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The Second Trump Administration, South America Shifts Right, Time For Sports : Up First from NPR
NPR’s Ron Elving has been thinking about the state of U.S. politics since President Donald Trump returned to power. Also, several countries in South America elected conservative and even far right leaders in 2025, marking a political and ideological shift in the region. And, we’ll have the highlight reel from the year in sports.
The Second Trump Administration, South America Shifts Right, Time For Sports : Up First from NPR
NPR’s Ron Elving has been thinking about the state of U.S. politics since President Donald Trump returned to power. Also, several countries in South America elected conservative and even far right leaders in 2025, marking a political and ideological shift in the region. And, we’ll have the highlight reel from the year in sports.
Broncos Unsung Hero Against Chiefs Also Featured A Redemption Story
Top Stories: iPhone Fold Mockup, Where's the New Apple TV?, and More
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from MacRumors! News in the Apple world has unsurprisingly been relatively slow over the past week, but Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone managed to make its way back into the news, while we also shared updates on current and future Apple TV news.
7 habits JPMorgan's billionaire clients attribute to success
Many of the habits are also accessible to non-billionaires, and relatively common among successful individuals.
Scientists may have found the best place for humans to land on Mars
A newly identified region on Mars may hold the key to future human landings. Researchers found evidence of water ice less than a meter beneath the surface, close enough to be harvested for water, oxygen, and fuel. The location strikes a rare balance between sunlight and cold, helping preserve the ice. It could also offer clues about whether Mars once supported life.
I Drink Lemon Water Every Morning and Noticed These 3 Benefits in My Body
Lemon water is the first thing I consume every morning. It hydrates, supports digestion, and supports heart health. It might also keep me younger.
A rare cancer-fighting plant compound has finally been decoded
UBC Okanagan researchers have uncovered how plants create mitraphylline, a rare natural compound linked to anti-cancer effects. By identifying two key enzymes that shape and twist molecules into their final form, the team solved a puzzle that had stumped scientists for years. The discovery could make it far easier to produce mitraphylline and related compounds sustainably. It also highlights plants as master chemists with untapped medical potential.
Which cheese is healthiest? See comparison of calories, fat and sodium
While cheese has some health benefits it can also prove unhealthy in excess. Here are some health details to consider.
Stardew Valley Gets Free Switch 2 Upgrade That Doubles Coop
Also: the first Nicolas Cage Madden trailer has been unleashed
Sweet entertainment
Rooted School at SUNO recently hosted a holiday party for its students and staff featuring cookie decorating, a gingerbread house competition and a community sing-along. The school also partnered with
The LG 39GX950B is the World First 39" 5K2K OLED Monitor to be Announced
Share this contentAhead of CES in a couple of week’s time, LG Electronics have unveiled their line-up of new monitors that will be on show at the event. They also....[click link for more]
'Just a random thought': Local business owner starts modern-day cash scavenger hunt
The prize for the lucky winners is not just the thrill of the chase but also a pocket full of cash.
The science of staying strong
Muscles power every movement, but they also tell the story of aging itself. Scientists are uncovering how strength fades, why some species resist it and what lifestyle and molecular clues could help preserve muscle health for life.
Proposal would end in-play sports bets in New York
Yet another piece of legislation has been introduced seeking further limits on sports betting in New York state. Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal, D-New York City, recently introduced legislation (A.9343) that would no longer allow casinos and mobile sports betting platforms to accept in-play wagers. In-play sports betting, also known as live betting or in-game betting, is…
Proposal Would End In-Play Sports Bets In N.Y.
Yet another piece of legislation has been introduced seeking further limits on sports betting in New York state. Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal, D-New York City, recently introduced legislation (A.9343) that would no longer allow casinos and mobile sports betting platforms to accept in-play wagers. In-play sports betting, also known as live betting or in-game betting, is […]
Does science agree it’s better to give than receive? A doctor explains
Gift-giving is often framed as a source of stress and obligation, but a growing body of research suggests there may also be something beneficial about giving itself.
Training: It’s Christmas!
Match Preview Forest v City: Kick-off time, team news, and TV information It’s a time of celebration, for families, friends and loved ones to come together and relax... but it’s also a time for fo...
Trump rings in Christmas Day with a flurry of posts denouncing perceived foes and casting doubt on the 2020 election
The president posted on Truth Social over 100 times overnight, also touting his own economic policies and efforts to end foreign wars.
Stevenson School hopes for more learning opportunities with new math and science building
The center will make a nice connection between Stevenson and the community but also give students a program that many schools do not have – a preparation for future research.
ExplorersWeb's Top Five Science Stories of 2025 » Explorersweb
At ExplorersWeb, we focus on adventure in wild places, but we also cover archaeology, space, and natural history. Here are the year's most popular stories.
The best everyday health advice we learned from science in 2025
We certainly saw some major health-related breakthroughs in 2025, including a universal cancer vaccine and human trials for the world's first treatment to reverse spinal cord injuries. But the year was also filled with smaller findings that can still have a big impact on your day-to-day health.
Local Politician Jim Mueller Leaves Lasting Legacy in Russell | Geauga County Maple Leaf
When Jim Mueller first heard President John F. Kennedy say, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,” it not only sparked a lifelong commitment to public service, but also shaped Geauga County — and national — politics for more than four decades, he said during
Judge blocks Trump effort to strip security clearance from attorney who represented whistleblowers
A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration from enforcing a March presidential memorandum to revoke the security clearance of prominent Washington attorney Mark Zaid, ruling that the order — which also targeted 14 other individuals — could not be applied to him.
6 Northeast Ohio health systems construction projects to watch in 2026
Health systems have a massive real estate footprint across Northeast Ohio, which isn't a surprise given their outsized role in the region's economy. It's also no surprise that, despite a year of headwinds, the area's major systems continue to grow, with several projects expected to either begin or be completed in the near future. Here are a few of the notable health care construction projects that should come online in 2026.
The Velo Best Innovations of 2025: From E-bikes to Valve Cores
From the radical Also TM-B e-bike to a new standard for tire valves, these are the six technologies that pushed the boundaries of cycling in 2025.
‘A gamechanger’: 200,000 UK small businesses sign up to TikTok Shop
Big brands such as Sainsbury’s and M&S also selling directly in app through links in videos and livestreams
We are living in a golden age of species discovery
The search for life on Earth is speeding up, not slowing down. Scientists are now identifying more than 16,000 new species each year, revealing far more biodiversity than expected across animals, plants, fungi, and beyond. Many species remain undiscovered, especially insects and microbes, and future advances could unlock millions more. Each new find also opens doors to conservation and medical breakthroughs.
Maine suspends payments to Portland health care provider accused of fraud
The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is also seeking financial information about Gateway Community Services as part of its investigation into suspected fraud in Minnesota.
Boston reports 114% surge in flu cases; Children most affected
Flu-related emergency department visits also increased 44% in that same period of time.
Duke Health nurse charged with additional sex crimes after third victim comes forward, police say
Jomil Tugado faces three felony counts each of sexual contact/penetration under the pretext of medical treatment and sex acts by a government or private institution employee. He also has three misdemeanor charges of sexual battery.
Shake Shack rolls out health-oriented menu
The ‘Good Fit’ lineup of curated items focuses on protein while also offering low-carb, vegetarian, and gluten-free options
ASTP/ONC seeks relaxation of health IT certification criteria with HTI-5
The proposed rule aims to reduce burdens and costs on health IT developers. It also includes measures to promote FHIR-based interoperability, strengthen information blocking rules and simplify certification of AI models.
Nine mental-health tips for a happier 2026
Regardless of any resolutions you may have for 2026, one thing is for sure: Everyone wants to have a happy new year.While losing weight or saving money may be great goals, the most straightforward path to happiness is caring for your mental and emotional health. A robust body of research shows that simple cognitive and behavioral strategies can reliably boost happiness and reduce stress – and they’re generally free and accessible to all.These strategies don’t have to be super time-consuming, but they do require intention: They only work if you do them.Here, psychologist Valentina Ogaryan, PhD, clinical director of the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, shares her top tips for cultivating more calm, centeredness and happiness in the new year (or anytime):Make time for playPlay isn’t just for kids, and it’s far from frivolous. The National Institute for Play says engaging in silliness, fun and just-for-pleasure activities reduces stress and increases optimism and resilience. A recent review also found that play improves mental health.“Adults can benefit from play as much as children,” Dr. Ogaryan says, “not just as a reward, but something that helps regulate.”So go ahead and dance with your dog, build something with Legos, tell a joke, sing karaoke or do anything else that feels like fun. Don’t worry about being productive, just enjoy yourself. And, if you can, opt for more analog play, Dr. Ogaryan suggests, as a respite from our ever-more-digital world. Move your bodyWhether you dance, ski, do yoga, play pickleball, ride a bike, roller-skate, hike or lift weights, physical movement benefits overall happiness and well-being. A 2018 review study of more than 1.2 million adults in the U.S. found that doing any kind of exercise was “significantly and meaningfully associated” with better self-reported mental health.The sweet spot was 45 minutes of movement three to five times a week, but even short bursts of physical activity can boost brain health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.“Movement helps support mood and regulate the nervous system,” Dr. Ogaryan says.Plus: exercise can improve sleep quality, and sleep is essential for mental health.Prioritize sleep“Sleep plays a major role in managing stress,” Dr. Ogaryan says. Research shows that lack of sufficient sleep increases the risk of various diseases, including depression.While stress can interfere with sleep, practicing good sleep hygiene can make logging ZZ’s easier. That means maintaining a consistent bedtime; keeping the bedroom cool, dark and quiet; and avoiding social media, news and stimulating shows before bed.Consume lessWe live in a consumer culture, inundated by endless streams of content and advertising everywhere we go, which makes it easy to get overstimulated.“Something really helpful for stress reduction is to simply consume less,” Dr. Ogaryan says – less news, less social media, less information, less noise, less screen time. “It’s about reducing the input,” she says.Consider setting a maximum number of news articles per day, for example, or a time limit on scrolling. Maybe even go device free for an afternoon or a whole day.Practice present-moment awarenessWith so much coming at us all the time, focusing on the here and now can make life feel more manageable, Dr. Ogaryan says: “When everything feels super overwhelming, when everything feels larger than life, let’s make our world a little bit smaller for that moment in time.”She suggests taking things one day, or even one hour, at a time. Ask yourself: What’s my next right action? Release the need to know how everything turns out and liberate yourself from having to handle everything right now. Let the future take care of itself and just focus on the current moment. Then the next one. Have a daily anchorFrom work to the daily commute to family and life responsibilities, our days can feel jam-packed. Dr. Ogaryan recommends creating a centering daily anchor that can fit into even the busiest day.Maybe it’s a 10-minute walk during your lunch break or mindfully enjoying your coffee in the morning. Let your anchor adapt to your needs each day, she says, but be intentional about using that time to ground yourself and calm your nervous system. You might even say to yourself, “I choose this walk to help me become centered,” or “My day already feels stressful, so I’m going to take the next 10 minutes to enjoy this cup of coffee, feel the warm mug in my hand and just be present.” Having an anchor won’t erase the busy-ness from your day, but it will allow you to approach it more calmly.Be kind to yourselfMost of us have a harsh inner critic in our heads who works overtime. But that critical voice only increases our stress, triggering the same fight-or-flight response as caustic words from another person.To feel happier, we need to replace that inner critic with a kinder, more compassionate voice, Dr. Ogaryan says. Studies show that self-compassion is a source of eudaimonic happiness – the kind of happiness associated with purpose and meaning in life.While our knee-jerk reaction may be to self-criticize – “How could you let it get to this point? You didn’t manage your time well and now the project is going to be late. You’re so inept.” – we fare better mentally by treating ourselves with kindness, like we would a friend. That might sound like, “You’ve got a lot on your plate, but you are capable and you’ll get it done. I believe in you.”We may think that speaking kindly to ourselves means letting ourselves off the hook, so we end up becoming lazy do-nothings. But research shows the opposite: People who are self-compassionate are more likely to try harder in the face of failure and ultimately reach their goals.You can thank your inner critic for its good intentions, but resolve to talk to yourself in a kind, compassionate voice.Connect with othersHumans are social animals built for connection. Stress can be isolating and cause us to withdraw, but connecting with others is a salve for the psyche, Dr. Ogaryan says.“We know that not all relationships are always easy, but if we can think about intentional, nourishing connection – even in really small doses – it could really help center us,” she says.Take a moment to laugh with your colleagues, hug your pet, have a conversation with a friend or smile at the barista making your coffee. A study found that even tiny interactions with casual acquaintances and strangers decreases loneliness and improves happiness and well-being.Seek supportIf you try these practices and happiness remains elusive, or if you can’t access the wherewithal to follow these tips, seek support from your physician or a therapist. Mental health conditions are among the most common health issues in the U.S. and around the world – more prevalent than diabetes or heart disease. One in five people in the U.S. experiences a mental illness each year, with depression and anxiety the most common, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.“We can all think about these tips,” Dr. Ogaryan says. “But it’s important to recognize if you’ve done everything you can and you’re still really struggling, it’s really important to seek help.”
