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Background: What's the Buzz About BRICS?

Have you heard of something called BRICS? It’s like a special club of countries! But instead of a playground club, it’s a group of important nations that work together on things like trade and helping each other out. The BRICS countries are: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

In the beginning, BRICS was just a cool idea. A smart person called an economist, someone who studies how money and businesses work, came up with the idea. He thought these five countries were all becoming super important in the world's economy. The economy is all about how people make and spend money, and how businesses sell things. He thought they’d have a big impact on the world.

So, what does BRICS *do*? Well, it's like a team! The BRICS countries get together to talk about important things like helping each other grow their businesses. They talk about trade which means buying and selling things between the countries. They also help each other with things like making sure everyone has enough food, or maybe even building new roads or schools.

It’s important to know that BRICS isn't like the United Nations. It doesn't have a big army or make rules for the whole world. It’s more about cooperation and working together. Sometimes, the leaders of these countries get together to chat and make decisions together. These meetings are called summits.

Now, you might be wondering, why would anyone be upset about a group of countries working together? Well, some people think that BRICS is a threat. They worry that this alliance could change how the world works. It is like when the new kid comes to school and they all begin working together to create a school club. That can sometimes cause tension with the people who have been there a while. This article will tell you more about why some people aren't happy about BRICS.

Behind the Headlines: What's Happening with the Stock Market?

Have you ever heard adults talking about the stock market? It’s like a giant marketplace where people buy and sell tiny pieces of companies, like buying a share of your favorite candy company! When a company does well, the value of its pieces (called stocks) goes up. If the company does poorly, the value goes down.

Lately, the news has been talking about the stock market going down, which is sometimes called a drop or a decline. This means that the value of many of these pieces of companies has decreased. One of the main reasons for this current drop is something called tariffs.

So, what are tariffs? Imagine you’re buying a cool toy from another country. A tariff is like an extra tax, or fee, that the government puts on that toy when it comes into your country. The government uses this to make sure people buy things made in their own country.

President Trump has recently announced new tariffs. This means the government is putting these extra taxes on products coming into the United States from other countries. This makes those products more expensive.

Why does this make the stock market drop? Here’s a simple explanation:

• Companies Worry: Companies that buy things from other countries or sell things to other countries might have to pay more. This could make them less profitable (earn less money).
• Investors Worry: When investors think a company might make less money, they might sell their stocks. This can cause the value of the stocks to go down.
• Jobs Report: A jobs report tells us how many people are working. If not as many people are working as expected, this creates more worry, making people think the economy might slow down, which means the stock market drops even more.

This whole situation is complicated, but hopefully, you now understand a little more about why the stock market can go up and down and what's happening in the news right now!

Background: Why Chocolate Might Be in Trouble

Have you ever wondered where your favorite chocolate bar comes from? It all starts with a yummy bean called cocoa. Cocoa beans grow on trees, mainly in warm, rainy places near the equator, like countries in Africa and South America. But lately, things have been changing, and it's making it harder to grow these special beans.

The problem is climate change. That's when the Earth's weather patterns start changing because of things like pollution. These changes mean the weather can become more extreme. We're seeing hotter temperatures and less rain in some places, and more floods in others. These extreme weather events are hurting the cocoa trees.

Here's how it works: Cocoa trees need just the right amount of sunshine and rain. Too much rain can cause flooding, which can damage the trees and the cocoa beans. Not enough rain can lead to droughts, where the land becomes dry and the trees can’t grow properly. Both of these things make it harder for farmers to grow cocoa and harvest enough beans for all the chocolate we love.

Also, some cocoa farms aren’t doing so well because of farming practices and disease. This leads to a cocoa shortage – meaning there isn’t enough cocoa being grown to meet the demand for chocolate. When there's not enough of something, like cocoa beans, the price goes up. That's why companies like Hershey are having to charge more for their chocolate. It is a simple case of supply and demand. If the supply of cocoa shrinks and the demand for chocolate stays high, the price has to increase.

Luckily, there are people working on solutions! Scientists and farmers are trying to find ways to grow cocoa trees that are better at handling extreme weather. They’re also looking at ways to improve farming, and create new options, like the chocolate alternative taste test mentioned in the article!

Background: Getting to Know Flaco Jimenez

Before we dive into the news about Flaco Jimenez, let's learn a bit about who he was and the special kind of music he played. Flaco Jimenez was a super important musician who played the accordion. Think of it like a squeezebox with buttons and keys that make music! He was famous for playing Tex-Mex music, a style that mixes music from Texas with music from Mexico.

Flaco's music was all about a style called conjunto. Conjunto music uses instruments like the accordion, the bajo sexto (a type of 12-string guitar), a bass guitar, and sometimes drums. It's upbeat, lively, and perfect for dancing! Flaco was a master of the accordion, which means he was incredibly skilled at playing it. He could make it sing, cry, and shout with his playing!

What makes Flaco's music special is that he helped take Tex-Mex and conjunto music all around the world. He wasn't just famous in Texas or even America. People everywhere enjoyed his music because it was so fun and full of life. He even played with musicians from different types of music, showing everyone how music can bring people together. He played with many artists across different genres, showing how much talent he had.

He had a long career. In fact, he played music for over 70 years! That’s a really long time. He started playing when he was just a kid, carrying on the tradition of his family. Now that's dedication!

Background: Songs of Love and the Future of Music

The news article you're about to read is about a really cool organization called Songs of Love. For a long time, they've been helping kids by writing them special, personalized songs! It's like getting a song written just for YOU, with your name, your favorite things, and your own special story.

They started doing this almost 30 years ago, which is a really long time! The songs are written for kids who are dealing with tough illnesses. Imagine how comforting it would be to have a song that cheers you up when you're not feeling well. That's what Songs of Love does.

Now, they’re doing something even more exciting! They're using something called AI, which stands for Artificial Intelligence. Don't worry, it’s not like a scary robot taking over the world! AI is actually like a very clever computer program that can learn and do things that usually only humans can do, like writing music!

Using AI lets Songs of Love help even MORE people. They are now expanding their services to help older adults, too. These adults might have memory loss. Memory loss means they might have a hard time remembering things. The personalized songs can help trigger memories and bring them joy!

So, you’ll learn how this organization is helping people with the power of music, and how they are using new technology to help even more people! Here's a quick rundown of what some important words mean:

• Nonprofit: A type of organization that is not trying to make money for itself, but instead wants to help others!
• Terminal Illness: A serious illness that cannot be cured, but Songs of Love are able to bring the joy of music to children with these illnesses.
• Personalized: Made just for one person, with their name and details.

Background: What are Tariffs and Why Should We Care?

This news article is about what might happen in a town in Michigan called Lansing. Lansing is a place where lots of people work at a big factory that makes cars. The factory is owned by a company called General Motors, or GM for short. The article is about how something called tariffs could affect the town and the people who live there.

So, what are tariffs? Imagine you love trading your favorite toys with your friends. Sometimes, countries do this too! They trade things like cars, toys, and food. A tariff is like a special tax that a country puts on goods (things) that are bought from other countries. It's like adding a little extra cost when you buy something from a different place. Think of it like this: if you wanted to buy a super-cool video game from another country, and there's a tariff, you might have to pay a bit more money for it.

Why do countries use tariffs? Well, sometimes countries want to protect their own businesses and workers. They hope that by making goods from other countries more expensive, people will buy the goods made inside their own country instead. This can help local factories and the people who work in them. But, tariffs can also make things more expensive for everyone, because the price of the goods goes up.

In this case, the article is about the impact of potential tariffs on car parts and cars themselves. Since Lansing has a large GM factory, the mayor is worried about how these new tariffs might affect the town’s economy. A town’s economy is all about how people earn money, spend money, and the types of jobs available.

Here are a few important words to know:

• Tariff: A special tax added to the price of things bought from other countries.
• General Motors (GM): A huge company that makes cars.
• Economy: The way money and jobs work in a town, city, or country.

Background: What's Happening in Alaska?

Imagine your favorite toy got broken, and no one had the money to fix it! That's a little bit like what's happening in Alaska right now with its schools. For a while, Alaska has been facing a budget crisis, which means they don't have enough money to pay for everything they need.

Alaska's government gets money from different places, like taxes and the sale of oil. Think of it like earning allowance – you use your allowance to buy things you need and want. Alaska, for a long time, was getting a lot of money from selling oil. But the price of oil has gone down, so they're not getting as much money as they used to.

Because of this, the government has had to make some tough choices. They haven't been able to save enough money, like putting some aside for a rainy day. Now, they’re having trouble paying for important things like fixing up schools, especially in rural areas.

What's the problem with the schools? Well, some are starting to fall apart! This could mean things like leaky roofs, broken windows, and even problems with the air. It's important for schools to be safe and healthy places so students and teachers can focus on learning.

Let's look at some key things:

• Budget Crisis: This means the government doesn’t have enough money to pay for all the things they need. It's like when you don't have enough money in your piggy bank.
• Rural Areas: These are places far away from big cities, often with smaller towns and fewer people.
• Government: The people and groups that make decisions for a state or country.

Background: Spiders and Their Ancient Relatives

Imagine spiders! You probably picture them in your backyard, your house, or maybe even a jungle. But have you ever wondered where they *really* came from? Scientists are always digging up clues to figure out the history of animals, and recently, they’ve made a surprising discovery about spiders' earliest ancestors!

For a long time, experts thought the first spider-like creatures (called arachnids - that's a fancy word for spiders, scorpions, and their relatives) lived on land about 450 million years ago. They figured this out by looking at fossils – these are like ancient animal skeletons and body parts that have turned into rock over millions of years. These fossils looked like early arachnids that lived on land.

But a new study is shaking things up! It suggests that maybe, just maybe, the very first arachnids actually started in the ocean! This is like saying spiders' great-great-great-grandparents were swimming in the sea. They came to this conclusion after studying the earliest arachnid brains and realizing they were similar to the brains of some sea creatures.

So, what does this mean? It means scientists are going back to the drawing board, trying to understand how these creatures adapted to life on land. This could also change how we think about the evolution of other animals, as scientists learn more about the planet's history.

Background: What's Going On?

This news story is about a woman named Christina Chapman who got in trouble with the law. She was helping North Korea, a country far away, by using a sneaky trick called identity theft. Identity theft is when someone steals another person's personal information, like their name, address, and social security number, and uses it to do something they shouldn't.

Chapman used stolen identities to help North Koreans get jobs at companies in the United States. This was illegal because it broke important rules, and it helped North Korea in ways they weren’t supposed to be helped. The government says that these actions were part of a bigger plan.

Why is this a big deal? Well, North Korea is a country that has its own rules and ways of doing things. The United States has different rules, and sometimes the two countries don’t agree on things. One important reason is that the U.S. tries to stop North Korea from doing certain things, like making dangerous weapons, so the U.S. tries to make sure North Korea follows international rules. Chapman's actions were against these rules.

Here's a breakdown of some key terms:

• Identity Theft: This is when someone steals your information and pretends to be you, often to get money or other things illegally. It’s like someone borrowing your super-secret spy code!
• North Korea: This is a country located in East Asia. It has its own government, which is separate from the U.S. government.
• Scheme: This is a plan, often a secret one, to do something usually illegal or harmful.

Background: What's a "Golden Share" Anyway?

You might be wondering what all the fuss is about U.S. Steel, and what this "golden share" is. Well, let's break it down! Imagine you're playing a game and the rules are being changed. That's kind of what's happening here, but with a big company instead of a board game.

U.S. Steel is a very old and important company that makes steel, a strong metal used to build things like buildings, cars, and even bridges. Sometimes, a company from another country, like Japan, wants to buy a company in America. This is called a merger or an acquisition. It's like when you combine your toys with a friend's toys to have even more fun!

In this case, Nippon Steel, a Japanese company, wanted to buy U.S. Steel. But, the government, especially the President, has to decide if they are okay with this because these types of mergers can affect many things. One of the concerns is that we want to keep important companies like U.S. Steel in America. The President is like the head referee, making sure the game is played fairly.

A "golden share" is a special type of ownership that the government sometimes gets when a foreign company buys a company in their country. It's like having a super-powerful "vote" in the company's decisions. The government can use this vote to make sure the company does things that are good for the country, like keeping jobs here or continuing to produce important products.

Here's how it works:

• Share: A part of ownership in a company. Think of it like a slice of a pizza; the more shares you have, the more of the company you own.
• Golden Share: A special share that the government holds, giving them extra power, like being able to veto important decisions, even if they don't own a big part of the company.

So, with a golden share, the government can step in to protect the country’s interests. In this situation, the President, even if approving the sale, could ensure that U.S. Steel continues to operate in the country and provides jobs.

Background: What's a Tariff Anyway?

Imagine you're selling your awesome homemade cookies at a school bake sale. Someone from another school wants to buy your cookies! But, the school principal says, "Wait! Before they can buy your cookies, they have to pay a little extra fee." That extra fee is similar to a tariff. A tariff is like a special tax that a country puts on things that are bought or sold from other countries. They're like a tollbooth for goods!

Why do countries use tariffs? Well, sometimes countries want to protect their own businesses. For example, if a company in your country makes amazing toys, the government might put a tariff on toys from other countries. This makes the toys from other countries more expensive, so more people might buy the toys made in your country. This way, the local toy company gets more customers and can stay in business. It's like giving them a little help!

Sometimes, tariffs are also used to encourage countries to play fair. If one country is being mean or unfair in how they trade with another country, the second country might use tariffs as a way to show they are unhappy. It's like a little "warning" to the first country.

In the news, you might hear about something called a "trade war". This happens when countries put tariffs on each other's goods. It's like two kids squabbling and taking toys away from each other! This can sometimes make things more expensive for everyone because fewer goods are traded, and prices can go up.

So, when you read about tariffs, remember they're just like fees that countries add to goods that are traded between them. It can be about protecting local businesses or getting another country to be nicer.

Background: What Are U.S. Treasuries and Why Should We Care?

Imagine you have some money you don't need to spend right away. Instead of keeping it under your bed, you could "lend" it to the U.S. government! That's basically what buying a U.S. Treasury is all about. The government promises to pay you back the money you lent, plus a little extra called interest, after a certain amount of time. Think of it like a really safe IOU from the government.

For a long, long time, these U.S. Treasuries were considered a super-safe place to put your money. They were seen as a very reliable way for people and companies to make their money grow a little bit, because the U.S. government almost always pays back its debts. It's kind of like how your parents trust banks with their money. The U.S. government uses the money from Treasuries to pay for important things like schools, roads, and the military.

So, what's changed recently? Well, people are starting to wonder if U.S. Treasuries are *quite* as safe as they used to be. This is because of things like inflation, which is when prices go up. When inflation is high, the value of the money you get back from your Treasury might not buy as much as it used to. Also, the government sometimes has to borrow a lot of money, and that can make people a little nervous. It’s a bit like if everyone in your class borrowed money from the teacher – it might make the teacher worry about how they’re going to get it all back!

Here are a few key terms to help you understand what's going on:

• Investment: Putting your money somewhere with the hope of making more money.
• U.S. Treasury: A loan to the U.S. government.
• Interest: The extra money you get back from an investment.
• Inflation: When the prices of things go up, so your money buys less.

Background: What's the Buzz About the Fantastic Four?

You might have heard the exciting news! The Fantastic Four, a super team from the Marvel Comics universe, is getting a brand-new movie! They're a group of heroes with amazing abilities, and they've been around for a long, long time. But before we talk about the new movie, let's learn some background about this awesome team.

The Fantastic Four first appeared in a comic book way back in 1961. That's even before some of your parents were born! They were created by two super-talented people, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. They're like the superheroes of the superhero world, because they came up with so many great characters.

So, who are they? The Fantastic Four are four ordinary people who gain incredible superpowers after being exposed to cosmic rays. Think of it like a special kind of energy from outer space. Each member has a unique power!

• Mr. Fantastic (Reed Richards): He can stretch his body into any shape! Imagine being as stretchy as a rubber band!
• Invisible Woman (Sue Storm): She can become invisible, and also create force fields, which are like invisible walls!
• Human Torch (Johnny Storm): He can burst into flames and fly! He’s like a human rocket!
• The Thing (Ben Grimm): He's super strong and covered in rock-like skin. He is known for his catchphrase, "It's clobberin' time!"

The Fantastic Four often face off against villains, super-powered bad guys trying to cause trouble. Their adventures are filled with exciting battles and saving the world! Marvel has made a lot of movies about them, and this new one is trying to capture the fun and excitement of the earlier comic books.

The article talks about the new movie being "whimsical." This means the movie is aiming to be fun, silly, and full of imagination – like a magical adventure! "Wide-eyed wonder" means it's supposed to be a movie that makes you feel surprised and excited about what's going to happen next!

Background: What Are Grants and Why Does This Matter?

Imagine you have a brilliant idea for a cool school project, like building a robot that cleans up the classroom. But you need money to buy the parts! That’s where grants come in. Grants are like gifts of money from organizations, in this case, the United States government, to help fund important things like education.

The government, like your parents or teachers, wants to make sure everyone has a good chance to learn. They give out these grants to help schools, teachers, and programs do just that. The Department of Education is like the grown-up team in charge of all things education, and they are in charge of giving out the grants. They use this money to pay for lots of different programs that help kids learn.

So, what are these programs? Well, the article mentions a few:

• Migrant Education: This helps children whose families move around a lot for work, like following the crops. They might need extra help adjusting to new schools.
• Services for English Language Learners: These are programs for kids who are learning to speak English. It's like a special class to help them understand and speak the language.
• Adult Education: This provides learning opportunities for grown-ups. This can include helping them get a high school diploma or learn new skills.

Sometimes, for various reasons, the government might "freeze" or temporarily stop giving out grant money. This usually happens when they need to make sure the money is being spent correctly or when there are changes to the program. Now, the Education Department is unfreezing those funds! This means that over $5 billion is going to be available for these important education programs. That's a lot of money to help kids and adults learn!

Background: What's This All About?

This news article is about a big agreement, called a settlement, between Columbia University and the Trump administration. A settlement is like when two sides in a disagreement come to an agreement, often to avoid a longer, more complicated fight in court. In this case, it involves a lot of money – a whopping $221 million!

So, why did this happen? Well, Columbia University, like many universities, gets money from the United States government to help with research, studies, and other important projects. The Trump administration had previously put a hold, or frozen, some of this money. They also stopped some of the agreements, called contracts, that Columbia had with the government.

This is where the settlement comes in. The agreement allowed both sides to say they "won." This means each side feels like they got something good out of the deal. The university gets access to that previously frozen money again. They can also get some of their stopped contracts re-started. This is important because those contracts helped fund all sorts of university programs!

Here’s a quick breakdown of some important words:

• Settlement: An agreement that resolves a problem, often to stop things from going to court.
• Contracts: Official agreements between two or more people or groups, often outlining what each side will do.
• Federal Funds: Money provided by the government of the United States.

Background: What's Happening with Education?

Have you ever wondered how the government decides what happens in schools? It’s a bit like a giant game of teamwork! The United States government, especially the people who work in the Trump administration, has a big say in how schools are run. They help decide things like how much money schools get, and what kids learn. This background section will help you understand what's going on in the world of education.

The federal government (that’s the U.S. government) doesn’t control every single thing about your school. That’s usually the job of your state and local governments. But, the federal government gives money, called funding, to help schools pay for things like teachers, books, and computers. They also set some policies (rules) about things like testing and special programs to make sure everyone gets a fair chance to learn.

When a new administration (like the Trump administration) takes over, they might want to make some changes. They have different ideas about how things should work, and they can influence the federal government's priorities. For example, the new administration might suggest that money be given out to schools differently.

One important job of the Trump administration is choosing a Secretary of Education. This person is in charge of the Department of Education and helps make the decisions about schools. When a new Secretary of Education is appointed, they might suggest their own new education policies.

The changes the Trump administration makes can affect many things:

• Policy: This means a plan or a set of rules. For instance, a new policy might focus on how much money is given to different schools.
• Funding: This is money that is used to pay for schools. The government gives funds to different schools.
• Administration: This means the team of people working in the government. The administration includes the President and the Secretary of Education.

Remember, these changes are often about making sure schools are working well and that all kids get a good education! It's a continuing process, with decisions being made all the time to improve schools.

Background: Growing Corals Like Tiny Trees!

Imagine a garden, but instead of flowers and vegetables, it’s full of amazing, colorful underwater creatures called corals. That's kind of what a coral nursery is like! It's a special place where scientists grow new coral to help fix damaged coral reefs. Remember our article mentions the Florida Keys? They are a group of islands surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, but sometimes these reefs get hurt.

Why do reefs get hurt? Well, one of the biggest problems is that the ocean water is getting too warm. This can cause coral bleaching. Think of it like a tree getting sick from too much sun – it loses its color and can't survive. Other things, like pollution and big storms, can also damage reefs. That's where the coral nursery comes in!

Scientists take small pieces of healthy coral and grow them in the nursery. They carefully tend to these little pieces, giving them the right amount of sunlight and food, so they grow bigger. They often use special structures, like underwater trees or frames, to help the corals grow and to keep them safe from predators. This is often called fragmentation - cutting the coral into smaller pieces to help them spread.

• Coral: Small animals that build hard skeletons, which form coral reefs.
• Coral Bleaching: When corals become stressed and lose their color, often because of warm water. They might die if the water doesn't cool down.
• Reef: A collection of coral skeletons that form a habitat for fish and other sea creatures.
• Nursery: A protected place where scientists help corals grow, sort of like a garden for corals!

Once the corals are big and strong, the scientists carefully replant them back onto the damaged reefs. This helps the reefs recover and gives the fish and other sea creatures a safe place to live again. It's like helping a forest regrow after a fire!

Background: What You Need to Know About Vaccines

This news story is about a person named Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (or RFK Jr.) and how his ideas about vaccines might affect people's health in the United States. But before we dive into the details, let's get some background information on what vaccines are and why they're important!

Vaccines are like tiny superheroes that help your body fight off germs, like viruses and bacteria. These germs can make you sick, causing things like the flu, measles, or chickenpox. Vaccines work by teaching your body how to recognize and defeat these germs *before* you actually get sick. They do this by introducing a weakened or inactive version of the germ to your body. Your body then builds up defenses, called antibodies, that will protect you if you encounter the real germ later.

Over many years, scientists have developed vaccines for lots of serious diseases. Thanks to vaccines, diseases that used to make a lot of people very sick, or even kill them, are now much less common. For example, measles used to be a common childhood illness, but now, because of the measles vaccine, it rarely happens in the United States.

RFK Jr. has shared some different ideas about vaccines. He has voiced doubts about the safety of the vaccines that have been studied and tested for many years. The scientists and doctors in the story, like those at NPR (the news organization) are exploring how his ideas might affect how vaccines are used in America.

Here are a few key terms to help you understand the story better:

• Vaccines: Medicines that protect you from getting sick by helping your body fight off germs.
• Germs: Tiny things, like viruses and bacteria, that can make you sick.
• Antibodies: Special soldiers in your body that fight off germs.

Background: What's Happening with Vaccines?

Sometimes, things change with how we get information about keeping healthy, like getting shots, also known as vaccines. Vaccines help protect us from getting sick by teaching our bodies how to fight off germs (tiny things that can make you sick). This is especially important for kids!

Right now, a government worker called the Health Secretary (a person in charge of making sure we stay healthy) is changing how some people decide which vaccines are recommended. Imagine it like this: there are scientists who study which vaccines are the best and most helpful, and they give advice to the government. The Health Secretary’s job is to listen to this advice and make decisions about what vaccines kids should get. He is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Because of these changes, some parents are getting worried. They're concerned that the recommended vaccines could change, or that it might become harder to get their children vaccinated. This is because they want to make sure their kids are protected against diseases that vaccines can prevent.

So, some parents are choosing to get their children vaccinated now. They're doing this because they are following doctors' advice and want to make sure their kids are protected. This is because vaccines are very important, especially for children, as their bodies are still developing.

Background: What is Malaria and Why Should We Care?

Imagine a tiny, sneaky creature that can make you really sick. That's kind of what the malaria parasite is like! Malaria is a disease that's spread by infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are like tiny flying syringes that bite people and pass on the parasite into their blood.

When the malaria parasite gets into your body, it can cause a bunch of problems. You might feel like you have a really bad flu, with fevers, chills, headaches, and feeling very tired. If malaria isn't treated, it can be very dangerous, and in some cases, even deadly. That's why scientists are always working hard to find ways to stop the spread of malaria.

Malaria mainly happens in warm, tropical places where there are lots of mosquitoes, like parts of Africa, Asia, and South America. Because of the way the parasite spreads through mosquitoes, we need to understand both the parasite and the mosquitoes to fight this disease. This is where the new research comes in!

Fighting malaria is like a teamwork game. Here are some of the things people do to protect themselves:

• Mosquito Nets: People often sleep under nets, which are like giant curtains that keep mosquitoes away.
• Bug Spray: People also use bug spray to keep mosquitoes from biting them.
• Medicine: Doctors can give medicine to people who have malaria to kill the parasites in their blood.

The new research is all about finding even better ways to stop malaria. Scientists are constantly looking for new solutions to help people stay healthy and safe. Hopefully, we'll soon be able to say goodbye to this dangerous disease!

Background: What's a Lumberjack Championship?

Imagine a competition where people show off their amazing skills with axes, saws, and logs! That's basically what a Lumberjack Championship is all about. These competitions, like the one in Hayward, Wisconsin, are a fun way to celebrate the history of working in the woods – a job that involves cutting down trees, called timber.

For a long time, these competitions were mostly for men. You might have heard of the legendary lumberjack, Paul Bunyan! He's a tall tale character known for his strength and skill. But things are changing! More and more women are joining the fun, and they’re showing everyone just how good they are.

These amazing athletes, sometimes called “Lumberjills,” compete in all sorts of exciting events. They might have to chop through thick logs super-fast, saw through wooden rounds, or even climb tall poles! It takes a lot of strength, skill, and practice to be a lumberjack or Lumberjill.

• Championship: A contest where people compete to be the best at something.
• Timber: Wood from trees that is used for building things.

Background: What's Happening on Mexican Ranches

Imagine your pet has a tiny, sneaky enemy! That's kind of what's happening to animals, like cows, on ranches in Mexico. They're being bothered by something called the New World screwworm fly. This fly is the reason ranchers are facing a tough problem.

The problem started in a state called Chiapas, which is in the south of Mexico, near a country called Guatemala. The screwworm fly is a bit like a tiny mosquito, but instead of just biting, it does something much more serious. When the female fly lays her eggs in an open wound on an animal, the eggs hatch into little wiggly things called larvae. Think of them like tiny worms.

These larvae aren't friendly! They start eating the animal's flesh – that's their food! This can make the animal very sick and can even lead to death. That's why it’s called a flesh-eating parasite. A parasite is an animal or plant that lives on or inside another animal or plant, taking food from it.

This isn’t the first time this has happened. Ranchers in Mexico remember similar problems in the 1980s and 1990s, when the screwworm fly caused trouble before. Even though they know what to look out for, the fly has come back and is spreading very quickly. It’s caught many ranchers by surprise, which means they weren’t prepared.

The ranchers are now working hard to protect their animals. They're looking for the fly's eggs and larvae on the animals and trying to find ways to stop the spread. The next part of this news article will tell you how they are trying to deal with the problem!

Background: What's Going On With Trade?

Have you ever heard your parents talk about buying things from other countries? That's what we call trade! When countries buy and sell things to each other, it's like a giant shopping spree for the whole world. Sometimes, things get a little tricky, especially when it comes to what's called tariffs.

A tariff is like a tax, but it's for things that are brought into a country, like toys from China or cars from Japan. The government puts a tariff on these things to make them more expensive. This can help companies inside the country sell their own products because they seem cheaper in comparison. It's a bit like a store owner putting a sale on their own toys to compete with a popular imported toy.

In this news story, we're talking about a trade deal between the United States and Japan. The United States, led by the President, wanted to put a tariff, a tax, on goods coming from Japan. Japan has been selling products to the U.S. and vice versa.

The news story talks about President Trump, saying he planned to put a tariff on some things coming from Japan. The President wrote a letter about this. The President was originally going to put a 25% tariff on imported Japanese goods. That would make things coming from Japan 25% more expensive! But, instead of that big 25% tariff, the government decided to put a smaller 15% tariff instead. That means Japanese goods will be a little more expensive, but not as much as originally planned.

Here are some things to remember:

• Trade: Buying and selling goods between countries.
• Tariff: A tax on goods coming into a country, making them more expensive.

Background: Rice and Japan

Hey kids! Ever wondered why something costs a lot more than usual? This news story is about rice in Japan. Rice is super important in Japan, like how important pizza is to you! But lately, the price of rice has gone up – it's doubled in just a year! Let's find out why.

Japan is an island country, which means it's surrounded by water. They grow a special kind of rice there, and the people eat a lot of it. They use it for everything from making sushi to delicious rice bowls! But there are several things that can affect how much rice is available and, therefore, how much it costs.

