Earth Day 2024: “Planet vs. Plastics”
Did you know that more plastic has been produced in the last ten years than in the entire twentieth century? It can take up to 1,000 years for plastics to break down. Even after that, tiny particles called microplastics remain in the soil, groundwater, and climate. Educating people is one goal of the annual Earth […]
Happy Birthday, Library of Congress!
On April 24, 2024, the Library of Congress celebrates its 224th birthday. The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world. It serves members, committees, and staff of the U.S. Congress. In addition, other government agencies, libraries within and outside of the United States, scholars, researchers, artists, and scientists use its resources. Beginnings […]
National Financial Literacy Month
Since 2003, Congress has designated the month of April as National Financial Literacy Month. This month was chosen to help young people learn how to make smart decisions about money. What Is Financial Literacy? Financial literacy is the ability to manage and take control of personal finances so that one’s financial future is secure. […]
Kugali Media Creates African Comics and More
Whether it’s on a printed page or a digital screen, comics are growing in popularity around the world. American company Marvel Comics is a well-known publisher, with its older superheroes, such as Spider-Man, and its newest characters, such as Kahhori, a young Mohawk woman. An African-owned and operated entertainment company (based in the United Kingdom) […]
Elections in Turkey
Local elections were held in the Middle East nation of Turkey on Sunday, March 31, 2024. Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, hoped his party, AKP, would win elections in Turkey’s major cities. However, the main opposition party, known as CHP, achieved significant victories in key cities like Istanbul and the nation’s capital of Ankara. This […]
The 2024 Solar Eclipse
A total solar eclipse will occur across a large part of the United States on April 8, 2024. Although solar eclipses happen every year or two, this eclipse is different. It is expected to be the most watched eclipse in history. In addition, new technology will allow people who have visual disabilities to experience the […]
World War II’s American “Ghost Army”
During World War II (1939-1945), a top-secret U.S. Army unit had a unique mission: to confuse and trick German soldiers. The men were sworn to secrecy, even after the war. Many died without ever telling anyone, including their own families. Finally, in March 2024, the “Ghost Army” received the Congressional Gold Medal for its role […]
Warmer Weather Brings Cherry Blossoms
The flowering cherry tree grows throughout the world in mild climates. In Japan, the tree is called sakura. It is planted as an ornamental tree and has played an important role in the culture of Japan. In springtime, the flowering cherry tree produces pink and white flowers called cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms do not […]
Women’s History Month: Nellie Bly
In the late 1800s, women reporters were rare. Even if a newspaper had a female reporter on staff, she would often be given assignments labeled “women’s interests”–such as fashion, gardening, or social events. Nellie Bly was not such a woman. She was fearless in her reporting and pushed to write impactful stories. Bly’s innovative investigative […]
Discovery of 240-Million-Year-Old Reptile Species
Two-hundred-forty-million years ago, a serpent-like creature swam the seas near southern China. Based on newly discovered fossils, scientists say the creature looked like a mythical Chinese dragon with a long neck, torpedo-shaped body, and long tail. In February 2024, an international team of scientists unveiled the entire fossilized body for the first time. The reptile […]