A doctor and Washington Post columnist addresses parents’ concerns about how to keep their kids safe as classrooms reopen. Days after Hurricane Ida knocked out power, people are dealing with extreme heat and shortages of gas. The Louisiana Illuminator looks at the challenges on the ground. The Texas Tribune speaks to doctors on how they are dealing with the state’s restrictive new abortion law. Apple News has a special collection of the best reporting on the topic. The Wall Street Journal reports that the Federal Trade Commission is looking into repair issues involving McDonald’s ice cream machines. Frequent breakdowns have been infuriating fans of the fast-food chain’s McFlurry and other desserts.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.