Thursday, August 31, 2023

What Do You Think About UFO's?

There is so much now about UFO's in the news.  I wonder what we all make of it? This is the info I can find. I really had not thought much about all this until the Congressional hearings were plastered everywhere. I began researching and, of course, fell down that "rabbit hole" quickly. 
 

UFO image
There is a plethora of information available, but to avoid conspiracy theorists and fringe groups, I tried to stay with major news sources and scientific papers to try to get a somewhat unbias look at this issue.  

I say unbiased like that is possible.  Every source I found has it's slant.  Some believe in alien crafts, some do not. I tried to stick to the scientific papers because, although the scientists may or may not believe, they will not publish without some type of proof that can be reproduced.

Fortunately for me, there is plenty of information available.  Below is a brief accounting of what I found:

Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) have been a topic of intrigue and debate for decades. From mysterious sightings in the sky to claims of extraterrestrial encounters, the subject of UFOs has captivated the imagination of many. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in UFOs, fueled by new sightings, scientific investigations, and governmental disclosures.

There has been a rash of UFO sightings recently, both in the United States and around the world. In the United States, there have been several high-profile sightings, including one by two pilots who were flying over Arizona in late February. The pilots reported seeing a mysterious object that was flying erratically and at high speeds. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident.

Historical Context

The term "UFO" was coined in the 1950s by the United States Air Force to describe any airborne object that could not be identified by the observer. Over the years, many UFO sightings have been explained as natural phenomena, atmospheric conditions, or man-made objects. However, a small percentage remains unexplained, leading to speculations about extraterrestrial life and advanced technologies.

Recent Sightings
UFO over city

In the past decade, there have been numerous reports of UFO sightings from pilots, military personnel, and civilians alike. Some of the most notable include:

1. The Nimitz Encounter (2004): US Navy pilots reported encountering a tic-tac shaped object off the coast of San Diego. The object exhibited flight characteristics beyond the capabilities of known human-made aircraft.

2. East Coast Sightings (2014-2015): Navy pilots reported multiple encounters with high-speed, unidentified aircraft along the East Coast of the US. These objects were captured on infrared cameras, showcasing their rapid movements and sudden stops.

There are other countries reporting similar sightings. In fact, the UK has a long history of UFO sightings and has released many of its own reports on the subject. Other countries such as Canada and France have also released their own reports on UFO sightings. In some cases, the objects have been seen by multiple people and have been captured on video or radar.

Scientific Perspective

While the idea of extraterrestrial life is fascinating, the scientific community approaches UFO sightings with skepticism and a demand for empirical evidence. Most scientists argue that while life might exist elsewhere in the universe, the evidence for UFOs as extraterrestrial vehicles is inconclusive.

There are many theories on what these sightings could be. Historically, research into UAPs has been relegated to the space of conspiracy theories, with scientists dismissing evidence as unreliable sightings made by eccentric hobbyists1. However, the US National Intelligence office is now aware of 510 reported sightings, an increase over the 144 compiled in the spy agency’s first 2021 assessment2Nearly half of the new sightings were deemed “unremarkable” and attributed to human origins, according to the report1However, more than 100 of the encounters remain unexplained1.

Many sightings can be explained by:

  • - Atmospheric phenomena like lenticular clouds or ball lightning.
  • - Man-made objects such as drones, satellites, or experimental aircraft.
  • - Optical illusions or misinterpretations of known objects.

However, the unexplained sightings have prompted some scientists to call for more systematic research into the phenomenon.

Congressional Hearings and Governmental Disclosures

The US government's interest in UFOs is not new. Projects like Blue Book in the 1950s and 1960s aimed to investigate UFO sightings. However, recent revelations have brought the topic back into the limelight.

In 2020, the Pentagon officially released three videos captured by Navy pilots, acknowledging the unidentified nature of the objects. This release spurred further interest and led to congressional hearings on the matter.

The Pentagon has also acknowledged that it is investigating UAPs. In 2021, the Department of Defense established the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force to investigate these sightings.

In these hearings, officials and experts discussed the potential threats posed by unidentified aerial phenomena, especially if they represent advanced technology from foreign adversaries. While the hearings did not conclude the extraterrestrial origin of the sightings, they emphasized the need for further investigation and transparency.

Current Thought of the Population at Large
UFO image over city

The recent rash of UFO sightings has renewed interest in the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Some people believe that the objects are alien spacecraft, while others believe that they are natural phenomena or hoaxes.

