Social Issues

For the children's sake, put down that smartphone
It's not just kids who are overdoing screen time. Parents are often just as guilty of spending too much time checking smartphones and e-mail -- and the consequences for their children can be troubling.
Mental and physical toll of bullying persists for decades
mounting evidence suggests that the adverse effects of being bullied aren't something kids can just shake off. The psychological and physical tolls, like anxiety and depression, can follow a person into early adulthood. In fact, the damage doesn't stop there, a British study published this week in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests. It actually lasts well into the adults' 40s and 50s.
In Silicon Valley, immigrants toast their way to the top
Immigrant workers in the Silicon Valley attend Toastmasters meetings to improve their public speaking, which can lead to increased confidence at work and even job promotions.
Abortion rights foes, supporters stand their ground in Good Friday rallies
Opponents have been holding the annual Good Friday protest for nearly 30 years. For the past 10 years or so, Planned Parenthood has staged a nearby counter demonstration, to raise money and rally its supporters.
State officials are reminding Minnesotans who may need help with heating bills to ask for assistance now before a key rule expires on Tuesday.
Caring for wounded vet a burden family gladly shares
Craig Remsburg's son, army ranger Cory Remsburg, was serving in Afghanistan when he was wounded by a roadside bomb in 2009. Since then it has been the family's mission to get Cory back to health.
Marijuana vending machine unveiled in Colorado
An automated pot-selling machine was unveiled at an event held at an Avon, Colo., restaurant Saturday, promising a potential new era of selling marijuana and pot-infused snacks from vending machines directly to customers.