SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " Reg " 11,847 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
I write about ultraprocessed foods, yet I still can’t tell you how to avoid them. Here’s why
“Ultraprocessed” has become a bad word in our food supply, but regulators are struggling with how to define the term to help consumers. Here’s why that’s so hard to do.
Mikaelian beats Jack to regain WBC title
Noel Mikaelian beats Badou Jack by a unanimous points decision in Los Angeles to regain the WBC cruiserweight title.
New McGregor Avenue business cuts grand opening ribbon
It didn’t take long for the first new business to open up along the refurbished McGregor Avenue Corridor.
Massive OR 229 landslide sparks ODOT funding debate among Oregon politicians
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A massive landslide on OR 229 has reignited a debate over the funding of the Oregon Department of Transportation among state politicians. Estimated to be among the largest l…
Ethics commission investigates progressive Portland city councilors over August retreat
Oregon ethics officials will investigate whether six Portland city councilors violated public meetings law when they met for a private August retreat.
Full-length Replay: UC-Davis at Oregon
The Aggies (5-3) return to the mainland for a test against the Ducks (4-5) at Matthew Knight Arena.
KSL.com Sports' Pro Football Pick'em Week 15 preview
With four weeks left in the NFL regular season, the playoff picture is starting to look clearer but many teams still control their path and the seeding is still up for grabs.
How I became the OG Hooters Girl — and why I have no regrets
Lynne Austin was working as a telephone operator doing bikini contests as a side gig when she was approach with an opportunity that changed her life.
Cows forgotten on an island survived alone for 130 years — their story fascinates scientists - Futura-Sciences
In the late 19th century, a small group of cattle was left behind on Amsterdam Island, a remote spot in the subantarctic region. Against the odds, the herd survived and adapted to the island’s harsh ... Read more
Democrats want to win back Congress. First they need to weather their primary battles
At least a dozen US House Democrats are already facing primary challenges, as progressives seek to transform a party regaining its footing after 2024 by tapping into voters’ frustration with its leaders ahead of next year’s midterm elections.
Arts and entertainment throughout the region
A listing of local arts and entertainment events.
Friday Night Roundup: High school basketball across the state line
TRI-CITIES, Tenn. (WJHL) – A full slate of Friday night hoops brought tight battles and milestone moments across the region. Science Hill boys’ basketball picked up a hard-fought win at home, edging Jefferson County 56–50 in a defensive battle. Unicoi County boys’ basketball delivered one of the most dominant performances of the evening, rolling past Johnson County 76–43 behind […]
The Birth Keepers: I choose this, episode one
The Free Birth Society was selling pregnant women a simple message: they could exit the medical system and take back their power by free birthing. But Nicole Garrison believes FBS ideology nearly cost her her life
'I'm all about working together': New leader named for Tampa Bay Sports Commission
Lanness Robinson is stepping into one of Tampa Bay’s most influential sports leadership roles as the region comes off a record year for tourism.
Robert Griffin III to call his first NFL game for Fox Sports in New Orleans
Robert Griffin III still has a couple of football games left on his broadcast schedule.With the college football regular season completed, Griffin will call his
Political power and profitable trades in the US Congress
The debate over whether US members of Congress should be allowed to trade individual stocks has become a mainstream policy concern. This column uses data on every US congressional stock trade from 1995 to 2021 to reveal that while rank-and-file members do not systematically beat the market, once some of them assume leadership positions their portfolios start to look very different and outperform those of regular members. The pattern raises uncomfortable questions about how political power, corporate access, and personal wealth interact.
Democrats celebrated Indiana Republicans refusing to redistrict. They’re still moving ahead with their own redistricting push
One day after Indiana Republicans decided to forego political gains by rejecting a new US House map, congressional Democrats made clear Friday they would still press ahead for potential gains in states their party controls.
Everything Greg Gard said after blowout loss to Nebraska
The Badgers had a tough day on the road on Wednesday.
Tom Snyder: AI requires transformative regulation to ensure it benefits business and individuals
We should not be asking whether regulation will slow innovation or hurt competitiveness. We should be asking a far more important question: How do we ensure AI serves all people?
Quantum Nexus to Power California’s Research Regime
On October 3, proud alums were celebrating UC Berkeley’s past and present at Homecoming. Five floors up, campus and state leaders were hailing its future.Governor Gavin Newsom, UC President James
Registration opens for business expo
Registration is open for the University of Lynchburg’s third annual business expo, Building Communities Through Partnerships.
Big 12 football grades: Evaluating the performance of all 16 teams in 2025 season
Final grades for all 16 Big 12 teams with the college football regular season complete
Mid-Michigan entertainment for the weekend of Dec. 12-14 and beyond
Check out what’s going on around the region.
The politics of being pro-Israel
Last week, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore stood before a crowded room of Jewish attendees just outside the nation’s capital, and proclaimed: “Today, I want to be loud and clear, that Maryland stands with the Israeli people and we support their right to exist in the region with the same sense of safety and security that... Read More
Wisconsin candidates decry money in politics, promise to raise a ton of it
Wisconsin is among the worst states in the union for high-dollar elections and loose regulations of campaign cash
Benin settles after failed coup attempt, but regional concerns remain
Loyalist troops aided by Nigeria's air force foiled putsch, but confidence in nation's democratic stability is shaken.
Health and safety rules holding UK infrastructure back, says writer of government report
Exclusive: John Fingleton says regulators need to change their attitude to risk to end the country’s economic stagnation
Stand Against Mephisto: Pre-Purchase Lord of Hatred
Make your final stand against the Prime Evil Mephisto in a rich new campaign, master two new classes, and discover the ancient region of Skovos.
Seahawks To Host Small Businesses At Marketplace During Inspire Change Gameday On Sunday
During pregame of Sunday’s game vs. the Colts, there will be a marketplace featuring small businesses that are a part of Seattle’s Hawks Huddle small business partnership.
Several Subway shops in Maine close as state revokes business certificates
Several Subway restaurants in Maine, owned by MTF Subs, were abruptly closed after the state revoked their business registration certificates Wednesday.
C of I Students Shine at Murdock College Science Research Conference - The College of Idaho
Twenty-five members of The College of Idaho community traveled to Vancouver, Washington, on November 7–8 to participate in the annual Murdock College Science Research Conference, a leading regional event showcasing undergraduate scientific research. Every C of I student in attendance presented the results of their summer research projects, reflecting the College’s strong commitment to hands-on, inquiry-based learning.
Hochul signs several bills into law on artificial intelligence regulations
One piece of legislation aims to stop artificial intelligence from being used to essentially recreate people who have died.
US Senate rejects dueling health care bills. How Iowa senators voted:
The US Senate rejected a bill to extend expiring ACA subsidies, leaving little time to stop health care premiums from spiking for Obamacare enrollees.
Wisconsin State Patrol drops reminder: In-car entertainment might be breaking the law
(WFRV) – Ever wonder if motorists in Wisconsin can look at or operate an electronic device for entertainment while driving? Well, the state patrol provided some clarification. The Wisconsin S…
How Investors May Respond To Elevance Health (ELV) Expanding AI Assistant Access And Adding Schulman To Board
Elevance Health recently expanded access to its AI-powered Virtual Assistant for about 22 million commercial members and announced that Amy Schulman, a senior healthcare executive and governance expert, will join its board and sit on the Audit and Finance Committees in January 2026. Together, these moves highlight Elevance Health’s push to blend digital-first member support with strengthened board oversight in healthcare innovation and regulatory strategy. We’ll now examine how the broader...
Registered sex offender arrested for training juveniles at Mooresville business
Stand up and take a stand, ACC. Call Notre Dame's bluff after CFP brouhaha
After brouhaha with the College Football Playoff selection of Miami, the ACC must play hardball with Notre Dame and regain respectability.
HB 289 could expand wrongful death act to unborn children in the Sunshine State
Two possible abortion bills already sparking debate.
12 Days of Regulatory Insights: Day 6 – Sports Wagering, Player Proposition Bets, and Prediction Market Battles
In this episode of our special 12 Days of Regulatory Insights podcast series, Stephen Piepgrass is joined by Cole White from our RISE Practice Group's
Pittsburgh’s Strength as Business Center Fuels Aer Lingus Entry into Market
With today’s announcement that Aer Lingus is introducing nonstop flights from Pittsburgh International Airport to Dublin Airport, Pittsburgh and Ireland have the opportunity to build on the powerful business and cultural connection that drives economic development in both regions. Flights on Aer Lingus, the Irish flag carrier, start on May 25, 2026, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
Senate to vote on 2 health care proposals. And, the latest U.S. move against Venezuela
The Senate is expected to vote on two opposing health care proposals today. And, the Trump administration says it has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela in its latest move in the region.
Commentary: The U.S. Senate is a mess. He wants to fix it, from the inside
Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkeley is waging a largely one-man crusade to reform the Senate filibuster. He sees it as a way to help end obstructionism and address the Senate's increasing dysfunction.
The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
On May 20, 2025, the World Health Assembly unanimously adopted the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Agreement, an international treaty designed to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. The product of three years of arduous negotiations, the treaty marks a new era of global cooperation in public health. However, core aspects of the agreement remain unresolved—notably the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) System, which is intended to ensure equitable access to pandemic-related materials and benefits. To support the successful implementation of the WHO Pandemic Agreement, the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” should be formally incorporated into the negotiating agenda of the PABS annex. Introduction For the first time, an international treaty has enshrined the principle of “One Health,” the compelling idea that the health of animals, humans, and the environment all contribute to pandemic risks. SARS (2003), H1N1 (2009–10), Ebola (2014–16), and COVID-19 all emerged through zoonotic spillover from animal hosts—respectively, civets, hogs, and bats. Together, they underscore the need for a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach. The Pandemic Agreement responds to this call, requiring state parties to acknowledge the ecological interplay and commit to a comprehensive “One Health” strategy. Specifically, Article 5 charges governments to address “the drivers of pandemics and the emergence and re-emergence of infectious disease at the human-animal-environment interface,” including wild animal markets, deforestation, and antibiotic overuse. Yet the effectiveness of this “One Health” vision depends equally on the free flow of scientific information and data among countries and institutions. Just as environmental and animal health factors have been neglected in past global frameworks, so too has data sharing been marginalized, despite its centrality to timely detection and response. The Pandemic Agreement takes an important step by requiring governments to enhance data collection and cooperate with the World Health Organization (WHO). However, these provisions will remain aspirational without a robust Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) annex. The PABS system will determine whether countries and researchers can rapidly exchange pathogen samples and genetic data while ensuring equitable access to resulting research and development, including diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Without such mechanisms, the treaty’s promise to operationalize “One Health” and strengthen global preparedness will risk becoming largely symbolic, echoing earlier failures to translate shared principles into coordinated action. Equity Concerns When the 2025 Health Assembly adopted the Pandemic Agreement, it left the difficult question of access to pathogens and the sharing of resulting benefits to be addressed in a separate agreement. Negotiations on this separate agreement, PABS, are now underway in Geneva. Yet governments remain divided over fundamental questions of equity between the countries that primarily contribute to the system and those that primarily draw from it—and consequently benefit. For example, wildlife in countries bordering the equator is likely to produce PABS materials, but companies in Europe are likely to use them to develop lucrative products. The most likely contributor countries are likely to be those biodiverse countries around the equator, such as Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Indonesia, where the number of human-mammalian viral host interactions is large. Conversely, countries most likely to benefit from this material are those with the technology, investors, and infrastructure to capitalize on genomic data, such as the United States, EU member states, and Japan. This imbalance reflects a broader pattern seen in prior international frameworks. Now, as in the past, the wealthiest countries in the world (a useful heuristic is membership of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)) disproportionately benefit from systems in which pathogens and genomic sequencing data are contributed to a common source. Under the International Agreement on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (the “Plant Treaty” or “Seed Treaty”) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework, companies from Europe and North America disproportionately withdraw biological samples and data for development into lucrative medical products. Their governments and companies have both statutory and contractual claims to the products that those companies correspondingly produce. PABS appears poised to follow the same pattern. The text calls for strong language on access to pathogens and associated data, but the corresponding benefits that should flow to poorer countries are couched in equivocal or non-binding language. Common but Differentiated Responsibilities To address these inequities, the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” should be formally incorporated into the negotiating agenda of the PABS annex. Common but differentiated responsibilities are often a feature of climate change negotiations. The basic principle is that, even though all countries should reduce carbon emissions, governments that became rich and powerful through massive carbon emissions (e.g., France, the United Kingdom, the United States) should have a greater obligation to address the resulting crises. Applied to PABS, it would require that governments hosting and supporting companies developing lucrative products carry greater obligations toward the cost of running the PABS system; share benefits or final medical products; and transfer technology to help countries worldwide develop their own capacities to innovate and manufacture vaccines during an emergency. For example, an annex could mandate that any company based in an OECD country that withdraws PABS material would be obligated to donate the resulting diagnostics, therapeutics, or vaccines to the WHO during a public health emergency or pandemic. Questions remain about how robust those donations would be, but the principle is that they should deliver highly significant lifesaving benefits to be equitably shared. Theoretically, this approach mirrors the PIP Framework, in which companies withdrawing influenza samples are required to pay half of the operating costs. In practice, however, the framework has fallen short. The PIP Framework Secretariat has struggled to secure payments from companies, with companies often disagreeing over how much is owed. Additionally, without another pandemic influenza to test the strength of the agreement during a public health emergency, corporate compliance with sharing mechanisms remains unknown. Even if these limitations did not characterize the PIP Framework, partially paying for operating expenses does not address the inequity in access to genetic data and pathogen samples that left less developed countries last in line for COVID-19 vaccines (and, before them, H1N1). Common but differentiated responsibilities would go further, addressing governments’ legitimate grievances regarding information sharing. It would make withdrawals of PABS material and resulting products more transparent, building trust across the board. Enforcement and Enduring Success A key implication of this approach is that the governing mechanism of the PABS must have real enforcement authority. The WHO Pandemic Agreement delegates its core governance responsibilities to a Conference of the Parties (COP)—a governing body composed of one representative from each participating government, similar to those established under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The proposed WHO Pandemic Agreement COP is charged with oversight functions but ultimately possesses no real authority to compel a government to take any action it does not wish to take. The text does not give the COP the ability to, for example, sanction a party that does not comply with either textual obligations or PABS provisions. In other words, there are no effective mechanisms in place to ensure compliance. Perhaps just as significant, establishing a meaningful enforcement mechanism within the PABS system would strengthen the WHO’s credibility and its ability to ensure compliance across global health governance. By setting a precedent for accountability, such a mechanism could enhance the organization’s authority not only within the Pandemic Agreement but also in enforcing the revised International Health Regulations and other frameworks for public health emergencies. Conclusion The PABS annex can—and should—be different. It should establish clear responsibilities for funding as well as for sharing the diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines that result from contributions to the system. The system, in turn, must include a dedicated body empowered to hold governments and the corporations they sponsor accountable for their responsibilities before, during, and after pandemics. Doing so would restore trust in the broader agreement, which was eroded as commitments were repeatedly diluted while parties scrambled to meet their own self-imposed deadlines during the Pandemic Agreement negotiations. A robust PABS Annex would cement a grand social bargain. Wealthier countries and their corporations would gain unimpeded access to scientific information essential for developing and manufacturing lifesaving medical products. As such, they would stand to gain considerable economic benefit. Yet that privilege must be matched with responsibility. The grand bargain must include not only the right to innovate, but also the duty to ensure that innovation serves all. As medical products are developed and produced through collective contributions, every person must have equal access. All human beings deserve an equitable chance to survive—to save their own life, the lives of their families, and the well-being of their communities. … Sam Halabi, JD, MPhil, is the Bette Jacobs Endowed Professor at Georgetown University’s School of Health and the Director of the Center for Transformational Health Law at Georgetown Law. He serves as the co-lead for the WHO’s Working Group on Regulatory Consideration on AI and Health’s training workstream. He earned his JD from Harvard, his MPhil from Oxford, and undergraduate degrees from Kansas State University. Lawrence Gostin, LLD (Hon.), JD, BA, is University Distinguished Professor and Founding Director and Timothy and Linda O’Neill Professor of the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law. He is the author of Global Health Security: A Blueprint for the Future (Harvard University Press, 2021); Global Health Law (Harvard University Press, 2014); Public Health Law: Power, Duty, Restraint (University of California Press, 3rd ed., 2016); Public Health Law and Ethics: A Reader (University of California Press, 3rd ed., 2018); Law and the Health System (Foundation Press, 2014); Principles of Mental Health Law & Practice (Oxford University Press, 2010). He also directs the WHO Collaborating Center at Georgetown University. Image Credit: United States Mission Geneva, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mets showing interest in Cardinals' Willson Contreras: reports
The Mets reportedly approached the Cardinals with interest regarding a potential trade for three-time All-Star Willson Contreras.
Cracker Barrel diners are sounding the alarm – here’s what reportedly has them furious
Cracker Barrel customers slam restaurant chain for poor food quality as company works to regain customer confidence in the wake of its failed rebrand.
