SUMMARY: Sam Cooper, a thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail, tackled the half-gallon ice cream challenge at Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Pennsylvania after hiking seven rain-soaked miles. The challenge, a tradition for over 40 years, involves consuming a half-gallon of ice cream, often seen as a rite of passage at the trail’s midpoint. Hikers burn up to 6,000 calories daily, making such indulgences both a burden and a calorie boost. Around 50 hikers have completed the challenge this year, earning a wooden spoon and bragging rights, despite many calling it “pure misery.” The trail is filled with quirky traditions amid a grueling journey that can take six months.

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The post Could you eat this much ice cream after walking 1,100 miles? Some Appalachian Trail hikers try appeared first on wpln.org

SUMMARY: The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency reminds boaters that basic safety equipment is required on Tennessee waters. Each person must have a properly fitting, wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Boats must carry a fire extinguisher, visible lights, and an ignition kill switch safety lanyard, which must be attached to the operator. Although not always required, throwable flotation devices, horns or whistles, and visual distress signals are strongly recommended. Boating drivers must pass a safety class, especially those born before 1989. Reckless operation near other boats is a class A misdemeanor, punishable like boating under the influence.

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The post TWRA stresses boater safety, regulations as summer season kicks off appeared first on www.wkrn.com

SUMMARY: In May, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made two major COVID vaccine policy changes: stopping CDC recommendations for vaccinating healthy children and pregnant women, and replacing all 17 members of the federal vaccine advisory committee. These moves, announced without expert panel guidance, drew strong criticism from leading physicians and public health groups. Experts like Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University warn these changes create uncertainty for travelers and others, affecting vaccine access and insurance coverage. The removed advisory panel published an editorial condemning the decision, saying it undermines decades of institutional knowledge vital to the vaccination program’s success.

The impact of COVID vaccine changes

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