Trailblazing Female Ranger Breaks Ground, Competes in Elite Army Contest

Breaking new ground in the military's elite ranks, First Lt. Gabrielle White became the first female Army Ranger to compete in the prestigious Best Ranger Competition. Teaming up with Capt. Seth Deltenre, White showcased her exceptional skills and endurance over a grueling three-day event, finishing 14th out of 52 teams. The competition, held at Fort Benning, Georgia, is renowned for its rigorous challenges that test the mettle of Army Rangers through more than 30 demanding events. Participants must cover over 60 miles with minimal rest while tackling helicopter missions, physical fitness tests, land navigation exercises, weapons qualification trials and obstacle courses. White and Deltenre were among only 16 teams to complete all final events. The winning team comprised 1st Lt. Griff Hokanson and 1st Lt. Kevin Moore from the esteemed 75th Ranger Regiment. Since opening its doors to women in 2015, following policy changes by the Defense Department, the Army has seen a growing number of female soldiers excel in roles previously restricted to men. As of January 2025, a total of 154 women have graduated from Ranger School. First Lt. Gabrielle White continues to serve as an infantry officer at Fort Benning’s maneuver captains career course after graduating from West Point in May 2021 and completing Ranger School in April 2022. Her participation marks a significant step forward for women in combat roles within the U.S. Army’s elite forces.

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NFL Stars Set to Shine: Flag Football Makes Olympic Debut at 2028 Games

With a grin that could light up a stadium, Justin Jefferson performed his signature "Olympic Griddy" dance after a pivotal NFL announcement on Tuesday. The Minnesota Vikings' star wide receiver played a key role in the league's decision to allow NFL players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The proposal received unanimous approval from all 32 team owners, according to ESPN sources. "I'm just at a loss of words," Jefferson said before dancing offstage. "Just to think about the chances of playing in the Olympics and getting a gold medal is a dream." While Jefferson expressed excitement about potentially competing in the Olympics, he stopped short of committing to try out for the 2028 Games. NFL executive vice president Troy Vincent shared his enthusiasm for this global expansion. "I think it's going to be phenomenal," Vincent said. "The world finally has an opportunity to see the greatest athletes participate." Jefferson recently experienced flag football during the Pro Bowl Games and found it exhilarating. "Honestly, it was way more fun," he said. Despite his enthusiasm, Jefferson remains cautious about future commitments due to potential physical demands over three seasons leading up to 2028. The league still needs agreements with various organizations regarding player participation specifics. There are also discussions about allowing players with international heritage to represent other countries. "We want to make sure we have insurances that protect everyone involved," Vincent stated. Timing will be crucial as NFL executives work out logistics with Olympic schedules so players can balance both commitments effectively. Vikings linebacker Brian Asamoah II acknowledged existing talent within flag football but welcomed NFL involvement as beneficial for growing the sport globally. "It's a completely different game," Asamoah noted, emphasizing respect for current flag football athletes while embracing new opportunities for growth.

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Kermit the Frog to Deliver Commencement Speech at University of Maryland

As the University of Maryland's class of 2025 prepares to don their caps and gowns, they can look forward to some unique words of wisdom from an unexpected source: Kermit the Frog. The beloved Muppet will deliver the commencement address Thursday evening, offering his perspective on navigating life beyond college. Kermit, who first appeared in 1955 and quickly became a central figure in the Muppets franchise, has a special connection to the university. Jim Henson, the creator of Kermit and other iconic characters, graduated from Maryland in 1960 with a degree in home economics. Henson crafted the original Kermit puppet using one of his mother's coats and a ping-pong ball cut in half. A bronze statue commemorating Henson and Kermit is a cherished landmark on campus. In March, the university announced that Kermit would be this year's commencement speaker. Known for his environmental advocacy and creative spirit, Kermit's mission is simple: "to sing and dance and make people happy." His presence at graduation aims to inspire students as they step into an uncertain world. University President Darryll J. Pines expressed enthusiasm about Kermit's participation: “I am thrilled that our graduates and their families will experience the optimism and insight of the world-renowned Kermit the Frog at such a meaningful time in their lives.” In a video announcing the speaker pick, Kermit's was quoted as saying, “Nothing could make these feet happier than to speak at the University of Maryland. I just know the class of 2025 is going to leap into the world and make it a better place."

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Jupiter's Secret Past: Once Twice Its Size with a Mighty Magnetic Field

Jupiter, the colossal giant of our Solar System, has long fascinated scientists with its immense size and gravitational pull. New research reveals that this gas giant was once even more massive than it is today. Astronomers Konstantin Batygin from Caltech and Fred Adams of the University of Michigan have discovered that early Jupiter could have been up to 2.5 times its current volume. Their study focused on two of Jupiter's moons, Amalthea and Thebe, which helped them trace back the planet's early history. Just 3.8 million years after the first solid materials formed in the Solar System, Jupiter boasted a significantly larger volume and a much stronger magnetic field. "Our ultimate goal is to understand where we come from," Batygin said. "Pinning down the early phases of planet formation is essential to solving the puzzle." The findings support the core accretion model for planet formation, suggesting that gas giants like Jupiter start by accumulating dust and rocks before capturing a substantial gas envelope once they reach a certain mass. Adams noted, "It's astonishing that even after 4.5 billion years, enough clues remain to let us reconstruct Jupiter's physical state at the dawn of its existence." The research indicates that Jupiter underwent rapid growth in its early years before contracting under its own gravity as surrounding material dissipated. Despite its size, Jupiter never came close to becoming a star; it would need to be at least 85 times more massive for hydrogen fusion. "What we've established here is a valuable benchmark," Batygin said. "A point from which we can more confidently reconstruct the evolution of our Solar System." The research was published in Nature Astronomy.

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The Surprising Secret to Happiness: Unlearning Fear, According to Experts

Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, an adjunct associate professor of psychology at Columbia University’s Barnard College, explores the concept of fear in his new book, "Rise Above." He argues that the key difference between those who thrive and those who struggle lies in their ability to "unlearn fear." Kaufman explains that while learning fear is an automatic response to traumatic experiences, unlearning it requires conscious effort. “Fear is automatically learned. And fear must be actively unlearned: We have to choose a different way of living,” he told CNBC. Our brains naturally accumulate fears without our consent, which can hinder personal growth and risk-taking. For instance, many people develop a fear of rejection that prevents them from asking for well-deserved raises. Kaufman emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for unlearning these fears: “Sometimes we’re responsible for things not because they’re our fault, but because we’re the only ones who can change them,” he said to Psychology Today. To combat fear, Kaufman suggests reframing how we talk to ourselves during fearful moments by asking "what" questions instead of "why" questions. This approach encourages curiosity and potential rather than dwelling on limitations. Organizational psychologist Tasha Eurich supports this method, noting that "'What' questions help us create a better future." By shifting our internal dialogue from “Why does this happen to me?” to “What can I do about it?” individuals can empower themselves to overcome fears and pursue greater success and happiness. Ultimately, recognizing that fears are not chosen allows individuals to reclaim control over their lives and build pathways toward fulfillment.

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Mississippi Teen Accepted Into 50 Colleges with $10M in Scholarships

Jayme Anderson, a high school senior from Forest Hill High School in Jackson, Mississippi, is making waves nationwide with his impressive academic achievements. The African American student has received over $10 million in scholarship offers from more than 50 universities across the country. Anderson's talents extend beyond academics; he is also a member of the Pride of Forest Hill Band. His acceptance into prestigious institutions such as Stanford University, UCLA, UC Berkeley, Penn State, and San Francisco State highlights his dedication and leadership both in and out of the classroom. School officials attribute his success to his discipline and perseverance. "He's a standout scholar and dedicated member of our community," said SuperTalk Mississippi Media about Anderson's accomplishments. Anderson joins a growing number of high-achieving Black students who are securing significant scholarship offers through their academic excellence and extracurricular involvement. Students like Jasmine Harrison from North Carolina and Dennis Barnes from Louisiana have similarly garnered attention for receiving millions in scholarships. These successes emphasize the importance of early preparation, strong recommendation letters, and applying to a wide range of schools. Anderson's diverse applications showcased his academic record, personal essays, and musical achievements. Educators believe that students like Anderson inspire others to aim high despite challenges such as limited resources or underfunded schools. His story highlights how institutions ranging from HBCUs to Ivy League schools are competing for top talent from all backgrounds. As Anderson considers which offer to accept among more than 50 options, his community is celebrating not only his achievements but also the inspiration he provides to other students across Mississippi and beyond.

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This 90-Year-Old Grandma Defies Gravity: Skydives After a Big Raffle Win

When 90-year-old Barbara Brookes entered a raffle, she never imagined it would lead to an unforgettable adventure in the skies. The spirited grandmother from Lutterworth took to the air in a glider on Sunday, marveling at the breathtaking views over Leicestershire. "I couldn't believe what was happening. It was an amazing experience—I'm not going to forget that," Brookes said. After winning the top prize in the Lutterworth mayor's annual Christmas charity raffle, Brookes decided to use her win for good. She has raised more than £2,100 for three local charities: Academy for Dementia Research and Education, Lutterworth Community Transport, and Age Concern Lutterworth and District. Though initially "a little apprehensive" about flying, Brookes described the experience as "absolutely wonderful." She enjoyed spotting reservoirs, colorful countryside landscapes, and even someone's swimming pool from above. Gliding instructor Rob Barsby of Aerosparxs in Leicestershire piloted the aircraft with Brookes aboard. He praised her enthusiasm: "Over the years I've flown lots of people but Barbara was fantastic," he said. "Her energy, her willingness to do these things. I let her fly." Brookes' fundraising efforts have surpassed expectations. "I thought if we can get £500, wouldn't it be wonderful? Never, ever, in my wildest dreams did I expect that much," she said. Lutterworth Mayor Robert Coleman commended Brookes' determination and generosity: "Barbara is an inspiration to me." With this soaring adventure under her belt and significant funds raised for cherished causes, Barbara Brookes has proven that age is just a number when it comes to making a difference.

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How 1,000 Galaxies Just Changed What We Know About Star Formation

A cosmic revelation has emerged from the depths of space, thanks to researchers at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR). By delving into the gas distribution across approximately 1,000 galaxies, scientists have uncovered new insights into star formation. This groundbreaking study was conducted using CSIRO's ASKAP radio telescope at the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory as part of the WALLABY survey. Seona Lee, a PhD student at The University of Western Australia and lead author of the study, highlighted that while previous surveys mapped gas in only a few hundred galaxies, WALLABY has expanded this to a much larger sample. "It was very exciting to see a correlation between star formation and where the atomic hydrogen gas is located," Lee said. The research revealed that simply having more gas doesn't guarantee more stars. Instead, star-forming galaxies tend to have higher concentrations of gas precisely where stars are born. Senior Principal Research Fellow Professor Barbara Catinella likened atomic hydrogen gas to flour in baking: "While different cakes require different amounts of flour, to bake a cake properly, you focus on the flour that's in the bowl." This study underscores how detailed radio observations are crucial for understanding galaxy evolution. By examining radio waves and visible light from nearby galaxies, researchers determined where stars are actively forming. "To learn about how stars are formed, we had to measure the atomic hydrogen gas in areas where stars are actively coming to life," Lee explained. This research offers a clearer picture of how galaxies grow and change over time by focusing on where star formation truly happens.

