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Sweden faces political deadlock as center-left bloc fails to form government

Swedish Social Democratic Party leader Magdalena Andersson has abandoned efforts to form a four-party government. Deep divisions within the election-winning bloc have left Sweden in political deadlock.

Sep 28 • 5:13 AM EDT • Politics • dw.com

Ball 'furious' after Torquay's Billericay loss

Torquay United manager Jimmy Ball slams his side's efforts after their 3-0 loss at Billericay Town in National League South.

Sep 28 • 4:26 AM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Is your will worthless? Here’s how to add value

A will is as valuable as you make it. Thought, intention and effort today pay off after you’re gone.

Sep 28 • 3:00 AM EDT • Business • farmprogress.com

Navigating the American Dream: How Integrated Financial Tools, Credit and Rewards Can Help Small Businesses Succeed

(Feature Impact) Owning a small business has been a cornerstone of the “American Dream” for generations. It represents the chance to transform a passion into a livelihood and legacy. However, turning dreams into reality is rarely a smooth or easy process and requires more than ambition alone. Today’s business owners need support and access to tools that enable them to overcome challenges and keep growing.#placement_678081_0_i{width:100%;margin:0 auto;}var rnd = window.rnd || Math.floor(Math.random()*10e6);var pid678081 = window.pid678081 || rnd;var plc678081 = window.plc678081 || 0;var abkw = window.abkw || '';var absrc = 'https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;ID=181918;size=0x0;setID=678081;type=js;sw='+screen.width+';sh='+screen.height+';spr='+window.devicePixelRatio+';kw='+abkw+';pid='+pid678081+';place='+(plc678081++)+';rnd='+rnd+';click=CLICK_MACRO_PLACEHOLDER';var _absrc = absrc.split("type=js"); absrc = _absrc[0] + 'type=js;referrer=' + encodeURIComponent(document.location.href) + _absrc[1];document.write('');Recent research conducted by the Capital One Insights Center shows 75% of more than 1,000 surveyed small business owners with more than one employee and annual revenues of up to $20 million are confident about the future, and 69% believe their business is actively primed for growth.While this optimism is promising, 47% of business owners still said their operations either stayed the same or became less efficient over the past year, citing issues like back-office friction and fragmented financial systems that make it difficult to get a clear picture of the health of their businesses.If you’re a small business owner eager to grow but not sure how to get there, start with this advice from real small business owners and experts at Capital One.Identify Sources of FrictionBefore you can pour effort into growth, you must understand what barriers are holding you back. Take time to look under the hood of your business to identify where time and energy is being lost.For example, you may be among the 78% of small business owners who feel stressed and uncertain about expense management – think hours spent hunting for receipts, manually entering numbers into software and reconciling accounts. Operational challenges aren’t just a hassle; they also pull attention away from important priorities like serving your customers and planning for growth. “We were focused on making as many candles as possible, especially during the busy season,” said Katie Roering, co-owner of Fontana Candle Co. “A lot of the back-office tasks like procurement, raw material purchasing, forecasting – all the really important things – were done at 3 a.m., 8 p.m. or on Saturday and Sunday, and there really just was not enough time in the day to get everything done that we needed to. We just knew as we continued to grow, we needed to streamline our processes, build out our team and keep moving forward.”Use Integrated Tools to Manage FinancesInstead of balancing 10 different tracking and analysis tools, you can turn to one-stop solutions to improve efficiency. Time gets lost when you’re forced to manually gather and interpret relevant data before you’re able to act. You need a platform that handles the busywork for you.Integrated, or “all-in-one,” financial tools – like accounting and bookkeeping platforms with automation capabilities or business credit cards featuring built-in analytical tools – allow you to easily stay on top of cash flow and day-to-day operations. For small businesses where every hour and dollar makes a difference, consolidating and automating systems can have an immediate impact. In fact, 51% of survey respondents said integrated tools have already fueled their growth.Leverage Credit Access and Rewards WiselyGrowth requires capital, so access to credit is a game-changer for many business owners, with 77% describing it as a key factor in achieving business resilience. Having funds accessible when you need them makes your business more capable of weathering storms such as equipment failures and seasonal slowdowns. It also puts the power in your hands to act when an exciting opportunity presents itself, like an inventory flash sale or the chance to advertise in a new market.Access to credit comes with another advantage: rewards. By using credit cards for your daily business expenses, you can earn cash back, points or travel rewards. Whether you redeem these to cover everyday expenses, book business trips or reinvest in the business, they can act as a bonus source of income. Learn to maximize rewards like the 84% of small business cardholders surveyed so you aren’t leaving money on the table.To learn more about how small business owners can identify obstacles, employ integrated financial tools and use credit as a tool for growth, read the full report at capitalone.com/about/insights-center.Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

Sep 28 • 1:00 AM EDT • Business • times-herald.com

Chris Olave tops 100 yards

New Orleans Saints WR Chris Olave has 100-yard effort against Raiders

Sep 27 • 10:57 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

WHO recognizes healthy, innovative cities across the Western Pacific Region

Nine Healthy City champions from across the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region received special recognition at an awarding ceremony during the 11th Global Conference of the Alliance for Healthy Cities in Sydney, Australia.The WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific has presented the Healthy Cities Recognition Awards every two years since 2004 to celebrate innovative and impactful city-led initiatives that improve the health and well-being of urban populations.Eight cities received awards for their best practices, and one National Forum received the WHO Regional Director’s Special Award in recognition of its long-standing leadership in advancing the Healthy Cities movement.Awardees were selected through a rigorous evaluation process and recognized for demonstrating measurable, innovative and sustainable approaches to health challenges faced by cities.Remarking on the significance of the awards, Dr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control at the Regional Office, said that, “There is no single blueprint for a healthy city. What works in one context may need to be adapted to another. But by sharing our experiences, including what worked, what was challenging, and what we learnt along the way, we can help one another move faster and further.”Award-winning cities and initiativesThis year's awards recognize outstanding city-led initiatives that have demonstrated measurable impact, innovation and sustainability in advancing health initiatives for urban populations.Baguio City (Philippines) – Data for equity: informing action, improving healthDr Donnabel Tubera-Panes, City Epidemiologist – Medical Officer IV of the Health Services Office accepted the award on behalf of Baguio City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisBaguio City was recognized for developing a pioneering Livability Index that provides village-level data across all 128 barangays (villages), enabling evidence-based planning and more equitable allocation of resources. By integrating community participation and institutionalizing the index within city planning and budgeting processes, the city has demonstrated how data can drive action to reduce health and social inequities.Eunpyeong-gu (Seoul, Republic of Korea) – Communities living in vulnerable situations: advancing health equity through community engagementVice Mayor Honourable Ahn Hyoung Jun accepted the award on behalf of Eunpyeong-gu. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisEunpyeong-gu was recognized for its inclusive health equity programme supporting vulnerable populations, including isolated older adults and LGBTQI+ communities. Through peer-led community networks, social cooperatives and inclusive service design, the district has strengthened access to care, promoted social inclusion and advanced community ownership of health initiatives.Madiun City (Indonesia) – Adapting and mitigating climate-related crises: building heat resilience and preventing flood-related health risksMs Yuni Dwi Purwani, Secretary General of the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies, accepted the award on behalf of Madiun City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisMadiun City was recognized for its SUPERMIE (Sustainable Public Environmental Management Initiative) – a community-based environmental governance model that addresses urban flooding, climate resilience and environmental sustainability. The initiative contributed to reductions in flood-prone areas, greenhouse gas emissions, diarrhoeal disease and dengue fever, while at the same time improving food security through neighbourhood food gardens. The programme has already been replicated in 15 cities and regencies across Indonesia.Macao Special Administrative Region (China) – Protecting communities from tobacco and alcohol-related harms: tackling commercial drivers of riskDr LO Iek Long, Director of the Health Bureau, Macao SAR, China accepted the award on behalf of Macao. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisMacao SAR was recognized for implementing a comprehensive and integrated approach to tobacco and alcohol control. Through legislation, monitoring systems, enforcement, public awareness campaigns and multisectoral partnerships, the programme has strengthened protection against major risk factors for noncommunicable diseases and established a model that is highly transferable to other urban settings.Phnom Penh Capital City (Cambodia) – Safe, active and health-enabling transport: advancing health and reducing inequities in urban mobilityH.E. Khoung Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh Capital City accepted the award on behalf of Phnom Penh Capital City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisPhnom Penh received the award for its Safe School Zone Project, which combines infrastructure improvements, speed management, enforcement, education and stakeholder engagement to protect children and communities. The initiative has demonstrated measurable reductions in crashes and vehicle speeds while providing a scalable model for safer urban mobility across the country.Quezon City (Philippines) – Transforming food environments: addressing policy, market and urban design drivers of health and nutritionMs Jirah Asa M. Sideco, Chief of the Nutrition Section of the Quezon City Health Department accepted the award on behalf of Quezon City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisQuezon City was recognized for its public food procurement policy that promotes healthier diets through government-run institutions and feeding programmes. Supported by strong policy frameworks and monitoring systems, the initiative improves access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations while serving as a benchmark for other local governments.Samarinda City (Indonesia) – Preventing violence and promoting gender equality: transforming urban systems, norms and spaces Mrs Rinda Wahyuni, Chairperson of Samarinda Healthy City Forum accepted the award on behalf of Samarinda City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisSamarinda City was recognized for its multisectoral approach to preventing violence and advancing gender equality. Responding to local evidence on violence against women and children, the city has positioned violence prevention as a public health priority, bringing together health services, schools, social welfare institutions, law enforcement, civil society and community leaders to strengthen prevention, reporting, survivor-centred support and legal protection. Through inclusive policies, community engagement and sustainable city financing, Samarinda has developed a locally owned and scalable model for creating safer, more equitable and inclusive urban communities.Singapore – Age-friendly cities: transforming systems to bridge generations for a healthier tomorrowDr Tan Weng Mooi, Director, Integrated Health Promotion, accepted the award on behalf of Singapore. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisSingapore received recognition for its Healthy Precinct Framework, which translates national healthy ageing priorities into neighbourhood-level action. The initiative integrates preventive care, social support, service coordination and age-friendly environments while actively engaging older persons, caregivers and community organizations. Its expansion across multiple precincts demonstrates its scalability and ­long-term sustainability.WHO Regional Director’s Special AwardNational Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies (Indonesia)Ms Yuni Dwi Purwani, Secretary General of the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies, accepted the award on behalf of the National Forum. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisThe WHO Regional Director's Special Award was presented to the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies (FKKSI) in recognition of its long-standing leadership in advancing the Healthy Cities movement across Indonesia. As a national platform bringing together local governments, communities, academia and civil society, FKKSI has played a critical role in promoting collaboration, capacity-building, knowledge exchange and advocacy. Its efforts have strengthened and institutionalized healthy urban development nationwide and established a model for multisectoral engagement in the Region. Healthy Cities for allThe 2026 Healthy Cities Recognition Awards highlight how cities can lead transformative action on health by addressing climate change, inequity, ageing, nutrition, mobility, social inclusion, violence prevention and the commercial determinants of health. The recognized initiatives demonstrate that local governments, communities and partners can work together to create healthier, safer and more resilient urban environments for everyone. As urban populations continue to grow across the Western Pacific Region, WHO remains committed to supporting cities in advancing health, equity and sustainable development through the Healthy Cities approach and the Alliance for Healthy Cities. ###Note to editorsSince 2004, the WHO Healthy Cities Recognition Awards have provided a platform for cities to share innovative and effective approaches to improving health and well-being. The awards recognize achievements in areas including climate resilience, healthy ageing, health equity, gender equality, tobacco and alcohol control, urban mobility, nutrition and data-driven governance. In 2026, more than 150 submissions were received from cities and local governments across the Western Pacific Region. The titles and affiliations of awardees are presented as they were at the time the photo was taken.______________For more information, or to arrange media interviews, contact: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific: wprocom@who.int

Sep 27 • 8:00 PM EDT • Health • who.int

Prosper Portland’s executive director discusses revitalization plans for downtown

Prosper Portland executive director Cornell Wesley discussed downtown revitalization efforts following a report indicating that pedestrian traffic reached its highest levels since the pandemic.

Sep 27 • 12:41 PM EDT • Politics • koin.com

Prosper Portland’s executive director on Eye on Northwest Politics to discuss efforts to revitalize downtown Portland

Reporting Portland and Vancouver area breaking news and weather stories to make Oregon and Southwest Washington a better place to live

Sep 27 • 11:38 AM EDT • Politics • koin.com

Democratic attorneys general work to Trump-proof election

Stepping in for a complacent Congress, Democratic attorneys general are ready to fight efforts to undermine or overturn the Nov. 3 election. "We need to stay vigilant," says Colorado's Phil Weiser.

Sep 27 • 6:00 AM EDT • Politics • latimes.com

2 years after Helene, the political fight brewing over blame for recovery efforts

Sep 27 • 5:30 AM EDT • Politics • wral.com

Fresh off World Cup wins, Kansas City leaders say sports could be city's promising new brand

Those involved in the World Cup's KC2026 effort and economic development leaders say Kansas City can build a brand around its expertise in sports architecture and increasing its profile in sports media, tech, health and youth sports.

Sep 27 • 5:00 AM EDT • Sports • kcur.org

Iran Praises Turkey’s Push for Regional Peace, Security

TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi lauded Turkey’s efforts to strengthen peace and security in the region, calling for greater regional cooperation and mutual trust in the face of foreign intervention.

Sep 27 • 2:59 AM EDT • Politics • tasnimnews.ir

MVDs: Oklahoma Edition

You don’t unceremoniously sink the Sooner Schooner without a total team effort. But even then some Bulldogs are bound to stand out above the crowd for their efforts. Those dandy ‘‘Dawgs are your MVDs, the Most Valuable Dawgs from Georgia’s 41-13 victory over Oklahoma. Offense: Talyn Taylor. Taylor’s 4 catches for 110 yards represented a […]

Sep 26 • 10:38 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Alex Greenwood free-kick helps Man City defeat Charlton

There has been lots of talk about the validity of the success of Manchester City's men's team in the last 24 hours but the women put in a spirited effort to defeat away to Charlton Athletic.The Citize...

Sep 26 • 11:05 AM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Colorado redistricting fight echoes across decades

A look back at Colorado politics, from a bitter congressional redistricting stalemate in 1981 to efforts addressing racial disparities in criminal sentencing.

Sep 26 • 7:00 AM EDT • Politics • coloradopolitics.com

Cal offense struggles as Bears fall to Clemson in Berkeley

The Cal Bears got a solid effort from their defense, but the offense never got going against Clemson in a 24-10 loss in Berkeley on Friday, managing just one field goal.

Sep 26 • 3:26 AM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Guthrie talks data center costs, health care during Owensboro business visit

Congressman Brett Guthrie toured Custom Audio-Video during a Friday visit to Owensboro, then spoke with Owensboro Times about congressional efforts addressing data center electricity costs, Medicare physician payments, and cybersecurity at rural hospitals.

Sep 26 • 1:15 AM EDT • Health • owensborotimes.com

Guthrie talks data center costs, health care during Owensboro business visit

Congressman Brett Guthrie toured Custom Audio-Video during a Friday visit to Owensboro, then spoke with Owensboro Times about congressional efforts addressing data center electricity costs, Medicare physician payments, and cybersecurity at rural hospitals.

Sep 26 • 1:15 AM EDT • Business • owensborotimes.com

Supreme Court rejects GOP’s third effort to capture Democratic House seat in Missouri

The third time was not the charm.

Sep 25 • 6:00 PM EDT • Politics • cnn.com

‘Connection saves lives': What to know about veteran suicide prevention efforts

An average of 17 veterans die by suicide each day. Here's what to know about warning signs, support and prevention.

Sep 25 • 5:27 PM EDT • Health • nbcmiami.com

Pokémon card collector used GPS device to track delivery woman

After 30 years, Pokémon remains among the most desirable collectible franchises in fandom and auctions regularly prove the cards' growing value. But one collector went too far in his efforts…

Sep 25 • 5:09 PM EDT • Technology • boingboing.net

DOE releases national quantum computing roadmap following field-wide effort led by SCAC subcommittee

Quantum computing is becoming a revolutionary tool for scientific discovery.

Sep 25 • 4:58 PM EDT • Science • news.fnal.gov

The business case for pacing AI

Spacing out model launches and more efforts on safety could spur wider business adoption - if the political support is there.

Sep 25 • 4:37 PM EDT • Business • wpintelligence.washingtonpost.com

Stop the wiretap shakedown on Main Street

House Committee on Small Business Chairman Roger Williams called for federal modernization of surveillance laws following the introduction of bipartisan legislative efforts to protect businesses fr…

Sep 25 • 12:00 PM EDT • Business • thehill.com

Supreme Court revives DHS citizenship data tool for voter audits in win for Trump

In a major win for President Donald Trump’s efforts to find non-citizen voters, the Supreme Court on Friday said states can use a controversial citizenship data collection tool for reviewing voter rolls.

Sep 25 • 11:53 AM EDT • Politics • cnn.com

AI Slop or IP Gold? The Business of Brainrot

This case is not merely about memes; it is a test case for how artists and IP law will continue to grapple with the commercialization efforts behind viral internet culture and new forms of digital creativity.

Sep 25 • 11:30 AM EDT • Business • law.com

Proposed Changes to Demographic Data Collection in the Census Could Impact Efforts to Address Health and Health Care Disparities

This issue brief provides an overview of the decennial census and discusses potential implications of the changes outlined in a September 2026 proposed rule to prohibit the collection of race and ethnicity data on the census and exclude many noncitizen immigrants from the apportionment count.

Sep 25 • 9:29 AM EDT • Health • kff.org

From 650,000 players to the number one target

City's devotion to data is at the heart of their efforts to close the gap on Arsenal and BBC Sport has been given unprecedent access to the inner workings of the club's metrics machine as we uncover some of the secrets guiding their work - particularly regarding player recruitment and sales. The starting point for any new signing is City's database of 650,000 footballers from around the world.

Sep 25 • 9:13 AM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Welcome to the home stretch

💰 And a first look at an unusual new spending effort on behalf of U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick.

Sep 25 • 7:01 AM EDT • Politics • inquirer.com

NC Republican leader plans to address school library book controversies

Rep. Brenden Jones is warning that NC lawmakers may respond to local efforts to limit the public’s ability to remove books from school libraries.

Sep 25 • 5:00 AM EDT • Politics • newsobserver.com

AMA grant boosts patient-driven approach to cervical cancer screening

One of the AMA Community Health Impact Lab micro grants will back an innovative effort at Jefferson Health to boost screening.

Sep 25 • 3:00 AM EDT • Health • ama-assn.org

ROUNDUP: Science Hill, Sullivan East cap undefeated district runs

BLOUNTVILLE — Behind a balanced offensive effort, Science Hill's volleyball team completed a perfect run through District 1-AAA competition this regular season.

Sep 24 • 11:40 PM EDT • Science • johnsoncitypress.com

ROUNDUP: Science Hill, Sullivan East cap undefeated district runs

BLOUNTVILLE — Behind a balanced offensive effort, Science Hill's volleyball team completed a perfect run through District 1-AAA competition this regular season.

Sep 24 • 10:17 PM EDT • Science • timesnews.net

State and federal barriers complicate homeless outreach in New York

Providers and outreach organizations do much of the work on the ground, but government resources remain a key part of those efforts.

Sep 24 • 6:54 PM EDT • Politics • spectrumlocalnews.com

State and federal barriers complicate homeless outreach in New York

Providers and outreach organizations do much of the work on the ground, but government resources remain a key part of those efforts.

Sep 24 • 6:54 PM EDT • Politics • spectrumlocalnews.com

Oregon political leaders demand emergency federal assistance for East Evans Creek Fire

Initial request was denied in late July; fire was sparked by a rollover crash in which a teen driver has been arrested Multiple Oregon federal lawmakers are requesting that the […]

Sep 24 • 6:52 PM EDT • Politics • rv-times.com

Starbucks to close 250 underperforming stores

Starbucks announced Thursday that it plans to close around 250 underperforming cafes later this week as part of a turnaround effort. The closures make up 1% of the Seattle-based coffee

Sep 24 • 2:54 PM EDT • Entertainment • thederrick.com

Academy profile: Diego Covarrubias

Effort, talent, and consistency always find their reward. For Diego Covarrubias, these factors have been essential in his journey through the Rojiblanca Academy. After moving through different youth l...

Sep 24 • 1:43 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

The Premier League stat putting Trafford in the spotlight

James Trafford has made an impressive start to his Leeds United career, with the summer signing leading the Premier League for saves, having stopped 20 efforts, and ranking second among goalkeepers ac...

Sep 24 • 1:19 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Westbrook Health Services Distributes Free Naloxone Across 8 Counties for Save a Life Day

Community health advocates across West Virginia joined a nationwide effort Thursday to place life-saving overdose reversal medication into the hands of the public during Save a Life Day.

Sep 24 • 12:22 PM EDT • Health • wtap.com

From 15,000 to 185 to Zero: Trump’s Claims of Illegal Voting in Nevada Fizzle

It was the Trump administration’s latest stumble in its effort to find proof of widespread noncitizen voting, despite decades of evidence that it is extremely rare.

Sep 24 • 11:18 AM EDT • Politics • nytimes.com

Pharr Global Business Hub Expands Workforce Training With Skills-to-Certification Program

The Pharr Global Business Hub is expanding workforce development efforts through a “Skills to Certification” program offering training in blueprint reading, estimating, workplace safety and preparation for the electrical journeyman examination.

Sep 24 • 10:57 AM EDT • Business • texasborderbusiness.com

Starbucks is closing hundreds of locations

Starbucks is closing approximately 250 locations in the coming days as the coffee chain continues to prune its store count during its turnaround efforts.

Sep 24 • 10:51 AM EDT • Business • cnn.com

Is metascience being co-opted?

In July, the White House released a report that argued academia is deeply dysfunctional and in need of radical reform.Science: A New Golden Age sets out a litany of problems many academics will recognise: interminable waits for grants; short-term funding rather than support for longer, more ambitious projects; ballooning administrative requirements; pressure to publish, and many more. “The scientific machine is getting bogged down,” it says. At least on the face of it, Science: A New Golden Age is a triumph for the metascience movement, a loose-knit, global group of academics, philanthropists and think tankers that want far more testing and experimentation in how we fund public research and innovation. The report tells US research funders to set up internal metascience units to do just this. But it has also set alarm bells ringing that metascience is being conveniently deployed to help justify the defunding of US universities, which US vice president JD Vance has openly labelled “the enemy.” “Just because you have an issue with your plumbing in your house doesn't mean you light the entire house on fire and burn it to the ground,” said Colette Delawalla, chief executive of Stand Up for Science, a group campaigning against what it says are attacks on scientists by the Trump administration. No one is arguing that academia doesn’t need reform, but there’s debate over how far and how fast the system should be shaken up. Does public R&D need slow and steady evidence-based adjustment, or radical new experiments?One of the key arguments in Science: A New Golden Age is that there’s not enough funding for what it calls “mid-level” science: engineering-heavy projects that require tens of millions of dollars, involve ten to a hundred people, and last around five years. Such a project might develop a brain-computer interface for people with Alzheimer's disease, for example. As such, the US National Science Foundation (NSF) has already announced $1.5 billion to set up so-called X-Labs, effectively new research organisations to pursue breakthroughs in areas such as quantum sensing and new scientific instruments. Funding divertedBut there’s a catch: this money has squeezed NSF budgets for more traditional, fundamental research grants, Science reported in June, likely meaning less cash for university-based scientists. Science: A New Golden Age also makes various swipes at universities, accusing them of extracting overheads from scientists to fund administrative bloat. “We have become dependent on a narrow set of legacy institutions,” it says. The report doesn’t mention it, but the US government is simultaneously seeking greater powers over federal funding, which would allow political appointees at funding agencies to screen or cancel research grants mid-project. The White House is also seeking to slash the NSF’s budget by more than half in 2027, although similar cuts proposed for 2026 were blocked by Congress. Convenient hookThis has worried some that the metascience agenda could be misused as a kind of smokescreen to further weaken universities. James Wilsdon, executive director of the Research on Research Institute at University College London, said that the report contains lots of “interesting ideas” and agrees that in places, academia is a “pretty broken system.” But the risk is that metascience is being deployed as a “convenient hook” to support cuts and a “political land grab” to transfer grant power from scientists to political appointees in US funding agencies.So far, the metascience agenda hasn’t been seized on by radical right parties in Europe. But Wilsdon worries it will cross the Atlantic, politicising research reform efforts and making them more difficult to carry out. The report is already making some in Europe sceptical of the entire idea. “The system is not without flaws, but the metascience discussion is not likely to improve the system but rather to generate munition to undermine it,” said Claes de Vreese, a professor of AI and society at the University of Amsterdam. Peter Thiel protégéOfficially, Science: A New Golden Age has just one named author: Michael Kratsios, the director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy and a former chief of staff to Silicon Valley mogul Peter Thiel. He also served as chief financial officer of Thiel’s Clarium Capital Management. Since the 1990s, Thiel has criticised US universities for moving away from teaching what he views as the classic works of western civilisation, and drifting towards “anti-Western zealotry.” And since 2011, he has offered two-year fellowships of $250,000 to young people to skip or drop out of university, and instead start companies or pursue scientific research. “College can be good for learning about what’s been done before, but it can also discourage you from doing something new,” according to the Thiel Fellowships website. In other areas, the Trump administration has promoted academics with a longstanding interest in metascience. For example, the head of the National Institutes of Health, Jay Bhattacharya, in 2020 co-authored a study arguing the funder backs overly conservative proposals, although he achieved wider prominence as a critic of pandemic lockdowns. Careless talk costs fundingEven before the Trump administration embraced the metascience agenda, some metascientists privately wondered whether they should be careful not to overstate dysfunctions in academia, in case this gets used as ammunition against universities. But others think being cautious with criticism is pointless. After all, last year, the Trump administration sought to cut funding from US universities on an entirely different premise: supposed antisemitism on campus. “I don't think these governments need a technical metascientific excuse to attack the universities, they will want to do so anyway,” said Will Stone, a researcher at Science Works, a new think tank advocating for a “metascience revolution” in the UK. “I think researchers should report what they find, even when the findings may be used to advance policies they disagree with,” echoed Russell Funk, a researcher at the University of Minnesota, who in 2023 co-authored a highly influential paper that argued scientific papers were becoming less disruptive over time. No justificationThat said, Funk thinks that metascientific research certainly doesn’t justify a weakening of universities. Instead, scientists need “time, resources and stability to pursue unfamiliar ideas,” he said. “Taking away those conditions works against the very goal the reforms are supposed to achieve.”The Institute for Progress, a Washington DC-based innovation policy think tank that has championed X-Labs and metascience units, also says that reforms should complement, not supplant, universities. “Unpredictable, unreliable, and reduced federal funding to researchers is destabilising to the very foundations of research and development and is bad,” said Jenn Gustetic, the institute’s director of metascience and R&D policy.Evolution or revolution?This points to a much bigger divide in the metascience community: how far and how fast should public R&D be shaken up? Does it need evolution or revolution? For example, Science: A New Golden Age says the science system relies too heavily on traditional “workhorse” project grants, the type that pay out around $250,000 a year to fund “hypothesis-driven science by small teams on tractable questions.” However, in criticising project grants, the report “decisively picks one side of a debate that is far from settled,” David Hilmer Rex, a metascientist based in Denmark, has written. In June, Pierre Azoulay, a metascientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, defended project grants, saying that the alternative of X-Labs “merits scepticism.”A-B testingOne challenge in metascience is that it’s easier to generate evidence for some types of change than others. Most straightforwardly, research funders can run A-B tests on different ways of awarding money. For example, Germany’s Volkswagen Foundation recently trialled distributed peer review, where applicants rate each other’s proposals, and measured its results against traditional review panels. Distributed peer review made quicker decisions, although awarded money to largely different ideas. However, much of the focus of the metascience movement has been on founding fast-moving and free-acting new research organisations and funders, in contrast to the alleged stodginess of mainstream academia or public innovation grants. A culture of speed and freedom are the animating principles behind Germany’s Sprind or the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency (Aria).Related articlesViewpoint: it's time to experiment with how Europe funds science European researchers sound the alarm that Trump rule changes will hit cooperationHowever, while it’s possible to closely study previously successful bodies, such as the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa), for historical clues to their secret sauce, it’s impossible to guarantee in advance that the likes of Sprind or Aria will actually work as hoped. But advocates of new organisations say this inherent uncertainly shouldn’t stop us trying. “If we wait for definitive proof that something will work before we try it, I don't know where your proof is coming from,” said Stone. Trade-offsUp until now, experiments in metascience haven’t generally come with hard trade-offs over money. In the US, new ideas such as focused research organisations have often been funded by billionaire philanthropists. In Europe, new innovation agencies such as Sprind and Aria, or the Netherland’s new National Agency for Disruptive Innovation, haven’t needed explicit cuts elsewhere in the research system. But with the $1.5 billion establishment of X-Labs by the NSF, the trade-offs are becoming clearer. Some metascientists privately wonder whether a smaller pilot would have been more appropriate, given that the idea is untested. The Institute for Progress counters that the $1.5 billion X-Labs budget is spread out over a decade, so will account for less than 2% of the NSF’s annual budget. “It’s important to remember that [Darpa] was once an institutional experiment as well. Now it’s one of the most cited innovative funding models in the world,” said Gustetic.As for Europe?The US isn’t the only country placing metascience at the heart of its research strategy. Science: A New Golden Age looks admiringly at the UK, which in 2024 set up a Metascience Unit to scrutinise how it funds research. In Brussels, it’s more of a mixed picture. In 2018, the EU set up the European Innovation Council to funnel grants and equity to start-ups, although it’s sometimes criticised for awarding money too slowly. Recently, the council has started experimenting with challenges, where teams of inventors compete to overcome a technological challenge. The European Commission also wants to experiment with partially randomising grant winners, to cut down on bureaucracy. However, the Commission’s own advisers have said the EU’s own research schemes are too conventional. They want the Commission to establish a new dedicated unit to scrutinise and experiment with funding. But there’s no sign of a such unit emerging in Brussels’ plans for the next Horizon Europe programme, which from 2028 is set to distribute more than €160 billion over seven years. Sam Bogerd, director of breakthrough innovation at the Brussels-based Arq Foundation, an AI-focused think tank that also looks at metascience, says that Europe might have the opposite problem to the US: universities and basic research funding are still reasonably well supported, but there’s not enough experimentation. “We're not taking a close enough look at where this money can achieve the most, and I am worried that the good ideas around metascience will be tainted politically by their association with the Trump administration,” he said. He’s still lobbying for the Commission to set up an experimental unit. But in the meantime, the Arq Foundation plans to do its own research, and is currently hiring two metascience researchers to run the rule over how Brussels spends research funding.

Sep 24 • 8:00 AM EDT • Science • sciencebusiness.net

Therapy returns for St. Louis County jail residents in an effort to address mental health needs

With the county jail dealing with staffing issues and crowding, the St. Louis County Public Health Department is providing therapists to conduct group and one-on-one sessions with detainees who are interested.

