SUMMARY:

Trae Spears, a longtime show director at Downstage Theatre Productions in Gulfport, Mississippi, has written and directed an original play titled What She Left Behind. The drama-comedy centers on Opal Mae’s four daughters and granddaughter as they sort through her belongings, exploring family dynamics. Spears, who specifically wrote characters for his cast, spent months refining the script and rehearsing, including rewriting the entire second act. This marks one of the rare original productions in Gulfport in recent years, providing Spears fresh insight into the challenges of bringing a written play to life. Performances are scheduled for late July and early August at Downstage Theatre.

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SUMMARY: Justice Department officials planned a meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein’s imprisoned former girlfriend, as part of efforts to demonstrate transparency amid criticism for withholding Epstein investigation records. Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for aiding Epstein’s sexual abuse of minors, may provide information about other crimes. The House Committee on Oversight subpoenaed her to testify in August. Despite demands, the Justice Department said no Epstein client list exists and refused further file releases. Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial. Congressional leaders and lawmakers signal potential hearings and legislation to increase public access to related documents.

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SUMMARY: Kayla Chege, a 15-year-old Kansas student, uses AI like ChatGPT for mundane advice but avoids homework help. Teens increasingly treat AI as companions, seeking emotional support and advice. A Common Sense Media study found 70% of teens have used AI companions, with a third discussing serious issues with them, raising concerns about social skill development and mental health. Experts worry AI’s constant validation may hinder teens’ ability to handle real-world relationships. Risks include exposure to harmful content and diminished creativity. Researchers urge parents and educators to monitor AI use as it becomes pervasive, shaping adolescence alongside smartphones and social media.

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