People across the eastern United States are waging war against a menacing creature that aims to destroy everything it touches.

The spotted lanternfly appears to be harmless but if you see one of these highly invasive bugs, show it no mercy.

Keep reading to learn about the bug that you need to kill!

If you look up lanternfly on social media, you’ll find several posts of people sharing their kills of these bugs, native to China, that start mating in late summer.

Run over by my car because apparently this lanternfly is a horribly invasive species and everyone should be murdering them,” writes New Jersey’s social media influencer Marques Brownlee.

Another user shares his triumph over his recent kills: “Out for a walk, saw a spotted lanternfly. STOMP. Yay! 10 feet further on, ooh, another one. STOMP. Yay!”

Attaching a photo of a mass of nymphs on a tree, he then continues writing, “A few feet further on… Oh no.”

Spotted lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly, or Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive species that poses significant ecological and economic threats.

Since it first traveled from China to Pennsylvania in 2014, it’s spread to parts of North America, feeding on plants like fruit trees (apple, cherry or grape) and hardwoods like maple or walnut, killing them over time.

They also produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold and further damage plants.

What do they look like?

In the late summer to fall, about 30 to 50 eggs are laid in a mass which is covered in a waxy, mud-like coating. These masses are initially light gray to brownish and become darker over time.

Once they hatch, the nymphs are black with white spots, and as they grow older, they turn a bright reddish color with black borders and white dots.

When they reach maturity, lanternflies are about one inch long, with grayish forewings marked with black spots. Their underwings are red with black spots that are bordered with white.

They feed on plant sap by piercing plant tissues with their needle-like mouthparts. This feeding weakens plants and can lead to their death, especially in high numbers.

Impact on Ecosystems and Agriculture

• Economic Damage: The spotted lanternfly can cause severe damage to fruit crops such as grapes, apples, and peaches, as well as hardwoods. The feeding activity weakens plants and can lead to significant yield losses.
• Ecological Impact: Beyond agriculture, the lanternfly can disrupt local ecosystems. By feeding on a variety of plants, it can alter plant communities and affect the animals that depend on those plants.

Scrape and crush

Controlling and killing spotted lanternflies involves a combination of methods, given their ability to quickly spread and damage plants.

Here are some effective approaches to manage and eliminate these pests:

• Egg Masses: Scrape off egg masses from surfaces like tree trunks, fences, or any outdoor objects. Next, place the mass in a sealed bag with alcohol or sanitizer and discard them in the trash.
• Nymphs and Adults: Crush nymphs and adults when spotted. This can be done by hand, or foot, or smash it with a tool like a broom. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid direct contact.

If you’re in an area under quarantine for spotted lanternflies, follow all regulations to prevent spreading them to other areas.

Also, report sightings to local authorities or agricultural departments to aid in broader control efforts.

Please let us know about your experiences with these pesky creatures! And make sure you share this story so others know how destructive lanternflies are to our environment!

Credit: kuluckada

Those tiny, irritating bumps on your legs can be a real puzzle. Are they harmless or a sign of something more serious? Let’s shed some light on this common skin concern.

The Mystery of Leg Bumps

Discovering tiny raised bumps on your legs can be unsettling. These bumps might be nothing more than a minor skin annoyance, but they could also indicate a more complex underlying issue.

It’s essential to understand the potential causes and how to effectively address them.

Unraveling the Causes

Several factors can contribute to the appearance of those pesky bumps on your legs.

• Keratosis Pilaris: Often referred to as “chicken skin,” this common condition involves tiny, rough bumps caused by blocked hair follicles. 
• While generally harmless, it can be bothersome.
• Folliculitis: This occurs when hair follicles become inflamed, resulting in red, often itchy bumps. It’s usually caused by bacteria or other irritants.
• Insect Bites: Those pesky mosquitoes and other insects can leave behind itchy, red bumps.
• Allergic Reactions: Certain skin products, fabrics, or environmental allergens might trigger a reaction, leading to raised bumps.
• Heat Rash: Excessive sweating can block sweat ducts, causing tiny bumps.

