Neighbors of Vance Boelter, the suspect in the shooting deaths of Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, can breathe a sigh of relief after he was located and successfully arrested, according to The Associated Press.
Earlier in the day, the late model Buick Boelter was known to drive was located along a dusty road along with some of his possessions in the near vicinity. The findings gave the various agencies searching for Boelter an area of concentration which ultimately led to his discovery.
Much has become public about Boelter, his life, and possible motivations which The Metropolitan will fully cover as soon as we are able to verify all information independently.
For tonight, let us all give thanks to the courageous men and women who worked tirelessly to find the suspect.
On June 14, 2025, American citizens gathered to protest U.S. President Donald Trump, aligning with his 79th birthday and a military parade in Washington, D.C. In Minnesota, the No King’s Protest took place at the state capitol in St. Paul. The march began at St. Paul College and continued to the Minnesota State Capitol, where Governor Tim Walz was expected to deliver a speech.
Some of the speakers at the rally included Off JaWaggon and Pottymouth Pollyana (Mandy Rae), two advocates for democracy and women’s rights with around two million followers on TikTok. They praised Minnesotans for uniting in opposition to President Trump and his administration. As Rae declared in her speech, “We will not negotiate our democracy, and we will never bow to a king.”
In St. Paul alone, thousands gathered, holding homemade signs expressing their opposition to the president and his administration’s decisions amid the nation’s current challenges. Their messages ranged from advocating for the abolition of ICE and protecting immigration to defending children’s education, embodying the values they believe America represents.
Other speakers at the rally included Zach Lindstrom from the 50-51 Movement, who emphasized the importance of unity and shared struggle, stating, “In times like this, it is of the utmost importance to lean on each other. This is a burden that should not be carried alone.” Other speakers included Rebecca with Indivisible Twin Cities, Nekima Levy Armstrong, Sara Guadalupe, lead organizer with Copal, Kyle Tran Myhre, also known as Guante, Monique Cullars-Doty with Black Lives Matter Twin Cities Metro, and Attorney General Keith Ellison.
Ellison spoke about the late Madam Speaker, Rep. Melissa Hortman, and her contributions to the country and Minnesota. He urged Minnesotans to “not stop striking” in honor of those who had lost their lives resisting authoritarian power. Throughout the rally, speakers reinforced a message of national solidarity, reminding Americans to stand together during challenging times.
If you’re dreaming of exploring New York City, don’t hesitate, go for it, even if you only have a day!
I recently flew into the New Jersey/New York area for a short trip to see Shakira in concert at MetLife Stadium. With just one day to experience the magic of NYC, I set out to make the most of it, determined to soak up the city’s energy while sticking to a reasonable budget. I managed to see some of the best sights, and so can you! Here’s my account of how I squeezed an unforgettable New York City adventure into just 24 hours.
I started my day by leaving my accommodation in Weehawken, New Jersey, and heading to El Carretero, a Colombian restaurant, for breakfast. A hearty plate of perico con jamón y pan con café, scrambled eggs with ham, toast, and coffee, is a terrific choice, providing plenty of energy for the day ahead. The portions are generous, and at around $12 per plate (or $25 for two), it’s a fantastic deal.
From there, I took a ride share to Hoboken for about $10, where I caught a ferry to New York City from the Hoboken Transit Terminal. At just $6.50 per ticket, it’s an affordable and scenic way to cross the river and begin the day’s adventure in the Big Apple.
The ferry ride offers stunning views of New York City as it glides down the Hudson River, stopping briefly at Paulus Hook Pier on the New Jersey side before making the final crossing. Once docked, it’s just a short walk to the New World Trade Center Memorial Site.
To get there, cut through the Brookfield Place Shopping Center, and as you step outside, take a moment to look up at the towering One World Trade Center before crossing the street. At the 9/11 Memorial, you can pause to pay your respects at the sites of the former Twin Towers, now transformed into a moving and beautifully designed tribute.
