Fear of Ruin as Disease Takes Hold of Italy’s Olive Trees

First it was Europe’s ash trees under threat from disease. Now it’s the continent’s olives in the firing line. A killer pathogen that has established itself in southern Italy is now “very likely” to spread, posing a major risk to European olive trees.

This week, a look the peril facing Italy's olive trees.

TTFN, Fred.

Quote of the week: "I cannot pretend to feel impartial about colours. I rejoice with the brilliant ones and am genuinely sorry for the poor browns." - Sir Winston Churchill (British politician, 1874 - 1965)

   Fear of Ruin as Disease Takes Hold of Italy’s Olive Trees by fredwine

For an Aging Brain, Looking for Ways to Keep Memory Sharp

In many ways, the mind is still a scientific mystery and we are constantly trying to understand it more. One thing is certain though: your brain can deteriorate if you don't take care of it. 

Hey, it's not all bad news. Some studies show the aging brain is more capable than its younger counterpart at creativity and innovation, which means my best days thinking are yet to come. But memory tends to be fleeting, regardless of which side of the study you tend to favor.

This week, a look at how to keep your memory sharp as the brain ages.

TTFN, Fred.

Quote of the week: "If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer." - Alfred North Whitehead (English mathematician & philosopher, 1861 - 1947)

   For an Aging Brain, Looking for Ways to Keep Memory Sharp

Water Flowing From Toilet to Tap May Be Hard to Swallow

Reclaimed water or recycled water, is former wastewater (sewage) that is treated to remove solids and impurities, and used in sustainable landscaping irrigation, and to meet commercial and industrial water needs.

It can also be used to recharge groundwater aquifers and for drinking, which is what drought weary California needs to consider the next logical step. After all, the Fremen of the desert planet Arrakis wore stillsuits with internal recycling systems that lost an average of a thimbleful of water a day. Hey, if recycled water is good enough for Paul Atreides, it's good enough for me..

This week, a look at the ultimate way to recycle water.

TTFN, Fred.

Quote of the week: "Everybody likes to go their own way -- to choose their own time and manner of devotion." - Jane Austen (English novelist, 1775 - 1817)

   Water Flowing From Toilet to Tap May Be Hard to Swallow by fredwine