Taking Action

So, what can you do about those bothersome bumps?

• Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure about the cause, consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
• Prioritize Hygiene: Regular cleansing with mild soap and water can help prevent and soothe irritated skin.
• Choose Gentle Products: Opt for hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic skincare items to minimize irritation.
• Exfoliate Carefully: Gentle exfoliation can help unclog pores and improve the appearance of bumps, especially for conditions like keratosis pilaris.
• Moisturize Regularly: Keeping your skin hydrated can alleviate dryness and discomfort associated with certain skin conditions.

Remember, while many cases of leg bumps are harmless, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice if necessary.

Credit: ilovefood

Jerry West was a great basketball player, and Michael Jordan paid tribute to him on First Take.

Yesterday, it was announced that the man on the NBA logo had died at the age of 86, with his wife by his side.

A lot of people have said nice things about West, who was a champion on and off the court.

And First Take said on X that Jordan, who is 61 years old, texted Stephen A. Smith while he was live to share his own words.

“I am so deeply saddened by the news of Jerry’s death,” Smith said in MJ’s place.

“He was a real friend and teacher.” Like a big brother to me.

“I valued our friendship and what he knew.”

“I always wished I could have played against him, but as I got to know him better, I wished I had been on his team.”

“I liked his basketball insights, and the way he and I played the game was a lot alike.”

“He will be missed always. My condolences to his son and wife Karen.” Logo, may you rest in peace.

A fan said on a clip of the tribute, “Wow, that’s really nice of MJ.”

“Jerry West was the best general manager ever.” Definitely the GOAT GM. “Rest in peace, Jerry ‘The Logo’ West,” said someone else.

“He will be missed,” wrote a third.

It’s Jerry West, all class! “Rest in peace,” said a fourth.

Smith, who is 56 years old, also remembered a story from a time when he met West.

While watching the analyst’s show, West heard Smith say that Jordan should take his place as the NBA’s logo.

West called the ESPN star and shockingly told him that he agreed.

Smith said, “He called because he thought I sounded like I would dismiss it.”

“And he was telling her, “No way!” I believe Michael Jordan is the best. I think it’s fair for him.

West was one of the best players in NBA history, and he also helped the Los Angeles Lakers become a dynasty in the 1980s.

For the last few months, he had been a consultant for the Los Angeles Clippers.

West was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019 and a statue by the Lakers in 2010.

Source: newsweekly

Nerves mixed with excitement as Jake and Lily, his future bride, got closer to their wedding day.

The excitement of sharing their love with friends and family and the prospect of a lifetime together were growing.

But Jake had no idea that Megan, Lily’s best friend and bridesmaid, had a dark scheme in the works. Engulfed in jealousy, Megan was unable to tolerate the joy that radiated from Lily and Jake.

She couldn’t deal with the reality of their approaching marriage because she had secretly nurtured affections for Jake.

Envious and determined to ruin their union, Megan devised a scheme to throw doubt on their important day.

In an attempt to sow doubt and superstition, Megan purposefully sent Jake a photo of Lily wearing her wedding gown a week before the nuptials.

The warning was very clear: if the pair married, horrible things will happen to them. Jake was startled and unsettled by the unexpected sight, and his mind was filled with doubt.

Fearing the repercussions of dispelling the superstition Megan had sowed, Jake made the heartbreaking decision to call off the wedding, unable to shake the feeling of approaching disaster.

Lily was shocked and devastated, not understanding why Jake would abruptly put off their wedding. After several months, Lily, Jake, and Megan’s relationship broke down.

After Megan’s destructive influence, Lily and Jake had to rebuild their lives apart, and the once-inseparable foursome became estranged.

In order to give themselves time to recover from the emotional upheaval brought on by the sudden cancelation, they chose to postpone the wedding indefinitely.

After a year, Lily and Jake discovered that they were closer and stronger than before.

They made the decision to give love another go and chose a more private ceremony free from the shackles of manipulating friends and superstitions.

They decided to surround themselves with people who actually cared about their happiness, so Megan was no longer a part of their lives.

Credit: lifeblogs

Madonna made a bold statement at her sold-out concert at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, showcasing her muscles in a skimpy red négligée.

The daring outfit served a special purpose as the 65-year-old Queen of Pop celebrated her daughter Chifundo ‘Mercy’ James Kambewa Ciccone’s 18th birthday during the performance.

The Michigan-born singer had her daughter Mercy join her on piano for the 1992 track ‘Bad Girl‘, and her 18-year-old son David Banda Mwale Ciccone accompanied her on guitar for the 2003 song ‘Mother and Father‘.

Fans were left in shock at Madonna’s muscular physique, taking to social media to comment on her appearance. Many people wrote that she was too old to be dressing the way she was, while others applauded her figure.

Despite the controversies surrounding Madonna, she continues to make headlines not only for her music but also for her energetic and theatrical stage presence.

On Friday last week (January 19), two fans, Michael Fellows and Jonathan Hadden, filed a federal civil lawsuit against Madonna, accusing her of “false advertising.”

The lawsuit, filed in the Eastern District of New York, seeks unspecified damages for the singer’s alleged tardiness during her December 13 concert at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, according to BBC. Madonna reportedly went on at 10:45 pm due to “sound check issues,” causing confusion among concertgoers who believed she was hours late.

Madonna’s recent health struggles, including a serious bacterial infection that led to a 48-hour medically induced coma and the star being revived by NARCAN injection in June, have not deterred her from continuing her music career. The singer, with 44.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify, is currently on her Celebration Tour, which has grossed $77.4 million over 79 dates.

Teaming up with creative director Lewis James and musical director Stuart Price, Madonna has curated a spectacular stage presentation for her 12th concert tour, honoring her four-decade-long career. Instead of a traditional band or singer, Madonna chose RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8 champion Bob the Drag Queen as the opening act for her shows.

Despite Madonna’s previous health setbacks, including knee and hip injuries that led to the cancellation of 14 shows during her Madame X Tour in 2019-2020, as per USA Today, she remains resilient. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic posed further challenges, but Madonna underwent knee surgery in April 2020, followed by hip surgery in November 2020, along with regenerative treatment for “missing cartilage,” the Mirror detailed.

Looking ahead, Madonna has plans to direct her own Universal Pictures biopic titled Little Sparrow, featuring actress and three-time Emmy winner Julia Garner.

Collaborating on the script with Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody, Madonna eventually brought Independent Spirit Award-winning screenwriter Erin Wilson on board after Cody’s departure. The biopic is set to explore Madonna’s illustrious career and personal journey.

Credit: animalseveryday

Even though twins are quite common, there are still individuals who are intrigued by the similarities between two distinct people.

That includes me as well ….

Megan and Morgan, the twins, attracted attention not only because of their striking resemblance but also because of their captivating eyes. At the age of four, their eyes resembled crystal clear water. Once their pictures were captured and shared online, they quickly became viral sensations.

Megan and Morgan Boyd earned the nickname “Trueblue Twins” at the age of four, thanks to the adorable photos their mother posted on Instagram that captured the hearts of many online.

Many parents enjoy showing off pictures of their children, but these twins’ distinctive appearance has attracted a global audience. They now have more than 153,000 followers on Instagram.

And it’s easy to see why, isn’t it?

The girls were born on June 6, 2011. Stephanie, the girls’ mother, came up with the nickname “Trueblue Twins” because of their special blue eyes. To differentiate between Megan and Morgan, just pay attention to their eyes.

Megan is the only one with two blue eyes. Morgan’s right eye is not blue, but dark brown, giving them a distinct appearance. This is the appearance of the girls today, at the age of nine.

