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May 09 2026POLITICS

Costa Rica’s New President Keeps a Familiar Face in Power

Laura Fernández took the oath of office as Costa Rica’s head of state, but she didn’t go it alone. The former president, Rodrigo Chaves, who had a close relationship with the former U. S. President Donald Trump, remains on the payroll as both Minister of the Presidency and Finance. Chaves’ dual rol

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May 09 2026POLITICS

City Cuts Permitting Rules to Boost New Music Spots

Reno’s planning board decided on Thursday to try a new rule that makes it easier for fresh music venues to open in downtown and Midtown. The plan removes the need for a conditional‑use permit when a new business wants to host indoor live shows after 11 p. m. The city still requires permits for outdo

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May 09 2026POLITICS

DeepMind Workers Vote to Unionize Over Military AI Use

Hundreds of engineers at Google DeepMind’s London office decided to form a union after worries that their AI tools are being used by U. S. and Israeli armed forces. The vote, held on May 5, showed 98 % support for recognizing the Communication Workers Union and Unite as their representatives. This c

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May 09 2026LIFESTYLE

A Fresh Take on Beauty: Where Experts and Customers Learn Together

Beauty isn’t just about looking good anymore. Two top hairstylists have turned that idea on its head by creating a place where everyone—from professionals to casual users—can learn, share, and grow together. Instead of keeping beauty knowledge locked behind closed doors, this event flips the script

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May 09 2026FINANCE

China now allows two more firms to audit Hong Kong-listed firms

Starting mid-May, Chinese companies trading in Hong Kong will have more options when picking auditors. The country’s finance and stock market watchdogs just greenlit RSM and Baker Tilly, two accounting firms based in China, to handle these audits. This move follows a 2025 decision to expand the list

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May 09 2026RELIGION

Finding Common Ground: When Religious Leaders Put Differences Aside

A gathering in Chicago last week brought together people who usually don’t share the same stage. Imams, rabbis, and pastors sat together—not to debate their beliefs, but to talk about how they could work together. The event wasn’t about converting anyone or changing minds. Instead, it focused on sha

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May 09 2026POLITICS

When good teachers get cut while flashy projects get funded

A teacher with 14 years of experience just lost her job—not because she did anything wrong, but because the school district needed to cut costs. Across Lee County, hundreds of educators are losing contracts as budgets tighten. At one high school alone, 18 teachers and 6 support staff are gone. The d

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May 09 2026LIFESTYLE

Local fun shouldn't be overlooked this summer

The change of seasons brings predictable excitement. After a long winter, people naturally crave outdoor activities when spring arrives. Instead of waiting for perfect weather, many start planning their summer adventures early. While big trips and events sound appealing, the best experiences often s

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May 09 2026LIFESTYLE

A fresh spot in Searsport: sandwiches by day, drinks by night

After months of searching, one woman turned a closed café into a space that feels both classic and modern. The converted Coastal Cafe now hosts Scullery Made, a place where giant sandwiches rule the morning and cocktails take over after four. The owner, who grew up in restaurants, chose Searsport fo

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May 09 2026TECHNOLOGY

Apple tightens education discounts with new rules

Apple just made it harder to get discounts on its devices. The tech giant used to trust customers to say they were students, teachers, or parents when buying from its education store. Now, you have to prove it. This change started in 2022 but has spread to more countries, including the U. S. , Austr

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