Real Talk with Riggin

St Mary Cathedral School Dinner Auction with CoChair Erika Westrich

St. Mary Cathedral School is gearing up for its highly anticipated Dinner Auction, an evening that brings together families, alumni, and community supporters for fellowship, fine food, and fundraising — all in support of Catholic education. Co-Chair Erika Westrich says the event is not only a celebration of the school’s strong traditions and academic excellence, but also a vital effort to enhance programs, classrooms, and student opportunities. Guests can expect an exciting lineup of silent and live auction items, great entertainment, and plenty of school spirit, as the St. Mary community gathers to invest in the future of its students.

EU Targeting American Companies with Executive Director at Consumers' Defense Sal Nuzzo

The European Union is increasingly setting its regulatory sights on major American companies, raising concerns about fairness, innovation, and economic sovereignty. Sal Nuzzo, Executive Director at Consumers’ Defense, argues that the EU’s aggressive antitrust actions, digital market regulations, and sweeping compliance mandates disproportionately impact U.S.-based firms while shielding European competitors. Nuzzo contends that these policies function less as consumer protection measures and more as economic protectionism, creating costly barriers that ultimately hurt American businesses and the consumers who rely on their services. As transatlantic tensions grow, he warns that policymakers in Washington must push back to ensure a level playing field and defend U.S. companies from what he describes as regulatory overreach abroad.

Pagan America The Decline of Christianity and the Dark Age to Come with Sr Editor at the Federalist and Author John Daniel Davidson

Senior Editor at The Federalist and author John Daniel Davidson is sounding the alarm in his latest work, Pagan America: The Decline of Christianity and the Dark Age to Come. Davidson argues that as the United States moves further away from its Christian foundations, the nation is not becoming more neutral—but more pagan, replacing biblical values with secular ideologies and cultural chaos. He contends that this spiritual shift is reshaping everything from politics and education to family life and public morality. Drawing on history, Davidson warns that civilizations which abandon their religious roots often face cultural decline, and he challenges Christians to recognize the moment and respond with conviction rather than complacency.

Trump Administration’s Proposed Rules for Prayer and Religious Expression in Public Schools with Senior Counsel at First Liberty Institute Jeremy Dys

Senior Counsel at First Liberty Institute Jeremy Dys says the Trump Administration’s proposed rules on prayer and religious expression in public schools are designed to reinforce longstanding constitutional protections for students and teachers. The guidance aims to clarify that voluntary prayer, religious clubs, and faith-based expression are permitted under the First Amendment, so long as participation is not coerced and schools do not endorse a particular religion. Dys explains the proposal seeks to provide clearer guardrails for administrators, ensuring students are free to express their beliefs just as they would any other personal viewpoint, while maintaining the balance between protecting religious liberty and upholding the Establishment Clause.

Major Medical Org Disavowing Sex Change Surgeries for Minors with Senior Fellow at Do No Harm and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Dr. Richard Bosshardt MD

A major medical organization is drawing national attention after disavowing sex change surgeries for minors, raising new questions about standards of care and patient safety. Senior Fellow at Do No Harm and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Dr. Richard Bosshardt, MD, says the move reflects growing concern within parts of the medical community about the long-term risks, ethical implications, and lack of comprehensive data surrounding irreversible procedures on young patients. Dr. Bosshardt argues that medicine must prioritize evidence-based practice and caution, particularly when treating minors, emphasizing the importance of thorough psychological evaluation and alternative approaches before considering permanent surgical interventions. The development adds to an ongoing debate among physicians, policymakers, and families over how best to support youth experiencing gender dysphoria while ensuring medical decisions are grounded in sound science and patient well-being.

Hometown Hero Banner Program with Events Coordinator at UJRO Jess Girard

The Hometown Hero Banner Program is a meaningful way our community honors the brave men and women who have served our country, and Events Coordinator Jess Girard with UJRO says the response has been nothing short of inspiring. The program allows families to recognize veterans and active-duty service members with personalized banners proudly displayed throughout the area, celebrating their sacrifice, service, and hometown roots. Girard explains that each banner tells a powerful story, creating a visible reminder of gratitude while bringing the community together in support of local heroes. Through this initiative, UJRO continues its mission of honoring service and strengthening community pride in a lasting and heartfelt way.

Noem Says Body Cameras are Going to ICE in Minneapolis with Private investigator -, author, veteran and crime expert Nils Grevillius

Private investigator, author, veteran, and crime expert Nils Grevillius commented on the announcement, emphasizing the importance of consistent body-camera usage in building public trust and clarifying disputed encounters.
Homeland Security Secretary **Kristi Noem announced that body cameras will now be issued to all Department of Homeland Security field officers in Minneapolis, including those from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a move she says is intended to increase transparency and accountability after intense scrutiny over federal immigration enforcement operations in the city. The decision, which takes effect immediately with plans to expand nationwide as funding allows, comes in the wake of two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal agents during an enforcement surge in Minneapolis, incidents that sparked widespread criticism and demands for clearer documentation of law enforcement actions. Public and legal debate over how these events were handled has been ongoing, and Noem’s announcement reflects an effort to address those concerns even as investigations continue.

Yahir Counseling and Consulting LLC with Owner Marquetta Johnson

Yahir Counseling and Consulting LLC is making a meaningful impact in the community under the leadership of owner Marquetta Johnson. With a heart for helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges, Johnson has built her practice around compassionate care, practical tools, and culturally responsive support. Yahir Counseling and Consulting offers a safe, welcoming space where clients can work through anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, and personal growth goals with confidence and clarity. Through a combination of professional expertise and genuine empathy, Marquetta Johnson is empowering clients to heal, build resilience, and move forward with renewed purpose.

Father Daughter Dance with Assistant Rec Division Manager at Cape Parks and Rec Dianne Lawrence

The annual Father Daughter Dance hosted by Cape Parks and Recreation is set to be a memorable evening of music, laughter, and lasting memories for families across the community. Assistant Recreation Division Manager Dianne Lawrence says the event is designed to give dads and daughters a special night out together, complete with dancing, light refreshments, and plenty of photo opportunities to capture the moment. With a welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful touches that make the night feel extra special, the Father Daughter Dance continues to be a favorite tradition that brings families together and strengthens those important bonds.

Virginia Democrat Abigail Spanberger ran as a centrist and then went radical left with Honorary Chair of the Tea Party Patriots Action Jenny Beth Martin

Virginia Democrat Abigail Spanberger initially built her political career and her campaign for governor on a reputation as a centrist, emphasizing bipartisan problem-solving and pragmatic moderation after unseating a Tea Party-aligned Republican in 2018 and serving in Congress where she worked across the aisle. However, in the 2025 gubernatorial race she has embraced a more robust left-leaning policy agenda, including strong positions on gun reform and other issues that have drawn criticism from conservative commentators like Tea Party Patriots Action Honorary Chairman Jenny Beth Martin, who has publicly challenged her record and branded her as more aligned with “radical leftist lawmakers” than the moderate image she once projected.