The disunity of science is a feature, not a bug
Mathematical models wield miraculous power, but mistaking them for reality has trapped science in a destructive quest for a “Theory of Everything.” Physicist and philosopher Ragner Fjelland argues that this leads to bloated, Frankenstein theories kept alive by clumsy, ad-hoc amendments, which reduce rather than boost science’s power. Fjelland calls for a radical shift in our attitude: we must reorientate towards creating entirely new theories, celebrating rather than lamenting disunity and diversity in science. Science, from the scientific revolution in the seventeenth century to the present day, has more or less developed in a “reductionist” way. The fundamental assumption is that all sciences may be ordered in a hierarchy that can be represented as an upside-down pyramid. At the top we find the human sciences, and at the bottom physics. Strong (or “ontological”) reductionism maintains that all theories at one level can be completely reduced to the lower level, all the way down to theories of atoms and elementary particles, or whatever is “at the bottom.” In the end, all diversity in the world can be unified in one fundamental theory. Hence it is called a final theory, or a Theory of Everything.One of the central figures in developing the idea of a Theory of Everything is the Dutch theoretical physicist Gerard 't Hooft, who received a Nobel Prize in physics in 1999 for his work. He emphasizes the non-empirical status of the theory:There exists no closely resembling alternative theory. This means that any slight change brought about in the rules would make the theory unlikely or inelegant. The theory will be a "package deal": take it, or leave it. This should hold both for the local laws and for the boundary conditions.This endeavor is not new. On the contrary, it goes all the way back to the birth of Western philosophy 2,500 years ago. The Babylonians made regular astronomical observations during a period of 600 years, from 747 BCE until 150 ACE. They developed mathematical techniques to predict astronomical phenomena, but they made no attempts at explaining them. However, the Greeks developed models, both material and theoretical, to explain the observed phenomena.The best example is Plato’s late dialogue Timaeus. Here he introduces a divine craftsman, the Demiurge, who has constructed the universe according to an original plan. Plato seems to have thought that the original plan is what is actually real, while the material world is merely an imperfect realization of it. He therefore does not, in the Timaeus, reconstruct the material universe, but the original plan, which can then be used to explain the material universe.Plato’s aim in producing a theoretical model is to reconstruct the original plan. That is what he carries out in Timaeus—and some modern physicists have embarked on the same project. For example, Einstein’s basic attitude is reflected in the title of Abraham Pais’ biography: “Subtle is the Lord...,” echoing Einstein’s comment, “Subtle is the Lord, but malicious He is not.” In an interview Einstein compared our situation to a child who enters a huge library. The child knows that someone has written the books, but he does not know the languages in which they are written. He suspects that there is a mysterious order, but he does not know what it is.___“We have all been working in what Husserl called the Galilean style; that is, we have all been making abstract mathematical models of the universe to which at least the physicists give a higher degree of reality than they accord the ordinary world of sensation.”Steven Weinberg, Nobel Prize in Physics (1979)___This Platonist view is contrary to a widespread impression of science, symbolized by the picture of the “father” of modern science, Galileo Galilei, with his telescope. According to this impression, Galileo liberated himself from the dominating metaphysics of his day—basically Aristotelian philosophy—and constructed a telescope that he directed towards the sky, showing that Jupiter has four moons. He also performed experiments with bronze balls rolling down inclined planes and found the law of freely falling bodies.However, in other cases Galileo emphasized the unreliability of our senses. It is easy to see why. He defended Copernicus’ heliocentric hypothesis. According to this hypothesis, we are not at rest at the center of the universe, but moving at a tremendous speed through space. Why don’t we observe this motion? Galileo praises Copernicus because “with reason as his guide he resolutely continued to affirm what sensible experience seemed to contradict.” In other places he directly refers to Plato. SUGGESTED VIEWING The quest for a final theory With Michio Kaku Galileo’s Platonism goes back to his early writings. In The Assayer, published as early as 1623, Galileo compared the universe to a grand book that is written in the language of mathematics, and “its characters are triangles, circles, and other geometric figures without which it is humanly impossible to understand a single word of it.” Therefore, things that cannot be described by mathematics—for example, colors, smells and odors—are not real. They are merely subjective.This division into subjective and objective, advocated by Galileo and his younger contemporary René Descartes, is normally associated with a mechanistic world view, which is regarded as the opposite of Platonism. When we reduce something to, for example, molecules and atoms, we move “downwards.” In contrast, the Platonist moves “upwards,” to abstract entities. However, it only shows that when we address fundamental questions, we should be careful in applying everyday spatial metaphors like “up” and “down.”___Nature is complex, and we cannot in general construct mathematical models that adequately describe the world.