Lifestyle features from around the web

Understanding high cholesterol: Symptoms, risks, and treatment options

SaveHealth reports that high cholesterol affects 1 in 3 Americans, often without symptoms until serious events occur. It is treatable via lifestyle changes and medications.

A new way to help some college students: Zero percent, no-fee loans

The Hechinger Report reports on a new zero percent, no-fee loan program in Hawaii helping low-income students pursue degrees, fostering a pay-it-forward model.

What's behind the decline in pro-gun lawsuits?

The Trace reports a decrease in pro-gun lawsuits post-Bruen ruling, with gun rights groups focusing on appellate cases and seeking victories elsewhere.

How AI-powered police forces watch your every move

The Marshall Project reports on the rapid adoption of AI in policing, highlighting its use in New Orleans for real-time monitoring and arrests.

A brazen case of election fraud unfolds in Pennsylvania. What are the lessons?

Votebeat reports on a Pennsylvania election fraud case where a mayoral candidate illegally registered non-residents to vote, revealing vulnerabilities in local elections.

The weird way that penguin poop might be cooling Antarctica

Grist reports that penguin guano in Antarctica may help cool the region by forming clouds through ammonia release, but climate change threatens these populations.

Turning up the heat helps animals fight germs—a lesson for humans on fevers

The Conversation introduces research from Tufts University that explains although many people don’t understand fever’s purpose, animals certainly utilize it, and even so-called “simple creatures,” such as lizards, fish and insects, use fever to recover from illness.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Director of Operations Erin Husted said, “The goal of all this is to keep fiber art materials out of landfills and incinerators.” Textile Center brings people together in community to learn, create, share, and be inspired by fiber art. Find them at 3000 University Ave SE, Minneapolis. There are two parking lots, ample street parking, and easy access to the LRT. (Photos by Margie O’Loughlin)
Sustainable, second-hand textiles now at The Stashery
Textile Center in Southeast Minneapolis is known far and wide as a hub of excellence for all things fiber, and has been for more than 30 years. As of Friday, May 30, 2025, it’s also a place …
Minnesota DNR invites public comment on muskie plan update
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is inviting people to share their thoughts on a draft update of the state’s long-range plan for muskellunge. “Public input, stakeholder …
MN Lakes and Rivers is proud to announce the launch of a new pilot initiative, the City of Lake Stewards program, debuting on Lake Harriet in the summer of 2025. Drawing from the success of the organization’s widely respected statewide Lake Steward program, this new effort aims to inspire local residents to take simple, impactful steps to protect and preserve the waters that defi ne life in the City of Lakes.
MN Lakes and Rivers launches “City of Lake Stewards” pilot on Lake Harriet
MN Lakes and Rivers is proud to announce the launch of a new pilot initiative, the City of Lake Stewards program, debuting on Lake Harriet in the summer of 2025. Drawing from the success of the …
n early 2025, the Twin Cities area experienced precipitation totals near the driest year on record. However, the year's to-date precipitation total is now near normal, following rainfall throughout March and April.
WINTER 2025 ENDED WITH A SNOWFALL DEFICIT THAT REINTRODUCED DRY CONDITIONS
As of May 2, 2025, the Twin Cities has received approximately 6 inches of precipitation , which is near normal for this time of year, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Nearly half of …
DUAL BENEFIT
Minneapolis will soon be able to produce its own biochar, bringing the city one step closer to its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. This spring, the city will break ground on a new biochar …
Is erectile dysfunction the key to unlocking the crisis in men’s health?
Hims reports that many men avoid doctor visits, worsening health. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a sign of serious issues, urging men to seek care.
How to help an elderly person with dementia
Village Caregiving reports that caregivers for dementia patients need support. Key strategies include compassionate communication, creating safe environments, and self-care.
The history behind dog days of summer
Ollie takes a look at the origin of the phrase "the dog days of summer" influenced by the Dog Star, Sirius, and also suggests ways to keep dogs cool.
What your first phone says about you and your generation
Spokeo reports your first phone reveals generational tech preferences, shaping how you interact with technology today.
Your cortisol is probably fine. Here’s what TikTok gets wrong about the “stress hormone”
Thriveworks reports that cortisol, often labeled the "stress hormone," plays vital body functions and isn't solely the cause of stress-related issues.

This viral eye balm from RoC is sold every 20 seconds. Here’s why.

This viral eye balm from RoC is sold every 20 seconds. Here’s why.

(NewsUSA) - If there’s one product redefining undereye makeup prep and touch-ups right now, it’s RoC’s Revive + Glow Eye Balm. This eye balm will be your new favorite makeup hack, as it revives …

Best US neighborhoods for families with young kids based on safety and school proximity

Find a Neighborhood reports the best U.S. neighborhoods for families with young kids prioritize safety and school proximity for overall well-being.

How to avoid Facebook Marketplace scams

Spokeo reports that with growing Facebook Marketplace usage, awareness of scams like counterfeit goods and phishing attempts is crucial for safer transactions.

The Fourth of July is one of the most dangerous times to drive

Car accident stress.

Holidays are a time of celebration, but they also come with a heightened risk of car accidents. Increased travel, crowded roads, and alcohol use can all contribute to more dangerous driving conditions. Some holidays, like the Fourth of July, are particularly hazardous. Understanding how to reduce your risk and what to do if an accident happens can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

2025 engagement ring trends: 10 popular styles

VRAI reports that 2025 engagement ring trends focus on personalization, craftsmanship, and unique designs like east-west settings and thicker bands.

