THREAD: biologically immortal animals

WOMAN’S Shocking Mushroom Find Feeds Family For A Week

17 December 2024 — Alissimon Minnitt, a 27-year-old from North Marston, UK, stumbled upon an enormous puffball mushroom while hiking with her father. At first, she thought it was trash but soon realized its true nature. Weighing in at an impressive 11 pounds, this find was anything but ordinary.

Minnitt turned the giant fungi into meals for her family that lasted a week. She shared and rated these culinary creations on her TikTok account. Her discovery underscores both the potential bounty and risks of foraging wild mushrooms.

Experts warn that while some wild mushrooms are safe to eat, others can be deadly if consumed. Proper identification is essential to avoid dangerous consequences when foraging in the wild.

UK’S BOLD Move: PUBERTY Blockers Banned for Kids Indefinitely

12 December 2024 — The United Kingdom has decided to keep puberty blockers outlawed for children, Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced. He emphasized that children’s healthcare must be evidence-based. The Commission on Human Medicines found current treatments for gender dysphoria pose safety risks.

Streeting cited the Cass Review, which questioned the benefits of puberty blockers and highlighted significant risks. He stressed the need for caution when dealing with vulnerable young people and following expert advice. Clinical trials will continue next year to establish a clear evidence base for these drugs.

The government plans to work with NHS England to open new gender identity services after closing Tavistock Centre over safety concerns. Puberty blockers were banned by NHS in March, followed by emergency legislation in May prohibiting prescriptions for minors in all healthcare sectors.

TransActual UK challenged the ban legally, claiming it was unlawful to use emergency powers this way, but Britain’s High Court upheld it. The decision was influenced by Dr Hilary Cass’s report that undermined key aspects of the transgenderism movement’s arguments regarding children’s treatment.

YOUNG BOY’S Amazing Discovery: Rare Ancient Artifact Found on English Beach

01 December 2024 — A young boy from England, Ben Witten, made an incredible discovery on Shoreham Beach in Sussex. At just nine years old, he found a shiny flint rock that turned out to be a rare artifact from the late Middle Paleolithic era.

Unaware of its importance at first, Witten kept the rock in his room for years and often misplaced it. His casual find has now become a significant historical piece.

A visit to Worthing Museum revealed the true value of his discovery. The ancient item is now proudly displayed at the museum for everyone to see.

BELOVED PETS Seized: New York Faces Outrage Over Squirrel and Raccoon

28 November 2024 — Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner are suing New York State after authorities seized their pet squirrel, Peanut, and raccoon, Fred. The Department of Environmental Conservation raided their Pine City home on October 30, citing rabies concerns. The couple accuses the state of government overreach and rights violations.

Authorities euthanized Peanut and Fred to test for rabies, despite allegedly knowing the animals were healthy. Longo and Bittner claim the tests were “unfounded” and “unjustified.” They argue that officials invaded their privacy during the raid.

Peanut was a social media sensation with over 532,000 Instagram followers before his seizure. His popularity has drawn attention to this legal battle against New York State’s actions. The case highlights concerns about government intervention in private animal ownership.

The state justified its actions by stating an agent was bitten during the raid, necessitating rabies testing. However, Longo and Bittner maintain that this reasoning is flawed given prior knowledge of the animals’ health status.

MIRACLE at SEA: Russian Survivor Rescued After Two Months Adrift

16 October 2024 — Emergency crews in Russia have saved Mikhail Pichugin, who drifted at sea for over two months in an inflatable boat. His brother and nephew tragically died during the ordeal, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The rescue happened after a fishing vessel spotted him near the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Sea of Okhotsk.

Pichugin, 46, went on a whale-watching trip with his 49-year-old brother and 15-year-old nephew in early August. They traveled to the Shantar Islands but disappeared after leaving for Sakhalin Island from Cape Perovsky on August 9. Despite initial rescue efforts, they stayed lost until Pichugin’s recent discovery by the Angel fishing vessel.

Reports say their boat’s engine failed, leaving them adrift with minimal supplies — only a small food ration and about 5 gallons of water. The fishing crew first mistook their radar blip for debris or a buoy before finding Pichugin using their spotlight. Shocked to find a starving man instead of junk, they quickly rescued him from his dire situation.