From here, cross back over West Street to find the Citi Bike Rental station along the bike path. You have the option to rent a pedal bike for the day at $25 or use the Lyft app to grab one for just $5. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely walk along the Empire State Trail toward Battery Park, admiring the city’s diverse architecture along the way.
A quick tip: bring a refillable water bottle! You’ll want to stay hydrated as you explore, and filling up along the way is a great way to save money and cut down on unnecessary expenses.
When I visited, the park was closed, but that didn’t stop me from making the most of my time. Several vendors along the path were selling boat tour tickets, with prices around $43 per person for the shorter tour. This one-and-a-half-hour excursion is absolutely worth it, it takes you along the Hudson River, under the Brooklyn Bridge, and past the Statue of Liberty, offering incredible views of Manhattan from the water.
After the tour, hop on a bus heading north to the docks at Pier 79 in Hudson River Park. If you need a restroom break, don’t worry, there’s one on the tour boat. Once you arrive at the pier, there’s only a short wait before the next leg of the adventure begins.
For the best experience on the tour boat, I recommend grabbing a spot in the back on the lower level. It’s quieter, away from the crowds, and out of earshot of the speakers—so you won’t have to endure the tour guide’s long-winded rambling or awkward jokes.
Position yourself on the port side (left when facing forward) to enjoy stunning views of the city as the boat glides along the Hudson River. From this vantage point, you’ll truly appreciate the scale of New York City, watching Manhattan unfold from a dynamic, ever-changing perspective on the water.
As the boat approaches the Brooklyn Bridge, get ready for a perfect photo opportunity as you cruise underneath. If you’re lucky, a friendly staff member lingering at the back of the boat might even be willing to snap a picture for you—just ask nicely!
Now, go to the Starboard side of the boat, because this will be the perfect side to get an approaching view of the Statue of Liberty. You can go up-top if you’d like, but you won’t miss anything if you stay in the back on the lower level. The top deck is full of people and there really aren’t any spaces along the railings to take good pictures, as sections are roped-off for those that are willing to pay a photographer to take their pictures. The boat will rotate around once it reaches the Statue, so once the boat slows down to start rotating, grab a spot on the Port side to secure your space, because at this point, some people will wise up that they might get better pictures on the lower level. I found this to be the perfect space to take pictures while the boat rotates. You may need to be a little assertive to keep your space, but the pictures will make up for any potential social awkwardness you may experience.
Sit back and take it all in—the boat ride back to port is a perfect time to relax and watch the city skyline drift by. You can choose to head inside to the lower level and grab a seat by a window, or stay outside, leaning on the railing as you soak up the views.
Once the boat docks, free shuttles will be available. I recommend hopping on the bus to Times Square—just follow the signs for the one headed down 42nd Street. While there won’t be many photo opportunities on the ride, this is a great moment to rehydrate and scout out a place to eat.
I ended up stopping at Shake Shack, mostly because it was the most convenient option—the bus turns along 8th Avenue, and there’s a location right at the corner of 44th Street. It was actually my first time trying it, and I was pleasantly surprised! The restrooms were decently clean, and their strawberry lemonade was a refreshing pick-me-up. Fuel up—you’ll need the energy for the walk ahead!
Once you step out, turn right onto 44th Street, walk a block down, and then take a left onto 7th Avenue—you’ve officially arrived in the iconic Times Square! If you’re a budget-conscious traveler like me, you’ll appreciate all the incredible sights that come at no cost. For me, the most breathtaking moments were simply admiring the towering skyscrapers contrasted against the vivid blue sky.
Continue heading north along 7th Avenue, and before long, you’ll reach Central Park. While I’d always heard it was large, seeing it in person made me realize just how vast it truly is—especially if it’s your first time visiting. Take your time soaking in the scenery as you move toward your next stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art. I chose to walk along the eastern side, which offers a picturesque view of the lake. And of course, if you glance up, you’ll catch glimpses of more stunning architecture framing the park.