Floods are swallowing their village. But for them and others, the EPA has cut the lifeline.

Floodlight reports Kipnuk, Alaska, faces floods as the EPA cancels a crucial $20M grant, risking the village's relocation amidst widespread funding cuts.

Running 5 minutes a day can add 3 years to your life

Hone Health reports that running just 5-10 minutes daily can increase life expectancy by three years, promoting better health and longevity.

A Shared American Commitment

A Shared American Commitment

(Jane Kamensky and John Bridgeland) - On July 4, 2025, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello hosted its 63rd annual immigration and naturalization ceremony, swearing in 74 new American citizens from 40 …

Tour de France: How many calories will the winner burn?

The Tour de France is one of the most physically taxing sporting feats imaginable.

Riders in the 2022 Tour de France will ride more than 2,100 miles (3,400 km) over the 21 flat and mountainous stages of the race. And they will burn an incredible amount of energy while doing so.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Divide perennials to boost health, beauty
Welcome back to a new gardening season, and a new season of City Gardener columns! As our gardens begin to wake up from their winter rest, it's a great time to think about an often-neglected …
Clever ideas for tiny yard spaces
Faux hedges If your outdoor patio or side yard is hemmed in by something like a chain-link or cinder block wall or planter box, consider installing a faux green hedge. This is the perfect …
Avoid waste by purchasing soil from Chard Your Yard, which sells it by the bucket to augment or fill garden beds you already have. The effort is run by neighborhood volunteers.
Chard Your Yard this year
Spring is calling; It’s time to think about gardening! The neighborhood volunteer-run organization, Chard Your Yard, has the garden resources to make it happen. The gardens are provided at-cost …
Sid Triantafilou of Greco Linden Hills Painting paints houses in residential neighborhoods, including East Isles, near Lake of the Isles. (Photo by Lulu Jaeckel)
Homeowners experiment with paint colors, say local painters
Whale gray, dry sage and french press are some of the popular names of interior paint colors right now at Benjamin Moore, a paint company.  Sid Triantafilou, a local painter and owner of …
They wanted to save the boulevard trees along six blocks of 29th Ave. and they came together to do just that. Then they celebrated together at Arbeiter Brewing. (Photo by submitted)
Motivated by a common goal
Residents along six blocks of 29th Ave. S have banded together to save 40 ash trees. “These are public trees that the whole community benefits from,” observed Loey Colebeck. “Many …
From miles to market: The rise of runner-founded brands changing the game
Shopify reports on the rise of runner-founded brands creating innovative solutions by focusing on community needs and building lasting relationships.
When building sandcastles and tunnels, beware collapsing sand
The Conversation notes that, while digging holes in sand might seem innocent, if the hole is deep enough and collapses on a person, it is extremely difficult to escape.
Use it or lose it: How age affects cognitive skills
The 74 reports that cognitive skills increase until the 40s, declining later only if not regularly used, highlighting the need for lifelong learning.
Rising from obscurity: Unique baby names gaining sudden popularity in 2025
Spokeo reports unique baby names like Truce and Azaiah are rising in popularity in 2025, reflecting cultural shifts and parental values.
What Disability Pride Month can teach us about innovation, accessibility, and the future of tech
AudioEye reports that Disability Pride Month highlights how innovations in accessibility benefit everyone, urging businesses to prioritize inclusive design.
More Lifestyle coverage

6 summer side quests for you and your pup

Ollie suggests six fun summer activities for dogs, including hiking, beach trips, patio dining, pool parties, road trips, and frozen treats.

Which brands do Americans love enough to recommend? Here’s the top 10

YouGov reports that Guinness leads U.S. brand recommendations, followed by Heineken and Savage X Fenty. Subaru, YouTube TV, and Cava excel in their sectors.

How to power the AI economy while supporting local communities

Bloom Energy reports on how onsite power, like fuel cells, can support AI's energy needs while minimizing costs and pollution for local communities.

Worm-inspired treatments inch toward the clinic

Knowable Magazine reports that worm-inspired treatments show promise for metabolic diseases by reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity.

Protecting vehicles from pollution and other problems may be easier than many realize.

Quick And Easy Tips to Protect Your Vehicle

(NAPSI)—You can keep your car and your family on the road to safety and savings if you heed these hints on vehicle maintenance:   Paint Protection: Your Car’s Paint Is Under Attack The …

Look out for these cheating apps on your partner's phone

PeopleWin reports on popular cheating apps, highlighting red flags like Ashley Madison and Seeking, as well as secret texting apps.

Staycation mental health tips: Making time off count, even at home
Blueprint reports that staycations can be restorative for mental health by allowing intentional downtime and fostering boundaries for true rest.
Childhood vaccination rates drop across 1,600 US counties
The 74 reports childhood vaccination rates have dropped in 1,600 US counties since the pandemic, risking herd immunity amid rising measles outbreaks.
Tick populations have surged in the Northeast. Here’s how to keep you and your pets safe this summer.
Healthbeat reports tick populations are rising in the Northeast, raising tick-borne disease risks. Here’s how to stay safe.
22 foods and beverages that help with bloating
Life Extension reports on 22 foods and drinks that can help relieve bloating, including turmeric, ginger, and cucumber.
Watching the world, one quintillionth of a second at a time
Knowable Magazine reports on attosecond science, revealing how scientists study atomic interactions at unbelievable speeds to unlock molecular mysteries.