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Apr 09 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Comedy’s tough call: when humor crosses the line

A joke lands in a crowded room. Laughter fills the air—until someone realizes the punchline hit harder than expected. That’s what happened when a late-night show made a comment about a public figure’s past. The crowd laughed, but the joke reopened an old wound tied to a specific location. Comedy oft

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Apr 09 2026BUSINESS

Big Money Steps Up for Nonprofits When Others Pull Back

In a year when many big companies cut back on charity work, one major insurance firm is making a bold move. Liberty Mutual Insurance, known mostly for cars and property policies, just created a $600 million fund meant to keep giving money to nonprofits year after year. This endowment isn’t a reactio

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Apr 09 2026SCIENCE

Exploring the Big Ideas Hiding in Tiny Particles and Space

Some of the most confusing scientific concepts—like how the universe began or how gravity really works—can feel like they belong only in complicated textbooks. But an innovative approach turns these heavy topics into something more relatable. By mixing science with storytelling, one author shows how

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Apr 09 2026OPINION

Science clues that make some scientists rethink atheism

Astronauts floating above Earth often come back feeling something big, not just in their bones but in their beliefs. The view of our tiny blue planet against the endless dark seems to stretch their thoughts beyond numbers and equations. Reports from space travelers over decades show this pattern—fro

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Apr 09 2026SPORTS

Why the Panthers Might Swap a Draft Pick for a Struggling Star

The Carolina Panthers face a key decision this offseason. They have a young quarterback needing reliable targets. One way to help is by adding a tight end. Some analysts suggest trading for Cole Kmet, a 28-year-old Chicago Bears player. He’s on a four-year deal worth $50 million, but his recent stat

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Apr 09 2026ENTERTAINMENT

When Music and Health Care Join Forces

A band known for bold performances just teamed up with a major health organization to offer something unexpected at their concerts. Florence + the Machine, famous for their dramatic stage shows, is working with Planned Parenthood to set up booths at some tour stops. These booths won’t sell merch—the

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Apr 09 2026HEALTH

Should kids get their measles shot earlier in Michigan?

Michigan has seen a handful of measles cases pop up recently, with seven in Washtenaw County and one in Monroe County. Health experts are urging parents in seven counties to think about giving their babies a measles vaccine sooner than usual. Normally, kids get their first dose around their first bi

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Apr 09 2026OPINION

Why US sanctions on Cuba could be a violation of international law

In recent years, the US has tightened its grip on Cuba through economic measures that go beyond just trade restrictions. These policies cut off essential oil supplies, which power most of Cuba’s electricity—including hospitals. Without fuel, blackouts worsen, surgeries get delayed, and life-saving t

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Apr 09 2026POLITICS

China's Moon Plan: Why 2030 Could Be a Gamechanger

China is racing to land astronauts on the moon by 2030, and it’s not just about planting a flag. While NASA’s Artemis program grabs headlines with crewed flybys, Beijing’s ambition reflects a bigger push for space leadership—one that mixes technical skill, strategic timing, and quiet rivalry. The c

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Apr 09 2026HEALTH

Free Health Checks Coming to Flint

Flint is rolling out a free health fair downtown next month. On April 9, from 10 AM to 2 PM, the Genesee County Health Department and the University of Michigan-Flint team up to run their yearly Public Health Expo at the county administration building on Saginaw Street. Anyone can walk in for quick

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