Good Morning! 🌞

Do you drink city tap water? I personally have never liked the taste of it, so always avoided it whenever possible. In any case, we have some good news in today’s newsletter regarding some of the potential concerns about it!

Health Sciences

US Removes “Forever Chemicals” from Drinking Water

Despite significant opposition from the chemical industry, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced its initial regulations aimed at limiting the presence of PFAs, known as ‘forever chemicals,’ in American drinking water.

PFAs, also known as Polyfluoroalkyl substances, have been extensively used for their fire, oil, stain, and water-resistant properties in various products such as waterproof clothing, stain-resistant furniture, and non-stick cooking surfaces. Despite their widespread use, PFAs are associated with health risks, prompting the EPA to take action.

The new regulations mandate water utilities to test for six different classes of PFAS compounds, aiming to reduce exposure and lower health risks for an estimated 100 million people in the US. To support this effort, a $1 billion fund for treatment and testing will be allocated to water utilities nationwide, part of a broader $9 billion investment under the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aimed at assisting communities affected by PFAS contamination.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the urgency of addressing PFAS contamination, stating that communities have suffered from contaminated drinking water for too long. Under Regan’s leadership, the EPA has been actively working since 2021 to address PFAS contamination, gathering data and requiring increased reporting from businesses regarding the use of these unregulated substances.

Scientific studies have shown that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to various health issues, though the exact effects can be challenging to specify due to the diversity of compounds and sources. Nonetheless, the EPA is giving water utility operators five years to test for PFAS pollution and implement necessary treatment technologies, with an estimated 6%–10% of facilities needing such upgrades.

World News

Ancient Book Set to Sell for Over $2.6M

An ancient book, the Crosby-Schøyen Codex, written in Coptic on papyrus in Egypt, is set to be auctioned by Christie’s in London on June 11. It's estimated to fetch between $2.6 million and $3.8 million. The codex, consisting of 52 leaves made by a single scribe over 40 years, dates back to the 3rd or 4th century, containing the first epistle of Peter and the Book of Jonah.

Preserved behind plexiglass in wooden boxes, the codex is part of the Bodmer Papyri, discovered in the 1950s. It was acquired by the University of Mississippi in 1981 and later purchased by Norwegian collector Martin Schøyen. Eugene Donadoni from Christie’s notes its significance in textual transmission and the history of the book, likening it to Gutenberg’s printing press.

The codex, a testament to early Christianity, is well-preserved due to Egypt's favorable climate. It's part of The Schøyen Collection, comprising manuscript masterpieces spanning 1,300 years of cultural history.

Entertainment

The Fall Guy: On Theaters May 3

Get ready for some high-octane action and laughs as Ryan Gosling reprises his role in the film adaptation of the 1980s series "The Fall Guy."

Playing Colt Seavers, a stuntman caught in a wild ride when the star of the film, directed by his ex-girlfriend (Emily Blunt), goes missing. With chaos ensuing, Colt sets out to find her, promising an entertaining mix of adrenaline and humor. Catch it in theaters on May 3rd.

Sports

Serena Williams Interested in Owning a WNBA Team

Serena Williams, now focusing on investments post-tennis, holds stakes in Angel City FC and LAGC, among other ventures.

In a recent interview with CNN’s Amanda Davies, the 23-time grand slam champion expressed interest in adding a WNBA team to her investment portfolio, citing the sport's recent surge in popularity.

The upcoming WNBA Draft, where Caitlin Clark is expected as the top pick, reinforces her interest. Before her tennis career ended, Williams’ Serena Ventures had invested in 66 startups, including 16 unicorns, with a focus on supporting women and minority entrepreneurs.

Viewing women’s sports as a secure investment due to its growing appeal, Williams has also invested in ventures under her daughter Olympia’s name, making her a part owner of Angel City FC and LAGC.

Mind Stretchers 

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I know a word of letters three. Add two and fewer there will be.

The answer to yesterday’s Mind Stretcher was:
Wind
Adding the letters "ng".

Jennye Smith got the correct answer first!

Be the first to send us the correct answer for today’s mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected] or reply to this email.

If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured.