Blueberry eating competition sets a world record; $10,000 still up for grabs in nationwide social media contest for everyday blueberry lovers

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. /PRNewswire/ — In one of the most exciting celebrations of National Blueberry Month yet, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is shining a spotlight on how – and how much – people love blueberries. The Great American Blueberry Challenge, which kicked off at the start of the month to inspire blueberry lovers nationwide to share creative ways to grab a boost of blue, culminated in the first-ever blueberry eating championship on Saturday, July 13. USHBC, in partnership with Major League Eating, invited professional competitive eaters from across the country to gather in Grand Rapids, Mich. to eat as much blueberries as possible in the span of eight minutes, setting a world record of 18.475 lbs.

Patrick Bertoletti took the top prize in the competition, earning a cash prize as well as the inaugural title of blueberry eating champion. An impressive total of 82.769 lbs of blueberries were devoured by the competitors during the event, with a final ranking as follows:

• First place: Patrick Bertoletti, 18.475 lbs
• Second place: Geoffrey Esper, 16.044 lbs
• Third place: James Webb, 15.319 lbs
• Fourth place: Nick Wehry, 12.600 lbs
• Fifth place: Gideon Oji, 12.569 lbs

The Great American Blueberry Challenge eating championship took place during the Advil Targeted Relief Major League Pickleball (MLP) Mid-Season Tournament, as part of USHBC’s partnership with MLP. Also featured at the event were special guest officiants Shelly Hartmann, chair of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, blueberry grower and owner of True Blue Farms in Michigan; and professional pickleball player Anna Bright of the MLP St. Louis Shock.

“While we work to generate excitement for blueberries all year long, we think National Blueberry Month makes July the biggest and best month of the year, and we know that many blueberry superfans feel the same way! What better way to capture that enthusiasm than with a thrilling spectacle that turns ‘grab a boost of blue’ into a literal sport – while at the same time engaging pickleball players and fans as the Official Fruit of Major League Pickleball,” said Hartmann. “Whether you enjoy blueberries for an active lifestyle, or simply because they’re delicious, we hope to inspire and grow even more love and passion for blueberries year after year.”

While the sport of professional competitive eating comes with the cautionary advice of “do not try this at home,” blueberry fans still have a chance to win big – a grand prize of $10,000 plus runners-up prizes – by celebrating National Blueberry Month in a different way that can be just as fun and more creative. The Great American Blueberry Challenge social media contest runs through July 31 and is specifically for everyday consumers. USHBC invites people to think of an idea that shows off a creative, unique or even downright wacky way to enjoy blueberries – for example, seeing how high you can blow a blueberry up in the air, or eating blueberries with chopsticks while blindfolded. To enter, participants must share their video on Instagram, tagging @blueberries and including #BlueberryChallengeContest in the post. More  information is available at GreatAmericanBlueberryChallenge.com.

To learn more about blueberries and explore delicious recipes, swaps and other inspiration, visit Blueberry.org.

About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council is an agriculture promotion group, representing blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. The blueberry industry is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at blueberrycouncil.org.

SOURCE U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

Enterobacter bugandensis

In a discovery that sounds straight out of a sci-fi horror film, NASA recently announced the identification of a new multidrug-resistant bacterium aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Dubbed Enterobacter bugandensis, this superbug not only raises eyebrows but also presents significant health risks for astronauts venturing into the great unknown.

The Discovery: An Unsettling Find

The identification of E. bugandensis is a chilling reminder of the unexpected challenges that come with space exploration. This bacterium has mutated in the isolated, unique environment of outer space, rendering it genetically distinct from its Earth-bound relatives. The result? A formidable adversary for human health, capable of resisting common antibiotics that would typically combat its terrestrial counterparts.

Collaborative research conducted by IIT Madras and NASA revealed a wealth of information about this superbug, encompassing its prevalence, distribution, and colonization patterns in the microgravity environment of the ISS. The results are not just startling; they compel us to rethink our approach to microbial management in space.

Sci-Fi or Reality? The Horror Unfolds

Imagine a creature lurking within the confines of the ISS, much like an antagonist from a John Carpenter film or the ominous Hunter Seeker robo-wasp from Dune: Part One. E. bugandensis has thrived in the station’s isolated systems, benefiting from the absence of natural competition. The bacterium’s ability to acquire iron and its interactions with other microorganisms have facilitated its extraordinary resilience.

Scientists have uncovered remarkable genomic adaptations that bolster the superbug’s ability to withstand the extreme conditions of space. These adaptations diverge significantly from those found in the more benign strains of bacteria typically encountered on Earth, emphasizing the unique challenges posed by microgravity.

