All Society
In Hurricane Ian’s wake, federal and state leaders ramp up reliefOverseeing relief efforts after a natural disaster can become a tenure-defining moment for public officials – partly because at these moments people need help, not mere words.
The ExplainerFlorida has invested in resilience. Hurricane Ian is a sobering test.Hurricane Ian, one of the strongest-ever hurricanes making landfall in the U.S., comes after an era of major coastal development. But Florida has also ramped up preparedness.
First LookGovernment and tribal unity promises new national park in GeorgiaA unified effort by the federal government, Georgia officials, and Native American activists is set to create a new national park on the Ocmulgee River that will preserve and honor Muscogee heritage while also drawing millions of visitors each year.
First LookRefugee-welcoming ‘sponsor circles’ to be a formal part of US policyAfter budget cuts weakened U.S. refugee resettlement agencies, thousands of American families offered to host Afghans fleeing the Taliban. Encouraged by displays of compassion, the government is turning this volunteer hospitality into an official program.
First LookSerena Williams serves up a lesson on longevity for mature athletesIn a surprise upset this week, Serena Williams defeated the world’s second-ranked player and advanced to the third round of the U.S. Open, inspiring legions of older tennis fans. They say her success sends a message that they, too, can perform better and longer.
Presidential plantation shifts telling of history to let all voices riseMontpelier, the plantation owned by U.S. Founding Father and President James Madison, is literally breaking new ground in how it tells its story.
First Look‘Do not drink the water’: Mississippi's capital turns off its tapsJackson, Mississippi, residents are being warned not to drink or use any water without first boiling it. Heavy rainfall has overwhelmed the plants that supply the city’s clean water, throwing longstanding maintenance issues into a national spotlight.
First LookGen Z, millennials take a pass on raising the next generationOverwhelming student debt. The climate crisis. Low salaries. Members of the Gen Z and millennial generations cite them all as reasons they don’t want to bear or raise children. Their reluctance has helped drive down the birth rate in the United States.
Native Americans reclaim lacrosseNative Americans are reasserting their status as the first players of lacrosse, and exploring its physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.
‘They welcome us’: Diverse running clubs attract more to sportRunning clubs in Boston neighborhoods aim to recruit Black members and promote camaraderie – and freedom.
First LookSerena Williams, platinum legacy in hand, plans her move off courtSerena Williams, who has announced her intentions to retire, has won the most major singles championships – male or female – in the professional era of tennis. Her astounding longevity and impact in sports, fashion, pop culture, and business are unmatched.
All aboard: Why rail travel is making a comebackWith airports tangled and gas prices sky-high, train travel is proving a comfortable, affordable, and even joyous bright spot for summer vacationers.
First LookPressure mounts on NCAA to pay women referees equallyLast year, the NCAA agreed to pay referees at its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments equally. Now regular season games are under scrutiny. Data obtained by the AP shows veteran referees were 22% more per game to ref men’s basketball games in 2021-22.
First LookVin Scully, Dodgers broadcaster, remembered as MLB’s best loved voiceVin Scully narrated some of baseball’s greatest moments with grace and beauty. The Dodgers broadcaster, who died Tuesday, called 25 World Series and narrated the careers of players from Jackie Robinson to Clayton Kershaw, creating treasured memories for countless Americans.
FocusWith Roe gone, Planned Parenthood charts a new pathPlanned Parenthood is synonymous with reproductive rights. Post-Roe, the organization is looking to a long-term strategy that combines persistence with abortion access, courts, and ballot boxes.
First LookSamuel Sandoval, Navajo Code Talker, remembered for love of homelandSamuel Sandoval, who died this week, was one of the last Navajo Code Talkers. The code, based on the Navajo language, stumped Japanese military cryptologists and helped the United States ultimately win the war. He also helped expand the Navajo alphabet.
First LookBill Russell: An NBA champion and pioneer committed to principleBill Russell was the first Black NBA coach, redefined the role of defense, holds the record for the most NBA championships, and marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr.
First LookWhy major flooding won't drive eastern Kentucky families awayHeavy rains have produced severe flooding in eastern Kentucky, leaving some 26 people dead. But many say they'll stay because they have deep connections with people that have sustained them through good times and bad.
Before the broncos buck, heads bow at cowboy churchAt Cheyenne Frontier Days, cowboy church offers an hour of grace before the games begin. Held in a rodeo arena, the service reflects an open attitude: Come as you are and find respect.
Men and abortion: Three couples share their storiesAlthough abortion is commonly framed as a women’s issue, the impact on men is significant, as these three couples’ shared perspectives and unified decision-making demonstrate.