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This Surprising New Technology Could Keep Your Produce Fresh for Weeks

Researchers at MIT and the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) have developed a groundbreaking method to extend the shelf life of harvested plants, potentially reducing global food waste. By injecting melatonin into plants using biodegradable microneedles, they aim to address the issue of post-harvest food loss, which accounts for over 30 percent of the world's food supply. The innovative approach uses silk microneedles that penetrate plant skin without causing stress, delivering precise doses of melatonin. "This is the first time that we've been able to apply these microneedles to extend the shelf life of a fresh-cut crop," said Benedetto Marelli, senior author and associate professor at MIT. In their study published in Nano Letters, researchers applied melatonin-infused microneedle patches to pak choy. The results were promising: shelf life extended by four days at room temperature and ten days when refrigerated. This could allow more crops to reach consumers before spoiling. "Post-harvest waste is a huge issue," noted Sarojam Rajani from Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory in Singapore. The research team found that treated plants retained their saleable value longer than untreated ones. While this method shows potential for minimizing waste compared to traditional methods like spraying or dipping, further work is needed for large-scale deployment. "For this to be widely adopted, we'd need to reach a performance versus cost threshold," Marelli explained. The team plans further studies on various hormones and crops using this technology. Supported by SMART and Singapore's National Research Foundation, this innovation could revolutionize how we preserve produce globally.

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How Army Cadet Skills Turned This Sibling Into a Life-Saving Hero

When 15-year-old Lewis Butler sat down for dinner with his family, he had no idea his army cadet training would soon be put to the test. As they began eating, Lewis noticed his two-year-old brother, Lyndon, turning red and silent, a clear sign that something was wrong. "I knew instantly he was choking," Lewis said. "Thanks to the skills I learned, I saved his life. If not, it could've ended a lot differently." Lewis has been part of the Spondon army cadets in Derbyshire for over three years. His quick thinking earned him a certificate from County Commandant Col. Chris Howard for his life-saving actions. The incident unfolded during what seemed like an ordinary family meal. "We'd all just sat down eating dinner," Lewis recalled. "I looked to my right where my little brother Lyndon was sat, and he was red and not making a sound." His mother, Natasha Smith, and stepfather, Steve Melnyk, were initially panicked when they saw Lyndon choking. Natasha's first instinct was to try to clear her son's throat with her fingers. "Lewis said 'no mum, don't do that,'" Natasha recounted. "He grabbed Lyndon, tipped him forward and gave him some back blows... It happened really quick." Julie Smith, a detachment commander at Spondon army cadets, expressed immense pride in Lewis's actions. "It's just an amazing thing that he's done for his little brother," she said. Lewis says he plans to apply to the Army Foundation College in Harrogate when he turns 16 and hopes to join the British Army's Parachute Regiment.

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An Age-Proof Workout? Chair Yoga is Transforming Fitness for Everyone

Marian Rivman, Harriet Luria and Carol Leister are proving that age is just a number when it comes to staying active. With decades of yoga experience between them, these women have embraced chair yoga as a way to continue their practice with ease. Chair yoga adapts traditional poses for those with physical challenges, offering a forgiving workout on the knees and hips. "You’re stretching your whole body," said Rivman. "It allows you to get into positions without hurting yourself." Luria, who has osteoporosis, finds chair yoga beneficial. "You don’t have to worry as much about falling and breaking anything," she said. "It’s not as difficult as I thought it would be, but it’s not easy." The practice isn't limited to older adults; it's also popular among desk workers and those recovering from injuries. Instructor Whitney Chapman explained that using a chair is simply another prop like a yoga strap or block. Chapman highlighted the benefits: improved flexibility, strength, balance, and emotional well-being. She also teaches chair yoga to patients with cancer and Parkinson’s disease. Leister recently retired and sees chair yoga as a lifelong exercise option. "This is the one that I could see doing for the rest of my life," she said. Yoga's popularity continues to rise in the U.S., with 16.9% of adults practicing in 2022 according to CDC data. While more women than men participate, Chapman hopes more men will join classes. Rivman encourages everyone: “Get into a chair and do some yoga... You’re never too old to start.”

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