Latest news with #Chrystal
Sky News
2 days ago
- Health
- Sky News
Waiting for the bailiffs but nowhere to go: Sharp rise in number of disabled homeless people
Chrystal Hendry finished her psychology degree in 2021 and was excited to move to the next phase of her life - working towards becoming a counsellor - when she first became homeless. Chrystal, 30, has spinal muscular atrophy and uses a wheelchair. She needs round-the-clock care, as well as home adaptations, such as a bed hoist and wet room, to live comfortably. Several months after being evicted in 2021, and following a "really awful" period in inappropriate housing, she managed to find somewhere to rent in a different town, where she now lives. It has never been the ideal home - the temporary ramps are a struggle. But it was better than the alternatives suggested by her council, including moving her live-in care team and equipment into one bedroom in an elderly dementia care home. Four years on, she's being evicted again. Chrystal is one of the 70,000 households with a physical disability in England now facing homelessness. Her landlord wants to redevelop the home she lives in and has issued a 'no fault' eviction notice, which has progressed to a court repossession order. Now, she's waiting for the bailiffs to arrive. "It just never ended, it's still not ended four years later. I still can't even think about building a career or giving back to anybody because I'm so consumed with it," Chrystal told Sky News. "At this moment in time, I have no idea where I'm going to go," she said. "For anybody a bailiff knocking on your door is scary, but when you've got fundamental pieces of equipment that you cannot live without it's even scarier." Chrystal's experience is not unique. Among households who approached their local council for homelessness assistance in the latest year, one in five had physical ill health and disability support needs. It's a growing issue - there were nearly 70,000 such households in 2024/25, up from around 40,000 four years earlier, according to Sky News analysis of government data. This represents a 72% increase, more than three times the 20% rise in the overall number of households seeking homelessness support. The number of homeless or at-risk households with a physical disability support need increased more than any other demographic over the period. They now represent 21% of households, up from 13% of households in 2020/21. Councils 'not taking it seriously' Sky News and housing campaigner Kwajo Tweneboa sent Freedom of Information requests to English councils asking how many people were waiting for accessible social housing, and how long they wait on average. Their responses reveal a troubling lack of understanding of accessible housing needs in their areas. Two in three couldn't say how many people with disabilities were waiting, while four in five weren't able to estimate how long they could expect to wait. Kensington and Chelsea Council disclosed one of the longest waits among those who did respond. It said people waited more than six and a half years for accessible social housing, a year and three months longer than for one-bedroom properties. But we don't have the full picture, as most simply couldn't provide figures. "The fact most didn't provide data on this issue shows the lack of seriousness shown towards those with disabilities and their needs," Mr Tweneboa said. "All it takes is for any of us to have an accident and we may need those services. "We also have an ageing population; no doubt more and more people are going to have additional needs," he added. There are five million more people in the UK with a disability than there were a decade ago, according to the government's Family Resources Survey. Mobility issues are most common, affecting just under half of those with a disability. Home builders bypassing 'very simple things' "We currently do not have enough accessible homes here in England," Millie Brown, deputy director for the homes team at the Centre for Ageing Better, told Sky News. "We know that 20% of people are currently living with a disability, but only 13% of homes across England are built to accessibility standards which support them to live healthy and independent lives. "Things such as step-free access to the home, a toilet on the ground level, doors that are wide enough to fit wheelchairs, for example. "Very simple things that make it so disabled and older people can live in their homes independently." These criteria, alongside a 'flush threshold' - where the floor on either side of doorways are level - are outlined as the four basic criteria for accessibility, which 13% of homes in England meet as of the latest data for 2022. It's not always possible to retrofit existing homes to these standards, but campaigners argue they should be mandatory for new-build properties. Plans under the previous government to raise accessibility standards for new homes never materialised and there has been a "lack of action from both the previous government and the current government", said Ms Brown. 'Couldn't even get through the door' Many councils told us they operate a "choice-based letting system" - meaning people waiting for social housing can bid for properties that suit their needs - but that they don't actively monitor applicants' accessibility requirements. Constantly bidding for properties can be an exhausting process, especially for someone like Chrystal. After her first eviction, when she was on North Hertfordshire's housing register, she said she bid for over 100 properties but only secured viewings at six. "None of them were accessible in any shape or form," she said. "In five of them I couldn't get through the front door. Only one of the properties was adapted, but they told me my needs weren't enough, so I was turned down." Now, she doesn't even have the luxury of joining a housing register. Because she moved to a different local authority in 2022 in search of housing, she is now ineligible for support in either her old area, where she hasn't lived recently enough, or her new one, where she hasn't lived for long enough. 'Affordability problems compounded' "The picture across the board is that it's a struggle for everyone at the moment to find a suitable rented home," Deborah Garvie, policy manager at Shelter, told Sky News. She said the biggest difficulty is affordability, especially for those relying on housing benefit, which has been frozen and not kept up with inflation. People with disabilities, or those caring for them, may be particularly affected as they are less likely to be working full time. "There's that big affordability problem which is likely to be compounded for people who either have disabilities themselves or have a household member with disabilities," added Ms Garvie. "And then on top of that you have the physical access problems as well." A parliamentary inquiry into disabled people in the housing sector ended earlier this year and the government has said it intends to set out policies on the accessibility of new homes soon. A Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: "Cases like Chrystal's are unacceptable and is why we are taking urgent and decisive action to ban section 21 evictions, build 1.5 million new homes and give people housing security. "Through our Plan for Change, we will build more accessible housing so everyone has a home that meets their needs, alongside delivering the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation backed by £39bn investment." Broxbourne Council, which is responsible for housing in Chrystal's area, responded: "At present, there are more than 1,600 households on the Housing Register. "Ms Hendry has been provided with a personalised plan to support her to resolve her housing situation which acknowledges that specialist accommodation is required. "It sets out what the council is doing to support Ms Hendry and also details other housing options that she can pursue." Chrystal acknowledges the council has given her a plan, but argues it doesn't provide any real solutions. "I've been told numerous times that they have no housing in the area," she said. "They have told me to look for places to rent, but finding private rentals that I can live in is like finding a needle in a haystack - and even if I do, housing benefit won't cover it. "I'm lucky enough that I can advocate for myself, but there are loads of people in my position that can't do that. "Trying to wade my way through these broken systems is upsetting and frustrating. I get angry because it seems like nobody wants to fix the problem."
Buzz Feed
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Modern Family's Ariel Winter On Male Predators
Ariel Winter was just 4 years old when she first started acting, and got her big break at 11 years old when she was cast as Alex Dunphy in the hit sitcom Modern Family back in 2009. She remained on the show for 11 years, and when Modern Family ended in 2020, she and her boyfriend moved away from Los Angeles, with Ariel later telling People that she wanted to get away because the city 'holds some not-great memories' for Ariel has been open about the struggles she faced growing up since becoming an adult — including her incredibly difficult relationship with her mom, Chrisoula (aka Chrystal) Workman. In 2012, Chrystal was accused of physically and emotionally abusing Ariel, who was 14 years old at the time, with court documents alleging that Ariel's mom had placed her on such a strict diet that her Modern Family coworkers would 'sneak' her food. Chrystal was also accused of hitting, pushing, and slapping Ariel, as well as sexualizing her by dressing her in extremely inappropriate outfits for her age, with Ariel reportedly leaning on her onscreen sister, Sarah Hyland, throughout this time. Ariel's mom vehemently denied all allegations of abuse, but Ariel's older sister, Shanelle Gray, obtained legal guardianship of Ariel until she became an emancipated minor three years later. The star reflected on all of this in a 2017 interview with the Hollywood Reporter, and in 2023, Ariel described her experience of being pushed into the spotlight as a young child as completely 'rotten.'More recently, Ariel reflected on how hard it was to grow up in the public eye, recalling cruel online scrutiny about her body when she was still a child. Speaking to People back in May, the actor said: 'It was every headline I read about myself, like, grown people writing articles about me saying how I looked terrible or pregnant or like a fat slut. I mean, I was 14. It totally damaged my self-esteem." In the same interview, Ariel opened up about her work with SOSA (Safe from Online Sex Abuse), which is a nonprofit targeting online child sex abuse and trafficking through undercover operations — including adult women working with local law enforcement and posing as young decoys to lure Internet pedophiles in sting operations. Ariel admitted that she is passionate about what SOSA does because of her personal experience of being targeted by adult men when she was a minor. '[SOSA's work] impacted me deeply because I was that kid so many times over that was preyed upon in person and online,' Ariel explained at the time. "I was just like: God, I would love to be able to help be a part of that. I don't want to say there's a solution, but I would love to help take some of these people off the streets.' "I didn't realize it would bring up some of the past traumas for me that it did, but when you're in disguise as a 12-year-old and someone is telling you what they're going to do to your 12-year-old body… It's hard," she added. "I experienced a lot in my time in this industry, and a lot just in so many other areas. I feel so lucky to have come out where I have now." And in a new interview with the Daily Mail, per People, Ariel has reflected some more on how predators preyed on her as a child star. 'I am familiar with male predators because I worked in Hollywood at a young age. I started at age 4,' she began. 'I don't wanna say too much about it, but by the time I was on a laptop and cellphone, I was getting inappropriate messages from older men, and it caused trauma.' 'The experiences I had in person and online as a child have affected me so deeply that I've had to go to therapy for it. The movie and TV industry is a dark place,' Ariel added. 'It's definitely cathartic to be teaming with SOSA, knowing that I can make a difference.''Growing up in the entertainment industry, I've been the girl we are trying to save,' she went on. 'It's vital to me to help protect young women from the experiences I endured in my own life.'
