Community Hospital in Curtis, Nebraska, is closing its clinic due to financial difficulties. The closure of the Curtis Medical Center, which has served the community for over three decades, is a direct result of anticipated federal Medicaid cuts. CEO Troy Bruntz cited the challenging financial environment, which has made it impossible to sustain all services. This closure highlights the concerns of rural hospitals who fear the potential impact of Medicaid cuts, which could lead to service reductions or further closures.
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Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) criticized Republicans for their support of President Donald Trump’s bill, particularly highlighting their alleged willingness to vote for cuts to social programs in exchange for political gain. She specifically called out actions of Republican lawmakers, including Senator Lisa Murkowski’s support of the bill, despite expressed concerns. AOC’s statements came as the bill neared passage in the Lower House after overcoming opposition from several Republican holdouts, with the final vote being a close one.
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Senior U.N. officials have issued a stark warning about the escalating violence in Haiti, stating that gangs have gained “near-total control” of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The gangs have expanded their attacks into previously peaceful areas and are establishing “parallel governance structures” due to a weakened state presence. The U.N. has noted a rise in sexual violence and extrajudicial killings amid the ongoing crisis. Despite the presence of a U.N.-backed mission, which is understaffed and underfunded, the gangs continue to acquire more powerful weapons, and the situation is worsening.
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On July 1, the Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant Kupol, a crucial Russian facility manufacturing drones and missile systems, was targeted in a Ukrainian attack. This assault, confirmed by both Russian and independent sources, resulted in casualties and damage to the plant. The Ukrainian Security Service claimed responsibility for the attack, employing a new long-range Liutyi drone without a rolling chassis, potentially extending its operational range. The attack, which Russia admitted, inflicted significant damage to the facility.
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A new migrant detention center, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” has opened in the Florida Everglades, built in record time and with an initial capacity of 3,000 detainees. The facility, which is expected to expand to 5,000 beds, will house immigrants arrested by Florida law enforcement under the 287(g) program. While the state is funding and operating the center, federal agencies have distanced themselves from it, despite it being championed by former President Donald Trump, who has embraced the facility. The center, which is located on land seized by state officials, has drawn criticism from environmental groups, human rights advocates, and Native American tribes.
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Mamdani Has Given Democrats a Blueprint for Victory, if Only They Would Listen
Mamdani’s strategy, if you boil it down, is to focus on local issues that genuinely impact voters, without resorting to divisive tactics. It’s a clear contrast to the crime-focused rhetoric and unwavering support for Israel that some Democrats have leaned on. It seems almost too obvious, but a lot of Democrats, even in places like New York, are missing the point. And the audacity of some media outlets that seemingly tried to undermine Mamdani’s candidacy is staggering.
The core of Mamdani’s approach bears a striking resemblance to elements of Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign.… Continue reading
Senator Lisa Murkowski, despite claiming to be a moderate and “pro-choice”, cast the deciding vote on a Republican-led bill that would significantly impact healthcare access and reproductive rights. This vote, which could shutter numerous Planned Parenthood clinics, came despite her expressing personal reservations about the bill’s impact on vulnerable populations. Critics point out that Murkowski could have forced changes but chose to prioritize her constituents’ interests, even at the expense of others. This move further demonstrated Murkowski’s inconsistency and her willingness to support policies that contradict her stated values, ultimately affecting access to essential healthcare services.
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The Independent emphasizes the importance of on-the-ground reporting and accessible journalism, highlighting a recent incident in the Oval Office as an example. During a classified briefing with military leaders, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg unexpectedly appeared, raising concerns about security clearance. This event reflects a broader shift in the Trump White House, where the Oval Office functions more like a “Grand Central Terminal” due to its informal atmosphere and frequent influx of visitors. This contrasts with the usual controlled environment of the president’s office.
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Del Monte Foods, the iconic food producer, has filed for bankruptcy due to declining sales of its canned goods as consumers turn to healthier and cheaper alternatives. The company, also grappling with increased costs from tariffs and a lawsuit, has secured $912.5 million in financing to facilitate its operations and planned asset sale. While brands like Joyba and broth experienced growth, they couldn’t compensate for the overall decline in sales. This strategic move aims to accelerate the company’s turnaround and create a stronger future for Del Monte.
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On Monday afternoon, 37-year-old Kalista Rae Hallberg was found dead inside a Muscatine Hy-Vee with multiple gunshot wounds. The suspected shooter, Ian Hernandez, was found nearby with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was transported to the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics with life-threatening injuries. Authorities have confirmed the shooting was related to an ongoing domestic dispute. Hy-Vee is cooperating with the Muscatine Police Department, and the store will reopen once it is deemed customer-ready.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood