STM Blog
That strange thing over Exeter
a sighting of an unidentified flying object (UFO) occurred in Exeter, New Hampshire, which involved the police and a Navy man named Norman Muscatello.
On September 3, 1965, a sighting of an unidentified flying object (UFO) occurred in Exeter, New Hampshire, which involved the police and a Navy man named Norman Muscatello. The incident began when a teenager named Norman Muscarello reported seeing a glowing object in the sky while walking home from a friend’s house around 2 a.m.
Upon reaching his house, Muscarello reported what he saw to his mother and then to the local police department. Officer Eugene Bertrand was dispatched to investigate, but he too saw the strange lights in the sky, which he described as “red, orange, and white.”
Another officer, David Hunt, also witnessed the object and described it as a “huge object with flashing red lights.” The officers followed the object for several miles, eventually losing sight of it.
However, the following night, the police received more reports of a UFO sighting in the area. This time, Officer Bertrand and Officer Hunt were joined by Officer Ronald Aubert, and they encountered a strange object hovering over the trees.
As they approached the object, it suddenly took off, making a strange whistling sound. The officers reported that the object was approximately 80 feet long and 20 feet wide, and it had a red flashing light on top.
It was during this second sighting that Norman Muscatello, a Navy man stationed at the nearby Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, also witnessed the object. Muscatello claimed that the object had a metallic exterior and emitted a deafening noise before it took off at an incredible speed.
The sighting of the UFO in Exeter made national headlines, and it was widely reported in the media. Many people reported seeing strange lights in the sky in the days following the sighting, and it sparked a renewed interest in UFOs and extraterrestrial life.
Despite numerous investigations, no definitive explanation for the Exeter sighting has ever been found. However, the incident remains one of the most well-known and documented UFO sightings in American history.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exeter_incident
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exeter_incident#Skeptical_Inquirer_explanation
Air Force investigation and explanation
When Exeter’s police chief read the reports of Bertrand, Hunt, and Muscarello he called nearby Pease Air Force Base and reported a UFO sighting. The Air Force sent Major David Griffin and Lieutenant Alan Brandt to interview the three men. The Air Force officers asked all three men not to report their sighting to the press, but a reporter from the Manchester Union-Leader newspaper had already interviewed them. Major Griffin sent a report of the incident to the staff of Project Blue Book, the official Air Force research group assigned to investigate UFO reports. Griffin wrote that “At this time I have been unable to arrive at a probable cause of this sighting. The three observers seem to be stable, reliable persons, especially the two patrolmen. I viewed the area of the sighting and found nothing in the area that could be the probable cause. Pease AFB had five B-47 aircraft flying in the area but I do not believe that they had any connection with this sighting.”
Before Project Blue Book could send this evaluation to the Pentagon, however, the Air Force had already issued an explanation of Muscarello and the two policemen’s sighting to the press. The Pentagon informed reporters that the three men had seen “nothing more than stars and planets twinkling … owing to a temperature inversion.” Project Blue Book then issued its own explanation, stating that “Operation Big Blast … a SAC/NORAD training mission” had been active on the night of the sighting and that it could have accounted for the UFO. Project Blue Book’s supervisor, USAF Major Hector Quintanilla, wrote policemen Bertrand and Hunt that “in addition to aircraft from this operation [Big Blast], there were also five B-47 aircraft flying in your area during this period … since there were many aircraft in the area, at the time, and there were no reports of unidentified objects from personnel engaged in this operation, we might then assume that the objects [you] observed between midnight and two a.m. might be associated with this military air operation.” Quintanilla also added that “If, however, these aircraft were noted by either of you, this would tend to eliminate this air operation as a possible explanation for the objects observed.” (wikipedia)
The Aftermath (according to wikipedia)
The Exeter UFO sightings — and particularly the initial sightings involving Norman Muscarello and police officers Eugene Bertrand and David Hunt — remain among the best-documented and best-publicized in UFO history. In 1966, Fuller published an account of his investigation into the case. Entitled Incident at Exeter, it made The New York Times Best Seller list. Muscarello, who insisted for the rest of his life that what he had witnessed was real and not an ordinary object, died in April 2003 at age 55 following a brief illness. Bertrand died in 1998, and Hunt in 2011. In 2010, the Exeter Kiwanis Club started the “Exeter UFO Festival” as a fundraiser to benefit children’s charities in the Exeter area.
