CARE Court in California Faces Slow Start Amid Divided Reactions

CARE Court in California Faces Slow Start Amid Divided Reactions

M Hasan    8:53 AM   

Overview of California's CARE Court System

In 2023, California introduced a new court system designed to assist individuals experiencing mental health challenges, particularly those with schizophrenia or similar conditions. This initiative aims to connect these individuals with essential services through a voluntary but court-ordered treatment approach. The program, known as the Community, Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Court, is part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s broader plan to overhaul the state’s behavioral health system, which includes a significant investment of billions of dollars.

The CARE Court is intended to provide a structured and supportive framework for individuals who may not be able to manage their condition without additional help. It offers an alternative to more restrictive measures, emphasizing the importance of voluntary participation while ensuring that participants receive the necessary care and support.

Eligibility Criteria for the CARE Court Program

To qualify for the CARE Court program, individuals must meet specific criteria outlined by the system. These include:

• Age Requirement: Participants must be at least 18 years old.
• Diagnosis: Individuals must have a confirmed diagnosis of Schizophrenia Spectrum or Other Psychotic Disorders.
• Severity of Symptoms: The individual must exhibit severe and persistent symptoms that significantly interfere with their ability to perform daily activities. These symptoms may impact personal care, basic life functions, and overall independence.
• Lack of Stabilization: The person must not be stabilized through ongoing voluntary outpatient treatment. This means that previous attempts at managing their condition without court involvement have not been successful.
• Risk of Deterioration: There must be a clear indication that the individual is unlikely to survive safely or independently in the community. This could involve difficulties in maintaining personal safety, hygiene, nutrition, health, and necessary social relationships without supervision.
• Need for Treatment and Support: The individual requires ongoing services and support to prevent relapse or further deterioration of their condition.

Key Principles of the CARE Court

The CARE Court operates under several core principles aimed at ensuring that it serves as a beneficial and appropriate intervention for eligible individuals. One of the most important aspects is that participation in the CARE Court is considered the least restrictive alternative available. This means that the program is only used when other, less intrusive options have been exhausted or proven ineffective.

Additionally, the program is designed to offer a personalized approach to treatment. Each participant will likely benefit from engaging in a CARE plan or agreement tailored to their specific needs. These plans are developed with input from healthcare professionals and may include a combination of therapy, medication management, housing support, and other essential services.

Benefits of the CARE Court

By offering a structured and supportive environment, the CARE Court aims to improve outcomes for individuals with severe mental health conditions. The program emphasizes recovery and empowerment, helping participants regain control over their lives while receiving the necessary care. This approach not only benefits the individuals involved but also contributes to the broader community by reducing the burden on emergency services and promoting public safety.

Furthermore, the CARE Court aligns with the larger goal of transforming California’s behavioral health system into one that is more accessible, effective, and compassionate. By focusing on early intervention and long-term support, the program seeks to address the root causes of mental health crises and provide sustainable solutions for those in need.

Overall, the introduction of the CARE Court represents a significant step forward in addressing the complex challenges associated with mental health care. It provides a balanced approach that respects individual autonomy while ensuring that those who need help can access the resources they require.

The End of an Era for Carrie in 'And Just Like That...'

The End of an Era for Carrie in 'And Just Like That...'

M Hasan    8:30 AM   

Unpacking the Tensions in Aidan and Carrie’s Relationship

Seema might be concerned about body odor, but what truly stinks is the state of Aidan and Carrie’s relationship. Despite Aidan staying at their apartment for an extended period, old memories and unresolved issues continue to hinder their progress. This dynamic sets the stage for a complicated episode that delves into the challenges each character faces, both personally and in their relationships.

One of the most notable moments occurs when Aidan interacts with Carrie’s neighbor, Duncan. In season 3, episode 9, Aidan sits on the backyard terrace with Duncan, engaging him in a conversation that quickly turns into an interrogation. He asks why Duncan smokes a pipe, and Duncan reveals it's partly due to his ex-wife. Aidan reacts strongly to the smoking, echoing his past concerns about Carrie. Carrie believes Aidan feels threatened—not by Duncan, but by her. Her past actions, including her smoking and infidelity with Big, have eroded his trust, making Duncan a potential trigger for him. However, one wonders if Aidan has truly moved past these issues.

Personal Struggles and Complicated Dynamics

The rest of the friend group also grapples with their own challenges. Charlotte continues to struggle with vertigo, taking center stage in her only solo scene of the episode. Meanwhile, Lisa's husband, Herbert, who is running for public office, faces difficulties sticking to a diet. Lisa suggests he try Ozempic, a common solution for weight management. Seema receives a crystal from Adam to use as deodorant, but her attempt ends in embarrassment when she rushes to a high-profile meeting in a sweat, drawing attention to the scent of B.O. from the crystal.

