Blog

More than 600,000 bottles of ramipril, a widely used blood pressure medication, were recalled across the U.S. after the FDA found that some ingredients came from an unapproved, uninspected facility in India.

Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor taken by over 2.4 million Americans each year to control blood pressure and lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage, making the recall a nationwide concern.

The recall affects Lupin Pharmaceuticals’ ramipril capsules in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg strengths, packaged in bottles of 90, 100, or 500 capsules with expiration dates through July 2026 and distributed to pharmacies and hospitals.

The FDA said the recall is precautionary because uninspected facilities may not meet safety and quality standards, though no adverse health events have been reported so far.

Patients should not stop ramipril suddenly; instead, they should check their bottle details and contact their pharmacist or healthcare provider if their medication matches the recalled lots.

Pharmacies may provide replacements, and doctors can prescribe alternatives like lisinopril or enalapril if needed, while the recall underscores the importance of strict global oversight to keep medicines safe.

The different button placement on men’s and women’s shirts comes from long-standing traditions shaped by social class and gender roles. Women’s shirts button on the left, while men’s button on the right, a custom that took shape in the 18th and 19th centuries.

At the time, wealthy women were often dressed by maids because their clothing was elaborate and difficult to manage alone. Since most servants were right-handed, placing buttons on the left made fastening garments easier when facing the wearer.

This practical choice slowly turned into a symbol of status. Left-side buttons became associated with wealth, refinement, and traditional femininity, even after servants were no longer common.

Men’s clothing followed a different logic rooted in function rather than status. Many men carried weapons on their left side, allowing their right hand to draw quickly.

Buttons placed on the right made it easier for men to open their garments swiftly when movement or defense was needed. Military habits helped spread this design into everyday men’s fashion.

Although the original reasons have faded, the tradition remains. Button placement today quietly reflects centuries of customs shaped by class, gender, and practicality, stitched into even the simplest shirt.

Keeping jewelry bright and clean doesn’t require pricey products or professional help. Metals like silver naturally dull over time as they react with air and moisture, creating tarnish. A simple DIY method with household items can restore shine in minutes.

You only need three ingredients: salt, baking soda, and liquid dish soap. Heat one cup of water until very hot, then dissolve one tablespoon of each ingredient in the water.

Line a small bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up. Carefully pour in the hot solution and place the tarnished jewelry on the foil so it’s fully submerged.

After five to ten minutes, the tarnish begins lifting from the metal. The jewelry regains its shine without any harsh scrubbing.

This works because of a gentle chemical reaction between the foil, baking soda, and the tarnish, making the process effective and easy.

Remove the pieces, rinse with cool water, and dry with a soft cloth. The method works for sterling silver, gold-filled items, brass, and German silver, keeping jewelry looking fresh with minimal effort and cost.

Authorities responded to a report of a medical emergency at a St. Cloud apartment Saturday night involving a young woman.

Emergency crews arrived at the residence on 40th Avenue South around 8:20 p.m. on Feb. 7, 2026, where they found 22-year-old Hallie Marie Tobler unresponsive. The Midwest Medical Examiner later determined she died from multiple injuries.

Hallie’s husband, 23-year-old Dylan Michael Tobler, was inside the apartment at the time, according to authorities.

The case gained wider attention after officials confirmed Hallie was the daughter of Dr. Jeff Johnson, a Republican candidate for Minnesota governor. Following her death, Johnson suspended his campaign.

In a statement posted Monday, the Minnesota Republican Party described Hallie’s death as a violent crime and expressed condolences to the Johnson family. Dr. Johnson is a former St. Cloud city council member and is not the same Jeff Johnson who previously served as Hennepin County commissioner and ran for governor in 2014 and 2018.

Public social media posts indicate Hallie and Dylan had been together for several years before marrying. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting with the investigation, and authorities have not released further details.

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime show on February 8 didn’t just light up the stage — it set social media on fire.

The performance was a vibrant tribute to Puerto Rican culture, packed with high-energy choreography, cinematic visuals, and surprise appearances that kept viewers locked in from start to finish. But while the music and guest stars grabbed headlines, one tiny detail ended up stealing the internet’s heart: the “grass” onstage wasn’t grass at all.

It was people.

1 of 500 dancers — disguised as plants

As millions tuned in to watch the Apple Music Halftime Show at Super Bowl LX, many initially assumed the tall green “sugarcane” field surrounding Bad Bunny was just elaborate set design.

It wasn’t.

Bad Bunny performs in the Apple Music Halftime Show during the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, at Levi’s Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
Those swaying blades were actually performers in costume — part of a 500-person dance crew helping bring the Puerto Rican sugarcane field concept to life.

One of them, Andrew Athias — known on X as “The Reese’s Guy” — recently shared what it was like to be a human blade of grass on one of the world’s biggest stages.

Andrew flew in from Philadelphia to participate and revealed that the role came with strict physical requirements. Performers had to be between 5’7” and 6’ tall with athletic builds strong enough to handle a 50-pound costume for up to five hours, including rehearsals and fittings.

“My part was actually really easy,” Andrew told Business Insider. “They just told me where to stand, and they said, ‘Don’t move. Stand here and be one with the grass.’”

Simple instructions — heavy costume.

The biggest challenge, he said, wasn’t the weight. It was the secrecy. Performers signed non-disclosure agreements forbidding them from discussing the show or posting about it online for two weeks.

“When I saw people guessing the setlist online, it was so hard,” he admitted. “We had so much knowledge and power and couldn’t say a word.”

And the pay? About $18.70 per hour. Modest for a Super Bowl stage — but Andrew said he would have done it for free just for the experience.

Another performer, José Villanueva, who also played a “bush” in the field, described the moment as overwhelming.

“Being on the field is something totally different,” he said. “I wanted to cry, but I was holding in the tears.”

Politics, praise, and pushback

As the performance went viral, reactions poured in — including from former President Donald Trump, who criticized the show on Truth Social, calling it “absolutely terrible” and “a slap in the face to our country.”

Media personality Piers Morgan pushed back publicly, responding that he “couldn’t disagree more” and highlighting that Spanish is the first language for more than 50 million Americans.

The cultural impact of the show was undeniable. With an estimated 135.4 million viewers, the spectacle celebrated Puerto Rican identity through imagery of domino games, nail salons, rooftop weddings, and rural sugarcane fields — all while flags from across the Americas waved in unison.

The Grammy moment — and the rumors

Bad Bunny performs during the Apple Music halftime show at Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, Levi Stadium, Santa Clara, California. Picture date: Sunday February 5, 2026. (Photo by Kindell Buchanan/PA Images via Getty Images)
Another moment that stirred online debate came when Bad Bunny handed his Grammy Award to a young boy during the performance. Social media quickly speculated that the child was Liam Conejo Ramos, a 5-year-old who had reportedly been detained by ICE earlier this year.

However, TMZ later confirmed that the child was Lincoln Fox Ramadan, a young actor. Reports indicated the gesture was meant to inspire children everywhere to dream big — not to make a political statement.

A halftime show that keeps unfolding

From guest appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin to layered storytelling and subtle stage details, Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX performance continues to generate conversation days after the final note.

And perhaps that’s what makes moments like this linger — not just the music or the spectacle, but the unexpected details. Like realizing that the grass wasn’t grass at all, but 500 dedicated performers standing perfectly still, becoming part of something bigger.

So whether you loved it, questioned it, or couldn’t stop rewatching clips online, one thing is clear: this halftime show left an impression.

What did you think?

If you’ve ever spotted the letters WC posted outside a public bathroom and wondered what on earth they mean, you’re not alone. Travelers, expats, and curious locals have all paused mid-step to puzzle over those two letters, trying to decode the mystery of this all-important room.

In truth, WC simply identifies a space with a toilet and, usually, a sink. But whether the term will make more sense to you than “restroom,” “bathroom,” or “loo” is another matter entirely.

When “washroom” becomes a debate
In 2020, a couple named Shelby and Dylan accidentally sparked a miniature cultural debate with a TikTok video. Dylan, strolling past a sign that read “washroom,” stopped in his tracks and asked the camera:

“What in the world is a washroom? And what are they washing in there?”

Off-camera, Shelby quipped that it’s just another word for a restroom. Dylan wasn’t convinced:

“The only thing I wash in there is my hands. Do you rest in a restroom?”

It was a point well made — neither “washroom” nor “restroom” is particularly literal.

Commenters quickly jumped in with their own preferences. One person declared: “It’s called a bathroom, restroom, washroom, and toilet — take your pick.” Another recounted being at Disneyland, asking for the washroom, and being directed straight to… the laundromat. A third added with a grin: “Wait until he finds out about water closets.”

What exactly is a water closet?
According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, a water closet is “a compartment or room with a toilet” or “a toilet bowl and its accessories.”

Historically, the terminology made sense. In the past:

Bathrooms were rooms specifically for bathing.

Restrooms were public or private rooms for freshening up — resting, changing clothes, or washing hands — not necessarily for relieving oneself.

If you needed to “go,” you’d use the water closet, a small private space that housed only the toilet.

Today, depending on where you are, the room containing the porcelain throne might be called a loo, restroom, bathroom, washroom, lavatory, or WC. In many airports, hotels, and international venues, “WC” appears on signage because it’s a short, recognizable abbreviation for travelers from various language backgrounds.

A short history of the WC
Before the late 1800s in America, having an indoor toilet was a luxury reserved for the wealthy. Most households relied on outhouses or outdoor privies for sanitation. “Bathrooms” inside the home were for bathing only — no toilets included.

By the 1890s, the water closet had become a household feature among those who could afford plumbing. These small enclosed rooms contained only the toilet, sometimes with a tiny sink for handwashing.

It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the concept of a combined bathroom — one room containing both a bath/shower and a toilet — became the norm in American homes. The arrangement saved space and simplified plumbing, but it also meant less privacy when multiple people needed facilities at the same time.

Why the name still causes confusion
On Reddit, the question “Why is a public WC called a bathroom if there’s no bath?” sparked a wave of commentary. One user pointed out the irony in reverse:

“Americans might similarly ask, ‘Why is it called a WC if it isn’t even a closet?’”

Another explained that in the United States, “bathroom” or “restroom” has become the go-to euphemism for a room with a toilet, while in other countries “WC,” “lavatory,” or “loo” are standard.

The conversation took a global turn:

A Russian speaker shared that in their language, the term translates to “a room without windows” — even if it does have a window.

An Esperanto speaker chimed in that the word is necesejo, which means “necessary place.”

The washroom vs. bathroom debate
The terminology even divides regions within the same country. Canadians famously prefer washroom, a term also heard in parts of the American Midwest. But “bathroom” and “restroom” remain dominant in much of the U.S.

Some commenters praised “washroom” as the most accurate: “You should be washing in there… not resting.” Others just shrugged and used whichever term locals understood best.

So… WC or bathroom?
Whether you say WC, restroom, bathroom, washroom, lavatory, or loo, you’re essentially talking about the same thing — the place everyone needs at some point in the day.

The history of the term “water closet” may be rooted in 19th-century plumbing innovations, but its modern use is often more about universal understanding than accuracy. In airports, train stations, and international hotels, WC remains one of the simplest ways to point travelers toward the facilities without a language barrier.

So next time you see “WC” on a door, you can smile knowing exactly what it means — and maybe even share a little history lesson with whoever’s standing next to you in line.

Naming trends almost never change suddenly. They shift slowly, influenced by culture, economics, technology, and collective emotion.

Yet by 2026, researchers, sociologists, and naming experts are observing something unusually clear: a widespread turn away from ultra-modern, invented, and digitally styled names, and a return toward names rooted in history, familiarity, and emotional permanence.

For more than a decade, naming culture was dominated by novelty. Parents searched for names that felt unique, algorithm-proof, and visually striking on screens.

Letters were rearranged, vowels removed, and spellings altered to create names that looked modern and distinctive. Many of these names reflected a world shaped by social media, branding, and constant digital presence.

But trends rarely move in one direction forever. As society enters the mid-2020s, a quiet reversal is taking place.

Parents are increasingly choosing names that feel stable rather than flashy, meaningful rather than experimental. Instead of names that sound invented, families are choosing names that sound remembered.

Experts contributing to national and international naming registries, including compilers of the Official Book of First Names, describe this shift as a response to cultural fatigue.

In a world that feels fast, uncertain, and constantly changing, many parents are seeking anchors. A child’s name, once again, is becoming a place to express calm, continuity, and trust in the future.

From Digital Novelty to Emotional Grounding
The rise of social media and global connectivity profoundly influenced naming choices in the early 2000s and 2010s. Parents wanted names that stood out in crowded classrooms and online spaces.

Uniqueness was often prioritized over longevity. Some names were created specifically to feel modern, futuristic, or unconventional.

By contrast, today’s parents—particularly millennials and older Gen Z adults—are increasingly questioning that approach. Naming specialists note that many new parents are asking a different set of questions:

Will this name still feel appropriate when my child is 40 or 70?

Does this name carry meaning beyond trend cycles?

Does it feel human rather than performative?

This shift does not reject creativity, but it reframes it. Instead of inventing something new, parents are rediscovering names that already survived centuries. They are choosing names that have proven their ability to endure social change.

The Neo-Vintage Revival
At the center of this movement is what experts call the “neo-vintage” trend. These are names that were once common, then faded from use, and are now returning—not as retro novelties, but as fresh, grounded choices.

Unlike names that never left popularity charts, neo-vintage names benefit from distance. They are familiar but not overused. They feel substantial without feeling dated.

