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Not too late for Rimmon Heights Block Party entertainment sponsorship
The annual Rimmon Heights Block Party is coming soon, but there is still time to specifically sponsor some of this year’s main entertainers.
This Is A Drill: Scenario Planning That Drives Business Agility
CFOs can use scenario planning, AI-enabled data and "break-glass-in-case" playbooks to sharpen strategy, manage risk and build agility for uncertain futures.
Video Footage Shows McConnell Taken By Ambulance—As Pressure For Health Update Grows Ahead Of Senate’s Return Monday
The Senate returns from recess Monday, nearly a month after McConnell was hospitalized on June 14.
FCC Approves Reflect Orbital's Space Mirror Satellite That Astronomers Hate
The FCC says the most controversial aspect of Reflect Orbital's Earendil-1 satellite, its giant mirror, falls outside its authority since the regulator mainly focuses on radio spectrum.
iPhone Ultra battery details allegedly revealed in new leak
As we approach the official announcement of Apple’s iPhone Ultra in September, more specs continue to leak. A new rumor...
New sodium metal battery design charges in just 4 minutes and retains its capacity for years
Chinese researchers say they have overcome one of the trickiest problems of battery chemistry by developing a special gel.
IS YOUR BUSINESS SIGNAGE ADA COMPLIANT? A PLAIN-LANGUAGE GUIDE FROM FASTSIGNS
Many business owners assume their signage is compliant simply because it looks professional. In reality, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets specific, measurable standards for text height, contrast, braille placement and mounting location, and that's why FASTSIGNS®, a global leader in custom sign and visual graphics solutions, has published a plain-language guide so business owners can quickly check whether their existing signage meets these requirements.
This common pesticide may be quietly wiping out future bumblebees
A next-generation pesticide designed to kill crop pests may also be interfering with the reproductive health of bumblebees. Researchers discovered that low-dose exposure to sulfoxaflor changed gene activity, especially in tissues involved in reproduction, raising concerns about long-term impacts on bee populations. Because pollinators are essential for about one-third of the world's food production, finding ways to protect them while controlling pests has become increasingly important.
National Guard shooting suspect in 'dire,' 'self-inflicted' health condition after refusing to eat: filing
Rahmanullah Lakanwal's condition is called "dire" after the D.C. shooting suspect refused food and water, forcing emergency hospitalization.
The MAGA Party Is Over
Small crowds, algae in the reflecting pool, a White House under construction. What is Trumpism without spectacle?
The nation’s cartoonists on the week in politics
Every week political cartoonists throughout the country and across the political spectrum apply their ink-stained skills to capture the foibles, memes, hypocrisies and other head-slapping events in the world of politics. The fruits of these labors are hundreds of cartoons that entertain and enrage readers of all political stripes. Here's an offering of the best of this week's crop, picked fresh off the Toonosphere. Edited by Matt Wuerker.
Ebola death toll reaches 600, as new cases suspected in other parts of Congo
New suspected cases of Ebola have been reported in parts of Congo that were previously unaffected, the government said, signaling the continued spread of the disease beyond the epicenter in Ituri.
Australia's huntsman fastest spider on record, new study suggests
A species of huntsman spider found in Queensland is the fastest mover out of more than 250 spider species analysed in a new study.
WA can inspect Tacoma immigration detention center, judge rules
The Northwest's largest ICE processing center in Tacoma has received over 3,500 complaints and prevented health inspections from the state.
How AI changes the rules of engagement for sports viewers
Spectators will see more opportunity to move from pricey subscriptions and rigid schedules to more personalised feeds
Parkview hires former Community Health exec to help guide central Indiana expansion
In his new job, Dr. Ram Yeletti will focus on expanding Parkview’s specialty care services and physician network in its new markets.
Fourth suspect arrested in April shooting at Howard Street business
Evanston police have arrested a fourth man in connection with the April 21 shooting at Howard Street and Custer Avenue. He is now charged with a felony
FCC Approves Reflect Orbital's Space Mirror Satellite That Astronomers Hate
The FCC says the most controversial aspect of Reflect Orbital's Earendil-1 satellite, the giant mirror, falls out of its authority since the regulator mainly focuses on radio spectrum.
Arkansas small business owners detail plans for growth, investment
U.S. Bank's fourth annual Small Business Perspective survey, released at the end of June, highlighted the resilience of Gen Z business owners and the industry's technology-driven future.
Rockies Reacts Results: Let the draft speculation begin!
Will the Rockies select Liam Peterson or someone else 10th overall?
A Japanese Hi-Fi Specialist Just Gave Audiophiles a New Reason to Get Excited
The brand is calling these open-back monitors one of its "most ambitious headphone projects to date."
Sens. Fetterman (D) and McCormick (R) form rare bipartisan fundraising committee
The unusual cross-party fundraising committee comes amid speculation that Republicans are courting John Fetterman, who has said he has no plans to switch parties.
Best of Santa Cruz County entertainment, arts & food events this weekend, July 9-12
With the weekend nearly here, check out things to do around Santa Cruz County with a recommendation from Lily Belli and a specially curated list from Lookout's BOLO events calendar.
Two arrested in Gouverneur business theft; suspect found hiding under blankets
Two people have been arrested in connection with the theft of nearly $4,500 worth of merchandise from a Gouverneur business.
Online Sports Bettors 15 Times More Likely To Miss Bill Payments Than In-Person Gamblers, Report Says
Online sports bettors report more financial harm than those who only gamble in person.
Road of Legends Day 5: All Five-Star Raids, Primal Raids , Bonuses and Guides
Road of Legends is a stacked week of Legendary raids, Mega Raids, event bonuses, Special Backgrounds, Adventure Effects, and a new GO Pass. Running from July 6, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. to July 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. local time, Road of Legends is a final prep event before GO Fest Global weekend. Trainers will […]
Erling Haaland jokes after getting special Google World Cup treatment
Erling Haaland, who led the Viking Row celebration after the win against Brazil, has now earned a tribute from Google.
WATCH: Dem gov mocked for criticizing ‘tribal’ politics amid redistricting push: ‘Hypocrisy knows no bounds’
Gov. Wes Moore faces hypocrisy accusations over his July 4th speech criticizing tribalism while pushing a special session to redistrict Rep. Andy Harris.
2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Arch Manning, QB, Texas
Arch Manning is a highly talked about quarterback prospect for good reason as even we were torn on how to feel about him heading into 2026.
Samsung said to discontinue its Galaxy Z Flip lineup after the Flip8
It might be for real this time. According to a Chinese tipster with a solid track record, especially when it comes to Samsung-related leaks, the company...
Why Small Businesses Aren’t Hiring: They Can’t Find Qualified Workers
Employers told the NFIB they're having trouble finding workers. But experts say economic conditions, including tariffs and fuel costs, may also be making them pickier.
New York attorney general files lawsuit against makers of PFAS chemicals
The lawsuit alleges that the companies that make PFAS chemicals knew about their toxic characteristics and continued to make and sell them.
Paylocity makes another acquisition to expand AI tools
Paylocity, a Schaumburg-based specialist in online payroll and human services tools, is expanding its artificial intelligence capabilities with an acquisition announced today.
The Science Of Storytelling—10 Tips For Turning Complexity Into Compelling Narratives
10 field-tested, science-backed principles to turn complex science, health and technology initiatives into engaging stories people can understand, remember and share
Fort Bend County Fair Announces 2026 Entertainment Lineup Featuring Sawyer Brown, Pat Green
ROSENBERG, Texas (Covering Katy News) — The Fort Bend County Fair has announced its entertainment lineup for its 90th annual celebration, featuring a mix of Texas country stars, Tejano favorites and nationally recognized performers during Championship BBQ Weekend and the fair's 10-day run. The 2026 Fort Bend County Fair begins with Championship BBQ Weekend on Sept. 18-19, followed by the fair Sept. 25 through Oct. 4. The entertainment schedule opens Friday, Sept. 18, with Tejano group Los Morales, followed by Texas country artist Cole Phillips on Saturday, Sept. 19. Phillips has gained attention for his traditional country sound influenced by