School Districts Unite to Address Mental Health Challenges Stemming from Social Media Addiction

School Districts Unite to Address Mental Health Challenges Stemming from Social Media Addiction

Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) has filed a suit against Meta, Google, ByteDance, and Snap Inc. They have joined hands with other school districts both nationally and in Maryland, including Anne Arundel County, Harford County, and Howard County. The lawsuit claims that excessive social media usage and addiction are exacerbating mental health struggles among students, leading to issues such as depression, anxiety, and body image concerns.

FCPS Superintendent Dr. Cheryl L. Dyson emphasized the mounting mental health crisis that students are facing and stated that the primary objective of the lawsuit is to prioritize the well-being of students and provide them with the best learning environment possible.

To represent their case, FCPS has enlisted the legal assistance of Baird Mandalas Brockstedt & Federico of Maryland and Delaware, as well as Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, Co-Lead Counsel in the nationwide Multi-District Litigation against these companies. Importantly, the firms are working on a contingency basis, relieving taxpayers of any financial burden.

Master the Art of Pumpkin Carving with These 5 Tips and Tricks

1. Choose the perfect pumpkin:
When selecting a pumpkin for carving, opt for one that is firm and has a smooth surface. Look for a pumpkin with a sturdy stem, as this indicates freshness. Don't shy away from unique shapes or bumpy textures – they can add character to your creation!

2. Prep your pumpkin for carving:
Before diving into the carving process, make sure to thoroughly clean the pumpkin's exterior. Scrub away any dirt or debris using mild soap and warm water. Drying it completely will ensure better adherence of any drawing or tracing you wish to apply to the pumpkin.

3. Create a unique design:
Let your imagination run wild when designing your pumpkin masterpiece! Consider using stencils, templates, or sketch your own ideas directly onto the pumpkin's surface. You can also print out designs to trace onto the pumpkin using transfer paper. Remember, the more intricate the design, the more patience and precision it will require.

4. Utilize the right tools:
Using the correct tools will make the carving process easier and more enjoyable. A serrated kitchen knife or pumpkin carving kit can give you better control and help you achieve intricate details. Small saws of varying sizes are also great for carving out precise shapes, while an ice cream scoop or large spoon can help you remove pulp and seeds effortlessly.

5. Preserve your pumpkin masterpiece:
To ensure your creation lasts as long as possible, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to the carved edges. This will help prevent moisture loss and maintain the pumpkin's freshness. Additionally, store your carved pumpkin in a cool location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Spraying the pumpkin with a water and bleach solution every few days can also help prevent mold growth.

So, with these top 5 tips and tricks, you're now armed with all the knowledge you need to create a jaw-dropping pumpkin carving masterpiece. Get your tools ready, let your creativity flow, and have a howling good time bringing your pumpkin to life this spooky season!

Baltimore Ravens host the Detroit Lions Sunday @ 1:00PM

Ravens corner back Marlon Humphrey joins the fight against hunger

Ravens corner back Marlon Humphrey makes a difference in the community by helping tackle hunger.

He recently bagged groceries and interacted with customers at ShopRite in Forest Hill to raise awareness about food insecurity. Humphrey believes that being present in the community is the most meaningful way to truly make an impact.

The event was part of ShopRite's Partners in Caring campaign, which has donated $62 million to combat hunger.

Players Choice Awards Finalists Revealed: Bradish, Henderson, and O'Hearn Make the Cut

The Players Choice Awards finalists have been revealed, with familiar faces making the cut in various categories. Kyle Bradish, Gunnar Henderson, and Ryan O'Hearn are among the notable players in contention for these prestigious awards. The awards include Player of the Year, Outstanding Player Award, Outstanding Pitcher Award, and Comeback Player. It's worth noting that all winners are determined by votes from fellow players.

Bradish has been nominated for the American League Outstanding Pitcher award. This recognition comes after he became the first qualified Orioles' pitcher to achieve a sub-3.00 ERA. Additionally, Bradish impressed with eight scoreless starts, tying the second-most in Orioles' history.

Henderson, a rising star in the league, is a finalist for the American League Outstanding Rookie. He holds impressive records as an Orioles' rookie, boasting 100 runs scored and a .489 slugging percentage. As a versatile player in both shortstop and third base positions, Henderson also led the team with 13 defensive runs saved.

Completing the list of finalists is O'Hearn, who is in the running for American League Comeback Player. O'Hearn's journey is a testament to perseverance, as he was designated for assignment by the Orioles in January 2023, only to make an impressive comeback. Throughout the season, O'Hearn showcased his skill, leading the team in batting average (.298) and setting career highs in various categories such as hits, doubles, RBIs, runs, extra base hits, multi-hit games, and multi-RBI games.

The winners of the Players Choice Awards will be announced on Thursday, November 2, during the 6 p.m. edition of SportsCenter. It will be an exciting moment to celebrate the achievements and recognize these exceptional players' contributions to the sport.

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