Sep 24 • 6:00 AM EDT • Health • stlpr.org

Calling all current and future scientists: Kiel is the place to be this week

This week, Kiel has become a meeting place for science in Europe. Researchers, school pupils, young scientists and members of the public are coming together through a series of major events led or co-organised by Kiel University.At the centre of it all are around 150 of Europe’s most talented young researchers, aged 14 to 20, who have travelled to Kiel from nearly 40 countries for the 37th European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS). Running from 22 to 27 September, the European Union’s flagship competition for young scientists brings together winners of national science competitions to present around 100 original research projects across fields ranging from engineering and computer science to medicine, environmental research and the social sciences. The winners will be announced at the Award Ceremony on Saturday.For Kiel University, hosting EUCYS is both an honour and a natural extension of a much longer story. Germany’s northernmost comprehensive university has invested for many years in supporting young scientific talent and bringing research into dialogue with society. The Kiel Science Factory gives school pupils opportunities to experience research first-hand, while programmes such as Rent-a-Scientist send researchers directly into local classrooms. Major annual public events including Kiel Week and the European Researchers’ Night take science beyond the campus through talks, exhibitions and hands-on activities.That long-standing commitment has increasingly taken on a European dimension – and this week, many of those efforts are coming together.One of the foundations for this success is the European Researchers’ Night (ERN), which celebrates its tenth edition in the Kiel region this year. The initiative is funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, with Kiel University developing the successful EU proposals and securing the funding, while regional partner KielRegion coordinates the many activities on the ground. Together with research institutions, schools, companies, local authorities and civil society, they have built ERN into a major platform for public engagement.Over the years, Kiel’s ERN programme has grown far beyond a single evening into a whole “Science Summer”, beginning with “Science Shopping” in spring and culminating tomorrow, 25 September, in Science Day.“We have developed a wide range of public engagement formats, often together with the other research institutions in the region, the city and regional authorities, schools, companies and civil society,” says Eckhard Quandt, Kiel University’s vice president for research, academic infrastructure and transfer. “Over the past decade, we have increasingly taken this commitment to the European level.”That combination of European funding expertise and strong regional partnerships also helped Kiel University take the next step. Drawing on its experience with ERN and its European networks, including the SEA-EU University Alliance, the university brought together Brest in France and Split in Croatia for a successful bid to the EU’s new Science Comes to Town initiative. Throughout 2026, the three cities are serving as Europe’s first Science Ambassadors, with more than one thousand activities bringing science into schools, public spaces, cultural venues and everyday life.EUCYS is perhaps the clearest example of how Kiel University is using Science Comes to Town to create new connections between major European initiatives. From the outset, the university deliberately planned the contest for the week of European Researchers’ Night and opened the EUCYS exhibition to the wider Science Day audience. Tomorrow, that means thousands of visitors can encounter the next generation of scientific talent first-hand, while the young researchers themselves gain a much bigger public stage.“Because we opened EUCYS up for European Researchers’ Night, there will be a lot of people actually visiting the exhibition,” says organiser Stefanie Altemark of Kiel University.“We wanted Europe’s most talented young scientists not only to compete with one another, but also to become visible to the wider public. At the same time, people in Kiel will have the opportunity to see what the next generation of scientists are already capable of,” says Quandt.“We’ve shown over the last years that science is a big part of Kiel, and it’s always been the goal to not only show that to people in Germany, but also to show it to people all over Europe. Thanks to Kiel University’s expertise in European funding programmes, we have been able to turn that ambition into reality,” says Sünje Fock, who is coordinating the Science Summer at KielRegion.The model is characteristic of Kiel University’s approach: combining European funding expertise and international networks with strong regional partnerships to give major initiatives greater reach and visibility.This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, giving Kiel University the special opportunity to welcome Vanessa Debiais-Sainton, Head of Department for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions at the European Research Executive Agency, to Kiel tomorrow. Her visit brings together two priorities that have shaped Kiel University’s work over the past decade: supporting researchers and bringing science closer to society. Debiais-Sainton emphasises how closely the two are connected: "For thirty years, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) have given more than 150,000 researchers the chance to pursue their dreams and open up new fields. Doctoral Networks and Postdoctoral Fellowships give them the freedom to move, to connect, to train and to follow their curiosity across borders, sectors and disciplines. But excellence cannot live only in laboratories. Researchers’ Night takes science out of the lab and into the city, to the families, the schoolchildren and the curious minds who will become the next generation. Kiel shows what that looks like at its best. That is the MSCA promise: open science, open borders, open doors."For Kiel University, these activities are not separate endeavours. They are part of a broader understanding of academic excellence in which outstanding research, talent development, international cooperation, knowledge transfer and engagement with society strengthen one another.“For me, one of the most important lessons from the past decade is that scientific excellence, knowledge transfer, talent development and engagement with society cannot be treated as separate tasks,” stresses vice president Quandt. “They reinforce one another.”That philosophy is also reflected in Kiel University’s current bid for Germany’s Excellence University status. The designation is part of Germany’s national Excellence Strategy, which provides substantial long-term funding to selected universities to strengthen internationally competitive research and their overall institutional development. A successful outcome would provide new opportunities to build on what has already been created: deepening international cooperation, creating more opportunities for knowledge exchange and public engagement, and extending the university’s reach across the region and beyond. “If we are successful, it would allow us to take what we have built in Kiel considerably further – including expanding our networks and transfer activities beyond the region and increasingly across the Baltic area,” says Quandt.This week’s events offer a glimpse of what that could mean in practice: a university using its research strength, European expertise and regional partnerships to create opportunities for scientists at every stage of their careers while making science more visible, accessible and exciting to the wider public.

Sep 24 • 5:37 AM EDT • Science • sciencebusiness.net

McDonald’s is spending billions to make major changes

McDonald’s is spending billions of dollars to boost its franchises, an effort to cement its title as the leader in fast food amid growing competition.

Sep 24 • 5:00 AM EDT • Business • cnn.com

Black Lung Disease Remains a Threat, but Federal Officials Delay Effort To Address It

The disease has long been a risk of coal mining, an industry the Trump administration is trying to reinvigorate.

Sep 24 • 5:00 AM EDT • Health • kffhealthnews.org

Network for 2030 Census launches

Leaders from across Arkansas gathered Wednesday (Sept. 23) in Little Rock for the 2026 Arkansas Census Summit, beginning a statewide effort to help communities prepare early for a complete and...

Sep 24 • 12:30 AM EDT • Business • talkbusiness.net

Network for 2030 Census launches

Leaders from across Arkansas gathered Wednesday (Sept. 23) in Little Rock for the 2026 Arkansas Census Summit, beginning a statewide effort to help communities prepare early for a complete and...

Sep 24 • 12:30 AM EDT • Politics • talkbusiness.net

Chamber of Commerce, oil groups urge Trump to reject diesel export ban

American business, energy and manufacturing groups on Wednesday urged President Trump to reject calls to impose a diesel export ban after the president said he was weighing this move in an effort t…

Sep 23 • 6:30 PM EDT • Business • thehill.com

Trump SBA to Extend Comment Period After Ranking Member Markey Leads Effort to Rescind SBA Policy that Reclassifies Billion-Dollar Businesses as “Small Businesses”

Trump admin policy would reclassify 114,000 larger businesses as “small” to access small business resources and win federal contracts meant for small businesses Letter (PDF) (Washington, September 23) – This week, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its plans to extend the deadline to submit comments on its controversial proposed rule regarding small business size standards until November 20. The Trump SBA’s announcement came shortly after Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), alongside 12 of his Senate colleagues, sent a letter to Administrator Kelly Loeffler demanding that the Trump SBA rescind a harmful policy that would dramatically redefine what a small business is. The Administration’s proposed policy would change the small business size standard to designate 114,000 larger companies some with annual revenue above $1 billion—as small businesses, giving these businesses access to small business resources and federal contracts typically set aside for actual small businesses. In the letter, Ranking Member Markey and the lawmakers emphasized that small businesses will be shut out of the federal contracting space as government agencies award contracts to larger businesses, causing small businesses to lose revenue, lay off workers, or close their businesses entirely. “For more than 70 years, SBA’s mission has been clear: promote and protect the interests and viability of small businesses. By proceeding with this proposed methodology and rule, SBA moves further away from its mission of facilitating healthy small business participation in the U.S. economy. We urge SBA to rescind these proposals, meet in earnest with small businesses across the country, and discuss the proposal and methodology with congressional committees of jurisdiction. SBA must be committed to developing measured increases to the size standards that do not reward large, billion-dollar companies but instead helps our small businesses survive, grow, and thrive.” The lawmakers highlighted the following points in their letter: Under the Trump SBA’s new size standards, the highest receipts-based standard would exceed $1 billion in annual revenue—more than 20 times the current $47 million maximum—and the highest employee-based standard would reach 3,600 employees—more than twice the current 1,500 employee maximum. Specific increases include an increase in size of nearly 492% for banks, 1,500% for law firms, and more than 2,051% for private equity firms. Of the 114,000 businesses that would be newly classified as small, more than 37,000 of these businesses have collectively won more than 100,000 federal contracts worth approximately $71 billion in Fiscal Year 2025 alone without a small business designation. If SBA included the awards won by these 37,000 businesses in its Fiscal Year 2025 analysis, small business contracts would have accounted for 38% of all federal contracts, instead of the 27% that SBA announced this summer. The letter was co-signed by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Christopher Coons (D-Dela.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.). Ranking Member Markey is fighting to protect small businesses in Massachusetts and across the country from the Trump SBA’s harmful policies that put big businesses and billionaires over American small businesses, workers, and families. In August, Ranking Member Markey slammed the Trump SBA’s proposal to overhaul its small business size standards to benefit big businesses over small businesses. In July, Ranking Member Markey and House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY-7) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to rescind the Trump administration’s policy that bans green card holders from accessing essential Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to start and grow their businesses. Also in July, Ranking Member Markey and Senator Hirono submitted a comment letter to the Small Business Administration (SBA) opposing a proposed rule change by Trump’s SBA to the 8(a) Business Development Program that would harm underserved small business owners and entrepreneurs. In June, Ranking Member Markey released a new report highlighting Trump’s drastic reduction in federal contracting dollars awarded to American small businesses. ###