classic honky-tonk music. The fair officially opens Friday, Sept. 25, with Tyce Delk, a New Mexico native whose touring schedule has expanded across the country. Country music veterans Sawyer Brown will headline Saturday, Sept. 26. The band, whose career spans more than four decades, remains known for hits including "Some Girls Do," "The Race Is On" and "Thank God for You." Go Tejano Day on Sunday, Sept. 27, will feature Prófugos de Nuevo León, along with performances by Los Rinches and Grupo Zenio. The second week of the fair begins Wednesday, Sept. 30, with Bellville singer-songwriter David Lewis, a recent Texas Country Music Association Male Artist of the Year nominee. Oklahoma Red Dirt artist Josh Meloy will perform Thursday, Oct. 1. Texas country star Pat Green returns to the Fort Bend County Fair stage Friday, Oct. 2. Green, whose career includes three Grammy Award nominations, has sold more than 2 million albums and amassed more than 200 million career streams. He is best known for songs including "Wave on Wave" and "Carry On." Country newcomer Vincent Mason will perform Saturday, Oct. 3. Mason has accumulated more than 500 million career streams and was recently nominated for Academy of Country Music New Male Artist of the Year. The fair concludes Sunday, Oct. 4, with Texas music legend Gary P. Nunn, whose "London Homesick Blues" remains one of the state's most recognizable songs. Weekend visitors also can enjoy performances on Music Row by J Paul Jr. & the Zydeco Nubreeds, Southern County Line, Los Rangerz and Horizon. The Fort Bend County Fair Association, a nonprofit organization, supports youth, agriculture and education. According to the association, it has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships during the past decade and generated $1.4 million through its 2025 youth auctions. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, July 10. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance and select the specific day they plan to attend, as tickets are valid only for the date purchased. Admission includes entry to the fairgrounds, access to the carnival, shopping, exhibits, food vendors and, when scheduled, admission to the rodeo and that day's concert. Season passes and single-day tickets will be available. For tickets and additional information, visit fortbendcountyfair.com or call the Fair Office at 281-342-6171. The address of the Fairgrounds is 4310 Texas 36 S in Rosenberg. 2026 Fort Bend County Fair Entertainment Schedule Championship BBQ Weekend Friday, Sept. 18: Los Morales Saturday, Sept. 19: Cole Phillips Fair Entertainment Friday, Sept. 25: Tyce Delk Saturday, Sept. 26: Sawyer Brown Sunday, Sept. 27 (Go Tejano Day): Prófugos de Nuevo León, Los Rinches and Grupo Zenio Wednesday, Sept. 30: David Lewis Thursday, Oct. 1: Josh Meloy Friday, Oct. 2: Pat Green Saturday, Oct. 3: Vincent Mason Sunday, Oct. 4: Gary P. Nunn × Expand FBCF Fort Bend County Fair 2026 Artist Lineup
Office Politics: Five Things Coworkers Say And What They Mean
Your coworkers are not saying what they mean. These five office politics phrases reveal what is really happening beneath the surface before it costs you your career.
The Most Likely Return To ‘Destiny’ Is A ‘Destiny 1’ Remake
Destiny 2 is dead, but the most logical way for Destiny to live on would be in the form of a Sony-greenlit Destiny 1 remake.
Patrick Dempsey says he's not running for Senate in Maine as Democrats weigh a replacement
The “Grey’s Anatomy” star quashed speculation that he was among those being considered to replace embattled Democratic nominee Graham Platner.
Rumored iPhone 18 Pro Max specs point to Apple’s heaviest iPhone in years
A new report suggests that Apple’s next flagship could also be its heaviest iPhone in years. Here are the details.
Special Olympics Wyoming to Host Summer Sports Classic in Casper
CASPER, Wyo. — Special Olympics Wyoming will host its annual Summer Sports Classic in Casper on July 31 through Aug. 1, bringing athletes from across the
The Reality Of Xbox’s Plans For ‘Fallout,’ ‘Elder Scrolls,’ ‘Halo’ And More
Xbox will get a new Fallout game earlier than expected, but for this and other series, the reality of the future remains somewhat stark.
