Author: Lisa Peterson

What began as an exhilarating night for lifelong Rockets fan Saul Malek turned into a moment of personal crisis. As Eric Gordon sank a game-clinching shot in Game 5 of the 2018 NBA Western Conference Finals, the room at Malek’s Houston home erupted in cheers. But Malek, then 20, was quietly panicking. He had just lost a $1,500 bet on the Golden State Warriors—money he didn’t have. That loss marked the beginning of a two-year spiral into gambling addiction. At his lowest, Malek was $25,000 in debt, chasing the fleeting thrill of sports betting—a pastime that is now gripping young…

In a case that’s quickly drawing national attention and intensifying the debate over immigration enforcement, a federal grand jury indicted Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on May 13. The indictment accuses the 66-year-old judge of obstructing federal agents and concealing an undocumented immigrant in an alleged attempt to prevent his arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Dugan is facing two felony counts: obstruction of a federal officer and concealment to prevent arrest, each carrying a potential penalty of up to three years in prison and $175,000 in fines. While legal experts note that…

The 2026 Winter Games are set to be an extraordinary celebration of winter sports, uniting athletes from across the globe in a thrilling display of skill and competition. Hosted by Italy, the Games will feature a wide range of exciting winter disciplines, from alpine skiing and snowboarding to ice hockey and figure skating. Beyond the athletic feats, these Games symbolize international cooperation, cutting-edge sports technology, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, the host cities, have invested heavily in state-of-the-art venues and infrastructure to welcome athletes, fans, and media from around the world. With innovative technologies and…

A bipartisan crisis hotline that has supported millions of Americans in mental distress may soon lose a vital component that serves LGBTQ+ youth, and more than 100 Congressional Democrats are urging the Biden administration to reconsider. In a letter addressed to Uthe .S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 109 House Democrats have called on the agency to reverse proposed budget cuts that would dismantle LGBTQ+-specific support services under the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The lawmakers argue that the planned changes would jeopardize the mental health and safety of a disproportionately vulnerable population. What Is…

Logan Paul, the well-known YouTuber, podcaster, and entertainer, has captured the attention of millions not only through his dynamic content but also through his evolving personal beliefs. Fans and critics alike frequently ask, Does Logan Paul believe in God? Over time, Logan’s spiritual perspective has shifted, shaped by his life experiences, public controversies, and personal growth. His faith is more than a private matter—it influences how he faces life’s challenges, defines success, and navigates his journey. Unlike many celebrities who keep their religious views private, Logan has been candid about his spirituality. Through interviews, podcasts, and social media, he openly…

Florida is best known for its sunny beaches, warm weather, and occasional hurricanes, but many people ask: Has there ever been an earthquake in Florida? Unlike states near active tectonic boundaries like California or Alaska, Florida’s seismic activity is rare and less understood. This article explores whether Florida has experienced earthquakes, how often they occur, their causes, and what risks they might pose to residents. Though Florida is far from major tectonic plate edges, minor earthquakes do happen. These small tremors are usually too weak to be felt but have been recorded by seismographs. Understanding these rare events helps clear…

In a landmark legal shift decades in the making, a Los Angeles judge ruled Tuesday that Lyle and Erik Menendez, convicted of the 1989 murders of their parents, are now eligible for parole, opening the door to a potential release after more than 30 years behind bars. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic re-sentenced the brothers from life without the possibility of parole to 50 years to life, recognizing their status under California’s youthful offender statute. This decision acknowledges their ages at the time of the crime — Erik was 18, Lyle 21 — and makes both men,…

The United States Congress consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Although both serve crucial roles in the legislative process, their sizes and growth patterns have significantly diverged over time. The House of Representatives has grown much faster than the Senate, which has remained relatively stable in size since its inception.  This discrepancy raises an important question: Why has the House of Representatives grown so much faster than the Senate? Understanding the answer involves examining constitutional mandates, historical population growth, apportionment methods, and political compromises that shaped the structure of Congress. The House’s size reflects the…

When planning for the future or helping a loved one transition to a new stage of life, understanding the differences between independent living vs assisted living is crucial. Each option offers unique services, amenities, and levels of support, designed to cater to different needs and lifestyles. Choosing the right path can have a profound impact on the quality of life, ensuring that seniors maintain their autonomy, dignity, and happiness. Independent living communities are perfect for active seniors who seek a maintenance-free lifestyle without the need for daily assistance. On the other hand, assisted living facilities are designed for individuals who…

WASHINGTON — A pivotal case before the U.S. Supreme Court could reshape the legal landscape for students with disabilities — either strengthening their ability to seek justice or making it harder to hold schools accountable for discrimination. At the center of the dispute are Gina and Aaron Tharpe, parents from Minnesota, who argue that their local school district, Osseo Area Schools, failed to adequately accommodate their daughter Ava’s severe disabilities, in violation of her federal rights. Disability rights advocates are closely watching the outcome, warning that the Court’s decision could have sweeping implications for thousands of families nationwide. The Tharpes’…