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Apr 12 2026POLITICS

Virginia's Future: Tax Policies Spark Debate Over Business Flight

The debate over Virginia’s economic direction heated up recently as political figures traded jabs over state taxes. A key voice in the conversation came from a former president, who used a social media platform to argue that rising taxes under the current governor could push businesses and wealthy r

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Apr 12 2026POLITICS

Is Maine’s new budget plan really a smart move?

Maine is facing real struggles right now. High living costs—especially for housing and energy—are squeezing families and businesses alike. Many people have left for other states with lower taxes and better opportunities. Small businesses, which keep local economies alive, are feeling the pinch too.

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Apr 11 2026POLITICS

Taiwan Sees Chinese Fighters While Leaders Meet

Taiwan’s defence office reported that on Friday, 16 Chinese military jets flew close to the island between mid‑morning and mid‑afternoon, a day when Chinese President Xi Jinping met with the chairwoman of Taiwan’s main opposition party in Beijing. The meeting, held at 11 a. m. , was framed by the Ta

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Apr 11 2026POLITICS

Ukraine’s Drone Tech Could Safeguard the Hormuz Strait

Britain says Ukraine can help keep the vital oil route in the Strait of Hormuz safe. The country’s advanced drones are praised as some of the best worldwide. The UK has brought together more than 30 nations to discuss reopening the strait after Iran blocked it following attacks by the US and Isra

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Apr 11 2026BUSINESS

Reeves Cake Shop: A Sweet Farewell After Half a Century

The final chapter of Reeves Cake Shop begins this December, ending 50 years of baking that started in 1976. The family bakery, long a local favorite, will close when the children of founder Dolores Reeves reach retirement age. Dolores, 93, began her culinary journey at the tender age of twelve in

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Apr 11 2026SCIENCE

NASA’s Real‑Life TIE Fighters: From Ion Engines to Light‑Speed Dreams

NASA’s space programs and the Star Wars universe share more than a fan base. The TIE fighter, famous for its sleek twin‑engine design and blue ion trails, actually reflects technologies NASA has tested. The name “TIE” is short for Twin Ion Engines, a concept that first appeared in 1990s jet‑propulsi

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Apr 11 2026BUSINESS

New Mexican Food Spot Set to Open in Medford

A new Mexican grill will soon open its second branch on 495 Riverside Ave. in Medford’s Wellington area, taking over a former Smashburger site that shut down last January after more than ten years. The owners, led by Marycela Rodenzo, have secured a Common Victualler License from the city council, w

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Apr 11 2026BUSINESS

Kuku Smith’s Battle to Keep Her Beauty Store Alive

Kuku Smith stands outside her shop on Georgia Avenue, holding up T‑shirts that cost $25 each. The owner of a small beauty supply store that opened in 2019 is fighting an eviction notice while trying to keep her business running. She says the pandemic hit hard because she had just started and was

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Apr 11 2026EDUCATION

Summer Days That Keep Kids Growing

The heat is coming, and many families look forward to trips, playtime, and a break from school. But for young children, the pause in classroom life can shake up routines that give them security and readiness to learn. Community Education steps in with a mix of programs that keep kids active, healthy

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Apr 11 2026CRYPTO

Binance Gives UAE Workers a Choice to Move or Stay

Binance has offered about 1, 000 employees in the United Arab Emirates the chance to relocate temporarily to cities such as Hong Kong, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok because of growing tensions in the region. The company said it wanted to give staff flexibility while keeping operations smooth, as i

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