The recent rash of UFO sightings and the US government's more open stance on the issue have led to renewed speculation about the possibility of extraterrestrial life. However, there is no definitive evidence to support the claim that UFOs are alien spacecraft. More research is needed to determine the true nature of these objects.

The topic of UFOs remains as enigmatic as ever. While many sightings can be explained through natural or man-made phenomena, a small percentage continues to baffle experts. As technology advances and our understanding of the universe expands, perhaps one day we will have a clearer picture of these unidentified flying objects. Until then, the skies will continue to be a source of wonder and mystery.

Resources:

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Does Anyone Even Know Why We Have the Amendments to the Constitution Anymore?

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is a cornerstone of American democracy. Among its critical protections is the freedom of the press, a right that has profound implications for our society. In this blog post, we will examine what freedom of the press means, its historical context, why it was included in the First Amendment, and how it is interpreted and challenged in today’s complex media landscape.
Amendments to the Constitution



This is the Amendment I want to explore most. Recently in the news, there has been articles written about a newspaper in Kansas that was raided by the local police despite this amendment.  This is a locally owned and operated newspaper that produces news about the area it serves.  The police came into the newsroom and confiscated computers, files, articles, cell phones, etc. as well as raiding the home of one of the newspaper journalists without concern about the rights of this paper and its operatives.  There are many who are extremely concerned about this flagrant violation of First Amendment rights.

NPR recently wrote an article that says: 

"The raid appears to violate federal law

Newsroom raids are rare in the United States, said Lynn Oberlander, a First Amendment attorney.

"It's very rare because it's illegal," Oberlander said. "It doesn't happen very often because most organizations understand that it's illegal."

Several media law experts told NPR the raid appears to be a violation of federal law, which protects journalists from this type of action. The Privacy Protection Act of 1980 broadly prohibits law enforcement officials from searching for or seizing information from reporters.

Oberlander said exceptions to the Privacy Protection Act are "important but very limited."

One such exception allows authorities to raid a newsroom if the journalists themselves are suspected to be involved in the crime at hand. In a statement sent to NPR, Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody cited this exception to justify his department's raid of the Marion County Record.

"It is true that in most cases, [the Privacy Protection Act] requires police to use subpoenas, rather than search warrants, to search the premises of journalists unless they themselves are suspects in the offense that is the subject of the search," Cody said.

But Oberlander said that exception doesn't apply when the alleged crime is connected to newsgathering — which appears to be the case in Marion.

"It raises concern for me," Oberlander said. "It normalizes something that shouldn't be happening — that Congress has said should not happen, that the First Amendment says should not happen."

Ken White, a First Amendment litigator, said police raids of newsrooms used to be more common in the U.S., which led Congress to bolster federal protections against such searches.

White said the police raid of the Marion County Record could also be a violation of the Fourth Amendment, which protects people from "unreasonable" searches and seizures by the government. The search warrant in Marion, signed by county magistrate judge Laura Viar on Friday morning, allowed officers to confiscate a wide range of items, from computers and hardware to reporting documents.

"It's an abuse of power by the police and it's a serious dereliction of duty by the judge who signed off on it," White said."
Source: A police raid of a Kansas newsroom raises alarms about violations of press freedom

This situation upsets and worries me considerably, but I wonder why no one else is up in arms about such a blatant abuse of power and illegal activity that goes directly to the core of our democracy.  Where are the people?  Where are the other news organizations? Why are we not all up in arms about this?

Let's look at this Amendment more closely:

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is a cornerstone of American democracy. Among its critical protections is the freedom of the press, a right that has profound implications for our society. So what does freedom of the press mean? What is its historical context, why it was included in the First Amendment, and how it is interpreted and challenged in today’s complex media landscape.

The First Amendment states: 

--"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

What Does 'Freedom of the Press' Mean?

At its core, freedom of the press guarantees that the government cannot interfere with the distribution of information and opinions. It ensures that journalists can publish news, opinions, and criticisms without fear of government retribution. This freedom is not absolute, but it is extensive.

Historical Context

The framers of the Constitution, influenced by the Enlightenment thinkers and their own experiences with British rule, understood the importance of an independent press. They saw it as a necessary check on government power, a way to keep the public informed, and a means to hold leaders accountable.

Why Was It Included in the First Amendment?

The inclusion of press freedom in the First Amendment reflects the framers' belief in the essential role of an informed citizenry in a functioning democracy. They understood that for the public to make educated decisions, they must have access to unbiased and uncensored information.

Modern Interpretations and Challenges

In today’s digital age, freedom of the press faces new challenges and questions:

Who Is Considered 'The Press'?
   - In the 18th century, 'the press' referred to newspapers and periodicals. Today, it encompasses a wide array of media, including blogs, podcasts, and social media platforms. The law is continually evolving to define who qualifies for press protections.

Limits and Responsibilities: 
   - While the press is free, it is not entirely unrestricted. Libel, slander, and the publication of classified information can lead to legal consequences. The balance between national security and press freedom is a constant tension.

Corporate Ownership and Bias: 
   - With the consolidation of media companies, concerns have arisen about the potential for corporate interests to influence the news. This raises questions about the integrity and independence of the press.

Attacks on the Media: 
   - In recent years, we have seen an increase in verbal and physical attacks on the media, often stemming from political figures. This has sparked a debate about the consequences of such attacks on the institution of a free press.

The freedom of the press, as protected by the First Amendment, is a foundational element of American democracy. It empowers the media to serve as a watchdog on government, to inform the public, and to foster a vibrant and open debate on issues that matter. As the media landscape evolves, so too will the legal interpretations and societal understanding of what press freedom means. 

list of amendments
What Are the Amendments?


The Amendments to the Constitution are changes or additions to the original document. There are 27 ratified amendments. They range from the First Amendment, which guarantees freedoms like speech and religion, to the 27th, which deals with congressional salaries.

Why Were They Written?

The framers of the Constitution designed it to be amendable to ensure it could adapt and change as the country grew. They recognized that the original document wasn't perfect and that future generations would need to make adjustments.

What Do They Mean?

Let’s break down a few key amendments:

First Amendment: Protects freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. It is foundational to American values of individual liberty and democracy.

Second Amendment: A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. This amendment is a significant point of debate today regarding gun control.

Thirteenth Amendment: Abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. This was a monumental step towards civil rights in America.

Nineteenth Amendment: Granted women the right to vote, marking a significant expansion of democracy in the U.S.

How Are They Interpreted Today?

The interpretation of the Amendments to the Constitution is often a point of contention. For example, the Second Amendment is at the heart of the contemporary debate on gun control. Some argue it protects an individual’s right to own guns, while others believe it refers to the collective right of a well-regulated militia.

The Importance of the Amendments: Then and Now

The Amendments to the Constitution are not just historical artifacts; they are vibrant, living parts of our national identity. They have corrected some of the original document's shortcomings (such as the abolition of slavery and the granting of suffrage to women and minorities) and have adapted to address new issues (such as presidential term limits).

So, if we read and understand all of this, we have to agree that this is a blight on our forefathers and a danger to our democracy.  I know, I for one, don't want to live in a country that controls the news media and all the internet posts.  That would be living in a dictatorship and the last time I looked, we were not one.
The Constitution of the United States

The Amendments to the Constitution are a testament to the foresight of the framers and the enduring strength of the American democratic system. They allow the Constitution to remain relevant and responsive to the needs of a changing nation. As we move forward, it is crucial for every citizen to understand these amendments, as they shape our rights, our laws, and our society.


The United States Constitution is a living, breathing document that has shaped the nation since its inception in 1787. Central to its adaptability are the Amendments to the Constitution, which have allowed it to evolve with the changing times.

We previously touched on this issue when we explored the book banning that is going on.  You can read that post here, Censorship vs. Education: What does it mean to us as a nation?

Here are links to some more articles about this issue:



Thursday, August 17, 2023

Migrant Workers and the US Economy

migrant workers
In the news lately there has been quite a bit about migrant workers and the fight of a couple of states to prevent migrants from coming there, even to the point of bussing them elsewhere once they show up in those states. I wonder to myself if these governors realize that we are all migrants.  Our ancestors migrated here.  We took this land from the original owners and claimed it as our own. Migrants do us a great service.  They come here to make enough money to feed and clothe their families because they cannot do so in their home countries.  

Do we really want to be the country that prevents people from taking care of their families; the country that thwarts any attempt for migrants to find a better life? I thought the motto of the Statue of Liberty was "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

Statue of Liberty

What happened between then and now to make our country so unwelcoming? I am appalled by the actions of some of our state governors and felt I needed to post this about how migrant workers help our nation.

We've not discussed this issue before, but we will again be visiting it in the near future to address the plight of women migrant workers in the United States.  Be sure to look for it!

Migrant workers have played a vital role in the economic landscape of the United States for decades. These hardworking individuals leave their home countries in pursuit of better opportunities, contributing significantly to the nation's economic growth and cultural diversity. In this blog post, we will explore the essential role that migrant workers play in the US economy, their contributions, challenges they face, and the importance of embracing a more inclusive and supportive approach towards them.

