Introducing St. Maarten's New Sports Landmark: Vie L'Ven's Multi-Court With Panoramic Views of Indigo Bay and Limited-Edition Pickleball PaddleNeem seed extract improves effectiveness of pesticide December 6, 2024 Texas A&M University A research group has developed an innovative pesticide delivery system called nanopesticides. These tiny technologies could change how we use pesticides. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email Pesticides can be made more effective and environmentally friendly by improving how they stick to plant surfaces, thanks to new research led by Dr. Mustafa Akbulut, professor of chemical engineering at Texas A&M University. Akbulut and his research group have developed an innovative pesticide delivery system called nanopesticides. These tiny technologies, developed through a collaboration between Texas A&M University's engineering and agricultural colleges, Dr. Luis Cisneros-Zevallo, professor of Horticultural Science and Dr. Younjin Min, professor of Chemical Environ Engineering at University of California, Riverside, could change how we use pesticides. "The U.S. is a world leader in agricultural production, feeding not just our nation but much of the world. Yet we are using pesticides in a way that is simply not sustainable -- with a substantial fraction not reaching its intended target," said Akbulut. "Our research shows that by optimizing the surface chemistry of pesticide carriers, we can make these essential crop protection tools more efficient." The team studied different types of nanopesticide carriers, testing their "stickiness" to pepper leaves, a representative model for many important crops. They discovered that the carrier's surface chemistry plays an important role in how well the nanopesticide adheres to the plant. Nanopesticides encapsulate the active pesticide ingredients within microscopic carriers. Think of it like delivering a targeted package directly to the pest, minimizing collateral damage. This research focused on understanding how these nanopesticides interact with plant surfaces, a crucial step in maximizing their effectiveness. Pesticides are essential for protecting crops from pests and diseases, and without them, we would lose a huge portion of our harvests -- up to 70-80% of fruits, 40-50% of vegetables, and 20-30% of cereals. However, current pesticide application methods are incredibly inefficient. More than 80-90% of sprayed pesticides miss their target entirely, ending up in the environment where they can cause harm. This waste is not only bad for the planet, but it is also economically unsustainable. This compound, which Akbulut and Yashwanth Arcot, Ph.D candidate discuss in their paper published in Surfaces and Interfaces Journal, is a mixture of Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate (ELA), a food preservative compound, and neem seed extract. Arcot's interest in the research focuses on nanopesticide chemistry to ensure a higher targeting ability and the strong correlation between the nanopesticide carrier and its adsorption behavior. Akbulut believes that by using nanopesticide, he can increase the efficacy by better targeting the plant surface. Akbulut and his team aim to achieve this by taking various pesticides and modifying their interfacial properties using carriers that are best suited to interact with the plant surface characteristics. Overall, the goal of the research is to find a way for more efficient and environmentally friendly pesticide formulations that are sustainable for agricultural practices and global food security. "This study addresses a critical challenge in sustainable agriculture by optimizing nanopesticide systems to enhance efficacy, reduce environmental pollution, and minimize impacts on non-target organisms and human health," Arcot said. Neem seed is a naturally occurring pesticide that comes from the seeds of the neem tree and is used to control pests and diseases on crops. The extract from a neem seed tree grows mostly in India but is organic pesticide management. "Organic pesticides use this formulation, and we also use this molecule in the center. Although the carriers are different, the active ingredient inhibits or inactivates the pest." According to the paper, among various types of pesticides, nanopesticides have shown to be an advanced crop protection strategy that relies on agricultural technology, nanotechnology, and materials chemistry. Akbulut said this discovery has profound implications for the future of agriculture. By tailoring the surface chemistry of nanopesticides, scientists can optimize their effectiveness, ensuring that more of the pesticide reaches the target pest and less ends up polluting the environment. "For farmers or industry who are using the pesticides, they will clearly understand the value of this research," Akbulut said. "Pesticides, in general, are considered bad for the environment, using neem seed extract ensures crop survival from pests and is non-toxic for consumption." Story Source: Materials provided by Texas A&M University . Original written by Raven Wuebker. Note: Content may be edited for style and length. Journal Reference : Cite This Page :
Learn more about NORAD's efforts to track the big guy, play Santa themed games and see videos about the history of program online at www.noradsanta.org . How long has NORAD been tracking Santa? NORAD's predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), began tracking Santa in 1955. NORAD replaced CONAD in 1958 and took over the mission of tracking Santa's flight around the world, and they have been tracking Santa every year since! Why does NORAD track Santa? Twenty four hours a day, 365 days a year, NORAD tracks airplanes, missiles, space launches and anything else that flies in or around the North American continent, while also completing some other very important missions. While the tradition of tracking Santa began purely by accident, NORAD continues to track Santa. We're the only organization that has the technology, the qualifications, and the people to do it. And, we love it! NORAD is honored to be Santa's official tracker! When will Santa arrive at my house? NORAD tracks Santa, but only Santa knows his route, which means we cannot predict where and when he will arrive at your house. We do, however, know from history that it appears he arrives only when children are asleep! In most countries, it seems Santa arrives between 9:00 p.m. and midnight on December 24th. If children are still awake when Santa arrives, he moves on to other houses. He returns later, but only when the children are asleep! What route does Santa travel? Santa usually starts at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean and travels west. So, historically, Santa visits the South Pacific first, then New Zealand and Australia. After that, he shoots up to Japan, over to Asia, across to Africa, then onto Western Europe, Canada, the United States, Mexico and Central and South America. Keep in mind, Santa's route can be affected by weather, so it's really unpredictable. NORAD coordinates with Santa's Elf Launch Staff to confirm his launch time, but from that point on, Santa calls the shots. We just track him! Does Santa visit everyone? Indeed! Santa visits all homes where children believe in him. How can Santa travel the world within 24 hours? NORAD intelligence reports indicate that Santa does not experience time the way we do. His trip seems to take 24 hours to us, but to Santa it might last days, weeks or even months. Santa would not want to rush the important job of delivering presents to children and spreading joy to everyone, so the only logical conclusion is that Santa somehow functions within his own time-space continuum.
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A well-organised school assembly sets a positive tone for the day, inspiring students and fostering a sense of unity. This guide provides everything you need to make your assembly engaging and impactful: from current news highlights to motivational thoughts for the day, and a well-crafted anchoring script. Let’s dive into the essential components for hosting a memorable assembly. Mumbai: A well-organised school assembly sets a positive tone for the day, promoting unity and enthusiasm within the school community. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to planning and delivering impactful assemblies, covering key elements like current news updates, motivating thoughts for the day, and a flexible anchoring script. With these resources, creating a dynamic and meaningful event becomes a seamless task. School assemblies play a crucial role in the holistic development of students, offering a platform to cultivate leadership skills, build self-confidence, and strengthen community ties. They are more than just routine events; they provide valuable opportunities for collaboration, learning, and inspiration, becoming an essential part of a vibrant educational environment. The success of an assembly relies on careful planning and creative input. By blending educational, motivational, and entertaining elements, educators can craft sessions that engage students and leave a lasting impact. The process starts with selecting a theme that resonates with the students, aligns with the school’s values, or highlights important events and upcoming celebrations. A well-selected theme sets the tone and direction for the assembly. Starting with a warm, energetic welcome creates a welcoming atmosphere and encourages participation. Introducing a Thought of the Day offers a chance for reflection, motivating students with optimism and self-awareness. This can be followed by brief updates on school activities, achievements, or global news to keep students informed and connected. Including interactive activities like performances, role-plays, or quizzes adds excitement and encourages active student participation. These activities not only highlight student talents but also help develop public speaking and teamwork skills. As the assembly wraps up, recognising contributions, sharing important announcements, and concluding with a collective gesture—such as singing the national anthem, reciting the school pledge, or delivering a motivational message—helps foster pride and unity. To make the assembly memorable, ensure each segment is concise and engaging, holding the audience’s attention. Promoting inclusivity and valuing each student’s presence enhances the experience, leaving a positive, lasting impact. With thoughtful planning and effective execution, school assemblies can become transformative events that inspire, strengthen connections, and create cherished memories for everyone involved. Thought for the Day for school assembly “Kindness is not an act, it’s a lifestyle.” School assembly news headlines today Refer to the top school assembly headlines covering national, international, and sports news: National news for school assembly International news for school assembly Sports news for school assembly Anchoring Script for School Assembly Here’s an engaging and lively anchoring script for a school assembly—a perfect mix of warm greetings, inspirational thoughts, news updates, motivational moments, and an exciting performance. Crafted to captivate and energise, this script guarantees a memorable and impactful experience for everyone involved. [Opening Remarks] Anchor 1: Good morning, everyone! A warm welcome to our respected Principal, dedicated teachers, and all our wonderful students. I’m [Anchor Name], and I’m thrilled to guide you through today’s assembly. Let’s start the day on a high note! Anchor 2: Good morning! It’s fantastic to see so many bright and eager faces ready to kick off the day with positive energy and purpose. We have an exciting program ahead, so let’s dive right in! [Thought for the Day] Anchor 1: To set the tone for the day, let’s begin with an inspiring thought. [Student Name], please share today’s thought. Anchor 2: Thank you, [Student Name], for such uplifting words. Let’s carry this thought with us as we go through the day and let it guide our actions. [News and Announcements] Anchor 1: Now, let’s move on to the latest updates. Here are some important news items and announcements for everyone. [Provide relevant updates and announcements.] Anchor 2: A quick reminder to all those participating in the Annual Day celebrations—please make sure to complete your event registrations by the end of this week. We can’t wait to see your amazing performances! [Motivational Segment] Anchor 1: It’s time for a motivational boost to inspire us all! Let’s remember, that every day is an opportunity to grow, learn, and work towards our goals. Anchor 2: Exactly! Every challenge we overcome makes us stronger, and every effort takes us one step closer to success. Let’s embrace today with energy and determination. [Special Performance] Anchor 1: Now, it’s time for something special! Please join me in welcoming [Student/Group Name], who will be performing a [type of performance, e.g., skit, song, or dance]. Let’s give them a big round of applause as they take the stage! Anchor 2: Sit back, relax, and enjoy the performance. Let’s show our appreciation for their creativity and effort! [Closing Remarks] Anchor 1: That was an amazing performance! A huge thank you to [Student/Group Name] for sharing their talent with us. Anchor 2: Absolutely! As we wrap up today’s assembly, let’s carry the positive energy and lessons we’ve learned with us. Anchor 1: Let’s continue supporting one another, facing challenges confidently, and making the most of every opportunity. Anchor 2: Thank you all for your participation and enthusiasm. Wishing everyone a productive and rewarding day ahead! Both Anchors: Goodbye, and have a wonderful day! This script is designed to make your school assembly both engaging and impactful, helping to foster positivity, build a sense of community, and create excitement. This guide provides everything you need to design a school assembly that resonates with students and staff alike. By integrating relevant news, motivational messages, and a well-prepared anchoring script, it inspires the audience, fosters positivity, and ensures the assembly is an event everyone will look forward to. Click for more latest Events news . Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at News9. Chhaya Gupta, a lifestyle sub-editor specialising in fashion, food, relationships, travel, well-being, and spirituality, is a dedicated fashion enthusiast and avid traveller. With meticulous attention to detail, she stays abreast of the latest developments in major events across Indian cities and internationally. From life to style, she derives immense pleasure in covering a variety of subjects. With 1.5 years of experience, she has honed her skills while working at The Free Press Journal.Chinese firm participates holiday gift-giving campaign in Serbia
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STEPHENVILLE, Texas (AP) — Keitenn Bristow had 23 points in Tarleton State's 70-60 victory over Florida A&M on Sunday. Bristow also had six rebounds and three blocks for the Texans (5-10). Bubu Benjamin added 17 points and 11 rebounds. Marty Silvera pitched in with nine points, five rebounds and six steals. The Rattlers (3-8) were led by Sterling Young with 16 points. Jordan Chatman added 11 points and Kaleb Washington totaled seven points, eight rebounds and two steals. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .What to know about Northern California’s rare tsunami warning
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Prevalence of cultism, armed robbery reflects societal decay – Ex-Ogun commissionerThe typical scenario begins innocently enough, with an advertisement promising easy access to quick cash in exchange for taking out a car loan. The bait is set, and the unsuspecting victim takes the plunge, lured by the promise of a lucrative payout. Little do they know that they are entering into a tangled web of deceit orchestrated by cunning fraudsters.IPO News Today Live Updates: Navigate the dynamic world of initial public offerings with our dedicated IPO News section. Here, we bring you the latest updates on companies stepping into the public market, offering insights into their financial strategies, valuation, and market reception. Whether you're an investor looking for new opportunities or simply curious about the financial markets, our coverage provides essential information on IPO timelines, pricing, and performance post-listing. Stay informed about which companies are making their debut on the stock exchange and understand the trends and factors influencing their decisions to go public in today's economic landscape. IPO News Today Live: Senores Pharmaceuticals IPO listing date today. GMP, experts signal up to 70% gain for share allottees IPO News Today Live: Carraro India IPO listing date today. Here’s what GMP, experts indicate
As South Korea navigates this turbulent period, the nation's adherence to democratic principles, the rule of law, and constitutional norms will be essential in preserving the integrity of its institutions and ensuring a peaceful transition of power, should impeachment proceedings against President Moon come to fruition.The draw against Arsenal marked an important result for Fulham as they continue their battle to secure their Premier League status. Reed acknowledged the significance of the point gained and stressed the importance of maintaining a positive mindset in the remaining matches of the season. "Every point is crucial for us at this stage," he stated. "We have to keep pushing ourselves and believing in our abilities. It's going to be tough, but we are ready for the challenge."Jets Week 14 report card: Offense’s best game still wasn’t enough
EXCLUSIVE TOMS Shoes founder Blake Mycoskie reveals suicidal depression as second wife Molly Holm files for divorce 18 months after lavish wedding By JOSH BOSWELL FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 22:26, 6 December 2024 | Updated: 22:29, 6 December 2024 e-mail View comments Multi-millionaire TOMS Shoes founder Blake Mycoskie split from his second wife Molly Holm just 18 months after their lavish 'love festival' wedding after confessing he had contemplated suicide, DailyMail.com can reveal. Molly, 33, filed in a Marin County, California , court to divorce the unlucky-in-love businessman on October 21, just weeks after categorically denying rumors of their broken marriage. The filing came a week after Mycoskie revealed on his friend’s podcast that he had been battling severe depression for the past year and even considered killing himself at his darkest moments. Blake, 48, who is worth an estimated $400 million, has two children with his first wife Heather Lang and was helping raise Molly's six-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, Ella. DailyMail.com spoke to two sources close to the couple who said they split this summer, though Molly rubbished the claims when contacted in August, saying that they were 'on a beautiful journey together,' 'love each other a lot,' and 'we're great'. They marked their one-year anniversary in June, celebrating 12 months since their lavish Utah desert wedding at a $3,700-per-night hotel, with guests flown in by private jet. It was a spectacular and theatrical ceremony, with Blake and Molly arriving at the festivities on the backs of camels and later partying in a 70s psychedelic-themed disco. But by the time summer 2024 came around, rumor was spreading through the couple's friends that the relationship was getting rocky. Blake Mycoskie and Molly Holm announced their engagement in 2021 but broke things off temporarily just months after moving to Costa Rica together DailyMail.com can now reveal former model Holm, 33, has filed for divorce 18 months after the couple tied the knot at the luxurious Amangiri Hotel in Canyon Point, Utah Molly declined to comment when asked about the divorce. Brad did not immediately respond to approaches from DailyMail.com. Just a week before Molly filed divorce papers, Blake spoke out on his college buddy Tyler Ramsey’s podcast revealing he had been in a deep depression and even contemplated suicide. Blake said that in June he was ‘at the lowest possible point I’ve ever been in my life’, and had been ‘struggling with a pretty serious depression for over a year’. ‘Last April I was at the end of my rope. I didn’t really know what to do. I felt totally trapped,’ he said on the Painful Lessons Podcast on October 16. ‘I didn’t feel there was anything to look forward to in life. I was really consumed with these horrible dark thoughts. It was really scary.’ He said a psychiatrist ‘misdiagnosed’ him with bipolar type two, and put him on antipsychotic, mood stabilizing and antidepressant medications that he believes led him to become suicidal. Blake said he even tried electric shock therapy, but nothing worked. He spent five weeks at the Alternative to Meds Center in Sedona, Arizona weening himself off his medication with the help of another psychiatrist. The entrepreneur posted on Facebook about his struggle, saying that he was ‘not cured’ but improving. Court records show Molly, 33, filed in a Marin County, California court to divorce the unlucky-in-love businessman on October 21, just weeks after categorically denying rumors of their broken marriage Holm, a former model and investment fund manager, looked stunning in a lacy white wedding dress with a long veil and train and a sheer panel on its profile The 'madly in love' couple, pictured during their engagement party in November 2021, became engaged in September 2021 and had plans for Mycoskie to adopt Holm's five-year-old daughter Ella Pictures snapped by guests and posted on Instagram show an open-air dinner overlooking the desert sunset near the border with Arizona during the June 2023 wedding ceremony ‘Today, I feel like myself again and am committed to continuing my healing journey and rebuilding my life. While I'm not "cured," I'm on a path I believe will lead to lasting wellness,’ he wrote. One person close to the Mycoskies told DailyMail.com that their children were informed of Blake and Molly separating in early August. Read More EXCLUSIVE: Even the dog wore a bow tie! TOMS shoes founder Blake Mycoskie marries Molly Holm in lavish three-day 'love festival' wedding at luxury Amangiri Resort in Utah where bride and groom arrived on camelback - after temporarily splitting last year At the time, Molly protested that Blake was just away on a trip hiking the Grand Canyon. 'The kids were told something different, but it had nothing to do with that,' she told DailyMail.com. 'No papers are being filed and we aren't splitting up. There's people that we think are our friends, that are spreading rumors unfortunately. 'We love each other a lot. We've been on a beautiful journey together, and we're continuing that journey and we have a beautiful family.' They had been living in Costa Rica, but later moved to Marin County, California, near Molly's family. 'It's definitely not Costa Rica, but it's very beautiful,' she said of their new home that summer. 'We're near my family, and that's nice. I grew up here. We're great, we're living life. We're in Marin, and it's really hot.' Either way, by October, their feelings had cooled and their irreconcilable differences had got the better of them, with Molly filing court papers in Marin County. Their divorce may lead to a tricky financial unpicking, as Blake's $10million Marin mansion was moved from his trust to being held solely in Molly's name in January last year, according to property records. The serial entrepreneur and philanthropist founded Shoes for Better Tomorrows, now just TOMS, in 2006 after a trip to Argentina where he saw kids with no shoes and decided to donate a pair for each one sold. By 2019 the firm had donated 95 million pairs of shoes. It was valued at $625million in 2014 when Mycoskie sold 50 per cent to Bain capital. In 2019 he split with Heather, his then-wife and mother of his son Summit and daughter Charlie. Within a year he was looking for love again, even taking part in TCM reality show The Sexiest Bachelor in America. Life coach China Jones posted pictures from the event on Instagram and gushed over the 'incredible' three-day celebration, with the main ceremony being held on a big rock mesa under the cliffs in open air The luxury resort and venue boasts stunning views at sunset and sunrise over the canyon cliffs The lavish celebration were held at Amangiri Hotel in Canyon Point – a favorite among A-list celebrities and where rooms start at around $3,700 per night But he found his next partner off-screen when he started dating Molly that year. The two got engaged in September 2021. DailyMail.com previously reported an alleged hiccup in their relationship in May 2022 when friends said Blake and Molly temporarily split after realizing they became so 'wrapped up in each other' in a whirlwind romance that they needed to step back 'to concentrate on their kids'. Blake sold his Jackson, Wyoming, mansion for $65million, they moved to Costa Rica, and allegedly even planned for him to adopt her daughter Ella. But friends said they soon found their adventure-filled life left too little time for their combined three children. 'They told me, "we're good friends, and we just want to concentrate on our kids, because we got so wrapped up in each other",' one confidant told DailyMail.com anonymously. 'They were madly in love. And I think they just excluded their kids. 'He was going to adopt Ella. That probably both got them thinking about the reality of things. Like is she going to adopt his kids? Things just got weird. 'I think they didn't have enough time at the end of the day for their children. And they realized, we need to put the brakes on things and be great friends and parent our kids right now,' the friend added. Speaking to DailyMail.com this summer, Molly said they put their kids first throughout the relationship. At their June 2023 wedding they were the picture of a loving couple, surrounded by adoring guests. Mycoskie and Holm, who began dating in 2020, often shared photos of their family adventures on social media Mycoskie had sold his Jackson, Wyoming mansion for $65million to moved to Costa Rica with his then fiancée, and had reportedly even planned to adopt Molly's daughter Ella The desert nuptials were kicked off with the couple arriving on the backs of two camels, their two girls wearing frilly baby blue dresses and starry crowns and Holm in a black jumpsuit embroidered with moons and stars; their friends and family gathered to greet them. Pictures snapped by guests and posted on Instagram show a four-tiered chocolate wedding cake and an open-air dinner overlooking the desert sunset near the border with Arizona. Holm, who says she worked as an Investment Fund Manager at Highbridge Equity Partners and studied at UC Berkeley, wore a lacy white wedding dress with a long veil and train and a sheer panel on its profile. She wore light jewelry of two bracelets and moon-and-stars earrings. Blake wore a black tuxedo with a desert plant boutonniere. The newlyweds posed for photos by canyon cliffs with their dog. An insider told DailyMail.com that guests were flown in by private jet then bused to the location in 4x4s due to the rough desert terrain. 'The day they arrived there was a western saloon theme,' the source said. 'A lot of guests went horse riding over the desert. Then there was another event with a Moroccan bazaar theme. 'Molly and Blake arrived for the whole event on camelback – as you do. Mycoskie has two children from his previous marriage to Heather Lang. They are pictured together at a TOMS for Target launch event in 2014 'The wedding itself was held on a big rock mesa under the cliffs in the open air. 'Then there was a 70s-themed disco, complete with an illuminated dance floor. Everyone had psychedelic attire and it went late into the night.' The same month, Mycoskie had pledged $100million, a quarter of his net worth, to psychedelic therapies for treating mental health conditions. The entrepreneur said he hoped his donation would inspire others to invest in psilocybin, MDMA and other mind-altering drugs with potential mental health benefits. Life coach China Jones posted pictures from the event and gushed with praise for her friends. 'Coming down off the most unforgettable wedding weekend love festival that will forever be a favorite memory,' she wrote. 'Set in the breathtaking Utah canyons, it was nothing short of incredible. From the western saloon, Moroccan bazar, remote & stunning ceremony location, art car crawl and disco after party... not one detail was overlooked. 'The vision, creativity, and attention to detail was only matched by the caliber of people in attendance. I had so much fun meeting new friends and reconnecting with my lifelong crew of [mermaid emojis].' But now, just 18 months later, the fairytale has ended. Share or comment on this article: TOMS Shoes founder Blake Mycoskie reveals suicidal depression as second wife Molly Holm files for divorce 18 months after lavish wedding e-mail Add comment
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NoneThe military's tradition of tracking Santa Claus on his gravity-defying sweep across the globe will carry on this Christmas Eve, even if the U.S. government shuts down , officials said Friday. Each year, at least 100,000 kids call into the North American Aerospace Defense Command to inquire about Santa’s location. Millions more follow online . “We fully expect for Santa to take flight on Dec. 24 and NORAD will track him," the U.S.-Canadian agency said in a statement. On any other night, NORAD is scanning the heavens for potential threats , such as last year's Chinese spy balloon . But on Christmas Eve, volunteers in Colorado Springs, Colorado, are fielding questions like, “When is Santa coming to my house?” and, “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” The endeavor is supported by local and corporate sponsors, who also help shield the tradition from Washington dysfunction. Bob Sommers, 63, a civilian contractor and NORAD volunteer, told The Associated Press that there are "screams and giggles and laughter” when families call in, usually on speakerphone. Sommers often says on the call that everyone must be asleep before Santa arrives, prompting parents to say, "Do you hear what he said? We got to go to bed early." NORAD's annual tracking of Santa has endured since the Cold War , predating ugly sweater parties and Mariah Carey classics . Here's how it began and why the phones keep ringing. It started with a child's accidental phone call in 1955. The Colorado Springs newspaper printed a Sears advertisement that encouraged children to call Santa, listing a phone number. A boy called. But he reached the Continental Air Defense Command, now NORAD, a joint U.S. and Canadian effort to spot potential enemy attacks. Tensions were growing with the Soviet Union, along with anxieties about nuclear war. Air Force Col. Harry W. Shoup picked up an emergency-only “red phone” and was greeted by a tiny voice that began to recite a Christmas wish list. “He went on a little bit, and he takes a breath, then says, ‘Hey, you’re not Santa,’” Shoup told The Associated Press in 1999. Realizing an explanation would be lost on the youngster, Shoup summoned a deep, jolly voice and replied, “Ho, ho, ho! Yes, I am Santa Claus. Have you been a good boy?” Shoup said he learned from the boy's mother that Sears mistakenly printed the top-secret number. He hung up, but the phone soon rang again with a young girl reciting her Christmas list. Fifty calls a day followed, he said. In the pre-digital age, the agency used a 60-by-80-foot (18-by-24-meter) plexiglass map of North America to track unidentified objects. A staff member jokingly drew Santa and his sleigh over the North Pole. The tradition was born. “Note to the kiddies,” began an AP story from Colorado Springs on Dec. 23, 1955. “Santa Claus Friday was assured safe passage into the United States by the Continental Air Defense Command.” In a likely reference to the Soviets, the article noted that Santa was guarded against possible attack from "those who do not believe in Christmas.” Some grinchy journalists have nitpicked Shoup's story, questioning whether a misprint or a misdial prompted the boy's call. In 2014, tech news site Gizmodo cited an International News Service story from Dec. 1, 1955, about a child's call to Shoup. Published in the Pasadena Independent, the article said the child reversed two digits in the Sears number. "When a childish voice asked COC commander Col. Harry Shoup, if there was a Santa Claus at the North Pole, he answered much more roughly than he should — considering the season: ‘There may be a guy called Santa Claus at the North Pole, but he’s not the one I worry about coming from that direction,'" Shoup said in the brief piece. In 2015, The Atlantic magazine doubted the flood of calls to the secret line, while noting that Shoup had a flair for public relations. Phone calls aside, Shoup was indeed media savvy. In 1986, he told the Scripps Howard News Service that he recognized an opportunity when a staff member drew Santa on the glass map in 1955. A lieutenant colonel promised to have it erased. But Shoup said, “You leave it right there,” and summoned public affairs. Shoup wanted to boost morale for the troops and public alike. “Why, it made the military look good — like we’re not all a bunch of snobs who don’t care about Santa Claus,” he said. Shoup died in 2009. His children told the StoryCorps podcast in 2014 that it was a misprinted Sears ad that prompted the phone calls. “And later in life he got letters from all over the world,” said Terri Van Keuren, a daughter. "People saying ‘Thank you, Colonel, for having, you know, this sense of humor.’” NORAD's tradition is one of the few modern additions to the centuries-old Santa story that have endured, according to Gerry Bowler, a Canadian historian who spoke to the AP in 2010. Ad campaigns or movies try to “kidnap” Santa for commercial purposes, said Bowler, who wrote “Santa Claus: A Biography.” NORAD, by contrast, takes an essential element of Santa's story and views it through a technological lens. In a recent interview with the AP, Air Force Lt. Gen. Case Cunningham explained that NORAD radars in Alaska and Canada — known as the northern warning system — are the first to detect Santa. He leaves the North Pole and typically heads for the international dateline in the Pacific Ocean. From there he moves west, following the night. “That's when the satellite systems we use to track and identify targets of interest every single day start to kick in,” Cunningham said. “A probably little-known fact is that Rudolph’s nose that glows red emanates a lot of heat. And so those satellites track (Santa) through that heat source.” NORAD has an app and website, www.noradsanta.org , that will track Santa on Christmas Eve from 4 a.m. to midnight, mountain standard time. People can call 1-877-HI-NORAD to ask live operators about Santa’s location from 6 a.m. to midnight, mountain time.
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