If you’re feeling tired or short on time, flagging down a bike taxi is a great option to get directly to the Met. I was able to negotiate a ride for $30 (plus tip), and the brief rest was much needed. After a bit of friendly conversation, the driver dropped me off right in front of the museum.
Entry prices may vary, and while I don’t advocate dishonesty, there are ways to lower the cost. For example, if you’re a student or a local, you might be able to secure additional discounts. I was able to get a student discount with my Metro State ID, bringing the cost down to $17.
And just like that, you’ve arrived at one of the most eclectic art museums in the world! Take your time, explore, and enjoy yourself. If you’re searching for a good cup of coffee, though, skip the café in the American Arts section—it wasn’t worth the stop. Instead, I highly recommend checking out the Egyptian Art, American Arts, and Greek and Roman Art sections. The medieval collection is impressive as well.
This is the perfect place to slow down, take a seat, and soak in the surroundings. If you’re traveling with a partner or a friend, it’s an ideal spot for quiet conversation and a moment of relaxation before continuing your adventure.
From this point, you have several great options for continuing your adventure. New York City’s public transportation is incredibly easy to navigate, with bus and subway fares just under $3 per ride, and you can simply swipe your bank card to hop on.
One option is taking the M4 bus down 5th Avenue to the stop right in front of the New York Public Library. You can choose to step inside for a quick visit or walk one block west to enter the subway station at 42 St-Bryant Park. From there, catch the F Line to the Delancey and Essex stop, where you can swing into the historic Essex Market for some fantastic food.
I had the chance to attend a Sofar Sounds rooftop concert in this area, but if live music isn’t your vibe, there are plenty of nightclubs and intimate venues to cap off the night in style.
When it’s time to head back to New Jersey, it’s a simple ride on the subway. Find the nearest station entrance, take the F Line to the 34 St-Herald Square station, and transfer to the PATH Line, which will bring you straight to Hoboken, New Jersey.
Congratulations! If you followed this route, you’ve experienced an incredible full day in one of the grandest cities in the world. Now, grab a ride share to your hotel or accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
For a vampiric being to enter ant owned property, whether they’re humans, witches, werewolves, or doppelgängers, they must be invited first.” – Vampire Diaries Wiki
I’m somewhat indifferent to the classic horror monster that is the vampire. Back in elementary school, some of my classmates were really into vampires—not in a full-on “South Park vamp kid” way, but enough to bring them up constantly, especially as Halloween rolled around. I thought vampires had unique aspects, but never quite understood the hype. Perhaps that was due to my lack of vampire knowledge then (and now), or perhaps it was because, at their core, vampires are a bit dull. Sure, they have cool-looking fangs, can suck blood, can transform into bats, and are allergic to garlic, yet I found those characteristics to make vampires one of the more mundane horror creatures out there.
The vampires in Ryan Coogler’s 2025 horror/adventure Sinners, share those characteristics but don’t present themselves as entities of gothic evil. While they certainly are the antagonists of the film, how the lead vampire, Remmick (Jack O’Connell), acts is quite endearing when compared to famous vampires such as Count Orlok or Dracula. Remmick is a friendly vampire, only wanting to transform the humans of Clarksdale, Mississippi to give them the gift of “eternal life”. Yet, Remmick faces a major obstacle: a party at Club Juke, a newly established juke joint founded by identical twin brothers, Smoke and Stack (Michael B. Jordan). The club caters to the Black community in Clarksdale—except for Mary (Hailee Steinfeld), Stack’s former flame. What sets this film apart is the characters’ unease over Remmick’s possible ties to the Ku Klux Klan. The underlying tension of racism, intertwined with the looming horror of a vampire, adds a chilling layer to the film, heightening its suspense. Remmick of course, is unable to get inside Club Juke without a verbal invitation, so he stays outside, yet his presence piques the interest of Stack, the unguarded brother, so he tells Mary to go and interrogate Remmick, to see if Remmick is actually a good guy. Unfortunately for Stack, this is one of the biggest mistakes (or, shall we say ‘sins’) of the main characters, as Mary is transformed into a vampire off-screen, and then gets mistakenly invited inside, where she wreaks havoc, transforming Stack into a vampire, along with a few of the other patrons.
During this time, the film primarily follows musical prodigy Sammie “Preacher Boy” Moore (Miles Canton) as he shares his gift for blues music with Club Juke, all while trying to win over Pearline (Jayme Lawson). As the story unfolds, it’s revealed that Sammie is the vampires’ top target—they seek to transform him, harnessing his soulful sound to lure new recruits into their grasp. Music plays a vital role in the film, serving as both a representation of Clarksdale’s vibrant community and a powerful reflection of its stark racial divide. Music ends up being the greatest weapon of the film, as shown by Sammie’s guitar, with it being the key to stopping the vampire’s reign once and for all.
My favorite scene in the film is its powerful ending, where an elderly Sammie plays electric blues in a club aptly named Pearline’s. As Stack and Mary step inside, they offer Sammie a choice: embrace immortality or let his life run its natural course. He refuses but confesses that the unforgettable night at Club Juke was the “best day of my life.” In a quiet moment of understanding, Stack and Mary agree before walking away, leaving Sammie alone in the dimly lit nightclub.
This ending is deeply impactful, revealing that the true villains of the story were never the vampires—it was the Ku Klux Klan. While the Klan plays a relatively minor role in the larger narrative, their aim is clear: the eradication of Black lives. In contrast, the vampires seek unity, transcending race and division. This is why Stack and Mary give Sammie the choice—they recognize the struggles he’s endured, leaving him to decide whether to remain in a fractured world or step into one where differences dissolve. Despite its powerful ending, I did have a few critiques of Sinners.
First, the title. My friend John told me he had participated in a Warner Brothers survey a few months prior to help determine the film’s name. The studio was torn between “Sinners” and “Damned”, with the former ultimately winning. However, neither title quite captures the essence of the story. A more fitting name, in my opinion, would have been “Club Juke”, given that the club serves as a major obstacle for the vampires and its music is so electrifying that it awakens musicians from both the past and future. Additionally, when Smoke annihilates the Ku Klux Klan members outside the club, he does so with such fierce passion—clutching onto that night as if it were the most significant moment of his life.
Another issue I had was the pacing. The first act moves slowly, dedicated almost entirely to character introductions. While these moments are valuable—especially since many characters ultimately share the same fate—the buildup lingers longer than necessary. The second act, however, is where the film truly shines. Club Juke’s introduction breathes life into the narrative, making the venue feel like an unstoppable force of its own—a character in its own right. That illusion of invincibility shatters when Grace Chow (Li Jun Li) foolishly allows the vampires inside, setting off a thrilling climax. Grace’s decision is infuriating, but it leads to such a gripping sequence that I can’t complain—well, except for one thing. During the climax, I found myself battling a different horror: the two women seated next to me. Their constant chatter made it feel like I was stuck in a sports bar rather than an early screening of a highly anticipated film. I pride myself on watching movies with my full attention, allowing the story to unfold as intended. But their running commentary made it difficult to stay immersed. To make matters worse, they had their phones out, too—a blatant disregard for basic theater etiquette. How they managed to score tickets to an early screening with such obnoxious behavior is beyond me.
My frustrating theater experience aside, Ryan Coogler’s Sinners is a standout film. With its stellar performances, striking cinematography, and impeccable set design, it is a film that I feel will remain significant for a long time. While some pacing choices felt unusual, the film remains a bold and engaging horror piece—one that I could easily see earning a few Academy Award nominations.
All things considered, I’d rate Sinners a solid four out of five stars.
Like many advanced nations—such as France, Germany, Japan, and South Korea—the United States has a social safety net designed to provide financial security for its citizens. In France, it is called la Sécurité Sociale; in Germany, Sozialversicherung; and in South Korea, the National Pension Service. In the U.S., this system is known as Social Security, established by the Social Security Act of 1935, signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Over time, the program has expanded beyond its original scope, now offering a range of benefits, including retirement income, disability support, and survivor assistance.