Understanding Migrant Workers:

Migrant workers are individuals who relocate from their native countries to work in foreign lands temporarily or permanently. In the US, they typically seek jobs in industries such as agriculture, construction, hospitality, healthcare, and technology, among others. These workers come from diverse backgrounds and possess a wide range of skills and talents, making them a valuable asset to the country.

Economic Contributions:

Migrant workers contribute significantly to the US economy by providing the labor force necessary for industries facing labor shortages. Their participation fills gaps in the job market and supports various economic sectors. In turn, this enhances productivity, increases output, and fosters economic growth.

Agricultural Sector:
migrant workers

The agriculture industry heavily relies on migrant workers to perform physically demanding tasks, such as planting, harvesting, and packaging crops. Their seasonal labor ensures a stable food supply and keeps food prices affordable for consumers.

Construction Industry:
migrant workers

Migrant workers play a crucial role in the construction sector, aiding in the development of infrastructure, housing, and commercial spaces. Their skills and dedication contribute to the growth of the real estate industry.

 Hospitality and Tourism:
migrant workers in hospitality

The hospitality and tourism industries benefit from the contributions of migrant workers in hotels, restaurants, and various entertainment venues. Their presence enhances customer service and overall guest experience.

Healthcare Sector:

Migrant workers are often employed in the healthcare field as nurses, medical technicians, and caregivers. They address the increasing demand for healthcare services and support the aging population.

Technological Advancements:

In the technology sector, migrant workers bring diverse perspectives and expertise. Many foreign-born professionals contribute to innovations, research, and development, making the US a global leader in technology.

Taxes and Social Security:

Migrant workers pay taxes, including income and payroll taxes, which contribute to government revenue. Additionally, they often contribute to Social Security and Medicare, supporting the welfare of retirees and individuals with disabilities.

Cultural Enrichment:

Migrant workers bring a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and languages to the US. Embracing diversity enhances the country's social fabric and fosters a more inclusive society.

Challenges Faced by Migrant Workers:

Despite their significant contributions, migrant workers face various challenges. These may include language barriers, legal issues, social isolation, and exploitative work conditions. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is essential for promoting fair labor practices.

Immigration Policies and Reforms:

A comprehensive and compassionate immigration policy is vital for recognizing the contributions of migrant workers. Implementing reforms that protect their rights and offer pathways to legal status will lead to a more just society.

Education and Skill Development:

Investing in education and skill development for migrant workers benefits both the individuals and the nation. Equipping them with marketable skills ensures their economic stability and enhances their overall contributions to the US economy.

Advocacy and Support:

Supportive organizations and advocacy groups play a significant role in addressing the needs of migrant workers. They provide resources, legal aid, and assistance with integration, fostering a stronger sense of community.

 Impact of COVID-19:

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential role of migrant workers, especially in sectors like healthcare and food supply. Recognizing their contributions during crises and providing them with adequate support is crucial for national resilience.

migrant workers

Migrant workers are an integral part of the US economy, driving growth and diversity. Their contributions across various industries enrich the nation's fabric and propel economic prosperity. Embracing inclusive policies, supporting education, and advocating for their rights will create a more equitable and flourishing future for all.

Resources: 

Immigrants and the Economy

Migrants Bring Economic Benefits for Advanced Economies

Benefits of Immigration Outweigh the Costs



Thursday, August 10, 2023

Is there a solution for Homelessness in America?

Homelessness is a profound crisis that has plagued American society for decades. Despite various efforts and initiatives, the number of homeless individuals continues to grow, making it one of the most pressing social issues of our time. In this blog post, we will delve into the epidemic of homelessness in America, examining the current state of affairs, the laws being enacted, initiatives taken by state governors, reasons behind the increasing homeless population, and the barriers preventing a comprehensive solution.Homelessness

The number of homeless individuals in America has been steadily rising over the years. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there were over 553,742 people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2022. This represents a 10% increase from the previous year.

Factors like unaffordable housing, mental health issues, substance abuse, and the lack of social safety nets contribute significantly to this crisis. As a result, individuals and families find themselves on the streets, struggling to survive in dire conditions. The effects of homelessness can be devastating. People who are homeless are more likely to experience health problems, mental illness, and addiction. They are also more likely to be victims of crime.


In response to the growing homeless crisis, several laws have been enacted to protect the rights of the homeless and provide them with support. Some states have implemented "right to shelter" laws, ensuring that everyone has access to emergency housing. Additionally, various cities and regions are exploring Housing First programs, which prioritize providing stable housing before addressing other underlying issues.

Across the United States, state governors have been taking initiatives to combat homelessness within their respective jurisdictions. This includes allocating funds to create affordable housing projects, partnering with non-profit organizations to provide shelters, and investing in mental health and addiction treatment facilities. Some states have also launched job training programs to empower homeless individuals with employable skills.

Several factors contribute to the growing homeless population. The increasing cost of living, stagnant wages, and insufficient affordable housing options have pushed many individuals to the brink of homelessness. Moreover, the lack of adequate healthcare and support for mental health and addiction issues exacerbate the problem.

Despite numerous efforts, the homelessness crisis persists due to various challenges. NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) often hinders the establishment of homeless shelters and affordable housing units in certain communities. Funding constraints and bureaucratic obstacles further slow down progress. Furthermore, coordination and communication gaps among different agencies and organizations also impede the efficient delivery of services to the homeless population.

To tackle the homelessness epidemic effectively, a multi-faceted approach is required. This involves increasing the availability of affordable housing, improving mental health and addiction treatment services, providing comprehensive job training programs, and addressing the systemic factors that perpetuate homelessness. Collaboration between government entities, non-profit organizations, businesses, and the public is essential for implementing a sustainable solution.


The epidemic of homelessness in America is a complex and deeply troubling issue. While various laws have been enacted, and initiatives have been undertaken, the number of homeless individuals continues to rise. The solution to this crisis demands a collective effort, with a focus on affordable housing, mental health support, and addressing the root causes of homelessness. By working together, we can create a society where homelessness is eradicated, and every individual has a place to call home.







Thursday, August 3, 2023

Women in Science: the History of Erasure

If you read this blog at all, you will not be surprised to discover that I am a feminist at heart.  I grew up in the 60's and 70's, so that should not be unexpected.  Because of my natural bent, I am always drawn to topics that address the unfair treatment of women in our history and in our current time as you can tell from a previous blog post about missing and murdered indigenous women. I am so saddened when I see that we are moving backward instead of forward; women are once again being put down, trivialized, and controlled by the powers that be.  It breaks my heart to see this. So, when I found this topic, I had to investigate further.

This topic has always interested me.  As a science geek myself, I am appalled that so many women's contributions to science have been stolen from them and attributed to men working alongside them.  It seems like that could not happen, but it did and in some way, it still is happening. So, I once again went down that "rabbit hole" and found information about this topic to post here.  I hope you read and learn about how easily women have been trivialized and totally written out of their own accomplishments.  Don't let this keep happening.

For centuries, women's contributions to various fields, including science, have been overshadowed and, in many cases, outright written out of history. A pervasive gender bias has led to the marginalization of women in science and other male-dominated areas. We'll look into the historical reasons behind this phenomenon, ongoing efforts to rectify the situation, and parallels in other professions where women have faced similar challenges.


 Women in Science: The Historical Context

Throughout history, women have faced significant barriers in pursuing careers in science. Societal norms, prevailing stereotypes, and institutional biases have historically kept women away from scientific endeavors. During the Renaissance and the Enlightenment periods, opportunities for women to access education and participate in scientific pursuits were severely limited, contributing to their erasure from the scientific record.

Gender Bias and Stereotypes

Gender bias and stereotypes have played a pivotal role in perpetuating the exclusion of women from scientific fields. Deep-rooted beliefs that women are not as intellectually capable as men in STEM subjects have led to the underrepresentation of women in science-related careers. These biases often become self-fulfilling prophecies, as young girls are discouraged from pursuing scientific interests from an early age.

Institutional Barriers

Historically, women were barred from attending prestigious universities and excluded from scientific societies, making it exceedingly difficult for them to establish careers in science. Even if they managed to gain access to education, they faced discrimination in terms of opportunities, promotions, and pay.

Women in Science: The Hidden Figures

The history of women in science is replete with unsung heroes whose contributions have been buried under the weight of gender discrimination. From Rosalind Franklin's crucial role in unraveling DNA's structure to the pioneering work of Mary Anning in paleontology, many women have made significant advancements that were initially overlooked.

Modern Challenges and Progress

Despite progress towards gender equality in recent decades, women in science continue to face challenges. The gender pay gap persists, and women are still underrepresented in leadership positions within academia and scientific institutions. Stereotypes and biases linger, hindering women's full participation in the scientific community.

