3: Bucha Memorial

From MSN/NVU:

“New Bucha memorial to capture horror and resilience of Russian occupation”

The Urban Design team, led by Stanyslav Demin, won the architectural competition and will be responsible for the construction of the memorial, which will consist of several structures and aims to represent the 33 days of occupation through form, material and silence rather than numbers and dates.

The main building will have an inverted structure, symbolizing the upheaval experienced by the residents who lost everything. In addition, there will be an underground corridor representing the journey from fear to hope. Another element of the memorial is a pond, built on the grounds of a church, where the names of the victims will be displayed and illuminated at night as a symbol of perpetual remembrance. Public discussions on the design of the memorial are ongoing, and the community is invited to provide input.

March 31 marks the third anniversary of the liberation of Bucha, which serves as a reminder of Russia's crimes in Ukraine. More than 2,500 Russian soldiers suspected of involvement in the killing of civilians in Bucha in 2022 have been identified by the Ukrainian National Police as of March 2025, according to an NV investigation.

^ A sad Anniversary, but one that needs to be remembered. ^

https://www.msn.com/en-us/society-culture-and-history/history/new-bucha-memorial-to-capture-horror-and-resilience-of-russian-occupation/ar-AA1C0dmD

3: Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his Wife Olena remember the 637 Men, Women and Children murdered by the Russians during the Bucha Massacre on the 3^rd Anniversary of the War Crime.

Very Angry

From the BBC:

“Trump 'very angry' with Putin over ceasefire negotiations”

Donald Trump has said he is "very angry" and "pissed off" with Russian President Vladimir Putin after weeks of attempting to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine. In an NBC News interview, the US president said he was angry with Putin for attacking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's credibility, and threatened to impose a 50% tariff on countries buying Russian oil if he did not agree to a ceasefire. "If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia's fault - which it might not be... I am going to put secondary tariffs... on all oil coming out of Russia," he said. The comments mark a shift in Trump's tone toward Putin and Russia. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

European leaders had worried that Trump was cosying up to Putin as negotiations on a ceasefire in Ukraine continued. For the past six weeks, Trump has harangued Zelensky in the Oval Office and demanded numerous concessions from Ukraine's president. In turn, he has flattered Putin and largely given in to the Russian president's demands. This appears to be a departure from that dynamic. It is the first time the US has seriously threatened Russia with consequences for dragging its feet in ceasefire negotiations, which would seem to put the diplomatic ball back in Moscow's court. NBC News reported that, in a 10-minute phone interview, Trump said he was very angry and "pissed off" when Putin criticised the credibility of Zelensky's leadership, although the president has himself called Ukraine's leader a dictator and demanded that he hold elections. "You could say that I was very angry, pissed off, when... Putin started getting into Zelensky's credibility, because that's not going in the right location," Trump said. "New leadership means you're not gonna have a deal for a long time," he added. Trump said that the Russians knew of his anger, but noted that he had "a very good relationship" with Putin and "the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing". If Russia does not follow through with a ceasefire, Trump threatened to target its economy further if he thought it was Putin's fault. "There will be a 25% tariff on oil and other products sold in the United States, secondary tariffs," Trump said, noting that the tariffs on Russia would come in a month without a ceasefire deal. Secondary tariffs could constitute up to 50% on goods entering the US from countries still buying oil from Russia. The biggest such buyers by a long margin are China and India. Trump said he would speak to Putin later in the week.

^ The Orange Man is "very angry" that his Master Putin doesn't want a Ceasefire in Ukraine.

He's starting to realize what the rest of us have known since 2014.

I guess Trump’s Appeasement of Putin isn’t working. ^

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20x7z36d56o

Vance In Greenland

 

Tomorrow

 

Ellen Loeb-Katz

Ellen Loeb-Katz

Ellen Loeb-Katz was born on January 31, 1921, in Germany. She fled with her family to the Netherlands in 1936.

After the German invasion in 1940, she was sent to Westerbork. Loeb-Katz survived four Concentration Camps: Westerbork, Theresienstadt, Auschwitz, and Lenzing (a subcamp of Mauthausen).

She and her Mother were liberated by U.S. Troops in 1945.

After the War, Loeb-Katz moved to Dallas, Texas and attended Southern Methodist University where she became a Nurse. She later attended UT Southwestern Medical School and became a Hematologist.

In 1956, Loeb-Katz joined the Wadley Research Institute and Blood Bank. There she developed a method for removing and preserving Bone Marrow for reimplantation in Patients fighting Leukemia.

