BUDGET

Apr 22 2026EDUCATION

Middletown School Closings: A Community in Flux

In Middletown, the debate over closing several schools is heating up as the school board prepares to decide on a new budget next week. A majority vote could approve closures that affect Leonardo and Navesink elementary schools, while Bayshore Middle School would shift to an elementary level. The boa

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Apr 22 2026POLITICS

Big Spending on War Machines: Where the Money Goes

The government just asked for $1. 5 trillion to fund the nation’s defense for the coming year—that’s the biggest jump in spending since World War II. While health care, schools, and roads often need cash, this plan puts billions toward ships, jets, and a high-tech missile shield called Golden Dome.

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Apr 21 2026TECHNOLOGY

Switching From Cable: Budget Gadgets That Keep You Connected

Cutting the cord has become easier than ever, and you don’t need a big budget to keep your living room streaming. Think of the simple, low‑cost devices that let you ditch cable and still enjoy movies, shows, news, and live events. The first tool most people add is a streaming stick. A $50 stick fro

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Apr 21 2026POLITICS

The A-10 Warthog’s Future: Why the U. S. Air Force Can’t Let Go Just Yet

The U. S. Air Force has decided to keep the A-10 Warthog flying until at least 2030, delaying its planned retirement. The plane, nicknamed for its tough, pig-like appearance, first took off in 1976 and has become a controversial figure in military discussions. While some argue it’s outdated and too

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Apr 19 2026POLITICS

Idaho’s Budget Blunder: A Rough Road Ahead

The Idaho Legislature, led by Republicans, opened its session with a modest agenda. Yet, the state’s recent $453 million tax cut—four times larger than what Governor Brad Little claimed was affordable—had already strained finances. Lawmakers had options to cushion the blow: pause certain cuts, tap o

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Apr 18 2026POLITICS

Quincy’s Money Mess: Who’s Right About the Budget?

The city council and Mayor Tom Koch disagree about how Quincy is handling its money. Council members point to a $1. 6 billion debt, a credit downgrade and shrinking savings as red flags. The mayor says the city is still investing in downtown, schools and roads without cutting services or raisi

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Apr 17 2026POLITICS

Health Secretary Faces Tough Questions on Vaccines and Budget Cuts

The Health and Human Services chief, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , spoke to Congress early Thursday about his plans for the 2027 budget and his vision for healthier America. He started by saying that good nutrition is key to ending chronic disease, hoping to shift the debate away from his past vaccine cri

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Apr 17 2026POLITICS

First Capitol Meeting in Half a Year Focuses on Health Budget Cuts

A top health official recently faced tough questions from lawmakers over planned budget reductions that could impact millions. The official, speaking at a Capitol hearing, pushed back on claims about specific policies targeting certain communities. Critics argued that proposed changes might affect v

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Apr 16 2026POLITICS

Behind the Pentagon's Budget Battle: Where’s the Money Going?

The White House has no clear answer for how much the recent conflict with Iran might cost, even as officials push for a $1. 5 trillion military budget boost. The lack of transparency has sparked frustration among lawmakers, some of whom question why a specific price tag can’t be given for a war just

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Apr 16 2026FINANCE

Southwick pushes schools to trim budget after tough town cuts

The town of Southwick has taken big steps to tighten its own spending, cutting budgets by 5% last year and another 10% this year. But even with those reductions, the school district’s costs keep climbing, forcing officials to ask for more savings. The Select Board approved a letter asking the region

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