Lots of fans are captivated by the girls’ unique eye color. Some think African-American adults with blue eyes wear contacts, but they can actually have a rare gene that gives them blue eyes. Stephanie, the mother of the Trueblue Twins, was born with blue eyes and claims she doesn’t wear contacts.

Lots of fans are intrigued by the girls’ unique eye color. Some may think African-American adults with blue eyes are wearing contacts, but they could actually have a rare gene that gives them blue eyes. Stephanie, the mother of the Trueblue Twins, was born with blue eyes too and claims she doesn’t wear contacts.

Stephanie maintains a level-headed attitude even as her daughters gain popularity on social media. She acknowledges that Megan and Morgan’s natural beauty could lead to modeling opportunities, but she values their independence and refrains from pushing them into anything. This demonstrates her wisdom. Just look at how gorgeous these 11-year-olds are now – they are truly stunning!

It seems like these charming sisters will become beautiful women in the future. Share this story if you think so too.

Source: newsweekly

You’ve probably been there before. At the last minute, you decide to take a slightly different approach than usual.

You make a change to your coffee schedule or leave work a little early. Even the slightest change to your daily schedule can have a significant impact.

You unexpectedly reconnect with a long-lost friend, or you find out your partner has been unfaithful to you early after work.

There are moments when the changes are small, and moments when they are enormous.
Similar to what happened to Malissa Sergent Lewis one day last summer when she chose a different route to work.

Facebook/Malissa Sergent Lewis

One morning in the summer of 2016, Malissa Sergent Lewis was running late for work at her Kentucky elementary school.

Malissa chose to take a side route rather than the major highway since she wanted to arrive sooner.

Malissa will be appreciative of your decision forever.

Facebook/Malissa Sergent Lewis

All that was missing from the road that day was a trash bag.

However, this wasn’t just any old trash bag—it appeared to be alive.

“Did I just see that garbage bag move?’ I asked myself as I passed by this bag of trash. As I went closer, I could see it was moving,” Malissa said to The Dodo.

Facebook/Malissa Sergent Lewis

Malissa was driven to crack open the sack and discover what was within.

She got out of the car and cautiously approached the bag, not knowing what was inside.

Malissa realized that because the bag was knotted, whatever was inside did not just happen to be up there.

Malissa cautiously tore apart the corner of the bag to peek inside.

Even more astonishing was what was within.

It was a young dog. He was really happy to see me, too. When I cracked it open and he spotted light, he immediately began to wag his tail. It was unbelievable to me,” Malissa said to The Dodo.

After being placed in a trash bag, the puppy was discovered in the middle of the road. It would have been too long, even if the little child had just been in there for a second.

Although wearing a collar, the puppy lacked identification tags.

Malissa drove the dog to class with her since she couldn’t bear to leave him behind.

Facebook/Malissa Sergent Lewis

Eventually, Malissa’s son brought the dog back to her home. Subsequently, he and Malissa brought the puppy to the veterinarian for examination and vaccination.

How the puppy ended up in a bag by the side of the road is a mystery.

Malissa was worried the puppy would be stolen or abandoned, so she called animal control.

But no one came forward to claim the dog, and it was not reported lost.

Thankfully, the dog has been adopted by Malissa and her family, so he will get the love and care he needs. She cannot, however, imagine who would commit such a horrible deed.

Who could harm an animal in such a way? No matter who you are, everyone has a puppy. Malissa told The Dodo, “Putting an animal, any animal, in a garbage bag and dumping it on the side of the road is a real coldhearted person.”

WATCH VIDEO

Source: lifeblogs

Yesterday, I turned 57, and despite what some may think, I’m absolutely enjoying my age.

There’s a certain freedom that comes with knowing who you are, a confidence that doesn’t require validation from anyone.

However, my husband, Mike, seems to have missed that memo. Constantly mocking my age, gray hair, and wrinkles, he’s become an incessant source of negativity in my life.

But it wasn’t until my birthday party that I realized just how deep his disdain ran.