Travel Postponed

 

 "𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘚 𝘎𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘝𝘪𝘴𝘢 𝘞𝘢𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮 (𝘝𝘞𝘗) 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘝𝘞𝘗’𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘌𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘤 𝘚𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘮 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 (𝘌𝘚𝘛𝘈) 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘯𝘴." – DHS

^ Romania was supposed to be added tomorrow (March 31, 2025.) ^

Like Minds

 

Weekend Gone

 

Koda's Mission

Koda’s Mission:

“Let´s keep Kodas Mission rollin'”

Please share the post and help us stay mobile

A car is essential for us to keep the animal shelter running. We have to take many animals to the vet regularly and transport large quantities of food and building materials.

The VW Crafter belongs to Moritz, a friend who has supported us on supply trips in the past. The price of €6,400 is very fair, and we can pay for the car in installments. Thank you for your support!

^ Koda’s Mission helps save animals inside Ukraine. They go to the Frontlines to rescue animals from Russian Bombs as well as strays. ^

https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=6EFNXBP7MD4V8&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYFJtSsgn6IEq6tGbdfSresXIkryx3vLG_fAlfDjdge53KLg97-bJFa2M0_aem_ESlI62IDlmOZThPkM8EZZA

Ukraine

As an American I stand with Ukraine against Putin.

 

 

Trump made this Ceasefire.

So what's he going to do now that Putin and the Russians have violated it?

Probably nothing sadly (he's more concerned about wearing suits than Human Lives.)

540 Days

 

59 Hostages continue to be held by Hamas in Gaza  - for 540 days and counting.

Vietnam Veterans

Today (on Vietnam Veterans Day) we remember the American Men and Women who served in and around South Vietnam, North Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos.

The Federal Government officially states that a Vietnam Veteran is a person who served in Southeast Asia from February 1961 until May 1975 (although the US only had Combat Troops in South Vietnam from the Gulf Of Tonkin Resolution of August 1964 until the Paris Peace Accords of April 1973.)

2,709,000 American Soldiers served in and around Vietnam during the Vietnam War (out of the total 9,087,000 American Soldiers worldwide at the same time.)

58,000 Americans died and 300,000 Americans were wounded while serving in and around Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

It is estimated that of the 2,709,000 Soldiers there are 510,000 Vietnam Veterans alive today. They range from 67 years old (those who were 18 in 1975) to those in their 90s and 100s (many of them serving in either World War 2, Korea and Vietnam or Korea and Vietnam.) The average age of a Vietnam Veteran is 68 years old.

Many Vietnam Veterans were treated poorly by their fellow Americans during and immediately after the War (despite the fact that Politicians - Congress and the President create, run and end wars.)

VVD

 

6 Degrees

"Can you still play 'Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon' if you keep Kosher?"

2 Months On

2 Months into Trump’s 2^nd Term and he, Musk and DOGE have gone through like a bull in a China Shop destroying anything they can get their hands on,

They have fired hundreds of thousands of Men and Women without cause and without caring about how they will feed their Families.

They have shut-down whole Departments and Agencies without caring what the impact will be on Ordinary Americans.

They have gone after Legal Immigrants, Green Card Holders, etc. with no Criminal Record and sent them to ICE Internment Centers where they have to wait months for a Hearing.

They have started a senseless Tariff War with nearly every single Country which means Ordinary Americans (not Foreigners) will have to pay Thousands of Dollars more for the same goods and services as before.

They have gone after Programs and Services that help the Elderly and the Disabled.

They have used Official Resources to go after Personal Grudges.

Anyone who disagrees with them (or disagreed with them in the past) are investigated on trumped-up charges.

Trump Supporters who committed crimes including murdering a Police Officer were pardoned by Trump.

Instead of the United States standing for truth and justice Trump and DOGE are hiding the truth and eliminating the justice.

 

 

Here are the Affected Agencies, Departments, Programs:

Department of Education: 4,000 Employees fired.

NASA: 20 Employees Fired including NASA’s Chief Scientist.

Department of Defense: 4,000 Employees fired.

Internal Revenue Service: 7,000 Employees fired with plans to fire another 45,000 Employees.

Department of the Interior 2,300 Employees fired.

Environmental Protection Agency: 300 Employees fired.

Department of Veterans Affairs: 1,300 Employees fired with another 10,000 expected to be fired soon.

Department of Housing and Development: 780 Employees fired with plans to fire another 4,000 Employees soon.

U.S. Department of Agriculture: 2,000 Employees fire.

Department of Energy: 2,000 Employees fired.

Federal Aviation Administration: 400 Employees fired.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: 1,000 Employees fired.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: 200 Employees fired.

Department of the Treasury: 76 Employees fired.

United States Postal Service: 10,000 Employees to be fired soon.

Agency for International Development: 9,700 Employees fired.

Federal Aviation Administration: 400 Employees fired.

Environmental Protection Agency: 300 Employees fired.

Department of Defense: 5,400 Employees Fired already with plans to fire another 68,000 Employees within 21 days,

Department of Agriculture: 5,600 Employees fired.

Natural Resources Conservation Service: 1,200 Employees fired.

Forest Service: 3,400 Employees fired.

Department of the Interior: 2,300 Employees fired.

National Park Service: 1,000 Employees fired.

Department of Health and Human Services: 5,200 Employees fired with plans to fired another 20,000 Employees soon.

General Services Administration: 90 Employees fired.

The Central Intelligence Agency: 50 Employees fired.

United States Agency for International Development (USAID): 10,000 Employees fired.

Natural Resources Conservation Service: 1,200 Employees fired.

Department of Commerce: 500 Employees fired.

National Nuclear Security Administration: 300 Employees fired.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: 1,300 Employees fired.

Citizenship and Immigration Services: 50 Employees Fired

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency: 130 Employees fired.

Federal Emergency Management Agency: 200 Employees fired.

Transportation Security Administration:               200 Employees fired.

Department of Housing and Urban Development: 4,000 Employees fired.

Department of Justice: 12 Employees fired.        

Bureau of Indian Education: 85 Employees fired.              

Bureau of Land Management: 800 Employees fired.

National Institutes of Health: 1,200 Employees fired.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: 73 Employees fired.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation: 170 Employees fired.

Social Security Administration: 41 Employees fired.

Food and Drug Administration: 700 Employees fired.

Voice of America: 20 Employees fired.

A total of 192,997 American Men and Women have lost their jobs within the last 2 months – with many more soon to join them.

 

You may think this won’t directly affect you or your Family, but you are wrong.

Less People at TSA means longer lines as Security Checkpoints across the US and more missed flights.

Less People at the USDA means all your food may not be inspected and could kill you.

Less People working around the World to promote the United States means that our Enemies (China, Russia, Iran, etc.) will step in and promote Anti-Americanism as well as the threat for violence against Americans at home and overseas increases.

Less People at Social Security means the Elderly and the Disabled will not get the benefits they need and deserve.

Less People at the Health and Human Services means less medicines for those with Cancer, Diabetes and nearly every other Illness and Disease – since there will be less Government Approval for Research on Cures and New Medicines.

Less People at the Department of Defense means the United States will be less protected for its Enemies (Foreign and Domestic.)

Less People at the FAA means the potential for more and deadly plane crashes likely across the US with less Air Traffic Controllers.

Less People at the Post Office means your Birthday and Holiday Cards and Presents won’t be delivered on time. Also, anything you bought online – including prescriptions will take longer to get to you.

Less People at the Veterans Affairs means more backlogs for US Veterans – including Disabled Veterans – in getting the medical care and other services the US promised them when they were willing to die for our country.

The affects go on and on.

Group

 

20 Agreements

 

Chat Fall-Out

From the BBC Live:

Headlined "Here Are the Attack Plans That Trump's Advisers Shared on Signal", the new Atlantic article's byline includes Jeffrey Goldberg, the magazine's editor who wrote the original story explaining that he'd been added to the group chat

The new article includes extensive screenshots of the text exchanges.

Here is a summary of what we've learned:

Goldberg says he's written a follow-up piece because people deserve to see the texts as they are in the public interest following claims by Trump officials that Goldberg had been lying.

His team reached out to the US agencies involved in the group chat asking if they objected to his publishing of the texts. Some replied they did indeed object.

The text chain in the chat began at 11:44 am EDT on 15 March, 31 minutes before the first US warplanes launched, with Pete Hegseth announcing an incoming update. What follows includes mention of weapons, the target, and the target's location.

A follow-up text soon afterwards again mentions further weapons and timings.

That is followed by a text from Mike Waltz at 1:48 EDT pm containing real-time intelligence about the US attack in Yemen.

This led to the wave of positive responses from members of the chat that was reported earlier.

Later that afternoon, Hegseth posted an update that attacks would go on through the night.

^ Clearly everyone involved in this needs to lose their Security Clearance and thus their job.

Remember when Hilary Clinton used her personal computer for Government E-Mails and the MAGA shouted “Lock her up?”

This is along those same lines.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Director of National Security Tulsi Gabbard, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and others tried to deny and then downplay the Gross National Security Threat and so the Journalist (Jeffrey Goldberg) released the Screen Shots he received during the Conversation and it shows Jeffrey Goldberg was right and the Government Officials both lied about the National Security Incident to the American Public when it became public knowledge as well as tried to shift blame and downplay the significance of their stupidity.

This is more than a case of “Stupid is as stupid does.” It is a case of Federal Government Officials using unsecured means of communication to communicate and discuss Sensitive Government Issues whose outcome has major National Security implications for every American.

Of course Trump is standing by all of those involved (except Goldberg) because otherwise it would look like admitting he simply put unqualified people into major Government Positions – making it him just as dumb as those Officials involved in the Chat.

Like I said above: those Government Officials involved in the Chat and the Cover-Up/Lies when it became public should resign or fired. ^

Chinese Sweep In

From Military.com:

“China Swoops In to Replace Asian USAID Projects Axed by Trump”

The U.S. canceled two aid projects in Cambodia in late February — one to encourage child literacy and another to improve nutrition and development for kids under five. A week later, China’s aid agency announced funding for programs to achieve almost identical goals. “Children are the future of the country and the nation,” China’s ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin said at the event, standing next to the country’s health minister and a UNICEF official. “We should care for the healthy growth of children together.” While China’s announcement didn’t include a dollar figure, the Chinese money essentially funds the same types of initiatives and development goals as efforts terminated as part of the Trump administration’s dismantling of USAID, according to two people with knowledge of the U.S. projects, who weren’t authorized to speak publicly. Both focused on “inclusive education” and the “most vulnerable children,” according to news releases and procurement documents. They both provided school supplies, offering hand-washing materials and improving outcomes for “vulnerable” families and households, newborns and children with disabilities, according to the people.

The price tag for the U.S. programs — $40 million — was small compared with the $27.7 billion in savings the Trump administration said this week it saved by axing thousands of aid contracts. But for Cambodia, whose national GDP is roughly equivalent to that Vermont, it was a big sum, and replacing lost foreign funds has been a priority.

The State Department, which oversees USAID and may now absorb the agency entirely, said in a statement that the U.S. was funding aid programs that make Americans wealthier and more secure. At the same time, it said the U.S. had achieved “significant progress” by investing in Cambodia’s development over the past 30 years, “partnering closely” with the government. “Despite changes in the U.S. approach to foreign assistance, we hope to see our relationship with Cambodia productively mature as we make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” the department added in the statement.

The contracts were terminated on Feb. 26 after President Donald Trump and adviser Elon Musk launched a sweeping overhaul of U.S. foreign assistance, which included dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development. Although it’s only one example, it appears to confirm fears voiced by Democratic and some Republican lawmakers, aid advocates and former U.S. officials: By slashing foreign aid, Trump is giving China an easy opportunity to fill a vacuum and gain a soft-power advantage in countries where the global adversaries compete for influence. That’s especially urgent in Cambodia, where the U.S. has spent roughly $1 billion since the 1990s. Washington has long waged an uphill battle with China in Southeast Asia, and Cambodia in particular. The Biden administration raised concerns about Chinese military influence at the country’s Ream Naval Base over the last four years. But more recently, the U.S. has moved to strengthen defense ties with the government in Phnom Penh, which granted an American warship access to Ream for the first time late last year.

‘Diplomatic Gift’ “It’s a diplomatic gift” to China, said Charles Kenny, a senior fellow at the Center for Global Development. “In every country where there’s a serious USAID cut, if they put a small amount of money into a health and education project and say, ‘Look, we’re ramping up,’ that does seem to be a bit of a publicity gift for them. And I’m sure they’re smart enough to take it.” Since the Trump administration moved to shut down USAID, terminate most of its foreign aid contracts, and furlough or place on leave most of its employees, U.S. lawmakers, development experts and national security professionals have highlighted the geopolitical risks of curtailing US foreign aid in the developing world. Many of those lawmakers and experts have warned that China could move in, gaining further influence over developing nations after wooing officials in Africa, Asia and South America for years with tens of billions in loans focused mostly on infrastructure through Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.

And it certainly has. China already announced funding for a Cambodian de-mining initiative that was dropped, and later restored, by the U.S. In mid-March, Beijing also announced an early childhood development project in Rwanda, where USAID recently curtailed contracts. And Chinese officials have reportedly offered to make up for funding gaps in Nepal, nestled between India and China. Will Parks, the Cambodia representative for the United Nations Children’s Fund, said in a statement that the organization and Cambodia signed a partnership with China in 2024, based on a proposal from 2022. It was launched earlier this month and “complements” funding from other nations, Parks said. “Cambodia has made tremendous progress for children over the past decade,” he said. “But further reductions of aid budgets could jeopardize these hard-won achievements.”

Cambodia’s government was explicit about drawing a link. “The Cambodian government works with many partners, and we never rely on any one partner exclusively,” government spokesman Pen Bona said via text message in response to questions. “So if one partner withdraws support, we seek to find another partner to replace it.” China “will continue to provide assistance to economic and social development” in Cambodia “under the framework of South-South cooperation,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “China’s aid policy remains consistent and clear,” the Foreign Ministry continued. “China’s principles of non-interference, not attaching any political strings, not giving empty promises remain unchanged.”

In a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill this month, Trump appointee Pete Marocco, who led the assault on USAID, was asked about the Cambodia projects and the timing of China’s swift announcement, according to one person familiar with the session. Marocco brushed off concerns about China increasing its influence, this person said. Marocco did not respond to a request for comment.

While Trump’s team have said the canceled projects brought no benefits to Americans, Diana Putman, who retired as USAID’s acting assistant administrator for Africa, said the agency’s billions in foreign assistance helped give US ambassadors a crucial advantage. “Their leverage and ability to make a difference in terms of foreign policy in that country is backed up by the money that they bring, and in the Global South that money is primarily the money that USAID has,” Putman said.

^ Trump, MAGA and DOGE eliminating USAID and other Foreign Funding from the US only gives Countries like China, Russia, Iran, etc. to come in and gain influence these Countries and People against the United States. ^

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/03/26/china-swoops-replace-asian-usaid-projects-axed-trump.html

Wednesday

 

Epilepsy

 

Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused when abnormal cell division results in an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. This extra genetic material causes the developmental changes and physical features of Down syndrome. Down syndrome varies in severity among individuals, causing lifelong intellectual disability and developmental delays. It's the most common genetic chromosomal disorder and cause of learning disabilities in children. It also commonly causes other medical abnormalities, including heart and gastrointestinal disorders. Better understanding of Down syndrome and early interventions can greatly increase the quality of life for children and adults with this disorder and help them live fulfilling lives.

Symptoms Each person with Down syndrome is an individual — intellectual and developmental problems may be mild, moderate or severe. Some people are healthy while others have significant health problems such as serious heart defects. Children and adults with Down syndrome have distinct facial features. Though not all people with Down syndrome have the same features, some of the more common features include: Flattened face, Small head, Short neck, Protruding tongue, Upward slanting eye lids (palpebral fissures), Unusually shaped or small ears, Poor muscle tone, Broad, short hands with a single crease in the palm, Relatively short fingers and small hands and feet, Excessive flexibility, Tiny white spots on the colored part (iris) of the eye called Brushfield's spots. Short height. Infants with Down syndrome may be average size, but typically they grow slowly and remain shorter than other children the same age.

Intellectual disabilities Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Language is delayed, and both short and long-term memory is affected.

When to see a doctor Children with Down syndrome usually are diagnosed before or at birth. However, if you have any questions regarding your pregnancy or your child's growth and development, talk with your doctor.

Causes Human cells normally contain 23 pairs of chromosomes. One chromosome in each pair comes from your father, the other from your mother. Down syndrome results when abnormal cell division involving chromosome 21 occurs. These cell division abnormalities result in an extra partial or full chromosome 21. This extra genetic material is responsible for the characteristic features and developmental problems of Down syndrome.

Any one of three genetic variations can cause Down syndrome: Trisomy 21. About 95 percent of the time, Down syndrome is caused by trisomy 21 — the person has three copies of chromosome 21, instead of the usual two copies, in all cells. This is caused by abnormal cell division during the development of the sperm cell or the egg cell. Mosaic Down syndrome. In this rare form of Down syndrome, a person has only some cells with an extra copy of chromosome 21. This mosaic of normal and abnormal cells is caused by abnormal cell division after fertilization. Translocation Down syndrome. Down syndrome can also occur when a portion of chromosome 21 becomes attached (translocated) onto another chromosome, before or at conception. These children have the usual two copies of chromosome 21, but they also have additional genetic material from chromosome 21 attached to another chromosome. There are no known behavioral or environmental factors that cause Down syndrome.

Is it inherited? Most of the time, Down syndrome isn't inherited. It's caused by a mistake in cell division during early development of the fetus. Translocation Down syndrome can be passed from parent to child. However, only about 3 to 4 percent of children with Down syndrome have translocation and only some of them inherited it from one of their parents. When balanced translocations are inherited, the mother or father has some rearranged genetic material from chromosome 21 on another chromosome, but no extra genetic material. This means he or she has no signs or symptoms of Down syndrome, but can pass an unbalanced translocation on to children, causing Down syndrome in the children.

Risk factors Some parents have a greater risk of having a baby with Down syndrome. Risk factors include: Advancing maternal age. A woman's chances of giving birth to a child with Down syndrome increase with age because older eggs have a greater risk of improper chromosome division. A woman's risk of conceiving a child with Down syndrome increases after 35 years of age. However, most children with Down syndrome are born to women under age 35 because younger women have far more babies. Being carriers of the genetic translocation for Down syndrome. Both men and women can pass the genetic translocation for Down syndrome on to their children. Having had one child with Down syndrome. Parents who have one child with Down syndrome and parents who have a translocation themselves are at an increased risk of having another child with Down syndrome. A genetic counselor can help parents assess the risk of having a second child with Down syndrome.

