Beyond First Response: WRN’s Strategy for Sustainable Disaster Recovery

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

By: Sheila Cornes

Disasters demand fast action. Families need food, water, medical care and shelter within hours, sometimes minutes. Worldwide Relief Network (WRN) defines its role first as a rapid responder, delivering humanitarian assistance to communities affected by natural and human-caused crises.

WRN’s mission, however, extends beyond immediate response. The organization states that it works not only to address urgent needs but also to support long-term recovery through community resilience, rehabilitation efforts and environmental initiatives. This broader focus influences how the group approaches relief, with emergency aid treated as the first stage of a longer recovery process rather than the end point.

A Clear Vision for Sustainable Support

Public materials describe a dual commitment: emergency humanitarian relief combined with community strengthening. The organization describes its work as including rebuilding efforts, preparedness planning and initiatives designed to reduce future vulnerability.

This direction mirrors a broader shift across modern humanitarian work, where relief organizations increasingly emphasize sustainability and resilience alongside crisis response. Rather than limiting its role to short-term intervention, WRN describes its work as supporting communities through disruption and into the slower process of rebuilding stability and local capacity.

Emergency Response with a Broader Purpose

During the first stages of a crisis, WRN concentrates on delivering essential resources. The organization highlights the provision of food, water, medical assistance and basic supplies as core elements of its humanitarian work.

Those services also serve a second purpose. Early relief establishes trust, infrastructure and coordination that allow longer-term programs to follow. Emergency aid is described as a foundation for recovery rather than a standalone intervention, linking short-term assistance with longer-term community support.

Preparedness and Capacity Building

Readiness for future emergencies plays a central role in WRN’s recovery strategy. The organization states that it works with communities to strengthen preparedness through training programs and planning initiatives.

WRN’s materials emphasize preparedness and capacity building as part of its long-term approach to reducing disaster risk. These efforts focus on equipping communities with practical knowledge, local planning tools and skills that strengthen their ability to respond more effectively when future crises occur.

Rebuilding With Sustainability in Mind

Alongside preparedness, environmental considerations also shape WRN’s long-term recovery work. The organization notes that rebuilding efforts should account for environmental pressures that often worsen disaster impacts.

Sustainability plays a role in WRN’s rehabilitation approach, which seeks to support communities in restoring essential systems and services in ways that contribute to long-term resilience. Environmental awareness is positioned as a factor in reducing future vulnerability, rather than as a separate or standalone objective.

A Global Reach With Local Engagement

Operations are carried out through a global network of volunteers, professionals and partner organizations. WRN’s website highlights international reach alongside collaboration with local communities affected by disasters.

This model allows WRN to combine external expertise with local knowledge. Partnerships with community leaders and residents remain central to the organization’s strategy, reflecting a belief that effective recovery depends on both technical support and local engagement.

Practical Impact Over Time

Success, according to WRN, is measured over time rather than in immediate outputs. The organization emphasizes that recovery continues well after media attention fades and emergency operations end.

By integrating preparedness training, rehabilitation support and sustainability planning with rapid response, WRN describes an approach centered on long-term stability. The organization describes its mission as helping communities move from crisis toward resilience, with relief efforts intended to contribute to lasting recovery rather than temporary support alone.

Why 87 Sussex Is a Great Jersey City Event Venue for Intimate Celebrations

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

There is a quiet shift happening in the world of celebrations. Grand ballrooms and sprawling guest lists are giving way to something more intentional, gatherings defined by intimacy, design, and meaningful connection. Today’s couples and hosts are seeking spaces that feel curated rather than conventional.

For those searching for a refined Jersey City event venue that embodies this evolution, 87 Sussex offers an experience that is both elevated and deeply personal.

Set in the heart of Jersey City, this architecturally striking venue has quickly become synonymous with sophisticated micro weddings, private celebrations, and thoughtfully designed events for 100 guests or fewer.

An Intimate Setting That Feels Intentional

Luxury is no longer defined by scale; it’s defined by experience.

At 87 Sussex, the proportions of the space are intentional. Rather than overwhelming a smaller guest list, the venue embraces it. Every candlelit table, every floral installation, every carefully placed chair feels purposeful. Guests aren’t dispersed across a cavernous ballroom; they are gathered together in an environment that encourages conversation and connection.

For couples planning a micro wedding in Jersey City, this sense of closeness transforms the entire celebration. Vows feel more personal. Toasts resonate more deeply. The evening unfolds with an effortless sense of flow.

Jersey City: The Sophisticated Alternative to Manhattan

While Manhattan remains iconic, discerning hosts are increasingly looking just across the river for a setting that feels equally cosmopolitan, yet refreshingly distinctive.

Jersey City offers proximity without the pressure. Guests traveling from New York enjoy seamless access, while hosts benefit from greater flexibility and creative freedom. The skyline becomes a backdrop rather than a barrier, and the pace feels intentional rather than hurried.

Choosing a Jersey City event venue allows couples to maintain metropolitan elegance while creating a curated, exclusive experience. For many, it is the ideal balance between urban energy and private sophistication.

Architectural Character Meets Modern Elegance

One of the defining qualities of 87 Sussex is its architectural presence. The space possesses a natural refinement that requires little embellishment. Clean lines, polished finishes, and a timeless aesthetic allow event design to shine without competing with the venue itself.

Whether styled with romantic florals and warm candlelight or a contemporary monochromatic palette, the venue adapts beautifully. It serves as both canvas and statement.

This versatility makes it a standout among small wedding venues in Jersey City. Couples are free to interpret the space in a way that reflects their own aesthetic. Intimate, garden-inspired ceremonies, black-tie receptions, or modern, minimalist celebrations all feel equally at home.

Micro Weddings, Elevated

The micro wedding movement is not about scaling back; it is about elevating what matters.

With a more focused guest list, couples can invest in exceptional cuisine, bespoke décor, and immersive guest experiences. A single long table becomes a design feature. Signature cocktails feel personal. Conversations linger.

At 87 Sussex, a micro wedding in Jersey City feels deliberate and luxurious rather than abbreviated. The venue accommodates both ceremony and reception seamlessly, allowing the event to unfold organically in one cohesive setting.

Couples exploring layout possibilities and event details can discover more through the venue’s private events page:
https://87sussex.com/private-events-jersey-city/

A Private Event Space Near NYC for Refined Gatherings

Beyond weddings, 87 Sussex has become a sought-after destination for intimate celebrations of every kind.

Engagement parties glow with anticipation. Bridal showers feel chic and celebratory. Milestone birthdays and anniversaries take on a polished, elevated tone. Even corporate gatherings, executive dinners, networking receptions, and brand launches benefit from the venue’s sophisticated ambiance.

For planners seeking a private event space near NYC that feels exclusive rather than commercial, 87 Sussex provides an environment that is both impressive and welcoming.

Its central Jersey City location ensures convenience for guests traveling from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Hoboken, and throughout Hudson County, without sacrificing privacy or atmosphere.

A Hidden Gem for Discerning Couples

Many couples begin their search assuming they must secure a Manhattan address to achieve a certain level of elegance. Yet increasingly, they discover that some of the most remarkable venues lie just beyond the expected.

87 Sussex offers the aesthetic refinement of a high-end New York venue, paired with the warmth and intimacy that modern celebrations demand. It is a hidden gem, not because it lacks prestige, but because it feels discovered rather than advertised.

For those seeking wedding reception venues near NYC that offer both distinction and discretion, it represents a compelling choice.

Where Meaningful Moments Take Center Stage

At its heart, an intimate celebration is about presence. It is about hearing the subtle emotion in a parent’s speech, watching candlelight flicker during dinner, and feeling the shared energy of a room filled with those who matter most.

The right Jersey City event venue does more than host an event; it shapes the experience.

For couples and hosts who value design, intimacy, and effortless sophistication, 87 Sussex offers a setting where every detail is considered and every moment is elevated.

To explore availability, event capabilities, and planning details, visit the official website:
https://87sussex.com/

Nadia Beddini: From Milan to ‘Love and Hip Hop Miami’

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

In the whirlwind world of entertainment, where reality television and music increasingly collide, Nadia Beddini—artistically known as Nadi Milano—stands at the epicenter of this cultural fusion. With raw talent and an unapologetic sense of self, she’s carving her unique path through both landscapes. Her new single “Never” by Nadi Milano dropped on January 25th and fans are buzzing not just about the track, but about the real-life drama unfolding on her current stomping ground, Love and Hip Hop Miami.

