Michigan parents are uncertain about the continuation of free school meals due to state budget impasses affecting the program's funding. Some districts have pledged free meals until September 30, while others have budgeted for the entire school year.

Portland Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry faces delays in processing tree permit applications due to staff shortages and an increase in requests after fee removal.

Apache Junction encourages entrepreneurs by offering a digital tool to simplify starting a business, promising support from the Economic Development team.

Nurses and advocates protest against staffing and service cuts at the Atlanta VA Medical Center, citing concerns over veteran care, particularly for those with mental illnesses. The VA claims it's reallocating resources, not cutting staff.

New documentary based on Kristen Iversen's book about growing up near Colorado's contaminated Rocky Flats nuclear plant is discussed by University of Cincinnati, highlighting environmental and political issues.

Wake County's SRO summit at Millbrook High School focuses on enhancing school safety through community policing, relationship building with students, and the introduction of new technologies like the RAVE Panic Button and Say Something apps.

Simpson Strong-Tie expands in Chandler by leasing a 67,000-square-foot space, aiming to enhance its training, manufacturing, and warehousing operations.

CCSD expands its meal program to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students starting the 2025-2026 year without requiring household income applications.

Wake County schools tackle classroom cooling issues with temporary chillers and face a $200 million HVAC maintenance backlog as students advocate for energy-efficient technology.

The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners approved funding for children's, seniors', and first responders' services, including a grant for CASA and a new fire training tower. K9 Nitro was honored upon retirement.

Jazz singer Sheila Jordan has died at 96 in her NYC home. The NEA Jazz Master and influential teacher was known for bebop and scat singing. She is survived by her daughter and was listening to jazz in her final moments.

The Dream Park Community Center in Pembroke Pines celebrates its grand opening on August 16 with a community event featuring entertainment and activities.

Australian officials visited Fort Lauderdale to learn about its infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness strategies amidst global climate challenges. They aimed to apply the insights back in Victoria, Australia.