J.D. Vance has established a record on significant issues during his short time in office, although some of his positions have evolved. A new book seeks to preserve the memory of Bill Smith, known as 'the jeweler,' whose life and work had begun to fade over time.

Margaret Seidler's genealogical search led her to uncover a complex family history intertwined with the institution of slavery in Charleston. Her new book, 'Payne-ful Business: Charleston’s Journey to Truth,' delves into Charleston’s racial history, highlighting the efforts of historians, journalists, and community members to reconcile these truths. Artist John W. Jones vividly brings to life the enslaved individuals advertised for sale in antebellum newspapers. Additionally, Nathan Canestaro's book, 'The Mighty Moo,' recounts the distinguished combat record of the USS Cowpens during WWII.

November election issues dominate Virginia's political headlines, with a focus on Bob Good's campaign recount and its financial implications. Volvo Group secures $208 million for manufacturing upgrades, while Dominion announces plans to develop small modular nuclear reactors funded by customers. Lawmakers express concern over rising fentanyl overdoses but lack consensus on solutions.

The article discusses the economic decline and deindustrialization in Izyum, Ukraine, focusing on the closure of the Izyum Optical-Mechanical Factory and its impact on the local community. Vendors like Vladimir Borsch and Tolik Mokrushin, former factory workers, now sell eyeglasses in a market housed in the factory's old cafeteria. The town has faced significant economic and social challenges, including job losses, population decline, and substance abuse. Local activists blame corruption and poor economic policies for the region's hardships. Despite the negative impacts, some note improvements in the local environment due to reduced industrial pollution.

Paul Preston, founder and president of the New California movement, discusses the initiative to form a new state from California, adhering to constitutional processes. He argues that California's economy benefits only a few at the top, leading to high poverty and homelessness. Preston criticizes the full-time legislature and the Reynolds vs. Sims decision for undermining a republican model of governance. The movement aims to address economic challenges, overregulation, and crime, proposing a new constitution and state structure that restores county representation. The movement has gained traction among rural Californians and is in dialogue with state legislators and Congress for recognition.

The article discusses Ukraine's presidential election, highlighting the lead of Volodymyr Zelensky, a comedian-turned-politician, over the incumbent President Petro Poroshenko. It reflects on the anti-establishment sentiment among voters and Zelensky's appeal to the younger demographic. Concerns about Zelensky's inexperience and potential vulnerability to Russian manipulation are contrasted with Poroshenko's campaign, which focuses on his achievements as president. Despite criticisms of Poroshenko's tenure, the election process was noted to be peaceful with few violations. The article also touches on the role of election observers and the diverse range of candidates, emphasizing Ukraine's unpredictable political landscape and the ongoing quest for democratic reforms post-Maidan revolution.

The article discusses the significance of the Orthodox Christmas services at St. John the Theologian Cathedral in Kharkiv, Ukraine, where services are held in Ukrainian. It covers the historical subordination of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to Russia's church and the recent official recognition of an independent Ukrainian church by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has been instrumental in this process, viewing it as a step away from Moscow's influence. The article also touches on the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the role of language policy in Ukraine's national identity, and the division between churches loyal to Moscow and those aligning with the new independent Ukrainian church. It highlights the challenges faced by churchgoers in predominantly Russian-speaking areas like Kharkiv to attend services in Ukrainian and the political implications of the church's independence.