Culture

Tonic the Cat Becomes the Unexpected Star of Caught Stealing

SMGN September 1, 2025

A 1990s action comedy set in New York The action comedy Caught Stealing is set in New York’s East Village during the 1990s. Featuring an ensemble cast with Austin Butler, Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, and Bad Bunny, the film blends humor and suspense. Yet, much of the spotlight is taken

Darth Vader’s Red Lightsaber to Be Auctioned for the First Time

SMGN August 29, 2025

A legendary Star Wars prop enters the collectors’ market The red lightsaber wielded by Darth Vader in the Star Wars saga will be auctioned for the first time. This film prop was used during the production of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, including the iconic duel

NEA ends long-standing Creative Writing Fellowship in the United States

SMGN August 28, 2025

A program with more than 50 years of history comes to a close The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has announced the cancellation of its long-running Creative Writing Fellowship. This program, for decades, supported influential authors in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Over the years, the fellowship became a vital

Brands react to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement with marketing campaigns

SMGN August 27, 2025

A wave of online responses Following the announcement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement, many brands quickly joined the conversation on social media. Companies across industries — from food and fashion to travel — shared congratulatory messages, creative visuals, and themed promotions. Some brands launched symbolic discounts inspired by

Storms, Dust and Hail Possible for Burning Man 2025 Attendees

SMGN August 26, 2025

Weather conditions in the Nevada desert This year’s Burning Man, held in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, is facing weather challenges that could affect thousands of participants. Since the event began on Sunday, attendees have dealt with wind gusts and dust clouds, conditions that may continue for several days. From Monday

Stephen Nakagawa appointed as new dance programming director at the Kennedy Center

SMGN August 25, 2025

Leadership change in the dance department The Kennedy Center has appointed Stephen Nakagawa as its new director of dance programming, shortly after the dismissal of the department’s staff. Nakagawa, a choreographer and former dancer with The Washington Ballet, steps into the role during a significant transitional period for the institution.

Goo Goo Dolls Remain Strong After Nearly Four Decades in Music

SMGN August 22, 2025

A Creative Phase with “Summer Anthem” The alternative rock band Goo Goo Dolls has released a new EP titled Summer Anthem, available as of August 22. Among the tracks are “Nothing Lasts Forever” and “Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes),” titles that initially sparked speculation about a possible farewell. Lead vocalist

From Insult to Identity: The Evolution of the Word “Nerd”

SMGN August 21, 2025

The uncertain origins The term “nerd” has been part of everyday language for more than seventy years, though its exact origins remain unclear. A widely accepted theory suggests it first appeared in the 1950 children’s book If I Ran the Zoo by Dr. Seuss, where it was listed among imaginary

Trump calls for broader review of U.S. museums

SMGN August 20, 2025

Expanding criticism beyond the Smithsonian Former President Donald Trump expanded his criticism of cultural institutions, moving beyond the Smithsonian Institution to include museums across the country. In a lengthy social media post, he described these spaces as holding onto what he views as “ideological narratives,” emphasizing his dissatisfaction with the

Parade Musical Opens at the Kennedy Center Amid Ongoing Debate on Antisemitism and History

SMGN August 19, 2025

Revisiting the Leo Frank Case on Stage The Tony Award-winning musical Parade ends its national tour in Washington with performances at the Kennedy Center. The production dramatizes the real-life case of Leo Frank, a Jewish man accused of murdering 13-year-old Mary Phagan in 1913 in Atlanta. The trial, conviction, and

More News

Expert Tips to Navigate Flight Delays and Cancellations During Crisis

SMGN November 6, 2025

Widespread flight delays and cancellations are impacting major airports nationwide as the government shutdown, now the longest in history, continues to drag on. Air traffic controller shortages have caused issues at numerous airports for more than a month, creating ripple effects across the entire travel network. In response to the

Trump says government shutdown pressures Republicans and suggests ending the filibuster

SMGN November 6, 2025

Former president reflects on election results after record-long shutdown During a meeting with Republican senators, former President Donald Trump said the prolonged federal government shutdown negatively affected recent election results for his party. Trump stated that pollsters identified the shutdown as a major factor influencing voter sentiment against Republicans. “If

U.S. Government Revises SNAP Benefit Cuts, but Millions Still Face Major Reductions

SMGN November 6, 2025

USDA Adjusts Reduction Formula Amid Ongoing Legal and Technical Challenges The U.S. government has revised its plan for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), announcing a smaller reduction in monthly food benefits. According to updated guidance from the Department of Agriculture (USDA), maximum allotments will now be cut by 35%