June 5, 2026

Bridging the Digital Gap for Successful Reentry After Incarceration

In 1995, when I entered prison as a 17-year-old, the internet was a novel concept. For the next 15 years, I lived in a world isolated from technological advancements. When I re-entered society in 2010, the transformation was startling. Smartphones had replaced basic cell phones. Digital platforms managed job applications, government services, and daily communication. […]

June 1, 2026

The Complex Legacy of Ernst Wilimowski

Ernst Wilimowski was a remarkable footballer whose story contains remarkable achievements and controversies. Born in 1916, Wilimowski scored four goals in a single World Cup match against Brazil in 1938, set a German Cup record, and reportedly scored 1,000 times during his career. Yet, his name is not well known, overshadowed by the complex nationalities […]

May 27, 2026

Families Reflect on Sacrifice and Service on Memorial Day

Each year on Memorial Day, families gather at Arlington National Cemetery to honor those who died in service to their country. This solemn event reflects the sacrifice made by many, particularly those who served in the Iraq War. Recently, under darkening skies over the cemetery, familiar sights emerged. School children on field trips, tourists on […]

May 27, 2026

Elizabeth Smart on Gaining Confidence Through Bodybuilding

Elizabeth Smart has evolved into a confident competitive bodybuilder, continuing her advocacy for women and victims of sexual violence. Her journey began with a daunting experience stepping onto a bodybuilding stage. Smart faced a choreographed routine with many challenges, including oversized costume jewelry and new blonde extensions. An onstage mishap involving her jewelry and extensions […]

May 27, 2026

How to Build Lasting Friendships

Meeting someone and wanting to become friends is an exciting experience. You connect effortlessly, share laughs, and feel an urge to know more about them. Instead of saying, “We should get together sometime,” Kat Vellos, author of We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships, suggests a more direct approach. Make specific plans. […]

May 27, 2026

Tim O’Malley’s Life and Legacy

The news of Tim O’Malley’s death on May 11 at the age of 68 shocked many in the city. O’Malley, a talented performer and teacher at The Second City, left behind both tears and smiles. He was known for his humor and his dedication to helping others by sharing his own experiences. Pamela Staker, a […]