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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
The Dutch police have embarked on an urgent search for a suspected terrorist following a bombing at the premises of a Christian pro-Israel organization last Friday night.
An explosion struck the Israel Center, located in Nijkerk, a municipality in central Netherlands, causing minimal damage but, luckily, leaving no one harmed.
As reported by the Dutch public broadcaster, authorities are actively seeking a suspect described as wearing black attire, who was allegedly spotted placing an explosive device at the building’s entrance.
The Israel Center, managed by a Christian group dedicated to fostering stronger connections with Israel, regularly organizes lectures on the Jewish nation and sells Israeli-made products.
This location has previously experienced anti-Israel incidents, including graffiti vandalism and nearby protests. However, director Frank Van Oordt noted that this bombing marks a significant and concerning escalation in such activities.
“People who come to express their dissatisfaction fall under the right to demonstrate. That’s fine,” he said. “This is an attack. We have never experienced anything like this.”
Responding to the attack, Nijkerk Mayor Tinet de Jonge-Ruitenbeek said: “Our care and compassion goes out to the people of Christians for Israel and local residents. It is terrible that they have to experience this. I have been to the Israel Center and talked to the people there and am impressed by their resilience.”
Israeli Ambassador to the Netherlands, Zvi Vapni, added: “First, Jews were intimidated and attacked in the Netherlands. Now Christians who support Israel are being targeted too.
“This explosion at the Christenen voor Israel Center in Nijkerk is not an isolated incident: these criminals must be captured and punished. This is the only way to deal with fanatics who wants to spread fear and hate.”
Indeed, the attack follows multiple other attacks against Jewish institutions across the Netherlands in recent weeks, including a fire at a synagogue in Rotterdam and another explosion at a Jewish school in Amsterdam, in suspected acts of revenge over the conflict in Iran.
Follow Kurt Zindulka on X:Follow @KurtZindulkaor e-mail to: kzindulka@breitbart.com
A New Zealand-born Corgi has emerged victorious in the fifth edition of a unique race that was initially created to commemorate the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. This charming event pays tribute to one of Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite dog breeds, the Corgi, and has been delighting spectators since 2022.
Held in Musselburgh, Scotland, the 70-metre dash brings together Corgis from various backgrounds to compete for glory. This year’s winner, Islay, proudly owned by Carolyne Ricardo, triumphed over 14 other contenders to claim the prestigious ‘Corgi Derby’ trophy.
With more than 50 eager Corgis registered to participate, organizers conducted a ballot to select the final lineup. Among the chosen competitors were past champions Georgie Rumbles and Rodney, who captured the titles in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The event continues to capture the hearts of dog lovers and royal enthusiasts alike, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Queen and her beloved breed.
This year Islay – owned by Carolyne Ricardo – took home the fifth ‘Corgi Derby’ trophy after beating off the competition of 14 others.
More than 50 dogs had entered so a ballot was held to decide the participants, which included former champions Georgie Rumbles and Rodney, winners in 2022 and 2023 respectively.
Ever-present contenders Toffee and Pippin maintained their record of having competed in every race so far.
Islay also beat last year’s winner Juno, whose training included chasing seagulls near Portobello Beach, according to the race organisers.
Other Flat racing on the day included the Scottish Spring Cup, the Queen’s Cup and the introduction of the new Goliath Cup, formerly the Further Flight Stakes at Nottingham.
Aisling Johnson, head of marketing at Musselburgh Racecourse, said the Corgi Derby had become ‘something of a runaway hit’ which began as ‘a bit of fun’ but had ‘grown into a real highlight’ of the weekend.
On your barks!
Corgis raced in the fifth Derby held at Musselburgh Racecourse, originally to mark the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022
The corgis posed with their owners before the race began, each wearing a covering marked with a number
Some 15 corgis took part but around 50 applied, so a ballot was held to decide the final lineup
The dogs paraded with their owners in the paddock before the race began
Islay, originally from New Zealand, paraded with owner Carolyne Ricardo, who sported a ‘Run fast, Nap hard’ t-shirt
The race was hard-fought, with the corgis battling to reach the finish line
The field of 15 dogs were watched closly by their owners from the start line
Islay crossed the finish line before the rest to pick up her first Corgi Derby title
Posing with her trophy, Islay was celebrated at Musselburgh Racecourse
Islay’s owner joined her as they picked up the trophy and a hamper of prizes
The victorious corgi looked triumphant as she attended the prize-giving
The Derby’s programme detailed the dogs in the field for spectators
Islay was paraded for the media after her win, even getting the chance to speak into an Edinburgh Reporter microphone
The victorious corgi licked her lips as she savoured the attention in East Lothian
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Los Angeles has taken into custody the niece and grand-niece of a well-known late Iranian general, revoking their green cards in the process.
Hamideh Soleimani Afshar and her daughter, whose name has not been disclosed, were apprehended by ICE officials on Friday while residing in Los Angeles.
According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the duo had previously expressed joy over the deaths of U.S. soldiers amid President Donald Trump’s ongoing tensions with Iran.
Rubio further noted that their permanent residency, which granted them the privilege of living indefinitely in the United States, has been annulled, and they are slated for deportation at the earliest possible time.
He stated, “Up until recently, Hamideh Soleimani Afshar and her daughter were living extravagantly in the U.S. as green card holders.”
‘Afshar is the niece of deceased Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani. She is also an outspoken supporter of the Iranian regime who celebrated attacks on Americans and referred to our country as the “Great Satan.”
‘This week, I terminated both Afshar and her daughter’s legal status and they are now in ICE custody, pending removal from the United States.
‘The Trump Administration will not allow our country to become a home for foreign nationals who support anti-American terrorist regimes.’
Hamideh Soleimani Afshar, pictured, and her daughter have both been arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in LA and had their green cards revoked over their alleged celebration of the deaths of US soldiers in Iran
Afshar is the niece of the notorious late Iranian general Qasem Soleimani (pictured), who was killed by a US drone strike at Baghdad Airport in January 2020
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the two women’s arrest and impending removal from the United States on his X account on Saturday
Afshar is the niece of Qasem Soleimani.
He was one of Iran’s most powerful military figures and was the commander of the Quds force when he was killed by a US Reaper drone strike ordered by President Trump at Baghdad Airport in January 2020.
A press release issued by the State Department further accused Afshar of ‘promoting Iranian regime propaganda’.
It said she had ‘praised the new Iranian Supreme Leader, denounced America as the “Great Satan” and voiced her unflinching support for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a designated terrorist organization.’
Rubio said his department had been alerted to Afshar’s antics by her posts about Iran and the United States on her since-deleted Instagram account.
It is unclear how long she had been living in the United States for and how old her daughter is.
Despite Afshar’s apparent loathing for the United States, she appeared to enjoy its many freedoms.
She did not wear a hijab hair-covering – which is mandatory for women in Iran, thanks to a draconian law imposed by the rulers closely linked to her late uncle.
Afshar also faced a far less severe penalty for her ranting and raving than Iranians who attack their government, with tens of thousands of protesters murdered at the orders of the Ayatollah in recent years.
Public records list Afshar as living at a $740,000 home in the Tujunga neighborhood of Los Angeles.
She bought the house for $505,000 in September 2021 with a $365,000 mortgage.
Afhsar’s home in Tujunga, Los Angeles, is pictured. She bought the property for $505,000 in 2021 and it is now worth $740,000
The modest property has two bedrooms and two baths but it smartly decorated inside.
It sits on a hill that affords it a stunning view across the Crescenta Valley and Verdugo Mountains.
Afshar’s anti-American rhetoric stepped up in recent weeks, after President Trump began bombing Iran on February 28.
The country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among those killed in the US-Israel bombardment which has triggered international chaos.
Trump has said he will resume bombing within 48 hours if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a shipping channel that much of the world’s oil supply must pass through.
Enrolling in fuel rewards programs or purchasing fuel through wholesale clubs can significantly reduce expenses at the gas station.
WASHINGTON — The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline nationwide has surged by over a dollar in just one month, now exceeding $4. This marks the highest average since 2022, prompting consumers to seek strategies to minimize fuel expenses.
Below is a selection of discount and reward options available to consumers. While not exhaustive, this list provides several viable choices for individuals looking to save money.
Wholesale clubs such as Sam’s Club, Costco, and BJ’s offer gasoline and diesel at more competitive prices at their locations. Members of these clubs can often enjoy savings of 5 to 30 cents per gallon compared to other local gas stations.
Wholesale clubs
These club memberships come in various tiers, each priced differently and offering distinct benefits, including more significant fuel discounts. Typically, memberships are valid for one year.
Club memberships often have several tiered options at different price points that offer different perks, including steeper discounts at the pump. Memberships are typically active for a year.
Gas rewards programs
Many gas station and convenience store chains offer fuel discounts once consumers sign up for the rewards programs.
After signing up for a gas station chain’s rewards program, you may be required to present proof, such as entering a phone number, swiping a membership card, or using an app the next time you fuel up.
Each gas station chain is different in how they handle the perks, with some offering immediate discounts each time you get gas while others use a point system, unlocking different deals once a certain number of points is reached, for example.
Most chains offer ways to sign up online or through an app. Check out your preferred gas station chain to find out more.
AAA recommends that people looking to get the most out of the rewards programs consider the following:
Gas station availability
Comparing gas savings versus flexible rewards
Signing up for more than one rewards program
National retailers
Walmart and Amazon are among the many retailers that offer discounts at the pump.
Amazon Prime members can save about 10 cents a gallon at roughly 7,500 gas stations across the country, but the company is bringing back its gas deal every Friday in April and May.
The offer runs April 3 through May 29 and gives Prime members 20 cents off the gallon at BP, Amoco and ampm gas stations. To qualify, Prime members must link their Amazon account to Earnify.
The 20 cents off the gallon deal includes all fuel grades and doesn’t require a minimum or maximum on gallons, according to Amazon. Drivers can find participating locations through the Earnify app.
Retail giant Walmart also offers widespread deals through Walmart+ memberships. Members can save 10 cents per gallon at roughly 13,000 stations nationwide.
Things to consider
Signing up for rewards programs and memberships usually comes with conditions. For example, there’s typically an annual fee when signing up for a club membership. Rewards programs may have limitations or points that expire.
While rewards programs offer consumers ways to save at the pump, there are many more things drivers can do to save on gas. Click here for those tips.
In a concerning development, British authorities have pressed charges against three individuals, aged 17, 19, and 20, linked to a shocking arson attack on ambulances serving the Jewish community in north London.
In the early hours of March 23, around 1:45 a.m., the Golders Green area witnessed a deliberate fire set to four ambulances operated by Hatzola. This volunteer emergency service, which caters specifically to the Jewish population, had its vehicles torched while parked in a synagogue lot.
The Metropolitan Police have named Hamza Iqbal, aged 20, Rehan Khan, aged 19, and a 17-year-old male as suspects in this case. They face charges of arson aimed at damaging property with a reckless disregard for human safety. Among them, two are identified as British citizens, while one holds both British and Pakistani citizenship.
On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, members of the local Jewish community gathered at the site of this antisemitic attack in the Golders Green neighborhood of north London. (Photo by Henry Nicholls/AFP)
The trio was apprehended on Wednesday at different locations throughout London.
They did not enter pleas and were remanded in custody following a roughly 45-minute hearing Saturday afternoon at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, according to The Standard.
Prosecutors said a fourth suspect was also arrested and taken into custody at the courthouse where the three charged men were appearing, according to Reuters.
Firefighters are seen tackling a blaze at Highfield Road in the Golders Green neighborhood of London, following an apparent arson attack on four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance Service.(PA/PA Images via Getty Images)
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously condemned the attack as a “horrifying” antisemitic act.
“An attack on our Jewish community is an attack on us all. We will fight the poison that is antisemitism,” Starmer wrote on X on March 23.
A report from the SITE Intelligence Group says an Iran-backed network calling itself the Islamic Movement of the People of the Right Hand has claimed responsibility, according to Reuters.
Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel visits the scene after four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a Jewish community organisation, were set on fire in an incident that the police say is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, in northwest London, Britain, March 23, 2026. (Isabel Infantes/Reuters)
Despite the claim, officials have not formally classified the case as terrorism. However, counterterrorism police are leading the investigation, Metropolitan Police said.
Police in the United Kingdom previously arrested two additional men, ages 45 and 47, in the days following the attack. They were later released on bail, according to the Metropolitan Police.
“I want to reiterate that the support we had from the local community since this attack took place has been incredible, and we will continue to work closely with local policing colleagues to do everything we can to keep the public safe,” Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said in a statement.
The Metropolitan Police did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
Sophia Compton is a Writer at Fox News Digital. Sophia was previously a business reporter covering finance, energy and tourism and has experience as a TV news producer. She graduated with a journalism degree in 2021 from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Story tips can be sent to sophia.compton@fox.com.
Efforts are underway in Congress to pass a significant piece of legislation backed by President Trump that could alter the voting landscape.
The legislation, known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (abbreviated as the SAVE Act or the SAVE America Act), has successfully cleared the hurdle of the House of Representatives and now awaits deliberation in the Senate.
Recently, Senate Democrats blocked a proposed amendment that would have mandated voters to present a photo ID for both in-person and mail-in voting—a central aspect of the SAVE Act that many states currently practice.
Additionally, the SAVE Act proposes that individuals must verify their citizenship status upon registering to vote. While federal law stipulates that participants in national elections must be U.S. citizens, it does not currently require them to provide documentary evidence of citizenship.
You book a doctor’s appointment, endure a 20-minute wait in the office, and as soon as the nurse fastens the cuff around your arm, you feel your heart rate inching upward. Does this scenario sound familiar? This reaction is known as “white coat hypertension,” a common occurrence that can lead to a skewed perception of your real cardiovascular health from a single in-office reading.
That’s why mastering the art of taking your blood pressure at home has become a cornerstone of contemporary preventive cardiology. By measuring your blood pressure accurately and regularly at home, you and your doctor can access a wealth of data that far surpasses the occasional reading taken during a clinic visit.
This article serves as your comprehensive guide, covering everything from deciphering blood pressure numbers, choosing the ideal monitor, to developing a routine that could potentially save your life.
How to Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home – Cardiologist Approved
Why It Is Important to Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home
“A key element in managing blood pressure is obtaining readings outside the confines of a doctor’s office,” states Dr. Elizabeth Klodas, a preventive cardiologist and founder of Step One Foods, recognized nationally for her expertise in cardiovascular prevention. Her rationale is simple: an isolated in-office reading captures just a snapshot, often unreflective of your usual state.
Hypertension, often referred to as the “silent killer,” affects nearly half of the adult population in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Since high blood pressure usually manifests without symptoms, many individuals unknowingly live with perilously high levels for years. Regular monitoring at home can bridge this knowledge gap.
Beyond catching hypertension early, home monitoring serves several other critical purposes:
Confirming a diagnosis. If your doctor suspects hypertension based on an office reading, home measurements over one to two weeks can confirm whether the elevation is real or situational.
Monitoring treatment response. If you have started medication or made lifestyle changes, home readings show whether those interventions are working between appointments.
Detecting masked hypertension. Some people have normal readings at the clinic but dangerously high readings elsewhere. Home monitoring is the only way to catch this.
Reducing overtreatment. Conversely, white coat hypertension can lead to unnecessary medication. Home readings help doctors avoid over-prescribing.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends home blood pressure monitoring for anyone diagnosed with high blood pressure or at risk for it. The evidence supporting this recommendation is robust: a 2019 meta-analysis published in the journal Hypertension found that home monitoring combined with professional support significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to usual care alone.
How to Read the Results on Your Blood Pressure Monitor
When your monitor displays a reading, you will see two numbers stacked on top of each other, along with your pulse rate. Many people know to worry when the numbers look high, but understanding what each figure represents helps you respond appropriately.
Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the force your heart exerts on the artery walls each time it beats. Think of it as the pressure surge your circulatory system experiences during active pumping.
Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures the pressure in your arteries between beats, when your heart is at rest and refilling. This reflects the baseline tension your blood vessels are under at all times.
A reading is written as systolic over diastolic. For example: 120/80 mmHg.
Blood Pressure Categories You Should Know
The American Heart Association classifies blood pressure into five categories:
Category
Systolic (mmHg)
Diastolic (mmHg)
Normal
Less than 120
and
Less than 80
Elevated
120–129
and
Less than 80
High Blood Pressure Stage 1
130–139
or
80–89
High Blood Pressure Stage 2
140 or higher
or
90 or higher
Hypertensive Crisis
Higher than 180
and/or
Higher than 120
A reading in the hypertensive crisis range requires immediate medical attention. If you see those numbers at home and you are also experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or vision changes, call emergency services right away.
Understanding Your Pulse Reading
Most modern monitors also display your heart rate in beats per minute (BPM). A resting heart rate between 60 and 100 BPM is generally considered normal for adults, though well-conditioned athletes may read lower. While heart rate alone does not determine blood pressure risk, a consistently elevated resting pulse alongside high readings is worth flagging with your doctor.
Which Blood Pressure Monitors Are Best?
Not all blood pressure devices are created equal. The market is flooded with options at every price point, and the differences in accuracy can be significant. Cardiologists consistently recommend focusing on a few key factors when choosing a monitor.
Upper arm cuffs versus wrist monitors: Upper arm monitors are the gold standard for home use. The brachial artery in the upper arm is closer to the heart, which produces more consistent and accurate readings than wrist or finger devices. Wrist monitors are more portable but highly sensitive to positioning errors. For medical reliability, the upper arm is the better choice.
Validated accuracy: The most important thing to look for is whether a monitor has been clinically validated. Validation means the device has undergone independent testing and proven it measures blood pressure within an acceptable margin of error compared to a mercury sphygmomanometer. Look for monitors listed in the validated device protocol databases maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA) or the British and Irish Hypertension Society (BIHS).
Correct cuff sizing: An ill-fitting cuff is one of the most common sources of inaccurate readings. Before buying a monitor, measure the circumference of your upper arm at its widest point. Standard cuffs fit arms between 9 and 13 inches; large cuffs are needed for arms exceeding 13 inches. Using a cuff that is too small can artificially inflate your reading by 8 mmHg or more.
