Key Facts

• Hochul lays out fiscal year 2027 budget plan: On Tuesday, Governor Hochul presented a $260 billion budget that her office says would deliver a stronger, safer, more affordable New York. The plan projects a 9.9 percent increase in revenue and prioritizes funding for public services, housing, health care and education. It also states that income taxes would not be raised as part of the plan. [2][1]
• No income tax increase despite calls to tax the rich: Hochul rejects broad tax hikes and frames the plan as protecting taxpayers through smart investments and targeted relief. The budget faces political pressure from some lawmakers and New York City officials who point to city budget gaps and argue for higher taxes on the wealthy. NYC officials have warned of shortfalls that could shape budget negotiations. [1]
• Eliminate tipped wage tax up to 25,000: The plan would eliminate state income tax on tipped wages up to 25,000 per year for single filers earning up to 150,000 and joint filers earning up to 300,000. The change is part of a broader set of tax relief and credit reforms aimed at fairness, while preserving overall revenue. [1]
• Record affordable housing plan and progress: The budget includes a 25 billion affordable housing plan intended to deliver 100,000 affordable homes. It notes 77,000 homes have already been established and adds 250 million in capital funding to accelerate construction. Additional measures target homelessness prevention and housing stability. [1]
• Education funding and universal pre-K expansion: The plan allocates 39.3 billion in school aid, with increases in Foundation Aid to ease local property tax burdens. It provides 1.6 billion for Universal Pre-K in the 2027 school year, a 53 percent increase over 2026, and 395 million for a second year of universal free school meals, along with other math and library investments. [1]
• Other measures include PTET timing, farmer definitions and tax extension: The proposal moves the Pass-Through Entity Tax election date to September 15 and allows new businesses to opt in after March 15. It standardizes the definition of farmer for credits and extends the top corporate tax rate of 7.25 percent through 2029, alongside broader housing and weather resilience investments. [1]

Who Said What

• Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York: "Every dollar in this year’s budget is being put to work to fight for families." [1]
• Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York: "While Washington tries to break our budget, we are making smart investments, protecting taxpayers and committing to delivering the services New Yorkers need most. Your family–and your future–is my fight." [1]

Key Facts

• Kalshi odds rise on Trump leaving office: Prediction market Kalshi shows rising bets that Trump will exit the presidency by the end of his term. The market has attracted about 1.4 million dollars in bets, and the odds have moved from 27 percent on January 13 to 40 percent on January 21. Traders see a higher likelihood of departure later in the term, with 34 percent predicting it before 2028 and 18 percent this year. Experts caution that these odds reflect sentiment, not a prophecy, and are influenced by ongoing political chatter. [1]
• Impeachment and 25th Amendment talk intensifies: Democrats have floated impeachment and the 25th Amendment as options if Trump returns to office, while the House remains in Republican hands, complicating passage. Representative Don Bacon signaled some Republicans might back impeachment if Trump uses military force to seize Greenland, though Trump has dismissed such speculation. The dynamics highlight how internal party alignments shape any attempt to remove or sideline Trump. [1]
• Trump’s Greenland push and foreign policy cited in debate: Critics point to Trump's foreign policy moves, including talks about Greenland and NATO issues, as justification for impeachment or the 25th Amendment. The discussion frames foreign policy as a potential trigger for concerns about presidential fitness and decision-making. [1]
• Historical impeachment vote context shapes current talk: Trump previously faced impeachment efforts, with seven Republican senators voting with Democrats to convict him over incitement related to the January 6 insurrection. That history colors expectations about how ready lawmakers might be to pursue removal again. [1]
• Control of the House and November elections loom large: With control of the House up for grabs in November, Democrats hope to win and potentially move forward with impeachment if they gain a majority. The political arithmetic in Congress remains a key factor in whether any removal effort advances. [1]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "Nobody can dispute it. We give so much, and we get so little in return. I've been a critic of NATO for many years, and yet I've done more to help NATO than any other president by far, than any other person. You wouldn't have NATO if I didn't get involved in my first term. … They have a choice: You can say yes, and we will be very appreciative, or you can say no, and we will remember." [5]
• Yassamin Ansari, Representative, Democrat from Arizona: "The president of the United States is extremely mentally ill and it’s putting all of our lives at risk. The 25th Amendment exists for a reason—we need to invoke it immediately." [6]
• Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Representative, Democrat from California: "Donald Trump is unfit to lead and clearly out of control. Invoke the 25th Amendment." [7]
• Ed Markey, Senator, Democrat from Massachusetts: "Invoke the 25th Amendment." [8]
• Harry Sisson, Democratic political commentator: "It’s 1 am and Trump is awake posting AI images of him taking over Greenland. This is where we are as a country. 25TH AMENDMENT NOW!!!" [8]
• Jonas Gahr Støre, Prime Minister of Norway: "Norway's position on Greenland is clear. Greenland is a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and Norway fully supports the Kingdom of Denmark on this matter. We also support that NATO in a responsible way is taking steps to strengthen security and stability in the Arctic. As regards the Nobel Peace Prize, I have clearly explained, including to President Trump what is well known, the prize is awarded by an independent Nobel Committee and not the Norwegian Government." [1]
• Emmanuel Macron, President of France: "Let's not accept a global order which will be decided by those who claim to have, I would say, the bigger voice or the bigger stick." [1]
• Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister: "Now it's not the Collective West writing the rules but just one of its representatives. It's a major upheaval for Europe, and we are watching it. The Euro-Atlantic concept of ensuring security and cooperation has discredited itself." [1]

Key Facts

• Foy felt the film pursued her, calling it inevitable: Foy explains reading the memoir after producer Dede Gardner suggested it, and the convergence of those moments felt like a universe telling her to take the project. She notes a close friend had a deep connection to the book, which intensified the pull. The combination of Gardner’s recommendation and personal resonance convinced her the project was meant to happen. She describes the decision as an almost fated moment rather than a calculated choice. [1]
• Learning falconry shaped her approach to the birds: Foy says she learned basic falconry and kept Helen Macdonald in mind throughout filming. The birds' significance to the memoir and the script guided her handling and performance. She emphasizes that working with wild creatures meant an experience she could not have prepared for in advance. The personal connection to the memoir informed every on-set choice. [1]
• Hawk-focused set required near-total secrecy and solo handling: Filming involved constructing a set tailored for the hawks, with only Foy and the camera operator present. Director Philippa Lowthorpe was kept hidden to maintain control over the birds’ environment. All handling seen in the film was performed by Foy herself, underscoring the scale of the on-set challenge. The approach reflects the extraordinary nature of bringing the memoir to the screen. [1]
• Foy reflects on a decade with The Crown: She notes it has been ten years since she shot The Crown and says she is proud of the show and its impact, including the regeneration of her character over time. The acknowledgment situates H is for Hawk within her broader acting career and contrasts stage and screen work. [1]
• Broadway interest tied to a postponed UK play: Foy expresses a desire to perform on Broadway. She mentions a prior UK stage run of Lungs that would have brought her to Brooklyn before the pandemic halted plans in March 2020, describing it as her intended Broadway moment and reiterating she would love to pursue Broadway in the future. [1]
• The project described as an out-of-the-ordinary, unprepared undertaking: The interview closes with a reflection on how unusual the role and this project felt, highlighting the sense that she was stepping into something entirely new and not something she could have anticipated. [1]

Who Said What

• Claire Foy, Actress: "I felt like this film pursued me in a way. It felt like this was inevitable. Basically, I'd worked with Dede Gardner, the producer, before on Women Talking, and she had mentioned to me when we were doing press for Women Talking that I should read the book because she was thinking of making it. And on reading the book, I realized that it was a book that had meant a lot to a very, very close friend of mine. And so, the two of those things coming together was quite strange. Like the-universe-telling-me-to-do-something type-moment." This shows how personal the project was for her and why it felt predestined. [1]
• Claire Foy, Actress: "Oh my God, I'd love to." I did a play in the U.K., Lungs. We were supposed to come, we were going to Brooklyn literally in March 2020 when COVID hit. So that was supposed to be my Broadway moment. I would love to. [1]
• Claire Foy, Actress: "It was such an out of the ordinary thing to do and nothing I ever prepared for." [1]

Key Facts

• Teen mother places child for adoption amid depression: She became a mother at 17 and chose adoption after struggling with mental health in a conservative Christian home. In the hospital, staff labeled her a birth mother, and three weeks later she signed the papers in a courtroom, beginning years of open adoption. The experience left lasting trauma and shaped her sense of motherhood even after starting a new family. [2]
• Open adoption preserves contact through letters and photos: Over the years she watched her first daughter grow through letters and photographs granted by the open arrangement. The contact slowed as the child aged, but the bond persisted through periodic updates and visits. The openness allowed her to witness milestones while reconciling her own sense of motherhood. [2]
• Facebook chats reveal transgender coming out: By Hanna’s 13th birthday, the families kept in touch on Facebook. A message from Hanna announced a transgender identity, prompting the author to step in as a supportive figure. She sought resources and joined online groups to help her child, illustrating how digital connection shaped their evolving relationship. [4][3][5]
• Mother supports Aarron through his transition: The author shifted to a supportive maternal role for Aarron, advocating for gender counseling and standing by him during his transition. This fostered deeper bonds and expanded her understanding of motherhood to include supporting both her own children and Hanna. [1][3][5]
• She comes out as lesbian at 41: Her journey with Aarron prompted personal self-discovery, and she recently came out as a lesbian at age 41. The personal revelation is presented as a milestone supported by her family throughout the transition. [1]
• Motherhood title finally reclaimed after adoption journey: She describes earning the title of mother three times over thanks to the child she placed for adoption, her advocacy, and her ongoing family roles. The culmination comes as she helps Aarron move into his own apartment, symbolizing renewed motherhood and belonging. [1]

Who Said What

• Joanna Good, Author: "It's open!" [1]
• Adoptive father, Adoptive father: "Please watch over him." [1]
• Joanna Good, Author: "Always," I said. [1]

Key Facts

• China's Silk Road Ark makes first visit to Uruguay: The naval hospital ship arrived in Montevideo for a four-day technical stop as part of Harmony 2025 medical service deployment. [1][2]
• Stop runs four days under Harmony 2025 program: The four-day stop is intended to replenish supplies and conduct activities during Harmony 2025, which began last September. [2]
• Harmony missions span continents since 2010: China maintains a three-ship hospital fleet and has dispatched Harmony missions across Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific since 2010 as part of medical diplomacy. [1][5]
• Uruguay strengthens ties with China, Belt and Road: Uruguay has formed a comprehensive strategic partnership with China and joined the Belt and Road Initiative, with Beijing cited as its top trading partner. [8][9][10]
• U.S. counters China with Monroe Doctrine emphasis: The piece frames a U.S. national security strategy that seeks to reassert American preeminence in the Western Hemisphere and limit non-Hemispheric competition for strategic assets. [12]

Who Said What

• China's government, Policy maker: "China will actively carry out military exchanges and cooperation with Latin America and the Caribbean countries, expand friendly exchanges between defense and military leading officials of the two sides, strengthen policy dialogue and set up working meeting mechanisms." [11]
• White House, U.S. government: "After years of neglect, the United States will reassert and enforce the Monroe Doctrine to restore American preeminence in the Western Hemisphere…We will deny non-Hemispheric competitors the ability to position forces or other threatening capabilities, or to own or control strategically vital assets, in our Hemisphere." [12]

Key Facts

• Hunan uncovers 1,000-ton gold deposit: Geologists detected 40 veins with a reserve of about 300 tons at a depth of roughly 6,562 feet in the Wangu gold field, Pingjiang County, Hunan. The Geological Bureau of Hunan Province described the site as a 'superlarge' deposit with total reserves exceeding 1,000 tons at a depth near 9,842 feet, valued around 600 billion yuan. An ore-prospecting expert indicated visible gold is present in drilled rock cores, noting ore in the 2,000-meter range can contain up to 138 grams of gold. The discovery ranks among the largest documented gold deposits and could rival South Africa’s South Deep mine. [1]
• Asia’s largest undersea gold deposit found off Laizhou: The discovery occurred off the coast of Laizhou in the Jiaodong Peninsula of Shandong province. Officials have not disclosed the size of the new undersea deposit, but authorities say it has increased Laizhou’s gold reserves to more than 3,900 tons, about 26 percent of China’s known gold resources, according to the South China Morning Post. [1]
• Liaoning province discovers 1,444.49 tons: In November last year, officials announced a find totaling 1,444.49 tons in Liaoning, described as China’s largest single find since the country’s founding in 1949. The Ministry of Natural Resources cited the figure as part of ongoing efforts to map and appraise national gold resources. [1]
• Kunlun Mountains deposit exceeds 1,000 tons: Also in November last year, authorities identified a gold deposit in the Kunlun Mountains near the Xinjiang region with reserves over 1,000 tons, expanding China’s westward gold prospects. The finding complements other major discoveries announced in the same period. [1]
• Shandong Jiaodong Peninsula reveals 3,500+ tonnes: Officials said the Jiaodong Peninsula accounts for over 3,500 tonnes of gold reserves, identified in November 2023 as part of China’s vast regional endowment. The find is described as part of what is believed to be the world’s third-largest gold mining belt. [1]
• Two-thirds of all gold mined since 1950; US 2024 output: Historical context shows about 216,265 tonnes of gold have been mined overall, with roughly two-thirds extracted since 1950. In the United States, domestic gold mine production in 2024 was about 160 tonnes, valued at around $12 billion, reflecting a 9 percent year-over-year increase. [1]

Who Said What

• Chen Rulin, ore-prospecting expert, Geological Bureau of Hunan Province: "Many drilled rock cores showed visible gold," a sign of strong deposit credibility, according to officials. [1]

Key Facts

• New ocean forming as Africa splits along East African Rift: Researchers describe a vast but slow process in which the eastern Somalian plate is pulling away from the Nubian plate. The split is already underway and will take tens of millions of years to fully mature, with movement measured in millimeters per year. The ongoing rifting creates a Y-shaped system that intersects at the Afar triple junction, where three rifts meet in Ethiopia. [1]
• Afar triple junction links three rifts at Ethiopia: The East African Rift runs from the Red Sea to Mozambique, with the eastern and western arms offsetting across Africa. The Afar region hosts the triple junction where the Ethiopian, Red Sea and Gulf of Aden rifts converge, a rare spot where multiple tectonic boundaries intersect. [1]
• 1968 magnetic data link Africa-Arabia split to Gulf of Aden: New analysis of magnetic data suggests Africa and Arabia separated first after the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea rifts, with the African rift following due to mantle plumes rising from deep within the Earth. The research appears in Journal of African Earth Sciences. [2]
• Mantle upwelling pulses shape Afar, study says: A Nature Geoscience study supports a pattern of ascending mantle pulses beneath Afar that are not uniform and carry distinct chemical signatures. These pulses are guided by the overriding plates and may influence how the continents split. [3]
• Northward extension is fastest; new oceans may form there first: Scientists say the rate of extension is fastest in the northern part of the rift, suggesting the earliest ocean basin formation would occur there. The measured extension rate is about a quarter of an inch per year, making the process extremely slow but geologically consequential. [1]
• Near-term seismic and volcanic risks accompany the slow split: Even as the full ocean forms over tens of millions of years, the ongoing tectonic activity raises the likelihood of earthquakes and volcanic activity in the region. [1]

Who Said What

• D. Sarah Stamps, Geophysicist, Virginia Tech: The rate of extension is fastest in the north, so we’ll see new oceans forming there first. [1]
• Emma Watts, Lead author and geologist: We found that the mantle beneath Afar is not uniform or stationary—it pulses—and these pulses carry distinct chemical signatures. [3]

Key Facts

• Children of older mothers show lower allergy risk: Researchers from Japan and the United States analyzed health data on nearly 34,942 children followed from birth to age four. Parents regularly completed questionnaires about health, and a subset of children underwent allergy-related tests. The study found lower odds of food allergies, wheeze, eczema, and dust mite sensitivity among children born to mothers aged 35 and older. [1][2]
• Food allergy rates at age one fall with maternal age: At age one, 6.6 percent of children were diagnosed with a food allergy overall. For ages 25–29, it was about 7.3 percent; for 35–39, 6.1 percent; and for 40 and older, 4.3 percent. [1]
• Wheezing more common among younger mothers’ infants: Infants of mothers aged 35 and over were less likely to wheeze by age one, while children born to the youngest group (20–24) were slightly more likely to experience wheeze. The pattern persisted to age four with lower wheeze odds for the 35+ group. [1]
• Parental age 35+ linked to lower odds when both parents older: When both parents were 35 or older at birth, children had lower odds of wheezing and food allergies compared with children whose parents were younger. [1]
• Observational study notes limits and calls for more research: The authors emphasize that the study shows associations rather than causation and call for further research to understand biological and social mechanisms and whether patterns hold in other populations. [1]
• Older maternal age is not universally protective: Researchers caution that higher maternal age is not a universal protective factor and does not negate known risks of later pregnancies, such as chromosomal abnormalities or pregnancy complications. [1]

Key Facts

• 501 canine fecal samples analyzed for microbiome: Researchers from the Waltham Petcare Institute examined DNA in 501 fecal samples from 107 healthy dogs across the United States and Europe, using Mars Petcare archive data to build a large picture of the canine gut microbiome. [1]
• 5,753 MAGs identified forming 1,031 strains: The study produced 5,753 metagenome-assembled genomes and consolidated them into 1,031 distinct bacterial strains, laying the groundwork for a detailed taxonomic map of the canine gut. [1]
• 982 novel strains; 89 new species; 10 genera identified: Of the assembled strains, 982 are novel, with 89 new species and 10 new genera identified, underscoring how much remains to be learned about dogs’ gut microbes. [1]
• Core species identified; CAZymes linked to digestion: The analysis revealed a core set of bacterial species that make up most of the microbes in healthy dogs, supporting the idea that the canine gut microbiome is unique to dogs. Many newly discovered strains produce CAZymes, enzymes that break down complex dietary fibres, highlighting digestion's central role. [1]
• Most bacteria commensal; no toxin or AMR genes detected: Researchers screened the novel bacteria with AMRFinderPlus and found that most were commensal and lacked toxin or antimicrobial resistance genes, suggesting a generally harmless microbial community in healthy dogs. [1]
• Waltham Catalogue supports future canine microbiome research: The Waltham Catalogue for the Canine Gut Microbiome is published as a resource for researchers worldwide and can be applied across breeds, ages, sexes and geography, with potential to enable personalized dog care. [1]

Who Said What

• Gregory Amos, Senior Research Manager, Waltham Petcare Institute: "With our new, critical understanding of what makes the canine gut microbiome unique, we have never been better equipped to develop solutions that improve the lives of dogs." [1]

Key Facts

• Flavor Flav to hype Team USA in Cortina 2026: Flavor Flav will travel to Cortina d'Ampezzo in February as the team's official hype man for the bobsled and skeleton squads. He envisions energizing crowds and supporting athletes as they pursue medals. He has already ridden with the team in Park City, including a skeleton run and a bobsled ride, reaching 66 mph. The experience reinforced his commitment to a longer involvement and training path. [1]
• Flav aims to train for full skeleton course and possibly compete: He says he will train to run the full skeleton course, not just a partial ride, with the goal of competing. He expects to be coached and to join a Team USA sled if permitted. The plan reflects a serious shift from hype to active pursuit of Olympic competition. [1]
• Flav credits pep talks with Kaysha Love for success: Flav recounts telling Kaysha Love that this could be her year and that he is behind her. Love later won gold in the women's monobob at a World Cup event in Austria, illustrating the impact of support and hype on athletes. [1]
• Love wins gold at World Cup monobob; fuels hype narrative: Love’s World Cup gold in Austria underscores the rise of bobsled as a sport with growing hype attention and showcases how athletes can benefit from public support from figures like Flav. [1]
• Flav sponsors water polo through 2029; eyes more sponsorships and 2028 torchbearer: Flav says he is sponsoring the U.S. women’s water polo team through 2029 and argues Team USA would benefit from more sponsors. He aims to bring additional resources to Olympic teams and says his next objective is to carry the flame as a torchbearer for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. [1]
• Involvement began after a fall invitation; hype has grown: Flav joined the program last fall after one team member invited him for a bobsled ride. Since then, he has developed a relationship with the squad and says his hype work has proven effective in motivating the athletes. [1]

Who Said What

• Flavor Flav, official hype man for Team USA: "They seem like some real go-getters, and I really feel that they’re going to go out and get some medals this year." [1]
• Flavor Flav, official hype man for Team USA: "Oh my God, that ride was so amazing. I’m an adrenaline junkie, I was very excited. I hit 66 miles per hour on the track. That was the height of my life right there." [1]
• Flavor Flav, official hype man for Team USA: "I’m gonna train to do the full course because last time I did it, I only did half the course. But this time I’m going back, and they’re gonna train me to do a full course. And once I get good with that, then I wanna try to compete. I’m gonna try...if they let me qualify, then I’m gonna go for it." [1]
• Flavor Flav, official hype man for Team USA: "Team USA could be a whole lot more powerful and successful if these teams had sponsors. I’m trying to set a trend." [1]
• Flavor Flav, official hype man for Team USA: "my next Olympic goal is to be a torchbearer for the 2028 Los Angeles Games." [1]
• Flavor Flav, official hype man for Team USA: "I’m sponsoring the U.S. women’s water polo team until 2029." [1]
• Kaysha Love, bobsledder, Team USA: "Niche sports like bobsled can be challenging to build hype around, but they often become some of the most exciting events at the Winter Olympics. So having someone like Flavor Flav take the time to learn, support and genuinely hype our sport is incredibly inspiring. When he came to Park City, I remember feeling an extra drive to push myself and really show him what bobsled is all about. His energy...gave me so much confidence and excitement." [1]

Key Facts

• McCurdy pivots from memoir to novel: Following the success of I’m Glad My Mom Died, she releases Half His Age, a fiction work about Waldo, a 17-year-old girl with an unconventional attraction to her teacher. She emphasizes the importance of voice across genres and signals a future film adaptation for the book. [1]
• Voice anchors memoir and novel: McCurdy says her voice remains constant across work and describes her tone as funny-sad. She explains that Waldo’s perspective overlaps with her own voice, and she uses writing as a lifelong way to process life and find closure. [1]
• Idea germinated on a Japan trip: The first seed came when she was 24 on a solo trip on a Shinkansen, and Waldo began to demand to be written. Over the next two years, the idea percolated until she fully embraced telling her story through the novel. [1]
• Emotional intensity drives the drafting: McCurdy describes experiences of rage that trigger crying during writing and recalls a late-breaking line that she fought to include, illustrating the emotional toll and commitment of drafting. [1]
• Screenplay adaptation on the horizon: She has finished the screenplay for Half His Age and is attached to direct, signaling a concrete path toward a film adaptation, though the project remains in early stages. [1]
• A cross-generational audience forms: McCurdy notes readers range from older fans who knew her from acting to newer readers of her memoir, creating a bridge between generations for the new novel. [1]

Who Said What

• Jennette McCurdy, author and subject: Writing has always been my mode of processing life. [1]
• Jennette McCurdy, author and subject: I feel like my voice is my voice. [1]
• Jennette McCurdy, author and subject: For this book, I had a lot of experiences where I'd feel so much rage that I'd be crying. [1]
• Jennette McCurdy, author and subject: Maybe 50 percent of making a good film or TV show is writing a good film or TV show. [1]
• Jennette McCurdy, author and subject: I not only don't read, but I also don't socialize. [1]

Key Facts

• Tkachuk brothers named among first six U.S. Olympians: In June 2025 Brady and Matthew were among the initial six selections on the U.S. men’s ice hockey roster for the Milan Cortina Games. Their selection adds a notable family chapter to USA Hockey, as their father Keith is a longtime NHL star and Olympian. Both brothers have progressed through the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, which feeds players into the national team. [1]
• Brothers describe dream turning into reality: Both players say the chance to wear the USA jersey with their brother is surreal and meaningful. They frame the Games as a rare opportunity to play together, represent their country, and make the most of a limited window. [1]
• NHL pause enables Olympic play; opener set for Latvia: The NHL schedules a pause after February 5 to allow participating players to join the Olympics. Team USA begins preliminary play on February 12 against Latvia, launching a rapid transition from league action to Olympic competition. [1]
• Guerin emphasizes confidence in roster and mission: Team USA general manager Bill Guerin said assembling the final roster was very challenging but credited the depth of American hockey and grassroots development. He stressed the Olympic mission and the responsibility to represent the country well. [1]
• 2025 4 Nations tournament shapes chemistry on the ice: The brothers’ chemistry was highlighted during the 4 Nations Face-Off, where they skated on the same line and contributed to memorable moments against Canada. Team leaders cited chemistry as a key factor that could help the team gel quickly. [1]
• Medal drought adds pressure but motivates the mission: With the U.S. gold banner missing since 1980 and a podium absence since 2010, players framed the Games as an opportunity to grow USA Hockey’s profile and serve as ambassadors for the sport’s next generation. [1]

Who Said What

• Matthew Tkachuk, U.S. Olympic hockey player; Florida Panthers forward: It’s incredible. It’s something that I think we always dreamed about, playing for the United States, when we were younger. Our dreams finally get to come true. It’s kind of surreal, but I think just above anything else, just a chance to get to play and hang out with each other for a few weeks is the highlight of it all. So we want to go over there and make it count and try to win gold. [1]
• Matthew Tkachuk, U.S. Olympic hockey player; Florida Panthers forward: I don’t remember exactly where I was. I think I was still in the playoffs. I think I might have even been in the finals. So kind of all a whirlwind. I don’t think I really allowed myself to take into account how big of a moment it was. When I got the call or when they told me in person with Bill Zito at the rink, it was just like, ‘Alright, like, this is amazing.’ [1]
• Brady Tkachuk, U.S. Olympic hockey player; Ottawa Senators captain: I definitely had a different reaction than Matthew because I know he was in the finals, but I was sitting at home. I was at my place. I got the call. Holy cow. Going the Olympics. Texted my family and I was with my family, too. [1]
• Brady Tkachuk, U.S. Olympic hockey player; Ottawa Senators captain: Once I heard that Brady also was going be one of the first six, I think that’s when it kind of set in and was just such an amazing day for our whole family. [1]
• Bill Guerin, Team USA general manager: We’re excited about our team. It was incredibly difficult for our management group to get to the final roster and that’s a credit to so many in our country, including all those at the grassroots level who help make our sport so strong. There’s nothing like the Olympics, and I know our players and staff will represent our country well and work hard to achieve our ultimate goal. [1]
• Bill Guerin, Team USA general manager: The biggest thing for me was the chemistry, and I think the chemistry allowed the guys to play the way that they did. [1]

Key Facts

• DSA minutes show planned ties with CCP officials: Minutes from the DSA’s China Working Group describe discussions about contacting officials from the Chinese Communist Party under an anti-imperialism frame. The documents indicate members talked about visits to China and setting up exchanges, with Chinese officials not attending the meetings themselves but encouraging deeper ties. One proposed approach included arranging a two‑week itinerary and hiring locals to facilitate the connection. [1]
• Mamdani not recorded as present; administration silent: The minutes do not show Mamdani as present at any of the meetings, and his NYC Hall office did not respond to requests for comment. The article notes Mamdani has distance himself from elements of the national DSA platform, and he has not issued extensive public comments on China. This comes as his mayoral victory foregrounds the DSA’s growing influence in New York. [1]
• Anonymous activist outlines deepening ties with CPC: At an October meeting of the China Working Group, an anonymous New York–based activist said, “China wants to interface with the DSA,” and floated a plan to develop a “killer two‑week itinerary,” hire locals, and broaden connections with the CPC to be “golden.” The statement underscores a push to normalize and expand dialogue with Chinese officials. [1]
• Code Pink guidance to avoid sensitive topics and emphasize messaging: Code Pink co‑founder Jodie Evans briefed the group on its campaign and advised staying out of politically sensitive issues, suggesting we should focus on messaging that is easier to sell, such as poverty alleviation programs in China. The minutes note the suggestion as part of a coordinated messaging approach. [1]
• Trips to Xinjiang and Guizhou feature in the records; policy concepts discussed: The minutes reference an August 2025 visit to Guizhou and a prior Xinjiang trip, hosted by local Party School officials. They describe seminars and the Guizhou development concept of Social Pairing as a means to connect eastern and western China, with officials encouraging official exchanges and noting a media network tied to pro‑CCP outlets. [1]
• Internal disagreements over human rights framing surfaced: Some participants push back on portraying Uyghur rights as central, with one remark that reports of abuse have been exaggerated. The minutes also show debates over how to present China policy in the United States and concerns about propaganda from U.S. media and the left. [1]

Who Said What

• Anonymous activist, New York–based political activist: "China wants to interface with the DSA. If we develop a killer two-week itinerary, hire locals, and develop further connections with the CPC, then we're golden." [1]
• Anlin Wang, Leader of the China Working Group: "I think one thing we would like to see is robust internationalism / anti-imperialism." [1]
• Jodie Evans, Code Pink co-founder: "Stay out of the weeds. Focus on points that are easier to sell." [1]
• Anonymous member, DSA member: "Anti-imperialism should be at the forefront of everything we do in DSA." [1]
• Anonymous member, DSA member: "I like Jodie. They stick to the CINOE message and don't get stuck in One China or Xinjiang or Hong Kong." [1]
• Anonymous participant, DSA member: "There are real problems with the Chinese government, but we are not going to stop what the Chinese are doing as DSA. We have to confront the propaganda campaign by U.S. media and even the left. For instance, one million Uyghurs being brutalized in Xinjiang is an exaggeration." [1]

Key Facts

• Indiana wins national championship: Indiana defeats Miami to claim the national title with Fernando Mendoza leading as a Heisman Trophy winner. The victory marks a peak in Indiana's season and cements Mendoza's profile as one of the sport's top players. [1]
• Alberto Mendoza announces transfer to Georgia Tech: Less than 24 hours after the title game, Alberto Mendoza reveals his decision to transfer to Georgia Tech. He already has three years of college eligibility remaining and is positioned to compete for the starting quarterback job at Tech. [1]
• Fernando Mendoza endorses move on Instagram: Fernando reposts the transfer news with a four-word message, expressing support for his brother: “Best QB I know.” The post highlights a public familial endorsement of Alberto's decision. [1]
• Alberto positioned to compete for Georgia Tech starting role: At Georgia Tech, Alberto will have a three-year eligibility window to challenge for the starting job, joining a program guided by head coach Brent Key that has shown recent success. [1]
• Alberto's Indiana stats show limited offensive impact: This season, Alberto appeared in limited games, completing 18 of 24 passes for 286 yards and five touchdowns, and adding 190 rushing yards. [1]
• Fernando Mendoza remains projected for NFL draft top pick: Fernando is anticipated to be the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft as he contemplates his professional future after Indiana's title run. [1]

Who Said What

• Fernando Mendoza, Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner: "Best QB I know." [1]

Key Facts

• Petition tops 100,000 signatures, now at 104,894: The call to impeach President Trump was organized by Blackout The System and has grown in momentum. The petition frames accountability for actions in office and has drawn support across voices, though it remains a protest tool rather than a formal government action. As of early Wednesday morning, the tally stood at 104,894, highlighting sustained interest in impeachment discussions. [1]
• White House will not respond to petition: Reaching the 100,000-signature threshold is not described as triggering an official White House response. The article notes that the milestone may raise the petition’s profile but does not indicate any forthcoming action from the administration. [1]
• We the People petitioning system was taken down after Biden took office: The White House’s petition platform, which existed to route major petitions to the president, was removed in January 2021 after President Biden assumed office. The change effectively ended presidential responses via this mechanism. [2]
• Bacon links Greenland talk to impeachment prospects: Rep. Don Bacon warned that Trump’s talk of annexing Greenland could spur impeachment efforts across party lines, reflecting how rhetoric on foreign policy can influence accountability conversations. [3]
• Trump warns of third impeachment if Democrats win midterms: Trump told House Republicans that if Democrats regain control in the midterms, impeachment could follow. The remark underscores the political stakes surrounding the impeachment conversation. [4]
• Al Green pledges to pursue impeachment; earlier effort dismissed by the House: Democratic Rep. Al Green said he would press forward with impeachment attempts, noting that a prior effort was dismissed by the House in December. The pledge signals ongoing partisan energy around removing Trump. [6]

Who Said What

• Carlos Álvarez-Aranyos, Founder of American Opposition: "Impeachment, conviction, and removal is the healthiest pathway to ending this nightmare, as it removes the fascist regime while reasserting the power of our Constitution. Our system was built to deal with threats like Donald Trump. Our current failure is human. We need our representatives to wake up and use the tools the founders gave them to save our republic before it’s too late." [5]
• Donald Trump, Former President: "You gotta win the midterms, because if we don't win the midterms, it's just going to be, I mean, they'll find a reason to impeach me. I’ll get impeached." [4]
• Democratic Representative Al Green, Democratic Representative: "I pledge to you that I will do all that I can, including make efforts to impeach Donald John Trump, for all that he has done to create this stain on the citadel of democracy." [6]

Key Facts

• Jackson dissents as Court bars inmate petitions: The Supreme Court denied inmate Danny Howell's petition for a writ of certiorari and directed the Clerk not to accept future petitions from Howell unless a docketing fee of $300 plus printing costs is paid. Jackson wrote a dissent, calling the filing bar an intolerable restriction for incarcerated people. [1]
• Howell filed six petitions over 14 years: Jackson noted Howell submitted six petitions to the Court over 14 years, a practice cited in her dissent as context for the Court’s ruling against further filings without payment. [1]
• Howell's convictions and current confinement: Howell is serving a combined 70-year sentence for child molesting and sexual misconduct and is housed at New Castle Correctional Facility. [1]
• Petition challenged alleged bias and witness testimony: The petition for a writ of certiorari raised questions about alleged judicial bias and prosecutors' failure to correct a witness's testimony, illustrating why Howell sought review. [1]
• Jackson argues the bar would hinder access to justice: In her dissent, she argued that courts should err on the side of keeping doors open to potentially meritorious petitions rather than reflexively restricting access for administrative convenience. [1]

Who Said What

• Ketanji Brown Jackson, Associate Justice: "A categorical, forward-looking filing bar is a questionable restriction as to any litigant who cannot afford to pay a filing fee. For me, it is an intolerable one as to incarcerated individuals. Accordingly, I respectfully dissent," [1]
• Ketanji Brown Jackson, Associate Justice: "The future is famously hard to predict. So the justification for a permanent filing bar—even one related to the Court’s administrative convenience—is murky at best." [1]

Key Facts

• Japan unveils domestically developed underwater drones: The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force said on Tuesday that an unspecified number of unmanned underwater vehicles have been delivered. Official imagery shows at least six torpedo-shaped drones in black laid out on the ground at an undisclosed site. The exact model of the drones remains unclear. [1]
• Drones likely TTL-compatible for submarine launches: An Australia-based naval analyst described the UUVs as TTL, or torpedo tube launch, compatible designs with a 533 mm diameter, the same as heavyweight torpedoes. That sizing suggests they can be launched and recovered from submarines. The assessment points to potential integration with existing submarine platforms. [1]
• Japan has signaled prior UUV development plans: In 2021, Japan's Defense Ministry disclosed UUVs capable of extended operation to detect and monitor submarines and ships and to deploy naval mines. Naval News cited these developments as part of Japan's broader underwater defense program. [1]
• XLUUVs under development for broader payloads: Japan is pursuing extra-large UUVs, or XLUUVs, with a diameter of 1.8 meters, designed to carry different payloads in field-ready mission modules. The aim is to expand patrol and mission versatility in underwater defense. [1]
• Defense white paper reinforces unmanned assets amid China threat: In its 2025 defense white paper, Japan said it is reinforcing seven defense capabilities, including unmanned assets, in what it calls the most severe and complex security environment since the post-war era, with China named as a major threat. [1]
• U.S. Navy pursuit of UUV integration mirrors Japan's push: The U.S. Navy has pursued underwater drone work, with the Virginia-class submarine USS Delaware completing the launch and recovery of a Yellow Moray UUV during a six-month deployment in Europe in 2025. Huntington Ingalls Industries described this as the first torpedo tube deployment and recovery of a UUV on a tactical mission, with sorties lasting up to 10 hours each. [1]

Who Said What

• Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Military branch: "JMSDF is steadily building up defense capabilities, including unmanned assets, to enhance deterrence and response." [1]
• U.S. Navy Submarine Readiness Squadron 32, Navy unit: "The integration of robotic and autonomous systems is expected to enhance operational flexibility and capabilities of future submarine missions, providing the ability to extend reach at both shallower and deeper depths than a manned submarine can access." [1]

Key Facts

• Americans must obtain ETIAS before travel: Americans will need to apply for European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) pre-travel authorization to visit 30 European countries starting in the last quarter of 2026. The requirement targets visa-exempt travelers and aims to streamline border checks. The authorization will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires and allows up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The application carries a 20-euro fee. [2]
• No end to visa-free travel on Feb 1: Online reports about ending visa-free travel for Americans on February 1 are not supported by Newsweek’s review. The piece emphasizes that the only upcoming change is ETIAS. The Schengen Area’s internal travel framework remains unchanged for now. [1]
• ETIAS is not just about the U.S: The ETIAS program will apply to travelers from several countries beyond the United States, broadening pre-travel checks for visa-exempt visitors to Europe. [6]
• ETIAS mirrors ESTA in function: Officials note that ETIAS serves a role similar to the United States’ ESTA, providing pre-travel screening for visa-exempt travelers entering Europe. [5]
• Application process and timeline: Applicants can use the official ETIAS website or mobile app to submit, with processing typically in minutes though variability exists. Once submitted, travelers receive an application number by email and should apply well before travel. [2]

Key Facts

• Katy Goodwill bag hides Percocet pill: A shopper bought a leather box style purse for $6.99 at a Goodwill in Katy, Texas. While inspecting the interior, she found a pill tucked at the bottom. The discovery turned a routine thrift-store find into a surprising mystery. She had hoped the bag could be resold if it proved to be a bargain. [1]
• Pill identified as Percocet, a prescription opioid: The pill is Percocet, a prescription painkiller that combines oxycodone and acetaminophen. It was found among the bag’s contents and identified by the shopper as a single prescription pill. The article notes that narcotics are not typically found in ordinary thrift-store packaging, prompting questions about how it ended up there. [1]
• Donor hygiene and staff misidentification speculated: The shopper suggested that donors often do not thoroughly clean out items before donating, leaving unexpected contents behind. She also speculated Goodwill staff might have mistaken the pill for allergy medicine or something similar. [1]
• Reddit post by u/FlowerDriver draws attention and discussion: Mandoza shared a photo of the pill on Reddit under the handle u/FlowerDriver. The post drew thousands of upvotes and prompted readers to share stories of similar thrift-store discoveries. [4][5]
• Healthcare-derived theory online links pill to hospital supply: A Reddit commenter suggested the pills were hospital Percocets dispensed or stolen by someone with access to hospital meds, noting the packaging and context raise questions about origin. [4]
• Handbag not discarded; listing appears on eBay: Mandoza has not discarded the Percocet or the bag. The handbag is already listed on eBay, turning the item into a potential resale item while the mystery remains unresolved. [1]