One of the main reasons is how the climate affects the rice farmers. The weather can be tricky! Sometimes there's too much rain, sometimes not enough, and sometimes there are big storms. These weather changes can make it harder for farmers to grow a lot of rice, which means there's less of it.

Another reason could be the supply and demand. This is a fancy way of saying how much of something there is (supply) and how much people want it (demand). If there's not much rice (low supply) but lots of people want it (high demand), then the price usually goes up.

Sometimes, the government might also get involved. The government is like the leader of the country, and they can have rules and policies about how much rice can be grown or imported from other countries. These rules can also affect the price.

Here are some key things to remember:

• Climate: The weather, like rain, sunshine, and storms, can affect how much rice farmers can grow.
• Supply and Demand: How much rice is available (supply) versus how much people want (demand) impacts the price.
• Government: The country’s leaders can also have an influence on the rice price.

So, next time you're eating your rice, remember that a lot of things can affect its price, from the weather to how many people want it! Pretty interesting, right?

Background: Sweetening the Deal

Have you ever wondered where the sugar in your favorite soda comes from? For many years, Coca-Cola used a special type of sugar called high-fructose corn syrup. It's made from corn! But now, they're trying something new: using cane sugar, which comes from a tall grass plant called sugarcane.

This change means Coca-Cola needs a lot more cane sugar. That's a big question! Because the United States produces a lot of corn, which is used to make high-fructose corn syrup. However, most cane sugar has to be imported from other countries like Brazil, Guatemala, and India.

So, how does cane sugar get from the sugarcane fields to your glass of Coke? Let's break it down:

• Sugarcane Farms: Farmers grow sugarcane in sunny places. They plant the sugarcane stalks in the ground.
• Harvesting: When the sugarcane is ready, workers cut it down.
• Processing: The sugarcane is then taken to a factory where they crush it to get the sweet juice out. The juice is boiled and cleaned until sugar crystals form.
• Refining: These crystals are then refined to make it white and pure.
• Transportation: Finally, the sugar is packaged and shipped to companies like Coca-Cola to use in their products.

Supply and Demand are important concepts to understand here. Supply is the amount of something that's available, in this case sugar. Demand is how much people want it. If Coca-Cola wants more cane sugar and the amount of cane sugar available, or supply, stays the same, the price of sugar could go up! This is something the U.S. sugar industry needs to think about.

Background: What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?

Imagine you're selling your favorite cookies to your friend across the street. Now, imagine your town's mayor decides to add a small fee, called a tariff, to every cookie you sell to your friend. This is similar to what happens with businesses that sell goods, like cars, across borders between countries. A tariff is like a special tax that a country puts on things it buys from other countries (that's called importing) or sells to other countries (that's called exporting).

So why do countries use tariffs? Well, sometimes they use them to protect businesses inside their own country. For example, if a car from another country is cheaper, people might buy those instead of cars made in their own country. Tariffs make those imported cars more expensive, so people might buy the cars made at home. Another reason is to raise money for the government – like a sales tax, but on things coming in or going out!

In this news story, we're hearing about car companies like General Motors, often called GM, feeling the effects of tariffs. The company is saying that tariffs have cost them money, reducing how much profit they make. Profit is the money a company has left over after paying for all its expenses, like materials and workers.

Here's a breakdown of some terms:

• Tariff: A tax on goods that are bought or sold between countries.
• Importing: Bringing goods *into* a country from another country.
• Exporting: Sending goods *out* of a country to another country.
• Profit: The money a company earns after paying all its costs.
• GM: General Motors - one of the biggest car companies in the world!

Background: Understanding the Federal Reserve

Let's learn a little bit about something called the Federal Reserve, or the "Fed" for short. Think of it like the bank for all the other banks in the United States! It's super important because it helps keep our economy healthy. The economy is all the things related to money – how much money we have, how much things cost, and how many jobs there are.

The Fed is run by a group of people called the Board of Governors. One of the most important people on the Board is the Chair. Right now, the Chair is Jerome Powell. He makes big decisions about how the Fed works.

One of the main jobs of the Fed is to control inflation. Inflation is when the prices of things, like candy or toys, go up over time. It's like your allowance getting less powerful! The Fed tries to keep inflation at a steady level so things don't get too expensive, too fast.

The President of the United States can pick who is on the Board of Governors, but the President doesn't get to tell the Fed what to do. This is important because it means the Fed can make decisions that are good for the economy, even if those decisions aren't popular with the President.

Here are some key things to remember:

• Federal Reserve (The Fed): The bank for the banks.
• Board of Governors: The people who run the Fed.
• Chair: The leader of the Fed.
• Inflation: When the prices of things go up.
• Term: The amount of time someone is allowed to hold a specific office.

Background: What's Happening with NPR?

Let's take a look at what's been going on with NPR, which stands for National Public Radio. NPR is a bit like your favorite school newspaper, but instead of just local news, it shares news stories from all over the country and even the world! It's a place where you can learn about important events and hear interesting stories.

Recently, there have been some changes. Edith Chapin, the head of NPR’s newsroom, is leaving her job. That's like the editor-in-chief of your school newspaper deciding to move on to a new adventure. This announcement came shortly after something else important happened: Congress voted to stop giving NPR money, called federal funding. This means the government won't be giving them any money.

So, why does this matter? Well, NPR gets money from different places. Some money comes from donations made by people like you and me, or even from places like large companies. Some comes from the government – this is the federal funding that Congress voted to remove. This money helps NPR pay for things like reporters, who go out and find news stories; editors, who make sure the stories are good; and the technology needed to broadcast the stories on the radio or online.

This is a bit like your school having to decide whether to sell fewer cookies at the bake sale if one of their usual money sources goes away! NPR now has to figure out how it will keep doing its important job of sharing news with everyone without all that help from the government.

Here are a few things to remember:

• Public Broadcasting: This means news and entertainment are provided for everyone, not just people who can pay for it.
• Congress: This is a group of people elected to make laws for the country.

Background: The Story of Ships and How They're Built

Imagine a giant, floating city! That's kind of what a big ship is. For a long time, the United States was really good at building these giant ships. We used them to trade with other countries, to explore the world, and even to help in wars. But over the years, other countries, especially in Asia, got really good at building ships too. Now, many of the biggest and best ships are built somewhere else.

The article you're reading talks about President Trump wanting to bring the shipbuilding industry back to the U.S. That means he wants to make America a top shipbuilder again. Why is this important? Well, ships are super important for lots of things! They carry goods like toys, food, and clothes across the ocean. They also help the military by carrying soldiers and equipment.

Bringing shipbuilding back is a bit like trying to rebuild a Lego castle that fell apart. It takes a lot of work and effort! It involves many different parts, like getting materials (the things they build with like steel) , having skilled workers (the people who know how to build the ships), and having factories where they can be built. It takes lots of planning and, importantly, money. The president wants to do this partly because he thinks it will help America compete with other countries like China, who have become really good at building ships.

Here are a few things to understand:

• Industry: This is a group of businesses that make or provide the same kind of things. Like the shipbuilding industry, it involves lots of shipyards, suppliers, and workers all connected together.
• Dominance: When a country is said to "dominate" something, it means they are the best and most powerful at it. China is currently dominant in shipbuilding, building many more ships than most other countries.
• Counter: To "counter" someone means to try to stop them or to do something that balances out what they are doing. In this case, the U.S. wants to counter China's shipbuilding dominance.

Behind the Fizz: What's the Sugar Story?

Have you ever wondered what makes your favorite Coca-Cola taste so sweet? Well, it’s all about the sugar! In the United States, Coca-Cola usually uses something called high-fructose corn syrup to make the drink sweet. Think of it like a special type of sugar made from corn. But recently, there's been some news about Coca-Cola changing things up.

The company is now planning to use a different kind of sugar: cane sugar. Cane sugar comes from the sugar cane plant, which is a tall, grassy plant. It's the same kind of sugar your parents might use in their baking! Coca-Cola has been using cane sugar in some of their other drinks and in their Coke sold outside of the U.S. for a while, so this isn't entirely new. It is a change for the Coke sold in the U.S.

So, why is this happening? Well, it looks like some people, including the former President of the United States, Donald Trump, have been talking to Coca-Cola about using cane sugar. He said he was encouraging the company to make the switch. Let's look at a few key terms:

• High-Fructose Corn Syrup: This is a sweet syrup made from corn. It's used in lots of foods and drinks in the United States. It's a good way to make things taste sweet!
• Cane Sugar: This is the type of sugar that comes from sugar cane plants. It's a natural sugar, and many people believe it tastes a little different than high-fructose corn syrup.
• Company: A group of people who work together to make and sell a product, like Coca-Cola.

This change to using cane sugar is a big deal because it shows how companies sometimes listen to what people, even important people like the former President, suggest. It will be interesting to see how this affects the taste and the kinds of sugar used in our drinks in the future!

Background: What's Happening with Harvard and the Trump Administration?

Okay, so you've heard about Harvard University and the Trump administration, and maybe you're wondering what's going on! It's a bit like a disagreement between a really big school and the government. This story is about a lawsuit, which is when someone (in this case, Harvard) asks a judge to make a decision about something they think is unfair.

Harvard is a very famous and important university, known for its research. Imagine they’re like a giant science lab doing all sorts of experiments! The Trump administration was the government led by President Donald Trump. The issue centers around research funds. Think of these as the money Harvard needs to do its experiments, like buying test tubes and paying scientists.

Harvard believes the government, during the Trump administration, did something that stopped them from getting some of these funds. They think the government's actions were illegal, meaning they broke the rules. That's why they went to court!

Here are some key terms to understand what’s going on:

• Lawsuit: When someone takes another person or organization to court to try and solve a problem.
• Research Funds: Money given to scientists and universities to pay for studies and projects.
• Illegal: Against the law or rules.
• Federal Judge: A judge who works for the country's government (the "federal" government) and makes decisions in court cases.

Now, a federal judge in Boston is listening to both sides of the story. Harvard is explaining why they think the government was wrong, and the government’s side (the Trump administration's lawyers) are explaining why they think they were right. The judge will then make a decision after hearing everything, and this decision will impact what happens next!

Background: The Story Behind Babies

Have you ever wondered how babies are made? Well, it's all thanks to tiny things called chromosomes! Chromosomes are like instruction manuals inside our bodies that tell us if we'll be a boy or a girl, and lots of other cool things too. Everyone has chromosomes from both their mom and dad.

Usually, when a baby is made, there’s a 50/50 chance it will be a boy or a girl. That's because of one special pair of chromosomes called the sex chromosomes. Girls have two X chromosomes (XX), and boys have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). The mom always gives an X chromosome, but the dad can give either an X (making a girl) or a Y (making a boy).

This is why scientists usually think the chances of having a boy or a girl are equal, like flipping a coin. A coin toss gives you a 50% chance of getting heads and a 50% chance of getting tails.

However, scientists in this news article looked at lots and lots of families and births to see if that 50/50 chance is always true. They analyzed data from many, many years of babies being born to see if families tended to have mixed groups of boys and girls, or more often just one sex. The results, like the study shows, were a little surprising!

• Data: Information, like numbers and facts, collected to help scientists understand something.
• Analyze: To carefully examine something to understand it better. Like figuring out a puzzle!
• Tendency: A likelihood or a pattern of happening.

Background: How AI is Helping People Speak Again

Imagine losing your voice! It might happen because of an illness, an accident, or even a surgery. Suddenly, talking to your friends, family, and even ordering your favorite ice cream becomes really tricky. But thanks to some amazing technology called Artificial Intelligence (AI), some people are getting their voices back!

So, what exactly is AI? Think of it like teaching a computer to be smart, like a super-smart robot. Instead of doing one task, like playing a video game, AI can learn lots of things. In this case, AI is learning to create speech, which means making sounds that sound like someone talking. That's where AI-generated voices come in.

You might already hear AI voices! They're often used in places like automated phone services, helping you with questions. In fact, many digital assistants you see everywhere use AI generated voices. Now, this same AI technology is being used to help people who have lost their ability to speak. Doctors can record the speech of people with problems like cancer or other illnesses to make a realistic voice, a big help for the future!

Here's how it often works: Doctors might record the speech of a person to create a personal AI voice. This voice is made using AI by using the original voices. The AI analyzes all the sounds, patterns, and special qualities of someone's voice. Then, the AI uses this information to create a brand-new voice. Even if someone can't speak anymore, they can still "talk" using their special AI voice. It's kind of like having your own personalized talking robot!

Background: What Happened to Sonya's Voice?

Imagine your voice is super important to you – it's how you talk to your friends, tell stories, and even sing! That's how Sonya felt about her voice. Sadly, Sonya got sick with something called cancer. Cancer is when some cells in your body start growing in a way they shouldn't. In Sonya's case, the cancer was in her mouth, which made it hard to use her voice the way she used to.

Sonya had to have a surgery to remove the cancer. This surgery was really important to help her get better. But the surgery unfortunately also changed the way she spoke. It’s like having to learn a new way to talk.

Before the surgery, Sonya had a really clever idea! She recorded herself talking, reading books, and even using “curse words,” which were something she wanted to use just like she used to, before her surgery. She did this so that even if her voice changed, she could still have a way to sound like herself. She was preserving something called her personality, which is everything that makes her unique.

Now, Sonya’s story gets even more interesting! The recordings she made before her surgery came to the rescue. With the help of something called AI (Artificial Intelligence), which is like a super-smart computer, she was able to create a new voice that sounded a lot like her old one. AI is like a robot with a brain – it can learn from information and use it to do amazing things.

• Cancer: A sickness where cells in your body grow in an unhealthy way.
• AI (Artificial Intelligence): A computer program that can learn and do things that usually only humans can.
• Surgery: When doctors cut open your body to help you get better.

Background: What's Going On with COVID-19?

You might be hearing about COVID-19 again. It's a bit like a story that keeps coming back! Remember how we all learned about it a few years ago? Well, sometimes the number of people getting sick goes up. That's what's happening now, and it's called a surge, which just means a sudden increase.

COVID-19 is a sickness caused by a tiny thing called a virus. Think of it like a super-small germ that can spread from person to person. The virus is good at copying itself and spreading, which is why it’s important to try and avoid getting it.

This summer, experts, like doctors and scientists, are seeing more people getting sick with COVID-19. These experts are called epidemiologists. They're like detectives for diseases! They study how diseases spread and try to figure out how to stop them.

So, what does this mean? Well, it means that more people are likely getting infected. Getting sick means your body has to fight off the virus, and that can feel unpleasant. Some people might get a mild illness, like a cold or the flu. Others might feel sicker.

Here are some things to remember about COVID-19:

• Virus: A very small thing that can make you sick. It's like a tiny troublemaker!
• Surge: When the number of people getting sick suddenly goes up.
• Epidemiologists: Scientists who study how diseases spread. They are the disease detectives!

While the number of cases seems to be increasing, it's important not to panic. The situation is being monitored by the experts so we can have the information needed to stay healthy. Remember to wash your hands, and if you're not feeling well, it’s always a good idea to tell a grown-up.

Background: What's Going On With Medicaid?

This news story is about something called Medicaid. It's a program run by the government that helps people get healthcare, like checkups at the doctor or medicine, even if they don't have a lot of money. Think of it like a special helper that pays for your healthcare if you need it.

Medicaid is important because it makes sure that everyone, including kids and grown-ups, can get the healthcare they need to stay healthy. The government gets the money to pay for Medicaid from taxes, which are payments everyone who works or buys certain things has to make.

Sometimes, people try to cheat the Medicaid system to get healthcare they shouldn’t. This is called fraud. It’s like taking extra candy from the store without paying for it – it's against the rules! Some people think there's a lot of fraud happening, and some leaders in government want to stop it. They think stopping fraud would save money for everyone.

In this story, a man from Montana is breaking a rule. It’s important to remember that rules are there to help make sure things are fair, and that everyone gets what they need. This man is talking about why he has chosen to do this. The story also talks about politicians, who are people elected to make and change the laws.

Here are some key words to help you understand:

• Healthcare: This includes anything that helps you stay healthy, like going to the doctor, getting medicine, or having a check-up.
• Fraud: When someone tries to trick a system, like Medicaid, to get something they shouldn’t. It is against the rules.
• Taxes: Money that people pay to the government, which is then used to pay for things like roads, schools, and healthcare programs like Medicaid.

Background: What's Happening with the U.S. and UNESCO?

You might have heard that the United States has decided to leave an organization called UNESCO. UNESCO is like a big club made up of countries from all over the world. It stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. It's a mouthful, but it basically means they're all about helping the world through education, science, and culture.

Think of UNESCO as a group that helps protect cool places like historical sites and important cultural traditions. They also work on things like making sure everyone gets a good education and promoting scientific research. They try to bring countries together to solve global problems and to share ideas.

The U.S. government has decided to leave UNESCO, and that means the U.S. won't be participating or providing financial support. A spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, said that the U.S. had some concerns about the organization's direction.

Here’s a little more about what that means:

• Sustainable Development Goals: These are goals set by the United Nations to make the world a better place. They cover things like poverty, hunger, and climate change. The U.S. took issue with UNESCO's focus on these goals.
• Palestine: Palestine is a region in the Middle East that is seeking recognition as an independent country. UNESCO has included Palestine as a member state, and the U.S. disagrees with this decision.
• Withdraw: When a country “withdraws” it means they are leaving, no longer a part of an organization.

Background: Why Days Aren't Always Exactly 24 Hours!

Have you ever wondered why we have days and nights? It's all because of our amazing planet, the Earth! Earth spins around and around, like a giant top. This spinning is called rotation, and it's what gives us day and night. It takes about 24 hours for the Earth to spin all the way around once, which is why we say a day is 24 hours long.

But here's a cool secret: the Earth doesn't spin at a perfectly steady speed! It’s like a race car that speeds up and slows down a little bit. Scientists who study the Earth are always measuring this to make sure our 24-hour days stay roughly the same length. They do this with incredibly accurate clocks called atomic clocks.

Sometimes, our planet speeds up just a tiny bit. Other times, it slows down. These changes are usually super, super small – so small you wouldn’t even notice them! But scientists can measure them. The article you're reading says today will be shorter. How short? Just a millisecond shorter than usual! A millisecond is a thousandth of a second – it's like blink of an eye!

Why does this happen? There are a few reasons. The tides, caused by the moon's pull, can have a very tiny effect. Also, the Earth isn’t a perfect sphere; it has mountains and valleys, and it wobbles a little. It also changes from season to season! But don't worry, it's nothing to be scared of! It's just another fascinating thing about how our planet works.

Background: What's Going On with Space Science?

Imagine you're building a super cool Lego spaceship. You've got all the pieces, and you're ready to launch! But then someone says you have fewer building blocks (money) than you thought. That's kind of what's happening with space science right now.

The government has a plan called a budget. This is like a giant list of how money will be spent. Some of this money goes to amazing things like NASA, which is the National Aeronautics and Space Administration – the people who send rockets and explore space!

Recently, there have been talks about possibly reducing (cutting) the amount of money NASA gets. This is called a budget cut. If the cuts happen, it could affect some really exciting projects. Let's look at what that means:

• NASA's Mars Sample Return: Imagine scientists wanting to bring back samples from Mars! This project might be delayed or changed.
• Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope: This is a super powerful telescope that will help us see the universe better. A budget cut could slow down its launch or the research it helps with.
• Scientific Brain Drain: This is a fancy term for when smart scientists and researchers might leave their jobs because of a lack of funding. It’s like the best builders on your Lego project deciding to work on someone else's project.

It’s important to know that nothing is completely decided yet. Congress, which is a group of people who make the laws, is discussing how to handle the money. They might decide to change the budget cuts, or perhaps not cut as much. So, space exploration might not be affected as badly as some people think. We'll have to wait and see what happens!

Background: Why Dogs and TV?

Have you ever noticed your dog watching TV? Maybe they bark at the animals on the screen, or maybe they just sit and stare! This new study is trying to learn more about why dogs watch television and what they see.

Scientists are curious about how dogs experience the world differently than us. For example, did you know that dogs see things differently? They can see some colors, but not all of them like we do. And, they can see things that are moving really fast a lot better than we can. This means what a dog sees on TV might be different from what you see.

The scientists in this study think that a dog's personality might affect how they watch TV. Just like people, some dogs are more playful, some are more shy, and some are more curious. The researchers want to know if these different personalities change how they react to what's on the screen.

To figure this out, they might ask dog owners questions about their dogs. This is called a survey – it's like a questionnaire! The scientists will then compare the answers from the surveys with how the dogs act when they're watching TV.

Here are some other things to know:

• Research: This means trying to find out new things about the world, like how dogs think.
• React: How a dog acts, like if they get excited or stay calm.
• Study: A careful investigation to learn something new.

Background: Diving Deep into the Ocean

Have you ever wondered what’s hiding in the deep blue sea? Our oceans are vast and mysterious, covering most of our planet! In fact, scientists believe we’ve explored more of outer space than the ocean floor. Isn't that incredible?

The ocean isn’t just one big swimming pool. It’s made up of different layers, kind of like a giant layered cake. Near the surface, where the sun shines, it's warm and full of life like colorful fish and playful dolphins. As you go deeper, it gets colder and darker. The deep sea is a very special place!

So, how do we learn about this underwater world? Scientists, also called oceanographers, use all sorts of cool tools! They send down submarines, which are underwater vehicles, to explore. They also use remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) – basically, robots they control from a ship on the surface. These tools help them take pictures, collect samples, and learn about the creatures living down there.

The deep sea is home to some amazing creatures. Some have special features to help them survive in the dark, like glowing parts called bioluminescence! It's like having tiny lights inside their bodies. Others have unique adaptations, like big mouths or strange shapes, to help them find food and avoid getting eaten themselves. It's a tough environment!

Here are some things scientists are studying about the ocean right now:

• Climate Change: The ocean absorbs a lot of heat and carbon dioxide from the air. Climate change is making the ocean warmer, which is causing problems for sea animals.
• Marine Life: Discovering new species and learning about how they live and interact with each other.
• Ocean Currents: Studying how water moves around the world. These currents affect the weather, like how hot or cold it is in a particular place.

The ocean is a really important part of our planet, and the more we learn about it, the better we can protect it! Get ready to explore the exciting depths with this comic!

Background: The Ocean's Amazing World

This week, we're exploring the exciting world beneath the waves! The ocean is a vast and mysterious place, and scientists are still learning new things about it all the time. We're focusing on the sunlight zone, which is the top part of the ocean, down to about 200 meters (that's about the length of two football fields!). This area gets sunlight, which is super important because plants and animals need it to live.

In this sunny part of the ocean, there are tons of cool creatures, some of which don't have a backbone (they're called invertebrates). Think of them as the ocean's superheroes! They might not have capes, but some have amazing abilities.

Let's talk about some of them:

• Sea Slugs: These colorful creatures are experts at hiding! They're like underwater chameleons, blending in with their surroundings to avoid getting eaten. This is called camouflage.
• Sea Stars (Starfish): These strong animals are incredibly strong. Some can even use their arms to pull apart things that are much bigger than them!
• Sponges: These may look simple, but sponges are actually really important. Some sponges are being studied by scientists because they might contain medicines that help people. Medicines are drugs that help people feel better when they are sick.

Scientists are always learning new things about the ocean and how its creatures can help us. It's an exciting time to be an explorer!

Coffee and Brazil: What's the Buzz About?

Before we talk about President Trump and coffee, let's learn a little bit about where our favorite morning drink comes from! Most of the coffee we drink in the United States comes from other countries. One of the biggest is Brazil, a country in South America.

Brazil has a climate that's perfect for growing coffee beans. Coffee beans are like seeds that grow inside a red fruit, and they're what we use to make coffee! Farmers in Brazil work hard to harvest these beans and send them all over the world. The United States gets a whole lot of our coffee from Brazil – about 30% of all our coffee!

Now, you might be wondering, what's a tariff? A tariff is basically a special tax that a country puts on goods that are imported (brought in) from another country. Think of it like this: when you buy a toy from another country, the government might make you pay extra money, called a tariff, for that toy. This makes the toy more expensive to buy. The idea is to make people buy things made in your own country instead, which can help local businesses.

The article you're reading is about a situation where President Trump is planning to put a big 50% tariff on goods from Brazil. That includes coffee! This means that if the tariff happens, the price of coffee might go up because importing coffee from Brazil would become more expensive.

Here's a quick summary:

• Brazil: A country in South America that grows a lot of coffee.
• Coffee beans: The seeds inside a fruit that are used to make coffee.
• Tariff: A tax on goods imported from another country, which can make those goods more expensive.

Background: The Story of Tinned Fish!

Have you ever eaten a can of tinned fish? Think of it like a tiny, delicious underwater adventure! It's fish, like sardines or tuna, that's been cooked and sealed inside a can. This helps keep the fish fresh for a very long time, without needing a fridge! It's like a super-powered lunchbox for fish.

A long time ago, the United States used to be a big player in the tinned fish game. We had lots of factories, which are places where things are made, that were busy canning fish. These factories created jobs and were important to the economy. People loved eating tinned fish because it was tasty, easy to store, and full of healthy stuff.

However, over time, the tinned fish industry in the U.S. kind of disappeared. Many of the factories closed down, and a lot of the fish we eat now comes from other countries. It's like a team that lost its best players and couldn't compete anymore.

But guess what? Tinned fish is making a comeback! People are rediscovering how yummy and convenient it can be. Now, with more people enjoying it, there's a chance the tinned fish industry in the U.S. could grow again. It's like a plant that was dormant for a long time, but now it's getting sunshine and water and starting to grow again.

Here's what's helping bring it back:

• Popularity: More people are eating tinned fish.
• Interest: People are starting to learn and talk more about tinned fish.
• Effort: People are working hard to set up new factories and fish businesses.

It will be interesting to see if the lost industry will make a full recovery. This article talks about how it could be helped by the recent interest in tinned fish and how that may start to bring it back.

Digging Deeper: Understanding Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard, the beautiful island off the coast of Massachusetts, might seem like a place full of fancy houses and famous people. But did you know it has a long, amazing history that goes way back before the celebrities arrived? This background section will help you understand the island's roots.

For thousands of years, long before Europeans came to America, a group of people called the Wampanoag lived on the island. They called it Noepe, which means "in the midst of the waters" in their language. They had their own villages, cultures, and ways of life, all connected to the land and the ocean.

Imagine living in a place where you know every tree, every fish, and every changing season! The Wampanoag people were experts at doing just that. They knew how to use the natural resources around them to survive, creating homes, tools, and food. They were skilled fishermen, farmers, and craftspeople.

Over time, things changed. People from Europe began to explore and settle in the Americas. This led to big changes for the Wampanoag. Some Wampanoag and European people traded together, and some also came into conflict with each other.

Today, there's still a Wampanoag community on Martha's Vineyard, especially in the town of Aquinnah. They're working hard to keep their culture and traditions alive. They're sharing their stories, their language, and their art with the world.

Here's a quick guide to some important words:

• Indigenous: This means "belonging to a place." Indigenous people are the first people who lived in a place.
• Culture: The way of life of a group of people, including their traditions, beliefs, and arts.
• Community: A group of people living in the same area and sharing interests.

Background: What's This Article About?

This article is asking you – and grown-ups too! – about books. Specifically, it's asking what books have been important to people, especially when they were in high school. High school is a special time, right? You're learning a lot, figuring out who you are, and thinking about your future. Books can really help with all of that!

Think about your favorite book. Did it make you laugh? Did it make you think? Did it teach you something new? Maybe it helped you understand something about yourself or the world around you. That's what this article is all about: finding out which books made a big difference in people's lives.

The people who wrote this article want to know which books helped shape the people who read and enjoyed them. They're asking you to share your opinions and thoughts. They will compile everyone's responses and share them later on. It's like a big book club, but everyone is invited!

So, if you have a favorite book you think is amazing, or maybe a book you think *everyone* should read, now's your chance to share it! They want to know! Your ideas could even help someone else find a book they'll love.

Background: Where Did Pac-Man Come From?

Before we dive into Shadow Labyrinth, let's take a quick trip back in time to learn about its inspiration: Pac-Man! Pac-Man is one of the most famous video games ever. It was created way back in 1980 in Japan. Think of it like a really old, but super cool, ancestor of the games you play today!

In the original Pac-Man, you controlled a yellow circle (Pac-Man!) who munched on tiny dots, called pellets, in a maze. The goal was to eat all the pellets without getting caught by colorful ghosts. If you ate a special "power pellet," you could even eat the ghosts! It was simple but super fun and quickly became a huge hit around the world.

Pac-Man was different from other games at the time. Instead of shooting things or fighting aliens, it was all about solving a puzzle and avoiding danger. This made it appealing to a lot of people, including kids, because it was less about violence and more about strategy. Arcade machines, where people played Pac-Man, popped up everywhere – in restaurants, stores, and even schools!

Now, Shadow Labyrinth is taking place in the same world as the original Pac-Man. It's like a whole new story inside the same universe! The new game has a different feel, sometimes called "gritty." Gritty means that it might look a bit darker or more serious than the original game. We'll find out more soon!

Background: What's the Deal with Protein?

Have you ever wondered why some people lift weights and drink special shakes? It’s often about building muscle! Muscles help us move, play sports, and even stay warm. To build muscles, our bodies need something called protein. Think of protein like the building blocks for your muscles. Your body uses protein to repair and build new muscle tissue.

Protein comes from different foods. Things like chicken, fish, beans, and eggs are full of protein. But sometimes, people might take extra protein in the form of supplements. Supplements are like adding extra helpers to your team. They come in powders, drinks, or bars and are meant to give your body a boost of protein.

For teenagers, getting enough protein is important because you're still growing! But is more protein always better? That's what we're going to explore in this article. Too much of anything can sometimes cause problems, even something as healthy as protein. That’s why it's important to talk to a trusted adult like a parent, teacher, or doctor if you're thinking about taking any supplements.

Here’s a little more information about some key words:

• Muscle: The part of your body that helps you move.
• Protein: A nutrient that helps your body build and repair tissues, like muscles.
• Supplement: Something you add to your diet to give your body more of a specific nutrient.

Background: What's Going On?

Imagine a big school with lots of classrooms and students – that's kind of like Harvard University! It's a very famous and old school in Boston, Massachusetts. Harvard does lots of important work, like teaching students and doing **research**. Research is like being a detective, trying to figure things out! They might be studying how the brain works, or how to make new medicines.

To do this research, Harvard needs money. They get some of it from the **government**, which is like the boss of the whole country. The government gives money in the form of **grants**. A grant is like a special award of money that's used for a specific project, like a science experiment. Harvard has been getting a lot of money, over $2 billion, from the government to help with their research.

Now, there's a disagreement! The government, specifically the White House (where the President works, like the boss of the government) has decided to cancel those grants. This means Harvard might not get all the money they were expecting. This disagreement has ended up in a **court**, which is where judges listen to arguments and make decisions about what’s right or wrong. The legal teams are fighting over this issue.

And who's involved? The President, and Harvard. In court, each side had lawyers, who are like expert helpers, who presented their case. The court is trying to decide if the White House was allowed to stop the money to Harvard or not.

Here are some important words to know:

• Research: Trying to discover new things, like scientists do!
• Government: The people and organizations that run a country, like the United States.
• Grants: Money given by the government or other organizations for a specific purpose, like research.
• Court: A place where judges and lawyers work to decide legal issues.

Background: Keeping Vaccines Ready for Action

Imagine you're a superhero, but instead of a cape, you have a big freezer! That's kind of what it's like to have a stockpile of vaccines. These are like tiny shields that protect us from getting very sick from diseases. Scientists make vaccines to help our bodies fight off germs that cause illnesses like Ebola, cholera, meningitis, and yellow fever.

Sometimes, these diseases can spread quickly, like a sneaky wave! To be ready, organizations around the world keep millions of vaccine doses stored in special freezers. They are ready to be used if there's a sudden outbreak of a disease, kind of like having a first-aid kit always ready.

This isn't easy! These vaccines need to stay at the perfect temperature so they don't get ruined. It's like keeping your ice cream frozen – if it melts, it's no good! Maintaining these freezers and making sure the vaccines are safe is a big job, and it costs a lot of money.

Think of it like this: Imagine you're building a Lego tower. You need all the right bricks (the vaccines) and you need to keep them in good condition (at the right temperature) so you can use them when you need them. The article talks about how much it costs to store these important bricks. It also talks about how many lives these vaccines have saved.

Here are some important terms to help you understand the article:

• Vaccine: A medicine that helps your body fight off diseases before you even get sick. It's like a practice round for your body's superhero defenses!
• Ebola, Cholera, Meningitis, Yellow Fever: These are all very serious diseases that can make people extremely ill. Vaccines help prevent them.
• Outbreak: When a disease spreads quickly and affects many people in a short amount of time.

Background: What's in Your Beauty Products?

Have you ever looked closely at the things you use to make yourself look and feel good? Like makeup, shampoo, or even sunscreen? Well, these things are called beauty products, and they're used by lots of people every single day! But did you know that some of them might contain ingredients that aren't so great for you or the planet?

Some beauty products contain things called chemicals. These are tiny building blocks that make up everything around us! Some chemicals are perfectly safe, but others can be toxic. "Toxic" is just a fancy word for "poisonous" or "harmful." If a product contains toxic chemicals, it could cause problems like skin irritation or, in some cases, even bigger health issues over time. That’s why people are working to make sure the beauty products we use are safe.

Lots of people use beauty products, but some groups might be more exposed to these potentially harmful chemicals. For example, salon workers, who spend all day using these products, might be exposed to these chemicals more often. Also, different skin types and the products available to different communities can affect exposure. Some studies show that women of color may use products with higher concentrations of certain chemicals. That's why it's important to ensure everyone has access to safe beauty products.

Thankfully, there are people working hard to change things! That's where the "Safer Beauty Bill Package" comes in. A bill is like a suggestion for a new law. If the bill passes, it could ban the most dangerous toxic ingredients from beauty products. This means that the products we use every day will be even safer! This bill also aims to help protect groups, like salon workers and certain communities, that are most often exposed to these toxic chemicals.

Background: What's Up With Artificial Blood?

Imagine if doctors could give you "blood" that wasn't actually from another person! That’s the goal of scientists working on artificial blood. Right now, if someone loses a lot of blood, they need a blood transfusion, where they get real blood from someone else. That’s great, but sometimes there isn’t enough blood available. This is especially true during emergencies or in places with few donors.

For a long time, scientists have been working hard to make artificial blood that can help save lives. They want to create a substance that can do the most important job of blood: carrying oxygen around the body. Oxygen is like the food that our bodies need to work! They also need the artificial blood to be able to stop the bleeding in case of an accident. They are creating a kind of replacement for real blood that can be used if blood from a human donor is not available.

It's a really tough problem because blood is very complicated! It’s made up of different parts. The most important part is the red blood cells that carry oxygen. Scientists are trying to figure out how to make a substance that can do the same thing. They have tried many things, but it's been difficult, like baking a cake with all the wrong ingredients. It takes a lot of work!

To help you understand, here are some key terms:

• Artificial Blood: A man-made substance that acts like blood, potentially replacing it in emergencies.
• Blood Transfusion: Getting blood from another person to replace blood that's been lost.
• Oxygen: The gas we breathe in that our bodies need to work properly.
• Red Blood Cells: The cells in our blood that carry oxygen around the body.

Background: What's Up With Time?

Have you ever felt like a day just flew by? Well, sometimes, days actually *do* change, but it's not in a way that you'd normally notice! This article is about something scientists have observed – that days are getting ever-so-slightly shorter. Don’t worry, you're not going to lose any sleep! The change is measured in milliseconds, which are tiny fractions of a second. Imagine breaking a regular second into a thousand pieces! That's how small these time differences are.

So, why is this happening? It has to do with how the Earth spins. The Earth is like a giant spinning top, and its spin is what gives us our days and nights. Usually, it takes about 24 hours for the Earth to spin all the way around once. That's what we call a day.

Now, the Earth's spin isn't perfectly consistent. It changes a little bit, all the time, due to various forces. Some of these things include: the Earth's movement, and things like the wind, and the oceans. Some of these cause the Earth to speed up a tiny bit, and some cause the Earth to slow down. So, sometimes the day becomes a tiny bit longer, and other times it becomes a tiny bit shorter. The scientists study this using extremely accurate atomic clocks. These are the most precise clocks we have, and they can measure the tiniest changes in time.

Here are some things that help scientists study time:

• Rotation: The spinning of an object around its axis. The Earth’s rotation is what gives us day and night.
• Millisecond: A unit of time equal to one-thousandth of a second. It's a really, really small amount of time!
• Atomic Clock: An extremely accurate clock that uses the vibrations of atoms to measure time.

Background: Hornet Hunters and Allergies

Have you ever been stung by a bee or wasp? If so, you know it can be a bit ouchy! For most people, a sting is just a short-lived problem. But for some people, it can be much more serious because they have an allergy. An allergy is when your body reacts very strongly to something that it sees as a threat, like a bee sting.

In this news story, we're going to learn about how scientists are using the venom (that's the poison) from hornets to help people with allergies. Specifically, people who are allergic to hornet stings. But where do you get hornet venom? That's where the hornet hunters come in!

These brave people, who you can think of as insect collectors, spend their summers carefully collecting hornets. They usually do this to sell the hornets to a pharmaceutical company. A pharmaceutical company is a business that makes medicines, including special treatments.

The pharmaceutical company then uses the hornet venom to create a special medicine. This medicine can help people who are allergic to hornet stings. Imagine it like a superhero training program for your body! The medicine helps your body get used to the venom so it doesn't react so strongly when stung in the future. It's called allergy immunotherapy. The medicine helps reduce the dangerous reactions people might experience.

Here’s a quick list of some important words and what they mean:

• Allergy: A strong reaction by your body to something that isn't usually harmful.
• Venom: A poison, like the kind a hornet uses in its sting.
• Hornet hunters: People who collect hornets.
• Pharmaceutical company: A company that makes medicines.
• Allergy immunotherapy: A treatment that helps your body get used to a particular allergen (like hornet venom).

Background: What's Happening in the WNBA?

Hey sports fans! Before we dive into what's happening in the WNBA this season, let's take a quick look at what the WNBA is and how it became so popular. The WNBA stands for the Women's National Basketball Association. It's like the NBA, but for amazing women basketball players!

The WNBA was created in 1996. That’s right after the Olympics! It started with only eight teams, but it has grown over the years to include more teams and more players. It's a professional league, meaning the players get paid to play basketball. These athletes are super talented and have been working hard to show the world how awesome they are.

Over the last few years, the WNBA has become more and more popular! More people are watching games on TV and going to see them in person. More people are talking about it! Some reasons for this growth include more advertising, more media coverage (like the ESPN show you're reading about), and more people recognizing how exciting the games are. It's becoming a big deal!

But what does "mainstream attention" mean? It simply means more people are paying attention. Imagine more people knowing your favorite player's name, or more people wanting to watch the games. That's part of it. It’s not always easy, but with more fans and attention, the league has a chance to keep growing. And that brings more opportunities for the players and the sport!

Here are a few key things to remember:

• WNBA: Stands for Women's National Basketball Association - a professional basketball league for women.
• Professional League: This means the players are paid to play the sport.
• Growth: When something gets bigger and more popular.

Background: What is Foreign Policy, Anyway?

Before we dive into what President Trump is doing, let's talk about foreign policy. Think of it like this: imagine your school is a country, and you have to work with other schools (other countries!). Foreign policy is the set of rules and plans your school (or country) uses to deal with those other schools (or countries). It's how the President and his team decide what to do in the world outside of America, like making friends, helping people, and sometimes, dealing with tricky situations.

The President has a whole team that helps him with foreign policy. They work in a special building called the State Department. These people are called diplomats. Diplomats are like the "ambassadors" of America! They try to solve problems and make agreements peacefully, using talking and negotiation. This is called diplomacy.

Sometimes, foreign policy involves trade. Trade is when countries buy and sell things to each other. For example, America might buy toys from China and sell cars to Germany. The President and his team work on trade agreements, which are like promises between countries about how they'll trade.

Sometimes foreign policy also involves alliances. An alliance is when countries agree to help each other if they need it. Think of it like having a group of friends you know you can count on! One important alliance is NATO, which is a group of countries mostly in Europe and North America that promise to help each other if they are attacked.

Here are some key terms to remember:

• Foreign Policy: A country's plan for dealing with other countries.
• State Department: The government department that handles foreign policy.
• Diplomats: People who represent their country in other countries.
• Diplomacy: The process of countries talking to solve problems and make agreements.
• Trade: Buying and selling things between countries.
• Alliances: Agreements between countries to help each other.
• NATO: An alliance of countries promising to protect each other.

Background: What's Happening in Lesotho?

Imagine a place where lots of people make clothes. That place is Lesotho, a small country in Africa! Many people in Lesotho work in factories making clothes, like shirts, pants, and dresses. These clothes are then sold to other countries, including the United States. This is a big part of how Lesotho makes money.

The problem is, the United States sometimes puts extra taxes, called tariffs, on clothes that come from other countries. Think of tariffs like extra fees. When tariffs are added, the clothes become more expensive to buy. This makes it harder for the clothes from Lesotho to compete with clothes made in other places.

A few years ago, the United States government talked about adding tariffs to clothes from Lesotho. This worried the people in Lesotho because they knew it would hurt their economy.

Because of these threats, and other economic factors, many factories in Lesotho are struggling. Sadly, some have even closed down, which means people have lost their jobs. The government of Lesotho has even declared a state of disaster. This means they recognize that many people are having a really hard time.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the words we used:

• Tariffs: Extra taxes added by a country on goods coming from other countries. These make things more expensive.
• State of Disaster: When a country has a very serious problem, like a natural disaster or, in this case, a big economic problem that is affecting lots of people. The government takes special action during this time to help people.
• Economy: How a country makes money and how that money is used. This involves things like factories, jobs, and buying and selling.

Background: What's Happening in Japan's Election

You've probably heard that Japan is having an election! Elections are like big votes where people get to choose who they want to run the country. The people in Japan are voting for leaders who they think will make the best decisions for everyone. This time, the voters are a little worried and want to see some changes!

One of the big reasons for the election is because of something called prices. Think about your favorite snacks or toys – sometimes they cost more, right? Well, in Japan, many things are getting more expensive. People are also worried about their incomes, which is the money they earn from their jobs. If things cost more, but you're not making much more money, it can be tricky!

Another important thing is social security. This is money that helps people when they're sick, need to retire, or need some extra help. However, people are worried that social security is getting expensive to pay for. This is like having to pay more into a savings account, and some people feel it’s too much.

There's also a topic related to people from other countries living in Japan. Some voters want to see stricter measures, or tougher rules, about who can live in Japan and visit. A right-wing populist party, which is a political group that focuses on the needs and feelings of the "common people" and emphasizes national interests, has made this an important topic in their campaign. This party has become very popular because they talk about the issues that matter to voters.

So, voters are thinking about all these things when they go to vote. They want to choose leaders who they think will help make things better in Japan!

Background: What's Happening with "Algospeak"?

Have you ever noticed that the way you talk online is a little different from how you talk with your friends in person? Maybe you use funny words or phrases that only your online friends understand. Well, that's part of a bigger trend that writer Adam Aleksic calls "Algospeak." Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds!

Algospeak is basically a special way of talking that has grown up online, especially on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Think of it like a secret language, with its own set of words, phrases, and even inside jokes. It's often used to avoid being flagged or misunderstood by the platform’s algorithms.

An algorithm is like a set of instructions that a computer follows. Social media sites use algorithms to decide what videos, posts, and stories you see. They look for certain words or topics and sometimes hide or even block content based on what they find. So, creators and users started to use Algospeak to get around those restrictions.

Here’s what it can look like in practice:

• Instead of saying something the algorithm might block, like "bad word," people might say something like "unalive."
• Using phrases like "let’s go to the hospital!" instead of stating the problem.
• Using creative spelling or emoji-based codes instead of the actual words.

So, why do people do this? Well, sometimes it's to be funny or creative. But often, it's to make sure their content isn't removed by the social media platforms. It’s also a way to build communities around specific topics. It's a language that helps people share content without having their posts flagged by the platforms. Adam Aleksic's book explores how this "Algospeak" is now making its way into our everyday conversations!

Background: What Are World Capitals?

Hey there! This week's puzzle is all about something super important: world capitals! What exactly are they? Well, think of them as the most important cities in each country. A country is like a giant playground where people live, work, and play together. Each country needs a special city where the government does its work, like making laws and running the country. That special city is called the capital!

Imagine your school. You might have a principal's office, a library, and a cafeteria. The capital city is like the "headquarters" for the whole country. Important people like the president or prime minister (the boss of the country!) usually work in the capital. They make big decisions about how the country runs.

Some capitals are super famous and busy, like Washington D.C. in the United States, and Paris in France. Others might be smaller and quieter, but they're all equally important for their countries. It's kind of like how all the pieces of a puzzle are important, even if they're different sizes and shapes!

Here's a quick look at some things that often happen in a country's capital city:

• Government Buildings: These are buildings where the important people meet and work.
• Embassies: These are places where other countries' representatives live and work, helping their countries communicate.
• Historical Sites: Often, capital cities have important monuments and buildings from the country's past, showcasing the country's story.

So, when you hear about capitals, remember they are the heart of a country, the places where important decisions are made, and where history is often made too!

Background: The Federal Reserve and Why It's Important

Hey kids, ever heard of the Federal Reserve? It's like the bank for all the banks in the United States! It's super important because it helps keep our money safe and the economy running smoothly. Think of it as a team of grown-ups who make decisions about things like how much money is available and how easy it is to borrow it.

The Federal Reserve, often called the "Fed," was created a long time ago to help prevent problems like economic crashes. These crashes are times when the economy gets really bad, like when businesses close and people lose their jobs. The Fed tries to avoid these problems by keeping a close eye on what's happening with money and the economy.

A really important thing about the Fed is that it's supposed to be independent. This means it doesn't usually take orders from the President or other politicians. They’re supposed to make decisions based on what's best for the economy, not based on what will make a politician popular. It’s like how your teachers try to be fair and teach everyone, even if they don't agree on everything.

Why is independence so important? Imagine if the President could just tell the Fed to do whatever they wanted. They might try to make things look good right before an election, even if it wasn't the best thing for the economy in the long run. The Fed's independence helps to make sure decisions are made for the good of everyone and not just for political reasons.

Here are some key terms to help you understand:

• Economy: This is how a country makes and spends money. It includes things like jobs, businesses, and the prices of things.
• Independent: This means being free to make your own decisions without being told what to do by someone else.
• Economic Crash: A very bad time for the economy, where many people lose their jobs and businesses fail.

Background: What are Student Loans Anyway?

Imagine you want to buy a super cool new toy, like a bike or a video game, but you don't have enough money saved up. You might ask your parents or a friend to lend you some money, right? Well, that's kind of like how student loans work, except they're for going to college or university!

Lots of people want to go to college to learn new things and get good jobs. But college can be expensive! Student loans are money borrowed from the government (that's the people who run the country!) or banks to help pay for things like tuition (that's the cost of taking classes), books, and even a place to live while you're studying. The idea is that once you graduate and get a job, you can pay back the loan over time.

Now, sometimes things can change. The government is like a big rule-maker. It decides how student loans should work. Recently, there have been some changes proposed to how student loans are handled. These changes are called a budget bill - it’s a plan for how the government will spend money. This bill might change how much money people can borrow, how long they have to pay it back, and maybe even the rules about when and how they start paying back their loans after they finish studying.

The people in charge of making these decisions are called lawmakers. They are politicians who work in places like Congress. They debate and vote on these bills. When the majority of lawmakers agree on a bill, then it can become law! Lawmakers usually try to create rules that are fair and help everyone.

Here's a quick look at some important words:

• Budget Bill: A plan for how the government will spend money.
• Student Loans: Money borrowed to pay for college.
• Lawmakers: The people who make the laws.

Background: Mosquitoes and Why We Don't Like Them

Imagine a tiny little creature that can make you itchy and even sometimes sick – that’s a mosquito! Mosquitoes are like tiny flying vampires, but instead of blood from people, they need it to lay their eggs (like chicken eggs, but much, much smaller!).

Only the female mosquitoes bite. They have a special mouth that can pierce our skin and suck up our blood. When they do, they leave behind a little spit that makes us feel itchy. And sometimes, they can pass along tiny little germs that cause diseases like the West Nile virus, which can make people feel very sick. That’s why it’s important to learn how to protect ourselves!

Mosquitoes love water! They lay their eggs in standing water, like puddles, old tires, or even in the little dishes under potted plants. Think of it like a mosquito nursery! After the eggs hatch, tiny worm-like creatures called larvae live in the water until they grow into adult mosquitoes.

So, how do we stop them? Well, we can use the "three D's," which stands for drain, dress, and defend. You'll learn more about these in the article! These steps are like a superhero plan to keep mosquitoes away and make sure you can play outside happily this summer!

Background: What's Going On?

Before we dive into the news, let's understand some of the things happening around the Washington Commanders and their plans for a new stadium. The story involves the team, a former president, and the idea of a stadium – a big, special building where the team plays its games!

For many years, the Washington football team had a name that some people found offensive. This name is considered a slur, which is a word or phrase used to insult or put down a person or group of people. In this case, the name was seen as hurtful to Indigenous people (like Native Americans and First Nations people) because it was taken from their history and culture without their permission.

Because of the hurt it caused, the team finally changed its name to the "Washington Commanders" a couple of years ago. The team is now trying to build a new stadium. Building a stadium is a big deal! It costs a lot of money and requires the team, the city, and sometimes even the government to work together.

Former President Trump has said the team should change back to its old name. He also threatened to try to stop the team from getting a new stadium. That's what’s called "derailing" a deal. Derailing means preventing something from happening. In this case, it means stopping the building of the new stadium. This has stirred up some debate and conversation!

Background: What's Happening with the EPA's Science Team?

Imagine a group of super-smart people whose job is to protect our environment! That's basically what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does. They work to keep our air and water clean and safe for everyone – humans, animals, and plants! A big part of how they do that is by doing scientific research.

The EPA has a special team called the Office of Research and Development (ORD). Think of them as the EPA's science detectives! Their job is to study things that could be harmful to our environment and our health. They look at things like toxic chemicals, which are dangerous substances that can hurt you. They also investigate climate change (the Earth getting warmer) and problems like smog (dirty air), wildfires (uncontrolled forest fires), and water pollution (dirty water). They use their research to figure out how big of a problem something is and how to fix it.

Recently, something big happened: the government decided to shut down the ORD. This means the EPA won't have this specific team of scientists analyzing environmental hazards anymore. That means fewer scientists working directly on these critical issues.

Why is this important? Well, when scientists study problems like air pollution, they can help the EPA make rules to keep our air clean. If they study water pollution, they can help make sure our rivers and lakes are safe for us to swim in and the animals that live in them. Without the ORD, it may take more time and effort to find solutions to these kinds of problems.

It's important to know what's happening and why the news is talking about it. Hopefully, you learned something new today!

Background: What's Going On with the Algae?

Hey kids, before we dive into this story about the algae and mercury, let's get some background! This news article is about how a special type of plant, called **algae**, might be causing a problem in our oceans.

Think of algae like tiny plants that live in the water. They're usually good! They help clean the water and provide food for other animals. But sometimes, we get algae that aren't supposed to be there. These are called **invasive species**. Imagine a new kid at school who brings their own way of doing things, and sometimes it causes problems for everyone else. Invasive species do the same thing in nature.

This article is about a type of invasive algae that's been showing up along the Atlantic coast of the United States. Scientists are worried because they think this algae might be connected to something else we need to know about: **mercury**. Mercury is a naturally occurring metal, and it can be found in the environment. But too much mercury can be bad for people and animals. We're getting mercury in our food chain.

Here are some key things to know about the food chain and how mercury gets into it:

• Food Chain: This is the "eating order" of plants and animals. For example, the algae is eaten by a tiny fish, the fish is eaten by a bigger fish, and the bigger fish might be eaten by a bird or a human.
• Bioaccumulation: This is a big word! It means that as you go up the food chain, the amount of something (like mercury) builds up in the animals. So, the big fish eating lots of little fish gets more mercury than the little fish.
• Mercury Levels: Scientists are studying whether the invasive algae is somehow helping the mercury levels get higher. If so, the algae is a problem!

So, that's the background. Scientists are trying to figure out if this new algae is making the mercury problem worse. Stay tuned to learn what they discover!

Background: The California Red-legged Frog's Story

Imagine a frog, not just any frog, but the California red-legged frog! This frog is pretty special because it's the biggest native frog in the western United States. It’s also a threatened species. That means it's in danger of disappearing. Scientists are working hard to help them, and you'll find out how!

The California red-legged frog used to be very common, hopping around in ponds, streams, and wetlands. Wetlands are areas where the ground is soaked with water, like swamps or marshes. They're like the frog's favorite playground and snack bar, providing food and shelter. Unfortunately, some things have made it hard for the frog to survive. Habitat loss is one of the biggest problems.

Habitat loss means the places where the frog lives are being destroyed or changed. For example, if a wetland is filled in to build a shopping mall, the frogs that live there have nowhere to go. Pollution is also a big problem. Pollution happens when harmful stuff gets into the frog’s environment and make the water or air unsafe. Even being eaten by other animals or getting sick can make it difficult for these frogs to survive.

So, scientists are studying how many frogs are still around and where they live. They use a special process called monitoring to check on the frogs. Monitoring means watching and keeping track of the frogs to understand their numbers and health. This helps scientists to know what they need to do to help the frogs recover!

Background: What's All the Buzz About Crypto?

So, you've heard about something called "crypto" and how it's making news! Crypto, short for cryptocurrency, is like digital money. Instead of using paper money or coins, you use bits of code that are stored on computers. Think of it like a secret code used for money transfers.

This week, something big happened in the United States. Congress, which is a group of people elected to make laws, passed a special law about cryptocurrency. This is a really important moment because it means the government is starting to set rules for how crypto can be used. It's like making the playground rules for this new type of money!

Why is this a big deal? Well, cryptocurrency is still pretty new. It was created to be used online, making it a quick way to send money to people all over the world. Some people think it could change how we buy and sell things in the future!

You might be wondering how crypto works. It's complicated, but here are the basics:

• Digital Wallet: This is like your online piggy bank. You need one to store your crypto.
• Blockchain: This is like a giant, public record book. It keeps track of every crypto transaction. It's super secure because it’s shared across many computers!
• Mining: This is the process of adding new crypto to the system. It involves using powerful computers to solve complex math problems.

The article also mentions President Trump. He's a very important person in the United States! His support means the people who work with crypto are feeling hopeful about the future.

Background: What's Going On With Your Money?

Hey there! Before we dive into this article, let's talk a little bit about something super important: your money. You might be getting an allowance, earning money by doing chores, or maybe even saving up for something special. Understanding how money works is like having a superpower! It helps you make smart choices about what you buy.

Sometimes, we want to buy things. Things that are fun, cool, and exciting! Other times, we need things – things like food, clothes, or school supplies. It's perfectly normal to want both, but it's helpful to think about what we're spending our money on.

When you're considering a purchase, it's like being a detective! You're trying to figure out if buying something is a good idea. Here's a quick guide to help you solve the mystery of whether to buy or not to buy:

Here are some key things to think about before you spend your money:

• Budget: A budget is like a plan for your money. It helps you see how much money you have coming in (like your allowance) and how you plan to spend it. Think of it like a map guiding you to your goals.
• Needs vs. Wants: This is a big one! Needs are things you absolutely must have (like food and a place to live). Wants are things that are nice to have, but you could live without (like a new video game or a fancy toy).
• Impulse Buy: This is when you buy something without really thinking about it. It's like a sudden urge! It's good to pause and ask yourself questions before making these purchases.
• Saving: Saving means putting some of your money away for later. You might save for a big purchase, a special event, or just to have a little extra money in case of emergencies!

By understanding these ideas, you can make better decisions and be in control of your money! This article is here to help you think through these decisions, to ensure you are making purchases that will make you happy in the long run.

Background: What's the Protein Power-Up About?

Have you noticed all those snacks that say they're "high-protein"? You might be wondering, what's the big deal about protein? Well, protein is like the tiny building blocks that help your body grow and stay strong! It's super important for all sorts of things, like fixing any cuts or scrapes, and helping you run and play.

Protein is found in lots of different foods. Things like chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and even some vegetables have a good amount of protein. Your body needs protein every day to work properly. That’s why eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein is crucial for growing kids!

So, why are we seeing so many high-protein snacks? Companies sometimes add extra protein to things like chips, cookies, and muffins. They hope that the extra protein will make their snacks seem healthier. But does this mean we *need* these extra protein snacks? Maybe, and maybe not! It all depends on what you're already eating and how active you are.

Here are some things to know about protein:

• Protein: One of the essential things your body needs to function. It helps build muscles, heal wounds, and gives you energy.
• Balanced Diet: Eating different types of foods to get all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients your body needs.

Background: The Army's Horses and More!

You might have read in our article that the U.S. Army is making some changes with its horses, donkeys, and mules. But why does the Army even *have* these animals? Well, it's all part of history! For a very long time, even before there were tanks or cars, these animals were super important for the military.

They helped soldiers move around, especially in places where roads weren't great. They carried heavy things like food, equipment, and even cannons! Can you imagine how tough that was? These animals were like the Army's very own delivery trucks and transportation!

Over time, the Army began to use more modern technology, like jeeps and helicopters. But even with all that cool new stuff, the horses, donkeys, and mules still helped. They’re especially good in rough areas, like mountains, where vehicles sometimes can’t go. The program that takes care of these animals is called the equid program – "equid" is a fancy word that basically means horse or donkey family!

Now, the Army is making some changes. They're going to put some of these animals up for adoption, which means they will find new homes with people who will take care of them. This is because keeping and caring for these animals can be expensive. The Army says this change will save money, about $2 million! That money can then be used for other things the Army needs.

