Sheffield Unites: March for Harvey Willgoose

Every community possesses a unique lifeline—the spirit of togetherness that pulses stronger in times of adversity. When tragedy strikes, such as in the heartbreaking loss of young Harvey Willgoose, it reveals a communal resilience that galvanizes change. As we witness the outpouring of support from those who marched through Sheffield, it’s clear: collective action is a formidable force against societal issues.

In the midst of despair, the community took the reins—transforming sorrow into a shared mission. With banners held high, chants echoing through streets, and hearts beating as one, Sheffield’s residents demonstrated an unyielding unity. This march wasn’t just a tribute; it was a statement. A stand against the scourge of youth violence and a call for action that echoes beyond city limits.

What can we learn from such powerful displays of community spirit? First, empathy drives action. When individuals connect over a shared cause, it fosters a powerful impetus for change. It’s this emotional bond that encourages participation, fuels advocacy, and, importantly, initiates discussions around difficult topics like knife crime.

Next, strength lies in numbers. The march for Harvey Willgoose wasn’t just about his memory—it became a platform to address broader challenges. By banding together, communities amplify their voices and hold greater sway in instigating change. Whether it’s lobbying for better policies or creating support networks, there’s undeniable power when people—unified in purpose—confront societal wrongs.

Finally, embracing proactive solutions solidifies the impact of collective action. Communities can move from reaction to prevention by educating youth, providing resources for at-risk individuals, and establishing forums for open dialogue. As the Sheffield march showed, creating awareness is just the beginning. Lasting change requires a strategic commitment to tackling root causes, reinforced by ongoing community engagement.

In a world often punctuated by division, the Sheffield community reminds us of the profound impact of coming together. Their march wasn’t just about grieving a tragic loss—it was a beacon of hope, signaling that, united, we can conquer even the toughest societal challenges. Let’s take a leaf from their book. Rally with your neighbors, speak out, mobilize. Because when communities unite, they not only heal—they transform.

Forge Champions: The Power of Extreme Training

Defying the Elements: Harnessing the Power of Extreme Weather Training

In the world of high-performance sports, where every second counts and every decision matters, athletes are constantly seeking that edge—something that will propel them beyond their current limits. As recent events like the Yukon Arctic Ultra have demonstrated, extreme weather isn’t just a challenge; it’s a crucible that can forge champions. But how can athletes effectively harness the power of these conditions to enhance their performance?

Weathering the Storm: Training in Extreme Conditions

Training in extreme weather isn’t just about survival—it’s about adaptation and transformation. The body’s physiological response to harsh conditions can lead to profound improvements in endurance and resilience. Take, for instance, the runners at the Yukon Arctic Ultra, who brave temperatures dipping to -40 degrees Celsius. Their bodies embark on a rigorous journey of energy transformation, where calories are torched and fat reserves become the primary fuel.

The Science Behind the Suffering

When the mercury drops, the body’s caloric demands skyrocket. Muscles are put under the microscope, revealing their capacity to thrive in adversity. Athletes like the Yukon Ultra competitors wear fitness monitors that silently track this metamorphosis, recording heart rates that beat like war drums and calorie counts that challenge the most stringent diets.

These conditions are not just trials; they’re teachers. Extreme weather training compels the body to adapt in ways standard conditions never could. It’s about more than just enduring—it’s about unleashing latent potential.

Practical Tips for Athletes

For those ready to gear up for extreme weather training, preparation is key. Start by gradually acclimating to the environment. Layer your clothing—strategically using thermal garments—to allow for flexibility as your body warms. Hydration is critical; cold can mask dehydration, so drink like you’re in the desert under the blazing sun.

And never overlook the psychological fortitude required. Mental resilience often separates the finishers from the rest—it’s the steely determination to push through when every instinct screams to stop.

Beyond the Horizon

The rise of global temperatures threatens the very foundation of winter sports, yet it also offers an unexpected boon—a training ground that breeds unmatched endurance. As athletes continue to harness these extreme conditions, they not only prepare themselves for competition but also pioneer new frontiers in human potential.

So, the next time the heavens unleash their icy fury, remember: it’s not an obstacle—it’s an opportunity to define what you’re truly capable of.

Healthy Grab-and-Go: Revolutionize Your Mealtime!

In the whirlwind of daily life—where multitasking becomes a sport and time is an elusive luxury—feeding ourselves and our families often feels like a Herculean task. Enter the saviors of sanity: healthy, grab-and-go meal options that cater to the fast-paced yet health-conscious consumer.

Fast Yet Flavorful: Convenience Meets Nutrition

Picture this: It’s 7 a.m., the kids are restless, and the day already seems too short to accommodate breakfast. Yet, that doesn’t mean resorting to unfilling, high-calorie snacks. Enter the realm of pre-packaged wonders like ALDI’s Northern Catch tuna pouches—at just 85 cents each, these little powerhouses offer a burst of flavor and a protein punch, making them a staple in busy households.

Why Grab-and-Go is the Way to Go

We all know the struggle of balancing a nutritious diet with a demanding schedule. Grab-and-go options not only save time but also pack essential nutrients that keep us—and our loved ones—fueled throughout the day. With varieties like zesty lemon and herb garlic, meal prep turns into a simple, satisfying endeavor without sacrificing taste.

Sustainable Choices in a Fast-Paced World

Incorporating sustainable choices into our diet is more than a trend—it’s imperative for our planet’s health. Opting for products that are responsibly-sourced, like MSC-certified tuna pouches, aligns our personal well-being with broader environmental goals. When every purchase echoes our values, we cultivate a greater sense of connection between our meals and the world around us.

More Than Just a Meal: A Lifestyle Shift

Grabbing that pouch of protein isn’t just about convenience—it’s a statement of self-care amid chaos. By embracing efficiency, we’re not only feeding our bodies but also freeing up time to nourish our minds and spirits. It’s about transforming the mundane into an opportunity for joy and creativity, even in the smallest acts of daily life.

The Final Takeaway: Stock Up and Savor

These affordable, flavorful pouches are a testament to the fact that healthy eating need not be a laborious affair. As supermarket aisles evolve, so too must our approach to sustenance. So, gear up for your next shopping trip—because once these 85-cent wonders hit the shelves, they won’t last long. Grab a bunch and toast to the revolution of mealtime magnificence, no gourmet skills required.

7 Ways Exercise Transforms Your Mental Health

How Exercise Boosts Mental Health: A Dynamic Duo

Picture yourself at the dawn of a new day—crisp morning air filling your lungs as you lace up your sneakers. You’re not just gearing up for a workout, but also setting the stage for mental clarity and emotional resilience. Exercise isn’t merely about physical fitness; it’s a formidable ally in the battle for mental well-being.

Release the Endorphins: Engage in Regular Cardiovascular Activity

Every stride you take, every pedal you push, releases a powerful wave of endorphins—nature’s way of lifting your spirits. Running, cycling, or even a brisk walk do more than just get the blood pumping—they transform your mood, offering a natural antidote to stress and anxiety.

Strengthen the Mind with the Body: Weight Training for Confidence

Feel the weight in your hands, the tension in your muscles, as you push through another rep. Weight training doesn’t just sculpt your physique—it builds mental toughness. The empowerment you gain from lifting challenges spills over into everyday life, giving you the confidence to face obstacles head-on.

Flexibility for Mental Flexibility: The Role of Yoga and Stretching

Stretch your body, stretch your mind—yoga and stretching are more than just physical exercises. They unlock tension held deep within and encourage relaxation, leaving you with mental clarity and a sense of calm amid life’s chaos.

Teamwork and Support: The Social Benefits of Group Sports

Join a team and suddenly, you’re not alone in your fitness journey—you’re part of a community. Group sports or fitness classes provide camaraderie and support, creating bonds that uplift and motivate beyond the playing field.

Mindful Movement: From Tai Chi to Dance

Engage in mindful movement, where every step and gesture matters—Tai Chi and dance encourage focus, offering a creative outlet for emotions. These practices turn physical movement into a meditative experience, balancing the body and mind.

Beyond the Gym: Outdoor Activities for a Fresh Perspective

Step outside and breathe in a new perspective. Outdoor activities like hiking or cycling not only challenge your body but rejuvenate your mind, providing a refreshing escape from the routine and a reminder of the world’s vastness and beauty.

Routine and Discipline: Establishing Workout Habits

Consistency is key—create a workout routine that grounds your day. Building discipline in exercise translates to mental discipline, establishing a foundation of stability and focus that supports mental health.

So lace up, step out, and embrace the holistic powerhouse of exercise—where physical strength and mental resilience converge for a healthier, more vibrant you.

9 Exercises to Boost Your Brain and Body

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the profound impact exercise has on our mental well-being. Yet, this intersection—where physical exertion meets mental clarity—is paving the path to a healthier mind. Let’s dive into how breaking a sweat not only chisels your body but sharpens your brain.

Cardiovascular Workouts: Rev Up Your Brain

When you engage in activities like running or cycling, your heart pounds with purpose. This rhythm does more than burn calories—it sends a surge of oxygen and nutrients rushing to your brain, awakening your cognitive prowess. Each stride or pedal stroke is a step toward mental acuity.

Stretching and Flexibility: Unwind Your Mind

Delving into yoga or deep stretching sessions doesn’t just limber up your body—it stretches your mind into a tranquil state. As muscles lengthen and tension releases, so does stress, leaving a path for mental clarity and peace. It’s not just flexibility; it’s serenity.

Strength Training: Build Your Mental Muscle

Lifting weights? You’re lifting more than iron. The endorphins released during strength training build your mental fortress, bolstering mood and sharpening your focus. The gym isn’t just a place for physical gains—it’s a wellspring of mental strength.

Group Sports: Team Up for Mental Health

In sports like basketball or soccer, camaraderie takes center stage. The teamwork fostered in these environments doesn’t just strengthen your social fabric; it boosts cognitive function and emotional resilience. With every pass and play, you’re reinforcing a network of support and mental fortitude.

Mindful Movement: Walking with Purpose

Even a brisk walk can transform how you see the world around you. Each step becomes a meditation, reducing anxiety, invigorating creativity, and enhancing your memory. With purpose in your stride, you open the door to a brighter mental state.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Burst of Brilliance

Short bursts of intensity—these workouts make your blood pulse with vigor. They flood your brain with endorphins and growth factors, nurturing neural health. It’s not just about the sweat; it’s about the mental high that follows.

Dance Classes: Step into Mental Vitality

With each dance routine, you’re not only commanding your body to move; you’re engaging your brain in a symphony of coordination and memory exercises. It’s a fun, effective way to keep your mind sharp and your spirits high.

Outdoor Activities: Nature’s Prescription

Hiking, kayaking—these outdoor adventures do more than challenge your body. They immerse you in nature’s boundless calm, reducing stress and supercharging your mood. It’s Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Take a deep breath and embrace tranquility.”

So there you have it—exercise is more than physical; it’s a cornerstone of mental health. Each activity is a stepping stone, not just to fitness but to a more resilient mind. So lace up those sneakers, grab that yoga mat, or hit that dance floor—your mind will thank you!

Discover 6 Perks of Exercising in Nature

In a world where the walls of gyms often close in on us, there’s nothing like stepping outside and breathing in the fresh air to invigorate both body and mind. Outdoor workouts aren’t just a change of scenery—they’re a powerhouse of benefits waiting to be unlocked.

Let’s start with varied terrains. Treadmills have nothing on trails—embracing those uneven surfaces gears up a wider array of muscles and hones your balance. It’s like Mother Nature’s version of cross-training, and it keeps things fresh and exciting.

Then there’s the elemental factor. The wind in your hair and the sun on your back add an extra layer of resistance and challenge, turning every cardio session into a dynamic dance with the elements. Your lungs will expand, your heart rate will soar, and you’ll feel more alive than ever.

Nature also invites us to engage our senses. As you run through the park or along the beach, let the world around you stimulate every sense. The rustling leaves, the chirping birds, the earthy scent of the ground—all work more magic than you’d think in reducing stress and elevating your mood.

Feeling stuck in a rut with your workout? Diversify your routine by incorporating nature’s props into your sessions. Park benches aren’t just for sitting—get creative with tricep dips, and trees can become stations for incline push-ups. This versatility keeps your workout challenging and your interest piqued.

And don’t forget the sunshine—the ultimate source of Vitamin D. Soak it up while you lunge and leap, as this vital vitamin is key to bolstering your bones and boosting immune function. It’s as if nature hands you a health boost on a silver platter.

Lastly, outdoor workouts foster social connections. There’s something deeply motivating about joining a local boot camp or a running club—shared goals and camaraderie create a powerful sense of accountability. Together, you push, pull, and propel each other to new heights.

So lace up those shoes, grab a friend, and head out the door. The world is your gym—now it’s time to make the most of it.

Prince documentary featuring abuse claims cut by Netflix after estate deal

Prince documentary featuring abuse claims cut by Netflix after estate deal

Taijuan Moorman, USA TODAY

February 7, 2025 at 2:48 PM

A contentious Prince documentary will no longer see the light of day.

The nine-hour, bombshell documentary was in development at Netflix for five years before the streamer reportedly pulled the plug in a deal with the superstar’s estate.

“The Prince Estate and Netflix have come to a mutual agreement that will allow the estate to develop and produce a new documentary featuring exclusive content from Prince’s archive,” the estate said in a statement released on social media Thursday. “As a result, the Netflix documentary will not be released.”

The film, from Oscar-winning director Ezra Edelman (“O.J.: Made in America”), includes first-hand testimony from multiple former lovers of Prince, who accused him of physical and emotional abuse, per New York Times Magazine, which reported to have seen the unreleased film.

USA TODAY has reached out to Netflix, Prince’s estate and Edelman for comment.

On Thursday, the estate released a video on social media, writing: “The Vault Has Been Freed.” The 30-second clip, set to his 2002 song “Free,” includes a Prince quote: “Despite everything, no one can dictate who you are to other people. The truth is, you are either here to enlighten or discourage.” “The vault” refers to Prince’s personal archives featuring unreleased footage and music.

The original Edelman film included musings on the “Purple Rain” singer’s artistry in between allegations of physical and emotional abuse, accounts of his own abusive childhood and his abandonment of his young wife Mayte Garcia after the couple lost their child, the Times reported.

In a previously shared statement to USA TODAY in September, Prince’s estate said it was “working to resolve matters concerning the documentary so that his story may be told in a way that is factually correct and does not mischaracterize or sensationalize his life.”

Prince accused of physical, emotional abuse in unreleased documentary, report says

The film reportedly included allegations of a physical altercation in which Prince repeatedly punched his ex-lover Jill Jones after an argument in 1984, and relayed allegations of the singer monitoring ex-girlfriend Susannah Melvoin’s calls and dissuading her from leaving their home after she moved in with him.

The documentary also featured Garcia, who said she met Prince when she was 16 and he was 35 before they became intimate when she was 19 and wed when she was 22. Garcia reportedly said after she became pregnant and lost their child, he became cold and distant, but she ultimately stopped short of criticizing him.

In addition to former lovers, the documentary reportedly also featured some of Prince’s former collaborators, including members of The Revolution, who recalled his occasionally controlling nature in their interactions with him. They said the “When Doves Cry” singer dismissed their demands for better pay and at one point asked band member Wendy Melvoin to disavow her homosexuality as a prerequisite for getting the group back together.

The Times Magazine’s September report said it conducted more than 20 interviews regarding the film, with deputy editor Sasha Weiss viewing the documentary in 2023 at a small, private screening in Brooklyn in which other figures, including Questlove, also viewed the film.

The Times reported at the time that when Edelman’s team held a screening for Prince’s estate, a lawyer representing the estate later presented the film crew with 17 pages of demanded changes. Edelman’s team made some adjustments, but pleasing the estate was reportedly unsuccessful.