The Passive-Aggressive Husband

Mike’s behavior at the party was unbearable. He was passive-aggressive from the moment the celebration began, making snide comments about my outfit and makeup.

I had chosen a beautiful dress, one that made me feel elegant and proud of my age. But Mike’s words were like daggers, chipping away at my confidence.

The final straw came when he yelled, loud enough for all the guests to hear, “You’re TOO OLD for me!”

The room fell into an uncomfortable silence, and I could feel the weight of embarrassment pressing down on me. Before I could even gather my thoughts to respond, my best friend, Emily, stepped in.

Emily’s Fiery Retort

Emily is the kind of friend everyone needs in their corner—fiercely loyal and unafraid to speak her mind. She didn’t hesitate.

“Oh, too old for you, right?” she began, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “But wasn’t it YOU who couldn’t keep up with her on your last hiking trip?

Who needed help fixing a leaky faucet because you couldn’t see the pipe properly? And who has been avoiding intimacy because you’re too ‘tired’ all the time?”

The guests’ eyes widened as Emily continued her tirade. “You’ve got some nerve, Mike.

How dare you mock her when you’re the one who’s been dragging her down with your constant complaints and insecurities?

If anyone here is showing signs of age, it’s you, with your lazy attitude and refusal to appreciate the amazing woman you married.”

The Unveiling of the Truth

As if Emily’s defense wasn’t enough to put him in his place, she dropped a bombshell that left everyone stunned.

“And let’s not forget why you’re really lashing out,” she said, her voice lowering as she fixed Mike with a steely glare.

“You’re projecting your own insecurities because you can’t handle the fact that you’ve been cheating on her with a younger woman.”

A collective gasp filled the room. Mike’s face turned an ashen gray as he stammered for a response.

“That’s not true!” he sputtered, but the damage was done. Emily’s words hung in the air, a harsh spotlight on the truth that had been lurking in the shadows.

The party, meant to celebrate my 57th birthday, had turned into an exposé of betrayal and lies.

Mike’s humiliation was evident, but so was the realization among the guests that this wasn’t just about age—it was about respect and fidelity.

Emily’s intervention had revealed the ugly truth, and it was time for me to face it head-on.

Credit: newsweekly

Rick Harrison, the well-known face of Pawn Stars, has shared his grief following the sudden death of his 39-year-old son, Adam, due to a suspected fentanyl overdose.

“Yes, I can confirm Adam died from a fentanyl overdose. The fentanyl crisis in this country must be taken more seriously,” Rick stated in an interview with Fox News Digital.

The tragic news was first reported by TMZ, with the Las Vegas Metro Police Department initiating an investigation to uncover more details.

A statement from the Harrison family spokesperson, Laura Herlovich, expressed the family’s sadness:

“Our family is extremely saddened by the death of Adam. We ask for privacy as we grieve his loss.”

Adam, Rick’s second child from his first marriage to Kim Harrison, did not appear on Pawn Stars but had worked at the family’s business, Gold & Silver Pawn, before the show premiered in 2009.

Rick shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, posting a photo of himself and Adam smiling at a bar, captioned, “You will always be in my heart! I love you, Adam. ”

The rising number of fentanyl-related overdose deaths is alarming, with statistics from the CDC showing a 56.6% increase from January 2020 to 2021.

Our condolences go out to the Harrison family during this difficult time.

Source: newsweekly

These fluffy, golden brown Peach Fritters are a delightful treat perfect for a summer breakfast or brunch.

The sweet and juicy peaches complement the crispy exterior beautifully.

Ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup
Baking powder	1 tablespoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon
Large eggs	2
Whole milk	3/4 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced	4
Vegetable oil	For frying
Powdered sugar	For dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs. Stir in milk and vanilla.
3. Gradually combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Gently fold in diced peaches.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat to 375°F (190°C).
6. Spoon batter into hot oil, frying a few at a time.
7. Cook fritters for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain fritters on paper towels.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Credit: ilovefood