Tag: warning

Authorities urge caution after dead bat tests positive for rabies in DeKalb County

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Hundreds of bats flying across a sunset sky above a mountain valley

Health authorities are asking residents in DeKalb County to watch their pets after a dead bat tested positive for rabies. Authorities say the bat was found in the area around Terry Mill Road and tested positive on Aug. 21. Georgia is a rabies-endemic state, which means the virus can be found in wildlife year-round. Officials say that means it’s important for residents to make sure their pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations and avoid animals that may be behaving in unusual ways. In July, a dead bat was found in the area near South DeKalb Columbia Drive and York Place around Stone Mountain, health officials say.

Other animals, such as raccoons, have tested positive in recent months. The National Association of State Health Veterinarians says all unvaccinated dogs and cats exposed to a rabid animal need to be quarantined for four months and vaccinated one month before being released. If you have been bitten or scratched by any stray animals or an animal suspected to have rabies, seek medical care immediately and let your provider know about the possible exposure. After that, contact GNR Public Health at (770) 339-4260 and ask for the on-call epidemiologist. To report an animal behaving in an unusual way or to report an animal bite, call DeKalb County Animal Control at (404) 294-2996, ext. 2, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or (404) 294-2519 after hours.

Source: Authorities urge caution after dead bat tests positive for rabies in DeKalb County – CBS Atlanta

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2

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Ahead of Minnesota State Fair, Ramsey County sheriff sends 233 warning letters to potential gang members

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Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher is putting young people with potential gang connections on notice days before the start of the 2026 Minnesota State Fair. Fletcher tells WCCO he sent 233 letters to people across the Twin Cities between the ages of 16 and 22, urging them to “consider this letter an opportunity to separate yourself from persons involved in criminal activity.” He says all were identified during investigations into 12 gangs.   “If you hang around other kids that are committing crimes and you come to the fair with them, we’re going to document your activity and that can be used against you later in some court process,” Fletcher said. “Either a crime for the benefit of a gang, a RICO conspiracy case or racketeering case.”

Ten alleged gang members have already agreed to stay away from the fair after Ramsey County Attorney John Choi and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison filed a civil suit against them.   Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher WCCO The sheriff says six deputies who specialize in Somali gangs will be at the fair to intervene if those 10 alleged gang members violate the court order. He also said staffing will increase at night and law enforcement will have a focus on the Midway after 7 p.m.  “Settle your grievances elsewhere,” Fletcher said. “Settle your grievances where it’s not going to impact 2 million other people.” Instagram account advertises fair “battle” According to court documents, members of The Ville gang fought members of its rival gang, Muddy, near the Midway last year.

In 2024, a Muddy member shot a rival outside the gates on the last day of the fair.  Outside of the fair, members have been arrested in connection to shootings at the 2025 Burnsville High School graduation and the Metro State graduation earlier this year, according to the lawsuits. In late July, a Ramsey County deputy noticed an Instagram account advertising “THE BIGGEST BATTLE OF THE SUMMER” at the state fair, listing Ville and other rival gangs, one of the suits says. “They’re literally advertising that they’re gonna have a big fight at the fair, and we simply have to stop this before it happens to preserve public safety,” Ellison told WCCO earlier this month. The state fair begins on Aug. 27 and runs through Labor Day.

Source: Ahead of Minnesota State Fair, Ramsey County sheriff sends 233 warning letters to potential gang members – CBS Minnesota

For I know that my Redeemer lives, And He shall stand at last on the earth.
Job 19:25

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FDA upgrades recall of frozen blueberries sold at Publix to highest health risk level

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Pile of fresh blueberries on a wooden table beside a spoon

The Food and Drug Administration upgraded a recall of frozen blueberries and mixed berries sold at Publix grocery stores across the U.S. to the highest health risk level on Tuesday, according to an enforcement report.  Publix on July 29 announced a recall of four varieties of frozen GreenWise organic blueberries and mixed berries sold at stores across eight states over potential E. coli contamination. The FDA is now categorizing it as a “Class 1” recall, which the agency assigns to product recalls “in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

Twelve people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli have been reported in two states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No deaths linked to the outbreak have been reported.  The following products, shipped to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, are under recall. They should be discarded or returned to Publix for a full refund. Their expiration dates are before Feb. 9, 2028.

  • GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries, 10-ounce, UPC 41415-06453
  • GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries, 48-ounce, UPC 41415-12053
  • GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries, 10-ounce, UPC 41415-06753
  • GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries, 48-ounce, UPC 41415-12153

E. coli, a large group of bacteria, can cause illness characterized by severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting, according to the FDA. In severe cases, the bacteria can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure and be life-threatening.  Last week, the FDA also upgraded an egg recall to the highest health risk level over potential salmonella contamination.

Source: FDA upgrades recall of frozen blueberries sold at Publix to highest health risk level – CBS News

You have also given me the shield of Your salvation; Your right hand has held me up, Your gentleness has made me great. You enlarged my path under me, So my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:35-36

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Several dogs bitten by rattlesnakes in Colorado’s Westminster Hills Open Space as heat wave continues

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According to NOAA, July was the hottest month ever recorded in the history of the U.S. Colorado experienced more than a dozen days over 90 degrees, and the hot temperatures are impacting the way people spend time outdoors.  That hot weather is contributing to an increase in the number of rattlesnakes spotted in popular open spaces.  For nature lovers and dog parents, Westminster Hills Open Space is a unique place, offering more than 3,000 acres of land, trails and grasslands. Westminster Hills Open Space  CBS “That’s part of what makes this space so special, is that it is a natural area,” said Erin Hennessey, a Westminster Park Ranger. “It’s not this little closed-in kind of gravelly area.” With it being a natural area, however, comes the potential to run into some of the area’s wildlife, including rattlesnakes.

“It is a scary thing. It does kind of make you think twice about, ‘Do I want to bring my dog here today?'” said Natalie Ericson. Over the weekend, three dogs were reportedly bitten by a rattlesnake inside the open space. Ericson was walking her two pitbulls inside the open space on Sunday when one of those incidents occurred. “I was looking up where the closest emergency vet was [and] trying to help him just figure out how to move his dog,” said Ericson. ‘What it comes down to is we did have a very dry winter, and so these snakes are out there looking for water. They’re just trying to survive like everybody else,” said Rachel Medley, Hospital Manager with Church Ranch Veterinary Center. “They’re going to be bolder and they’re going to be more out there.” Church Ranch Veterinary Center CBS Medley says they have seen roughly eight dogs at their veterinary center this year for rattlesnake bites, most of which were dogs who were using the open space.

However, she says these incidents can be prevalent anywhere where there could be a rattlesnake habitat. “Bites in the face and front legs are more concerning because those are defensive bites. That means the rattlesnake felt threatened. The dog was face to face with it, and so it’s going to release more venom into that bite,” she said. One pet parent shared photos of her dog, Tucker, who was one of the dogs that was bitten over the weekend. He was successfully treated for the bite at Church Ranch. “It’s a good idea to call that facility and ask them, ‘Do you have rattlesnake antivenom?'” said Medley. “You’ve got about 30 minutes to get somewhere where we have an IV catheter put in, and we’re giving those life-saving medications. So, you don’t want to pop around to all the clinics and go in and ask and then have to go somewhere else.” As more people and pets take advantage of open spaces like Westminster Hills Open Space, Medley recommends keeping your pets close and out of the brush as much as possible. “Staying in short grass and on the trails is the safest thing.

So, throwing the ball or the stick out into the long grass is where you’re going to get into more trouble,” she said. It’s also important to be mindful of the weather and how that could impact the presence of rattlesnakes in your path. “Seventy to 90 degrees is the temperature they’re most active. Above 90 degrees, you also want to watch out in the brush area, because again they’re trying to hide away from the sun,” said Hennessey. Westminster Park Ranger Erin Hennessey CBS “Just where you can see them and kind of keep a close eye on them because you just don’t know what’s out there,” said Ericson. If you or your pet is bitten by a rattlesnake, it is important not to try to remove the venom and remain calm, so that the venom does not spread through the body rapidly. “Just keep in mind, we are here in a state where wildlife and interaction with wildlife is a good thing.

We don’t want to portray that as a bad thing. Venomous snakes do have a really important place in the ecosystem, and so we don’t want to vilify that or look at that as a bad thing. We just want to figure out how we can safely coexist with them and know where we can get treatment if there is a negative interaction,” said Medley.

Source: Several dogs bitten by rattlesnakes in Colorado’s Westminster Hills Open Space as heat wave continues – CBS Colorado

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

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Back to school and digital safety: why parents should reconsider posting that first day picture

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Students with backpacks gathered beside a yellow school bus

With the school year approaching, parents and caregivers are focused on making sure the kids enjoy school, but also making sure they do so safely.  In the internet and social media age that we live in, our protective instincts have never been more challenged, so the last thing we want to do is increase the risk. In fact, there’s something a lot of parents do that could hurt their child both in the present and in the future.  The first-day-of-school picture has become a marker of time, a way to cherish the passing of time, as well as a child’s growth. 

“Because you are so proud of your child, and their growing and moving on to a milestone, as well,” said Alanna Powers-O’Brien of the Family Online Safety Institute. “There is always a chance a bad actor could use that information.”  According to Powers-O’Brien, the risk is mostly related to identity theft that could harm many things later on in life.  “Open a credit card or something like that, and then, before your child has even thought about applying for a credit card, or buying a car, they already have this credit history that they have to figure out how to erase,” she explained.  In order to avoid this, be selective in what you post publicly. She recommends not putting your child’s last name or the school they attend. She also cautioned against using the teacher’s name and to be aware that your address or street name is not visible in the picture you’re posting. 

“Whenever you’re posting something that has to do with your children, make your account private so that only people you know and who you follow can see that information,” Powers-O’Brien added.  She also said that you should consider just going old school and sending the pictures to a closed circle of relatives and friends rather than posting them on the internet.  Then, when your child gets older, be sure to have a conversation about online safety so they know the boundaries of what they can and cannot put on the internet. 

Source: Back to school and digital safety: why parents should reconsider posting that first day picture – CBS Pittsburgh

And the LORD shall be King over all the earth. In that day it shall be— “The LORD is one,” And His name one.
Zechariah 14:9

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Drug Shortage Detail: Insulin Glargine Injection (Recombinant)

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syringes with needles

Products Affected – Description

  • Basaglar Tempo Pen subcutaneous injection, Lilly USA, LLC, 100 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 5 count, NDC 00002-8214-05
  • Lantus Solostar Pen subcutaneous injection, Sanofi-Aventis, 100 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 5 count, NDC 00088-2219-05
  • Semglee subcutaneous injection, Biocon, 100 units/mL, 10 mL vial, NDC 83257-0011-11 – discontinued
  • Semglee Pen subcutaneous injection, Biocon, 100 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 5 count, NDC 83257-0012-33 – discontinued

Reason for the Shortage

  • Biocon discontinued Semglee vials and pens on December 31, 2025. The generic vials and pens are available.
  • Lilly has Basaglar and Rezvoglar Kwikpens available. Lilly is discontinuing Basaglar Tempo pens by the end of 2026 due to a business decision.
  • Tempo pens are available through July 27, 2026. After that date, patients can use their Tempo Pens until the expiration date. However, the Tempo Platform will stop recording patient diabetes-related data on July 28, 2026. On December 31, 2026, the TempoSmart App and Tempo Insights portal will be discontinued. Additional information can be found at lillytempo.com.
  • Sanofi has Lantus Solostar pens on shortage due to increased demand. Lantus vials, U-300 Solostar pens, and Toujeo pens remain available.
  • Winthrop has insulin glargine injection available.

Available Products

  • Basaglar Kwikpen subcutaneous injection, Lilly USA, LLC, 100 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 5 count, NDC 00002-7715-59
  • Insulin Glargine U-300 Max Solostar subcutaneous injection, Winthrop, 300 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 2 count, NDC 00955-2900-02
  • Insulin Glargine U-300 Solostar subcutaneous injection, Winthrop, 300 units/mL, 1.5 mL pen injector, 3 count, NDC 00955-3900-03
  • Lantus subcutaneous injection, Sanofi-Aventis, 100 units/mL, 10 mL vial, NDC 00088-2220-33
  • Rezvoglar Kwikpen subcutaneous injection, Lilly USA, LLC, 100 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 5 count, NDC 00002-8980-05
  • Toujeo 1.5 mL Prefilled Pen subcutaneous injection, Sanofi-Aventis, 300 units/mL, 1.5 mL pen injector, 3 count, NDC 00024-5869-03
  • Toujeo Max 3 mL Prefilled Pen subcutaneous injection, Sanofi-Aventis, 300 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 2 count, NDC 00024-5871-02
  • Insulin glargine-yfgn, recombinant subcutaneous injection, Biocon, 100 units/mL, 10 mL vial, NDC 83257-0014-11
  • Insulin glargine-yfgn, recombinant subcutaneous injection, Biocon, 100 units/mL, 3 mL pen injector, 5 count, NDC 83257-0015-32

Estimated Resupply Dates

  • Lilly is discontinuing Basaglar Tempo pens by the end of 2026. Tempo pens are available through July 27, 2026.
  • Sanofi has Lantus Solostar 3 mL pens on intermittent back order and the company is releasing supplies as they become available.

Implications for Patient Care

  • Sanofi advises patients on Lantus Solostar pens to consult with their healthcare provider to ensure continued access to insulin glargine during this temporary period of limited supply of Lantus Solostar pens.
  • Patients on Basaglar Tempo pens should work with their healthcare provider to transition to Lilly insulin KwikPens or other insulin pens as soon as possible.
  • This drug is used to improve glycemic control in adult and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus.[1-2]
  • Off-label indications include the treatment of hyperglycemia in gestational diabetes mellitus and in persistent hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients with or without a history of diabetes.[2]

Safety

Though doses can often be converted unit for unit when converting individuals from one basal insulin to another, an initial dose reduction of 10-20% can be used in individuals at a high risk for hypoglycemia or in very tight management. A dose reduction is typically needed when switching from U-300 glargine to another insulin. Extra caution should be taken when switching between insulin concentrations or when transitioning from pen devices to vials, as these changes may increase the risk of dosing confusion and may result in significant under- or overdosing.[3-4]

Alternative Agents & Management

  • Other long-acting insulin options include insulin degludec or insulin NPH. 1. When converting between long-acting insulins, consider a 10-20% dose reduction in individuals in very tight management or at risk for hypoglycemia.[3] 2. Long-acting insulin analogs may be interchanged with NPH with a 20% reduction in dose and divided based on predicted meal frequency.[5]
  • There is now a once-weekly basal insulin formulation, Awiqli, which may offer an alternative basal insulin option for select individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.[6] 1. If converting from daily basal insulin to once-weekly basal insulin, administer the first dose on the day after the last day of basal insulin. 2. Week 1 dosage: initiate Awiqli at 10.5 times the daily basal insulin dose, rounded to the nearest 10 units 3. Week 2 and beyond: The recommended dosage is the previous total daily basal insulin dose multiplied by 7, then rounded to the nearest 10 units. The recommended dosage can be titrated from the previous dosage based on the patients blood glucose monitoring results and glycemic control needs.

References

  1. Lantus SoloStar (insulin glargine) [prescribing information]. Bridgewater, NJ: Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC; 2023.
  2. Lexicomp Online. Insulin glargine: Drug information. Lexi-Drugs. Hudson, OH: UpToDate, Inc. https://online.lexi.com
  3. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 9. Pharmacologic approaches to glycemic treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1):S183-S215. doi:10.2337/dc26-S009
  4. Institute for Safe Medication Practices. ISMP Guidelines for Optimizing Safe Subcutaneous Insulin Use in Adults. Horsham, PA: Institute for Safe Medication Practices; May 2017.
  5. American Diabetes Association. Switching between insulin products in humanitarian response situations. Updated March 18, 2022. https://diabetes.org/sites/default/files/2023-10/Switching-Between-Insulin-Products-in-Humanitarian-Response-2022-Easter-Europe-3-18-2022-DDRC-English-v3.pdf
  6. Awiqli (insulin icodec-abae) injection [prescribing information]. Plainsboro, NJ: Novo Nordisk Inc; 2026. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2026/761326Orig2s000lbl.pdf

Source: Drug Shortage Detail: Insulin Glargine Injection (Recombinant)

For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.
Romans 5:10

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What to know about cyclospora parasite and how to avoid it

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Toilet exploding with water and broken ceramic pieces flying in a tiled bathroom

Got a nasty stomach bug that won’t go away? It could be cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that causes weeks of debilitating diarrhea, cramps and bloating. This infection tends to occur during the warm summer months, but several states are reporting increases in cases beyond what they would normally expect at this point in the year. Federal health officials say they are seeing a higher-than-expected number of cyclosporiasis cases spread across several states. They may not all stem from the same source. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration have been investigating several clusters of cases in Illinois, New York City, New York State, Pennsylvania and Texas, which appear to be linked to Mexican-style restaurants, a grocery chain, and a catered event, according to an email sent by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to state and local partners that was obtained by CNN.

The FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation network is conducting traceback investigations on white and green onions, cucumbers and cilantro, in an effort to narrow down potential sources, the email said. The CDC says there’s no evidence at this point suggesting these earlier clusters are part of a multi-state outbreak. At least eight additional cyclosporiasis clusters have been identified in Alabama, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. However, case interviews are still pending, and these investigations are still in their early stages, the CDC said. The agency plans to update cyclosporiasis website later this week. The largest of these clusters appears to be in Michigan. The state says it typically logs about 50 cases of cyclosporiasis annually. It has now seen nearly 1,000 cases since June 22, pointing to an outbreak with a common source. More than three dozen of these patients have been hospitalized, according to Dr. Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist and senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. Since the beginning of the year, Ohio says, it has received reports of 177 cyclosporiasis cases, with 171 of those coming in June, mostly since June 20.

