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🚨 In the aftermath of the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, a homeowner stumbled upon a massive surprise - none other than a 525-pound black bear affectionately dubbed "Big Boy" lounging under the house (not what you thought the title meant was it?). The bear had apparently decided the cool, dark crawl space was the perfect refuge after the wildfire disrupted its usual habitat. But when you’re over half a ton of furry muscle, hiding isn’t exactly your strong suit.

Wildlife officials were called to the scene, but relocating Big Boy was no easy feat. Tranquilizing him wasn’t an option due to his size and the tight crawl space, so they set a more strategic trap right outside the entrance. To everyone’s relief, the bear didn’t put up much of a fight and was successfully captured within minutes, probably realizing he’d overstayed his welcome.

Once secured, Big Boy was fitted with a GPS collar for tracking and safely released into the Angeles National Forest, where he could roam freely without startling any unsuspecting homeowners. Meanwhile, the crawl space got a much-needed security upgrade to prevent future wildlife squatters from turning it into a cozy hideout. It’s safe to say this bear’s wild adventure ended on a high note, with both him and the neighborhood breathing a little easier!

Watch the video and full story here from Firefighter Nation

The Latest

• 🔋 Burning batteries in Tesla crash complicate rescue; 1 dead in Southern California - KTLA5

• 🏠️ 12-Year-Old Dies After Mom Sets Fire to Home - Inside Edition

• 🪦 Big Elm firefighter dies responding to structure fire - WENY TV News

• 🤝 Motorcyclist injured in accident meets first responders who saved him - Live 5 News

📣 Need a Super Bowl Appetizer? Let me help!

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All my recipes in one spot! Healthy, high-protein recipes for the station and your family. Easy search options and adjustable recipe servings for however big/small your crew is.

👨‍🍳 New recipes posted weekly - go check it out!

🏈 Super Bowl recipes INCOMING! Newly posted Beef Queso Dip - perfect for your upcoming Sunday Funday.

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🔥 This Healthy Jambalaya is hands down one of my all-time favorites! Packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of spice, it’s guaranteed to knock your socks off. With just 589 calories and a whopping 58g of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for fueling your gains while keeping your fridge stocked with meal prep gold for the week. Trust me, you’re going to want this on repeat!

🥩 If you’re looking to save on your proteins, I highly recommend Butcher Box – the ultimate, high-quality meat subscription. I’ve been using it for a while now and the customization options and easy ordering help keep my fridge and freezer stocked with everything I need.

You can watch the recipe video here or check out the full recipe here with a grocery list, instructions, and the ability to edit number of servings.

🔪 Helpful Kitchen Tools For This Recipe:

Grind

💪 "The ability to be still is an extraordinary skill." – Naval Ravikant

Isometric holds are a type of strength training exercise where a muscle is engaged and under tension without changing its length or causing movement at the joint. Unlike dynamic exercises that involve lifting or lowering weights, isometric exercises require you to hold a static position for a period of time. Isometric holds are great to help overcome strength plateaus and build mental fortitude, stability and control.

🔴 Warm-Up: *2 rounds

• 3 min walk/light jog

• Stand on one leg, eyes closed (1 min per leg)

• 5 inch-worms

🟢 Main Workout: *10 exercises, 3 rounds (all until failure or 2 minute max)

• Dead hang

• Wall sit

• DB bicep hold at 90 degrees

• Glute bridge hold

• Elbow plank

• Flexed arm hang

• Side plank (left side)

• Side plank (right side)

• Superman hold

• Calf raise hold

🔵 Cool Down: 1 min each

• Downward-facing dog

• Standing quad stretch (both sides)

• Butterfly stretch

Lead

"Don’t stop when you’re tired. Stop when you’re done." — David Goggins

🗣️ More often than not, delivering negative feedback can feel like navigating a minefield blindfolded. Managers often stumble into common pitfalls that turn constructive criticism into a recipe for disaster. Let's explore these blunders and how to sidestep them with finesse.

1. The Vague Voyager: Some managers dish out feedback that's as clear as mud, leaving employees scratching their heads. Instead of saying, "Your work needs improvement," pinpoint the issue: Clarity is key!

2. The Timeliness Trap: Giving negative feedback three months after the fact is like showing up a week late to a structure fire, it’s not going to help much. Address issues promptly to give employees a fair shot at improvement. Timely feedback is the gift that keeps on giving.

3. The Sugarcoat Syndrome: While cushioning criticism with praise seems kind, it can dilute the message. Be direct yet empathetic. For instance, "I appreciate your effort on the call today, but missing ‘xyz’ really slowed us down." Honesty with heart works wonders.

4. The Public Pointer: Nobody wants to be called out in front of the whole crew. Firefighters thrive on trust and camaraderie, and a public scolding can destroy that. If someone messed up their radio communications or command checks, pull them aside in private and discuss it. A firehouse is a family, not a courtroom. Constructive criticism should build them up, not tear them down.

5. The Emotional Eruptor: Letting emotions drive feedback can lead to regrettable outbursts. Stay calm and composed, focusing on behaviors and outcomes rather than personal attributes. Keep it professional, not personal. Calm leadership earns respect.

By steering clear of these common missteps, managers can transform negative feedback from a dreaded ordeal into a constructive dialogue that promotes growth and development. Remember, it's not just about pointing out what's wrong but guiding the way to make it right.

Read the full article here from Harvard Business Review - you’re whole team will thank you.

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