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Feb 17 2026POLITICS

Voting Rules: Who's Really Affected?

In Maryland, voters don't need to show ID when they vote. They only need it to register. This makes Maryland one of 14 states that don't require ID at the polls. Other states do, but some let people skip the photo ID if they have a good reason. Why is this a big deal? Some people think ID rules sto

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Feb 17 2026OPINION

Standing Firm: A Gym Member's Fight for Free Expression

In a bold move, a California gym-goer chose to challenge the growing trend of political intolerance. Katie Zacharia, a loyal member of a local cardio kickboxing gym, found herself at the center of a heated debate when she was asked not to wear her Trump hat during classes. The trouble started when

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Feb 17 2026EDUCATION

Columbia University Takes Action Against Staff Linked to Epstein

Columbia University has taken disciplinary action against two individuals connected to its dental school. This follows the release of documents by the Justice Department. These documents showed that the two people helped Jeffrey Epstein's girlfriend get into the school without going through the usua

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Feb 17 2026POLITICS

Ukraine Braces for More Attacks as Peace Talks Begin

Ukraine is on high alert. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy shared that intelligence suggests Russia is planning more attacks on energy sites. He believes these strikes are a tactic to complicate peace efforts. Zelenskiy made this clear in his nightly video address. Peace talks are happening in Geneva.

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Feb 17 2026WEATHER

Mississippi's Recent Tornadoes: What We Know and What's Next

Mississippi has seen a series of tornadoes recently, but the good news is that no one was hurt. There were five tornadoes confirmed, and they were not very strong. Most of them were rated EF-1, with wind speeds between 100 and 110 mph. One was an EF-0, with winds up to 85 mph. These tornadoes hit i

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Feb 16 2026ENVIRONMENT

Turning Trash into Treasure: How Old Shrink Wrap Gets a New Life

Ever wondered what happens to all that shrink wrap after it's used? It turns out, it can be turned into something new and useful. A special process called STRAP is making this possible. It takes old shrink wrap, full of inks, glue, and even bits of paper, and turns it into clean, clear plastic. Thi

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Feb 16 2026ENTERTAINMENT

The Return of Mystery Science Theater 3000: A Nostalgic Comeback

Mystery Science Theater 3000 is back, and fans are buzzing with excitement. This isn't the first time the show has been revived, but this comeback feels different. The show started small in 1988 on a local Minneapolis station. It quickly gained a following and moved to Comedy Central. The concept is

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Feb 16 2026HEALTH

How Heat Boosts Blood Flow Without Stressing the Heart

Ever wondered why you feel your heart pumping harder when you're hot? It's not just your heart working overtime. Heat can make blood flow better in certain body parts. But how? Scientists wanted to find out. They looked at how heat affects blood flow in different arteries. They did tests on eight h

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Feb 16 2026POLITICS

Ukraine's Fight for Support: Allies Step Up

Ukraine is in the middle of a tough fight. Russia is attacking both on the ground and from the air. This is making life hard for people in Ukraine, especially as winter brings freezing temperatures. The country's energy system is taking a big hit, leaving many without power. President Volodymyr Zel

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Feb 15 2026BUSINESS

Obituary Submission Guide Simplified

The paper has a clear process for placing an obituary. First, send an email to obits@pioneerpress. com with the required details: your full name, address, phone numbers and an alternate number if you have one. In the same message include the deceased’s name, a brief text for the notice, and a photo

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