As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
There is a mix of perennials and shrubs that should not be pruned before winter. Keep in mind that any pruning on a plant encourages growth. Pruning stimulates a growth hormone called an auxin. If you prune the top of a rose cane, it will stimulate growth below the pruned section. Pruning in late fall or winter is risky. The environmental temperatures will not support growth.
When Tropical Storm Helene slammed into western North Carolina, AARP volunteer leaders and staff all across the state were anxious to help. Many ideas were proposed, but it was a single photograph in the Citizen Times of the devastation of a veterans housing site in Swannanoa, one of the hardest hit towns, that spoke most powerfully of the tremendous need in the Mountain Region.
Governor Maura Healey (D-Massachusetts) signed legislation to allow registered nurses to practice across state lines. This is legislation AARP has fought for.