Who Said What

• Jill Lawson Mandoza, thrift shopper from Oklahoma City: "I found the pill while looking for imperfections on the interior. It was just at the bottom of the bag." [1]
• Jill Lawson Mandoza, thrift shopper from Oklahoma City: "I was shocked because it was with a variety of bags, including little girls." [1]
• Jill Lawson Mandoza, thrift shopper from Oklahoma City: "A lot of people don't really clean out their stuff before donating it, and these days it's unusual for a narcotic to be in a blister pack, they [Goodwill staff] probably thought it was allergy medicine or something." [1]
• Reddit user, Reddit commenter: "Those are hospital Percocets. I remember giving those out (I’m in healthcare, not like, at parties lol). Regular medications don't come individually packaged with a barcode like that." [4]

Key Facts

• ICE occupied county space without a signed lease: The MOA signed Oct 31, 2022 was supposed to lead to a lease after 10 months, but no lease was ever executed. DHS has used the Hamilton Financial Center for roughly 38 months. No payments were recorded in county accounts, and the county absorbed maintenance and utilities. [1]
• Controller Pinsley calls for eviction and recovery: Pinsley highlighted the MOA flaw and said leadership changes contributed to the issue. He argues the county should evict and pursue legal options to recover roughly $115,000 in unpaid rent plus possible late fees. [1]
• Unpaid rent totals about $115,000; full lease value would have been about $141,000: The MOA and proposed lease would have paid about $140,995.31 over the term, with late fees around $7,600. The county also shouldered utilities and maintenance costs. [1]
• Emails show ICE and DHS disputed payment status: An ICE realty specialist said no payments had been made yet; a Homeland Security Investigations official described the lease process as slow and requiring board approval. Officials suggested payment would occur after signing, but it never happened. [1]
• County plans action to recover funds and evict: Pinsley recommended issuing a demand for payment, pursuing legal avenues to recover lost revenue, and evicting federal agencies from the property. [1]
• Press conference set for January 20 at Lehigh County Government Center: Pinsley is set to address questions at 2 p.m. ET on January 20 regarding the findings and next steps for recovery and eviction. [1]

Who Said What

• Mark Pinsley, Lehigh County Controller: "Rather than execute a lease, they executed a memorandum of agreement first that was supposed to turn into a lease 10 months later." This shows how a MOA created occupancy without a formal lease and why the county is pursuing an eviction. [1]
• Mark Pinsley, Lehigh County Controller: "Both parties have not fully executed an agreement, but DHS has been occupying the space for roughly 38 months." The remark underscores the duration of occupancy without a signed contract. [1]
• Jason Wills, ICE realty specialist: "We haven’t paid Lehigh County as yet." This highlights that no payments have been made despite occupancy. [1]
• Brent Morral, HSI resident agent in charge, Allentown: "has yet to be finalized," describing the process as slow and noting that board approval would still be required once terms were agreed upon. [1]
• Mark Pinsley, Lehigh County Controller: "I am recommending that we don’t sign that contract," he said. "I want them evicted." This captures the proposed course of action against ICE and DHS. [1]
• Mark Pinsley, Lehigh County Controller: "Pay your bills, pack your s**t, and get the hell out," Pinsley wrote in an email. This conveys the administrator’s frustration and demand for payment. [1]

Key Facts

• Williams directs Abbott Elementary episode: During the show's fifth season, Williams moves from acting to directing, saying he wanted to explore another aspect of the process. His background as a former child star informs his sense of act breaks and pacing. He describes directing as an extension of his long-standing involvement with the show. [1]
• Network backing sustains Abbott amid shifting TV landscape: Williams credits Disney's support and the show’s network status with keeping broadcast-style comedy viable at a time when streaming dominates. He argues that network television remains an equalizer and a durable platform for storytelling that reaches a broad audience. [1]
• Episode assignment was Gregory-heavy, Williams says: He notes there was an order change that left him with an episode focused on his Gregory character. Balancing directing with acting presented a challenge, but he embraced the opportunity to tell a story from both roles and to prove the approach could work. [1]
• Familiar cast aids directing on Abbott: Williams says knowing the cast well lets him anticipate performances and even give actors room to improv. He describes letting the ensemble off the leash to draw out stronger takes and shares admiration for teammates, including scenes with Chris Perfetti. [1]
• Directing signals path toward producing: He frames directing as a step toward producing, aiming to build something from the ground up someday. He discusses industry-wide questions about scaling and sustaining tight storytelling in a TV landscape driven by ad revenue, while noting his long tenure in the business informs his plans. [1]
• Emmys fashion moment with Chris Perfetti: Williams jokes about a coordinated, almost Daft Punk-like fashion dynamic with Perfetti, insisting the look is not planned. He cites their history of sharing red carpets and celebrating the enduring presence of broadcast comedy in modern television. [1]

Who Said What

• Tyler James Williams, Actor and director on Abbott Elementary: "I have been wanting to get my hands dirty in another aspect of the process." This signals his motivation to expand into directing and to engage more deeply with production. [1]
• Tyler James Williams, Actor and director on Abbott Elementary: "I came up in the broadcast sitcom. That's where I earned my bones. I would love to see it maintained." This reflects his commitment to keeping broadcast TV relevant. [1]
• Tyler James Williams, Actor and director on Abbott Elementary: "There happened to be an order flip that happened this year, so I got one that was super Gregory-heavy." He explains how the episode assignment came about and why it shaped his directing task. [1]
• Tyler James Williams, Actor and director on Abbott Elementary: "As an actor, it's my job to execute that story, and as a director, it's my job to show it to you the best way that I possibly can." This captures the dual responsibilities he balanced while directing. [1]
• Tyler James Williams, Actor and director on Abbott Elementary: "The puppy is just as strong and lovable as the grown adult dog it's gonna turn into." This metaphor describes his view of growing from youth into mature stardom within the industry. [1]
• Tyler James Williams, Actor and director on Abbott Elementary: "Listen, we're the broadcast comedy in this landscape. We understand that we may have a little bit more hill to climb." He underscores the challenges and pride of sustaining network comedy. [1]

Key Facts

• Copenhagen Test debuts on Peacock with brain-hacking spy premise: The show centers on a spy whose brain is hacked, turning surveillance into a thriller. Liu and Barrera describe the premise as multi-dimensional, blending traditional spy action with psychological twists, and the eight-episode format invites viewers to linger with the characters. [1]
• Diversity integrated into storytelling, not tokenized: Barrera says the pilot is well-written and not a tokenized Latino role. Liu emphasizes that representation is embedded in the storytelling and stems from the characters’ lived experiences, rather than being foregrounded as a gimmick. [1]
• Production origin shaped by James Wan's Atomic Monster and Thomas Brandon: Liu explains that Atomic Monster and co-showrunner Brandon pitched a story about an American spy who doesn’t look American, aiming to challenge perceptions of trust and identity within a spy thriller that also nods to speculative sci-fi elements. [1]
• Historical representation highlighted via the 442nd Regimental Combat Team: Liu points to the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a largely Japanese American unit, as a historically significant reference that informs the show's exploration of belonging and identity in its storytelling. [1]
• Industry representation debate and viral post cited to push for change: The talent discuss contraction in TV/film and argue for authentic engagement over white-dominated projects, referencing a viral post connected to Hollywood diversity as part of broader conversations about representation. [1][6]

Who Said What

• Simu Liu, Actor and co-star (Alexander); producer: "Oh wow, what a gift for a lead actor to be able to play so many dimensions," reflecting his reaction to the script’s hook and the opportunity for a multi-dimensional lead role. [1]
• Melissa Barrera, Actor (Melissa Barrera): "The writing was so good. It’s really nice when you get a TV show pilot where you’re like 'Oh, this is written really well," describing the pilot’s quality and the appeal of a well-crafted story. [1]
• Simu Liu, Actor and producer: "Seeing someone who looked like me working for the U.S. government, you don’t see it on TV," highlighting the importance of authentic representation in media. [1]

Key Facts

• Handbags strain lower back more than backpacks: A new study using finite element and musculoskeletal modeling shows that carrying a handbag or shoulder bag places more stress on the lumbar spine than a traditional backpack. Among the styles tested, the handbag produced the greatest stress on the lumbar discs. The findings align with ergonomic observations that how you carry a laptop matters as much as its weight. [2]
• Researchers modeled spine stress to compare styles: The study employed a hybrid modeling approach to analyze stress on the lumbar spine under handbag, shoulder bag, and backpack scenarios. It quantified muscle force, intervertebral compressive force, and shear force to determine which carrying method was most stressful. The results highlight how weight distribution and carry style influence back strain over time. [2]
• Backpacks designed for laptops may reduce risk: Experts say that backpack design matters because laptop-specific packs can better distribute weight and protect the back. Wide padded shoulder straps and well-padded backs are recommended to minimize spinal stress and circulation issues. The guidance emphasizes load distribution as a key factor in reducing back strain when carrying laptops. [7]
• Likely risk confirmed by UC Berkeley ergonomist: Nathaniel Chung, an ergonomist at the University of California, Berkeley, confirmed the risk in discussing the study with an external outlet. He advocates wearing backpacks with both straps and cautions that single-strap use can lead to back musculoskeletal issues, including scoliosis in developing children. His comments underscore the practical implications of the study for students and young workers. [6]
• Backpack weight should be limited to about 10 pounds: Gregory Hahn, M.D., of Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, recommends backpacks with wide padded straps and substantial backing to prevent circulation issues and reduce spinal stress. He cautions against overloading and suggests a filled backpack should not weigh more than about 10 pounds, which roughly corresponds to a laptop, charger, and a few documents. [7]
• Wrist risk highlighted for tote carrying: Tulane athletic trainer Patrick Maloney notes that carrying a laptop or heavy items in one hand can create levered weight on the wrist, potentially leading to de Quervain’s syndrome, a painful tendinitis. The warning adds to the broader message that uneven weight distribution can have multiple the day-to-day health impacts. [1]

Who Said What

• Nathaniel Chung, campus ergonomist, University of California, Berkeley: "Backpacks should be worn with both straps. Single shoulder strap use can cause back musculoskeletal issues, most notably scoliosis in developing children." [6]
• Gregory Hahn, M.D, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital: "Don’t overload the backpack. A filled backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10 pounds." [7]
• Patrick Maloney, Tulane athletic trainer: "That’s like three or four pounds of levered weight on your wrist… that can lead to a common condition called de Quervain’s syndrome," [1]

Key Facts

• Retirees need $823,800 to retire comfortably in 2026: Clever Real Estate surveyed 1,000 retirees who stopped working about 11 years ago in October 2025 to gauge their finances. The target amount for a comfortable retirement in 2026 is $823,800, up from $580,310 last year. The average savings among retirees is about $288,700, down from $308,040 last year, and 29% report having no retirement savings. The numbers underscore a widening gap that many retirees describe as a retirement crisis. [1]
• Sixty-four percent call US retirement crisis: The survey found 64% believe the United States is in a retirement crisis, with 48% lacking confidence they can sustain their current quality of life long-term and 23% doubting they can do so even for the next year. [1]
• Costs erode retirees as groceries and insurance rise: Fifty-five percent prioritize preserving finances over enjoying retirement, while 67% say groceries cost more than planned and 60% report higher than expected insurance expenses. [1]
• Half lack a plan if savings run dry: The survey finds 51% of respondents have no plan if their savings run out, illustrating how exposed many retirees are to rising costs and uncertainty about the future. [1]
• Housing remains a major pressure point: Forty-nine percent say a substantial drop in home value would affect long-term plans, 25% aren’t sure they could afford current housing costs in a year, and 73% would do everything to stay in their homes despite affordability challenges. [1]
• Policy change views are mixed: The survey shows 58% oppose raising the average retirement age, 33% support removing benefits for those who don’t need them, and 18% think retirees with substantial savings should receive fewer benefits. [1]

Key Facts

• Lavrov says Moscow is very concerned about Typhon in Japan: Lavrov told reporters in Moscow that Moscow is very much concerned by what it believes is the ongoing presence of the U.S. Typhon missile system in Japan, given the deepening military and strategic cooperation between Washington and Tokyo. He also tied the issue to what he described as NATO allies outside the region taking part in the militarization of Japan, with drills and other activities near Russia's borders. The remarks frame the deployment as potentially more than a temporary measure and reflect Moscow’s broader security concerns in the region. [1]
• Japanese Defense Ministry calls Typhon deployment temporary: In October, Japanese officials said the U.S. Typhon system was preparing to be removed and that it was not intended to be a permanent deployment. This characterization was part of Japan’s official communications amid regional tensions. [2]
• Japanese Foreign Ministry says Typhon not directed at any country: In the following month, Tokyo stressed that the Typhon system was not aimed at any particular country, signaling a diplomatic effort to reassure Moscow while keeping the arrangement under review. [3]
• Typhon deployments framed as reassurance amid China-Russia assertiveness: The article describes the Asia-Pacific Typhon deployments as a move to reassure U.S. allies as China, in strategic partnership with Russia, increases its assertiveness in the region. NATO views the Asia-Pacific security dynamic as connected to transatlantic security through this evolving geometry. [1]
• Typhon arrives at Iwakuni for Resolute Dragon 25; can fire Tomahawk and SM-6; 1,000-mile Tomahawk range: The land-based Typhon system was deployed to the U.S. Marine Corps Base in Iwakuni, Japan, during the war game Resolute Dragon 25. It is capable of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles and SM-6 missiles, with a 1,000-mile Tomahawk range for strikes on China, Russia, and North Korea. [1][5]
• Earlier Philippines deployment kept indefinitely; China denounced as dangerous: In April 2024, the U.S. stationed a Typhon system in the Philippines for drills, and the allies later decided to keep the weapon there indefinitely, a move China denounced as highly dangerous. [6]

Who Said What

• Sergey Lavrov, Foreign Minister of Russia: "very much concerned" by what it believes is the ongoing presence of the U.S. Typhon missile system in Japan, in light of deepening military and strategic cooperation between Washington and Tokyo. [1]
• Sergey Lavrov, Foreign Minister of Russia: "maybe it's not just about military drills. Maybe this is more about a permanent presence, if I can say that." [1]
• Sergey Lavrov, Foreign Minister of Russia: "We have had no official confirmation that these systems have been withdrawn, so we are still very much concerned about that." [1]

Key Facts

• Video shows Tate, Fuentes singing Heil Hitler in van: A clip circulated online showing Andrew Tate, Tristan Tate, Nick Fuentes and others grinning, dancing and singing along to Kanye West's Heil Hitler in a van en route to Vendôme nightclub. A second video later showed the group dancing to the same track inside the club after they reportedly requested it. The posts highlighted a wider moment of controversy around the influencers and the song. [2][4]
• Andrew Tate denies involvement: A spokesperson for Andrew Tate told Newsweek that Tate had no involvement in the song being played or requested and that he cannot control what a venue or others choose to play. The statement signals an attempt to distance Tate from the incident. [3]
• Clavicular reposts footage, notes visibility: Braden Peters, known online as Clavicular, reposted the footage and highlighted its ubiquity on social media, underscoring the reach of the moment and the attention it drew from online audiences. [5]
• Ye song Heil Hitler features Nazi imagery: The track, released by Ye on May 8, 2025, uses the repeated phrase Heil Hitler and samples an Adolf Hitler speech, drawing widespread condemnation for Nazi imagery and antisemitism. The song's platform bans reflect broad backlash to its content. [6][1]
• Australia bans Ye entry upon release: Ye was barred from entering Australia upon the song's release, reflecting international scrutiny and the political backlash surrounding the track. [7]
• Vendôme condemns antisemitism and reviews safeguards: Vendôme and its hospitality group issued a statement condemning antisemitism, hate speech and prejudice, and said it would review how the song was played during a bottle parade while considering additional safeguards to prevent such incidents in the future. The mayor of Miami-Dade County also condemned the incident, calling for accountability. [1]

Who Said What

• Andrew Tate, influencer: "Andrew Tate had no involvement in the song being played or requested. He has no control over what a venue or others choose to play and strongly questions why such a decision was made." [3]
• Braden Peters (Clavicular), online influencer: "We are everywhere on social media, you cant scroll anywhere without seeing this collab, and you think this is somehow negative?" [5]
• Vendôme hospitality group, venue operator: "We are aware of a video circulating online from one of our venues that includes content and imagery that are deeply offensive and unacceptable. We want to be unequivocally clear: Vendôme and our hospitality group do not condone antisemitism, hate speech, or prejudice of any kind." [1]
• Daniella Levine Cava, mayor of Miami-Dade County: "Hate has no home in Miami-Dade County. Reports of Nazi slogans at a Miami Beach club are deeply disturbing and unacceptable. We stand against antisemitism and all hate, and expect swift accountability to keep our community safe and respectful for all." [1]

Key Facts

• Super agers carry fewer APOE-ε4 alleles: The study found that individuals 80 and older who remain cognitively sharp were 68 percent less likely to carry APOE-ε4 than peers with Alzheimer's dementia, and 19 percent less likely than cognitively normal peers of the same age. [3]
• APOE-ε2 protective allele more common among super agers: Super agers were 28 percent more likely to carry APOE-ε2 than cognitively normal adults aged 80+, and 103 percent more likely than those with Alzheimer’s disease. [1]
• Definition of super agers: 80-plus with memory akin to much younger adults: They are defined as people aged 80 or older whose memory and thinking abilities resemble those of people 20 to 30 years younger. [2]
• Largest study of its kind on super agers: The analysis pooled genetic and cognitive data from 18,080 participants drawn from eight national aging studies through the Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project Phenotype Harmonization Consortium. [5]
• Diversity and scale: participants from multiple backgrounds; more than 1,600 super agers: Researchers included participants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, with over 1,600 identified as super agers. [5]
• Researchers see potential for resilience-focused insights: Scholars say identifying the super-ager phenotype could guide future work on mechanisms of resilience to cognitive decline and inform prevention and treatment strategies. [1]

Who Said What

• Leslie Gaynor, paper author and Vanderbilt neuropsychologist: "This was our most striking finding." [1]
• Leslie Gaynor, paper author and Vanderbilt neuropsychologist: "Although all adults who reach the age of 80 without receiving a diagnosis of clinical dementia exhibit exceptional aging, our study suggests that the super-ager phenotype can be used to identify a particularly exceptional group of oldest-old adults with a reduced genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease." [1]
• Leslie Gaynor, paper author and Vanderbilt neuropsychologist: "With interest in super agers growing, our findings notably encourage the view that the super-ager phenotype will prove useful in the continued search for mechanisms conferring resilience to Alzheimer’s disease." [1]

Key Facts

• Ptilotus senarius rediscovered in Queensland: A shrub long believed extinct in the wild had not been seen since 1967. In June, horticulturalist Aaron Bean posted photos to iNaturalist from private land in the Gilbert River region of northwest Queensland. Botanists collected a specimen and confirmed the plant's identity, showing it has persisted for about six decades unseen. The find ends decades of uncertainty about its status. [1]
• Specimen confirmation after photos sparked follow-up: Photos shared on iNaturalist prompted botanists to investigate the plant on site. A physical specimen was collected to confirm the identification, establishing that the species remains in the wild. The confirmation demonstrates that some 'lost' species can survive in remote areas. This sets the stage for targeted surveys and monitoring to map its distribution. [1]
• iNaturalist accelerates conservation science: Researchers say digital platforms like iNaturalist reshapes conservation work by enabling rapid publication of observations from hard-to-reach places and linking them with experts worldwide. The platform lets users post photographs instantly, helping specialists recognize rare species. [1]
• 104 million plant vouchers on iNaturalist: The platform's massive archive includes more than 104 million verifiable plant photographs uploaded globally as of July 2025. The rediscovery is documented in a peer‑reviewed paper that accompanies the finding. [1]
• June 2025 discovery on private Gilbert River land: The June 2025 upload from private land in the Gilbert River region led to the formal identification of Ptilotus senarius, confirming its survival after decades without a verified sighting. [1]
• Outlook requires population assessment and monitoring: Researchers say the long-term outlook for Ptilotus senarius requires assessment, and the rediscovery offers an opportunity for targeted surveys and long-term monitoring to understand its distribution and status. [1]

