A new study published in Nature estimates that wildfire smoke causes over 41,400 excess deaths annually in the U.S., a figure more than double previous estimates. The research projects a significant increase in these deaths, up to an additional 26,500-30,000 by midcentury due to climate change. Wildfire smoke is now considered a greater health risk than other climate change-driven threats, such as extreme heat. The study’s findings could influence public policy, particularly regarding environmental regulations.
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As Labor Day approaches, numerous U.S. beaches are facing water quality advisories due to unsafe levels of fecal contamination. These advisories, stemming from elevated bacteria associated with fecal waste, are widespread, with nearly two-thirds of tested beaches experiencing unsafe levels at least once in 2024. Outdated water and sewer systems, alongside severe weather and suburban sprawl, are key contributors to the contamination. While some beachgoers remain unconcerned, potentially unsafe levels of bacteria can cause illness in a small number of swimmers.
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A recent expert review has warned that plastics pose a “grave, growing and under-recognized danger” to both human and planetary health, deeming the situation a “plastics crisis.” The rapid acceleration of plastic production, primarily single-use plastics, has led to a surge in plastic pollution, impacting the entire planet and costing at least $1.5tn annually in health-related damages. Plastics endanger people and the environment at every stage, from production to disposal, with exposure to toxic chemicals and microplastics posing significant risks. The review emphasizes the urgent need for a global plastics treaty with measures to protect human and planetary health, as recycling alone cannot solve the crisis.
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A shooting at Antioch High School in Nashville, Tennessee, resulted in one female student fatality and one injured student. The male shooter, also a student, died by suicide following the incident in the school cafeteria. Law enforcement, including multiple state and federal agencies, responded to the scene, placing the school on lockdown. The school, which houses approximately 2,000 students, is currently working on student reunification.
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William Randall Franklin has been arrested for the murder of Coweta County Battalion Fire Chief James Bartholomew Cauthen. The shooting occurred after Cauthen and a driver stopped at Franklin’s home to request assistance following a deer collision; Franklin allegedly opened fire without provocation, injuring both men. Cauthen died at the scene, while the driver and Franklin survived their injuries. A motive remains under investigation, though Franklin’s family has cited mental health issues and law enforcement noted possible intoxication.
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Therapists across the US are reporting a surge in patient anxiety stemming from Donald Trump’s return to power, exceeding typical political anxieties. This heightened stress is fueled by Trump’s unique ability to dominate public discourse and his administration’s policies impacting reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ communities. Many patients experience “activist burnout” and fear the erosion of democratic norms and institutions under his leadership. Therapists emphasize the importance of community support, managing news consumption, and acknowledging the collective grief caused by the political climate. The pervasive nature of Trump’s influence makes it difficult for individuals to disconnect from the constant source of anxiety he generates.
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A new study in the *New England Journal of Medicine* reveals a strong link between childhood diseases and exposure to synthetic chemicals, urging immediate global legislative reform. The paper cites alarming increases in childhood cancers, birth defects, and neurodevelopmental disorders, correlating with a dramatic rise in chemical production since 1950. Current regulations, particularly the US Toxic Substances Control Act, are deemed insufficient, prompting calls for a precautionary approach requiring pre-market chemical testing and post-market surveillance. The authors propose a global treaty, overseen by a UN body, to enforce these changes and protect children’s health.
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Jeff Baena, the 47-year-old filmmaker and husband of actress Aubrey Plaza, was found deceased in his home on Friday night. Law enforcement sources reported that his body was discovered by an assistant around 10:30 p.m.
The county medical examiner has yet to officially determine the cause of death, though early reports and subsequent confirmation point to suicide. This tragic news has understandably sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and beyond, leaving many in mourning.
The timing of Baena’s death is particularly poignant given Plaza’s recent role in a film depicting a young widow. The juxtaposition of her fictional portrayal with her sudden real-life grief is jarring and amplifies the devastating nature of this loss.… Continue reading
A mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro, resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people, among them two children. The incident, which began with a verbal altercation in a restaurant, concluded with the perpetrator’s suicide. Montenegro’s government has declared three days of national mourning in response to this devastating tragedy. Prime Minister Spajic described the event as a “terrible tragedy”.
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Ian Cramer, son of Senator Kevin Cramer, received a 38-year prison sentence with 10 years suspended, stemming from a high-speed chase that resulted in the death of Deputy Paul Martin. The sentence includes conditions such as probation and treatment for addiction and mental health issues, though the judge noted he may not serve the full 28 years. Cramer pleaded guilty to charges including homicide while fleeing a peace officer, following a December 2023 incident where he fled a hospital and crashed into the deputy’s vehicle. The incident followed his mother taking him to the hospital due to mental health concerns.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood