Woman arrested after trying to pass dog’s urine as own

A woman was arrested after she tried to pass off dog urine as her own to her probation officer. Police responded to the Bell County, Kentucky Probation and Parole Office and spoke with officers, who advised that a 30-year-old woman was at the office for her regular probation visit. As part of her supervision, she was asked for a drug screen. One officer told another that she had sneaked in a sample of urine to pass it off as her own. An officer asked if the urine was hers and she admitted that it was not and that it was her dog’s urine. She admitted to officers that she brought it in because she knew she would fail a drug test after she had used meth and suboxone. She was arrested and taken to the Bell County Detention Center, where she was charged with tampering with physical evidence. She was also served a probation violation and with trafficking in a controlled substance warrant. (WLEX)

Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance

They often shoot for leadership roles that can influence your career. Whether that’s good or bad depends on the type of narcissist you’re dealing with. In some cases, ending up in the good graces of such self-absorbed colleagues can boost your career since narcissists actively seek recognition for a job well-done. But for those that view credit as a zero-sum game, it’s best to steer clear or risk becoming collateral damage. (Fast Company)

Office humidity levels can affect employees’ stress and perhaps even their sleep

According to a new study from researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Arizona, dry conditions aren’t great for our health. The researchers analyzed 134 workers from four different U.S. buildings who wore chest sensors to monitor heart rate and physical activity. They found workers who spent the majority of their time at offices with 30-60% humidity (the “comfort” zone) experienced 25% less stress at the office and better sleep than those in drier conditions. (Mirage News)

ATTN Bosses: Small acts of employer kindness can go a really long way with employees

According to research from Penn State University. The researchers found that when bus companies in China added fresh fruit to the lunches they give to their drivers, the employees felt increased confidence about their performance and reduced depression. While pay hikes or reduced workloads may help even more, Penn State’s researchers say that these findings suggest that “even small offerings can make a big difference.” (Science Daily)

If you’ve found yourself scrolling through your Instagram feed forgetting how you got there, you’re not alone

Two-thirds of workers admit to looking at their phones for at least an hour out of their work day. This is costing us and our employers dearly. Studies estimate the productivity cost comes to many hundreds of billions of dollars in the U.S. alone. Strategies that can help you reclaim your focus include mastering your internal triggers, planning your day, and controlling your tech. (Udemy)

Humor as a workplace value might be the way to face a stressful work environment

According to the World Health Organization, work-related stress has been recognized as an illness that negatively affects productivity. But incorporating a sense of humor and “silliness” can make the environment feel more comfortable and encourage creative ideas. Small gestures of silliness can be just the spark you need to inspire your team to be their best self. (Fast Company)

Oklahoma town has Baby Yoda mural

People from all over are checking out a Baby Yoda mural in Ada, Oklahoma completed in just a couple hours with spray paint by Chickasaw Nation Fine Arts Director. He said his public art display is his way to promote the arts for Oklahoma Youth. “Sometimes students don’t get an outlet to create art, but if they can wake up every day, go to it or from school, or wherever. If they see it in a public setting, at least it’s there a part of the community environment,” he said. He plans to add more to the ‘Baby Yoda’ painting, and eventually connect the two works of art. (KXII)

Man caught with heroin and meth poses for photo with arresting deputies

A 24-year-old man in Lacey’s Spring, Alabama, was arrested by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office on four felony warrants for possession of a controlled substance, property theft, receiving stolen property, and criminal mischief. The man ran off and led deputies on a short foot chase before being handcuffed. Before being hauled away to jail, he asked for a photo with the arresting deputies. They obliged and shared the photo on Facebook. He faces new charges after his arrest. Investigators found heroin and meth on him, and a stolen motorcycle at his house. (CBS12)

Florida man arrested for fighting a gas pump

A 24-year-old Florida man is facing charges after he allegedly punched and kicked a gas pump. According to the report, he told deputies his rage was all over an argument he had with his girlfriend. He was arrested and is facing a disorderly conduct charge. No word on who won the fight. (WBBN)

Survey says New Year’s Day is sleepiest day of the year

If you’re feeling extra exhausted on the first day of 2020, you’re not alone. According to results from an American Academy of Sleep Medicine survey, New Year’s Day is the sleepiest day of the entire year. It says 57% percent of the 2,003 U.S. adults surveyed reported feeling more tired than normal on New Year’s Day compared to other holidays and times of the year, followed by the first day back at work (45%) and the 5th of July (41%). “Americans recognize that sleep is important to their health, but many fail to prioritize it,” the press release says. “The start of a new year is the perfect time to set healthy sleep goals. Sleep improves your well-being, fitness, and productivity. It also helps you fight off infection, maintain a healthy weight and avoid chronic diseases.” (American Academy Of Sleep Medicine)

Thursday Shines On With:

• 55-MPH Speed Limit Day
• Bodhi Day (Rohatsu)
• Happy Mew Year for Cats Day
• National Buffet Day
• National Motivation and Inspiration Day
• National Personal Trainer Awareness Day
• National Science Fiction Day
• Pet Travel and Safety Day
• World Introvert Day