Tag: Washington News

Washington man accused of shooting, killing bald eagle facing federal charges

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Federal criminal charges have been filed against a Washington state man whom authorities allege fatally shot a bald eagle in the head on his rural property, authorities said. Benjamin G. Allen of Brush Prairie in Clark County, Washington, was charged Tuesday with violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and unlawfully killing a migratory bird, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.

If convicted of the misdemeanor charges, Allen could face up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $500,000, the statement said. ABC News could not reach Allen for comment on Wednesday. It was unclear if Allen has hired an attorney. The 66-year-old Allen “is accused of shooting and killing the bird with a shotgun,” according to the statement. The incident occurred on Feb. 5, 2026, when a witness reported hearing a gunshot coming from Allen’s property, the statement said. “According to records in the case, special agents from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife were called to the property in Brush Prairie regarding a dead eagle with blood around its head,” according to the statement, which further said that agents interviewed Allen about the deceased eagle and “his actions that day.”

The statement did not disclose what Allen may have told the agents. “Allen kept chickens not far from where the dead eagle was discovered,” the statement noted, adding that an exam by a veterinarian concluded the eagle died from two shotgun pellets found in its brain. Allen has been summoned to appear in U.S. District Court in Tacoma, Washington, on Sept. 8. While bald eagles are the national symbol of the United States, they are no longer considered endangered. The birds, however, are still protected under the 1940 Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which prohibits individuals from killing them.

The charges against Allen come after a 42-year-old Texas man, Santos Guerrero, pleaded guilty in May to federal charges that he fatally shot a bald eagle on his property near Houston in 2024. Guerrero faces up to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine when sentenced, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas. In another case in Washington state, 49-year-old Travis John Branson of Cusick was sentenced to nearly four years in prison and fined $777,250 after he pleaded guilty in 2024 to charges stemming from the killing of numerous eagles and hawks on Washington’s Flathead Indian Reservation, according to federal prosecutors.

Prosecutors said Branson admitted to a self-described “killing spree” of thousands of eagles and hawks between 2009 and 2021, butchering the birds and selling their parts, including eagle feathers, on the black market. Prosecutors said investigators traced the deaths of 118 eagles and 107 hawks directly to Branson.

Source: Washington man accused of shooting, killing bald eagle facing federal charges – ABC7 Chicago

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Luke 19:10

Psalm 5:8

Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies; make your way straight before me. In the verse David is praying in the morning while people who…

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Drone meets bobcat: Police find novel use for UAV after wild animal breaks into Seattle-area home

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Bobcat in house at top of stairs

Most high-tech police drones are deployed for high-speed chases or search and rescue missions, but officers in Kirkland, Wash., recently launched one indoors for a wilder reason: tracking a live bobcat sitting at the top of a resident’s staircase. According to a Kirkland Police Department Facebook post, the incident unfolded in the Moss Bay neighborhood last week after a resident heard loud banging inside their home and called 911 to report a break-in.

Responding officers expecting a human burglar were surprised to find the intruder was a bobcat. In order to maintain a safe distance and manage the response, officers deployed an unmanned aircraft to monitor the cat’s movements inside the home. The bobcat was corralled into an isolated room until the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived, according to the Facebook post. The bobcat was sedated and later released near Forbes Creek, close to the natural habitat where it was found.

The bobcat is believed to have climbed a tree and jumped through an open window to gain entry possibly drawn inside by the resident’s cat, which was later found unharmed. The indoor operation highlights how Kirkland has expanded its use of aerial technology since launching a public safety drone program in 2022. Managed centrally across the city’s Police, Fire, and Public Works departments, the program maintains five aircraft and 17 FAA-licensed pilots specifically trained for tactical searches, search-and-rescue missions, and scene documentation. Police recommend that if a bobcat enters your home, move people and pets away from the area and call 911.

Source: Drone meets bobcat: Police find novel use for UAV after wild animal breaks into Seattle-area home – GeekWire

He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Matthew 16:15-16

A study of the Mesha Stele

The Mesha Stele, also famously known as the Moabite Stone, is a 3-foot-tall black basalt monument dating back to circa 840 BCE. It is one of the most vital archaeological…

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Old Trails Fire continues burning in northwest Spokane as thousands remain evacuated from their homes

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grass fire at night

The Old Trails Fire that sparked near Old Trails Road and W Euclid Road has burned 3,621 acres as of Monday, according to an incident PIO. It is one of three major wildfires in northwest Spokane County, called the Spokane Area Fires.  Level 3 (Go Now!) Evacuations are in place for the following areas

  • Rutter on the North
  • Strong on the South
  • Spokane River on the West
  • Division on the East
  • Five Mile to the North
  • Strong to the South
  • Five Mile to the West
  • Waikiki on the East
  • Cedar on the West
  • Francis on the North
  • Wellesley on the South
  • Strong on the North
  • Five Mile on the West
  • Cedar on the East
  • Spokane River on the West
  • Trails on the South
  • Nine Mile/Assembly on the East
  • Marchand Road on the North
  • Lyons on the West
  • Newkirk Drive on the North
  • North Hayford Road on the West
  • East Euclid Road on the East
  • Dowdy on the East
  • Westwood on the West

Level 2 (Get Set) Evacuations are in place for the following areas: Between Price on the north, Francis on the south, and Country Homes on the west and Division on the east; between Francis on the north, Wellesley on the south and Ash on the west and Division on the east; between Woodside on the north and Francis on the south, and Assembly on the west and Five Mile on the east; between Marchand Road on the North, Trails and Newkirk on the South, Lyons on the West and North Old Trails on the East; between Newkirk Road on the North and Trails on the South, North Hayford on the West and Old Trails/Westwood on the East; between Newkirk/Euclid on the North and Trails on the South, Westwood on the West and Dowdy/Old Trails on the East; between Euclid/Indian Bluff on the North and Trails on the South, Dowdy on the West and West Euclid Road/Trails on the East; between 4000 N. Indian Bluff Road on the north to West Trails Road on the South, Euclid/Trails on the West and Government Way/Equestrian on the East..

