Olga R. Rodriguez

Most U.S. food date labels indicate peak quality rather than safety, and their lack of federal standardization contributes to unnecessary food waste. Shelf-stable canned foods, sealed plant-based milks, and dry goods can often remain usable after their dates, while meat, poultry, fish, and infant formula require greater caution. California now requires standardized “Best If Used By” and “Use By” labels, with similar legislation pending in New York. Consumers are advised to inspect food for mold, odors, and unusual colors, follow safe storage practices, and never consume expired infant formula.

A California judge dismissed attempted murder charges against radiologist Dharmesh Patel after he completed a two-year mental health diversion program stemming from a 2023 crash in which he drove his family off a cliff. Prosecutors had opposed diversion, arguing attempted murder should be excluded from eligibility, and some district attorneys plan to push for legislative changes. Patel’s wife supported his treatment rather than prosecution, and the family eventually reunited under court supervision. Patel later surrendered his medical license after being barred from practice during the case.

A $395 million settlement will compensate more than 500 survivors of childhood sexual abuse by officials of the San Francisco Catholic Archdiocese, three years after it declared bankruptcy. Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone will issue personal apology letters and the agreement mandates extensive reforms, including public disclosure of accused clergy and bans on confidentiality clauses. Survivors will oversee the fund’s distribution through a committee ensuring equitable compensation. The settlement follows similar large-scale agreements by other California archdioceses under laws permitting older claims to proceed.

A $395 million settlement resolves more than 500 child sexual abuse lawsuits against the San Francisco Catholic Archdiocese, requiring personal apology letters from Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone and implementation of extensive transparency and child protection reforms. Survivors, including Margie O’Driscoll, described the agreement as a long‑awaited acknowledgment of their experiences. A survivor-led committee will oversee fund distribution, ensuring equitable compensation based on individual circumstances, while the settlement aligns with broader national patterns of clergy abuse accountability.