The singer died in 2016 at his Minneapolis compound at age 57. Public data released six weeks after his death showed he died of an accidental fentanyl overdose.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Netflix axes Prince doc with abuse claims from Ezra Edelman

A Stradivari violin made in 1714 sells for $11.3M at auction

NEW YORK (AP) – A violin made in 1714 by the legendary luthier Antonio Stradivari sold for $11.3 million at an auction in New York on Friday, short of estimates that would have made it the most expensive instrument ever sold.

Sotheby´s auction house had estimated that the “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius” violin could sell for between $12 million and $18 million, with the higher end of the range potentially eclipsing the record-breaking $15.9 million someone paid for another Stradivari violin at auction more than a decade ago.

The “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius” is regarded as one of Stradivari’s best works, built during his “Golden Period” at the height of his craftsmanship and acoustic mastery, according to the auction house.

Adding to the intrigue, the violin is believed to have influenced legendary composer Johannes Brahms when he wrote the famed “Violin Concerto in D Major” and was actually played during the concerto’s 1879 premiere.

“This extraordinary violin represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and classical music history, its unparalleled sound and storied provenance captivating collectors and musicians alike,” Mari-Claudia Jimenez, chair at Sotheby´s. “The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius garnered global attention, achieving one of the highest prices ever for a musical instrument – an acknowledgment of its rarity and historical importance.”

Bidding at Sotheby’s began at $8 million and within seconds shot up to $10 million, as auctioneer Phyllis Kao scanned the room, looking for someone to put up $10.5 million.

Violinist Stefan Jackiw holds the 1714 Joachim-Ma Stradivarius at Sotheby’s auction house in New York on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

“Am I selling? At $10 million,” she said, looking to potential bidders.

The room was quiet.

“Last chance, at $10 million,” she said. “I can sell, and I will, at $10 million, unless you go on.”

“Sold. $10 million,” she said, banging a gavel.

The final price includes auction house fees.

The name of the instrument comes from two of its famous violin virtuoso owners, Joseph Joachim of Hungary and Si-Hon Ma of China. Ma’s estate gifted the violin to the New England Conservatory in Boston after his death.

The conservatory will use the proceeds to fund student scholarships.

“The sale is transformational for future students, and proceeds will establish the largest named endowed scholarship at New England Conservatory,” said Andrea Kalyn, president of New England Conservatory. “It has been an honor to have the Joachim-Ma Stradivari on campus, and we are eager to watch its legacy continue on the world stage.”

Violinist Stefan Jackiw plays the 1714 Joachim-Ma Stradivarius at Sotheby’s auction house in New York on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

Violinist Stefan Jackiw plays the 1714 Joachim-Ma Stradivarius at Sotheby’s auction house in New York on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

Violinist Stefan Jackiw plays the 1714 Joachim-Ma Stradivarius at Sotheby’s auction house in New York on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

Kanye West says he’s a Nazi, praises Hitler in new antisemitic rant

The 47-year-old rapper, now known as Ye, ranted and raved across X, formerly Twitter, for much of Friday morning, dubbing himself a Nazi as he praised Hitler and Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is currently awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking and racketeering charges.

“Hitler was sooooo fresh,” said Ye, who started his tirade late Thursday night and continued into late Friday morning. “I DONT LIKE OR TRUST ANY JEWISH PERSON AMD [SIC] THIS IS COMPLETELY SOBER WITH NO HENNESY.”

In one tweet, West shared an old photo of himself wearing a “Say No to Nazis” shirt, writing: “I used to be woke too.”

Perhaps the one accurate thing he did tweet was, “I’m happily out of touch.”

He used homophobic slurs in certain tweets, accusing detractors of having “to suck your bosses d-k for a living.”

The “Heartless” rapper, whose former employee is currently suing him for alleged sexual harassment, said that “Slavery is a choice” and later wrote that people are trying “to make an example out of Puff,” in reference to Combs’ former moniker.

“Me and my brother had our issues but these white people trying to use Puff to scare n — -s. Im neither scared nor brave this just me.”

He also said, “Im racist stereotypes exist for a reason and they all be true.”

In one tweet, Ye also said in all caps that he has “dominion over my wife,” referring to Bianca Censori.

“This aint no woke as feminist s-t shes with a billionaire. … People say the red carpet look was her decision. Yes I don’t make her do nothing she doesn’t want to but she definitely wouldnt have been able to do it without my approval you stupid a- woke pawns,” Ye wrote in an edited tweet.

The post appeared to refer to the nude stunt 30-year-old Censori pulled Sunday when she sported a wholly nude dress on the Grammys red carpet.

Chelsea Handler Jokes About Blake and Justin Drama in Critics Choice Monologue

Chelsea Handler didn’t pull any punches while hosting the 2025 Critics Choice Awards — especially when it came to the all-consuming news coverage of Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s It Ends With Us legal drama.

The comedian, 49, kicked off her opening monologue by discussing the former costars’ ongoing lawsuit during the ceremony at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, on Sunday, January 12.

“I want to acknowledge that we’ve been through a lot lately, not just here in Los Angeles, but our entire country,” Handler said. “It is important in times like these to have a distraction and that’s why I want to personally extend my gratitude to Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. Thank you for providing us with that distraction. I’m grateful; I think we’re all grateful and I think we’re good.”

Lively, 37, sued Baldoni, 41, in December 2024, accusing him of sexual harassment and trying to launch a campaign to destroy her reputation. Baldoni, who directed and costarred with Lively in the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel, repeatedly denied the claims. Last month, he filed his own lawsuit against Lively for $400 million in damages, alleging Lively was “determined to make Baldoni the real-life villain in her story” to mask her alleged “tone-deaf” promotion of the film. The Gossip Girl alum, meanwhile, denied the accusations.

“I think everyone in the room, no matter who’s side your on, we can all agree to accept that there’s probably not going to be a sequel,” Handler continued. “It ends with us, guys.”

Handler’s monologue also celebrated her third time hosting the Critics Choice Awards, calling it her “second longest relationship,” before shouting out nominees Conclave, Angelina Jolie, Wicked and more.

“We’re going to spend the night celebrating all the love and success in this room,” Handler added. “It’s nice to see some of our most beloved child stars all grown up and thriving. Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez and Ariana Grande are all nominated tonight. And now, Ariana has even fallen in love with a munchkin!”

Grande, 31, is now dating Wicked costar Ethan Slater, who played a munchkin named Boq in the 2024 movie musical. The joke, however, failed to elicit any laughs from the crowd especially from Grande.

Handler is known for not holding back on stage. While hosting the event last year, the best-selling author made a subtle dig at her ex-boyfriend Jo Koy during her monologue. After one of her jokes received chuckles from the audience, she quipped, “Thank you for laughing at that. My writers wrote it.”

Earlier in January 2024, Koy, 53, received backlash for blaming his writers when his Golden Globe Awards monologue failed to earn laughs.

“Some I wrote, some other people wrote,” he said while hosting. “Yo, I got the gig 10 days ago. You want a perfect monologue? Shut up! You’re kidding me, right? I wrote some of these, and they’re the ones you’re laughing at.”

Koy, who dated Handler from 2021 to 2022, later apologized for his remarks.

“There’s a lot of greats that make rookie moves, and that was a rookie move,” he told the Los Angeles Times of his decision to throw his writers under the bus. “Those writers are dope, and that was not my intention at all. They were amazing, they had my back, and I need to make sure I fix that, and I will, I always will.”

In October 2024, the Critics Choice Association announced that Handler would return to host the awards show — which allows critics and journalists to honor the best in film and television — for the third consecutive year. The group also revealed that the ceremony would air live on E! for the first time after previously appearing on The CW.

“We’re thrilled to be working with E! to present our landmark 30th annual Critics Choice Awards,” CCA CEO Joey Berlin said in a press release at the time. “With the incredible Chelsea Handler returning as our host, we know this special 30th anniversary show is going to be our biggest and best show yet, and we couldn’t be more excited to be airing the show live on E! and available to stream on Peacock next day.”

Handler, for her part, noted the coincidence of the awards show moving to the E! network, where she hosted her previous late-night show, Chelsea Lately, from 2007 to 2014.

“Returning for the third year to host the Critics Choice Awards has been made even sweeter knowing it will now air on E!,” she said in the press release. “I feel like I’m returning to my birthplace.”