https://stmdailynews.com/what-do-you-do-if-you-see-a-ufo
https://stmdailynews.com/category/stm-blog/blog/
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Senior Pickleball Report
Latest People of Pickleball Podcast Episode: Daniel Gold’s Journey from Wimbledon Courts to Pickleball Stardom
The latest “People of Pickleball” podcast features Daniel Gold, a former pro tennis player turned pickleball star. He shares his transition, entrepreneurial ventures, and personal stories.
The world of pickleball never ceases to amaze, offering up transformative stories that span cultures, continents, and competitive spirits. “People of Pickleball,” the popular podcast hosted by Michael “Sleeves” Sliwa, gives listeners an insider’s peek into the lives and adventures of pickleball personalities. In the latest episode, Sleeves sits down with Daniel Gold, a player who shines bright in the National Pickleball League with the Austin Ignite.
From Wimbledon to Pickleball Glory
Daniel Gold might currently be lighting up the pickleball courts, but his journey began on the lush, iconic grass of Wimbledon. A former pro tennis player from the ’80s, Daniel didn’t just play any tennis; he had a stint as what he modestly refers to as “bad pro tennis.” However, his post-tennis career is anything but ordinary, having spent 35 years building entrepreneurial businesses across Europe and the USA.
A Life Lived Full and Fast
Daniel’s conversation with Sleeves explores more than just pickleball tactics. It delves into a life filled with ventures and adventures, highlighting his prolonged entrepreneurial career. This episode doesn’t just skim the surface but dives deep into what it means to transition completely from one competitive arena to another later in life, and what drives someone to keep pursuing new peaks.
Family, Fun Facts, and Elton John?
Aside from business and sports, Daniel Gold gives listeners a glimpse into his personal life. Married to his teenage sweetheart, Stephanie, and a father to three daughters, Daniel’s life off the court is as full and fascinating as his athletic endeavors. And if you’re in for a bit of a quirky twist, get a load of this—Elton John once dedicated the song “Daniel” to him in front of a crowd of 100,000 at the British National Stadium, a fun fact that makes for an amusing and delightful tidbit in this engaging conversation.
Pickleball and Beyond
In this episode, Daniel shares his experience with the Austin Ignite and what it’s like playing in the thriving National Pickleball League. The discussion also veers into the growing popularity of pickleball, how the sport is evolving, and why it appeals to former athletes like him. As pickleball continues to ascend in the sports world, stories like Daniel’s provide a personal touch to the broader narrative of this fast-growing sport.
An Episode Not to Miss
“People of Pickleball” is known for bringing forward stories that inspire, entertain, and inform. Michael Sleeves Sliwa, with his engaging style and insightful questions, makes sure that every episode, including this latest with Daniel Gold, is not just about pickleball but about the people who give the sport its heartbeat. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a pickleball player, or just someone who loves good storytelling, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune into the People of Pickleball Podcast to catch this fascinating episode with Daniel Gold. Discover the intersections of sports, entrepreneurship, and personal growth—all through the lens of pickleball.
You can also watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F1_cWhA2CYA
For more stories and episodes, visit the People of Pickleball Podcast website or find the podcast on your favorite streaming platform. Don’t forget to subscribe for more engaging content from the ever-expanding universe of pickleball.
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
Sign up for the SPR Newsletter and get news and episode release info right into your inbox: https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/sleeves-spr-newsletter-sign-up/
Hey, “People of Pickleball” fans! Looking for some great deals on the latest pickleball gear and services? We’ve got you covered! Just head over to this link for exclusive discounts crafted just for our listeners. Don’t miss out on elevating your game with top-notch pickleball essentials at amazing prices! https://stm-store.online/spr-affiliates-and-partners/
Sleeve’s SPR on the web: https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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The Bridge
In the face of DEI backlash, belonging plays a key role to future success
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in workplaces soared, but now they’re waning. The author’s research touts “belonging” as crucial, yet contested.
