Monday, July 13, 2026

The number of Americans with Affordable Care Act insurance has taken a sharp decline. This year alone, millions have dropped their coverage. The main reason behind this drop is the change in tax credits that made Obamacare plans more affordable for many people. Without these subsidies, monthly insur

The Unseen Side of Local Leaders

Local leaders, like mayors and councilors, are often viewed with a mix of respect and curiosity. They are part of a team that includes other elected officials and professional staff. In reality, these individuals are well-intentioned and serve their communities for various reasons. Serving on a

The High Cost of Disregarding Science

The Trump administration's war on science is having far-reaching consequences, particularly in Alaska. A proposed rule by the Office of Management and Budget threatens to undermine the peer review process for scientific grant proposals, giving political appointees the power to decide which projects

Virginia Takes a Stand Against Gun Violence

In a move to tackle gun violence, Virginia's Governor has put her signature on over 20 bills aimed at preventing such incidents. This development comes as the state grapples with the complexities of gun ownership and public safety. The new laws have sparked a mix of reactions, with some hailing them

Religion in Schools: Where Do People Draw the Line?

Most Americans are okay with students praying in school, but only if it's voluntary. A recent survey found that 78% of U.S. adults support student-led prayer groups. However, when it comes to teachers leading prayers, people are more divided. Only 46% of Americans think teachers should lead classes

Pennsylvania's Budget Deal: A Mix of Wins and Compromises

Pennsylvania's budget drama has finally come to an end, with Governor Josh Shapiro signing a deal that has left critics with mixed reviews. The new budget is all about investing in education, affordability, and economic development, but it's also drawn criticism for its reliance on some creative acc

The Unseen Burden: How New Jersey's Teacher Pensions Are Impacting Education

New Jersey's public schools are struggling with a quiet financial crisis. The state's education-employee pension plans are severely underfunded, and the cost of fixing them is taking away from essential classroom resources. As of 2023, the Public Employee Retirement System and the Teachers' Pension

Rediscovering America's True Greatness

The United States is on the cusp of a major milestone - its 250th anniversary. This momentous occasion should be a time for reflection, celebration, and re-examination of what it means to be American. The country's founding documents, penned in 1776, introduced a radical idea: that all people are cr

The Clock is Ticking: Can Social Security be Saved?

Millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits to get by. But by 2032, the fund will be depleted, leaving many without a vital source of income. The consequences will be severe, with benefits potentially cut by over 20 percent. This looming crisis demands attention and action. A bipartisa

Seniors Deserve Better Protection

In Ohio, a growing concern is silently hurting the elderly. Every day, seniors are being targeted by people they trust. This betrayal comes in many forms, including physical harm, neglect, financial trickery, emotional manipulation, and scams designed to take their life savings. The people behind th

Faith in Action

The Texas State Board of Education recently made a decision that has sparked debate. They've added Bible stories and scriptures to the required reading list in public schools, from kindergarten to high school. This move has raised concerns about the separation of church and state. Students in th

Courting Controversy

The Supreme Court recently made a decision that has left many scratching their heads. In a move that has been criticized for being out of touch with the Constitution's separation of powers, the court ruled in favor of the president's authority to remove independent agency members at will. This decis

weatherneutral

Michigan Sizzles: Heat Wave Brings Record Temps

A major heat wave is gripping Michigan, bringing record-breaking temperatures and health risks. The state is bracing for the worst of it on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring into the 90s and heat index readings topping 100 degrees. This kind of heat can be deadly, especially for vulnerable individu

The Healing Power of Art

Renée Richetts' home is a treasure trove of art, with colorful glass pieces swaying gently in the breeze. Her artwork is more than just beautiful - it's a reflection of her journey as a nurse, artist, and activist. For decades, Richetts has been preaching the gospel of art as a form of healing. She

Turning Points in Education

Gerald Dillon, an 18-year-old from the Puyallup Reservation, once struggled to find meaning in his academic journey. His senior year took an unexpected turn when he began working as a teaching assistant in a second-grade classroom. The experience sparked a newfound enthusiasm for learning. Dillon's

Glassblowing Guru

Alejandro Hernandez's journey into glassblowing began with a practical decision. At 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Military, serving eight years in the Army National Guard. The G.I. Bill and Illinois Veterans' Grant covered his tuition and fees, allowing him to attend college. He discovered glassblowin

Native American Schools See Big Jump in Graduation Rates

Students on the Puyallup Reservation in Washington found a new reason to stay in school when they were given the chance to learn through hands-on job training. One student, Gerald Dillon, was able to turn his academic experience around by working as a teaching assistant in a second-grade classroom.

opinionliberal

Schools Are a Reflection of Society

Understanding public education requires looking beyond the classroom. It's shaped by the world outside, including economic struggles, rapid technological changes, and cultural shifts. Students today face a lot: climate change, ongoing conflicts, too much screen time, growing inequality, and uncertai

Native American Schools See Big Jump in Graduation Rates

Students on the Puyallup Reservation in Washington state are finding new reasons to stay in school. One of them is Gerald Dillon, who used to struggle in class. But when he started helping out in a second-grade classroom as part of his career training, everything changed. He began to see the value i

opinionliberal

Natural Grass for Safety

The 2026 FIFA World Cup brought together the world's best soccer players. They played on natural grass at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This field came from Tuckahoe Farms in South Jersey. FIFA requires natural grass for its games. They do this to keep players safe and make sure the game is played

businessliberal

Empowering Beauty

Jasmine Jones, a 32-year-old entrepreneur, has been recognized as part of Fayetteville's 40 Under 40 Class of 2026. She owns Her Crown Beauty Salon and teaches cosmetology at Fayetteville Technical Community College. Her work focuses on empowering others through education and entrepreneurship. Jon

healthliberal

Psychotic Illness and Dietary Habits

People with enduring psychotic illnesses often face significant challenges in maintaining a balanced diet. A recent study focusing on individuals with such conditions, who were accessing community mental health services, shed light on their dietary habits. The research, which analyzed data from a cl

healthliberal

Socioeconomic Status and Pediatric Obesity Treatment

Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to experience obesity. A recent study in Germany and Sweden found that socioeconomic status (SES) affects how well children respond to obesity treatment. The study used data from over 45,000 children with obesity, aged 3-17 years old. I

healthliberal

Massachusetts Struggles with Obesity Care

Massachusetts has long been a leader in healthcare innovation, particularly when it comes to ensuring that its residents have access to quality care. Two decades ago, the state made headlines by becoming the first to guarantee health insurance for nearly all of its citizens. Since then, efforts have

Route 66: A Journey Through Time

The Mother Road, one of America's most iconic highways, is turning 100 in 2026. For travelers, this milestone is a perfect excuse to embark on a road trip along Route 66, exploring its rich cultural heritage and historic landmarks. The journey begins in Chicago, a city steeped in art, history, and

Cookie Run Takes Center Stage in Seoul's Art Scene

In a bold move to merge gaming and art, Devsisters is teaming up with URBANBREAK & TOYCON SEOUL 2026 to bring Cookie Run to life in a whole new way. From July 30 to August 2, COEX Hall D in Seoul will host an epic art festival featuring a special collaboration project called Brave Journey. This proj

artconservative

Celebrating 250 Years of American Spirit

Erin Scavino, a former reality TV star, has been tasked with leading a unique initiative to showcase American culture as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary. As the director of the State Department's Art in Embassies program, Scavino is no stranger to promoting American art and v

Texas Schools Embroil Kacey Musgraves in Bible Debate

Kacey Musgraves recently took to social media to express her disapproval of a new Texas education policy. The policy aims to incorporate the Bible into school lessons. Musgraves claims that officials are "forcing" the Bible on kids and "indoctrinating" them. She shared a news story on her Instagram

Heroes Unite: The Epic Battle Against Doctor Doom

Marvel fans are in for a treat with the latest concept art reveal for the highly anticipated film, Avengers: Doomsday. The artwork brings together heroes from different universes, including the Avengers, X-Men, and Fantastic Four, as they prepare to face off against the powerful villain, Doctor Doom

The Art of Movement

Yaacov Agam, a master of kinetic art, has left an indelible mark on the world of modern art. Born in 1928 in what is now Israel, Agam grew up in a deeply spiritual household. His father, an Orthodox rabbi and kabbalist, instilled in him a sense of wonder and curiosity about the mysteries of the univ

Allen Parish Schools Show Progress

Students in Allen Parish are making strides in their academic journey. The district recently scored a 'B' on their LEAP test, a result that Superintendent Brad Soileau sees as a positive step forward. He notes that while there's still room for improvement, the district is on the right track. The new

From Mobster to Motivated

Joe Gannascoli, best known for his role as Vito on The Sopranos, is on a mission to transform his physique. At 67, he's aiming to shed 40 pounds in just four months to get camera-ready for a new TV project based on his Mafia-themed cookbook. His goal is to drop from 250 to 210 pounds, and he's takin

Native American Schools See Big Jump in Graduation Rates

Students on the Puyallup Reservation in Washington found a new reason to stay in school when they started getting hands-on job training. One student, Gerald Dillon, was able to turn his academic life around after enrolling in career training courses. He started working as a teaching assistant in a s

opinionconservative

Community Divided Over Motorsports Park Proposal

The debate over a proposed motorsports park continues to rev up in the community. At a recent meeting, officials decided to put off making a decision on the project. This delay has left many wondering what's next for the proposal. The motorsports park has been a topic of discussion for some time.

Uncovering the Hidden History of Andor

The Star Wars universe has been expanding rapidly since Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012. One of the most notable successes was Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which received widespread critical acclaim. This film's success led to the creation of Andor, a prequel series that follows the journey of Ca

environmentliberal

Rooftop Revolution: How Warehouses Are Powering New Jersey's Energy Future

New Jersey's warehouses are leading the charge in the state's renewable energy revolution. For years, these industrial buildings have been quietly hosting a new kind of energy infrastructure on their rooftops. Solar panels are being installed on warehouses across the state, from Gloucester to Perth

Davenport's Newest Music Hotspot

The city's vibrant music scene just got a whole lot more exciting. A brand new music venue, Hose Station No. 7, has opened its doors in Davenport. This isn't just any ordinary venue - it's a former fire station turned music hotspot. The transformation is a nod to the city's rich history and its pass

Sunny Streets and Artistic Delights

The Petaluma Art & Garden Festival drew massive crowds to Downtown Petaluma on a sunny Sunday in July. This annual event, now in its 23rd year, is a beloved tradition that brings together art lovers, gardening enthusiasts, and families. The festival took over several blocks of 4th Street, with ove

artneutral

Uncovering Kankakee County's Hidden Gems

Kankakee County is full of surprises. On July 18, history enthusiasts and curious travelers can embark on a journey to discover the county's rich heritage. The Reflections of Kankakee County: History Bus Tour is a half-day adventure that takes participants through the charming towns of Herscher and

entertainmentneutral

Berks Summer Fest Kicks Off at GoggleWorks

The Berks Summer Fest, now in its fourth year, has found a new home at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in downtown Reading. This free event, hosted by the Berks Arts Council, brings together music, children's activities, and local art. The festival, which moved from FirstEnergy Stadium, offers a

technologyliberal

The Cookie Conundrum

Websites use small text files called cookies to remember information about their visitors. These cookies help websites work properly and provide a better experience for users. There are different types of cookies, each with its own purpose. Some cookies are essential, meaning they are necessary f

technologyliberal

The AI Effect: Rethinking Education's Broken Mold

For decades, the education system has been stuck in a rut, rewarding students for regurgitating facts and analyses rather than encouraging genuine understanding. The rise of artificial intelligence has exposed this flaw, forcing educators to confront the reality that their methods are outdated. The

From London to Texas: A Soccer Star's Big Debut

Cristó Fernández, a talented young soccer player, has just made his professional debut in the United States. He joined El Paso Locomotive FC in May and took to the field for the first time on Saturday in a United Soccer League Cup match against New Mexico United. The Texas team lost 2-0, but Fernánd

sportsliberal

Gunners' Glory: A Dream Finally Achieved

The wait is over, and Arsenal's Premier League victory has left fans in a state of euphoria. For years, they've come close, only to fall short. The pain of those near misses still lingers, but the excitement of finally lifting the title has taken over. Many fans are still pinching themselves, wonder

Rainy Night Showdown at EchoPark Speedway

The lights at EchoPark Speedway flickered back to life on Sunday night, and the NASCAR Cup Series race roared back into action. A delay of over three hours had pushed the start of the restart past midnight EDT. Drivers and fans alike had been waiting for what felt like an eternity for the green flag

Mara's Summer League Struggles Spark Growth

The NBA Summer League is a testing ground for young players. They get to try out their skills and learn from their mistakes. Aday Mara, a big man from Oklahoma City Thunder, is one of them. He played in the Salt Lake City Summer League and did okay, scoring 10 points, grabbing six rebounds, and bloc

Tottenham's High-Performance Makeover

Tottenham Hotspur is giving their training ground a major overhaul. The club is investing heavily in upgrading its facilities to support its new head coach's high-performance vision. Roberto De Zerbi is known for his attention to detail, and the club wants to make sure its infrastructure matches his

sportsliberal

England's World Cup Dream Fueled by Arsenal Stars

England's journey to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals wasn't easy, but some key players rose to the challenge. The Three Lions faced a tough opponent in Norway and had to push through a grueling match in Miami's scorching 34-degree heat. Jude Bellingham once again proved his worth, but he wasn't alone

College Hoops in Flux

The college basketball landscape is changing fast. For Gonzaga, this reality hit hard on a recent Saturday morning. The team's starting point guard, Mario Saint-Supery, made a sudden decision to leave the program. He chose to return to his hometown in Spain to play for Valencia, a top club in the Sp

College Sports Face a New Era

Lance Holtzclaw, a defensive end from Utah, recently found himself in a high-pressure situation - testifying before a Senate committee. He wasn't there to talk about a game-winning touchdown, but to share his thoughts on the future of college sports. The topic was the 'Protect College Sports Act,' a

Sports Frenzy: From Fantasy Leagues to Football Trades

The world of sports is buzzing with exciting developments. Fantasy football leagues are heating up, especially with the introduction of new leagues featuring top college players. Meanwhile, concerns are being raised about the well-being of certain athletes. Take Brandon Aiyuk, for instance. The 49er

Cubs Surge Ahead with Bregman's Homer

The Chicago Cubs wrapped up the first half of the season on a high note, thanks in part to a powerful home run from Alex Bregman. Their win over the Cincinnati Reds was a testament to the team's resilience in the face of adversity. Bregman reflected on the team's ability to weather storms, saying t

Love Stories Take Center Stage

Two talented authors from the Twin Cities have crafted compelling stories that explore love in all its forms. Steven Lawrence Lang's debut novel, "The Art of Falling Apart," is a humorous and engaging tale about William Link, a quirky artist struggling to find his place in the world. His life is tur

religionliberal

Faith and Freedom: A Community's Legacy

In a world where differences often divide, one community has stood the test of time by embracing diversity and promoting unity. For nearly two and a half centuries, a small church in Auburn has been a beacon of hope and acceptance. Founded in 1812, this community has been a safe haven for people fro

Marvel's Doomsday Unveiled: A Visual Masterpiece

The highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday movie is just around the corner, and fans are in for a treat. Marvel Studios' director of visual development, Andy Park, recently shared an exclusive character illustration that showcases the film's star-studded cast. This stunning artwork is more than just

crimeliberal

The Web of Deceit

Dana Chandler, a woman from Kansas, was convicted of murdering her ex-husband, Mike Sisco, and his girlfriend, Karen Harkness, in a brutal double homicide that shook the community. The case against her was built on a complex web of evidence, including her history of stalking and harassment, as well

Sunday Soundtrack Secrets

Music lovers unite. What's the one album that's been on repeat all week. There's something special about stumbling upon a new favorite album, and it's even better when it comes from a friend. One album caught someone's attention and it's now a top pick for the year. The search is on for more hidden

educationneutral

Get Ready for a Wild Ride at Potter Center

The wait is over for entertainment enthusiasts in Jackson County, Michigan. The Potter Center has just dropped its highly anticipated 2026-27 lineup, and it's packed with an incredible mix of country, rock, circus acts, and wildlife education. A total of 11 shows are scheduled to take place between

weatherneutral

Heat Wave Hits Kingston

A heat warning has been issued for Kingston and surrounding areas, including Odessa and Frontenac Islands. Hot and humid weather is expected to start on Monday and last until at least Wednesday evening, and possibly into Thursday. The heat warning takes effect on Monday at 10 a.m. Temperatures wil

opinionliberal

The Fading Line Between Memory and AI