The pipeline from reality fame to recording studio has become well-traveled territory, with countless personalities leveraging their screen time into streaming numbers. Recent industry data shows that over 60% of reality stars have ventured into music, many striking gold with audiences who connect with their personal stories set to melody. For Nadia, this represents the perfect storm—a chance to showcase her artistic vision while navigating the messy, compelling reality of her life under the spotlight.

But make no mistake—Nadia isn’t just another reality personality with recording aspirations. She brings legitimate credentials as an actor, model, and filmmaker to the table. Her artistic persona, Nadi Milano, embodies the rich tapestry of her background and talents. “Half fire Half water 100% real,” she proclaims—a mantra that captures her explosive passion and adaptable creativity. This duality breathes through her work, balancing intimate expression with broader cultural commentary.

Currently, Nadia’s storyline on Love and Hip Hop Miami has viewers glued to their screens, particularly her complicated relationship with Ghanaian comedian Michael Blackson, father of her child.

Nadia’s story runs deeper than recent headlines. As an Italian artist with Egyptian roots, her identity was forged in Milan before transplanting to American soil, where she navigated the complex terrain of immigration and cultural adaptation. These lived experiences profoundly shape her creative vision and social consciousness. Her documentary series “Black Italians” illuminates the struggles of second-generation immigrants in Italy, tackling questions of identity and belonging with remarkable nuance.

Art as Activism: Nadia Beddini’s way 

What separates Nadia from many of her peers is her refusal to create merely for entertainment’s sake. Her body of work functions as a catalyst for social transformation. Through her films, she confronts inequality and discrimination head-on, using storytelling to build bridges of understanding between diverse communities.

“Black Italians” doesn’t just document struggles—it celebrates the vibrant cultural identity of minorities often pushed to society’s margins. “Forgotten in California” goes beyond exposing homelessness to cultivate genuine empathy for those living on the streets. Meanwhile, “La Mia Milano” blends nostalgia with urgent activism, reminding viewers that community solidarity is essential in confronting systemic injustice.

As Nadia embarks in this new reality journey, her career stands at a fascinating crossroads. This upcoming single “Never” by Nadi Milano represents more than just another track—it’s a pivotal moment where her reality TV persona, musical voice, and rebellious spirit converge. 

Beyond the Screen: What’s Next for Nadia

Looking forward, Nadia Beddini occupies the fertile ground between artistic expression and social activism. She’s not just breaking barriers—she’s questioning why they existed in the first place. Her journey exemplifies how art can function as both personal catharsis and public commentary. As she navigates the often-treacherous waters of fame, audiences find themselves invested not just in her drama but in her mission.

Nadia Beddini represents something uncommon in today’s fragmented media landscape: an authentic voice using every platform at her disposal to spark meaningful conversation. The upcoming release of her podcast “Nadi Talk” showcases her resilience and creative vision. By blending her diverse talents and experiences, she invites viewers and listeners to engage with work that entertains while it challenges.

For those watching her rise, the message is clear: this is just the opening act for Nadia. Her unique combination of reality TV drama, musical ambition, and social consciousness creates a compelling formula that’s increasingly rare in an industry often criticized for its superficiality.

Whether you’re tuning in for the relationship drama, the musical drops, or the social commentary, Nadia delivers something genuine and real in an often manufactured entertainment landscape. As the second part of the season approaches, fans and critics alike are poised to witness the next chapter in her evolving story—one that promises to be as fiery, fluid, and authentic as the artist herself.

New York’s EPTL 5-1.1-A: Why Your Spouse Can Override Your Will in Syracuse

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

Many Syracuse residents spend significant time and money creating an estate plan, only to discover that New York law places firm limits on their ability to control where every dollar goes. One of the most important protections in the state’s inheritance system is the spousal right of election, a legal safeguard that prevents one spouse from disinheriting the other in a will or trust.

Understanding how this right works is essential for anyone creating or updating an estate plan in Onondaga County or anywhere in the state. Families working with a knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Syracuse, New York, can develop strategies that honor their wishes while remaining compliant with the law. This article explains what the elective share is, how it is calculated, and what steps Syracuse residents can take to plan around it.

What Is the Spousal Right of Election Under EPTL 5-1.1-A?

New York’s Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) Section 5-1.1-A grants every surviving spouse a personal right of election against their deceased spouse’s estate. In practical terms, this means a surviving spouse can reject the bequest in a will and instead claim a statutory minimum share. In most Syracuse estates (where the decedent was domiciled in New York), the surviving spouse can claim this right regardless of what the will provides.

If the net estate is worth less than fifty thousand dollars, the surviving spouse is entitled to the full value of that estate. This provision ensures that no matter how a will is drafted, a married person in Syracuse cannot entirely cut their spouse out of the inheritance.

How Is the Net Estate Calculated?

The calculation of the net estate is broader than many people expect. New York law defines the net estate to include not only property that passes through probate but also assets classified as testamentary substitutes. These substitutes are certain non-probate transfers and arrangements that New York treats as part of the elective-share calculation.

Testamentary substitutes can include payable-on-death or transfer-on-death accounts, certain joint property arrangements, some trust transfers where the decedent kept significant rights, retirement/benefit plan interests, and some transfers made within one year of death, generally to the extent they weren’t for full consideration and weren’t covered by key gift-tax exclusions. 

Including these assets means a spouse cannot easily sidestep the elective share by moving wealth into non-probate vehicles. In computing the net estate, debts, administration expenses, and reasonable funeral expenses are deducted, and estate taxes are generally disregarded in computing the net estate, though the spouse may still be responsible for any tax apportionment allocated to them.

Can a Spouse Be Disinherited in New York?

The short answer is generally no, not without the spouse’s consent. New York’s elective share statute is specifically designed to prevent the disinheritance of a surviving spouse. Even if a will explicitly states that a spouse should receive nothing, the surviving spouse retains the right to file an election and claim their statutory share through the Surrogate’s Court with jurisdiction over the estate (for Syracuse, typically the Onondaga County Surrogate’s Court).

There are limited circumstances where the right of election does not apply. A surviving spouse may be disqualified in limited situations under EPTL 5-1.2, including abandonment. For example, Matter of Nichols (Sur. Ct., Kings County, 2013) discusses how difficult it can be to prove ‘constructive abandonment’ in this context.

What Are the Filing Deadlines for an Elective Share Claim?

Timing is critical for any surviving spouse considering the right of election. An elective share claim must be filed within 6 months of the issuance of the letters testamentary or letters of administration. Additionally, claims cannot be filed later than 2 years from the date of the decedent’s death. The Surrogate’s Court can extend the deadline (including, in some cases, relieving a default) under the statute’s specific timing rules and standards

These deadlines are strictly enforced across New York, including in Syracuse and throughout Central New York. A surviving spouse who misses the filing window may lose the right to claim their elective share entirely, unless the court grants permission to file a late notice under exceptional circumstances. The right of election is generally personal to the surviving spouse, though a court-authorized guardian/committee/conservator may elect in limited situations (for example, for an infant or legally incapacitated spouse).

How Can Syracuse Residents Plan Around the Elective Share?

The most straightforward way to address the elective share is through a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. A properly drafted agreement can include a waiver of the right of election, as long as the waiver meets statutory requirements (generally a written, signed waiver that’s acknowledged/proved like a real-estate conveyance). In practice, independent counsel and full disclosure can help reduce challenges later.

For married couples in Onondaga County who are aligned on their estate goals, coordinated planning can help ensure the surviving spouse receives at least the elective share through intentional distributions rather than through a contested court proceeding. Strategies may include outright bequests to the surviving spouse, properly funded trusts, or beneficiary designations that satisfy the statutory threshold.

Why Does the Elective Share Matter for Estate Planning?

The spousal right of election affects virtually every married person’s estate plan in New York. Failing to account for this right can lead to unintended consequences, including family disputes and costly litigation in Surrogate’s Court. When a surviving spouse exercises the right of election, the will remains valid for the remaining estate, but the distributions to other beneficiaries are reduced proportionally to fund the elective share.

This ripple effect can significantly alter what children, other family members, or charitable organizations ultimately receive from the estate. For Syracuse families with blended households, business interests, or complex asset structures, the elective share creates particular challenges that require careful planning. Addressing these issues proactively is far less expensive and disruptive than resolving them after a death occurs.

The spousal right of election under EPTL 5-1.1-A represents one of the strongest protections for surviving spouses anywhere in the country. Whether you are creating your first estate plan or updating an existing one, understanding how this statute affects your intentions is a necessary step in the process. An experienced estate planning attorney in Central New York can evaluate your specific situation, explain how the elective share applies to your assets, and help you build a plan that achieves your goals within the boundaries of New York law.

 

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For personalized advice regarding estate planning and the spousal right of election, please consult a qualified attorney in your area. The information provided is based on current laws and regulations, which may change over time.