Side note: Unemployment benefits are not part of Social Security. Instead, unemployment insurance is a separate program administered by individual states.
Today, we’ll focus on qualifying for Social Security retirement benefits and how those benefits are calculated.
To be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits, you must accumulate 40 work credits. Since you can earn up to 4 credits per year, most workers qualify after about 10 years of employment, provided their yearly earnings meet the required threshold. In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,810 in earnings, up to a maximum of four credits ($7,240) per year.
Retirement benefits at full retirement age are determined using the Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), which is calculated based on average indexed monthly earnings (AIME). This formula considers a worker’s 35 highest-earning years after age 21. If a person has fewer than 35 years of work history, missing years are counted as zero-income years in the calculation. Conversely, if someone has worked more than 35 years, only their highest-earning years are factored in.
The Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) is determined by applying three separate percentage rates to portions of a person’s Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME), commonly referred to as bend points. For 2025, the bend points are as follows:
The first $1,226
The portion between $1,226 and $7,391
The portion above $7,391
The Social Security Administration (ssa.gov) applies the following formula to calculate benefits:
90% of the first $1,226 of AIME
32% of AIME above $1,226 and up to $7,391
15% of AIME above $7,391
This total is then rounded down to the nearest $0.10, if necessary.
For example, consider a worker with total indexed earnings of $3.5 million over their 35 highest-earning years—an average salary of $100,000 per year. Their AIME would be $8,333.33 ($3.5 million ÷ 420 months).
Applying the PIA formula: a. The first bend point: $1,226 × 90% = $1,103.40 b. The second bend point: $7,107.33 ($8,333.33 – $1,226) × 32% = $2,274.35 c. This worker has no earnings above $7,391, so there is no benefit at this level.
Adding up these amounts: $1,103.40 + $2,274.35 = $3,377.75
Since benefits are rounded down to the nearest dime, this worker’s PIA—if claimed at full retirement age—would be $3,377.70.
Two additional points to consider:
You can file for benefits before full retirement age (as early as age 62), but your monthly benefit will be reduced by up to 30%.
If you delay filing beyond full retirement age, your benefit increases, up to age 70.
For 2025, the maximum benefit at full retirement age is $4,018, while the maximum benefit at age 70 is $5,108.
In summary, understanding how Social Security benefits are calculated can help you plan for retirement more effectively and verify the accuracy of the estimates shown in your Social Security record.
During a momentous Easter weekend, Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88—on one of the faith’s most sacred holidays. His death sent shockwaves through the Church’s more than one billion followers worldwide, including 62 million in the United States, leaving many to contemplate the future of their religion. Known for his progressive views, Pope Francis stirred both admiration and debate among Catholics with his advocacy for climate action and his efforts to promote inclusivity for LGBTQ individuals and women’s rights within the Church.
With the passing of Pope Francis, the conclave has selected 69-year-old Robert Provost as the next leader of the Catholic Church, making him the first American Pope in history. Born and raised in the Chicago area, Provost holds both American and Peruvian citizenship, having dedicated much of his life to missionary work in Peru. His appointment marks a historic shift for the Church, but how will his leadership impact the average American Catholic?
In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized “building bridges” and standing by those who have suffered, highlighting peace, unity, dignity, and the rights of the poor and working class. His leadership comes at a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, as uncertainty looms over whether he will continue Pope Francis’s progressive stance or shift toward the more conservative values dominant among bishops and practitioners. How will Pope Leo XIV’s approach shape the Church’s future?
Pope Leo XIV and former Pope Francis share a common vision on immigration, women’s roles in the Church, and climate action. Earlier this year, Francis strongly condemned Trump’s anti-immigration stance, even writing to American bishops to criticize his policies and call out JD Vance for using Catholicism to justify deportations. Leo echoed this sentiment on social media, stating, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
Leo also backed Francis’s push to make the Vatican more environmentally friendly, supporting the transition to solar panels and electric vehicles. He has prioritized climate change as a key issue in his papacy. Additionally, Leo seeks to expand women’s inclusion in Church leadership, having overseen Francis’s groundbreaking decision to allow three women into the voting bloc for bishop nominations—a significant step forward, as women are still barred from becoming priests.
Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis diverge on LGBTQ inclusion within the Catholic Church. Francis sought to recognize same-sex marriages in Catholic churches, sparking controversy among members. While Leo XIV has not recently addressed the issue, his past actions suggest opposition. He previously spoke out against gender education in Peru, arguing that it promotes “genders that don’t exist,” and in 2012, he criticized Western media for fostering acceptance of same-sex relationships and non-traditional families.
While the Pope holds no direct political power over American policy, his global influence is undeniable. With hundreds of millions of followers worldwide, his stance on key issues can shape discourse and even impact decisions within the U.S. government. As the current administration identifies as Catholic, the Pope’s positions may hold considerable weight, making it crucial to track his leadership, especially in times of political uncertainty.
On April 3rd, the Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled over 1,600 points—roughly 4%—following a major tariff announcement from the Trump administration. Just a month later, on May 5th, the market rebounded, surging more than 1,100 points, or 2.8%, after the U.S. and China agreed to temporarily reduce reciprocal tariffs. This volatility highlights the unpredictable nature of the stock market, and ever since these swings, I’ve received numerous questions from family and friends asking, “Should I still invest in such an uncertain market?”
Rather than my usual advice of diversification, I encouraged them to rebalance their portfolios, shifting towards safer, lower-risk investments. The ultimate takeaway? A greater emphasis on bonds and certificates of deposit (CDs). Of these options, I personally favor Treasury bills (T-bills) the most. Let’s explore what T-bills and CDs are—and why I believe T-bills hold the advantage.
What is a Treasury Bill (T-bill)?
A T-bill is a type of short-term government bond issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Sold at a discount, T-bills mature within a year, with available terms of 4, 8, 13, 17, 26, or 52 weeks. Unlike certificates of deposit (CDs), T-bills come with fewer restrictions, making them a flexible investment option. The minimum investment is $100, increasing in increments of $100.
One of the easiest ways to check the exact return on a T-bill is through TreasuryDirect.gov. For instance, as of now, the 13-week bill with CUSIP 912797PN1 carries a discount rate of 4.3%, meaning its price per $100 is $98.598444, with an issue date of May 15, 2025. This means that if you invest in this specific T-bill, you would pay $98.598444 on May 15, and in 13 weeks, you’d receive $100—earning a profit of $1.4016 per $100 invested.
While this might seem like a modest gain, scaling up changes the picture significantly. A million-dollar investment would yield a return of $14,016. Assuming the discount rate remains consistent and there are four 13-week cycles in a year, this investment could generate approximately $56,064 annually—an amount that closely aligns with the lower threshold of middle-class income in Minnesota.
What is a Certificate of Deposit (CD)?
A CD is similar to a savings account but comes with a fixed term—typically ranging from 3 to 14 months—during which funds cannot be withdrawn without penalty. Generally, the longer the term, the higher the interest rate. Most CDs also have minimum and maximum deposit requirements. Their interest rates tend to be higher than those of traditional savings accounts and are often comparable to the discount rates of Treasury bills (T-bills).
Why Do I Favor T-bills Over CDs?
There are two key reasons why I prefer T-bills over CDs:
Shorter Terms & Competitive Rates – T-bills offer shorter investment durations while maintaining strong returns. To achieve rates comparable to T-bills, most CDs require a 12-month commitment. Meanwhile, a 4-week T-bill already boasts a discount rate of 4.22%, making it a much more flexible option for investors who don’t want to lock in their money for an extended period.
Tax Advantages – T-bill earnings are exempt from state and local taxes, meaning only federal tax applies. In contrast, interest earned from CDs is subject to both federal and state income taxes, potentially reducing overall returns.
Final Thoughts
Both CDs and T-bills provide safe investment opportunities, offering protection from the unpredictability of the current stock market. However, for investors prioritizing flexibility and tax efficiency, T-bills are the superior choice.
As we reach the midpoint of the 2020s, technological advancements continue to reshape the world at an unprecedented pace, leaving a sense of change that has lingered since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, 3.62 million babies were born in the U.S., adding to the over 50 million children currently in school. Since 2000, approximately 100 million new lives have entered the country—each destined to shape its future.
Yet, many fail to acknowledge the significance of the younger generations. Gen Z and Gen Alpha are often dismissed for their digital immersion and unconventional aspirations, but underestimating them may prove costly. As these generations come of age, the stereotypes placed upon them could backfire, leaving today’s adults unprepared for the world they will inevitably build.
A person’s mindset shapes their reality, often leading to self-fulfilling prophecies. When someone internalizes negativity and expects failure, they may unintentionally set themselves up for it. Our energy is deeply influenced by the people we surround ourselves with, the media we consume, and how we respond to life’s events. If adults and parents continuously label today’s youth as a “lost cause” with no future, how can they expect them to thrive in the long run?
The 2007 release of the first iPhone revolutionized communication, paving the way for email, texting, social media, and now virtual reality. Older generations helped develop these innovations, yet some express frustration at the youth fully embracing them. As children navigate the world through available technology, concerns arise—especially as 48% of teens in a recent survey reported that social media has a “mostly negative” impact on their age group. This shift in youth culture continues to spark debate among parents and adults in the 2020s.
While technology offers countless benefits, younger generations need proper guidance in today’s increasingly polarized and misinformed world. Social media has become both a distraction and a source of fleeting dopamine, leading many kids toward isolation. Parents must stay attentive to their children’s behavior and step in when necessary. The internet should never replace real parenting, and as AI becomes more integrated into daily life, we must remain cautious and mindful of its long-term effects.
Many worry that AI will replace teachers, but that concern overlooks the irreplaceable role of human connection in education. Teachers and coaches provide empathy, adaptability, and real-world experience that machines cannot replicate. As curriculums evolve, AI struggles to keep up with nuanced changes, raising ethical questions about its place in shaping young minds. Unlike a human mentor, AI often presents binary solutions, overlooking the complexities of learning and the world itself.
We must trust the next generation as they rise to shape the world, becoming leaders in every field. Dismissing them for their reliance on technology ignores their potential to innovate and push society forward. The world is always evolving, and just as past generations built the foundation for our lives, we owe it to today’s youth to support their journey rather than retreat into regression. The future isn’t distant—it begins with the choices we make today.
Steven Spielberg’s Empire of the Sun, featuring a young Christian Bale, vividly captures the chaos and uncertainty of war. Set during the Japanese occupation of China, just after the outbreak of WWII, the film follows Jim, a privileged British boy living in Shanghai, whose world is shattered when Japanese troops invade. Separated from his parents, he is thrust into a harsh POW camp, where he must endure years of struggle and survival.
Beyond its gripping historical narrative, Empire of the Sun offers a profound exploration of empathy, illustrating how war’s devastation extends beyond the battlefield—affecting not just soldiers, but civilians trapped in its wake.
An estimated 20 million Chinese soldiers and civilians lost their lives during the Sino-Japanese War, which later merged into World War II (1937-1945). The conditions in prison camps were brutal and inhumane, drawing comparisons to the Nazi concentration camps in Germany. The rise of fascism in Italy, Germany, and Japan offers valuable lessons for modern-day society, as conflicts around the world continue to bring tragedy to countless lives.
Wars and mass killings continue to devastate Ukraine, Palestine, the Congo, Sudan, and many other nations. The Geneva Academy reports over 45 armed conflicts spanning four continents, raising alarms for the U.N. and NATO. As violence escalates, global stability weakens, yet meaningful action remains elusive.
There’s no universal solution to ending violence worldwide—many obstacles stand in the way, from dictatorships and terrorism to economic instability and political turmoil. In some regions, fear silences voices, preventing people from challenging their own governments. Strict censorship laws in countries like North Korea and Russia further suppress dissent, making open criticism dangerous.
Empire of the Sun exposes the devastation caused by war-driven nations, where dictators seize power and leave destruction in their wake. The fight for control silences voices, preventing people from standing up to oppression. Many flee rather than endure harsh conditions at home, fueling mass migrations—Latin American immigration to the U.S. has surged 40% to over 200%, while thousands from Africa have moved to Europe in recent decades.
Political upheaval, economic hardship, and climate crises drive many to leave their home nations. The journey requires immense sacrifice, but staying behind often means enduring unbearable conditions. War and chaos leave people with little choice but to flee in search of stability. Instead of just focusing on migrants, more attention should be given to the root causes of instability in their home countries. If democracy is to stand strong, global unrest cannot be ignored. As Americans, we often take our security and freedoms for granted, overlooking the immense struggles faced elsewhere.
In recent years, the concept of body positivity has taken social media by storm, sparking widespread conversations and debate. The truth is, society has long placed unrealistic expectations on body shape and size, leading to deeply ingrained stigma. Whether deemed too fat, too thin, too tall, or too short, people often find themselves navigating unwarranted criticism—making the push for self-acceptance more important than ever.
While I firmly believe that no one should be shamed for their appearance, I also recognize that body positivity has its complexities. It’s a sensitive subject that resonates deeply with many, myself included. As someone who has always been a larger girl, I’ve experienced firsthand how body size influences social interactions, self-confidence, and day-to-day experiences. While promoting self-acceptance is essential, it’s also important to acknowledge the nuanced challenges that come with it.
The body positivity movement has undoubtedly sparked important conversations about self-acceptance, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the major concerns is that, at times, the message can be taken to extremes. I’ve come across instances where people claim that anyone who isn’t fat must be fatphobic, or where individuals are shamed for holding differing views on body positivity. While advocating for inclusivity and self-love is crucial, open dialogue and mutual respect should remain at the heart of the movement.
Another issue I’ve noticed is that body positivity often leans more toward fat positivity, while skinny positivity and other body types receive less attention. If the goal is to celebrate all bodies as they are, then equal representation and support should be given across the board. Otherwise, instead of promoting self-acceptance, the movement may unintentionally reinforce insecurities rather than helping to resolve them.
From a young age, I was constantly told how I should look—an ideal that never matched my reality. The image of a so-called “perfect” body became deeply ingrained in my mind, one I feared I would never be able to let go of. However, as I’ve grown older and gained confidence in myself, that unattainable ideal has gradually faded, replaced by a greater appreciation for who I am.
The body positivity movement is built on a meaningful foundation—embracing self-love and confidence regardless of appearance. However, its execution has, at times, missed the mark. While the core message promotes acceptance, the issue arises when the concept of self-love is distorted into resentment toward others. Projecting personal struggles onto those who don’t share the same experiences has been a recurring issue, shifting the focus away from inclusivity. True body positivity should uplift everyone, not divide.
Many factors contribute to being overweight or underweight, including genetics, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices. However, one of the most significant factors is diet. The foods you consume not only impact your physical health, but research also shows they can greatly affect mental well-being. I never paid much attention to my diet until recently, but since making more mindful choices, I’ve truly felt the positive effects—both inside and out.
For anyone struggling with body image, here’s something to consider: Do you truly want to change for your own well-being, or are you just trying to conform to an unrealistic standard? If change is necessary, let it be for yourself—not for societal expectations or pressure from others. Self-improvement should come from a place of self-care, not from the need to fit into a mold that was never designed for you.
Pay attention to what you’re eating, explore your body type and family history, and take the time to understand your health and yourself. Knowledge is power, and self-awareness is key to making choices that truly benefit you. No matter where you are on your journey, never give up—and always remember the heart of body positivity: You are beautiful, just as you are.