Winnipeg Free Press
28-05-2025
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Seven memorable goals with a St. James connection
St. James-Assiniboia As I watch the 2025 NHL playoff buzzer beater and overtime goals, I decided to remember a few memorable playoff goals scored by St. James players. Harry Taylor — April 20, 1946 at Maple Leaf Gardens In the Memorial Cup , the Toronto St . Michaels led the Monarchs two games to one. In Game 4, Harry Taylor's second goal of the game at 11:19 of the third period turned out to be the winner as the Winnipeg Monarchs tied the series 2-2. The Monarchs went on to win the Memorial Cup in seven games. File photo Ab McDonald, pictured here in 2019, scored the game winning goal of the Stanley Cup Finals for the Chicago Black Hawks on April 16, 1961, ending a 23-year championship drought. Bob Chrystal — AHL final in Cleveland April 16, 1953 Bob was a defensive defenseman. However, Bob scored four goals in the 1953 AHL playoffs. Game 7 between Cleveland and Pittsburgh was scoreless at the end of regulation time. During the seventh minute of overtime, Cleveland coach Bun Cook was yelling at Chrystal to get off the ice for a much needed change. Chrystal flipped the puck into the Pittsburgh end to facilitate the change. As Chrystal sat down on the bench, the Cleveland fans erupted in joy. Bob's shot had gone into the net. Cleveland, with Johnny Bower in goal, had won the AHL championship. Laurie Langrelle — April 26, 1959 Winnipeg Arena After losing Game 1 of the 1959 Memorial Cup to Scotty Bowman's Peterborough Petes, Laurie Langrelle scored two goals, including the game winner at 12:48 of the second period, leading the Winnipeg Braves to a 5-2 victory to even the series at 1-1. The Braves seized the momentum and won the series in five games. Ab McDonald — April 16, 1961 Stanley Cup Final Detroit Olympia Chicago led the best-of-seven final 3-2. At 18:49 of the second period, with game tied 1-1, Detroit goalie Hank Bassen stopped a Bobby Hull shot, then Ab Mcdonald deposited the puck into the net. Stan Mikita also assisted on the goal. Chicago ended up winning 5-1, ending a 23-year championship drought. Jim Johnston — Deer Lodge Bantam B's March 19, 1965 Sargent Park Arena The Deer Lodge Bantam B's played West Kildonan for the city championship at the Sargent Park Arena. The game was tied 2-2 after regulation. Deer Lodge looked tired in overtime. However, Jim Johnston scored in the second overtime. Deer Lodge went on to win the provincial championship. The following season, Johnston scored the first goal in the brand new St. James Civic Centre. Mondays A weekly look at news and events that matter in your communities. Bill Moir — March 10, 1968 St. James Civic Centre Despite finishing last in a four-team league, the St. James Canadians got hot in playoffs. In the second game of Round 2, the Canadians trailed West Kildonan 3-0 after two periods. The miracle playoff run seemed to be ending. However, the Canadians did not even allow a shot in the third. Bill Moir tied the game at 3-3 with an end-end rush late in the third. St. James won in the second overtime on a goal by Andy Van Hellmond. The Canadians went on to win the MJHL championship before losing in the Western Memorial Cup semifinal/ Kerry Ross — April 16, 1998 two memorable goals at the Eric Coy Arena During the 1997-98 MMJHL season the 20-year-old St. James Canucks were still chasing their first championship. In the final, the Canucks faced Charleswood, which had won the previous four championships. Charleswood was leading by one goal on home ice in Game 7. Kerry Ross tied the game at 19:46 of the third period. Ross scored again at 8:50 of overtime. The next chapter of this story may be written on April 16, 2026. Fred MorrisSt. James community correspondent Fred Morris is a community correspondent for St. James. Read full biography Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Buzz Feed
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
33 Products For Anyone Who Likes To Spend Friday Night Inside (And Preferably Alone)
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Shopping · No offense to outside, but there isn't a "Pocket World" coloring book or decadently cozy Ugg blanket out there. 1. A set of delightfully ~~tingly~~ self-heating soothing foot masks made with Epsom salts, lavender, and peppermint perfect for anyone whose recent step count is "too many." Nothing like a lil' self-care on those aching feet to lift your spirits! Check out a TikTok of the foot masks in action. I'm a long-ish distance runner, and these were certainly an interesting experience for my feet! You slide them on and, after a few minutes, feel a tingling, mildly burning (in a good way) sensation. It doesn't quite numb your feet, but it relaxes them. I kept them on for 30 minutes and then toweled my feet off, and the tingling sensation slowly faded over the next 30 minutes. After that, my feet felt very refreshed and relaxed at a time of day when they're usually aching from all the miles I put in. The whole thing was a mess-free, easy process, and I will definitely keep them on hand for longer run days! Promising review:"Very soothing. My husband and l used these on our European vacation, and they definitely felt good on our feet!" — KS2018 Get a set of three pairs from Amazon for $11.97. 2. An oh-so-cozy, delectably soft Ugg blanket so you can take all the warmth and comfort of an Ugg boot and literally wrap it around yourself like a comfy cocoon. The decadence is just short of ABSURD. Amazon Promising review: "My blanket is so beautiful. I chose white so I can use it everywhere. It's so fluffy and thick. Size is perfect and it's so very warm! I'm going to buy another one for my guest room." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $78.14+ (available in three colors). 3. A PopLite personal popcorn maker with a built-in serving bowl that will give you eight cups of movie theater-quality popcorn in two mere mortal minutes. Reviewers especially love that the popcorn doesn't burn, and the machine doesn't leave unpopped kernels like the usual microwave brands. Check out a TikTok of the popcorn maker in action. Promising review: " This little popcorn popper is perfect! No fuss, no mess, no chasing popcorn kernels!! Fabulous! Easy to use — the popcorn maker part fits into the bowl part for easy storage. This is one perfect unit!" — Chrystal Get it from Amazon for $34.99. 4. A set of affordable lavender shower steamers so you can have a dose of ~calm~ to cap off a long day of capitalism and help your poor overworked brain getting into de-stressing mode. Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins. Promising review: "Hubby bought these for me because I work full time and just decided to go back to school full time, and he figured I'd be a little stressed, haha. They all smell wonderful, they work great, they'll definitely help me calm down especially during exam time at school or budget season at work." — Tyleena Gloeker Get a set of eight from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three styles). 5. A 5-pound bucket of Crayola Air Dry Clay to let you finally follow your inner pottery dreams without all the mess and effort of taking classes. After you pull the clay out to shape it, it'll harden on its own — no oven or any effort required! From there you can leave it as is or paint over it for a fun vibe. Psst — a lot of reviewers use silicone or plastic molds to get specific shapes! Promising review: "It's honestly just a really nice material to work with! If you want to create things with clay, this is definitely a good choice! It's definitely not for professional use, but I feel like that's a given? I mean, it is Crayola. But all in all, great for those who want to use it for fun!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $10.62. 6. A gaming/reading/laptop pillow so you can prop your hands up while you're playing video games, typing, or reading on your Kindle or iPad. This supports your arms for a more ~ergonomically-friendly~ experience whether you're in bed or on a couch, and even features a lil' side pocket for things like remote controls, glasses, and — of course — emergency snacky snacks. Check out a TikTok of the gaming pillow in action. Promising review:"I work from home a few days a week, and every once in a while, my work extends into the evening hours. I have a home office, but sitting at my desk all day is sometimes very tiring. I purchased this big memory foam desk pillow so that I can relax on my couch and still put my laptop up and have a comfortable working area. This pillow is big but very comfortable. It has armrests that wrap around your sides, and they also have little pockets for random things like your cell phone or the remote. It's so nice to just lean back into my comfortable couch and have this big soft desk in front of me." — Jenn Butterfield Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in three styles). 7. A lightweight, expandable bamboo bathtub caddy to turn your boring bathroom into a veritable spa. Pinot? Poured. Candle? Lit. Netflix? Queued. Now, all you have to do is calmly explain to their loved ones that you live in a tub now. Bambusi is a small business that specializes in quality made home products. Promising review:"Surprisingly sturdy and well made. Assembly and construction is excellent, and the accessories are quite clever. On balance, the tray is impressive and well worth its cost. A thoughtful gift, especially for anyone who likes to relax in the tub, but not without their accessories and a glass of wine." — Barry Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in five colors). 8. Plus a wine caddy for the bathtub, for those times you don't just need to relax, but need to relaaaaaaaaax 🍷. Amazon SipCaddy is a US-based small business that specializes in shower beer and wine bath holders. Bonus: it also holds cans, so they can pop in a LaCroix or enjoy a shower PBR, too. Promising review:"Loved how easy this was to put in my shower and use for anything from holding beverages to face wash. Gifted it to two friends and my boyfriend who at first mocked it but now LOVES it. I'd consider traveling with it at this point." — MB Schatz Get it from Amazon for $14.95 (available in six colors). 9. A set of luxe, reviewer-beloved Le Gushe "24K Gold" under-eye masks so you can *truly* pamper yourself — these soothing (ridiculously pretty??) masks are infused with hyaluronic acid, collagen, and aloe to help hydrate and refresh the dark circles and puffiness under your eyes. The self-care vibes are *immaculate*. Promising review:"I have used these a few times and they have been fine. However, the other day I hadn't slept well and had some bags under my eyes. These little miracles suddenly were amazing! After twenty minutes, my eyes looked less sunken and tired and more natural in color with the right amount of puffiness. I even forgot about them for six months so imagine my surprise that they were still good to go and worked perfectly. They leave my skin feeling smooth and happy." — Angela I Get 10 pairs from Amazon for $9.95. 10. A pair of fleece-lined joggers that will feel like slipping on clouds that happen to be customized to your human form. Promising review: "These pants are warm and comfortable. I have been wearing these for over a year now and they are wonderful. They wash and dry well, and I have experienced no pills or shrinkage. They also have a functional back pocket as well as side pockets. I have these in three colors and I will purchase again." — Spotted Mermaid Get it from Amazon $38.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and in 11 colors). 11. Pocket World, an adult stress relief coloring book full of whimsical miniature Polly Pocket-esque worlds to color, with no two alike. I'm talking fairy gardens, tiny hygge-style living rooms, quirky restaurants, and more. Psst — Coco Wyo has a *ton* of other cozy stress relief coloring books with different themes in their Amazon storefront! Check out a TikTok of Coco Wyo coloring books in action. Another psst — you can pick up a cult-fave colored pencil set on Amazon for $9.49! Promising review:"One of my favorites ever!!! The idea is perfect, and the pages are all unique and fun to color, with no repetition, and the details aren't too tiny. Great for anxiety if you're doing coloring for mental health. (I hate the pages that are just tiny patterns repeated endlessly. Makes my anxiety worse.)" — Ezra Johnson Get it from Amazon for $7.99. 12. And a "Through The Seasons" Reverse Coloring Book, which is a newer edition of the original Reverse Coloring Book that took the internet by storm — reviewers swear by this easy, calming artistic outlet to help ease their anxiety, relieve stress, and unleash their inner creativity without taking up too much brainpower. For those new to the concept — Instead of adding the color to these, you add the lines to create images within the colors. Sort of like a Rorschach test, but make it whimsical. Check out a TikTok of the reverse coloring book in action. Promising review: "Kendra Norton's beautiful art books, Reverse Coloring books, have changed my world! My whole life, I thought I was not creative and therefore, had zero artistic ability. Now, this has become my favorite form of artistic expression. I turn on music and/or an audiobook and allow myself to go for an adventure outside of my mind, beyond my mind, if you will. T his has become my favorite way to process through difficult emotions and experiences I'm working through." — K. DeWitt Get it from Amazon for $8.29. (Psst — check out these cult-fave black fine point pens for $7.99 on Amazon for a good doodling option!) 13. A "Cup Cozy Pillow" to keep everything steady on your bed when you are one silly little beverage away from accidentally turning your bed into a LaCroix swamp. This will not only keep all your accessories upright and on hand, but has expandable cup holes to fit mugs, water bottles, and snacks, with an insulating foam that keeps drinks hot or cold for longer periods. Cup Cozy Pillow is a small business that specializes in family-friendly snack and drink organizers. Check out a TikTok of the Cup Cozy Deluxe Pillow in action. Promising review:"This thing is great! I'm home on maternity leave with my new baby and spend most of my time on the couch under a sleeping baby. This product makes it easy for me to keep my drinks, remote, etc close by even with dogs running around. It's a little more expensive than I would have liked but it works and I love it so money well spent!" — Amber Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in three styles and nine patterns). 14. A sturdy, minimalist reading journal with such a comprehensive, satisfying design that you'll never bother with another again — this features space for 52 thorough book reviews, along with challenges and lists for Books I've Read, Finished, Favorites, Did Not Finish, Lent, and Borrowed. Kunitsa Co. is a small business that specializes in reading, exercise, and food journals. Promising review:"This book journal had plenty of room for all the book reviews and so much more. It has pages for daily reading tracking, pages for reading goals, pages for DNF books, favorite books, loaned-out books, and tons of review pages all you have to do is feel it out. It's perfect!!!!" — Cody McNeal Get it from Amazon for $22.95 (available in six colors). 15. An ultimate "girl dinner" plate — okay, technically a cheeseboard, but HEAR ME OUT. This labeled board is the *gremlin's kiss* perfect size for a human who wants to curl up with a Netflix rom-com alone and eat sharp cheddar cheese, Ritz crackers, and stuffed olives on a Friday night. Amazon Bonus: it's blank on the other side if you want to flip it over and use it for entertaining! Promising review: "Perfect. The charcuterie board looks exactly like the picture. I am very happy with it." — Joetta Adgate Get it from Amazon for $15.41. 16. A mini weighted blanket perfect for people who want a quick dose of calm and relaxation, but don't want to overheat or commit to the whole heavy shebang of a full-size weighted blanket. This one's the perfect size to easily drape over yourself on the couch. Amazon, Read more about how to choose a weight and what these blankets help with and how from Cleveland Clinic. Promising review:"I love weighted blankets, but I always get way too hot with them. This is perfect because I can cover up the half of my body that I want the weighted feeling on while the rest do my body gets to stay cool. It is perfect for me." — Patricia Newt Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in three weights and six colors). 17. A bottle of truffle seasoning for an instant upgrade on homemade meals that honestly has become one of my only personality traits, to the point where I'm just like, begging you to try it. I should gatekeep this stuff so I can have it all to myself but it is such a delicious and satisfying and ridiculously affordable alternative to real truffles that I'm throwing the gates WIDE OPEN. *wheezes in truffle* Okay, I bought this on a whim because there's a sushi place down the street from me that makes truffle avocado sushi rolls, and I was like, I need these in my life, but I also need money to live. I decided to DIY it with a regular $4 avocado roll, and this seasoning and the umami bliss of it all basically exploded my brain. Since then, I've tried it on eggs, burritos, potatoes, chocolate mug cakes, and pretty much every sweet and savory thing I can think of. The best part is you really get an excellent bang for your buck — it's so flavorful that I've been using this for months now and have barely made a dent in the container! Get it from Amazon for $11.99. 18. A compact, beginner-friendly watercolor palette that comes with everything you need to start creating your own masterpieces, including 100 (!!) colors to choose from. Next stop, the Louvre. Each set comes with a 100-color palette, a sketch pencil, a sponge, a swatch sheet, and three water brush pens. Promising review:"Love collecting watercolor sets, and this one is amazing — so many exquisite colors to paint with. Creativity is everything, and imagination with all these colors is unlimited. Pure happiness!" — pve Get it from Amazon for $32.99. 19. A pair of dainty feathered velvet house slippers to make you feel like the main character of a black and white Hollywood film descending the stairs to your star-crossed lover in the dead of the night (when really you're just groping around in the dark for the Cheez-Its box). Reviewers say that if you're in between sizes, you should size up! Promising review: "I love these slippers so much! It took a little time to get the feathers to fluff up, but they did, and now it's gre at. The slippers are so warm and comfortable that I want to wear them all the time. The memory foam insole has been holding up well to daily wear, and these keep my toes toasty warm." — skm_pdx Get it from Amazon for $20.98+ (available in women's sizes 5–12 and 12 colors). 20. A lil' flat cat heating pad you can cook up in the microwave for some much needed relief from cramps or just the chill in the air. Promising review: "This was so much better than I anticipated. The quality is really nice and there is a removable cover that you can remove and was h. It is soft and comfortable and comes in the cutest little box. So cute and functional. Heat is a humid heat but not too intense right out of the microwave." — brittany Get it from Amazon for $15.04 (available three sizes and four other styles). 21. A cider making starter kit so easy to use that you'll have four bottles of wine, cider, or mead in just nine days — and then you can repeat the whole process all over again for more boozey deliciousness. You can use any juice you want, or you can access over 5,000 unique recipes through Brewsy, which also includes online support if you have any questions! Brewsy is a small business that specializes in affordable, app-enabled cider, wine, and mead kits. Note: you have to provide your own jug or juice bottle (there's one on Amazon if you don't already have a vessel large enough!). Promising review:"I've been interested in making my own wine for awhile, but getting started can be costly and time consuming. This kit is a great way to get started for very little money or time. The instructions are easy to follow, and the ability to use any juice at all means you can make some really unique flavors. I have already made one batch of wine using grape juice because I didn't want to get too wild on my first batch. It was sweeter then most red wines I've bought, but tasted great and the alcohol content was at least 12 percent. I base that on my body's reaction after drinking two glasses. I recommend these for yourself or a friend, I think it's a great buy and product." — Maximillion M. Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in cider, mead, or wine kits). 22. A heated eye massager with so many bells and whistles, it's worth the investment and *then* some — not only does it come with five different massage modes and a 15-minute timer, but it has Bluetooth music so you can vibe with your eyes *and* your ears. Reviewers swear by this to help combat eye strain, headaches, puffy under-eye circles, and dry eyes, and insomnia. Promising review: "I saw this product on one of Amazon's must-have TikTok videos, and I knew I had to get it. It was so worth it — even though the price may seem higher compared to other sellers, this is for sure a good investment piece. The quality is top-notch, the strap that goes around your head is comfortable, and most importantly, the duration of each mode is long enough that it doesn't interrupt your rest. I work a 12-hour night shift as a nurse, and this technology has helped me get through the night easily.👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in three colors). 23. Small Batch Cookies, tailor made for folks who live alone *or* for people who want to broaden their baking horizons, but don't want to deal with the mess of big batches (or the leftovers!). This book takes you through a bunch of delicious recipes for one to six people using minimal equipment, so you can have hassle-free treats and live your most delicious life. Promising review: "Edd Kimber is so creative with his bakes and this book is full of fun and interesting cookie recipes. love the flavors in this and layered. Baking small batches is surprisingly liberating. Most ingredients are on hand and I'm not stressing about what to do with large quantities of cookies. With small amounts, it feels easier to play and experiment." — Monica Get it from Amazon for $20.10. 