One of the most notable examples of this revival is the name Marcel.

Marcel: From Forgotten to Rediscovered
For much of the 20th century, Marcel was a familiar name in parts of Europe, particularly in French-speaking regions.

It carried associations with artists, writers, craftsmen, and everyday working life. Over time, however, the name gradually disappeared from birth records, replaced by more contemporary choices.

By the early 2000s, Marcel was often perceived as old-fashioned, associated with grandparents or great-grandparents rather than newborns. It quietly slipped out of fashion, rarely appearing on modern name lists.

Ironically, that long absence is precisely what has made Marcel appealing again.

By 2026, Marcel is being described by naming analysts as “rediscovered rather than revived.” To modern ears, it does not feel outdated. Instead, it sounds intentional—chosen with care rather than impulse.

Marcel occupies a rare balance. It is elegant without being ornate, traditional without feeling heavy, and distinctive without being unfamiliar. It does not shout for attention, but it leaves a lasting impression.

A Name with Quiet Character
One reason Marcel resonates with modern parents is what experts describe as its “quiet character.” In contrast to names designed to stand out aggressively, Marcel allows space for individuality. The name does not attempt to define the child’s personality in advance.

This quality is increasingly important to parents who value authenticity over projection. Rather than choosing names that feel like personal branding, many families are opting for names that can grow naturally with the child.

Marcel feels equally suitable for a curious toddler, a thoughtful student, a professional adult, and an older person later in life. It ages gracefully, a trait that naming experts consistently highlight as essential for long-term satisfaction.

A Broader Return to Classical Names
Marcel’s rise does not exist in isolation. It fits into a wider resurgence of names that once belonged to earlier generations. Names such as Augustin, Léonie, Eugène, and Colette are also returning to usage in various regions.

These names share key qualities:

They have historical depth

They are easy to pronounce

They are culturally rooted

They avoid excessive embellishment

Parents choosing these names often express a desire to give their children something lasting rather than trendy. In uncertain times, tradition offers reassurance.

Masculinity Reimagined
Another reason for Marcel’s renewed appeal lies in shifting ideas about masculinity. Contemporary parents are increasingly rejecting stereotypes that associate strength with aggression or dominance.

Instead, there is growing appreciation for emotional intelligence, empathy, and calm confidence.

Marcel reflects this change. The name does not feel harsh or performative. It suggests thoughtfulness, sensitivity, and quiet assurance. Naming researchers note that parents often describe Marcel as “gentle but strong,” a combination that aligns with modern values.

This does not mean the name lacks presence. Rather, its strength lies in restraint.

This versatility makes Marcel appealing to families with international backgrounds or global outlooks. It travels easily, retaining its character without requiring spelling changes or explanations.

For parents who value mobility and cultural openness, this adaptability is a significant advantage.

The Psychology Behind the Choice
Naming experts emphasize that modern parents are more reflective than ever. Many take months to decide on a name, researching history, meaning, and usage patterns.

Marcel appeals because it carries emotional weight without being overwhelming. It suggests continuity rather than reinvention. In psychological terms, it offers a sense of security—both for parents making the choice and for children growing into it.

Studies in social psychology suggest that names associated with stability and familiarity can positively influence first impressions, particularly in professional contexts. While a name does not determine destiny, it can shape expectations.

Tradition as a Foundation, Not Nostalgia
Importantly, the return to names like Marcel is not driven by nostalgia alone. Parents are not trying to recreate the past. Instead, they are using tradition as a foundation for the future.

In this sense, choosing Marcel is a forward-looking decision. It reflects confidence that a name does not need to be new to be relevant. It needs to be meaningful.

A Sign of Cultural Maturity
By 2026, the popularity of Marcel signals something broader about society. It suggests a collective desire to slow down, to value substance over surface, and to make choices that endure beyond trend cycles.

Naming, after all, is one of the first lasting decisions parents make for their children. In choosing names that have already stood the test of time, families are expressing hope—not just for stability, but for depth, connection, and continuity.

Looking Ahead
While no naming trend lasts forever, experts believe the neo-vintage movement will continue for years. Names like Marcel are not likely to surge explosively and disappear. Instead, they are expected to grow steadily, remaining quietly present rather than dominant.

This slow rise mirrors the values behind the choice itself: patience, thoughtfulness, and confidence without excess.

By 2026, Marcel is more than a name. It is a statement—one that reflects changing priorities, evolving identities, and a renewed respect for the enduring power of tradition.

In a world that constantly pushes forward, Marcel reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful progress comes from looking back—not to stay there, but to build something lasting from what has already proven its worth.