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A majority on the Republican-dominated State Board of Education said Thursday that it wanted more control over whether school library books are considered sexually explicit or not. Ten members on the board responsible for determining what Texas’ 5.5 million public schoolchildren learn in the classroom voted to call on the Texas Legislature, which convenes in January, to pass a state law granting them authority to determine what books are appropriate for school-age children. Local school districts currently manage that process. Republican members said granting the board control would alleviate the state’s more than 1,200 public school districts of the burdensome task. They also said it could offer a solution to a recent court ruling stopping Texas from fully enforcing a state law requiring booksellers to rate their materials for appropriateness — based on books’ depictions or references to sex — before selling them to school libraries. “This board knows how to vet material. We have processes. We know how to do that. We can create a transparent process to do that work,” Florence Republican board member Tom Maynard said. “We’d get lots more emails, I know, but I think it’s work that ... really needs to be done.” The board, which has shifted further to the political right in recent years, will formally ask the Legislature to grant it “discretion to create rules, procedures and timelines” for the book review process and amend current state law, known as House Bill 900, to streamline the process, according to the recommendation proposed on Thursday. The proposal received immediate pushback from some of the board’s Democrats, who argued that the process should remain under the purview of local school districts. “They better understand their communities and know what their constituencies need and want rather than the State Board of Education,” said San Antonio Democrat Marisa B. Pérez-Diaz. “I think we’ve got a lot of bigger fish to fry.” Rebecca Bell-Metereau, a Democrat from San Marcos, questioned whether the board could handle what she considers “a Herculean task to read and rate all of these books.” “That seems just insane to me, even if we were paid — and we’re not,” Bell-Metereau said. Republican Aaron Kinsey, chair of the board, said the book review process could mirror how the body oversees instructional materials, an undertaking that includes using outside reviewers to help sort through school lessons. Evelyn Brooks, a Frisco Republican, said she supports establishing uniform guidelines for all school districts to follow when selecting books for their libraries. “They could have their own communities involved in what they want in their libraries, but the standard has been set to alleviate confusion,” Brooks said. “There is a lot of confusion at the board meetings, even though the law is very straightforward. It’s just been a very muddy area.” Under House Bill 900, books are considered “sexually relevant” if the material describes or portrays sexual activity and is part of the required school curriculum. Books are considered “sexually explicit” if the material describing or portraying sexual behavior is not part of the required curriculum and portrayed in a “patently offensive way,” defined by the state as going against “current community standards of decency.” Schools are required to remove “sexually explicit” books from library shelves, while students seeking to check out books with a “sexually relevant” rating require parental consent. Earlier this year, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, one of the most conservative in the nation, blocked Texas from requiring booksellers to rate their materials. The court agreed, in part, that complying with the law would pose an undue economic burden on the vendors. The enforceable part of the law, however, still prohibits school libraries from acquiring or keeping “sexually explicit” materials on their bookshelves. But conservative advocates have still shown up to State Board of Education meetings in recent months to raise complaints about the presence of such materials in their school libraries and what they describe as inaction by local school districts. The discussion over what entities should control the book review process comes as Texas officials have sought to exert more control over what materials children are exposed to in public schools. The state has passed legislation limiting how schools can talk about America’s history of racism and its diversity, while proposing other bills to ban classroom instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity. Ahead of the legislative session, Rep. Jared Patterson of Frisco has already filed House Bill 183, a bill that would grant the State Board of Education its wish by giving the curriculum-setting body the authority to prohibit school districts from using library materials it considers “inappropriate” or “sexually explicit.” Texas banned 538 books during the 2023-24 school year, according to PEN America, an organization tracking bans throughout the country. More than half of the books outlawed across the U.S. included sex or sex-related topics and content, while 44% included characters or people of color. Thirty-nine percent included LGBTQ+ characters or people.
In an effort to bolster the workforce in the face of growing economic and population booms, Governor Brian P. Kemp, who currently chairs the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), has launched the Commission on Career Pathways and Credentials. The new commission is tasked with developing strategies to ensure that the southern states' residents have access to education and training that align with high-demand jobs, as reported by a press release from the Governor's office. According to Governor Kemp, "With the South experiencing incredible economic and population growth, one of the biggest challenges we currently face is preparing the next generation of workers for success in the ever evolving job market," a sentiment highlighting the urgency to create effective career pathways, in the announcement . The commission will be drawing from a diverse pool of expertise with members coming from each of SREB’s 16 member states and the group is anticipated to render its policy recommendations by late 2025, aiming to align skills with industry needs. The effort is meant to create a clear vision for all stakeholders involved, with SREB senior vice president for school improvement, Dale Winkler, stating, "Every student and adult needs to be able to see clearly how to get where they want to go," as people strive to align their educations and careers with the demands of the marketplace. Addressing the multidimensional nature of this challenge, SREB President Stephen L. Pruitt pointed out that, “This is complex work beyond the ability of K-12, higher education, adult education, or workforce agencies to do alone,” reflecting the necessity for a collaborative approach to workforce development, according to same press release. The Commission on Career Pathways and Credentials is a collective that includes leaders from various sectors — including governors' offices, state agencies, K-12 education, higher education, and businesses — each sharing their unique insights and reviewing data and best practices, aiming to create a framework to connect agencies data, learning and career-relevant credentials; the intention behind such an initiative is to craft a pragmatic approach in compiling lists of high-demand pathways and the occupations and credentials that resonate with local industries and propel economic vitality. Founded in 1948, the