Who Said What

• Thomas Mesaglio, paper author and ecologist, University of New South Wales: "Rediscoveries offer that opportunity to conduct follow-up, targeted surveys and consistent long-term monitoring to give us a better understanding of exactly where and how these species are distributed across the landscape." [1]
• Thomas Mesaglio, paper author and ecologist, University of New South Wales: "iNaturalist especially has become an invaluable tool for recording biodiversity on private property, which can often be difficult to access by professional researchers." [1]

Key Facts

• BoE veteran warns alien disclosure could trigger financial crisis: Helen McCaw, a former Bank of England policy expert in financial security, told The Times that releasing information about unidentified anomalous phenomena could cause ontological shock and destabilize markets. She warned that central banks and policymakers may not be fully briefed and that disclosure could trigger price volatility and a rush to safe assets like gold. McCaw urged contingency planning by the Bank of England's governor should the White House confirm alien existence. [1]
• McCaw urges BoE contingency plan for disclosure: McCaw wrote to the BoE governor urging a contingency plan in case the United States confirms alien existence. She argued that if UAPs prove to be non-human, governments and central banks could face unanticipated risks, with potential unrest and disruptions to financial stability. Her warnings emphasize that leadership may not be properly briefed on the topic. [1]
• Online reaction amplifies alien disclosure warnings: A wave of online commentary highlighted the claim, including a podcast host posting about the UK central bank preparing for a crisis, and supporters praising McCaw’s expertise. The posts circulated with significant engagement, illustrating how quickly the topic spread across social platforms. [1]
• Public belief in extraterrestrial life remains high: The article cites a Pew Research Center study showing nearly two-thirds of Americans believe intelligent life exists beyond Earth, underscoring broad public interest in potential disclosure. [1]
• Trump signaled possible declassification of alien information: The piece notes that President Donald Trump has previously indicated his administration may declassify some information on extraterrestrial life, placing disclosure debates within a political context. [2]
• Age of Disclosure and Disclosure Day sustain discourse: The Age of Disclosure documentary has generated online discussion about aliens, while Steven Spielberg's forthcoming Disclosure Day trailer has drawn millions of views and is slated for U.S. release on June 12, 2026. [1][4]

Who Said What

• Helen McCaw, former Bank of England policy expert in financial security: "The United States government appears to be partway through a multiyear process to declassify and disclose information on the existence of a technologically advanced non-human intelligence responsible for Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs)." [1]
• Helen McCaw, former Bank of England policy expert in financial security: "If the UAP proves to be of non-human origin, we may have to acknowledge the existence of a power or intelligence greater than any government and with potentially unknown intentions. It is entirely possible that government leadership and their central banks have not been properly briefed on the topic. UAP disclosure is likely to induce ontological shock and provoke psychological responses with material consequences." [1]
• Mario Nawfal, podcast host: "WAIT…WHAT?! A former Bank of England policy analyst is warning the UK’s central bank to prepare for a financial crisis…caused by aliens." [1]
• Holly Wood, researcher and public speaker: "And at the centre of it is my friend, Helen McCaw. A former Bank of England senior analyst in financial security. A Cambridge graduate. Someone whose actual job was to think about state-level risk, stability, and what breaks systems. I’m incredibly proud of her. She inspires me regularly. The question is no longer \"is it real?\" It’s \"what happens when it’s confirmed?\"" [1]
• Hustle B, YouTuber: "READ THIS TWICE - THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL SYSTEM IS PREPARING FOR ALIENS. This is not a meme. This is not a fringe blog. This is an actual newspaper article reporting that the Bank of England has been urged to prepare for financial collapse if aliens are officially confirmed." [1]

Key Facts

• DoD approves up to $1.5B for Peru base upgrade: The Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced up to $1.5 billion in funding to support Peru's plan to upgrade and relocate its largest naval base from Callao to a site closer to Lima. The package covers onshore and maritime facilities, lifecycle design, construction, project management, engineering services, and logistical support. Peru has not disclosed a timeline for completion. The DSCA stated the sale would not adversely affect U.S. defense readiness or regional balance. [1]
• Base relocation near Chancay COSCO megaport: The planned base lies roughly 50 miles north of Chancay, where a $1.3 billion megaport built and operated by COSCO opened in late 2024. The location ties Peru’s naval infrastructure modernization to a major Chinese-backed port project. The arrangement is framed in Washington as part of broader regional dynamics in Latin America. [2]
• US worries about China expansion and dual-use risk: U.S. officials have grown wary of Beijing’s expanding influence in Latin America and the potential civilian-military dual-use role of port infrastructure funded by a Chinese entity. The narrative situates the Peru sale within a broader conversation about China’s footprint in the region and U.S. strategic interests. [3][4]
• DSCA says sale advances US foreign policy aims: The DSCA describes the sale as contributing to U.S. foreign policy objectives by strengthening security ties with a key partner in South America. It argues the upgrade will enhance Peru’s naval and logistical capabilities and reduce civilian-military interactions at the current site. [1]
• Congress notified; personnel to site: The DSCA said Congress has been notified of the proposed sale. The plan allows up to 20 American personnel or contractor representatives to be stationed at the site for up to a decade to provide construction management and oversight. [1]
• Peruvian lawmaker Munante endorses alliance: Alejandro Munante, a member of the Peruvian Congress and of the Popular Renewal party, wrote on X that the decision reaffirms the historic Peru-U.S. alliance and recognizes Peru as a key partner for regional stability and progress. [1]

Who Said What

• Alejandro Munante, Member of Peruvian Congress, Popular Renewal party: "The decision reaffirms the historic alliance between Perú and the U.S.and recognizes the country as a key partner for regional stability and progress." [1]
• Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Pentagon unit: "This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of an important partner which is a force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in South America." [1]
• Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Pentagon unit: "The sale would have no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness and would not alter the regional military balance." [1]

Key Facts

• Attention economy strains children's classroom focus: Fotuhi says the modern attention economy drives rapid, scrolling behavior in children. Fast-paced videos, constant notifications and algorithm-driven content train the brain to seek instant rewards. This environment makes sustained attention in classrooms feel unusually difficult, especially for children under ongoing academic pressure. The observation frames the broader concern about how daily life shapes cognitive development. [1]
• Brain networks for attention under construction in children: From a neurological standpoint, networks governing attention, emotional regulation and executive function are still developing throughout childhood and adolescence. These networks are highly sensitive to lifestyle inputs, and constant overstimulation, insufficient rest, and stress can render them inefficient rather than broken. Fotuhi emphasizes that this matters because it helps explain why some students struggle with tasks that demand sustained focus. [1]
• Ultra-processed diets linked to reduced brain blood flow: Diets heavy in ultra-processed foods can impair blood flow and increase inflammation, which can hinder cognitive function and learning. Fotuhi ties these dietary patterns to broader concerns about childhood brain development. The point is supported by external research cited in the article. [3]
• Fotuhi prescribes five-step plan to strengthen brains in eight to twelve weeks: Based on his research and clinical work, Fotuhi recommends a five-step program aimed at strengthening brain networks over an eight-to-twelve-week period. The plan centers on consistency and structure as the foundation for cognitive gains. It is presented as practical guidance for parents to implement at home. [4]
• Five steps include sleep stability, healthy meals, daily movement, structured routines, and cognitive training: First, stabilize sleep with consistent bed and wake times and limit screens before bed. Second, emphasize meals with protein, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and whole grains while reducing ultra-processed snacks and sugary drinks. Third, target 30 to 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Fourth, create home structure using visual schedules and defined work-break periods. Fifth, train the brain with working-memory games, attention exercises, mindfulness, and time-management coaching. [4][5]
• Improvements seen within eight to twelve weeks include academics and well-being: Fotuhi notes that when these steps are combined and personalized, meaningful improvements can appear within eight to twelve weeks, extending beyond school performance to confidence, emotional balance, and family harmony. [1]

Who Said What

• Majid Fotuhi, MD, Ph.D, World-renowned neurologist; adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University: "These networks are highly sensitive to lifestyle inputs. When the brain is constantly overstimulated, under-rested and stressed, these networks become inefficient—not broken, but undertrained." [1]
• Majid Fotuhi, MD, Ph.D, World-renowned neurologist; adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University: "The brain’s capacity is dynamic. It can weaken under strain, but it can also strengthen with the right inputs. The key is consistency and structure. Small changes, done daily, can reshape brain networks surprisingly quickly. The brain is not fixed. Like a muscle, it responds to training and care." [1]

Key Facts

• Powell asks what Dr. King would say today: Powell explains he has long avoided asking what King would say about current events, but now confronts the question as he lectures across the country on King’s life. He frames the inquiry around the soul of America and what democracy should mean for all people, tying his own work as a writer and speaker to King’s legacy. [1]
• King was human, not perfect, Powell says: Powell stresses that King was a flawed, deeply human figure who did and dreamed extraordinary things. Recognizing King’s humanity, he argues, makes the civil rights legacy more relatable and relevant to contemporary audiences as he continues to teach about moral courage. [1]
• Civil rights leaders credited with progress: Powell attributes the Civil Rights Movement’s impact to leaders such as Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, Bayard Rustin, Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks, among others. He highlights how their efforts helped transform American democracy and hastened social change, a lineage that informs his reflections today. [1]
• Educational Opportunity Fund shapes Powell's life: Powell recalls his mother’s education being curtailed by racism and credits Tom Kean for championing New Jersey’s Educational Opportunity Fund, which enabled thousands of low-income students to attend college. He notes Kean’s leadership as pivotal and cites the program’s 50th anniversary. [1]
• Modern violence linked to King-era injustice: Powell draws parallels between contemporary killings and historic racial violence, comparing the George Floyd case to Emmett Till and the murder of Renee Nicole Good to the Mississippi killings of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner. He uses these other tragedies to argue that injustice persists and democracy remains fragile. [1]
• Powell champions community, love and hope: He rejects framing politics as a simple Democrat versus Republican fight and argues democracy is not fulfilled until everyone has equal life opportunities and can live in peace. He closes with a personal commitment to choose community, love and hope despite ongoing challenges. [1]

Who Said What

• Kevin Powell, writer and speaker on civil rights: The title of this piece is a question I have avoided for years as I’ve navigated giving speeches about the life and legacy of The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. In these United States—land of my birth and that of my ancestors dating back three centuries—my talks have been in red states, blue states, cities, the suburbs, and rural environments. I never thought, when I was a youth, Dr. King would become a vital part of my life work, as a writer, as a public speaker, as someone who cares spiritually about everyday people, but here I stand. [1]
• Kevin Powell, writer and speaker on civil rights: King was not a perfect man, not by any stretch of the imagination. Indeed, he was a very human human being who did and dreamed extraordinary things. [1]
• Kevin Powell, writer and speaker on civil rights: It is that empathy, compassion, and love that propelled Dr. King, even in the face of boiling hate, hovering violence, and deafening opposition. [1]
• Kevin Powell, writer and speaker on civil rights: I choose community, I choose love, I choose hope, in spite of everything. [1]

Key Facts

• Elevated iodine-129 detected west of the Philippines: A Marine Pollution Bulletin study reports higher iodine-129 levels in waters west of the Philippines, using it as a tracer for past nuclear activity. The study's authors include researchers from the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, and the University of Tokyo. The article notes the research was published in Marine Pollution Bulletin and funded by the National Research Council of the Philippines and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development. [1]
• Origin traced to a mix of sources from China to Eastern Europe: Researchers describe the enrichment as arising from multiple activities, including deposition onto soils in northeastern China and transport via rivers into the Bohai and Yellow seas, with ocean currents carrying material south toward the West Philippine Sea. [1]
• Iodine-129 concentrations ranged 6.54 to 14.8 × 10^6 atoms per kilogram: An analysis of 119 surface seawater samples by PNRI, UP Marine Science Institute, and the University of Tokyo found these levels in the West Philippine Sea. [2]
• Readings 1.5 to 1.7 times higher than other Philippine-claimed waters: The West Philippine Sea readings exceeded those in other Philippine-claimed waters by about 50 to 70 percent. [1]
• No evidence of direct discharge from East Asian nuclear plants: Researchers found no direct discharge into local waters from the scores of nuclear plants operating across East Asia. [5]
• Enrichment linked to reprocessing, weapons tests, and Chernobyl fallout; transported to West Philippine Sea: The study attributes enrichment to recycling spent reactor fuel, historical nuclear weapons tests such as Lop Nor and Semipalatinsk, and fallout from the Chernobyl disaster, with deposition in northeastern China and transport by rivers and currents to the West Philippine Sea. [1][6][7]

Who Said What

• Authors of the Marine Pollution Bulletin study, Researchers from PNRI, UP Marine Science Institute, and University of Tokyo: "Our findings highlight the need for improved policies on managing transboundary radioactivity in the region and demonstrate the application of 129I as a tracer for complicated ocean circulation in the South China Sea." [1]

Key Facts

• Webinar highlights cross-system partnerships to expand access: Health care leaders from Hartford HealthCare, City of Hope and Banner Health described how partnerships with hospitals, technology companies and academic institutions can improve operations and broaden patient access. The session underscored that regional differences require flexible collaboration and clear goals to extend care beyond traditional boundaries. [1][2]
• City of Hope expands care to five regions: City of Hope, an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, outlined its regional expansion to five major areas and noted it serves roughly 175,000 cancer patients annually. The goal is to bring advanced therapies to more communities, illustrating how partnerships can scale expertise. [1]
• Banner Health cites Mayo Clinic and Arizona partners: Banner Health described how it collaborates with the Mayo Clinic and the University of Arizona to bring in innovation and advanced research capabilities across its six western states. The approach helps Banner access tools and resources it cannot develop alone. [1]
• Success hinges on communication and shared values: Panelists said transparent conversations and a strong alignment of core values and cultures are essential to successful collaborations. They emphasized building trust over time and ensuring all stakeholders share a common purpose before announcing a partnership. [1]
• Stone frames competition as cancer, not rivals: Robert Stone framed the no-competition view by saying diseases like cancer are the true rival, not other health systems. He argued no single organization can win the battle alone and urged sharing knowledge and tools to scale impact. [1]
• Upcoming Wearables ROI webinar set for Thursday, January 22: The next Newsweek webinar, Wearables: What’s The ROI For HealthSystem, is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, with registration available through the provided link. [3]

Who Said What

• Robert Stone, CEO, City of Hope: "Organizations cannot, or at least should not, keep their knowledge, research and tools to themselves." [1]
• Robert Stone, CEO, City of Hope: "Cancer touches everyone, and it's simply a challenge that's too great and the stakes are too high for any one organization to think that they alone can win the battle." [1]
• Robert Stone, CEO, City of Hope: "Look for the similar values, similar experiences and look for the stories." [1]
• Corey Casper, Chief Research Officer, Banner Health: "We can now bring in much more innovation and discovery than we can do alone." [1]
• Jeff Flaks, President and CEO, Hartford HealthCare: "Having those conversations already puts people's minds in that mindset to begin to think about [how] we need to change what we're doing right now." [1]
• Jeff Flaks, President and CEO, Hartford HealthCare: "If you focus on the why, people can really get behind and invest in what we're working to accomplish. But that does begin with true transparency." [1]

Key Facts

• Four ICE agents dine at Willmar restaurant: Four ICE agents ate lunch at El Tapatio on January 14 in Willmar, a city of about 21,000. Inside the restaurant, investigators observed and positively identified the target as the person they were tracking. Later that day, agents conducted a vehicle stop and detained the target and two others, including one with a final removal order. The arrests took place near a Lutheran church and Willmar Middle School as staff finished the business day, prompting audible reactions from bystanders. [1]
• Gomez Gallardo listed as resident manager in 2016 records: The target is identified as Jose Rosario Gomez Gallardo, described as the resident manager of the restaurant in 2016 records viewed by Newsweek. A separate January 14 filing lists Jose Gomez as the restaurant’s registered agent. These documents help establish the managerial role at El Tapatio at that time. [3][4]
• Arrests occur after closing near local landmarks: Officers followed the restaurant staff after closing and made an 8:30 p.m. vehicle stop that resulted in the detention of the target and two others. The operation occurred near local landmarks, including a church and a nearby school, according to the reporting cited in the article. [1]
• Restaurant closed early; family noted plans to reopen: El Tapatio closed early following the ICE visit. A 20-year-old family member said his parents owned the business and planned to reopen the restaurant the following day, as reported by local outlets. [1]
• Operation Metro Surge and response to enforcement: The DHS launched Operation Metro Surge in December, aiming to intensify interior enforcement and mobilize thousands of federal agents across Minnesota and other locations. Critics have described the effort as aggressive immigration enforcement, reflecting a broader national debate about deportation policy. [1][2]
• Protests and national context surrounding the case: The incident occurred amid a wave of protests sparked by a fatal shooting in Minneapolis involving an ICE agent, which drew national attention and prompted debate over law enforcement tactics and immigrant rights. [1][6]

Who Said What

• Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council: "There are no words. ICE agents ate lunch at a small local Mexican restaurant in Minnesota, enjoyed their meal, then came back later that night as the restaurant was closing down and arrested the people who had served them." [7]
• Gregory Bovino, Border Patrol Commander: "Illegal aliens should utilize the CBP Home app or else they are subject to arrest." [8]
• Tricia McLaughlin, DHS spokesperson: "ICE officers conducted surveillance of a target, Jose Rosario Gomez Gallardo an illegal alien from Mexico." [1]

Key Facts

• Florida tops WalletHub's 2026 startup ranking: WalletHub's assessment places Florida at No. 1, driven by strong entrepreneurial activity and rapid small‑business expansion. The state has the third‑highest number of startups per capita and the largest share of adults involved in entrepreneurship. Small businesses grew about 16 percent from 2017 to 2023, a nationally rapid pace. [4]
• Utah second with easy loan access and solid growth: Utah is listed as the second‑easiest state to secure business loans and has seen year‑over‑year employment gains above 3 percent. Lower health insurance premiums are cited as lowering operating costs for employers. The ranking also notes a tech‑savvy environment supported by broader efficiency measures. [4][6]
• Texas third with strong clusters and growth: Texas is ranked third, showing a notable entrepreneurship rate and a large share of fast‑expanding firms. More than half of Texas businesses belong to strong clusters that facilitate supplier access and customer bases, alongside rapid growth in the working‑age population and an engaged workforce. [4]
• Bottom five states for starting a business named: New Jersey, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland and Rhode Island sit at the 46th to 50th range in WalletHub’s ranking, identified as the worst states to start a business. [4]
• WalletHub scores via three areas and 25 metrics: The ranking uses three areas—business environment, access to resources and business costs—with 25 weighted metrics. Each metric is scored on a 100‑point scale, and weighted averages determine the final ranking. [4]
• Analyst emphasizes caution and state choice: WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo notes that about half of new businesses fail within five years, underscoring the importance of choosing a state that supports success with low taxes, strong economies, reliable workers, financing access and affordable real estate, plus an engaged local customer base for local operations. [4]

Who Said What

• Chip Lupo, WalletHub analyst: Around half of all new businesses don't survive five years, so the idea of becoming a business owner can be daunting, especially with the current high cost of living. That's why it's crucial to establish your business in a state that will maximize your chances of success. The best states have low corporate tax rates, strong economies, an abundance of reliable workers, easy access to financing and affordable real estate. On top of that, you'll need to make sure you start in a place with an engaged customer base, if you're operating locally. [4]

Key Facts

• Lack of access drives buyer mistakes: Davis says the core problems come from access barriers more than personal ability. He frames the issue as systemic, noting many buyers have not been taught the 'rules of the game' and miss trusted guidance. Davis is president of mortgage at Southern Bancorp, a certified community development financial institution. [2]
• Skipping pre-approval weakens offers and timing: Failing to secure a pre-approval before shopping is one of the costliest missteps. Buyers often browse with vague budgets and optimism while sellers negotiate with certainty, risking lost deals. [1]
• Pre-approval shows buying power and signals seriousness: Pre-approval helps buyers understand what they can actually afford, identify issues early, and show sellers they are serious. In competitive markets, pre-approval is table stakes rather than optional. [1]
• Finish-line budgets commonly collapse due to closing costs: Even careful buyers can see budgets blow up at closing. Closing costs can run 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price, catching many by surprise and complicating the final steps of a deal. [1]
• Closing costs comprise title, settlement, appraisals and more: Beyond the price, buyers face charges for title and settlement, appraisals and inspections, prepaid taxes and insurance, and large escrow payments that can hit all at once. [1]
• Budget early and seek grants to avoid emotional overreach: Experts urge budgeting for closing costs upfront, requesting full estimates early, and exploring grants or assistance programs before making an offer to stay disciplined. [1]

Who Said What

• Jeremy Davis, President of Mortgage, Southern Bancorp (CDFI): Most mistakes aren’t about intelligence. They’re about access, timing, and bad advice passed down like folklore. [1]
• Jeremy Davis, President of Mortgage, Southern Bancorp (CDFI): Pre-approval is not about locking you into a loan. It’s about knowing your real buying power, spotting issues early, and showing sellers you are serious. In competitive markets, pre-approval isn’t optional. It’s table stakes. [1]
• Jeremy Davis, President of Mortgage, Southern Bancorp (CDFI): Emotion is human. Overpaying because of it is optional. [1]

Key Facts

• Springsteen condemns Gestapo tactics and calls ICE out: During a surprise appearance at the Light of Day benefit in Red Bank, New Jersey, Springsteen criticized immigration enforcement tactics as gestapo-like. He directed a bold message at federal agents in Minneapolis, telling the crowd that ICE should get the f*** out of Minneapolis. Video of the moment circulated, underscoring his political stance during the fundraiser. [1][3]
• Dedicates The Promised Land to Renee Good: Springsteen dedicated his 1978 anthem The Promised Land to Renee Nicole Good, a mother of three who was fatally shot by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. The tribute connected the concert to a high-profile local tragedy and fed into the broader debate over ICE conduct. [2]
• Trump responds with a scathing Truth Social post: Trump issued a post on Truth Social criticizing Springsteen for speaking abroad about the president, calling him overrated and attacking his politics. The online jab added to the partisan dialogue surrounding the immigration controversy. [1]
• Minneapolis leaders push back on federal presence: Mayor Jacob Frey argued that federal agents are designed to intimidate and said the city would not be intimidated. He emphasized relying on local police and state resources rather than an expanded federal footprint amid ongoing protests. [1][3]
• DHS presence grows; 1,500 soldiers eyed under Insurrection Act: The Department of Homeland Security has deployed thousands of federal officers to the Twin Cities. Reports indicate the Pentagon ordered about 1,500 active-duty soldiers to prepare for possible Minnesota deployment under the Insurrection Act. Minnesota leaders have mobilized the National Guard, though no streets deployments had occurred at the time. [1][4][5]
• Other performers weigh in with political messages: Low Cut Connie’s Adam Weiner urged the crowd to be tough and compassionate, while Johnny Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls told fans they are living in interesting times and later joked about ICE, drawing laughs from the audience. [1][6]

Who Said What

• Bruce Springsteen, Musician: “ICE should get the f*** out of Minneapolis.” The line defined his demand for a smaller federal role in the city. [3]
• Jacob Frey, Mayor of Minneapolis: “Clearly designed to intimidate the people of Minneapolis. Here's the thing, we are not going to be intimidated.” [1]
• Adam Weiner, Frontman, Low Cut Connie: “tough and compassionate at the same f***ing time.” [1]
• Johnny Rzeznik, Frontman, Goo Goo Dolls: “We are living in interesting times.” The line was a reflection on the moment and the need for solidarity, followed by a later joke about ICE. [1][6]
• Johnny Rzeznik, Frontman, Goo Goo Dolls: “I'm worried ICE is gonna kick down my door and send me back to Poland.” [6]
• Donald Trump, Former President: “Highly Overrated Bruce Springsteen goes to a Foreign Country to speak badly about the President of the United States... This dried out ‘prune’ of a rocker... ought to KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT.” [1]

Key Facts

• Trump seeks $1B from nations for permanent Board of Peace: A draft charter, reportedly obtained by Bloomberg, asks partner countries to contribute at least $1 billion to earn permanent membership. The White House countered that Bloomberg’s piece is misleading and stressed the aim is to reward partners with a proven commitment to peace, security, and prosperity. The document describes a framework where most members have three-year terms, with an exception for those who provide cash in the first year. [1]
• Trump would be inaugural chairman with control over invites and money: The charter states that Trump would serve as the first chairman and would oversee who is invited to join. While member votes would be by simple majority, all decisions would require the chairman’s approval. The chairman would also designate a successor and approve the board’s official seal, signaling tight executive control over the organization’s direction and finances. [1]
• White House disputes minimum-fee claim and frames membership by commitment: The White House Rapid Response on X said there is no minimum fee to join and that permanent membership is offered to partners who demonstrate a deep commitment to peace, security, and prosperity. This stance aims to counter Bloomberg’s framing and emphasize a values-based threshold for entry, rather than a strict price gate. [1]
• Critics and rights groups question governance and UN rivalry concerns: Critics argue the Board of Peace could function as a rival to the United Nations and raise questions about legitimacy and colonial-style governance. Reuters reported that rights experts and advocates have raised these concerns in relation to Trump’s proposed structure and oversight. [1]
• Executive panel named to oversee Gaza governance, with Trump chairing: The White House announced an executive panel for the Board of Peace to supervise temporary governance in Gaza, including figures such as a named Secretary of State, a special envoy, Tony Blair, and Jared Kushner, with Trump as chair. The panel also includes private-sector and international figures like Marc Rowan, Ajay Banga, Robert Gabriel, and Nickolay Mladenov as high representative for Gaza, under a plan that envisions a phased transition toward demilitarization and reconstruction. [1]

Who Said What

• White House Rapid Response, White House spokesperson: "This is misleading. There is no minimum membership fee to join the Board of Peace. This simply offers permanent membership to partner countries who demonstrate deep commitment to peace, security, and prosperity." [1]
• Donald Trump, President: "As Chairman of the Board of Peace, I am backing a newly appointed Palestinian Technocratic Government, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, supported by the Board's High Representative, to govern Gaza during its transition." [1]
• Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy: "On behalf of President Trump, we are announcing the launch of Phase Two of the President’s 20-Point Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, moving from ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction. Phase Two establishes a transitional technocratic Palestinian administration in Gaza, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), and begins the full demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza, primarily the disarmament of all unauthorized personnel." [1]
• Guy Benson, Fox News political analyst: "Love the idea of a counter to the corrupt and often despicable UN. An entry fee that Trump himself would control? If that detail is true, all potential members would be right to say no way." [1]

Key Facts

• Gen Z coins Jessica to describe millennial complainers: Gen Z has started using 'Jessica' as a label for the younger side of the Karen stereotype, framing a specific set of behaviors among millennials. The term is part of a broader Gen Z zeitgeist of naming social behaviors in online culture. The phrase is linked to discussions of how younger generations view older ones and how memes shape perception. [2]
• Cromer defines Jessica as demanding, tone-deaf and aggressive: Cromer, a Thriveworks licensed professional counselor, describes 'Jessica' as a millennial woman who is demanding, tone-deaf, and aggressive, with a perceived difficulty in being likable. She notes the label is used in a derogatory way to warn against behavior deemed socially undesirable. The description helps explain why the term resonates in online discourse. [1]
• Jessicas described as gossip-loving extroverted millennials: The term is described as possibly applying to millennial women who love gossip, are extroverted, oblivious, and somewhat entitled. While not all Jessicas fit every trait, the label signals a stereotype of performative behavior in online spaces. The characterization helps explain why the term has surfaced in memes and conversations. [1]
• BuzzFeed coverage sparks mixed millennial reaction: BuzzFeed covered the trend, prompting a cascade of Millennial responses in comments. Some embraced the label while others pushed back, highlighting a divide across generations. The online reaction underscores how quickly such memes travel and how they shape intergenerational perception. [1]
• Driscoll calls the Jessica label a meme that misses deeper issues: "From what I see, a Jessica is simply Gen Z's update to the Karen stereotype, applied to millennials and framed around a more performative online style of complaining rather than the in-person confrontations which defined Karen," Driscoll said. He added that the meme does not address entitlement, workplace conflict, or intergenerational tensions and may even reinforce divides. [1]
• Experts warn the term has sexist undertones and may dismiss genuine concerns: Cromer cautioned that the implications could shape how millennials are viewed by younger generations, potentially reinforcing sexism and reducing valid complaints to stereotypes. Driscoll echoed concerns that labeling behavior with gendered names might obscure underlying problems in social spaces, workplaces, or politics. [1]

Who Said What

• Alexandra Cromer, Licensed professional counselor with Thriveworks: "The implications of this can lend themselves to millennials being viewed by younger generations as removed, out of touch, and not socially adept. There is an underlying nature to this that is quite sexist; we don't have names for men and those who identify as men whom we find to be undesirable socially. While it's fun to have pop culture terms and trends, it's important to use our discernment on when and how we use them and the potential implications of them." This explains why experts warn about sexist undertones and social labeling. [1]
• Bryan Driscoll, HR consultant who specializes in generational differences: "It makes for a fine meme, but it doesn't do much beyond that. Slapping a gendered name on behavior might feel clever, but it doesn't meaningfully address entitlement, workplace conflict, or generational tension. It's just repackaging it. If anything, it reinforces divides rather than helping us navigate them, whether in social spaces, workplaces, or politics and family dynamics." This frames the trend as meme-focused rather than a tool for change. [1]

Key Facts

• Delta expands Malta and Sardinia destinations in 2026: Travel experts frame Malta as a top underrated pick for 2026, noting Delta will run direct seasonal flights to Malta starting this year and that European connectivity makes Malta a strong pairing for city and island itineraries. The piece also highlights a new Delta route from New York City to Olbia in Sardinia, launching in May, expanding access to the Italian island. [1][2]
• Malta’s historic sites and island beauty highlighted: Jessica Parker says Malta is increasingly appealing to North American travelers, while Tracy Lamourie emphasizes Mdina’s quiet streets and Gozo’s timeless landscape, underscoring Malta’s broad appeal from history to scenery. The article notes short boat trips from Valletta to nearby Comino for a Blue Lagoon swim, illustrating the island’s varied experiences. [1]
• Budapest pitched as an easy European alternative to Vienna: Parker recommends walking the Pest side for the best views, describing Budapest as a compact, walkable city with the Danube dividing two distinct sides. The piece frames it as an underappreciated option for travelers seeking culture and city charm without crowds. [1]
• Biarritz and Alentejo promoted for coast, culture, and stargazing: Alexis Doerfler presents Biarritz as a compelling alternative to the French Riviera, highlighting dramatic coastline and a strong culinary scene. He also points to Alentejo for its space and serenity, calling out Monsaraz and the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve as highlights and noting its UNESCO-backed Starlight Tourism Destination status. [1]
• Valle de Guadalupe, El Salvador, Panama, Kyrgyzstan and Albania featured as contenders: Valle de Guadalupe is described as a local, undiscovered wine destination near the U.S. border. Chris Atkins identifies El Salvador as an up-and-coming spot with Mayan ruins like Joya de Ceren, described as a Pompeii-like site, and solid surfing. Alex Sanchez touts Panama’s blend of nature, culture and architecture, while Lee Thompson singles out Kyrgyzstan for untouched landscapes and Albania as a crowd-free alternative to Greece or Croatia. [1]

Who Said What

• Jessica Parker, luxury travel adviser for Virtuoso and Cadence: "Malta’s appeal among North American travelers continues to accelerate…it will be fueled by Delta Air Lines launching direct seasonal flights to Malta beginning June 2026 as well as great connectivity from European cities that makes for a great pairing destination for city and island itineraries." [1]
• Tracy Lamourie, founder and managing director at Lamourie Media: "Malta has everything for every taste" from the quiet historic streets of Mdina to Gozo’s timeless landscape, where horses still walk on the streets and much of the landscape looks as it did a thousand years ago. [1]
• Michelle Durpetti, owner of Michelle Durpetti Events: "Sardinia is one of the most exciting destinations to watch for 2026. It offers the rare combination travelers are craving right now—untouched natural beauty, deep cultural authenticity, and understated luxury." [1]
• Alexis Doerfler, The Destination Designer: "Biarritz, located in the French Basque Country, is a compelling alternative to the French Riviera, offering dramatic coastline, surf culture, and a deeply rooted culinary tradition. The region balances laid-back elegance with exceptional food, design, and cultural depth…2026 is definitely the ideal moment to visit before demand accelerates." [1]
• Chris Atkins, owner of Central America Fishing: "Over the past several years, it's become clear that El Salvador is the next up-and-coming destination." [1]
• Alex Sanchez, travel consultant at G Adventures: "the desire to feel something—awe, wonder, joy, connection—is outpacing the urge to simply ‘see’ something. Panama offers beach time, plus amazing culture, food and architecture…a trifecta for travelers." [1]
• Lee Thompson, co‑founder of Flash Pack: "Kyrgyzstan is the destination I’m most excited about for 2026, as it’s where you’ll find places that still feel untouched, such as vast mountain landscapes, high-altitude alpine lakes and nomadic traditions that haven’t changed for centuries." He also noted that Albania is effectively the hidden-secret version of Greece or Croatia—stunning beaches, exceptional food and historic towns—but without the crowds or inflated prices. [1]

Key Facts

• 57% of SMBs plan price hikes in three months: A Vistage survey of 1,202 SMB executives collected between Dec 2 and Dec 16 found 57% expect to raise prices in the next three months. Of this group, 8% anticipate increases exceeding 10%. The price moves are framed as offsetting higher costs from materials, labor, and logistics, with pricing targeted where customers are most receptive. [1]
• Increase ranges show majority modest hikes: Among those planning increases, 8% expect more than 10%, 19% expect 7–10%, 46% expect 4–6%, 24% expect 1–3%, and 3% did not specify. CEOs say they will pursue price increases where costs can be recovered without alienating customers. [1]
• CEO confidence rose in late 2025 but remains cautious: Vistage's CEO confidence index rose to 88.9 in the fourth quarter from 81.9 in the third quarter, still far below 100.8 a year earlier. Galvin said the rise reflects acceptance of conditions rather than a return to euphoria, with awareness of risks and opportunities for 2026. [1]
• Many SMBs expect higher 2026 sales and profits: Sixty-nine percent of SMB CEOs expect higher sales revenues in 2026, up 9 points from the third quarter, and 53% forecast improved profitability despite ongoing labor and cost pressures. [1]
• Hiring plans rise as firms brace for 2026: Fifty-seven percent plan to add staff over the next 12 months, up from 48% in the third quarter, while 7% expect to cut jobs. [1]
• Inflation slows to 2.7% but prices still rise: The annual inflation rate has slowed to 2.7 percent from 3 percent a year earlier, while prices for many consumer goods continue to rise, adding to household strain and shaping how SMBs price products. [1][2]

Who Said What

• Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer, Vistage: "Despite improving confidence, CEOs remain very conscious of the challenges their businesses face." This underscores cautious optimism amid persistent uncertainty. [1]
• Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer, Vistage: "Overall confidence is rising, not because macroeconomic conditions have improved, but because uncertainty has become more familiar." This signals a tempered outlook rather than a return to enthusiasm. [1]
• Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer, Vistage: "CEOs are approaching pricing cautiously but deliberately. Rising costs, from materials and labor to logistics, are driving 57 percent of leaders to plan price increases." This shows targeted pricing strategies to balance cost recovery with market sensitivity. [1]
• Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer, Vistage: "One year ago, CEO confidence surged as post-election optimism fueled expectations of pro-business policies, easing inflation, and lower borrowing costs. That enthusiasm faded quickly. Shifting trade policy, rising costs, and uneven demand made planning difficult, sharply lowering confidence in early 2025 before it gradually stabilized." This anchors the current cautious stance in a year-long trend. [1]
• Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer, Vistage: "Executives are remaining vigilant given the number of growth-disrupting events that could occur in 2026, such as resurgent inflation, interest rate shocks, geopolitical upheaval, job market instability or sudden changes in customer demand." This underscores the risk environment providers face entering 2026. [1]

Key Facts

• Ten-year-old son tells mother he won’t act anymore: During a Los Angeles drive, the boy blurts that this is his mother's dream, not his. Script pages sit on the seat as he auditions for a lead role, and his expression shows he is unhappy. His mother, a semi-retired actor, tries to respond calmly as she considers turning around to call his agent. [1]
• Mother questions her parenting and living vicariously through him: She recalls pushing him to auditions and wonders if she has been a stage mother chasing her own past. She wants his childhood to be freer to express his feelings and wonders if she was overbearing. [1]
• Son started auditions at nine and landed roles including a Lifetime movie: He booked leads in student films, some commercials, a Lifetime movie, and co-starred on FX’s The League. [1][2]
• Tension over preparation grows as he shows disinterest: The pair argue about how well he was prepared, but the mother believes he needed to be pushed beyond his comfort zone as auditions grew tougher. [1]
• Mother informs agent that he no longer wants to act: After the audition, she calls agent Debbie with the news that her son doesn’t want to act anymore; the agent expresses disappointment. [1]
• Son pivots to music, becomes bass player and builds a career: He discovers music after acting, joins a rock band in high school, makes an album, studies music in college, and later produces several albums, telling his mother he is living his dream life. [1]

Who Said What

• The son, Child actor: "I don’t want to do this anymore! This is your dream, not mine!" This moment marks a turning point as the child rejects the path of acting that had defined much of his early life. [1]
• Andrea Tate, Mother: "Okay, well, should I turn around at the next exit and call your agent?" This moment shows a tentative shift toward supporting his choice rather than pushing forward. [1]
• The son, Child actor: "No, it’s fine. I’ll go to this one." This shows he remains determined to pursue an audition that day despite reservations. [1]
• Andrea Tate, Mother: "Hi Debbie, I have some unfortunate news." This marks the moment she informs the agent of the decision. [1]
• Andrea Tate, Mother: "He doesn’t want to act anymore." The mother’s explicit summary of the decision. [1]
• Andrea Tate, Mother: "Did something go wrong at the audition?" This shows her attempt to understand the reaction from the agent. [1]
• The son, Child: "I’m living my dream life, Mom." This late reassurance signals happiness with the new path in music. [1]

Key Facts

• Wilbur Wood dies at 84: The three-time All-Star left-hander who defined durability in the mound died on Saturday at age 84. He is remembered for stints with the Red Sox, White Sox and Pirates over 17 seasons. [2]
• Wood logged historic workloads in 1972-73: Wood pitched 376.2 innings in 1972 and 359.1 innings in 1973, a workload rarely seen in modern baseball. His knuckleball helped him sustain such long stints as a starter. [1]
• Debuted with the Red Sox in 1961 at 19: The left-handed pitcher started his MLB career with Boston at age 19 in 1961, before stints with the Pirates and the White Sox. [1]
• Trade to White Sox in 1966 set stage for stardom: A fateful October 1966 trade moved Wood from Pittsburgh to Chicago, where he learned from Hoyt Wilhelm and began the ascent that would define his career. [1]
• Two days’ rest pattern noted during peak years: From 1971-75, Wood started 66 of 224 games on two days’ rest or fewer, illustrating an extraordinary workload that sustained his effectiveness when healthy. [6]
• Career totals: 164 wins and 3.46 ERA: Wood retired after 17 seasons with 164 wins and a 3.46 ERA, numbers that underscored his durability and impact as a pitcher. [1]

Who Said What

• Wilbur Wood, Former Major League Baseball pitcher: "His big point was if you’re gonna throw a knuckleball, you have to throw it as your main pitch; it has to be thrown 60, 70, 80 percent or more – in other words not mixing in curveballs or fastballs, with knuckleballs being an extra pitch." [4]

Key Facts

• Texas STEM couple outlines five cognitive practices: Dani Upasna Gautam and Christopher Menges, both from Texas and leaders in STEM, have adopted five intentional, day-to-day practices to keep their 2-year-old daughter's mind sharp. The list includes encouraging her to explain her thinking, letting her struggle before they step in, going deeper when she asks why, verbalizing their own mistakes, and never finishing her sentences. The five practices were outlined in a Threads post referenced in their coverage. [3]
• Focus on building cognitive foundations during brain development window: Gautam emphasizes that the goal is to build strong cognitive foundations during the brain's most critical development window to shape neural pathways. She ties this to developmental psychology and pediatric guidance, aiming to foster independent thinking in a future where AI is prevalent. [2][1]
• Educational psychologist calls the approach 'smart parenting': Aneal Bharath praises the proactive and intentional nature of the parenting plan, saying the emphasis is on teaching children how to think rather than trying to outpace machines. He notes this distinction is central to what they are doing and labels it 'smart parenting.'. [1]
• Habits presented as accessible to all parents: Gautam argues the practices are conversational and do not require scientific backgrounds, specialized toys, or expensive programs. She stresses that asking questions like 'And then what?' or admitting mistakes are simple habits any parent can adopt. [1]
• No need for special toys or extra time: Gautam asserts the methods are more accessible than mainstream parenting advice because they do not rely on special toys, educational programs, or added time, making them feasible for many families to adopt. [1]

Who Said What

• Upasna Gautam, mother and technology leader: "What we're really focused on is building strong cognitive foundations during the most critical window of her brain development and ensuring these neural pathways get built in the first place." This underscores the rationale behind their five practices and the emphasis on early development. [1]
• Upasna Gautam, mother and technology leader: "When we let her struggle with a puzzle for 30 seconds before helping, I'm communicating, 'I trust you to handle hard things.'" This demonstrates how allowing brief struggle builds independence and trust. [1]
• Upasna Gautam, mother and technology leader: "You don't need to be a scientist to ask, 'Why do you want that?' or count to 30 before helping or say, 'Mama made a mistake' when you spill something." This shows the practices are accessible to all parents, not just those with technical backgrounds. [1]
• Aneal Bharath, educational psychologist and learning specialist: "They're not trying to raise a kid who can outpace machines, they’re raising a child who knows how to think, and that distinction really matters." This comment frames the approach as smart parenting that prioritizes thinking over speed. [1]

Key Facts

• Dozens of unregulated DBPs found in bottled water: A Science Direct study reviewed 64 DBPs across 10 popular bottled water brands and found that all samples contained DBPs. The researchers emphasize that many of these compounds are not regulated by federal agencies. They note that this is a first broad look at a wide range of toxicants beyond those typically tested in bottled water. The findings suggest bottled water is not free of chemical by-products formed during disinfection. [2]
• Two grocery brands showed unusually high cytotoxicity due to purified tap water: Two grocery brands used purified tap water rather than spring water and had 43 times and 83 times the average cytotoxicity of other bottled waters sampled. The authors caution that purification steps do not guarantee lower harmful by-products in all cases. This detail illustrates how treatment choices shape the chemical profile of bottled water. [2]
• Bottled water has fewer DBPs than tap water on average: The study found an average of three DBP types in bottled water compared with 37 in tap water. The authors say this difference is notable even as they acknowledge other chemicals of concern may be present. The contrast is used to frame the ongoing debate about safety and regulation. [2]
• FDA regulates some DBPs; unregulated DBPs are those not regulated by EPA: The FDA regulates certain DBPs in bottled water, such as bromate, chlorite and haloacetic acids, and the total level of DBP trihalomethanes. The authors explain that the unregulated DBPs in the study are those not regulated by the EPA in drinking water, and thus not typically covered in bottled water regulation either. [5][6]
• Experts stress nuance about water safety and regulation: Sherri Mason notes it is interesting that DBPs are lower in bottled water than tap water, but acknowledges this aligns with company marketing claims. Natalie Exum argues for expanding regulation of DBPs based on health concerns. Vasilis Vasiliou emphasizes that the presence of many unregulated DBPs challenges assumptions about water purity. [1]

Who Said What

• Sherri Mason, Director, Project NePTWNE, Gannon University: "It is interesting that the DBPs are lower in bottled water compared to tap water—though that is exactly what the companies promote so they should be." [1]
• Natalie Exum, Professor, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health: "I was not surprised by the findings from this study that bottled water contained fewer DBPs and at lower levels than were present in tap water. This is because we know chemical disinfectants are required to be in public tap water to reduce microbial contamination however they can also result in DPBs. In bottled water, these DPBs may be removed through the purification processes or not used at all if it is coming from a spring or natural source so I would expect there to be lower DPBs in bottled water." [1]
• Vasilis Vasiliou, Chair and Professor, Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health: "The discovery of 50 plus priority unregulated DBPs in bottled water is striking because these compounds are not routinely monitored and little data existed on their presence in bottled products until now. Finding haloacetic acids (HAAs) and chloroform even in waters labeled as UV-treated only suggests cross-contamination or incomplete processing, which challenges assumptions about how 'pure' certain treatments are." [1]
• Susan Richardson, Professor of Chemistry, University of South Carolina; study co-author: "The bottled waters we tested were less contaminated with DBPs than tap water." [1]

Key Facts

• Overly involved parenting linked to lower prestige jobs: North Carolina State University researchers analyzed data from the Transition to Adulthood Supplement, tracking 2,680 individuals across nearly 8,000 surveys to examine how parental involvement affects early career outcomes. The main finding is that higher parental involvement is associated with occupations having lower prestige than those of peers whose parents backed off. The study centers on two concepts: family social capital and occupational prestige. [1]
• Heavy involvement defined as frequent advising and shared activities: The authors describe heavy parental involvement as spending lots of time advising, sharing activities, and closely guiding decisions. This is framed as part of family social capital and is linked to later occupational outcomes. [1]
• Researchers surprised by results; prior literature shows benefits: Manzoni notes the result was unexpected given extensive scholarship linking family social capital to school performance and healthy behaviors. The team double-checked their measures to confirm the findings, underscoring that the transition to adulthood may shift how parental input affects career trajectories. [1]
• Two key concepts defined in the study: Family social capital refers to the support, information and norms provided by parents through daily interactions; occupational prestige is a job’s social standing based on education and income. The study uses these concepts to analyze how family dynamics relate to early career outcomes. [1]
• Findings suggest transition to independence requires space: Researchers argue that as children move into early adulthood, stepping back from intensive guidance can foster autonomy and better align with career development, contrasting with the benefits seen in earlier life stages. [1]
• Practical guidance for parents: The study offers clear guidance: as children become adults, adopting a more supportive, hands-off approach can help autonomy and support early career development. [1]

Who Said What

• Anna Manzoni, paper author and sociologist professor: "It is well-established that parental investment during their children’s childhood and adolescence has positive outcomes," Manzoni said, noting the study's aim to examine how roles change as young people reach early adulthood. [1]
• Anna Manzoni, paper author and sociologist professor: "There is so much scholarship demonstrating how family social capital positively impacts everything from school performance to healthy behaviors; our findings at first seemed contradictory," Manzoni said, explaining the initial surprise. [1]
• Anna Manzoni, paper author and sociologist professor: "But what the findings suggest is that, during the transition to adulthood, there can be too much of a good thing. And failure to do so is associated with professional constraints early in their careers," Manzoni continued, outlining practical implications. [1]
• Tom Leppard, co-author and postdoctoral researcher: "We know that parents play an important role in shaping their children’s occupational outcomes, but we wanted to study specifically the effects of family social capital on early occupational attainment of young adults," Leppard said, highlighting the study’s focus. [1]

Key Facts

• Sixteen ancient canoes recovered from Lake Mendota: Researchers from the Wisconsin Historical Society report 16 dugout canoes at the lake bottom. Carbon dating places the oldest at about 5,200 years old and the newest at about 700 years. The first canoe was found in 2021, a 3,000-year-old canoe was found in 2022, with 14 more identified since, including six found in spring 2025. [1]
• Oldest canoe predates the Great Pyramid: The oldest canoe is roughly 5,200 years old, dating to around 3000 BCE. It is the oldest dugout canoe on record in the Great Lakes and the third oldest in eastern North America. [1]
• Red and white oak make up about half the canoes: About half of the 16 canoes were made from red or white oak. Red oak in particular resists water movement because of tyloses, which can enhance buoyancy and rot resistance. [1]
• Canoes likely shared rather than privately owned: Researchers suggest the canoes were not owned by individuals but stored at designated points and shared, similar to modern community sharing programs, enabling travel between points of interest and resource access. [1]
• Findings imply a sophisticated travel network: The discoveries point to interconnected communities with advanced travel routes, showing how people in the Great Lakes region lived and moved across water. [1]
• Archaeology described as puzzle solving with First Nations knowledge: Archaeologists describe piecing together data like a puzzle, emphasizing collaboration with First Nations and cultural histories to interpret the findings. [1]

Who Said What

• Tamara Thomsen, Wisconsin Historical Society maritime archaeologist: It's entirely possible that the canoe builders were intentionally selecting trees that had been damaged from weather or purposefully wounding them during their growth cycle to induce tyloses. This suggests early bioengineering to improve water resistance. [1]
• Tamara Thomsen, Wisconsin Historical Society maritime archaeologist: We think of bioengineering as a modern practice, but the samples we have suggest this may have been taking place long before the term was coined in the mid-20th century. [1]
• Larry Plucinski, Tribal historic preservation officer for the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa: The canoes give us insight into a sophisticated travel network and interconnected communities who used their incredible skills and knowledge to live and thrive on lands where we still live and thrive today. [1]
• Tamara Thomsen, Wisconsin Historical Society maritime archaeologist: Archaeology is kind of like putting together pieces of a puzzle, and the more pieces you can find, the better you can start to form a picture of what was going on and why during a period of history. We can't go back in time to get answers to our questions, but we can examine the available data alongside knowledge from First Nations and cultural history to form theories to answer our questions. [1]

Key Facts

• Berkeley issues leptospirosis alert: City health officials found leptospirosis among multiple rats and at least two dogs near the Harrison Street encampment by Codornices Creek. A public health alert was issued to warn residents and guide cleanup and rat-control efforts, with the Harrison Street area designated a red zone to focus remediation. [1][7]
• Warm weather and storms fuel bacteria survival: Officials say recent warm weather followed by heavy rainfall created conditions favorable for leptospira, the bacteria behind the disease. The bacteria can persist in soil or water for up to a month, raising infection risk well after contamination. [1]
• Encampment residents urged to relocate for cleanup: Authorities designated the area as a red zone and urged encampment residents to move at least a third of a mile away to enable cleanup, rat eradication, and public-safety measures. Officials expect the effort to take about 30 days. [1][7]
• Pet vaccination and water safety urged: Officials urged pet owners to vaccinate their animals against leptospirosis and to prevent animals from drinking potentially contaminated water. Cat owners are also advised to consider vaccination, and all pets should be kept away from water seen as contaminated. [1]
• No human cases reported yet; exposure via environment: Officials say there have been no confirmed human cases so far. Infection occurs primarily when contaminated water or soil contacts cuts, eyes, or mucous membranes. [1]
• Dogs are at higher risk due to behavior around water: Experts note that dogs are more likely to be exposed because they do not avoid puddles like people do, increasing the chance of contact with contaminated urine or soil; there is no human-to-human transmission. [8]

Who Said What

• Peter Chin-Hong, Infectious disease expert at UC San Francisco: "Wherever you get rats urinating and then flooding or rain, there’s potential for exposure. The combination of warmth followed by rain is kind of a bad setup for leptospirosis." [8]
• Monica Gandhi, Infectious disease physician at UC San Francisco: "Dogs don’t avoid puddles the way people do." [8]
• Monica Gandhi, Infectious disease physician at UC San Francisco: "There’s no human-to-human transmission. Each individual has to be exposed to infected animal urine or contaminated soil or water." [8]
• Noemi Doohan, Berkeley public health officer: "Neither dogs nor people should wade in, or drink from, nearby water, mud, puddles, or Codornices Creek. Provide clean water for your pets, and keep them away from sick or dead animals." [1]

Key Facts

• Virgin at 35 framed as empowerment: Lauren Harkins, a 35-year-old resident of Portland, Maine, says she has never been in a relationship and has not chosen virginity for religious or marital reasons. She describes her virginity as a deliberate, empowering choice and emphasizes that intimacy should come from alignment with the right person, not social pressure. Her stance challenges stereotypes about sex and maturity in modern society. [1]
• Prioritizes alignment over casual opportunities: Harkins explains that vulnerability around sex is intense for her and she avoids casual sexual experiences. She has felt desire and curiosity but has not found someone who fits her standards. She says she would rather wait for an undeniable connection than compromise on values or self-respect. [1]
• Message resonates online with millions of views: She frequently posts about her life choices on social media under the handle @itslaurenciaga, and many videos have gone viral. The message has connected with a broad audience seeking nontraditional paths. Some commenters say she doesn’t act like a virgin, which she says reflects outdated stereotypes. [1]
• Context amid broader intimacy discussions: The article notes that the average age of first sexual intercourse is around 17, citing CDC data, and argues that conversations about intimacy have become flattened. It also suggests social media shapes how young people view intimacy, potentially influencing self-perception and norms. [1]
• Not waiting for traditional milestones: Harkins states she is not waiting for marriage or religious reasons; she is waiting for the right connection. She frames intimacy as an alignment of values and life vision rather than a societal deadline. [1]

Who Said What

• Lauren Harkins, Virgin advocate and social media creator: "Vulnerability has never come naturally to me, and sharing your body with someone feels like the highest form of vulnerability. I’ve never been able to approach that casually." [1]
• Lauren Harkins, Virgin advocate and social media creator: "For me, sex isn’t about opportunity; it’s about intention." [1]
• Lauren Harkins, Virgin advocate and social media creator: "I’ve never been in a relationship before. I tend to be all-or-nothing, and it’s less that I’m holding out on sex than that I’m holding out on the person." [1]

Key Facts

• Cohen claims prosecutors pressured him: In a Friday Substack post, Cohen wrote that he felt pressured and coerced to provide information that would help prosecutors build cases against and secure convictions of President Trump. He described pressure from both the Manhattan DA’s Office and the New York Attorney General’s Office to tailor testimony. He said that when his testimony did not fit the prosecution’s point, they asked leading questions to elicit a preferred narrative. [2]
• Trump lashes out in Truth Social response: Trump responded to Cohen’s comments by posting on Truth Social, calling prosecutors 'Radical Left' and alleging a setup. He said the investigations are a SET UP from the beginning and that New York courts are embarrassed by what has happened. The post frames the probes as politically motivated and attempts to delegitimize the proceedings. [1]
• Cohen’s testimony linked to Trump’s 2024 conviction: The article notes Cohen was a key witness in multiple cases and that his testimony helped secure Trump’s 2024 conviction on 34 felony counts, underscoring his role in the hush-money case and related proceedings. The claim relies on external reporting cited in the piece. [3]
• Trump has long described investigations as a witch hunt: The piece reiterates Trump’s ongoing framing of the probes as politically motivated and characterizes the investigations as a broad 'witch hunt' against him, a consistent theme in his public rhetoric. [1]
• Cohen comments tied to push to move case to federal court: Cohen’s remarks come as Trump seeks to move the hush-money case from state court to federal court, with an appeals court urging reconsideration and a federal judge’s ruling in play. The reference to this move is anchored to the article’s linked external coverage. [6]
• Cohen aims to illuminate how cases are built behind the scenes: Cohen says his goal is not to defend Trump but to shed light on how these cases are actually built, who they rely on, and what happens behind closed doors before a jury ever hears a word. This framing appears in his Substack post. [2]

Who Said What

• Michael Cohen, Former attorney for President Trump and witness: "I felt pressured and coerced to only provide information and testimony that would satisfy the government’s desire to build the cases against and secure a judgment and convictions against President Trump. During my time with prosecutors, both in preparation for and during the trials, it was clear they were interested only in testimony from me that would enable them to convict President Trump. When my testimony was insufficient for a point the prosecution sought to make, prosecutors frequently asked inappropriate leading questions to elicit answers that supported their narrative." [2]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "These horrible Radical Left people, doing everything possible to destroy our Country, should pay a big price for this! It was a SET UP from the beginning. New York Courts, with many fair and wonderful Judges, are embarrassed by what has happened! We cannot let this pass." [1]

Key Facts

• Pillen backs ballot to switch to winner-take-all: In his State of the State address, Governor Jim Pillen, a Republican, endorsed a GOP-led plan to place a November 2026 ballot question before Nebraskans on whether to adopt a winner-take-all system for presidential elections. He urged the Legislature to pass Senator Dorn’s LR24CA, arguing Nebraskans deserve the final say in national elections. Pillen said there is a majority for the change but that a minority has obstructed it via filibuster. [1]
• Nebraska uses a split electoral voting system: Nebraska currently awards two electoral votes to the statewide winner and one vote for each congressional district carried. In 2024, Donald Trump won four of the state’s five electoral votes, while Kamala Harris carried the Omaha-area district for one vote. [1]
• A switch could shrink presidential campaign attention in Nebraska: Experts say moving to a winner-take-all system would reduce the state’s role in national campaigns, since the second district would no longer be targeted as a swing region. The potential change could also interact with discussions about Maine’s electoral system. [1]
• Legislative progress is uncertain; past efforts stalled: Pillen argued there is legislative support for the change, but warned that obstruction via filibuster has blocked the measure previously. A prior bid to switch Nebraska to winner-take-all failed due to filibuster, and the state legislature is officially nonpartisan. [1]
• Maine could move to winner-take-all if Nebraska does: Observers note that if Nebraska moves to winner-take-all, Maine might consider a similar shift, potentially leaving the overall electoral calculus largely unchanged. [1]

Who Said What

• Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska: I call upon this Legislature to pass Senator Dorn’s LR24CA to place this question on the November 2026 ballot so that the people of this state can have the final say as to how their voice will be heard in America’s most important national election. [1]
• Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska: There is a clear majority in this body who would vote for that change, but a minority of this body has repeatedly obstructed the will of the majority of this body and the majority of this state by filibustering it to death. [1]
• Nancy Pettito, Executive director of Civic Nebraska: Nebraska’s split electoral vote system has ensured that more Nebraskans are represented in presidential elections. When voters know their participation matters, engagement increases. Our current system reflects Nebraska values of independence, balance, and accountability, while preventing national political parties from taking our state for granted. There is no compelling reason to abandon a system that has served Nebraska well and given voters more voice and national relevance. Civic Nebraska urges lawmakers to protect Nebraska’s split electoral vote and reject efforts to move to winner-take-all. [1]
• Kevin Smith, Political science professor, University of Nebraska-Lincoln: There is a long, long way from a sure thing for this change. [1]
• Kevin Smith, Political science professor, University of Nebraska-Lincoln: I haven’t seen any reliable polling on this. The working assumption would be that this is favored by Republicans who hold a strong registration advantage over Democrats, so it should pass. [1]
• Kevin Smith, Political science professor, University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Barring something totally unforeseen, Nebraska becomes a sure thing for the Republican candidate and Maine becomes a sure thing for the Democratic candidate. The upshot is no real change in the electoral calculus. [1]