New York state says it’s seen 112 cases this year – outside of New York City – with 107 of those reported since May 1. Investigations are underway to nail down the causes but may be slow going. That’s because little is known about cyclospora compared with pathogens like salmonella and E. coli, said Dr. Jennifer McEntire, a microbiologist who is founder and CEO of Food Safety Strategies, which advises clients on dealing with cyclospora. “It’s very peculiar, and obviously, like this year, it’s rearing its head in a very ugly way,” she said.

‘Cyclospora is a weird one’

Cyclosporiasis, which is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, is especially difficult to trace back to a single source, said Dr. Max Teplitski, who once led the Division of Food Safety at the US Department of Agriculture and is now chief science officer for the International Fresh Produce Association. Teplitski recently co-chaired an advisory committee tasked by the US Food and Drug Administration with digging into why cyclospora outbreaks have steadily been increasing in the United States in recent years. “Cyclospora is a weird one,” he said. With some foodborne pathogens, like E. coli and salmonella bacteria, scientists can sequence, or read, their DNA to match a strain that’s making people sick with a strain that’s contaminating food or water. This gene matching is how scientists often spot outbreaks of foodborne illness in the first place. A national network of surveillance labs called PulseNet constantly sequences the genes of bacteria that make people sick so they can compare the DNA fingerprints of cases in near-real time.

When the fingerprints match across multiple cases in different states, scientists know to look for a common source. But gene matching only works because the genetics of a particular strain of E. coli or salmonella change very little as they transmit from food to us or from person to person. The letters of their instructions read the same way each time, so they can be tracked pretty easily. It doesn’t work quite the same way for cyclospora, McEntire said. “For the bacterial pathogens, the technology is quite mature, and the organisms are really very, very simple. It’s like reading a children’s book versus reading “War and Peace” — cyclospora being the “War and Peace.” McEntire said. “They’re all letters of the alphabet, but they are not the same thing,” she said. Because these parasites have sex (more on that later) and swap pieces of their DNA to reproduce, their offspring share genes from their male and female parts, which means their genes look very different from one generation to the next, making the family tree harder to follow, Teplitski explained. Over the past five years or so, McEntire said scientists at the CDC have “done an incredible amount of work” so they can now use genotyping to roughly bucket people and identify those who have one “strain” of cyclospora compared to another. But she says the fidelity with that testing is not the same as with investigations of other types of foodborne pathogens.

CDC scientists are using genotyping to help track cyclospora clusters. But solving an outbreak still largely depends on shoe-leather detective work done by epidemiologists who follow up with each person confirmed to have a cyclospora infection. They ask a detailed series of questions about what the sick person ate and when. Because people aren’t great at remembering everything they might have had for breakfast a week ago, they may also analyze data from grocery receipts and credit card purchases to help fill in the gaps. It’s painstaking work. Typically, these questionnaires are focused on food. Teplitski says he hopes investigators are also looking at water sources like lakes and water parks. “We certainly hope that they go back and they ask their patients, ‘What about recreational activities? What about other types of exposure to well water?’ ” he said. “All of these are multiple sources of the same parasites.”

What causes cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is caused by a single-celled parasite spread through human feces. People get it by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, usually when swimming or when eating raw produce. Produce that is hard to wash thoroughly, like berries and fresh herbs, is a common source, as are swimming pools, lakes, splash pads and water parks. Foods most frequently associated with outbreaks in the US and other countries since the mid-1990s include:

  • Raspberries: 12 outbreaks
  • Basil: 11 outbreaks
  • Salad mixes (including vegetable trays and coleslaw): 8 outbreaks
  • Cilantro: 6 outbreaks
  • Berry/fruit mixes: 6 outbreaks
  • Lettuce: 2 outbreaks
  • Snap peas: 2 outbreaks

Once someone swallows the oocytes, or the egg-like stage of the parasite, a plot worthy of an “Alien” movie plays out in the intestines. First, they differentiate into male and female forms, have sex and reproduce. (Yes, all this happens in your gut.) Their oocysts, or eggs, then burrow into the intestinal wall, where they destroy cells and are shed back into the environment when we poop. When the weather is warm, they grow and mature outside the body for several weeks before creating more spores that are ready to infect someone else. Because the spores need time to mature outside the body, people don’t typically pass the parasite to other people they live or work with. Transmission tends to happen more indirectly.

What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?

The symptoms of a cyclospora infection “are a little different than you sometimes see with Salmonella or E. coli,” said Dr. Rebecca Schein, an infectious disease expert at Michigan State University Health Care. Sometimes people run a fever, she said, but it’s not especially common. “It’s just more very watery diarrhea. More than three times a day and then feeling kind of bloated, full, uncomfortable,” Schein said. “Sort of like you just ate Thanksgiving dinner, but every day.” Even healthy people can see this stomach bug continue for weeks. “If you have a normal immune system, it will eventually go away, but it could take six weeks,” Schein said. The symptoms may come and go, too. People who have compromised immune systems could see their symptoms persist. In those cases, “The symptoms will not go away until you treat it,” Schein said.

How is cyclosporiasis diagnosed?

Normally, when doctors are looking for the cause of a stomach bug, they will check a patient’s stool with a multiplex test, a single lab test that looks for multiple pathogens at the same time. Cyclospora is not on those panels. “It can be easily missed if you don’t do the right test, and that’s kind of the one of the hard parts about this,” Schein said. Doctors have to order a particular kind of test that requires a special stain that turns the eggs of the parasite bright pink or orange so they can be seen under a microscope. The Texas Department of State Health Services posted a health advisory in May warning that because the eggs shed from the body inconsistently, doctors may need to do as many as three tests spaced 24 hours apart to make an accurate diagnosis.

How is cyclosporiasis treated?

Once the infection has been diagnosed, treatment is relatively straightforward, Schein said. The parasite is treated with a combination of antibiotics called trimethoprim-sulfa, which is sold under the brand names Bactrim and Septra. A course typically runs seven to 10 days, though people with reduced immunity may need to take it for longer. The reason an antibiotic works on a parasite, Schein said, is that it interferes with Cyclospora’s ability to use the vitamin folate to make energy. It works on some other types of parasites as well. If you’ve had diarrhea that’s gone on for longer than three to five days – or longer than two days if you live in an area near a known outbreak – it’s important to get tested, Schein said. “The recommendation is to treat people who have cyclosporiasis, because it can last so long, and it’s just uncomfortable, and it can … spread into the environment if we don’t treat it,” she said.

Can you get rid of cyclospora by washing your produce?

Researchers in Norway studied this question in 2021, contaminating blueberries and raspberries with three kinds of parasites: cyclospora, cryptosporidium and giardia. Then they washed the berries three ways. The first method involved putting the berries in a strainer and running them under plain tap water for one minute. The second involved filling a salad spinner with water and immersing the berries for one minute while stirring them by hand before draining and spinning them for 10 seconds. Lastly, they mixed one part vinegar with three parts of water in a bowl big enough to cover the berries and stirred by hand for one minute before rinsing and draining. They learned a few things. It was easier to clean the smooth blueberries compared with the bumpy and slightly fuzzy surface of the raspberries, a finding that helps explain why raspberries top the list of foods associated with outbreaks.

Another curious thing was that cyclospora seemed to be extra sticky. It was tougher to get its eggs off the raspberries than it was the Cryptosporidium and the Giardia. Finally, the vinegar water rinse got more of the parasites off the raspberries than rinsing them under plain water. It was a little bit more effective than the salad spinner method, but it wasn’t enough to make a significant difference in the results. The salad spinner and vinegar methods were equally good, getting most of the cyclospora eggs off, but even so, some were left on the fruit. However, it’s not clear whether the remnants would be enough to make anyone sick. Bottom line: Washing your produce is always a good practice for whatever nasties could be hitching a ride into your kitchen.

The FDA offers tips about handling and cleaning fresh produce:

Wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing fresh produce. If the produce is damaged or bruised before eating or handling, cut away the damaged or bruised areas before preparing or eating. Rinse produce before you peel it, so dirt and bacteria aren’t transferred from the knife onto the fruit or vegetable. Gently rub produce while holding under plain running water. There’s no need to use soap or a produce wash. Use a clean vegetable brush to scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers. Dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel to further reduce bacteria that may be present. Remove the outermost leaves of a head of lettuce or cabbage before using.

Source: What to know about cyclospora parasite and how to avoid it | CNN

‘And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment.
Mark 12:30

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Explosive Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak Hits 20 States: Full List of Affected Areas

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anonymous man hanging toilet paper in bathroom

A parasite that causes explosive, watery diarrhea has sickened 145 people across 20 US states, prompting an ongoing investigation by federal and state health officials into the source of the outbreak. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cases were reported between May and June 16 and involve patients ranging in age from 5 to 86 years old. So far, 20 people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported. Breaking It Down What is Shigella and how does it spread? What are the symptoms of Shigella infection? How are health authorities responding to the outbreak in Wayanad? Created with AI. Health officials believe the illnesses are linked to contaminated food because none of the patients reported recent international travel.

However, investigators have not yet identified the exact source. The parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis, causes cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness that commonly leads to explosive, watery diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Symptoms usually appear about a week after infection and mainly affect the intestines, although some infected people may not develop symptoms. The CDC said local, state, and federal public health authorities are investigating several clusters of cases spanning multiple states. Officials also noted that the true number of infections may be higher because some cases may not have been diagnosed.

List of 20 States Affected By The Outbreak The CDC has reported cases in the following states and Washington, DC:

  • New York
  • New Jersey
  • Connecticut
  • Pennsylvania
  • Massachusetts
  • Rhode Island
  • Delaware
  • Maryland
  • Virginia
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Tennessee
  • Wisconsin
  • Illinois
  • Georgia
  • Florida
  • Texas
  • Louisiana
  • Colorado
  • Alaska
  • Washington DC

Among the affected areas, New York has reported the highest number of cases, with between 31 and 80 infections, followed by Texas and Illinois, which have each recorded between 11 and 30 cases. While cyclosporiasis can resolve on its own, symptoms may last for a month or longer if left untreated, increasing the risk of dehydration. The CDC says the infection is typically treated with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, also sold under the brand names Bactrim, Septra and Cotrim. The agency also recommends following safe food handling and storage practices. Previous US outbreaks have been linked to imported fresh produce, including cilantro, raspberries, sweet peas, mesclun lettuce and basil.

Source: Explosive Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak Hits 20 States: Full List of Affected Areas | Times Now

But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot has held fast to His steps; I have kept His way and not turned aside.
Job 23:10-11

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Dangerous tick-borne virus spreading to more Americans, experts warn

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close up of tick

A rare and potentially fatal tick-borne illness currently spreading across the United States can be traced back to a 1958 case involving a young boy on a farm. The disease, known as Powassan virus, was named for the Ontario town near where it was first discovered. At the time of his death, Lincoln Byers, a 4-year-old living in Canada, had a condition that medical professionals could not explain, the Boston Globe reported. Years later, researchers discovered a tick harboring the same virus on a dead squirrel, finally providing an answer to the tragedy, but foreshadowing a growing public health challenge. While once considered an obscure medical anomaly, Powassan virus cases have reached historic highs in the U.S., data show.

Powassan is most prevalent from late spring through mid-fall, when tick populations peak and outdoor activity increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 76 Americans were diagnosed with the virus in 2025, the highest annual total on record. Previously, the U.S. averaged just seven to eight diagnoses each year. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected woodchuck tick or deer tick. Like other tick-borne illnesses, Powassan is most prevalent from late spring through mid-fall, when tick populations peak and outdoor activity increases. Public health experts warn that the virus’s transmission speed makes it uniquely dangerous.

TICK BITE ER VISITS HIT HIGHEST SEASONAL LEVEL IN YEARS AS DOCTORS WARN OF DISEASE SURGE “One of the most dangerous aspects is its rapid transmission,” Dr. Jorge P. Parada, a medical advisor at the National Pest Management Association in Chicago, told Fox News Digital. “Powassan can be transmitted in as little as 15 minutes after the infected tick bites, while Lyme disease usually requires a 36- to 48-hour attachment time for transmission.”

Source: Dangerous tick-borne virus spreading to more Americans, experts warn | Fox News

As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
Psalm 18:30

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Utah wildfires: Three firefighters killed in Colorado as wildfires rage across the Southwest

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Five firefighters standing on a rocky ridge looking at a large forest wildfire at night

Three firefighters have died battling a fast-moving blaze along the Colorado-Utah border, officials said, as dozens of infernos rage across the Southwest, with Utah imposing sweeping restrictions on Fourth of July fireworks ahead of the nation’s 250th Independence Day. The National Weather Service has issued the highest possible fire weather risk, warning that dry air and windy gusts pose an “extremely critical” risk of fire conditions over the Four Corners region this weekend. The three firefighters died while battling the fast-growing Snyder Mesa Fire, which has burned more than 28,000 acres along the Utah-Colorado border, the US Wildland Fire Service said late Saturday.

Two others were injured and transported to hospital, the service said. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency Saturday in Mesa County in reaction to the blaze, which he said had crossed into Colorado from Utah, and authorized the state’s National Guard to support response efforts. Utah’s governor announced last week firework restrictions for Fourth of July, saying a historic drought, hundreds of wildfires and unprecedented fire behavior have stretched Utah’s firefighting resources to the brink. “Utahns love celebrating the Fourth of July with family, friends and fireworks. I do too. But this year is different,” Cox said. “We are seeing fire behavior that even our most experienced firefighters say they’ve never witnessed before.”

The fire threat is so severe that the National Weather Service office in Salt Lake City issued its first-ever “particularly dangerous situation” red flag warning, which covers central and southern Utah and includes the Cottonwood Fire, the state’s largest active blaze. “This is a temporary measure for an extraordinary year,” Cox said of the fireworks ban. “It protects lives and homes while allowing local leaders, working alongside their fire officials, to identify areas where fireworks can be used safely.” In some municipalities, local leaders working alongside fire officials will designate approved areas where fireworks can still be used under safer conditions. The Cottonwood Fire, burning through the Fishlake National Forest east of Beaver, Utah, has grown to more than 92,000 acres as of Saturday morning, an area bigger than Salt Lake City, in just a few days and remains 0% contained as of Saturday night.

Evacuations are in place for the fire, which state and local officials believe is likely Utah’s most destructive and costly wildfire on record. Its cause is still under investigation. A total of 1,066 personnel are battling the Cottonwood Fire, where crews have been warned to stay vigilant of the dangerous and unpredictable fire behavior. “We always have safety first out there, and as soon as we see things or we start getting feelings, we’ve told the guys they don’t like it, disengage, get to a safe place,” Alyssa Mason, a spokesperson for the fire’s emergency management team, told CNN affiliate KSL. State officials also warned that anyone whose illegal actions ignite a wildfire could face steep criminal charges and substantial civil liability for the damage caused. Beloved cabins and lifelong memories reduced to ashes As officials continue assessing the ongoing damage, the full toll of the Cottonwood Fire remains unknown.

But across the Beaver Mountain community, residents are already grieving the loss of cherished cabins and family retreats that held generations of memories. For Evan Stapley, Beaver Mountain was more than a weekend getaway — it was woven into his family’s history. “To me, nothing’s more beautiful than Beaver Mountain in the fall,” Stapley told CNN affiliate KSL. “The aspen yellow, and you get the reds in there and all the greens. There is nothing more beautiful in the world.” Now, the cabin where those memories were made has been reduced to ash. Stapley said he learned it had burned in the Cottonwood Fire after a friend sent him video of the spot where it once stood. “I saw that and went, ‘That’s just unbelievable,’” he told KSL. “The fire must have moved so fast and twirled around in there and just took it … I cried,” he added.

“I’ve got too many memories, too many memories of that place.” The fire also dealt a devastating blow to Eagle Point Ski Resort, where several buildings were damaged or destroyed. In a Facebook post, owner Shane Gadbaw said the resort will remain closed as it recovers from what he called a catastrophe. “We are thankful that to our knowledge, there have been no human casualties from the fire,” Gadbaw said in a Facebook post. Residents gathered Friday in Piute County as the Cottonwood Fire pushed closer, with flames visible in the distance and smoke settling across the valley, to hear updates and discuss emergency response plans, CNN affiliate KSTU reported. During the meeting, Nick Schenk of Great Basin Team 5, one of the first responders who fought the blaze Monday, delivered an emotional account of the battle against the fire. “We did everything we absolutely could.

We called for every bit of help we could find. And about all we could do was get people out of the way of it,” Schenk told KSTU. Photos shared by the resort Thursday showed a handful of lodges still standing amid a landscape of blackened trees. Farther north, the Iron Fire near Eureka, Utah, has burned more than 40,000 acres after forcing evacuations earlier this week. Nearby, the Cherry Fire, sparked by lightning Friday morning, has already grown to more than 30,000 acres. Another blaze, the Wild Goose Fire, ignited near Holden on Friday, adding to a growing list of active wildfires across Utah. State fire officials estimated by Saturday evening it had burned over 10,000 acres as crews worked to assess and contain its spread.

Source: Utah wildfires: Three firefighters killed in Colorado as wildfires rage across the Southwest | CNN

In that I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the LORD your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess.
Deuteronomy 30:16

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4 dead in Kentucky floods, governor declares state of emergency as search and rescue efforts underway

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Flooded residential street with submerged houses and vehicles

Widespread flooding across Kentucky has left at least four dead Saturday, prompting dozens of rescues after heavy rains wiped out bridges, inundated roads and flooded homes, with more significant rainfall on the way. Search and rescue efforts have continued throughout the day. Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed one person died in Jackson County and three others died in Madison County, including a man and woman who officials said drowned in a home that was underwater. A few hours earlier, Beshear said one motorist was killed after being swept away by flash flooding.

The governor declared a state of emergency to deploy more resources while announcing six to seven inches of rain deluged some areas of the state. A second round of rainfall is expected in the evening, and the governor urged people to be cautious and avoid unnecessary driving. ⛈️ Get your forecast on CNN Weather for iPhone “When it gets dark, it’s going to get even worse. So please, do not drive after dark if you can avoid it,” Beshear said. The severe weather is the latest in a history of catastrophic flooding in Kentucky, including deadly flash floods in early 2025 when more than a month’s worth of rain deluged much of the state in less than 24 hours. Dozens of people in Kentucky were killed in 2022 when unprecedented flooding inundated houses and swept away some from their foundations.

Precautionary evacuations are underway in one part of Bullitt County, which has been hit particularly hard by Saturday’s flooding. Officials there are closely monitoring a dam. A portion of the embankment has experienced a landslide, but the dam is holding and there’s no indication of an “imminent failure,” county emergency management officials said. The Millon Church in Richmond appeared to have collapsed, a video showed. Earlier in the day, the church announced its Saturday service was canceled due to the storm, adding: “Praying everyone stays safe.” Photos provided by police in Richmond – about 30 miles south of Lexington – show officers blocking off flooded streets and checking on stranded vehicles almost entirely submerged by rising floodwaters.

In Richmond, the two people who died from suspected drowning were trapped in the basement of a flooded home, police said. The residence was already underwater when police and fire officials arrived at the scene and could not make contact with anyone inside, police said. Rescue teams were later able to make entry and found the bodies of a man and woman, the agency said. Major intersections in the city are flooded, Richmond Mayor Robert Blythe said. He has been receiving calls from residents concerned about their neighbors whose homes are filling with rising water, Blythe told CNN. Richmond, to a certain extent, had been “spared” tragic weather affecting the surrounding area in recent years, the mayor said. But now, he added, “It appears to be our turn.”

Elsewhere in Madison County, “significant roads” are under water, with five search and rescue teams on the ground, the governor said. Five counties, including Bullitt, Madison, Meade, Mercer and Spencer have declared a local state of emergency, the governor’s office said. CNN has contacted those five counties under a local state of emergency for further information about the effects of the flooding. At least 12 roads across the state are flooded and cannot be accessed, while numerous bridges in counties like Jessamine have been “entirely wiped out,” the governor said. Dozens of rescues have been made, Beshear said. The state’s emergency management, state police and swift water rescue teams are responding to emergency requests in local communities, he added. “We know we’ve already lost at least a handful of Kentuckians. I don’t want to lose anymore,” he said, adding the storms have become “much more severe than most would have thought.”

Source: 4 dead in Kentucky floods, governor declares state of emergency as search and rescue efforts underway | CNN

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.
John 1:12

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Utah declares emergency, limits fireworks ahead of July Fourth as crews battle largest U.S. wildfire

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Utah restricted fireworks and declared a state of emergency Friday ahead of July Fourth celebrations as the United States’ largest wildfire expanded its reach across more tinder-dry forest, as crews rush to fight new blazes in the arid state. The National Weather Service issued a rare “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning as dry, windy conditions provided fuel for more fires across the western U.S. The Cottonwood Fire in a sparsely populated area of southern Utah started Monday. It ballooned to more than 112 square miles by Friday, burning unchecked as strong winds grounded air support, forestry officials said.

One of six large wildfires burning in Utah, it severely damaged the Eagle Point ski resort in Beaver County, forcing mandatory evacuations.  As of Friday evening, Utah had 10 active wildfires burning across more than 144,700 acres, according to the state’s wildfire dashboard. The Cottonwood Fire had burned nearly 72,000 acres and is at 0% containment.  “We have the 35 miles-per-hour sustained winds that they predicted, and we definitely have the 45 miles-per-hour gusts,” said Alyssa Mason, a spokesperson assigned to the fire. “So there has been a great increase in the fire activity. We are seeing extreme fire behavior out there with some crown runs and definitely some spotting.”

The smoke has been pushing to the east and northeast, meaning air quality at popular vacation spots like Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks — located far south of the flames — hasn’t been significantly affected beyond some haze in the Bryce area. Still, visitors to Bryce have posted videos on social media showing the giant plume in the distance. The smoke could be seen for hundreds of miles, all the way to Colorado, as authorities put roughly 1,300 residents in the towns of Marysvale, Junction and Circleville on notice that they should be prepared to leave if conditions worsen and the fire pushes farther.  State forester Jamie Barnes had said Thursday that it’s like nothing seen in recent memory. She said fires are spreading farther and faster “under conditions that defy historical expectations.”

Bruce Brown, 76, accompanied the sheriff on Thursday to find that his cabin and others in the area were gone. He found a burned-out moonscape with power poles tipped over along the canyon. Alyssa Olsen, 27, said her family’s cabin also burned. It was the last place they gathered for family photos with her grandmother before she died of cancer. Her brother was planning to get married there in two months. “That stuff you can’t just build back,” Olsen said. Gov. Spencer Cox set the temporary fireworks restrictions through July 5 as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, saying “this year is different.” The weather service in Salt Lake City, for the first time in the office’s history, issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning for five Utah counties, including the area of the Cottonwood Fire.

The rare alert was first used to warn of tornado conditions. A red flag warning was also issued for most of the state. “Prepare now for rapid fire growth,” it said. A similar “dangerous situation” warning had been issued for the 2025 Palisades Fire in Los Angeles. A federal judge declared a mistrial Friday in the arson case against Jonathan Rinderknecht, the man accused of sparking that fire. The jury said it couldn’t agree on a verdict. While the Cottonwood Fire’s cause was unknown, Cox’s order noted that humans have been the cause of most fires in the state so far this year. Utah has seen 376 wildfires this year, and 273 of those were caused by humans, according to Utah’s wildfire data.

wildfire spreads through poprad woodlands

The governor’s order gives Barnes power to restrict or prohibit fireworks displays in Utah’s cities and towns, instead of leaving those decisions to the communities. With extreme fire conditions persisting, Rocky Mountain Power issued a public safety power shut-off watch/warning for areas of central, southern and eastern Utah through the weekend. Crews were also battling the Iron Fire southwest of Salt Lake City. The flames on Thursday forced the temporary evacuation of Eureka, population 1,000. Red flag warnings, which mean conditions such as low humidity, warm temperatures and strong winds can create an extreme wildfire risk, were in effect Friday and stretched from Idaho to southern Arizona and New Mexico.

The warnings extended into Saturday, with forecasters predicting winds of 25 to 35 miles an hour and very low humidity levels. The worst conditions were expected from northern Arizona into central and southern Utah. Much of Utah already is experiencing severe to extreme drought, while parts of Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico are experiencing severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Tim Brown, a research professor and director of the Western Regional Climate Center, said the potential for extreme fire behavior will remain as long as it’s hot, dry and windy. “I would not be surprised to see a lot of restrictions come out as we get closer to the July Fourth weekend,” he said.

“People really need to be aware of their surroundings if they’re going to be out in the forested campground areas and grassland areas.” Even in Florida, where there have been multiple brush fires, authorities are urging people to skip the personal fireworks and instead leave the pyrotechnics to professionals putting on carefully planned shows. In Utah, federal land managers have closed public lands near the Cottonwood Fire as a precaution, and in New Mexico, forest officials closed campgrounds and trails near a wildfire burning in the Jemez Mountains. Nationally, nearly 3 million acres have burned since the start of the year, pushing the U.S. ahead of the 10-year average. The National Interagency Fire Center said firefighters are making progress on containing fires from Alaska to Florida. 

Source: Utah declares emergency, limits fireworks ahead of July Fourth as crews battle largest U.S. wildfire – CBS Colorado

A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion.
Psalm 112:5

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Red heat alerts issued in France, Italy and Spain as 40C temperatures forecast

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Heatwave conditions in Western Europe with temperature gradients from hot to extremely hot

Red heat alerts have been issued in France, Spain and other nations across western and central Europe as heatwave conditions are forecast to intensify in the coming days with highs of more than 40C. More than half of France’s regions are currently under the harshest weather warning, with hundreds of schools ordered to close and highs of 42C hitting Bordeaux on Monday, forecaster Météo-France said. Two children aged two and four have been found dead in their family car in the town of Carpentras in the south of France, in an accident being linked to the weather.

Similar red warnings have been issued by the authorities in Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Luxembourg. BBC Weather Temperatures are expected to peak in many areas on Wednesday The rising temperatures are being driven by hot air moving north from the Sahara desert, which is in turn trapping hot air over the affected areas, with forecasters suggesting the conditions could result in one of the longest heatwaves in recent years. Scientists have said that recurring heatwaves are a marker of global warming, with Météo-France noting that of the 51 heatwaves recorded in France since 1947, 34 have taken place since 2000 and 26 since 2011.

Elsewhere the conditions have seen: Spain’s state weather service Aemet warn of “extremely high” temperatures for the season until Wednesday “between five and 10 degrees above what is typical” – with some areas set to reach 44C. A red alert has been issued for the Basque country, with highs in San Sebastian forecast to rise to 40C, almost double its average for this time of year Italy issue red alerts for 12 cities, including Milan, Turin, Venice, Bologna, Florence and Rome after several days of temperatures above 35C Five people die in fatal swimming accidents over the weekend in Germany, where temperatures have already reached as high as 38C

The UK’s Met Office issue a rare red heat warning for Wednesday and Thursday for parts of England and Wales, amid forecasts suggesting temperatures could reach 38C in some areas Firefighters battle a wildfire near near Akraifnio, in central Greece, that has forced the temporary closure of a major motorway following hot, dry weather and strong winds The IRM meteorological institute in Belgium forecasting record temperatures in the coming week. Meanwhile, the country’s train operator announced some peak hour trains would be cancelled for Monday and Tuesday due to the heat.

Temperatures are expected to peak in many parts of the continent on Wednesday, with 41C forecast for Paris. In the capital on Monday, several train lines also reduced services. France’s national railway operator SNCF urged “vulnerable” people to avoid or postpone train travel this week. Some 845 schools in France were shut, while a further 1,800 are allowing pupils to finish classes early, the education ministry said. But more than a million high school students were to take their oral final exams for the baccalaureate amid the heat. A red heat alert is the highest of four warnings issued by Météo-France, and advises people to exercise extreme caution in conditions that are potentially life-threatening.

Dozens of other regions in France are under an orange alert – the second-highest warning – with an estimated 63 million people in total affected across the country. BBC Weather Figures show temperatures are expected to be significantly higher than average in some areas of Europe The full circumstances of the deaths of the children found in their family car in the south of France are not yet clear but they had been returning from a shopping trip with their mother and reportedly found themselves stuck inside the family car with the windows shut, amid highs of 39C.

Ambulance workers tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate the pair. The local state prosecutor said the precise cause of death had yet to be determined, but “it is probably linked to the heatwave”. Meanwhile, the French government has urged people not to try to cool off in unsupervised areas such as lakes and rivers, after 13 drowning deaths at the weekend. In the south-west Gironde region, local authorities on Sunday said three people – aged between 80 and 95 years – had died, partly due to the intense heat.

Source: Red heat alerts issued in France, Italy and Spain as 40C temperatures forecast

You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.
Leviticus 19:17-18

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Target voluntarily recalling 2 types of baby wipes over contamination concerns

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News anchor at desk with recall alert for Up & Up baby wipes on screen

Target is voluntarily recalling two types of baby wipes due to concerns that the products may be contaminated with bacteria that may cause “serious and life-threatening infections,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said on Friday. The Minnesota-based company is recalling Up and Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up and Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes. The products are predominantly used on newborns, infants and young children who are vulnerable to infection due to their immature immune systems, the federal agency said.

The manufacturer of the wipes, Sapro Temizlik Urunleri, and the company received “a number of consumer complaints” alleging product discoloration and symptoms including skin and eye irritation, and infections “potentially associated with the use of the product,” according to officials. The agency then tested and identified the presence of Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in product samples. “In healthy individuals, use of the product on skin with minor lesions will more likely result in local infections, whereas in immunocompromised individuals, newborns, infants and young children, the infection is more likely to spread into the bloodstream, potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis or pneumonia,” the agency said in a written statement.

The baby wipes were sold at Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com, the agency said. According to officials, the company is recalling the Up and Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes with a manufacturing date code from Nov. 7, 2025, to May 5, 2026, and expiration dates between May 10, 2028, and Nov. 5, 2028, are being recalled in the following pack sizes  and universal product codes:

  • 20 Count: UPC 085239265956
  • 72 Count: UPC 085239265949
  • 216 Count: UPC 085239265963
  • 800 Count: UPC 085239266137
  • 1200 Count: UPC 085239266090

According to the agency, Up and Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes with a manufacturing code of Dec. 29 or Dec. 30, 2025, and expiration dates of June 29 or June 30, 2028, are being recalled in the following pack sizes and universal product codes:

  • 72 Count: UPC 085239265970
  • 216 Count: UPC 085239265994
  • 800 Count: UPC 085239265987

U.S. Food and Drug Administration Anyone with the recalled products should stop using them and return them to any Target store for a full refund, the agency said. Consumers with questions can call Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680 anytime between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. CT.

Source: Target voluntarily recalling 2 types of baby wipes over contamination concerns – CBS Minnesota

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:15-16

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Organic formula brand issues recall after 3 babies diagnosed with infant botulism

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Global News anchors presenting breaking news on baby formula recall in studio

An organic baby formula is being voluntarily recalled after three infants who were fed the product were hospitalized with infant botulism, according to a notice from the Food and Drug Administration.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that all three babies had consumed Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula, which is sold at Target stores throughout the United States. The sickened babies were in California, Washington and Pennsylvania, according to the FDA notice. All three babies were successfully treated, and no deaths have been reported, the FDA said.  The products were also sold at Target.com and Nara.com.

The formula was not sold outside the United States, according to the FDA notice.  No lots of Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula have tested positive for Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes infant botulism, according to the FDA, but all whole milk infant powdered formula products are being recalled voluntarily by the company.  The three product lots consumed by the sickened babies are 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2 and 708125174E14F2, according to the FDA. The lot numbers can be found on the bottom of the formula cans.  Food and Drug Administration “Nara is taking aggressive action to ensure the safety of the babies and families who use the product as we work closely with the FDA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state partners to support their investigation into the root causes of these cases,” the company said in the FDA notice. 

Customers should stop using the affected products immediately, according to the notice. Anyone who purchased formula from Nara.com between May and June 2026 will receive an automatic refund. Others who bought it from Nara.com can request a refund online. Consumers who purchased the product at Target should return the product there or visit Target’s website for a refund.  Infant botulism occurs when Clostridium botulinum spores enter and colonize the intestinal tract, causing botulinum neurotoxins to grow there, according to the CDC. An outbreak of infant botulism tied to the formula brand ByHeart led to over 50 illnesses in 19 states. 

Affected babies may show symptoms including constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelid, sluggish pupils, low muscle tone, difficulty sucking and swallowing, weak or altered crying, difficulty breathing, and generalized weakness. Respiratory arrest is also possible. The disease can be fatal.

Source: Organic formula brand issues recall after 3 babies diagnosed with infant botulism – CBS News

Very truly I tell you, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me.
John 13:20

1 Peter 1:6–7

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is…

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1 Timothy 1:13-15

Though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are…

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Psalm 1:1–3

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;  but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law…

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James 1:14–15

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth…

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Galatians 6:7

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. This reminds us that our choices have consequences. God is not fooled by outward appearances,…

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Proverbs 13:20

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. This reminds us that the people we spend time with have a powerful influence on our…

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1 Corinthians 15:33

Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals. We can see here that Paul gives a powerful warning: the people and influences we allow into our lives can shape our character,…

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Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. This…

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Proverbs 18:21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. This verse reminds us that our words carry tremendous power. That what…

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Proverbs 23:7

For he is like one who is inwardly calculating. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. This verse reminds us that our thoughts shape our…

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Matthew 6:22

“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, In this verse Jesus teaches that what we focus…

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Luke 6:45

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his…

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Tularemia detected in Northern Colorado after dead rabbit discovered in Berthoud

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photo of two rabbits in a forest

Tularemia has been detected in Northern Colorado after a dead rabbit was discovered in a Berthoud neighborhood. According to Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, the bacteria was identified in a dead rabbit.  Health officials said that because tularemia is natural to Larimer County, it is likely present in other areas throughout the county.  They are reminding residents and visitors that a few simple precautions can help prevent illness from rabbits, ticks and other wildlife while enjoying the outdoors.  According to LCDHE, tularemia is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection found in local wildlife, especially rabbits and rodents.

Health officials said it can spread to humans through bites from infected ticks and deer flies, direct contact with sick or dead animals and contaminated soil, water and vegetation.  Common symptoms, according to LCDHE, include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and skin ulcers. When diagnosed early, tularemia can be effectively treated with antibiotics. In Larimer County, there have been seven human cases of tularemia since 2020. In Larimer County, there have been 7 human cases of tularemia since 2020.  “Because tularemia is present in Larimer County, it’s important to take steps to avoid infection,” said Dr. Paul Mayer, the health department’s Medical Officer, in a statement.

He recommends that residents and visitors always “use effective insect repellent, check skin for ticks after being outdoors, and keep children and pets away from wild animals, including rabbits and squirrels.” Additional Information from LCDHE: To help reduce your risk of tularemia,

LCDHE recommends the following precautions when spending time outdoors:

  • Wear gloves while gardening and wash hands before eating or touching your face
  • Use an EPA-registered insect repellent effective against ticks and biting flies (such as DEET or picaridin)
  • Wear a dust mask when mowing, using a leaf blower, or digging in soil
  • Wear shoes outdoors, especially in areas where dead animals may have been
  • Use protective gloves to remove dead rabbits or rodents from your property 

Source: Tularemia detected in Northern Colorado after dead rabbit discovered in Berthoud – CBS Colorado

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1

Christian Persecution June 2 – May 28, 2026

Christian persecution published between May 28 and June 4, 2026. These come primarily from specialized monitoring organizations like International Christian Concern (ICC) and Global Christian Relief. No large-scale violent incidents (e.g.,…

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God Sees Your Unseen Efforts

God has not overlooked a single act of your faithfulness, not one prayer, not one quiet sacrifice. Even when no one else sees, He remembers, and your labor in love is…

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ER Visits Surge and Experts Urge Caution amid Record Tick Season

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brown and black ticks on yellow flower

The current tick season is reported to be the worst in decades, with emergency room visits for bites and cases of Lyme disease increasing. According to the CDC, 71 out of every 100,000 emergency room visits were for tick bites, which is a 25% increase over last year. This figure excludes visits to urgent care facilities and doctors’ offices. Each year, about 500,000 Americans contract Lyme disease from tick bites, and a majority of people fully recover from the bacterial infection following earlier detection and proper treatment with antibiotics, CBN News reported. On the other hand, roughly 20 percent of these infections are elusive from early detection, resulting in severe joint pain, vision problems, neurological issues, hospitalization, and death.

