Good Morning and Happy Saturday. It's March 21, 2026.

Just How Smart Are Plants? Smarter Than We Used to Think, Says Regen Pioneer

On the frontier of the regenerative movement: organic and regenerative leader Jordan Lonborg shared insights on an expanding, ecofriendly movement gaining a toehold. (Organic Wines Uncorked)

Congress Was Charged For 1,200 Bottles Of Wine Under This President

James Monroe, the 5th president and one of the founding fathers, loved his French wine. So much so that Congress was charged for 1,200 bottles of wine during his presidency. What were Monroe's favorite wines?

Dinner and No Drinks: Restaurants Are Struggling as Americans Drink Less

Traditionally a reliable revenue stream for restaurants, alcoholic drinks are down markedly — and the bottom line is, too.(New York Times)

The Promise—and Limits—of Biochar in the Vineyard

Biochar is gaining popularity with viticulturists for its ability to sequester carbon and improve soil health, but researchers are still learning when and where it’s most effective. (Seven-Fifty Daily)

How one French winegrower pruned his vines from a kayak to overcome torrential rainfall

“During the night, the idea came to me,” said Lionel Tisseyre, a grape grower and oyster farmer in the Corbières region of southern France.. He realised that the kayak lying in his garage could do the trick, allowing him to finish pruning the 600 vines located in a low-lying parcel of Caladoc steeped in 80 cm of water. (Vitisphere)

‘Happy hour bill of rights’ would exempt senior living communities from liquor license requirements

A Minnesota senior living community was planning an event — complete with a champagne toast — to celebrate the completion of a major renovation project. But after sharing its plans and inviting city leaders, community leaders were met with a notice that a liquor permit would be required. (McKnight's Senior Living)

For a Better You

Strength training is hot right now. Here’s how to do it properly.

Five experts weigh in on exercise form, how much and how often to lift, whom to ask for help and how to do a pull-up correctly. (Washington Post)

As a doctor, I tell patients to get rid of these 5 medications

It’s time to give these medicine cabinet staples a second look. (Washington Post)

2 science-backed ways to improve your breakfast

Eating more calories earlier in the day can be beneficial, but so can adding more fiber and protein. Washington Post)

Cheers,

Joel