Complications People with Down syndrome can have a variety of complications, some of which become more prominent as they get older. These complications can include: Heart defects. About half the children with Down syndrome are born with some type of congenital heart defect. These heart problems can be life-threatening and may require surgery in early infancy. Gastrointestinal (GI) defects. GI abnormalities occur in some children with Down syndrome and may include abnormalities of the intestines, esophagus, trachea and anus. The risk of developing digestive problems, such as GI blockage, heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux) or celiac disease, may be increased. Immune disorders. Because of abnormalities in their immune systems, people with Down syndrome are at increased risk of developing autoimmune disorders, some forms of cancer, and infectious diseases, such as pneumonia. Sleep apnea. Because of soft tissue and skeletal changes that lead to the obstruction of their airways, children and adults with Down syndrome are at greater risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Obesity. People with Down syndrome have a greater tendency to be obese compared with the general population. Spinal problems. Some people with Down syndrome may have a misalignment of the top two vertebrae in the neck (atlantoaxial instability). This condition puts them at risk of serious injury to the spinal cord from overextension of the neck. Leukemia. Young children with Down syndrome have an increased risk of leukemia. Dementia. People with Down syndrome have a greatly increased risk of dementia — signs and symptoms may begin around age 50. Having Down syndrome also increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Other problems. Down syndrome may also be associated with other health conditions, including endocrine problems, dental problems, seizures, ear infections, and hearing and vision problems. For people with Down syndrome, getting routine medical care and treating issues when needed can help with maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Life expectancy Life spans have increased dramatically for people with Down syndrome. Today, someone with Down syndrome can expect to live more than 60 years, depending on the severity of health problems.

Prevention There's no way to prevent Down syndrome. If you're at high risk of having a child with Down syndrome or you already have one child with Down syndrome, you may want to consult a genetic counselor before becoming pregnant. A genetic counselor can help you understand your chances of having a child with Down syndrome. He or she can also explain the prenatal tests that are available and help explain the pros and cons of testing.

Diagnosis The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends offering the option of screening tests and diagnostic tests for Down syndrome to all pregnant women, regardless of age. Screening tests can indicate the likelihood or chances that a mother is carrying a baby with Down syndrome. But these tests can't tell for sure or diagnose whether the baby has Down syndrome. Diagnostic tests can identify or diagnose whether your baby has Down syndrome. Your health care provider can discuss the types of tests, advantages and disadvantages, benefits and risks, and the meaning of your results. If appropriate, your provider may recommend that you talk to a genetics counselor.

Screening tests during pregnancy Screening for Down syndrome is offered as a routine part of prenatal care. Although screening tests can only identify your risk of carrying a baby with Down syndrome, they can help you make decisions about more-specific diagnostic tests. Screening tests include the first trimester combined test and the integrated screening test. The first trimester combined test The first trimester combined test, which is done in two steps, includes: Blood test. This blood test measures the levels of pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and the pregnancy hormone known as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Abnormal levels of PAPP-A and HCG may indicate a problem with the baby. Nuchal translucency test. During this test, an ultrasound is used to measure a specific area on the back of your baby's neck. This is known as a nuchal translucency screening test. When abnormalities are present, more fluid than usual tends to collect in this neck tissue. Using your age and the results of the blood test and the ultrasound, your doctor or genetic counselor can estimate your risk of having a baby with Down syndrome. Integrated screening test The integrated screening test is done in two parts during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. The results are combined to estimate the risk that your baby has Down syndrome. First trimester. Part one includes a blood test to measure PAPP-A and an ultrasound to measure nuchal translucency. Second trimester. The quad screen measures your blood level of four pregnancy-associated substances: alpha fetoprotein, estriol, HCG and inhibin A.

Diagnostic tests during pregnancy If your screening test results are positive or worrisome, or you're at high risk of having a baby with Down syndrome, you might consider more testing to confirm the diagnosis. Your health care provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of these tests. Diagnostic tests that can identify Down syndrome include: Chorionic villus sampling (CVS). In CVS, cells are taken from the placenta and used to analyze the fetal chromosomes. This test is typically performed in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. The risk of pregnancy loss (miscarriage) from a CVS is very low. Amniocentesis. A sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus is withdrawn through a needle inserted into the mother's uterus. This sample is then used to analyze the chromosomes of the fetus. Doctors usually perform this test in the second trimester, after 15 weeks of pregnancy. This test also carries a very low risk of miscarriage. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is an option for couples undergoing in vitro fertilization who are at increased risk of passing along certain genetic conditions. The embryo is tested for genetic abnormalities before it's implanted in the womb.