Here's a quick list of what some of the key terms mean:

• Adoption: Giving an animal a new home and family.
• Mule: An animal that's a mix of a horse and a donkey. They’re strong and good at carrying things.
• Equid program: The Army's system for managing their horses, donkeys, and mules.

Background: What's Happening in Sports?

Sometimes, big changes happen in the world of sports! In this article, we're going to look at two things: the resignation of the head of the NFL players union and the start of the second half of the baseball season. These are like important updates that affect how our favorite games are played and watched.

First, let's talk about the NFL players union. This is like a club for all the professional football players. The union's leader is like the president of the club. They work to make sure the players are treated fairly and have good working conditions. When the leader of the union resigns, it means they're stepping down from their job, like when a student council president decides to leave their position. A new leader will be chosen to represent the players.

What does the union do? Well, imagine if you and your friends all wanted to play a game in the park, but the park had rules you didn't like. The union is like the group that talks to the "park managers" (the people who own the teams) to try and make the rules better for the players. They negotiate things like salaries (the money players earn), player safety, and how long they can play the sport.

Next, we are talking about the second half of the baseball season! The baseball season is long, so it's split into two parts. Think of it like the first half of the school year and the second half. The first half has already been completed, and all the teams are trying to win and go to the playoffs. The playoffs are like a special tournament where the best teams compete to become the champions! The second half is the final chance for all the teams to make the playoffs.

Background: What's Happening with Hacking?

Hey there! This article talks about something called "hacking" and why it's a big deal in a country called China. But what exactly *is* hacking? Think of it like this: imagine your computer is like a super-secret clubhouse. Hacking is like someone trying to sneak into that clubhouse without permission. Instead of a clubhouse, hackers are trying to get into computers, phones, and even big computer networks.

In this case, the news article says that China is experiencing a "golden age" of hacking. That doesn't mean it's a good thing! A "golden age" usually means a time of great activity, in this case, lots of hacking is going on. This means that many people in China are working on hacking into computer systems.

Why does this matter? Well, when hackers break into computers, they can steal important information, like secrets, or even cause problems for how the computer works. This could include stealing people's personal information like addresses or passwords.

Here are some key words to know:

• Hacking: Trying to get into a computer system without permission. It’s like trying to open a locked door without a key.
• Computer Network: A group of connected computers, like the internet or the computers used by a school or a company.
• Information: Data or facts, like your name, address, or even the secret recipe for cookies!

Background: What's Happening with Cyclones, Malaria, and Madagascar

Madagascar is a beautiful island country in Africa. It's known for its amazing animals, like lemurs, and its unique plants. But sometimes, Madagascar faces big challenges, like cyclones. A cyclone is like a really, really strong storm with lots of wind and rain, similar to a hurricane. They can be very destructive, causing damage to homes and flooding large areas.

This article is about how these cyclones can cause another problem: malaria. Malaria is a sickness that people get when they are bitten by infected mosquitos. Think of a mosquito as a tiny needle that can inject a disease! Symptoms of malaria can include a high fever, chills, and feeling very tired. It can make you feel really sick.

So, how do cyclones and malaria connect? Well, cyclones often cause lots of standing water. This is water that doesn't drain away quickly. This standing water is the perfect place for mosquitos to lay their eggs and hatch. More mosquitos mean a higher chance of malaria spreading. Also, after a cyclone, people's immune systems may become weakened, making them more vulnerable to get sick. This is because access to medication and treatment can be affected after such disasters.

Scientists and doctors are looking for ways to help. One way they're doing this is through vaccination. A vaccine is like a superhero shield that helps your body fight off the malaria disease. This article mentions that vaccinations can help with disaster-related spikes. This means that after a cyclone, vaccinations can help protect people from getting malaria.

Here are some key words:

• Cyclone: A very strong storm with a lot of wind and rain.
• Malaria: A sickness caused by mosquitos.
• Vaccination: A shot that helps your body fight off a disease.

Background: The Story of the California Red-Legged Frog

Imagine a frog with bright red legs hopping around California! That's the California red-legged frog. It's the biggest frog that’s originally from the western United States! Sadly, these cool frogs are having some problems. They are listed as "threatened." This means that the frog's population isn't doing well, and it needs help to avoid becoming endangered, which means it could disappear completely.

Once upon a time, these frogs were everywhere in California, from the Sierra Nevada mountains to parts of Baja California, which is in Mexico. Back during the Gold Rush, when people came to California to search for gold, some people even ate these frogs! But over time, things changed. People built more houses and roads, and the frogs lost their homes. Also, other animals, like some fish and even bullfrogs (which are bigger and eat the red-legged frogs), started to show up and cause problems.

Now, scientists and conservationists (people who work to protect animals and nature) are trying to help the red-legged frog. They are doing this in a few different ways. First, they are trying to move some frogs to new places where they can live safely. This is called translocation - like moving your toys to a different shelf! They hope that the frogs will find these new places to live and have lots of baby frogs.

But how do the conservationists know if their work is helping? That’s where AI (Artificial Intelligence) comes in! AI is like a super-smart computer program that can help scientists monitor the frogs. They can use the AI to count the frogs, study where they live, and make sure the frogs are thriving in their new homes.

Background: What's Going On?

So, you're reading about funding cuts and how they might affect rural areas. That might sound a little confusing, but don't worry, we'll break it down! Imagine the government has a giant piggy bank, and sometimes they decide how much money goes into different things. One of those things is supporting places that bring you information like the radio station mentioned in this article, and other similar services.

These places often get money, called funding, from the government. Think of it like getting an allowance! This money helps them pay for important things like their employees, the equipment they use (like microphones and computers), and to keep their broadcasts running. When the government decides to give them less money, it's called a funding cut. That means the "allowance" shrinks!

Why is this happening? Well, the government has a budget (a plan for spending money), and they make choices about where that money goes. Sometimes, they decide some things are more important than others. It's like when you have to decide how to spend your allowance – do you buy candy, or save for a video game? Governments have to make similar choices, just on a much bigger scale.

Rural areas, which are places far away from big cities, sometimes depend on this funding even more. Why? Well, in these locations, these media outlets might be one of the only sources of important information. If the funding gets cut, those stations and services might have to make some tough choices, such as reducing the content they create, or even closing down completely!

Here are a few important terms to know:

• Government: The group of people who run a country or area, like the United States. They make decisions about things like spending money.
• Budget: A plan that says how much money a person, company, or the government plans to spend and save over a period of time.
• Rural: Areas that are located far away from cities and towns, such as the countryside.
• Public Media: Things like radio and television stations that often share the news and programming and are supported by the government.

Background: What's So Special About Making Things?

Have you ever wondered where the things around you come from? Your toys, your clothes, even the computer you might be using – they all have to be manufactured! Manufacturing is just a fancy word for making things, usually in a big factory. It’s a really important part of how our world works, and it's what this article is all about.

Right now, a lot of people in charge, like politicians, are talking about manufacturing. They want to see more of it happen here in the United States. But why? Well, manufacturing can be good for a country's economy, which is like the money system. More manufacturing can mean more jobs and more money flowing around.

There's a lot of debate about manufacturing. Some people think it's really important to bring back. Other people are wondering why it is so hard to find people to take the manufacturing jobs that already exist!

So, what does this mean for you? It means the people in charge are thinking about things like where the clothes you wear are made, how much the people making those clothes are paid, and how to make sure we have enough jobs for everyone. It's all connected!

Let's break down some important words you might see in this article:

• Manufacturing: Making things in factories.
• Economy: All the money and businesses in a country.
• Middle Class: A group of people with a comfortable income and lifestyle.
• Garment Workers: People who make clothes.

Background: What's Happening with NPR?

Have you ever listened to the radio while you were in the car? Maybe you heard a story, a song, or even a fun game! Well, NPR, which stands for National Public Radio, is a special radio network that brings you those things. They also create podcasts and news stories that you might have heard online.

NPR is like a big team of journalists, reporters, and producers. They work hard to find out the truth and share it with everyone. Because NPR is a public radio network, it means they are not owned by a single company. They are funded by a mix of sources including listeners like you, government grants, and donations from organizations.

Recently, there's been some discussion about the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The CPB is a group that gives money to public radio and TV stations, like NPR, to help them stay on the air and create great content. Think of it like this: the CPB helps pay the bills so the radio station can keep playing your favorite music and sharing news!

So, what's the news? Well, the government is talking about changing how much money they give to the CPB. This could mean NPR would have to find other ways to make money, such as getting more donations from listeners.

Let's look at some important terms:

• Public Radio: Radio stations that are not owned by a single company and are funded by a variety of sources, including listener donations and government funding.
• Government Grants: Money that the government gives to organizations to help them do important work, like providing news and information.
• Funding: Money that is given to a person or group for a specific purpose.

Background: What's All This Talk About Manufacturing?

Have you heard the word "manufacturing" lately? It's a big word, but it's really just a fancy way of saying "making things"! Think about your favorite toys, clothes, and even the phone or tablet you might be using. They were probably made in a factory, which is a place where manufacturing happens.

Sometimes, companies choose to build their factories in other countries. This is because it can be cheaper, or because those countries have special resources. However, some people in the U.S. are talking about "reshoring." That means they want to bring those factories and jobs back to the United States.

Why is reshoring being discussed? Well, some politicians believe that having more factories in the U.S. could be good for our country. They hope it will create more jobs and help the economy. The economy is like a big game where people buy and sell things, and it affects how much money everyone has. If more factories are here, there are more opportunities for people in the U.S. to work and earn money.

One area that might benefit from reshoring is called the "heartland". This is a term often used to describe the middle of America, where many states have seen factories close and some communities have had a hard time. Bringing factories back could help bring jobs and prosperity to these areas.

Here are some key terms to help you understand what’s happening:

• Manufacturing: Making things in a factory.
• Reshoring: Bringing factories and jobs back to the United States.
• Heartland: The middle part of the United States.
• Economy: How people buy, sell, and use money.

Background: Public Media Explained!

Imagine a special kind of TV and radio, like your favorite cartoons or podcasts, but instead of being paid for by ads, they're funded in a different way! That's what we call public media. It's like a community project where people work together to create shows, news, and stories for everyone to enjoy.

Public media includes places like NPR (National Public Radio) and PBS (Public Broadcasting Service). They bring you cool things, like science shows, news about the world, and fun programs that teach you something new. They are available everywhere and are made to be available for everyone.

For a long time, the government, like a big helper, gave money to public media to help it create all these shows and broadcasts. This money helped pay for the people who work there, the equipment they use (like microphones and cameras), and the cost of making the programs. This money helped ensure these programs can be on the air for everyone to see and hear!

This all changed when Congress decided to stop providing funding for these programs. This is a big change, and it means the people who create these programs have to find new ways to keep them going. It's a bit like your school suddenly had less money to buy books and supplies – it makes things a lot harder. Now, people in charge have to get creative, looking to things like donations and other methods to stay on the air.

Some important things to know about public media include:

• Funding: The money that pays for public media, like from the government (called federal funding) or from donations.
• Bipartisan: This means that both sides of the government – the Democrats and the Republicans – agreed that funding public media was a good idea.
• Mission: This is what public media is trying to do – like to inform people, educate them, and entertain them, all for free!

Background: What's Happening with Money and Shopping?

Have you ever noticed how the price of your favorite candy bar sometimes goes up? That's because of something called inflation. Think of inflation as when things cost more than they used to. It's like needing more allowance money to buy the same toys! It happens for different reasons, like when it costs more to make or ship things.

Sometimes, countries decide to put tariffs on things that are bought from other countries. A tariff is like an extra tax that makes these things cost more. Imagine a country selling you amazing toy robots. If your country puts a tariff on them, it makes those robots more expensive to buy.

Recently, there's been talk about inflation going up a bit and tariffs being considered. You might think this would make people stop buying things, right? Well, the news is that Americans are still doing a lot of shopping! This is called retail spending, which means how much money people are spending in stores and online.

Why are people still spending even with higher prices? Here are a few reasons:

• Low unemployment: This means that many people have jobs. When people have jobs, they earn money to buy things.
• Bargain hunting: People are good at finding deals! They're looking for sales and discounts to save money while still getting what they want.
• Tariff fatigue: It’s like people are used to hearing about tariffs and maybe they aren't as worried about them as they used to be.

Economists (that’s the name for people who study money and how it works) keep an eye on things like inflation and retail spending to understand how well the economy is doing. It's all connected!

Background: Understanding the Economy

Ever heard your parents talking about money? Maybe they’re worried about rising prices or excited about a new job. That’s all part of the economy! Think of the economy like a giant machine made up of lots of parts, like businesses, people buying things, and the government.

This article is about the U.S. economy and what a very important person, Austan Goolsbee, thinks about it. Mr. Goolsbee is the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, which we can think of as a super-important bank that helps keep the economy healthy. He’s like a doctor for the economy!

The economy is always changing. Sometimes it’s doing great, growing quickly with lots of jobs (we call that growth). Other times, things get a little tougher. This can happen when prices of things like food and toys go up quickly. That's called inflation. Imagine your allowance suddenly can't buy as many things! The government and people like Mr. Goolsbee try to keep the economy stable, helping to make sure things are fair for everyone.

In this article, Mr. Goolsbee is talking about the health of the economy with a reporter named Steve Inskeep. They’ll discuss things like how many people have jobs, and if prices are going up too fast. They might even talk about what the government could do to help.

Here's a little dictionary to help you understand some of the big words:

• Economy: All the money, businesses, and people involved in making and buying things.
• Federal Reserve Bank: A special bank that helps keep the U.S. economy strong. It's like a bank for banks!
• Growth: When the economy is getting bigger, with more jobs and more money being made.
• Inflation: When the prices of things go up, meaning your money doesn't buy as much as it used to.

Background: What's Happening in Education?

Imagine a world where everyone can go to school! That’s what many people are working towards. Right now, there are some big changes coming to schools and colleges, and they’re all tied to something called the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ (it's not *really* called that, but let's pretend!). This bill is a set of new rules and laws that might affect you, your friends, and your future!

One big part of this is about something called school vouchers. Think of a voucher like a special ticket. The government (that’s the people who make the rules in a country) sometimes gives families money, in the form of these vouchers, to help pay for their children's education. Instead of going to their local public school, students could use the voucher to go to a different school, like a private school or a charter school. This is a big change because it gives families more choices about where their children learn.

Another part of the bill focuses on student loans. If you plan on going to college, you might need a loan. A loan is like borrowing money, and you pay it back later, usually with some extra money added on top (that's called interest). The bill might change how these loans work, making it easier for students to pay them back. Some ideas include making it so loans are easier to get, or changing the amount of time students have to repay their loans.

Here's a quick look at some of the key words:

• School Vouchers: Money from the government that families can use to pay for school.
• Public Schools: Schools run and paid for by the government, open to all students.
• Private Schools: Schools that are not run by the government and usually charge tuition (money).
• Charter Schools: Public schools that have more freedom to make their own rules.
• Student Loans: Money borrowed to pay for college.
• Interest: The extra money you pay back on a loan, on top of the original amount.

These changes are still being discussed, so the exact details might change! Stay tuned to learn more!

Background: What's Going On with President Trump's Veins?

Sometimes, news articles use big words that can be tricky to understand. Let's break down the terms used in the NPR article about President Trump's health. The main thing we’re talking about is something called chronic venous insufficiency. That's a mouthful! It basically means there's a problem with the veins in your legs, making it harder for them to do their job.

So, what do veins do? Think of them like tiny rivers that carry blood back to your heart. When you move around, the muscles in your legs squeeze the veins, helping push the blood upwards. Inside the veins, there are little doors called valves. These valves open to let blood flow up, and then close to stop it from flowing back down. But, with chronic venous insufficiency, these valves might not work as well as they should.

When the valves don't work well, blood can pool, meaning it stays in your legs instead of going back to your heart. This can cause a few different problems. It's like a traffic jam in your legs! It's not always serious, but it can sometimes cause discomfort.

Here are some common signs that someone might have this condition:

• Swelling: Your legs or ankles might get puffy.
• Achy Legs: They might feel tired or heavy, especially after standing for a long time.
• Skin Changes: The skin on your legs could change color or become itchy.
• Varicose Veins: These are veins that become swollen and twisty. They are often visible on the surface of the skin.

Luckily, there are ways to manage chronic venous insufficiency! Doctors and medical professionals, like the vascular surgeon mentioned in the article, know how to help. The article will explain how, and what this means for the President, and other people who may be dealing with it!

Background: What's Happening with Health Insurance?

Imagine you have a toy that’s really fun, but it's expensive. Health insurance is kind of like that! It helps people pay for doctor visits, medicine, and hospital stays. In the United States, many people get their health insurance through a system called the Affordable Care Act, often called the ACA or "Obamacare." This system helps make sure more people can get insurance.

The ACA works like this: the government sets up rules and helps people afford insurance. This is because medical care can be very costly! Sometimes, the government gives people money to help pay for their insurance. This extra money is called a subsidy. Think of it like a discount to make the toy (health insurance) more affordable.

Recently, researchers have been studying how much health insurance will cost next year. Their findings show that the price of health insurance is going up, a lot. This is mostly because some of the extra money, the subsidies, that helped people pay for their insurance is going away. Without those subsidies, people will have to pay more money out of their own pockets for their health insurance.

Why are the subsidies disappearing? Well, the people in charge of making laws, called Congress, have to decide if they want to keep giving that extra money. Currently, Congress is not planning to extend the subsidies. This means the cost of health insurance for many people will increase.

• Premiums: The regular amount of money you pay to have health insurance, like a monthly bill.
• Soar: This means to go up very quickly.
• Analysis: Studying information closely to find out what's happening.

Background: Getting to Know Mt. Rushmore!

Have you ever seen the amazing faces carved into the side of a mountain? Those are the faces of four famous United States presidents on Mount Rushmore! It’s a really impressive sculpture, and it’s a very special place. But how did it get there, and how do people take care of it?

Mount Rushmore is located in South Dakota, and it’s visited by millions of people every year! A sculptor named Gutzon Borglum started carving the faces in 1927. He chose these four presidents because he thought they represented important moments in American history: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.

The faces are huge! Each one is about 60 feet tall! Can you imagine how much work it took to create something so gigantic? The carving was done with the help of dynamite, jackhammers, and other tools. It took about 14 years to complete the whole project! Imagine the patience it took!

And what about keeping it clean? Over time, the faces can get dirty from the weather, like rain, snow, and wind. That’s where the park rangers come in. These are the people who work at the park to protect it and make sure it’s a safe and enjoyable place for visitors. Sometimes, they have to do a special job: cleaning the faces! This is a really tricky and important task!

In this article, we'll hear from park rangers who were among the first to do this job, remembering the details.

Background: What's Going On with the Mail?

Have you ever wondered how your letters and packages get delivered? The United States Postal Service (USPS) is the government agency that handles this! It's like a giant team of mail carriers, drivers, and people who sort the mail, all working together to get your birthday cards and online orders to your doorstep.

Recently, there's been some talk about the USPS and how it should be run. The new Postmaster General (that's the boss of the USPS!) David Steiner, has said something important: he doesn't want the USPS to be privatized. That means he doesn't want to sell the USPS to a private company.

So, what does privatization even mean? Well, right now, the USPS is owned and run by the government. Privatization means a private company would take over. This could mean lots of changes!

Here's a quick look at some things to understand:

• USPS: This is the United States Postal Service, the agency that delivers your mail.
• Privatization: This is when a service that's run by the government is sold or given to a private company to manage.
• Postmaster General: This is the person in charge of the USPS. They make big decisions!

Some people think privatization could change how the USPS works. They might worry about things like how much it costs to send a letter or whether mail will still reach everyone, especially people who live far away in the countryside, also known as rural areas.

It's important to understand what's being discussed so you can form your own ideas about what is best for the mail!

Background: Getting Ready for the WNBA All-Star Game!

The WNBA, or the Women's National Basketball Association, is like the professional basketball league for girls and women! It's where some of the most amazing basketball players in the world compete. Every year, they have a special game called the All-Star Game. It's like the NBA All-Star game, but with even more amazing women playing!

This year, the All-Star Game is in Indianapolis! That's a city in the state of Indiana in the United States. You might have heard of a famous basketball player named Caitlin Clark who plays for the Indiana Fever. She's super talented! Unfortunately, Caitlin Clark won't be playing in the All-Star Game this time around, but there are tons of other fantastic players who will be.

The All-Star Game is a chance for the best players from all the different WNBA teams to come together and play. It's like a big party where everyone gets to show off their skills. There's usually a fun competition before the game starts called the Three-Point Contest. This is where players try to make as many three-point shots as possible in a certain amount of time. Three-point shots are shots where you throw the ball from really far away from the basket, worth three points instead of two!

Why does it matter who's playing? Well, it’s fun to watch the superstars – the best players – compete! Think of it like your favorite team, but with the best players from all the teams mixed together. You'll get to see amazing shots, clever passes, and lots of teamwork. Plus, you can learn about different players and teams you might want to follow during the regular WNBA season!

Background: What are Rare Earth Minerals and Why Does China Have So Many?

Have you ever wondered how your cell phone or computer works? Or what makes an electric car go? Well, a big part of the answer is something called rare earth minerals! They're not actually "rare" in the sense that they don't exist, but they're spread out and hard to find in places where it's easy to dig them up and process them. These special minerals are super important because they're used to make all sorts of high-tech gadgets and tools that we use every day.

Think of them like the secret ingredients in a recipe. You need them to make the dish taste just right! Without these minerals, it would be much harder to build things like wind turbines (those giant windmills that make electricity), powerful magnets for speakers, and even the screens on your tablet. They're in a lot of the things we love and need.

For a long time, the United States and other countries were the top producers of these minerals. But things have changed! Now, China controls a huge part of the world's supply. This means they can control how many rare earth minerals are available and how much they cost. It's like having most of the puzzle pieces to a really important puzzle!

How did China get so good at this? Well, there are a few reasons. One is that China has a lot of the natural resources. Another big reason is that China invested a lot of money into extracting, processing, and refining those minerals. Here's a breakdown:

• Extracting: This is like digging up the minerals from the ground (think of it like mining, but in a special way).
• Processing: This is where the minerals are cleaned and separated from other stuff in the ground.
• Refining: This is the last step where they are made into the super specific elements needed for these cool devices.

So, China has a big head start and is now a major player in this industry. This means other countries, like the U.S., are working hard to catch up. It's an important issue because it affects a lot of things, from the technology we use to the cars we drive!

Background: What are Rare Earths and Why Are They Important?

Imagine tiny super-powered elements, like secret ingredients for cool gadgets! That's sort of what rare earths are. They're not actually "rare" in the world, meaning they're found in the Earth’s crust, but they are usually scattered and not easy to find and dig up. They are a group of 17 different elements with cool names like neodymium and dysprosium.

These elements are super important because they help make many things we use every day. Think about your phone, the computer you use for school, or even the electric motor in your toy car. Rare earths help make these things work better and more efficiently. They're used in magnets (which help things stick together or move things), in batteries, and in special lights. Without them, many of our modern technologies wouldn't be possible!

So, why is it important if one country has a lot of them? Well, if a country has most of the rare earths, they can control who gets them and at what price. This is called a chokehold – it’s like a strong grip. In this case, China has a lot of rare earths and has been able to control the supply of them. Let’s look at a few key things that China did to get where it is today:

• Mining: Digging rare earths out of the ground. China has invested heavily in mining, becoming the biggest miner of rare earths in the world.
• Processing: Turning the raw materials into the elements that are actually useful. This part is also important, and China has become very good at it.
• Supply Chain: The whole process, from finding the elements to getting them into the products we buy. Controlling the supply chain is about controlling where these resources can go.

Background: What's Happening with Meta?

Hey there! You might be hearing about a big news story involving Meta, the company that owns things like Facebook and Instagram. This story is about a lawsuit, which is like a big argument in a courtroom. A group of people called investors (people who own parts of the company) sued Meta's boss, Mark Zuckerberg, and some other leaders at Meta.

Why did they sue? Well, it has to do with something called the Cambridge Analytica scandal. This was a few years ago, and it was about how Facebook shared some of its users' information with a company called Cambridge Analytica. This company was supposed to use the information to help political campaigns, but it turned out they used it in ways people didn't like. This made some people upset and worried about their privacy, which means keeping their personal information safe.

The investors thought Meta's leaders didn't do enough to protect their information, and that this made Meta's company worth less. This is why they brought the lawsuit. The investors were not happy about the scandal.

Now, what happened? Well, the good news is that they've come to an agreement called a settlement. A settlement is an agreement, meaning the investors and Meta have reached a deal to end the lawsuit. The details of the settlement might be a little complicated, but the important thing is that it means they've found a way to resolve the problem without going through a full trial in court. The lawsuit is over.

Here are some important words to know:

• Lawsuit: A legal case brought before a court.
• Investors: People who put money into a company to make a profit.
• Privacy: The right to keep your personal information safe and private.
• Settlement: An agreement to end a legal dispute.

Background: What's the Buzz About Crypto?

Have you heard the word "crypto" lately? It’s short for cryptocurrency, and it's like a new kind of money! But instead of using paper bills or coins, it uses something called digital currency, which exists only on computers. Think of it like online game currency, but instead of just buying things in a game, people hope to use it to buy real-world things!

The most famous cryptocurrency is called Bitcoin, and it’s been around for a while. Other cryptocurrencies, sometimes called “altcoins,” have also popped up. Cryptocurrency is created using something called blockchain technology. Imagine a digital ledger, like a big online notebook, where every transaction is recorded. This ledger is shared across many computers, making it very difficult for anyone to cheat the system. That's part of what makes it secure.

Cryptocurrencies are not controlled by governments or banks. That means things can change quickly, and the value can go up or down a lot – this is called volatility. It’s a bit like a roller coaster ride!

In the news, you might also see the term "legislation." This means a new law. It’s a rule created by the government. In this case, the government is talking about creating rules around crypto to try and protect people who are using it. Some people think rules are good because they can help keep things fair, while others think it can slow things down.

Now, you might be wondering why this is such big news. This new legislation is a sign that people are taking cryptocurrency seriously and want to figure out how it should be used. It shows that the government is paying attention to this new type of money and wants to help everyone understand how it works.

Background: What Happened to Those Famous Magazines?

Have you ever heard of magazines like Vogue or Vanity Fair? For a really long time, they were super important! They decided what was cool in fashion, movies, and everything in between. They were like the biggest influencers before social media even existed! These magazines were published by a company called Condé Nast, and they were a big deal for a long, long time.

But things change! The author Michael Grynbaum wrote a book about how Condé Nast used to be so powerful, and then, how it started to change. It's like the story of a really popular toy that lots of kids loved, but then other cool toys came along, and the first toy wasn't as popular anymore. This is a story about how the world changes.

So, what went wrong? Well, a lot of things happened. One of them was the Internet! Before the internet, magazines were the main way people got their news, fashion advice, and information about celebrities. But then, websites and social media came along, and people could get information much faster and for free. This made it harder for the magazines to stay on top.

Think of it like this: Online magazines: These are articles you read on the internet or on a phone. They update and are very fast. Printed magazines: These are made on paper. The issue comes out once a month or once a week.

Here are some other important words in this story:

• Decline: This just means that something is getting smaller or less successful, like a rollercoaster going down.
• Hayday: This is the time when something was most successful or popular, like a superhero’s best year.
• Tastemakers: These are people or companies that help decide what's cool, fashionable, or popular. Think of them as trendsetters!

Grynbaum's book dives into the story of Condé Nast and its magazines, explaining what happened during their amazing run and why things changed. It’s like reading about how a team won the championship then why it didn't do so well later.

Background: What's the Buzz About the Federal Reserve?

Imagine a game of tag, but instead of kids, it's the whole country! The economy is like that game, always moving and changing. Sometimes things are going great, and sometimes they're a little wobbly. To keep things running smoothly, the United States has a special group called the Federal Reserve, or the "Fed" for short.

The Fed's main job is to keep the economy healthy. Think of them like the referees in our tag game. They make sure everyone plays fair and that the game doesn't get too crazy. The Fed does this mostly by controlling how much money is available and setting interest rates. Interest rates are like the price of borrowing money – think of it like a small fee you pay to borrow from a bank. If interest rates are low, it's easier to borrow money, and people might spend more. If rates are high, it's a little harder to borrow, and people might spend less.

Now, what does "independent" mean? In this case, it means the Fed can make decisions about money without being told what to do by the President or Congress (the people who make the laws). This is important because it helps the Fed focus on keeping the economy stable, instead of being influenced by politics.

Why is this important? Well, imagine if the referees in our game of tag were friends with one of the players! They might make unfair calls. The same is true for the economy. If the Fed had to listen to politicians, they might make decisions that help those politicians get re-elected, even if it's not the best thing for the country long-term. That's why staying independent is crucial.

• Monetary Policy: The actions the Fed takes to control the money supply and interest rates to influence the economy.
• Fiscal Politics: Decisions made by the government about spending and taxes, which can also affect the economy.

Background: What's Up with Data Centers in Virginia?

You've probably heard that Virginia is for lovers, but did you know it's also becoming a super-popular place for something called data centers? Think of a data center as a giant warehouse full of super-powered computers. These computers store and process all the information we use online! From your favorite games to videos and homework, it's all stored in these data centers.

Virginia has a LOT of these data centers. In fact, it has more than any other place in the world! That means a huge amount of our internet is "living" in Virginia. But why is this happening? Well, Virginia is in a great spot, geographically speaking. It's close to a lot of major cities, has good internet connections, and is also relatively safe from natural disasters like earthquakes.

These data centers are super important because they help us stay connected. But, they also have a few things that some people are worried about. They take up a lot of space, like a giant building! They also use a lot of electricity, which powers all those computers and keeps them from getting too hot. The electricity can come from power plants, which in turn can have an impact on the environment.

Some people are also concerned about the noise and traffic that these data centers bring. The computers have fans that can be loud, and trucks constantly move equipment in and out. It’s like having a busy construction site nearby!

So, what's happening? People in Virginia are starting to ask some big questions. They’re wondering if there are too many data centers, and if the benefits are worth the downsides. It’s a big discussion with lots of different opinions and things to consider!

Background: What's Going On with Cosplay?

Have you ever dressed up as your favorite character from a movie, game, or comic book? That's called cosplay! It’s when people create costumes and act like the characters they love. Cosplay is super popular, and people go to conventions (big events) to show off their amazing costumes and meet others who love the same things.

But sometimes, things get a little tricky. Companies that create these characters, like Lucasfilm (the company that makes Star Wars), own the rights to them. This is called intellectual property – it means they own the ideas, characters, and stories. They have a right to control how their characters are used. Think of it like this: they created the characters, so they get to decide what happens to them!

When you're cosplaying, you're usually just having fun and not trying to make money. But there are situations where it gets a little blurry. Let's say you make and sell your own handmade lightsabers. While you might be super talented, that could potentially be a problem because it's using something from Star Wars and making money. Or maybe you're using the name of a character to sell something.

There are lawyers that specialize in these things. They know the law and can tell companies and cosplayers what they can and can't do. They try to help everyone find a balance! It's like they're saying, "You can be creative and express yourself, but you also have to respect the rules and the people who created those cool characters!"

Background: Paris's Big Change!

Paris, a super cool city in France, is doing something amazing! They're making the city friendlier for people and the environment. Over the last 20 years, they've been making big changes to how people get around. Instead of just cars, they're encouraging everyone to use different ways to travel, like bikes, walking, and buses.

Why are they doing this? Well, cities can be busy places, especially with lots of cars. Cars cause two main problems: air pollution and traffic jams. Air pollution is when the air gets filled with bad stuff from car exhaust (the smoke that comes out). This can make it hard to breathe and isn't good for the planet. Traffic jams are when cars get stuck and move really slowly. This wastes time and can be frustrating!

So, Paris has decided to fight these problems! They're making it easier and more fun for people to use other ways to get around. They're taking steps to make Paris a "greener" city, which means a city that's good for the environment. This is an awesome thing to do to make the city safe, fun, and healthy for everyone. Some of the main things they've done include:

• Restricting Vehicle Traffic: Limiting the number of cars that can go into certain areas. Think of it like a "no cars allowed" zone.
• Bicycle-Friendly Roads: Building special lanes just for bikes, so people can cycle safely.
• Public Transportation: Improving the bus and subway systems, which are ways to get around without needing a car.
• Planting Trees: Adding more trees to the city. Trees clean the air, provide shade, and make the city more beautiful.

These changes are making Paris a better place to live for its citizens and protecting the environment at the same time. It's a great example of how cities can make big changes for the better!

Background: What's All the Buzz About 'KPop Demon Hunters'?

Have you heard about the new animated movie, 'KPop Demon Hunters'? It's HUGE! This movie is a big hit, and it's getting everyone talking – from kids like you to grown-ups.

The movie stars a super cool girl group called HUNTR/X (pronounced "Hunter Ex"). Think of them as amazing pop stars, but with a secret! They're also fighting off a whole bunch of demons. A demon is like a spooky monster from a story, usually bad and dangerous.

One of the coolest things about 'KPop Demon Hunters' is its amazing music. The soundtrack is super popular! When a song "climbs the charts", it means more and more people are listening to it. The Billboard charts are lists that show which songs are the most popular in the whole country (and sometimes even the world!).

The movie has a huge fandom. A fandom is a group of people who really, REALLY love something, like a movie, a band, or a book. Think of it as a big club of fans who enjoy sharing their love for the same thing!

So, 'KPop Demon Hunters' is a movie about a K-pop girl group who fight demons, with awesome songs that everyone is listening to. It's no wonder it's such a big hit!

Background: Rowing and Challenges

This story is about a woman who rows on the Connecticut River. But before we dive into her adventures, let's understand a few things that will help us understand the story better!

First, rowing is a sport where people use long oars to push a boat across the water. Think of it like using giant spoons to move a boat! It's great exercise and takes a lot of teamwork, especially when there's more than one person rowing.

The woman in this story has a condition called multiple sclerosis (MS). This is a tricky word, but it basically means that a person’s body sometimes has trouble sending messages from the brain to different parts of the body, like the legs or arms. This can make it hard to move around. People with MS sometimes use things like a wheelchair to help them move and get around.

The Connecticut River is a big, beautiful river that flows through several states in the United States. It’s a really long river, and people can enjoy all sorts of activities on it, like boating, fishing, and in this case, rowing!

So, what does this all mean? The story is about a woman with MS who is facing challenges. She's discovering that she can push through these challenges even when it gets tough! Rowing on the river is an important part of her story of overcoming these challenges.

Background: What's Going On With the President's Health?

You might have heard that the president had a check-up recently. The news said he had some swelling in his lower legs, and that led to a full medical exam. But why does this even matter? Well, presidents have a very important job and are always working! It's important for everyone, including the president, to stay healthy.

The news mentioned that the president may have a common circulatory condition. Don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds! Let's break it down. "Circulatory" has to do with your circulatory system, which is like a superhighway inside your body. It's made up of your heart, blood vessels (like tubes), and your blood. The circulatory system's job is to deliver important things like oxygen (which helps you breathe!) and food to all the parts of your body, and to take away the yucky stuff you don't need.

Sometimes, blood vessels can have problems. Swelling, like the president experienced, can happen if blood isn't flowing as well as it should. This can be caused by many things, and doctors will do tests to figure out what is going on.

Here are a few things that doctors check during a medical exam:

• Blood Pressure: This is a measure of how hard your blood is pushing against the walls of your blood vessels. It's like checking if your car's tires are properly inflated.
• Heart Rate: This is how fast your heart is beating. It's like counting how many times your car's engine is going around.
• Blood Tests: These tests check things in your blood, like how healthy your organs are.

Once doctors have all the information, they can figure out the best way to help someone stay healthy. Sometimes this means taking medicine, eating better, or exercising more. Being healthy is super important for everyone, including presidents!

Background: What's Happening with Medicaid in Georgia?

Have you ever heard of something called Medicaid? It's a program that helps people who need it get access to healthcare, like going to the doctor or getting medicine. The government helps pay for these things for people who don't have much money or have certain needs. Think of it like a special helping hand for health!

In Georgia, Medicaid works a bit differently than in some other places. Recently, the state has been trying something called a work requirement. This means that, to keep getting Medicaid, some people have to show that they're working, going to school, or volunteering. The idea is to encourage people to be active and engaged in the community.

However, setting up a work requirement isn't always easy. Some people have found it tricky to understand the rules or to show that they meet the requirements. Sometimes it can be challenging to find the right paperwork or keep track of the hours of work, school, or volunteer hours. Also, people might not have easy access to a computer or the internet to submit the necessary documents. This has caused some people to lose their Medicaid coverage, even if they are eligible.

The government is always trying to improve how programs like Medicaid work. They want to make sure that people who need healthcare can get it, and that the rules are fair and easy to follow. It's like trying to build a really cool LEGO set – you want to make sure all the pieces fit together smoothly!

Here are a few words that might help you understand more about what's going on:

• Requirement: A rule that people must follow.
• Eligible: Meeting the conditions to get something, like Medicaid.
• Healthcare: Medical services like going to the doctor and getting medicine.

Background: Journey Back in Time!

Imagine trying to understand a really old book! That's what scholars are doing when they study someone like Geoffrey Chaucer, a famous writer who lived way back in the 1300s. This article is about some clever people called scholars, who are like detectives trying to solve a mystery from the past.

Chaucer wrote in Middle English, which is like a different language compared to how we speak today. It's a bit like if you traveled to another country and had to learn a whole new way of speaking! Because the language and times were so different, sometimes Chaucer's writing can be a little confusing. This is where the scholars come in!

The scholars in this story are looking at a really old religious speech called a sermon. A sermon is like a talk given by a religious leader. This particular sermon was written even before Chaucer's time, in the late 1100s. It helps the scholars understand what people in Chaucer's time believed and what they were talking about. If Chaucer mentions something from this sermon, the scholars want to know what he meant by it.

Sometimes, Chaucer might have used a reference. A reference is when a writer mentions something that they assume the reader already knows. Think of it like when you tell your friend "Remember when..." – you're referencing a shared memory. The scholars are trying to figure out what Chaucer's readers would have already known to better understand Chaucer's poems.

By looking closely at the sermon and the poem, the scholars found that some of the references from the poem were actually quoting the sermon! This helps them to clarify and create a clearer understanding of what Chaucer meant in those confusing parts. Now, they can better understand Chaucer's poem!

Background: What is Public Media and Why Does it Matter?

Imagine your favorite shows on TV, like the ones you watch after school, or maybe even the radio stations you listen to in the car. Some of these are part of something called public media. Public media is like a team of TV and radio stations, and websites, that are not run to make a lot of money. Instead, they focus on providing information and entertainment that helps everyone, including you, learn and grow.

Think of it like this: private TV stations have to think about making money, which means they might show things that are super popular but not always the most educational. Public media, on the other hand, can focus on things like news about what’s happening in the world, educational programs to teach you new things, and even cool documentaries about animals or space! They also often have programs that are made especially for kids like you!

One of the most important parts of public media is that it’s available to almost everyone! This is because public media gets money from different places, and one of those places is the government. This money helps them keep going, especially if they can't rely on advertising. Now there's talk of the government stopping this funding. This is what's happening with NPR (National Public Radio) and PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), two of the biggest public media teams in the country.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some important terms:

• Funding: Money that helps something keep going. Like when your parents give you money to buy snacks.
• Government: The group of people in charge of running a country.
• News: Information about recent events.
• Educational Programs: TV shows or radio programs that teach you about different subjects.
• Documentaries: Films that tell you about real events or people, like exploring history or looking at the natural world.

Background: What's Going On?

Before we dive into the news, let's understand some important words and ideas. This article is about a person named Emil Bove who might become a judge. To be a judge means you have a really important job – you help make decisions in court cases! Judges listen to arguments, look at evidence, and decide what's fair based on the law.

Emil Bove has been nominated, which means someone has suggested him for this job. In this case, the nomination came from a panel of people in the Senate. The Senate is a group of people elected by all the states in the United States, and they have a big job: they get to vote on whether or not to approve the President's choices for important jobs, like judges. If the Senate says "yes," then Emil Bove becomes a judge on the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals. That's a big deal!

The 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals is like a special court that looks at decisions made by other, smaller courts. It covers a group of states and makes sure the law is being applied correctly. Think of it like this: if someone thinks a smaller court made a mistake, they can ask the 3rd Circuit Court to check it out. The 3rd Circuit's decisions are really important and affect a lot of people.

Another important word is nomination. It's like suggesting someone for the team. If the team members (the Senate) agree, then the person becomes a team member (a judge). In this case, Emil Bove was nominated by a group of people. Now, the entire Senate needs to vote on whether or not he gets the job.

Some people are worried about Emil Bove's nomination because they think his past might affect his decisions as a judge. They are concerned he was loyal to someone named Trump. Loyalty means being faithful and supportive of someone. Some former lawyers and judges believe his loyalty to Trump might influence how he makes decisions in court. Judges are supposed to be fair and impartial, which means they need to make decisions without being influenced by their own feelings or who they like.

Background: Why Voting Matters

Imagine you’re planning a party. You get to decide what snacks to have, what games to play, and who gets invited, right? Well, in a country, we all work together to make decisions about things like schools, parks, and even what laws we have! This is called a **democracy**, which means “rule by the people.” One of the most important things we do in a democracy is **voting**. When we vote, we choose the people who will make these important decisions for us.

In many countries, only adults over the age of 18 can vote. That's because, for a long time, people believed that younger people weren't ready to make such important choices. But some people think that’s not fair! They believe that young people have good ideas, too, and that their voices should be heard. These are people who are arguing that 16 and 17 year olds should be able to vote.

The UK, or the United Kingdom, is a country made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The UK is thinking about letting 16 and 17-year-olds vote. In the United States, things are a bit different. Each state gets to decide the voting laws. Some cities and towns in the U.S. have already lowered their voting age for local elections. That means teenagers are already voting on important issues!

Here are some things that happen when people vote:

• Elections: This is when people cast their votes for politicians and other leaders.
• Politicians: These are the people we choose to represent us and make decisions in our government.
• Laws: These are the rules everyone in the country has to follow. Voting helps decide which laws are made and what they should say.

Background: The Cucumber's Cool Cousin

Have you ever seen a regular cucumber in the grocery store? Well, imagine a wild, smaller, and a little bit hairy version! That's kind of what we're talking about with these special cucumbers. They’re not exactly the kind you’d want in your salad, because they can be toxic (that means poisonous if you eat them!), but they have a super cool trick for spreading their seeds.

These wild cucumbers, sometimes called "exploding cucumbers," have a clever way of making sure their seeds get planted far and wide. Think of it like a tiny, natural cannon! This is called seed dispersal. It’s how plants move their seeds away from the parent plant so that they can grow in new places, get sunlight, water, and nutrients.

So, how does this cucumber explode? Well, as the cucumber ripens, it builds up pressure inside. Imagine blowing up a balloon until it's ready to pop. The skin of the cucumber gets super tight. Then, when something – like a tiny animal or even a gust of wind – touches it just right, *poof!* It bursts open!

Here's what happens in that burst:

• Seed Pod: The part of the cucumber holding the seeds.
• Pressure: The force built up inside the cucumber, like air in a balloon.
• Seed Shooter: The cucumber uses its own special design to shoot seeds out with force.
• Dispersal: The process of spreading its seeds out and away from the plant.

The cucumber then sprays the seeds a distance, often much further than the seeds from a regular cucumber. This is how they can grow and spread to new areas! This "explosion" makes them really good at surviving, even if they don't taste very good to eat.

Background: Setting the Stage for the Moon!

Imagine exploring the Moon! That's the exciting goal of NASA's Artemis program. They want to send astronauts, including the first woman and person of color, back to the Moon by 2027. But before they can go, they need to get ready. Part of getting ready means testing all the cool scientific instruments they'll be using. Instruments are like special tools that help scientists explore and learn about the world around them.

Think about it: the Moon is a really far away and harsh place. To study it properly, NASA scientists will bring lots of gadgets to see what's on the surface! These instruments need to be strong and reliable. NASA can't just take a guess, so they need to test their gear. That's where a place in Arizona comes in handy.

The best place for this important testing is a big, round hole in the ground called the Barringer Crater. It's also sometimes called Meteor Crater. This is because it was created thousands of years ago by a huge meteorite – a space rock that crashed into Earth. The crater is a perfect stand-in, or a good representation, for the Moon because it has a similar environment! The terrain – the shape of the ground – is similar to the Moon's surface.

So, what are these scientists doing at the crater? They're putting the instruments through their paces! They are making sure everything works. They want to check how the instruments handle dusty conditions, temperature changes, and other challenges they might face on the Moon. They're collecting data and making sure everything is ready for the big mission. It's a bit like practicing a play before the real show!

Background: What's Up with the WNBA and Awesome Shoes?

So, you’re reading about the WNBA – that’s the Women's National Basketball Association! It’s like the NBA, but with amazing women athletes showing off their incredible basketball skills. This article is talking about cool new shoes being made for the WNBA players, especially for a big weekend called the All-Star Weekend. Think of it like a special basketball party where the best players come together to play games and have fun!

But why shoes? Well, professional basketball players, like the stars of the WNBA, need the best gear to help them play at their highest level. That includes their sneakers, or shoes. Good basketball shoes help with jumping, running, and changing directions quickly on the court. They also need to be comfortable so players can play for long periods.

The article mentions the brand Nike, a big company that makes all sorts of sports equipment, including shoes. Nike is launching (meaning releasing and selling) new shoe designs for the WNBA players. One of the famous players getting her own shoe is Sabrina Ionescu, who plays for the New York Liberty. Her shoes are called the Sabrina 3s. Cool, right?

Here’s some quick info about what makes these shoes special:

• Silhouettes: This is just a fancy word that means the overall design or shape of the shoe.
• All-Star Weekend: This is the weekend when the best WNBA players from around the league play games together and celebrate basketball.

So, when you see these new shoes on the court, remember they’re made to help amazing athletes play their best! Keep an eye out for all the colorful and innovative designs!

Background: What's Happening with the Storm?

Right now, there's a weather system, like a big swirling group of clouds and rain, moving across the Florida Panhandle. It's getting stronger, and scientists are keeping a close eye on it because it might turn into something called a tropical depression. Don't worry, we'll explain what that means!

Imagine the weather like a giant playground. Sometimes it's just a sunny day with a few fluffy clouds (that's normal weather!). But sometimes, things get a little more exciting! This weather system has the potential to become a more powerful storm.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

• Tropical Depression: This is like the first step on the ladder of a storm. It's a storm with winds up to 38 miles per hour. It's not a hurricane yet, but it's something to watch out for!
• Florida Panhandle: This is the part of Florida that sticks out west, like a handle on a mug. That's where the storm is right now.
• Gulf Coast: This is the area along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The storm is heading towards this area, which includes places like Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
• Flooding: When a lot of rain falls in a short amount of time, it can cause water to build up and overflow rivers, streams, and even streets. This is called flooding.

If the storm gets stronger and becomes a tropical depression (and maybe even something more powerful), it could bring a lot of rain and wind to the Gulf Coast. That's why the people in the area are getting ready and preparing for possible flooding. Scientists use special tools like satellites and computers to track these storms, so they can tell us what to expect and help keep everyone safe!

Background: Learning About India

This news story is about a place called New Delhi, which is the capital city of a country named India. India is a really big and interesting country located in Asia! It's home to a huge number of people, different cultures, and amazing animals like tigers and elephants.

The article talks about something called "Far-Flung Postcards." This is like sending a message from a faraway place. Think of it like a quick note, or a little picture, from someone who lives and works in India. They are sharing what it's like to live there! That's what this article is about: sharing a glimpse into daily life in New Delhi.

The story focuses on performing monkeys. In some parts of the world, including some areas of India, people train monkeys to do tricks. This is a tradition, but it's also something that can be a little bit complicated. Some people love to watch the monkeys perform, but other people might feel ambivalent. This means they have mixed feelings – they might like seeing the monkeys, but also worry about whether the monkeys are being treated fairly.

To understand this story better, let's talk about some key terms:

• Capital City: This is the main city where the government of a country is located. It's like the "headquarters" of the country!
• Culture: This includes the beliefs, traditions, and way of life of a group of people. India has a very rich and diverse culture.
• Tradition: Something that has been done for a long time, often passed down from parents to children.
• Ambivalent: Having mixed feelings about something. You might feel both good and bad, or like and dislike, at the same time.

Background: What's Going On with the Trade Deal?

Okay, so you've heard about a new trade deal President Trump made with Vietnam! But what does that even mean? Well, let's take a look at the basics. Countries often make trade deals to help them buy and sell things to each other more easily. Think of it like making a deal with your friend to trade your cool toy car for their awesome drawing - except on a much bigger scale!

Vietnam is a country in Southeast Asia, known for making lots of cool things, like clothes, shoes, and electronics. The United States also makes lots of things, from movies and music to airplanes and food! A trade deal usually aims to make it easier for businesses in each country to sell their products in the other country. That means less taxes (like a fee you pay to the government when you buy or sell something) and fewer rules (like special steps or paperwork) when trading between the two countries. This can mean more products for you to enjoy!

President Trump announced this trade deal two weeks ago, and many people, especially business owners in Vietnam, were happy about it. They thought it would make it easier to sell their products to the United States. But sometimes, even adults need a little help understanding things! Now, some of the people who actually sell goods from Vietnam to other countries (called exporters) are a little confused about the details of the new trade deal.

They are probably wondering things like:

• Trade Agreement: An official agreement between countries that explains the rules of trading.
• Tariffs: Taxes that countries put on imported and exported goods.
• Importing: Bringing goods into a country from another country.
• Exporting: Sending goods from one country to another.

So, although the trade deal sounds great, the specific rules are a bit unclear. The exporters are figuring out how to make the most of this new agreement.

Background: What's Going On with Airplanes?

Imagine you're playing a giant game of tag in the sky! That's kind of what air travel is like, but instead of kids, we have huge metal birds (airplanes) carrying hundreds of people. To keep everything safe, we need someone to make sure these "birds" don't bump into each other. That's where air traffic controllers come in.

Air traffic controllers are like the referees of the sky. They work in special buildings called control towers at airports, or in air route traffic control centers that manage planes in the air. They use radios, radar, and computers to talk to pilots and guide them safely to their destinations. They tell pilots things like where to go, how high to fly, and when it’s safe to land or take off.

The current system in the United States for managing air traffic is run by the government. Some people think the system could be improved to make it work better and faster. One plan being talked about involves making some big changes. This plan is called an overhaul, which means to fix or improve something completely.

However, some air traffic controllers who do this job every day have pointed out a different issue. They say there aren’t enough air traffic controllers! This shortage can make it harder to guide all the airplanes safely, which could lead to delays. Think of it like having too many kids in the tag game and not enough referees – it can get a bit chaotic! The controllers want more people hired to handle the ever increasing air travel.

Here are some key things to know:

• Airplanes: Flying machines that carry people and cargo.
• Air Traffic Controllers: People who direct airplanes.
• Control Towers: Buildings at airports where controllers work.
• Overhaul: To fix or improve something completely.

Background: What's Going On?

You might be hearing a lot about the President (the person in charge of the United States) and the Federal Reserve (often called the Fed) in the news lately. This section will help you understand what all the fuss is about!

The Federal Reserve is like the USA's special bank. Its main job is to keep our country's economy (how well we are doing with money) healthy and stable. The Fed does this in a few different ways, and one important part is making decisions about interest rates. Interest rates are the percentage of extra money people pay back when they borrow money from banks. The Fed tries to make sure interest rates are just right - not too high (which can make it hard to borrow money) and not too low (which can cause prices to go up really quickly). They also make sure banks are safe.

The person in charge of the Federal Reserve is called the Chair, and right now, that person is Jerome Powell. President Trump has made some comments about Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve lately, which has gotten people talking. Some people think the President and the Fed should work together easily, while others think the Federal Reserve should be independent from the President's influence.

The news reports the President talked about the idea of firing Jerome Powell. "Firing" means to remove someone from their job. The President has the power to fire a lot of people, but the situation regarding the Federal Reserve Chair is a little different because of how important the Federal Reserve's independence is. While the President has expressed some criticism, he has also said he is unlikely to fire Jerome Powell.

Background: What's Happening in Washington

This news story is about two important things that are happening in Washington, D.C., where the people who make our country's laws work. Let's break them down so we understand what's going on!

First, the Senate – that's like a group of grown-ups in charge of making laws – is talking about whether to change the amount of money the government spends. They're looking at cutting some money for things like public broadcasting, which means things like NPR and PBS that bring you news and shows. It’s similar to the money your school gets to pay for teachers, books, and other things. The Senate is debating the best way to spend the country’s money. They're also discussing money for foreign aid, which is money the U.S. gives to help other countries.

Now, let's talk about the other part of the news: inflation. Inflation is when things start to cost more money. Imagine your favorite candy bar now costs a little bit more than it did last month. That's inflation! The government keeps track of how much prices are changing. A recent report showed that prices went up in June. This means it might cost you and your family a little more money to buy things like food or toys. Sometimes, inflation can be a little tricky, but understanding it helps us understand the economy. We will keep you updated.

Background: Taxes and How They Work

Have you ever wondered how things like schools, libraries, and even the roads you drive on get built and kept in good shape? Well, it's all thanks to something called **taxes**! Taxes are money that people and businesses pay to the government. The government then uses this money to pay for important things that everyone needs.

Think of it like a giant piggy bank that everyone contributes to. The government can use the money to pay for things like keeping parks clean or helping people who are struggling. It also pays for amazing things like scientists doing important research and even the army, which keeps our country safe.

But did you know that taxes can do more than just pay for things? They can also be used to help people change their behavior and even impact the economy!

For example, the government might put a tax on something they want people to use less of, like cigarettes or sugary drinks. This is called an "excise tax." This might make those things more expensive, which could encourage people to buy less of them.

Taxes are sometimes also used to give money to people who need it or to reward people for making choices that benefit everyone, like buying an electric car, for example.

Let’s learn some new words:

• Taxes: Money paid to the government.
• Government: The people and systems that make decisions for a country.
• Economy: How money is used to buy and sell goods and services.

Background: Energy Savers and Tax Credits!

Imagine a world where your home is powered by the sun, and you drive a super cool electric car! That's the future many people are working towards. To help make this happen, the government sometimes offers something called a tax credit. A tax credit is like getting a discount on your taxes – it means you pay less money to the government!

Right now, there are special tax credits available for things that help save energy and are better for the environment. This includes things like putting solar panels (big panels that soak up sunshine to make electricity) on your roof or getting a heat pump. A heat pump is a special machine that can keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer, but uses less energy than a regular heater or air conditioner.

These tax credits are part of a bigger plan to help fight climate change. Climate change is when the Earth's temperature is slowly getting warmer because of things we do, like burning fuels. Switching to cleaner energy sources like solar and electric cars helps slow this down.

But here's the important part: These tax credits are going away at the end of the year! That means the amount of money you can save will be less or even disappear.

Here's a quick list of what you need to know:

• Solar Panels: Huge panels on your roof that turn sunlight into electricity!
• Heat Pump: A machine that keeps your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer using less energy.
• Electric Vehicle (EV): A car that runs on electricity, not gasoline.
• Tax Credit: A discount on the money you owe the government.
• Climate Change: The Earth's temperature slowly getting warmer due to human activities.

So, if you or your family are thinking about getting solar panels or an electric car, it’s important to learn more and maybe make a decision soon before the chance to get a discount disappears!

Behind the Scenes: What Makes a Frank Lloyd Wright House?

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a house designed by a famous person? Well, imagine a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright! He was a super famous architect, like a builder and designer of buildings, but way cooler. He lived a long time ago, but his houses are still amazing today.

This article is about a special community called Usonia, which Frank Lloyd Wright helped create. Think of Usonia like a neighborhood where lots of Wright-designed houses were built. It's in a place called Pleasantville, New York, which is in the United States. The houses there look different from most houses you see because they are all made with Frank Lloyd Wright’s special ideas.

So what makes a Frank Lloyd Wright house so special? Well, he loved to use natural materials like wood, stone, and glass. He believed that houses should fit in with their surroundings, not just sit on top of them. He also liked open spaces, which means the inside of his houses often feel big and airy, rather than cramped. Imagine having a big living room with tons of windows to let in the light and views!

Here are some key things you might find in a Frank Lloyd Wright house:

• Organic Architecture: This just means his houses are designed to fit perfectly into the landscape, like the house is growing from the ground!
• Horizontal Lines: Wright often used long, flat roofs and walls, making the houses seem spread out and connected to the land.
• Built-in Furniture: Instead of just buying furniture, Wright often designed furniture that was part of the house itself, like bookshelves and benches.
• Artistic Windows: He also designed stained-glass windows with cool geometric patterns to let the sunlight shine in and create really neat light displays.

The article talks about someone who has lived in a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house for a very long time. Imagine all the cool things they must have seen and experienced in a home designed by this very famous architect!

Background: What Makes a Game "Good"?

Before we dive into the best games of 2025, let's talk about what makes a game great! Think about your favorite games. What do you love about them? Is it the cool characters, the exciting stories, or maybe the fun challenges? Game reviewers, like the ones at NPR who helped pick the best games, think about these things too!

They look at lots of different parts of a game to see if it's a good one. They might think about the gameplay, which is how the game actually works and how you play it. Is it easy to learn, or does it take a while to figure out? Does it feel smooth and fun to control your character or move around? They also look at the story – does the game have a cool plot and interesting characters? Even the graphics and the music are important! Do they make the game feel exciting or make you feel something?

Sometimes, a game is created by a small team of people (we call these indie games). Other times, big companies make games, and these games are often exclusive to one type of console (like PlayStation or Nintendo Switch). This means you can only play it on that specific console. All sorts of games can be awesome!

