August 23, 2025

Mississippi Faces Public Health Emergency On Infant Deaths

August 23, 2025 8:07 am

Mississippi officials declared a public health emergency on Thursday after new data revealed a sharp and troubling rise in infant mortality — the highest the state has seen in more than ten years.

The Mississippi State Department of Health reported that in 2024, 9.7 infants died for every 1,000 live births. That rate is not only the steepest in the nation but also a grim reversal for a state that has struggled for decades to improve child health outcomes. Since 2014, more than 3,500 babies have died before reaching their first birthday.

“Too many Mississippi families are losing their babies …

Hawaii Volcano Erupts For 31st Time Since December

August 23, 2025 7:31 am

Hawaii’s restless Kilauea volcano is once again alive with fire. On Wednesday morning, a curtain of molten lava arced nearly 100 feet into the sky, spilling across the floor of its summit crater in a dazzling display of nature’s volatility.

This latest eruption marks Kilauea’s 31st since December — a frequency befitting one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the activity began with a spattering vent on the north side of Halemaʻumaʻu crater, which quickly gave way to overflowing lava. By afternoon, the vent had become a fiery fountain.

For now, the eruption is …

Philippines Boosts Pay, Protections For Overseas Workers

August 23, 2025 7:07 am

The Philippine government has unveiled a series of reforms aimed at strengthening protections for its overseas domestic workers, including a long-awaited pay raise and new measures to safeguard worker welfare.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced that the minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic staff abroad will rise from $400 to $500 — roughly 1,800 Qatari riyals. The increase, which will be written into all new employment contracts processed by the agency, is intended to secure fairer pay for the thousands of Filipinos who take on caregiving and household jobs overseas.

“The Department shall implement an increase in the …

Trump: Putin May Attend 2026 North America World Cup

August 23, 2025 6:29 am

President Donald J. Trump raised eyebrows Friday when he suggested that Russian leader Vladimir V. Putin could be invited to the 2026 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking at a press conference to mark the unveiling of the tournament’s date and draw, Mr. Trump brandished a photo of himself with Mr. Putin taken during their recent summit in Alaska. “That’s a man named Vladimir Putin who I believe will be coming depending on what happens,” Mr. Trump said. “He may be coming and he may not. But he wants to be there …