Intimidating Adaptations for Survival

The incredible adaptability of microorganisms is well-documented; however, E. bugandensis takes this to a new level. While most microbes aboard the ISS exist in a state of relative stability, this superbug has undergone genomic changes that allow it to thrive in a microgravity environment. Such transformations are not merely survival tactics; they underscore the bacterium’s unique evolutionary path, setting it apart from any counterparts on our home planet.

As scientists delve deeper into the genetic nuances of E. bugandensis, they reveal a complex web of interactions with other microbial inhabitants of the ISS. This interplay not only ensures the bug’s survival but also raises alarms about the potential health risks it poses to astronauts, particularly concerning respiratory infections.

Astronaut Immunity: A Critical Concern

One of the most pressing issues surrounding E. bugandensis is the compromised immune systems of astronauts during long-duration missions. The microgravity environment induces various physiological changes that may leave astronauts more vulnerable to infections. With the presence of this resilient superbug aboard the ISS, the danger of illness becomes an even greater concern, especially given the limited access to medical facilities in space.

To mitigate these risks, NASA is prioritizing ongoing studies of E. bugandensis and other microorganisms aboard the ISS. Understanding the behavior and adaptations of these space-dwelling microbes is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of astronauts on future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Earthbound Implications: A Cautionary Tale

While the immediate focus is on the health risks posed to astronauts, the existence of E. bugandensis also raises questions about potential implications for Earth. Could a superbug adapted to the harsh realities of space somehow find its way back to our planet? While this scenario may sound like the plot of a science fiction thriller, it underscores the need for vigilance in monitoring microbial life in extraterrestrial environments.

Dr. Kasthuri Venkateswaran of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, along with a collaborative team from IIT Madras, has been at the forefront of this research. Their work not only highlights the challenges of microbial management in space but also emphasizes the need for robust biosecurity measures to protect both astronauts and life on Earth.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Space Exploration

The discovery of Enterobacter bugandensis serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and unforeseen challenges of space exploration. As we journey further into the cosmos, understanding and managing the microbial life we encounter will be paramount for the health and safety of astronauts. In this new frontier, every unexpected finding—be it a superbug or a new form of life—requires careful consideration and proactive measures to ensure a safe return to Earth.

As we look to the stars, we must also remain grounded in our commitment to understanding the intricate web of life that exists, even in the most unwelcoming environments. The future of space exploration may depend on it.

Learn more about Enterobacter bugandensis in the peer-reviewed article published in Nature. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-23069-z

The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

AMERICAN FORK, Utah /PRNewswire/ — Pickleball Kingdom, the largest indoor pickleball entity in the world, announces its latest expansion into American Fork, Utah. This latest expansion is the second franchise announced in Utah, and underscores Pickleball Kingdom’s commitment to bringing premier indoor pickleball facilities to the Beehive State.

“We’re pleased to bring Pickleball Kingdom to American Fork. The local community is so strong and encouraging there. Their interest and excitement have been a huge motivation for us,” expressed Ace Rodrigues, Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom. “John Peterson and Kaleb Scholes are exceptional leaders who share our vision and passion for growing the sport of pickleball in Utah.”

Kaleb Scholes, co-owner of the new American Fork location, said, “We are eager to contribute to the development of a thriving pickleball community here in Utah.” John Peterson added, “Our goal is to foster a welcoming environment where players can enjoy the game, enhance their skills, and experience a strong sense of community through pickleball.”

Pickleball, an exciting paddle sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a rapid rise in popularity. To meet the growing demand for high-quality indoor facilities, Pickleball Kingdom is committed to providing state-of-the-art courts with cutting-edge technology, enhancing the playing experience for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Opportunities for Franchisees:

As Pickleball Kingdom continues to expand to new locations around the country, the company invites driven individuals to consider joining its franchise team. Prospective franchisees will benefit from a unique opportunity to be part of the rapidly growing sport, with comprehensive support from the Pickleball Kingdom team.

“Utah has wholeheartedly embraced and fallen in love with pickleball and presents an ideal market for indoor facilities,” emphasized Rob Streett, COO of Pickleball Kingdom. “We are actively seeking ambitious partners who recognize the immense potential in the indoor pickleball industry. If you’re interested in seizing this opportunity, we encourage you to reach out.”

For more information about franchise opportunities with Pickleball Kingdom, visit www.pickleballkingdom.com/franchise.

About Pickleball Kingdom:

Pickleball Kingdom is the largest indoor pickleball entity globally, dedicated to providing exceptional facilities and fostering vibrant pickleball communities. With a focus on promoting active lifestyles and building strong connections within communities, Pickleball Kingdom is committed to making pickleball accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

SOURCE Pickleball Kingdom Franchising