___The endeavor of finding a Theory of Everything has been heavily criticized. In 2006, the theoretical physicist Lee Smolin published “The Crisis in Fundamental Physics.” He argued that one of the most fundamental principles of science is that we should only regard theories as scientific if we have the possibility to show that they are false by experiments. Although he did not refer to Karl Popper, other critics have referred to Popper and argued that a theory is not scientific if it cannot be falsified (see for example Ellis & Silk 2014).These were not the first physicists to be anti-reductionists. In 1972, the journal Science published an article by the physicist Philip Anderson with the title “More Is Different.” This is the kind of article a scientist would normally write only after he has won a Nobel Prize. However, Anderson won the Nobel Prize for physics five years later, in 1977. The article is amazing, not primarily because it argues in favor of anti-reductionism in general, but because it argues for anti-reductionism within physics itself. Anderson’s conclusion was:At each stage entirely new laws, concepts, and generalizations are necessary, requiring inspiration and creativity to just as great a degree as in the previous one. Psychology is not applied biology, nor is biology applied chemistry.We may say that Plato started the “unity of science movement,” based on Euclidean geometry as the model of all knowledge. A distinguishing mark of geometry is that all possible constructions can be reduced to a few fundamental principles. We have to acknowledge that this approach has limitations. In general, we can easily model technological systems. In addition, we may construct simplified and idealized models that capture important aspects of systems, from various perspectives and for various purposes. But nature is complex, and we cannot in general construct mathematical models that adequately describe the world. In a complex system, each level has its distinct, emergent, properties that are characteristic of this level. Therefore, a complex system should be investigated at different levels and from different perspectives. Instead of exclusively pursuing a scientific ideal based on the unity of science, we should acknowledge the diversity—or even the disunity—of science.
The best reality TV of 2025
Scandals, competitions and breakups are par for the course on reality shows, but this year also brought some tender moments that made for must-see TV.
The politics of the pause: 6 things to know about Trump administration’s suspension of offshore wind
The administration’s decision highlights a growing state-federal conflict over energy policy. It could also rebound by prompting more solar in rural Virginia.
'Call of Duty' co-creator Vince Zampella dead at 55
Zampella also founded Respawn Entertainment, which created hits like " Titanfall." He was a leader at DICE, of "Battlefield" fame.
Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty video game series, dies aged 55
Game developer, who was also involved in Medal of Honor and Titanfall, reportedly killed in a car crash
The Year in Politics: Analysts describe 2025 as ‘overwhelming, crazy, chaotic’
For a special edition of “Closer Look,” program host Rose Scott talks with several guests for a recap of local and federal politics in 2025. Guests also shared their thoughts about what they feel are some of the most pressing concerns for voters, the mishaps of both Democrats and Republicans and what each party must do as America turns 250 years old.
Apple Clings to Samsung as RAM Prices Soar
Apple is significantly increasing its reliance on Samsung for iPhone memory as component prices surge, according to The Korea Economic Daily. Apple is said to be expanding the share of iPhone memory it sources from Samsung due to rapidly rising memory prices. The shift is expected to result in Samsung supplying roughly 60% to 70% of the low-power DRAM used in the iPhone 17, compared with a more even split with SK Hynix in previous generations, with Micron also participating as a smaller supplier.
New LSU business school dean says students want to 'manage their own destiny'
"Also, if you think about modern-day students, they're always stimulated by technology, right? They've got earbuds in or are always doing something. So we have to rise to the occasion to get their attention in a meaningful way to be able to educate them."
Westwood business owner speaks out after thief targets shop in smash and grab
Small business owner Jaclyn Frondorf is speaking out after her store, Montclair Street, was broken into on Friday. Frondorf says that three other stores in Westwood were also targeted this week.
Top science stories of 2025
In a year of funding chaos, ongoing climate change and pollution perils, we also saw the most powerful telescope yet, personalized gene therapy, and the next-best-thing to an HIV vaccine — not to mention a brand-new color
Bob on Business: Fort Worth real estate group’s mental health nonprofit aids research
Also, scholarship funding from a Fort Worth business.
Waymo shut down service during San Francisco's blackout because its driverless taxis got confused
A widespread power outage in San Francisco affected thousands of residents. It also left Waymo robotaxis stalled on city streets.
Can Your USB-C Laptop Charger Also Charge Your Phone?
As it turns out, there's no need to carry around two chargers, as you can almost always use the same USB-C charger that powers your laptop to charge your phone.
‘SNL’: Michael Che Yet Again Has Colin Jost Insult Scarlett Johansson
And this time, Jost also (reluctantly) hit on Jenna Ortega.
Opinion | How to Reduce Surging Health Care Costs
Readers suggest ways to bring medical costs under control for average Americans. Also: Australia sets an example for the U.S. on gun laws.
He Started a Business Legally. Now Trump's Mass Deportations Threaten Him and Other Immigrant Entrepreneurs.
Immigrants start businesses at a higher rate than native-born Americans, benefitting not only themselves but also their American workers and customers.
We share some of the 'most' challenging stories we've worked on (Politics+) : The NPR Politics Podcast
It's another installment of our series, "Political Mosts," where we answer a superlative-type question about covering politics and our careers in journalism. Today, Sarah McCammon (national political correspondent) and Sam Gringlas (Congress reporter) each take a turn answering this question: "What's been the 'most' challenging political story you’ve worked on?" They also answer this question from a listener: “Who is the politician, living or dead, you’d 'most' like to interview?” Listen to find out how you can submit a most-type question for us to answer in a future bonus episode!
GoLocalProv | News | The Politics of Tragedies – “The Sunday Political Brunch”—December 21, 2025
By all measures, it has been a tough week. From the fatal shootings at Brown University and an MIT professor’s home, to the murders of an iconic Hollywood couple. There were also new developments in the Epstein case, some key votes in Congress, and another presidential controversy. Let...
RAM is so expensive they’re selling “prebuilt” PCs without it.
It’s no secret that RAM prices are absolutely Out. Of. Control. Paradox Customs is taking an interesting approach, selling “prebuilt” PCs that skip memory entirely. The idea being, if you happen to have spare sticks lying around, you can save some money. Of course, it’s also an alarming sign of what the PC market has come to. [Link: System integrator starts offering prebuilt PCs without RAM | https://videocardz.com/newz/system-integrator-starts-offering-prebuilt-pcs-without-ram | VideoCardz]
Christmas tree lot sells trees from Colorado, keeping business local and helping thin wildfire fuels
A lot in Gunbarrel is selling trees from Colorado for Christmas, and you still have time to get a native tree for your celebration. The company says its work also helps reduce the risk of wildfires in the region.
ModRetro announces version of Chromatic retro handheld made from materials used in military drones
ModRetro recently unveiled a new version of their Chromatic retro handheld partially made with the same materials used in military drones made by Anduril, a weapons manufacturer. The CEO of ModRetro, Palmer Luckey, also owns Anduril. The new console has caused quite a stir in the retro community because of its ties to weapons manufacturing.
Epstein Files Release, Health Care Subsidies, Surviving The Holiday Season : Up First from NPR
The Justice Department releases a vast trove of documents relating to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Also, Congress left Washington D.C. for its holiday break without reaching a deal on health care. Millions of Americans will face price hikes on their insurance premiums. And surviving the holiday season, we’ll have tips on what can be a stressful time of the year.
NBA reportedly changing injury reporting rules while enacting several sports betting policies; league also looking to address tanking
The news comes months after the league was hit with an integrity-threatening gambling scandal.
Rob Reiner Was More Than a Hollywood Legend. He Helped Shape California Politics
Rob Reiner may be best known for his Hollywood films, but he was also a Democratic political force in California.
Embrace a Safe and Joyful Holiday Season
As we enter the holiday season, and we look forward to spending time with our loved ones, many Arizonans will travel to gather with family and friends, strengthen relationships and build memories together. This is also the time of the year when the risk of viral respiratory infections (COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV) is
‘SNL’: Michael Che Yet Again Has Colin Jost Insult Scarlett Johansson
And this time, Jost also (reluctantly) hit on Jenna Ortega.
Opinion | Weighing Politics and Morality in the Israel Debate
Readers respond to an essay criticizing U.S. Democrats’ failure to resolve the conflict in Gaza. Also: Trump’s Kennedy Center rebrand; blaming immigrants after the Brown shooting.
Apple might be requiring iPhone users to install iOS 26 for security fixes
Apple released iOS 26.2 last week with important security fixes. At the same time, it also shipped iOS 18.7.3 for...
Lauryn Massic defines her future in public health science
UNR Med Ph.D. candidate, Lauryn Massic M.S., is engaged in work around antimicrobial resistance, genetics and infectious disease. She's also a student-athlete.
Evaluation of WHO’s coordination in health emergencies helps guide humanitarian reforms
The recent evaluation of the Global Health Cluster sheds new light on how WHO, in its unique role as the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Cluster Lead Agency (CLA) for health, coordinates life-saving health responses in humanitarian crises. It highlights how WHO works through partnerships to reach the most vulnerable crisis-affected populations and strengthen collective action in increasingly complex emergencies. Serving both learning and accountability purposes, the evaluation provided timely and actionable recommendations that are helping to strategically position WHO during the ongoing IASC Humanitarian Reset and the broader UN 2.0 reforms, where prioritization and new ways of working are taking shape. The evaluation was conducted between 2024 and 2025, at a time when humanitarian action funding was plummeting by more than 50%, triggering the launch of the IASC Humanitarian Reset. While restructuring and prioritization across the humanitarian landscape were underway, the evaluation, through iterative feedback loops, shared emerging findings that helped identify the most crucial coordination functions needed. This was especially important at a time when humanitarian needs and health risks due to armed conflict and natural hazards were increasing, while the capacity of health partners to support Member States to equitably reach all populations affected by crises and deliver response was at risk. The evaluation found that the Global Health Cluster (GHC) remains a highly relevant mechanism for strengthening health coordination in crises and has delivered efficiently despite limited resources. It noted strong collaboration with partners and highlighted opportunities to deepen integration within WHO structures and further enhance inter-cluster cooperation. The evaluation also identified areas where greater emphasis on transition planning, national coordination capacity and linkages between humanitarian response and health system strengthening would bring added value. While the GHC has achieved many of its strategic objectives, improvements in monitoring systems would help better demonstrate collective impact. The recommendations will help strengthen the IASC CLA coordination function across WHO, at all levels, and with all partners. It is noted that going forward WHO needs to continue to support capacity to fulfil coordination functions, in line with the IASC Humanitarian Reset whilst ensuring collective prioritization of health cluster action and quality coverage of the health response. The evaluation will help WHO strengthen locally-led action, national ownership and leadership of the sector, and linkages between health system strengthening activities. Additionally, the evaluation evidence will be used to optimize resource mobilization for the GHC and strengthen WHO’s capacity to deliver, plan for and monitor and evaluate results across the Organization. Read the evaluation Global Health Cluster https://healthcluster.who.int/ WHO’s work in health emergencies https://www.who.int/emergencies/overview
New Zealand Consumer, Business Optimism to Stoke Economic Growth
New Zealand business confidence soared to a three-decade high in December and the mood of consumers also surged, adding to signs of further economic expansion in the fourth quarter and into 2026.
