Year: 2026

Jan
16
2026
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By Lily Chang
Dolly Parton turns 80 today and released music to help you celebrate

Dolly Parton’s 80th: A Musical Celebration

Culture and Entertainment
As she neared a milestone birthday, Dolly Parton once again chose to celebrate by giving rather than receiving, debuting a new musical venture, backing a charitable effort, and sparking a statewide tribute that highlighted how her influence extends far beyond the limelight.Turning 80 is often depicted as a moment for reflection, yet for Dolly Parton, the milestone became an opportunity to reaffirm the values that have shaped her public life for decades. Celebrated around the globe for a songwriting legacy that spans country, pop, and Americana, Parton has also earned broad recognition for her enduring philanthropic commitments to education, healthcare,…
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Jan
16
2026
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By Lily Chang
Meet the trusted diplomat tasked with turning the US-backed ceasefire into peace for Gaza

Gaza Ceasefire to Peace: The Diplomat’s Crucial Role

International
Bulgaria’s Nickolay Mladenov, a veteran diplomat, has stepped into one of the most demanding roles of his career: supervising the sensitive rollout of a US‑brokered initiative aimed at stabilizing Gaza and shaping its governance. His background, network, and standing will face significant scrutiny as he maneuvers through the region’s intricate political landscape.Mladenov’s journey to this point has been marked by decades of diplomatic service. Early in his career, he held key positions in Bulgaria’s government, including defense minister at 37 and later foreign minister. His international experience expanded with appointments to the European Parliament and as the UN’s Special Representative…
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Jan
16
2026
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By Lily Chang
When a credit report can hurt your chances of being hired

Job Search: The Credit Report Factor

Economy
A job offer can hinge on the results of a background check, yet the rules governing what employers may review are shifting rapidly. Across the United States, credit history is becoming a less accepted factor in hiring, reflecting a broader rethink of fairness, relevance and privacy in employment decisions.For decades, employers have turned to background screenings to assess candidates beyond what appears in their résumés or interviews. Such reviews may encompass criminal histories, confirmation of academic credentials and past employment, reference evaluations and, at times, an examination of an applicant’s credit profile. Many have long believed that financial behavior might…
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Jan
16
2026
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By Lily Chang
Oceana Santa María

Why investing in real estate in Panama continues to make sense and why Oceana Santa María stands out

Investments and Business
Panama has become one of the most appealing locations in Latin America for real estate investment, supported by its steady economy, advantageous tax policies, and its key role as an international business center. As global investors look for stable, high‑return markets, Panama’s upscale property sector is drawing growing interest.According to insights published on the Oceana Santa María website, the country offers a compelling environment for property investment, supported by political stability, a strong banking system, and the use of the U.S. dollar. These factors, combined with Panama’s growing infrastructure and high quality of life, have positioned the market as a…
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