It always comes back to sex

Show me a book-banner, and I'll show you a would-be tyrant. The same applies to individuals who seek to promote mandatory speech: what you're forbidden to read, what you must say. Almost always, such efforts involve everybody's favorite pastime: judging the intimate lives of others.

DO JUST ONE THING

For people who make floral arrangements, OASIS floral foam is a commonly used material that helps keep stems in place ... but it's also bad for the environment. This kind of floral foam is impossible to recycle, it's not reusable, and when it does break down, it turns into microplastics. If you're looking for a greener alternative, search for blocks from Agra Wool, which are made from totally biodegradable materials like mineral rock fibers and sugarbased glues. And the best part? This version is reusable, too.

Husband not excited with spouse’s new job

DEAR HARRIETTE: I'm facing a significant and unexpected challenge in my marriage, and I could use some guidance. My husband and I have been happily married for over a year, and I believed our connection was strong. Recently, I decided to surprise him by securing a job on the East Coast, where he's located, as I missed being near him.

Optimism of 2008 seems quaint years later

The flip side also works: Time flies when things are bad. This week, the United States still is reeling from the upheaval in the House, still is feeling economic distress, still is dreading a rematch between two geezers lurching in opposite political directions, still is torn apart by racial tensions with ancient roots. This week also will mark 15 years since Barack Obama stood before a quarter of a million people in Chicago's Grant Park and said, 'Yes, we can.'

Engaged couple has differing visions for wedding

DEAR HARRIETTE: I've been engaged for almost two years now, but my fiance and I have different views about how we should celebrate our wedding. While he wants a grand celebration, I would prefer to have a simple ceremony at the courthouse and an intimate party later. My fiance is used to a lavish lifestyle, and although he's good at saving money, I grew up in a middle-class family and believe in careful planning and not wasting money. I feel that spending a lot of money on a wedding is wasteful and that the money would be better used toward buying a home. I'm not sure if I should compromise and give in to his wishes or try to convince him that saving money would be a better investment for our future. Please help! — Conflicts of Love DEAR CONFLICTS OF LOVE:

So shiny and new

Director of Nurses Janae Chittum speaks to Cindy Wolters and Kay Brown during a tour of Clinton Regional Hospital’s refurbished facility. The hospital was open for business Monday morning.

Reality vs. chaos in the GOP party

In an interview with Politico, former Republican Rep. John Katko described the damage to his party since Speaker Kevin McCarthy was deposed more than three weeks ago: 'The chaos that's ensued has really illuminated the divisions in the party. Not only has it illuminated them, it's kind of deepened and hardened those divisions.'

Every day can be special for fancy gloves

My Auntie Jo gave me a beautiful pair of gloves yesterday. They are elegant, with embroidery on the top, and I immediately did what I usually do — I put them away for safekeeping.

Friend never pays back after borrowing money

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have a friend who constantly borrows money from me and our other friends, but she always tries not to pay it back. It's very sneaky and calculated. I brought it up to my group of friends, and they brushed it off and made excuses for her, making me look like a jerk.

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