Condé Nast Traveler highlights 15 top hotels for a Venice getaway
October 2
Condé Nast Traveler offers a curated guide to 15 recommended hotels in Venice, helping travelers navigate the city’s unique blend of cinematic charm and serene atmosphere. The article notes that over 20 million visitors arrive annually to experience the 150 canals and more than 400 bridges that define the City of Water.
The guide identifies specific top picks for different travel styles, including The Venice Venice Hotel for luxury and the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa for families. It also suggests The Gritti Palace for canal views and Casa Burano Alessandro Lana for an affordable stay. The piece emphasizes the city’s tranquil nights, where the sound of water and vaporetti creates a soothing backdrop for a memorable stay.
GardeningKnowHow suggests a quick fall aeration routine
October 2
GardeningKnowHow advises that every lawn benefits from a simple fall treatment using a grass aerator. The guide recommends performing this procedure in October to prepare the ground for the coming season.
This ten-minute task is presented as an easy way to support overall grass health. By aerating the soil now, you help set the stage for lush growth the following year.
How GLP-1 users are adapting their Thanksgiving dinners
October 2
The Globe and Mail reports that Canadians taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are modifying traditional holiday meals to suit their reduced appetites. These drugs, which generated $2.3 billion in Canadian sales in the first half of 2026, curb hunger but can cause digestive issues if users eat too much or consume high-fat foods. As a result, many are swapping rich ingredients for lighter alternatives to avoid discomfort during family gatherings.
One user, Karen Kalinowski, plans to baste her turkey with broth instead of heavy butter and steam her vegetables rather than roasting them. She is also preparing a low-carb stuffing with wild rice and mushrooms alongside her traditional Newfoundland bread version. For dessert, she will make a baked apple topped with sugar-free candy and cinnamon, ensuring she can enjoy the holiday without triggering her strict dietary limits.
Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Canadian Living offers a practical guide for gardeners who want to enjoy the vibrant foliage of coleus plants during the cooler months. The piece explains how to transition these plants from the garden to your home, ensuring they remain healthy and colorful throughout the winter.
The article also covers the basics of overwintering your coleus and provides tips on propagating new plants. This approach allows you to save your favorite varieties and have fresh, easy-to-grow color ready for the next spring.
Gardening Know How identifies seven popular perennials that are commonly found in garden centers but are best avoided for fall planting. The guide explains that these specific plants can cause more trouble than they are worth for gardeners during the cooler months.
The article serves as a practical resource for helping readers make informed choices about their autumn garden projects. By highlighting these common pitfalls, it aims to prevent potential issues and ensure a smoother gardening experience.
The Guardian shares reader-submitted travel ideas for exploring Germany, ranging from cycling in Berlin to visiting North Sea beaches. One standout recommendation is Münster, a city near the Dutch border known for its Italianate porticoes, gothic churches, and the local bakery Zeit für Brot.
Other highlights include the Müngsten Bridge near Düsseldorf, where visitors can climb to the top for valley views, and the North Sea island of Sylt. Sylt is described as a peaceful spot for cycling between dunes and beaches, with bike hire available for a few euros per day. The publication is also offering a £200 holiday voucher to the reader who provides the best tip for a sunny autumn break.
Helen Goh’s flourless walnut, date and espresso cake
October 2
Helen Goh shares a gluten-free recipe that combines the deep caramel richness of dates with the bitter undertone of espresso. Dark chocolate provides a rich base, while fresh walnuts add a creamy, nutty flavor that defines the cake. The result is a dessert with a wonderfully light texture despite its dense ingredients.
The cake takes about 10 minutes to prep and 1 hour 30 minutes to cook, serving 8 to 10 people. Key steps include soaking dates in hot espresso, finely grinding walnuts, and folding whipped egg whites into the batter for lift. Canadian Living suggests serving the slices with crème fraîche and poached pears for a complete dessert presentation.
Celiac readers should check labels for cross-contamination.
A look inside Palace Merano's neuro-wellness retreat in South Tyrol
October 1
Canadian Living explores Palace Merano, a Belle Epoque hotel in the Italian Dolomites built in 1906 for aristocrats. The article details the Revital Method, a detox protocol overseen by Dr. Massimiliano Mayrhofer that aims to boost physical and mental performance while slowing aging. The four-day program starts at $3,900, excluding room costs, and is typically booked by regulars during the winter months.
Guests follow a structured schedule that includes morning acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and massage, alongside optional activities like pilates and yoga. The focus on neuro-wellness includes cognitive testing and body composition scans to help participants understand their brain health. The experience emphasizes practical longevity strategies rather than trendy wellness rituals, offering a luxurious setting for those interested in maintaining cognitive function as they age.
This article explores the biological reasons behind autumn foliage, noting that even scientists do not fully comprehend the phenomenon. It explains that green leaves contain chlorophyll, which does not absorb green light, allowing plants to perform photosynthesis. As days shorten and temperatures cool in the fall, chlorophyll production slows down. The plant then absorbs the remaining chlorophyll, revealing accessory pigments that were previously masked.
These hidden pigments include brown tannins, orange carotenoids, yellow xanthophylls, and red anthocyanins. The piece outlines how deciduous trees prepare for winter dormancy by forming an abscission layer at the stem. This process allows the leaves to drop, completing the seasonal transition. The result is the diverse palette of yellow, scarlet, and orange hues seen in species like maples and oaks.
Newfoundland tourism campaign features Josh Hartnett and local fishermen
October 1
Newfoundland and Labrador has launched a new tourism campaign featuring actor Josh Hartnett, who filmed the Netflix series Below in the province. The promotion includes a billboard in New York City's Times Square that highlights attractive local fishermen, a strategy that has received mixed reactions from actual fishermen in the region.
CBC News reports that the ad asks if visitors' local fishermen look like Hartnett, who plays a fisherman in the show. Real fishermen in the area, including Keith Boland and Uriah Alcock, shared their thoughts on the comparison. While some joked about their own appearance, others noted that beauty is subjective. The tourism department has not yet provided a statement regarding the campaign.
Stephen Gogolev reflects on breakthrough season and Olympic debut
October 1
Figure skater Stephen Gogolev discussed his remarkable 2025-26 season during Skate Canada’s High Performance Camp in late August 2026. After overcoming recurring back injuries that had limited his training for years, Gogolev achieved his first ISU Challenger Series victory, senior Grand Prix medal, and national title. He also made his Olympic debut at Milano Cortina 2026, finishing fifth overall just 1.12 points off the podium after posting the second-best free skate score.
Gogolev followed his Olympic performance with a fourth-place finish at the ISU World Championships, where he set personal bests in both programs. This result secured him a seeded spot for the upcoming Grand Prix season, starting with Skate Canada International in Kelowna. Despite his new status as a headliner, the skater says he feels no added pressure and approaches the new season with renewed confidence.
Canadian skaters head to Georgia and Hungary for October competitions
October 1
Skate Canada reports that its athletes will compete in two ISU Challenger Series events this month to gain international experience and earn World Standing Points. The Trialeti Trophy in Batumi, Georgia, runs from October 1 to 4, featuring women's singles skaters Uliana Shiryaeva and Breken Brezden. Ice dance pairs Alyssa Robinson and Jacob Portz, as well as Nadiia Bashynska and Noé Perron, will also take the ice in Georgia.
The Budapest Trophy in Hungary follows from October 15 to 18, with a larger Canadian delegation. Four-time national champion Madeline Schizas will showcase her new programs, joining 2025 Warsaw Cup champion Sara-Maude Dupuis in the women's event. Men's skaters Wesley Chiu and John Kim, along with ice dance teams Jamie Fournier and Everest Zhu and Chloe Nguyen and Brendan Giang, will also compete in Budapest.
Monty Don’s Garden Team: A Reality Check for Home Gardeners
October 1
Gardener Monty Don recently revealed that he employs two full-time gardeners to maintain his two-acre plot in Herefordshire. The admission came during a discussion at RHS Malvern about his retirement from BBC Gardener’s World and was shared widely on social media. Many fans expressed surprise, while others noted that the help had been known for years.
The article uses this revelation to highlight the gap between professional garden maintenance and the reality of home gardening. It suggests that acknowledging the labor behind large gardens can help readers feel less pressure about their own efforts. This perspective offers a practical reminder that even famous gardens require significant professional support to thrive.
Prevention Lists 45 Foods That Support Longevity and Healthy Aging
October 1
Prevention magazine highlights 45 foods that contribute to a longer, healthier life, emphasizing that variety is key rather than relying on a single miracle item. The list includes staples like Greek yogurt, eggs, salmon, and milk, which provide essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. These ingredients support bone health, gut microbiome balance, and heart function, helping to keep chronic diseases at bay.
The article notes that dietary choices work best when combined with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. By incorporating a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, readers can build a foundation for vibrant, active aging. The piece serves as a practical guide for adding nutrient-dense options to daily meals.
How to Stop Your Christmas Cactus from Dropping Leaves
October 1
Canadian Living explains that while some leaf drop in October is common for Christmas cacti, it often signals distress that needs immediate attention. Ignoring these early signs can result in the loss of the plant's holiday blooms.
The guide encourages readers to address the issue promptly to ensure their plants remain healthy and vibrant for the festive season.
Jess Constable returns to ice skating to represent Great Britain
October 1
Coventry skater Jess Constable stopped competing at age 13 but returned to the sport 13 years later to address depression and anxiety during the pandemic. Her therapist suggested finding a hobby to rebuild confidence, leading her to join the Coventry Adult Synchronised Figure Skating Team. Since her return, she has won 11 medals in 14 UK competitions, including a gold at the British Adult National Championships.
Constable is now set to represent Great Britain at the 2026 Swan Challenge in Lake Bled, Slovenia. She describes skating as a driving force for her mental health and notes that while relearning the sport as an adult required adjustment, it has significantly boosted her confidence. Her next major goal is the Winter World Masters Games in Finland in 2028.
Dancing With the Stars adds Super Bowl theme night to season 35
October 1
Entertainment Weekly reports that Dancing With the Stars has announced a Super Bowl theme night for its upcoming season 35. This event is described as the first of its kind in the show's history, marking a new direction for the competition's special episodes.
Cosmopolitan confirms that the season 35 lineup also includes a Mariah Carey night. These themed events are designed to highlight specific musical genres and cultural moments through dance performances.
Taylor Hanson eliminated from Dancing with the Stars Yacht Rock Night
September 30
Week 3 of Dancing with the Stars featured a Yacht Rock Night theme, with thirteen couples performing to smooth rock hits. Singer Taylor Hanson and partner Britt Stewart were eliminated from the competition despite receiving a score of 18 out of 30. Judge Derek Hough noted that the performance was Hanson and Stewart's best dance of the season, praising their smoothness and frame.
Figure skater Amber Glenn and partner Pasha Pashkov opened the night with a foxtrot to 'Hold the Line,' earning a score of 24 out of 30. Actor Harry Shum Jr. and partner Jenna Johnson matched that score with a jive to 'You Make My Dreams Come True.' Model Maura Higgins and partner Mark Ballas scored 22 out of 30 with their quickstep to 'Turn Your Love Around.'
A 94-year-old water aerobics instructor keeps teaching in Arlington
September 30
NBC DFW profiles a 94-year-old water aerobics instructor in Arlington who is still actively leading classes. The feature highlights the individual's continued involvement in fitness and their remarkable longevity in the profession.
The story serves as a positive-aging feature, showcasing how regular physical activity can support an active lifestyle well into the ninth decade of life. It offers a glimpse into the daily routine of someone who has maintained their passion for teaching and movement for decades.
Condé Nast Traveler editors have introduced a set of travel love languages to help readers identify their travel personality and choose compatible companions. The feature explains that understanding these character types can mitigate stress caused by flight delays and differing styles. For example, a hyper-organized traveler might clash with a spontaneous partner, while an early bird pairs well with a culture vulture for morning gallery visits.
The article profiles specific types, such as The Planner, who acts as the operations manager by curating itineraries and booking tickets. It advises travelers to match their preferences with partners who share similar approaches to minimize conflict. By recognizing whether you are a Type A organizer or a go-with-the-flow explorer, you can better prepare for your next trip and decide who to fly with.
How Bali Became the World's Premier Wellness Destination
September 30
Conde Nast Traveler explores how Bali has evolved from a niche spot featured in Elizabeth Gilbert's 2006 memoir into the definitive global hub for wellbeing. The author traces this transformation through personal visits, noting the shift from traditional Balinese healing and basic yoga to a sophisticated industry that now includes Ayurvedic retreats, high-end spa rituals, and modern fitness options like reformer Pilates.
The piece highlights the island's appeal to travelers seeking everything from stress relief to spiritual healing, with a particular focus on the luxury sector. It features a curated list of top wellness destinations, including the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, where spa treatments are described as an art form drawing on local folklore and ritual.
Circle Line is launching a full-day excursion for Fall 2026 that departs from Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan. The eight-hour itinerary travels up the Hudson River to Bear Mountain State Park, offering passengers a mix of hiking, leaf-peeping, and live music. The boat drops guests off at the park for several hours of exploration before returning them to the city.
The experience includes Oktoberfest-inspired refreshments and a tour guide who shares local history during the ride. While the article describes a September preview, the event is specifically marketed for the peak fall foliage season. Premier tickets offer additional perks like a private bar and a German-style food platter.
Condé Nast Traveler highlights 25 lesser-known national parks as alternatives to high-traffic sites like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. The guide notes that the US system comprises 63 parks across 31 states and two territories, which collectively attracted over 93 million visitors in 2025.
The article features options such as Grand Teton and Lassen Volcanic, offering diverse experiences from geothermal features to dramatic mountain skylines. Grand Teton, located just south of Yellowstone, provides over 250 miles of hiking trails and world-class trout fishing. It is also certified as an International Dark Sky Community, making it ideal for stargazers and those seeking solitude.
This Italian-inspired dish combines creamy quick-cooking polenta with sautéed broccoli rabe, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The greens are first blanched to reduce bitterness, then cooked until tender with lightly browned edges. The dish is finished with melted mozzarella, salty pecorino Romano, and freshly ground black pepper.
The entire meal comes together in about 25 minutes, making it a practical option for a quick dinner. The recipe highlights how whole grains, vegetables, and modest amounts of cheese fit naturally into a Mediterranean-style approach to eating.
Lindsey Benoit O’Connell, a certified meditation teacher and founder of The LAB Wellness, shares seven specific stretches designed to help manage common menopause symptoms. These movements target issues such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, stress, fatigue, and joint stiffness that often accompany hormonal changes.
The guide emphasizes meeting your body where it is, using gentle movement to address specific areas of tension like stiff hips or tight shoulders. While stretching is not a replacement for medical advice, it offers a free and accessible way to support healthy aging and find daily relief.
Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Three Ways to Repurpose Plastic Bins for Your Garden
September 30
This practical guide offers three creative methods for turning old plastic storage bins into useful gardening tools. By repurposing these common household items, you can avoid buying expensive specialized gadgets while still supporting healthy plant growth.
The article focuses on affordability and practicality, showing how simple totes can serve as effective alternatives to commercial equipment. It is a straightforward resource for gardeners looking to cut costs and make the most of what they already have at home.
Tai Chi and Mindfulness May Ease Post-Cancer Symptoms
September 30
The ASCO Post reports on a study suggesting that mindfulness and Tai Chi practices can help improve symptoms experienced by patients after cancer treatment. These gentle activities are highlighted as potential tools for managing the physical and emotional challenges that often follow therapy.
The findings indicate that incorporating these practices into a recovery routine may offer meaningful benefits for well-being. Readers interested in complementary health approaches may find this information useful for supporting their post-treatment care.
Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Podcast explores the link between sexual frequency and happiness
September 30
The Globe and Mail’s Happy Enough podcast features an interview between host Garvia Bailey and Amy Muise, a psychology professor at York University. Muise, who directs the Sexual Health and Relationships Lab, discusses why the relationship between sex and well-being is complex rather than a simple equation of more sex leading to better health.
The conversation also addresses why Gen Z reports lower sexual frequency than older generations. Muise challenges the common myth that good sex must be spontaneous, offering a nuanced perspective on how frequency and spontaneity actually impact happiness.
16 Mediterranean Breakfasts for Easy Weekday Meal Prepping
September 30
EatingWell shares a collection of 16 breakfast recipes designed to fit the Mediterranean diet. The guide focuses on options that are practical for meal prepping, helping readers save time during the week.
These dishes emphasize the fresh, wholesome ingredients typical of Mediterranean eating. The list offers a variety of choices to keep your morning routine simple and nutritious.
Canadian Living's Weekly Meal Plan for October 4-10
September 30
Canadian Living suggests a seven-day menu designed to simplify dinner planning for the week of October 4-10. The lineup features a mix of comforting classics and lighter options, starting with Apple Butter Chicken simmered in a tangy-sweet sauce on Sunday. Monday offers a hearty bowl of lentils, couscous, mushrooms, and Swiss chard, while Tuesday features a pot pie that repurposes holiday leftovers into a single bite.
The week continues with an Instant Pot turkey and wild rice soup on Wednesday, followed by a quick roasted chicken and broccoli salad on Thursday. Friday brings a sweet touch with Pomegranate Honey Chicken, and the week concludes on Saturday with chocolate-peanut protein squares. Each entry includes a direct link to the full recipe, making it easy to shop and cook.
Zach Littlejohn’s tips for a relaxed Thanksgiving dinner
September 30
Chef and farmer Zach Littlejohn shares his approach to hosting a Thanksgiving feast for 15 to 25 people at his Prince Edward County farm. He emphasizes a seasonal spread featuring roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and mashed potatoes, alongside autumn-inspired salads with beets, dried fruits, and high-fat yogurt.
To keep the day enjoyable, Littlejohn recommends doing heavy prep work one or two days in advance, such as deboning and brining the turkey. He suggests buying store-bought cranberry sauce to save time while cooking vegetables from scratch to control seasoning and texture. This method allows hosts to spend more time with guests rather than stuck in the kitchen.
A personal essay in Willamette Week challenges the common perception that water aerobics is exclusively for older adults. The author shares their own experience with the activity, highlighting its appeal despite the lingering stigma.
The piece argues that the exercise offers a welcoming and effective way to stay active. By reframing the activity, the author encourages readers to look past age-based stereotypes and consider the benefits of moving in the water.
Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
23 Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes for Every Gathering Size
September 29
Bon Appétit shares a curated collection of 23 turkey recipes tailored to different oven sizes, group sizes, and cooking preferences. The lineup includes options for whole roasted birds, grilled or smoked preparations, spatchcocked cuts, and turkey breasts for smaller groups.
The featured recommendation is a whole turkey that is dry-brined for juiciness and finished with a tangy honey glaze for crispy skin. Other highlights include a soy-sauce lacquered roast for a glossy finish and a classic wet-brined bird from Alton Brown. The article also provides practical guidance on thawing, cooking times, and carving techniques.
Gluten-Free Corn Casserole with a Golden Brown Top
September 29
This creamy and buttery casserole is made from scratch using a DIY corn muffin mixture and two cans of regular corn, eliminating the need to hunt for gluten-free creamed corn. Pulsing half the corn creates a smooth base while whole kernels provide texture, and the muffin mix gives the dish enough structure to hold its shape. The recipe suggests adding pancetta, jalapeño, and sharp cheddar to balance the natural sweetness of the corn, though these ingredients are optional. Baking gently helps the center set without puffing too high, and a brief rest after baking ensures neat squares with a soft interior.
The dry mix includes gluten-free cornmeal, a flour blend, sugar, baking powder, salt, and solid fat like virgin coconut oil or shortening. The author recommends specific gluten-free flours and cornmeal brands to ensure safety from cross-contamination. This approach makes the dish feel simple while delivering a rich, savory-sweet flavor profile that works well as a side dish.
Celiac readers should check labels for cross-contamination.
A dietitian explains that the Mediterranean diet is a strong choice for longevity, citing research that links it to a lower risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes. The eating style focuses on whole foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like fish and poultry, and healthy fats from olive oil, avocados, and nuts.
One large analysis of over 10,000 people found a statistically significant reduction in heart attacks and strokes among those following this diet. Experts suggest that the high intake of antioxidants and fiber from these whole foods contributes to better heart health and weight maintenance. A 2025 study also noted that combining this diet with regular exercise can help prevent type 2 diabetes in adults with metabolic syndrome.
Doctors share 14 lifestyle habits to support long-term brain health
September 29
Neurologist Nilüfer Ertekin-Taner and geriatrician Scott Kaiser explain that while age and genetics play a role in dementia, lifestyle choices significantly impact brain health. They note that addressing 14 modifiable risk factors identified by The Lancet can reduce dementia risk by 45 percent. Recent updates to this list include high LDL cholesterol and vision loss as key areas to monitor.
The experts suggest combining related habits, such as regular exercise and social activity, for better results. Maintaining heart health is crucial, as conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes increase dementia risk. They recommend following a heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean or MIND diet, which emphasizes green leafy vegetables, berries, and nuts rich in protective phytonutrients.
Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine or making significant dietary changes.
Hearty Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
September 29
Ambitious Kitchen shares a high-protein recipe for Italian wedding soup that combines homemade chicken meatballs with pearl couscous and a variety of vegetables. The dish features ground chicken, Parmigiano Reggiano, and panko bread crumbs for the meatballs, seasoned with fresh parsley, basil, and Italian spices. It is simmered in low-sodium chicken broth with yellow onion, carrots, garlic, and spinach or kale to create a nutrient-dense meal.
The total preparation time is one hour, making it a practical option for weekday lunches or dinners. The name 'wedding soup' derives from the Italian phrase 'minestra maritata,' referring to the marriage of flavors between the ingredients. This hearty soup is designed to be comforting and easy to meal prep for the family during cooler months.
Ludi Stsepaniuk named head coach of Artistic Swimming Australia
September 28
Artistic Swimming Australia has appointed French international Ludi Stsepaniuk as its new head coach. The organization selected Stsepaniuk to lead the team toward a significant competitive goal.
The primary objective of this appointment is to help the Australian squad secure its first Olympic medal on home soil. This move signals a strategic focus on elevating the team's performance for the upcoming Games.
Yumna J. shares a collection of 30 recipes that highlight the versatility of tahini in both savory and sweet dishes. The list moves beyond traditional hummus to include dressings, dips, sauces, cookies, and brownies, showcasing the ingredient's nutty flavor profile.
The recipes cover a range of meals, from roasted garlic and beet hummus to chicken shawarma salad and oven-roasted cauliflower. This variety offers practical ideas for incorporating tahini into everyday cooking, whether you are looking for a quick snack or a full dinner.
Aerobic exercise may boost brain health in postmenopausal women
September 28
New research suggests that aerobic exercise can improve brain health for women who have gone through menopause. The study highlights the potential cognitive benefits of regular physical activity during this stage of life.
These findings were reported by Yahoo Health, offering a positive perspective on staying active. The results align with broader health advice encouraging movement for overall well-being.
Check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
A gardener at the Alice Austen House museum in Staten Island discusses the role of white snakeroot in the garden beds. The piece explores whether this plant should be viewed as a pesky weed or a welcome addition to the autumn landscape.
The article highlights that the plant is low-maintenance and coexists peacefully with the resident snakes in the garden. It offers a perspective on integrating native plants that support local wildlife while adding seasonal interest.
Three ways to keep your garden colorful in early fall
September 27
Gardener Susan Harris shares three practical methods for extending color in the garden before the trees change. She suggests buying late-blooming perennials like 'Blue Fortune' Anise hyssop from local nurseries, which can attract bees even in September. Harris also describes a bold experiment in spray-painting spent oakleaf hydrangea blooms with turquoise and grape-colored paint to replace fading natural hues.
The third tip involves planting the 'Canyon Creek' Abelia shrub, a hybrid known for its vibrant foliage that shifts from coppery red to golden yellow. Harris notes that while some purists may debate the use of hybrids, this plant offers year-round interest and is easy to grow. These simple tricks help maintain visual appeal in the garden during the transition to autumn.
Gluten-free Chocolate Stout Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
September 27
Bex from Gluten Free Cup of Tea shares a recipe for a moist, fudgy chocolate cake inspired by a recent episode of The Great British Bake Off. The batter uses Campervan Brewery Extra Black Nitro Porter, a gluten-free stout with roasted coffee and chocolate notes, to add depth and a complex, almost nutty flavor to the sponge.
The cake is topped with a thick layer of sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting that balances the rich chocolate base. This combination creates a dense, indulgent treat that mimics the look and taste of a traditional stout cake without using wheat-based ingredients.
Celiac readers should check labels for cross-contamination.
30 Quick Salmon Recipes for Weeknights and Entertaining
September 26
Yumna Jawad shares a collection of 30 salmon recipes on Feel Good Foodie, covering a variety of cooking methods including baking, air frying, grilling, and pan-searing. The list includes options like salmon bowls, patties, and lettuce wraps, with most dishes designed to be ready in approximately 30 minutes.
The recipes are organized by technique, allowing readers to choose based on their available time and equipment. Whether you need a fast air-fried fillet or a more impressive grilled dish for guests, this roundup offers practical solutions for busy weeknights and casual entertaining.
Turkish Sheet Pan Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Seasonal Veggies
September 26
This recipe for Sebzeli, Tavuklu Türlü features boneless chicken breast, creamy cannellini beans, and a variety of seasonal vegetables in a single pan. The author, who shares the dish from her cookbook Istanbul, Delicious Recipes from the Heart of the City, explains that it can be cooked on the stovetop or baked to caramelize the ingredients. The marinade combines plain Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, tomato paste, and Turkish red pepper paste to tenderize the meat and build flavor. Summer versions use zucchini, peppers, and eggplant, while winter options include squash, beets, carrots, leeks, and Swiss chard. Chopped canned tomatoes add moisture and acidity, binding the dish together in a savory sauce.
Fall kitchen inspiration and a cookbook for gardeners
September 26
Gardenista previews the first official weekend of fall by showcasing iconic kitchens and earthy color palettes. The feature highlights design collaborations between Niwaki and YMC, as well as Jenni Kayne and Business & Pleasure.
The article also recommends 'The Golden Door Kitchen' as essential reading for gardeners. This cookbook offers guidance for managing the abundance of produce that arrives in the autumn season.
USA Artistic Swimming Team performs Moana's 'We Know the Way'
September 25
Disney Music Group has released a new performance video featuring the Olympic medal-winning USA Artistic Swimming Team. Filmed at UCLA, the clip showcases the team dancing through the water to a new recording of 'We Know the Way.' The track is performed by Dinah Jane and Stan Walker and comes from the companion album Moana: Voices Across the Ocean.
The album, released in July 2026, was produced by Dwayne Johnson, Tiana Liufau, and Parris Goebel Fa'amaligi. It features 15 original songs by artists from across the Pacific Islands, including Hawaiʻi, Samoa, and New Zealand. This collaboration highlights the crossover between the film's music and the art of synchronized swimming.
Gardeners Path explains that Brussels sprouts are a cool-weather crop that thrives in temperatures between 45 and 75°F, with a long growing season of 80 to 130 days. The article notes that cold temperatures help convert starches into sugars, which improves flavor and allows the plants to survive short periods down to 20°F.
The guide suggests selecting microclimates in your yard, such as spots near brick or cement walls that absorb heat, while avoiding low-lying areas, water sources, and windy hilltops. It covers strategies for planting and protecting crops in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, ensuring a fresh harvest even when the summer garden has ended.
Victoria survivor leads Zumba class for breast cancer research
September 25
Jaigris Hodson, a Victoria resident who overcame stage 3 inflammatory breast cancer, will serve as a Zumba instructor at the second annual Party in Pink Zumbathon. The event, hosted by Dance Fitness with Lizy on October 3, 2026, brings together instructors from across Vancouver Island to raise funds for breast cancer research. Hodson credits regular movement with helping her through chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, noting that her doctor encouraged exercise to support her treatment.
After rebuilding her fitness through Zumba classes, Hodson was invited to join the instructor team and is now being mentored by founder Lizy Gipson. The fundraiser aims to double the $1,511 raised at last year’s inaugural event by moving to a larger venue. The afternoon will feature multiple Zumba sessions and a silent auction, offering a community-focused way to support cancer research.