The following areas have been downgraded to Level 1 (Be Ready) Evacuations: Magnesium on the North, Francis on the South, Division on the East and Nevada on the West.  The Old Trails Fire sparked around noon on Saturday and is 0% contained.  An incident PIO says the fire, along with the Fairview Fire near Mead, significantly subdued in activity Sunday, allowing firefighters to focus on structure protection and improving a fire line.  The main evacuation shelter for the Spokane Area Fires is at the Spokane Convention Center, 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd. A shelter at Spokane Falls Community College is closed as of Saturday, according to the Red Cross.   Riverside State Park and Dwight Merkel Sports Complex were also evacuated. The Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center confirmed to KREM 2 that staff evacuated patients and staff members. The VA said 27 patients are currently under the care of staff at area shelters and the hospital has been fully evacuated. 

Red Cross asks people hoping to donate or those who need help to call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) as it will be manned overnight.  The Barking Lot is accepting pets if you are trying to evacuate the area. The address is 15825 E Trent Ave, Spokane Valley WA 99216. To check their availability, call (509) 564-6066. State fire assistance has been mobilized under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan in support of local firefighters working to contain the Old Trails Fire in Spokane County, near Airway Heights. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has also authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs.

Source: Old Trails Fire continues burning in northwest Spokane as thousands remain evacuated from their homes | krem.com

Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.
Matthew 7:24

Finding Truth and Life in Jesus

In a world filled with competing voices, confusing paths, and endless distractions, Jesus doesn’t simply show us the way He declares, ‘I am the way.’ When everything around you tries to pull…

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Arson arrest in one of the Spokane area wildfires that have left some residents with nothing – CBS News

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A 37-year-old man was arrested Monday for allegedly starting the largest of the three devastating Spokane, Washington-area wildfires that are leaving some residents with nothing. Aaron Farinacci, a Spokane resident who has a prior manslaughter conviction, was booked on suspicion of first degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire and was being held on $1 million bond, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office said. Authorities began investigating Farinacci after a witness saw him kneeling near grass where the fire began, Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels told a press conference late Monday.

“We believe it was matches or a lighter. When he was detained … he was found to be in possession of some waterproof matches and a butane lighter,” the sheriff said, adding that Farinacci was only arrested in connection with the Old Trails Fire. With some 67,000 people under evacuation orders amid the three blazes, hundreds could be coming home to total losses. “All of our memories are gone,” said Anna Andreachi, a Spokane resident whose home was lost in the blaze. “My dad just died, and all of his stuff was still in there, too.”  More than 700 buildings in the Spokane area have been destroyed, and another 400 have yet to be assessed, officials said Monday.  “It’s a nightmare situation,” Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson said. “This is likely the worst natural disaster in Spokane history.”

A partially melted street sign sits in front of a burned out residential home in the Balboa neighborhood of Spokane, Washington, on August 2, 2026. Erick Doxey / AFP via Getty Images Joe Cvancara and his family managed to save their home by digging a fire line. But his neighbor’s home and at least eight others in the area were destroyed.  Cvancara said he’s grateful but that it feels like “almost survivor’s guilt, in a way. Like, wow. So we’re going to open our home to our neighbors. I know it’s going to take a long time to rebuild.” The fires began Saturday, when extreme drought, bone-dry brush, high heat and wicked winds combined to create a dangerous environment for fires to spread quickly. Firefighters went door to door trying to save as many homes as they could, but were soon overwhelmed.    As of Monday, no deaths had been reported. Spokane County Sheriff John Knowles told reporters on Monday there were 14 people authorities were trying to get in touch with, but stressed that he didn’t want to qualify them as missing.

“These are people who may have called for help or for help evacuating, and many of them likely did get evacuated,” he said. “You know, with poor cell phone coverage, people’s cell phone batteries die or they get to some place where they do find shelter and we haven’t been able to reach them by phone. So, that’s the task … for those 14 people that we haven’t been able to talk to.” The Old Trails Fire and the Fairview Fire are both still burning, but the main focus for firefighters on Sunday and Monday was the Autumn Lane Fire. The heat and wind that initially fueled the fires had died down by the beginning of the week, but the dangerous conditions are expected to return by Wednesday. Daniel Ramey, a spokesperson for the California Interagency Incident Management Team 7, which is taking part in the firefighting efforts, told CBS News that the next few days could be critical for firefighting efforts. “It looks like Wednesday into Friday we’re going to be seeing a heat trend up to the 90s, so it’s really time for us to put in the work … on this fire up north and continue the efforts with getting the communities back into their homes as soon as possible below us,” he said.

Three members of the Spokane Fire Department sit on a curb in front of burned down homes in the Balboa neighborhood of Spokane, Washington, on August 2, 2026.  Erick Doxey / AFP via Getty Images Ramey said that while the three fires aren’t particularly big compared to other notable wildfires, the issue is that they have occurred in what’s known as the wildland-urban interface — areas where human structures sit on the edge or within the wilderness. “There’s always a chance when you live next to trees and grass and the beautiful nature that you’re going to have a potential for fire like we saw,” he said. “We didn’t have rain for the whole month of July in this area, so everything was extremely dry. Everything was susceptible to those new starts, like we saw.”

For the Pacific Northwest, this has been one of the worst fire seasons in three decades. At least 16 major fires are burning in Washington state. In Utah, a fire has burned nearly 70,000 acres after doubling in size Monday. The Big Rock Fire in southeastern Idaho has burned more than 2,500 acres and forced evacuations. Ramey warns things could get worse, with California still relatively quiet so far but firefighting resources already stretched thin.

Source: Arson arrest in one of the Spokane area wildfires that have left some residents with nothing – CBS News

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Exodus 20:12

Hope in the dark

Pip: A mountain village, a wandering stranger, a mother weaving a basket by the river — Drink of Jesus has been building a world where ancient scripture lands like it’s…

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Fires near Spokane have burned 600 structures and forced 60,000 evacuations

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close up of burning flames

The fires in and around Spokane, Washington state’s second largest city, burned about 8.2 square miles over the weekend.

Source: (3) Fires near Spokane have burned 600 structures and forced 60,000 evacuations – YouTube

I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’
John 1:33

God as Your Ever-Present Help

You don’t have to carry this alone, He is your safe place and your help in every moment of need.  Bible Verse:God is our Refuge and Strength [mighty and impenetrable…

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Explosive Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak Hits 20 States: Full List of Affected Areas

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anonymous man hanging toilet paper in bathroom

A parasite that causes explosive, watery diarrhea has sickened 145 people across 20 US states, prompting an ongoing investigation by federal and state health officials into the source of the outbreak. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cases were reported between May and June 16 and involve patients ranging in age from 5 to 86 years old. So far, 20 people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported. Breaking It Down What is Shigella and how does it spread? What are the symptoms of Shigella infection? How are health authorities responding to the outbreak in Wayanad? Created with AI. Health officials believe the illnesses are linked to contaminated food because none of the patients reported recent international travel.

However, investigators have not yet identified the exact source. The parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis, causes cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness that commonly leads to explosive, watery diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Symptoms usually appear about a week after infection and mainly affect the intestines, although some infected people may not develop symptoms. The CDC said local, state, and federal public health authorities are investigating several clusters of cases spanning multiple states. Officials also noted that the true number of infections may be higher because some cases may not have been diagnosed.

List of 20 States Affected By The Outbreak The CDC has reported cases in the following states and Washington, DC:

  • New York
  • New Jersey
  • Connecticut
  • Pennsylvania
  • Massachusetts
  • Rhode Island
  • Delaware
  • Maryland
  • Virginia
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Tennessee
  • Wisconsin
  • Illinois
  • Georgia
  • Florida
  • Texas
  • Louisiana
  • Colorado
  • Alaska
  • Washington DC

Among the affected areas, New York has reported the highest number of cases, with between 31 and 80 infections, followed by Texas and Illinois, which have each recorded between 11 and 30 cases. While cyclosporiasis can resolve on its own, symptoms may last for a month or longer if left untreated, increasing the risk of dehydration. The CDC says the infection is typically treated with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, also sold under the brand names Bactrim, Septra and Cotrim. The agency also recommends following safe food handling and storage practices. Previous US outbreaks have been linked to imported fresh produce, including cilantro, raspberries, sweet peas, mesclun lettuce and basil.

Source: Explosive Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak Hits 20 States: Full List of Affected Areas | Times Now

Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.
1 John 4:15

The Distraction of Fear

Fear has a way of making tomorrow feel more real than today. But you were never meant to live inside a future that hasn’t happened yet, you were called to trust…

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Too Busy to Hear God

You can be so busy doing things for God that you never stop long enough to hear from God. Sometimes the biggest distraction in your life isn’t rebellion, it’s simply being…

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Who Has Your Attention?

Your attention is one of the most valuable things you own, and everyone wants a piece of it. The question isn’t whether something is getting your attention—the question is whether Jesus…

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At least one dead, 9 workers missing after deadly chemical tank implosion at Washington state paper mill

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fire truck on the road

At least one person was killed and nine workers were unaccounted for following the implosion of a chemical tank at a pulp and paper mill in southern Washington state on Tuesday, local authorities said.  The tank’s rupture at Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility in Longview, a city located along the southern Washington border with Oregon, injured eight employees and one firefighter, the Longview Fire Department said. The department didn’t say whether the person who was killed was a worker. Officials said the families of all nine employees who remain unaccounted for have been notified. A spokesperson for PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview confirmed to CBS News that the hospital received nine patients from the incident, one of whom was deceased.

Four others have been transferred to the Legacy Oregon Burn Center in Portland, Oregon, PeaceHealth said. Legacy Health confirmed to CBS News in a statement it was treating patients from the incident, but it was not clear if there were any others beyond the four who had been transferred from the PeaceHealth facility. Authorities said some victims had suffered burns or inhalation injuries, and that the severity of the injuries ranged from minor to critical. Authorities said there was no immediate threat to the public, but the tank’s unstable condition is “creating hazardous conditions for emergency personnel.”

Source: At least one dead, 9 workers missing after deadly chemical tank implosion at Washington state paper mill – CBS News

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:15-16

Finding Strength in God

You don’t have to carry this alone, He is your safe place and your help in every moment of need.  Bible Verse:God is our Refuge and Strength [mighty and…

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Abortion News Roundup: April 15–22, 2026

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Two news anchors at desk reporting on abortion legislation debate with newsroom background

Here’s a summary of the key abortion-related developments from the past seven days. Activity centered on state-level legislative pushes (especially in South Carolina), ongoing medication-abortion access fights, and cultural polling—amid continued post-Dobbs stability in national numbers (per earlier 2025 data). No sweeping federal rulings or new nationwide data drops occurred this week.

South Carolina: No-Exception Abortion Ban Advances

  • A South Carolina Senate committee advanced SB 1095, a near-total ban on abortions from the onset of pregnancy with no exceptions for rape, incest, or fatal fetal anomalies. The bill would criminalize women for obtaining or possessing abortion drugs (up to 2 years in prison and a $1,000 fine). It now heads to the full Senate floor. scdailygazette.com +2
  • During the April 22 Republican gubernatorial debate, candidates split sharply on whether they would support or veto such a ban—highlighting internal GOP tensions ahead of the 2026 election. scdailygazette.com

Medication Abortion & Federal/Regulatory Updates

  • A federal judge refused to immediately block mailing of abortion pills but ordered the FDA to complete its ongoing safety review. The ruling came amid pressure from anti-abortion groups and the Trump administration’s continued scrutiny of mifepristone. pagingamerica.org
  • Anti-abortion advocates (including Students for Life) urged the EPA to list mifepristone metabolites as drinking-water contaminants, part of broader efforts to restrict pill access through environmental and regulatory channels. pagingamerica.org

Cultural & Polling Notes

  • A PBS report highlighted the growing gender divide among Gen Z on abortion: While most Americans support legal access in all or most cases, young men and women are sharply split, reflecting deeper differences in how the generation views reproductive rights. youtube.com

Broader Context (No New 2026 Incidence Data)

  • The most recent full-year figures (Guttmacher Institute, released March 2026) showed ~1,126,000 clinician-provided abortions in 2025—essentially unchanged from 2024—despite bans and restrictions in 13 total-ban states and 5 with early limits (including Wyoming’s new 6-week law). Telehealth and out-of-state access continue to offset restrictions. npr.org +1

2026 Ballot Landscape (Ongoing Prep)

  • Preparations continue for November 2026 ballot measures in states like Virginia (Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment) and Missouri (repeal effort). No new certifications or major court developments this week, but litigation challenging Virginia’s measure remains active. kff.org +1

These stories reflect the steady grind of state legislation and regulatory pressure on medication abortion, with South Carolina’s no-exception push emerging as the week’s most prominent flashpoint. National numbers remain stable, but access battles—especially around pills—continue in courts and legislatures. For the latest on any specific bill or case, check official state legislative trackers or Guttmacher’s policy map. Developments can move quickly.

Source: Grok on X

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Isaiah 61:10

1.3 million Ram trucks recalled over improperly installed seat belt anchors

Chrysler is recalling more than 1.27 million Ram 1500 pickup trucks because the second-row seat belt buckle anchors may have been improperly installed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall affects Ram 1500 trucks from the 2019 through 2026 model years. NHTSA said the anchors fail to meet federal safety standards. An…

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Arson arrest in one of the Spokane area wildfires that have left some residents with nothing – CBS News

A 37-year-old man was arrested Monday for allegedly starting the largest of the three devastating Spokane, Washington-area wildfires that are leaving some residents with nothing. Aaron Farinacci, a Spokane resident who has a prior manslaughter conviction, was booked on suspicion of first degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire and was being held…

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Stockton church hosts fundraiser to reopen local school

The City of Stockton has been working to revitalize Main Street. To help, a local church hosted a bazaar to raise funds that go directly into the community. “It’s a small community, but a really hardworking one,” Saint Gertrude Summer Festival organizer Monica Mercado said. This all happened Sunday in the courtyard of Saint Gertrude’s…

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Beloved Westmoreland County roller rink rolling toward a comeback

If you grew up around Delmont over the past 80 years, chances are you made a few memories at the Rock Springs Roller Rink. After sitting empty for more than a decade, those memories are getting a new chapter thanks to new owner and local entrepreneur, Greg Ventrice. “I originally kind of bought it for…

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21-year-old kills man with hammer, leaves note: Florida cops

A 21-year-old woman used a hammer to kill a 41-year-old man she accused of grooming her as a child, then she left an accusatory note on his chest, Florida authorities said. Journee McGrew is now charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence in a killing described by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office as a “domestic…

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Trump announces Gaza breakthrough but uncertainty remains

US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced what he described as a historic agreement to secure the disarmament of Hamas and all other armed groups in Gaza – months after he first announced a US-brokered ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. “Today, the Board of Peace reached a HISTORIC agreement for the COMPLETE DISARMAMENT of…

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Johnson & Johnson offers $5.5 billion to settle talc lawsuits

Pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson has offered $5.5 billion to settle tens of thousands of lawsuits claiming its baby powder and other talcum powder products caused ovarian cancer, the company said Monday. The proposed landmark settlement aims to end a long-standing legal battle that has weighed on the New Jersey-based company for years. J&J said…

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Isolated storms could impact metro Atlanta counties, forecasters say

The National Weather Service in Peachtree City issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of the Atlanta metro area this evening.  At 6:48 p.m., meteorologists reported a severe thunderstorm over Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, approximately eight miles northwest of Jonesboro, moving south at 10 miles per hour Communities expected to be impacted include Atlanta, Jonesboro,…

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OVER THE HILL GANG CAR SHOW, TAKE OVER!

Stew Leonard’s car show coverage over 400 classic cars, hot rods and custom builds completely packed out the lot as Stew Leonards in Newington, Connecticut, on Sunday, July 19, 2026. This venue was co-hosted by the Over The Hill Gang, Eastern Chapter. this massive turnout, celebrating the iconic, hot riding and cruising Heritage of the…

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Under-the-Radar Important News Stories: April 9–16, 2026

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dynamic crowd motion with zoom blur effect

While the Iran conflict, Trump administration statements, gas price spikes, and Middle East diplomacy have dominated headlines and social feeds, several significant developments slipped under the radar. These stories involve public health, corporate accountability, immigration enforcement, congressional ethics, and environmental red flags—issues with long-term implications that received minimal national attention amid the chaos. Here’s a curated roundup of the most notable ones based on investigative reports, court outcomes, and official data released or amplified this week:

Immigration & Enforcement

  • Record ICE detainee deaths in 2026: The 16th immigrant detainee death was reported this week, already surpassing the full-year total for 2024 (11 deaths). Advocacy groups and family accounts highlighted systemic issues in custody, with one high-profile case involving a Texas man shot by agents now under renewed scrutiny. nbcnews.com +1
  • Migrant children allegedly abused in government-funded shelters: Exclusive reporting detailed physical abuse at facilities housing unaccompanied minors, with sources citing inadequate oversight and cover-up concerns. This echoes ongoing post-border policy debates but drew little coverage. cnn.com
  • French government intervenes for 86-year-old widow detained by ICE: France is pushing for the release of an elderly French citizen held in U.S. immigration custody, spotlighting international fallout from expanded enforcement. npr.org

Corporate & Consumer Accountability

  • Ticketmaster/Live Nation ruled an illegal monopoly: A New York jury found the companies violated antitrust laws by overcharging fans and stifling competition in live events. The verdict could reshape ticketing nationwide but was overshadowed by economic war news. cnn.com +1
  • Big Oil’s massive war windfall: Despite the Iran conflict driving fuel prices higher, major producers raked in an extra $30 million per hour in profits. Critics called it a direct beneficiary effect of the blockade and instability. truthout.org

Politics, Ethics & Oversight

  • Two House members (Swalwell and Gonzales) resign amid misconduct allegations: The California Democrat and Texas Republican stepped down over sexual misconduct claims involving staff, raising questions about a broader pattern in Congress. The story gained traction locally but not nationally. nbcnews.com +1
  • Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor apologizes to Brett Kavanaugh: In a rare public statement, Sotomayor expressed regret for “hurtful” comments on immigration rulings, highlighting internal Court tensions during a politically charged term. cnn.com
  • Dark money and billionaires ramping up for 2026 midterms: Reports detailed ultra-wealthy donors preparing tens of millions in spending, with questions about transparency amid shifting corporate influence rules. cbsnews.com

Health, Environment & Science

  • Omaha Superfund site: Kids still not tested for lead: A massive lead-contaminated neighborhood has left most children untested despite federal warnings, with local officials citing resource shortages. ProPublica called it a preventable public health failure. propublica.org
  • U.S. birth rate hits new low; contraception de-emphasized: CDC data showed 3.6 million births in 2025 (down 1% and 23% since 2007), even as Trump officials downplayed family-planning access in federal programs. cbsnews.com
  • Record April heat and other climate signals: Parts of the U.S. (e.g., North Carolina) saw the hottest early-April stretch in decades alongside the driest start to a year on record. Separate reports noted emperor penguins downgraded to endangered due to climate impacts. cbs17.com

Emerging Security Concern

  • Disappearances of U.S. researchers flagged as possible espionage: Former FBI officials raised alarms over a wave of missing or deceased scientists, with speculation of foreign intelligence involvement receiving minimal mainstream pickup. newsnationnow.com

These stories illustrate ongoing domestic challenges in housing, health, justice, and accountability that risk being eclipsed by foreign policy headlines. Many stem from investigative outlets (ProPublica, NPR, Reuters) or official data drops that didn’t break through the noise. For deeper dives, the cited sources provide full context—several could regain traction as the Iran situation evolves. In my opinion some will need more investigation to see if they are accusations or truth, we will see.