How to Bring More Data Science to YouTube and Creator Media
I am constantly writing about the challenge facing agencies and brands when in comes to YouTube. Is it TV? Social video? Search? Commerce? Do you fund it from all of those respective budgets, and measure it using all their respective metrics? Sean Odlum, Chief Product Officer at Tinuiti, says it may not make sense to try and “bucket'“ YouTube. “You kinda gotta treat it as its own thing,” he said. “Years ago, we had debates [along the lines of] ‘what is this?’ Ultimately we decided, it’s YouTube. It is hard to categorize because it is so protean.” Which ultimately means that almost every part of a media department or marketing group will likely touch YouTube in some fashion. And that it probably needs its own sets of metrics and measurement tools. At Tinuiti, that need has led the agency to develop the YouTube Intelligence Suite, which aims to help brands optimize YouTube campaigns while using all the traditional marketing tools they are used to, such as MMMs. “I wouldn’t say there is a YouTube playbook,” Odlum said. “[For media planners] there is this vast bubbling ocean, so where do you start?’ A lot of brands and agencies struggle.” “You don’t want to just brute-force it—spray dollars everywhere and eventually learn. You want to start intelligently and then learn iteratively.” The problem, Odlum and his team have found, is that “brands have largely defaulted into demand generation campaigns because they’re easier to measure.” However, “you can really build your own content ecosystem around these trusted experts.” Check out the full interview here: Thanks for reading Next in Media! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. Subscribe
Revere uses opioid settlement money to enlist businesses in the fight against overdoses
A special program sends nurses who contract with the city to businesses including stores, restaurants, gas stations, barbershops and banks to train workers on how to use the overdose-reversal drug naloxone.
5 Ways Small Businesses Can Profit From America's Staycation Summer
Consumers enjoying a “staycation” aren't necessarily spending less; they’re looking to spend differently and locally. Here's how small businesses can tap in.
'Proper season' at Celtic excites Oxlade-Chamberlain
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says he is relishing the prospect of a "proper season" at Celtic after agreeing to stay on with the Scottish champions. The 32-year-old former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder initially joined Martin O'Neill's side on a short-term deal in February. Having been out of action for nine months, Oxlade-Chamberlain played 550 minutes over 12 appearances, scoring twice.
‘A special place to be’: Fussell’s in Dickson celebrates 90 years in business
On North Main Street in Dickson, it may look like a men’s clothing store, but you’re stepping into nearly 90 years of local history.
MLS’ Newest Billionaire Owner Thinks Investors Can Do Better Than Buying A Sports Team
Months after spending hundreds of millions of his own cash to buy Sporting Kansas City, wealth advisor Peter Mallouk says he still prefers stocks as an investment.
Maine Democrats plan convention to replace Platner
The Maine Democratic Party has voted to hold a convention now that Graham Platner has announced he'll drop out of the U.S. Senate race.
UK populist leader's election gamble backfires as his only opponent is a trash can
A gamble by UK populist leader Nigel Farage to resign as MP and trigger a snap special election has resulted in a race where his only opponent is a trash can.
Exclusive: Epstein survivors say his former assistant Lesley Groff lied to Congress about key details
Multiple Epstein victims told CNN they took issue with multiple aspects of Groff’s recent testimony to lawmakers.
How Air Pollution Impacts Other Aspects Of Human Health, Not Just Lungs
A recent study by the World Heart Foundation (WHF) highlighted the links between air pollution and congenital heart disease, which is sometimes known as CHD.
Space images have found a 5,000-mile seaweed belt across the Atlantic: Scientists say it can clog beaches and create public health problems
Seaweed is no longer just an aquatic flora, it has now transformed into a nuisance, especially for scientists. Sargassum, a genus of brown macroalgae that was once largely confined to the Sargasso Sea has evolved into the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt that stretches across 5,000 miles.
AHA itemizes ‘immediately addressable’ aspects of affordability
The American Hospital Association is banging the drum on healthcare affordability.
SKF eyes role in humanoid robotics business
SKF is looking to work its way into the expanding Chinese robotics market with a recently announced agreement with Leaderdrive (LD), a global manufacturer specializing in precision robotic components. The companies are working together on a venture in China focused on high-precision transmission components for robot joints. SKF officials said the investment is a step […]
Yoshi's New Switch 2 Game Is Getting A Demo On The Nintendo eShop
Here's what you can "egg-spect"
Downtown Bend Business Association leader resigns
Rachel O’Rourke, the leader of a prominent downtown Bend business group, announced plans this month to step away from her role amid a period of major upheaval for the organization. Days before the resignation went public, the Downtown Bend Business Association also announced it would redo the process for a recent board of directors election. The turmoil comes after discussions over the prospect of paid parking were met with fierce pushback from […]
Dinos take over ‘Mad Science’ show at Topeka library
Blockbuster Wednesday is a free science-based family show held every week. Wednesday’s show had a special focus on dinosaurs and the period they lived in.