Sep 23 • 6:23 PM EDT • Business • sbc.senate.gov

Talent firm 24 Seven consolidates the new business efforts of its three concentric agencies

SktechDeck, Markacy and Futureman are now being pitched by 24 Seven’s new business team as any combination of the three shops that a client might want to tap

Sep 23 • 4:21 PM EDT • Business • digiday.com

Trump's focus on noncitizen voting has led to 160 arrests. That shows it's rare, experts say

The Trump administration's whole-of-government effort to find and prosecute noncitizens illegally on state voter rolls has resulted in about 1,600 voter fraud cases that have led to 160 arrests, Homeland Security Investigations senior official Matthew Millhollin said in a press briefing Tuesday.

Sep 23 • 3:56 PM EDT • Politics • pbs.org

New Jersey Department of Health Celebrates Newborn Screening Awareness Month, Public Health Laboratory Appreciation Month and Continues to Lead Robust Newborn Screening Efforts Statewide

New Jersey Department of Health Celebrates Newborn Screening Awareness Month, Public Health Laboratory Appreciation Month and Continues to Lead Robust Newborn Screening Efforts Statewide

Sep 23 • 3:18 PM EDT • Health • nj.gov

Tampa General Hospital First Academic Health System in Southeast to Adopt Innovative Host-Response Technology to Advance Sepsis Care

MeMed BV provides results in 15 minutes to help clinicians distinguish bacterial from viral infections, building on Tampa General’s nationally recognized efforts to improve the early detection and treatment of sepsis. Sept. 22, 2026 – Tampa General Hospital (TGH) is advancing its longstanding commitment to improving sepsis care as the first academic health system in the Southeast to […]

Sep 23 • 1:56 PM EDT • Health • southfloridahospitalnews.com

Dems, GOP gear up for Maine House and Senate races

Maine Republican Party spokeswoman Kristina Parker said they have a new get-out-the-vote effort that they believe will put them over the top this cycle.

Sep 23 • 9:32 AM EDT • Politics • spectrumlocalnews.com

Democrats lead in new poll as Trump looms over midterms

President Donald Trump’s efforts to make the midterm elections a referendum on his presidency appear to be backfiring as Democratic congressional candidates hold a significant lead over Republicans in the latest poll from PBS News, NPR and Marist.

Sep 23 • 5:00 AM EDT • Politics • pbs.org

Bangladesh's new approach to noncommunicable diseases

Bangladesh has committed to reducing premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases, rebuilding prevention and control efforts around primary health care.

Sep 23 • 2:00 AM EDT • Health • weforum.org

Missouri’s embattled, Trump-backed congressional map returns to Supreme Court for a third time

A quixotic legal battle over whether Missouri may use a GOP-friendly congressional redistricting plan for November’s election returned to the Supreme Court for the third time late Tuesday night, forcing the justices to once again review an effort the court unanimously rejected less than two weeks ago.

Sep 23 • 12:03 AM EDT • Politics • cnn.com

AMC Entertainment Holdings (AMC) Begins $3.97 Billion Debt Refinancing

AMC Entertainment Holdings (NYSE:AMC) launched a US$3.97b debt refinancing effort aimed at reshaping its capital structure. The package includes new secured note offerings designed to retire existing 2029 notes through a comprehensive tender offer. AMC is also pursuing new first and second lien term loans that are intended to replace upcoming debt maturities. This large refinancing of 2029 notes and new secured financing only captures part of what could reshape AMC’s risk profile. Check out...

Sep 22 • 11:30 PM EDT • Entertainment • simplywall.st

Newsom and Nashville: Rob Bonta Undone by Politics in Paramount Fight

Rob Bonta brought suit against Paramount in an effort to counter political interference in antitrust enforcement, then fell victim to it.

Sep 22 • 8:01 PM EDT • Politics • variety.com

US Republican calls for probe into Donald Trump Jr’s business dealings

US Senator John Curtis's letter marks a rare effort by a member of the president's own party to hold him accountable.

Sep 22 • 6:07 PM EDT • Business • aljazeera.com

Harold Hamm commits record $150M to tackle Oklahoma's health crisis

Harold Hamm is donating $150 million to OU to tackle Oklahoma's health crisis and boost medical research efforts.

Sep 22 • 4:29 PM EDT • Health • oklahoman.com

Jacks stars as England grind out win over Sri Lanka

Will Jacks' all-round efforts help England grind out an 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first one-day international at Chester-le-Street.

Sep 22 • 3:26 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Mental Health Crusaders launch community talks in Flint

A new effort in Flint is bringing people together to have open conversations about mental health, addiction and recovery.

Sep 22 • 12:52 PM EDT • Health • abc12.com

Situation Report No.11: Earthquakes in Venezuela 2026 (M7.2 and M7.5)

Nearly three months after the 24 June 2026 earthquakes in Venezuela, the response has moved into early recovery while sustaining essential emergency operations. Efforts now center on maintaining continuity of care across mental health, sexual and reproductive health, maternal and neonatal care, NCDs, and rehabilitation, alongside restoring affected facilities, supporting transitional camps, and strengthening Health Cluster coordination as Emergency Medical Teams and international partners withdraw. Health system recovery is advancing, with 16 ASICs and 356 health facilities assessed (61% operational) and rehabilitation progressing under CERF, CFE and US funding, while fluctuating electricity, medication refrigeration and emergency-generator gaps continue to challenge the safe continuity of essential health services. Public health surveillance and prevention remain active, with 47,145 cumulative vaccine doses administered and 556 health professionals trained, while intensified surveillance in La Guaira and Miranda and mounting environmental risks from tropical rains and heatwaves continue to require sustained vector-control and water/sanitation action. Contraception remains the most consistent unmet need across assessed shelters, particularly among adolescents and young women, while mental health needs continue to rise across the transitional camps amid limited supplies and specialized personnel. PAHO/WHO continues to support the response with critically needed medical supplies and medicines, having shipped 46.6 metric tons to Venezuela to date, benefiting 72 actors and reaching 117,714 people with treatment through PAHO and partner donations, while sustained technical and logistical support to the Ministry of Popular Power for Health (MPPS) has strengthened the national supply chain and ensured the continuity of health services through the coordination, reception, and mobilization of international donations of essential medical products.