Diagnostic tests for newborns After birth, the initial diagnosis of Down syndrome is often based on the baby's appearance. But the features associated with Down syndrome can be found in babies without Down syndrome, so your health care provider will likely order a test called a chromosomal karyotype to confirm diagnosis. Using a sample of blood, this test analyzes your child's chromosomes. If there's an extra chromosome 21 in all or some cells, the diagnosis is Down syndrome.

Treatment Early intervention for infants and children with Down syndrome can make a major difference in improving their quality of life. Because each child with Down syndrome is unique, treatment will depend on individual needs. Also, different stages of life may require different services.

Team care If your child has Down syndrome, you'll likely rely on a team of specialists that can provide medical care and help him or her develop skills as fully as possible. Depending on your child's particular needs, your team may include some of these experts: Primary care pediatrician to coordinate and provide routine childhood care: Pediatric cardiologist, Pediatric gastroenterologist, Pediatric endocrinologist, Developmental pediatrician, Pediatric neurologist, Pediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, Pediatric eye doctor (ophthalmologist), Audiologist, Speech pathologist, Physical therapist, Occupational therapist You'll need to make important decisions about your child's treatment and education. Build a team of health care providers, teachers and therapists you trust. These professionals can help evaluate the resources in your area and explain state and federal programs for children and adults with disabilities.

Coping and support When you learn your child has Down syndrome, you may experience a range of emotions, including anger, fear, worry and sorrow. You may not know what to expect, and you may worry about your ability to care for a child with a disability. The best antidote for fear and worry is information and support. Consider these steps to prepare yourself and to care for your child: Ask your health care provider about early intervention programs in your area. Available in most states, these special programs offer infants and young children with Down syndrome stimulation at an early age (typically until age 3) to help develop motor, language, social and self-help skills. Learn about educational options for school. Depending on your child's needs, that may mean attending regular classes (mainstreaming), special education classes or both. With your health care team's recommendations, work with the school to understand and choose appropriate options. Seek out other families who are dealing with the same issues. Most communities have support groups for parents of children with Down syndrome. You can also find internet support groups. Family and friends can also be a source of understanding and support. Participate in social and leisure activities. Take time for family outings and look in your community for social activities such as park district programs, sports teams or ballet classes. Although some adaptations may be required, children and adults with Down syndrome can enjoy social and leisure activities. Encourage independence. Your child's abilities may be different from other children's abilities, but with your support and some practice your child may be able to perform tasks such as packing lunch, managing hygiene and dressing, and doing light cooking and laundry. Prepare for the transition to adulthood. Opportunities for living, working, and social and leisure activities can be explored before your child leaves school. Community living or group homes, and community employment, day programs or workshops after high school require some advance planning. Ask about opportunities and support in your area. Expect a bright future. Most people with Down syndrome live with their families or independently, go to mainstream schools, read and write, participate in the community, and have jobs. People with Down syndrome can live fulfilling lives.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/down-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355983

WDSD

 

Activities

Spring Activities

The weather is warming up and everything’s turning green. Shed your winter coat and get started on this list of fun ways to enjoy the spring season.

The Great Outdoors:

Plant something green

See the cherry blossoms

Have a picnic at the park

Find the first crocuses and snowdrops

Jog outside

Take a hike

Play softball

Ride a bike

 Sit outside at a café

Visit a farm to see the animals

Walk on a deserted beach

Play a round of golf

Go horseback riding

Nostalgic:

Fly a kite

Look for four-leaf clovers

Jump in puddles

Get dirt under your fingernails

 Blow bubbles

Climb a tree

 Find a playground and swing on the swings

Feed the ducks at a pond

Wade in a creek

Draw pictures on the sidewalk with chalk

Skip stones across a pond

Plan a spring break vacation

Eat and Drink:

Roast a bunch of asparagus

Steam whole artichokes and eat them leaf by leaf

Bake cupcakes with pink (or lavender or yellow or baby blue) frosting

Eat a ripe apricot

 Visit the farmers’ market and buy spinach and sugar snap peas

Pick strawberries

Eat jellybeans

 Buy a package of Peeps

Mix up a pitcher of margaritas

Just Because:

Listen to the rain

Watch bumblebees at work in a garden

Notice the trees budding

Spot a rainbow

Listen to the birds singing

Go bare-legged

Feel the sun on your face

Leave your windows open to catch a spring breeze

 Pet a bunny

See all the Oscar-winning movies

Send someone other than your mom a Mother’s Day card

Wear open-toed shoes

Buy a fun umbrella

Visit the zoo

Decorate your home with fresh tulips and daffodils

Get caught in a spring shower

https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/entertainment/spring-activities

Spring

 

Cold And Hot

 

70: Bruce Willis

 

Americans Interned

130,000 American Soldiers (Men and Women) were held as Prisoners of War by either the Germans or the Japanese during World War 2 (1941-1945.)

(Americans being held by the Japanese at the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in Japanese-Occupied the Philippines during World War 2.)

27,000 American Soldiers were held POW by the Japanese and 103,000 American Soldiers were held POW by the Germans.

19,000 American Civilians (Men, Women and Children) were interned by either the Germans or the Japanese during World War 2 (1941-1945.)

5,000 American Civilians were interned by the Germans and 14,000 American Civilians were interned by the Japanese.

The Japanese attacked and occupied parts of the United States during the War including: parts of Alaska (1942-1943), Guam (1941-1944) and the Philippines (1941-1945.)

Both American POWs and American Civilians, Men, Women and Children were starved, beaten, tortured, experimented on, used as Sex Slaves and murdered by the Germans and the Japanese.

The US Congress passed the War Claims Act of 1948, which created a War Claims Commission (WCC) to adjudicate claims and pay out small lump-sum compensation payments from a War Claims Fund consisting of seized Japanese, German, and other Axis assets.

Payments to POWs held by either Germany or Japan were at the rate of $1 to $2.50 per day of Imprisonment.

The WCC also paid Civilian Internees of Japan $60 for each month of Internment, and Civilians were also eligible for compensation for Disability or Death.

 The War Claims Act of 1948 did not authorize compensation for Civilian Internees held by Germany.

Justice And Order

Trump and DOGE are working to destroy justice and order in the United States.

They are not working to protect justice and order in the United States.

Spring's Coming

 

25: Öresund Bridge

 

The Öresund Bridge has been connecting Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmö, Sweden since 2000  - 25 years now!

It is 25,738 feet long and is the 2^nd longest bridge in Europe.

Part of it is a bridge and part of it is a tunnel.

It allows both trains and personal vehicles to cross.

Cost to cross: During  Peak Hours for crossing the bridge are from 6 am to 9 am and from 3 pm to 6 pm on weekdays = 65 US Dollars.  Off-Peak Hours costs $52 US Dollars.

Tuesday

 

Day After

 

Bob's Patty's Day

 

IRS Luck

 

Training

 

70: Gary Sinise

 

St. Patrick's

St. Patrick’s Day Facts:

Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional St. Patrick’s Day dish. In 2009, roughly 26.1 billion pounds of beef and 2.3 billion pounds of cabbage were produced in the United States.

Irish soda bread gets its name and distinctive character from the use of baking soda rather than yeast as a leavening agent.

Lime green chrysanthemums are often requested for St. Patrick’s Day parades and celebrations.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The first St. Patrick’s Day parade took place in the United States on March 17, 1762, when Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City. More than 100 St. Patrick’s Day parades are held across the United States. New York City and Boston are home to the largest celebrations. At the annual New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade, participants march up 5th Avenue from 44th Street to 86th Street. Each year, between 150,000 and 250,000 marchers take part in the parade, which does not allow automobiles or floats.

Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day:  There are seven places in the United States named after the shamrock, the floral emblem of Ireland including Mount Gay-Shamrock, West Virginia; Shamrock, Texas; Shamrock Lakes, Indiana; and Shamrock, Oklahoma. Sixteen U.S. places share the name of Ireland’s capital, Dublin. With 44,541 residents, Dublin, California, is the largest of the nice, followed by Dublin, Ohio, with 39,310. Other towns with the luck of the Irish include Emerald Isle, North Carolina and Irishtown, Illinois.

Facts about Irish Americans: There are 32.3 million U.S. residents with Irish ancestry, according to a 2016 census. This number is about seven times the population of Ireland itself. Irish is the nation’s second most frequently reported ancestry, ranking behind German. Across the country, 10.2 percent of residents lay claim to Irish ancestry. That number more than doubles to 20.2 percent in the state of Massachusetts. Irish is the most common ancestry in 54 U.S. counties, of which 44 are in the Northeast. Middlesex County in Massachusetts tops the list with 348,978 Irish Americans, followed by Norfolk County, Massachusetts, which has 203,285. Irish ranks among the top five ancestries in every state except Hawaii and New Mexico. It is the leading ancestry group in Delaware, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. In 2016 there were approximately 125,840 U.S. residents who were born in Ireland.

https://www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day/st-patricks-day-facts