A cartoon shows two children seated beside road closure and detour signs tied to a FIFA event. One child asks what the acronym stands for while the other relays a frustrated, censored remark from a parent about finding alternate routes.
Two yellow diamond-shaped road signs appear against a blue sky. The left sign labeled STUDENTS shows two child silhouettes throwing papers into the air. The right sign labeled MPs displays a black pig silhouette with a top hat flying off. A blue banner above reads OUT FOR SUMMER.... The image is dated June 25 2026 and signed by artist Steve Nease.
Dave Granlund's cartoon nails the frustration of high gasoline prices derailing summer road trips for families on limited budgets. Instead of hitting the highway in their autos, this crew opts for a stay home vacation, splashing in a backyard kiddie pool with the dog. The jacked-up minivan on blocks screams grounded plans, while the crossed-out 'Va' in vacation turns it into 'Staycation 2026.' It's a sharp poke at how fuel costs force folks to tighten belts, swapping grand adventures for hose-filled pools and mailbox views. Tags like gasoline prices, high cost, and stay home highlight the economic squeeze, making this a relatable jab at everyday belt-tightening.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has declined federal SNAP summer supplemental funds, arguing the program promotes welfare. The cartoon depicts Lee at a podium holding papers marked no fed funds while a speech bubble criticizes the assistance. Nearby a hungry child with a rumbling stomach stands ignored as Lee tells the child to keep quiet. The image highlights the tension between state policy choices and immediate child needs during summer months when school meals are unavailable.
