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- 1Lyme disease in New Jersey up nearly threefold since 2020●# health # NewJersey # USA # US According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the incidence of Lyme disease increase
New Jersey health officials report that Lyme disease cases increased nearly threefold between 2020 and 2025, a sharp rise in tick-borne illness in the state. In a related development, a New Jersey resident died in 2024 in what is described as the first known fatality linked to the tick-borne meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome. Commenters are highlighting the figures as a public health concern.
- 2Mortgage rates mostly higher than last week▼Mortgage and refinance interest rates today, Sunday, October 4, 2026: Mortgage rates mostly higher than last week
Mortgage and refinance rates reported on Sunday, October 4, 2026 are mostly higher than they were a week earlier, according to the daily rate tracking. Homeowners and prospective buyers are checking where 30-year fixed, refinance and other loan rates now stand as borrowing costs tick up. Higher weekly readings keep pressure on affordability and complicate refinancing decisions.
- 3Paul Rudd calls climate change 'the issue' of our time▼# art # movie Paul Rudd calls climate change 'the issue' of our time At the New York Film Festival premiere of "A Statem
At the New York Film Festival premiere of "A Statement," actor Paul Rudd described climate change as "the issue" of our time and warned that the clock is "ticking quicker." His comments are drawing attention as the film's premiere puts a celebrity spotlight on climate concerns.
- 4Beggar-ticks Taking Over Gardens Across the Region▼From the Middle Desk: Beggar-ticks taking over my garden
A gardening column reports that beggar-ticks, a sticky-seeded weed, are rapidly taking over the writer's garden. The piece describes the plant's tendency to latch onto clothing and fur, spreading quickly through beds and borders, and offers a reflection on dealing with this persistent garden nuisance this season.