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south washington

South Africa’s Business Mood Gets a Lift, But the Middle East Still Worries

March 4, 2026

A new survey shows that business confidence in South Africa jumped 3 points during the first quarter of this year, reaching its highest level since 2015 (excluding the COVID recovery). The rise is linked to a steady government, friendly interest rates and a stronger rand against the dollar. Yet m

politics

Science Money Keeps Maine’s Ocean Jobs Alive

March 4, 2026

Maine’s coastal economy depends on science money that comes from Washington. When federal agencies like the National Science Foundation, NOAA, and NASA receive cuts, the ripple effects hit fishermen in Portland, aquaculture farms in Brunswick, and towns such as Machias that rely on data to protect t

politics

Israel Expands Military Presence in Lebanon After Hezbollah Escalation

March 3, 2026

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has pushed its troops further into southern Lebanon, moving beyond the five posts it currently holds. This shift is part of a new forward defense strategy aimed at blocking potential attacks from the Hezbollah group, which has begun launching rockets and drones toward

politics

Government Stumbles Over Legal Battle With Law Firms

March 3, 2026

The federal government recently flipped its stance on a legal showdown with several law firms. After attempting to pull out of the fight, it decided to keep fighting, showing a confusing back‑and‑forth. A week ago, the Department of Justice asked an appeals court in Washington, D. C. if it could dr

health

Spartanburg’s Measles Surge: Why Low Vaccines Matter

March 3, 2026

A modern school in Spartanburg, South Carolina, houses about 600 students from a vibrant Slavic community. Only one‑fifth of its pupils have received the measles vaccine, a record low for public schools in the state. On October 8, officials announced that this school was one of just two in the co

politics

Middle East Conflict Spreads, Travelers Urged to Leave

March 3, 2026

The United States has told citizens in six Gulf countries that they must leave immediately because of growing danger. The warning comes after Washington and Israel carried out strikes against Iranian targets, sparking a wave of retaliatory attacks across the region. Embassies in Jordan, Bahrain, I

sports

Future Stars: What the 2026 NFL Draft Could Look Like

March 3, 2026

The 2026 draft is almost here, and CBS Sports has flipped its mock to reflect new trends after the combine. The biggest change is a trade that would move the Buffalo Bills into the top ten to grab a new wide‑receiver. The Bills want more weapons for Josh Allen after criticism of their offense las

politics

China’s Quiet Stance in the Iran Conflict

March 3, 2026

China held back for hours after U. S. and Israel struck Iran, then voiced concern and urged a pause in fighting. The next day its foreign minister called the attacks “unacceptable” and pushed for more dialogue. China has a pattern of condemning force while staying out of direct action. It kee

politics

Tragic Blast at Minab School Leaves Dozens Dead

March 3, 2026

The morning of a Saturday in southern Iran turned into a nightmare when a missile struck the Shajareh Tayyebeh primary school. The blast happened while children were in class, between 10:00 and 10:45 a. m. , when U. S. and Israeli forces were conducting their first wave of attacks on the region. Im

politics

Turkey Pushes for Peace Talks After Iran Conflict Escalates

March 3, 2026

Turkey is working with many groups to stop the fighting in Iran and bring back talks, said Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. He also mentioned that Ankara is talking with Oman about the same goal, as the Gulf country shares the aim of ending hostilities. The United States and Israel carried out air s