 

From Zero to $15 Million: The Rise of ERETS in the Global Deeptech Arena

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

By: Digital Networking Agency (DNA)

In an era when most research-based startups struggle to survive without external funding, ERETS is quietly rewriting the rulebook. Founded in early 2023 by Dr. Abhiram Nair, a space scientist with global academic credentials, the company has achieved what many would consider impressive: a valuation of USD 15 million in just three years, entirely bootstrapped.

Building on a Clear Mission

From the beginning, Dr. Nair was clear about two things: ERETS would be laser-focused on preserving the cosmos, and it would remain bootstrapped until its foundation was unshakeable. His belief was rooted in realism: “Early-stage research and development startups are the hardest to sustain. Most fail before they can even demonstrate impact because they depend too heavily on funding,” he explains. “My approach was to build a strong foundation, backed by confidence in our technology and mission.”

That mission to create the world’s first cohesive ecosystem for space debris detection and mitigation is already drawing international recognition. ERETS is pioneering laser-based orbital debris mitigation, a technology that only a handful of organisations worldwide are pursuing. Unlike many startups that pivot endlessly in search of commercial models, ERETS has stayed true to its ethical mission: applying innovations in AI, robotics, optics, and propulsion for a single cause, sustainable space.

From Concept to Global Recognition

Though only three years old, ERETS has already stitched together a network of academic and industrial alliances spanning three continents. The company is headquartered in the UK and incubated with the University of Surrey, positioning itself within one of Europe’s leading deeptech ecosystems. Its entry into India has been marked by a significant incubation with the Indian Institute of Technology Indore, focusing on payload development for space debris detection.

Earlier this year, ERETS also launched its own space labs in Coimbatore, India, strengthening its R&D and manufacturing base in South Asia. Meanwhile, in Australia, industry collaborations with RMIT University and Swinburne University are driving research in artificial intelligence and optics, while partnerships with industry leaders like Bright Ascension are accelerating the development of mission software. Together, these collaborations form a robust ecosystem of research and technology development, a strong indication of ERETS’s credibility in the space industry.

The company is now preparing to launch its cloud-based API for debris detection models by early this year, with its first satellites expected to launch in 2026. For a bootstrapped venture to deliver this level of progress within three years is, in itself, a remarkable example of disciplined execution.

The Power of Staying Bootstrapped

From a business perspective, what makes ERETS unique is not only its technology but also its financing strategy. In a climate where startups are often celebrated for the size of their funding rounds rather than their scientific breakthroughs, Dr. Nair’s deliberate choice to avoid external investors is both unconventional and instructive.

“Funding can be a double-edged sword,” he notes. “For deeptech ventures in particular, there’s always a temptation to chase short-term business ideas that deviate from the core mission. I didn’t want to dilute the ethical foundation of ERETS.” He is open to investors who are aligned with ERETS’s mission.

This approach has allowed the company to remain independent, mission-driven, and insulated from external pressures, while still scaling rapidly. The result is a valuation achieved not through aggressive fundraising but through strategic collaborations, intellectual property, and tangible milestones.

Building the Right Team

For Dr. Nair, technology and vision alone are not enough. He places enormous emphasis on building a team that shares his spirit of innovation. “I don’t hire people based on qualifications alone,” he says. “What I value is their innovative spirit, their passion towards sustainable space, and their ability to think beyond limits. Every teammate who joins me should one day be able to become an entrepreneur in their own right.”

This philosophy has enabled ERETS to assemble a dynamic and motivated team, where collaboration is driven by purpose rather than hierarchy. In a field often dominated by rigid structures, ERETS’s culture of openness and entrepreneurship has become one of its greatest strengths.

The Human Behind the Mission

From Zero to $15 Million: The Rise of ERETS in the Global Deeptech Arena

Photo Courtesy: Abhiram Nair

Behind ERETS’s rise is Dr. Nair’s own story of resilience and vision. His academic journey spans a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Manchester, multiple master’s degrees in space engineering specialisations, an MBA in International Business, and a PhD in Engineering Sustainability. These credentials, however, only hint at his drive.

Alongside his scientific work, Dr. Nair has emerged as a thought leader on ethical innovation. His recent TEDx talk in Cairo, “Silent Echoes of Space Debris”, brought significant attention to an issue often overlooked outside of expert circles. More than a million viewers in a few months. It resonated not only with scientists but also with the wider public, highlighting the invisible yet urgent threat orbiting above our heads.

He has also expanded his impact through authorship. His debut book, Deciphering the Language of Being (Dreamboat, 2025), weaves together his personal journey, resilience, and spiritual philosophy. The book underscores the same principle guiding his company: just as space must be decluttered to sustain exploration, the human mind must be decluttered to sustain purpose.

Outlook

ERETS’s trajectory is not just the story of a company but a potential blueprint for sustainable deeptech entrepreneurship. In three years, it has transformed from a bootstrapped R&D project into a globally recognised venture with a $15 million valuation, without compromising its ethical compass.

For investors and policymakers, the lesson is clear: when deeptech is grounded in purpose and executed with discipline, impact and valuation can follow naturally. For the broader space industry, ERETS represents a turning point, a company demonstrating that preserving the cosmos is not just a scientific challenge but a business imperative.

One, Two, Three, What Do I See? A Gentle Invitation to Imagination, Family, and Everyday Wonder

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

In One, Two, Three, What Do I See?, author Mary Brady offers young readers a warm, thoughtful story that celebrates imagination, family connection, and the joy of slowing down to truly look at the world around us. Told through the voice of a child named Daisy, this charming picture book gently encourages readers to discover how ordinary moments can become shared adventures, reminding readers that wonder can often be found in unexpected places, sometimes right above us in the clouds.

Daisy lives in North Carolina with her Mommy and Daddy and her two younger siblings, Leo and Mattie. Their home is lively and full of laughter, especially during the summer months when school is out, the days are long, and play feels endless. From running barefoot in the yard to enjoying juicy slices of watermelon, the siblings find happiness in simple pleasures. Even watermelon becomes a game, as they laugh and cheer while spitting seeds as far as they can.

But the heart of the story centers on a different kind of game, one that doesn’t require toys, screens, or special equipment. Daisy introduces readers to her family’s favorite pastime: “One, two, three, what do I see?” The rules are simple. Someone asks the question, everyone looks up, and imagination takes over.

Much of the story unfolds during car rides with Mommy and Daddy, to restaurants, Walmart, the doctor’s office, and visits with family members. As the car hums along, the sky becomes a canvas. Clouds shift and stretch, turning into superheroes with lobster claws, bunnies wearing capes, smiling faces, whales leaping joyfully, pirate ships sailing invisible seas, fish swimming through the sky, cats, skulls, alligators, and countless other shapes. Each child sees something different, and each perspective is welcomed with curiosity and laughter.

One of the book’s most endearing qualities is how it honors individuality. Leo often spots alligators no matter where he looks, happily imagining them as friendly companions or brave protectors. Mattie sometimes sees shapes that feel a little scary at first, but with a second look, she reimagines them into something cheerful and comforting. Daisy observes carefully and thoughtfully, finding meaning and connection in what she sees, sometimes even noticing her family dog smiling back at her from the clouds.

One, Two, Three, What Do I See? A Gentle Invitation to Imagination, Family, and Everyday Wonder

Photo Courtesy: Mary Brady

Mary Brady weaves gentle emotional lessons into the narrative without ever becoming didactic. When a cloud seems spooky, the children learn that they can look again and consider seeing something new. When the sky is gray and rain threatens, imagination helps bring color and joy back into the moment. A potentially intimidating trip to the doctor becomes a playful cloud-fish adventure, shifting Daisy’s focus from worry to wonder.

Equally important is the role of the parents. Mommy and Daddy don’t stay on the sidelines; they actively participate in the game. They ask the question, share what they see, and laugh along with their children. In one memorable moment, a cloud sparks a conversation about singing and dancing cats from a musical, opening the door to curiosity and playful discussion. These moments highlight the warmth of family connection and suggest that imagination is something adults can share in, too.

The language of One, Two, Three, What Do I See? is inviting and rhythmic, making it ideal for read-alouds. The repeated question becomes a refrain that encourages children to pause and engage, not just with the story but with their own surroundings. The book creates space for conversation between adults and children, turning reading time into a shared experience rather than a passive one.

At its core, this story is about perspective. It shows that imagination can transform ordinary, everyday moments into something memorable, and that joy often comes from how we choose to see the world. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon with watermelon or a cloudy car ride on an errand, there is always something wonderful waiting to be discovered, if we take the time to look.