Andrea Carter, Adler University
Diversity, equity and inclusion efforts have become increasingly visible in U.S. workplaces, especially over the past five years. However, DEI has recently come under attack, with companies scaling back their DEI plans.
As a professor of organizational psychology, I believe businesses should refine rather than abandon these efforts. Introducing a powerful concept, “belonging,” could hold the key.
Although people mistakenly use “belonging” and “inclusion” interchangeably, their differences matter a lot – and can have a significant impact on employee satisfaction and organizational success.
What DEI is and why it’s struggling
Diversity initiatives have a long history in American workplaces, but it’s only recently that “DEI” has become a buzzword. DEI refers to policies and initiatives implemented by organizations to ensure fair treatment of and full participation by all people.
Adoption of formal DEI programs has seen significant growth. In 2019, around 64% of organizations had some form of DEI initiative. By 2023, this rose to 89%, demonstrating a clear upward trend.
Research shows that companies with diverse teams are 70% more likely to capture new markets and are 87% better at making decisions. Additionally, 85% of CEOs report diverse workforces improving profitability. Despite this, a trend of businesses and schools significantly or completely eradicating their DEI initiatives has become prevalent in 2024.
What happened? While external factors contributed to the backlash, including political pressure and a changed legal environment, research suggests that problems with how DEI is conceptualized and practiced also bear a fair share of the blame.
Misunderstanding DEI
While diversity and inclusion are often well-intentioned, many organizations that approached change initiatives solely through diversity metrics have failed. Effective DEI strategy focuses on learning and development, mentorship, and allyship, extending beyond race and gender. The challenge comes from narrow views of DEI, driving oversimplifications and zero-sum thinking.
For example, people have multiple intersecting identities, with complex traits that often depend on social context. But some DEI efforts ignore that complexity, reducing employees to a single category, such as gender, race, age or disability status. That leaves people, regardless of whether they feel included in “ingroups” or “outgroups,” feeling diminished.
Similarly, research shows that people’s actions and opportunities are strongly influenced by their environment. But too often, DEI efforts place the responsibility for growth entirely on individuals. That actually reinforces people’s biases because group dynamics and social structures shape collective behaviors.
When models fail to distribute accountability and responsibility effectively, collective behavior will uphold toxic environments.
To be fair, not all organizations have fallen into these traps. Those with leaders that adopted a more contemporary understanding of power and bias have developed more effective strategies for employees to thrive.
My research suggests that for DEI initiatives to succeed, respect and fairness must be present. These requirements are rooted in the foundations of belonging.
DEI’s evolution: Integrating belonging for lasting impact
While belonging is related to inclusion, research shows it’s much more than just a synonym.
Inclusion may focus on being seen, accepted and valued within a team or community. Belonging goes deeper, involving a genuine sense of connection and identity within a group.
To truly experience belonging, it’s not enough to feel included; my research shows that five critical indicators must also be present.
These elements ensure that individuals feel a deep, meaningful attachment to the group, which inclusion alone cannot fully achieve. This distinction underscores that belonging is a unique and essential experience, distinct from inclusion, and critical for fostering a truly cohesive and supportive environment.
So what are the five indicators of belonging? They are comfort, connection, contribution, psychological safety and well-being, and all of them can be measured.
When an environment is high in each of the five indicators, and the measured gap between the ingroup and outgroup is low, it suggests an environment where responsibility for creating opportunities to thrive are shared and balanced. Let’s unpack these concepts:
- Comfort. When an organization is high in comfort, people feel seen for who they are. This requires them to accept that others have complex, sometimes contradictory identities, and to adopt a mindset of awareness. Perhaps counterintuitively, achieving comfort requires being a little uncomfortable, too. That’s because respectfully seeing and being seen means acknowledging other people’s discomfort.
