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How to Host a Book Club Meeting Outdoors

5 months 2 weeks ago
What if the next great literary conversation took place under an open sky rather than within four walls? Hosting a book club meeting outdoors can transform the typical gathering into a memorable experience, blending the joy of reading with fresh air, natural light, and a relaxed atmosphere. But creating the perfect outdoor book club requires thoughtful planning to ensure comfort, engagement, and a seamless conversation flow. Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Venue Selecting the right location is the foundation of a successful outdoor book club meeting. Consider spaces that offer both aesthetic appeal and functional convenience. Parks and Public Gardens: These spaces often provide picnic tables, benches, and ample shade. For example, a local botanical garden can infuse the meeting with tranquil surroundings that stimulate thoughtful discussion. Backyards or Private Gardens: Hosting at a member’s home allows for greater control over amenities such as seating arrangements, lighting,

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Supreme Court opens door to large-scale federal layoffs

5 months 2 weeks ago
The U.S. Supreme Court late Tuesday lifted lower court injunctions that had blocked attempts by President Donald Trump and his DOGE Service to restructure the federal government. Labor unions, advocates and local governments that sued to block the cuts said the president exceeded his authority with the executive order by moving to dismantle the federal […]
Danielle J. Brown, Sam Gauntt

This Day in History on July 9: Washington, D.C. Established as Nation's Capital

5 months 2 weeks ago
July 9 has been a day of remarkable events across the globe, marking significant turning points in history, culture, and science. Moving back in time, July 9 witnessed the birth of the United States' first capital. In 1790, the Residence Act was signed, which established Washington, D.C., as the nation’s capital. The significance of this decision cannot be overstated, as it laid the foundation for the political center of the United States, a city designed specifically to serve as a symbol of democracy and federal governance. In the realm of science and exploration, July 9 has its own share of milestones. On this day in 1962, Telstar 1, the world's first active communications satellite, was launched into orbit. This breakthrough ushered in a new era of global telecommunications, enabling live broadcasts and data transmissions across continents—a precursor to the interconnected world we experience today. July 9 has also been marked by significant cultural moments. For instance

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Abbott: Special session may address warnings after deadly Texas floods

5 months 2 weeks ago
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- State lawmakers could soon be back at the Capitol considering better warnings for floods in Texas. Just days after the Guadalupe River rushed over its banks and killed dozens in Kerr County, Gov. Greg Abbott confirmed to reporters a looming special session will focus on this critical issue. “(It’s) the way to [...]
Kelly Wiley

Iowa State University researchers find legal deserts across U.S.

5 months 2 weeks ago
Small towns experiencing population decline often see staples like grocery stores, day cares and schools close, Iowa State University sociology professor David Peters said, leading to less access and hardship. One less-known, missing part of many of these communities is legal representation, Peters said, which leaves people without recourse to handle problems of that nature […]
Brooklyn Draisey

MU Health Care mulls new coverage offer from Anthem

5 months 2 weeks ago
MU Health Care confirmed Tuesday that it is reviewing a new offer from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield that could restore insurance coverage to an estimated 90,000 Missourians. The news comes a week after a state Senate hearing failed to result in any sort of agreement between the two actors. The initial deadline for negotiations […]
Tyler Kirwan

Trump Globally Launches New Truth+ ‘Video Streaming Service’ That’s Just Right Wing Propaganda And Gibberish

5 months 2 weeks ago
Trump recently launched a “wireless phone service,” which as we mentioned, isn’t so much a real phone service as it is a quick licensing agreement and a lazy rebranding of other services. He’s also exploiting the presidency by launching a vast array of new, clumsily branded Trump home goods, including a new Trump-branded Instantpot. If […]
Karl Bode