Latest Articles

Background: What's the Buzz About Ne Zha?

Have you ever heard of a movie called Ne Zha? Probably not! But guess what? It's a HUGE deal! This weekend, you might be able to see it in theaters. It's made a ton of money all over the world, even though you might not have heard about it until now.

Ne Zha is actually based on a really cool story from Chinese mythology. Mythology means old stories passed down through generations. Think of it like ancient superheroes and supervillains, but with a Chinese twist! The movie tells the tale of Ne Zha, a young boy who is born with special powers. It's full of exciting action, amazing characters, and beautiful scenes.

So, what makes Ne Zha so special? Well, it’s a box office hit! A box office is the place at a movie theatre where tickets are sold, and box office success means a movie is making a lot of money! It’s also been remade with an English voice cast so more people can enjoy it! This means the movie has been given new voices in English, so that people who speak English can enjoy the story.

Here's a quick peek at some of the key things you might hear about Ne Zha:

• Mythology: Old stories, often about gods and heroes, from different cultures.
• Box Office: Where the money is made.
• Animated: A movie made by creating a series of drawings or computer images to look like a real-life movie.

This weekend, you might have the chance to see Ne Zha and discover this fun and exciting movie!

Background: The Kennedy Center and Dance

Have you ever been to a play, a concert, or a dance performance? These kinds of events often happen at places like the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.! The Kennedy Center is a really important place for the arts in America. It’s where lots of talented people, like dancers, musicians, and actors, come to share their work.

The Kennedy Center isn't just one building; it's actually several theaters and performance spaces all together. It has stages for huge orchestras, smaller jazz groups, and of course, dancers! The Kennedy Center sometimes puts on its own shows and performances, and it also hosts groups that travel from all over the world to perform.

Sometimes, places like the Kennedy Center change things up. This can happen for lots of reasons! Sometimes, the people in charge, also known as the administration, want to try new things. Other times, they want to bring in people who have different ideas about how to run things. The article you read said there was a change with the dance programming team. That's like the group of people who decide which dance shows to put on at the Kennedy Center.

When someone is terminated, it means they are no longer working in that job. It’s like when you might leave a school at the end of the year – just the grown-ups’ jobs instead! This article reports that there was a change at the Kennedy Center. The article says that change involves the people who pick the dance shows. It might take a little while to figure out what the new dance programming will be like.

Now, you might be wondering what’s going to happen next! The article mentions that someone from the Kennedy Center said they would announce a new direction for dance programming soon. That means we might get to see some exciting new dance shows in the future!

Background: Helping Public Radio Stations Stay On Air

Before we talk about how people are helping public radio stations, let's understand a few things! Public radio stations are like the radio stations you might listen to in the car, but they're different. They're usually not run by big companies that make money from commercials. Instead, they often rely on donations from people who like their shows and support from organizations that want to help them.

You might be wondering, "Why does a radio station need help?" Well, running a radio station costs money! They need to pay for things like the equipment (microphones and antennas), the people who make the shows (producers and hosts), and the electricity to keep the signal going out to your radio. Sometimes, they get money from the government, too. That money is called funding, which helps pay the bills.

Recently, some of that government funding got cut. Think of it like this: if your allowance suddenly got smaller, you'd have less money to spend on things you enjoy. This funding cut means that some public radio stations have less money than before to create programs you might listen to! This is where other organizations called philanthropic organizations come in to help. These are groups of people or companies that donate money or resources to help support good causes.

These organizations step in to help fill the funding gap. A funding gap is just the difference between the money a station has and the money they need. They help stations stay on the air by providing money. They can also help stations by offering advice, like finding new ways to raise money. Here’s a quick list of some of the issues that public radio stations face, and the ways that philanthropic organizations can help:

• Funding Cuts: The money given by governments has been cut. This means some public radio stations have less money for programming.
• Solutions: Philanthropic organizations can provide extra money through grants to help stations survive.
• Operational Expenses: Public radio stations need to pay for equipment, producers, and electricity to stay on air.
• Solutions: Philanthropic organizations can provide financial and practical support to public radio stations.

Background: What’s a Community and Why Take Pictures?

