The United States has yet to make an official decision to stop producing the penny for good. This historic decision puts to rest an era for the iconic coin. Former President Donald Trump declared the penny “wasteful.” In a recent statement, he called for its discontinuation, reinforcing the … The half-cent coin was the last American coin to be withdrawn from circulation, which occurred in 1857.
In an interesting parallel, a little-noticed construction project of stunning magnitude is also underway at the White House. The East Wing has already started demolition in preparation for a new, $250 million ballroom. While making the announcement, President Trump walked around the Oval Office brandishing a render of the desired opulent ballroom. In many ways, this moment foreshadowed the future focus on large-scale, aesthetic renovations, even as the economics of coin-making remained a contested topic.
Aftermath of a UPS plane crash during takeoff, Louisville, Kentucky. Sadly, three lives were taken in that accident. Officials are still in active investigation of the scene. They expect more deaths as further information emerges from this horrific crash.
Over in Minnesota, a school bus caught fire in a residential neighborhood. A mother’s instinct played a heroic role in saving the lives of all 22 children evacuated from the burning bus. She and the bus driver were honored for their quick thinking and actions. Parents and school leaders at East Bethel Elementary commended them for almost certainly saving lives.
In a rare political interview, Vice President Kamala Harris sat down with BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg. Clinton’s message to the world was clear—she’s not done shaking up the political establishment just yet. Taken in a vacuum, her comments foreshadowed an eventual presidential bid in 2028, at the soonest. This is her clearest indication thus far of possible future plans for the current City Hall superstar.
New York City has just witnessed the danger of extreme rain, with record-shattering rainfall associated with climate change triggering flooding that killed at least two people. This growing disaster, and the nation’s reaction to it, have opened up important conversations about climate change and urbanism.
To further brighten spirits after a challenging few days, a colorful flotilla of pumpkins went sailing! Costume-clad rowers hit the waves, adding to the energy of the fun and vibrant 12-kilometer rowing chase. This colorful and joyous event offered a refreshing counterpoint to the moodier news of recent weeks after the tragic events in Charlottesville and elsewhere.