One, Two, Three, What Do I See? A Gentle Invitation to Imagination, Family, and Everyday Wonder

Photo Courtesy: Mary Brady

One, Two, Three, What Do I See? is a heartwarming and imaginative addition to any child’s bookshelf, perfect for families, educators, and caregivers seeking stories that foster creativity, mindfulness, and connection. The book is available in print through Amazon and major online book retailers. Readers are invited to discover the joy of looking up, imagining freely, and asking the simple question that opens the door to endless possibilities: One, two, three—what do you see?

Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls: The Picture Book That’s Bouncing Off the Shelves

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

Why Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls Is One of the Funniest Gag Gifts of the Year.

In a year overflowing with novelty gifts and recycled jokes, one picture book has managed to stand out, spark uncontrollable laughter, and quietly become a cult favorite among adults with a sense of humor.

Meet Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls, a delightfully inappropriate picture book parody that turns the wholesome world of children’s literature on its head. It’s innocent. It’s outrageous. And it’s likely as funny as you think it is.

An Innocent Premise with Perfectly Corrupt Timing

At first glance, the book looks like a sweet story you might find in a kindergarten classroom. Bright illustrations. Simple sentences. A cheerful little boy named Tommy.

But then you read the title.

And then you read the first page.

Tommy loves his balls. He plays with them everywhere: at home, at school, at dinner, at church, and even at the zoo. His dog, Richard gets involved too, leaving them a bit hairy. Jenny crushes them. Emma suddenly leaves. Eventually, Mom has had enough and takes them away.

Every word is technically innocent. The laughter comes from everything your brain might insist on doing with it.

The Adult Picture Book Parody That Nailed the Joke

Written by librarian and unapologetic pun enthusiast Marian Page, Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls commits fully to its concept, and that commitment appears to be what makes it work. The book never winks at the reader. It never explains the joke. It simply plays it straight and lets the audience unravel.

This is comedy built on restraint. Each page pairs wholesome, childlike illustrations with text that remains completely sincere, while readers find themselves spiraling into laughter on their own. The result is a masterclass in double entendre and timing.

Read aloud, lines like “A boy and his balls are never apart. It’s a bond that’s deep and strong” can be instant crowd-pleasers.

Why Adults Can’t Stop Reading It Aloud

Part of the book’s magic lies in the experience. Watching someone read it for the first time is half the fun. Expressions shift from confusion to realization to absolute loss of composure, often within a single page turn.

The rhythm and rhyme mimic classic children’s books, which only heightens the absurdity. Each new setting seems to push the joke just a little further, with the zoo scene earning near-universal acclaim as a standout moment.

It’s not shock humor. It’s a slow-burning comedy with a perfectly straight face.

The Ultimate Gag Gift (With Plausible Deniability)

The book has quickly become a go-to gift for moments when laughter is the goal:

  • White elephant exchanges that need saving
  • Birthday gifts for friends who “have everything”
  • Bachelor and bachelorette parties
  • Office Secret Santa swaps
  • Retirement parties
  • Or simply making someone laugh until they cry

The brilliance is in its balance. It’s cheeky without being crude. Bold without being explicit. If questioned, you can always shrug and say, “It’s just a children’s book.”

Technically, you wouldn’t be wrong.

Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls: The Picture Book That’s Bouncing Off the Shelves

Photo Courtesy: Cassie Acker / Gemini

More Than a Joke, A Shared Experience

In a time when humor often tries too hard, Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls succeeds by doing the opposite. It trusts its audience. It understands timing. And it proves that sometimes the funniest ideas are the simplest ones, executed well.

This is the kind of book that gets passed around at gatherings, reread at parties, and remembered long after the gift wrap is gone. It creates a shared moment of laughter, something increasingly rare and genuinely valuable.

Ready to Have a Ball?

Whether you’re shopping for the perfect funny adult book gift or just need a reminder not to take life too seriously, Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls offers exactly what it promises: unapologetic fun.

The book is available now on Amazon in both paperback and digital formats. If you’re ready for a likely guaranteed laugh or need a gift that no one will forget, search for Tommy Likes to Play with His Balls on Amazon and see what everyone’s laughing about.

After all, life without balls really is rough.

Just ask Tommy.

Why Nick Nascimento Built a Sales Company Focused on Transformation, Not Just Income

NY Weekly Staff on February 19, 2026

By: Cedarstone Creative

Most people only see the highlight reel: sales numbers, leadership titles, content, and team wins. What they don’t see is the quiet, unglamorous work that actually creates lasting success, the work no one applauds. Behind Nick Nascimento’s brand and the company he built is a singular obsession: developing people, not just producing numbers.

Nascimento believes real success doesn’t necessarily begin with tactics. It can begin with personal growth. In his experience, people can only help others change to the degree that they’ve changed themselves.

“Sales is about convincing someone to change,” he explains. “Leadership is the ability to replicate that change in others.”

That belief became the foundation of Sparta, the solar sales organization he founded—not as a traditional sales company, but as a system designed to develop people first. The result? A business model centered on leadership, growth, and lasting transformation, not just profit.

Sparta’s Mission: Building More Than Just Salespeople

Nascimento didn’t build Sparta to create better closers. He built it to help create better people.

Sparta operates as a personal growth system that may produce high-performing salespeople as a byproduct. Behind the scenes, Nascimento spends much of his time building systems, standards, and training frameworks intended to help young representatives mature quickly—not only financially but emotionally, physically, and relationally.

Door-to-door sales, he says, is one of the most honest environments a person can experience. It exposes mindset, emotional regulation, work ethic, resilience, and self-discipline under pressure. Over time, he noticed a pattern: natural talent does not always determine long-term success. What separates people is their willingness to undergo growth through discipline, structure, and consistent standards.

“Talent isn’t always the separator,” Nascimento says. “Growth is driven by standards.”

The Stats Behind the Success

While the journey is transformative, the numbers are impressive:

  • 645 jobs were sold in Utah in 2025.

  • Over 100 sales reps recruited and trained.

  • $61 million in customer savings over 30 years by switching to solar.

  • $6.7 million in commissions paid out to reps.

These aren’t just statistics; they reflect the growth and commitment of a company invested in both personal and professional transformation.

Why Sparta Exists

Sparta exists to facilitate deep, lasting transformation, turning raw, hungry individuals into disciplined, dependable leaders. Leaders capable of succeeding in business while still showing up as fathers, husbands, and builders.

Nascimento has little interest in creating “sales addicts” who chase commissions at the expense of their health, character, or family. His focus is on developing high performers who evolve as people, not just producers. The culture he is building is intentionally demanding but deeply intentional. It prioritizes truth over comfort, standards over shortcuts, and long-term growth over short-term wins. For Nascimento, slower growth paired with real transformation is often preferable to rapid growth without substance.

Why Nick Nascimento Built a Sales Company Focused on Transformation, Not Just Income

Photo Courtesy: Cedarstone Creative

Leadership Beyond Titles

At his core, Nascimento is a builder and a coach. He believes success is an inside-out process shaped by habits, standards, mindset, character, faith, and relationships. Without internal growth, external success can become fragile.

“You can’t out-earn your level of personal growth,” he often says. “And you can’t scale what you don’t have the maturity to sustain.”

As a father of three boys, his definition of success has evolved. While his career was forged in door-to-door sales, his larger mission is helping people grow, developing discipline, confidence, and emotional strength so they can create freedom and become dependable leaders for their future families.

What He Stands For

Nascimento stands firmly for truth, accountability, and high standards—not in a harsh way, but in a way that refuses self-deception. He believes real growth requires honesty about habits, effort, and responsibility. Real leadership, in his view, means caring deeply about people while still challenging them to grow. He also prioritizes family and character, even when business culture encourages sacrificing those values for growth. Sustainable success, he believes, only comes when growth is aligned across all areas of life.

Redefining Success

Today, success for Nascimento is about building a company with lasting impact: strong culture, capable leaders, and systems that allow people to perform without burning out. Equally important is being present as a father and building a life his children can respect.

What once centered on financial achievement has evolved into something broader, a growth process across business, health, character, and family.

One Thing to Remember

Why Nick Nascimento Built a Sales Company Focused on Transformation, Not Just Income

Photo Courtesy: Sparta Solar

Nick Nascimento isn’t building salespeople.

He’s building transformed leaders.

Sales is simply the vehicle. The mission is growth, discipline, and leadership, helping people change who they are becoming so they can succeed without losing integrity or family.

“You can only change others to the degree that you change yourself.”

If Nascimento’s approach resonates with you, if you’re more interested in transformation than quick money, then follow his journey and see what real leadership looks like in practice.

Connect with Nick Nascimento on Instagram and Sparta Solar.

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