BUSINESS

NEWS

Financial Inclusion: The Hidden Key to Economic Mobility With Insights From Adrien Matray
By
Enterprise Editor
James lives in a working-class neighborhood in Cleveland. Despite holding a steady job for years, he’s never had a bank
Tax Filing Expert Jennifer O’Neill of IRS HELP Talks About Filing in a Complex Regulatory Climate
By
Finance Reporter
Buffalo, NY – Jennifer O’Neill of IRS HELP is featured in the latest edition of HelloNation, where she offers expert
The New Perks of Work: How Employers Are Rethinking Benefits to Keep Teams Happy and Whole
By
Business Editor
Companies are no longer competing on salary or job titles in a work landscape that’s been flipped, stretched, and redefined

CLIMATE

CHANGE

Solar Power is Transforming Home Energy in 2025—and Define Solar is Leading the Way
By
Assistant Managing Editor
As 2025 unfolds, solar power is no longer just a trend—it’s a revolution. Homeowners are switching to solar in record
Breaking the Forever Bond: Why PFAS Destruction Is the Next Frontier in Clean Water Innovation
By
Staff Writer
Even as states race to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—the so-called “forever chemicals”—and consumers flock to PFAS-free products, the
4 mins
John Garstka, director for cyber warfare within the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Platform and Weapon Portfolio Management, delivers a virtual keynote address from the Pentagon at the Space System Command Cyber Expo, April 22, 2025. © Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Alexander Kubitza, DOD
The Ritz Herald
The dangers posed by cyber conflict are significant and require preparation by the joint force to counter such threats, a senior Defense Department expert said

The dangers posed by cyber conflict are significant and require preparation by the joint force to counter such threats, according to a senior Defense Department expert on the topic during the Space Force’s Space Systems Command Cyber Expo 2025.

Director for Cyber Warfare John Garstka delivered keynote remarks at the event today virtually from the Pentagon. Garstka, who works in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Platform Weapon Portfolio Management, said real-world cyberattacks on commercial critical infrastructure are on the rise.

Likening cyberspace to the fifth warfighting domain, with air, land, sea and space being the others, he said many people have a hard time grasping the impact of cyber conflict because they don’t have access to simulations of such attacks and the subsequent effects.

“What we have learned is that this is a significant threat that we have to prepare the joint force to deal with,” Garstka said.

He added that to prepare for such threats, DOD is focusing on the infrastructure necessary for supporting space systems missions.

“If you shut down the water or the power or the fuel, and you can’t provide a space system ground segment with power, then you have a…

Inclusive global teams are a cornerstone of success in today’s interconnected world. Organizations with diverse talent pools outperform their competitors, foster innovation, and better address the needs
Author and women’s rights advocate Mabelle Prior returns with The New World, a gripping new novel that joins her growing list of acclaimed books, including Legacy of
Founded by Mark Abdelli and Nathan Roy, Mark De Belleroy is the first French luxury fashion house entirely dedicated to the cap. For the past five years,
Automated Health Systems (AHS) reshapes public healthcare services across America from its Washington, D.C. headquarters. Under the leadership of Dr. Moses Haregewoyn, President, his guidance balances the

PUBLIC

INTEREST

Space Force Leaders Discuss Future of Space Operations at 40th Space Symposium
The Ritz Herald

In a reflective and forward-looking discussion, Chief Master Sgt. John Bentivegna, Chief Master Sgt. Jacob Simmons, and other key leaders gathered for a fireside chat to conclude the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on April 10. The conversation focused on the critical roles and responsibilities of the…

ICE Removes Criminal Alien Wanted for Drug Trafficking in Costa Rica
The Ritz Herald

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed Josseth Santos-Fonseca, 30, a citizen of Costa Rica, to his home country where he is wanted by law enforcement authorities for drug trafficking.

Santos entered the U.S. near Laredo, Texas, without inspection or admission by an immigration official. The U.S. Border Patrol apprehended Santos…

CULTURE

NEWS

Dark Americana and Bleeding Secrets: Stephen Romano’s What Did You Do? Wraps Filming in Texas
By
Culture Editor
Austin, TX — A film many years in the making has emerged from the shadows of the Texas landscape, ready
250th American Revolution Celebrations Kick Off In Massachusetts With Bedford’s Historic Pole Capping Ceremony
By
Culture Editor
The Commonwealth’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution has officially launched with the time-honored Liberty Pole Capping
THIS WEEK'S HEADLINES
Nicole Choquette 18, Apr 2 mins
2 mins
The Ritz Herald
U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC. © Mark Van Scyoc
Amtrak, backed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, will lead the transformative revitalization of New York Penn Station, the nation’s busiest rail hub

Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced on Thursday that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is taking bold action to protect American taxpayers by withdrawing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) from leading the Penn Station Reconstruction project in New York City. Instead, Amtrak, backed by USDOT, will spearhead this critical infrastructure initiative.

As part of this shift in approach, FRA is also rescoping and slashing the federal grant to Amtrak for project development. This will save taxpayers approximately $120 million while still ensuring a safe, modern, and efficient transit hub for the nation’s financial capital.

The Trump Administration determined that USDOT and Amtrak can together deliver a world-class Penn Station. Since Amtrak owns the station, which is an essential asset serving over 10 million Amtrak riders annually, there is no reason to delegate leadership of this important project.