Huntsville murder suspect tracked to local business after deadly shooting
He currently awaits trial with no bond.
Thai Tycoon Revamps Property Business To Unleash Growth
Panote Sirivadhanabhakdi, son of liquor tycoon Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, has been making moves to revamp the family’s real estate portfolio held by Singapore-listed Frasers Property.
GOP leaders tried to quell McConnell health questions. It’s not working
As online speculation swirls over Sen. Mitch McConnell’s hospitalization and scant public updates from his staff, the Kentucky Republican’s top allies spoke up this week, insisting he remains alert. But those assurances have done little to quash demands for proof of life, including from the state’s governor. The episode has reignited a debate over lawmakers’ […]
Radiologist and Maine health providers ask judge to dismiss couple’s lawsuit
The couple say MaineHealth, Spectrum Healthcare Partners and a radiologist failed to diagnose a blood clot that led Jeffrey Sayward to experience a disabling stroke.
Shopping for same groceries at Walmart, Kroger, Amazon: Winner, prices
I brought the same shopping list to Walmart, Kroger, and Amazon to see which has the best grocery prices, especially amid Walmart's rollbacks.
Sam Altman arson suspect remains in custody as mental health report filed
A mental health evaluation report found Daniel Moreno Gama eligible for mental health diversion.
New ‘Fallout’ Game Reportedly Coming From Obsidian, ‘Avowed 2’ Cancelled
Obsidian has reportedly cancelled a sequel to Avowed, and will instead work on a new Fallout game under the direction of Fallout New Vegas’ Josh Sawyer.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear Demands Health Update on Mitch McConnell
Senator Mitch McConnell has been hospitalized since June 14. Speculation about his health has spread in recent days.
Two Baltimore men charged in Howard County armed robberies that targeted business owners
Howard County police charged two suspects in connection with three armed robberies that took place in June. The targets of these robberies were the homes of loc
Court dedicated to behavioral health may be coming to New Haven
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — An initiative is underway to establish a specialized court dedicated to behavioral health in New Haven, according to a Wednesday release by the state’s chief justice…
Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra renders spoil Samsung's big reveal
Leaked Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra renders reveal Samsung's next foldables ahead of launch, including new colors and expected specs.
Kentucky governor requests ‘transparent’ update on McConnell’s health amid speculation
Representatives for the 84-year-old senator haven't disclosed what sent him to the hospital June 14, nor when he might return.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Meet Marblehead Custom Jewelry
The following is an interview with Steven Manchini, co-owner and jeweler of Marblehead Custom Jewelry. Marblehead Custom Jewelry is a local studio located at 66 Washington St. Specializing in custom jewelry design, in-house gemstone cutting and expert repairs, the team works closely with clients to bring meaningful, personal designs to life. With everything done under one
Fathom Entertainment Names Disney And Imax Alum Jason Brenek CEO
Specialty distributor Fathom Entertainment has named former Disney and Imax executive Jason Brenek as CEO.
Fathom Entertainment Names Disney And Imax Alum Jason Brenek CEO
Specialty distributor Fathom Entertainment has named former Disney and Imax executive Jason Brenek as CEO. He will take over the top job after the previously announced retirement of Ray Nutt. Fathom’s...
Fathom Entertainment Names Jason Brenek New CEO Following Retirement of Ray Nutt
Fathom Entertainment July 8 announced the appointment of Jason Brenek as its new CEO following the previously announced retirement of Ray Nutt. Brenek assumes the position as the company continues its transition from Fathom Events into Fathom Entertainment, a specialty theatrical distributor with major motion picture distribution capabilities. The company’s upcoming theatrical release of Wildwood, … Continue reading "Fathom Entertainment Names Jason Brenek New CEO Following Retirement of Ray Nutt"
Scientists discovered that some invasive tropical plants evolved to reproduce without partners after spreading to new countries, allowing a single plant to start an entire takeover
Just one plant species can be enough to trigger an ecological invasion. Studies have shown that some tropical plants have evolved to reproduce without a mate, allowing a single individual to start a new colony.
Fathom Entertainment Appoints Jason Brenek As New CEO
The former Disney and IMAX executive takes over as the specialty distributor expands from event cinema into wide theatrical releases.
Fathom Entertainment Names Jason Brenek New Chief Executive Officer
Fathom Entertainment, the leading specialty distributor of content to theatrical partners worldwide, announced the appointment of Jason Brenek as its new Chi...
Michigan Democratic lawmakers introduce legislation to curb campaign spending power of corporations
State Rep. Betsy Coffia, a Democrat from Traverse City, and state Sen. Sean McCann, a Kalamazoo Democrat, introduced legislation in their respective chambers last week to limit the powers of business corporations, nonprofit corporations and limited liability companies to participate in campaign spending.
Kentucky Gov. Beshear presses McConnell to provide health update as speculation grows
McConnell, the former longtime Senate leader who declined to seek an eighth term following a series of health scares, was admitted to a hospital on June 14.
Will Congress Save America's Hemp Businesses Before It's Too Late?
With Nov.26 federal hemp ban looming, a $28B industry faces potential extinction. Here's what the new THC cap means for businesses, jobs, and the future of hemp.
Small Business Spotlight: Business blooms beyond bouquets
BUSINESS: The Busy Bloom OWNERS: Amanda and Walter Adkins ADDRESS: 708 S. 17th St., Wilmington EMAIL: thebusybloomco@gmail.com WEBSITE: thebusybloomco.com PHONE NUMBER: (910) 742-0790 YEAR FOUNDED: 2024 NO. OF EMPLOYEES: 4 WHAT IS THE BUSY BLOOM? AMANDA ADKINS: “The Busy Bloom is a flower shop with a spin – a creative experience shop located in Wilmington’s Cargo District. Founded in 2024 by husband-and-wife team Amanda and Walter Adkins, we offer fresh flowers, botanical teas, a build-your-own bouquet bar, candle-making experiences, gifts, workshops, wedding florals and event services. Our mission is simple: to make flowers accessible, approachable and enjoyable for everyone – not just for special occasions.” WHY DID YOU START THE BUSINESS? AMANDA ADKINS: “The Busy Bloom was born from a lifelong connection to flowers and a desire to create meaningful experiences for people. After doing my own wedding florals and after years of working in healthcare management, I found myself returning to gardening and floral design as a creative outlet and source of healing. The loss of my mother-in-law, who always shared flowers from her garden, inspired me to pursue floristry full-time. My husband encouraged me and built a small flower cart for us to grow, and fast forward to now, two years later, it has grown into a community-centered business focused on bringing joy, connection and creativity through flowers.” WHAT KIND OF GROWTH ARE YOU HOPING FOR? AMANDA ADKINS: “We’re focused on sustainable growth that allows us to continue serving our community while expanding creative experiences. We hope to grow our wedding and event services, expand our educational workshops and creative programming and become a destination where people can gather, create and connect. We’re also passionate about creating opportunities that showcase floral design as an art form, such as our Fleur Couture fashion show and other community collaborations.” WHAT PAST EXPERIENCE HAVE YOU HAD WITH STARTING/WORKING IN BUSINESS? AMANDA ADKINS: “Before opening The Busy Bloom, I worked as a clinical manager in healthcare and spent years building leadership, operations and customer service skills. I’ve also worked in education and nonprofit programming, teaching people about nature and local ecosystems. Along the way, I designed flowers for weddings and events on the side, gradually turning a passion into a business. Walter has years of welding and construction experience, combined with entrepreneurship and a drive to own his own company. …The Busy Bloom has been a journey of combining creativity with entrepreneurship alongside my husband ... learning every step of the way.”
The Business Perspective Is Being Entirely Ignored
Perhaps public transit solutions is what $528,000 should have been spent on, instead of fake wood pedlets along the 500 block?
The ‘Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced’ Metacritic Review Score Is In
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced reviews are in, and the game now has a Metacritic score to compare to the original.
iPhone 18 Pro And iPhone 18 Pro Max Release Date: A New September Timeline Emerges
Apple’s next iPhones are just a couple of months away. However, a report from an industry heavyweight adds nuance to the expected release schedule.
Soap, Suds and Spectrum Business’ Seamless Connection in the Sunshine State
The combination of technology and Spectrum Business’ partnership keeps Splash Express Car Wash’s business humming along – and its customers coming back.
Spectrum Science Appoints Industry Veteran Marie Emms as President of Clinical Business
/PRNewswire/ -- Spectrum Science, an independent, full-service, strategic platform offering integrated clinical, commercial, and communications services, today...