Sep 22 • 12:04 PM EDT • Health • paho.org

NOAA Selects Superintendent for Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary

The city of Oswego is pleased to announce that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has selected Stephanie Gandulla to serve as the first Superintendent of the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary. Gandulla, who currently serves as Research Protection Coordinator at Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, brings extensive experience in marine resource protection, maritime heritage preservation, research, education, outreach and community engagement. Throughout her career with NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, Gandulla has worked closely with communities, Tribal Nations, government agencies, local organizations and other partners to advance marine conservation and connect the public with the Great Lakes’ natural and cultural resources. She holds a master’s degree in Maritime Studies from East Carolina University and has extensive technical experience in scientific diving, marine operations, research and monitoring, interpretation and resource protection. As superintendent, Gandulla will provide leadership for the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary and work with regional partners and stakeholders to advance its mission of protecting and conserving Lake Ontario’s significant marine resources and maritime heritage. “This is another exciting and important step forward in the process of establishing the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary,” said Oswego Mayor Robert A. Corradino. “Stephanie Gandulla brings tremendous experience and a proven commitment to protecting our Great Lakes resources while building strong partnerships with communities. We are excited to welcome her to this role and look forward to working with NOAA, Stephanie and our many partners as we continue moving this initiative forward.” Gandulla’s extensive experience throughout the Great Lakes region positions her to build upon the strong foundation established for the sanctuary and foster continued collaboration among communities, agencies, organizations and stakeholders. Gandulla’s first official day as superintendent is Sept. 21. The city of Oswego looks forward to welcoming Gandulla to her new position and continuing to support the collaborative efforts surrounding the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary.

Sep 22 • 9:16 AM EDT • Business • oswegocountybusiness.com

Wave Life Sciences Appoints Monika Vnuk as Chief Business Officer

Wave Life Sciences appoints Monika Vnuk, MD, as Chief Business Officer to lead business and corporate development efforts.Quiver AI SummaryWave Life Sciences Ltd. announced the appointment of Dr. Monika Vnuk as Chief Business Officer, bringing extensive experience from her previous roles at Sanofi, Blackstone, and Pfizer. In her new role, Dr. Vnuk will oversee business and corporate development, as well as alliance management, aimed at advancing

Sep 22 • 7:41 AM EDT • Business • quiverquant.com

Jiang Feng: The Unravelling of German & European Politics

A state election in eastern Germany has become a revealing test of the changing political landscapes of Germany and Europe, writes Jiang Feng, Professor and Chairman of the Council of the Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies (SAGGAS) at Shanghai International Studies University. His analysis follows the decisive victory of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) (which has been classified as right-wing extremist by German authorities)in the state of Saxony-Anhalt on 6 September, in which it finished far ahead of its mainstream rivals. Jiang previously served as Minister-Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Berlin. The following article was published on 8 September 2026 on huanqiu.com, the online platform of the Global Times. On 6 September, the results of the state election in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, were announced. The Alternative for Germany (AfD), classified as far-right by German authorities, made history by becoming the largest party in the state parliament, winning 43.8 per cent of the vote — twice its share in the previous election. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which had governed the state continuously for 24 years, won just 17.2 per cent, its worst result ever in Saxony-Anhalt. On the night the results were announced, the atmosphere at the CDU gathering was unusually calm. There was neither shock nor argument, as if the defeat had long been expected. Several veteran party members who had spent years working in the state government said: “Defeat is not a bad thing. It is time to make changes.” This state election has not only upended Saxony-Anhalt’s political landscape, but also laid bare the deep tensions between Germany’s traditional party structure and model of governance, on the one hand, and an increasingly polarised society on the other. Its repercussions are already being felt at the federal level, making Saxony-Anhalt a useful case study of the broader trend towards political polarisation and realignment in Europe. Governing Difficulties after Electoral Victory The most immediate consequence of the election is a historic setback for the mainstream party order that took shape in post-war Germany. In Saxony-Anhalt, the AfD has leapt from a peripheral party to the largest political force in the state. Its electoral base has expanded beyond the traditional category of “marginal protest voters” to take on the characteristics of a cross-class coalition. The party has not only consolidated its support in rural areas, but also attracted many middle-class voters and even members of the social elite with stable jobs, their own homes, and substantial incomes. It has thus evolved from a “protest party” into one with the potential to govern. Despite its commanding lead in the vote, however, the AfD faces an institutional obstacle to governing the state: the mainstream parties’ long-standing “firewall” against it. Neither of the two potential routes to forming a government appears likely to break the current political deadlock. The first would be a coalition of establishment parties, led by the CDU and bringing together the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Greens, the Left Party (Die Linke) and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) in a cross-camp government. In terms of parliamentary arithmetic, such a coalition could prevent the AfD from forming a government and preserve the outward stability of the traditional political order. Yet these parties are fundamentally divided over key issues including immigration, the energy transition, economic management, and cultural and education policy. Coalition negotiations would therefore be extremely difficult, and even if a government could be formed, it would most likely prove short-lived. More importantly, an alliance of establishment parties aimed at keeping the largest party out of government would play directly into the AfD’s narrative that “political elites are suppressing public opinion”. It could deepen perceptions of political unfairness, further strengthening the AfD’s political capital, and creating a dynamic in which “the more it is suppressed, the more people vote for it”. Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD’s candidate for state premier, has said that if efforts to form a government fail because other parties refuse to cooperate, the AfD will push for a fresh election, which he believes could deliver the party an absolute majority of seats. This points to more intense political battles ahead. The second option would be a coalition between the AfD and the BSW. Together, the two parties would command a simple majority in parliament, making this, on paper, the quickest route to forming a government. The BSW is the only elected party that has not ruled out cooperation with the AfD, and the two parties share some common ground, including on policy towards Russia. There is therefore a degree of political basis for cooperation. Were such a coalition to materialise, Germany would see its first state government jointly formed by a party defined as far-right and one with a far-left background, creating what might be called a “bipolar anti-establishment alliance”. Such an outcome would fundamentally break with the ideological boundaries of post-war German party politics. It is worth noting that even if the AfD ultimately fails to enter the state government, its roughly 47 per cent share of parliamentary seats would give it a powerful blocking minority. Without its consent, major decisions requiring a two-thirds majority — including constitutional amendments, significant budgetary adjustments, and state-level institutional reforms — would be extremely difficult to pass. Therefore, whoever ultimately forms the government, the AfD will be an unavoidable force in Saxony-Anhalt politics, with a direct influence on the state’s legislative process. Systemic Failures in Germany’s Governance Model The Saxony-Anhalt election result reflects a systemic failure of Germany’s post-war mainstream-party model of governance to adapt to rapidly changing socioeconomic conditions. It stems from multiple, mutually reinforcing structural tensions and highlights the existing political system’s difficulty in adapting to “an increasingly polarised society First, collective anxiety has replaced individual material hardship as a central driver of political mobilisation. The rise of the AfD can no longer be explained simply by poverty or social marginalisation. Its increasingly cross-class electoral base suggests that what is driving voters towards the party is, above all, concern about the broader direction of society. This anxiety about the future of the political community goes beyond individual gains and losses. In political discourse, economic anxiety has become closely intertwined with immigration, while immigration and refugee issues are, in essence, questions of social fairness. This perception turns conflicts over the distribution of social resources into negative assessments of governing parties, providing a broad social basis for far-right political narratives. Second, regional disparities and East German identity have undermined the strategy of addressing eastern Germany’s structural challenges at the regional level. More than three decades after German reunification, eastern states such as Saxony-Anhalt have experienced periods of economic growth, but their underlying economic structures remain weak, and household incomes and wealth remain significantly below those in western Germany. At the same time, they continue to face population outflow, an ageing population, labour shortages, and other structural challenges. At a deeper level, historical experiences — including the collapse of the former East German economic system, mass unemployment during the transition, and the westward shift of decision-making power over major issues — have left some residents with a sense of being “second-class citizens” and of being excluded. For years, the German government treated the “syndrome” of reunification as a regional problem to be gradually addressed at the local level. That approach is becoming increasingly unsustainable, as regional development disparities emerge as a core structural factor shaping national politics. Third, the erosion of institutional trust is perhaps the most decisive factor. AfD supporters tend to distrust establishment institutions, including parliament, government, and the mainstream media. Their concerns about economic security, pensions, and social fairness are significantly greater than the social average. Increasingly, their support for the AfD reflects not an expectation that the existing system can be improved, but a search for an alternative to the current political order. Such a systemic deficit of trust will be extremely difficult for the traditional parties to repair in the short term. Fourth, a generational shift in political mobilisation has amplified political polarisation. Unlike traditional parties, which rely heavily on offline rallies and mainstream media coverage, the AfD has developed a social-media mobilisation strategy built around “raising an issue — identifying who is responsible — offering a simplified solution — building a shared identity”. It turns complex social tensions into concise political narratives, rapidly channelling public sentiment into political support. The contrast on the eve of the election was particularly telling. The establishment parties, together with trade unions and churches, organised an offline march attended by more than 10,000 people, but its reach was largely confined to those present and to traditional media coverage. The AfD held a much smaller indoor event, yet livestreaming on TikTok, YouTube, and other platforms, combined with the involvement of online influencers, gave it a reach and mobilising capacity far beyond that of the march. The contrast illustrates how the traditional parties’ methods of political mobilisation are increasingly struggling to keep pace with a political environment transformed by changes in media technology. A Microcosm of Structural Political Change in Europe The shockwaves from the Saxony-Anhalt election quickly travelled beyond the state to the federal level. Calls for political accountability followed immediately after the results were announced. The governing CDU and SPD are now under enormous pressure, while Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil face an unprecedented test. Political polarisation in Germany is no longer simply a regional phenomenon. The post-war model of multiparty government by establishment parties is breaking down and being reshaped. Viewed in a broader European context, the Saxony-Anhalt election is part of a continent-wide wave of party polarisation, mainstream-party decline, and rising right-wing forces. Far from an isolated phenomenon, it is a microcosm of the structural political changes unfolding across Europe. Weak economic growth, cultural tensions over immigration, and declining trust in institutions are fuelling the rise of right-wing forces in several countries, challenging the liberal internationalist order established in post-war Europe. As a core member state of the European Union, Germany’s ability to adapt its political system and the direction of its politics will have profound implications for both European integration and the evolution of the international order. Subscribe [ Pekingnology China’s Germany watchers take stock of Berlin’s uneasy turn On 7 December 2025, nearly 50 Chinese scholars and policy researchers gathered in Beijing for the 2025年德国形势年终研讨会 “2025 Year-End Seminar on the Situation in Germany… Read more 9 months ago · 31 likes · 1 comment · YIRUI LI and Yuxuan JIA ](https://www.pekingnology.com/p/chinas-germany-watchers-take-stock?utm_source=substack&utm_campaign=post_embed&utm_medium=web&embedding_publication_id=1151841) [ Jiang Feng on Germany's 2025 and beyond: no easy exit ](https://www.eastisread.com/p/jiang-feng-on-germanys-2025-and-beyond) Yirui LI and Yuxuan JIA · Jan 24 The following is an op-ed by Jiang Feng, published on 29 December 2025 at Shanghai Observer 上观新闻, the digital platform of Jiefang Daily, the official newspaper of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC). [ Read full story ](https://www.eastisread.com/p/jiang-feng-on-germanys-2025-and-beyond)

