Trump's massive spending bill & the GOP's priorities

Think you know your American roots? This week’s quiz throws a fun curveball, mixing classic country music trivia with questions about patriotic traditions—think everything from honky-tonk anthems to Fourth of July customs. It’s a lighthearted way to brush up on the cultural quirks that define the U.S.

Editor’s Note: Whether you’re a trivia buff or just curious about what makes American culture tick, this quiz is a playful check-in. It’s not just about right answers—it’s a nod to the shared touchstones (from Dolly Parton to fireworks etiquette) that spark nostalgia or friendly debates. Perfect for sparking conversations at BBQs or boring commutes.

Day one of the French Open 2025 kicked off with Aryna Sabalenka delivering a dominant performance, crushing her opponent 6-1, 6-0. Meanwhile, Elina Svitolina was comfortably ahead in her match, and other early-round action hinted at some intense battles ahead.

Editor’s Note: Sabalenka’s commanding win sets an early tone for the tournament—she’s looking like a serious contender. With big names already in action and rivalries heating up (like Alcaraz vs. Sinner), this year’s French Open could be one to watch. If you’re a tennis fan, buckle up—this is just the start.

A Palestinian pediatrician, Dr. Alaa al-Najjar, who has dedicated her life to treating sick and wounded children in Gaza, has now lost nine of her own children in the ongoing conflict as Israeli forces intensify military operations. The tragedy underscores the horrific human toll of the war, even for those working tirelessly to save lives.

Editor’s Note: This story isn’t just another headline—it’s a gut-wrenching reminder of how war spares no one, not even healers. Dr. al-Najjar’s loss personalizes the staggering civilian casualties in Gaza, forcing us to confront the real, human cost of prolonged conflict. It also raises urgent questions about the protection of medical workers and civilians in war zones.

Over the last three years, the U.S. military has shelled out a staggering $6 billion just to bring in new recruits and keep current service members from leaving. It’s part of a bigger push to tackle a persistent problem: not enough people signing up.

Editor’s Note: The military’s spending spree highlights how tough it’s gotten to attract and hold onto troops—a sign of shifting attitudes toward service, a tight job market, or maybe both. If enlistment keeps dropping, it could force even bigger changes in how the Pentagon fills its ranks.

Pope Leo XIV just made history as the first American pope, but his new role as head of the Vatican—a sovereign state—raises a quirky legal question: Can he keep his U.S. citizenship? It’s a rare situation that blends diplomacy, nationality laws, and a bit of modern precedent (like when former U.S. citizens became royalty abroad).

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a bureaucratic footnote—it’s about how nationality intersects with global leadership. While the Vatican and U.S. have no formal rule against dual roles, the pope’s unique status could spark debates about allegiance, diplomatic immunity, or even tax status. For everyday Catholics (or constitution nerds), it’s a fascinating wrinkle in how faith and governance collide.