Have you ever wondered what makes a place special? It’s usually the people! The article you’re about to read is all about images of different communities. A community is just a group of people who live near each other, or who share something in common, like a hobby or a school. They might live in a town, a city, or even a small neighborhood.

The pictures in this article were taken by photographers from NPR, which stands for National Public Radio. NPR has lots of local stations across the United States, and these stations sent their photographers out to capture important moments happening in their communities. They took these pictures to show how people come together.

But why take pictures? Well, pictures are a way of documenting, or recording, what happens. They help us remember special events, or learn about what’s happening in different places. It’s like a visual story! They also help us share information about different places and people with others.

The images were taken to celebrate World Photography Day. That's a day to recognize the importance of pictures in our lives. Think of it as a birthday for photography! The pictures help show all the different ways that people work and play together. The article will show you how many different kinds of communities there are, and what makes them special. Get ready to see some cool pictures of everyday life!

Background: What's Happening with Words?

Have you ever noticed how the way people talk changes? New words and phrases pop up all the time! That's because language is always growing and changing, just like you. One big way this happens is through things like the internet and social media. Words that become popular online can quickly spread and become part of how we all communicate.

A dictionary is like a giant book that keeps track of all the words in a language and their meanings. There are many different kinds of dictionaries, but they all serve the same purpose: to help us understand what words mean. The Cambridge Dictionary is a really important dictionary that people all over the world use. They update it regularly, adding new words and sometimes changing how they describe existing words.

Recently, the Cambridge Dictionary added over 6,000 new words! This means there are now even more words for us to learn. Some of these new words come from things we see and use every day, especially online. The dictionary's job is to reflect how people are actually using the language, even if the words are very new. This helps everyone stay up-to-date with what people mean.

So, what kind of words were added? Here are a few examples, along with their basic definitions. Notice how some come from specific online trends:

• Skibidi: This word relates to a type of internet meme and refers to a specific character.
• Delulu: This term is short for "delusional." It’s used to describe someone who has unrealistic beliefs or hopes.
• Tradwife: This is short for traditional wife.
• Broligarchy: This refers to a group of men, with a specific style, holding significant power.

Background: What Happened With the Election and This News Company

Okay, so here's what happened. In 2020, the United States had an election to choose the new President. After the election, some people were unhappy with the results. They started making claims, which means saying things, about how the voting process wasn't fair. Some of these claims said that special machines used for voting, called voting machines, had cheated to change the results.

One of the companies that talked about these claims a lot was a news company called Newsmax. Newsmax is like a newspaper or a TV news channel, but online. They report on the news and share it with the public. They shared the claims that the voting machines were broken and that the election results were not accurate. Some of what they said about the voting machines was not true, and this can be referred to as false information.

Now, the company that made the voting machines, which is called Dominion Voting Systems, got really upset. They said that the claims from Newsmax were hurting their reputation, which is how people think of them. They said Newsmax was making them look like they did something wrong, which wasn't true. To fix this, Dominion Voting Systems filed a lawsuit against Newsmax. A lawsuit is when a person or a company sues another person or company because they believe that they've been hurt.

To make a long story short, the lawsuit has now been settled. This means Newsmax and Dominion Voting Systems have agreed to a deal to end the dispute. Newsmax will pay Dominion Voting Systems a large amount of money, $67 million! This shows that Newsmax agrees that some of the things they said were wrong. They are also apologizing for spreading false information, which is important.

Background: What's Happening with Documentary Films?

Ever watched a cool documentary on TV or online and thought, "Wow, how did they make that?" Well, these films, which tell real-life stories, often get help from a special place called the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Think of the CPB as a helpful friend who gives money to make these documentaries happen. This money is called funding, which is like getting a gift card to help pay for supplies.

For a long time, the CPB has helped organizations like PBS (Public Broadcasting Service). PBS is like a big channel that shows lots of programs, including many documentaries. The CPB helps PBS by providing money so that they can produce and broadcast documentaries, which in turn gives a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work.

But things are changing! The CPB is facing some challenges. This means they have less funding than before. Think of it like your favorite toy store having to cut back on the number of toys they can buy. With less funding for CPB, making documentaries might become harder.

So, what does this mean for those amazing documentaries you love to watch? It means the filmmakers, or the people who make the movies, might have to find new ways to get the money they need. They might need to find other groups or people who are willing to provide the funds. They could also try to get money from individuals or other organizations that are really interested in telling stories.