Here's a quick list of things game reviewers often consider:

• Gameplay: How the game is played and if it's fun.
• Story: The plot and the characters in the game.
• Graphics: The images and visual style of the game.
• Music and Sound: The audio that enhances the game experience.
• Indie Games: Games created by smaller teams or companies.
• Console Exclusives: Games only playable on specific consoles.

Background: Why Reading Can Be Tricky Now

Have you noticed that it’s sometimes tough to focus on reading a book, even if you really want to? You’re not alone! Many people, even grown-ups, are finding it harder to read books and spend time reading than they used to. This article explores why this is happening.

Before we dive in, let's understand some key words. First, the word "decline" means a decrease or going down. So, when we say reading is on the decline, we mean people are reading less than before. Another important word is "concentration". This means focusing your attention on one thing for a period of time. We’re talking about why it’s becoming harder to concentrate on a book.

Think about all the fun things that compete for your attention! There are video games, social media, shows, and lots more. These things are designed to grab your attention quickly, and sometimes it's hard to switch gears and settle down with a book. It's like your brain gets used to fast-paced information and finds it harder to slow down and read a whole book.

So, why are fewer people reading? Well, the world has changed a lot, and there are more distractions than ever before. Let's look at some of the reasons:

• Technology: We have so many fun things to do online, like playing games or watching videos, so we spend less time reading.
• Time: Some people feel they have less free time than before.
• Information Overload: There's just so much information available everywhere! It can be overwhelming.

Background: What are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?

Imagine you're playing a game where you trade your cool toys with your friends. Countries sometimes do something similar, trading goods with each other. This is called international trade. Think of it like a giant toy swap between different countries!

Now, imagine one of your friends starts charging you extra to swap toys. That's kind of what a tariff is. A tariff is like a special tax that a country puts on goods coming in from another country. It makes those imported goods more expensive. For example, if the United States puts a tariff on shoes made in China, those shoes will cost more to buy in the United States.

Why do countries use tariffs? Well, there are a few reasons. Sometimes, a country wants to protect its own businesses. If the shoes from China are cheaper, people might buy those instead of shoes made in America. Tariffs can make the American-made shoes seem more affordable. The government can also use tariffs to raise revenue. Revenue is just a fancy word for money that the government collects. In this case, the government collects the tariff money from the imported goods.

So, when President Trump says the tariffs are raising a "fortune," he means the government is collecting a lot of money. But here's a tricky part: those extra costs from tariffs can sometimes get passed on to you, the shopper!

This is especially important to think about when considering things like back-to-school shopping. If there are tariffs on school supplies, like backpacks or pencils, the price of those items in the store might be a little bit higher. It can make it harder to buy the items you need for school.

• International Trade: Trading of goods and services between countries.
• Tariff: A tax on goods coming into a country from another country.
• Revenue: The money a government collects.

Background: What are Tariffs and Why Should We Care?

Have you ever noticed that some toys or video games cost more than others? Sometimes, the price changes are because of something called **tariffs**. Think of a tariff like a special tax that a country puts on things that are bought from other countries. It's a bit like a fee you pay when you visit a theme park – the fee helps the park pay for things, right? Tariffs do the same thing for a country.

When a country adds a tariff, it makes the imported items more expensive. This can happen for several reasons. Sometimes, a country wants to protect its own companies that make similar products. For example, if lots of toys are made in another country and sold here very cheaply, a tariff on those toys might help companies *here* stay in business. Other times, a country might use tariffs to try and get another country to change its rules about trade. It’s like a way of saying, “Hey, we don't like these rules, so we're going to make it a little harder for you to sell things here.”

So, how do tariffs affect *you*? Well, since they make things cost more, it can impact the price of items you and your family buy. If a toy you want comes from a country with a tariff, it might cost a bit more at the store. It’s important to remember that not *everything* will be affected. Some items are made only in one country, so they wouldn't be affected. Others are made in a country that *doesn’t* have a tariff, so the price might stay the same.

Here are some things to remember:

• Importing: Buying goods from another country.
• Exporting: Selling goods to another country.
• Price Hikes: Increases in prices.

Background: What's Happening with Prices?

Have you noticed that things cost a little more than they used to? Like maybe your favorite candy bar or a new video game? Well, that's because of something called inflation. Don't worry, it's not a monster! It just means that the prices of goods and services – like the candy bar and the video game – are going up over time. A little bit of inflation is normal, but sometimes it can become a bigger problem.

One of the things that can affect inflation is something called tariffs. Tariffs are like special taxes that a country puts on goods that are imported – that means, brought in – from another country. Imagine if your favorite toy company had to pay extra money to bring toys into your country. They might have to charge more for those toys to make up for it! That's kind of what tariffs do.

The article mentions former President Trump and his tariffs. His government placed tariffs on certain goods. This could affect prices in a few ways. First, it can make those imported goods more expensive. Second, if companies can't get imported parts, they might have to raise prices of their own goods! This, in turn, affects the overall cost of things.

The article also mentions the Federal Reserve, or the "Fed". The Fed is like the bank for all the banks in the United States. They help keep the economy healthy. One way they do this is by setting interest rates. Think of interest rates as the price of borrowing money. When interest rates go up, it can become more expensive for people to borrow money to buy houses or cars. The Fed considers inflation when deciding on what the interest rate should be.

Here's a quick breakdown of some key terms:

• Inflation: When the prices of things, like food and toys, go up over time.
• Tariffs: Taxes on goods imported from other countries.
• Federal Reserve (the Fed): The central bank of the United States, which helps to keep the economy running smoothly.
• Interest Rates: The cost of borrowing money, like for a loan.

Background: What's Happening with the Department of Education?

Ever wondered who makes the rules for schools across the United States? That's where the Department of Education comes in! Think of it like a helper for all the schools in the country. It helps them by providing money, setting standards, and making sure everyone has a fair chance to learn.

The Department of Education does lots of important things. One big job is giving funding, or money, to schools. This money can be used for things like new books, computers, and even teacher salaries. It also helps schools with special programs, like those that help students with disabilities.

Recently, there's been a lot of discussion about this Department. Some people, including the current government, believe the Department should do things differently. They might want to change how much money is given, or how certain programs work. These changes are sometimes called budget cuts, which means less money is being spent.

The Supreme Court, which is a special group of judges that make big decisions about laws, has just made a ruling. They've decided that some changes to the Department of Education, made by the government, can move forward. This means that some of the ideas about changing the Department can start to happen.

So what does this mean for you? Well, it could mean some changes for your school. For example, some schools might get less money for programs, or they may need to rethink how they spend their money. This is why understanding the Department of Education and the changes happening to it is important.

Background: What's the Education Department and Why Does It Matter?

Imagine your school, but instead of just your principal and teachers, there's a whole team of people in Washington, D.C., who help schools all over the country! That's kind of like the Education Department. It’s a big group of people in the government whose job is to help schools, teachers, and students, like you, learn and succeed. They do this by giving money (called funding) to schools, setting some rules (like how to keep everyone safe), and sharing good ideas about how to teach.

The Education Department wasn't always around! It was created a while ago to help make sure that all students, no matter where they live or what their background is, have a chance to get a good education.

Now, there’s talk about what would happen if this department didn't exist. This article is about how schools are getting ready for that possibility. It's like when your class plans for a fire drill – they're thinking about how things would work differently. This could mean schools would get money in different ways, or have to follow different rules. It's all about making sure students can keep learning and growing.

One important thing to know is about school districts. Think of a school district as a group of schools in your town or city. They're usually run by a superintendent, who's like the head of all the schools in that district. These districts make a lot of important decisions about how schools are run.

Here are some of the things the Education Department does, to help explain what might change:

• Funding: Giving money to states and schools to pay for teachers, books, computers, and other important things.
• Guidance: Sharing helpful information and advice about how to teach different subjects and support students with special needs.
• Setting Rules: Making sure schools follow laws about things like student safety and equal opportunities for everyone.

Background: The Recorder's Story

The recorder, that small, often plastic instrument, might seem pretty simple. You blow into it and press some holes, and out comes a sound! But where did it come from, and why is it so popular? Let's take a look at the recorder's history.

Recorders aren't new! They've been around for hundreds of years. They were especially popular in Europe during the Renaissance (say "REN-uh-sahns"), a time of great art, music, and discovery. Wealthy people, like kings and queens, loved to play the recorder. Back then, recorders were often made of wood and were much more expensive than the ones we use today.

Over time, the recorder's popularity faded. But then, in the 20th century, someone realized it was a great instrument for teaching music to children. Because it’s easy to learn the basics, it became a common sight in classrooms all over the world! Nowadays, you'll find recorders in schools everywhere.

The recorder is known as a woodwind instrument. This means the sound is produced by blowing air across a hole (like a whistle!) or through a reed inside the instrument. Other woodwind instruments include the clarinet, the flute, and the saxophone.

Here are some things that make the recorder a good instrument for beginners:

• It's relatively inexpensive: You don't need to spend a lot of money to get a good one.
• It's easy to hold and play: Small hands can easily manage a recorder.
• You can learn basic music concepts: The recorder helps you understand notes, rhythm, and how to read music.

So, while the recorder might be known for playing simple tunes, it's also a fantastic way to start your musical journey! You never know, maybe you'll become the next great recorder player!

Background: Why Are Birthrates Changing?

Have you ever wondered why some countries have lots of young kids and others seem to have mostly older people? Well, it all comes down to how many babies are being born! In many countries, like the United States, something interesting is happening: families are having fewer children than they used to. This means that the rate at which babies are born, called the birthrate, is going down.

There are lots of reasons for this. For example, things like healthcare have gotten much better. This means that fewer babies and mothers die during childbirth, and people live longer lives overall. Also, in many places, it's easier for girls to go to school and get jobs, which sometimes means they have children later in life or choose to have fewer. Plus, raising kids can be expensive! Food, clothes, and toys all cost money.

When birthrates go down, the population ages. That means there are more older people and fewer young people. This creates a change in something called a population pyramid. A population pyramid is a chart that shows how many people of different ages there are in a country. Usually, the bottom of the pyramid is wide (lots of young people) and the top is narrow (fewer older people). But when the birthrate goes down, the bottom of the pyramid gets smaller, and the middle gets bigger, making the pyramid look different.

Here's a quick breakdown of some key ideas:

• Birthrate: How many babies are born in a certain place in a certain amount of time (like a year).
• Healthcare: The doctors, nurses, hospitals, and medicines that help people stay healthy.
• Population Pyramid: A special chart that shows how many people there are of each age group in a country.

Background: What’s Happening in India?

Imagine a really, really hot day! In some parts of the world, like India, these days are becoming more and more common. This is because of something called **climate change**, which means the Earth is getting warmer. Sometimes, these hot days are so extreme that people can't work outside safely. That can be a big problem, especially if you depend on that job to earn money!

This is where something new called **parametric insurance** comes in. It's like a special kind of promise that says, "If something bad happens because of the weather, we'll help you out." Regular insurance, which you might have for your bike or your house, pays you back *after* something happens. Parametric insurance is different. It pays out money based on a specific event happening – in this case, a really, really hot day! It's easier and faster to get help this way.

So, how does it work? Let's say the insurance plan says that if the temperature reaches a certain level, like 45 degrees Celsius (that's really hot!), people who are insured automatically get money. The money can help them buy food, pay bills, or do anything they need to do if they've lost wages because of the heat. They don't have to prove anything else - the temperature reading itself is enough!

• Climate Change: The Earth's average temperature is increasing due to things like pollution, causing changes in weather patterns.
• Parametric Insurance: A type of insurance that pays out based on a specific event or measurement, like the temperature, instead of needing to prove a loss after something happens.
• Wage: Money earned for doing a job.

This type of insurance is becoming more popular in India because it helps people cope with the challenges of climate change. It’s a clever way to protect people and help them get back on their feet after a really hot day makes it hard to work.

Background: What's Going On?

Imagine your body is like a giant LEGO castle, and your DNA is like the instructions and the LEGO bricks that make up the castle. DNA is the code that tells your body how to grow and work! You get your DNA from your parents – half from your mom and half from your dad. Sometimes, though, the instructions (DNA) can have mistakes, like a missing or broken LEGO brick.

If a parent has a mistake in their DNA, they might pass it on to their child. This can lead to a genetic disease, which is like having a castle that doesn't work quite right. These diseases can cause all sorts of problems with how your body functions. Some are very serious.

For some families, doctors are exploring a new technique to help prevent these genetic diseases. It's like giving the child a better set of instructions for their castle, even before they are born!

This new technique involves something called mitochondria. Mitochondria are like tiny power plants inside your body’s cells that give you energy. They also have their own small set of DNA. Sometimes, the mom’s mitochondria (and the DNA they hold) might have a mistake that could cause a genetic disease.

The new technique allows doctors to replace the mom’s faulty mitochondria with healthy ones from another person, like a third parent. This way, the baby will have healthy power plants in their cells, and hopefully, won't inherit the genetic disease!

• DNA: The instructions that tell your body how to grow and work.
• Genetic Disease: A problem caused by a mistake in your DNA.
• Mitochondria: Tiny power plants inside your cells that give you energy.

Background: The Amazing Brain and Getting Older

Hey everyone! This news article is all about your amazing brain and how it changes as you get older. Your brain is like a super cool computer that controls everything you do – from playing video games to remembering your favorite ice cream flavor! It's also constantly learning and growing. But just like any computer, your brain can sometimes slow down a bit with age. Don't worry, it's completely normal!

Scientists are really interested in how our brains work, and they’re always learning new things. They’ve discovered that as we get older, some parts of the brain might not work as quickly or as efficiently as they used to. This is called cognitive decline, which just means a slight slowing down in how your brain thinks and remembers things. It's like when your phone gets a little sluggish after you’ve had it for a long time!

But the good news is, there are lots of things you can do to help keep your brain happy and healthy! Think of it like keeping your bike in tip-top shape. You need to take care of it to make sure it keeps working well. Scientists are working hard to understand more about the aging brain so they can discover ways to help people keep their brains healthy for many years. Let’s look at some of the things they’ve found!

Background: What's Going On?

Have you ever wondered how doctors learn to be doctors? Well, it takes a really long time! Doctors, especially the ones just starting out, need lots of training before they can take care of patients all by themselves. They spend years in school and then even more years learning by working at hospitals. These new doctors are called medical residents – think of them as doctors-in-training.

The Mayo Clinic is a special hospital in Minnesota, and it’s known for being one of the best places to get medical care in the whole world! At the Mayo Clinic, residents aren't just learning about medicine from books; they're also learning how to talk to and understand people. That’s where something pretty cool comes in: improv classes!

Improv is short for "improvisation," which means making things up on the spot, like in a comedy show. These classes help residents learn how to communicate with patients better. You see, talking to patients isn't just about knowing the right medicines; it's also about listening, showing empathy, and making sure patients feel comfortable.

Here’s how it works: In improv classes, residents might practice being in different situations. They might pretend to be a patient and another resident might be a doctor. Through these exercises, they practice listening carefully and responding in helpful, kind ways. It helps them to become better communicators and to build relationships with patients. Strong relationships help patients feel more comfortable, leading to better care.

• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of another person. It's like walking in their shoes.
• Communication: The act of sharing or exchanging information. It's how doctors talk to patients, and how patients talk to doctors.
• Patient: A person receiving medical care.

Background: What's Going On With Citizenship and Voting?

This news story is about something that affects who can vote in elections: whether someone is a U.S. citizen. In America, only citizens who are at least 18 years old can vote. The story is about a new way the government might check who's a citizen, and some people have questions about it.

Let's break down some key ideas: Elections are how we choose our leaders, like the President and members of Congress. To vote, you have to be registered, which means you sign up with your local government. This registration tells them that you're eligible to vote – meaning you meet all the rules, like being a citizen and being old enough.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a part of the government that keeps America safe, kind of like a giant security guard. They have a lot of information about people, including whether they are citizens. They are creating a system, or a tool, to check voter registrations. This tool is designed to compare voter registration information with information DHS has on citizens.

Now, some Senators (people who help make the laws in Washington D.C.) are worried about this new tool. They're concerned about a few things:

• Accuracy: Is the tool correct? Does it have the right information? If the tool is wrong, it might accidentally say that someone isn't a citizen when they really are.
• Transparency: Does everyone know how the tool works? Transparency means being open and clear. If the government isn't being transparent, it can be hard to understand how decisions are being made.
• Privacy: How will the government protect people's personal information? Privacy means keeping your information safe and not sharing it with people who shouldn't have it.

The Senators are raising these concerns because they want to make sure the election process is fair and that everyone's rights are protected. This tool is new, and they want to make sure it works correctly and fairly.

Background: The Internet's Super Smart Friend

Have you ever wondered how the internet knows what you like? Or how it can suggest videos or games just for you? Well, a big part of the answer is something called Artificial Intelligence, or AI for short. Think of AI as a really, really smart computer program that can learn and make decisions, kind of like a super-smart friend that lives inside your computer or phone.

AI is changing how we use the internet in lots of ways. It helps websites remember what you've searched for, watched, or clicked on. This information is then used to personalize your experience. So, if you love videos about animals, AI will help show you more of those videos! It's like having a personal assistant that knows exactly what you enjoy.

But how does AI actually work? It uses something called algorithms. Algorithms are like secret recipes that computers follow to solve problems or complete tasks. In the case of the internet, algorithms use all the information they can gather to help decide what to show you, or how to help you do something.

Here are some examples of how AI is used online:

• Search Engines: When you type something into Google or another search engine, AI helps find the best results for you. It understands what you're looking for and gives you the most relevant links.
• Social Media: Social media platforms use AI to suggest friends, posts, and videos that they think you'll like. This is what helps keep you scrolling!
• Online Shopping: Websites like Amazon use AI to recommend products based on what you've bought before or what other people with similar interests have bought.

Understanding AI helps us understand how the internet is changing and how the things we see and do online are decided. It's a powerful tool that is constantly being developed!

Background: The USA and Japan - A Long History

Hey kids! This news article is about how Japan and the United States are having a bit of a disagreement. But to understand what's going on, we need to know a little bit about their history. These two countries have been friends for a very long time, especially after a big war called World War II. After the war, the USA helped rebuild Japan and the two countries became important allies. That means they agreed to help each other out, like in times of trouble.

One of the main reasons they're such good friends is because of trade. Trade is simply buying and selling things between countries. Japan makes a lot of cool things like cars, electronics, and toys, and the USA buys many of them! The USA also sells things to Japan, like food and other products. It's like a giant global swap meet!

But sometimes, things can get tricky when it comes to trade. That's where tariffs come in. A tariff is like a special tax that a country puts on goods imported from another country. Imagine it like a toll booth on a road but for products coming into the country. The USA has been talking about putting tariffs on some things that Japan sells to the USA.

Why do countries use tariffs? Well, there are a few reasons. Sometimes, a country might put a tariff on a product to protect its own businesses from foreign competition. It makes the products from the other country more expensive, so people might choose to buy the ones made at home instead. Other times, a country might use tariffs to try and get a better deal in the trade.

The news article talks about how these possible tariffs have made the leaders of Japan think about their relationship with the U.S. Japan's Prime Minister, who is like their president, has to respond. Because of this situation, people in Japan are reconsidering some of their long-held ideas about their relationship with the USA.

Background: What's Going On With Prices?

Have you ever noticed that sometimes things cost more than they used to? That's what we call inflation. It’s like a gentle rise in the prices of stuff we buy, like toys, snacks, and even the electricity that powers your video games! In the news, you might hear about inflation being up or down. That just means whether prices are going up faster, slower, or maybe even staying the same.

In the news story, we're hearing that prices went up a bit more than they had been. It said prices were up 2.7% from last year. That means if a candy bar cost $1 last year, it might cost $1.03 this year. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it can add up over time if lots of things cost more!

One of the reasons mentioned in the news story is something called tariffs. Imagine tariffs like a special tax added to things we buy from other countries. The news story said that President Trump’s tariffs are starting to have an effect. Tariffs can make it more expensive to buy things from other countries, and that can sometimes mean stores have to charge you more money.

So, to recap, here are some important things to know:

• Inflation: When the prices of things you buy go up over time.
• Tariffs: Special taxes on things bought from other countries. This can sometimes make things cost more.

Understanding inflation helps us understand what is happening with the prices of the things we buy every day.

Background: What's This "Political Economy" Thing?

Hey there, future economists! Before we dive into Planet Money Summer School, let's talk about the big idea: political economy. It sounds super fancy, but it’s actually pretty simple. Think of it as the way governments make decisions about how money and resources are used in a country. It's like a giant game where the rules are made by governments, and those rules affect everyone!

So, what does this have to do with Planet Money? Well, Planet Money explains how money works in the world. This summer, they’re zooming in on the government’s role in the economy. The government makes a lot of important choices that affect our lives, from how much things cost to the jobs people have. Understanding these choices helps us understand the economy better!

Some of the choices the government makes can be tricky. They have to decide how to spend money, like on schools, roads, or even space exploration! They also have to figure out how to collect money through taxes. Taxes are the money people and businesses pay to the government, and they help pay for all those important things.

Here are some important words you might hear in the summer school course:

• Government: The group of people who make the rules and decisions for a country.
• Economy: How a country produces, buys, and sells things. It's all about money, jobs, and resources!
• Resources: Things like land, water, and even human skills that are used to make goods and services.
• Policy: A plan or rule that the government follows to achieve a goal.
• Taxes: Money paid by people and businesses to the government.

So get ready to learn about how the government and the economy work together! It's like a fun puzzle, and you're about to become super-smart puzzle solvers.

Background: What Was This All About?

Imagine going on a super long camping trip… in space! That’s kind of what the Ax-4 mission was like. It was a special trip to the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS is like a giant, science lab that orbits Earth. It's where astronauts from different countries live and work together to do experiments and learn about space.

This mission was run by a company called Axiom Space, which is a company that organizes and plans space trips. They teamed up with SpaceX, another company that builds rockets and spacecraft, to send a crew of four people to the ISS. This kind of trip is called a private mission, because it's not run by a government space agency, like NASA.

The coolest part? The commander, Peggy Whitson, is a very experienced astronaut! This was her fifth time in space, and she spent a total of 695 days up there. That’s like spending almost two whole years in space! She holds the record for the longest time spent in space by any American.

The Ax-4 crew spent time on the ISS doing experiments, just like other astronauts. They studied things like how plants grow in space and how the human body changes when it's not on Earth. When their work was done, they came back home in a SpaceX capsule, which is a special spaceship designed to carry people. The capsule splashdown (landed) in the ocean, and then a rescue ship took them home.

Here are some important words:

• International Space Station (ISS): A space station where astronauts from all over the world live and work.
• Axiom Space: A company that plans and organizes space trips.
• SpaceX: A company that builds rockets and spacecraft.
• Private mission: A space mission that is not run by a government space agency, like NASA.
• Commander: The person in charge of a mission.
• Space capsule: A spaceship used to transport astronauts.
• Splashdown: Landing a spacecraft in the ocean.

Background: What's Happening with Power Prices?

Have you ever thought about where the lights in your house get their power? It comes from a place called a power plant! These plants make electricity, and then that electricity travels through wires to your home, school, and everywhere else. But making electricity can get a little complicated, and sometimes, the price of that electricity changes.

Right now, there’s a new law that’s changing things, especially in some places. This new law changes how the government helps out with the cost of producing electricity. Think of it like this: the government used to offer some "coupons" or tax incentives (money-saving rewards) to companies that make electricity from sources that are good for the environment. These are things like solar panels (those shiny things on rooftops) and wind turbines (giant windmills).

But now, some of those "coupons" are going away. This means that making electricity from those clean sources might become more expensive in some areas. This is because the companies that build these sources may now need more money to produce the electricity if they are not receiving the tax incentives from the government.

What does this mean for you? It means the price of electricity, which is what you pay on your family’s bills, might go up in some places. This is especially true for places that haven’t been doing as much to use clean energy. These are called states – areas of the country that are governed by their own rules. Some states have been working hard to use more renewable energy to keep costs down.

Here's a simple breakdown:

• Power Plant: A place that makes electricity.
• Tax Incentives: Money-saving rewards from the government to encourage certain actions (like using clean energy).
• Solar Panels: Flat panels that catch sunlight and turn it into electricity.
• Wind Turbines: Tall structures with blades that spin in the wind, generating electricity.
• States: Areas of land with their own governments and rules, like California, Texas, or New York.

Background: What's a Stablecoin and Why Does it Matter?

Hey there! This news article is about something called a stablecoin, which is a type of cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency might sound complicated, but it's basically digital money, like the money in your piggy bank, but it only exists on computers. People use it to buy things online or trade it with each other.

But here’s the thing: Some cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, can go up and down in value really, really fast! That's called being volatile. One day a Bitcoin might be worth a lot, and the next day, it might be worth a little less. This can make it tricky to use for everyday things because it can be hard to know how much something really costs.

That's where stablecoins come in! The idea behind a stablecoin is to be more… well, stable! They are designed to stay at a pretty steady value, usually linked to something familiar like the US dollar. So, one stablecoin might always be worth about one dollar. This makes them easier to use for buying and selling things because you know the value won’t change drastically overnight.

Think of it like this: Imagine having a special kind of dollar that only exists online. That’s kind of what a stablecoin is. The people who create stablecoins try to make sure their value stays steady by having something like real dollars or other valuable assets to back it up.

Now, because stablecoins are becoming more popular, people in charge, like Congress, are starting to think about how to keep them safe. They want to make sure that people can use stablecoins without worrying about losing their money. That's what the rules mentioned in the article are about! These rules will help make sure stablecoins are managed well, so everyone can feel safe using them, just like when you use your allowance.

Background: What's All the Fuss About?

Imagine the world as a giant science experiment! Scientists all over the United States study things like the weather, plants, and animals. They collect information, or data, and use it to understand how things work. One really important thing they study is climate change, which means big changes in the Earth's weather patterns.

Every few years, scientists from all over the country work together on a special report called the National Climate Assessment. Think of it like a super-duper report card for the planet! It’s packed with information about what’s happening with our climate, like whether it's getting warmer or colder, and how these changes might affect us.

The National Climate Assessment is super important because it helps everyone – from grown-ups in charge (like the President!) to regular folks like you and me – understand what’s going on. It provides lots of evidence, which is like proof, to show what's happening and helps them make decisions about how to help protect our planet. It also explains complicated ideas in a way that everyone can understand.

Sometimes, these reports can be a little controversial, which means some people might not agree on everything. This can happen because people might have different ideas about what’s causing climate change or how to deal with it. However, the information in these reports is still valuable because it comes from lots of scientists and uses lots of different facts.

Now, you might be wondering why this report is in the news! Well, sometimes things happen that make the report hard to find. However, the most important thing is that this valuable information can still be found and shared so that we can all learn how we can help protect our planet.

Background: What's Happening with Climate Reports?

Imagine you're building a really cool Lego castle. To build it right, you need instructions! Well, governments also need “instructions” – information – to understand things like climate change and how it's affecting the world. That's where these important reports come in!

The United States government, just like many others, has been working on these reports called climate assessments. These reports are like really detailed studies about what’s happening to our planet's climate. They explain things like how the Earth is getting warmer and what might happen because of it. Scientists use lots of data and research to write these reports. They also look at how this affects things like our weather, the oceans, and even our health.

For a while, these reports were easy to find online for everyone to read. Think of it like sharing those Lego instructions! Anyone could go to a website and learn about the latest findings from the government about climate change. But recently, things changed.

Now, instead of being easily accessible to the public, the government is saying they're only required to share these reports with the Congress, which is like the group of people who make laws in the United States. The public can still find the information, but it might be harder.

Why does this matter? Well, sharing information openly helps everyone – scientists, teachers, kids like you, and even the government itself – understand what’s going on. It helps us make informed decisions about the future. Here’s why these reports are important:

• Climate Change: A long-term shift in weather patterns.
• Assessment: A careful examination or study of something.
• Peer-reviewed: When other scientists read and check a report before it's published to make sure it's accurate.

Background: What are the Emmys?

Hey everyone! Before we dive into this year's Emmy nominations, let's get the basics. The Emmys are like the Oscars, but for TV shows! They're awards that celebrate the best television programs, actors, writers, and everyone else who helps make your favorite shows. Think of it as a huge party where everyone who works in TV gets together and cheers for each other's awesome work!

The people who get to vote for the Emmys are people who work in the TV industry, like producers, directors, and other TV people. They watch a bunch of shows and vote for the ones they think are the best. It's a big deal, because winning an Emmy can really boost a show's popularity and give the actors some serious bragging rights!

There are tons of different Emmy categories, so there's an award for almost everything. Some of the most important categories are:

• Outstanding Drama Series: This award goes to the best dramatic TV show of the year.
• Outstanding Comedy Series: This award goes to the best funny TV show.
• Outstanding Lead Actor/Actress: This is awarded to the best actor and actress in a leading role in a show!

So, when you see these nominations or hear about who won, remember that it's all about celebrating great storytelling and the hard work that goes into making TV shows that you love. Now let’s see who made the cut for 2025!

Background: What are the Emmy Awards?

Ever heard of the Emmy Awards? They're like the biggest, most important awards show for television! Think of it like the Oscars for TV shows. Every year, people who make amazing TV shows, like the ones you watch, are nominated for Emmys. These shows could be things like your favorite cartoons, comedies, dramas, or even news programs!

The Emmy Awards have been around for a very long time. They started way back in 1949, and have been celebrating the best in television ever since! The people who vote for the winners are experts in the TV world, like producers, directors, writers, and actors. They watch a ton of TV and choose the shows and people they think are the best. They consider things like the story, the acting, the special effects (if there are any!), and how well the show is made overall.

So, when you hear about a show getting an Emmy nomination, it means that it’s considered one of the best shows of the year! Winning an Emmy is a really big deal. It shows that a show is super popular and also shows it is made at a high level!

• Nomination: A person or a TV show that has been put up to be considered for an Emmy.
• Apple TV+: This is a streaming service where you can watch many different TV shows. Streaming services are like online movie rentals.
• Takeaways: The main things that someone should know or remember.

Background: What's Going On?

You might have heard the name Stacey Abrams. She's a pretty important person who's been talking about some serious stuff lately, like how to make sure everyone gets a fair chance to vote. Let's take a closer look at what she's been up to!

Stacey Abrams is a writer and a politician. That means she works in the government (politics) and also writes books! She's famous for working hard to make sure everyone has a chance to vote, which is a really important part of a democracy. A democracy is like our school: everyone gets a say in how things are run, and people vote to choose their leaders.

She's also warned about something called autocracy. Autocracy is a system where one person or a small group of people has all the power. It's the opposite of democracy, where everyone has a voice. She worries about this because she thinks it’s important to protect the rights of everyone.

Another big topic is voter suppression. This means making it harder for people to vote. This can happen in lots of ways, like making it difficult to register to vote, or changing voting rules. Stacey Abrams works to fight against anything that stops people from voting.

Even though she isn't running for office *right now*, she hasn't ruled out doing it in the future. She believes that politics is important, but it’s not the only way to make a difference. She uses writing to tell stories, including her newest thriller, Coded Justice.

So, basically, Stacey Abrams is someone who cares about making sure our world is fair and that everyone gets to have a say. That’s what she's been talking about recently. It's all about a better future!

Background: What are the Emmy Awards?

You know how actors and TV shows win awards for being awesome? Well, the Emmy Awards are like the biggest and most important awards for television! They're a super-cool way to celebrate the best shows, actors, writers, and everyone else who works hard to make your favorite programs.

Think of it like a giant, awesome party for TV! Every year, people in the television industry nominate their favorite shows and actors. Then, other people in the industry – like producers, directors, and actors – vote to decide who wins! The winners get a shiny trophy, which is a statue of a woman holding wings – a symbol of the art and talent of television.

The Emmy Awards are given out in different categories, which are just different types of achievements. For example, there are awards for:

• Outstanding Drama Series: This is for the best serious TV shows, like the ones with exciting stories and characters.
• Outstanding Comedy Series: This is for the funniest shows that make you laugh!
• Outstanding Lead Actor/Actress: These awards go to the actors who give the best performances in a show.
• Outstanding Writing: This honors the people who wrote the best scripts!

These awards are super important in the TV world. Winning an Emmy can help a show get more viewers, boost the actor's careers, and generally show the world how great a show or person is. So, when you see shows like "Severance" or "The Penguin" nominated, it means the people in the television world thought they were REALLY good!

Background: Dinosaurs in Movies!

Have you ever wondered how the amazing dinosaurs in movies like "Jurassic Park" and "Jurassic World" are made? Well, it's a mix of real science and movie magic! This article is all about figuring out how close these movie dinosaurs are to the real ones that roamed the Earth millions of years ago.

First things first: Let's talk about the real stars of the show – the dinosaurs! Paleontologists (say: pay-lee-on-TOL-oh-jists) are like dinosaur detectives. They are scientists who study fossils, which are the remains of plants and animals that lived long ago. By studying fossils, paleontologists learn about what dinosaurs looked like, what they ate, and how they lived.

Now, back to the movies! The people who make these films try to make the dinosaurs look as real as possible. This is where paleontologists, like the one interviewed in the article, come in handy. They tell the filmmakers what is known about each dinosaur based on fossil discoveries. However, making movies is still fun! There's also a bit of imagination and creativity involved to make the dinosaurs exciting for us to watch. Filmmakers sometimes add features for dramatic effect, and that's where things might become less accurate (meaning: correct).

Accuracy matters, even in movies! The movie makers want the dinosaurs to look realistic, like something that could have really existed in the past.

Here are some things to keep in mind when you watch dinosaur movies:

• Sometimes dinosaurs are shown doing things that scientists aren't completely sure about.
• Some dinosaur features, like the color of their skin or if they had feathers, can be hard to know for sure.
• Filmmakers sometimes have to make choices for the sake of the story, even if it's not exactly what science tells us.

So, next time you watch a dinosaur movie, remember that it's a fun mix of real science, imagination, and movie magic! And if you want to know more about dinosaurs, remember there are many places to learn more, like museums and books! And that's a great reason to be curious.

Background: What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?

Imagine your favorite toys are made in another country. When these toys come to the United States, there might be a special tax called a tariff. Think of a tariff like a "toll" that the government charges on goods coming into the country. It makes those toys (or other things) cost more money.

President Trump, in the news article, decided to use these tariffs on certain goods. This means some things imported from other countries became more expensive to buy in the U.S. This impacts people differently, but could be especially felt by people with less money.

Why do we have tariffs? Well, governments sometimes use them to protect American companies and help them compete with companies in other countries. It's like giving the American companies a bit of an advantage because the imported goods become more expensive for people to buy.

The opposite of tariffs is free trade. Free trade means countries can buy and sell goods from each other without tariffs (or with very low ones). Think of it like the doors of the store are open wide. The government chooses the level of tariffs that suits them.

In this news article, we're looking at how these tariffs might affect families with less money, also known as low-income households. Because everyday items might get more expensive, it’s important to understand the consequences.

• Tariff: A tax charged by a government on goods coming into their country.
• Low-income households: Families that have a limited amount of money.
• Free Trade: Buying and selling goods between countries without high tariffs.

Background: What's Going On With the Education Department?

Have you ever wondered how schools get their rules and money? Well, in the United States, a big part of that comes from the **Education Department**. It's like a super-important office in Washington, D.C., that helps schools all over the country! The people who work there make decisions about education, like how to help students learn and how to make sure schools are fair to everyone.

Sometimes, the Education Department changes what it's doing. This is because of things like new laws or new leaders, like the President of the United States. The President gets to choose the **Secretary of Education**, who is like the boss of the whole department. This person is in charge of making sure everything runs smoothly.

Now, in the news, there's talk about a group called the **Thomas B. Fordham Institute**. This group is called a **thinktank**. That means they study and think about big issues, and then they share their ideas. The Thomas B. Fordham Institute focuses on education. They have an opinion about the Education Department and what it should do. They’re considered to be "conservative-leaning," which means they often have opinions that agree with certain political views. They might have ideas about how schools should be run, how teachers should be trained, and how money for schools should be spent.

So, when you hear people talking about the Education Department and what's next, they might be talking about new laws, different ideas from the thinktanks, or maybe even what the new Secretary of Education thinks is important. It's all part of how our country makes decisions about schools and learning!

Background: What's Happening with the Department of Education?

Imagine the United States like a giant school! Just like your school has a principal and teachers, the U.S. has different departments, or groups, that handle important jobs. One of these is the Department of Education. It's like the "school principal" for all the schools in the country!

The Department of Education has a big job. It helps schools get the money they need, and it also makes sure all kids have a fair chance to learn. They also set guidelines, which are like the rules that all schools have to follow. They help with things like special programs for students with disabilities, and financial aid to help students go to college!

So, what's this ruling all about? Well, a former U.S. leader, named Donald Trump, wanted to change how the Department of Education worked. He wanted to make some big changes. This is called "dismantling," which means to take something apart or reduce it in size and power. Basically, he wanted to lessen the department's impact.

Some people agreed with these ideas, but others did not. They believed that the changes might hurt schools and students. Because of this, some groups said it was against the law. The argument eventually went to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is like the ultimate judge, and they decided whether Trump’s changes could continue.

So, what did the Supreme Court say? Well, they decided that some of the changes Trump wanted to make could continue. That means the Department of Education might be changing in the future. This is important because it can affect everything from how schools get money to what rules they have to follow.

Background: Why are our Rivers in Trouble?

Have you ever been swimming in a river or stream and seen… well, something that didn’t look quite right? Maybe it was a strange color, or you smelled something unpleasant. Sadly, many of the rivers and waterways in Britain have a problem: they're polluted! This pollution often comes from something called sewage, which is basically all the dirty water and waste that goes down our drains from our homes and businesses.

For a long time, some companies have been letting this sewage get into the rivers and seas. This is bad news for all sorts of reasons! It makes the water unsafe for swimming, can harm the wildlife (the animals and plants that live in and around the water), and can even make the water smell bad. Think of it like leaving a messy pile of trash outside your house – it’s not good for anyone!

So, how did this happen? Well, for a long time, rules about how companies managed sewage weren’t very strict. Think of it like this: if your toys were always all over the floor, you wouldn’t learn to put them away neatly. But now, people are saying "enough is enough!" and want to fix the problem. A new report, a kind of official document, is coming out soon, and it’s expected to suggest some important changes.

This report will likely lead to new regulations. Regulations are like rules that the water companies must follow to stop polluting the water. Hopefully, these new rules will make sure companies can’t pollute the rivers in this way anymore. This could also mean these companies will need to spend a lot of money to modernize, which means improving their systems to make the water clean. It is hoped that these modernizations will make the rivers cleaner, and help the animals and plants that depend on them.

Here's a quick rundown of some of the key terms:

• Sewage: Dirty water and waste from homes and businesses.
• Wildlife: Animals and plants that live in a particular area.
• Report: An official document with findings and recommendations.
• Regulations: Rules or laws.
• Modernize: To update or improve something.

Background: A Journey Through Stamps!

Imagine finding a treasure chest, but instead of gold, it's filled with colorful pictures from all over the world! That's kind of what a stamp collection is like. Long ago, people started collecting stamps that were used to pay for letters and packages. These stamps are like tiny windows to different countries, cultures, and even important moments in history.

Our story starts with someone rediscovering their childhood stamp collection. Stamp collecting is a fun hobby, a bit like collecting trading cards, but instead of your favorite sports stars, you get pictures of animals, famous people, buildings, and so much more! Some stamps are very old, and some are very rare, which makes them extra special.

Why do people collect stamps? Well, it's a fun way to learn about the world! Each stamp has a story. You can find out where it came from, what it shows, and when it was made. This helps you understand different places and cultures.

Sometimes, old stamps can even be worth money! This is because some stamps are very rare or were made a long, long time ago. Rare means there aren't many of them around. Imagine finding a stamp that only a few people in the whole world have - that's exciting!

Here are some important things to know about stamps:

• Collection: A group of stamps that someone keeps together.
• Rare: Not many of these stamps exist in the world.
• Hobby: Something you enjoy doing, like collecting stamps!

Behind the Headlines: What's Happening with Russia?

Hey kids! You've probably heard the word "Russia" in the news. But what's it all about? This article is about a senator talking about how the United States might take action. It all has to do with how the U.S. and Russia are working (or not working!) together.

Let's rewind a bit! The United States and Russia have had a sometimes-complicated relationship for a long time. Think of it like two friends who don't always agree. Sometimes they cooperate, like on fighting against other problems, and sometimes they disagree strongly. One of the big disagreements lately is about things Russia has been doing that the United States doesn't like.

The article mentions "sanctions." This is a big word! Basically, it's like when you're in trouble and your parents take away a privilege, like playing video games. The U.S. puts sanctions on a country by making it harder for that country to do business with the U.S. This is meant to send a message that the U.S. isn’t happy with something.

The article also mentions something called a "bipartisan bill." This means that the bill was created by people from both sides of the government – Republicans and Democrats. That usually means they have found some common ground and can work together. The bill being talked about would give the President the power to put sanctions on Russia. The senator in this article thinks the president should take action.

So, what's the big deal? This article is talking about important relationships between countries and how they work!

Background: Medical Debt and Credit Reports

Have you ever heard of a credit report? It's like a report card for your grown-ups' money! It shows how well they pay their bills. If they pay on time, their report looks good. If they miss payments, it can look bad.

This news article is about medical debt, which is money people owe for things like doctor visits, hospital stays, or medicine. Sometimes, if a grown-up can't pay their medical bills right away, that debt can show up on their credit report.

Why is this important? Well, a bad credit report can make it harder for people to do things like get a loan for a car or even rent an apartment. It's like saying, "Maybe they won't be able to pay me back."

A while ago, some rules were made to try and make medical debt not affect credit reports as much. Think of it like giving people a break for medical bills. The rules aimed to prevent this debt from having a big impact on credit scores.

But now, a judge has made a ruling. A ruling is like a decision in a game, like when a referee says, "That's out!" or "That's a goal!". The judge's ruling says that these new rules about medical debt can no longer be used, which means medical debt might have the same impact on credit reports as before.

Here are some important words to understand:

• Debt: Money that you owe to someone else.
• Credit score: A number that tells how likely someone is to pay back money they borrow.
• Biden administration: The group of people who work with the President to run the United States.

Background: What's Going On?

Imagine a giant library filled with super-secret information, but instead of books, it's got everyone's DNA! DNA is like a super-detailed instruction manual inside your body, telling it how to grow and work. Scientists can study DNA to learn about different diseases and how to keep people healthy. That's what this story is about: a special collection of DNA that's meant to help doctors and scientists.

A very important group of people, called veterans (people who used to be in the army, navy, air force, etc.), volunteered to help. They gave a little bit of their DNA so that scientists could study it. This was part of a project to create a really big database, kind of like a digital file cabinet, with all this special DNA information. The goal? To help figure out why some veterans get certain health problems and to make life better for everyone.

But, there’s a problem! The people in charge, the government (which is like the group of leaders of the country), haven't been keeping up with their agreement, so the scientists can't study the data as they should. This means important research isn't happening as quickly as it could, and the valuable DNA information is stuck in a sort of holding pattern, or "limbo". It's like having a great treasure map, but no one is allowed to dig for the treasure!

Background: What's Going On With Public Media?

Have you ever listened to a show on the radio or watched something on TV that seemed smart and interesting, but wasn't trying to sell you anything? You might have been enjoying public media! Public media includes things like NPR (National Public Radio) and PBS (Public Broadcasting Service). They bring you news, educational shows, and fun programs, and they're a bit different from regular TV and radio.

Public media gets its money in a couple of ways. One way is through donations from people like you and your family. That’s like when you donate to your favorite school fundraiser. Another important way is through money from the government, meaning your tax dollars help to support them. This money is called funding, which is like the money the government gives to help pay for things.

Right now, some people in the government are talking about whether or not the government should give money to public media. This is called a debate, where people discuss different ideas. One group, the Cato Institute, thinks the government shouldn't fund public media. The Cato Institute is a think tank – a group of smart people who study important topics and share their opinions. They believe that public media should be supported only by donations from viewers and listeners, not by the government.

If the government stopped funding public media, it could cause some big changes. Some public media stations might have to close or change the kinds of shows they make. The people who are for the government funding of public media believe it’s important because it makes sure everyone has access to information and interesting programs, no matter how much money they have. They also argue that public media often provides very accurate and reliable news.

Here's a simple breakdown:

• Funding: Money given to pay for something.
• Debate: A discussion where people share different opinions.
• Think Tank: A group that studies topics and shares opinions.
• News: Reports about recent events.

Background: What's Happening with Public Broadcasting

You might be familiar with your local public radio station, perhaps from hearing it in the car or at home. It's a station that plays news, interesting stories, and sometimes even music. This station and others like it are called public broadcasting stations. They're different from stations that mostly play commercials because they are funded differently.

So, how does public broadcasting get money? Well, there are a few ways! Some money comes from people like you and me, who choose to donate. But a big part of the money comes from the government, through something called federal funding. This means the government gives money to help these stations stay on the air and provide programs for everyone.

Currently, some people in the government are talking about making some funding cuts. This means they might take away some of the money the government gives to public broadcasting. Why would they do this? Well, the government has to decide how to spend money on lots of different things, from schools to roads to national parks. Sometimes, they have to make difficult choices about what gets funded and what doesn't.

What does this mean for your local radio station and others like it? Well, fewer funds could mean they might have to make some changes. Here's a quick look at what that could mean:

• Programs: They might have fewer programs, or the programs might be shorter.
• Staff: They might have to reduce the number of people who work at the station, like reporters, hosts, and engineers.
• Reach: They might not be able to reach as many people in their area if they can't maintain their broadcast towers and equipment.
• Local News: They may have less ability to report on local happenings and issues that affect the community.

These choices could change what radio programming you hear, so it's important to understand where public broadcasting gets its money and how changes could impact the stations you enjoy.

Background: Superheroes on the Big Screen!

Have you ever wondered how your favorite superhero movies get made? It’s a pretty exciting (and sometimes complicated!) process. Let’s take a peek behind the scenes and understand what's going on with the world of DC superheroes, like Superman!

For a while, it felt like superhero movies were everywhere! Big, exciting movies filled with amazing special effects, and heroes battling villains. This was like a "gold rush" in Hollywood - a time when lots of studios were making these movies, hoping they would be super popular and make lots of money. It worked, too! Many of the movies were HUGE hits. But things change, and sometimes things slow down. Think of it like your favorite video game - eventually, there might be a new version with different characters and stories.

Now, things are changing in the superhero movie world, and it’s James Gunn's job, along with his co-CEO, to help guide this new chapter for DC. James Gunn is a very talented person! He is a writer and director. He makes movies, but he also helps make decisions about the bigger picture.

One of the big things is that he is in charge of the "DC Studios." A studio is like a company that makes movies and TV shows. Think of it as a team that puts everything together: the actors, the writers, the directors, the people who handle the special effects... everything! The leaders, like James Gunn, help decide which stories to tell and which superheroes to bring to life on the screen.

What happened to the “gold rush” of superhero movies? Sometimes, too many similar things can make it hard for each one to stand out! Now, James Gunn and his team are thinking about the future of DC movies and creating something new and fresh. This means they have new plans, new stories, and are figuring out how to make even more amazing superhero movies for you to enjoy!

Background: What's Going On?

This news story is about a U.S. Senator named Tammy Baldwin who is concerned about how the government handles money for farmers. Before we dive in, let's understand some important words and ideas!

First off, what's a Senator? Well, the United States has a government, and this government is made up of people called politicians. Politicians, like Senator Baldwin, make decisions and create laws for the country. They work in a place called Congress. The Senate is one part of Congress, and Senators represent the people of their state.

Now, what about the USDA? The USDA stands for the United States Department of Agriculture. Think of it as a group of people in the government who help farmers. They do things like give out loans and help farmers manage their farms. A loan is like borrowing money; the farmer promises to pay it back later.

What about the Department of Government Efficiency? This might sound a little complicated, but basically, it’s a department that tries to make the government work better, faster, and use less money! They can oversee different systems.

The news story says that Senator Baldwin is worried about a payment system used by the USDA. This is a special computer system that keeps track of money for farmers. She doesn't want a group like the Department of Government Efficiency to have too much control over this system. It’s like the Senator is saying, "I want to make sure this important system is safe and secure!" Why is she concerned? Well, this article will tell you!

Background: What's Going On?

So, you're reading about a new ambassador, and the news mentions a "Signal chat scandal." What does all that mean? Let's break it down! This story is about Mike Waltz, who used to be a very important person in the U.S. government. He's been nominated (that means chosen) to be the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations (U.N.). The U.N. is like a giant club where lots of countries get together to talk and solve problems.

But before he can become the ambassador, he needs to get approved. That’s where the "Signal chat scandal" comes in. It's kind of like a mystery! It involves a messaging app called Signal. Signal is similar to texting on your phone, but it's designed to be very secure. "Secure" means it's hard for other people, besides the sender and receiver, to see what's being said. The scandal is about a time when Mike Waltz may have used Signal.

Here’s a simple explanation: The U.S. government cares a lot about national security. That means keeping the country safe from things like spies or attacks. Sometimes, when discussing important national security issues, government officials have to make sure they are using safe communications, so that information does not fall into the wrong hands. The controversy arose because some people believe that Mike Waltz may not have followed the proper rules about how he sent and received messages with Signal. He was later removed from his prior role.

Now he has been nominated to become ambassador to the U.N., and this whole situation needs to be checked out to make sure he is still a good fit for the job.

• Ambassador: A person who represents their country in another country or at an organization like the U.N.
• United Nations (U.N.): An international organization of countries working together to solve global problems.
• Confirmation hearing: A meeting where people answer questions to make sure they're qualified for a job.
• National security: Keeping the country safe from harm.

Background: What Are Robo-Umpires?

Hey baseball fans! You might have heard that something new is coming to the All-Star Game tonight: robo-umpires! But what exactly are they, and why are they being used?

For a long time, baseball games have had umpires who stand behind the plate (that's where the batter stands) and call balls and strikes. They make their calls by watching where the ball goes when the pitcher throws it. But sometimes, umpires might make a mistake! That’s where the robo-umps come in.

Robo-umps are actually a fancy type of technology. Instead of a person, they use computers and sensors to track the baseball. Think of it like a very smart, invisible line drawn over home plate. If the ball crosses that line in a certain area (called the strike zone), it's a strike. If it doesn’t, it’s a ball.

The main goal of using robo-umps is to make the game fairer. Everyone wants the calls to be accurate and consistent. And it's all done using algorithms!

Here's a quick breakdown of some key words:

• Technology: Using science and engineering to solve problems.
• Strike Zone: The area over home plate where a pitch must cross to be a strike.
• Algorithms: Step-by-step instructions a computer follows to get something done.

Background: The Red-Legged Frog and Its Journey

Have you ever heard of the California red-legged frog? It's a cool frog with bright red legs, and it's been having a bit of a tough time. Its home, which is usually in California, is being changed because of buildings, roads, and other human activities. This can make it hard for the frogs to find food and safe places to live.

Years ago, scientists realized the California red-legged frog needed some help. They were worried that it might disappear forever! That’s why they decided to move some frog eggs (like frog babies!) from a place far away in Mexico. Their hope was to start new frog families in Southern California, where the frogs could hopefully thrive.

But moving frogs is just the first step. Scientists also need to make sure the frogs are doing well in their new homes. They need to understand how the frogs are doing and whether they're having baby frogs of their own. That's where conservation, which is the effort to protect animals and their habitats, comes in!

How do scientists know if the frogs are happy and healthy? Well, they listen! They use special tools to record sounds in the areas where the frogs live. Frogs make all sorts of noises, like croaks and clicks, especially when they’re trying to find a partner. This method of listening is called audio monitoring. To make sure they listen to everything, scientists use a special AI, or Artificial Intelligence. AI is like a super-smart computer program that can listen for and identify the sounds of the frogs. This helps the scientists know how many frogs there are and if they're making baby frogs. This helps them to see if their effort to save the frogs is working.

• Egg: The early stage of a frog’s life where it grows inside a small, jelly-like structure.
• Conservation: The act of protecting and saving animals and their natural environments.
• Audio monitoring: Using special devices to record sounds and analyze them
• AI (Artificial Intelligence): Computer programs that can do tasks that usually require human intelligence, like listening to sounds.

Background: What's Happening in South Africa?

Imagine a country where the people who are supposed to protect you, the police, are having some problems. That's kind of what's going on in South Africa right now. The President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has decided to investigate some serious accusations. He's like the head of the country, similar to how a principal is the head of your school.

The President has launched a big investigation, called a commission. A commission is like a special team of people who are experts in their field. They’re going to carefully look into things, like when you and your friends investigate who ate the last cookie. This commission will figure out exactly what happened and who might be responsible.

A big part of the news is about corruption. That's a big word! It means people in important positions, like police officers or government officials, are doing things that aren’t honest or fair. They might be taking bribes (like accepting gifts in exchange for favors), or using their power to help themselves instead of the people they're supposed to be helping. Imagine if the crossing guard at school started letting only certain kids cross, that would be unfair and a kind of corruption.

President Ramaphosa has also done something else very important. He has suspended the Police Minister. Suspended means the person is temporarily unable to do their job. It's like when you get sent to the principal's office – you’re not doing your usual classwork for a little while. This means the Police Minister is no longer in charge of the police while the commission does its job.

The investigation is looking into allegations. Allegations mean that people are making claims or saying that something bad happened, but those claims haven't been proven yet. Think of it as a rumor – you hear something, but you can't be sure if it's true until you investigate. This investigation is really important because it's about making sure everyone in South Africa is safe and that the police are doing their jobs the right way.

Background: What's Going On With the Fed's Building?

Imagine your school is getting a HUGE makeover! Well, something similar is happening with the building of the Federal Reserve, often called "the Fed." The Fed is like the bank for all the other banks in the United States. Its main job is to help keep the U.S. economy healthy and stable. This means making sure money flows smoothly and prices don't get too high (like when your favorite candy bar suddenly costs way more!).

The Fed is planning to renovate its main building in Washington, D.C., and it's a really big project! It's expected to cost about $2.5 billion! That's a lot of money, enough to buy... well, a lot of things! This renovation is meant to update the building and make it safer and more efficient. Think of it like getting a new, upgraded classroom.

The people in charge of the White House, where the President works, are not too happy about this spending. The President sometimes disagrees with what the Fed does, especially about interest rates. Interest rates are like the price you pay to borrow money. The Fed sets these rates, and they affect how much it costs people to buy things like houses or cars. The White House has been attacking the central bank (The Fed) for not cutting interest rates

Why is there any conflict? Well, it's like this:

• Renovation: The process of repairing or updating a building.
• Federal Reserve: The central bank of the United States, responsible for the nation's monetary policy.
• Interest Rates: The price of borrowing money, which influences economic activity.

What are Tariffs and Why Are They Important?

Hey everyone! Before we dive into what's happening with the tariffs, let's get a handle on what they even *are*. Imagine your favorite toy comes from a country far, far away. When it arrives in your country, there's often an extra fee called a **tariff**. Think of it like a small tax the government charges on things that are brought in, or *imported*, from other countries.

So, why do we have these tariffs? Well, governments use them for a few reasons. Sometimes, they want to protect businesses and workers *inside* their own country. If the tariff makes imported toys more expensive, then toys made *locally* (in your own country) might be easier for people to buy because they're cheaper. Tariffs also can raise money for the government, which can be used for things like schools and roads!

Now, the news talks about tariffs President Trump is considering on things from Brazil and Mexico. This is where it gets interesting! Let’s break it down further:

• Tariff: A tax on goods coming into a country (imports).
• Import: To bring goods from another country into your own.
• Economist: Someone who studies how money, goods, and services are made, used, and shared.
• Threatened: To say you might do something, like imposing tariffs, but not necessarily doing it yet.

The article quotes an economist, Paul Krugman, saying these tariffs are a big deal! He thinks the tariffs will likely continue and that this may increase the cost of goods for people, like you and me, who buy things.

Background: What's Happening with Floods?

Have you ever seen a river or a stream get too full and start to spill over its banks? That's a flood! Floods happen when there's too much water for an area to handle. This water can come from heavy rain, melting snow, or even overflowing rivers. Sometimes, like in the news article, we hear about floods being a big problem. But why are they a problem, and why is it getting worse?

One of the biggest reasons floods are a problem is because they can cause a lot of damage. Floods can damage houses, schools, and businesses. They can also wash away roads and bridges, making it hard to get around. They can even damage things people can't see, like underground water lines, which can make the water unsafe.

The news article mentions climate change. This is a big idea, but basically, it means the Earth is getting warmer. It's getting warmer because of pollution from things like cars and factories. This warmer climate can cause some weather to get more extreme. We may get more heavy rain and bigger storms, which lead to more floods. It can also cause the sea levels to rise in the ocean, making floods more likely along the coast.

The article also talks about insurance. Insurance is like a promise. When someone has insurance, it means they pay a little bit of money, usually every month or year, to an insurance company. If something bad happens, like a flood damaging their house, the insurance company can pay to fix the damage. Unfortunately, insurance can be expensive, especially if you live in an area that is likely to flood. Many people don’t buy flood insurance because of its cost or because they don’t think they will be affected by a flood.

Here's a simple list to help you remember some key terms:

• Flood: Too much water overflowing its banks and covering land.
• Climate Change: The Earth getting warmer, often caused by pollution.
• Insurance: Paying money to a company to help cover the costs if something bad happens.

Background: What's Happening with the Education Department?

Imagine the U.S. government is like a giant school! It has different departments, or "classrooms," that take care of different things. One of these classrooms is the Education Department. This department helps schools and students all over the country. They do things like give money to schools, help teachers learn new things, and make sure kids have access to a good education.

A few years ago, the former U.S. President, Donald Trump, wanted to change how the Education Department worked. His team made some decisions that meant less money and fewer people working at the Education Department. This is sometimes called "gutting" the department, which means making it smaller and less active.