Key Facts

• Brevard driver rescues toddlers on highway: John Brittingham was driving southbound on Florida State Road A1A when he spotted two young girls in the road, pulled them from danger, and then located their family at an Airbnb. No injuries were reported in the incident. The rescue underscores the quick actions of a bystander who acted to prevent a potential tragedy. [1]
• Family unaware children were missing at Airbnb: Brittingham said the parents did not know the children were missing. He told WESH that his main goal was to reunite them with their parents, and he expressed relief once the kids were back with the family. Authorities said an investigation is ongoing. [1]
• NHTSA data highlights toddler pedestrian toll: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 52 pedestrians under five were killed in 2023 and 1,027 were injured nationwide. The statistic provides context for why a moment of vigilance around young children near roadways matters. [1]
• Video shows six-second rescue, shared on Facebook: Brittingham reportedly moved the children off the roadway in about six seconds. A video of the incident, attributed to Drone Geox LLC, circulated on Facebook and helped document the moment of danger and relief. [1][2]
• Airbnb back gate open allowed escape: Brittingham said the back gate at the rental property was open, which enabled the children to get out and into the road, prompting the sudden danger and subsequent rescue. Residents expressed remorse as the situation was resolved. [1]
• No one hurt; investigation ongoing: ABC News reported no injuries in the incident, and a Brevard County Sheriff's Office spokesperson said the case remains under investigation, signaling that authorities are reviewing how the children ended up outside. [1]

Who Said What

• John Brittingham, Good Samaritan and driver: "My main concern was to reunite them, and by that time I was glad they were with their parents." [1]
• John Brittingham, Good Samaritan and driver: "I was terrified thinking of what could have happened to them. The rest of my life would have been ruined." [1]

Key Facts

• Sethi reframes rich life as personal vision: Ramit Sethi argues that 'rich' should reflect an individual’s values rather than a status symbol. He offers examples like picking up kids after school, buying a cashmere coat, or traveling, to illustrate a personalized concept of wealth. He emphasizes that everyone’s rich life is different and that wealth should serve personal goals rather than conform to external stereotypes. [1]
• He starts with vision rather than micro-spending rules: Sethi avoids judging everyday purchases and instead asks clients to articulate their ideal life. He notes that many people never actually envision what wealth means to them. By grounding financial planning in a personal vision, he connects money choices to long-term goals rather than superficial savings frugality. [1]
• Structural barriers in finance complicate home buying: The interview highlights systemic banking and industry issues that affect how people accumulate wealth. He argues that simply saving on small expenses like avocado toast won’t overcome the major barriers to buying a home. This frames wealth-building as a broader problem that requires navigating larger financial structures. [1]
• Money anxiety among younger men drives risky bets: Sethi observes that some young men feel hopeless about ever buying a house or attaining financial success, which leads them toward high-risk products such as gambling or crypto. He cautions that the odds of long-term success are often low when chasing quick gains. This ties money mindset to behavior in the broader discussion of financial health. [1]
• Wealth as social and enjoyable, not boring: He counters the image of wealth as dull or purely acquisitive by describing a rich life that includes dining out, spending time with friends and family, and other pleasures. He argues that living well does not have to be boring and should reflect a personal, meaningful balance. [1]

Who Said What

• Ramit Sethi, author of I Will Teach You How to Be Rich and star of Netflix's How to Get Rich: "rich life is yours and my rich life is mine and that's the way it should be." This encapsulates his core belief that wealth should be defined by the individual, not by external luxury markers, and it signals the value of personal autonomy in financial goals. [1]
• Ramit Sethi, author of I Will Teach You How to Be Rich and star of Netflix's How to Get Rich: "We should be mindful of what we buy, but no amount of saving on avocado toast is going to allow a young person to buy a house." This underscores his view that macroeconomic and structural barriers require broader solutions beyond frugal living. [1]
• Ramit Sethi, author of I Will Teach You How to Be Rich and star of Netflix's How to Get Rich: "Living a rich life is not boring. Living a rich life can mean I can eat out, I can splurge on my friends and family and loved ones. That's not boring." This reframes wealth as personal joy and social connection, not mere restraint. [1]
• Ramit Sethi, author of I Will Teach You How to Be Rich and star of Netflix's How to Get Rich: "They often become involved in high-risk financial products, gambling, crypto, things where the likelihood of long-term success is probably low." This links money anxiety to risk-taking and highlights his call for more prudent approaches to wealth. [1]

Key Facts

• Apple to launch foldable iPhone as first foldable: The foldable iPhone is described as featuring a 5.5-inch cover screen and a 7.8-inch foldable display with a titanium body. The price is expected to range from $2,000 to $2,500. If accurate, this design could signal a major shift in the smartphone market. [2]
• MacBook Pro to get OLED and touchscreen; M5 chip: Sources say the new MacBook Pro could include an OLED screen and a thinner design, with a possible touchscreen. Apple’s M5 family is billed as the fastest performance core on its silicon lineup. This combination would mark a significant upgrade for high-end laptops. [3][4]
• Cheaper MacBook around $700 for students: A lower-cost MacBook, rumored around $700, would use an A18 chip and target first-time Apple users and students. If true, it would broaden access to Apple’s ecosystem beyond premium machines. [6]
• Google Gemini powering upgraded Siri for home control: Apple faces AI challenges, but an announced move to power Siri with Google Gemini suggests a path toward a central home controller. The plan could help reduce reliance on in-house AI while expanding smart-home capabilities. [7]
• Studio Display upgrade and OLED iPad Mini on horizon: Analysts point to a studio display with an upgraded chip and higher refresh rate. They also anticipate an iPad Mini with OLED and a base iPad model launching within the year. [9][10][11]
• AirPods Pro successor with infrared cameras and $299 price: Apple is expected to release a new AirPods Pro that includes infrared cameras to support Apple Intelligence features, with a price around $299. [12][13]

Key Facts

• Giant Fiordland black coral found on deep dive: Marine biologists report a specimen more than 13 feet tall and about 15 feet wide, likely aged 300–400 years, found during a Fiordland dive by a Victoria University of Wellington team. [1]
• Largest black coral on record in New Zealand waters: The find is described as the biggest black coral ever recorded in Aotearoa’s seas, underscoring its rarity and the importance of the discovery for understanding this slow-growing species. [1]
• Older corals serve as vital breeding stock: Researchers say larger, older colonies act as breeding stocks for the species, informing conservation efforts and guiding protective measures such as advising boaters where not to drop anchors or use gear. [1]
• Senior ranger calls it the biggest seen in Fiordland: Richard Kinsey, a senior biodiversity ranger for the Department of Conservation, described seeing such a large coral as a special moment and the largest he remembers in Fiordland. [1]
• Public reports of large corals encouraged: Professor James Bell urges divers and boaters to report sightings of black corals over 13 feet to help map their distribution across Fiordland. [1]
• Coral appears white and is legally protected: Despite the name, the specimen looks white due to the living tissue, with only the skeleton remaining black; the coral is protected under the Wildlife Act, making it illegal to collect or damage it. [1]

Who Said What

• James Bell, marine biologist, Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington: "absolutely huge", with the specimen being far larger than is typical. He described finding such a large coral as really cool. [1]
• James Bell, marine biologist, Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington: "Most black corals we come across when we’re diving are small, with the bigger ones usually less than two to three metres tall so finding this one was really cool.", he said. [1]
• Richard Kinsey, senior biodiversity ranger, New Zealand Department of Conservation: "I’ve been a marine ranger in Fiordland for nearly 20 years and it’s rare to see a coral so big. It’s easily the largest one I can remember seeing.", he said. [1]
• James Bell, marine biologist, Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington: "We’d love to receive reports from anyone who knows of particularly large black corals that are greater than four meters [13 feet] so we can map their distribution and find out how common such large coral colonies are throughout Fiordland.", he added. [1]

Key Facts

• Disposable cups release thousands of microplastics into drinks: A review of 30 peer‑reviewed studies found that heat substantially increases microplastic release and that cup material matters. The analysis covered common plastics such as PE, PET, PP, and PS, and showed wide variation by design. For example, microplastic release from PE cups rose about 32.7 percent when the liquid temperature increased from 5°C to 60°C, a rise not seen in PE-coated paper cups. [1]
• Heat drives microplastic release; cup material matters: Researchers say heat acts as the main trigger for particle shedding, and the choice between plastic cups and cups with plastic linings changes the amount released. Soaking time did not emerge as a consistent driver. [1]
• Soaking time less important than initial heat: Liu noted that how long a drink sits in a cup is less influential than the liquid’s initial temperature when it first contacts the plastic, a finding that challenges common assumptions about contact time. [1]
• Global use of single‑use cups is enormous and rising: The study references UNEP data estimating hundreds of billions of cups are used annually, underscoring the scale of potential exposure and the need for sustainable alternatives in off‑premises beverage consumption. [1]
• Potential human exposure to microplastics from cups: UNEP and the study point to potential daily and yearly intake, with some adults possibly consuming tens of thousands of microplastic particles per year depending on location and habits. [1]
• Study context and publication: The findings come from a combined meta‑analysis and case study published in a peer‑reviewed journal, drawing on multiple datasets to assess microplastic release from plastic containers used for beverages. [1]

Who Said What

• Xiangyu Liu, environmental scientist, Griffith University: "These particles end up in our environment, our food, and eventually, our bodies." [1]
• Xiangyu Liu, environmental scientist, Griffith University: "If that cup is made of plastic, or has a thin plastic lining, there is a high chance it's shedding thousands of tiny plastic fragments directly into your drink." [1]
• Xiangyu Liu, environmental scientist, Griffith University: "Heat is a primary driver of microplastic release, and the material of your cup matters more than you might think." [1]
• Xiangyu Liu, environmental scientist, Griffith University: "Leaving our drink in a plastic cup for a long time isn't as important as the initial temperature of the liquid when it first hits the plastic." [1]

Key Facts

• Nationwide January property tax deadlines loom: Millions of homeowners across the United States face deadlines within days, adding to post-Christmas financial burdens. Deadlines vary by state, but January is a common window, and some areas offer discounts for early payments. Missing deadlines leads to penalties, and delinquent taxes accrue interest until paid in full. [1][2]
• Mississippi offers 2% January discount: Mississippi taxes are normally due by February 1 without interest, but payments made in January qualify for a 2% discount. This incentive is highlighted as part of the state's fiscal schedule. The discount is designed to encourage early payment and reduce immediate penalties. [1]
• Wisconsin sets January 31 for first installment and July 31 for second: Wisconsin typically mails tax bills in December. The first installment is due by January 31, and the second installment is due by July 31. The structure allows taxpayers to split payments across two dates, with the option for full payment earlier in the window. [1]
• North Carolina allows January 5 without interest; thereafter 2% plus 0.75% monthly: In North Carolina, taxes are due by September 1, but residents have until January 5 to pay without accruing interest. After January 5, a 2% interest fee is assessed, followed by an additional 0.75% each month until full payment is made. [1]
• South Carolina requires full payment by January 15: South Carolina tax bills are typically mailed October 1, with payment due in full on or before January 15 of the following year. This creates a strict deadline for completing tax settlements. [1]
• New York’s schedule varies by property value, with different January due dates: For properties valued at $250,000 or less, a quarterly installment was due with a grace period until January 15; for properties over $250,000, the semiannual payment was due January 1. The schedule reflects a tiered approach based on assessed value. [1]

Who Said What

• Manish Bhatt, senior policy analyst with the Center for State Tax Policy at the Tax Foundation: Property tax reform is going to continue to be an issue going into 2026 because it was largely not resolved in 2025 or in years prior, and taxpayers are still clamoring for relief…Nevertheless, we do anticipate the property tax conversation to continue to be a robust one in 2026. [1]

Key Facts

• Lip-reading expert links exchange to KPop: A deaf lip-reading expert described DiCaprio's gestures as referencing a KPop conversation during the Golden Globes moment, fueling online speculation. [3]
• Clip goes viral with millions of views: The TikTok post featuring the exchange racked up millions of views and likes, amplifying the mystery over who was being spoken to. [3]
• Taylor confirms DiCaprio was talking to her: Teyana Taylor told Access Hollywood that the actor was addressing her during the moment, making sense of the viral clip. [1]
• Taylor memory hazy, recalls dancing: Taylor said she was dancing to KPop Demon Hunters and does not clearly remember what DiCaprio said, though she suspects the topic involved the show. [1]
• KPop Demon Hunters wins two Golden Globes: The song and the animation won two Globes, underscoring the night's success for the project. [1]
• One Battle After Another wins four Globes: The film claimed four Globes including Best Director and Best Screenplay; Taylor won Best Supporting Female Actor, while DiCaprio was nominated for Best Actor but did not win. [1]

Who Said What

• Teyana Taylor, Co-star: "And the crazy part about it is, I’m so blacked out from that day, that I want to say we may have been talking about KPop Demon Hunters, because I was so happy when they won, because my kids love KPop Demon Hunters. So, I was over there just jamming, and I think he just caught me jamming and we started talking about it." [1]
• Teyana Taylor, Co-star: "But I just don’t remember what he was saying, I don’t even think I really heard what he’s saying. I was probably just laughing and kiki-ing back and had no clue back and had no clue what he’s saying.” [1]
• Nikki Glaser, Host: "The most impressive thing is that you were able to accomplish all of that before your girlfriend turned 30, I mean, it’s just insane." [1]
• Nikki Glaser, Host: She apologized for the cheap joke, quipping that DiCaprio does not give the media much material to work with, before referencing a 1991 Teen Beat interview. [1]

Key Facts

• Chalamet's Oscar odds rise after Globes win: Timothée Chalamet's odds to win Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy have climbed in betting markets after his Golden Globes victory for Marty Mauser in Marty Supreme. Polymarket currently shows about a 79% probability of an Oscar win, after the odds were roughly 61% on January 11 and rose to about 81% immediately after the Globes announcement. Industry trackers view him as the leading contender in a crowded field. [1]
• Chalamet wins Golden Globes for Best Actor in Musical or Comedy: On January 11, he received the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy for his portrayal of Marty Mauser in Marty Supreme. The win intensified predictions for the Oscar in the same category and solidified the film's momentum during awards season. [2]
• Odessa A’zion earns SAG nomination: Odessa A’zion, Chalamet's co-star in Marty Supreme, earned a SAG Award nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role, highlighting continued recognition for the film. [5]
• Marty Reisman inspires the lead character: Chalamet's Marty Mauser is loosely inspired by real-life table tennis legend Marty Reisman, lending a real-world hook to the film's premise and performance. [4]
• GoldDerby and Variety place Chalamet among top contenders: GoldDerby lists Chalamet at 94% odds for the Best Actor Oscar, while Variety ranks him third in its overall contenders list, behind other leading figures, underscoring broad industry momentum. [1]
• Oscars date reinforces momentum: The 98th Academy Awards are scheduled for March 15, 2026, with Chalamet positioned as a frontrunner due to Golden Globes momentum, betting-market signals, and critical acclaim. [1]

Who Said What

• Timothée Chalamet, Actor: "I'm in a category with many greats. This category is stacked. I look up to all of you. Thank you. Always be grateful for what you have. It's allowed me to leave this ceremony in the past empty handed, my head held high, grateful just to be here. I'd be lying if I didn't say those moments didn't make this moment that much sweeter. For my parents, for my partner. I love you. Thank you so much." [1]

Key Facts

• Telehealth coverage ends for many Medicare beneficiaries on January 30: The change marks a shift back from pandemic-era expansion. After January 30, coverage will be limited to specific circumstances. The exception is for behavioral health services, while otherwise beneficiaries must be in a medical facility or in a rural area for telehealth to be covered. [1]
• Stroke telehealth remains covered regardless of location: The article notes that services for diagnosis, evaluation, or treatment of symptoms of an acute stroke in any location should still be covered. This remains one of the few broad-scope allowances after the changes take effect. [1]
• ESRD home dialysis visits carry caveats: Monthly End-Stage Renal Disease visits for home dialysis are singled out as part of the caveats in the telehealth coverage changes. Patients and providers will need to navigate these specific exceptions as the new rules apply. [1]
• AMA data shows doctors use telehealth regularly: The American Medical Association reports that 71.4 percent of doctors use telehealth options at least weekly, underscoring the level of ongoing usage prior to the policy shift. [1]
• Experts warn of access challenges and reimbursement uncertainty: Experts say the rollback could push some seniors toward in-person visits and travel, and that reimbursement rules may become more uncertain as providers adjust to the new limits. Some Medicare Advantage plans might offer alternatives, but the impact could be broad. [1]

Who Said What

• Alex Beene, Financial literacy instructor, University of Tennessee at Martin: "The end of telehealth coverage for Medicare beneficiaries at the end of this month will undoubtedly cause difficulties for some seniors who rely on it. However, it's important to note that telehealth services will continue to be covered for the groups most dependent on it, including those who receive behavioral health services and those who live in rural areas." This reflects how the policy narrows access for many while preserving some protections for the most vulnerable. [1]
• Kevin Thompson, CEO, 9i Capital Group; host of the 9innings podcast: "Telehealth is not shutting down but going back to pre-pandemic structure by reducing the level of servicing," Thompson said, highlighting how access could shrink as reimbursements are reevaluated. This emphasizes the potential decline in the breadth of services available to patients. [1]
• Kevin Thompson, CEO, 9i Capital Group; host of the 9innings podcast: "This all comes down to uncertainty, with doctors now trying to figure out future reimbursements for who can and cannot bill for telehealth services. Beneficiaries will now be forced to go back into the office and travel for basic things that could have been done over a telehealth call." This underscores the practical burden on patients amid unsettled funding rules. [1]

Key Facts

• Pitt study finds TV CPR misleads viewers: Researchers analyzed 169 TV episodes featuring hands-only CPR aired since 2008 and found fewer than 30% depicted the procedure correctly. The analysis also noted many scenes still used outdated practices such as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation (48%) and pulse checks (43%). The findings illustrate how on-screen CPR could distort public understanding and slow real-world response. [1]
• Hands-only CPR endorsed by AHA in 2008 and promoted as effective: The article notes the shift to chest compressions with no mouth-to-mouth, paired with a call to 911, and states that hands-only CPR is as effective at delivering oxygen to vital organs as the more complex physician-style approach. TV depictions have not always reflected this evolution in guidance. [1]
• On-screen ages and settings diverge from reality: Only 44% of CPR recipients on TV were aged 21 to 40, while the real-world average for cardiac arrest victims is about 62. Most cardiac arrests occur at home, not in public places, contrasting with on-screen trends. [1]
• Demographic disparities in TV CPR mirror concerns in real life: The study notes that white men are most often depicted as recipients of hands-only CPR on screen, while women and Black and Latino people are less likely to receive bystander CPR in fiction, raising questions about representation and access. [1]
• Experts call for collaboration to improve accuracy: Researchers and public health advocates suggest that collaboration between media creators and health professionals could yield more accurate CPR portrayals, helping viewers act quickly and correctly in emergencies. [1]
• Study published in Circulation: Population and Outcomes; DOI provided: The study, Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Compression Only CPR on Scripted Television, appears in Circulation: Population and Outcomes. The DOI is provided for reference to the original research. [1][5]

Who Said What

• Beth Hoffman, Professor, Pitt Public Health: "In my volunteer work training Pittsburgh youth in CPR, there’s a lot of confusion. We ask students, ‘What’s the first thing you do?’ and they say, ‘Check for a pulse.’ But we don’t do that in bystander CPR anymore. And in our pre-course surveys, a lot of students say that they’ve seen CPR on social media and television. Those two observations inspired the study." [1]