24. A TikTok and Kindle remote control ring so you can scroll through videos or turn pages without wrangling with your phone or tablet. This is the ideal accessory for anyone who likes to be cozy in bed or anyone who likes to use exercise equipment with a screen distracting them! This lets you scroll up and down, swipe right and left, pause and start, and adjust volume. Promising review:"Chiiiiiile let me tell you I got this hooked up to my iPad annnnnd my iPhone and life is so much better. This little ring is AWESOME. It works my Pandora, iHeart Radio, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, I mean everything I use, IT REALLY WORKS! You can even like the posts on all the sites. I be under my covers just scrolling, y'all this thing even adjusts the volume. The booklet tells you everything. This is a must-have. I am extremely happy with this purchase, and I've been using it every day, even at work." — Deb! Get it from Amazon for $19.98 (available in six colors). 25. A " Grievance Journal," or rather a "burn book for the discerning misanthrope" — a darkly funny, satisfying, and cathartic journal with 52 prompts so you can purge yourself of the ~~darkness~~ of your daily irritations and inconveniences without alarming all your friends and neighbors. (Well, any more than you already do 😈.) Amazon Promising review: "Bought this intending to gift it to a friend but ended up getting really into the prompts and decided to keep it for myself. WOW, what an awesome way to vent and articulate the negativity you're feeling by actually forcing yourself to form coherent thoughts around your emotions. Cheaper and more effective than therapy, buying several more for friends and fam." — Alex Get it from Amazon for $27.99. 26. And The 369 Method Manifestation Journal, which you may find helpful not just for setting plans to achieve your goals, but to better help define them for yourself. The journal explains the "Law Of Attraction" method for manifesting, and gives you 12 weeks of space to help make your goals a reality, with lines to write your manifestations three times in the morning, six in the afternoon, and nine at night. Amazon Promising review:"This book is exactly what I needed to start my journey to a better life in 2024. This journal helped me write down my goals and mentally practice a positive outlook. I am excited for the journey ahead." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $7.79. 27. A Gaiam starter set for yoga complete with all the basics, including a yoga mat, a yoga block, and a stretching strap, so you can tune into free yoga classes you gain access to with the set. Achieving mindfulness and flow in a chaotic world? Bring it om. Promising review:"I am not very limber and I have chronic spine issues, so having a block and strap was essential for me to do yoga. Before using this, I always ended up hurting myself or feeling bad about myself because I couldn't complete the stretches and would just give up. This kit made everything go so smoothly; I can adjust the block or the strap to help me stretch without hurting myself (or falling over). And I highly recommend the sitting techniques in the DVD as well as the meditation." — blightheavy Get it from Amazon for $21.49. 28. A sushi-making kit perfect for beginners or intermediate sushi makers, so you can finally mix and match the exact ingredients your adventurous heart desires. I'm definitely going to sushi jail for this, but I've started putting peanut butter in my avocado rolls. Don't knock it until you try it. Anyway, each kit comes with two sushi rolling mats, five pairs of chopsticks, a paddle, a spreader, and a PDF of instructions, including recipes for six popular rolls. Psst — if you REALLY want to level up your homemade sushi game, I highly recommend adding this truffle seasoning on Amazon for $11.99+! It tastes so startlingly decadent. I've been ordering it for years to put on my avocado rolls and shiitake rolls when I order sushi. Promising review:"Received this the other day and the wife and I had our own sushi night at home...I did not realize there were two mats in the package which was a nice little surprise... everything is made of good quality materials, easy to use and a good fun activity for date night at home. I will be getting a few more as gifts for a few product, received it quickly and for the price you cannot go wrong." — Timothy J Stegner Get it from Amazon for $9.99. 29. A "Nap Guardian" doorbell cover that parents, pet owners, and nap lovers swear by to prevent the doorbell from ringing at all hours of the day. Now babies can stay asleep, very excitable dogs can stay on the couch, and very sleepy humans can get the shut-eye they deserve. Nap Guardian is a small business that specializes in doorbell covers for home use. Check out a TikTok of the doorbell cover in action. Promising review:"This is well-made and very easy to apply. I have it on my Ring doorbell camera, and it keeps delivery people from ringing my doorbell very well. It also does not obstruct my view or notifications for my Ring doorbell camera. Great for when taking a nap!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $19.99. 30. A dual beverage Stanley cup separator so you can have TWO beverages in ONE GIANT CUP. It's a free-for-all of bevvy combos. Apple cider + seltzer, iced tea + lemonade, High Noon plus — you know what, I'll let you choose that journey for yourself 😉. Each set comes with two silicone separators and two straws in different colors adapted to a 40-ounce Stanley cup. Promising review: "I love this separator! It fits in snugly and comes with two straws. Works well with my 40-ounce Stanley!" — Dana Daily Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in four styles). 