Author: Leslie Scotland-Stewart

Within the walls of the Mission Creek Correctional Facility, a unique conservation program unfolds, contributing significantly to the restoration of the Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly, a native species dwindling in the Pacific Northwest. Central to this initiative is a dedicated team of women who have taken on the responsibility of nurturing butterfly larvae, specifically utilizing invasive English plantain as their primary food source. Trista Egli, one of the program participants, reflects on her engagement: “The big thing for me is being part of an effort to save an endangered species. It is a big thrill.” The program involves gathering butterfly eggs,…

A recent study explores the effects of heading the ball in women’s football, revealing no significant impact on balance but an intriguing change in fine motor skills, highlighting potential neurological implications. Study: The effect of football (soccer) heading on gross and fine motor control in women. Image credit: Fotokostic/Shutterstock.com The impact of heading the ball in women’s football has been the subject of increased scrutiny. Though the act of heading itself does not seem to undermine gross motor control, a recent study published in Frontiers in Sports and Active Living indicates it may subtly affect fine motor functions. The Risks…

By Hilary Whiteman, CNN Brisbane, Australia (CNN) — In a significant crackdown on financial scams targeting the elderly, Australian authorities have apprehended two individuals linked to fraudulent activities known as “Chinese blessing scams.” These scams have reportedly occurred globally for about 25 years, impacting many communities including those in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and New Zealand. These scams specifically prey on older Asian women, misleading them into believing that a family member is afflicted by a curse or in a dire situation. Victims are manipulated into thinking their wealth must be blessed to fend off negative spirits.…

The ongoing reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan have emphasized a critical focus on elevating the status and rights of women, who experienced severe oppression under the Taliban regime. Current initiatives led by international aid organizations and the U.S. government aim to empower Afghan women with the necessary skills and opportunities to contribute significantly to their society. New Opportunities for Afghan Women U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell recently highlighted the transformation of Afghan women, stating, “Women, who just one year ago were prisoners in their own homes, are now free.” He acknowledged their growing roles as judges, educators, and leaders in…

Historic Leadership in the Vermont National Guard: Maj. Gen. Martha T. Rainville’s Perspective Maj. Gen. Martha T. Rainville recently marked a significant milestone as the first woman to serve as a state adjutant general in the National Guard’s extensive history. However, during her keynote speech for the Department of Defense’s National Women’s History Month observance, she emphasized that her role transcends gender. Performance Over Gender Rainville expressed her long-standing belief that military leaders should be evaluated based on their abilities and results rather than their gender. Her responsibilities as adjutant general of Vermont include overseeing the training of Army and…

Female genital mutilation (FGM) constitutes a profound violation of human rights, inflicting lasting emotional and psychological trauma on its victims. A recent report by Equality Now and Tadwein for Gender Studies, titled Female Genital Mutilation Amongst Sudanese Migrants in Greater Cairo: Perceptions and Trends, emphasizes the experiences of Sudanese women living in Egypt. Although many have fled their homeland in pursuit of safety and dignity, the scars—both physical and emotional—from FGM continue to impact their lives. “I am completely convinced that it (FGM) is not right. It causes a lot of problems and complications… I felt like FGM weakens a…

As UK chancellor Rachel Reeves faces ongoing media attention for her emotional response at work, we explore insights offered to female leaders during the recent Brilliance Summit, an event aimed at empowering women in leadership roles. Key Insights From the Brilliance Summit During a panel entitled “Five Things Every Woman in Leadership Should Know,” several expert speakers shared their experiences and advice. Former Nike retail vice president Lucy Rouse emphasized the importance of self-awareness. “Don’t believe the negative stories you tell yourself,” she advised, referencing the work of renowned writer Brené Brown. Self-Reflection and Curiosity Rouse encouraged attendees to challenge…

Recent research conducted by scholars at McGill and Concordia universities indicates that women who perceive themselves to have a lower social standing may exhibit early indicators of heart tissue stress, which can be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. “One in three women in North America die from heart disease. Yet, women are less likely to receive important cardiac interventions or therapies than men. This highlights the need to rethink how we assess cardiovascular risk in women,” — Dr. Judy Luu, Co-Lead Author, Assistant Professor in McGill’s Department of Medicine This study underscores the connection between subjective social…

CALGARY, Alberta (AP) – Sophia Bunney took a leap into ranch bronc riding, experiencing a rough but exhilarating start when she was thrown from her mount on her first attempt, landing “quite a ways away from the horse.” Demonstrating resilience, the 18-year-old from Cessford, Alberta, expressed her determination, stating, “I’m very stubborn and I don’t like being defeated.” Her early encounter ignited a passion for ranch bronc riding, a sport where riders endure the challenge of staying atop bucking horses for a full eight seconds. “I always kind of wanted to hop on a bronc,” revealed Bunney, who had aspirations…

In a recent women’s cycling event sanctioned by USA Cycling, controversy erupted when Julie Peterson, the runner-up, publicly expressed her discontent after losing to a transgender competitor, Kate Phillips. Peterson noted that she was unaware of Phillips’ participation prior to the race, stating, “If I had known, I wouldn’t have spent thousands of dollars in travel and time off work to come and do a race,” in an interview with Fox News. During the Lyons Masters National Championships held in Wisconsin, Phillips finished ahead of Peterson, who subsequently chose to abstain from the podium ceremony in protest of the result.…