Anthony’s efforts to impress Giuseppe’s mother, Gia, are met with resistance. He attempts to win her over with a home-cooked dinner, but Gia criticizes his risotto and even tries to pay him off to break up with Giuseppe. Her behavior reflects a fear of her son ending up in a similar situation, having married a much older man herself. The tense exchange culminates in Gia throwing food and plates off the table before expressing regret. While the scene ends with Gia giving up on separating Giuseppe and Anthony, it highlights the strange and disjointed nature of the episode.

Moments of Sensitivity and Honesty

Despite the tension, there are moments of sensitivity and honesty. Miranda comes clean to Joy about her alcoholism, sharing why she threw away her bottle of gin. Joy tries to understand, but she recognizes that drinking around Miranda only makes her feel worse. Miranda reassures her that she doesn’t have to worry, and they agree to accept each other’s emotional baggage.

Carrie and Aidan also face their own struggles. When Carrie is in a writing workshop with Duncan, Aidan interrupts to invite them to dinner. Carrie declines, saying she won’t be back until late. Aidan leaves defeated, leaving raw T-bones on the kitchen counter. When Carrie returns, she snuggles up with Aidan, but he pushes her away, telling her to shower because she reeks of smoke. She does so and ends up sleeping in another room.

A Breakdown and Reflections

By morning, things remain unresolved. Carrie takes a walk to clear her head, leading her to a department store where Andy Cohen makes a brief cameo. Before she can try on heels, Aidan invites her to lunch to discuss everything. At the sidewalk table, their conversation falls apart due to grammatical errors. Aidan mentions his trust issues with Carrie and other men, which leads Carrie to question why he still has trouble trusting her now. She feels she has done nothing wrong and is tired of trying to fix their relationship.

Carrie points out that she has put in so much effort into their “wait for me for five years” agreement, which Aidan broke by sleeping with Kathy. She realizes she has nothing left to give and acknowledges that they both need 100 percent from each other. Their relationship ends with a tearful embrace and the playing of Taylor Swift’s “How Did It End?”

A New Chapter?

Even as an Aidan fan, it’s clear that the relationship between Aidan and Carrie is being put to bed. The episode attempts to recreate the spark between them but falls short, with the chemistry feeling forced and unnatural. The pacing of their relationship arc this season was also inconsistent, with hints of their incompatibility creeping in too slowly before a sudden return of Aidan’s past trauma.

In the final scenes, Carrie meets up with Charlotte, Miranda, and Seema, marking both a homecoming and the beginning of a new chapter. With both of her great loves out of the picture, Carrie may finally have the chance to start fresh.

11 DIY Laundry Detergent Alternatives to Try at Home

11 DIY Laundry Detergent Alternatives to Try at Home

M Hasan    8:03 AM   

Effective Laundry Detergent Substitutes

When you're faced with a mountain of laundry but can't make it to the store for more detergent, there's no need to panic. Many common household items can serve as effective substitutes for laundry detergent in a pinch. These alternatives are often found right in your kitchen or bathroom, making them easy to access when you need them most.

Common Household Items That Work as Laundry Detergent

Here are several items that can be used as a substitute for laundry detergent:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice
• Dish soap (Dawn is often recommended)
• Shampoo or body wash
• Borax
• Vodka
• Powdered oxygen bleach
• Hydrogen peroxide

These items can help clean your clothes effectively, even without traditional laundry detergent.

Using Vinegar and Baking Soda as a Laundry Detergent Alternative

One of the most popular combinations is white vinegar and baking soda. This duo works well for heavily stained or soiled clothing, especially for smelly clothes like sports gear.

To use this method:

• Add a half cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
• For extra grease-fighting power, add a small amount of dish soap like Dawn.
• During the rinse cycle, add a half cup of white vinegar. This acts as a natural fabric softener.

This combination helps remove stains and odors while keeping your clothes fresh.

Using Baking Soda and Lemon Juice for Laundry

If you don’t have vinegar on hand, lemon juice and baking soda can be just as effective. This is a great option for both white and colored clothes.

Steps to follow:

• Add a half cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
• During the rinse cycle, replace vinegar with a half cup of lemon juice.
• For tough stains, apply lemon juice directly to the affected area before washing.

Lemon juice also helps brighten colors and eliminate odors.

Using Dish Soap Instead of Laundry Detergent

In an emergency, a small amount of dish soap like Dawn or Palmolive can work as a substitute for laundry detergent, especially for colored clothes that don’t require special care.

How to use:

• Add just a small squirt of dish soap to the laundry. Avoid using too much to prevent excessive suds.
• To ensure the soap rinses out properly, add a half cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle.

However, this method is not suitable for high-efficiency washing machines due to the risk of over-sudsing.

Using Shampoo as a Detergent Substitute

Shampoo can also be used as a substitute for laundry detergent, particularly for colored clothes. Use a gentle formula and be cautious with the amount, as shampoo can create a lot of suds.

Tips:

• Start with a small amount—about a capful.
• Avoid using this method in high-efficiency washing machines, as suds may not rinse out properly.

Using Bar Soap Flakes for Laundry

Bar soap can also be used as a quick alternative. Simply shave small flakes from a bar of soap and add them to your laundry load.

Guidelines:

• Use only a few flakes to avoid excess suds.
• If you’re concerned about leftover suds, run an extra rinse cycle.
• Not recommended for high-efficiency washing machines due to potential suds issues.

Using Vinegar for Stain Removal

Distilled white vinegar is a powerful stain remover and odor eliminator. It can be used during the wash cycle to help lift stains and freshen up your clothes.

How to use:

• Add a half cup of distilled vinegar to the wash cycle.
• This will help remove stains and odors without leaving a lingering smell.

Using Borax for All-Around Cleaning

Borax is an excellent all-purpose cleaner that can help whiten whites and combat hard water. However, it should be used sparingly, as it can cause skin irritation if used too frequently.

Instructions:

• Add a half cup of borax to a large load of laundry.
• Wash and dry as usual.
• Save any leftover borax to make homemade laundry detergent later.

Using Lemons to Brighten Clothes

Lemon juice is a natural whitening agent that can help brighten both white and colored fabrics. It also helps remove odors.

Method:

• Add a half cup of lemon juice to a regular load of laundry.
• Wash and dry as normal.

This is a great way to naturally refresh your clothes.

Using Vodka for Delicates

Vodka can be used to freshen up delicate items that aren’t heavily soiled. It’s a safe and effective way to remove odors without damaging sensitive fabrics.

How to use:

• Mix equal parts vodka and water in a spray bottle.
• Spray the solution onto the inside of the garment and let it dry.

This method is ideal for light cleaning and refreshing.

Using Hydrogen Peroxide for White Laundry

Hydrogen peroxide is a great option for brightening white clothes and removing stains.

Steps:

• Fill the washer with water.
• Add a cup of hydrogen peroxide.
• Run the cycle as usual.

This method is especially useful for restoring the brightness of white garments.

Using Oxygen-Based Bleach for Colored and White Clothes

Oxygen-based bleach is a safer alternative to chlorine bleach and works well on both colored and white clothes.

Instructions:

• Add ½ cup of oxygen-based bleach to the drum.
• Add your clothes and run the cycle as usual.

Always check the care label before using any bleach product.

Natural Ways to Wash Clothes Without Detergent

Even without traditional detergent, you can still keep your clothes clean and fresh. These natural methods are perfect for emergencies or when you want to reduce chemical use.

Remember, these substitutes can be used occasionally, but they shouldn’t replace regular laundry detergent entirely. If you enjoy the results, consider experimenting with DIY laundry solutions to find what works best for you.

Survivor Rides Pan-Mass Challenge After 9/11, Two Cancer Battles

Survivor Rides Pan-Mass Challenge After 9/11, Two Cancer Battles

M Hasan    7:57 AM   

A Journey of Survival and Resilience

Kathy Ball-Toncic's story is one of survival, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Almost 22 years after she ran barefoot from the North Tower on September 11, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. While her medical team at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute cannot definitively link her illness to the toxic dust she inhaled during the attacks, she is part of the WTC Health Program. To date, more than 44,000 individuals exposed to the World Trade Center site have been diagnosed with cancer.

The Morning of September 11

In 2001, Kathy was commuting between Boston and New York, working on Wall Street. On the morning of September 11, she had helped organize a conference at Windows On The World and was in a meeting in the lobby when the first plane hit the tower. At first, no one knew what had happened. She recalls a roar that sounded much like a subway train and flickering lights. She and her colleagues were standing up, pushing papers into their bags, when she heard a BOOM!

The explosion caused glass to shatter in businesses along the first-floor concourse. Kathy and her colleagues were "dressed up" for their meeting. In the moments after the explosion, one of them didn't feel that Kathy was moving quickly enough—probably because she was in shock. He urged her to take off her heels and run from the building. With bare feet, over broken glass, she did.

Blocks later, they stopped. "We stopped and turned around just in time for the second plane to hit," Kathy said. "My memory of that morning is a little bit like a film that's missing a few frames. But I vividly remember when we turned around and the building in flames... I pointed to it and said, 'We were in there.'"

By the time the group arrived at their office, Kathy's feet were bleeding, and she was covered in a thin layer of dust. She remembers feeling fortunate to have escaped and that night, to have been able to return home to Boston.

Healing Through Running

Processing the trauma of the attacks took a lot of intentional, emotional work. There was also a physical component to Kathy's emotional healing. After 9/11, Kathy, who had been a runner for years, began running marathons for charity. "It really felt like a wonderful way to be able to give back, to do something meaningful," Kathy said.

The 2002 Boston Marathon was her first. Running became a way to celebrate her health, nourish friendships, process difficult emotions, and raise money for organizations she believed in. In 2014, the year after the Boston Marathon bombings, she ran for Dana-Farber.

Facing Cancer Head-On

Her breast cancer diagnosis in 2023 was shocking enough. Kathy was treated at Dana-Farber for a full year. The following February, right around her birthday, she celebrated being cancer free. In a photograph with her son Henrik and daughter Maja, she is beaming as she holds a cupcake. That sense of elation, though, was short-lived. Two weeks later, she was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. (Breast cancer and colorectal cancer are two of the almost-70 cancers that have been traced to 9/11 exposure.) She had surgery and chemotherapy.

As someone for whom exercise and physical activity are so important, Kathy recalls her exhaustion at the end of 2024. "The chemo took everything out of me ... I remember lying on the couch thinking, I'm a business owner who's not working. I'm a chef who can't eat. And I'm an athlete who can't make it up a flight of stairs. Who am I?" she asked.

She answered that question by focusing, minute-by-minute, on healing and small victories. Knowing when to give herself grace. Knowing when to ask for help. "I'm someone who's fighting and I'm someone who is visualizing health and wellness," she said.

Riding Toward Recovery

During radiation, she visualized that the treatments were working. In early 2025, still healing from those treatments, Kathy knew that running a marathon was out of the question. But desiring a goal, she asked her doctor (Dr. Brandon Huffman) and physical therapist whether she could ride the Pan-Mass Challenge, an event to which she had donated for years. "They both emphatically said yes and were super supportive!" she said.

Kathy, who works as an executive leadership coach and facilitator, is riding the two-day PMC route from Wellesley to Provincetown. She hopes, with some nervousness, that she will be able to ride the entire route. Those who know her have little doubt. Henrik is a registered volunteer in Bourne and Provincetown. Asked about his mother's decision to take on this new challenge on her bike, he says what she brings to the ride makes him proud. "Grit and determination and perseverance and love and honor and all these wonderful characteristics that make her who she is," Henrik said.

A New Chapter

While she does not miss cancer treatment, she does miss her team at Dana-Farber. "They are so extraordinary," Kathy said. "I think it's a part of cancer. People don't talk about a lot, that you finish your treatment.... And there's a bit of 'now what?' And you are not regularly seeing your care team." She says she will think about them while she is riding.

Kathy is again cancer free. She has regular check-ups, and her team promises to watch her "like a hawk." The colorectal cancer she survived has a high recurrence rate. But she says smiling, "it doesn't know who it's messing with."

PMC Living Proof Rider

A few weeks before the PMC, Kathy enjoyed an experience that offered a new feeling of community. Smiling and flexing a well-toned bicep in a PMC t-shirt at Fenway Park, she was among the Living Proof riders (cancer survivors) who rode the warning track and paused for the national anthem and a standing ovation.

It was PMC Night at Fenway and the ballpark was full of fans. "They announced, 'These are the cancer survivors riding the PMC.' I almost wanted to look around and say, 'Who-like--who are the cancer survivors?' And it's like, it's me!" That realization came with a flood of emotions. "I burst into tears at first. And then I just, I thought I want to be here. I want to take this moment in."

She now looks ahead to the ride and imagines it will feel like a victory lap. "It's a way to celebrate all the people that have supported me. It's a way to celebrate my health," she said. "And it's a way to do whatever I can to make sure people don't have to go through this by raising money for research."

"We are all touched by this horrible thing called cancer," Kathy said.

How Do Calming Collars Help Cats Adapt to New Homes?

How Do Calming Collars Help Cats Adapt to New Homes?

M Hasan    7:52 AM   

Understanding Feline Stress and the Role of Calming Collars

Cats are highly sensitive creatures, and changes in their environment can trigger significant stress. Whether it's moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or simply rearranging furniture, these shifts can cause cats to exhibit anxious behaviors such as hiding, increased meowing, or restlessness. To help ease this transition, many cat owners turn to calming collars, which offer a non-invasive way to support their feline companions.

Calming collars work by releasing synthetic pheromones that mimic the scent a mother cat emits to her kittens. This natural signal helps cats feel safe and secure, reducing anxiety during times of change. These collars typically begin working within an hour and can make the adjustment period more manageable for both the cat and the owner.

How Calming Collars Work

The primary mechanism behind calming collars involves the use of pheromones—chemical substances that communicate information between animals. For cats, these pheromones provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, helping them navigate unfamiliar situations. The scents released by the collar are undetectable to humans but are clearly perceived by cats through their highly developed sense of smell.

Some collars also incorporate natural herbs like lavender or chamomile, which may enhance the calming effect. These ingredients are often used to create a soothing atmosphere, especially for cats that are particularly sensitive to environmental changes.

Most calming collars last around 30 days, making them a convenient option for short-term stress relief. However, the duration can vary depending on the brand and the specific formulation of the collar.

Benefits of Using Calming Collars

Cat owners often report several positive outcomes when using calming collars, particularly during major life changes. These benefits include:

• Fewer instances of hiding – Cats tend to feel more at ease and less inclined to seek shelter.
• Reduced aggression – When introduced to new pets or family members, cats may display less hostility.
• Less vocalization – Meowing or crying decreases as the cat becomes more relaxed.
• Improved behavior – Cats may show better litter box habits, reduced scratching, and increased willingness to explore new spaces.

These improvements can help cats return to their normal routines more quickly, making new environments feel more like home.

Types of Calming Collars

There are several types of calming collars available, each with its own unique features:

• Pheromone-based: These collars release synthetic pheromones that mimic a mother cat’s scent. They are the most popular choice and typically last up to 30 days.
• Herbal-infused: These collars use natural scents like lavender or chamomile to provide additional relaxation. Their effectiveness can vary, lasting from a few days to several weeks.
• Combination: Some collars blend pheromones with herbal ingredients for a more comprehensive approach. The duration depends on the manufacturer.

While pheromone-based collars are widely favored, some cats may respond better to herbal options, especially if they are sensitive to strong odors.

Behavioral Changes with Proper Use

When used correctly, calming collars can lead to noticeable improvements in a cat’s behavior. Owners often see their cats become more social, playful, and less jumpy. Other common changes include:

• Better use of the litter box
• Less scratching on furniture
• More willingness to interact with people and other pets

It is important to follow the instructions provided with the collar to ensure maximum effectiveness. Incorrect use may limit the benefits, and if stress-related behaviors persist, consulting a veterinarian is recommended.

Best Practices for Using Calming Collars

To get the most out of a calming collar, consider the following tips:

Selecting the Right Collar

Choose a collar specifically designed for cats, not dogs or other animals. Look for one that contains pheromones, as these are safe and effective. Avoid collars with harsh fragrances, dyes, or untested ingredients. Ensure the collar fits comfortably, allowing two fingers to fit between the collar and the cat’s neck.

Safe Application and Monitoring

Fit the collar snugly but not too tight. It should sit close to the skin without causing discomfort or restricting breathing. Monitor your cat for any signs of irritation, such as scratching or hair loss around the neck. If any issues arise, remove the collar immediately.

Avoid using calming collars on kittens under 12 weeks old or on cats with open wounds near the neck.

Integrating into Acclimation Routines

Introduce the collar a few hours or a day before a major change, such as a move. Pair it with familiar items like bedding or toys to create a comforting environment. Observe your cat’s response and combine the collar with gentle routines, such as regular feeding times and quiet spaces.

Minimize noise and disruptions during the adjustment period. If the collar proves helpful, continue using it for several weeks while gradually introducing new elements. If no improvement is seen, consult a veterinarian for alternative solutions.

Conclusion

Calming collars offer a gentle and effective way to support cats during stressful transitions. By releasing pheromones that mimic a mother cat’s scent, these collars can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of safety. While results may vary, using a calming collar alongside patience and positive experiences can significantly ease the process of adapting to a new environment.

Observing your cat’s behavior and seeking professional advice when needed will help ensure the best outcome for your feline companion.