31. A gentle bubbly clay mask designed to help remove blackheads and minimize the appearance of pores, but most importantly to let you cosplay as a happy lil' cloud. Check out a TikTok of the foaming mask in action. Promising review:"I love this stuff! I received some for a gift and then purchased it for my daughter from Amazon. It feels like a clay mask going on, and then starts bubbling and turns to a thinner substance when it's done. I feel like it is very gentle on my face. My skin feels amazing after I wash it off. It feels like I used moisturizer, even though I did not. I hear that these masks are very popular in Japan." — L. Shea Get it from Amazon for $9.80. 32. A ridiculously soft oversized hoodie reviewers compare to $$ brands like Skims, Aritzia, and Abercrombie. You know how on TikTok sometimes people say "this hoodie hoodies" like it's a noun and a verb? Enter this cult-favorite, reviewer-beloved hoodie, which does, in fact, hoodie. Promising review:"I'm obsessed with this hoodie. I've been looking for a warm, soft hoodie with a big hood for a long time. This quality is excellent and feels more expensive. It is an oversized fit. I usually wear an XL top and sometimes L. The large fit perfectly! I want one in every color now." — LindsayW Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–3X and 28 colors). 33. And a pair of oversize fleece cargo joggers complete with POCKETS, made with a cotton blend so satisfyingly soft that it'll be a miracle if you ever pull yourself out of Lounge Hound Mode again. Amazon Promising review: "High-quality baggy sweatpants. I love them so much I also bought four different colors. I wanted the slightly baggy, hang off my mid-waist look. They are very warm and soft inside. They have not changed size since washing and drying." — MacBethany Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes S–XL and four colors). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Chef's famous lobster fest back for St. Patty's Day
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – A local caterer with four decades of experience is making the most of St. Patrick's Day by cooking and celebrating for several days. Read next: Rainbow trout to be stocked in this local lake Jeff Chrystal and his catering team have been busy getting ready for an entire weekend of food, music, and fun for the St. Patrick's Day weekend. Everything kicks off for Jeff Chrystal's Lobster Fest happening on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15 at Knoll Run Golf Course in Lowellville. Guests will enjoy a large menu with items like Portland Maine Style Lobster roll on a grilled butter roll, house-made clam chowder, and Maryland-style crabcakes. Dinner entrees include boiled fresh Maine Lobster, roast prime rib, chargrilled lamb chops, fresh cod from Maine and much more. 'The people of Knoll Run are wonderful enough to let us come in and invade their parking lot and cook, and they take care of all the cocktails and wines that you want to have for the evening,' said Jeff Chrystal, of Chrystal's Catering. 'We have entertainment Friday and Saturday evenings. Sunday at 2 p.m. we reopen with a full Irish menu, and then we'll open on Monday morning and I'll be cooking eggs and breakfast for you.' The dinner is reservation only and Chrystal says spots are going fast. 'I ran up to Portland, Maine. The guys from Lucky Catch Lobster got these for us,' said Chrystal. 'The cool thing is there's so many fantastic fresh fish from that area, so I brought back lobster, thick-cut cod, fresh swordfish and we have salmon.' If you're not a seafood lover, you can enjoy prime ribs smoked on a spit, chicken or steak just to mention a few. On Sunday, March 16 and Monday, March 17, the food and festivities continue at Knoll Run with a St. Patrick's celebration. Chrystal is no stranger to catering and cooking incredible food as he started cooking 45 years ago. He said St. Patrick's Day is one of his biggest holidays, and he truly likes to keep it steeped in tradition. 'We've been cooking corned beef in the area for probably 40 years. We'll have corned beef and cabbage dinners, grilled Reubens. We try to do it as traditional as we've always done with the corned beef and cabbage dinners,' said Chrystal. 'And then we have homemade desserts. Our Baileys Irish cream almond tort, cheesecake with fresh berries and also a chocolate mousse torte.' Chrystal makes everything fresh and from scratch. 'We make our homemade rye that we make for the sandwiches. We also have our rolls that we made for our lobster roll,' said Chrystal. 'We'll take diced up lobster, open the rolls up, butter them an grill them and then put the chopped up lobster with a little bit of spices, a touch of mayonnaise, some lemon juice onto the sandwich for an appetizer. And like always we have our homemade cracked wheat bread.' Also on Monday, the owners of Phantom Fireworks will be at Crystal's Northside kitchen on Belmont Avenue in Youngstown handing out sandwiches to first responders from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Lobster Fest is happening on March 14 and March 15 at Knoll Run Golf Course in Lowellville by reservation only. The rest of the celebrations on March 16 and 17 are also at Knoll Run and no reservations are needed. Knoll Run Golf Course is located at 1421 State Route 616 in Lowellville. For more information call (330)743-8062 and visit Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