Bills-Browns Preview
Josh Allen will attempt to reach a couple of milestones on Sunday while also not becoming part of what Myles Garrett hopes is a record-setting day.
News & Rumors: The Crawfish Boil 12/18/2025
All the latest news and rumors on your Houston Astros and from around MLB – it’s in here! Today’s offseason Crawfish Boil for December 18, 2025: Cliff Notes: Passan identified the Astros as being in the mix for a top-tier starting pitcher. Rosenthal also goes on to say that trading Marte is the most likely […]
US Health Secretary Kennedy Proposes Rules to Cut Access to Gender-Affirming Care
WASHINGTON, Dec 18 (Reuters) - U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. moved on Thursday to cut access to gender-affirming care for children proposing rules that would bar hospitals that deliver such care from its Medicare and Medicaid programs and also bar Medicaid and children's ...
Get the AirPods Pro 3 for $199 on Amazon With Christmas Delivery
It's getting more and more difficult to find good deals with guaranteed Christmas delivery, but today Amazon has a match of the record low price on the AirPods Pro 3, as well as delivery before December 25. There's also a solid discount on the AirPods 4 on Amazon, but holiday delivery dates are slipping into late December for that one. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors.
Phone Updates Used to Be Annoying. The Latest iOS Is Awful
Is the latest iPhone operating system aesthetically appealing? No. But is it useful? Also no. At least I have company among the disgruntled.
Za’atar isn't your average spice blend. Here are a few surprising health perks.
Za'atar adds an earthy depth of flavor to food, but it also comes with a few health perks. Here's what dietitians want you to know.
The Wall Street gift guide: What bankers are asking for this holiday season
While watches dominated recent survey results, experiences, health gear, and "boardroom to bar" clothing are also high on the list.
Taylor Swift Put a ‘Curse’ on Chiefs, Says NFL Star
Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua drew attention this week by blaming Taylor Swift for the Kansas City Chiefs’ collapse. The remark came on social media when the Chiefs confirmed an early exit from playoff contention. The conversation also dived deeper into injuries this season and what comes next for the franchise, including Travis Kelce. […] The post Taylor Swift Put a ‘Curse’ on Chiefs, Says NFL Star appeared first on Mandatory.
Role Model to headline entertainment for 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic
Will perform at Enterprise NHL pregame fan festival, also during 1st intermission at loanDepot park on Jan. 2
I Won't Use This Potential iOS 26.3 Feature, but You Can if You're Craving an Android
Apple could also make it easier for you to connect a non-Apple smartwatch to your iPhone with the upcoming update.
Owner of CT roofing business sentenced to 15 months in prison for tax evasion
He also was ordered to pay more than $1.1 million to the IRS and $578,259 to the Connecticut Medicaid program, officials said.
The creator of Anthropic's Claude Code likes to hire engineers who do 'side quests' like making kombucha
Claude Code creator Boris Cherny said that he looked for engineers with "cool weekend projects." Anthropic is also looking for "generalists," he said.
A new era for sports communication at UNC Hussman | UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media
As director of UNC Hussman’s Sports Communication Focus Program, Distinguished Associate Professor of Sports Communication Livis Freeman is building on the work of the school’s legendary Distinguished Professor for Sports Communication John Sweeney. Sweeney, who retired last year, developed one of the most respected sports communication programs in the country. Freeman, now in his 12th year at the school, is launching an ambitious expansion of the program that is transforming how UNC prepares students for careers in sports media. The most visible change came this fall with a reimagining of “MEJO 377: Sports Communication.” Previously offered as two sections with 30 students each, the course expanded to 96 students and welcomed former UNC basketball star and NBA veteran Tyler Hansbrough as the co-instructor with Freeman, bringing real world professional experience directly into the classroom every week. The course has been a huge success. Students have participated in recording a podcast with Hansbrough and learned from an impressive lineup of guest speakers. Steve Kirschner, UNC’s senior associate director of athletics for communications, was the first in the course’s guest speaker series, followed by UNC Hussman alumni including Kaitlyn Schmidt ’23 from Bleacher Report, Deaton Bell ’90 from Turner Sports and Becca Royer ’19 from the Philadelphia 76ers. Travis Tygart, CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, also shared his insights with the class. The highlight of the semester came when Roy Williams, who coached Hansbrough and the Tar Heels to a national championship in 2009, visited the classroom. Former UNC men’s basketball players Luke Maye and Marcus Ginyard showed up to support their former coach and Hansbrough, creating an unforgettable experience as Williams entertained students with stories and insights that captivated the room. Student demand has been overwhelming. The course reached capacity within two days of registration opening, with more than 40 students on the waitlist. “Students want to learn from people who have actually lived these experiences,” Freeman said. “Tyler shares insights into media relations, broadcast production and athlete communications that you simply can’t get from a textbook.” The model proved so successful that the school secured funding to continue it for the next five years, with a different former professional athlete co-teaching each fall. The school’s curriculum committee approved a proposal to expand the course to 150 to 200 students starting in fall 2026. This change will make it an introductory course accessible to students from across the University, transforming it into a showcase course for the entire campus. The course redesign represents just one piece of a broader sports communication program overhaul. This fall, the curriculum committee approved “MEJO 390: Sports Play by Play,” the first course of its kind at UNC. Limited to 10 advanced students, the course will be taught by Matt Krause, the current voice of UNC women’s basketball and an ACC Network broadcaster. Students will call actual games across multiple sports including women’s softball, soccer, volleyball, field hockey and lacrosse, as well as men’s soccer and lacrosse. They will also shadow broadcasts of men’s and women’s basketball games. “The sports broadcasting industry is exploding with streaming platforms and conference networks creating unprecedented demand,” Freeman said. The course emerged directly from student advocacy, led by Anna Laible ’26 and others who pushed for hands-on broadcasting experience. Professional equipment has been acquired, partnerships with UNC Athletics are in place and a soft launch began this semester with three experienced students calling games to test the system. The program’s growth extends into other