- Connection. Connection is the need to be known and trusted. For an organization to score high on connection, people will be aligned on values and goals. Connection creates a shared sense of responsibility and accountability. This shared responsibility is a foundation for empathy, since trust and fairness are born from understanding and empathizing with the social and emotional needs of others.
- Contribution. An organization high in contribution values its members for the unique and diverse attributes they bring to the table. In belonging environments, an individual’s contribution is evaluated through curiosity and openness; ideas and perspectives are shared to influence and challenge the status quo, driving innovation and creativity. When someone is genuinely acknowledged for their contributions, both they and their team feel fulfilled.
- Psychological safety. When a person is genuinely accepted into a group, making a mistake or even failing is seen as a chance to learn and grow, not an opportunity to shame, blame or exclude. This is the essence of psychological safety. In cases where people’s perspectives are dramatically different, psychological safety requires everyone to reflect and put themselves in the shoes of the other to respect their differences and be accountable for behavior.
- Well-being. In an organization high in well-being, members’ experiences are considered and cared for. This requires everyone to share responsibility for caring for individuals, groups, teams and the organization as a whole, each with their authentic needs.
Belonging, based on my research, is not just a buzzword; it’s the bedrock of a thriving, innovative workplace. Leaders who understand this and take action can enhance individual well-being while unlocking the full potential of their teams.
By committing to building environments where the indicators of belonging are prioritized, leaders can ignite passion, loyalty and excellence in their workplaces.
Andrea Carter, Adjunct Faculty in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Adler University
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge
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PHOENIX /PRNewswire/ — Pickleball Kingdom, the unrivaled leader in the pickleball industry, continues its unprecedented expansion, further solidifying its position as the largest pickleball entity in the world. With over 350 domestic clubs and counting, Pickleball Kingdom is setting new standards for the sport.
Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom, Ace Rodrigues, stated, “The growth of pickleball in the United States has been nothing short of extraordinary. In one year, we’ve expanded to over 350 clubs, which was fueled by the countries ravenous demand for premier indoor pickleball. Our rapid growth reflects our commitment to providing top-notch facilities and creating community for players everywhere. And soon we’ll announce some incredible news about our international expansion.”
Based on verified company-reported numbers from all indoor pickleball franchisors, Pickleball Kingdom boasts the highest industry AUV (average unit volume) per franchise location. Having the highest revenue per location highlights the brand’s robust business model and the comprehensive support it provides to its franchisees.
As Pickleball Kingdom continues its expansion, the company invites motivated individuals to join its franchise network. Prospective franchisees will have a unique opportunity to be part of the fastest-growing sport in America, supported by the comprehensive expertise of the Pickleball Kingdom team.
“This is an exceptional chance to be involved with the country’s fastest-growing sport,” said Rob Streett, COO of Pickleball Kingdom. “We are excited to welcome entrepreneurs who share our vision for expanding the pickleball industry.”
The excitement is building as Pickleball Kingdom gears up to reveal significant announcements regarding its international expansion. This move is set to introduce the sport to a global audience, extending the brand’s influence beyond national borders. Pickleball Kingdom’s dominance is evident not only in the number of clubs but also in its status as the largest in the world in terms of court count. Their facilities are designed to offer the best playing experience, accommodating players of all skill levels and fostering a vibrant community.
Founder & CEO Ace Rodrigues concluded, “The opportunity to plant your flag in the pickleball industry is undeniable. Our franchisees continue to see unprecedented success by utilizing our tested and proven model.” He expanded his comments, “There is no larger pickleball brand than Pickleball Kingdom, and we will be in every developed country in the world inside of the next five years.”
For more information about franchise opportunities with Pickleball Kingdom, visit www.pickleballkingdom.com/franchise.
SOURCE Pickleball Kingdom Franchising
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
Sign up for the SPR Newsletter and get news and episode release info right into your inbox: https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/sleeves-spr-newsletter-sign-up/
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