Source: Grok on X

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16

Non-traditional little free libraries popping up across Pittsburgh area

A woman in Dormont is making it her mission to map all of the little free libraries in her community.  Little free libraries are often placed by neighbors along sidewalks, allowing people to leave books they no longer need as well as encouraging them to take ones that interest them. Two years ago, Amy Constantine says…

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The first-ever dedicated Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood YouTube channel launches globally

https://www.youtube.com/@MisterRogersNeighborhood For the first time ever, the iconic “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” will be available to watch on YouTube.  An official channel dedicated solely to the beloved program will offer viewers of multiple generations the chance to watch full episodes, livestreams, clips, and compilations all in one place.  “With its timeless messages of care and kindness,…

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Teen’s 1st Grade Teacher Pulls Off Cross-Country Graduation Surprise

A high school graduate got the surprise of a lifetime after his elementary school teacher traveled across the country to surprise him — and the emotional reunion was caught on camera. Jordan Hodges, 18, tells PEOPLE that his teacher Denise Crocker, 58, had a tremendous impact on his life. “She was my mother at school,”…

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Teen Rescues Elderly Dementia Patient Wandering Around in 103°F Heat

From Arizona comes the story of a young man helping an elderly woman whose dementia had left her disoriented, wandering about in 103°F heat. 14-year-old Royal Cothrun was riding his bike down empty sidewalks through his home town of Gilbert when he spotted 75-year-old Theresa Morgan. Hardly pounding the pavement in running gear, she was…

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Recent Abortion News (April 8-15, 2026)

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Here’s a concise overview of the main abortion-related developments from the past seven days. Activity focused on medication abortion access (especially mifepristone by mail), federal enforcement disputes, and state-level legislative pushes. No major new national data drops occurred, but ongoing legal and political maneuvering continued post-Dobbs.

Federal Developments & Medication Abortion

  • Louisiana’s challenge to mifepristone mail-order paused: On April 7 (with rulings and coverage spilling into this week), a federal judge in Lafayette refused to block FDA rules allowing nationwide mailing of mifepristone. The decision is a temporary setback for Louisiana’s effort to restrict telehealth/mail access into ban states while its broader challenge proceeds. The case was paused pending Trump administration review. kffhealthnews.org
  • DOJ report accuses Biden admin of weaponizing FACE Act: On April 14, the Trump Justice Department released a report alleging the prior administration selectively prosecuted pro-life activists under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. It claims coordination with abortion-rights groups (including Planned Parenthood) to track activists, seek harsher sentences, and withhold evidence. The report reviewed over 700,000 records. kfoxtv.com +1
  • Mail-order dominates mifepristone dispensing: A University of Southern California study (published April 13) found that in the 27 states + D.C. allowing telehealth abortion, pharmacies fill mifepristone prescriptions almost exclusively via mail-order (<2% at retail locations), despite 2023 FDA rules permitting pharmacy dispensing. reuters.com

State-Level Actions

  • Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoes two GOP anti-abortion bills: On April 7, the Democratic governor vetoed measures that would have imposed new restrictions. Republican supermajorities in the legislature are expected to attempt overrides this week. kansasreflector.com
  • Ohio doctors push back on “extremist” bills: Over 150 physicians signed a letter opposing a package of bills in the Statehouse, including a 24-hour waiting period (“SHE WINS” Act). Coverage highlighted concerns over delays in care. pagingamerica.org
  • Mississippi criminalization bill advances: Lawmakers sent a bill to the governor that would make distributing or intending to distribute abortion-inducing medication a felony (up to 10 years in prison). Critics warn it could affect miscarriage treatment and deter providers. apnews.com
  • South Carolina Senate bill 1095: Introduced earlier but active in committee this week; it would prohibit abortions and impose penalties on providers. scstatehouse.gov

Broader Context

  • 2026 ballot measures remain in focus: Ongoing preparations for November votes in states like Virginia (protecting rights), Missouri (repeal attempt), and potential measures in Idaho/Nebraska. No new certifications this week, but legal challenges to ballot language continue. kff.org +1
  • National abortion incidence remains stable (per earlier Guttmacher data referenced in coverage), with telehealth and mail-order shifts offsetting bans in 13 states.

These stories reflect continued tension around medication abortion access and enforcement, with the Trump administration signaling scrutiny of prior policies while states pursue tighter restrictions. Legal challenges and legislative overrides are likely to keep the issue active in coming weeks. For the latest on any specific case or bill, check primary sources like court dockets or state legislature trackers.

Source: Grok on X

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Philippians 4:8

Drug Shortage Detail: Insulin Glargine Injection (Recombinant)

Products Affected – Description Reason for the Shortage Available Products Estimated Resupply Dates Implications for Patient Care Safety Though doses can often be converted unit for unit when converting individuals from one basal insulin to another, an initial dose reduction of 10-20% can be used in individuals at a high risk for hypoglycemia or in…

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Teen Trusts His Instincts and Saves Crash Victim Just in Time

Sixteen year old Randy Gerlach was on his way to work, driving along a country road in Morrison, Illinois, when he noticed a vehicle sitting in a ditch. At first, he wasn’t sure if it was an accident or if the driver had simply slipped off the shoulder of the road. Still, something didn’t feel…

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Australian woman gives birth to rare identical quadruplet daughters

Jenitar Na’amoana and her husband, Jortham, thought their family was complete after welcoming four children. Then came an unexpected surprise: four naturally conceived, identical daughters. Na’amoana, 34, gave birth to Emily, Harriet, Catherine and Alexa last week.   “The fact that we’ve got four beautiful, healthy babies born at 28 weeks and four days is…

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Beaver faces long recovery after worst flooding in years

Roughly 200 homes were impacted by flooding in Beaver after quick, heavy rain fell on the Cottonwood Fire burn scar over the weekend. Part of the Grove neighborhood remained evacuated south of the Beaver River Channel on Monday, after evacuations were ordered on Sunday. Others on the north side have been allowed to return to…

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3 people rescued by Lake County, Illinois, Sheriff’s office after going missing in water near Lake Villa

The Lake County, Illinois, Sheriff’s office Marine Unit rescued three swimmers they said otherwise could have drowned in a lake near Lake Villa this weekend. Around 2:50 p.m. Saturday, sheriff’s deputies were on patrol in Petite Lake in unincorporated Lake Villa with personal watercraft provided through the Sea-Doo public safety loan program. The operator of…

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BWCA wildfires latest: More than 70K acres burned

Wildfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area have burned more than 70,000 acres, with evacuations and closures in effect in multiple counties as of Sunday, July 19. FOX 9 has team coverage with Ian Leonard, and Bill Keller up on the Gunflint Trail. Source: (667) BWCA wildfires latest: More than 70K acres burned – YouTube

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Maryland deputies praised for rescuing child with autism from river

Body-worn camera video shows a deputy from the St. Mary’s County, Maryland, Sheriff’s Office rescuing a 9-year-old with autism from a river after he had been reported missing. Deputies found the child in a river in the Hollywood area on Friday, July 17. Deputy Matthew Camp went into the water, swam to the child, and…

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Love Lodi nonprofit gives away 2,000 backpacks to students in need

Starting school just got a bit more stylish. “It’s so helpful not only just to have a backpack, but it feels so nice to have a new backpack,” Lodi Parent Corrie Ordway said. “It makes it like a fresh start to the new school year.” With school in session at Lodi Unified School District beginning…

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Tropical Storm Bertha strengthens, threatening Gulf Coast

Tropical Storm Bertha was getting stronger early Tuesday, threatening the Gulf Coast with heavy rain. Bertha is the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season. As of 5 a.m. EDT, it was in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, heading northwest at 5 mph with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph, up from 40 mph…

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New chip-based sensor could let consumers test food for contaminants at home

Food safety concerns are becoming too-frequent headlines. Right now, it’s a cyclosporiasis outbreak possibly linked to tainted lettuce. But the nation has also dealt with E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria – a long list of threats. Consumers already know to thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables. But is it enough? And how would you know?…

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Pro-Life Ad With Boxing Legend Manny Pacquiao Approved for World Cup

Six years after a Faces of Choice Super Bowl ad introducing abortion survivors to America was blocked days before airing, the pro-life organization now has another opportunity to bring those same voices before a global audience. Faces of Choice has created a powerful new World Cup commercial featuring boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and abortion survivors…

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Motorcycle ride honors Melvindale police corporal killed in line of duty

The First Responder Memorial of Wayne County near the intersection of Hines Drive and Haggerty Road in Plymouth Township, Michigan, honors the fallen men and women who died in the line of duty. The last name on the memorial wall is Melvindale Police Department Corporal Mohamed Said. “This is not only remembering Corporal Mohammed, but…

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Megachurch pastor Greg Locke blames online accusations after…

The controversial Tennessee pastor told congregants on Sunday that federal investigators raided his family home less than two months ago. The June raid came during a six-week sabbatical Locke took after his 20-year-old son died from a drug overdose in early May. Locke described the raid as Satan kicking his family while they were down.…

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Boundary Waters wilderness burning at U.S

Wildfires flared earlier this week and destroyed thousands of acres in Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota, with many of the fires straddling the U.S.-Canadian border. The Western Fire Chiefs’ map on Thursday afternoon tracked at least 17 wildfires in Minnesota, and at least 10 in Canada, near the border. The largest in Canada covered over 70,600…

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FDA identifies Taco Bell lettuce as source of diarrhea…

Federal health investigators officially linked the multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell, the Food and Drug Administration reported on Thursday. Lab results as of Monday confirmed over 1,600 cyclosporiasis cases reported since the beginning of May across 34 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The illness…

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U.S. Park Police officer ambushed, shot by 2 men in Washington, officials say

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A U.S. Park Police officer was seriously wounded in an ambush shooting in Washington, law enforcement officials said. The officer was targeted, they said.

Source: U.S. Park Police officer ambushed, shot by 2 men in Washington, officials say – CBS News

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
Acts 1:8

Recent Abortion News (March 4 – March 11, 2026)

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Abortion policy continues to evolve at the state level, with new restrictions advancing or being signed in conservative states, while progressive areas focus on expanding access and funding. Key stories include a new “heartbeat” ban in Wyoming, legislative failures in Tennessee, and funding debates in Washington. Advocacy groups on both sides are responding with lawsuits, reports, and public campaigns. Here’s a balanced overview from recent reports and discussions, incorporating pro-life and pro-choice perspectives.

