The quality of near-surface forecasts also decreases, but not as much. Ironically, the importance of aircraft observation data was highlighted in mid-February 2020 at an ECMWF <a href="https://www.ecmwf.int/en/learning/workshops/workshop-aircraft-weather-observations-and-their-use">workshop on the state of aircraft observations</a>. Fortunately, the impact of satellite observations on forecast quality is greater than that of aircraft meteorological data. Mobilizing scientists The scientific community is trying to ease the impact of the decrease in observational data collected by aircraft. As a result, European national meteorological services are <a href="https://www.ecmwf.int/en/newsletter/163/editorial/ecmwf-and-covid-19">launching more weather balloons</a>. Observations from recently launched satellites can also help to fill the gap left by declining observations. This is the case of the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Aeolus/COVID-19_Aeolus_and_weather_forecasts">European Space Agency’s Aeolus satellite</a>, which provides wind data at different altitudes. The declining quality of weather forecasts adds to the many challenges posed by the pandemic. With the <a href="https://tropical.colostate.edu/media/sites/111/2020/04/2020-04.pdf">Atlantic hurricane season</a> expected to be more active than usual, it is even more important to correctly forecast the trajectory and intensity of hurricanes. Indeed, for <a href="https://www.undrr.org/news/covid-19-risks-complicating-caribbean-hurricane-season">Caribbean countries</a>, where the peak of COVID-19 cases is expected just before the start of the hurricane season, the pandemic is a major obstacle in preparing for this meteorological hazard.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/137585/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/marta-moreno-ibanez-819679">Marta Moreno Ibáñez</a>, PhD candidate in Earth and atmospheric sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-du-quebec-a-montreal-uqam-2410">Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/weather-forecasts-could-become-more-challenging-during-the-coronavirus-storm-137585">original article</a>.

International Travel

The coronavirus survival challenge for NZ tourism: affordability and sustainability

Until a trans-Tasman travel bubble is <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-04/trans-tasman-bubble-coronavirus-what-might-happen-next/12212580">established</a>, there is little doubt the New Zealand tourism industry will <a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/413845/covid-19-domestic-travellers-eyed-to-keep-tourism-sector-viable-after-lockdown">rely entirely</a> on domestic travel post-COVID-19. Without underplaying the impact the pandemic will have on discretionary spending in both countries, however, there may be a silver lining to the crisis. New Zealand is in the fortunate position of having an <a href="https://tia.org.nz/about-the-industry/quick-facts-and-figures/">already strong</a> domestic tourism sector. Domestic tourists spent NZ$23.7 billion annually (or NZ$65 million a day) pre-COVID-19, compared to a total spend of NZ$12.7 billion (or NZ$47 million a day) by international visitors. <a href="https://openrepository.aut.ac.nz/handle/10292/11857">Research</a> pre-COVID-19 showed 65% of New Zealanders wanted to explore more of their country, a figure expected to increase. True, New Zealanders generally don’t have the deep pockets international tourists have. Their higher overall spend is a reflection of their numbers, not their bank balances. But with the big ticket tourist attractions now missing the bigger spenders, the market will rule. Regional tourism organisations, attractions and operators may need to rethink their offerings and their pricing. While tramping the <a href="https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/things-to-do/walking-and-tramping/great-walks/">great walks</a> may be perfectly affordable for a family of four, taking the family on a whale watch, a bungy jump or a cruise on Milford Sound may not be – especially as parts of one big holiday. Indeed, it has been found that <a href="https://openrepository.aut.ac.nz/handle/10292/11857">price</a> is the major decision-making factor for 30% of New Zealanders when it comes to holidays. So this is also an opportunity to give New Zealanders back a piece of the summer pie – not only for the COVID-19 recovery but in the longer term. Summers have tended to be characterised by a large influx of international tourists, with Kiwis settling for shoulder seasons (and unfavourable weather) to tramp the famous tracks when they are <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/99088942/tourists-outnumber-new-zealanders-on-the-great-walks--and-the-gaps-growing">less crowded</a>. But domestic tourists who have grown accustomed to off-peak holidays away from high-cost destinations will soon tip the scales. Now is the time for operators to win back their hearts. With New Zealand’s gradual easing of its strict lockdown (possibly to the stage of allowing non-essential travel by mid-May), tourism can clearly support the economic revival of local communities. The challenge is how to reinvent New Zealand tourism as an initially purely domestic industry. Overall, only a handful of New Zealand destinations have depended entirely on international tourists. These also happen to be the places most heavily associated with overtourism in the past. Given that the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14616688.2020.1759131">growth model</a> driven by short-term, dollars-first business thinking has led to an <a href="https://www.noted.co.nz/money/money-economy/nz-tourists-should-we-limit-number-visitors">unsustainable</a> tourism market, might this also be a chance to restore some equilibrium? That will mean no more killing the goose that lays the <a href="https://www.pce.parliament.nz/publications/pristine-popular-imperilled-the-environmental-consequences-of-projected-tourism-growth">golden egg</a>. Some hotspots, such as the <a href="https://www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz/">Tongariro Alpine Crossing</a> and <a href="https://www.thecoromandel.com/activities/must-do/hot-water-beach/">Coromandel’s Hot Water Beach</a> may be managed by restricting visitor numbers. Such strategies have long been in place in other places, such as the <a href="https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/fiordland/places/fiordland-national-park/things-to-do/tracks/milford-track/">booking requirement</a> for the Milford Track. We have also seen tremendous problems associated with too many cruise ships in too small places. Akaroa is a prime example, and limiting both the number of visits and the size of vessels may be a feasible <a href="https://www.radionz.co.nz/audio/player?audio_id=2018685520">future strategy</a>. As part of our own research (yet to be published) into the pressing issues of overtourism we conducted interviews with various tourism stakeholders around New Zealand, including city and regional councils, the Department of Conservation, residents and operators. This took place just before New Zealand’s strictest lockdown level was imposed, without any real foreknowledge of the eventual economic impact of COVID-19. Nonetheless, our interviewees shared very similar sentiments when it came to how the industry can evolve sustainably only if New Zealanders themselves embrace the behaviours they expect (and sometimes demand) of foreign tourists. According to our subjects, too many Kiwis still hold on to a past when the country’s population was half its current size and SUVs and large motorhomes didn’t crowd the roads and parking lots. Initiatives such as the <a href="https://tiakinewzealand.com/">Tiaki Promise</a>, which promote environmental and cultural sensitivity to tourists, have largely targeted international visitors. These now need to turn the lens inwards so that Kiwis become better ambassadors within their own backyard. Kiwis love their country, but they will now need to truly discover what it has to offer, not only for a weekend of tramping or a quick getaway, but for their main summer holiday. And they will have to become better kaitiaki (or guardians) of their homeland in the process. The absence of international tourists will be a huge challenge, but also an opportunity. If we get it right, when those foreign visitors are allowed to return (most likely at first from Australia) we will have found ways to grow – or limit – their numbers and their expectations so that our tourism industry can thrive as well as survive. Written by Sabrina Seeler and Michael Lueck. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-coronavirus-survival-challenge-for-nz-tourism-affordability-and-sustainability-137256">The Conversation.</a>

Cruising

Dr Jane Goodall reveals Prince Harry is finding new LA life “challenging”

Dr Jane Goodall has revealed her dear friend, Prince Harry, is finding it “a bit challenging” adjusting to his new life in Los Angeles. The 86-year-old primatologist admitted she had “been in touch” with the royal after he and his wife, Duchess Meghan, stepped back from their positions as senior members and moved to Canada. The couple eventually moved onto Los Angeles with their 11-month-old son Archie. The pair have been widely reported to be big fans of Dr. Jane Goodall who has been a major activist for climate change and global warming, and she says she believes she might be the first person outside of the royal family to have held Archie. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-99vuNHUjs/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-99vuNHUjs/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Celebitchy (@celebitchyofficial)</a> on Apr 14, 2020 at 9:35am PDT </div> </blockquote> Currently, the activist is in quarantine in Bournemouth. “I don’t know how his career is going to map out, but, yes, I’ve been in touch – though I think he’s finding life a bit challenging right now,” she said while speaking to <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/" target="_blank">Radio Times</a>. She went on to say both Harry and his big brother love to hunt, but believes since Meghan “doesn’t like hunting”, he may give it up. Dr. Goodall recalled a conversation she and Prince Harry when they met last summer while attending an event to raise awareness for her Roots & Shoots education programme at Windsor Castle. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-8M4wvJa9R/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-8M4wvJa9R/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi (@inti_wara_yassi)</a> on Apr 13, 2020 at 5:09pm PDT </div> </blockquote> “I made Archie do the Queen’s wave, saying, ‘I suppose he’ll have to learn this’”, she said. “Harry said: ‘No, he’s not growing up like that’.” The activist went on to say she is enjoying her life at home but found replying to emails was more exhausting than travelling the world. When asked if she was becoming restless, she responded: “No, I hate travelling the way I do, but I still have a message to get out. “With all the emails and requests I’m getting, this is actually more exhausting than travelling.”�

Relationships

Can YOU spot the puppy hidden in the dog park?

A seek-and-find puzzle is challenging you to spot the puppy hiding in a crowded dog park. The puzzle was created to celebrate national dog day which took place yesterday, and shows a single puppy hidden amongst multiple dogs at a park. It may seem straightforward, but it’s harder than it looks – with the fastest player taking 15 seconds to find the puppy. <img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7830075/2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/45baf0011c3e4bb99acd0ffe84a94dbc" /> Can you spot the pup amongst the crowd of dogs? Scroll through the gallery above to see if you were correct! According to creators, pet food company Natures Menu, it takes close to 21.2 seconds for the average person to complete the challenge.

Family & Pets

Can you spot the keyboard hidden amongst the pack of zebras?

Brain teasers – you either love the challenge or get frustrated within the first minute of looking at them. But for the former, there’s a new challenge that asks you to find a keyboard amongst a pack of zebras. While it may sound simple, the keyboard is almost impossible to find as it’s carefully camouflaged in the black and white illustration. The creators Holiday Gems revealed that the current record for finding the keyboard is 58 seconds, with most players taking over a minute to find the instrument. Can you spot it below? <img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822735/puzzle.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5db6e49e63fd49a5ab226b218c92ad14" /> Photo: <a href="https://www.holidaygems.co.uk/">Holiday Gems</a> Those who have a knack of attention to detail would have been able to spot the object in the bottom left-hand corner. <img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822736/puzzle-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/0a7422baad66428b911ad76bfc723374" /> Photo: <a href="https://www.holidaygems.co.uk/">Holiday Gems</a> How long did it take you to spot it? Let us know in the comments below.

Mind

The exercise that will challenge your balance

If you want to enjoy gardening, bushwalking and remain active, it is important to maintain good balance. In this video, Taylor Harrison, author, senior’s health expert and Director of <a href="http://www.activeseniors.net.au/">Active Seniors Health Centre</a>, shares a challenging exercise that will help you to improve your balance. <iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/293874485" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> To see more videos and articles on improving your health and fitness from Taylor Harrison, <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/search.aspx?Keyword=taylor+harrison">click here</a>. How long can you do the exercise for? Let us know in the comments below.

Caring

Consumer NZ advises drivers to challenge parking tickets

Anyone given a parking ticket they think is unreasonable should "duke it out" with parking companies, the head of Consumer NZ says. Speaking after Wilson Parking admitted handing out <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/95035738" target="_blank">two tickets to a campervan in a free Wellington car park</a>, Sue Chetwin said the cost of any breach notice had to be reasonable, and people should always challenge them. "We say people should only pay what they think is reasonable, and let them chase you for the rest. Keep duking it out with them." A Wilson spokeswoman said the notices given to Shane Leach for parking in a free lot off Karo Dr in central Wellington were issued accidentally, and it was a human mistake. "The matter has been addressed and the notices cancelled." The company had not ticketed vehicles in any other Wellington city car parks it did not own. "However, there was one other incident in Kapiti Coast. All five breach notices were cancelled, and the oversight was addressed with the issuing officer." Chetwin, the chief executive of Consumer NZ, said on Tuesday that people ticketed by parking companies should contest the charges. "They consider them as fines, as if there's some authority over it. Car parking companies have no legal authority to impose fines." Notices were enforceable, but the charges were debatable, and the cost had to be "reasonable". "If the parking costs $3 an hour, then it's unreasonable to be charged $65 for being a few minutes late." Many companies charge a $65 flat rate for anyone who parks longer than they have paid for. Wilson said the company did not issue fines or infringements for damages, but sought to recover the cost of patrolling and checking parks for compliance. "You will be surprised to learn that 50 per cent of breaches issued are for 'parkers' who have made no attempt to pay any part of the parking fee. "Due to this, Wilson has to monitor its car parks to prevent and minimise revenue loss. "Patrolling car parks is a very manual process performed by licensed and trained security officers. Most require vehicles and specialised monitoring and safety equipment." Written by Virginia Fallon. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>.

Money & Banking

Can you work out the TWO answers to this simple maths challenge?

A seemingly simple maths challenge is sweeping the internet – and leaving many people scratching their heads in the process. Created by Go Tumble and shared on <a href="https://wikr.com/can-solve-new-viral-iq-test-1-1000-can/?utm_source=family&utm_medium=rpost&utm_campaign=ep" target="_blank">Wikr,</a> the test asks people to “'think outside the box” by working out two different but correct answers to a series of equations. “Firstly, think outside the box! This maths riddle is not that simple. Even though there’s usually one right answer for maths problems, two common solutions are causing heated debates all over the world,” the makers of the test tease. According to them, only one in 1,000 people can figure out the second possible answer to the test, so can you? <img width="546" height="410" src="http://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/b3e8f3777662ea4caccffe06bcc5e1ce" alt="There are two different ways of solving these equations, can you find them both?" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Answer 1 Most people will begin by adding 1 + 4 to reach the answer 5. Then they'll add 2 + 5 to the sum of 5 to get an answer of 12. Following this logic, most people will use the same process in the next line, adding 3 + 6 to get 9, and add to this to 12 to get 21. In the last stage, they will add 8 + 11 to get 19, before adding it to the sum of the previous line (21) to get 40. With the test creators say 40 is the correct answer, there's another answer – and only a select few will reach it. Answer 2 The game makers say that while of course, 1 + 4 = 5, you can also reach 5 by adding 1 to 4 x 1. With this rule, they'll then add 2 to 2 x 5 to get 12. On the third line, they’ll add 3 to 6 x 3 to get 21. And to reach the final and alternate answer, they'll add 8 to 11 x 8 to get 96. Did you get both answers?

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Consumer NZ advises drivers to challenge parking tickets

Can you work out the TWO answers to this simple maths challenge?