“Definitely it’s a big year for ticks and a big year for tick-borne diseases,” Johns Hopkins infectious disease microbiologist Thomas M. Hart, PhD.  Hart, along with Johns Hopkins scientist Nicole Baumgarth, DVM, PhD, is also warning of additional tick-borne diseases beyond Lyme disease. “I’m thinking about Babesiosis, an increasing disease of a small parasite that infects red blood cells and threatens the safety of our blood supply,” she said, “or Alpha-Gal syndrome, an allergic reaction to eating red meat.” Additional tick-borne diseases include: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Powassan Virus, Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis, and Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever. According to experts, tick bite prevention recommendations include covering up in tall grass/wooded areas and tucking pants into socks. It is also recommended to use bug spray and wear light clothing.  “When you come inside from doing high-risk activities, so these are going to be things like hiking, golfing, gardening, do a thorough tick check, and then shower immediately to wash off any ticks that might have sort of caught a ride,” Hart said.

Source: ER Visits Surge and Experts Urge Caution amid Record Tick Season – Milton Quintanilla | Crosswalk.com

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

A House Divided

Division within the church is one of the enemy’s greatest tools because it weakens unity, damages witness, and distracts believers from the mission of Christ. I personally believe that all of…

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Ecclesiastes 3:1

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: In the Book of Ecclesiastes verse 3:1, we’re reminded that life moves in seasons, every moment has…

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Hosea 4:6

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, that you may be no priest to me. Because you have forgotten your…

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Black bear spotted wandering around Worcester, Massachusetts: “I was terrified” 😱

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dramatic portrait of a black bear in low light

Neighborhoods around Doherty High School in Worcester, Massachusetts were on alert after a black bear was seen roaming around on Thursday morning. You could say the suspect in the chase really put his climbing skills on full display. A black bear was caught on camera scaling a retaining wall near Doherty High School, as Environmental Police followed close behind. Parents picking up their kids from school spotted the bear meandering nearby. The busy bear trekked through town trying to find its way and half a mile away, it came face to face with Gail Barrell in her backyard. “My heart was racing,” said Barrell. “I was terrified, so he looked at me and kept going on, but I ran up to the house screaming.” “We’ve been here 22 years and never saw a bear,” said Phil Barrell. Moments earlier, the bear galloped across the backyard of a rest home before it climbed a tree then hopped a fence.

Source: Black bear spotted wandering around Worcester, Massachusetts: “I was terrified” – CBS Boston

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

The News Part 2

Dear Heavenly Father, as I enter this day please give me the words that I need to share who you are and help me present your love to all that seriously need you…

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High E. coli levels along Chattahoochee River force business closures after days of rain

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autumn river scene with lush forest in atlanta

Elevated E. coli levels along parts of the Chattahoochee River are forcing some businesses to temporarily shut down operations as officials continue monitoring unsafe water conditions following days of heavy rain.

The Chattahoochee Riverkeeper says spikes in bacteria levels after storms are common, but experts say the duration of the current contamination event is unusual.

“Typically we have a 24-hour period after a rain event where the river might look a little brown and have some elevated levels,” said Britt Oxford, general manager of Atlanta operations for Nantahala Outdoor Center. “But right now, with continuous rain for almost five days now, it’s just kind of held on and staying elevated.”

Source: High E. coli levels along Chattahoochee River force business closures after days of rain – CBS Atlanta

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8

Daily Bread; Psalm 91:4

Daily Verse He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. Psalm 91:4 ESV Refuge: shelter…

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The News Part 1

Dear Heavenly Father, as this is read give understanding and conviction to those reading this. May there be understanding where there needs to be understanding and conviction where there…

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🇺🇸 Memorial Day 🇺🇸

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women…

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Amos 3:7

 “For the Lord God does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets. This verse reveals that God does not act without warning His people first. The verse teaches…

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Crews working California chemical leak in Orange County make cautious progress in overnight operation, officials say

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workers in a city

California firefighters made cautious progress during an all-night operation Sunday to test the pressure inside a cracked tank at the center of a toxic chemical leak in Orange County, officials told CBS News, as more than 50,000 people remain under evacuation orders. In an incident update posted on X, Orange County Fire Authority Interim Chief TJ McGovern said that crews would conduct the mission overnight to confirm that the “BLEVE threat,” or Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion, was eliminated.  “The BLEVE threat is the worst-case catastrophic event that we’ve been talking about. We are not there yet; we need to run this operation tonight,” McGovern said. “The worst-case scenario is still possible.” He said that an update in the morning would reveal the results of the overnight tank inspection to determine if pressure was released or if there was a vapor buildup inside the tank. 

As of 6:40 a.m. local time Monday, OCFA has not offered an update on the status of the operation. In an earlier post, McGovern said that crews discovered a crack in the tank on Saturday night, which could be due to a pressure release. He said that it could alter the strategy as crews search for a solution to the crisis. “With this new information, it could change our trajectory and our strategy to this event,” he said at the time. “Last night was a successful operation for this emerging incident.” The Orange County Fire Authority told CBS LA on Sunday evening that multiple cracks existed in the tank. But in a post to X later that night, the agency qualified those reports, saying: “To clarify, there is one known crack on the tank. There is also peeling of weather stripping on the exterior, but this is not an additional crack.”

Source: Crews working California chemical leak in Orange County make cautious progress in overnight operation, officials say – CBS Los Angeles

Until the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, And the wilderness becomes a fruitful field, And the fruitful field is counted as a forest.
Isaiah 32:15

Isaiah 11:2

And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear…

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The King is Coming

They shouted “Hosanna” like a King was arriving, but didn’t realize a Savior was surrendering. Don’t just celebrate Jesus for what you want Him to do, honor Him…

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Break Free and Run the Race

Break free from sin, and run your race like it matters. We must understand, getting rid of our anchors will still keep us in the race. ⚓️ 📖Therefore,…

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Blackstone recalls seasoning over salmonella contamination

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News anchor delivering breaking news about Blackstone recalling three seasoning products due to potential salmonella contamination

This recall includes three lots of the seasoning products sold nationwide at Walmart and on the Blackstone website.

Source: Blackstone recalls seasoning over salmonella contamination – CBS Chicago

Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.
1 Peter 1:18-19

Letting God Take the Lead

God doesn’t guide the loud, the proud, or the self-sufficient, He leads the humble who are willing to follow. Lay down your pride, and watch how clearly His…

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Primary Elections; May 19, 2026

Today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, is a major primary election day in six states: Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. These are mostly partisan primaries (Democratic and…

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What does Hosanna Mean?

Hosanna: Getting to Know Him Do you want eternal life? Do you want to enter heaven through the only guide that can help you navigate your way there?…

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Matthew 25:21

“His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into…

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2 Peter 2:1-3

But false prophets also arose among the people, as false teachers will also be among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, denying even the Master who…

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Recognizing the Trap of Offense

A wounded heart builds walls higher than pride ever could, harder to win back than a fortified city. Choose your words carefully, because one broken relationship can become…

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Ice cream sold in 17 states recalled for potential metal fragments

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News broadcast announcing recall of Straus Family Creamery ice cream for potential metal contamination

Straus Family Creamery is voluntarily recalling a variety of organic ice cream flavors and sizes sold in 17 states because of concerns there may be metal fragments in the frozen treats, the Food and Drug Administration said Friday.  No injuries have been reported because of the issue, the FDA said.  The recall affects some products sold in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. The affected items were on shelves beginning on May 4, the FDA said.  Pints of Straus Family Creamery’s dutch chocolate ice cream. Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images The affected products can be determined by their best-by dates, the FDA said. Best-by dates are printed on the bottom of the container.

The recalled products include:  Vanilla bean pints with best-by dates of Dec. 23 and 28, 2026, with the manufacturing code 7-84830-10030-6.  Strawberry pints with a Dec. 25, 2026, best-by date and the manufacturing code 7-84830-10095-5.  Strawberry quarts with a Dec. 24, 2026, best-by date and the manufacturing code 7-84830-10097-9.  Cookie dough pints with a Dec. 26, 2026, best-by date and the manufacturing code 7-84830-10104-4.  Dutch chocolate quarts with a Dec. 27, 2026, best-by date and the manufacturing code 7-84830-10012-2.  Mint chip quarts with a Dec. 30, 2026, best-by date and the manufacturing code 7-84830-10050-4.

Straus Family Creamery is working with retailers to remove the affected products from shelves, the FDA said. Anyone who has purchased an affected container should dispose of the product.  Straus said it would not offer refunds, but would issue vouchers to interested customers so they can buy another carton. Voucher information is available on the company’s website. 

Source: Ice cream sold in 17 states recalled for potential metal fragments – CBS News

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Luke 19:10

❤️The Heart of Worship🛐

What the world calls waste, Jesus calls worship, your sacrifice for Him is never overlooked. Bold, extravagant faith stands out in a culture that misunderstands true devotion.  “She has…

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Organ Harvesting in China

You may think you know about the illegal world of organ harvesting, but there’s an even a darker side to this practice than merely procuring an organ on the…

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Costco electric kettle recalled after fire hazard leaves person burned

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Recall sign

More than 113,000 electric kettles sold at Costco and HomeGoods have been recalled after reports that the handles can detach and spill hot water, including one reported second-degree burn, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recall, announced May 14, involves ZWILLING J. A. Henckels Aktiengesellschaft Enfinigy Kettle and Enfinigy Kettle Pro electric stainless-steel kettles after reports of the handles loosening and separating, posing a risk of serious injury due to a burn hazard. About 113,440 kettles were recalled in the United States, according to the CPSC report. An additional 43,963 were sold in Canada and 48 were sold in Mexico. The firm received 163 reports of kettle handles loosening or separating, including five incidents involving handle separation and one reported second-degree burn.

The affected kettles can be identified by model numbers 53101-200 and 53101-201 for the 1.5L ENFINIGY Electric Kettle, and 53101-500, 53101-501, 53101-502, 53101-503 and 53101-504 for the 1.5L ENFINIGY Electric Kettle Pro.

Source: Costco electric kettle recalled after fire hazard leaves person burned

He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.
John 7:38

Matthew 1:22-23

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”…

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Romans 12:19

 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” This verse teaches believers…

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Winter Storm Warning: 10 Inches of Snow, 50 mph Winds Coming This Week

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rural snowy village during severe blizzard

Certain areas of the Midwest are experiencing higher snowfall and wind speeds this week. The National Weather Service has confirmed that snowy conditions will continue into next week across some areas of the Midwest.

After a few weeks of heavy snowfall throughout the Rockies, conditions in Wyoming and Montana have calmed down over the past few days. The NWS now reports that snowfall will once again be expected in the region, with wind gusts of 40 mph adding to the stormy conditions.According to the NWS’ graphical forecast feature, wind speeds will peak at 50 mph in northwestern Wyoming at midnight on Tuesday, May 12. These dangerous gusts will be concentrated in the high-altitude areas of the Rocky Mountains, with the rest of the state facing speeds closer to 30 or 40 mph.

Northern Montana will also face high-speed winds on Monday and Tuesday, with the NWS predicting 40 mph gusts close to the North Dakota border. The state’s southern border with Idaho can expect speeds of around 30 mph.

When it comes to snow, hazardous conditions will be much more localized. While the rest of the country can expect a particularly dry week, areas of Wyoming and Montana located along the Rocky Mountains will face snowfall of 10 inches or more throughout the week.

Source: Winter Storm Warning: 10 Inches of Snow, 50 mph Winds Coming This Week – Men’s Journal

The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, And he who begets a wise child will delight in him.
Proverbs 23:24

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Heavy snow falls in Denver; see how much moisture this Colorado snowstorm will bring

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snow covered tree and ground

Rain in the Denver metro area changed over to heavy snow early Tuesday evening. The temperature at 6 p.m. in Denver was 34 degrees, so the snow so far hasn’t been sticking on roads but that will change overnight as temperatures dip. Slick roads developed quickly during the afternoon drive in and near the foothills. A jack-knifed semi-truck slowed down commuters that were traveling along Interstate 70 near the Evergreen Parkway through early in the evening on Tuesday.

Source: Heavy snow falls in Denver; see how much moisture this Colorado snowstorm will bring – CBS Colorado

Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You.
Psalm 73:25

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New fuel at the pump could damage your engine. Here’s what to know before you fill up.

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man fixing a car

E15 is now on sale nationwide, including the Valley. It’s cheaper, but it’s not for every vehicle. Experts say reading before you pump could save you thousands.

Source: Warning for new fuel at the Pump: you tube

And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.
1 John 2:28

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Mountain lion spotted near Downieville courthouse, officials urge residents to stay alert

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cougar animal

A mountain lion was spotted near the Downieville courthouse on Wednesday, prompting officials to urge residents to remain alert in the town. The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office said a county worker saw the mountain lion around 5:30 a.m. near the courthouse. When the mountain lion saw the worker, it took off running toward the medical clinic. The sheriff’s office is asking people in the area to be alert and to report any sightings in or around the town. 

Downieville, founded during the gold rush era, is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills about 100 miles northeast of Sacramento. It’s most known for its mountain biking and other outdoor activities.   Officials say that mountain lion sightings in Sierra County are not uncommon, but activity within town limits increases the likelihood of human-wildlife encounters.  People are encouraged not to walk alone during dawn and dusk, keep children close, always supervise pets when they’re outdoors and leash dogs, and not to run away. People should make themselves appear larger and back away slowly. 

Source: Mountain lion spotted near Downieville courthouse, officials urge residents to stay alert – CBS Sacramento

You have also given me the shield of Your salvation; Your right hand has held me up, Your gentleness has made me great. You enlarged my path under me, So my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:35-36

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Portion of Huntington Beach ocean closed until Friday, 3 shark sightings over past week

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giant shark sculpture on rooftop in fuerteventura

A portion of the ocean in Huntington Beach will remain closed until Friday morning, after a shark was spotted feeding on a sea lion carcass at Sunset Beach yesterday. It was the third shark sighting in the area within one week. Trevor McDonald, Huntington Beach Fire Department Marine Safety chief, said safety is a priority and “Our coastlines are monitored every day.” Last week, a 24-hour ocean closure was in place near lifeguard Tower 3 after a shark exhibited aggressive behavior toward a human.

On Wednesday, there were two more shark sightings, according to McDonald. A juvenile great white shark was seen swimming off Goldenwest Street just outside the break, prompting signs to be posted for four hours. Then, around 10 a.m., a 10-foot great white shark was spotted actively feeding on a sea lion carcass at Sunset Beach. “When a shark has a large food source, they have the potential to be defensive of their food source,” McDonald said.  “They don’t want that going away; they don’t want to share with anybody or another animal. So that’s another reason why we don’t want surfers or swimmers in or around a feeding event like this one we observed.” Ocean experts say to expect more shark sightings through the summer. “It is gearing up to be a sharky summer,” said Chris Lowe, the director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach.  In March, Lowe explained the water is unusually warm for the time of year, forming a “marine heat wave.”

Source: Portion of Huntington Beach ocean closed until Friday, 3 shark sightings over past week – CBS Los Angeles

And the LORD shall be King over all the earth. In that day it shall be— “The LORD is one,” And His name one.
Zechariah 14:9

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Baseball-sized hail, damaging winds possible across North Texas amid severe weather threat Tuesday

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Tornado with debris and hail hitting a residential neighborhood with damaged houses and vehicles

The two main threats are wind and very large hail, with the possibility of an isolated tornado. Tuesday starts cloudy, warm and breezy, with temperatures in the 70s. Areas of fog are possible for the morning commute.

But it will once again be a busy afternoon with severe storms as a dry line and a cold front increase the potential for severe weather, prompting a First Alert Weather Day.

The timing of Tuesday’s storms will be between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m., with 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. being the most likely timeframe for the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. 

Source: Baseball-sized hail, damaging winds possible across North Texas amid severe weather threat Tuesday – CBS Texas

Lyme disease cases in Michigan rise 168% over 5 years, health officials report

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a tick on a person s skin

Lyme disease cases have increased by 168% in the past five years, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Annette Jackson of Hazel Park said she spent years searching for answers about her health. Jackson described repeated hospital visits where doctors could not identify the cause of her symptoms. “I went to the hospital, and the hospital was like, ‘Well, this is not a cold and this is not the flu. We don’t know what you have, but you have something. Your white blood cells are off the charts.’

And they said, ‘There’s nothing we could do for you,’ and they sent me home,” Jackson said. Jackson said she first noticed a bite after playing at the park with her family, but doctors were unable to diagnose her condition at the time. “Life was just debilitating after that, trying to find someone to help me,” she said. After years of symptoms, Jackson said her doctor eventually diagnosed her with Lyme disease. “Honestly, Lyme disease mimics a lot of diseases, a lot of symptoms. So it’s very hard for doctors to pinpoint,” Jackson said. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports that tick populations are increasing. CBS News Detroit learned that warmer spring months allow ticks more time to mature and bite. State data shows that in 2020, there were 471 new cases of Lyme disease. By 2025, that number had risen to 2,167.

Source: Lyme disease cases in Michigan rise 168% over 5 years, health officials report – CBS Detroit

Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3

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