SREB has long been dedicated to improving the social and economic landscape of the South through advancements in education, solidifying SREB's place as a cornerstone of regional progress. It serves as a nonprofit, nonpartisan compact among 16 member states, extending from Delaware to Texas, providing essential policy data, aiding legislative decision-making, and actively improving teaching, learning, and leadership capabilities within academic institutions.Video claiming to show Rachel Maddow getting emotional while reporting on Elon Musk meme is fakeTrump's threat to impose tariffs could raise prices for consumers, colliding with promise for relief DETROIT (AP) — If Donald Trump makes good on his threat to slap 25% tariffs on everything imported from Mexico and Canada, the price increases that could follow will collide with his campaign promise to give American families a break from inflation. Economists and industry officials say companies would have little choice but to pass along the added costs, dramatically raising prices for food, clothing, automobiles, booze and other goods. The president-elect floated the tariff idea and an additional 10% tax on goods from China, as a way to force the countries to halt the flow of illegal immigrants and drugs into the U.S. But his posts Monday threatening tariffs on his first day in office could be a negotiating ploy to get the countries to change behavior. Trump’s latest tariff plan aims at multiple countries. What does it mean for the US? WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump has identified what he sees as an all-purpose fix for what ails America: Slap huge new tariffs on foreign goods entering the United States. On Monday, Trump sent shockwaves across the nation’s northern and southern borders, vowing sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, as well as China, as part of his effort to crack down on illegal immigration and drugs. Trump said he will impose a 25% tax on all products entering the country from Canada and Mexico, and an additional 10% tariff on goods from China, as one of his first executive orders. Federal Reserve officials signal cautious path for rate cuts amid still-high inflation WASHINGTON (AP) — With inflation still elevated, Federal Reserve officials expressed caution at their last meeting about cutting interest rates too quickly, adding to uncertainty about their next moves. Even if inflation continued declining to the Fed’s 2% target, officials said, “it would likely be appropriate to move gradually” in lowering rates, according to minutes of the November 6-7 meeting. The minutes don’t specifically provide much guidance about what the Fed will do at its next meeting in December. Wall Street investors see the odds of another quarter-point reduction in the Fed’s key rate at that meeting as nearly even, according to CME Fedwatch. Canadian officials blast Trump's tariff threat and one calls Mexico comparison an insult TORONTO (AP) — Canadian officials are blasting President-elect Donald’s Trump’s threat to impose sweeping tariffs. The leader of Canada's most populous province on Tuesday called Trump’s comparison of Canada to Mexico “the most insulting thing I’ve ever heard.” Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on products from Canada, Mexico and China as soon as he takes office in January as part of efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and drugs. He said he would impose a 25% tax on all products entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. Canadians say their economy and the U.S. one are deeply intertwined and Americans would feel tariffs, too. Biden proposes Medicare and Medicaid cover costly weight-loss drugs for millions of obese Americans WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of obese Americans would be eligible to have popular weight-loss drugs like Wegovy or Zepbound covered by Medicare or Medicaid under a new rule the Biden administration proposed Tuesday morning. The proposal, which would not be finalized until after President-elect Donald Trump takes office, could cost taxpayers as much as $35 billion over the next decade. It would give millions of people access to weekly injectables that have helped people shed pounds so quickly that some people have labeled them miracle drugs. Surveillance tech advances by Biden could aid in Trump's promised crackdown on immigration President-elect Donald Trump will return to power next year with a raft of technological tools at his disposal that would help deliver his campaign promise of cracking down on immigration — among them, surveillance and artificial intelligence technology that the Biden administration already uses to help make crucial decisions in tracking, detaining and ultimately deporting immigrants lacking permanent legal status. One algorithm, for example, ranks immigrants with a “Hurricane Score,” ranging from 1-5, to assess whether someone will “abscond” from the agency’s supervision. It’s almost time for Spotify Wrapped. When can you expect your 2024 recap? NEW YORK (AP) — It’s almost that time of year. Spotify is gearing up to release its annual Spotify Wrapped, a personalized recap of its users' listening habits and year in audio. The streaming service has been sharing these personalized analyses with since 2016. And each year, it’s become a bigger production than the last. Spotify claimed its 2023 Wrapped was the “biggest ever created” in terms of audience reach and the kind of data it provided to users. But information on Wrapped's 2024 release has been kept under ... er, wraps. In previous years, it’s been released after Thanksgiving, between Nov. 30 and Dec. 6. Thanksgiving travel is cranking up. Will the weather cooperate? The Thanksgiving travel rush is picking up, with Tuesday and Wednesday expected to be much busier than the last couple days. A lot of travelers will be watching weather forecasts to see if rain or snow could slow them down. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen more than 2.8 million people on Tuesday and 2.9 million on Wednesday after handling more than 2.5 million people on Monday. So far, relatively few flights have been canceled this week, but there have been thousands of delayed flights every day. That is becoming normal for U.S. airlines. Federal agency raises the size of most single-family loans the government can guarantee to $806,500 The Federal Housing Finance Agency is increasing the size of home loans that the government can guarantee against default as it takes into account rising housing prices. Beginning next year, mortgage buyers Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be able to acquire loans of up to $806,500 on single-family homes in most of the country, the agency said Tuesday. The new conforming loan limit is a 5.2% increase from its 2024 level. FHFA oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which buy home loans from banks and other lenders. FHFA adjusts the loan limits annually to reflect changes in U.S. home values, which have been rising this year despite a national home sales slump. Stock market today: Wall Street hits records despite tariff talk NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street. The S&P 500 rose 0.6% to reach another all-time high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.3% to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite rose 0.6% as Big Tech stocks helped lead the way. Stock markets abroad saw mostly modest losses after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China as soon as he takes office. U.S. automakers and other companies that could be hurt particularly by such tariffs fell.
None'Malcolm in the Middle' to offer new episodes with Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek are reuniting for a new four-episode run of “Malcolm in the Middle” for Disney+ — 25 years after the beloved sitcom first launched. The show ran for seven seasons starting in 2000 and was hailed for looking at ordinary life through the eyes of an extraordinary youngster, now fully grown: Malcolm, played by Muniz, has a genius I.Q. The new four episodes will be crafted by original series creator Linwood Boomer. No air dates were announced. “Malcolm in the Middle” originally aired on Fox and ended its run in 2006. Woman who falsely accused Duke lacrosse players of rape in 2006 publicly admits she lied RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The woman who in 2006 falsely accused three Duke University lacrosse players of raping her has admitted publicly for the first time that she made up the story. The accusations made national headlines at the time, stirring tensions about race, class and the privilege of college athletes. Crystal Mangum, who is Black, said in an interview with the “Let’s Talk with Kat” podcast that she “made up a story that wasn’t true” about the white players who attended a party where she was hired to perform as a stripper “because I wanted validation from people and not from God.” The former Duke players were declared innocent in 2007 after Mangum’s story fell apart under legal scrutiny. Sophia, a famous robot and global icon of AI, wins hearts at Zimbabwe's innovation fair HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Sophia, a world-renowned robot, has been the center of attention at an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation fair in Zimbabwe this week. Described as an AI global icon by the U.N., Sophia can hold human-like conversations with people and recognize their gestures. As a special guest at the week-long event at the University of Zimbabwe, she answered questions on academic topics from researchers. Children quizzed her about the bible, God and her birth. She also made clear her aversion to human food and romance. The United Nations Development Program said it brought Sophia to Zimbabwe as part of efforts to “inspire youth, policymakers, and innovators to embrace AI as a catalyst for development.” Stanley recalls millions of travel mugs over concerns the lids might fall off, causing burns Stanley is recalling approximately 2.6 million of its switchback and trigger action stainless steel travel mugs sold in the U.S. because of a potential burn hazard. The company said that the mug’s lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing the lid to detach during use, posing a burn hazard. Stanley has received 91 reports worldwide, including 16 in the U.S., of the recalled travel mugs’ lids detaching during use, resulting in 38 burn injuries worldwide, including two burn injuries in the U.S., with 11 consumers worldwide requiring medical attention. Miami Dolphins release veteran receiver Odell Beckham Jr. MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins released wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Friday, ending the former Pro Bowler’s short tenure with the team. Beckham had missed the past two days of practice for what the team called personal reasons. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel indicated that the decision to part ways was mutual. Beckham signed a one-year deal with the Dolphins in May, but started the season on the physically unable to perform list after offseason knee surgery. Since his Dolphins debut in Week 5 against New England, Beckham had just nine catches for 55 yards in nine games. Bird strike disables a jetliner engine and forces an emergency landing at JFK airport NEW YORK (AP) — Authorities say a bird strike involving an American Airlines jetliner disabled one of the plane’s two engines shortly after takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport. The plane was forced to turn around and land at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Airline officials say no one was injured. Flight 1722 took off from LaGuardia at 7:43 p.m. Thursday with a destination of Charlotte, North Carolina. Airport officials say it safely made an emergency landing at Kennedy at 8:03 p.m. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating. The agency received reports of 19,400 strikes at 713 airports across the U.S. last year alone. Rarely do they force jetliners to make emergency landings. 49ers LB De'Vondre Campbell refuses to enter game after losing his starting spot SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — San Francisco linebacker De’Vondre Campbell refused to enter the game in the third quarter after losing his starting job when Dre Greenlaw returned from an injury. Campbell played 90% of defensive snaps for the 49ers but was benched after Greenlaw came back for his first game since tearing his left Achilles tendon in last season’s Super Bowl. When Greenlaw left with soreness in the third quarter Thursday night against the Rams, Campbell told the coaches he didn't want to play and left the field. Coach Kyle Shanahan says he has never seen that before and the team will “figure out something” on how to deal with it going forward. 'Crown of Thorns' returns to Notre Dame Cathedral for public veneration PARIS (AP) — An ancient relic that many Christians revere as Jesus Christ’s “Crown of Thorns” has returned to Notre Dame, five years after it was saved from the flames of the cathedral’s devastating 2019 fire. The crown — a circular band of branches encased in a gilded golden tube — was brought back to its historic home Friday in a ceremony. The event was presided over by the archbishop of Paris and attended by knights and dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, marking a key moment in the cathedral’s restoration journey. In 1239, it was acquired by King Louis IX of France, who brought it to Paris. 'Vanderpump Rules' star James Kennedy arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence BURBANK, Calif. (AP) — Police say “Vanderpump Rules” star James Kennedy has been arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence. Police in Burbank, California, say officers investigated reports of an argument between a man and a woman at a residence late Tuesday night and arrested the 32-year-old Kennedy. He was released from jail after posting bail. A representative of Kennedy did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. The Burbank city attorney will decide whether to file charges. Kennedy is a DJ and reality TV star who has appeared for 10 seasons on “Vanderpump Rules” — the Bravo series about the lives of employees at a set of swank restaurants. Dick Vitale says he's cancer-free after 4th bout with the disease in just over 3 years Dick Vitale said he’s cancer-free after his fourth bout with the disease in just over three years. The 85-year-old ESPN college basketball analyst posted Thursday on X that he got the news after a morning scan, saying: “SANTA CLAUS came early as Dr Rick Brown called & said that my PET SCAN at 7 AM came back CLEAN OF CANCER !” Vitale posted on X. “OMG thanks so much to ALL of YOU for your (prayers). Yes I’m cutting the nets down baby it’s my National Championship!” Vitale had surgery in the summer to remove cancerous lymph nodes from his neck. The Basketball Hall of Famer was previously treated for melanoma and lymphoma, and had radiation treatments last year for vocal cord cancer.
NFL Insider Reveals New Team That Could Enter Bill Belichick Sweepstakes
San Francisco Police Shared Luigi Mangione's Name With FBI Before Arrest
BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has said that a delay in holding the next general election will lead to "more conspiracies". "The autocracy that was overthrown through a popular uprising is not sitting idle. They are continuously conspiring with their local and foreign masters," said Tarique, virtually addressing a programme held at Chuadanga town football field yesterday. "The longer the delay in holding the election, the greater the problems will be in public health, education, farming, business, judicial system and administration –– problems that began during the autocratic rule," he said. Speaking from London, Tarique highlighted the importance of a free and fair election held without any bias towards a particular group. "Why are the BNP and other parties repeatedly talking about elections? Because we believe that today's interim government can hold a fair and impartial election. Only through such an election can the true representatives of the people be elected," he said. Elected representatives can play a vital role in parliament and initiate steps for the country's welfare, he added. "The interim government talks about reforms, but all reforms can only be implemented if true representatives are elected through polls. "To change the fate of the nation, genuine public representatives are needed, and for that, elections are essential." Speaking at the event, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir expressed optimism about the party's leadership and future goals. "We are waiting every moment for our leader [Tarique] to join us. Once our leader is with us, we believe no obstacle will stand in our way. We will overcome everything and be victorious," he said. Calling on the youth to play a vital role in shaping the nation's future, Fakhrul said only a representative parliament can confront conspiracies and guide the country forward. "Elections are necessary because conspiracies and plots are being hatched in all directions now. Only the people can confront these conspiracies," he said. Fakhrul said his party is in favour of some immediate reforms in areas such as the electoral system, police, administration, judiciary, and economy. "After the election, any reforms needed in the future will be ensured. After the election, we will form a government with those who were part of our movement, and carry out these reforms," he said. "To make these reforms sustainable, we need the people's support. How will we see people's support? Only through a free and fair election held without any bias," he said. Fakhrul added, "Some new leaders are saying there will be no election until all reforms are carried out. The BNP does not want elections for itself. It wants elections to save the country."
Nominations Open for 2025 Defense IT Summit Flywheel AwardsRussian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday signed a law that allows those who sign up to fight in Ukraine to write off unpaid debts worth almost $100,000, the government announced. The new legislation will be a strong motivation for some to join up, experts said, as Russia seeks new ways to recruit fighters for the nearly three-year conflict grinding through troops. The new legislation will allow those who sign a one-year contract to fight in Ukraine after December 1 to free themselves of existing bad debts. It also covers their spouses. The law concerns debts where a court order for collection was issued and enforcement proceedings began before December 1, 2024. The total amount of unpaid debt that can be covered is 10 million rubles, around $96,000 at current rates. Parliament approved the bill earlier this month. The legislation will largely concern younger Russians of fighting age, since those in their 30s and younger are most likely to have loans. Russia has extremely high interest rates for loans and many Russians have almost no cash savings, although the proportion of home owners is relatively high. “Previously (for those fighting) there was only provision for taking repayment holidays on loans,” Sergei Krivenko of advocacy group Citizen Army Law told Vazhniye Istorii Telegram channel. The new legislation applies to those who are conscripted for national service and those mobilised for the so-called “special military operation”, Krivenko said. Conscripts cannot be sent to the front line but can choose to sign a contract to join the professional army and be sent to fight in Ukraine. Russian authorities “are strengthening the motivation to sign a contract,” political analyst Georgy Bovt wrote on Telegram. The legislation provides “another way to get rid of an unbearable burden of credit, at least for several hundred thousand people,” Bovt wrote. Over 13 million Russians have three or more loans, according to a central bank report released last month covering the first two quarters. This was up 20 percent on the same period last year. The average amount owed by those with three or more loans is 1.4 million rubles ($13,400 at current rates). Many start with a bank loan and then apply for further loans from microfinance organisations. Russians serving on the front line are already paid far more than the national average. Ukraine also has legislation allowing those fighting to get preferential terms for loans and in some cases to write off debts. With 2,400 staff representing 100 different nationalities, AFP covers the world as a leading global news agency. AFP provides fast, comprehensive and verified coverage of the issues affecting our daily lives.
Trump's casting call as he builds out his administration: TV experience preferredI'm lost in the conveyor belts again. There are scores of them going in every direction, carrying concrete, steel and copper parts to other parts of my growing empire. I'm in the guts of my first factory in Satisfactory, trying to optimizse a production line in the hope that I can finally get my hands on a jetpack. Satisfactory starts like every other survival game. You land on a planet, decide to exploit it mercilessly, and start pulling resources out of the ground. Then it veers in a different direction. An industrial direction. See, while you can technically craft just about everything in Satisfactory with your own two hands, making stuff yourself is ridiculous. Real engineers build machines to do all of that assembling for them. This feels intimidating, but Satisfactory's onboarding is some of the best out there. From your first miner all the way to installing power lines, setting up a drone factory or even just straight up adopting nuclear power, Satisfactory slowly guides you through the process. Thinking with pulleys 20 hours after landing, I'm installing six huge batteries as an off-site power backup just in case the wrong wire is cut and my power fails. These batteries will give me 30 minutes of spare power in case of emergency. After this, I'm going to start making AI limiters, after that I need to refill my supply of explosive Nobelisk charges. There's always something big that needs to be done in Satisfactory, and because I'm a fairly chaotic person, my work is imperfect, ready to be tweaked, refined and optimized again and again. Outside of the horrifying spiders, the scariest enemy you'll face in this factory building craft-'em-up is an empty stretch of conveyor belt or an efficiency meter floating around the 50 per cent mark. This is the real meat of Satisfactory, and in addition to the scores of hours I've spent prodding and pulling at conveyor belts and production lines, I've spent more hours than I can count doodling factory designs down on waste paper in the hope of finally making the perfect factory design. I haven't cracked it yet, so often when something goes wrong I venture down into the conveyor belts to see what's gone wrong. But that's not the reason that Satisfactory is my favorite game this year, in a year filled with bombastic AAA games, breakout hit Helldivers 2 , and even interesting indie shooters like I Am Your Beast, Echo Point Nova and Straftat. No, the reason Satisfactory is my favorite game is how much joy is infused into every part of the game. Even just moving is wonderful: movement feels similar to Apex Legends, except you're bouncing around the factory you and your friends have built. The perfect example of this is the slide: there's no reason for Satisfactory to have a slide that feels this good, and despite the fact there's no mechanical purpose, you can feel the craftsmanship. People who have thought a whole lot about first-person kinesthetics are behind this slide. It makes you slightly faster if you time it right, but the best part is that if you build your conveyor belts at the normal height, when you slide you'll go cleanly under them. Later, emboldened by Blade Runners – a new pair of shoes that increase your running speed by 50 percent and double your jumping height (while also mitigating a lot of fall damage) – I started to think of my factory as a 3D space rather than a series of buildings. A door here, a wall-mounted conveyor belt there and suddenly I could get from end to end of my factory without touching the ground. Later abilities let me ride my powerlines like a zipline, and then you can even build little sucky transport tubes like in Futurama to get around, but there's an elegance to getting around that meant I always wanted to go manual – whether it's the bodge-job watchtowers chained together to scale a nearby cliff, or the giant gel-filled pad I built to shield myself when I tumbled from the nearby mountain. As technology gets more and more advanced, stomping around instead of using the technological shortcuts to get about feels more and more like a hipster that bores people at parties by patiently but intensely explaining vinyl is better than listening to people on Spotify. But I don't care. Of course, while J.R.R Tolkien once suggested that not all who wander are lost, there's an important caveat: those who wander around for long enough are sure to get just a tiny bit confused about their location, at least. Which is how I've ended up here. Ostensibly I'm trying to fix an efficiency problem, but really, I'm just here for the journey. Considering I like clear structure and defined goals, that seems like Satisfactory's biggest achievement. If I were Coffee Stain, I'd rename the game Exceptional - puns be damned. See where Satisfactory ranked on our best games of 2024
For ‘A Complete Unknown,’ Arianne Phillips Had to Dress Over 4,000 People in Period Costumes'Malcolm in the Middle' to offer new episodes with Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek are reuniting for a new four-episode run of “Malcolm in the Middle” for Disney+ — 25 years after the beloved sitcom first launched. The show ran for seven seasons starting in 2000 and was hailed for looking at ordinary life through the eyes of an extraordinary youngster, now fully grown: Malcolm, played by Muniz, has a genius I.Q. The new four episodes will be crafted by original series creator Linwood Boomer. No air dates were announced. “Malcolm in the Middle” originally aired on Fox and ended its run in 2006. Woman who falsely accused Duke lacrosse players of rape in 2006 publicly admits she lied RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The woman who in 2006 falsely accused three Duke University lacrosse players of raping her has admitted publicly for the first time that she made up the story. The accusations made national headlines at the time, stirring tensions about race, class and the privilege of college athletes. Crystal Mangum, who is Black, said in an interview with the “Let’s Talk with Kat” podcast that she “made up a story that wasn’t true” about the white players who attended a party where she was hired to perform as a stripper “because I wanted validation from people and not from God.” The former Duke players were declared innocent in 2007 after Mangum’s story fell apart under legal scrutiny. Sophia, a famous robot and global icon of AI, wins hearts at Zimbabwe's innovation fair HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Sophia, a world-renowned robot, has been the center of attention at an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation fair in Zimbabwe this week. Described as an AI global icon by the U.N., Sophia can hold human-like conversations with people and recognize their gestures. As a special guest at the week-long event at the University of Zimbabwe, she answered questions on academic topics from researchers. Children quizzed her about the bible, God and her birth. She also made clear her aversion to human food and romance. The United Nations Development Program said it brought Sophia to Zimbabwe as part of efforts to “inspire youth, policymakers, and innovators to embrace AI as a catalyst for development.” Stanley recalls millions of travel mugs over concerns the lids might fall off, causing burns Stanley is recalling approximately 2.6 million of its switchback and trigger action stainless steel travel mugs sold in the U.S. because of a potential burn hazard. The company said that the mug’s lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing the lid to detach during use, posing a burn hazard. Stanley has received 91 reports worldwide, including 16 in the U.S., of the recalled travel mugs’ lids detaching during use, resulting in 38 burn injuries worldwide, including two burn injuries in the U.S., with 11 consumers worldwide requiring medical attention. Miami Dolphins release veteran receiver Odell Beckham Jr. MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins released wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Friday, ending the former Pro Bowler’s short tenure with the team. Beckham had missed the past two days of practice for what the team called personal reasons. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel indicated that the decision to part ways was mutual. Beckham signed a one-year deal with the Dolphins in May, but started the season on the physically unable to perform list after offseason knee surgery. Since his Dolphins debut in Week 5 against New England, Beckham had just nine catches for 55 yards in nine games. Bird strike disables a jetliner engine and forces an emergency landing at JFK airport NEW YORK (AP) — Authorities say a bird strike involving an American Airlines jetliner disabled one of the plane’s two engines shortly after takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport. The plane was forced to turn around and land at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Airline officials say no one was injured. Flight 1722 took off from LaGuardia at 7:43 p.m. Thursday with a destination of Charlotte, North Carolina. Airport officials say it safely made an emergency landing at Kennedy at 8:03 p.m. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating. The agency received reports of 19,400 strikes at 713 airports across the U.S. last year alone. Rarely do they force jetliners to make emergency landings. 49ers LB De'Vondre Campbell refuses to enter game after losing his starting spot SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — San Francisco linebacker De’Vondre Campbell refused to enter the game in the third quarter after losing his starting job when Dre Greenlaw returned from an injury. Campbell played 90% of defensive snaps for the 49ers but was benched after Greenlaw came back for his first game since tearing his left Achilles tendon in last season’s Super Bowl. When Greenlaw left with soreness in the third quarter Thursday night against the Rams, Campbell told the coaches he didn't want to play and left the field. Coach Kyle Shanahan says he has never seen that before and the team will “figure out something” on how to deal with it going forward. 'Crown of Thorns' returns to Notre Dame Cathedral for public veneration PARIS (AP) — An ancient relic that many Christians revere as Jesus Christ’s “Crown of Thorns” has returned to Notre Dame, five years after it was saved from the flames of the cathedral’s devastating 2019 fire. The crown — a circular band of branches encased in a gilded golden tube — was brought back to its historic home Friday in a ceremony. The event was presided over by the archbishop of Paris and attended by knights and dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, marking a key moment in the cathedral’s restoration journey. In 1239, it was acquired by King Louis IX of France, who brought it to Paris. 'Vanderpump Rules' star James Kennedy arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence BURBANK, Calif. (AP) — Police say “Vanderpump Rules” star James Kennedy has been arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence. Police in Burbank, California, say officers investigated reports of an argument between a man and a woman at a residence late Tuesday night and arrested the 32-year-old Kennedy. He was released from jail after posting bail. A representative of Kennedy did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. The Burbank city attorney will decide whether to file charges. Kennedy is a DJ and reality TV star who has appeared for 10 seasons on “Vanderpump Rules” — the Bravo series about the lives of employees at a set of swank restaurants. Dick Vitale says he's cancer-free after 4th bout with the disease in just over 3 years Dick Vitale said he’s cancer-free after his fourth bout with the disease in just over three years. The 85-year-old ESPN college basketball analyst posted Thursday on X that he got the news after a morning scan, saying: “SANTA CLAUS came early as Dr Rick Brown called & said that my PET SCAN at 7 AM came back CLEAN OF CANCER !” Vitale posted on X. “OMG thanks so much to ALL of YOU for your (prayers). Yes I’m cutting the nets down baby it’s my National Championship!” Vitale had surgery in the summer to remove cancerous lymph nodes from his neck. The Basketball Hall of Famer was previously treated for melanoma and lymphoma, and had radiation treatments last year for vocal cord cancer.Are you a manager? If so, you will appreciate the importance of keeping your workers motivated and reasonably content within the dynamics of the employment relationship (which is naturally conflictual at its heart). One part of the welfare at work model is being able to detect when employees are unhappy or professing grievances. What is the extent of employee disgruntlement? Looking into the U.S. economy, one poll finds that employees are more unhappy at work than they have been in years, and currently more than a quarter of U.S. citizens are looking to change roles. This is the highest in a decade. To aid new business owners boost employee satisfaction , the firm Wix.com has provided to Digital Journal with signs to spot that will inform the employer that the employee is starting to slip. How to spot when employees are losing morale? Decreased productivity and poor performance This may be evident when employees aren’t getting as much done as they used to. They may miss deadlines or demonstrate a reduced quality of work. Increased absenteeism, lateness and time off When your staff are disengaged, stressed or burnt out, they may begin to call in sick more often, show up late, and leave early. High employee turnover If employees are leaving in droves, it can be due to lost morale and general disengagement from the workplace. However, this also creates a vicious cycle whereby employees that remain at the company become equally low in morale and sceptical of management and the organization as a whole. Lack of enthusiasm and innovation When staff begin to feel as though their work is boring and meaningless, you’ll find that they are uninspired, perhaps less creative and less likely to take initiative. Lack of teamwork and camaraderie If you’ve noticed a team member being less active in team activities or conversations, whether remote or in the office, they’re likely suffering from low morale. Doing the bare minimum Staff may meet deadlines and quality standards but won’t go above and beyond, they’ll complete the minimum of what is expected of them and nothing further. This can also be seen as ‘quiet-quitting’, that is not doing so little that it’s brought to management’s attention but also not going above and beyond. Avolition If an employee struggles to start or finish a task without constant supervision, they may feel disengaged from work. It’s important to determine the root cause of this and provide appropriate support. Dr. Tim Sandle is Digital Journal's Editor-at-Large for science news.Tim specializes in science, technology, environmental, business, and health journalism. He is additionally a practising microbiologist; and an author. He is also interested in history, politics and current affairs.
Nokia Corporation Stock Exchange Release 21 November 2024 at 22:45 EET Nokia completes the share buyback program launched in March Espoo, Finland - Nokia Corporation ("Nokia" or the "Company") has now completed the share buyback program announced on 18 March 2024 and upsized on 19 July 2024. Between 20 March 2024 and 21 November 2024, Nokia repurchased 157,646,220 of its own shares (FI0009000681) at an average price per share of approximately EUR 3.81. Nokia expects to cancel the acquired shares in December 2024. The repurchases under the share buyback program reduced the Company's unrestricted equity by EUR 600 million. Nokia Corporation now holds a total of 209,702,510 treasury shares. The repurchases were executed otherwise than in proportion to the existing shareholdings of Nokia's shareholders (directed repurchases) through public trading on the regulated market of Nasdaq Helsinki and selected multilateral trading facilities. About Nokia At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today - and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. Inquiries: Nokia Communications Phone: +358 10 448 4900 Email: [email protected] Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications Nokia Investor Relations Phone: +358 40 803 4080 Email: [email protected]Rakovina Therapeutics Announces Closing of Oversubscribed $3M Private Placement
No. 2 Ohio State takes control in the 2nd half and runs over No. 5 IndianaNEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records Tuesday after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street, even if they could roil the global economy were they to take effect. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6% to top the all-time high it set a couple weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 123 points, or 0.3%, to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite gained 0.6% as Microsoft and Big Tech led the way. Stock markets abroad mostly fell after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China once he takes office. But the movements were mostly modest. Stock indexes were down 0.1% in Shanghai and nearly flat in Hong Kong, while Canada’s main index edged down by less than 0.1%. Trump has often praised the use of tariffs , but investors are weighing whether his latest threat will actually become policy or is just an opening point for negotiations. For now, the market seems to be taking it more as the latter. The consequences otherwise for markets and the global economy could be painful. Unless the United States can prepare alternatives for the autos, energy products and other goods that come from Mexico, Canada and China, such tariffs would raise the price of imported items all at once and make households poorer, according to Carl Weinberg and Rubeela Farooqi, economists at High Frequency Economics. They would also hurt profit margins for U.S. companies, while raising the threat of retaliatory tariffs by other countries. And unlike tariffs in Trump’s first term, his latest proposal would affect products across the board. General Motors sank 9%, and Ford Motor fell 2.6% because both import automobiles from Mexico. Constellation Brands, which sells Modelo and other Mexican beer brands in the United States, dropped 3.3%. The value of the Mexican peso fell 1.8% against the U.S. dollar. Beyond the pain such tariffs would cause U.S. households and businesses, they could also push the Federal Reserve to slow or even halt its cuts to interest rates. The Fed had just begun easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high a couple months ago to offer support for the job market . While lower interest rates can boost the economy, they can also offer more fuel for inflation. “Many” officials at the Fed’s last meeting earlier this month said they should lower rates gradually, according to minutes of the meeting released Tuesday afternoon. The talk about tariffs overshadowed another mixed set of profit reports from U.S. retailers that answered few questions about how much more shoppers can keep spending. They’ll need to stay resilient after helping the economy avoid a recession, despite the high interest rates imposed by the Fed to get inflation under control. A report on Tuesday from the Conference Board said confidence among U.S. consumers improved in November, but not by as much as economists expected. Kohl’s tumbled 17% after its results for the latest quarter fell short of analysts’ expectations. CEO Tom Kingsbury said sales remain soft for apparel and footwear. A day earlier, Kingsbury said he plans to step down as CEO in January. Ashley Buchanan, CEO of Michaels and a retail veteran, will replace him. Best Buy fell 4.9% after likewise falling short of analysts’ expectations. Dick’s Sporting Goods topped forecasts for the latest quarter thanks to a strong back-to-school season, but its stock lost an early gain to fall 1.4%. Still, more stocks rose in the S&P 500 than fell. J.M. Smucker had one of the biggest gains and climbed 5.7% after topping analysts’ expectations for the latest quarter. CEO Mark Smucker credited strength for its Uncrustables, Meow Mix, Café Bustelo and Jif brands. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up U.S. indexes. Gains of 3.2% for Amazon and 2.2% for Microsoft were the two strongest forces lifting the S&P 500. All told, the S&P 500 rose 34.26 points to 6,021.63. The Dow gained 123.74 to 44,860.31, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 119.46 to 19,174.30. In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady following their big drop from a day before driven by relief following Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary. The yield on the 10-year Treasury inched up to 4.29% from 4.28% late Monday, but it’s still well below the 4.41% level where it ended last week. In the crypto market, bitcoin continued to pull back after topping $99,000 for the first time late last week. It’s since dipped back toward $91,000, according to CoinDesk. It’s a sharp turnaround from the bonanza that initially took over the crypto market following Trump’s election. That boom had also appeared to have spilled into some corners of the stock market. Strategists at Barclays Capital pointed to stocks of unprofitable companies, along with other areas that can be caught up in bursts of optimism by smaller-pocketed “retail” investors. AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.Hannah Hidalgo leads No. 6 Notre Dame over JuJu Watkins and third-ranked USC 74-61 in big matchup out West
Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has successfully hosted a blood donation drive at its headquarters, in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). The initiative, which saw the participation of QIB employees, highlighted the bank’s ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its dedication to supporting healthcare services in Qatar. Held as part of QIB’s CSR programme, the drive received a high response from employees across various departments, reflecting the bank’s values of community support and solidarity. The donations will contribute to replenishing the HMC Blood Bank reserves, ensuring that vital blood supplies remain available to patients in need across the country. QIB organises a series of campaigns to highlight the significance of blood donation. These initiatives emphasize the critical need for blood while acknowledging the pivotal role donors play in sustaining the blood bank reserves at HMC. Mashaal Abdulaziz al-Derham, assistant general manager, head of Corporate Communications & Quality Assurance at QIB, said: “We appreciate our colleagues’ dedication to supporting this initiative and for coming together for a cause that makes a difference in people’s lives. “QIB’s employees’ commitment to donating blood represents the values we hold as an organisation. We would like to thank the HMC team for their expertise and collaboration in facilitating this initiative. Together, we continue to promote health and community well-being across Qatar.” QIB is dedicated to CSR initiatives focused on fostering positive transformations within both the organization and the local society. The bank’s efforts are aligned with and supportive of the four primary pillars outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030. For more information about QIB’s CSR initiatives, visit www.qib.com.qa. Related Story QCAA holds training programme for 3rd batch of Egyptian air traffic controllers QNL explores strategies to support language development among childrenYellowstone insiders hint what Taylor Sheridan has in store for finale and spinoff series as Season 5 wraps Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.com By TERRY ZELLER FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 23:55, 13 December 2024 | Updated: 23:59, 13 December 2024 e-mail 2 View comments With Yellowstone quickly approaching its fiery finale this Sunday and a spate of spinoffs in the works, fans are practically clawing for any scraps of info about what’s next for their beloved Western soap opera. And lucky for them, insiders from the Paramount juggernaut have teased what’s in store, thanks to the sharp mind of creator Taylor Sheridan. As for the epic conclusion of the series— which recently bid adieu to star Kevin Costner —executive producer David Glasser says he’s 'very happy' with how it all shakes out. 'I’m very happy with the way audiences have embraced the show, and with the journey that Taylor has created in the present time and in buttoning it up the way he always would,' Glasser explained to The Los Angeles Times on Friday. He added, 'From day one, Taylor was very clear how the show was going to end. Like anything else, this show has been through an incredible journey.' 'At the same time, it seems like it’s the right moment for it to evolve. This part of the story had to close, and I think the timing of it now is the right time.' Yellowstone insiders have teased what’s in store for the franchise, thanks to the sharp mind of creator Taylor Sheridan; (pictured 2017) As for the epic conclusion of the series— which recently bid adieu to star Kevin Costner —executive producer David Glasser says he’s 'very happy' with how it all shakes out But before you start mourning the Duttons, here’s the good news: The Season 5 finale isn’t the last time we’ll see them on screen. Series regulars Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser have signed on to lead a spinoff, reprising their roles as the fiery Beth Dutton and stoic Rip Wheeler, respectively. While there’s no word yet on when the Beth-Rip saga will premiere—or which other Yellowstone characters might make the leap—Glasser did throw fans a tantalizing bone. 'It’s still early, [but] audiences have shown us that Beth and Rip continuing on in some fashion is a good thing,' he teased. And as for the penultimate episode of Season 5, which got some online flack for its heavy focus on Sheridan’s own character, horse trainer Travis Wheatley —Glasser took the opportunity to defend the move. It didn’t take long for fans to notice that Wheatley, a bit-part character, was suddenly front-and-center. Some speculated that this was part of a deliberate shift, with Costner's exit leaving a bit of a hole in the cast. 'From the social media we saw, audiences love the Wheatley character,' Glasser said, leaning into the praise. 'I’m very happy with the way audiences have embraced the show, and with the journey that Taylor has created in the present time and in buttoning it up the way he always would,' Glasser explained to The Los Angeles Times on Friday But before you start mourning the Duttons, here’s the good news: The Season 5 finale isn’t the last time we’ll see them on screen 'In wrapping up all the characters on the show, there needed to be a completion to that character.' Meanwhile, Yellowstone fans banded together to fire back at Quentin Tarantino after the iconic director dismissed their favorite Western drama as little more than a 'soap opera.' Read More Yellowstone SLAMMED by Pulp Fiction director Quentin Tarantino sparking fierce fan outrage The online drama kicked off after the Pulp Fiction creator, 61, was asked to compare movies with modern TV shows during a recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast. While Tarantino admitted that some recent TV series are 'pretty good,' he argued they are never as 'compelling' as feature films and used Yellowstone— which recently saw the departure of Kevin Costner —as his prime example. 'I didn’t really get around to watching Yellowstone’the first three years or so. Then I watch the first season, and I’m like, "Wow, this is f****** great!" I’ve always been a big Kevin Costner fan, he’s f******wonderful in this,' Tarantino recalled. 'And I get really caught up in the show, I’m having a great time watching. And the first season, I’m kind of talking like, "Oh, this is like a big movie."' He continued: 'While I’m watching it, I’m compelled. But at the end of the day, it’s just a soap opera.' And just to drive the point home, he added, 'You don’t remember it five years from now,” which, naturally, set fans of the hit show on fire. Yellowstone fans banded together to fire back at Quentin Tarantino after the iconic director dismissed their favorite Western drama as little more than a 'soap opera.' The backlash came fast and furious, with Yellowstone lovers flooding social media to defend their beloved series and call out Tarantino for his 'dismissive' take. One critic clapped back, 'Is there anything that man does like besides his own work?' an another chimed in, 'He also loves to hear himself talk.' Yet another even took aim at Quentin's own recent Oscar-winning work, posting, 'In that case once upon a time in hollywood is a tv movie.' Yellowstone returns with the massive finale on Sunday, December 15 at 8 PM ET on Paramount Network. Kevin Costner Share or comment on this article: Yellowstone insiders hint what Taylor Sheridan has in store for finale and spinoff series as Season 5 wraps e-mail Add comment