CIVIC COALITION

Nov 23 2025POLITICS

South Africa's Local Elections: A Test for the Ruling Party

South Africa is gearing up for municipal elections that could shake things up for the ruling coalition. The African National Congress (ANC), the biggest party in this group, is under pressure to show it can still win over voters. If they don't do well, they might need to change how they govern. The deputy finance minister, Ashor Sarupen, thinks the coalition can hol...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 20 2025POLITICS

Germany's Tough Talk on China: Balancing Trade and Security

Germany is walking a fine line with China. On one side, they want to keep trade open. On the other, they don't want to be left behind. The German Finance Minister, Lars Klingbeil, recently visited China. He made it clear that while he supports free markets, competition should be fair. He pointed out that European steelmakers are struggling. Chinese steel, often backe...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 20 2025EDUCATION

What If All Americans Took the Citizenship Test?

The U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services recently introduced a tougher civics test for immigrants seeking citizenship. This test now includes more challenging questions, such as naming five of America's original states and explaining the significance of the Federalist Papers. While this might seem like a way to make it harder for immigrants to become citizens, ...

reading time about 2 minutes
Nov 19 2025POLITICS

Texas' Redrawn Map Faces Legal Hurdles

A recent court decision has put a halt to Texas' new congressional map, which was designed by Republicans to strengthen their hold on the House of Representatives. The ruling, made by a panel of federal judges, including Judge Jeffrey Brown, who was appointed by former President Donald Trump, has ordered Texas to use the previous map from 2021 instead. The court foun...

reading time about 3 minutes
Nov 18 2025POLITICS

Grassroots Action: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Change

Grassroots activism is a powerful way to create change in a community. It involves identifying a problem, gathering facts, and persuading decision-makers. But it's not always easy. It takes time, effort, and strategy. First, you need to identify the problem. It should be something that affects a lot of people, not just one person. It should also be something that ca...

reading time about 2 minutes
Nov 18 2025EDUCATION

A Judge Takes on a New Role at UF

Charles Canady, a well-known Florida Supreme Court Justice, is stepping into a new position. He will lead the Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida (UF). This move comes after interim director Robert Ingram's one-year term wraps up. Canady brings a wealth of experience to this role. He has been a justice since 2008 and has ev...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 17 2025POLITICS

ICE's Digital Eyes: How Social Media Surveillance Could Change Everything

ICE, the U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is planning to keep a constant eye on social media. They want private companies to watch platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram all day and night. This isn't just about checking a few posts here and there. It's about turning everyday online activity into potential evidence for ICE. ICE already uses tools t...

reading time about 2 minutes
Nov 17 2025BUSINESS

New Faces in Minnesota: Who's Joining the Local Scene?

Minnesota is seeing some fresh faces in various industries. Roxane Battle, a familiar face from local TV, has taken on a new role. She's now the vice president of communications and strategic initiatives at the Women's Foundation of Minnesota. This organization focuses on grants, research, and policy changes. Battle's background in media might bring a new perspective...

reading time about 3 minutes
Nov 17 2025ENTERTAINMENT

Fun and Learning in Northeast Ohio: A Week of Events

Northeast Ohio is buzzing with activities this week, from educational talks to live performances. On November 16, the Astronomy Club of Akron is hosting a talk by Robert Harmon from Ohio Wesleyan University. He will discuss solar physics and starspots, a great chance to learn about the sun and other stars. Music lovers have plenty to choose from. Warren Miller's "SN...

reading time about 2 minutes
Nov 16 2025BUSINESS

Erie's Unsung Hero: James Sherrod's Legacy

James Sherrod, a dedicated leader in Erie, Pennsylvania, passed away at the age of 63. He was known for his work as the executive director of the Martin Luther King Center, a role he held since 2008. Sherrod was a driving force behind the revitalization of Erie's west bayfront neighborhoods. He collaborated with city and state officials, as well as local organization...

reading time about 1 minute