specialized areas as well. Last spring, Stembler Professor Charlie Tuggle launched a new sports event management and hospitality course in partnership with On Location, a company that manages major sporting event experiences. The course provided students with opportunities to travel to the Super Bowl and NFL Draft, and Tuggle plans to take a group to the 2026 Milan Olympics this spring. Looking ahead to spring 2026, Associate Professor Ryan Thornburg will debut a sports data visualization course, adding another dimension to the program’s skill-building offerings. The curriculum expansion reflects the increasingly diverse career paths available in sports media, from traditional journalism and broadcasting to digital analytics and strategic communication. The program is also diving into one of college athletics’ most transformative developments: Name, Image and Likeness rights. Freeman’s “MEJO 466: Sports Marketing” class collaborated last spring with Associate Professor Gary Kayye’s “MEJO 371: Advertising Creative” class on a project with UNC’s Carolina NIL group to help rebrand their organization. That same semester, Kayye’s class envisioned Chapel Thrill, UNC football’s new pregame concert and entertainment experience. And Shaun Anderson, the school’s Knight Chair in Sports, Race and Media, continues to explore the broader implications of NIL through his research and teaching. These NIL-focused initiatives give students direct exposure to the business side of college athletics at a moment when the landscape is rapidly evolving. “Our students aren’t just learning about these changes,” Freeman said. “They’re actively helping shape how schools and athletes navigate them.” The transformation of UNC Hussman’s sports communication program reflects a broader philosophy about how to prepare students for careers in a rapidly changing industry. By bringing in professional practitioners like Hansbrough and Krause, partnering with industry leaders like On Location and ACC Network, and engaging with current issues like NIL, the program ensures students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. For alumni who remember the foundations John Sweeney built, the expansion represents an evolution rather than a departure. The program still emphasizes strong reporting, strategic communication, ethical communication and critical thinking. But now it also offers students the chance to call live games, work on real NIL campaigns and learn directly from former professional athletes. “We’re not just teaching students about sports media,” Freeman said. “We’re giving them the tools, experiences and connections to actually build careers in it.” With new courses launching, professional partnerships deepening and enrollment expanding, UNC Hussman’s sports communication program is positioning itself as a national leader in preparing the next generation of sports media professionals. For current students, the message is clear: if you’re interested in sports communication, there’s never been a better time to be at UNC Hussman. And for the hundreds of students trying to get off waitlists and into these new courses, the school is working to create more opportunities. The program John Sweeney built is growing in ways that honor his legacy while meeting the demands of a new era in sports media.
Best Bets: Duluth-made Christmas rom-coms on big screen
Also this week: Hillside Holiday Market, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" music live, Rubber Chicken holiday revue, Strikepoint holiday concert and Jolabokaflod.
Nike cofounder Phil Knight tops 2025 donations with $2 billion gift
Phil Knight's $2 billion cancer research pledge leads the list of the 2025 largest donations, with Buffett and Bezos also making notable gifts.
"MicroProse and Geoff Crammond Reunite to Revive a Racing Legend"
MicroProse is excited to announce its renewed partnership with legendary game developer Geoff Crammond, creator of some of the most influential racing simulation games of the 1990s and early 2000s. Together, we are bringing back his groundbreaking racing game engine in a re-release of the original game technology, enhanced with updates, new tools, and Steam Workshop support, through the upcoming Geoff Crammond Racing series: GCR1, GCR2, GCR3, and GCR4, scheduled to release in 2026. These titles are being reintroduced under new names to reflect our independent direction and to ensure full separation from any official motorsport licensing. While the names are new, the core simulation engine, physics systems, and pioneering gameplay features developed by Geoff Crammond remain at the heart of each release. Geoff Crammond’s original work helped define the foundations of modern racing games, introducing innovations such as advanced real-time physics, highly configurable driving assists (including the ideal racing line, steering help and auto braking), realistic AI driver behaviour, deep telemetry analysis, comprehensive car setup systems, extensive wet weather system, and the list goes on. The GCR series proudly carries this legacy forward. Steam Workshop support will enable the community to create and share custom tracks, cars, liveries, teams, drivers and more. This reunion marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between MicroProse and Geoff Crammond, with further announcements in the series to come. MicroProse is officially back on the track at full speed. GCR1 Steam Page GCR2 Steam Page GCR3 Steam Page GCR4 Steam Page -- MicroProse, founded in 1982, is a world-famous simulation software company known for developing groundbreaking classics and new blockbuster titles such as Falcon, HighFleet, B-17 The Mighty Eighth, Ground Branch, Gunship and many more! Today, MicroProse is not only remaking select classics from its past but also paving the road to next-generation, state of the art games that will create the memories and experiences of new generations of gamers.
Safeguarding Global Health Security in Cameroon through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
The United States and the Government of Cameroon signed a bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand significant health gains and advance global health security under the landmark America First Global Health Strategy. The MOU puts Americans first by safeguarding our nation from infectious disease threats, while also supporting Cameroon to build robust, self-reliant […]
Meta rolls out AI glasses update with conversation boosting feature
There’s also a new Meta AI integration with Spotify.
Apple Developing iMac Pro With M5 Max Chip
Apple is developing a high-end iMac featuring the M5 Max chip, according to information from leaked internal software. The finding comes from leaked kernel debug kit files used by Apple engineers. These kernel debug kit files enumerate unreleased Apple hardware by internal identifiers, such as codenames and platform names, and they can also include separate references that map platform identifiers to chip codenames and marketing names.
Amazon’s Kindle Scribe Colorsoft won’t replace your notebook — or your Kindle
It’s also $630.
Rebecca Lowe will host seventh consecutive Olympics with NBC Sports: Source
Lowe will also work as a host for Fox Sports' World Cup coverage later this summer.
Ramanujan’s 100-year-old pi formula is still revealing the Universe
Ramanujan’s elegant formulas for calculating pi, developed more than a century ago, have unexpectedly resurfaced at the heart of modern physics. Researchers at IISc discovered that the same mathematical structures behind these formulas also describe real-world phenomena like turbulence, percolation, and even black holes. What once seemed like pure mathematics now appears deeply intertwined with the physical laws governing the universe.
Rob Reiner was more than a Hollywood legend. He helped shape California politics
Rob Reiner may be best known for his Hollywood films, but he was also a Democratic political force in California.
The FBI is investigating a startup founder accused of using VC money to pay for her house and a Caribbean wedding.
Shiloh Luckey faces SEC charges for using VC funds to pay for her home, Super Bowl tickets, trips to Aspen, and a wedding. The FBI is also investigating.
Staying healthy during the holidays with tips from CVS Health
The holiday season is a wonderful time to gather with loved ones, travel and celebrate. It can also be a time when routines shift, stress increases, and exposure to seasonal illnesses rises.
Hollow Knight: Silksong Expansion Coming 2026, Hollow Knight: Switch 2 Edition Also Announced
Free update and free upgrade confirmed
WHO highlights health risks and opportunities in the global waste crisis
A new World Health Organization (WHO) report, Throwing away our health: the impacts of solid waste on human health – evidence, knowledge gaps and health sector responses, warns that poorly managed solid waste is driving a public health crisis and calls for urgent action to protect people and the environments they live in.Globally, the volume of municipal solid waste is growing at an unprecedented rate. Yet, many countries still lack the systems and resources to manage this waste safely. “Solid waste reflects how our societies produce and consume, and how we treat people and the environment in the process,” said Dr Ruediger Krech, Director a.i., Department of Environment, Climate Change, One Health & Migration at the World Health Organization. “If we continue to treat waste as an afterthought, we will lock in avoidable disease, climate pollution and deep social inequities. This report is a clear call to put health and equity at the centre of how we design, manage and ultimately reduce waste.”The report summarizes evidence on how solid waste – especially municipal solid waste – affects health through polluted air, water, soil and food. When waste is not collected, or is dumped, burned or not poorly treated, it can release hazardous chemicals, contaminate drinking-water sources and create breeding grounds for insects and rodents.Communities underserved by waste management services, those living near dumpsites and poorly managed landfills and incinerators, children and pregnant women, as well as waste workers – particularly those working informally – face the greatest risks. For the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) community, the report underlines that safe management of municipal and health care waste is integral to safely managed, climate-resilient systems.A large share of municipal solid waste is still not collected or is disposed of in uncontrolled conditions, including open dumpsites and open burning. These practices damage ecosystems, contribute to climate change and undermine efforts to build healthy cities. When waste is properly managed, however, it can become a resource – generating energy and creating green jobs. The report calls for a coordinated, multisectoral response grounded in the waste hierarchy: preventing waste where possible, then reducing, reusing and recycling, with safe recovery and disposal.Key actions for governments and partners include reducing waste generation at source; expanding affordable and reliable waste collection services, especially in underserved communities; improving control at recovery and disposal facilities; and eliminating open dumping and burning, including hazardous waste. The new report identifies a central role for the health sector in addressing solid waste as a public health threat. The health sector can prevent and minimize health-care waste at source, improve segregation and safe treatment, invest in cleaner climate-resilient technologies, and advocate for health-protective policies and standards. The report also encourages more surveillance, research and biomonitoring to strengthen the evidence base, and promotes social protection and inclusion of informal waste workers.“This report gives countries and health authorities a very practical agenda,” said Mr Bruce Gordon, Head, Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Health Unit, WHO. “Health ministries can start now by ensuring safe management of health-care waste, developing strong occupational health programmes for waste workers, and working with municipalities to reduce health risks from solid waste by closing open dumps and burn sites and gradually improving towards safe services. These concrete steps save lives today and will make cities cleaner and healthier in the future.
Commentary: Trump’s callous political attack on Rob Reiner shows a shameful moral failure
Hours after Rob Reiner and his wife were murdered, President Trump blamed the beloved Hollywood figure for his own death. It's a new low, but also shows just how right Reiner was.
Bungie’s delayed shooter Marathon launches in March
Bungie also released a new look at the game.
iOS 26.2 expands Liquid Glass in three ways, here’s what’s new
iOS 26.2 is here, packing a ton of new features for iPhone users, and also several expansions of Liquid Glass. Here’s what’s new.
Rob Reiner used his fame to advocate for progressive causes. 'Just a really special man. A terrible day'
The Hollywood director known for 'Stand by Me' and 'When Harry Met Sally' was also a political force and an outspoken voice for same-sex marriage and early childhood education.
FUJIFILM Business Innovation Celebrates 60 Years in the Philippines and Singapore; Marks 30th Anniversary in Chinese Mainland
FUJIFILM Business Innovation, a leader in information workflows and digital transformation, is celebrating its 60th anniversary in the Philippines and Singapore. Starting in 1965, the Philippines was the company's first overseas market, and soon after it established operations in Singapore. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of FUJIFILM Business Innovation China, further underscoring the company's long and enduring operational history across the Asia Pacific region. These milestones refle
Bob on Business: Fort Worth lands dedicated corporate jet services company
Also, Westside Village update; coffee meets pie; fans of Fort Worth and bagging it.
Pokemon TCG Mega Charizard Ultra-Premium Collection Restocked With $50 Price Cut At Amazon
Amazon also has a few of the new Pokemon Trading Card Game Premium Collections and Mega ex Boxes in stock.
Tanning bed users are at higher risk of skin cancer, especially in unusual places
Indoor tanning is trending among Gen Z. A new study finds tanning bed users not only have a much higher risk of melanoma, they also have DNA damage linked to cancer across nearly their entire skin.