Fitness instructors Megan Ellis and Taryn Sisco from Barre East Fitness Studio in Frederick, Maryland, responded to body shaming after receiving a hurtful newspaper clipping. They published a blog post to spread the message that body shaming is unacceptable and to inspire others to stand against it. The post received significant attention and support from women nationwide. Despite knowing the sender's identity, they chose not to publicize it, aligning with their mission of providing a judgment-free zone. The sender later apologized, which Ellis and Sisco accepted, appreciating the conversation it started.

A major renovation by a team of experts, including Carrie Parker Interiors, LLC, transformed a classic 1920s Rye Colonial into a functional and stylish family home in Westchester County. The design blends energy and calm, formal and informal, classic and modern elements to meet the needs of a 21st-century family. Key areas like the family room, kitchen, breakfast room, dining room, office, entry, study, powder room, main bedroom, and main bath were updated with thoughtful design choices that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal.

A former Airbnb in Waccabuc has been transformed into a rustic-chic, family-friendly home by designer Elizabeth Strianese. The remodel aimed to balance historic and modern elements, making the home feel both current and aged. Key features include a massive chalet-style fireplace, a three-story entryway with a blown-glass chandelier, a kitchen with slim-profile Shaker-style cabinets, and a playroom with a rock-climbing wall. The design incorporates natural materials, vintage elements, and a mix of colors to create a cozy, luxurious atmosphere.

A formal Bedford Hills home undergoes a transformation to create a serene outdoor living space, blending formal and contemporary elements. Homeowner Anni de Saint Phalle collaborates with landscape designer Max Apton from Sweet Clover Design to achieve a clean, naturalistic look. The redesign includes a patio with neutral colors, a pool house with indoor/outdoor furniture, a European-inspired breezeway, and a vibrant pool garden. The project emphasizes the use of unique plants, thoughtful hardscaping, and functional outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment.

Ham the Astrochimp was a pivotal figure in the history of space exploration, whose suborbital journey in 1961 demonstrated that living creatures could survive and function in space, paving the way for human space travel. Born in Cameroon and purchased by the United States Air Force, Ham underwent extensive training at the Holloman Aerospace Medical Center before his mission. Despite the challenges and malfunctions during his flight, Ham survived and his success was crucial for the subsequent mission of astronaut Alan B. Shepard, Jr. Ham's post-mission life was spent at the National Zoo and later at the North Carolina Zoological Park, where he died of a heart attack at age 26. His legacy is complex, with NASA celebrating his bravery and contributions, while others, including Jane Goodall, have criticized his treatment.

Hulda the witch, a Bohemian immigrant in Sleepy Hollow, played a significant yet controversial role during the Revolutionary War. Despite her contributions, including herbal remedies and fighting against British troops, she was ostracized by the villagers. After her death, she was given a Christian burial in an unmarked grave. Hulda's story, though largely considered a legend, has gained recognition through various local events and memorials, highlighting her bravery and the complex history of Sleepy Hollow.

Anelle Gandelman of A-List Interiors designed a new-construction Colonial in Scarsdale to be both beautiful and family-friendly. The home features a transitional design, mixing traditional and modern elements. Architectural details, performance fabrics, and durable materials like Caesarstone quartz were used throughout the home. Gandelman's approach emphasizes high-quality items that can withstand wear over time, with a focus on original art and cohesive color schemes. Each room is crafted to be functional and luxurious, accommodating both family activities and elegant entertainment.

Anelle Gandelman of A-List Interiors transforms a new-construction Colonial in Scarsdale into a family-friendly yet elegant home. The design incorporates transitional elements, blending classic and modern styles to create spaces suitable for both family activities and entertaining guests. Key features include custom wall paneling, performance fabrics, and cohesive color schemes. Each room is thoughtfully designed to balance aesthetics with functionality, ensuring durability and comfort for the busy family.

A family in Purchase collaborated with Dale Blumberg Interiors, led by Dale Blumberg and her daughter Jess, to redesign their home with a blend of functionality and glamour. The redesign involved cosmetic changes to the 1990s-built home, incorporating elements from the family's previous home and focusing on creating cohesive, layered spaces. Key areas like the living room, family room, dining room, and basement were transformed with a mix of patterns, textures, and global influences, resulting in a stylish yet practical living environment.

Positive punishment is a behavior modification technique that involves adding an unpleasant consequence to reduce unwanted behavior. Examples include scolding, hand slapping, writing assignments, and additional chores. While it can be effective in certain situations, it is often less preferred compared to reinforcement methods. Expert Elizabeth Rossiaky emphasizes that positive punishment should be tailored to the individual and used alongside other methods to teach alternative behaviors. Spanking and other physical punishments are generally not recommended due to potential negative effects on behavior and mental health.