Spectrum Science Appoints Industry Veteran Marie Emms as President of Clinical Business
/PRNewswire/ -- Spectrum Science, an independent, full-service, strategic platform offering integrated clinical, commercial, and communications services, today...
The Billion-Dollar Business Of Belonging
The experience economy is really the business of belonging. Discover why connection, community and everyday experiences are shaping the next decade of consumer behaviour.
Trump’s Foreign Licensing Business Grew 900% As He Returned To Power
The developer-in-chief is showing just how lucrative an unrestrained presidency can be.
SpaceX stock outlook: Interview with rare analyst without 'buy' rating
Most of the reservations around SpaceX relate to the company's lofty valuation, as well as the prospect of future regulation.
Hungary moves to overhaul university models banned from Horizon Europe
Hungary’s new government is aiming to overhaul the governance model of the institutions and universities that lost access to Horizon Europe and Erasmus+ funds “in a short timeframe,” according to Péter Horváth, the new state secretary for science policy and innovation. “As of today, the two non-university foundation-controlled institutions under my remit have been transformed,” he told Science|Business. “We hope the universities will follow and that this will be enough to satisfy the EU’s demands.”Under the previous government, led by Viktor Orbán and his Fidesz party, many academic and scientific institutions were restructured and made into special public trust foundations, with members strongly linked to the government given lifelong mandates and significant decision-making powers with little oversight. The European Commission deemed that this undermined academic freedom and transparency in the country, leading to a ban on 34 institutions in 2022, including 21 universities, which saw academics in Hungary lose access to Horizon Europe grants. The new Hungarian government, elected in May and led by Péter Magyar and his Tisza Party, has promised to dismantle this governance model and restore the institutions to EU programmes. As a result, the European Commission has promised to return access to the Erasmus+ education mobility programme, but so far no concrete agreement has been made on the Horizon Europe programme for research and innovation. Hungary has already made legislative changes in June to allow the institutions to be reformed and set a timeline for the implementation.The non-university foundations, which are mainly cultural centres such as the Foundation for Hungarian Culture or the Makovecz Campus Foundation, will all be dissolved by August 31 this year, a date tied to EU-set milestones that Hungary must meet to unlock frozen funds, with control transferred to relevant ministries. Meanwhile, the universities will have until 31 August 2027. For each university foundation, the government will set the dissolution date and the body to take over operations. There is no final decision on a permanent new model for the universities, according to Hungarian MEP Eszter Lakos, who is shadow rapporteur for the Horizon Europe specific programme, a separate piece of legislation detailing implementation rules for the EU’s next research programme, due to start in 2028. “The aim of the transition year is to settle this with [the universities], not to impose a model, and not to put them under state control,” she told Science|Business. “The goal is to give academic independence back to universities.”There are three models that are most likely to be implemented. One would be a return to a traditional, state-run model. Another could be a newer, more self-standing public institution. A third option would be a reformed version of the foundation models that meet EU standards. According to Lakos, the dismantling of the system put in place by the Orbán government is well underway and if all goes according to plan, Hungary could regain access to EU research money by the start of the next academic year in 2027. “I believe that the Hungarian government is doing the necessary changes so the universities could return as beneficiaries to Horizon from the next school year,” she said. In the meantime, “the universities, institutes and cultural assets carry on under proper public stewardship rather than a handful of unaccountable trustees,” said Lakos. The laws passed in June impose new safeguards: board terms are capped at four years and renewable only once, appointments are made through open competitions and sitting politicians cannot join joining these boards.It remains unclear whether a domestic science funding programme set up as a back-up scheme by the former government following the EU funding ban, called HU-rizon, could be continued. “This programme should never have had to have been established in the first place, but it has proven to be quite popular,” he said. “I am considering continuing this programme with a refined focus on helping international collaborations.”Re-organising the research network One of the first priorities for Horváth and his cabinet is to resolve questions over the future of the Hungarian Research Network, Hun-Ren. The network of academic institutes was taken away from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 2019 and turned into a quasi-private organisation, with similarities in its governance to the public trust foundations.Horváth and his team have consulted over 5,000 representatives from the network and the conclusion is broad unhappiness with the directors of all the institutes involved. “We have presented the results to the president and the chief executive of the network and this is currently being discussed,” Horváth said. The plan is to re-integrate the network back into the Academy of Sciences but in an improved way, “learning from mistakes of the past,” he added. The government also wants to reintegrate four humanities and social science research centres into the network that the previous government had transferred to Eötvös Loránd University. The transfer brought sharp criticism from the academic community, with a group of Hungarian research heads, including European Research Council grant recipients, sending an open letter to Orbán warning that the transfer would “cause historically significant harm to the entirety of Hungarian scientific life.” The transfer was “one of the biggest shames in Hungarian research in the past 20 years,” Horváth said. “We want to immediately re-integrate them back into the research network and to regain the trust of these institutions, because the way they were treated was really unfair.”Another pressing issue is the Élvonal Excellence Research and Talent Development Foundation, led by Nobel laureate Ferenc Krausz. The foundation signed a financing agreement with the former government earlier this year for a budget of over €730 million over the next five years. The goal is to create a world-class centre to attract top talent from abroad and to develop local researchers. But there was little transparency about this foundation, and news of its huge budget, which is nearly as much as Hungary’s entire research budget, caused a stir in the media following the recent elections. Another issue is that, as with the foundation boards of the institutes banned from Horizon Europe, there was little-to-no oversight of decisions led by Krausz. “It was an excellent idea but an unacceptable execution,” Horváth said of the foundation. “The fact that this is out of the Hungarian funding scheme, mostly concentrating on one person who decides on the budget is unacceptable for us.”The government plans to merge the centre with the National Research, Development and Innovation Office, the country’s R&D funding agency, with a reduced budget. Horváth is hopeful that Krausz will still be involved. The new government’s R&D goalsA phrase that crops up regularly during the discussion with Horváth is “democratic process.” The new state secretary is determined to involve Hungary’s research community in shaping future policies. This marks a departure from the previous government’s approach, and several people in Hungary’s research community have commented on the openness of the new government. In terms of concrete goals, Horváth and his team already have plans. He wants to create a new science fund in Hungary, based on the best practices of other European countries. The fund would not be tied to annual government budgets and would provide long-term, stable financing. “If we were to succeed in creating this fund, then I think it would be one of the biggest achievements for me in this period of government,” Horváth said. On the innovation side, he is looking into how best to bring in the private sector. “We want to make sure that we are working with the private sector to support innovation,” Horváth said. One of his big aims is to introduce entrepreneurship teaching into high schools. Hungary already has a reputable national academy offering research and innovation training in the field of natural sciences, and Horváth wants to expand this to all disciplines and across the whole country. “One of the main ways to elevate our innovative businesses is to teach our children to be innovative,” he said. “This will probably need ten years to pay off, but this is what we should do. Our aim is to make Hungary strong in our region, and this is what is needed.” Related articlesHungary’s Horizon Europe performance in numbersCommission unlocks Erasmus+ cash for Hungary, Horizon could be next‘Academic Huxit.’ Hungarian researchers speak out on impact of EU ban A more difficult task will be funding. The new government is aiming to increase research spending to 2% of the GDP by 2030, and then increase it to 3% in line with EU objectives. Currently, spending sits around 1.3%. But according to Horváth, the current budget, inherited from the previous government, is “heavily in the negative,” so any plans to increase research spending will have to start next year. Achieving 2% by 2030 already needs a big push, almost doubling the research budget. “This is something we’d definitely like to reach, and something I can see us achieving,” he said. “From the 2030s, I’d like to see an innovative generation growing up that can help us reach the 3% target.” Positivity in the new governmentDespite the many challenges facing Horváth and his team, the mood is positive. “It feels a bit like a start-up right now. Everyone is working 24/7, day and night, trying to do as much as they can. There is a lot of energy,” he said. It is a big change for the state secretary who, like many in his cabinet, is coming from a background in research or business, and not in politics. “Six weeks ago, I was sitting with my microscope and my research PhDs, so it’s been a big change for me,” said the computer scientist, who was previously the director of the Institute of Biochemistry at the Hun-Ren Biological Research Centre in Hungary and worked at the Institute for AI for Health at Helmholtz Munich. But he is relishing the task to transform the country’s R&D landscape. “We feel enormous support from the Hungarian people, but also from Europe,” he said. “We’ve received a lot of letters of support from around Europe. There is big trust there, and huge responsibility on our side. We want to get everything back on track, and there’s a lot to do.”
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