INFAMOUS French Serial Killer Charles Sobhraj WALKS Free

15 September 2024 — Charles Sobhraj, the infamous French serial killer known for murdering at least a dozen Western tourists in Asia during the 1970s, is now free. He recently shared his story in a televised interview. “He likes to have the attention put on him,” said retired detective Jackie Malton.

Sobhraj, 80, is believed to have killed at least 20 people across Afghanistan, India, Thailand, Turkey, Nepal, Iran and Hong Kong. He earned the nickname “bikini killer” due to his ruthless methods and lack of empathy.

In 2004, Sobhraj was sentenced to life in prison in Nepal for killing American tourist Connie Jo Bronzich in 1975. A decade later, he was also found guilty of killing her Canadian companion Laurent Carrière.

TRAGIC Migrant DEATHS in English Channel: 12 Lives Lost

04 September 2024 — At least 12 migrants died when a smuggler’s boat broke up in the English Channel on Tuesday. Most of the victims were women and children, including one pregnant woman. The migrants were primarily from Eritrea, attempting to reach Britain.

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin reported 12 dead, two missing, and several injured. This incident raises the death toll in the Channel to at least 31 this year. Over 21,000 people have crossed the Channel so far in 2023, surpassing last year’s rate.

Darmanin called for a migration treaty between the UK and EU to address illegal crossings and employment of migrants in poor conditions. He criticized Britain for not tackling its shadow economy that employs illegal migrants.

Former Conservative Home Secretary James Cleverly criticized Labour’s lack of action despite their promises to “smash the gangs.” New Home Secretary Yvette Cooper blamed traffickers for using unseaworthy boats and risking lives even in poor weather conditions.

MYSTERY Artist BANKSY Continues to Captivate the World

18 August 2024 — Banksy, the famous yet anonymous artist, continues to captivate global audiences. His works sell for millions and are owned by celebrities like Brad Pitt and Christina Aguilera. Despite his fame, Banksy’s identity remains a closely guarded secret.

Banksy’s art often carries political messages and addresses global issues through immersive installations. Some of his pieces also explore lighter, playful themes. This duality has broadened his appeal across various demographics.

Speculation about Banksy’s true identity persists among fans and critics alike. He is believed to be from Bristol, England, where he initially gained recognition as a graffiti artist with his distinctive stenciled designs.

UK APPROVES Lab-Grown MEAT for Dogs: A Game-Changer

18 July 2024 — British regulators have approved Meatly to sell lab-grown meat as dog food. This approval allows taste-test trials with dogs to begin, featuring proteins from cultivated chicken cells.

Meatly’s co-founder and CEO, Owen Ensor, sees Brexit as an opportunity for the UK to lead in innovative solutions. He believes the current government is enthusiastic about such advancements.

The company plans to license its technology to other firms in Britain, potentially paving the way for lab-grown meat for human consumption. The production process would be similar for both pet and human food.

Ensor highlighted that 20% of global meat consumption is by pets. Meatly aims to address ethical and sustainability challenges by providing an alternative that doesn’t involve killing animals to feed pets.

BELOVED Fitness Icon RICHARD Simmons Dies at 76

14 July 2024 — Richard Simmons, the energetic fitness guru known for his tank tops and short shorts, died Saturday at age 76. His publicist confirmed his death at his Los Angeles home from natural causes.

Simmons had revealed a skin cancer diagnosis in March 2024 and had recently withdrawn from public view, sparking speculation about his health. TMZ first reported his death.

A former overweight teen, Simmons became famous for promoting weight loss through media like the Emmy-winning “Richard Simmons Show” and best-selling books. His “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” videos were a cultural hit.

Despite becoming a target of jokes for his flamboyant style, Simmons remained dedicated to helping people live healthier lives. “I want to help people and make the world a healthier place,” he said in 1982.

DEADLY NHS Scandal: 3,000 Lives Lost to HIV and Hepatitis

20 May 2024 — A scandal involving Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) has led to the deaths of around 3,000 people from HIV and hepatitis infections. The report is expected to criticize pharmaceutical companies, medical practitioners, civil servants, and politicians. Many involved have already passed away due to the passage of time.

The scandal could result in a massive compensation bill for the British government. Tireless campaigners exposed the scale of this tragedy, which might have remained hidden otherwise. Jason Evans, whose father died from infected blood plasma in 1993, played a key role in establishing the inquiry in 2017 under Prime Minister Theresa May.

Infected blood transfusions during the 1970s and 1980s exposed thousands to hepatitis and HIV. Evans hopes that with Monday’s report release, he and countless others can find some closure after decades of suffering and loss.

PARASITE OUTBREAK Contaminates Water In England: 16,000 Homes At Risk

17 May 2024 — A fishing village in southwest England has been told to boil its tap water for a third day due to a parasite outbreak. Cryptosporidium, which causes diarrhea, was found in the water supply affecting 16,000 homes and businesses in Brixham. At least 46 cases have been confirmed with over 100 more reporting symptoms.

South West Water’s Chief Executive Susan Davy apologized and stated that technicians are working non-stop to resolve the issue. “I am truly sorry for the disruption and wider anxiety this has caused,” Davy said. The contamination may have originated from a pipe in a cattle pasture.

This incident highlights ongoing issues with Britain’s aging water system, which has faced criticism for frequent sewage overflows into rivers and oceans. These problems have sickened swimmers and polluted fishing streams, leading to public outcry for improvements.

NOEM’S Presidential Dreams Shattered by Dog Debacle

29 April 2024 — Governor Kristi Noem, once seen as a likely choice for Donald Trump’s vice presidential running mate, now faces a major hurdle. In her memoir “No Going Back,” she shares a story about her aggressive dog, Cricket. The dog caused chaos on a hunting trip and even attacked a neighbor’s chickens. This incident paints an unflattering picture of chaos under her watch.

Noem describes Cricket as having an “aggressive personality” and behaving like a “trained assassin.” These words come from her own book, which was supposed to enhance her political image. Instead, it underscores significant issues of control — both over the dog and perhaps within her own home.

The situation forced Noem to declare the dog “untrainable” and dangerous. This revelation could damage her appeal among voters who prize personal responsibility and leadership skills. It casts doubt on her ability to manage more significant responsibilities in higher office roles.

This event could severely affect Noem’s future in politics, including any plans for cabinet positions or presidential aspirations in 2028. Her attempt to appear relatable in the book might instead highlight critical lapses in judgment that are vital for national leadership roles.

PASSING of Joe Lieberman: The LAST Moderate Voice in Senate, Dead at 82

27 March 2024 — Joe Lieberman, the former Senator from Stamford, Conn., has tragically passed away at the age of 82. His death resulted from complications following a fall.

The news was confirmed by his family. He leaves behind an enduring legacy as a dedicated public servant and an unwavering advocate for both Jewish people and the Jewish state.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to him as an “exemplary public servant” and a "peerless champion of Jewish causes.

Conservative radio host Mark Levin mourned Lieberman’s passing, referring to him as “the last of the moderates.” This sentiment underscores the profound impact he had on American politics.

WHO Chief WARNS of Deadlier ‘Disease X’: Urges Nations to Prepare for Next Pandemic

21 January 2024 — The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Ghebreyesus, has made a strong plea to countries worldwide. He urges them to sign the health organization’s pandemic treaty. This call was made during his address at the World Economic Forum, where he expressed optimism for a global agreement by May to fight this “common enemy”.

The focus of this preparation is “Disease X”, a hypothetical virus that could be up to 20 times more lethal than COVID-19. This potential threat was added to WHO’s research list in 2017 as a possible trigger for an international epidemic.

Ghebreyesus declared that COVID-19 was indeed the first “Disease X”. He emphasized the urgent need for readiness for another pandemic. Reflecting on the loss of lives during COVID due to insufficient resources, he underscored the importance of having a system that can scale up when needed.

This call-to-action from Ghebreyesus highlights not only our vulnerability but also our collective responsibility in preparing and responding effectively to future pandemics.