Cardiologist-Recommended Blood Pressure Monitors
The following devices consistently earn high marks from clinicians and independent testing organizations:
Omron Platinum Blood Pressure Monitor (Model BP5450) This is one of the most widely recommended monitors among cardiologists. It stores up to 200 readings, detects irregular heartbeat, and is validated for both clinical and home use. Its dual-user mode makes it practical for households where multiple people need to track readings.
Omron Evolv Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor For those who want a cuffless-looking experience, the Evolv integrates the cuff and monitor into a single wrap-around unit. It pairs with the Omron Connect app, making tracking seamless. This model is AHA-validated and well-regarded for its ease of use.
Withings BPM Connect A strong choice for tech-forward users, this monitor syncs automatically with Apple Health and Google Fit. It is compact, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, and clinically validated. The color-coded feedback system gives an immediate, at-a-glance interpretation of each reading.
A&D Medical UA-767F This is a trusted option in clinical settings and has been validated by multiple international bodies. It is straightforward to use, lacks unnecessary features, and is priced accessibly, making it a solid pick for users who want reliability without complexity.
Beurer BM 55 Popular in Europe and gaining ground in the U.S., this model offers dual-user storage, an irregular heartbeat indicator, and WHO classification display that color-codes readings according to international standards.
When in doubt, ask your cardiologist or primary care physician to recommend a specific model. Many will have a preferred brand based on clinical experience and the accuracy they have observed in their patient population.
How to Measure Your Blood Pressure at Home
Getting a blood pressure reading takes under two minutes. Getting an accurate one takes a bit of preparation. Many people unknowingly compromise their readings through small, correctable errors in technique or timing.
Step 1: Prepare your body and environment
Avoid caffeine, exercise, and tobacco for at least 30 minutes before measuring. All three can temporarily elevate your blood pressure and skew your reading. If you have just been walking, climbing stairs, or rushing through traffic, sit quietly for five minutes before you begin.
Empty your bladder if it is full. A distended bladder can raise blood pressure by up to 10 mmHg, a meaningful difference at any stage of hypertension monitoring.
Step 2: Sit in the correct position
Sit in a chair with your back supported, both feet flat on the floor, and legs uncrossed. Place your arm on a flat surface such as a table or desk, with your palm facing upward. Your arm should rest at heart level. If it sits higher or lower than the heart, the reading will be off.
Do not talk, look at your phone, or watch television during the measurement. Surprisingly, even a brief conversation during measurement can raise systolic pressure by 6 to 7 mmHg.
Step 3: Apply the cuff correctly
The bottom edge of the cuff should sit approximately one inch above the bend of your elbow. The cuff should be snug but not tight enough to restrict circulation. A rule of thumb: you should be able to slip two fingers under the cuff. Make sure the tubing or monitor indicator aligns with the artery marker on your skin, typically positioned over the inside of the arm.
Roll up your sleeve so the cuff sits directly on bare skin. Clothing underneath the cuff can interfere with both the seal and the reading.
Step 4: Take the measurement
Press the start button and remain still. The cuff will inflate, then slowly deflate as the sensor calculates your reading. Most automated monitors complete the process in 60 seconds. Resist the urge to flex your arm or look at the cuff while it is inflating.
Step 5: Record your result
Write down the systolic, diastolic, and pulse values along with the date and time. Many monitors now sync this data automatically to companion apps, which simplifies the record-keeping process considerably.
Step 6: Take a second reading
The AHA recommends taking two consecutive readings one minute apart and averaging them. This accounts for natural beat-to-beat variability and gives a more representative figure. If your first two readings differ by more than 5 mmHg, take a third and average all three.
Common Mistakes That Skew Your Readings
Even careful users make these frequently overlooked errors:
Incorrect arm position. Arms resting in the lap rather than on a supported surface can cause readings to vary by 10 mmHg.
Back unsupported. Sitting without back support can raise your reading by 6 to 10 mmHg.
Crossed legs. This position constricts blood flow and can elevate diastolic pressure by as much as 8 mmHg.
Talking. As noted, even light conversation during a reading is enough to alter the result meaningfully.
Measuring after a full meal. Blood pressure naturally drops during digestion. Measuring immediately after eating may give a falsely low reading.
Why It Helps to Track Your Blood Pressure Over Time
One blood pressure reading tells you what your cardiovascular system was doing at a particular moment on a particular day. Dozens of readings, taken consistently over weeks and months, tell you something far more valuable: the story of your cardiovascular health over time.
Consider this real-world scenario. A 52-year-old woman named Patricia had been reading borderline-elevated at her annual checkups for three years, hovering around 128/82. Her doctor monitored but did not medicate. When Patricia started tracking her readings at home every morning and noticed they were consistently creeping above 135/85 during high-stress work periods, she brought six weeks of data to her next appointment. That documentation led to a meaningful conversation about targeted lifestyle adjustments that brought her readings back into the normal range within two months, without medication.
That kind of nuanced, data-driven decision-making is only possible with consistent tracking.
What Patterns in Your Data Can Reveal
Tracking over time allows you and your healthcare provider to identify several clinically important patterns:
Morning surge. Blood pressure naturally rises in the early morning hours as the body prepares to wake. An exaggerated morning surge, where pressure rises sharply within the first hour of waking, is associated with an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. This pattern is almost impossible to detect through office visits alone.
Nocturnal hypertension. Some people have elevated blood pressure at night but normal readings during the day. This condition, detected through 24-hour ambulatory monitoring or by taking readings at multiple times of day, significantly increases cardiovascular risk.
Seasonal variation. Blood pressure tends to be higher in colder months due to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels in response to cold). Tracking year-round helps you and your doctor distinguish a meaningful change from a seasonal one.
Medication effectiveness. If you are on antihypertensives, tracking at the same time each day shows clearly whether your medication is maintaining control throughout the dosing period or whether it is wearing off before the next dose.
How Often Should You Measure?
For most adults with hypertension or elevated readings, cardiologists recommend measuring twice daily: once in the morning before medication and food, and once in the evening. Taking readings at consistent times makes the data far easier to interpret.
For people with well-controlled blood pressure who are simply monitoring as a precaution, once daily or a few times per week may be sufficient. Your doctor is the best person to recommend a schedule based on your individual situation.
Using Apps and Technology to Stay Consistent
Many of the top-rated monitors now come with companion apps that store and display your data in graph format, making it easy to spot trends at a glance. Several even allow you to share records directly with your doctor. If you prefer manual tracking, a simple logbook works just as well. The American Heart Association offers a free blood pressure tracker you can print from their website.
What matters most is not the method of recording but the consistency of the habit.
The Bottom Line on Measuring Blood Pressure at Home
Home blood pressure monitoring is not a replacement for regular medical care. It is a complement to it, one that gives both you and your healthcare team far better information than periodic office measurements alone can provide.
The case for building this habit is compelling. The tools are affordable and accessible. The technique is simple to learn. The payoff, in the form of earlier detection, more tailored treatment, and a clearer picture of your cardiovascular health, is substantial.
Start with a clinically validated upper arm monitor, choose the right cuff size, follow the preparation steps carefully, and commit to taking readings at the same time each day. Track your numbers, whether on paper or through an app, and bring that data to every medical appointment.
As Dr. Klodas and the broader cardiology community have consistently emphasized, blood pressure management does not happen only inside a doctor’s office. It happens in your kitchen, your bedroom, and the quiet moments of your daily routine when you take two minutes to check in on one of the most important indicators of your long-term health.
Those two minutes might be among the most valuable ones you invest all day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most accurate type of blood pressure monitor for home use?
Upper arm monitors with clinically validated accuracy are the most reliable option for home use. Wrist devices are less accurate due to position sensitivity, and finger monitors are not recommended for medical tracking.
2. How many times should I take my blood pressure at home per day?
For people with hypertension, twice daily is commonly recommended: once in the morning before medication and food, and once in the evening. Always take two consecutive readings one to two minutes apart and average them.
3. What causes high blood pressure readings at home even if I feel fine?
Hypertension rarely causes symptoms. A high home reading in the absence of symptoms does not mean the reading is wrong. It may simply mean the condition has not yet progressed to a symptomatic stage. Consistent elevated readings warrant a conversation with your doctor regardless of how you feel.
4. Does caffeine affect home blood pressure readings?
Yes. Caffeine can raise blood pressure temporarily, sometimes by as much as 10 mmHg. Avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other caffeinated products for at least 30 minutes before measuring.
5. When should I call a doctor about my home blood pressure readings?
Contact your doctor promptly if your readings are consistently at or above 130/80, or immediately if you register a reading above 180/120, especially alongside symptoms like chest pain, severe headache, difficulty breathing, or vision changes.
Inset: Brian Keith Griffin (Harrison County Sheriff”s Office). Background: A residential street near where Griffin killed his own mother in Marshall, Tex (Google Maps).
A Texas resident has been sentenced to several decades in prison following a horrific crime involving the murder of his mother in their shared home.
Brian Keith Griffin, 37, admitted guilt on a murder charge last Thursday, as documented by Harrison County court records.
In a swift court decision, 71st Judicial District Judge Brad Morin handed Griffin a 30-year prison sentence for the deadly stabbing of his 55-year-old mother, Tammy Bogue, in November 2024.
The tragic event took place at the family apartment located on Norwood Street in Marshall, Texas, a small city positioned about 40 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana.
On November 27, 2024, shortly before 12:45 p.m., Griffin made a 911 call to report his actions, according to court records reviewed by The Marshall News Messenger.
Responding officers found Bogue on the floor suffering from multiple knife wounds. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene of the crime, according to a press release issued by the Marshall Police Department. Her killer’s culpability was apparently never in doubt.
“During the custodial interview, Griffin admitted to stabbing his mother multiple times intending to kill her,” police wrote in a probable cause statement attached to the charging document.
During his sentencing hearing, Griffin said he had repeatedly been treated for mental illness – once due to a suicide attempt – but admitted he was not insane on the day of the murder. His defense attorney noted he was found competent to stand trial.
“It was going to be a battle of the experts,” Harrison County District Attorney Reid McCain told the Messenger, explaining what would have likely occurred during a trial had the parties not agreed to a plea deal.
Had he gone to trial, the defendant faced a possible sentence of up to 99 years in prison. The defendant, the state, and the surviving family agreed on foregoing such proceedings and a lesser sentence.
“I had a really good family,” the prosecutor told the newspaper. “They were easy to work with. I think they love him, but also know that he needs to be held accountable. So we had multiple conversations, and they were fine with the 30-to-40 (year) range.”
One family member, however, seemed to reject the since-condemned man’s narrative about his mental health issues.
Bogue’s sister reportedly said Griffin should have been taking his medication if he wanted to blame the violence on mental illness.
“This was not a tragedy,” the slain woman’s sister said. “It was a betrayal of trust to our family. She deserved to live, deserved to grow old…to love and be loved. We not only lost one family member that day. We lost two. And like you told (the investigators) ‘She had to go.’ Our final words to you, Brian: ‘Now you have to go.’”
Step aside, cherry blossoms; the spotlight now belongs to apple blossoms, or so suggests the latest offering from Hallmark Channel, A Season to Blossom.
In this charming new movie, we follow the journey of Elise, an aspiring writer who has lost her way. She returns to her grandmother’s small-town bookstore with the intention of selling it, only to find herself deeply entwined in the community’s traditions. As Elise reconnects with her childhood crush, she begins to rediscover her voice, her roots, and perhaps a love worth holding onto.
The film stars some beloved Hallmark regulars, including Emily Tennant and Carlo Marks, who bring life to the characters of Elise Everett and Max Whitman. Their chemistry promises to captivate audiences looking for a heartwarming springtime romance.
Hallmark Channel continues to deliver seasonal delights with other titles such as Two For Tee and A Royal Setting. Fans can look forward to seeing familiar faces like Jen Lilley and Dan Jeannotte in these films, with detailed cast guides available for enthusiasts eager to learn more.
If you’re curious about the full lineup for A Season to Blossom, be sure to explore our comprehensive cast guide. The movie premieres tonight at 8/7c on Hallmark Channel, with streaming options available the following day on Hallmark+.
Photo: Hallmark Media/ Lighthouse Pictures
An aspiring writer, Elise finds herself tasked with closing up The Driftless Bookstore —owned by her late grandmother Lorraine—and preparing it to go on the market. Having spent every summer in Driftless visiting her grandmother, Elise finds comfort in the familiar—including her childhood crush, Max.
Actress Emily Tennant is no stranger to Hallmark Channel, having most recently appeared in 2025’s Christmas Above the Clouds. She also lent her voice to the animated Polly Pocket series, and appeared in the Shudder original film, Influencers.
Photo: Hallmark Media/ Lighthouse Pictures
Max (Carlo Marks) helps run his family’s farm, and is simultaneously pursuing his own passion project of crafting his own hard cider. When Elise returns to Drifting, he is reminded of the summers they spent together, and is happy to seek her writing assistance as he pitches a name and concept for his concoction.
Marks is a certified Hallmark hunk, having appeared in films like Sugarplummed and Scouting for Christmas in addition to the network’s drama series, Chesapeake Shores, but he has also earned credits on TV shows like Smallville, The 100, and CIA.
Photo: Hallmark Media/ Lighthouse Pictures
EaeMya Thyngi plays Molly Teller, who has been an employee at Elise’s late grandmother’s bookstore since she was 14, and is a crucial source of knowledge and support for Elise as she gets the store ready for sale. However, a hidden talent of hers may take priority over stocking shelves.
Other Hallmark Channel titles of Thyngi’s include Jingle Bell Run and Providence Falls.
Photo: Hallmark Media/ Lighthouse Pictures
Winnie, played by Laura Soltis, is an active member of the Driftless community. Upon meeting Elise, she tells her that she helps with the Apple Blossom Festival, a local event that Elise’s grandmother would host readings alongside, and assured Elise that Lorraine was “the heartbeat of this town.”
Soltis has appeared in several Hallmark Channel movies, including this year’s Nelly Knows Mysteries: All Manners of Murder.
Photo: Hallmark Media/ Lighthouse Pictures
Mark Humphrey plays Max’s father Earl, who is concerned his son’s goals of launching his own cider and distributing it outside of Driftless are a bit too lofty.
Humphrey may be recognizable to Hearties (When Calls the Heart fans) as Frank Hogan, who he played in a 27-episode arc across Seasons 2-5. Among his other TV credits are CTV’s E-N-G, Alias, and CSI: Miami. He also appeared in Crime 101, starring Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Halle Berry.
President Donald Trump is known for surrounding himself with women who seem to share a distinct aesthetic: predominantly white, often blonde, and typically fit. This pattern is evident in figures like Karoline Leavitt, his press secretary, Pam Bondi, his attorney general, and Nathalie Harp, who is famously dubbed Trump’s “human printer.” Among these women is Alison Cheperdak, an etiquette instructor who joined the Trump administration to teach modern manners and business communication to White House interns.
Roberto Schmidt/Getty Images
Cheperdak, a former White House staffer from Trump’s first term, is renowned for her expertise in modern etiquette across professional and social environments. Her career spans roles in news media and the legal field, including a stint as a clerk and attorney advisor at the U.S. Treasury. She ventured into etiquette consultancy after leaving the White House in 2021. In an essay for The Conservateur, Cheperdak reflected on her career shift, stating, “For me, the pivot was unexpected. I took a turn into entrepreneurship. I saw how much etiquette can help you in work and in life — and how the absence of it can quietly hurt you.” (Trump himself might benefit from her lessons.)
Cheperdak fits the typical profile of the women in Trump’s circle: blonde, white, and fit. However, she distinguishes herself by not appearing reliant on cosmetic enhancements, unlike some of her counterparts. Moreover, her keen fashion sense and apparent disinterest in stereotypical Republican makeup set her apart.
Anyway, the thing here is she fits exactly into the mold of women Trump usually surrounds himself with. One, she’s blonde. Two, she’s white. And three, she seems physically fit. But what sets this woman apart from those in Trump’s inner circle is that Cheperdak doesn’t seem addicted to lip fillers and plastic surgery (no shade to Leavitt). She actually has good fashion sense, as well, and doesn’t appear to be a huge fan of the so-called Republican makeup.
Even amidst Trump’s legal battles, it’s hard to overlook the consistent presence of similarly styled women around him. Author Michael Wolff noted, “There is always an entourage of … younger, good-looking women around Trump, all dressed the same and all who basically look the same.” These women often mirrored the appearance of First Lady Melania Trump, who was notably absent during this time. Wolff mentioned Hope Hicks, Madeleine Westerhout, and Natalie Harp as examples. “I spoke to one of the jurors. He said, ‘All of these Trump women, girls, you know, the ones who were testifying… They all dress the same and they all look the same,’” highlighted the biographer.
Donald Trump has a certain type
Sarah Stier/Getty Images
For years, it’s been said that Donald Trump has a preference for women working in his administration. The author and Trump critic Michael Wolff said in his time observing the White House for his book, he noticed a striking pattern among women going around the West Wing halls. “Sitting there every day, […] I would see these women come by all who were dressed the same,” he said on “The Daily Beast” podcast. They usually came in wearing tiny pencil skirts (“this was during the winter”) and knee-high boots instead of proper heels. He found this bizarre. “You know, and I texted my wife saying, ‘God knows I could have missed some fashion trend, but I said, is this unusual?’” Wolff recalled. “‘Yes,’ she said. ‘This his would be very unusual if they are all, in this singular mode.’”
Even during his hush money trial, it’s hard not notice that Trump surrounded herself with women who all look like clones. “There is always an entourage of … younger, good-looking women around Trump, all dressed the same and all who basically look the same,” Wolff pointed out. Most often, they looked like clones of First Lady Melania Trump, who had all but vanished during that period. He cited Hope Hicks, Madeleine Westerhout, and Natalie Harp as examples. “I spoke to one of the jurors. He said, ‘All of these Trump women, girls, you know, the ones who were testifying… They all dress the same and they all look the same,” stressed the Trump biographer.
As for Trump’s newly hired etiquette instructor, we’ve yet to see whether Alison Cheperdak will play a much bigger role in this current administration. More likely the answer is no, but wouldn’t it be great if she taught POTUS a thing or two about manners?
