OCA

Mar 26 2026BUSINESS

Verily Secures $300 Million, Shifts Ownership from Alphabet

Verily, a startup that builds AI tools for health care, just raised $300 million in new funding. The money came from a mix of investors, with Series X Capital leading the round and Google’s parent company Alphabet stepping back from its majority stake. Alphabet will stay involved, but as a min

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Mar 26 2026HEALTH

“Brain Health Starts at Home: A Personal Call to Action”

Shon Lowe’s story shows how one woman turned a family crisis into a lesson for everyone. Her mother, Terrie Montgomery, began buying the same items repeatedly and losing track of details—small signs that were easily ignored in many households. In Black communities, these hints are often swept

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Mar 25 2026POLITICS

San Diego Pushes for Film‑Industry Boost

A group of union members, producers and filmmakers gathered on the lawn outside the San Diego County Administration Building to ask for more money and support for local film work. They held a press event before speaking at the county budget meeting. Their main requests are: a film commission,

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Mar 25 2026OPINION

Money for War or Money for Life: A Fresh Look at the Iran Conflict

The U. S. is pouring huge sums into fighting Iran, with the Pentagon asking for $200 billion—more than $1, 400 per household. But that figure only scratches the surface of what the war will cost taxpayers over time. Experts say long‑term medical care for soldiers could add at least $600 billion, pus

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Mar 25 2026ENTERTAINMENT

Local stars who caught the heart of Bergen County

Folks around Bergen County seem to have a soft spot for people who made it big but still feel like neighbors. Many grew up here or spent time in the area before fame knocked. Their careers cover music, comedy, acting, and more—but what ties them together is how they stayed relatable even after reach

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Mar 24 2026POLITICS

Town Budget Talk: Residents Voice Up on Spending and Taxes

The Ridgefield Board of Finance gathered at East Ridge Middle School on March 23 to hear what the community has to say about next year’s budget. The meeting was a key step before the board finalizes its plan and sends it to voters for a May 12 vote. The board will review the town’s finances and t

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Mar 23 2026SPORTS

Swan Valley Takes the Field and Scores Big

Swan Valley started its season with a bang, sweeping Bay City Central in a doubleheader over Friday’s weekend. The first game ended 9‑0, with Jaxon Hartley dominating the mound for three innings, striking out six and giving up only one hit. He also earned the win, while Brady Stephens powered the of

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Mar 22 2026OPINION

Coaches, Parents, and Young Athletes: A New Path for Mental Health

In Colorado, a new law called “Alyssa’s Act” is being discussed. It focuses on mental health for kids who play sports. The idea came after a family tragedy involving a young athlete named Alyssa. She loved soccer and skiing, but her life ended after several concussions. Researchers say head injuries

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Mar 22 2026OPINION

Hospitals Should Stay Safe Havens for Everyone

The recent press gathering in Minneapolis highlighted a troubling trend: federal agents have begun showing up at hospitals, making it harder for people to get care. This mirrors earlier incidents where immigration officials entered schools, churches and other “sensitive places. ” Emergency rooms

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Mar 22 2026POLITICS

Local Schools Seek More Control Over Charter Budgets

In Charleston County, a group of school leaders wants state lawmakers to give local districts more say in how charter schools use their money. Daniel Prentice, the district’s chief finance officer, is urging representatives to add a clause that would require charter budgets to be approved by the

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