REVISITING the ‘MIRACLE On The Hudson’: How Sully’s Bravery Saved 155 Lives

16 January 2024 — It’s been over a decade since Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger heroically landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in an event now known as the “Miracle on the Hudson”. This unprecedented feat, which saved all 155 passengers and crew members, wasn’t part of any specific training program.

Sullenberger’s vast knowledge, extensive training, and years of experience allowed him to make this crucial decision when it was needed most.

In a recent interview with American Veterans Center provided to Fox News Digital, Sullenberger revealed that their only preparation for such an emergency was a classroom discussion. Yet despite this minimal training, he skillfully guided the plane onto the river after both engines failed due to a bird strike shortly after departing from LaGuardia Airport.

As their plane rapidly descended at two floors per second, Sullenberger and co-pilot Jeff Skiles swiftly issued a mayday call. The successful water landing of Flight 1549 remains one of New York City’s most unforgettable events and continues to captivate attention even after all these years.

UKRAINE WAR Survivor: Rare Black Bear’s Heartbreaking Journey to Safety in Scotland

13 January 2024 — A rare black bear, a survivor of the war in Ukraine, has found a new home in Scotland. The 12-year-old bear, named Yampil after the village where he was discovered among the ruins of a bombed-out private zoo, arrived on Friday.

Yampil was one of the few survivors found by Ukrainian troops who recaptured the city of Lyman during a counteroffensive in fall 2022. The bear had suffered a concussion from nearby shrapnel but miraculously survived.

The abandoned zoo where Yampil was discovered had seen most animals die from hunger, thirst or injuries from bullets and shrapnel. After his rescue, Yampil embarked on an odyssey that took him to Kyiv for veterinary care and rehab.

From Kyiv, Yampil journeyed to zoos in Poland and Belgium before finally finding sanctuary at his new home in Scotland.

UKRAINE WAR Survivor: Rare Black Bear’s Miraculous Journey to Safety in Scotland

12 January 2024 — In a surprising twist, Yampil, a rare black bear who survived the war in Ukraine, has found a new home in Scotland. Ukrainian troops discovered Yampil amidst the wreckage of a private zoo in Donetsk. The 12-year-old bear was among the few survivors when the zoo was bombed and abandoned.

Yampil’s journey to safety is nothing short of an epic odyssey. Soldiers found him during the Kharkiv counteroffensive in 2022. He was then moved to Kyiv for veterinary care and rehabilitation. His journey continued through Poland and Belgium before he finally arrived at his new Scottish home.

Yampil’s survival is deemed miraculous as he suffered from concussion due to nearby shelling while most other animals at the zoo perished from hunger, thirst or were hit by bullets or shrapnel. Yegor Yakovlev from Save Wild said that their fighters initially didn’t know how to help him but started seeking rescue options.

Yakovlev also leads White Rock Bear Shelter where Yampil recuperated before embarking on his European trek. The refugee bear arrived on January 12th, marking an end to his dangerous journey and providing hope amidst ongoing conflict.

TEXAS Supreme Court DISMISSES Abortion Challenge: Pregnant Woman with Fetal Anomaly Forced to Leave State

12 December 2023 — Kate Cox, a pregnant woman from Texas, found herself in a dire situation when her unborn child was diagnosed with trisomy 18 — a fatal condition. With the state’s strict abortion ban in place, she had no choice but to leave Texas and seek an abortion elsewhere. This happened just before the Texas Supreme Court rejected her challenge against the stringent abortion legislation.

Cox spent nearly a week trying to get court approval for ending her pregnancy due to health risks and potential fertility issues in the future. However, Attorney General Ken Paxton argued that Cox didn’t provide enough evidence that her pregnancy complications were life-threatening.

Even after leaving Texas, Cox’s case was dismissed by the state Supreme Court. The court ruled that while Cox’s pregnancy complications were severe, they didn’t pose an immediate threat to her life as required by law for an exception.

The Center for Reproductive Rights represented Cox during this ordeal. They reported that she had been frequently visiting emergency rooms due to health concerns related to her pregnancy. However, they did not reveal where she eventually went for the procedure.