In a letter addressed to Rochelle P. Walensky, the DirectorCenters for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) is requesting further guidance, data-sharing, and urgency into researching the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccination, especially in regard to the elderly population. The AHCA/NCAL, represents more than 14,000 nursing homes and assisted living communities across the country that provide care to approximately five million people each year.
The AHCA/NCAL reports: “need for urgency on this matter is painfully evident. For nearly a year, long term care residents have been unable to visit with their loved ones in-person or participate in enriching social activities. Despite our staff’s heroic efforts to keep residents engaged and fill the void of family members, we are deeply concerned that the prolonged isolation of our residents is impacting their health and wellbeing. Prioritizing research on the vaccines’ effectiveness among our population would help ensure these facilities can swiftly and safely reopen, improving the lives of our vulnerable seniors.”
While earlier guidance from the CDC urged nursing homes to restrict group activities and visitors, the vaccination has now been administered millions of nursing home residents. As a result of this, the AHCA/NCAL hopes to see changes in the guidance previously administered by the CDC in order to improve the quality of life for their residents under these new conditions.
To achieve this goal, the NHCA/NCAL is asking for CDC’s support to rapidly evaluate the vaccines’ effectiveness among the long term care population in both preventing spread and in reducing morbidity and mortality. The NHCA reports that the organization understands that clinical trials only evaluated the effectiveness in preventing symptomatic disease and severe illness, and participants did not include long term care residents. Therefore, they are requesting further study regarding the vaccines’ impact on transmission and the elderly population before revising guidance to long term care settings. The NHCA/NCAL asks that the CDC expedite this evaluation of the vaccines in order to bring clarity to states, providers, residents and family members as soon as possible.
Fortunately, preliminary analysis by AHCA/NCAL reports that the vaccines may be as effective as hoped. Their research division, the Center for Health Policy Evaluation in Long Term Care (CHPE), found that COVID-19 cases decreased at a faster rate among nursing homes that had completed their first vaccine clinic, compared to nearby nursing homes that had not yet administered the vaccine. More specifically, the CHPE analysis reports:
Vaccinated nursing homes experienced a 48% decline in new resident cases three weeks after the first clinic, compared to a 21% decline among non-vaccinated nursing homes located in the same county.
Similarly, new staff cases declined by 33% in vaccinated nursing homes compared to 18% in non-vaccinated facilities.
While encouraging, further study is needed to determine if these trends will continue in subsequent clinics or after the second dose of the vaccine. The AHCA/NCAL requests that data and funding be made available to the research community to expedite this ongoing analysis. Both organizations are willing to assist the CDC in this effort through facilitating data sharing between providers and researchers, as well as connecting with experts from the public and private sector to assist with data waiting to be evaluated.
As the CDC has taken great effort to administer residents and staff their second dose of the vaccine, many states have started planning reopening strategies. The AHCA/NCAL reports on the reopenings: “State governments play a vital role in contributing to the protection of our residents and staff during this time. However, in this situation, we believe that cohesion is needed to ensure effective outcomes. Without guidance from the federal government, states may create confusing or inconsistent practices.”
In hope of creating consistent practices surrounding reopening, the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living is requesting that the CDC reiterate their most up-to-date guidance on COVID-19 safety practices. Since the effectiveness of the vaccine isn’t fully determined, the AHCA/NCAL emphasizes the importance of clear communication with stakeholders to make sure that everyone understands the stressed importance and vigilance of vaccination efforts.
Virus Highjacks Important Immune Response, UVA Discovery Reveals
Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine have shed light on what causes herpes simplex virus to flare up, explaining how stress, illness and even sunburn can trigger unwanted outbreaks.
The discovery could lead to new ways to prevent cold sores and recurrent herpes-related eye disease from reoccurring, the researchers report.
“Herpes simplex recurrence has long been associated with stress, fever and sunburn,” said researcher Anna R. Cliffe, PhD, of UVA’s Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology. “This study sheds light on how all these triggers can lead to herpes simplex-associated disease.”
About Herpes Simplex Recurrence
Once you’re infected with herpes simplex virus (HSV) – and more half of Americans are – the virus never really goes away. Instead, it lurks inside neurons, waiting for the right moment to strike again, a process known as reactivation.
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are one of the most common symptoms of HSV reactivation. Recurrent reactivation in the eye leads to herpes keratitis, which, if left untreated, can result in blindness. HSV infection has also been linked to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Recurrences of HSV are typically associated with stress, illness or sunburn, but doctors have been uncertain exactly what causes the virus to reactivate. Cliffe and her collaborators found that when neurons harboring the virus were exposed to stimuli that induce “neuronal hyperexcitation,” the virus senses this particular change and seizes its opportunity to reactivate.
Working in a model developed by the Cliffe lab using mouse neurons infected with HSV, the researchers determined that the virus highjacks an important immune response within the body. In response to prolonged periods of inflammation or stress, the immune system releases a particular cytokine, Interleukin 1 beta. This cytokine is also present in epithelial cells in the skin and eye and is released when these cells are damaged by ultraviolet light.
Interleukin 1 beta then increases the excitability in the affected neurons, setting the stage for HSV to flare up, the UVA researchers discovered.
“It is really remarkable that the virus has hijacked this pathway that is part of our body’s immune response,” Cliffe said. “it highlights how some viruses have evolved to take advantage of what should be part of our infection-fighting machinery.”
The scientists say that more research will need to be done to fully understand the potential factors which play into herpes simplex disease. It may vary depending on the virus strain or the type of neuron infected, even. And it is still unknown if the virus alters how neurons respond to cytokines such as Interleukin 1 beta. But the new insights help doctors better understand what is happening in neurons and the immune system, and that could lead to ways to prevent unwanted outbreaks, the researchers hope.
“A better understanding of what causes HSV to reactivate in response to a stimulus is needed to develop novel therapeutics,” Cliffe said. “Ultimately, what we hope to do is target the latent virus itself and make it unresponsive to stimuli such as Interleukin 1 beta.”
Findings Published
The researchers have published their findings in the scientific journal eLife. The research team consisted of Sean R. Cuddy, Austin R. Schinlever, Sara Dochnal, Philip V. Seegren, Jon Suzich, Parijat Kundu, Taylor K. Downs, Mina Farah, Bimal N. Desai, Chris Boutell and Cliffe.
The work was supported by the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Neurological Disorder and Stroke, grant R01NS105630; the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, grant T32AI007046;the National Eye Institute, grant F30EY030397; the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, grants T32GM008136, T32GM007267, GM108989 and GM007055; and Medical Research Council grant MC_UU_12014/5.
To keep up with the latest medical research news from UVA, subscribe to the Making of Medicine blog.
Fashion design of the year by V Visionary Limited is a sustainable collection carefully crafted and curated by Vickie Au. With 15 years of experience under her belt, Vickie is a talented designer with a strong background in the fashion industry. Awarded collection Revisit was a product of V VISIONARY working with the experienced-profession, fashion & apparel stakeholders to design and customize sustainable and ethical products. “We believe that sustainable initiatives are the key to bring positive impacts in making a better environment to the community and world”, said the the designer Vickie Au.
Awarded with Bronze in Accessory / Accessories category, Studio Variously is a sustainable brand based in Michigan that collaborate with some of the most skilled heritage artisanal clusters in India & Nepal to develop their concepts by supporting ethical production practices. They explore minimal design elements by combining environment friendly materials, such as natural yarns & organic dyes free of toxic chemicals, with ancient techniques. “We seek beauty in slow made textiles that bring people & their cultural stories together”, lead designer Anjali Purohit commented.
MIRET ecological sneakers – made with 97% natural materials, awarded with Gold, combine the strongest natural fibres to craft sneakers which are kind to your feet as much as they are kind to nature. “We are using 10 amazing plants: hemp, kenaf, linen, cork tree, wood, corn, jute, eucalyptus, rubber tree and New Zealand wool to craft our 97% ecological MIRET sneakers. We are industry insiders who have used our manufacturing expertise to redesigned sneakers from the bottom up, making them compatible with nature”, commented designer Hrvoje Boljar.
Born and raised in Shanghai, Qingyi Dong founded an LA-based slow fashion brand named BIG WHITE TOTE in 2018. The motivation behind the brand concept came from “The True Cost”, a documentary film that unfolds the ugliness of fast fashion industry. Believing in a possibility of transferring feelings through handmade items, the line provides young professionals with day-to-day urban accessories that are not mass produced.
The 2020 International Design Awards (IDA) was the most successful in its 14 year history, attracting thousands of outstanding designs submitted by companies and designers around the world competing for the top prizes in this prestigious award. “Attention and respect for the environment is not only an ethical issue but also a business issue. Consumers are becoming more and more receptive to this topic and are looking for designers to teach them how to look great while generating the least possible impact on waste and pollution,” commented jury member of Ihe IDA Cristiano Magni, President and Founder, Cristiano Magni Public Relations.
About the International Design Awards
The International Design Awards (IDA) recognizes, celebrates and promotes legendary design visionaries and uncovers emerging talent in Architecture, Interior, Product, Graphic, and Fashion Design. The IDA aspires to draw attention to the iconoclasm of design worldwide that is conceptualizing and producing great creative works. The Farmani Group founded the IDA in 2007 and the competition has now become one of the leading design awards globally, awarding and promoting hundreds of designers each year.
Bravo’s “Top Chef”, produced by Magical Elves, calls Portland, Oregon home for season 18, kicking off with two weeks of supersized premieres starting on Thursday, April 1 from 8:00 – 9:15 pm ET/PT. This season, a new batch of 15 extremely talented Executive Chefs and restaurant owners, representing a cross-section of kitchens and food around the country, vie for the coveted title bringing their unique skillsets, diversity of cuisines and gamut of flavors. With Portland as a picturesque backdrop and culinary inspiration, the chefs compete in a variety of challenges including celebrating PDX’s Pan-African cuisine to feeding hundreds of frontline workers and crabbing on the Oregon Coast in a tribute to the culinary icon and Oregonian James Beard. For a sneak peek, visit Bravo’s website.
Beginning Thursday, April 8, Bravo’s Emmy-Winning digital companion series “Top Chef: Last Chance Kitchen,” hosted by Tom Colicchio, returns for season ten as the eliminated chefs go head-to-head to try to cook their way back into the competition. Presented byBMW of North America,each week’s episode will be availableon Bravotv.com, On Demand or wherever you stream Bravo’s “Top Chef” at the conclusion of each week’s episode.
*For more information on the cheftestants, please visit Bravo’s website.
During a time of extreme hardship in the restaurant industry, these chefs have more on the line than ever before. From working with foraged mushrooms and picking produce at the famous Hood River Fruit Loop to visiting the Tillamook Creamery, the chefs are tasked with cooking with Oregon’s natural bounty of ingredients. With Padma, Tom and Gail and a table full of alums to impress, the expectations have never been higher, especially in this year’s unique Restaurant Wars where the teams must perfectly execute on a micro-restaurant concept with a cohesive seven-course tasting menu that rivals the best in the world. To stay in the game, the chefs must cook at their best while contending with a Quickfire using ingredients used on the Oregon Trail and a surf and turf elimination challenge honoring the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.While in the “City of Roses,” the judges definitely don’t hold back their thorns as they narrow it down to find this season’s “Top Chef.”
The winning chef will earn the coveted title of “Top Chef,” $250,000 furnished by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water, a feature in FOOD & WINE magazine and an appearance at the annual FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen.
Last season, “Top Chef” ranked as 2020’s #1 food show across all of cable, averaging nearly 1 million P18-49 and 1.1 million P25-54. Additionally, the season was up 42% on Video On Demand/Streaming, all told, it was viewed over 10 million times. (Food Show: Nielsen, L7, P18-49/P25-54, FY 2020, including food programs across cable, excluding repeats. VOD/Streaming: Rentrak and Adobe Analytics, S17 vs. S16, includes STB, TVE (on+off), dMVPD, and OVD.)
“Top Chef” is produced by the Emmy Award-winning production company Magical Elves with Casey Kriley, Jo Sharon, Doneen Arquines and Hillary Olsen serving as executive producers.
About Magical Elves
Magical Elves is a leading producer of award-winning, non-fiction content for domestic and international television markets. Known for hits like “Top Chef” (Bravo), “Nailed It!” (Netflix), “Sugar Rush” (Netflix), “Cold Justice” (Oxygen) and “Brain Games” reboot (Nat Geo), Magical Elves is a veteran production company with a long track record of consistently delivering the highest quality programming. Magical Elves is a part of The Tinopolis Group’s portfolio of production companies. For more information, visit www.magicalelves.com.
About Bravo Media
Bravo is the premier lifestyle and entertainment brand that drives cultural conversation around its high-quality, interactive original content across all platforms. The network features a diverse slate of original programming, including Emmy Award-winning “Top Chef” and “Project Runway,” fan-favorites “Vanderpump Rules,” “Below Deck,” “Southern Charm,” and the highly popular “Million Dollar Listing” and “The Real Housewives” franchises. Bravo also boasts the only live late-night talk show on television with the critically acclaimed “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,” which has become a nightly destination for A-list celebrities. Bravo is part of the NBCUniversal Television and Streaming portfolio, which includes NBCU’s broadcast, cable and streaming platforms: NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen, SYFY, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock. For more information, visit BravoTV.com.
Newly minted “Artist To Watch” by Rolling Stone, ace Atlanta singer/songwriter Teddy Swims is back with his first new single and music video of 2021 entitled “My Bad” today. Get it HERE and watch the video HERE.
Once again, his rich vocals take center stage on the track, simmering with soul, spirit, and swagger. In the accompanying music video, he steps into the squared circle as wrestler “Magic Dirty.”
About the song, he said, “We wrote this song about my fear of commitment. The video was a real dream come true, and I was able to set foot in an actual ring for the first time in my life. I hope people enjoy watching this as much as we enjoyed making it!”
It’s a big day for Teddy. In addition to the single dropping, he makes his national television debut on NBC’s The Kelly Clarkson Show where he’ll perform “My Bad.”
Teddy recently appeared on the latest episode of Allen Stone’s “Live At The Lodge” on Stone’s YouTube channel. The two teamed up to cover the Hall & Oats classic “Sara Smile.” Watch it HERE. Teddy will also appear on Allen’s special Valentine’s Day virtual concert on February 12th.
To cap off a breakthrough 2020, Teddy enlisted Country star Thomas Rhett to feature on a new version of “Broke.” Inciting critical applause,Billboard described it as “Guaranteed to make you smile and tap your toes at the same time. A winning combination.” The original “Broke”—Teddy’s second original release—earned raves from the likes of Idolator, Flaunt, and American Songwriter, the latter of which praised Teddy’s “honest, emotional” sentiments. Music critic Bob Lefsetz was similarly wowed by “Broke,” writing, “I’d say it’s a one listen smash, but that’s not an accurate description, IT’S A FIFTEEN SECOND SMASH!”). Teddy got his start by posting covers on YouTube out of his bedroom. His bold voice immediately resonated as he impressively attracted an audience of 1.7 million through a steady stream of both hilarious and heartfelt moments.
About Teddy Swims
Teddy Swims contains multitudes. It’s right there in his name— “Swims” is an acronym for “Someone Who Isn’t Me Sometimes,” and it’s a kind of shorthand for everything he stands for. There’s the fact that his voice sounds cozy and rich over any of the many genres he loves to mix up, from the pop and soul most have heard, on to gospel, hip-hop, and hard rock. But it’s even bigger than the Atlanta singer and songwriter’s rich baritone. To Teddy, the concept goes beyond his art, it means empathy, connection, using music to serve a greater good, and staying true to your people—in his case, a core group of about a dozen buds, bandmates, producers, and other various visionaries who knew him well before he became Teddy Swims.
“I’m too hard on myself,” says Teddy, though you wouldn’t know it from his bright, boisterous presence in his songs and videos. “I’m always in my head. You gotta have the guy behind you who says, ‘Man, this is great!’ Well, I’ve got 12 of those guys, and they’re the best people I know.”
Today, of course, Teddy has a following of millions who’ve gravitated to him on the strength of his funk-laced originals and unexpected covers (like his version of Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One,” which Twain herself has praised). But getting here has been a wild journey. The man born Jaten Dimsdale grew up in Georgia, a preacher’s grandson with a powerful voice of his own. He played football and a handful of roles in high school musicals, but it was a particularly active time in Atlanta’s metal, punk, and rap scenes—music called to him. Teddy being Teddy though, it was all of the music. Taking his place behind the mic in a handful of acts, he rapped, screamed, and even cooed cover songs at wedding receptions. By 2018, he was in multiple bands including a progressive jam crew called Elefvnts.
By 2019, Teddy was out of a job and a home, crashing with his dad while hoping for a lifeline. He unwittingly made one for himself when, on a whim, he shared a video of him singing Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You” on YouTube. “It was the 10-year anniversary of his death,” Teddy recalls, “and we just thought we’d pay homage. Within a few days, it was going crazy.” As it turns out, that clip was Teddy’s first step in making his way from broke to “Broke.” More covers followed—spanning Marvin Gaye to Billie Eilish—showcasing his talent, humor, style, and ease in the studio, and garnering more and more fans in the process. Teddy upgraded his situation, but not in the way most burgeoning stars would. That core team of his have been with him night and day ever since, quite literally. They live in the same house; they share the same dreams.
“I wasn’t willing to give up the people around me who keep me sane and safe,” Teddy says. “We figured if we all put our heads together and focused on this, we wouldn’t need anybody else.”
But Teddy knows there’s always room for more under his roof. After signing to Warner Records in early 2020, he released his first original song—the frisky, funked-up “Picky”—and took off on a sold-out cross-country headlining tour. Then came “Broke,” a raucous clap-along anthem about the joys of (finally) making and spending mad cash, produced by Julian Bunetta (One Direction) and reworked version featuring Grammy-nominated superstar Thomas Rhett. The tracks and their accompanying videos comprise a glorious celebration of excess that’s plenty justified by all of the reverent nods to James Brown and Teddy’s goofily sweet sense of humor. “Girl, whatchu want? Go pick it out,” he sings slyly. “My wallet lookin’ bigger than my belly now.”
And for all his talk about pop-star excess, Teddy is a man who makes every cent count. After releasing his timely cover of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On?” in June, he donated all royalties to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. He also pays his crew members a salary, plus bought his Dad a new truck. All of which is to say: he puts his money where his mouth is, and wears his heart on his sleeve. As for what’s next, Teddy’s expanded his family to include folks like Dallas Davidson (Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan), Dave Cobb (Brandi Carlile, John Prine), and Boy Matthews (Keith Urban, Duke Dumont). And he’s counting down the days until the world is able to hear the wide-ranging sound he’s crafting: “Everything from straight hip-hop to R&B to ’80s metal,” he says. Sure, that doesn’t help us predict what Teddy Swims is going to do next, but if there’s one thing his moniker doesn’t quite convey, it’s that no matter what or how or who he’s singing, Teddy is always Teddy—and bringing all his influences and experiences and inspirations into glorious harmony is exactly what Teddy does best.
Although polished concrete is a highly durable flooring option, it can succumb to damage after a long time. The damage usually occurs and can be caused by; using harsh soaps to clean it, stains caused by other liquids seeping through the concrete, exposure to high foot traffic, and exposure to high impact are the issue with epoxy.
We interviewed an epoxy flooring contractor near marlboro NJ can also wear and tear if the contractor laid the foundation improperly. Improperly laying the polished concrete can cause air pockets and bubbles inside the concrete. These bubbles later worsen and crack.
Luckily, there are ways to fix the small imperfections that occur over time. Read on to find out how to repair polished concrete floors.
Repairing Dulling
A polished concrete floor can become dull when exposed to high traffic, usually by foot. This can occur in places like restaurants, school’s common areas, or grocery stores. Typically, this happens when the floor features a burnished tropical treatment or a sealer to give it a shiny look. These features usually wear out fast over time. You can look at these tips from a company in Texas.
If you went for a mechanically polished concrete floor where physical buffing is done to produce a shiny appearance, your floor’s shine might last for a while compared to when you use chemicals to get the same effect. Nevertheless, the polished concrete floor is bound to become dull after some time, no matter how well it is polished.
A mere rebuffing process can make your polished concrete shiny again to fix the dulling. The floors will look as good as new once a professional rebuffing is done.
Fixing Cracks
Besides dulling, cracking is another common problem for polished concrete floors. And just like dulling, you cannot entirely avoid cracking. Cracking usually occurs when the chemicals used in making the concrete floor shrink. Also, adding more water to the concrete puts the concrete at more risk of cracking.
However, unlike dulling, cracking is not easy to fix, especially when the cracks appear in small areas. Replicating a good finish can be challenging in such areas, and pouring more concrete into the cracks will not do the trick. When your concrete develops small cracks, the advisable thing to do is to consult a professional contractor first to assess the extent of the damage and have them give their advice on the best way to fix the cracks.
Typically, an epoxy repair mortar is used to repair concrete cracks. The other alternative is by using control joints. Control joints are more of a preventive measure than a repair method since they are fixed on the concrete floor when the concrete is being laid. The control joints help provide stable and durable flooring and limit the threat of cracking.
Fixing Crazing
Cracks are known as crazing when they become interconnected, forming a hexagonal shape. The cracks result in a sloppy and unsightly appearance.
Crazing occurs when the finishing of the concrete floor is poorly done or when the concrete dries too fast. Fortunately, concrete contractors can fix the crazing when it occurs during the construction. They do this using a method known as moist curing. Moist curing is a popular repair product that features a spray-on with chemicals that fix the crazing. Alternatively, the contractor can use other stiffer and drier mixing solutions.
Other more straightforward methods that do not involve chemicals include using a broom to brush over the concrete floor in the final stages. This method is useful in masking cracks and other surface blemishes of a minor scale. Prompt repair of crazing is necessary to avoid severe damage when the crazing is left for longer.
Finally, since it is almost impossible to prevent the concrete floor from dulling and cracking, the best thing to do is to ensure you involve professional contractors when installing the polished concrete floor. This will enable you to at least enjoy your beautifully shiny concrete floor before you have to think of repairing it. But make sure you involve professional flooring contractors to get quality results.
Himiway knows that their customers require comfort, capability, and fun when looking for a new eBike. The company knowingly advertises: “Kids prefer toys, grown-ups desire power, and elders need support.” Fortunately, their new model of the 2021 Himiway Escape is a moped-style electric bike that provides user-compatible customizations to bikers of any age.
Himiway offers an approachable, non-intimidating way to ride for all of its users–the only thing that will be difficult is deciding when to stop. The Himiway Escape emphasizes both form and function, absorbing impact while providing a controlled biking experience–and looks good while doing it.
The Himiway is the love child of American grit and Asian electronic bike innovation. The company’s founder, Mike Magaruh, has always had a passion for biking and improving his vehicle’s parts to create a more well-oiled machine. In college, Mike travelled to China and was inspired by the popularity of electric bikes. Taking inspiration from South Korean, Taiwanese, Japanese, and Chinese bike innovations, combined with the American desire for all-terrain vehicles, Mike created the first Himiway Cruiser in his own garage in California. When Mike tried riding his bike for the first time, he felt like a tough guy– and who tougher, or more American, than Ernest Hemingway? From that moment, the Himiway title was born and as they say, the rest is history.
Curb Appeal
With a sleek, matte black exterior and satin finish-accoutered with white accents-the Himiway Escape looks sophisticated, capable, and elite. The high quality, no-slip, double-stitched, PU leather handlebar grips provide a touch of sophistication and rugged elegance to the eBike. Without these handlebar grips the wooden handles of the bike can cause splinters, so we recommend this purchase for the best Himiway experience.
Design
Outshined by the sleek, attractive exterior, one of the hidden aspects of the Escape’s design is its invisible battery (here at 360 Magazine, we used a Samsung battery), which sits flush within the side frame of the bike’s body. The battery takes 6-7hrs to charge and can be charged while attachment or while released and unlocked. It has a total battery capacity of 672Wh, and lasts for 45+ miles per charge. Additionally, the Himiway Escape is installed with an integrated, automatic brake light and a large, bright 48V LED headlight, so users can bike safely any time of day. Another notable safety feature of the bike includes the half twist throttle on the handlebars. This throttle prevents accidental activation, protecting users from any possible harm.
The Escape’s pedals have been installed with a dual sided, aluminum crankset. These crankset guards enforce that the bike’s chains stay in place, even when traveling over mountainous topography. The low to the ground design of the pedals makes getting onto the eBike easy. Once users are seated on the Escape, the comfort of the seat’s large, wide design becomes immediately apparent.
One of the most fun features of the Himiway Escape include the rear rack installed on the back of the bike. This rack can also function as an extra seat, so you can bring a friend along for the adventure! If you’re looking for more storage, Himiway offers an optional basket on the front of the bike for purchase for $89.
Technology
One of the most high-tech and helpful features of the Himiway is it’s large LCD display panel between the bike’s handlebars. Positioned at the precise angle to making checking information quick and easily accessible while riding, the LCD display provides battery capacity, an odometer, speedometer, and a wattmeter. If you’re on a long cruise and run out of phone battery needed to access your route, the display also includes USB charging capabilities.
The pedal assist level power adjustment is one of the most luxurious features of the Himiway Escape. This function lets users program their pedal assist settings, and customize the amount of power delivered in each setting. This eBike of the future provides user-curated experiences that make your travels more enjoyable. As they say, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.
Customization
The LCD display panel is customizable, and with modification users can increase the bike’s maximum speed to 28mph, from an original maximum speed of only 22mph. In order to access this top speed, press the plus and minus buttons simultaneously to enter the menu. Once on the menu, press and hold the add and minus button again. Another menu screen should show up with a large “P” on the top of the screen, above four zeros. From here, use the plus and minus buttons to type 0-5-1-0. Use the “I” button to submit the digits.
After that, another the bike screen will enter another menu with a large “LS” on the top section, above “23 inches” on the bottom of the screen. You can also use the plus and minus buttons to change decrease this number to your preferred wheel height. After that, press enter again.
From there, the LCD display screen should show a large another “LS” above the number 90. It is on this menu that users can customize the bike’s speed limit. (While the Himiway cannot reach 90mph, it is the highest value on the speed limit menu.)
To exit these menus and return to the main screen, press and hold the “I” button. For further customization and assembly instruction, check out this review from JoelsterG4K’s Youtube channel.
Durability
Designed with a 6061-aluminum frame, the Himiway eBike is built to endure all the journeys you will take together. With a 330lbs payload capacity, you can pile on the fun with no worries to weigh you down. Designed to decrease the cumulated pressure of both the bike and its rider, the Escape’s 20”X4” Kenda Fat Tires provides tenacious grip and traction on difficult riding surfaces. Kenda Tires are made for performance, and are designed with a reflective white strip so you can ride safely, no matter what time of day. The full suspension design on the bike allows users to be insulated from the impact of rough or rocky terrain, and provides a comfortable riding experience.
Additionally, the Himiway comes with an ultra-sturdy, pre-assembled kickstand. However, we recommend two people to assemble to Himiway, and encourage taking a visit to your local eBike store to double check its assembly.
Performance
The Shimano 750W brushless, geared hub motor and 7 speed gear shift system allows users acceleration and power while riding the Himiway Escape, up to a maximum speed of 22mph. The Escape’s motor has a max torque of 80Nm, so bikers are able to take on any terrain effortlessly.
Riders can fluidly switch cog sizes to aid riding whatever path suits your personal journey. With over 45mi per charge, the Himiway is perfect for short trips to the store, or long cruises along scenic stretches. The charger is designed on the side of the vehicle, sleekly hidden away until you need it.
When you get to wherever the wind takes you, or if you just need a break, the Himiway Escape’s 180mm hydraulic disc brakes, paired with a full suspension system, allow users to stop at a moment’s notice. The aluminum alloy comfort-grip break levers, with a motor cut off switch, allow for maximum control while riding.
Ergonomics x Additional Features
Compared to other bikes in its category, such as the Rad Power Bikes Radrunner or the Super73 S1, the Himiway Escape shines with its dual suspension system and hydraulic front shocks. These capabilities provide for a much smoother ride than other comparable moped eBikes. Another popular eBike, the Juiced Scorpion, falls flat next to the Escape when considering the Escape’s cheaper price point and more lightweight design.
Modestly priced (and currently on-sale) at a price point of $1,599, the Himiway Escape is the perfect new toy for all outdoor enthusiasts. Upon purchase, the bike also comes with many free, included accessories such as the Himiway Escape rear rack, 16 in 1 multi-function bike repair tool (which includes a Socket Hex Wrench 8/9/10/mm, Slotted Screwdriver, Phillips Screwdriver, Socket Extension Rod, Solid Wrench 8/10/15/mm, Hex Key Wrench 2/2.5/3/4/5/6mm, and Spoke Wrench), full fenders made from durable PVC and stainless steel, and a Himiway bike cap. If you’re in the market for more bike customizations, we recommend you purchase a Bluetooth enabled Tile to keep track of your bike in case of emergency, battery operated horn, cellphone holder, and folding lock–all of which are available on Amazon.
This e-bike is the perfect travel companion, eagerly waiting to join you on all your adventures.
Once you have your Himiway Escape, you’re sure to get some admirational stares as you cruise in style. However, with an amazing eBike comes great responsibility. In order to make sure you’re keeping your Himiway Escape safe from theft or harm’s way, make sure you’re being extra cognizant to not leave your bike in shady areas that are large hives of bike theft activity. Switch up where you leave you bike so thieves can’t notice your commuting patterns to set up a targeted attack, and utilize multiple bike locks. You can even lock individual parts of your eBike to the bike itself. Further, by anchoring your Himiway to objects stronger than your bike’s frame, and ensuring that the way your lock passes through the bike requires the most effort and damage to be removed, you can deter most criminals looking to avoid a complicated robbery. Further, the parking in well-lit areas lessens the chance of theft since thieves don’t like to be seen in the spotlight. Better yet, bring your bike inside with you if your destination allows.
There are good and bad feng shui plants and positioning arrangements. It’s all about how you position plants in specific areas of your living room, bedroom or other areas of your home. As feng shui has a lot to do with the overall “feeling” of a space, it is important to find plants that fit comfortably in your space and are not cramped or too small for the area. Healthy, robust plants are a must!
What is Bagua and why is it important?
Bagua is one of the main tools used in feng shui. It is an eight sided ‘energy map’ used to evaluate the energy of the green space in your home. Each of the eight sections and the center correspond with different life experiences: career, wisdom/knowledge, finances, family, fame, relationships, children/creativity, supportive people, and health. Plants can be used to connect these eight sides of the map and create harmony and well-being in an area.
Good feng shui plants
This includes plants that are known to cleanse the air and have a strong presence. Some of these include Philodendron, Areca Palms, Ferns, Jade, Money Tree and Mother in Law Tongue. Of course, there cannot be positive energy in a home or office without clean, good quality air, which makes this aspect of the plant very important. Appearances also play an important role, as it is important to have a strong, healthy plant that radiates a strong energy. Struggling plants may not offer these qualities so keep your plants healthy and pair them with visually pleasing pots as they can offer vibrancy and joyful energy.
Bad feng shui plants
These are generally considered plants whose shape can bring undesired energy. Cactus is a classic example of a so-called bad feng shui plant because its energy is very “spiky.” In addition, the Snake Plant could be considered bad feng shui because of their lengthy pointed leaves. However, the Snake Plant has strong protective energies to specific areas of your home and is considered helpful.
Positioning of Feng Shui Plants
East, Southeast, and South bagua areas are excellent feng shui areas to decorate with plants. Be sure to experiment with the best placement of plants in your living room, bedroom, or other areas of your home, and keep them healthy! This will create an environment where plants will become a harmonious part of your decor and create excellent feng shui in your green space.
Money Tree Brings Fortune and Luck
One of the most common feng shui plants is the money tree. Appropriately named, as it is believed to encourage prosperity and good luck. Some feng shui experts say these plants also reduce stress and anxiety, and can even help prevent arguments and sleeping disorders. This bonsai style tree, with braided trunks, brings the best fortune when placed in the areas concerning money (office), health (kitchen), or fame (entry-ways). With all of these benefits, no wonder they make great housewarming and new business gifts!
Peace Lily Purifies the Air
Peace Lilies make excellent houseplants for your home or office green space. They not only brighten up a living space, but are also excellent at cleaning the air of rooms they are in. They grow well in spaces with low light (although they bloom in areas with more light). They have a wonderful white bloom with lush foliage, and with their air purifying qualities, placement in an office area can help improve air conditions and correct energetic imbalances.
More about Lively Root
At Lively Root, the green spaces created have been instrumental in development as horticulturists, for an ideal green space. Lively Root’s plants are home-grown and full-scale fulfillment centers. They only sell eco-friendly products that are packaged and delivered right to your doorstep. Founding members have over a century of horticultural experience as growers, retailers, and landscapers, ranging from small plants, to indoor plants, outdoor plants, large trees, and flowering shrubs. They have planted & maintained trees on residential and commercial properties. Plants improve health by purifying the air, soothing stress, making people feel happier, and offering style and ambiance. For more information, please visit Lively Root’s website.
When I was a small child, I never ate the vegetables I encountered on my dinner plate, preferring instead to kick, scream, whine, and then feed the offending dish to the dog. How different things might’ve been if former First Lady Michelle Obama was the one gently encouraging me to eat my peas, using Muppet-adjacent puppets and her soothing presence! Unfortunately, I had to learn the hard way, but for the children of America who are now currently throwing handfuls of broccoli at their parents in protest, Obama’s new show, Waffles + Mochi, premiering on March 16 on Netflix, is here to save the day.
There’s little information about what this show will entail, beyond the above tweet, which features Michelle Obama cradling a small, winsome mochi in her hand, flanked on either side by an overzealous bee with glasses and some sort of Yeti-thing, whom I presume is Waffles, as it is wearing a scarf and a frozen waffle as an accessory. The show will be produced by Higher Ground, the Obamas’ production company. My assumption is that Waffles + Mochi is a reworked version of Listen to Your Vegetables & Eat Your Parents, which was reported in 2019 as the title of a half-hour children’s show that would “take young children and their families around the globe on an adventure that tells us the story of our food.”
Again, we know very little about the show, because all we’re working with here is the former name and then the image of Michelle Obama flanked by Muppet-adjacent puppets, but what I’m hoping is that this culinary adventure will be a spiritual cousin to the earliest seasons of Sesame Street, which were quirky and weird and just as enjoyable to watch now, as an adult, as they were when I was a small child. Children’s television is at its best when it resonates with both children and adults who are lightly stoned.
