MPA

Apr 22 2026HEALTH

Why porn habits don’t always match what people believe

Porn use is everywhere online, but the problems it causes aren’t equally understood. Some people feel they watch too much or it messes with their life, yet research mostly looks at small, similar groups. Most studies don’t dig into why some folks struggle more than others. A big idea called the Mor

reading time less than a minute
Apr 22 2026BUSINESS

Gas prices slip as warmth lingers and storage keeps growing

Natural gas prices nudged lower this week as warmer-than-usual air spread across much of the country. With fewer homes firing up furnaces and less demand from power plants, buyers have little reason to rush and bid up prices. At the same time, the nation’s storage tanks are already brimming, runnin

reading time less than a minute
Apr 21 2026POLITICS

US Leads G20 Talks to Protect Food and Fertilizer Amid Middle East War

The United States is stepping up as the chair of the Group of 20 (G20) to organize more meetings that will focus on how the war in the Middle East is hurting food supplies and fertilizer availability. The U. S. wants other major economies, including Russia and China, to act together with the Interna

reading time less than a minute
Apr 20 2026HEALTH

The Power of Parties for Kids' Health

Every spring, Virginia Beach turns into a stage for something bigger than just a good time. A night of music, food, and celebration brings people together to raise money for kids born with cleft lips and palates. The event is more than a party—it’s a fundraiser for a group that fixes these birth def

reading time less than a minute
Apr 20 2026CELEBRITIES

How a Funny Guy Changed What We Think Is Funny

Back in the ’80s, comedy was like a pizza with just cheese—everyone expected a plain slice and didn’t ask for toppings. Then Eddie Murphy walked in and started adding funny meat, extra sauce, and a side of personality. Instead of playing characters that faded into the background like cardboard cutou

reading time less than a minute
Apr 19 2026ENVIRONMENT

LECA Trash on Portugal’s Coast: A Hidden Problem

A new study shows that lightweight expanded clay aggregates, a common building material, are flooding Portugal’s beaches. Researchers walked along 50‑meter stretches of shore at eight different spots around Aveiro, from open ocean dunes to sheltered lagoon edges and a busy port channel. At eve

reading time less than a minute
Apr 19 2026OPINION

Maine’s Future: Turning AI Into a Job‑Boosting Tool

The buzz around artificial intelligence (AI) keeps growing, with some experts warning that machines could replace millions of workers across the United States. While fears are real, other voices argue that new tech will also create fresh roles requiring different skills. The question for Maine is ho

reading time less than a minute
Apr 19 2026POLITICS

Why Washington’s Campaign Watchdog Team is Struggling to Stay Afloat

Two spots on Washington state’s Public Disclosure Commission are gathering dust while an important task waits unfinished. This watchdog group makes sure campaign dollars flow through clear pipes—so voters know who is backing each candidate. Yet with filing for the 2026 races opening in just three we

reading time less than a minute
Apr 19 2026HISTORY

Local heroes: How St. Louis shaped the nation

St. Louis may be known for its iconic arch and deep-fried foods, but its real claim to fame might be the people who grew up there and went on to leave a mark on the whole country. From scientists to artists, this city has produced individuals who didn’t just blend into the background. Take Chuck Ber

reading time less than a minute
Apr 18 2026ENVIRONMENT

Data Centers in Virginia: A Hidden Health Cost

Virginia hosts the world’s biggest cluster of data centers, a stretch known as “Data Center Alley. ” The region grew because it sits close to Washington, D. C. , offers cheap land, and has long‑standing tax breaks. Today, most of these facilities are in Loudoun, Prince William and Fairfax counties,

reading time less than a minute