-
Major US City Takes Stand on Social Media Impact on Youth Mental Health
In two groundbreaking moves over the past couple months, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has not only officially classified social media as a “public health hazard” and an “environmental toxin,” but also filed a lawsuit against TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and YouTube.
The first announcement, from end of January 2024 marks a significant step forward in recognizing the potential risks associated with excessive social media use. It is a move that hopefully creates ripples not only in the US, but also internationally, as more and more authorities around the world take a clear stance in this matter.
Mayor Adams draws parallels to historic actions taken against tobacco and guns, and is leading the charge to ensure that tech companies take responsibility for the impact of their platforms on users. Citing data that indicates a decline in the mental health of young New Yorkers over the past decade, the mayor has taken a clear stance against popular social media platforms accusing them of contributing to a mental health crisis through addictive features.
Is this just a personal opinion by Mayor Adams then? Not at all. It’s important to note that this move aligns with the advisory issued by Surgeon General Vivek Murthy in May 2023, where he highlighted the potential “profound risk” to youth mental health associated with excessive social media use. The advisory acknowledged the dual nature of social media, recognizing both positive and negative effects. While some adolescents reported feeling more accepted through social media, Murthy emphasized the lack of conclusive evidence on its overall safety for young users.
Mayor Adams sends a strong message that the well-being of the city’s youth is a top priority. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between addressing potential hazards and recognizing the positive aspects of social media. Pew Research indicates that 59% of adolescents feel more accepted through these platforms, highlighting the importance of a nuanced perspective.
While very strong, the declaration aligns with international trends as more and more countries are issuing recommendations about restricting social media use and screen time among kids and adolescents.
The lawsuit, filed mid-February 2024, is the first of its kind amongst major American cities and claims that the social media platforms’ exploitation of young users’ mental health costs the city $100 million per year in related health programs.
Mayor Adams expressed a worry not only about young users’ mental health, but the effects that ubiquitous connectivity has on their overall lives.
What can you do? Finding the balance between the positive effects of social media and the potential harm, some tips for handling social media responsibly include open communication with your kids, setting concrete limits, following age guidelines, utilizing digital well-being features, and positive engagement.
My hope it that this will spark a conversation and have a positive impact on both youth and adult mental health.
“A critically important topic, with a wealth of practical tips that will instantly help you get more balanced with the technology in your life.” —Jorn Rigter, co-founder & CTO of Unpluq
Taíno Bendz is the founder of Phone Free Day and his own consulting business, and his message on mindful and intentional technology usage has reached and inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world. He is a public speaker, workshop facilitator, and conducts research on digital technology usage. Taíno holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management and has spent the last 10 years working in technology sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare IT, and software automation. He currently lives in Sweden with his partner and two young sons.
-
Synerlink announces new directors to its leadership team
Technical Director Thierry Deau and Supply Chain Operations Director Julien De Ridder will drive innovation and operational excellence
Synerlink, the industry-leading manufacturer of filling equipment for rigid packaging in the dairy and food markets, is proud to announce two new directors to its leadership team. Thierry Deau has accepted the role of Technical Director, while Julien De Ridder has become Synerlink’s Supply Chain Operations Director. “Thierry and Julien bring valuable expertise to our team that will enable us to drive operational efficiencies within our business,” said Jean-Félix Lesueur, President of Synerlink. “I am confident that their hands-on experience and knowledge will play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional products and services to our customers, while also strengthening our commitment to innovation and operational excellence.”
As Synerlink’s Technical Director, Thierry Deau will oversee a dynamic team of engineers to ensure the development of best-in-class packaging equipment. With more than 30 years of experience in the packaging industry — much of which was spent improving and advancing complex technical solutions for producers around the world — Thierry will play a key role in shaping the future of Synerlink’s products.
“I decided to join Synerlink because of our shared commitment to advancing innovation through R&D to find the solutions most adapted to producers around the world,” Thierry said. “I am incredibly pleased to be part of a welcoming and dynamic environment that has tremendous potential thanks to the multidisciplinary expertise of the BW Packaging platform.”
As Supply Chain Operations Director, Julien De Ridder will lead Synerlink’s manufacturing and supply chain teams. With 25 years of experience in logistics and purchasing — including 16 years concentrated in manufacturing and packaging — Julien is poised to leverage extensive managerial experience and a deep understanding of manufacturing complexities.
“Embarking on a new journey with Synerlink, I am committed to transforming challenges into opportunities,” Julien said. “My mission is to industrialize the supply chain and unlock the flow of information by championing a more holistic Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) approach. This will enable our customers to more accurately assess the complete life-cycle costs of owning and maintaining packaging equipment from Synerlink.”
Synerlink creates world-class solutions for cup-filling, bottle-filling, rotary electronic-filling and form-fill-seal rigid packaging to delight customers around the world by bringing together some of the industry’s most trusted brands, including Arcil, Dairy Pack and Hema. Synerlink is part of BW Packaging, along with BW Flexible Systems, BW Integrated Systems and Pneumatic Scale Angelus.
ABOUT SYNERLINK
Synerlink, a Barry-Wehmiller Packaging company, is a trusted supplier of fillers for dairy products, and other food and beverages, as well as a leader in the design and manufacture of state-of-the-art integrated packaging lines for ultra-clean and extended shelf-life products. With a global approach to packaging design, project management and complete line testing before shipment, Synerlink ensures maximum performance warranty for our customers. The company’s complete packaging lines offer a broad range of solutions, including form-fill-seal lines and fill-seal machines (preformed packaging), filling and dosing modules, and end-of-line robotic solutions, such as collating and overwrapping, picking, crating and palletizing. For more, go to synerlink.com.
ABOUT BARRY-WEHMILLER
Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of highly engineered capital equipment and consulting services for a wide variety of industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3.5 billion organization with more than 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world. CEO Bob Chapman shares the story of the company’s transformation in his book, Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family. To learn more, go to barrywehmiller.com.
-
Bruce Dickinson Announces Two New Touring Band Members And A One-Off Warm-Up Show for ‘The Mandrake Project’
Ahead of the release of the album, The Mandrake Project via BMG on March 1st and the start of a four- month tour, Bruce Dickinson has revealed the addition of two new guitarists in the touring line up.
Swedish born guitarist, songwriter and multi-platinum credited producer Philip Naslund and Swiss session and touring guitarist Chris Declercq (who incidentally played on the current single, “Rain On The Graves”) will add their fire to band members Dave Moreno, Mistheria and Tanya O’Callaghan.
“Sadly, and with regret, guitarist and producer Roy Z will no longer join the band on tour due to some personal commitments,” explains Dickinson. “He will remain in LA to work on some re-mixing and re-mastering of the catalogue. We all know the show must go on though, and this project is too important to everyone to not be the very best it can be. I’m gutted about Roy because he assembled most of the album and touring band, introducing Mistheria & Dave Moreno to the project and mentoring guitarist Chris Declerq. I’m so excited about what both Philip and Chris will bring on stage together and now my only ambition is to grab a little piece of the audiences’ hearts every night.”
The first chance to see the six-piece live will now be at The Observatory, Orange County on April 15th with tickets going on sale to the general public at www.Ticketmaster.com on Tuesday, February 20th at 10am PST. “We’re not afraid of doing some growing up in public” explains Dickinson “so this show will be a close to a rehearsal as you can get – it’s exciting to think what these musicians can do – and will do, when there are over one thousand fans in the room!”
-
Unlock the Vibrant Energy of Rio with Monster Rio Punch
Are you ready to experience a burst of tropical energy like never before? Introducing Monster Rio Punch, a refreshing and invigorating drink that combines carbonated juices, essential vitamins, and our renowned Monster energy blend. Get ready to taste the exotic flavors inspired by the vibrant energy of Rio De Janeiro’s Carnival!
Monster Rio Punch is not your ordinary energy drink. It’s a perfect fusion of fruity goodness and a powerful energy boost, designed to fuel your adventures and keep you going throughout the day. Whether you’re hitting the gym, exploring the city, or simply need a pick-me-up, Rio Punch is your go-to companion for a taste of the tropics and a surge of energy.
What sets Rio Punch apart is its unique blend of carbonated juices that tantalize your taste buds with every sip. Imagine the zesty flavors of tropical fruits dancing on your palate, complemented by the revitalizing kick of our signature Monster energy blend. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
But Rio Punch isn’t just about great taste – it’s also packed with essential vitamins to support your overall well-being. From Vitamin B to Vitamin C, each can of Rio Punch delivers a dose of nutrients to keep you feeling your best, inside and out.
Inspired by the epic energy of Rio De Janeiro’s Carnival, Rio Punch embodies the spirit of celebration and excitement. It’s the perfect drink to fuel your passions, unleash your inner energy, and make every moment a memorable adventure.
So, why settle for ordinary when you can experience the extraordinary with Monster Rio Punch? Grab a can today and taste the exhilarating flavors of Rio, bottled up just for you. Let the carnival of flavors and energy begin!
-
Dive into the Real World This Summer – Bonaire’s Harbour Village Beach Club has secret to getting your kids off the phone and into fun
Cressi Kids Underwater 2017 Bonaire If you’re dreaming of a family vacation filled with fun that doesn’t include endless scrolling, selfies and self-promotion, put down the phone and head to Family Week at the luxurious Harbour Village Beach Club on Bonaire.
Named the Caribbean’s Hotel of the Year, Harbour Village Beach Club’s Family Week slated for June 15-22, 2024 is centered on excursions and activities for all ages and ability levels above and below the water.
The action-packed week includes everything from tubing, kayaking and paddle boarding to underwater treasure hunts, night snorkeling and even the opportunity to get PADI certified. Programs are available for children ages 4-18 and adults.
The 40-room boutique property is a luxurious oasis surrounded by white sand, palm trees and a private beach.
Located outside of the hurricane zone, Bonaire enjoys year-round perfect weather and delivers unspoiled beauty for travelers seeking privacy, seclusion and off-the-grid adventures. With direct flights from several major American cities, getting to the island is uncomplicated.
For more information on Harbour Village Beach Club, visit http://www.
harbourvillage.com/ or call 1-800-424-0004. About Harbour Village Beach Club
Harbour Village Beach Club is located within an exclusive beachfront enclave on the unspoiled Caribbean island of Bonaire. Its well-appointed guest suites are nestled amid lush tropical gardens, just steps from its private, white-sand beach, and feature opulent décor and thoughtful details like secluded lanais and double hammocks. Amenities include a First Class 5 Star PADI Instructor Development Center offering onsite scuba classes and certification and a picturesque, 64-slip marina. The resort is also home to the acclaimed La Balandra restaurant, designed after an antique Spanish ship and giving the feeling of sailing with its dining deck located on a jetty extending out to sea, as well as a full-service spa offering professional reflexology, facials, aromatherapy, therapeutic and relaxing massage. Harbour Village Beach Club was named Bonaire’s Leading Hotel for sixteen years, Best Boutique Hotel on Bonaire in 2023, and Caribbean Hotel of the Year 2024.
About Bonaire
Located eighty-six miles east of Aruba, the island of Bonaire offers year-round sunshine, low annual rainfall, and has been designated as having the most pristine coral reef environment and most species of fish in the Caribbean by the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration. The Reef Environmental Education Foundation lists eight out of almost 90 of Bonaire’s dive sites in their top 10 in terms of species richness in the Caribbean — abundant underwater life includes more than 300 species of tropical fish and over 120 different types of coral. The island was recently voted #1 in the Caribbean & Atlantic by readers of Scuba Diving magazine in categories that include Best Shore Diving (Snorkeling); Best Beginner Diving; Best Macro Diving; Best Advanced Diving, and Best Underwater Photography. Bonaire is able to maintain this environment and receive awards for diving year after year because its surrounding waters have been protected as the Bonaire National Marine Park for over 30 years.
-
Surfing as a form of therapy? It’s possible… and powerful.
Surf therapy is an emerging field with promising results which aims to address the mental, physical and emotional epidemics of the modern age. In Surf Therapy, author Cash Lambert paddles out with today’s leading surf therapy practitioners and surf therapy organizations to discover how surfing is changing lives for the better.
See how much surf therapy can help in treating:
- Drug addiction and addiction recovery
- Children and adults diagnosed with autism
- Social development of at-risk inner-city children
- Physical disabilities like spinal cord injuries
- PTSD in active-duty police officers
- Terminal illnesses like cystic fibrosis
- Women recovering from abusive living situations
With interviews from today’s leading surf therapy practitioners and data from groundbreaking studies, Surf Therapy is a story of science, resilience, and the lengths that humans will go to help one another in need.
About the Author
Cash Lambert is the author of Waves of Healing: How Surfing Changes the Lives of Children with Autism, as well as the Founder and Director of Editorial for American Surf Magazine. A former editor for Hawaii’s Freesurf Magazine, his articles have been featured in ESPN Outdoors, Surfing Magazine, Eastern Surf Magazine, the Outdoor Channel, Surfline, Stab Magazine, Flux, Patagonia and more. Cash lives with his wife and daughter in Florida.Praise for Surf Therapy
“…delves into the mystery and healing powers of the sea.” —Jake Howard, Sports Illustrated and Surfer Magazine writer“Nothing but applause for Lambert’s efforts in so eloquently telling our story and sharing it with the world.” —Dr. Carly M Rogers, OTD, OTR/L, creator of Ocean Therapy & Founding Director of Programs for the Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation
“…blends beautiful storytelling, cutting edge science, and emotive personal testimony.” —Dr. Jamie Marshall, Research Fellow at Edinburgh Napier University
“Everything in this book flows—from the narrative voice to the voices of the surfing storytellers.” —David Athey, Professor of English, Palm Beach Atlantic University & author of Above the Harbor
“…an excellent read for anyone seeking hope, healing, and an adrenaline rush.” —Jamie Brisick, author of Birth of the Endless Summer: A Surf Odyssey
“…shines compelling light on the essential work being done in and around the water to bring about meaningful change in the lives of families on the spectrum and others.” —Daniel Paisner, co-author of Scratching the Horizon: A Surfing Life
“…the fascinating story of just how cathartic the act of riding waves was than we’d ever imagined.” —Beau Flemister, author of In the Seat of a Stranger’s Car
“…a masterful exploration of the benefits, practices, and potential of surfing to change lives for the better.” —Brad Hook, partner at the Resilience Institute and founder of Surfd
Surf Therapy
Written by Cash Lambert
978-1-57826-994-5, $20.00 paperback
978-1-961293-01-4, $9.99 ebookPublished by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com
