PHILOMENA V MANTELLA

Apr 20 2026EDUCATION

How Virginia schools are turning snow days into learning days

Virginia schools have quietly transformed how they handle winter weather in recent years. Instead of canceling classes entirely, many now use remote learning to keep students on track. This shift didn’t happen overnight—it took time, trial, and lessons from the pandemic. Before, schools often had to

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Apr 19 2026HEALTH

Your vitamin D level today might shape how your brain ages tomorrow

Vitamin D isn’t just about keeping bones strong—it could also guard your brain against dementia. A recent study tracked almost 800 adults from their 30s and 40s, measuring their vitamin D levels and later scanning their brains for signs of Alzheimer’s. Those with higher levels had noticeably less ta

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Apr 18 2026ENVIRONMENT

Data Centers in Virginia: A Hidden Health Cost

Virginia hosts the world’s biggest cluster of data centers, a stretch known as “Data Center Alley. ” The region grew because it sits close to Washington, D. C. , offers cheap land, and has long‑standing tax breaks. Today, most of these facilities are in Loudoun, Prince William and Fairfax counties,

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Apr 18 2026BUSINESS

Slow‑Fire Smiles: A Veteran’s Quest for Flavor

Veteran Cody Krepline turned his love of slow‑cooked meats into a thriving food truck called Sloppy Hog BBQ. After serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, he found that preparing barbecue for his fellow soldiers soothed the memories of war. When he left the National Guard, he decided to share that comfort

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Apr 18 2026CELEBRITIES

Birthdays on April 17: Stars, Fun Facts and More

Victoria Beckham turns 52 today. She is known for her music career and now runs a beauty brand that sells makeup. Rooney Mara, who was born on April 17, is 41 years old. She lent her voice to a documentary about animals in 2018. Sean Bean celebrates his 67th birthday. He once played the hero O

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Apr 14 2026HEALTH

Dick Vitale faces new health challenge with melanoma diagnosis

Veteran sports commentator Dick Vitale recently shared news about his latest health test results. After undergoing multiple scans, including PET, CAT, and MRI tests, doctors found abnormalities in his lung and liver. A biopsy confirmed melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs.

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Apr 14 2026SPORTS

Game scores and schedules to kick off Vermont’s 2026 spring sports week

Vermont’s high school teams are back on the field this spring, with scores, schedules, and fresh matchups to watch. Baseball, softball, lacrosse, tennis, track, and Ultimate all see action, giving athletes and fans plenty to follow. Coaches share results quickly so families can track their teams wit

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Apr 14 2026POLITICS

Catholic Leader Questions Pope’s Role in US Decisions

Vice President JD Vance, a prominent Catholic in the Trump administration, recently said the pope should avoid interfering with American policy. Speaking on Fox News, he suggested the Vatican focus on church matters instead of political debates. His comments came after a public fight between Preside

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Apr 14 2026FINANCE

Oil Stock Gets a Boost: Why Analysts Are Betting Big on Viper Energy

Viper Energy saw a small rise in stock value after an investment firm raised its rating. Jefferies now suggests buying shares, pushing the price target from $43 to $55. The move comes as oil prices stay high, and experts believe the company is in a strong spot to profit. But why does this matter now

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Apr 14 2026POLITICS

Hungary Votes Out Its Longtime Leader

Viktor Orbán, Hungary’s prime minister for over a decade, once seemed unstoppable. He won elections easily, called liberal democracy outdated years before others, and shaped Hungary’s direction with ease. But Sunday’s vote proved his winning streak wasn’t forever. A new opposition party, led by Pete

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