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Apr 26 2026EDUCATION

LA schools try again to balance support for Black students while avoiding race-based rules

In April, a conservative group filed a second civil rights complaint against a Los Angeles school program designed for Black students, claiming the district still gives race-based advantages despite saying it ended that practice. The U. S. Department of Education’s civil rights office recently agree

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Apr 26 2026POLITICS

Why Alaska's Pension Plan Rewrite Gets Controversial Fast

Alaska’s government is updating how thousands of public workers save for retirement—but not everyone likes the changes. A new bill pushes the state to bring back guaranteed pensions after an old system collapsed in 2006. That earlier plan failed because lawmakers didn’t pay enough into it, leaving w

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Apr 26 2026FINANCE

Yorkville’s budget plan for 2027: What’s inside and why it matters

Yorkville is getting ready for its financial future with a 2027 budget that promises a steady five-year outlook. The city has set aside $27. 9 million for its general fund, enough to cover its yearly expenses without running short. This budget passed smoothly during an April meeting, kicking off a n

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Apr 26 2026OPINION

Supporting families helps kids too

A struggling child often shows it through behavior before words. Shouting, withdrawal, or constant fidgeting can signal deeper struggles that a quick scolding won’t fix. Grown-ups need tools to interpret these signals and respond—not with punishment, but with understanding. In North Carolina, over 1

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Apr 26 2026LIFESTYLE

Moving to Topeka: Why It Became Home for a Quarter Century

In 1999, a family left Nebraska not because they were running away, but because they felt they’d found something better. Topeka offered real benefits: homes they could afford, jobs that paid the bills, and quick trips to bigger cities like Lawrence or Kansas City. Yet the real appeal wasn’t just pra

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Apr 26 2026POLITICS

Could Maine handle a political outsider turning things around?

Maine isn't just dealing with high costs and weak schools – it's facing deeper issues. Over 8 years, the state budget ballooned by almost double, hitting $14. 5 billion in 2024. But while money grew, reading scores for students dropped shockingly low, with only about a quarter reading at their grade

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Apr 26 2026BUSINESS

Why Car Prices Hit Harder Than Ever Before

A few decades ago, buying a basic car meant saving up for maybe a couple of months. Today, even a simple, no-frills model can cost as much as a small house did back then. What changed? A big part of it comes from layers of rules set by governments. Each layer, whether about safety, how much fuel a c

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Apr 26 2026ENTERTAINMENT

When the past catches up with us

Life can change in a heartbeat, and recent events show just how unpredictable it is. A respected actress known for her roles in popular films passed away suddenly at 57. Her family remembers her as someone who loved deeply, especially her children. Meanwhile, doctors are still figuring out what happ

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Apr 26 2026POLITICS

Downtown Asheville struggles with growing issues after years of planning failures

Asheville used to be known for its cozy mountain vibe, craft breweries, and scenic views. But now, many locals avoid the downtown area because of problems like public drinking, aggressive panhandling, and makeshift camps. Some residents say the city feels unsafe, especially after Hurricane Helene in

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Apr 26 2026SPORTS

Kansas City Current’s Stunning Rise: From Bottom to $325 Million

Back in 2021, the Kansas City Current had one of the worst records in the National Women’s Soccer League, finishing dead last. Instead of walking away, co-owner Brittany Mahomes doubled down. That same year, she and her team announced plans for a $70 million privately funded stadium along the Kansas

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