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Apr 07 2026POLITICS

Trump Pushes for Record Defense Spend as Pentagon Eyes New High‑End Weapons

The U. S. administration is asking Congress for the biggest defense budget hike in 75 years, aiming to reshape the military’s industrial base and introduce cutting‑edge systems. The proposal includes a 44 % rise in the overall budget for fiscal year 2027, starting this October, and a 77 % jump in

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Apr 07 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Unusual Beetle Hanging Above Highway Sparks Student Prank Alert

A red Volkswagen Beetle shell has been dangled from a cliff overlooking a British Columbia road, and authorities say engineering students likely pulled the stunt. The provincial government has asked people to keep their distance from the exposed rock face while park officials plan to recover the car

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Apr 07 2026SCIENCE

Breaking the wind: what the science of flatulence really tells us

The study that tried to settle the great gas debate started with beans, sugar water, and a very weird setup. Sixteen volunteers ate foods known to turn stomachs into bioreactors, then sat in a lab while tubes were taped to their backsides. Yes, the goal was flatulence. No, the researchers weren’t jo

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Apr 07 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Inside Springfield Museums: Where Art Meets Blooms for a Spring Spectacle

Every April, the Springfield Museums transform into a vibrant garden of creativity during the Festival of Flowers. Unlike outdoor spring blooms, this event turns indoor spaces into a colorful showcase of floral artistry. Local florists and garden club members craft 54 unique arrangements, each inspi

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Apr 07 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Dancing for Dollars: How a 70s Disco Hit Became a Gen Z Wealth Hack

A 1979 disco anthem is getting a modern twist as Gen Z’s go-to tool for attracting money. Anita Ward’s “Ring My Bell” isn’t just a nostalgic throwback—it’s being framed as a sonic charm for financial luck. TikTok users swear by looping the track daily, mixing it with affirmations like “cancel my deb

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Apr 07 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Wrestling Fans in Unexpected Places

Celebrities often get labeled by their most famous roles, but many have a secret passion for wrestling that surprises fans. This isn’t just about watching occasional matches—some stars have built decades-long relationships with the sport. From childhood collectibles to surprise appearances at live e

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Apr 07 2026HEALTH

Driving Self-Assessments: When Older Adults Misjudge Their Skills

Many older drivers struggle with a simple question: how well do they really drive? Research reveals a surprising pattern—some believe they're sharper than they are, while others doubt themselves unnecessarily. This mismatch between self-perception and reality isn't just about driving; it affects saf

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Apr 07 2026EDUCATION

Why academic debates need more people like Gordon

Gordon has spent years pushing academic discussions forward. Not by avoiding tough topics but by diving right into them. He doesn’t just present ideas—he tests them, challenges them, and makes sure they hold up under scrutiny. That approach has shaped how experts view mood disorders, especially bipo

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Apr 07 2026EDUCATION

Teachers Gather for Fresh Ideas in Physical Education

Area educators are getting a chance to refresh their teaching toolkit next spring. A new event in Eau Claire will bring together gym teachers, health instructors, and adaptive PE specialists for a day of workshops and talks. Instead of just listening to lectures, teachers will explore hands-on topic

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Apr 07 2026FINANCE

New student loan plans: what borrowers in Alabama need to check now

The federal government has just replaced the old SAVE plan with two fresh repayment options under the RISE program, and anyone with a federal student loan has about three months to pick one. Instead of the SAVE plan’s promise of smaller payments and no extra interest, borrowers now face a simpler ch

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