Lifestyle

Food
Japan struggles with rice crisis

As rice consumption declines over the decades, Japan grapples with the future of its most cherished staple—the oval-shaped sticky Japonica grain. Despite its essential role in culture, tradition, and politics, the falling consumption of rice raises concerns about preserving a key element of Japanese identity.

Regional Specialties

Owner of Savannah’s Olympia Cafe dies

Nick Pappas, the beloved owner of Olympia Cafe on Savannah’s River Street, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of passion and dedication. His family announced his death on social media, remembering him as one of a kind whose love, hard work, and humor touched many. For over 30 years, Olympia Cafe has been an iconic staple, thanks to Pappas’s unwavering commitment.

Regional Specialties

 Owner of Savannah’s Olympia Cafe dies
North Huntingdon church to sell pirohi

St. Stephen Byzantine Catholic Church in North Huntingdon is set to begin selling pirohi at 10 a.m. this Friday. The event at 90 Bethel Road welcomes all members of the community to partake.

Regional Specialties

Plant-based proteins may help lower high blood pressure risk, research indicates

New research suggests that incorporating more minimally processed plant-based proteins like beans, nuts, and lentils into your diet may help lower the risk of high blood pressure. Eating these foods could be a simple way to promote better heart health.

Vegan Recipes

 Plant-based proteins may help lower high blood pressure risk, research indicates
Idaho brings back retro ‘famous potatoes’ license plates

This summer, Idaho drivers might spot a nostalgic sight: retro black and white license plates proclaiming “World Famous Potatoes,” a throwback to the 1950s. The state is reintroducing these iconic plates, allowing residents to embrace a piece of Idaho’s rich heritage.

Regional Specialties

 Idaho brings back retro ‘famous potatoes’ license plates
The Ecology Center to host organic pop-up market in Dana Point

The Ecology Center, a regenerative farm known for its fertile soils and bountiful crops, is hosting an organic pop-up market along Dana Point’s Amber Lantern, just over three miles from the farm.

Regional Specialties

 The Ecology Center to host organic pop-up market in Dana Point
Ditch potatoes for ‘superhero’ veg with more fibre that makes roasties, chips and mash

Packed with fiber and perfect for reducing carbs, celeriac is the ‘superhero’ vegetable transforming roasties, chips, and mash.

Vegan Recipes

 Ditch potatoes for ‘superhero’ veg with more fibre that makes roasties, chips and mash
Boba Smoothies now open in Cy-Fair

Boba Smoothies has opened its doors in Cy-Fair, offering a new destination for boba tea enthusiasts. The tea house began serving customers in early May and is now welcoming guests to enjoy their boba tea drinks.

Regional Specialties

 Boba Smoothies now open in Cy-Fair
Highland Games upcoming at Dobson

Dobson is set to embrace the vibrant traditions of Scotland as the Fisher River Highland Games arrive this Saturday. The event promises a vivid display of color and pageantry, offering residents a unique opportunity to experience Scottish culture firsthand. From traditional ceremonies to spirited festivities, the Highland Games are poised to transform the town into a scene reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands.

Regional Specialties

 Highland Games upcoming at Dobson
Cultural Day Festival in Bayonne set for May 31

Bayonne will celebrate its diverse cultures with the Cultural Day Festival on May 31. The event aims to highlight the wonderful and various cultures that reside in the city, according to Maria Pardo, President of From Educators to Innovators, LLC.

Regional Specialties

Glorified Orange Rice is a dainty delight

Glorified Orange Rice combines rice, marshmallows, whipped cream, and a medley of fruits in a dessert that’s as delightful as it is unique. Authored by Karla Knutson, this recipe offers a sweet treat without a vegetable in sight.

Regional Specialties

Harner Farm has seen big changes over 80 years in Centre County. What’s next?

As Harner Farm reaches its 80th anniversary, the Harner family reflects on decades of dedication that have kept their family-run farm thriving in Centre County. Located at 3191 W. College Ave., the farm stands as a testament to enduring family legacy and the rich agricultural heritage of the region.

Regional Specialties

Try weekend getaway in Chicago

Chicago is just a quick flight away this spring, with affordable rates and a vibrant cityscape rich in art, cuisine, and cinematic experiences.

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 Try weekend getaway in Chicago
Stewart’s Shops renames Mint Cookie Crumble for Belmont – Bite-Sized

Stewart’s Shops has renamed its beloved Mint Cookie Crumble ice cream to celebrate the Belmont Stakes. Featured in “Bite-Sized,” this update highlights local businesses participating in community events.

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 Stewart’s Shops renames Mint Cookie Crumble for Belmont – Bite-Sized
Fort Selden to grow special chile from Chile Institute

Fort Selden Historic Site in Radium Springs is cultivating the original New Mexico No. 9 chile, making it the only place in New Mexico to grow this special variety this year. This historically bred chile, provided by the Chile Institute, reconnects visitors with the state’s rich agricultural heritage.

Regional Specialties

 Fort Selden to grow special chile from Chile Institute
121 metre long cake gives a taste for records

In a monumental culinary feat, French pastry chefs have crafted a 121.8-meter-long strawberry cake, claiming it as the world’s longest ever made. Armed with 4,000 eggs and vast quantities of sugar and cream, they have set their sights on a world record.

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 121 metre long cake gives a taste for records
Steak and Shake fundraiser

The Fayette County Cattlemen are launching Beef Month with a drive-thru Steak and Shake fundraiser on May 5 at the Fayette County Fairgrounds in West Union. The event runs from 5-7:30 p.m., inviting the community to support local agriculture from the comfort of their cars.

Regional Specialties

tacos del cartel short rib

Tacos del Cartel held its soft opening on April 17, 2025, featuring the Barbacoa de Short Rib. The event marked the restaurant’s debut, with The Advocate reporting on the showcased dish.

Regional Specialties

 tacos del cartel short rib
Platform 18, the popular train-inspired bar, to host ‘Mother’s Day High Tea Service’

This Mother’s Day, Platform 18, the popular train-inspired bar, is hosting a special High Tea Service featuring teas from Harney & Sons and pastries by local pastry chef Jazmin Gentry.

Regional Specialties

Longtime Old Chicago restaurant location closes in Colorado Springs

Old Chicago, a cherished restaurant in Colorado Springs, has closed its doors after more than two decades of serving the community. The closure marks the end of an era for a longtime favorite in the local dining scene.

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 Longtime Old Chicago restaurant location closes in Colorado Springs
Restaurant group shows what’s in a name at Santana Row

Augustine isn’t just another spot on Santana Row. From its name to its distinctive font and coastal feel, it stands as a testament to intentional design.

Regional Specialties

 Restaurant group shows what’s in a name at Santana Row
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