Pride Month is here! May the freedom bells ring, and may our communities come together to celebrate the beauty and dazzling glow of diversity. June reminds us of the LGBTQ community’s history—of the progress we’ve made and the challenges still ahead. This year, that reminder is especially urgent. This Pride Month arrives under the weight […]
Columns
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Woodstock
An American Pope and the ‘Maverick’ Novel That Saw Him Coming
With the surprise election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the first-ever American pope, the United States is witnessing what was long considered a historical impossibility. The ascension of an American bishop—so trusted by his predecessor, Pope Francis, as to leap over a host of more likely candidates—has stirred global fascination and sent viewership soaring […]
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Beyond the Screen: New York’s School Policy Bans Phones, Not the Feed
Last week, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that New York will become the largest state in the country to adopt statewide restrictions on smartphone use during the school day. Under the new policy, included in the fiscal year 2026 state budget, students from Buffalo to Long Island will be required to keep phones out of reach […]
Posted inColumns, Perspectives
Maher Balances GOP Agenda With Local Budget Wins
Make no mistake: Assemblymember Brian Maher (R-101) is a Republican and supports significant parts of former President Trump’s agenda. But when you look closely at his priorities in the New York State Assembly, it’s clear he is also a strong proponent of increased funding for key infrastructure tied to human services, highways, and education. While […]
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Trump 2.0 and the New Age of Fear
In just two months, the Trump administration has reshaped America with sweeping changes. As institutions face mounting pressure, will leaders speak out—or stay silent?
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Hinchey Warns of Medicaid Cuts, Urges Action Amid Washington Gridlock
State Senator Michelle Hinchey (D-41) is sounding the alarm over what she calls “confusion” and “ineptitude” unfolding in Washington, placing blame squarely on President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans. In a video interview, Hinchey expressed deep concern over the House-passed budget framework that calls for $2 trillion in spending cuts over the next 10 years—reductions […]
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Overlook
Shrestha Pushes Progressive Policies While Acknowledging Democratic Challenges
These days, Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha must keep her focus on three fronts: her district, which comprises most of The Overlook Region (TOR), the State Capitol in Albany, and Washington. Shrestha, who represents New York’s 103rd Assembly District, talks and thinks like a progressive Democrat, but she says she also appeals to some Trump voters. “In […]
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Beyond the Screen: Onteora High’s Phone Ban in Full Swing
Effective this school year, the Onteora Central School District’s new policy bans phones to curb distractions, sparking a debate among students on balancing digital connectivity with practicality and real-life engagement. A student reporter investigates.
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40 Days In: Is America Asleep to the Trump-Musk Overhaul?
As sweeping changes reshape the federal government, local leaders and activists question why Democratic resistance remains muted.
