Starting this week, five states will implement restrictions on what foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits, prohibiting items like soda and candy. These waivers, part of a broader initiative to address health concerns and reduce chronic diseases, are being spearheaded by the Health and Agriculture Secretaries. While proponents aim to improve the health of SNAP recipients, critics, including industry experts, are concerned about implementation challenges, increased costs for retailers, and potential impacts on recipients. These states’ actions represent a departure from previous federal policy and are part of the second Trump administration’s encouragement for states to seek such waivers. The waivers are set to run for two years.
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Candy Companies Are Quietly Cutting Down on Cocoa to Save Money. The first thing that really jumps out is how many people have noticed a definite change in the taste and quality of mass-produced candy. It’s not just a subtle shift; it’s a stark difference that’s been happening over the last couple of decades. The “fun size” candies, especially those sold in bulk for holidays like Halloween, are often cited as the prime example of this decline. They’re simply not as good as the regular-sized versions, and it’s something many of us, especially those with a long-standing love for these treats, have readily perceived.… Continue reading
Renowned actor Tony Todd, best known for his chilling portrayal of the hook-handed Candyman, passed away at age 69. Todd, whose illustrious career spanned over four decades, garnered recognition for his roles in films like “Platoon,” “The Rock,” and “Final Destination,” as well as numerous television series. He also made a mark in voice acting, lending his distinctive voice to iconic characters like Venom in “Spider-Man 2.” His signature role as the vengeful Candyman, a character that explored themes of racism and social injustice, became a cinematic landmark. Todd’s legacy will forever be intertwined with the horror genre, and his impact on the entertainment industry will be deeply missed.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood