Larry Gatlin joins us to pay tribute to the remarkable legacy of Dolly Parton, a beloved icon in country music. Gatlin shares his personal journey and the deep connection he had with Parton, highlighting her talent, generosity, and the profound impact she had on the music industry and her fans. From her humble beginnings in the Smoky Mountains to becoming a global superstar, Parton's career is marked by her incredible songwriting, singing, and her commitment to giving back through initiatives like the Imagination Library. Gatlin reflects on the lessons he learned from her about staying true to one's roots and the importance of kindness and openness in the entertainment industry. This heartfelt conversation underscores Parton's enduring influence and the respect she commanded from peers and fans alike.

Read More...

Lee Greenwood joins us to reflect on the life and legacy of the iconic country music star, Dolly Parton. Greenwood shares his personal experiences and admiration for Parton, highlighting her immense talent, generosity, and the profound impact she has had on people around the world. The conversation delves into Parton's remarkable ability to blend seamlessly with any genre or artist, her patriotism, and her deep-rooted faith. Greenwood also touches on Parton's significant contributions to literacy and education through her initiatives and the creation of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Her charitable work, especially in her home state of Tennessee, is celebrated, showing how Parton's influence extends beyond her music to creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. The discussion underscores Parton's genuine nature, her ability to connect with people on a personal level, and her enduring legacy as a beloved and respected figure in country music and beyond.

Read More...

Reflecting on the life and legacy of country music icon Dolly Parton, this segment dives into her profound impact on American culture and beyond. Born into humble beginnings in Tennessee, Parton's unwavering dedication to her craft and her ability to cross cultural boundaries made her a beloved figure worldwide. Known for her wit and wisdom, her famous line "It costs a lot of money to look this cheap" perfectly captures her charm. Parton's career spanned singing, songwriting, acting, and philanthropy, including her significant support for the military. This tribute not only celebrates her musical achievements but also her role as a unifying figure who brought people together, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.

Read More...

Country music icon Dolly Parton, who rose from humble beginnings in the Tennessee mountains to become a global pop sensation, left an indelible mark on both the music industry and the hearts of millions. Her unwavering pride in her roots and her commitment to philanthropy, including her renowned Imagination Library, showcased her as a beacon of generosity and authenticity. Parton's ability to bridge cultural divides and her collaborative spirit with artists across genres highlighted her versatility and deep-seated talent. Despite her immense success and fame, she remained grounded, focusing on her faith and the importance of kindness and community. Her life and legacy serve as an inspiring testament to the power of staying true to oneself while making a positive impact on the world.

Read More...

Minnesota officials are asking a federal judge in South Texas to order the extradition of ICE agent Christian Castro, who faces criminal charges stemming from a shooting at a Minneapolis home. Prosecutors accuse Castro of firing his gun through the door of the home, striking a man in the leg, and then lying about what happened in an attempt to justify the shooting. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison are seeking federal court intervention to force Texas to return Castro to Minnesota to face the charges. The case has become more urgent because Texas law generally limits how long a person can be held while awaiting extradition. Castro will reach the 90-day detention limit Thursday and could be released if the extradition dispute is not resolved. Attorneys representing Texas Gov. Greg Abbott argue that the extradition request has not formally been denied and say it is too early for a federal court to intervene.

Read More...

The trade fight between the United States and Canada is escalating once again, with both countries imposing steep new tariffs after negotiations between the longtime allies collapsed. Canada announced retaliatory tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of U.S. goods, matching the value of new American tariffs on Canadian products. The Canadian measures, which take effect Sept. 8, cover more than 700 products and carry rates ranging from 15% to 50%. President Donald Trump has also threatened to impose 50% tariffs on Canadian-made cars, trucks and auto parts beginning Jan. 1 if the two countries fail to resolve their differences. Despite the increasingly tough rhetoric, analysts say there is still time for Washington and Ottawa to return to the negotiating table. The two countries have deeply integrated economies, with hundreds of billions of dollars in goods crossing the border each year.

Read More...

New details are emerging about the Montana shooting that left nine people dead, including the suspected gunman, as relatives identify the victims and describe the moments surrounding the attack. Family members identified the gunman as 44-year-old Alan Smith. They say Smith had lived with his parents for years before they asked him to move out several weeks ago. He unexpectedly returned to their Billings-area home Sunday evening as relatives gathered for a weekly family dinner. Authorities say eight relatives spanning four generations were killed, including four children. The victims included Smith’s parents, grandmother and younger sister, along with children ages 7, 12, 13 and 15. Family members are now calling 12-year-old Charlotte Ghekiere a hero. They say Charlotte called 911 during the attack and tried to save her family. Police arrived to reports of gunfire before the home became engulfed in flames. Investigators say Smith suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound and later died. The fire destroyed the home down to its foundation, complicating the investigation. Authorities have not publicly established a motive.

Read More...

Sen. Darline Graham has won South Carolina’s Republican Senate runoff, securing the GOP nomination to replace her late brother, longtime Sen. Lindsey Graham, on the November ballot. Graham, a political newcomer who was appointed to temporarily fill her brother’s seat following his death, defeated U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman in Tuesday’s runoff. Her victory came after President Donald Trump threw his support behind her campaign, traveling to South Carolina for a rally and urging Republicans to back her. The Trump-aligned MAGA Inc. super PAC also made a late push in the race, spending more than $800,000 to support Graham in the closing days of the campaign. Graham will now face Democrat Annie Andrews in November’s special election. Republicans enter the general election with a significant advantage in South Carolina, where a Democrat has not won statewide office in two decades.

Read More...

The next tropical storm to form in the Atlantic will be named Dolly, but forecasters say the timing is purely coincidental and has no connection to the death of country music legend Dolly Parton. Tropical storm names are determined years in advance by the World Meteorological Organization. Atlantic storm names are arranged alphabetically, alternate between male and female names and are generally reused every six years unless a particularly deadly or destructive storm causes a name to be retired. The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has produced three named storms so far — Arthur, Bertha and Cristobal — making Dolly the next name on this year’s list. The National Hurricane Center is currently monitoring a system south of the Cabo Verde Islands off the coast of Africa. Forecasters say conditions could allow it to strengthen into a tropical depression in the coming days. If sustained winds reach at least 39 mph, the system would become Tropical Storm Dolly. NOAA has forecast a below-average Atlantic hurricane season this year, with eight to 14 named storms expected.

Read More...

This week, the world mourns the loss of a music legend, but the conversation takes a sharp turn into politics and social issues. The speaker shares a personal story about the passing of a beloved family member, Dolly Parton, and how her legacy will live on. However, the discussion quickly shifts to a heated debate about socialism, immigration, and the future of America. The speaker delves into a recent interview with El Saeed, a politician running for office, and shares his thoughts on the candidate's views on socialism, healthcare, and immigration. The conversation also touches on the Green New Deal, reparations, and the importance of understanding the complexities of these issues. The speaker's opinions are clear, and he doesn't mince words when it comes to his stance on these topics. One of the key points of discussion is the idea of socialism and how it can be implemented in America. The speaker argues that socialism is not the answer and that it's a recipe for disaster. He also discusses the importance of understanding the differences between socialism and capitalism and how they can coexist. Additionally, the conversation highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to immigration and the importance of securing the borders. If you're interested in hearing more about this thought-provoking conversation and the speaker's opinions on these timely topics, tune in to this episode to hear the full discussion. Follow Carl Jackson: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow Website: http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.com Store: https://CarlJacksonStore.com

Read More...

Dolly Parton, born in 1946 in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, is a legendary figure in music and entertainment. Raised in poverty, she wrote her first song at the age of five and began her career with a recording debut in 1959. Parton's illustrious career includes 25 number one country singles, induction into both the Country Music and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a career spanning over six decades. Known for hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5," she also ventured into acting, earning an Oscar nomination for her role in the film of the same name. Parton's philanthropy and business acumen led to the creation of Dollywood, her renowned theme park. Despite personal life rumors, her integrity and talent garnered universal respect. Parton passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of music, film, and inspirational stories.

Read More...

In this segment, Larry Elder critically examines the affordability plans of Democrat Socialists, focusing on the lack of specific strategies to address rising costs and economic challenges. The discussion highlights the proposed policies, such as Medicare for all and rent stabilization, and questions their feasibility and fairness. Larry argues that these plans fail to consider the economic realities and the burden they place on taxpayers and businesses. The conversation also touches on the consequences of increasing taxes on the wealthy and the potential impact on employment and pricing. Through this analysis, Larry challenges the viability of these policies and calls for more practical and sustainable solutions to the issues of affordability and economic stability.

Read More...

Iran and Oman say their top diplomats have met to discuss a phased approach to managing ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. A joint statement released by the countries says their foreign ministers met in Tehran on Tuesday. The critical waterway for oil shipments remains largely shut down nearly six months after the U.S. and Israel went to war with Iran. An oil tanker was disabled late on Monday after being struck by an unknown projectile off Oman, underscoring risks to shipping in the strait. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organization on Tuesday said the crew is safe and no environmental damage was immediately reported.

Read More...

Aug 25 (Reuters) - Two Pennsylvania residents died from measles, health officials said on Tuesday, the first such deaths this year in the United States, which is contending with the highest number of cases of the highly infectious disease in more than three decades as vaccination rates drop. Both people were unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, which did not release additional details, citing privacy concerns. Pennsylvania has been one of the hardest hit states this year, with 393 measles cases across 28 counties so far. Lancaster County, in the southeastern part of the state, has had 185 cases, but these were the first measles deaths recorded in the state in 35 years. "Because measles was largely eliminated in the Commonwealth for more than three decades, people are not familiar with this disease and don't fully understand the potential severity of the illness," said Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Debra Bogen. The United States has had 2,777 confirmed cases so far this year of a disease that had been largely eradicated in the country, a reflection of declining vaccination rates and policies under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has worked for decades to discourage the use of vaccines. Kennedy and President Donald Trump, who earlier this month issued an executive order calling for a reduction in recommended childhood vaccines, have promoted a long-debunked link between vaccines and autism contrary to established scientific evidence. Trump's executive order doesn't help restore trust in life-saving vaccines, said Dr. Angela Dunn, former Utah state epidemiologist and previously a CDC division director in infectious disease response. "We all thought the Texas outbreak and the deaths there last year would be a wake-up call. Then we had the outbreaks in South Carolina and Utah," Dunn said. In 2025, three people died in an outbreak that began in West Texas and spread to New Mexico. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment. FALLING VACCINATION RATES Vaccination rates of 95% or higher can prevent outbreaks by creating what is known as herd immunity that protects people unable to be vaccinated. Two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella shot provide 97% protection against the virus. Children typically first receive the vaccine when they are 12 to 15 months old and again at age 4 to 6 years of age. According to Pennsylvania Department of Health data for the 2025-2026 school year, 93.2% of Pennsylvania kindergarten-age children had received the required two doses of MMR vaccine, down from 93.7% during the 2024-2025 school year. In Lancaster County, 87.6% of kindergarten students received the required two MMR doses during the 2025-2026 school year. The federal government and state health officials need to try to identify communities that have low measles vaccination coverage, said William Moss, an epidemiology professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Many people in this country and in certain communities have a mistrust of measles vaccine partly fed by misinformation and disinformation," Moss said. The number of U.S. measles cases in 2026 is the highest in ?a single year since the major resurgence between 1989 and 1991, when 55,000 infections and 123 ?deaths were recorded. South Carolina earlier this year experienced the nation's largest measles outbreak with nearly 1,000 infections over six months. It was declared over in April.

Read More...

MEXICO CITY (AP) — The U.S. government issued a travel alert for Americans planning to visit Mexicali in northern Mexico and temporarily suspended consular activities in the border city due to a “potential threat,” without providing details. The notice, released Monday night, said that because of information about “a threat,” consular activities and travel to the capital of Baja California state, across the border from the U.S. city of Calexico, were suspended. The U.S. did not provide details about the threat or whom it was directed at and only urged its citizens to avoid government buildings, seek shelter in the event of an incident and remain aware of their surroundings. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Tuesday that “there was an alert about the possibility of a criminal group” and added that the report was based on information from U.S. agencies. “There is no further information about what this alert could involve, but simply to remain alert and maintain surveillance in Mexicali,” Sheinbaum said at her regular morning news conference. The city remained calm throughout the day Tuesday. Later that afternoon, Sheinbaum's security cabinet said in a statement that authorities “have not identified any elements confirming a specific or imminent risk to the population” but that authorities had stepped up surveillance and patrols in Mexicali as a “preventative measure.” Around midnight, Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila said in a message on her X account that Mexican authorities remained active and that security operations would be reinforced in the state capital. Mexicali, with more than 1 million residents, is one of the most populous cities along the Mexican border and is strategically important because of its close commercial and social ties with Calexico.

Read More...

The NC Senate Race is Tightening

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South Carolina Republicans are being asked to embrace something that sounds an awful lot like a dynasty. Darline Graham—the late Lindsey Graham's sister, who was appointed to fill his seat temporarily—is now running for a full term with Trump's endorsement, and some conservatives are calling it a "birthright senatorship". She has no serious political record and admitted "national security is not my thing" at a debate. Meanwhile, Congressman Ralph Norman is running as a proven conservative with a decade of proven legislative experience. Should Trump's endorsement trump actual qualifications? 

Read More...

Legendary country music icon Dolly Parton, who graced the Nashville music scene for decades, has passed away at the age of 80. Her nephew, Brian Seever, shared the news recently on social media. Parton's illustrious career was marked by numerous Grammy wins, memorable film roles, and a musical based on her life, titled "Dolly." She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean. Known for her timeless songs and beloved roles in films such as "Nine to Five" and "Steel Magnolias," Parton's influence extended far beyond her music. She was a cultural icon and a beloved figure who touched countless lives. This somber news was shared by Scott Jennings during his broadcast on Salem.

Read More...

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dolly Parton, the beloved music and film star known for her vibrant personality and poignant songwriting, has died. She was 80 years old. Her career spanned decades, with hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.” Born in Tennessee, she rose from humble beginnings to become a country music icon. Her partnership with Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, and she later became a successful actor and businesswoman. Parton was also a philanthropist, founding her Imagination Library to promote children’s literacy. Her charm and humor made her a beloved figure across generations and political divides.

Read More...

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dolly Parton, the beloved music and film star known for her vibrant personality and poignant songwriting, has died. She was 80 years old. Her career spanned decades, with hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.” Born in Tennessee, she rose from humble beginnings to become a country music icon. Her partnership with Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, and she later became a successful actor and businesswoman. Parton was also a philanthropist, founding her Imagination Library to promote children’s literacy. Her charm and humor made her a beloved figure across generations and political divides.

Read More...

Larry Gatlin joins us to pay tribute to the remarkable legacy of Dolly Parton, a beloved icon in country music. Gatlin shares his personal journey and the deep connection he had with Parton, highlighting her talent, generosity, and the profound impact she had on the music industry and her fans. From her humble beginnings in the Smoky Mountains to becoming a global superstar, Parton's career is marked by her incredible songwriting, singing, and her commitment to giving back through initiatives like the Imagination Library. Gatlin reflects on the lessons he learned from her about staying true to one's roots and the importance of kindness and openness in the entertainment industry. This heartfelt conversation underscores Parton's enduring influence and the respect she commanded from peers and fans alike.

Read More...

Lee Greenwood joins us to reflect on the life and legacy of the iconic country music star, Dolly Parton. Greenwood shares his personal experiences and admiration for Parton, highlighting her immense talent, generosity, and the profound impact she has had on people around the world. The conversation delves into Parton's remarkable ability to blend seamlessly with any genre or artist, her patriotism, and her deep-rooted faith. Greenwood also touches on Parton's significant contributions to literacy and education through her initiatives and the creation of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Her charitable work, especially in her home state of Tennessee, is celebrated, showing how Parton's influence extends beyond her music to creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. The discussion underscores Parton's genuine nature, her ability to connect with people on a personal level, and her enduring legacy as a beloved and respected figure in country music and beyond.

Read More...

Reflecting on the life and legacy of country music icon Dolly Parton, this segment dives into her profound impact on American culture and beyond. Born into humble beginnings in Tennessee, Parton's unwavering dedication to her craft and her ability to cross cultural boundaries made her a beloved figure worldwide. Known for her wit and wisdom, her famous line "It costs a lot of money to look this cheap" perfectly captures her charm. Parton's career spanned singing, songwriting, acting, and philanthropy, including her significant support for the military. This tribute not only celebrates her musical achievements but also her role as a unifying figure who brought people together, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.

Read More...

Country music icon Dolly Parton, who rose from humble beginnings in the Tennessee mountains to become a global pop sensation, left an indelible mark on both the music industry and the hearts of millions. Her unwavering pride in her roots and her commitment to philanthropy, including her renowned Imagination Library, showcased her as a beacon of generosity and authenticity. Parton's ability to bridge cultural divides and her collaborative spirit with artists across genres highlighted her versatility and deep-seated talent. Despite her immense success and fame, she remained grounded, focusing on her faith and the importance of kindness and community. Her life and legacy serve as an inspiring testament to the power of staying true to oneself while making a positive impact on the world.

Read More...

Minnesota officials are asking a federal judge in South Texas to order the extradition of ICE agent Christian Castro, who faces criminal charges stemming from a shooting at a Minneapolis home. Prosecutors accuse Castro of firing his gun through the door of the home, striking a man in the leg, and then lying about what happened in an attempt to justify the shooting. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison are seeking federal court intervention to force Texas to return Castro to Minnesota to face the charges. The case has become more urgent because Texas law generally limits how long a person can be held while awaiting extradition. Castro will reach the 90-day detention limit Thursday and could be released if the extradition dispute is not resolved. Attorneys representing Texas Gov. Greg Abbott argue that the extradition request has not formally been denied and say it is too early for a federal court to intervene.

Read More...

The trade fight between the United States and Canada is escalating once again, with both countries imposing steep new tariffs after negotiations between the longtime allies collapsed. Canada announced retaliatory tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of U.S. goods, matching the value of new American tariffs on Canadian products. The Canadian measures, which take effect Sept. 8, cover more than 700 products and carry rates ranging from 15% to 50%. President Donald Trump has also threatened to impose 50% tariffs on Canadian-made cars, trucks and auto parts beginning Jan. 1 if the two countries fail to resolve their differences. Despite the increasingly tough rhetoric, analysts say there is still time for Washington and Ottawa to return to the negotiating table. The two countries have deeply integrated economies, with hundreds of billions of dollars in goods crossing the border each year.

Read More...

New details are emerging about the Montana shooting that left nine people dead, including the suspected gunman, as relatives identify the victims and describe the moments surrounding the attack. Family members identified the gunman as 44-year-old Alan Smith. They say Smith had lived with his parents for years before they asked him to move out several weeks ago. He unexpectedly returned to their Billings-area home Sunday evening as relatives gathered for a weekly family dinner. Authorities say eight relatives spanning four generations were killed, including four children. The victims included Smith’s parents, grandmother and younger sister, along with children ages 7, 12, 13 and 15. Family members are now calling 12-year-old Charlotte Ghekiere a hero. They say Charlotte called 911 during the attack and tried to save her family. Police arrived to reports of gunfire before the home became engulfed in flames. Investigators say Smith suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound and later died. The fire destroyed the home down to its foundation, complicating the investigation. Authorities have not publicly established a motive.

Read More...

Sen. Darline Graham has won South Carolina’s Republican Senate runoff, securing the GOP nomination to replace her late brother, longtime Sen. Lindsey Graham, on the November ballot. Graham, a political newcomer who was appointed to temporarily fill her brother’s seat following his death, defeated U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman in Tuesday’s runoff. Her victory came after President Donald Trump threw his support behind her campaign, traveling to South Carolina for a rally and urging Republicans to back her. The Trump-aligned MAGA Inc. super PAC also made a late push in the race, spending more than $800,000 to support Graham in the closing days of the campaign. Graham will now face Democrat Annie Andrews in November’s special election. Republicans enter the general election with a significant advantage in South Carolina, where a Democrat has not won statewide office in two decades.

Read More...

The next tropical storm to form in the Atlantic will be named Dolly, but forecasters say the timing is purely coincidental and has no connection to the death of country music legend Dolly Parton. Tropical storm names are determined years in advance by the World Meteorological Organization. Atlantic storm names are arranged alphabetically, alternate between male and female names and are generally reused every six years unless a particularly deadly or destructive storm causes a name to be retired. The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has produced three named storms so far — Arthur, Bertha and Cristobal — making Dolly the next name on this year’s list. The National Hurricane Center is currently monitoring a system south of the Cabo Verde Islands off the coast of Africa. Forecasters say conditions could allow it to strengthen into a tropical depression in the coming days. If sustained winds reach at least 39 mph, the system would become Tropical Storm Dolly. NOAA has forecast a below-average Atlantic hurricane season this year, with eight to 14 named storms expected.

Read More...

This week, the world mourns the loss of a music legend, but the conversation takes a sharp turn into politics and social issues. The speaker shares a personal story about the passing of a beloved family member, Dolly Parton, and how her legacy will live on. However, the discussion quickly shifts to a heated debate about socialism, immigration, and the future of America. The speaker delves into a recent interview with El Saeed, a politician running for office, and shares his thoughts on the candidate's views on socialism, healthcare, and immigration. The conversation also touches on the Green New Deal, reparations, and the importance of understanding the complexities of these issues. The speaker's opinions are clear, and he doesn't mince words when it comes to his stance on these topics. One of the key points of discussion is the idea of socialism and how it can be implemented in America. The speaker argues that socialism is not the answer and that it's a recipe for disaster. He also discusses the importance of understanding the differences between socialism and capitalism and how they can coexist. Additionally, the conversation highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to immigration and the importance of securing the borders. If you're interested in hearing more about this thought-provoking conversation and the speaker's opinions on these timely topics, tune in to this episode to hear the full discussion. Follow Carl Jackson: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow Website: http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.com Store: https://CarlJacksonStore.com

Read More...

Dolly Parton, born in 1946 in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, is a legendary figure in music and entertainment. Raised in poverty, she wrote her first song at the age of five and began her career with a recording debut in 1959. Parton's illustrious career includes 25 number one country singles, induction into both the Country Music and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a career spanning over six decades. Known for hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5," she also ventured into acting, earning an Oscar nomination for her role in the film of the same name. Parton's philanthropy and business acumen led to the creation of Dollywood, her renowned theme park. Despite personal life rumors, her integrity and talent garnered universal respect. Parton passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of music, film, and inspirational stories.

Read More...

In this segment, Larry Elder critically examines the affordability plans of Democrat Socialists, focusing on the lack of specific strategies to address rising costs and economic challenges. The discussion highlights the proposed policies, such as Medicare for all and rent stabilization, and questions their feasibility and fairness. Larry argues that these plans fail to consider the economic realities and the burden they place on taxpayers and businesses. The conversation also touches on the consequences of increasing taxes on the wealthy and the potential impact on employment and pricing. Through this analysis, Larry challenges the viability of these policies and calls for more practical and sustainable solutions to the issues of affordability and economic stability.

Read More...

Iran and Oman say their top diplomats have met to discuss a phased approach to managing ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. A joint statement released by the countries says their foreign ministers met in Tehran on Tuesday. The critical waterway for oil shipments remains largely shut down nearly six months after the U.S. and Israel went to war with Iran. An oil tanker was disabled late on Monday after being struck by an unknown projectile off Oman, underscoring risks to shipping in the strait. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organization on Tuesday said the crew is safe and no environmental damage was immediately reported.

Read More...

Aug 25 (Reuters) - Two Pennsylvania residents died from measles, health officials said on Tuesday, the first such deaths this year in the United States, which is contending with the highest number of cases of the highly infectious disease in more than three decades as vaccination rates drop. Both people were unvaccinated residents of Lancaster County, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, which did not release additional details, citing privacy concerns. Pennsylvania has been one of the hardest hit states this year, with 393 measles cases across 28 counties so far. Lancaster County, in the southeastern part of the state, has had 185 cases, but these were the first measles deaths recorded in the state in 35 years. "Because measles was largely eliminated in the Commonwealth for more than three decades, people are not familiar with this disease and don't fully understand the potential severity of the illness," said Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Debra Bogen. The United States has had 2,777 confirmed cases so far this year of a disease that had been largely eradicated in the country, a reflection of declining vaccination rates and policies under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has worked for decades to discourage the use of vaccines. Kennedy and President Donald Trump, who earlier this month issued an executive order calling for a reduction in recommended childhood vaccines, have promoted a long-debunked link between vaccines and autism contrary to established scientific evidence. Trump's executive order doesn't help restore trust in life-saving vaccines, said Dr. Angela Dunn, former Utah state epidemiologist and previously a CDC division director in infectious disease response. "We all thought the Texas outbreak and the deaths there last year would be a wake-up call. Then we had the outbreaks in South Carolina and Utah," Dunn said. In 2025, three people died in an outbreak that began in West Texas and spread to New Mexico. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment. FALLING VACCINATION RATES Vaccination rates of 95% or higher can prevent outbreaks by creating what is known as herd immunity that protects people unable to be vaccinated. Two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella shot provide 97% protection against the virus. Children typically first receive the vaccine when they are 12 to 15 months old and again at age 4 to 6 years of age. According to Pennsylvania Department of Health data for the 2025-2026 school year, 93.2% of Pennsylvania kindergarten-age children had received the required two doses of MMR vaccine, down from 93.7% during the 2024-2025 school year. In Lancaster County, 87.6% of kindergarten students received the required two MMR doses during the 2025-2026 school year. The federal government and state health officials need to try to identify communities that have low measles vaccination coverage, said William Moss, an epidemiology professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Many people in this country and in certain communities have a mistrust of measles vaccine partly fed by misinformation and disinformation," Moss said. The number of U.S. measles cases in 2026 is the highest in ?a single year since the major resurgence between 1989 and 1991, when 55,000 infections and 123 ?deaths were recorded. South Carolina earlier this year experienced the nation's largest measles outbreak with nearly 1,000 infections over six months. It was declared over in April.

Read More...

MEXICO CITY (AP) — The U.S. government issued a travel alert for Americans planning to visit Mexicali in northern Mexico and temporarily suspended consular activities in the border city due to a “potential threat,” without providing details. The notice, released Monday night, said that because of information about “a threat,” consular activities and travel to the capital of Baja California state, across the border from the U.S. city of Calexico, were suspended. The U.S. did not provide details about the threat or whom it was directed at and only urged its citizens to avoid government buildings, seek shelter in the event of an incident and remain aware of their surroundings. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Tuesday that “there was an alert about the possibility of a criminal group” and added that the report was based on information from U.S. agencies. “There is no further information about what this alert could involve, but simply to remain alert and maintain surveillance in Mexicali,” Sheinbaum said at her regular morning news conference. The city remained calm throughout the day Tuesday. Later that afternoon, Sheinbaum's security cabinet said in a statement that authorities “have not identified any elements confirming a specific or imminent risk to the population” but that authorities had stepped up surveillance and patrols in Mexicali as a “preventative measure.” Around midnight, Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila said in a message on her X account that Mexican authorities remained active and that security operations would be reinforced in the state capital. Mexicali, with more than 1 million residents, is one of the most populous cities along the Mexican border and is strategically important because of its close commercial and social ties with Calexico.

Read More...

The NC Senate Race is Tightening

Read More...

South Carolina Republicans are being asked to embrace something that sounds an awful lot like a dynasty. Darline Graham—the late Lindsey Graham's sister, who was appointed to fill his seat temporarily—is now running for a full term with Trump's endorsement, and some conservatives are calling it a "birthright senatorship". She has no serious political record and admitted "national security is not my thing" at a debate. Meanwhile, Congressman Ralph Norman is running as a proven conservative with a decade of proven legislative experience. Should Trump's endorsement trump actual qualifications? 

Read More...

Legendary country music icon Dolly Parton, who graced the Nashville music scene for decades, has passed away at the age of 80. Her nephew, Brian Seever, shared the news recently on social media. Parton's illustrious career was marked by numerous Grammy wins, memorable film roles, and a musical based on her life, titled "Dolly." She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean. Known for her timeless songs and beloved roles in films such as "Nine to Five" and "Steel Magnolias," Parton's influence extended far beyond her music. She was a cultural icon and a beloved figure who touched countless lives. This somber news was shared by Scott Jennings during his broadcast on Salem.

Read More...

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dolly Parton, the beloved music and film star known for her vibrant personality and poignant songwriting, has died. She was 80 years old. Her career spanned decades, with hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.” Born in Tennessee, she rose from humble beginnings to become a country music icon. Her partnership with Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, and she later became a successful actor and businesswoman. Parton was also a philanthropist, founding her Imagination Library to promote children’s literacy. Her charm and humor made her a beloved figure across generations and political divides.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dolly Parton, the beloved music and film star known for her vibrant personality and poignant songwriting, has died. She was 80 years old. Her career spanned decades, with hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.” Born in Tennessee, she rose from humble beginnings to become a country music icon. Her partnership with Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, and she later became a successful actor and businesswoman. Parton was also a philanthropist, founding her Imagination Library to promote children’s literacy. Her charm and humor made her a beloved figure across generations and political divides.

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