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New Jersey red maples are a vital lifeline in early spring
Red maple flowers in New Jersey bloom early and supply abundant nectar and protein-rich pollen when many pollinators emerge, supporting bees, caterpillars, birds and other wildlife.
Book clubs and knitting circles can help restore democratic habits
A Boston Globe profile describes Martha Crawford’s New Mexico workshops that teach people how to form small community groups — from reading circles to support groups — and notes researchers who say such local ties can strengthen civic skills and reduce support for authoritarian ideas.
Vaxcyte VAX-31 Phase 1/2 adult results published in The Lancet
Vaxcyte announced that The Lancet Infectious Diseases published Phase 1/2 data showing VAX-31 was well tolerated and produced robust immune responses in adults 50 and older; the high dose met non-inferiority for 20 shared serotypes and superiority for 11 additional serotypes, and VAX-31 is now being evaluated in the OPUS Phase 3 adult program.
New Smyrna Beach Downtown Arts District showcases coastal murals and galleries
Canal Street's Downtown Arts District features galleries, working studios, outdoor murals and performance spaces, and several nearby inns and B&Bs offer walkable or short-drive access.
Ozempic linked to lower risk of worsening mental health, study suggests
A Swedish observational study of almost 95,000 people with diabetes or obesity and diagnosed mental health conditions found semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) was associated with lower risks of worsening depression (44%), anxiety (38%) and addiction (47%); researchers said the results support running clinical trials.
Carbon Dioxide levels have risen sharply over recent decades, NASA reports.
NASA reports atmospheric carbon dioxide has increased markedly compared with pre‑industrial levels, with ground and satellite records and Antarctic ice cores showing a long-term rise linked to emissions from fossil fuels and other sources.
Monthly cash payments may ease strain for Maui wildfire survivors
A Maui nonprofit ran a six-month Kahua Card pilot that gave 18 households up to $1,100 a month; about 80% of participants reported less anxiety while many still had unmet housing needs.
Cannabis Compounds May Reverse Fatty Liver Disease in Mice.
A mouse study found that cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) improved liver fat, blood lipids and glucose control and increased phosphocreatine production; whether these effects apply to humans is undetermined.
Commission approves amendments for 5 conservation easements
The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners on March 17 approved five budget amendments to support conservation easements using its open space GO bond and special projects funds. The board also authorized an $8 million purchase of Deaverview Mountain, with most of the acreage to be placed under easement.
Veterans face long waits as about 17 die by suicide daily
About 17 veterans die by suicide each day, and officials report veterans wait an average of 17 days for a first mental health appointment.
Joseph Duggar arrested after being accused of molesting a minor
Joseph Garrett Duggar was arrested in Arkansas on charges that he molested a 9-year-old during a 2020 Florida vacation, the Bay County Sheriff's Office said. He faces counts of lewd and lascivious behavior and is awaiting extradition to Bay County, Florida.
Cross Season 2 finale asks what justice really means
The Cross Season 2 finale leaves major cliffhangers about Alex Cross’s future with the police and continues to probe accountability, vigilantism and what upholding justice looks like; Prime Video has confirmed a Season 3.
Canned soups for high blood pressure: 6 low-sodium choices
The article highlights six types of canned soups—lentil, black bean, split pea, minestrone, vegetable barley, and butternut squash—that are noted for fiber, potassium, and lean-protein content and that are healthiest when labeled low‑ or no‑salt; sodium levels vary widely by brand.
Joseph Duggar arrested over alleged incident involving a minor during Florida vacation
Joseph Duggar was arrested and charged in connection with an alleged 2020 incident reported by a minor during a family vacation in Panama City Beach, Florida; he is currently booked in Arkansas and awaiting extradition.
Shohei Ohtani aims for a bigger pitching workload in 2026.
Shohei Ohtani threw 4 1/3 scoreless innings in a Cactus League outing and is seeking a larger pitching role in 2026; the Dodgers have left room for flexible rest while managing his two-way duties.