Initiatives for Inclusion and Diversity

Recognizing the urgency to address gender disparities in science, various initiatives have been launched to foster inclusion and diversity. Programs aimed at encouraging young girls to pursue STEM subjects, mentorship opportunities for women scientists, and efforts to dismantle institutional biases are making strides towards a more equitable scientific landscape.

Female Trailblazers in STEM

Despite the obstacles, women have persisted and achieved remarkable success in STEM fields. Highlighting the stories of female trailblazers can inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in science and break the barriers that once confined them.

Women in Other Male-Dominated Professions

The underrepresentation and erasure of women are not confined to science alone. Other professions, such as technology, engineering, finance, and politics, have also exhibited a similar pattern, depriving women of their rightful place in these fields.

Breaking Stereotypes and Shaping the Future

Challenging stereotypes and fostering a supportive environment for women in science is essential to shape the future of the scientific community. Encouraging girls to embrace their scientific curiosity, providing equal opportunities, and promoting work-life balance are key to dismantling the barriers that have hindered women's progress.

The Role of Men in Fostering Equality

Men play a crucial role in dismantling gender barriers in science. Allyship, supporting and amplifying women's voices, and advocating for inclusive policies are instrumental in creating a more inclusive scientific community.

A Promising Future for Women in Science

While the erasure of women in science and other male-dominated fields is a complex issue, progress is being made. By recognizing and addressing historical biases, encouraging diversity, and fostering inclusive environments, the scientific community can forge a promising future for women in science.

The erasure of women from science and other male-dominated professions is a glaring injustice that must be rectified. Embracing diversity and dismantling gender barriers are not only moral imperatives but also essential for the advancement of human knowledge and society as a whole. By uplifting women in science, we enrich our collective future and unlock the full potential of human ingenuity.

Here is a list of some notable women who made significant contributions to science but were not fully recognized or acknowledged during their lifetimes:

1. Rosalind Franklin (1920-1958) - Her crucial work on X-ray diffraction helped reveal the structure of DNA. Her data played a pivotal role in the discovery of the DNA double helix, but her contribution was largely overshadowed by her male colleagues, Watson and Crick, who received the Nobel Prize for the discovery.

2. Hypatia of Alexandria (c. 360-415) - An accomplished mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher in ancient Alexandria. Many of her writings and works have been lost, and her contributions were downplayed in favor of her male contemporaries.

3. Lise Meitner (1878-1968) - A physicist who played a key role in the discovery of nuclear fission. Despite her significant contributions, she was not awarded the Nobel Prize, which was given to her male collaborator, Otto Hahn.

4. Mary Anning (1799-1847) - A self-taught paleontologist who made groundbreaking discoveries in the field, including the first complete ichthyosaur skeleton and the first British pterosaur specimen. Her contributions were often credited to male scientists of her time.

5. Emmy Noether (1882-1935) - A brilliant mathematician known for her groundbreaking work in abstract algebra and theoretical physics. Despite her profound impact on these fields, she faced gender discrimination, and her work was underappreciated during her lifetime.

6. Mileva Marić Einstein (1875-1948) - A physicist and mathematician, and the first wife of Albert Einstein. Some historical evidence suggests that she may have contributed significantly to Einstein's early work, but her role has been a subject of debate and is not widely acknowledged.

7. Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin (1900-1979) - An astronomer who made significant advancements in understanding stellar composition. Her groundbreaking thesis on the composition of stars was initially dismissed but was later recognized as a fundamental contribution to astrophysics.

8. Chien-Shiung Wu (1912-1997) - A Chinese-American physicist known as the "First Lady of Physics." Her research on beta decay shattered long-held beliefs and earned her male colleagues a Nobel Prize, while she was not similarly honored.

9. Wang Zhenyi (1768-1797) - An exceptional Chinese mathematician and astronomer. Her scientific achievements were remarkable for her time, but her works were not widely acknowledged and remained relatively unknown for many years.

10. Maria Mitchell (1818-1889) - The first American woman astronomer and the first woman to discover a comet. Although recognized in her lifetime, her contributions have sometimes been overshadowed in historical accounts.

It is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of these women and many others who faced systemic barriers and biases in their pursuit of scientific knowledge. While progress has been made, it is crucial to continue working towards a more inclusive and equitable representation of women in science and other fields.

For even more information on this topic, listen to the podcast, Lost Women of Science

Why Are Orcas Attacking Boats?

Recently I have been reading articles and news about Orcas attacking boats and causing quite a bit of anxiety.  Since these whales hunt in p...