ACT

Feb 12 2026EDUCATION

Celebrating a Music Mentor Who Shaped Lives

Edward P. Norris III, a teacher from Smithtown who runs the choral program at Glen Cove High School, will be honored as the 2025 Educator of Note by the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. The award ceremony takes place on March 20 in Stony Brook, where Norris will receive his plaque a

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Feb 12 2026SCIENCE

Staying Active or Sitting Still: What the Genes Say About Lung Health

People around the world struggle with lung diseases that cause many deaths. Scientists are trying to understand if how much we move or sit affects the risk of getting these illnesses. A new study used a genetic method called Mendelian randomization to investigate the link between physical acti

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Feb 12 2026ENVIRONMENT

Data Centers: A Growing Concern for Illinois

Illinois is facing a big challenge with data centers. These huge facilities are popping up quickly, and they're causing some problems. They use a lot of water and electricity. This is making people's bills go up. Plus, they might be hurting the environment. A new law called the Power Act is being p

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Feb 12 2026CELEBRITIES

James Van Der Beek: A Life Remembered

James Van Der Beek, known for his role in Dawson's Creek, passed away at the age of 48. He had been fighting colorectal cancer, a battle he openly discussed in a December interview. He described the journey as incredibly challenging, requiring immense patience, discipline, and strength. Despite the

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Feb 12 2026CELEBRITIES

A Beloved Actor's Journey: James Van Der Beek's Life and Legacy

James Van Der Beek, a familiar face from many TV shows and movies, passed away at 48. His wife shared the sad news on Wednesday. Van Der Beek had been fighting stage 3 colorectal cancer, which he openly discussed in 2024. Many people remember him as Dawson Leery from "Dawson's Creek, " a show that

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Feb 12 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Gainesville's Vibrant February: Music, Theater, and More

Gainesville and Alachua County are buzzing with activities this February. Music lovers can enjoy a variety of performances. Wim Tapley and the Cannons will bring their Americana and neo-soul blend to Heartwood Soundstage on February 13. The next day, Vincent Neil Emerson will perform his folk and co

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Feb 12 2026POLITICS

How Powerful People Talk About Race

Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy and influential figure, had a strong interest in race science, a discredited idea that claims racial differences in intelligence are genetic. In 2016, he shared an article from a white supremacist website with Noam Chomsky, suggesting that race and IQ are linked. This idea

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Feb 12 2026POLITICS

Bangladesh's Big Vote: A New Chapter After Youth-Led Change

Bangladesh is voting today in a big election. This is a big deal. It comes after a huge change in 2024. Young people, called Gen Z, led protests. They forced out the long-time leader, Sheikh Hasina. Now, the country is choosing new leaders. This election is important. It could bring stability to Ba

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Feb 12 2026POLITICS

Politicians Under Fire: A Global Crisis of Violence and Harassment

Politicians around the world are facing a troubling rise in violence, threats, and harassment. A recent survey by a global organization revealed that a significant number of elected officials have experienced some form of abuse, with women being targeted more frequently, especially in online spaces.

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Feb 12 2026OPINION

License Plate Cameras: A Double-Edged Sword

In Norfolk, Virginia, a recent court decision gave the green light to the use of Flock Safety's license plate cameras. These cameras, which are now over 700 in the Hampton Roads area, have sparked a heated debate. The judge ruled that they don't violate privacy rights because they don't track people

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