First up, in campus news, The Appalachian reports that there are free moms on campus! News Editor Jenna Guzman detailed the efforts of the Free Moms, a volunteer group on campus comprised of parents and community members who give out free snacks, support and hugs to passing students on Sanford Mall. The group was started in the aftermath of COVID-19 and other tragedies across the UNC school system. Barbara Krueger, an 80-year-old volunteer, says “she wants students to feel loved and not feel alone, as well as for students to have a release through what the group has to offer.” The group is out on the mall every Thursday from 11am to 2pm until May 4th. Grab your free hugs, y’all!

Next, in local news, the Watauga Democrat reports that the King Street Farmers Market is back up and open for the season starting Tuesday, May 2nd. The market will feature more than 30 vendors this year, including produce and crafts, and will have such special events this year as Kid’s Art Day, Tomato Day, and a Year of the Trail celebration! The market will kick off their first day of the season with live music and select food treats.

Next, nationally, NPR reports that one of my personal favorite writers and figures in the culture sphere, Neil Gaiman, has released his first album of music to add to his pantheon of comic books and novels. Collaborating with Australian string band FourPlay String Quartet, the British author is excited to take his storytelling into a new space. Although, as he protests, whether it would be novels or comic books or film and television or plays or shadow puppets" — Gaiman says his job remains the same. The album is called Signs of Life. Inspiring!

Finally, the weather as ever from Booneweather.com. It’s more showers today with a high of 54 degrees.