It's a bit like when a sports team loses its sponsor. The team has to find another way to buy equipment, right? Documentary filmmakers are in a similar situation. They still want to make great movies, but they have to be extra creative in figuring out how to do it!

Background: Where Did These Scary Aliens Come From?

Hey everyone, have you heard about the new show called Alien: Earth? It's about those super creepy creatures from the Alien movies! But before we jump into the new show, let's rewind and find out where these terrifying aliens, called Xenomorphs (say: ZEE-no-morfs), came from in the first place.

The first Alien movie came out a long, long time ago – in 1979! It was like, way before your parents were even born! The movie was a big hit, mostly because the alien was SO scary and different. It was a monster from outer space that was super strong, super sneaky, and really wanted to cause trouble! Think of it like a space monster version of a hungry, sneaky animal.

The story started with a spaceship called the Nostromo. The crew was just doing their job when they came across something unexpected: a planet with some strange eggs. These eggs hatched, and a baby alien – called a Facehugger – jumped onto one of the crew members. Eek! The Facehugger then planted an alien inside the person. Then, a super-scary baby alien bursts out of the person's chest! That's the Chestburster! The Chestburster then grows up into the full Xenomorph we all know and fear.

Over the years, there have been lots more movies, and they all have different stories. Some have shown what the Aliens are like on their own planet, and others follow the heroes trying to survive the Alien attacks. The Alien movies are famous for being science fiction (sci-fi for short). This means they tell stories about science and technology, but they're make-believe!

The new show, Alien: Earth, is set to bring these creatures into the real world. It is going to be pretty spooky! So, keep an eye out for it. And if you’re feeling brave, maybe watch it with a friend!

Background: Where Puzzles Come From!

Have you ever wondered how the puzzles on the radio, like the ones on NPR's Weekend Edition, are made? Well, it's more complicated than you might think! First, someone called a puzzle master comes up with the puzzle. They're like the architects of brain teasers!

The puzzle master often works with a host. A host is the person who guides the puzzle game, like Ayesha Rascoe. They make sure everything runs smoothly and makes it fun for you to listen. They'll read the clues and give hints if needed.

For the Sunday Puzzle on NPR, they have a special puzzle master named Will Shortz! He's been making puzzles for a long, long time and is super clever at coming up with tricky challenges. He also gets to work with people like Alison Triebwasser who might even try the puzzles and get to be on the radio!

Puzzles can be about all sorts of things – words, riddles, even pictures. They test your brain and make you think in new ways! They're designed to be fun and challenging, so don't worry if you don't get them right away. The important thing is to try!

Here are a few key things to know about puzzles:

• Clue: A hint or piece of information that helps you solve the puzzle.
• Riddle: A type of puzzle that uses a question with a clever answer.
• Rhyme: Words that sound alike, often used to create a puzzle with a fun sound to it!

Background: What's Michigan Doing with Smells?

Imagine you could bottle up the smell of your favorite place! That's kind of what's happening in Michigan. The state is trying to get more people to visit by creating perfumes and scents that smell like Michigan! It's all part of a plan to attract tourists, people who travel for fun.

Think about it: Michigan has lots of cool places. There's the beautiful coastline with the big lakes, fields of colorful flowers, and even vineyards where grapes grow to make wine. The people in charge of tourism, the folks who want you to visit, thought, "Hey, what if we could capture those smells?"

They worked with people called perfumers. Perfumers are like scent artists! They mix different smells together to make a specific fragrance. They used their noses (and a lot of science!) to create perfumes that smell like Michigan's best features. This whole project is part of a big marketing campaign, which is a way of trying to get people interested in something.

So, what do these perfumes smell like? The article mentioned smells inspired by the coastline, meaning the area where the land meets the water, the flowers that bloom in Michigan, and the vineyards, the places where grapes are grown. This way, if you can't physically visit Michigan, you can still get a little whiff of what it's like!

Background: Let's Learn About Languages and Opera!

Have you ever wondered how people learn to speak different languages? It's like learning a whole new game with its own rules! In this news story, we're hearing about opera singers who are working hard to learn German. Why German? Well, many famous operas, which are like musical plays, are written in German. So, to sing them beautifully, you need to understand the language.

