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| 2025 FAFSA Changes Explained for Community College Students |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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2025 fafsa changes explained: what community college students must know before applying
the free application for federal student aid (fafsa) remains the foundation of federal student aid eligibility, including grants, work-study, and loans for community college students. For the 2025–26 academic year, the fafsa system continues to evolve under the fafsa simplification act, introducing major changes to how students apply and how eligibility is calculated. Whether you are a first-time applicant, a returning student, or a parent helping your student prepare, this guide breaks down what you need to know before completing the 2025 fafsa. U.S. Department of education+1
introduction to key 2025 fafsa changes
federal student aid received its most significant overhaul in decades beginning with the 2024–25 award year, and many of those transformations carry into 2025. These changes aim to simplify the application process, expand access to aid like the pell grant, and create a more transparent eligibility system for applicants. U.S. Department of education
key shifts for 2025 include:
a streamlined application with fewer questions.
replacement of the expected family contribution (efc) with the student aid index (sai).
updated deadlines and processing expectations.
expanded eligibility criteria for federal grant programs.
u.S. Department of education
understanding these changes early can help community college students boost their chances of securing need-based aid and avoid common filing pitfalls.
what changed in the fafsa structure simplified application form
the fafsa form has been significantly shortened, reducing the number of questions from over 100 to approximately 36 for most applicants. This streamlining reduces barriers to completion and makes the process more user friendly for busy students and families. U.S. Department of education
what to expect with the new form:
a more intuitive interface designed to prefill financial data.
direct transfer of income information from the irs with consent.
elimination of certain historically confusing questions.
u.S. Department of education
the emphasis on simplified logic not only speeds up filing time but also helps reduce errors that can delay processing.
student aid index (sai): the new eligibility metric
one of the most consequential changes for 2025 is the full replacement of the expected family contribution (efc) with the new student aid index (sai). The sai is a number that determines financial need and parental/student contribution expectations. Student financial aid
how sai affects community college financial aid
| metric | old system (efc) | new system (sai) |
|---|---|---|
| name | expected family contribution | student aid index |
| range | minimum 0 | can be negative |
| use | determines eligibility for federal aid | determines eligibility plus expands pell access |
| family college count | reduced eligibility | family college count not factored |
unlike the efc, which could not be negative, an sai can be negative, potentially expanding aid eligibility for low-income students. Because sai calculations do not reduce eligibility for students with family members in college at the same time, students attending community college alongside siblings may benefit. Student financial aid
expanded pell grant eligibility
for many community college students, pell grants are the most impactful form of federal aid because they do not need to be repaid. Under the updated fafsa rules, eligibility for the pell grant is tied more closely to household income, size, and poverty thresholds, potentially increasing the number of students who qualify. Nhc community colleges
highlights of pell changes:
lower household income brackets now qualify for higher pell awards.
some households above traditional income limits may receive partial pell grants.
previously excluded populations, such as certain incarcerated students, can regain eligibility based on updated criteria.
wikipedia
community college students should review pell grant eligibility guidelines early, as these changes could mean more aid than in prior years.
new fafsa terminology and who must contribute
the updated fafsa introduces several new terms that applicants must understand before applying:
contributor: any individual required to provide financial data on a fafsa form, including students, spouses, and parents of dependent students.
hudson county community collegeconsent: all contributors must consent to allow federal tax information (fti) to be transferred directly from the irs to complete the fafsa. Without consent, a student aid index cannot be calculated, and the student’s eligibility for federal aid is not determined.
nhc community colleges
this change makes it critical for students to confirm that family contributors are prepared to provide data and consent in a timely manner.
fafsa deadlines and processing timeline
the 2025–26 fafsa form typically becomes available on october 1, 2024, and the federal deadline for submission is june 30, 2026, but many states and institutions set much earlier priority deadlines. Federal student aid
important deadlines to track:
federal fafsa priority deadline: varies by state, often early in the calendar year.
state grant deadline: some states require fafsa submission before state aid can be awarded.
institutional deadlines: community colleges often set priority dates for institutional grant awards.
filing early maximizes eligibility for need-based aid, especially for programs with limited funds.
common challenges and expert tips
despite simplification, students and families may encounter hurdles during the 2025 fafsa cycle. Here are expert tips to help navigate the process:
tip 1: set up your federal student aid (fsa) id early.
you must have an fsa id to start the fafsa. Create and verify fsa ids for all contributors well before filing. U.S. Department of education
tip 2: gather tax documents ahead of time.
although income information will be transferred from the irs with consent, having recent tax returns and w-2s on hand helps expedite the process if manual entry is needed.
tip 3: check state and college priority deadlines.
missing an earlier state or institutional deadline can mean missing out on additional grants.
tip 4: seek professional guidance.
financial aid advisors at your community college can help interpret your sai and discuss options if your family experiences unusual financial circumstances.
what community college students should do now
community college students preparing for the 2025–26 fafsa should begin planning in the months before the application opens.
pre-application checklist
create or confirm an fsa id for yourself and any contributors.
review income documents for accuracy.
list all college choices early to ensure your fafsa reaches each institution.
track federal, state, and school deadlines.
meet with a financial aid advisor if you have unique financial circumstances.
conclusion: making the new fafsa work for you
the 2025 fafsa changes reflect a broader effort to expand access to federal student aid, reduce application barriers, and better align need analysis with family financial realities. For community college students, these updates may result in more generous pell grants and clearer eligibility calculations through the student aid index.
while the process has changed, the fundamental goal remains the same: complete your fafsa as early and accurately as possible to maximize your financial aid opportunities for the upcoming academic year. |
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| The Enormous Thrift Store In North Dakota Where Locals Go Crazy For Dirt-Cheap D |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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There’s a place in grand forks where spending money feels less like a financial decision and more like winning a game show where everyone’s a champion.
the goodwill retail store in grand forks, north dakota, has turned bargain hunting into a local sport with a devoted following.
this isn’t some cramped, musty thrift shop where you need archaeological tools to unearth anything decent from the piles of questionable donations.
we’re talking about a spacious, well-lit retail paradise where finding quality items doesn’t require divine intervention or a hazmat suit.
the store manages to pack an absurd amount of merchandise under one roof without making you feel like you’re shopping inside a hoarder’s fever dream.
when you walk through those doors, you’re entering a space that actually respects both its inventory and your ability to navigate without a trail of breadcrumbs.
the organization here puts many regular retail stores to shame, which is saying something considering we’re talking about donated goods.
everything has its place, and that place is clearly marked and logically arranged, unlike your teenager’s bedroom.
clothing racks stretch across vast sections of the store, displaying everything from winter parkas to summer tank tops in orderly rows.
the sheer volume of garments available means you could shop here weekly and still discover items you’d never seen before.
north dakotans apparently donate quality clothing, not the threadbare rags that some thrift stores try to pass off as merchandise.
you’ll spot name brands mixed in with everyday wear, all priced like someone actually wants you to afford them.
the men’s section offers dress shirts, casual wear, jeans, jackets, and suits that look like they’ve attended fewer meetings than your spam folder.
business casual and formal wear hang alongside flannel shirts and work pants, covering every possible wardrobe need from job interviews to backyard barbecues.
finding your size doesn’t require supernatural luck or divine patience, thanks to the organized arrangement by type and dimension.
the women’s clothing area could occupy you for hours if you’re the browsing type who enjoys the hunt.
professional attire, casual outfits, formal dresses, activewear, and seasonal pieces fill rack after rack in a display that rivals actual department stores.
someone’s fashion missteps become your wardrobe victories when you find designer jeans for less than a fast-food combo meal.
the rotating inventory means you could visit twice in one week and see completely different options, which either sounds exciting or dangerous depending on your self-control.
children’s clothing sections make perfect sense when you remember that kids grow faster than weeds in july.
parents who furnish their children’s wardrobes here are either brilliant budgeters or just tired of spending mortgage payments on clothes that fit for three months.
tiny shirts, small pants, baby outfits, kids’ jackets, and youth sizes line the racks at prices that won’t make you weep into your wallet.
the condition of these items often suggests they were outgrown before they were outworn, which is fantastic news for your bank account and your kids’ appearance.
books occupy multiple sections throughout the store, creating a budget reader’s paradise that would make librarians jealous.
hardcovers, paperbacks, cookbooks, mysteries, romances, thrillers, biographies, self-help guides, and children’s books stack the shelves in organized categories.
current bestsellers show up regularly because people apparently buy books, read them once, and immediately donate them to make room for more books.
this cycle of literary generosity means you can maintain a robust reading habit without needing a second job to fund it.
the book section alone justifies regular visits for anyone who believes that reading shouldn’t require choosing between entertainment and eating.
