Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a new law aimed at expanding access to the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), a vital initiative designed to help low-income households, particularly seniors, manage their winter heating costs. This measure makes it easier for seniors to enroll in HEAP, which provides financial support for energy bills during the cold...
In 2024, many families with children who have disabilities can access financial assistance through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. This federal initiative is designed to help low-income families of children with significant disabilities by providing monthly payments to assist with basic needs. Although the application process for SSI can be daunting, understanding the requirements...
As Christmas comes to a close, many find themselves facing the aftermath of holiday celebrations—wrapping paper, cardboard boxes, ribbons, and other festive waste piling up. While it may be tempting to toss everything in the trash, experts say recycling is a better way to go for many of these materials. Jason Hannemann, a landfill heavy...
Retirement brings many financial challenges, especially with the rising costs of essential items like food, healthcare, and housing. In 2023, over 15 million older adults in the United States experienced food insecurity, highlighting the critical need for effective assistance programs. Managing these expenses can be difficult for many retirees, even with Social Security benefits, which...
Every coin has a story, but only a few can boast the kind of legacy that makes collectors sit up and take notice. Lincoln pennies, often found rattling around in pockets and drawers, hold a surprising amount of history and, in certain cases, incredible value. Among these, one penny, known as the 1943-D Bronze Cent,...
Kansas City, Mo. — The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph has cleared Deacon Ralph Wehner of allegations related to child sex crimes and lifted the precautionary suspension that had kept him from active ministry. The investigation into Wehner’s conduct, which had been ongoing for several months, was officially closed after the diocese’s independent ombudsman found...
The year 2025 is bringing some positive news for retirees across the United States who rely on Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%, aimed at helping beneficiaries keep up with inflation and rising costs. This adjustment is especially crucial for retirees aged 62 and older,...
A Fresh Fusion Experience Comes to the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort Celebrity chef Richard Blais is bringing a new and exciting culinary adventure to Scottsdale with his latest restaurant concept, Tiki Taka. Set to open on January 7 at the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort, Tiki Taka will combine the vibrant flavors of Japanese and Spanish...
This month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finalized a new rule requiring all new passenger vehicles to include visual and audible seatbelt warning systems for rear-seat passengers, alongside enhanced warnings for front-seat occupants. The new mandate seeks to tackle a significant safety concern: rear-seat passengers have historically shown lower seatbelt compliance rates compared...
As winter weather makes its way toward the Lehigh Valley, public works crews are gearing up for a night of hard work to ensure the safety of local roads. The region has been placed under a Winter Weather Advisory, with a mix of rain, freezing rain, and ice expected to create hazardous conditions. Road Crews...