“President Trump has made it clear: the days of reckless spending and blank checks are over,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “New York City deserves a Penn Station that reflects America’s greatness and is safe and clean. The MTA’s history of inefficiency, waste, and mismanagement also meant that a new approach is needed. By putting taxpayers first, we’re ensuring every dollar is spent wisely to create a transit hub all Americans can take pride in.”

The Trump Administration is also championing a public-private partnership model for Penn Station, harnessing private sector innovation and capital to minimize financial risk to taxpayers. This approach will drive efficiencies, reduce costs, and deliver results faster than traditional government-led projects.

“Under President Trump’s vision, we’re restoring accountability to infrastructure projects,” said FRA Chief Counsel…

CURRENT EDITION

4 mins
The Ritz Herald
© Pixabay
Solar revolution: Homeowners across the U.S. embrace clean energy solutions in 2025
By / Assistant Managing Editor

As 2025 unfolds, solar power is no longer just a trend—it’s a revolution. Homeowners are switching to solar in record numbers across the United States, especially in forward-thinking states. The reason is clear: today’s solar technology is more efficient, affordable, and impactful than ever.

Define Solar, in NJ, is a regional leader at the forefront of this transformation. With over 1,000 successful installations, it is redefining how families approach clean energy.

A New Era of Energy Efficiency

2025 marks a transformative year in residential energy. Advances in solar panel technology—spanning efficiency, durability, and design—have made it easier than ever for homeowners to take control of their energy usage. As utility costs continue to rise, solar energy offers a compelling solution that provides both economic relief and a path toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

What was once considered a niche or luxury upgrade is quickly becoming a mainstream necessity. For families seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while protecting themselves from unpredictable energy bills, solar power stands out as a smart, future-focused investment.

Solar Power Made Simple

One of the most common reasons homeowners hesitate to adopt solar energy is the misconception that it’s a complex or overwhelming process. In reality, modern solar providers have streamlined the experience to be as smooth and accessible as possible. From the initial consultation and system design to permitting, inspection, and activation, the journey to solar has never been more straightforward.

Today’s solar systems are powered by high-efficiency panels backed by reliable warranties designed to perform for decades with minimal maintenance. With professionals guiding…

MORE ARTICLES

Breaking the Forever Bond: Why PFAS Destruction Is the Next Frontier in Clean Water Innovation
Even as states race to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances
Spring Break is Fire for Students Conducting Prescribed Burns in Georgia
Students from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
New Research Uncovers Evolutionary Secrets Linking Birds to Their Dinosaur Ancestors
Modern birds are the living relatives of dinosaurs. Take a
By Helen Roscha Published on Apr 25
9 mins
The Ritz Herald
© Jakub Zerdzicki
The untapped wealth of the unbanked: how access to banking services transforms lives

James lives in a working-class neighborhood in Cleveland. Despite holding a steady job for years, he’s never had a bank account. Like many Americans in similar situations, James cashes his paychecks at a local check-cashing outlet, paying a 2% fee each time. He keeps his savings in cash at home and uses money orders to pay bills, incurring additional fees with each transaction.

James represents a significant portion of America’s population – the “unbanked.” According to research by economists Claire Célerier and Adrien Matray, about 30% of low-income Americans don’t have basic bank accounts. While poverty is often framed as an income problem, their groundbreaking research reveals that lack of access to basic financial services may be a crucial but overlooked barrier to economic mobility and wealth building.

“Financial inclusion is not just about having a convenient place to store money,” explains Adrien Matray, an economist at the Atlanta Fed and co-author of the study. “Our research shows it’s a fundamental tool for wealth accumulation and economic advancement, especially for low-income households.”

The Wealth-Building Power of Bank Accounts

In their study published in the Review of Financial Studies, Célerier and Matray found that simply having a bank account can dramatically improve financial outcomes for low-income households. Using data spanning 1993-2005, they discovered that low-income households with bank accounts accumulated approximately $6,900 more in assets compared to similar households without accounts.

This wealth…

CURRENT EDITION

David Hao on Building Inclusive Global Teams From the Ground Up
Inclusive global teams are a cornerstone of success in today’s
Revolutionizing Board Recruitment: Boardsi’s Role in Democratizing Access to Leadership
Board recruitment has traditionally been an exclusive process, favoring well-connected
  • Loading stock data...
Board recruitment has traditionally been an exclusive process, favoring well-connected individuals within select networks. This approach has limited diversity and innovation, preventing fresh perspectives from shaping governance.
Daniel Frost is taking electronic music to new heights, blending hypnotic grooves with melodies that hit straight to the soul. His music isn’t just heard—it’s felt, pulsing
Recent security engagements between U.S. and Panamanian forces culminated in the first official U.S.-Panama special operations forces talks, Feb. 18, 2025. The talks, along with concurrent joint
Recent research from James Madison University reveals that animal dung is crucial in accelerating ecosystem development on nutrient-poor soils exposed by melting glaciers in the Andes Mountains.

EDITOR'S

CHOICE

Colorectal to Pancreatic: Mainz Biomed Expands Reach in Early Cancer Detection

Geiger / RH
Mainz Biomed N.V. (NASDAQ: MYNZ), a molecular diagnostics company specializing in early cancer detection, continues to gain recognition as a pioneering force in the field. With a strong performance in

WEATHER

TODAY

RH

NEWSROOM

2000Archives Brings K-Fashion to Shanghai With Exclusive ENG Pop-Up

Korean fashion label 2000Archives has launched its first Shanghai pop-up store in partnership with the local ENG store, marking another milestone in the brand’s continued expansion into the global fashion market. The pop-up features an
The Ritz Herald