A snowstorm in the northwest dumped two feet of snow closing schools and government offices

A hospital started a program to help patients with chronic pain manage symptoms without opioidsA retail store announced it would donate a portion of holiday sales to a children’s charity

A heavy rainstorm caused a landslide that blocked a major highway for several hoursA study found that reading aloud to young children improves their language developmentThe government announced plans to upgrade public restrooms in parks and transportation hubs

A museum acquired a painting by a famous impressionist artist for its permanent collectionA local farm started selling fresh eggs and honey at a weekly farmers market

Engineers built a new dam to provide flood control and hydroelectric power to a region

The postal service announced it would extend holiday shipping deadlines to accommodate late shoppersA major film studio announced it will release 20 new movies next year including several sequels to popular franchises

The national economy grew by 3.5% in the last quarter exceeding economists’ expectationsA local library opened a new digital section offering free access to e-books audiobooks and online databases

Engineers developed a new type of solar panel that is 60% more efficient than current modelsA famous athlete announced their retirement from professional sports after a 25-year career citing health issues

(责任编辑：赵华)

• ·A major bank announced it will offer low-interest loans to small businesses owned by women and minorities.
• ·A charity organization started a program to provide free meals to elderly residents
• ·Doctors recommended frequent handwashing to prevent the spread of diseases
• ·The national postal service said it will increase delivery speeds with most packages now arriving within 1-2 days
• ·A major music festival was canceled due to safety concerns after a severe weather warning was issued.
• ·The railway service announced it would offer discounted fares for passengers who book in advance
• ·A boxer won the world heavyweight title after knocking out the defending champion in the fifth round
• ·A software company offered free online training courses to help small business owners learn to use its products
• ·A study found fiction reading improves empathy and emotional intelligence in all ages
• ·A software company launched a free version of its app to attract new users
• ·A major clothing brand announced plans to offer more sizes to be more inclusive
• ·A local bookstore started a book exchange program where customers can swap books
• ·The government launched a $2 billion stimulus package to support small businesses affected by the recent recession
• ·Fashion show raises money for women’s shelter
• ·A hockey team announced a new coach to replace the outgoing coach who led the team for 10 years
• ·The railway service announced discounted fares for senior citizens and people with disabilities