Christian Collins commits to USC basketball
Christian Collins, a 6-foot-9 McDonald's All-American who has cystic fibrosis, verbally committed to USC and joins a 2026 class ranked No. 6 by 247Sports.
Midwest preview: Howard prepares to face No. 1 seed Michigan
Howard, fresh off its first NCAA Tournament win (86-83 over UMBC in the First Four), meets No. 1 seed Michigan in the Midwest Region first round; Michigan enters the tournament 31-3 and is noted for its size and transition speed.
After Michigan attack, Jewish teens say antisemitism will not define them
Following a reported attack at a West Bloomfield Township synagogue and an active investigation, leaders of Jewish youth groups say their response emphasizes strengthening community and Jewish identity rather than debating opponents.
South Loop rail yard could be site for a new White Sox ballpark
Shore Capital is under contract to buy a 47-acre Amtrak rail yard in Chicago's South Loop; the White Sox have discussed pursuing a new stadium and their lease for Rate Field expires after the 2029 season.
Extreme heat poses growing risks across cities and neighborhoods
Urban surfaces and less tree cover make some city neighborhoods several degrees hotter, and research finds access to cooled public spaces is linked to fewer heat-related deaths while fans can be ineffective above about 95°F.
Rhythms of Africa festival returns to Miramar for 13th annual celebration.
Rhythms of Africa will be held April 18–19, 2026 at the Miramar Cultural Center and will feature Jamaican-themed programming with performances by JC Lodge, Richie Stephens, Gem Myers, and the Rhythms of Africa Band.
SUN Bucks returns for 2026 with summer grocery benefits.
The USDA's SUN Bucks program will provide $120 in summer grocery benefits per eligible child in 2026; many children are automatically enrolled through school meal programs or certain assistance programs.
UC algorithm improves blood pressure control in patients
A study published in BMJ Open Quality reports that the UC Way Hypertension Medication Algorithm, implemented across six University of California health centers in 2023, raised the share of patients with controlled blood pressure from 68.5% to 73.9%, affecting about 4,860 people and an estimated dozens of serious events averted.
Blueberries may support gut, brain, and heart health when eaten regularly.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and fiber (about 3.6 g per cup), and research reports they may help support gut bacteria, aspects of brain function, and markers of heart health.
Veterans to benefit from VA's $112 million suicide prevention program
The VA announced a $112 million grant cycle through the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program to expand community‑based suicide prevention services for veterans, especially those not enrolled in VA health care. Applications are due June 12, 2026.
Charles Barkley weight loss explained: Inside his body transformation
Charles Barkley has lost about 85 pounds since his post-retirement peak and attributes the change to the GLP-1 drug tirzepatide (Mounjaro) together with increased light physical activity.
Google engineers are shifting from coding to leading software decisions
Industry reporting and a Google Cloud research program say AI now writes a large share of code, and engineers are moving from hands-on coding toward design, management and overseeing AI tools while companies provide training and embedded support.
Santa Barbara celebrates World Down Syndrome Day with film, family festival and community education
State of Mind Café and the Down Syndrome Association of Santa Barbara County will host a free event at the SBIFF Riviera Theatre on March 21 featuring a screening of Teacher of Patience, a virtual Q&A with the filmmakers, and opportunities to connect with local advocacy groups.
People of UW: AISES President Ariadna Marquez on building community
Ariadna Marquez, a senior studying Communication Arts from Milwaukee, leads the UW chapter of AISES and has focused on revitalizing the organization through increased recruitment, new programming, and strengthening ties with tribal nations.
Forestport receives state grant to support smart growth in the Adirondacks.
Forestport was awarded a $100,000 Adirondack Park Community Smart Growth Grant from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to fund a planning consultant for zoning and land-use work; the award was one of 26 grants totaling more than $3.2 million for projects across the Adirondack Park.