Raleigh County in top five counties for new business registrations
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — Raleigh County is among the top five counties in the state for New Business Registrations for November of 2025. Raleigh County reports 58 new businesses registered, coming in fourth after Kanawha, Berkeley, and Monongalia counties. Michelle Rotellini, President of the Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce, said these statistics mean great […]
UT Southwestern biochemist to receive O’Donnell Award from TAMEST
Yunsun Nam, Ph.D., Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics at UT Southwestern Medical Center, will receive the 2026 Edith and Peter O’Donnell Award in Biological Sciences from the Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology (TAMEST) for her research into how RNAs and proteins interact at the molecular level. Her work has shed light on gene regulation, cancer biology, and RNA-based therapeutics.
Tulare County Economic Forecast: Cities sprouting business seeds
Editor’s note: The Business Journal published its 2026 Regional Economic Forecast issue on Nov. 28. This is one of those stories. From the grand opening of mom-and-pop shops in the revitalized downtown Tulare region to
Providence hospitals, clinics in Oregon are in-network again for Aetna members
A new deal between Aetna and Providence brings the state’s largest hospital system back into the insurer’s network across Oregon.
Fulfillment by Amazon and the Definition of Doing Business in California: An Analysis of In the Matter of the Appeal of Diet Standards LLC — Current Federal Tax Developments
The California Office of Tax Appeals (OTA) recently issued an opinion in In the Matter of the Appeal of Diet Standards LLC ( OTA Case No. 230613542 ), decided on October 7, 2025. This case serves as a critical reminder to tax practitioners regarding the scope of "doing business" in Cal
Registered nurses at St. Joseph hospital in Bryan, Texas vote decisively to join National Nurses Organizing Committee / National Nurses United
Nurses at the 316-bed facility say they voted to join the union because it is critical that nurses have a say in making decisions in patient care, staffing, and to help recruit and retain experienced nurses, which leads to improved patient care.
Truckee, North Tahoe to leave Nevada high school athletics
Truckee and North Tahoe will no longer compete in Nevada high school sports due to conflict regarding biological sex and gender identity.
'Can’t blame me for anything anymore': Joe Carollo's near 50-year stint in Miami politics ends
A regular fixture in local politics, Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo will soon leave city hall for what could be the last time following his mayoral election loss. From his start as the youngest commissioner ever elected in the City of Miami, his time in public office featured plenty of high profile moments — such as dealing with the Elián Gonzalez saga as mayor — and controversies.
I flew overseas for a festival. I don't regret my trip, but I wouldn't travel like this again.
This summer, I went to Portugal for the music festival Afro Nation. I felt like I didn't get to see the country I'd flown all the way out to visit.
RedFESP advances its 2026 regional agenda to strengthen the Essential Public Health Functions
Washington, D.C., December 3, 2025 — The Network on Essential Public Health Functions for strengthening stewardship and governance (RedFESP), established in September 2025 with the technical support of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), held its second virtual meeting to advance the development of the 2026 work plan. Institutions from Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay participated.
Scientists uncover the hidden survival trick that lets cancer bounce back
Scientists discovered that certain cancer cells use a low-level activation of a DNA-dismantling enzyme—normally seen in cell death—to survive treatment. Instead of dying, these “persister cells” leverage this sublethal signal to regrow. Because the mechanism is non-genetic, it appears much earlier than typical resistance mutations. Targeting this enzyme could help stop tumors from returning.
Is history repeating itself or will Emery 'seize the moment'?
"Arsenal's normally regimented defence had gone missing; Villa's title prospects were soaring," he wrote. Reading back that old report on the train to Villa Park on Saturday refreshed the memory of Gregory's gamble: early in the second half, trailing to two Dennis Bergkamp goals, he replaced Gareth Barry with Stan Collymore and sent Villa charging forward.
'All PS5 Consoles Will Eventually Require Maintenance': PlayStation 5 Liquid Metal Degradation Can Reportedly Impact All Systems
The widely reported PlayStation 5 liquid metal issues can affect systems regardless of their position, according to a new report
The search is on for Business Report's Influential Women in Business
Business Report is now accepting nominations for its 2025 Influential Women in Business recognition. The awards annually honor professional women in the Capital Region who have distinguished themselves in business or through government or nonprofit work. Get everything you need to know about nominating someone here. The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7. Honorees will be profiled […]
Big 12 commissioner says Notre Dame AD's behavior toward ACC is 'egregious'
Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark slammed Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua, saying his comments criticizing the ACC are 'egregious'
These Multnomah County jobs are on the chopping block, and more could follow
A sizable reduction in contracts from CareOregon, which manages Oregon Health Plan benefits, is trickling down to the county’s mental health network.
More Fore: The Rise of Indoor Golf Entertainment in Minneapolis
The Twin Cities have always been regarded as avid golf towns—but downtown?
