Tara Blair

Each November, a curious ritual plays out on the White House lawn. Cameras flash as the president spares a turkey from winding up as Thanksgiving dinner in an act of clemency that draws chuckles and smiles rather than legal scrutiny. While the annual turkey pardon is a lighthearted tradition, it echoes one of the most … Read more

Recycling is one of the most visible environmental actions individuals can take. We drop an item in the correct bin because we believe it makes a difference. This paradigm has created a reality where students often approach recycling as a moral good—something people should do. However, as local programs adjust to rising costs and changing … Read more

| By Gale Staff | On May 8, the College of Cardinals elected Robert Francis Prevost the 268th pope of the Roman Catholic Church—the Church’s first-ever American pope. Although Pope Leo XIV, hails from a working-class background in Chicago, his journey to the Vatican bridges multiple continents, cultures, and languages. For the classroom, Prevost’s ascendancy … Read more

| By Gale Staff | In May, the United States and China agreed to ease tariffs for 90 days, while further negotiations take place on a long-term trade deal. The United States dropped duties on Chinese imports from 145% down to 30%, while China lowered its 125% tariffs on American goods to just 10%. Yet, … Read more

| By Gale Staff | The Earth is a remarkable planet. Due to its unique position relative to the Sun, it is well-suited to support life. Earth’s temperate climate allows for liquid water on its surface, which covers more than 70% of the globe. The remaining fraction, of course, is land, spread across seven distinct … Read more

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church entered a period of mourning—and transition. The death of Pope Francis and the election of his successor, Pope Leo XIV, is a rare opportunity to witness a global leadership transition informed by rituals that have guided the Church for nearly 2,000 years. … Read more

In April 2025, a new digital ID program was launched in three communities in New South Wales, Australia. Instead of flashing a driver’s license or pulling up a mobile pass, participants verify their identity using facial recognition technology integrated into the Service NSW app. Users take a live selfie to match against a government-held reference … Read more