Kelli Ballard

When AI leads the way. Serendipity isn't just a 2001 movie with John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, and it doesn't simply mean good luck.

Perhaps Kamala Harris is betting on the third time being the charm in her consideration to run in the 2028 presidential election. Even though she was soundly beaten twice before, that doesn't seem to discourage the former vice president from dropping hints that she's ready for another go. However, as we all know, money makes the political ring go ‘round, and it looks like Harris doesn't have the backing she needs or even once had.

Former Seattle City Councilwoman Kshama Sawant has seen a fair share – and then some – of her name in the headlines during her decade-long leadership role in the Emerald City. There doesn't seem to be a middle road for this politician – people either love or hate her. Recently, she lost her campaign for Congress, and losing is not a good look for her. There was no graceful acceptance, congratulations to the other two candidates, or even a “we'll get ‘em next time.” Instead, the independent socialist called for a “militia movement” to overthrow the “capitalist system.”

We already know that diet, exercise, sleep, and stress can play a role in aging, but scientists are finding that our social lives may belong on that list, too.

The front porch and backyard represent two very important and different aspects of American

A small token of assimilation. What is the appropriate amount of time for someone in the US to learn English? Three years? Five? How about 37?

City officials across the nation struggle to deal with the growing number of homeless people. How do lawmakers balance between being humane to the unhoused and providing safety for their constituents? Part of the problem is that many on the streets don't want help and would rather be left alone. But that doesn't help communities and businesses forced to deal with the mess and danger associated with that kind of lifestyle. But one California city has had enough and given the homeless an ultimatum: jail or help. How is that working out?

On the heels of Dr. Anthony Fauci being held in contempt of Congress, his senior adviser, Dr. David Morens, pleaded guilty to concealing federal records related to research on the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally, he faced charges that included destruction or falsification of federal records and other offenses that would have carried up to 20 years in prison per count. However, under his plea agreement, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years.

For a long time, retirement homes have allowed seniors to live in communities with other older people, in a safe environment with entertainment, meals, and even medical assistance. These facilities helped ease loneliness and provided a safe space where most needs were met. But the fad seems to be fading. The cost is growing far beyond what many elderly people can afford, and according to an AARP survey, more people wish to live out their golden years in the comfort of their own homes. But even that comes with challenges.

Nearly two centuries later, state fairs still bring communities together to compete, share skills and ideas, and celebrate hard work and self-reliance. They connect America's past with the present while passing those traditions, skills, and competitive spirit on to the future. In that way, state fairs celebrate more than blue ribbons. They celebrate the freedom to create, compete, learn, and build something better.