1. Wyoming Governor Signs ‘Heartbeat’ Abortion Ban

  • On March 9, Gov. Mark Gordon signed a bill banning abortions after cardiac activity is detected in an embryo (typically around six weeks), effective immediately. The law includes exceptions for medical emergencies but not for rape or incest, marking a shift from Gordon’s previous vetoes of similar bills lacking those exceptions. Pro-life advocates praised it as a step to protect unborn life, while critics, including abortion rights groups, argue it severely limits access and ignores victims of assault. jhnewsandguide.com +3
  • Pro-choice advocates, including the Center for Reproductive Rights, immediately promised lawsuits, seeking to have a retired judge—who previously blocked two Wyoming abortion restrictions—hear the case. They contend the ban violates the state constitution’s protections for health care decisions. cowboystatedaily.com

2. South Dakota Advances Ban on Advertising and Selling Abortion Pills

  • On March 4, the Senate State Affairs Committee voted 8-1 to advance a bill criminalizing the sale or advertisement of drugs or items designed for abortions. If passed by the full Senate and signed by the governor, it would impose penalties for promoting or distributing such products. Pro-life supporters view this as closing loopholes in existing bans, emphasizing protection for women and fetuses from chemical abortions.southdakotasearchlight.com
  • Opponents, including reproductive rights groups, argue it could restrict access to essential medications used for miscarriages and other care, potentially driving underground markets and endangering health. southdakotasearchlight.com

3. Tennessee Bill to Prosecute Abortion as Homicide Fails

  • A controversial bill (HB 570) that would have treated abortions as homicide, potentially leading to life sentences or the death penalty for pregnant individuals, died in a House subcommittee on March 10 without a motion to advance. Sponsored by Rep. Jody Barrett, it aimed to grant full legal protections to “preborn children.” Pro-life groups expressed disappointment, seeing it as a missed opportunity to equate fetal rights with those of born persons. fox17.com
  • Pro-choice advocates celebrated the outcome, calling the bill extreme and a threat to women’s autonomy and health, amid broader national debates on fetal personhood. fox17.com

4. Washington State Debates Funding and Access to Abortion Services

  • On March 9, lawmakers debated Senate Bill 6182, which would impose a small fee on health insurers (starting at $0.82 per enrollee per month) to fund grants for abortion providers through the Department of Health. The measure, set for a potential House vote before the session ends March 12, aims to support clinics amid rising demand from out-of-state patients. Pro-choice supporters highlight it as essential for equitable access in a post-Roe landscape. washingtonstatestandard.com
  • Critics, including some insurers and pro-life voices, oppose the fee as an unfair burden that forces funding of procedures they morally object to. washingtonstatestandard.com
  • Separately, on March 10, advocates noted a new law improving distribution of stockpiled abortion medications (mifepristone and misoprostol), addressing previous legal barriers and expiration concerns. This is seen as a win for access, especially for miscarriage care, though pro-life groups worry it normalizes chemical abortions. nbcrightnow.com

5. National and International Developments

  • The Center for Reproductive Rights released a “U.S. Repro Watch” update on March 10, highlighting six key stories, including ongoing state battles and a new storytelling series (launched March 9) on how abortion bans are prompting families, workers, and businesses to relocate from restrictive states. Pro-choice narratives emphasize economic and personal impacts, while pro-life responses frame bans as life-affirming policies. reproductiverights.org
  • In Canada, Quebec reversed plans to enshrine “abortion freedom” in its new constitution, a move pro-life advocates hailed as a victory against expanding rights, per reports on March 10. @ItsReplaye
  • Social media highlighted the death of a notorious late-term abortion provider from cancer, sparking debates: pro-life users viewed it as justice, while others criticized the framing as insensitive. @ItsReplaye Personal stories, like a mother reversing an abortion pill decision, also circulated, underscoring pro-life successes in outreach. @LifeNewsToo

These updates reflect ongoing polarization, with 14 states maintaining total bans and others enhancing protections, per ongoing tracking. For more, check cited sources or advocacy sites like the Guttmacher Institute or National Right to Life.

Source: Grok on X

Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.
Jeremiah 33:3

Revival Grips Brazil’s Amazon: ‘We Baptized 14,500 People’

A profound spiritual transformation is unfolding in the Amazon.  For centuries, the Catholic Church held a near-monopoly in the region. Today, evangelical Christianity is reshaping the region’s spiritual fabric, leading to new converts and churches. CBN News traveled to Brazil’s northwest Amazon region to witness it firsthand for this exclusive report. Linger on the banks…

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Police arrest Christian victims after attack on Coptic church

Egyptian police arrested four Christian men who had been assaulted by a mob during an attack on a Coptic place of worship in Egypt, and freed them two days later once they abandoned the complaint they lodged against those who beat them. The attack took place in the Upper Egyptian village of Tal Al-Quiblya in…

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Chinese firm markets lifelike humanoid robots as remedy for loneliness

A Chinese robotics company has introduced a line of lifelike humanoid robots built as personal companions, presenting the machines as an answer to loneliness among single adults and older people, according to a video report from news agency Agence France-Presse. UBTech unveiled the U1 series and describes it as the world’s first full-size humanoid robot…

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Georgia Secretary of State opens investigation into voter registration mailers sent to deceased residents

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced Thursday that his office has opened an investigation into Ready to Register and other third-party organizations after reports that voter registration mailers were sent to deceased Georgians and other ineligible recipients. According to the Secretary of State’s Office, election officials have received numerous complaints about voter registration solicitations…

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Shepherd Center makes hiking accessible for all, encouraging outdoor activities for better brain health

The Shepherd Center offered a free hiking and bird watching clinic at Panola Mountain State Park to encourage people with cognitive and physical impairments to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. The clinic is one of many events the neurorehabilitation hospital offers throughout the year. “We do biking, water, skiing, ski shooting, riflery, art, horticulture,…

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