Some people thought these changes were a bad idea. They felt that the changes would hurt schools and students. They asked a court, which is like a judge in a game, to stop the changes. The court agreed that the changes were not allowed and told the Education Department to "reinstate" some of the workers. Reinstate means to put them back in their jobs.

The Trump administration didn’t like that decision and appealed it. To appeal means to ask a higher court to look at the case again. Now, the Supreme Court, which is the highest court in the U.S., has said that Trump’s team can continue with their plans for now. This doesn't mean the changes are definitely going to happen, but it means the process to make those changes can continue.

Here are some important words to understand:

• Education Department: The part of the U.S. government that deals with schools and education.
• Gutting: Making something smaller and less powerful by taking things away from it.
• Reinstate: To put someone back in their job or position.
• Appeal: To ask a higher court to review a decision made by a lower court.

Background: What's Going On With Those School Funds?

Imagine you're planning a super cool school project, and you've got the money all ready to go. But then, someone says, "Hold on! We're not letting you use that money right now!" That's kind of what's happening with some money that's supposed to help schools. This money is in the form of **grants**, which are like gifts of money from the government to help schools.

The money comes from the **federal government**, which is the big boss of the whole country, kind of like the principal of a super-sized school. The money is meant to help with important things like programs for students who are learning English, before and after school programs, and other things that make learning fun and easier.

The government has promised to give the money to the states, but then some people in the government decided to pause it for a little while. This is where the news article comes in! **States** are like the different classrooms in the school – they are fighting back! They are saying, "Hey! We need that money to help our students!"

A **lawsuit** is like a super serious argument in a special courtroom. The states are taking the government to court to ask a judge to make them give the money back. The states want the money to be **unfrozen**, which means to be available and ready to use. They want the programs and projects planned using the money to go forward!

Here are some of the programs this money is meant for:

• Migrant Education: Programs that help students whose families have moved from one place to another, often because they are looking for work or a better life.
• Before- and After-School Programs: Activities and help for students before and after regular school hours, like tutoring or fun clubs.
• Funds: This is simply the word for the money that is being used to fund all these important programs.

Background: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch and Ocean Ecosystems

Have you ever heard of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch? It’s a huge area in the ocean where a lot of trash has collected. Imagine a giant, swirling pile of plastic, fishing nets, and other junk floating in the water! It's one of five garbage patches in the world's oceans.

These garbage patches are found where ocean currents, which are like giant rivers in the sea, meet. The currents swirl the trash around and around, gathering it in one place. Think of it like a giant bathtub – when you drain the water, all the soap scum and hair collect in the middle, right?

For a long time, scientists thought that these garbage patches were pretty empty of life because all the trash was harmful. They believed that animals couldn’t survive in such a messy place. But guess what? They were wrong! Researchers have recently discovered that a whole ecosystem has formed in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

What's an ecosystem? Well, it's a community of living things (like plants and animals) that live and interact with each other in a certain environment. Even in the garbage patch, tiny animals and plants are making their homes on the floating trash. These creatures are like little pioneers, finding ways to survive in a tough place.

So, while the garbage patch is definitely not a good thing (we should all try to reduce the amount of trash that gets into the ocean!), it's also a fascinating example of how nature can find ways to adapt and survive even in the most unexpected places. It also makes us think about how important it is to keep our oceans clean so they can be healthy homes for all sorts of amazing animals!

Background: What's Going On with Trade?

Imagine your town has a big playground. People from all over come to play, and they bring their own toys and snacks to share. That's kind of like how countries trade! They exchange goods (things they make) and services (like helping someone) with each other. This is called trade.

The European Union (EU) is like a super-sized group of countries, kind of like a whole bunch of your town's neighbors getting together. They work together to trade with other countries, like the United States (U.S.). The EU and the U.S. do a lot of business together, which means they buy and sell lots of things from each other. It's a very important relationship!

Now, the U.S. recently decided to put tariffs on some goods coming from Europe. Think of a tariff as a special tax you have to pay when you buy something from another country. This makes those goods more expensive. The U.S. decided to put a 30% tariff on certain goods.

Why does this matter? Well, when the U.S. puts tariffs on European goods, it makes those goods more expensive for people in America. This means people might buy less of them. It also means that European companies might sell fewer goods in the U.S., which could hurt their businesses. This can impact everyday life. People might find that certain things cost more at the store.

Trade ministers from the EU are meeting now because they need to figure out what to do. They're trying to create a plan for how the EU and the U.S. can continue to trade fairly, despite the new tariffs. It's like when you and your friends have a disagreement and you have to find a way to solve it so you can keep playing together!

Background: What's Happening with Tariffs?

Have you ever wondered how countries buy and sell things from each other? It’s called trade! Sometimes, countries don't always agree on how to do this fairly. That's where tariffs come in.

Imagine your favorite toy comes from another country. A tariff is like an extra tax that the government puts on that toy when it arrives. This makes the toy cost more money in your country. Governments sometimes use tariffs to protect businesses in their own country or try to get other countries to change their trade rules. Think of it like this: If a toy company in your country makes similar toys, the tariff might help it sell more because the imported toys are now more expensive.

Right now, there’s a bit of a disagreement between the United States (where President Trump is the leader) and the European Union (EU). The EU is like a group of many countries in Europe working together. They buy and sell lots of things with each other and with the US. The US government recently announced it might put a 30% tariff on some things that the EU sells to the US.

Why is this happening? Well, the US and the EU haven't fully agreed on how they should trade with each other. President Trump wants a new trade deal. This means they need to work out the rules for buying and selling things. If they don't agree soon, those new tariffs might start on August 1st!

Here are some important terms to understand:

• Tariff: An extra tax on goods imported (brought in) from another country.
• Trade: The buying and selling of goods and services between countries.
• European Union (EU): A group of European countries that work together on trade and other things.
• Trade Deal: An agreement between countries about how they will trade with each other.

Background: What's Happening with the Books?

Imagine a library filled with books... lots and lots of books! That's what Hungary's oldest library has. It's a very special place that holds many old and important books. But right now, there's a problem: tiny little creatures called beetles are eating the books!

These aren't just any beetles. They are book-loving beetles, and they love to munch on the paper and binding of the books. This is called a beetle infestation, which is like a party the beetles are having where they're eating the books! If the beetles aren't stopped, they could damage or even destroy these precious books.

So, what are the librarians and workers doing? They're working hard to save the books! They're carefully taking about 100,000 books off the shelves. Then, they're going to start a special process called disinfection. Disinfection means cleaning something to get rid of germs or, in this case, bugs. They will use this process to kill the beetles and prevent more damage.

Why are these books so important? Well, the books in this library are part of history! They tell stories about the past. Some books might be really old and contain important information about how people lived a long time ago. It’s important to save these books so we can keep learning about the past.

Here's a quick look at what’s happening, explained a bit more:

• Beetles: Small insects that are eating the books.
• Infestation: When a lot of these beetles gather in one place, like a library, and cause problems.
• Disinfection: A special cleaning process used to get rid of the beetles and stop them from eating more books.

Background: What's Medicaid and Why Does Money Matter?

Let's take a step back and understand a few important things before we dive into why the health care industry is in the news. First, what is Medicaid? Imagine it like a special program to help people who don't have a lot of money pay for their medical care, like seeing a doctor or getting medicine. It's like a helping hand from the government! It's especially helpful for kids, older people, and people with disabilities.

Now, why is money so important? Well, everything costs money, right? Building hospitals, paying doctors and nurses, and buying all the equipment they need – it all requires a lot of cash! Medicaid is funded using tax dollars – the money the government gets from people paying taxes. When there's not enough money, or when the government decides to spend it differently, it can affect programs like Medicaid.

The health care lobby is a group of organizations. Think of them as teams made up of doctors, hospitals, and other health care companies. Their job is to try and convince lawmakers, the people who make the laws in our country, to make decisions that help the health care industry. They do this by sharing information, making sure lawmakers understand the industry's needs and concerns, and sometimes by supporting political campaigns. It's their job to protect the interests of the health care industry.

The government’s budget is like a giant list of how it plans to spend the money it collects through taxes. This budget includes money for all sorts of things, like schools, roads, and, of course, healthcare programs like Medicaid. When the government talks about "cutting funding", it means they plan to spend less money on a specific program or service.

In the news you're reading, people are talking about cutting funds to Medicaid. This means the government wants to spend less money on the Medicaid program. The health care lobby tried to stop this from happening, but they weren't successful. That's what the rest of the article explains.

Background: What's Happening With Doctors and "Social Prescriptions?"

Have you ever felt a little down or worried? Maybe you felt better after playing outside, drawing, or helping someone? Well, doctors are starting to think that these kinds of activities are really important for your health, just like taking medicine! They're using something called "social prescriptions" to help people feel better. Let's find out more about it.

So, what exactly is a social prescription? Imagine your doctor giving you a special "prescription," not for medicine, but for things like going for a walk in the park, joining a drawing club, or volunteering. These aren't treatments like pills. Instead, they focus on making you feel good by getting involved in activities you enjoy.

Why are doctors doing this? Well, scientists have discovered that doing things like hanging out with friends, getting active, being creative, and helping others can have a really positive effect on our bodies and minds. They can help make us happier and healthier! It can be especially helpful for feeling less worried or down. The studies are still ongoing, but doctors are already seeing how helpful these types of activities can be.

Doctors can prescribe many different things! Here are a few examples:

• Nature activities: This might mean going for a walk in the woods, gardening, or just sitting and enjoying the fresh air. It could be as simple as sitting under a tree!
• Arts and creative activities: This includes things like painting, drawing, singing, dancing, or even writing stories.
• Movement activities: This could mean playing sports, joining a dance class, or just going for a bike ride!
• Volunteering: Helping others in your community, like at an animal shelter or helping at a local food bank.

Doctors are excited about social prescriptions because they offer different ways to improve health, and they can be a lot of fun too! It's like a recipe for feeling good, with fresh air, creativity, and friendships!

Background: The Grand Canyon and Its Lodge

Imagine a giant hole in the ground – that's basically the Grand Canyon! It's a super cool place with amazing views, colorful rocks, and lots of plants and animals. It's a very special place, and people from all over the world come to visit.

At the Grand Canyon, there's a special hotel called the Grand Canyon Lodge. It's like a big, cozy house where visitors can stay. It's the only hotel on the North Rim, which is the northern side of the canyon. The North Rim is known for its beautiful views and cooler temperatures.

Sadly, sometimes nature throws us a curveball. One of these is a wildfire. A wildfire is like a big fire that burns out of control in the forest. It can be caused by lightning strikes or even something as simple as a campfire that wasn't put out properly. Wildfires can be very dangerous and can damage things like trees and buildings.

The Grand Canyon Lodge has faced challenges before. There was a fire in the Lodge’s kitchen way back in 1932! A fire like that can damage or completely destroy the building. After that fire, the Lodge was rebuilt. It shows that even after something terrible happens, you can build back up and keep going.

Because of the risk of wildfires, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon has been closed. That means people can't visit for now. It’s very important to keep everyone safe and to make sure the fire doesn't spread. Hopefully, the North Rim will be open again soon for everyone to enjoy.

Background: Brains and Aging

Have you ever noticed that sometimes older people might take a little longer to remember things? That's because, just like our bodies, our brains change as we get older. It's a natural process called aging.

As we age, some parts of the brain might not work as quickly as they used to. This can sometimes make it harder to learn new things, remember things we've already learned, or think as quickly as we did when we were younger. Think of it like a car – it might need a tune-up every now and then to keep running smoothly!

Scientists are super curious about this! They want to figure out why our brains change over time, and how to help them stay sharp for longer. They're studying people with really amazing brains - brains that seem to stay youthful even in older age. These people are like super-powered brains! They call these people with exceptional brains 'superagers'.

So, what are the scientists doing? They are looking for clues, like detectives! They study superagers’ brains using special tools that take pictures of the brain, and ask them about their lives to see what makes their brains so special. They want to know what these people are doing differently, or what's different about their brains, that helps them stay sharp. They might look at things like:

• Memory: How good their memory is.
• Lifestyle: What kind of foods they eat and how much they exercise.
• Brain Structure: How the brain is put together.

By studying superagers, scientists hope to discover ways to help everyone's brains stay healthy and strong for longer. Maybe they'll discover secrets that help us all keep our minds active and engaged as we get older!

Background: The Amazing Rise of Alcaraz and Sinner!

Wow! Have you been watching the news about tennis lately? You might have heard the names Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. They are two of the best tennis players in the world right now, and they're making a big splash! They’re both really young, but already winning major championships. This is super exciting for tennis fans because they are changing the game!

Tennis is a sport where two players (singles) or two teams of two players (doubles) hit a ball back and forth over a net using rackets. The goal is to hit the ball so the other player can't return it. Sounds simple, right? But it takes a lot of skill, speed, and practice!

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are both very, very good at tennis. They're both known for their powerful serves (that's when you hit the ball to start the point!), amazing shots, and never-give-up attitudes. Just last weekend, Jannik Sinner beat Carlos Alcaraz in the big Wimbledon tournament! It was a really exciting match.

One of the most important things in professional tennis is winning Grand Slam tournaments. These are the four biggest and most important tennis tournaments in the world! Think of them like the Olympics of tennis. The players who win these are considered the very best. Carlos and Jannik are already winning these big tournaments, which is pretty amazing.

Here’s a list of some key things to know:

• Racket: The tool used to hit the tennis ball.
• Net: The barrier that the ball has to go over.
• Ball: The yellow ball players hit back and forth.
• Grand Slam: The four most important tennis tournaments in the world. These are Wimbledon, the US Open, the Australian Open, and the French Open. Winning these tournaments is a huge deal!

So, next time you hear about Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner, you'll know they are two tennis superstars to watch! Keep an eye on them – they're likely to keep winning and making history for years to come!

Background: What’s Going On?

Let's take a step back and understand what the FIFA Club World Cup is and why the president was there. Imagine a huge soccer tournament, but instead of countries playing against each other, it's the best soccer teams from all over the world battling it out! Think of it like the Olympics, but just for club teams. This year's final match saw the team from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) facing off against Chelsea. Chelsea ended up winning the championship!

The president was at the final match to give out the medals. It’s a tradition for important people, like the president of a country, to be there at the end to recognize the players' hard work. This helps show respect for the sport and celebrate the winners and those who played their best.

You might be wondering, what's an "anniversary"? Well, it’s like a birthday for an event. It marks how many years have passed since something important happened. In this case, it’s the anniversary of an attempted attack. It is important to note the president was present on the field, but the incident was not discussed in this context.

Here are some key terms to help you understand better:

• Tournament: A competition where different teams or people compete against each other.
• Final: The last match of a tournament, where the winner is decided.
• Championship: The title given to the winner of a tournament.

Background: What's Happening with Jobs?

Have you ever thought about what you want to be when you grow up? Maybe a firefighter, a teacher, or even a video game designer! Well, after people finish studying at places like colleges and universities, they usually start looking for jobs to start their careers. Lately, it's been a bit tricky for some of these recent college graduates to find those jobs. It's like when you're trying to build with LEGOs, and suddenly, you realize you're missing a key piece!

The news article says that recent college graduates are having a harder time finding jobs right now. This doesn’t mean that *everyone* is out of work, because the overall number of people who *are* employed is still pretty good. What does that mean? It means more people have jobs overall compared to the number of people looking for a job.

Imagine the job market as a big pool. Sometimes, the pool is full of jobs (easy to find one!). Other times, there are fewer jobs available (a bit harder to find one). For recent college graduates, the pool has been more like a *slightly* shallow end recently.

Why is this happening? Well, there are a few things that can affect the job market:

• The Economy: The economy is like the engine that makes a country work. If the economy is strong and growing, there are usually more jobs. If it's not doing so well, there might be fewer.
• Competition: More people with the same skills looking for the same jobs means more competition. Think of it like a race; more people in the race mean it can be harder to win.
• Unemployment Rate: This is the percentage of people who don't have jobs but are looking for one. A low unemployment rate means most people *do* have jobs, which is usually a good thing. But it doesn't always mean it's easy for everyone to find work, especially if they're just starting out.

Background: The Ocean's Superhighways

Imagine the ocean like a giant, watery playground! It's full of life, from tiny, swimming creatures to enormous whales. But did you know that the ocean is also crisscrossed by invisible “highways” called ocean currents? These are like giant rivers flowing within the sea. They carry water from place to place, and they're super important for our planet.

Think of it like this: if you were sailing a boat, you'd want to know which way the current was flowing to help you move faster. Ocean currents do a similar job for the planet. They help move warm water from the Equator (that hot spot in the middle of the Earth) towards the North and South Poles (the cold places at the top and bottom of the Earth). They also transport cold water back towards the Equator.

Why is this important? Well, these currents play a big role in:

• Weather: Ocean currents help create the weather we experience. They affect temperature, rainfall, and even how strong storms get.
• Climate: They help keep Earth's climate in balance. This is the average weather conditions over a long period.
• Marine Life: They transport food and nutrients that are essential for all the animals that live in the ocean. This is because the currents carry all sorts of things like tiny plants and small creatures that bigger animals can eat.

Now, here’s the tricky part. Climate change, which is caused mostly by humans burning things like coal and gas (which releases greenhouse gasses into the air), is changing these important ocean currents. Greenhouse gasses cause the Earth's climate to warm up.

Scientists have been studying how climate change is affecting ocean currents, and they've found that some currents are changing in ways that could cause problems. They might speed up, slow down, or even change direction! This can affect weather, and all the creatures living in the ocean! It’s like if the roads in your city suddenly changed and all the traffic was confused and going different ways – it wouldn’t be good!

In the new NPR series, "Sea Camp," they'll explore exactly how climate change is affecting these ocean highways. They’ll explain what’s happening to the ocean currents and what we can do about it!

Background: Digging Up the Past

Imagine finding something super old, like a dinosaur bone, right in your backyard! That's kind of what happened in Denver, Colorado. This news story is about a cool discovery at a science museum, and to understand it better, let's learn a little bit about fossils and the places they're usually found.

Fossils are the remains of plants and animals that lived a long, long time ago. They can be bones, teeth, shells, or even footprints! Over millions of years, these remains get buried in the ground, often in places like riverbeds or areas where there used to be oceans. Slowly, the remains turn into stone, preserving a snapshot of what life was like way back then.

The ground under our feet isn’t always the same everywhere. Sometimes, scientists need to dig deep to find things. This digging is called excavation, and it’s like being a detective of the past! They use special tools to carefully remove the dirt and rock, layer by layer, hoping to uncover hidden treasures like fossils.

The museum in Denver was lucky! They found their fossil not on purpose, but while doing some work. This fossil was found deep down, about 750 feet below the parking lot! The opening they found it through was pretty small – only 5 inches across, a bit bigger than a large hand. This just goes to show, you never know what amazing things might be hidden just beneath the surface!

Background: The Bucket Bonanza!

Ever wonder why your favorite movie theater is suddenly selling super cool, special popcorn buckets? It's all part of something called movie branding! Think of it like this: when a company wants you to remember and love their movie (or product), they create things to make it extra special and exciting.

In the past, movie branding might have just been a poster or maybe a toy at the fast food restaurant. But now, companies are getting super creative! One of the biggest trends is making special popcorn buckets. These aren't just any old buckets; they often look like something from the movie itself, like a character's head, a spaceship, or a cool prop.

Why buckets? Well, people LOVE popcorn at the movies! By offering a special bucket, the movie studios and theaters hope to get more people excited about the film. The buckets become like a collector's item – something you can take home and show off to your friends. Some people even collect them all!

This trend of selling special items with movies is an example of memorabilia. Memorabilia are special items, like the popcorn buckets, that help people remember a movie (or a famous person, or event). It also includes things like t-shirts, toys, or even trading cards.

It's important to remember that while these buckets are fun, they can also be quite expensive. Movie studios and theaters are hoping that the excitement and fun of a bucket is worth the price for people.

Background: All About Puzzles!

Have you ever listened to a radio show or read a newspaper and heard about a puzzle? Puzzles are games that make you think! They challenge your brain to find answers, solve problems, or discover hidden meanings. They can be about words, numbers, pictures, or even riddles! Today, we're diving into a special puzzle – one all about words ending in "AC."

The puzzle we're looking at comes from the show "Weekend Edition" on NPR, which stands for National Public Radio. NPR is like a big radio station that people all over the country listen to. They share news, stories, and sometimes, fun games like this puzzle. This particular puzzle is played by Ayesha Rascoe and Adam Borden. Will Shortz is the Puzzlemaster – that's the person who creates the puzzle!

Puzzles like the one in this article use a lot of wordplay, which is when you play with words to create clever meanings or tricks. Let's break down some common puzzle elements:

• Clues: These are hints that give you clues to figure out the answer. Clues might be definitions, synonyms (words with similar meanings), or even a tricky phrase.
• Answers: The words or phrases that fit the clues are the answers.
• Wordplay: This is how the puzzlemaster makes the puzzle fun! It involves puns, rhymes, and tricky ways to describe things.

So, get ready to use your brain and see if you can figure out some words that end in "AC"! Remember, it's all about having fun and learning new things.

Background: The Bayeux Tapestry and the Norman Invasion!

Imagine a really, really long comic strip, but instead of drawings, it's made of embroidery – that's a bit like the Bayeux Tapestry! It's a giant piece of fabric that tells the story of a big event in history: the Norman Invasion of England in 1066. This tapestry is so important because it shows us what life was like back then, what people wore, what their houses looked like, and, most importantly, how a group of people from Normandy (a part of France) came to conquer England.

The tapestry isn't a tapestry in the way we might think of one today; it's actually a type of embroidery called needlework. Someone carefully sewed colorful threads onto a long piece of linen cloth, creating pictures and words. It's like a really detailed and beautiful storybook, but made of fabric! It’s super old, over 900 years old, and it’s been in France for a long time.

So, what was the Norman Invasion all about? Well, in 1066, England was ruled by a king named Harold. Across the English Channel, in Normandy, lived a duke named William. William believed that he, not Harold, should be the king of England. He gathered an army, sailed across the water, and fought Harold in a huge battle called the Battle of Hastings. William won the battle, Harold died, and William became King William I of England, also known as William the Conqueror. The tapestry tells the story of this invasion!

• Embroidery: Decorating fabric with needle and thread to create pictures or patterns.
• Normandy: A region in northern France, where the Normans came from.
• English Channel: The body of water separating England from France.
• Conquer: To take control of a place or people by force.

This amazing tapestry has been kept in France for centuries. Now, thanks to a special agreement, it's coming back to the UK! It’s like a really important piece of history is finally getting a chance to be seen by the people whose history it tells the story of!

Background: The Music Behind the Magic

Ever noticed how a movie's music can make you feel super excited, sad, or even a little scared? That's thanks to the amazing job of a film composer! A film composer is like the musician who creates all the music you hear in a movie, from the happy tunes to the dramatic themes. They work with the director to make sure the music fits the story perfectly.

One of the most famous and beloved film composers is John Williams. He's the person behind the music for some of your favorite movies! Think about the epic music when the Millennium Falcon zips through space in Star Wars. Or how about the soaring sounds when Harry Potter flies on his broom? That's all John Williams!

He started his career a long time ago, but his music continues to be very popular today! He has written the music for so many famous movies, we call his work iconic. That means it's so well-known and memorable that it's instantly recognizable.

Here are some important things about film music:

• Score: The name we give to all the music written for a movie. This is the main part of the music that the film composer creates.
• Theme Song: A specific piece of music that represents a character or idea in a movie. For example, the "Imperial March" in Star Wars represents Darth Vader.
• Orchestra: A big group of musicians playing instruments together. John Williams often uses an orchestra to create his amazing sounds.

John Williams' music is so special because it really helps tell the story. It helps you feel what the characters are feeling and makes the movie even more exciting! The question is: Is he really the greatest? Well, that's up to you to decide!

Background: What's Burning in the Grand Canyon?

Imagine a giant playground made of trees, rocks, and amazing views – that's kind of what the Grand Canyon is like! It's a really special place, a national park, which means the government protects it so everyone can enjoy it. Recently, something sad happened there: a big wildfire, which is a fire that gets out of control and burns plants and sometimes buildings. It’s like when you’re camping, and the fire in your fire pit grows too big.

Wildfires can start in a few ways. Sometimes, they’re caused by lightning, which is a giant spark that comes from the sky. Other times, they happen because of people, maybe from a campfire that wasn't put out properly or even from a spark from a car. Sadly, this wildfire in the Grand Canyon has caused a lot of damage.

The fire burned down a lot of things. One important thing that burned was a historic lodge. A lodge is like a big hotel, where people stay when they visit. The fire also destroyed a visitor center, where people go to learn about the park and get information. Other important buildings, like a gas station (where you fill up cars), a wastewater treatment plant (a place that cleans dirty water), an administrative building (where the park workers have their offices), and some employee housing (where the people who work at the park live) were also lost. That’s a lot of buildings!

Here are some things to remember about wildfires:

• Firefighters: These are brave people who put out fires and try to stop them from spreading. They're super important!
• Burn Area: This is the part of the land that has been burned by the fire.
• Ecosystem: Everything in a place like the Grand Canyon is connected, like the plants, animals, and the air. This is called an ecosystem. A fire can affect the ecosystem, but sometimes, fire is good for the ecosystem, too!

It’s important to be careful with fire, especially when we’re in nature, so we can protect places like the Grand Canyon for everyone to enjoy for years to come.

Behind the Scenes: Wimbledon and What it Means

Hey everyone! Before we dive into Jannik Sinner's amazing win at Wimbledon, let's take a quick look at what Wimbledon is and why it’s so special. Wimbledon is one of the most famous tennis tournaments in the world. It's held every year in London, England. Think of it like the Olympics of tennis!

Wimbledon has a long history. It started way back in 1877! That means it’s been around for a super long time. It's known for its traditions, like the players wearing mostly white clothing and eating strawberries and cream. Yum!

So, what exactly is tennis? It’s a sport played by two people (singles) or four people (doubles). Players use a racket to hit a ball over a net. The goal? To hit the ball in a way that your opponent can't hit it back within the lines on the court. The court is usually grass at Wimbledon, which makes it a little tricky because the ball bounces differently than on other surfaces!

Here are some other important terms you should know:

• Tournament: A series of matches where players compete against each other to win.
• Champion: The player who wins the tournament.
• Defending Champion: The player who won the tournament the year before.
• Singles: A tennis match played by two players, one against one.

Winning Wimbledon is a HUGE deal! That’s why Jannik Sinner's victory is so historic. He's the first Italian player to win the men's singles title! Now that you know more about the background, let’s see how he made history!

Behind the Scenes: What's Happening in the North Carolina Senate Race

Hey everyone! Let's take a look at what's going on in North Carolina's political world. This article is about the upcoming Senate race, which is like a big competition to see who gets to represent North Carolina in the United States Senate. That's a really important job because Senators help make laws for the whole country!

A big change is coming because Senator Thom Tillis has decided not to run for re-election. That means there will be a new person representing North Carolina. This announcement has made the race super interesting! Political experts are saying it's a toss-up. That means it's hard to predict who will win. Think of it like flipping a coin - it could go either way!

So, why is this news important? Well, in the U.S., we have two main political parties: the Democrats and the Republicans. They often have different ideas about how things should be run. The Senate is made up of people from both parties. Whoever wins the North Carolina seat in 2026 could change the balance of power in the Senate.

Here's some helpful vocabulary to understand the story better:

• Senate Race: This is the election to decide who will be a Senator.
• Re-election: This means running for the same job again. If Senator Tillis had chosen to run again, it would have been a re-election bid.
• Political Parties: Groups of people who share similar ideas about how the government should work. In the US, the two main parties are the Democrats and Republicans.
• Seat: The Senator's position in the Senate. It's like a chair where they sit and do their important work.

Stay tuned for more information about the candidates and the important issues they'll be talking about during the election! This is a really interesting story, and we'll keep you updated on what's happening.

Background: The Martian Rock’s Journey

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to hold a piece of another planet? Well, soon someone will! A giant rock from Mars, the red planet, is going up for auction in New York City. But how did a piece of Mars end up here on Earth? Let's find out!

Millions of years ago, a big event happened on Mars. A massive meteor (a space rock) crashed into the planet. This crash was so powerful that it blasted rocks from Mars out into space. These rocks then floated around in the darkness of space until… they eventually bumped into Earth! This is how we get pieces of Mars here on our planet.

These Martian rocks are called meteorites when they land on Earth. Scientists study meteorites to learn more about Mars. They tell us about what the planet is made of and what it might have been like in the past. This particular rock is super special because it’s the biggest one ever found on Earth, and it's coming up for auction!

Finding a meteorite is a bit like a treasure hunt. People usually find them in places like deserts or Antarctica, where the rocks stand out against the sand or ice. This specific meteorite was found in the Sahara Desert in Africa. It's made of a type of rock called a breccia, which is a mix of different rock pieces that got stuck together.

Auction is like a special sale where people bid (offer money) to buy things. The person who offers the most money gets to keep the item. The auction for this Martian rock will be exciting! Scientists and space fans will probably be interested to see who ends up owning this incredible piece of another world.