Sep 22 • 3:04 AM EDT • Politics • eastisread.com

Old Science Hall Renamed for Scholars Kathryn Morgan, Christopher Edley Jr. '73, H'99

The effort to rename the building, now known as Edley-Morgan Hall, began in earnest last academic year.

Sep 21 • 4:02 PM EDT • Science • swarthmore.edu

I’ve Built Websites for 25 Years. Here’s How I’d Make a Business Stand Out in an Internet Full of AI Slop.

AI has made professional websites nearly effortless to create, but entrepreneurs still need to build the audience, trust, follow-up and differentiation that actually drive growth.

Sep 21 • 4:00 PM EDT • Business • entrepreneur.com

Amazon makes $20 million bet on the Colorado River

Amazon has launched what it calls one of the biggest corporate water conservation efforts for a single U.S. watershed with a pledge to invest $20 million into the Colorado River

Sep 21 • 3:25 PM EDT • Entertainment • thederrick.com

Brownsville’s Mitte Cultural District Earns State Designation

Brownsville’s Mitte Cultural District has been designated a Texas Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts, recognizing the city’s arts organizations, cultural heritage and efforts to use the arts to support tourism and economic development.

Sep 21 • 2:56 PM EDT • Business • texasborderbusiness.com

Key senators reject White House proposal on NIH grants

Sens. Susan Collins and Patty Murray are rejecting efforts by the Trump administration to give the White House control of National Institutes of Health grant funding.

Sep 21 • 2:22 PM EDT • Politics • pbs.org

Alpine Boosts F1 Midfield Fight With Crucial Hiring

In an effort to climb up from the midfield, Alpine is bringing in a former Mercedes technical chief.

Sep 21 • 1:09 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Marysville police shut down 21 illicit massage businesses in Snohomish County investigation

The Marysville Police Department said its investigation into illicit massage businesses is prompting a broader law-enforcement effort across Snohomish County.

Sep 21 • 9:54 AM EDT • Business • mynorthwest.com

CNN, MS NOW, Politico say they've notified Trump they're suing over denied White House access

The actions were a clear escalation of President Donald Trump’s long-running efforts — in the courts and through administrative action — to restrict news coverage by journalists he finds objectionable, and were the latest test of First Amendment protections in the United States.

Sep 21 • 7:39 AM EDT • Politics • pbs.org

The Battle to Turn Consumers Into Effective Health Care Shoppers

A seminar explores government efforts to encourage U.S. consumers to comparison shop for their health care needs

Sep 21 • 5:38 AM EDT • Health • ldi.upenn.edu

Ballmer Apologizes, No Legal Fight

Steve Ballmer has abandoned any effort to challenge the NBA’s penalties against the Los Angeles Clippers, issuing a public apology and confirming the team

Sep 21 • 3:04 AM EDT • Business • labusinessjournal.com

Peterson Health donates $100K to Habitat

Peterson Health announced a $100,000 donation to Habitat for Humanity Kerr County to support flood recovery efforts in the Doyle Community, helping residents rebuild homes, restore stability and move forward

Sep 21 • 1:00 AM EDT • Health • hccommunityjournal.com

Jalen Hurts Makes History In Eagles’ Win vs Titans

The Philadelphia Eagles landed another impressive hero effort from the star quarterback Jalen Hurts on Sunday afternoon in Week 2. Amid the tight victory, which included another clutch showing from Hurts, the veteran passed the former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz on a historic Eagles list. Jalen Hurts Makes History In Eagles’ Win vs Titans […] The post Jalen Hurts Makes History In Eagles’ Win vs Titans appeared first on HEAVY.

Sep 20 • 10:41 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Tugboat shines

Swept in LA — despite Matt Wilkinson’s best efforts

Sep 20 • 10:37 PM EDT • Sports • sports.yahoo.com

Experts say Arkansas lacks data about mental health screenings for new mothers, despite state mandate

Since 2023, Arkansas lawmakers have stepped up efforts to improve the state's dismal maternal health outcomes, including a requirement that doctors and other providers offer mental health screenings to women after giving birth.

Sep 20 • 8:45 PM EDT • Health • nwaonline.com

Experts say Arkansas lacks data about mental health screenings for new mothers, despite state mandate

Since 2023, Arkansas lawmakers have stepped up efforts to improve the state's dismal maternal health outcomes, including a requirement that doctors and other providers offer mental health screenings to women after giving birth.

Sep 20 • 8:45 PM EDT • Health • arkansasonline.com

Making the most of scientific research

Only a fraction of research findings make it into the public realm — a huge loss of scientific knowledge that could be used more widely, says a U of A researcher who is leading an effort to create an open data-sharing platform to help further exploration and discoveries in spinal cord injury research.

Sep 20 • 8:00 PM EDT • Science • ualberta.ca

Trump says he will form AI Force to be led by ‘czar’

President Donald Trump announced Saturday that he is forming an “AI Force” and will soon name an artificial intelligence “czar” to lead the effort.

Sep 20 • 7:36 PM EDT • Politics • denvergazette.com

White House Moves to Take Control of N.I.H. Grants

Federal officials are drafting an executive order that would place grants under review by an outside panel, the latest effort to redirect billions of dollars in research spending.

Sep 20 • 2:29 PM EDT • Health • nytimes.com