This story focuses on a special place called the Middlebury Language School in Vermont. Imagine it's like a super-cool classroom, but instead of just learning one subject, you're totally immersed in another language! That means you're surrounded by people speaking, reading, and listening to German all day long. It's a great way to learn!

Why is it so important for opera singers to speak German well? It's because they need to understand what they're singing! Imagine trying to read a book you don't understand. You wouldn't know what the story is about! For an opera singer, if they don't understand the words, they can't truly express the emotions and tell the story to the audience.

Learning a language can be challenging, but it's also a lot of fun! You get to discover new words, new sounds, and learn about different cultures. Let's look at a few key things about this story:

• Opera: This is a kind of musical drama where singers perform a story, often with costumes and a full orchestra (lots of instruments playing together). Think of it as a play where everyone sings!
• Umlaut: This is a special mark (like two little dots) that goes above some vowels (a, o, u) in German. It changes how the vowel sounds. It's like adding a secret ingredient to a word!
• Immerse: To immerse yourself in something means to surround yourself with it completely. At the language school, you're completely immersed in the German language and culture.

Background: Movies About Movies!

Have you ever noticed that there are a bunch of movies *about* making movies? It might seem a little strange at first! But just like we like stories about sports, friendship, or exploring faraway lands, filmmakers sometimes like to tell stories about their own world: the world of movies!

Think of it like this: Imagine your favorite book is about a kid who really loves reading. That book is sort of like a "book about books." Movies about movies do the same thing, showing us what happens behind the scenes, the struggles, the friendships, and the fun that goes into creating a movie. They can also explore the power of movies and how they affect us.

Sometimes, these movies are based on real-life events. For example, a movie might be about how a famous film was made, or about a star's life. Other times, they're totally made up stories, but they still give us a glimpse into the movie-making process.

Why do filmmakers make these kinds of movies? Well, sometimes it's to celebrate the history of cinema! It could be to show how much work goes into making a movie or to poke fun at the movie industry. Other times, the filmmaker could be trying to be creative. Some movies tell us about the craft of filmaking.

You might see some of these words in a movie about movies:

• Director: The person in charge of making the movie, like the captain of a ship.
• Screenwriter: The person who writes the story and the words the actors say.
• Set: The place where the movie is filmed – it could be a real place or something built just for the movie.
• Casting: The process of choosing the actors to play the different roles.

So, next time you see a movie that's about making a movie, you'll know what it's all about! It's a chance to learn about this exciting world and see how movies are made.

Background: What's the Puzzle All About?

Have you ever heard of a puzzle? A puzzle is a fun challenge, like a riddle or a tricky question, that you need to solve. Some puzzles are about finding hidden things, some about figuring out a tricky word, and some might even be about drawing or building something! The puzzle in this story is about figuring out a confusing or tricky question.

This article is about a puzzle from NPR, which stands for National Public Radio. NPR is like a radio station, but instead of just playing music all the time, it also has news and stories. They have a puzzle every week to challenge listeners' brains!

The puzzle is being played by two people: Adrian Ma and Bill Hoffman. Adrian Ma is the person who helps run the puzzle, and Bill Hoffman is a listener of the show, who is trying to solve the puzzle.

They are working with Will Shortz, who is the "Weekend Edition Puzzlemaster." That means Will Shortz is the super-smart person who comes up with the puzzles! He's like the puzzle creator!

Background: Let's Learn About "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!"

Hey everyone! This week's news story is about a super fun radio show called "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!" It's like a funny game show that happens every week on the radio (and sometimes on TV!). If you haven't heard of it, don't worry, we'll explain!

"Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!" is a show all about news, but it's not like the news you see on TV where people are serious. Instead, they make jokes and ask questions about the week's news stories. Think of it like a game where they test people's knowledge about what's happening in the world, but with lots of laughs!

Every week, the show has a host. The host is the person who guides the show, asks the questions, and keeps things moving along. They also have a panel of panelists, who are the people who try to answer the questions and make the jokes. The panelists are often comedians, writers, or other funny people.

Sometimes, the show has a special guest called the "Not My Job" guest! This is often a famous person like an actor, a musician, or a sports star. They are asked silly questions, which are not about their job or their expertise. It's a fun way to see a famous person in a different light!

The show is recorded live, which means people get to watch it happen in real-time! Sometimes the show records in a studio and other times it goes on the road to different cities like Chicago, where this show will be!

Here are some key terms to help you understand the show:

• Host: The person in charge of the show who asks questions and directs the fun.
• Panelists: The funny people who try to answer the questions.
• Special Guest: A famous person who comes on the show to play "Not My Job"

Background: Where Did "Deadline" Come From?

Have you ever heard the word "deadline"? It's used when something needs to be finished by a certain time, like when you have homework due! But have you ever wondered where the word came from? It's a bit like a detective story, figuring out how a word was born!

The word "deadline" is actually pretty old! It started in the 1860s, during the American Civil War. Imagine a place where soldiers are kept – that's a **prison camp**. Back then, there were rules about how far prisoners could go.

In these prison camps, there was often a marked line, like a **boundary**. This line, or "deadline," was super important.

• Deadline: A line drawn around a prison camp that prisoners couldn't cross.

If a prisoner crossed this "deadline," they could be shot! Yikes! So, the "deadline" was a very serious thing. It meant a point of no return.

Over time, the meaning of "deadline" changed. It started to mean any **strict limit**. Then, it evolved to what we know it as today: a time when something needs to be finished. So, that homework deadline? It's like a time limit, and the original "deadline" in prison camps was a spatial limit, a boundary to avoid!

So next time you see the word "deadline," remember the soldiers, the prison camps, and the line that made the difference. The word's journey from a scary place to a time for finishing your homework is a pretty cool history lesson, right?

Background: A Blast From the Past!

Imagine a play that became a HUGE hit – like, everyone was talking about it! That's what happened with the musical "Hamilton." It's been a while since it first opened in 2015, about 10 years ago, and a lot has changed in the world since then! Let's take a quick trip back in time to see what was happening when "Hamilton" became a superstar.

Back in 2015, a lot of people were learning about the history of the United States, but in a brand new way. "Hamilton" is a play about a very important person named Alexander Hamilton, one of the country's Founding Fathers. Founding Fathers are people who helped create the United States of America! But instead of old-fashioned clothes and boring history lessons, "Hamilton" used modern music like hip-hop and R&B to tell the story.

This was super cool because it showed that history can be exciting and fun. The play told the story of Hamilton’s life, including his relationships with people like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The musical also explored big ideas like politics (how people run a country), government (the group of people who make the rules), and what it means to be an American.

Now, when "Hamilton" first appeared, a lot of people were really excited. It was new, it was different, and it was teaching them things. People enjoyed seeing history told in a modern way. And like everything, things change with time! Just like how fashion trends or your favorite toys change over time, so do the ways we see and understand things. The play is seen today in a slightly different light compared to when it first premiered, but it is still beloved by many!

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.

What’s Happening: A Little Background!

Hey kids! This news story is about something called the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, or CPB. Imagine it like a special helper for lots of cool TV and radio stations, like PBS Kids and NPR. Their job is to help these stations keep running and bring you great shows and programs. The CPB helps by giving them funding – that's just another word for money! This money helps pay for things like the people who make the shows, the equipment they use, and the costs of broadcasting the shows to your TVs and radios.

So, where does the CPB get this money? Well, some of it comes from the government. The government is like a team of grown-ups who work together to help run the country. Sometimes, the government decides how much money the CPB gets to help the public broadcasting stations. This is called “federal funding”, meaning money that comes from the whole country.

Recently, the CPB lost some of this money. The government said they wouldn’t be giving them as much money as before. This has a big impact on the CPB, which is the news story’s focus. When a company or organization loses money it needs to continue operating, it's forced to make tough choices. In this situation, the CPB said it will start shutting down some of its work. This will likely affect the future of many programs and broadcasts that you and I might be familiar with.

It's a bit like if your favorite ice cream shop suddenly didn't have as much money to buy ingredients! They might have to sell fewer flavors, change their hours, or even close down. That's what's starting to happen to the CPB and the programs it supports. While we may not know all the details yet, keep an eye out for how this situation develops. You can also discuss this with an adult or a trusted teacher!

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!

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: 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.

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 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: 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: 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.

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: 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 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'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: 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!