Check out the list of links that should be on your radar today:
This morning, President Obama announced a new research initiative aimed at creating new technologies to record brain activity in more detail. Bonus: The plan will also help create tons of new jobs if it’s approved by Congress. [USA Today]
Today is World Autism Awareness Day! [United Nations News Centre]
It’s official: Ellen Degeneres is signed on to star in the upcoming Finding Nemo sequel, Finding Dory. [Washington Post]
Seeing the word “organic” can make you think a product’s tastier, better for you, and worth more of your cash, according to a new study. And while we’re all in favor of going organic when it makes sense, organic sugar is still sugar—and will still hurt your body if you eat too much of it. Find out other ways that food packaging fools you. [Science Daily]
Check the bag of cat treats sitting at home: A big natural pet food manufacturer has recalled several of its products due to salmonella concerns. [Medical Daily]
Chances are, you’re in for at least 16 minutes and 28 seconds of waiting when you set foot in a doctor’s office—and if you live in Mississippi, the average wait time increases to 24 minutes and 25 seconds. Better bring the latest issue of Women’s Health to your next appointment. [Huffington Post]
An airline called Samoa Air, which flies between Pacific islands, now charges customers by the pound (well, technically by the kilogram). Flyers have to self-report their weight when booking tickets. Because no one’s going to lie about that. [Australian Broadcasting Corporation]
Authorities in Berlin have given Justin Bieber four weeks to pick up his pet monkey, or else they’ll put it in the permanent care of someone else (several zoos have reportedly volunteered to take it). Hold up—the Biebs has a pet monkey? [AP]
The NRA has suggested a training program for teachers and any other school staff interested in being armed. How exactly does adding guns in schools help solve the problem? [USA Today]
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