MATT SHAKMAN

Nov 24 2025SCIENCE

Cracking the Code: How Scientists Are Getting Better at Spotting Damage in Composite Materials

Ever wondered how scientists can tell what's happening inside materials when they start to break? It's not always easy, especially when different types of damage happen at the same time. But a new method is making waves in the world of composite materials. This method uses something called acoustic emission (AE) signals. Think of it like a material's way of screamin...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 24 2025FINANCE

High Earners: Struggling Behind the Scenes

People making big bucks aren't as comfortable as they seem. A recent study shows that many six-figure earners are just getting by. They feel stressed about money and use tricks to make ends meet. For example, 64% use rewards points for essentials, and 50% use "buy now pay later" for small purchases. These high earners also avoid spending money. Nearly half skip soci...

reading time less than a minute
Nov 24 2025CRIME

Crypto Heist: How a Simple Trick Led to a $4. 3M Theft

In June 2024, three men pulled off a bold crypto heist in the UK, making away with $4. 3 million in cryptocurrency. They dressed as delivery drivers, knocked on the door of their target, and forced their way in with a gun. The whole operation was over in a matter of minutes. The thieves knew exactly what they were doing. They had been planning the robbery for weeks,...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 24 2025OPINION

Finding Comfort in Others' Celebrations: A Different Kind of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, but what if your family isn't there to celebrate with you? For many people, holidays can be a painful reminder of what they don't have. They might feel lonely, isolated, or even bitter when surrounded by others' happy families. Some people host their own gatherings, inviting friends who are also alone. They cook, decorate, and sing...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 24 2025OPINION

Gratitude: Five Reasons to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday. It is a time to reflect on the good things in life. People often overlook the simple joys that make life special. This holiday is a chance to appreciate what we have. It is a time to think about the people who make our lives better. It is also a time to enjoy the little things that bring happiness. One reason to be thankful ...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 24 2025TECHNOLOGY

Is a Smart Bed Worth the High Price Tag for Better Sleep?

Ever thought about how much better sleep could be with a bed that adjusts to your body's needs? Smart beds are becoming popular for their ability to control temperature, but are they really worth the high cost? First, let's talk about why temperature matters for sleep. Your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, relies on temperature cues to signal when it's ti...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 24 2025POLITICS

Can a Sports Talk Host Make It in Politics?

Paul Finebaum, a well-known sports commentator, is thinking about running for the U. S. Senate in Alabama. He's been a big name in sports talk for a long time, especially in the South. Now, he's considering a big switch from sports to politics. Finebaum is 70 years old and works for the SEC Network and ESPN. He's looking at a race where other candidates include Alab...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025POLITICS

Budget Leaks: What's the Big Deal?

The government is playing a game of hide and seek with the Budget. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander says it's no big deal. But others aren't so sure. For months, the media has been buzzing with rumors about tax hikes. Businesses and consumers are left in limbo, unsure of what's coming. Former Bank of England economist Andy Haldane blames this uncertainty for the ...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025SPORTS

Football Fever: Sunday's NFL Showdowns and How to Catch Them

Sunday is packed with NFL action, and there's plenty to keep fans glued to their screens. The day kicks off with a pre-game show featuring Matthew Berry on Peacock at 11:00 AM ET. Later, the main event is the clash between the LA Rams and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at SoFi Stadium. The Rams, riding a five-game winning streak, are the top team in the NFC, while the Bucc...

reading time about 1 minute
Nov 23 2025EDUCATION

Is More Money Always Better for Schools?

In Southwestern Pennsylvania, the idea that more money equals better test scores isn't always true. Some schools spend a lot per student but don't see high test results. Why? Because it's not just about the money. Things like where the school is and who the students are make a big difference. Experts say that schools with more students who need extra help, like thos...

reading time about 1 minute