NH health officials urge continued vaccination of newborns for hepatitis B despite CDC committee vote
New Hampshire health officials are urging parents to continue the standard hepatitis B vaccination regimen for newborns despite a vote from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention committee to remove the recommendation.
We Think We Know What Geoff Keighley's Weird Desert Statue Is Teasing
The mystery of the weird desert statue may have been solved in advance of The Game Awards on Thursday, as some newly registered trademarks reveal a game and a logo from a familiar franchise that looks essentially identical to a symbol on the monolith.
Supreme Court Questions Spending Curbs on Political Parties
The US Supreme Court weighed Republican calls for a fresh rollback of campaign-finance regulations, questioning federal caps that limit spending by political parties in coordination with candidates.
Early registration for 2026 AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference ends Dec. 12
The early registration deadline for the 2026 AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference is Dec. 12.
Pebble's founder introduces a $75 AI smart ring for recording brief notes with a press of a button
After rebooting the Pebble smartwatch, founder Eric Migicovsky is expanding his company's device lineup with a new smart wearable: an AI-powered smart ring known as Index 01. Named for the finger where the ring is meant to be worn, the new $75 ring is not meant to be a competitor to the always-on, always-listening AI devices, like the AI pendant Friend, but instead offers a way to record quick notes and reminders with a press of a button on the ring's side. AI only comes into play via the open source, speech-to-text, and AI models that run locally on your smartphone, via the open source Pebble mobile app. That is, if the Ring's button is not being pressed, it's not recording. (And this is a press-and-hold gesture, too, which means you can't start the ring's recording and then let go to surreptitiously record a conversation.) You can wear the stainless steel ring while in the shower, washing hands, doing dishes, or in the rain, but you would have to take it off for other water-related activities, like swimming. At launch, it's water-resistant to 1 meter. The ring is also not a fitness tracker or sleep monitor. It doesn't record details about your heart rate or health. And it's not there to be your AI friend. "I'm not trying to build some AI assistant thing," Migicovsky told TechCrunch in an interview. "I build things that solve one main problem, and they solve it really well," he explains. "I think of as external memory for my brain...that's what this is. It's always with you." Plus, the ring has been designed to be highly reliable and privacy-preserving, he says, as all your thoughts are stored on your phone, not in the cloud. There is no subscription. Migicovsky has been wearing the ring for three months now and says he cannot imagine going back to a world where he doesn't always have a memory device with him. "The problem is that, during the day, I get ideas or I remember something, and if I don't write it down that second, I forget it," he says. The ring solves this problem, he adds, without becoming another device you need to charge. "The battery lasts for years," Migicovsky claims. Technically, the ring is said to support roughly 12 to 14 hours of recording. On average, the founder says he uses it 10-20 times per day to record 3-6 second thoughts. At that rate, he'll get about two years of usage. When the ring's battery dies, you can ship it back to the company for recycling. When using Index, you can record up to five minutes of audio, which can be saved to the ring and synced to your phone later. This makes sense for recording briefer, personal thoughts and notes, even when you don't have your phone handy, but it wouldn't work for recording a longer chat, like a presentation, meeting, or in-person interview of some kind. The ring also supports 99+ languages and has a bit of on-device memory, in case you're not in Bluetooth range of your device, where the recording is ultimately saved and transcribed. (The raw audio is retained, too, in case the speech-to-text is garbled due to loud background noise). If you own a Pebble smartwatch or one from another brand, your recorded thought can even appear on the watch's screen so you can verify it's correct. The ring works with Pebble's mobile app, which offers notes and reminders, but can optionally integrate with your phone's calendaring system, too, or other apps, like Notion. And the ring's software is open source, which makes it hackable by the community, the founder points out. Because of its open nature, the ring's button is already programmable. In addition to the press-and-hold gesture, you can program the ring to do other things with a single or double press, like play or pause your music or control the shutter on your phone's camera. You could use it to send a message through the universal chat app Beeper, which Migicovsky also created, or you could add your own voice actions via MCP. A new approach to hardware Migicovsky acknowledges that hardware can be difficult to get right -- as the previous exit of Pebble to Fitbit showed. (Fitbit, too, was later acquired by Google in 2021). "I didn't earn any money during Pebble -- we exited, but it was not a great exit," Migicovsky admits. This year, however, he decided to reboot the Pebble project after Google open sourced the PebbleOS, which opened up the door to new hardware. With his new company, Core Devices, Migicovsky plans to do things differently. Still, the founder doesn't regret his previous choices, he clarifies. "I wouldn't have gone back and changed anything. I loved what we built. I loved what we did. I love the company that we built, but it's not the only way to build a company," he told TechCrunch. " And, speaking as an ex-YC partner, there are -- there's a time and a place for building a venture-backed startup. Some companies are phenomenal when they raise money and build a big team, and I tried that...I think what I'm doing now is trying an alternative path, which is start from profitability," he says. The new company is a small team of five, self-funded, and focused on sustainability. So far, Core Devices has shipped the Pebble 2 Duo smartwatch with a black-and-white display. Its first run sold out, and the company is now preparing to ship the upgraded version, the Pebble Time 2. The newer device, which has seen 25,000 pre-orders, is a stainless steel watch with a larger, color e-ink screen. As for the Index 01, the ring's pre-order offer ends in March 2026. After that, the price increases to $99. It currently comes in silver, polished gold, and matte black and works with iOS and Android devices. Customers can select from eight ring sizes and three colors.
The Most Egregious Double Standard in Sports
For college coaches, greed is just business.
These Health Centers Are Supposed to Make Care Affordable. One Has Sued Patients for as Little as $59 in Unpaid Bills.
Federally funded community health centers receive grants in exchange for serving patients regardless of their ability to pay. But ProPublica found at least five across the country garnishing patients’ paychecks to collect unpaid bills.
Trump voices concern over Europe's political direction
Ties between the US and the EU are under pressure as Donald Trump questions Europe's trajectory and Brussels defends its recent regulatory decisions.
Oregon leaders pledge to make the state more business-friendly, but offer few specifics
Democrats and Republicans at a business summit agreed on Oregon's declining business appeal but offered minimal concrete plans before the 2026 legislative session.
Gov. Kotek, lawmakers call for streamlined permit, land use rules amid concern for Oregon business
While some Oregon lawmakers echoed her priorities, the governor’s Monday speech in front of industry leaders mainly defended her record.
Here are 3 things Portland’s mayor wants to see in the central city by 2030
Hitting any one of the targets announced by Mayor Keith Wilson will likely be an extremely tall order.
Portland mayor wants to double size of city’s small business tax exemption
During a speech at the Oregon Leadership Summit, Wilson said he will propose doubling the city’s business license tax exemption from $50,000 in gross receipts annually to $100,000.
HBO Won’t Have To Do “Gymnastics” To Make Itself A General Entertainment Brand Under Netflix Ownership
Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters were talking about buying Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming and studio operations.
Netflix CEOs: ‘We’re Super-Confident’ of Closing Warner Bros. Discovery Deal, Say Merger Will ‘Protect Jobs in Entertainment Industry’
Netflix's co-CEOs projected confidence about closing Netflix's takeover of Warner Bros. and HBO Max despite Paramount's hostile bid for the studio.
'Big-time' win in Baltimore puts Steelers in excellent position to win AFC North for 1st time since 2020
The Steelers control their own fate in the final month of the regular season.
WAMU's Week Ahead: Reporter roundtable on data centers, Bowser on 'The Politics Hour', the region's best ice skating
This week WAMU will be taking a region-wide look at critical issues surrounding data centers, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser will be our guest on The Politics Hour, and a guide to top ice skating spots this winter.
Windows Insiders get a glimpse of Redmond’s agentic future
: Native MCP support lands in Insider Dev and Beta builds
Tylenol Maker Isn’t Registered to Operate in Texas, Judge Says
Tylenol-maker Kenvue Inc. must comply with a Texas law requiring out-of-state businesses to register with the state or risk being barred from conducting business in Texas, a judge ruled.
Meet the new leaders who'll be stepping up at Greg Abel's Berkshire Hathaway
As Warren Buffett approaches retirement, Berkshire Hathaway announced a slew of new roles for some of its most important executives.
A New Chapter in Hormone Health: Dr. Rachel Fishman Oiknine Brings MDVIP's Personalized Model to St. Louis
Women in the St. Louis region will soon have access to a new model of personalized endocrinology care centered on women's health and long-term wellness. The new MDVIP-affiliated practice, led by Rachel Fishman Oiknine, MD, MSCP, marks a significant expansion of specialty care within the MDVIP network.
RWJBarnabas Health Teams Up with New Jersey Devils Superstar Jack Hughes in Multi-Year Partnership
RWJBarnabas Health is teaming up with New Jersey Devils superstar Jack Hughes in a multi-year partnership encouraging residents of New Jersey and the surrounding region to prioritize their health care needs.
Air Pollution Undermines Health Benefits Of Exercise, Evidence Says
By Dennis Thompson HealthDay ReporterMONDAY, Dec. 8, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Air pollution can undermine some of the health benefits active folks expect to derive from regular exercise, a new study says. The protective effect exercise should have on people’s risk of death was cut by half among those ...
SBA extends deadline for 2026 National Small Business Week Awards nominations
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) extended the 2026 National Small Business Week awards nominations deadline to Dec. 22.
Nominate now for the 2026 Family Business Awards
The Business Journal is seeking nominations for its 2026 Family Business Awards, which recognize family-owned businesses around the Puget Sound region. Nominations close Dec. 19.
Block all AI browsers for the foreseeable future: Gartner
: Analysts worry lazy users could have agents complete mandatory infosec training, and attackers could do far nastier things
Health care workers rally against ICE at Portland South Waterfront facility
Oregon Congresswoman Maxine Dexter joined health care workers as they protested at the Portland ICE facility on Sunday.
Enabling precise predictions with proton radiography
The polar regions hold some of this country’s most valuable assets. The U.S. has operational bases in both the Arctic and Antarctica that do important work for our national security.
Extreme Heat Adaptation: Resilient Design for Business Stability
The climate our infrastructure was built for is changing. Allianz is adapting to these changes by revising data and backing low-regret measures that keep customers operational.
Tiempo: Ideal School of Allied Health Care on Long Island mentors next generation of caregivers
The Ideal School of Allied Health Care on Long Island prepares people for jobs like medical assistants and much more.
Tattoo Regret: Wyoming Residents Pay Big Money For Tattoo Removal
Across Wyoming, more people are paying big money to erase tattoos they regret having done. “I tell them don’t be embarrassed, because they were young and…
New judiciary chairman Willis focused on lightening load on West Virginia business owners
CHARLESTON, W.Va – New state Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Tom Willis is preparing for his second legislative session, armed with an agenda designed to make life easier on West Virginia business owners. Personal experience with the state’s regulations and requirements is motivating him to try and make a change. “I’ve spent a lot of time
NH's Business: Granite State facing shortage of nurses
Registered nurse Carlene Ferrier talks about the impact of the shortage after a report found that New Hampshire has the most open nursing jobs per capita than any other New England state.
Conservative Project at Supreme Court Meets Trump’s Push to Oust Officials
President Trump has repeatedly ousted leaders of independent agencies despite federal laws meant to shield those regulators from politics.
The business of caring for older Americans is in a deepening crisis
Government funding cuts, caregiver shortages and immigration limits are adding new strains to an industry that’s already hard-pressed to meet demand.
The business of caring for older Americans is in a deepening crisis
Government funding cuts, caregiver shortages and immigration limits are adding new strains to an industry that’s already hard-pressed to meet demand.
Oregon nurses rally to support striking specialists, practitioners at Legacy Health
As care providers with Legacy Health hospitals and clinics in the Portland area have been on strike, the healthcare group has agreed to resume mediations on Monday.
Former Nintendo staffers explain why Nintendo ditched the "Nindies" name
Do you remember the “Nindies” term that Nintendo used to bring up on a regular basis? It was very prominent in the Wii U / 3DS era, and even the very early Nintendo Switch days. You probably don’t need us to tell you what it was for, but essentially it was an easy way to label indie games on Nintendo...
Vascular Surgeon reveals why healthy arteries get blocked, warns against 5 symptoms that are commonly ignored
Dr Sumit Kapadia, Vascular Surgeon and Varicose Vein Specialist, recently on his IG handle, spoke about artery blockages, and why even healthy arteries get blocked. Dr Kapadia mentioned that arteries (even 'healthy' ones) don't get blocked all of a sudden, though gradual narrowing can occur without any warning, or mild signs only. This process, known as 'Atherosclerosis' literally means the presence of fat into the blood vessels. This fat, or cholesterol, Dr Kapadia says, when combined with calcium, and inflammatory cells, leads to plaque. When these narrowed arteries suddenly have a blockage, that can cause a blood clot, leading to a heart attack, brain stroke, or Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) in the legs. Hence, people who think they are healthy, might be carrying an underlying condition that they are not even aware of, says Dr Kapadia. For this, it is important to get regularly tested, and to watch out for these 5 signs that are common indicators of artery blockage.