Royal St. John's Regatta bringing in new category that will be ‘blind to gender'
Historically, teams competing in the annual race at Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John's are classified as either male or female. The 207th Royal St. John's Regatta is introducing a new category for all rowers, regardless of gender. Organizers and activists weigh in on why the move is needed now.
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Fast Company
19 minutes ago
- Fast Company
A vision for America's agricultural future
As I reflect on my personal health journey, it's hard not to draw a straight line from the food I ate growing up to where I am today. Food has always been central to my wellbeing. But it wasn't until I became an adult, and sick with a disease that went undiagnosed for many months, that I fully grasped the power of food to either nourish or harm. During that extremely difficult period in my life, trapped in a cycle of inconclusive tests and debilitating symptoms, I came to understand food as medicine and realized that the way our food is grown impacts not just our bodies, but also the ecosystems that sustain us. As the CEO of Rodale Institute, I believe now more than ever that soil health is human health. The land is a living, breathing organism that must be fed and cared for, just like us. When we feed the land, it feeds us. Although Rodale Institute is 78 years old and the birthplace of the modern organic movement, we maintain a start-up mentality: ambitious, forward-thinking, and focused on accelerating regenerative organic agriculture across the country. We've set a bold goal to transition one million acres of farmland to regenerative organic by 2035. Why? Because how we grow food is deeply connected to rising rates of chronic illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It's time to make a change. Damage the soil, damage ourselves The current state of industrial agriculture in America is alarming. This system prioritizes high yields, chemical inputs, and monocropping at the expense of human and environmental health. Modern farming depends on synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, many of which have been linked to serious health concerns. Studies show people exposed to these chemicals, whether through agricultural work or food consumption, face higher risks of cancer, neurological disorders, and other illnesses. This is not a theoretical concern, it's a public health crisis. Exposure to synthetic pesticides has been linked to increased rates of leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and prostate cancer. These chemicals may boost short-term yields, but they degrade our soil, kill beneficial microorganisms, and upset the natural balance of ecosystems. When we damage the soil, we damage our food and ourselves. Many of these chemicals also seep into waterways, polluting communities far beyond the farm. A better way forward But there is a better way forward: regenerative organic agriculture. This holistic approach prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem restoration. Unlike conventional farming, regenerative organic methods avoid synthetic chemicals and instead build the natural fertility and resilience of the land. It starts with soil, rebuilding soil health through techniques like crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting. These methods increase organic matter in the soil, which helps it store carbon, retain water, and support microbial life. Healthy soil produces nutrient-dense crops, which nourish the animals and people who consume them. The benefits go beyond soil. Regenerative organic farms foster biodiversity, protect pollinators, and restore natural habitats. This isn't just about growing food, it's about restoring balance to our environment and improving public health. There's a direct link between food and health. When we eat food grown with synthetic chemicals, we ingest substances that can contribute to chronic disease. But when we eat food grown in healthy, organic soil, we're fueling our bodies with the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants they need to thrive. In this way, food becomes medicine. I've seen this firsthand. Since changing my diet to organic foods, my energy, health, and well-being have dramatically improved. That mysterious illness? It was resolved with dietary and lifestyle changes. I farmed my body back to health. And I'm not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic diseases that may be linked to our food system. The evidence is clear. Our farming practices must change if we want to improve soil health and human health. Yet there's a major hurdle: Less than 1 % of U.S. farmland is USDA-certified organic, even though consumer demand for organic food is growing rapidly. Transitioning to regenerative organic farming requires commitment, training, and investment, but it's an effort we can't afford to delay. The benefits are clear, regenerative organic farming restores our soil, improves health outcomes, and protects our environment for future generations. But we need more than a few dedicated farmers to make this vision a reality. We need widespread adoption, public investment, and strong policy support. Farmers, policymakers, and consumers must come together to build a food system that prioritizes health, sustainability, and resilience. The current food system is broken, but we can fix it. By supporting regenerative organic agriculture, we ensure that our food nourishes our bodies and sustains the land. At Rodale Institute, the farm continues to teach us about reciprocity, nourishment, and connection. We are all stewards of the land and the food that we eat from it. It's time for America to make the transition to a healthier, more regenerative food system—for our health and our future.
CNA
19 minutes ago
- CNA
Workwear 101: How to style 5 office pants that are versatile enough for evening socials
While they are now a staple in our wardrobes, pants weren't always accepted as everyday clothing for women – at least in Western cultures, and not until the mid-20th century. From being a political statement and symbol of female empowerment back in those days, they have also become a style statement in modern times. Where the history of women's pants is concerned, it's a must to mention Gabrielle Chanel, who was perhaps the biggest pants-loving fashion icon of all time. Not only did she enjoy wearing them herself, she introduced them into her collections and popularised them as stylish apparel for women. Certainly, we wear pants for the ease of movement and comfort that they provide, but it's not just for practicality that we choose them over dresses or skirts from time to time. They allow us to express our personal style – pants can be elegant, androgynous or feminine, casual and formal, making them appropriate for every occasion, which includes work in a corporate setting. Personal stylist Sera Murphy, who also goes by The Reoutfitter, also pointed out how pants rate high on versatility. 'They open up opportunities for 'separates dressing', allowing you to mix and match tops and bottoms in a way that feels personal and expressive. Don't limit yourself to just one go-to shape – having a rotation of different pant styles makes it easier to switch up tops and avoid falling into a styling rut,' she said. She gives us tips on to make different types of pants work for your figure and dressing for the office. A quick change of accessories or shoes and your work pants can magically turn into your go-to for after-hours. 1. STRAIGHT-CUT PANTS These pants are cut straight from the hips to the hems, which means they'll skim the figure instead of clinging to it – which means they'll suit a wide range of body shapes. 'They also pair easily with most tops and shoes, which is why I often recommend this cut as a foundational wardrobe piece,' said Murphy. 'If you're petite, opt for a pair that hits just above the ankle to avoid overwhelming the frame. This also keeps fabric from bunching up where the hems hit the shoe. Taller individuals, however, might prefer a full-length version that grazes the top of the foot.' When it comes to fabric, a structured cotton or denim will be great for hybrid workwear, while a sleek wool or suiting fabric looks more formal and office-ready. Straight-cut pants pair easily with much of your wardrobe, since they'll go great with any top, both tucked out or in. 'Try voluminous or flowy blouses, tops with sleeve detailing or a fun neckline to add interest to the overall look. You can dress these pants down with a T-shirt and loafers, or dress them up with a silk blouse and sharp-looking heels,' she added. 2. WIDE-LEG PANTS These pants come in a variety of hem widths – from gently flared to dramatically wide. 'Not all wide-leg pants are the same, but there's a version out there for everyone. This silhouette is also universally flattering – it draws attention to the waist and creates the illusion of a longer leg,' said Murphy. 'Fit at the waist is critical here – it keeps the overall look balanced. A higher rise works well for those with longer torsos or shorter legs. If you have a shorter torso, a mid or lower-rise may feel more comfortable and visually balanced,' she added. The fabric counts, too – for example, wide-leg trousers in drapey textiles will look more elegant and fluid, perfect for wearing with heels for added polish. 'Structured versions, like denim or sailor-style trousers, lend a strong, trendy feel. These can work beautifully with flats or (office-appropriate) sneakers.' Tops should always be tucked into wide-leg pants to keep the waist looking defined – this will help you avoid that "swallowed by fabric" look. A belt can also be a great tool for creating an hourglass silhouette. 3. TAPERED PANTS With a roomier fit at the hips and thighs that narrows toward the ankles, tapered pants will subtly define your shape. These are pants that provide a comfortable fit at the thigh area, and yet create a clean and sharp silhouette. 'They work particularly well if you're curvier on top and have an 'inverted triangle' figure, since the volume at the top of the pants will balance out the hip area in relation to your overall figure, while the tapered bottom won't add bulk. A mid- to high-rise waistband works best here to elongate the leg and define the waist,' she said. She noted that tapered trousers often come with pleats, darts or elasticised waists. Such features can add volume so it's important to ensure the pants are of the right fit and fabric. Try materials like wool or cotton twill for better structure. Ideally, the hemline should hit just above the ankle – a length that works best with flat shoes or low heels. 4. CIGARETTE PANTS This silhouette is sharp, sophisticated and has a slim profile. While they'll fit closer on the hips and thighs, cigarette pants are cut straight from the knees to the hems. 'Think of them as the grown-up evolution of skinny pants, without the skin-tight fit. Cigarette pants work beautifully for formal or traditional office settings, but they're also a go-to for anyone who loves a clean, minimal aesthetic. Their cropped length makes them ideal for showcasing footwear, especially a pointed-toe flat, kitten heel or classic pump,' said Murphy. They will suit those with straighter legs or more balanced proportions best, but can also work on other body types – in the right fit and with appropriate styling or minor alterations to the waistband or pants length, if necessary. Fabric choice matters, since these pants fit snugly. 'Traditional suiting fabric works best. I tend to steer clients away from overly thin or clingy fabrics in this silhouette, as they can look casual – like leggings or skinny jeans, which can be unflattering on some,' she added. They'll look equally chic whether worn with a crisp button-down or fitted knit top. 5. PLEATED PANTS 'These pants can be wide, straight or tapered, so it's less about what's happening on their lower half but rather the placement, design and number of the pleats just below the waist,' said Murphy. Pleats create extra room through the hip and thigh, hiding a belly and providing wearing comfort. 'These pants work great for those with a curvy figure or a longer torso, since they'll offer a more natural fit than that of flat-front trousers.' However, they can also add volume around the hips. To avoid this, wear them with fitted or tucked-in tops, which help define the waist and keep the proportions clean. Fabric also plays a big role in how pleats behave. Lightweight wool, polyester, crepe and cotton twill allow the pleats to fall softly without adding bulk, while stiffer fabrics can make the shape feel more dramatic. 'Be mindful of where the pleat opens – too low and it can disrupt proportions; too high and it might add unwanted volume. The same can be said about the number of pleats on each side,' advised Murphy. With so many variations of pleated-front pants out there, it will take trying on and experimenting with different versions to find the best one for you.
CNA
19 minutes ago
- CNA
Boss Lage urges belief in Benfica as they stun Bayern to top Club World Cup group
Benfica manager Bruno Lage urged fans to have more faith in his team after they pulled off a surprise 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich on Tuesday to secure top spot in Group C at the Club World Cup. Andreas Schjelderup's 13th-minute goal sealed the win to put Benfica top of the group with seven points, one ahead of the Bundesliga champions. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT After a 2–2 draw in their opener against Boca Juniors and a shaky first half in a 6–0 win over Auckland City, Benfica earned their first win in 14 official matches against Bayern Munich. With their first-place finish at the revamped FIFA tournament, the Portuguese league runners-up are set to face either Chelsea or Esperance de Tunis in the round of 16. KEY QUOTES Lage: "We went into this game with a lot of confidence. The first half was very good, we created the best chances to score. We wanted to be aggressive and we finished first in the group and the feeling is good. "We finished first and it means a lot for us. People need to believe more in the work we are doing. They were speaking about Boca needing to win by a lot of goals (to advance) and they forgot about this game. No one believed we were going to win against Bayern. "We have a very good group, we are evaluated every three days by the result, but when we win we are not the best and when we do not win we are not the worst. "Now we have to stay humble, recover, rest as much as possible, understand who our opponents will be and go into the game with the same ambitions."
