Will Trump give the familiar VP storyline a new makeover in Milwaukee? Our system has long ago absorbed the lesson that vice presidents are chosen largely for effect, despite all the rhetoric about someone being the “most qualified person” to be “a heartbeat away.” Read more on NPR

Coming out later in life was hard. But I’m the happiest I’ve ever been Everyone’s coming out journey is different. This is mine. Read more on NPR

At 91, a Nigerian artist who reimagined the crucifixion gets a Smithsonian show Bruce Onobrakpeya was unafraid to challenge the conventions of the art world — and was celebrated for it. This giant of African art is basking in the joy of his first Smithsonian solo exhibition. Read more on NPR

A Roman beach destroyed by Mount Vesuvius is open to the public for the first time The beach at Herculaneum is believed to be where some 300 people died while waiting for boats to save them from the volcanic eruption in 79 AD. It’s now open to the public for the first time. Read more…

Home prices just hit a record high. Here are 4 things to know about housing The housing market continues to be impacted by high mortgage rates. That’s reducing the supply of available housing, sending home prices to an all-time high. Read more on NPR

Florida reefs are in trouble. Could the answer lie in coral from the Caribbean? Scientists working to save Florida’s ailing reef hope Caribbean coral thriving in hotter water could bring some relief. Read more on NPR

It’s too hot. Our sundress season of discontent isn’t helping A woman on TikTok asked: What is a sundress? Ten million views later, the debate is still raging. Read more on NPR

In writing the country’s most sweeping AI law, Colorado focused on fairness, preventing bias Other states are watching as the law is refined before taking effect in 2026 but it’s getting praise for at least being a first step in regulating AI Read more on NPR

We designed a ‘Morning Edition’ fragrance – and learned why perfume sales are up We visited Olfactory NYC to design a scent and to learn why perfume sales are up since 2018. Read more on NPR