home goods take up serious real estate in this store, offering everything needed to transform a house into something resembling an adult’s dwelling.
dishes, glassware, mugs, serving platters, mixing bowls, baking dishes, vases, picture frames, and decorative items fill shelves and displays throughout multiple aisles.
you’ll find complete sets occasionally, but the mismatched pieces have their own charm for people who appreciate eclectic over matchy-matchy.
coffee mugs alone could fill a cabinet, ranging from corporate giveaways to souvenir cups from places you’ve never heard of to genuinely attractive pieces someone abandoned for mysterious reasons.
small kitchen appliances line shelves like a graveyard of abandoned cooking ambitions, which sounds depressing until you realize these are your opportunities.
slow cookers, blenders, toasters, coffee makers, rice cookers, food processors, and various gadgets wait for someone who’ll actually use them.
many appear barely used, suggesting that someone received them as gifts, tried them twice, then decided cooking was overrated anyway.
testing them or being prepared for occasional duds is part of the thrift store adventure, but the potential savings make the gamble worthwhile.
when you score a working stand mixer for the cost of two fancy coffees, you feel like you’ve cracked some secret code to adulthood.
furniture appears throughout the store, though the selection varies wildly depending on what people have recently donated.
dressers, bookshelves, nightstands, chairs, small tables, desks, and entertainment centers show up regularly enough to make checking this section worthwhile.
college students understand this better than anyone—why drain your student loans on flimsy new furniture when solid used pieces cost less than textbooks?
the furniture might need minor repairs or fresh paint, but youtube tutorials exist for exactly these situations.
scoring a real wood dresser here costs less than that particleboard nightmare you’d get from discount furniture chains, and it’ll probably outlive you.
footwear lines entire walls, organized by size and style in a way that makes finding your fit surprisingly painless.
sneakers, boots, sandals, dress shoes, heels, flats, athletic shoes, and winter boots represent humanity’s endless quest to protect feet while looking presentable.
some shoes look practically unworn, like someone bought them, wore them to one event, discovered comfort matters more than style, and immediately donated them.
brand-name athletic shoes pop up regularly for anyone trying to maintain an exercise routine without exercising their credit card into submission.
the shoe section proves that americans buy too many shoes and don’t wear them enough, which is sad for them but excellent for you.
accessories and jewelry occupy their own displays, offering the finishing touches that complete outfits without completing your financial ruin.
belts, scarves, hats, purses, handbags, wallets, and jewelry pieces let you experiment with style without the commitment of retail prices.
designer purses show up often enough that regulars check this section obsessively, hoping to snag that one incredible find before anyone else spots it.
costume jewelry sparkles from the cases, perfect for people who want to look fancy without the anxiety of wearing something actually valuable.
nobody needs to know your gorgeous earrings cost less than a sandwich—that’s between you and your savvy shopping skills.
toys and games create a wonderland for parents navigating birthdays and holidays on budgets that don’t include inheritance money.
board games, puzzles, action figures, dolls, toy vehicles, stuffed animals, and building sets fill bins and shelves throughout the toy section.
checking that all pieces are present requires minimal effort compared to the money you’ll save versus buying new.
kids don’t care if their toys are secondhand when they’re busy actually playing with them instead of admiring the packaging.
the toy section restocks constantly because children outgrow interests faster than they outgrow shoes, creating a steady supply of gently used playthings.
electronics come and go quickly here because word spreads fast when good tech hits the shelves.
speakers, gaming accessories, tablets, dvd players, headphones, cables, and various gadgets from recent years appear regularly in the electronics section.
the gamble factor increases with electronics, but so does the potential payoff when you score working equipment for pocket change.
someone’s abandoned technology experiment becomes your functional device, and suddenly you’re feeling pretty smart about your shopping choices.
sports and outdoor equipment occupy dedicated space for anyone pursuing fitness or outdoor activities without pursuing bankruptcy.
golf clubs, exercise weights, yoga mats, camping gear, fishing equipment, bikes, and athletic accessories await their next owners.
these items represent someone’s abandoned resolution to get fit or embrace the outdoors, which is unfortunate for them but fortunate for your budget.
sporting goods at thrift store prices mean you can try new activities without major financial commitment—if you hate golf, you’re only out a few dollars instead of hundreds.
seasonal merchandise rotates through the store following north dakota’s very serious and very distinct seasons.
christmas decorations appear in autumn, halloween items show up late summer, and winter gear dominates when temperatures drop below “why do i live here” levels.
holiday decorating on a budget becomes actually possible when you’re paying thrift store prices instead of retail markups.
your house can look festive for every season without requiring a storage unit lease to hold all your decorative ambitions.
home décor sections let you experiment with interior design trends without the terror of expensive mistakes.
wall art, decorative signs, throw pillows, blankets, baskets, bins, candles, and knick-knacks line shelves waiting to transform your living space.
if you decide that rustic farmhouse isn’t your aesthetic after all, you’ve wasted maybe ten dollars instead of your entire decorating budget.
trying new styles becomes low-risk when failure costs less than dinner out.
vintage and retro items appear throughout the store for people who appreciate objects with history and character.
mid-century decorative pieces, retro kitchen gadgets, classic toys, vintage clothing, and antique frames pop up regularly among the regular inventory.
discovering these treasures requires a sharp eye and regular visits, but that’s part of what makes finding them so satisfying.
you might uncover a 1960s coffee percolator or a collection of vintage postcards or a record that your parents played during their youth.
the store maintains cleanliness standards that set it apart from thrift shops that smell like mothballs and regret.
you can browse comfortably without feeling like you need a shower afterward or questioning your life choices.
staff members keep sections organized and assist shoppers without hovering or judging your cart full of random items.
the checkout lines move efficiently even during busy periods, which matters when you’re carrying armfuls of bargains and your arms are getting tired.
pricing reflects an understanding that customers have finite resources and infinite needs, which is refreshing in modern retail.
most clothing items cost just a few dollars, books run cheaper than coffee drinks, and household goods are priced to move rather than collect dust.
the color-coded tag system offers additional discounts on specific colors each week, adding another layer of savings for strategic shoppers.
watching people fill entire carts for what one retail item would cost provides genuine satisfaction, like witnessing mathematics work in your favor for once.
that business about dirt-cheap deals in the title isn’t exaggeration—people really do go slightly wild here when they realize how much they can buy for so little.
your spending power multiplies exponentially when prices are this reasonable, turning modest budgets into shopping sprees.
furnishing an entire apartment, building a complete wardrobe, or stocking a kitchen becomes achievable rather than aspirational.
that’s not being frugal—that’s being intelligent enough to recognize that retail markup is optional.
the environmental benefits of thrift shopping deserve mention even in a lighthearted piece about bargain hunting.
every purchased item represents one less thing in landfills and one less newly manufactured product requiring resources and shipping.
you’re simultaneously saving money and reducing waste, which means you can feel both smart and virtuous.
the planet appreciates your bargain hunting almost as much as your wallet does.
students from the university of north dakota practically consider this store their unofficial campus bookstore and furniture supplier.
when your budget consists of financial aid and hope, paying retail prices for anything feels like financial malpractice.
dorm rooms and student apartments across grand forks have been furnished largely through weekend trips to this goodwill location.
nobody judges secondhand furniture when everyone’s equally broke and trying to create living spaces that don’t scream “college poverty.”
families make weekend shopping trips here together, turning bargain hunting into quality time that doesn’t drain college funds.
kids enjoy searching for toys and books, parents appreciate affordable clothing and household items, and everyone benefits when the total bill causes relief instead of panic.
regular thrift shopping changes your entire perspective on consumption and value in genuinely healthy ways.
retail prices start looking absurd when you’re accustomed to thrift store costs, which might explain why regulars here seem slightly smug.
the donation entrance stays busy as community members participate in the cycle of giving and receiving.
what you donate today might furnish someone’s first apartment or complete another shopper’s perfect outfit tomorrow.
this constant turnover keeps inventory fresh and gives shoppers good reasons to visit frequently without seeing identical items.
the selection next week will differ completely from today’s offerings, which either sounds exciting or expensive depending on your self-control levels.
grand forks provides easy access to this location without requiring expeditions across town or through challenging terrain.
parking spaces accommodate the steady stream of bargain hunters without creating the competitive parking nightmares of holiday shopping at malls.
getting in and out remains straightforward even when you’re hauling multiple bags of purchases to your vehicle.
these practical considerations matter significantly during north dakota winters when unnecessary outdoor time feels like punishment.
the goodwill organization’s broader mission means your shopping contributes to job training programs and community services.
every purchase supports employment initiatives and assistance programs that benefit local residents.
your bargain hunting actually helps fund meaningful programs beyond just satisfying your need for affordable home goods.
shopping that serves dual purposes—saving your money while supporting community programs—represents the best kind of retail therapy.
to get more information about current inventory, sales, and donation guidelines, visit the goodwill grand forks website or check out their facebook page for updates.
use this map to find your way to this treasure trove of affordable finds.
where: 3651 s washington st, grand forks, nd 58201
your closets probably need filling, your kitchen could use updating, and your bank account definitely deserves a break from retail prices—this place solves all three problems beautifully. |
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| The Parable of the Orange Tree |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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Today’s passage – hebrews 12 – james 1 ; (click on the references to listen to the audio – click here to view the text from the blue letter bible website)
(second milers also read – psalms 101 – 105 ; proverbs 21 )
listen to this morning’s scripture song – psalm 19
read a previous post from this passage – “we talk too much, but say very little”
“but be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.” – (James 1:22-25)
one of the frustrating things about the ministry is the lack of application we see in the lives of people from the truths that are being preached and taught from the bible. For example, i can preach a message on soul winning and hear people say “amen!”, With some of them complimenting the message on their way out; but then see few actually talk to people about the lord. I can teach on the need to be separated, and again have the congregation appear to be in agreement, but then see little change in the area of separation. I see people go to the altar week after week under obvious conviction about a truth that was preached that morning, yet go out and do again the same things that they were convicted about.
we need to do more than just agree with god. We need to put into practical application the things that he is revealing to us from his word. I am beginning to make it a habit now at the end of my messages to ask people what specific actions they are going to take as a result of what they have heard. Agreeing with god about the need for soulwinning or even feeling bad about people dying and going to hell is useless, unless you actually decide to go soulwinning and then do it; but a specific, tangible decision that will lead to a change of action is necessary. Isn’t this what true repentance is? Isn’t it a change of mind and attitude that leads to a change in action?
let’s not stop coming to the altar, but let’s not leave the altar until we have found out what god specifically wants us to do with what he has taught us. Unless actual change takes place, all of the conviction and contrition in the world is really just vanity.
years ago, i heard a preacher tell us the following parable, which i believe perfectly illustrates this point:
the parable of the orange tree by dr. John white
i dreamed i drove on a florida road, still and straight and empty. On either side were groves of orange trees, so that as i turned to look at them from time to time, line after line of trees stretched back endlessly from the road. Their boughs were heavy with round yellow fruit. This was harvest time. My wonder grew as the miles slipped by. How could the harvest be gathered?
suddenly i realized that for all the hours i had driven (and this was how i knew i must be dreaming) i had seen no other person. The groves were empty of people. No other car had passed me. No houses were to be seen beside the highway. I was alone in a forest of orange trees.
but, at last, i saw some orange pickers. Far from the highway, almost on the horizon, lost in the vast wilderness of unpicked fruit, i could discern a tiny group of them working steadily. And many miles later i saw another group. I could not be sure, but i suspected that the earth beneath me was shaking with silent laughter at the hopelessness of their task. Yet the pickers went on picking.
the sun had long passed its zenith and the shadows were lengthening when, without any warning, i turned a corner of the road to see a notice “leaving neglected county – entering home county.” The contrast was so startling that i scarcely had time to take in the notice. I had to slow down for all at once the traffic was heavy. People by the thousands swarmed the road and crowded the sidewalks.
even more startling was the transformation in the orange groves. Orange groves were still there and orange trees in abundance, but now, far from being silent and empty, they were filled with the laughter and singing of multitudes of people. Indeed it was the people we noticed rather than the trees. People and houses.
i parked the car at the roadside and mingled with the crowd. Smart gowns, neat shoes, showy hats, expensive suits, and starched shirts made me a little conscious of my work clothes. Everyone seemed so fresh and poised and gay.
“is it a holiday?” I asked a well-dressed woman with whom i fell in step.
she looked a little startled for a moment, and then her face relaxed with a smile of gracious condescension.
“you’re a stranger, aren’t you?” She said before i could reply, “this is orange day.”
she must have seen a puzzled look on my face, for she went on, “it is so good to turn aside from one’s labors and pick oranges one day of the week.”
“but don’t you pick oranges every day?” I asked her.
“one may pick oranges at any time,” she said, “we should always be ready to pick oranges, but orange day is the day that we devote especially to orange picking.”
i left her and made my way further into the trees. Most of the people were carrying a book. Bound beautifully in leather, and edged and lettered in gold, i was able to discern on the edge of one of them the words: the orange picker’s manual.
by and by i noticed around one of the orange trees, seats had been arranged, rising upward in tiers from the ground. The seats were almost full-but as i approached the group, a smiling well-dressed gentleman shook my hand and conducted me to a seat.
there, around the foot of the orange tree, i could see a number of people. One of them was addressing all the people on the seats and just as i got to my seat, everyone rose to his feet and began to sing. The man next to me shared with me his song book. It was called: songs of the orange groves.
they sang for some time and the song leader waved his arms with a strange and frenzied abandon, exhorting the people in the intervals between the songs to sing more loudly.
i grew steadily more puzzled.
“when do we start to pick oranges?” I asked the man who had loaned me his book.
“it’s not long now,” he told me. “We like to get everyone warmed up first. Besides, we want to make the oranges feel at home.” I thought he was joking but his face was serious.
after a while a rather large man took over from the song leader and, after reading two sentences from his well-thumbed copy of the orange picker’s manual, began to make a speech. I wasn’t clear whether he was addressing the people or the oranges.
i glanced behind me and saw a number of groups of people similar to our own group gathering around an occasional tree and being addressed by other large men. Some of the trees had no one around them.
“which trees do we pick from?” I asked the man beside me. He did not seem to understand, so i pointed to the trees round about.
“this is our tree,” he said, pointing to the one we were gathered around.
“but there are too many of us to pick from just one tree,” i protested. “Why, there are more people than oranges!”
“but we don’t pick oranges,” the man explained. “We haven’t been called. That’s the orange picker’s job. We’re here to support him. Besides we haven’t been to college. You need to know how an orange thinks before you can pick it, successfully orange psychology, you know. Most of these folk here,” he went on, pointing to the congregation, “have never been to manual school.”
“manual school,” i whispered. “What’s that?”
“it’s where they go to study the orange picker’s manual,” my informant went on. “It’s very hard to understand. You need years of study before it makes sense.”
“i see, i murmured. I had no idea that picking oranges was so difficult.”
the large man at the front was still making his speech. His face was red and he appeared to be indignant about something. So far as i could see there was rivalry with some of the other “orange-picking” groups. But a moment later a glow came on his face,
“but we are not forsaken,” he said. “We have much to be thankful for. Last week we saw three oranges brought into our baskets, and we are now completely debt free from the money we owed on the new cushion covers that grace the seats you now sit on.”
“isn’t it wonderful?” The man next to me murmured. I made no reply. I felt that something must be profoundly wrong somewhere. All this seemed to be a very roundabout way of picking oranges.
the large man was reaching a climax in his speech. The atmosphere seemed tense. Then with a very dramatic gesture he reached two of the oranges, plucked them from the branch, and placed them in the basket at his feet. The applause was deafening.
“do we start on the picking now?” I asked my informant.
“what in the world do you think we’re doing?” He hissed. “What do you suppose this tremendous effort has been made for? There’s more orange-picking talent in this group than in the rest of home county. Thousands of dollars have been spent on the tree you’re looking at.”
i apologized quickly. “I wasn’t being critical,” i said. “And i’m sure the large man must be a very good orange picker – but surely the rest of us could try. After all, there are so many oranges that need picking. We’ve all got a pair of hands and we could read the manual.”
“when you’ve been in the business as long as i have, you’ll realize that it’s not as simple as that,” he replied. “There isn’t time, for one thing. We have our work to do, our families to care for, and our homes to look after. We . . .”
but i wasn’t listening. Light was beginning to break on me. Whatever these people were, they were not orange pickers. Orange picking was just a form of entertainment for their weekends.
i tried one or two more of the groups around the trees. Not all of them had such high academic standards for orange pickers. Some held classes on orange picking. I tried to tell them of the trees i had seen in neglected county but they seemed to have little interest.
“we haven’t picked the oranges here yet,” was their usual reply.
the sun was almost setting in my dream and, growing tired of the noise and activity all around me, i got in the car and began to drive back again along the road i had come. Soon all around me again were the vast and empty orange groves.
but there were changes. Something had happened in my absence. Everywhere the ground was littered with fallen fruit. And as i watched it seemed that before my eyes the trees began to rain oranges. Many of them lay rotting on the ground.
i felt there was something so strange about it all, and my bewilderment grew as i thought of all the people in home county.
then, booming through the trees there came a voice which said, “the harvest truly is plenteous but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the lord of the harvest”, that he will send forth laborers. . .”
and i awakened – for it was only a dream! |
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| Kaine & Banks introduce bill to eliminate tax on student loans - Blue Ridge Lead |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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Kaine & banks introduce bill to eliminate tax on student loans
on dec. 17, u.S. Senator tim kaine, a member of the senate health, education, labor and pensions committee, (d-va) and u.S. Senator jim banks (r-in) introduced the student loan tax elimination act, legislation to remove “origination fees” for federal student loans.
“student loan debt is holding virginia families and the overall economy back,” said kaine. “It should be easier, not harder, for american students to afford to go to college if that is the right path for them. That’s why i’m introducing this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to finally get rid of an antiquated tax on student loan borrowers.”
“students deserve a fair deal when paying for college,” said banks. “My bill ends a hidden tax on student loans and ensures our next generation has a greater opportunity to receive a more affordable education.”
origination fees were historically intended to offset costs incurred by the private-sector partners that serviced federal student loans. Direct subsidized and direct unsubsidized loans are charged a fee of 1.057 percent, with plus loans receiving a fee of 4 percent.
in 2010, congress shifted responsibility for all federal student loans from private-sector partners to the u.S. Department of education—but these fees remained in place and have been burdening borrowers since. The student loan tax elimination act would remove these fees, eliminating what has been a needless tax on student loan borrowers.
in april 2025, kaine and sen. Jeff merkley (d-or) introduced legislation to expand federal student loan repayment options. In february 2025, kaine introduced the jumpstarting our businesses by supporting students act, legislation to allow students to use federal pell grants for shorter-term job training programs; parts of this legislation became law in july 2025.
u.S. Representatives lloyd smucker (r-pa-11) and sharice davids (d-ks-03) have introduced companion legislation in the house of representatives.
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| The Era of Illegal Student Loan Forgiveness Is Over |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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Nicholas kent and catherine hanaway:
the u.S. Education department has agreed to a settlement with the state of missouri, which sued the government in 2024 over the biden administration’s illegal student loan forgiveness. There’s a serious debate to be had about student loans ballooning out of control, but democratic politicians have made impossible promises based on illegal maneuvers. Instead of working toward policy reforms to ensure colleges and universities deliver education at a reasonable cost, democrats churned out debt-forgiveness plans and insisted they could cancel student loans unilaterally.
nationally, borrowers owe nearly $1.7 trillion in student loans. President biden gave way to pressure from radicals when he purported to cancel a substantial portion of the outstanding balance. In doing so, he (or perhaps his autopen) flouted the law and tried to saddle taxpayers—many of whom didn’t attend college or paid their own way—with billions in student debt.
missouri first challenged these attempts at mass student loan forgiveness in 2022. Multiple federal courts held that the administration’s forgiveness plans were illegal. After losing at the supreme court in 2023, the biden administration doubled down on mass loan forgiveness by loading existing income-driven repayment plans with terms that would make loan forgiveness inevitable. The university of pennsylvania wharton school’s budget models estimated that this would cost taxpayers $342 billion over 10 years. |
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| 11 Affordable Cities in South Carolina Where They Are All About Simple Living An |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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Looking for affordable cities in south carolina where life moves at a gentler pace?
these 11 charming communities offer budget-friendly living and stress-free environments that will make you wonder why you didn’t move sooner!
1. Columbia
columbia gives you big city amenities without the big city headaches.
the state capital offers historic brick buildings alongside modern conveniences, creating a perfect blend of old and new.
walking down main street, you’ll find local shops, restaurants, and that friendly southern hospitality that makes everyone feel like a neighbor.
the cost of living here sits below the national average, making your dollar stretch further than in those fancy coastal towns.
housing prices won’t make your wallet cry, with median home values that let regular folks actually afford to buy a place.
the university of south carolina brings youthful energy and cultural events that keep things interesting without being overwhelming.
riverfront park offers peaceful walks along the water when you need to escape and clear your head.
you can actually find parking downtown without needing a treasure map and a prayer!
2. Gaffney
gaffney might be famous for that giant peach water tower (yes, it looks exactly like what you’re thinking), but locals love it for the simple pace of life.
this small city offers affordable housing that makes homeownership an actual possibility instead of a distant dream.
downtown features charming brick buildings with local businesses where the owners actually remember your name.
the cost of living here is like stepping back in time, with everyday expenses that don’t require a second mortgage.
outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the nearby kings mountain state park for hiking and fishing without crowds breathing down your neck.
the local farmers market connects you directly with the people who grow your food, creating community while saving you money.
traffic jams?
those are something you hear about on the news happening in other places.
you can get from one side of town to the other in minutes instead of hours.
3. Conway
conway sits just a short drive from myrtle beach but feels worlds away from the tourist hustle.
this historic river town offers affordable living with the charm of a community that values peace and quiet.
the downtown area features beautiful oak-lined streets that make every walk feel like you’re strolling through a postcard.
housing costs here won’t send you into cardiac arrest, with options that normal working folks can actually afford.
the waccamaw river provides a natural playground for kayaking and fishing without fighting crowds for space.
local restaurants serve up delicious meals at prices that don’t require a loan application with your dinner order.
conway’s historic district gives you that small-town atmosphere where neighbors still wave and chat across fences.
the rocking chairs on front porches aren’t just for decoration – people actually use them while sipping sweet tea and watching the world go by.
4. Aiken
aiken offers southern charm with wide streets designed for horse carriages that now give modern drivers plenty of room.
this equestrian-friendly city provides affordable living with a touch of elegance that doesn’t come with an outrageous price tag.
the downtown area features unique shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings that tell stories of days gone by.
housing costs remain reasonable, allowing residents to enjoy life instead of working multiple jobs just to make rent.
hopelands gardens provides 14 acres of peaceful walking paths among ancient oaks draped with spanish moss – all for free!
the cost of groceries, utilities, and everyday expenses sits below national averages, making your paycheck stretch further.
traffic moves at a civilized pace, and finding parking is something you do without breaking a sweat or your budget.
the community calendar stays full of affordable events that bring neighbors together without emptying wallets.
5. Florence
florence gives you that perfect middle ground – not too big, not too small, and definitely not too expensive.
this regional hub offers all the conveniences you need without the stress and costs of bigger cities.
downtown florence has undergone a revival with local restaurants and shops that won’t require a second mortgage to enjoy.
housing prices remain down-to-earth, with options ranging from historic homes to new developments at reasonable prices.
the city’s central location puts you just a short drive from beaches, mountains, or other major cities when you want a change of scenery.
local farmers markets and community events create connections between neighbors that you just don’t find in bigger places.
traffic moves along at a reasonable pace, and the morning “rush hour” might add five whole minutes to your commute.
the cost of living index sits comfortably below national averages, letting you actually save money instead of watching it all disappear on basics.
6. Goose creek
goose creek offers affordable suburban living with easy access to charleston’s jobs without charleston’s housing prices.
this growing community maintains a small-town feel while providing modern conveniences that make life comfortable.
housing costs run significantly lower than nearby charleston, letting families afford homes with actual yards.
the city maintains beautiful parks and recreation areas where families can enjoy the outdoors without spending a dime.
local shopping centers provide everything you need without fighting through tourist crowds or paying tourist prices.
the community hosts regular events that bring neighbors together and create that sense of belonging often missing in bigger cities.
traffic moves reasonably well, and you won’t spend half your life sitting at stoplights or searching for parking.
the cost of everyday expenses remains manageable, allowing residents to actually enjoy life instead of just paying bills.
7. Myrtle beach
myrtle beach offers coastal living that regular folks can actually afford – not just the vacation home crowd.
this beach city provides year-round residents with off-season peace and quiet after the tourists head home.
housing options range from affordable condos to single-family homes at prices that won’t require winning the lottery.
the endless beach provides free entertainment and relaxation – just grab a chair and watch the waves roll in.
local restaurants offer “locals only” specials during off-season months, making dining out affordable for residents.
the cost of living, while higher than some inland areas, remains reasonable for a coastal community with so many amenities.
entertainment options abound, from free beach concerts to affordable golf courses that locals can actually enjoy.
the market common area offers a walkable community with shops, restaurants, and parks that create a neighborhood feel.
8. Lancaster
lancaster gives you small-town charm with a revitalized downtown that doesn’t come with big-city price tags.
this historic community offers affordable housing options from charming older homes to newer developments.
the downtown area features local businesses where your dollar supports neighbors instead of distant corporations.
the cost of living sits well below national averages, making everyday expenses manageable for working families.
community events like the red rose festival bring neighbors together without expensive admission fees.
traffic?
what traffic?
getting across town takes minutes instead of the hour-long ordeal you’d face in larger cities.
the nearby andrew jackson state park offers beautiful outdoor spaces for hiking and picnicking without crowds.
local restaurants serve delicious meals at prices that let you eat out without checking your bank balance first.
9. Camden
camden offers historic charm and equestrian culture without the high costs usually associated with such communities.
this small city claims the title of south carolina’s oldest inland town, giving you history around every corner.
housing remains affordable, with options ranging from historic homes to newer constructions at reasonable prices.
the downtown area features locally-owned shops and restaurants where your money stays in the community.
the annual carolina cup brings excitement once a year, but daily life moves at a peaceful, stress-free pace.
the cost of groceries, utilities, and everyday expenses sits comfortably below national averages.
historic sites like the revolutionary war park offer free educational opportunities right in your backyard.
traffic moves along at a civilized pace, and finding parking never requires the patience of a saint.
10. Charleston
wait, charleston?
affordable?
yes, if you know where to look beyond the tourist districts!
while downtown historic areas command premium prices, surrounding neighborhoods offer more reasonable housing options.
the north charleston area provides affordable alternatives with easy access to the charm and jobs of charleston proper.
public parks, beaches, and waterfront areas offer free recreation that both tourists and locals can enjoy.
local knowledge helps you find restaurants serving amazing food without the tourist-trap prices.
the strong job market means your affordable housing comes with actual employment opportunities.
the city’s walkable design in many areas means you can save on transportation costs while enjoying the scenery.
community events throughout the year create connections between neighbors from all walks of life.
11. Spartanburg
spartanburg combines small-city convenience with big-city amenities at prices that won’t break your budget.
this revitalized city offers affordable housing options from historic neighborhoods to newer developments.
downtown features a growing scene of local restaurants, shops, and cultural venues that remain accessible to average folks.
the cost of living sits below national averages, making everyday expenses manageable for working families.
the cottonwood trail and other outdoor spaces provide free recreation opportunities throughout the year.
local colleges bring cultural events and youthful energy without driving up prices to unreasonable levels.
traffic moves along at a reasonable pace, and the “rush hour” might add a whole five minutes to your commute.
community events like spring fling and jazz on the square offer free entertainment that brings everyone together.
life in these affordable south carolina cities proves you don’t need a massive bank account to live well.
whether you prefer mountains, midlands, or coastal views, the palmetto state offers budget-friendly communities where neighbors still know each other and the pace of life lets you actually enjoy your days! |
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| The Underrated City In New York Where You Can Still Live Large In Retirement |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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There’s a city in southwestern new york that’s been quietly minding its own business while everyone else fights over expensive real estate and complains about the cost of avocado toast.
jamestown sits on the shores of chautauqua lake like that friend who never brags but somehow has everything figured out – affordable housing, cultural attractions, natural beauty, and a quality of life that makes you wonder why anyone would choose to struggle somewhere else.
those historic roads aren’t just pretty faces – they’re proof that architecture had better taste back then. Photo credit: empirestatefuture here’s what nobody tells you about retirement planning: you can either spend your golden years pinching pennies in an expensive city, or you can live like royalty in a place that doesn’t require you to win the lottery first.
jamestown falls firmly into the second category, and it’s about time someone let you in on this secret.
the housing market here operates in an alternate universe where prices actually make sense.
you can find charming victorian homes with original woodwork, spacious rooms, and front porches perfect for judging your neighbors – i mean, enjoying the neighborhood – for less than what a studio apartment costs in brooklyn.
these aren’t fixer-uppers that require a construction crew and a miracle.
we’re talking about real homes with character, history, and the kind of craftsmanship that modern builders seem to have forgotten exists.
downtown jamestown serves up that rare combination of authentic charm and actual parking spaces you can find. Photo credit: wikimedia commons the downtown district showcases beautiful brick architecture that tells the story of a city that once thrived on furniture manufacturing and still maintains its dignity.
third street runs through the heart of downtown, lined with buildings that have been lovingly restored rather than torn down and replaced with generic glass boxes.
local businesses occupy these spaces, creating a streetscape that feels authentic instead of manufactured by some corporate committee.
you can actually walk around downtown without feeling like you’re in a shopping mall designed by someone who’s never experienced joy.
the food scene in jamestown punches well above its weight class, offering variety and quality that would make much larger cities jealous.
the pearl city hops serves creative pub fare alongside craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere where you can actually have a conversation without shouting.
their menu features burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers that go beyond the standard bar food you’ve eaten a thousand times before.
modern playgrounds where kids burn energy while parents contemplate the superior nap opportunities of retirement life ahead. Photo credit: todd singleton when you’re craving something more upscale, the wine cellar offers an extensive selection of wines paired with dishes that show someone in the kitchen actually cares about what they’re doing.
the intimate setting makes it perfect for date night, assuming you still do those after decades of marriage, or for treating yourself because you’re retired and you’ve earned it.
for breakfast enthusiasts who believe it’s the most important meal of the day – or at least the most delicious – forte restaurant serves morning meals that’ll make you reconsider ever eating cereal again.
they also do lunch and dinner, making it one of those reliable spots you can visit regardless of what time your stomach starts demanding attention.
the labyrinth press company combines books with food, which is basically the perfect combination for anyone who’s ever wanted to eat and read simultaneously without feeling judged.
this café and bookstore hybrid serves sandwiches, soups, and baked goods in a space filled with local art and literary charm.
community parks that understand the assignment: green space, play equipment, and benches positioned for optimal grandkid-watching. Photo credit: christina schroer (chrissy) you can spend hours here pretending to read while actually people-watching, or genuinely reading if you’re one of those focused individuals who can ignore distractions.
now let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the comedy legend who was born in this room.
lucille ball grew up in jamestown, and the city has embraced this heritage with enthusiasm that borders on obsession, but in the most delightful way possible.
the lucy-desi museum downtown celebrates the life and career of america’s favorite redhead with exhibits that include recreated sets, costumes, props, and memorabilia that’ll transport you back to the golden age of television.
this isn’t some dusty shrine gathering cobwebs in a forgotten corner.
the museum is interactive, engaging, and genuinely entertaining, which seems appropriate for honoring someone who made millions of people laugh.
every august, the lucille ball comedy festival transforms jamestown into comedy central, bringing professional comedians from across the country to perform.
where neighborhood kids create memories that don’t require wifi, batteries, or a subscription service to enjoy fully. Photo credit: stephanie imagine retiring somewhere that hosts a major comedy festival annually, giving you access to world-class entertainment without the world-class prices.
the national comedy center takes the lucy legacy even further, offering a state-of-the-art museum experience dedicated to comedy in all its forms.
this place uses technology to personalize your visit based on your comedy preferences, so you’re not stuck watching stuff that doesn’t tickle your funny bone.
you can explore the history of comedy from vaudeville to viral videos, watch classic performances, and even test your own comedic timing in interactive exhibits.
it’s the kind of attraction that puts jamestown on the cultural map and gives you serious bragging rights when people ask what there is to do in your retirement city.
the reg lenna center for the arts provides another cultural anchor downtown, hosting concerts, theater productions, classic films, and performances in a beautifully restored historic theater.
honoring hometown hero lucille ball with a memorial that proves comedy legends deserve more than just reruns. Photo credit: jody eriksson the building itself is worth seeing – ornate details, grand architecture, and the kind of elegance that modern venues rarely achieve.
you can catch quality entertainment here without needing to take out a loan or drive three hours to the nearest city.
chautauqua lake serves as jamestown’s natural playground, offering 17 miles of clean water perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, and staring peacefully at the horizon while contemplating absolutely nothing.
the lake is well-maintained and accessible, with public parks and boat launches that don’t require you to own waterfront property to enjoy the water.
during summer, you can take cruises on the lake and pretend you’re on an expensive vacation while actually just being a short drive from your affordable home.
launch your boat without launching your blood pressure – waterfront access that’s actually accessible and reasonably priced. Photo credit: misty hundley the chautauqua institution sits on the lake’s shores, operating as a victorian village dedicated to education, arts, and intellectual enrichment.
their summer program brings in speakers, musicians, theater companies, and thought leaders from around the world.
you can attend lectures by bestselling authors, watch opera performances, take classes in painting or philosophy, and generally feel like you’re at an adult summer camp designed by someone with excellent taste.
access to this kind of programming in a small city is unusual and valuable, especially when you’re retired and finally have time to pursue intellectual interests beyond binge-watching television.
for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay active without joining an expensive gym, jamestown offers plenty of options.
the jamestown audubon nature center features miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats where you can spot birds, wildlife, and maybe even remember what it feels like to breathe fresh air.
they offer educational programs throughout the year, so you can finally learn to identify birds beyond “small brown one” and “big black one.”
bike paths that wind through scenery so pleasant you’ll forget you’re technically exercising right now. Photo credit: stephanie fonseca the roger tory peterson institute of natural history honors the famous naturalist and bird artist who called jamestown home.
the institute includes galleries showcasing nature art, outdoor trails for exploration, and programs connecting people with the natural world.
it’s perfect for quiet afternoons when you want to appreciate nature without actually camping in it, because let’s be honest, sleeping on the ground loses its appeal after a certain age.
winter in jamestown is legitimate – this is western new york, where snow is a regular occurrence rather than a special event that shuts down the city.
however, the cost of living is reasonable enough that you can actually afford to heat your home properly instead of wearing multiple layers indoors and pretending you’re fine.
the city handles snow efficiently because they’ve had plenty of practice, so life continues even when the white stuff piles up.
you might even learn to appreciate the beauty of winter when you’re not stressed about heating bills or whether your landlord will actually fix the furnace.
this stunning stone library proves that knowledge and architectural beauty aren’t mutually exclusive concepts in small cities. Photo credit: james prendergast library association healthcare in jamestown is solid, which matters increasingly as you age and can’t just ignore symptoms and hope they disappear.
upmc chautauqua provides comprehensive medical services including emergency care, surgery, and various specialties.
you won’t need to drive hours to see a doctor or wait months for appointments, which is a genuine advantage that people in remote areas understand not to take for granted.
the community atmosphere in jamestown is something special that can’t be quantified on a spreadsheet but makes all the difference in daily life.
people here actually know their neighbors, volunteer for local causes, and participate in community events without needing to be bribed.
historic library buildings that make you want to check out books just to have an excuse to visit. Photo credit: mark kemper the farmers market brings together local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items in a setting where you’ll inevitably run into someone you know and end up chatting longer than planned.
jamestown community college offers continuing education classes for retirees who want to keep learning or finally acquire skills they’ve been postponing for decades.
you can take courses in computers, cooking, creative writing, or countless other subjects without paying tuition that requires a payment plan.
lifelong learning sounds great in theory but often gets abandoned because it’s expensive or inconvenient, but here it’s genuinely accessible.
the arts scene extends beyond major institutions into local galleries, public art installations, and creative projects throughout the city.
you’ll find murals brightening downtown walls, sculptures in public spaces, and rotating exhibits showcasing regional artists.
local boutiques where shopping feels personal again, not like navigating a warehouse with fluorescent lighting overhead. Photo credit: dot’s gift boutique this isn’t art for the sake of appearing cultured – it’s art that enhances daily life and makes you smile during routine errands.
the restaurant landscape continues evolving with new establishments opening alongside longtime favorites, creating variety that keeps meals interesting.
you can find classic american diners serving breakfast all day, ethnic restaurants offering international cuisines, and everything in between.
prices remain reasonable, meaning you can eat out regularly instead of treating restaurants like special occasions requiring advance budgeting and financial planning.
downtown shops mixing restored brick with modern retail – proof that old and new can coexist beautifully. Photo credit: art cloth & craft shopping in jamestown provides a mix of local boutiques, antique stores, and practical retailers covering everyday needs.
you won’t find every chain store in existence, but you also won’t need to drive an hour for groceries or prescriptions.
local shops have personality and owners who remember customers, which beats the anonymous efficiency of big box stores where you’re just another face in the crowd.
the jamestown savings bank arena hosts sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings year-round.
it’s home to local hockey teams and brings in entertainment that gives you options beyond streaming services and reruns.
regional shopping that covers your practical needs without requiring a gps and detailed expedition planning to navigate. Photo credit: justin vickers having a modern arena in a city this size is an asset that many larger communities would envy.
transportation in jamestown is refreshingly straightforward because the city is compact and navigable.
you can drive across town in minutes, parking is abundant and typically free, and you won’t spend half your life in traffic questioning your existence.
the chautauqua area regional transit system provides public transportation for those preferring not to drive, and the city is improving walkability and bike infrastructure.
the prendergast library deserves recognition because libraries are underappreciated treasures that make communities livable.
bookstore cafés combining literature and lunch – the retirement dream you didn’t know you were allowed to have. Photo credit: labyrinth press company this beautiful historic building offers books, digital resources, programs, and events in a welcoming environment.
you can browse for hours, attend lectures, or simply sit and read without anyone bothering you – basically free entertainment that also makes you feel intellectually superior.
the weather in jamestown includes four genuine seasons, providing variety without the monotony of places where every day feels identical.
spring brings renewal and flowers, summer offers warm days ideal for lake activities, fall delivers spectacular foliage rivaling anywhere in the northeast, and winter provides cozy indoor time while snow falls outside.
yes, winter lasts longer than you might prefer, but that’s what fireplaces and hot beverages are for.
the location provides easy access to other attractions, making jamestown an ideal base for exploration.
upscale dining in historic buildings where the steaks are serious but the atmosphere never gets stuffy or pretentious. Photo credit: josh pickard you’re close to allegany state park for outdoor adventures, near niagara falls for impressing visitors, and within reasonable driving distance of buffalo, erie, and pittsburgh for when you need urban amenities.
but the best part is returning home to jamestown where life is calmer and your bank account isn’t constantly crying.
community events throughout the year provide reasons to socialize and engage with neighbors.
from summer concerts in parks to holiday celebrations to art walks and festivals, there’s always something happening that brings people together.
these are genuine community gatherings where people actually enjoy each other’s company, not forced corporate events designed to empty your wallet.
for more information about everything jamestown has to offer, you can visit the city’s website or check out their local facebook page to stay updated on events and happenings.
use this map to start planning your visit or potential move.
where: jamestown, ny 14701
retirement doesn’t have to mean choosing between comfort and solvency – jamestown proves you can have both, plus culture, entertainment, natural beauty, and a real sense of community. |
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| West Texas Schools Awarded Million-Dollar Workforce Grants |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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Two west texas schools included for million-dollar workforce readiness grants
on december 3, texas governor abbott announced that a total of $1 million split between six separate grants have been awarded to various school districts. Two of these districts are in west texas.
texas workforce readiness grants
these grants awarded to texas independent school districts are awarded through the texas workforce commission (twc) and are intended to train students with key skills for high-demand jobs after graduation.
texas student rights: discipline, punishment, and corporal limits
the money from these grants will go towards buying, repairing, or replacing equipment designed to educate students for the next generation of texas workforce.
what schools received the workforce readiness grants?
a total of six school districts were awarded the dual credit grants. Two districts are right here in west texas.
dimmit isd received $218,429 for their automotive technician program, while hale center isd received $131,530 for a culinary program.
the remaining grant recipients include the following:
austwell-tivoli isd: $220,000 forphlebotomyprogramla villa isd: $146,233 for nursing programorange grove isd: $220,000 for welding programwoodson isd: $145,863 for welding program
what are dual credit grants?
these grants are aimed toward schools offering students a chance to earn high school and college credits simultaneously. This gives the student an advantage upon graduation.
student loan scams in texas: warning signs & how to protect
in the case of these workforce dual credit grants, these refer to students earning high school credits while learning key skills for their career of choice (welding, culinary, nursing) at the same time.
according to twc chairman joe esparza, students who gain hands-on work experience while earning a degree or certification have a significant advantage in the job market.
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accuweather.
gallery credit: nick
10 things youll only see during a texas christmas
gallery credit: piggie , canva
the best smart home gadgets to upgrade your texas home
gallery credit: chaz |
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| Army combat veteran on theater as therapy for trauma - NewsBreak |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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By john moore ,
2 hours ago 2025 denver gazette true west awards: day 21
retired staff sergeant, actor and springs ensemble theatre president found out the hard way that his father had his back all along
as an actor, director and president of springs ensemble theatre , retired u.S. Army staff sgt. Matt radcliffe has a ready rejoinder whenever he’s confronted with an everyday crisis. Like, say: “the set didn’t get painted on time!” Or: “our building just got sold!”
“pretty much any challenge we face, i have the fortunate and unfortunate ability to take a step back and say, ‘well, at least i’m not in baghdad,’” said radcliffe. “Because no matter what else happens … no one is going to die.’”
it’s not uncommon to see a veteran wearing a metal cuff on their wrist. They’re called memorial bracelets and, as radcliffe explains it to me, they’re for when you’ve seen someone die.
“i hate saying this, but i don’t wear one,” he said. “Because i would have to wear 10 of them.
“the experience that i had in iraq was a lot of deaths. A lot of mayhem. And, for whatever reason, it happened all around me.”
radcliffe knows a lot about combat and ptsd and survivor’s guilt. He also knows a lot about theater – and how theater can help veterans process and move on from trauma. Like in september, when he played movie star roy scheider in springs ensemble theatre’s staging of “the shark is broken,” a dramedy about the making of “jaws” 50 years ago.
“for me, what theater does – particularly when i’m acting – it’s that moment when you’re really, really nailing it,” radcliffe said. “Everything else falls away, and you’re just living in that moment as that character, and everybody in the room is focused on that one space and time.”
say what you will about “jaws” and the $280 million it made at the box office (a profit of $273 million). “The shark is broken” became the first show in the company’s 16-year history to sell out its entire run (albeit with box-office revenue a bit south of $280 mil).
from left: steve emily (as robert shaw), matt radcliffe (as roy scheider) and colin gregory (as richard dreyfuss) in spring ensemble theatre’s 2025 staging of ‘the shark is broken. (John moore, the denver gazette) spring into the past
springs ensemble theatre (set for short) performs at a beguiling little place called the fifty-niner . It’s a hidden speakeasy nestled at the back of the dice guys game store right off the main drag in quaint old colorado city, 7 miles west of colorado springs. It seats only 50, and on aug. 31, radcliffe arranged for me to take the 50th and final available seat at a table where you can order food and drinks off your phone. Right next to a tough-looking old guy who looked like he got lost on the way to the mess hall.
matt’s dad.
i didn’t know that at first, but we struck up a quick conversation that charmed both my shoes and socks right off. Retired u.S. Army senior sgt. Jim radcliffe was in town from houston to see his two sons, play with his three grandkids and watch matt’s latest performance. Like me, alone.
in that brief 10 minutes, i learned all sorts of things about matt that i couldn’t have known from watching his progression both as an actor in plays like “a steady rain,” and as the level-headed set president who orchestrated the company’s bittersweet 2023 move out of its home of 13 years forced by a greedy new landlord’s ballooning rent.
again, old colorado city is not exactly baghdad.
“when that all went down, matt allowed himself one day to freak out and be really pissed off about it,” said emily, radcliffe’s friend, co-star and company vice president. “And this is where the military thing comes in. Then, he’s like: ‘ok, we’ve identified the problem, now let’s identify the solution – because there’s always a solution out there. We’re just going to have to dig for it, and we’ve got to do it quick.’” That’s matt.
i learned from jim that matt was a third-generation eagle scout as a boy and the recipient of a bronze star from the army as a man. Jim’s chest practically puffed out of his shirt talking about it, silenced only by the start of the play.
matt later emailed to swear he didn’t deliberately seat me next to his dad. I told matt i was glad he did. “That man is very proud of all you artsy kids he had,” i wrote back.
from left: colin gregory (as richard dreyfuss), matt radcliffe (as roy scheider) and steve emily (as robert shaw) in spring ensemble theatre’s 2025 staging of ‘the shark is broken. (Emory john collinson) on saturday morning, talking by phone, matt told me two bookended stories involving his father that he feels fully frame matt’s complicated life as both a soldier and a formerly closeted gay man.
the first: “i’m a little kid, and we’re in a car with my dad driving us to visit his family in rhode island,” matt said. “My whole life, i knew two things: i knew that i was gay, and i knew that it was wrong. But here we are in the car. My brother’s in the backseat. I’m sitting next to my dad, and we’re listening to a queen tape on the radio. I distinctly remember thinking, ‘ok, this is it. This is the moment i just need to tell him that i’m gay.’
“and for whatever reason, right at that moment – off-handed, with no hate – he just goes, ‘well, that’s enough of those f*gg*ts.’ Then he hits the eject button and puts in a new tape. He would never remember that today, but that was the moment i was like, ‘oh, ok. I get it. I can never tell my dad that i’m gay. I just can never, never do that.’”
he was 6.
“so, if we fast forward: i’m in iraq. I’ve made the decision that life is too short, and i cannot stay closeted anymore. I have to come out. I sent my dad an email that basically said: ‘hey, i understand if you hate me and don’t ever want to talk to me again, but this is who i am: i’m gay, and i love you.”
this is where stories like these often go very, very badly, especially given father and son’s deeply embedded, shared histories in the military. This one did not.
“he sent me an email back,” said matt. “It still gives me goosebumps when i think about it, but the line was: ‘the best part about being a parent is you’re allowed to give your children unconditional love.’
“and at that moment, when i read that, i felt like a (bleeping) idiot, because i had spent years of my life in turmoil about this decision to come out. And in one sentence, my dad told me that i never had anything to worry about in the first place. He was always going to love me.”
he was 25.
emily was not surprised to see matt’s dad show up at the play that night.
“i mean, he came from two and a half states away to see a play about a shark,” emily said.
“i think that is a testament not only to matt, but also to matt’s dad and to the mutual respect they have for each other. I think that comes from matt being true to himself. And that bleeds over into his daily life. Because if you treat matt well, he’s going to treat you well.
“and if you don’t treat him well … he’s still going to treat you well.”
‘the best part about being a parent is you’re allowed to give your children unconditional love.’ – U.S. Army senior sgt. Jim radcliffe
a ‘good’ dose of laughter
matt radcliffe grew up in a suburb about 40 miles north of houston and fell in love with live performance in junior high school when he was cast in a short neil simon farce called “the good doctor.”
“i played a sailor who is asking a writer to pay him to drown himself,” he said. “Our theater sat maybe 400 people, and it was packed, and everyone in the theater was just laughing so hard. It was the first time i had done that, and i was hooked.”
college was a bit of a farce for radcliffe, too. By then, his father had transitioned from the army to a traveling job selling currency-counting equipment – at a time when there was not a lot of currency for his own family to count. “I remember riding along with my dad in the car, listening to him tell stories as he played rush limbaugh on the radio,” matt said. Ahh, the 1990s.
when matt graduated from high school, jim had an offer for his son. “He said: ‘hey, i will pay for you to go to college if you pay for the textbooks,’ and i said, ‘heck yeah, let’s do this.’”
matt’s time as a theater major at sam houston state was short, however. “Because when my little brother graduated from high school, my dad told me, ‘hey, i can only afford to pay for one of you, so now you need to figure it out for yourself.’”
instead, matt made a consequential decision.
springs ensemble theatre company president matt radcliffe (photo by jeff kearney) “my only option was to take out student loans or join the military,” said matt, who knew three things: he wasn’t a great student, he didn’t want to be stuck with student loans, and all he wanted to do was theater.
so, of course, in february 2005: he joined the army.
wait, what?
“being the brilliant 19-year-old i was at the time, i was like, ‘you know what? I will go in as a military police officer – and that will give me some experience to inform my art,” he said. “And even though the war was going on in iraq, i thought, i wouldn’t have to go there, because i’ll be a military policeman. Right?”
wrong. After completing basic training, radcliffe was assigned to fort carson, which is what first brought him to colorado. “Then i got assigned to a military police platoon attached to the 3rd brigade combat team in the fourth infantry division, and they were training to go to iraq. “So, my brilliant plan did not formalize the way i thought.”
in the theater, we call this an unexpected plot twist.
but, hey, matt said: “i did get experience to inform my art.”
staff sgt. Matthew radcliffe provides security for a member of the striker brigade command team during a patrol through the adhamiyah district in northern baghdad, aug. 14, 2008. Radcliffe was a team leader with headquarters and headquarters company, 3rd special troops battalion, 3rd brigade combat team, 4th infantry division, multi-national division – baghdad. (Photo by u.S. Army sgt. Zachary mott) this is not a rehearsal, er, drill
radcliffe was deployed to iraq twice. The first time, in 2005, was for one uneventful year. The second time, in 2008, was different. He was assigned to the personal security team for the battlefield commander during the battle of sadr city – the last major battle of the war in iraq. For radcliffe, that meant six months of sustained combat operations. Which is to say – hell.
afterward, radcliffe got some rest, relaxation, a promotion – and a diagnosis of complex ptsd, mostly centered around survivor’s guilt.
indelible visions of carnage. Flashbacks on loop replaying a dozen close calls. Like standing in spots where someone would be blown up 10 minutes later.
“so all of that together just kind of crushed on me when i came back,” said radcliffe, who got into therapy – a lot of therapy. “A big part of which is centering yourself and trying to find peace in the moment and forgiveness for yourself,” he said. “To me, there’s something very healing about that.”
sgt. Matt radcliffe, a native of conroe, texas, assigned to 3rd special troops battalion, 3rd brigade combat team, 4th infantry division, multi-national division – baghdad, provides security during a patrol in the adhamiyah district of baghdad. (U.S. Air force photo/tech. Sgt. William greer) part of radcliffe’s therapy was theater. One of his first plays in colorado springs was “a steady rain” a gritty 2011 drama at set co-starring emily. They played lifelong best friends and chicago cops whose bond is shattered after a routine domestic-disturbance call leads to a catastrophic police failure. (Think jeffrey dahmer.) It was radcliffe’s first professional leading role, and he found it to be a brutal, cathartic and exhilarating experience at once.
radcliffe and emily are now leading set into 2026 with a daring and unsparing lineup that includes “frozen,” a (not disney!) Play that explores the mind of a child killer. At a time when safety sells, these two are certainly setting set apart from the rest.
“we like to say that set is intimate, hard-hitting theater,” radcliffe said. “We’re not necessarily here to sell tickets – although we love selling tickets – but we come together as an all-volunteer company and put on plays that we feel like need to be told.
“and in some ways, you could call us an anti-dinner dinner theater. Because, you know – you’re eating a flatbread pizza while you’re watching ‘frozen.’”
matt radcliffe, left. And steve emily in spring ensemble theatre’s 2011 staging of ‘a steady rain.’ (Emory john collinson) i asked radcliffe where he is now at in his recovery.
“so, one of the things they talk about in therapy is that there’s a flip side to post-traumatic stress, and they call it post-traumatic growth,” he said. “You never forget the things that happened, but i’ve been able to put those things in their place and use them as perspective. I feel like those things are part of me in a way that has helped to make me a better person. And hopefully that translates to the work i’m doing in the theater – and in life in general.
“so, overall, i’m doing really well. And i’m lucky in that sense because there are a lot of veterans who aren’t – and that sucks.”
note: the denver gazette true west awards, now in their 25th and final year, began as the denver post ovation awards in 2001. Denver gazette senior arts journalist john moore celebrates the colorado theater community throughout december by revisiting 30 good stories from the past year without categories or nominations.
springs ensemble theatre/coming up
jan. 29-feb. 15: “the children,” by lucy kirkwood april 2-19: “frozen” (not the disney musical), by bryony lavery june 4-21: “potus: or, behind every great dumbass are seven women trying to keep him alive,” by selina fillinger more true west awards coverage • 2025 true west awards, day 1: matt zambrano
• day 2: rattlebrain is tying up ‘santa’s big red sack’
• day 3: mission possible: phamaly alumni make national impact
• day 5: cleo parker robinson is flying high at 77
• day 6: mirror images: leslie o’carroll and olivia wilson
• day 7: philip sneed will exit arvada center on a high
• day 8: ed reinhardt’s magic stage run ends after 27 years
• day 9: costume designer nikki harrison
• day 10: du’s tech interns getting the job done
• day 12: denver school of the arts’ drama dash
• day 13: theater as a powerful response to violence
• day 14: elitch theatre no longer a ghost town
• day 15: a double play for playwright luke sorge
• day 16: ‘legally blonde’ at the air force academy? Elle, yes!
• day 17: kelly van oosbree is the cat in the hats
• day 18: phamaly presents a ‘pericles’ for the neurodivergent
• day 19: justine lupe and coloradans on the national stage
• day 20: immersive theatre after the end of off-center
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| Dennis Minott | Sunlight now is cheaper than scandal later | In Focus | Jamaica |
| Posted on Sunday, December 21 @ 00:01:39 PST (0 reads) | |
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Dennis minott | sunlight now is cheaper than scandal later
a canadian band-aid on a caribbean wound: why jamaicans must follow the money
published:sunday | december 21, 2025 | 12:03 am
the arrival of 117 canadian electrical linesmen to assist the jamaica public service company (jps) in restoring power after hurricane melissa has been greeted with official smiles, airport photo-ops, and an oddly incurious media tone. We are told to be grateful. We are encouraged to see this as competence arriving from abroad to rescue a battered grid.
but jamaicans should resist the sedative of optics. Because beneath this seemingly benign intervention lies a far more serious policy question — one that touches public finance, procurement opacity, labour exclusion, and the quiet mechanisms by which disaster response becomes a gateway for value leakage and policy capture.
let us begin by clearing away a convenient straw man. This is not an argument against foreign assistance. Caricom governments — barbados, st vincent and the grenadines, guyana, antigua and barbuda, trinidad, and others — have provided post-melissa support on a government-to-government solidarity basis, including technical personnel. That is how regional disaster cooperation is meant to function. There is no quarrel whatsoever with jamaica utilising skills from wherever they are genuinely, transparently, and competitively available.
the canadian case is different. Materially different.
these linesmen are not here under canadian government disaster assistance. They are not part of a caricom solidarity framework. They are present under a government of jamaica–jpsco arrangement involving for-profit firms, at material cost to jamaica, occurring contemporaneously with a us$150 million publicly backed loan to the jps. That distinction matters — and pretending otherwise insults public intelligence.
the real question, therefore, is not where the workers are from. It is who brokered this arrangement, under what terms, and whether those terms were shaped — directly or indirectly — by loan conditions, contractor preferences, insurance covenants, emergency-procurement clauses, or pre-existing commercial relationships that have not been disclosed to parliament or the public.
timing is not incidental here. Six weeks after a category 5 hurricane devastated parts of western jamaica, the sudden mobilisation of an expensive foreign workforce coincides neatly with the authorisation of a massive, urgent loan. In any country with a strong record of procurement transparency, that coincidence would still merit explanation. In jamaica — with its long, well-documented vulnerabilities in disaster spending, emergency contracting, and infrastructure governance, it demands scrutiny.
globally, disaster economics teaches a sobering lesson: emergencies weaken oversight. From post-katrina new orleans to post-earthquake haiti, rushed procurement, opaque contracts, and “trusted” vendors have repeatedly proven fertile ground for cost inflation, contract steering, and public value loss — often without a single bribe ever changing hands. This is not speculation. It is pattern recognition grounded in decades of governance and corruption research.
against that background, the conspicuous absence of caricom labour — particularly haitian skilled workers — becomes impossible to ignore.
haiti sits next door. Its labour force has been forged, painfully, through years of post-earthquake and post-storm reconstruction. Haitian electricians, linesmen, masons, and builders are internationally recognised for their resilience, adaptability, and competence in precisely the conditions jamaica now faces. Across the caribbean and north america, haitian tradespeople work routinely under french-english-creole supervision structures. Language barriers, often raised lazily in local debate, are neither rare nor exotic obstacles in engineering and disaster-response contexts.
yet no public evidence has been offered that haitian or other regional linesmen were even considered. No comparative cost-benefit analysis has been disclosed. No explanation has been provided as to why caricom labour frameworks, including csme provisions, appear to have been bypassed entirely.
in the absence of such disclosure, assertions about “feasibility” are not arguments. They are excuses.
this brings us back to the us$150 million loan itself. Serious questions have already been raised — questions that deserve answers irrespective of the labour issue: why a 20 per cent public shareholder is carrying this exposure; how the remaining us$200 million of the jps’s financing plan will be raised; whether government will be pushed into further lending; whether private-capital projections are credible; and whether ratepayers will ultimately bear the cost.
what must now be understood is that labour sourcing, procurement choices, and debt structure are not separable issues. They form a single economic ecosystem. Loan conditions can shape contractor selection. Contractor-mobilisation agreements can dictate labour origin. Insurance and risk-management instruments can quietly privilege pre-approved foreign firms. None of this requires illegality. All of it requires sunlight.
that is the heart of the concern.
if the terms of the us$150 million loan — or the emergency-procurement architecture surrounding it — effectively obligated the jps to engage specific foreign contractors, thereby excluding local and caricom labour before any transparent comparison could occur, then jamaica has a problem far larger than grid repairs. It has a governance failure hiding behind hurricane recovery.
and if haitian skilled labour was never even part of the conversation — never evaluated, never priced, never fairly weighed — then we are entitled to ask whose interests this reconstruction model truly serves.
this is not a moral argument dressed up as economics. It is an economic argument with moral consequences. Public money leaving jamaica to pay premium foreign inputs, while regional labour sits idle or excluded, weakens recovery, drains foreign exchange and corrodes public trust. Worse, it teaches citizens that “emergency” is once again the alibi under which accountability quietly evaporates.
no allegation of wrongdoing is being made here. None is necessary. The demand is simpler and more urgent: early transparency before silence hardens into scandal.
parliament, civil society, and the media should insist on full disclosure of the loan’s contractual terms, detailed breakdowns of labour-sourcing clauses, documentation of whether regional labour was considered or excluded, and clear records of how contractors were selected and mobilised. Independent oversight should not be an afterthought but a condition.
because when disasters strike, infrastructure can be rebuilt. Trust, once lost, is far harder to restore.
and if jamaicans allow borrowed money, opaque contracts, and imported labour to pass without question — wrapped in the flag of hurricane recovery — then the real damage from melissa will not be measured in downed power lines but in another quiet erosion of democratic accountability.
sunlight now is cheaper than scandal later.
dennis a. Minott, phd, is a physicist, green energy consultant, and long-time college counsellor. He is the ceo of a-quest. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.Com. |
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