Key Facts

• ICE detains Cui Lijie in Saipan: Cui Lijie, 68, a Chinese national and majority shareholder of Imperial Pacific International LLC, was detained by ICE on immigration violations and held at the Susupe facility. She was detained on Tuesday, and a hearing date had not been announced at the time of reporting. [1][3]
• Cui and IPI owned the island's sole casino license: Cui and her son Ji Xiaobo built their fortune in Macao’s junket industry before moving to Saipan, where they led Imperial Pacific Palace and its casino, which occupied the island’s only casino license; the company is now bankrupt. [1]
• Bloomberg identified past misconduct at the casino: A 2018 Bloomberg investigation documented illegal employment of Chinese workers on tourist visas, safety violations, and payments to local officials and their families connected to the casino project. [5]
• 2020 indictment of IPI and MCC executives: In 2020, three executives tied to IPI and MCC International Saipan were indicted on charges including unlawful employment of foreign workers and transferring more than $24 million to the United States to promote illegal activities. [7][5]
• Casino shutdown and bankruptcy in 2024: The casino shut down in March and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2024, reporting liabilities of about $165.8 million, according to local coverage. [3]
• Asset sale and revival questions: Imperial Pacific Palace and its casino license were purchased for $12.95 million in August by Team King Investment, with Hiroshi Kaneko as a main backer; it remains unclear whether the property will reopen as a casino. [1]

Who Said What

• Cleo Paskal, nonresident senior fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies: "Lijie Cui, a key person in the multibillion dollar Chinese casino in Saipan, USA, was just arrested by ICE […] And yes, Chinese can STILL arrive in Saipan without a visa." [1]

Key Facts

• Critically ill detainee airlifted to Costa Rica: Randal Gamboa-Esquivel, detained days after entering the United States unlawfully, was transported by air ambulance to Costa Rica when he was critically ill and able only to blink. He had been diagnosed with unspecified psychosis by U.S. medics and was removed on September 3. [1]
• Costa Rica doctors link brain damage to overmedication: Costa Rican doctors concluded he had brain damage, potentially from overmedication with antipsychotic drugs. His wife says he died on October 25 at age 52. [1]
• Death not in ICE custody, hospital near border: DHS said he was hospitalized at Valley Baptist Hospital near the U.S.–Mexico border to receive proper mental health and medical care, and that his death did not occur in ICE custody. [1]
• Family alleges mismanagement and lack of contact: Adriana Cordero describes erratic communication, saying ICE told the family he was unable to speak or did not want contact. She says he deteriorated, lost weight, and was under heavy medication, demanding accountability. [1]
• Costa Rica seeks clarification; investigation ongoing: Costa Rica's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will clarify the detention and deportation circumstances and has requested information from the U.S. government, including medical history; the medical examiner's report may take months as authorities investigate. [1]

Who Said What

• Adriana Cordero, Wife of Randal Gamboa-Esquivel: "People think these things don’t happen—but they do." She said the remark underscores the urgent demand for accountability in her husband's case. [1]
• Adriana Cordero, Wife of Randal Gamboa-Esquivel: "They started medicating him, saying he had anxiety. But in Costa Rica he was very healthy—the only issue he ever had was psoriasis, stress-related." [1]
• Adriana Cordero, Wife of Randal Gamboa-Esquivel: "Because of his condition, we needed an air ambulance, which is very expensive—around $70,000. We tried to get help from the consulate because it was too much for us. In the end, ICE covered the transport." [1]
• Tricia McLaughlin, DHS spokesperson: "This is the best healthcare that many aliens have received in their entire lives." [1]
• Tricia McLaughlin, DHS spokesperson: "His death did NOT occur in ICE custody." [1]
• CoreCivic spokesperson, WCDC operator: "Our facilities are subject to multiple layers of oversight and are monitored very closely by our government partners to ensure full compliance with policies and procedures, including any applicable detention standards." [1]
• CoreCivic spokesperson, WCDC operator: "All detainees have daily access to sign up for medical care, including mental health services. CoreCivic also ensures access to offsite care for residents by coordinating with staff, government partners, community physicians, hospitals and ambulatory care providers." [1]
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica, Costa Rica MFA: "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also requested additional information from the United States Government regarding the event. Mr. Gamboa´s case and his medical history, but so far no official response has been received." [1]

Key Facts

• Late 2029 completion targeted for 218-mile Vegas–SoCal rail: Brightline West aims to finish the 218-mile line linking Las Vegas with Southern California by late 2029. The project is in the civil construction phase, with focus on preparing I-15 and surrounding land for rail, while track laying has not yet begun. The Las Vegas station site is active, and the line is planned to run primarily in the median of I-15. [1]
• Development history includes 2018 acquisition and 2020 approvals: Development began when Brightline acquired XpressWest in 2018. In 2020, California approved the line and Caltrans signed a lease allowing construction within the I-15 median, setting the stage for the project to move forward. [1]
• COVID delay spurred new corridor commitments: The project faced a setback in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a postponement. During that period, Nevada Governor Sisolak and California Governor Newsom pledged to improve the corridor, including plans to add an I-15 lane on the California side, a promise not yet fulfilled according to FOX5. [1][6]
• Newsom pledge and Biden remark anchor political momentum: California Governor Newsom said the project would be completed by the summer, signaling political accountability. In 2023, President Biden said the effort was on track to be completed by the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, signaling federal alignment with the schedule. [1]
• Ongoing construction and land prep continue through 2026: Brightline West continues civil construction along the I-15 corridor and at the Las Vegas station site, with fieldwork and land preparation expected to continue through 2026 as work progresses toward track installation. [1]
• Project regarded as transformative, with costs and aims: The project carries an estimated price tag of at least $12 billion and is described as transformative infrastructure expected to reduce roadway traffic, shorten travel times, and spur regional economic activity. [1][3][4]

Who Said What

• Brightline West spokesperson, Company spokesperson: "The Brightline West high-speed rail project connecting Las Vegas to Southern California is now scheduled for completion by late 2029." [6]
• Gavin Newsom, Governor of California: "It will be done by this summer, you’re holding me to account, it’s on me to get it done by this summer." [1]
• Joe Biden, President: "Harry Reid [former Democratic Nevada senator], I told you 35 years ago to get this sucker done—we’re getting it done… It’s on track to be completed by the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles." [1]

Key Facts

• Black offered Syndrome for The Incredibles: During a Capital FM interview promoting an Anaconda reboot, Black revealed he was approached to play Syndrome in The Incredibles. He says he was offered the villain and considered it, describing his initial reaction. He later recalls asking for a rewrite to give the character more depth and dimension. Black also recounts a tense exchange with the director when he sought changes. [3]
• He turned it down for a rewrite, unsure of the director: Black says he wanted the character to have more dimensions and questioned the director’s identity at the time. The offer was tied to Brad Bird, whom Black says he had not heard of then. He describes requesting a rewrite to add layers to the villain, which led to a dismissive response from Bird. The decision is framed as a missed opportunity in his career path. [3]
• Brad Bird reportedly said, 'You’re done': In Black's account, Bird told him the conversation was over after his rewrite request. The exchange is portrayed as a turning point that prevented Black from joining The Incredibles universe as Syndrome. The anecdote forms part of Black's reflection on critical career choices and timing. [3]
• Jason Lee replaced Black; The Incredibles became a box office milestone: Jason Lee ultimately took the role, and The Incredibles went on to become a major success in its own right. The film established a strong foundation for Pixar’s superhero franchise, setting a high bar for its sequels and future installments. [1]
• Black later embraced animation with major franchises: Black continued to build a prolific animation career, anchoring series like Kung Fu Panda and contributing to other family-friendly franchises. The article notes his involvement with broader animation projects, including anticipated box office heavyweights in animation and related properties. [1]

Who Said What

• Jack Black, Actor: "I was offered, and I do regret it, saying no… I was offered Syndrome in that fantastic movie The Incredibles — one of my favorites of all time, by the way," Black said. "And I said no because I was like, ‘Uhhh, [director] Brad Bird? Never heard of him!’ [I said to him], ‘This character that you’re offering me is like a villain, but he’s kinda one-dimensional. I’m interested but I’d like to see a rewrite. Will you add some dimensions to this character?’ And he was like, ‘Yeah, you’re done.' This moment highlights how a single casting choice could have altered Black's career trajectory. [3]

Key Facts

• Tufts engineers produce tagatose in E. coli: Researchers at Tufts University engineered Escherichia coli to host a biosynthetic pathway that converts glucose into tagatose. They integrate a slime mold enzyme, Gal1P, with another enzyme to reverse a natural metabolic pathway. The setup yields up to 95 percent, far higher than conventional methods that typically reach 40–77 percent. If scalable, this approach could lower production costs and enable broader use of tagatose. [1]
• Tagatose is about 92 percent as sweet as sucrose with 60 percent fewer calories: Tagatose is about 92 percent as sweet as sucrose, while offering roughly 60 percent fewer calories. It occurs naturally only in trace amounts in foods such as dairy products and fruits, making extraction impractical. Traditional production has relied on costly chemical processes. The combination of high sweetness with lower caloric impact is central to its appeal as a sugar substitute. [2][3][1]
• Key innovation uses slime mold Gal1P enzyme to boost production: The breakthrough hinges on a galactose-1-phosphate–selective phosphatase (Gal1P) from slime mold, paired with another enzyme, to reverse the Leloir pathway and generate galactose from glucose. This enzymatic step is what enables efficient conversion to tagatose at higher yields. The overall design is described as a core technical advance for biosynthetic sugar production. [1]
• Tagatose functions as a bulk sweetener that browns and adds texture like sugar: Tagatose behaves like table sugar in recipes, providing sweetness and contributing to browning and texture in baked goods. Its bulk sweetness makes it suitable for use in foods where sugars are used to add body and mouthfeel. These properties could enable wider adoption in consumer products and foods. [1]
• FDA designates tagatose as generally recognized as safe and it may support oral and gut health: Tagatose is designated by the U.S. FDA as generally recognized as safe, placing it in the same regulatory category as common kitchen additives. It has minimal impact on blood glucose and insulin levels, an important consideration for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. Early evidence also suggests it may inhibit cavity-causing bacteria and support beneficial oral and gut bacteria, hinting at probiotic potential. [1][4]

Who Said What

• Nik Nair, paper author and chemical and biological engineer at Tufts University: "There are established processes to produce tagatose, but they are inefficient and expensive," Nair said. The remark underscores why a cheaper biosynthesis route could unlock wider use. [1]
• Nik Nair, paper author and chemical and biological engineer at Tufts University: "The key innovation in the biosynthesis of tagatose was in finding the slime mold Gal1P enzyme and splicing it into our production bacteria," Nair said. This explains the core breakthrough behind the new production method. [1]

Key Facts

• Team rebrands as Atlassian Williams F1 Team: The Williams Formula One outfit has dropped its Williams Racing name as part of a broader branding refresh. Atlassian becomes the naming partner and the team will roll out a redesigned logo across merchandise, the website, and social channels. The change marks a broader asset overhaul tied to new ownership and sponsorship dynamics that aim to broaden the team's global reach. [1]
• New logo designed to honor heritage while modernizing: Ed Scott explains the goal was to return to the original WF1 mark and give it a contemporary feel that lasts. The team weighed many options but chose to keep the Williams wordmark to maintain identity. The redesign connects the heritage with a modern look for race clothes and digital channels. [1]
• Ownership and tech partner fuel branding shift: The branding refresh coincides with Atlassian becoming a technology partner and Dorilton Capital’s ownership, which together expanded commercial opportunities. The changes come after increased emphasis on marketing and global visibility, following Liberty Media's influence on the sport. Williams posted fifth in the Constructors' Championship and earned two podiums for Carlos Sainz in Baku and Qatar, while Sainz and Williams’ other driver Alex Albon finished ninth and eighth in the Drivers' standings. [1]
• Public rollout extends to merchandise and car livery: The redesigned logo now appears on Williams-branded merchandise, websites, and social media, with race suits and the car livery to follow. The branding system is designed to be timeless while honoring Williams' heritage. [1]
• Celebrity anecdotes illustrate branding challenge: Ed Scott recounts a flight encounter where a celebrity identified Williams Racing and asked what Williams Racing was in a way that underscored branding confusion. He notes that such moments demonstrate why the team wants clear and lasting identity. [1]

Who Said What

• Ed Scott, Head of Creative Design, Williams Racing: Where we started with it all is that our old logo, the Williams Racing logo, the design of the logo and the name itself was a bit of a point of contention. [1]
• Ed Scott, Head of Creative Design, Williams Racing: When Dorilton invested into the team, that same conversation came back up again. [1]
• Ed Scott, Head of Creative Design, Williams Racing: Oh, who's Williams Racing? Is that a horse racing team or what's Williams Racing? [1]
• Ed Scott, Head of Creative Design, Williams Racing: I had a fan once message me with a picture of a W on the top of a hotel in New York, really excited that Williams had now opened a hotel in New York. I said, 'I'm really sorry to tell you this, but that's actually W Hotels, not Williams.' [1]
• Ed Scott, Head of Creative Design, Williams Racing: For me and the team, it was going back to what our original WF1 logo and reworking it to bring it into the modern era so that it lasts the test of time, and sort of gives that that more modern look and feel, but also retains our soul and heritage. [1]

Key Facts

• Glasper upbeat after Grammy nod and Blue Note run: Robert Glasper says he is in a good place creatively, spiritually, and playfully after a season that included a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Jazz Album and a celebrated residency at the Blue Note club. He describes the period as delivering plenty of memorable moments, including a surreal finale when Stevie Wonder joined him onstage. That moment underscored his commitment to cross-genre collaboration and set the tone for his ongoing work. The run at the Blue Note has become a touchstone for his artistic identity. [1]
• Stevie Wonder joins Glasper on harmonica at finale: On the last night at the Blue Note, Wonder walked on with a harmonica and played mid‑set as Glasper and his band performed Lupe Fiasco’s 'Kick Push.' Glasper describes hearing harmonica out of nowhere and says the moment was crazy. He adds he does not expect to come down from that high for months. The moment stands as a testament to Glasper’s openness to unexpected collaborations. [1]
• Hancock and Wonder unsettle Glasper in the room: Glasper says two living legends, Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder, make him nervous when they are present. He frames them as foundational to his musical self, noting that together they represent a core part of who he is as an artist. That honesty highlights how even acclaimed musicians are shaped by the presence of their mentors and heroes. [1]
• Keys to the City Vol 1 crowns seven-year Blue Note residency: Glasper’s latest album pulls from seven years of his Robtober residency at the Blue Note in New York, incorporating a wide palette of styles. The project weaves R&B with Norah Jones, hip-hop, his jazz trio work, and more electric fusion with Thundercat, reflecting Glasper’s claim that his art moves across genres. The record embodies his philosophy of staying open to what the culture needs at the moment. [1]
• Afro Blue illustrates collaboration openness with Erykah Badu: Glasper points to his work with Erykah Badu on Afro Blue as a model of cross‑genre collaboration. Badu had never recorded a jazz tune before and was initially unsure, but they met halfway and the outcome was strong. For Glasper, the sweet spot is when both artists contribute parts of themselves and land in the middle, reinforcing his openness as a guiding principle. [1]
• Early-career restraint helps establish jazz foundation: Early in his career Glasper declined a genre-blending project to cement himself as a bona fide jazz musician. He cites the idea that jazz is historically hard to break into and notes that legends like Hancock, Davis, and Hargrove built deep jazz foundations before expanding outward. This approach shaped how he navigates future collaborations and genres. [1]

Who Said What

• Robert Glasper, Pianist and composer: "I’m feeling very, very happy about the Blue Note run. Stevie Wonder came by on the last night and jumped on stage with us. That’s a dream come true." [1]
• Robert Glasper, Pianist and composer: "I just heard harmonica out of nowhere. He was still on the side of the stage with a microphone playing over Lupe Fiasco’s ‘Kick Push,’ and that was crazy. I don’t think I’ll come off that high for a few months." [1]
• Robert Glasper, Pianist and composer: "There are two people that make me nervous if they’re in the room—Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder." [1]
• Robert Glasper, Pianist and composer: "Some people are great collaborators. Some people are not. What I don’t want is someone who isn’t open to ideas." [1]
• Robert Glasper, Pianist and composer: "I’m a free spirit. Every now and then, my dance moves go viral." [1]

Key Facts

• Newsweek recalculates 2026 earnings for Friends lifestyle: Newsweek analyzes how much money it would take in 2026 to live the Friends life in New York City. It follows Monica, Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe through career paths and current city costs to estimate six-figure earnings needed for rent, meals, and daily expenses. [1]
• Monica Geller head-chef pay projected at 120k-180k: Monica progresses from chef to head chef across the series, with early 2000s head-chef wages around $80,000 a year. By 2026, the estimate places her at roughly $120,000 to $180,000. [1]
• Ross and Rachel six-figure incomes by 2026: Ross's career in paleontology and teaching yields an estimated 2026 range of $170,000 to $200,000. Rachel's trajectory suggests about $150,000 to $190,000 in 2026. [1]
• New York costs push six-figure salaries to afford living: New York City's cost of living is about 27% higher than the national average. The article notes rent trends, including a November 2025 average rent around $3,560 citywide and a West Village two-bedroom likely costing more than $6,000 per month in 2026. The 40x rent rule is used by landlords to gauge affordability. [1]
• Character-specific six-figure thresholds to rent NYC apartments: Monica would need roughly $250,000 to $317,000 per year to afford her West Village two-bedroom; Joey and Chandler would need about $183,000 to $250,000; Ross about $200,000 to $280,000; Phoebe about $167,000 to $267,000, given current rents and typical lease standards. They often share rent to stay affordable. [1]
• Massage-therapist pay informs Phoebe's earnings: Indeed data show massage therapists earn about $40.03 per hour, roughly $58,907 per year. In New York, salaries for the occupation average higher, about $75,838 per year, which aligns with Phoebe's potential earnings in the show. [3]

Key Facts

• AI-generated recommendations drive bookings: TakeUp surveyed hundreds of U.S. leisure travelers. Nearly eight in 10 travelers who use AI tools say they booked travel primarily based on AI-generated recommendations. The findings indicate AI has moved beyond novelty in planning and is shaping real purchasing decisions. Awareness of AI travel tools is high, and usage grows quickly after first try, suggesting a rapid adoption curve. [2]
• Trust forms quickly; AI becomes the starting point: TakeUp's Bobby Marhamat says trust formed quickly, showing this is not mere experimentation. He notes that travelers treat AI as the starting point for narrowing options, setting budgets, and making faster decisions. The shift signals a broader change in how people approach travel planning. [2]
• AI as initial filter; travelers validate with traditional sources: AI acts as the initial filter in the decision process, with travelers then validating options via reviews, OTAs, or trusted people before booking. This layered approach helps explain why AI guidance coexists with traditional sources. The dynamic underscores why travelers still seek reassurance before finalizing plans. [2]
• Real-time accuracy and personalization lag as friction points: Real-time accuracy remains the biggest gap, as travelers want live pricing, availability, and more personalized outputs. When outputs feel generic or out of date, trust erodes quickly. These frictions help explain why many potential adopters hold back. [2]
• Privacy concerns keep some travelers relying on traditional planning: Privacy concerns and outdated information remain salient among travelers who have not yet adopted AI, reinforcing why some still rely on traditional planning methods. They continue to check multiple booking sites or ask friends before committing. [2]
• Industry AI investment favors internal operations rather than traveler-facing impact: Hotels and airlines have been increasing AI spending, but much of that investment has targeted internal operations such as pricing, forecasting, and marketing optimization rather than traveler-facing discovery tools. Related research last year highlighted a similar gap between AI investment and traveler-facing impact. [4]

Who Said What

• Bobby Marhamat, CEO, TakeUp: "That tells us this isn’t experimentation anymore. It’s behavior." [2]
• Bobby Marhamat, CEO, TakeUp: "Today, it’s becoming the starting point. Travelers are using it to narrow choices, set budgets, and make decisions faster, not just to brainstorm ideas." [2]
• Bobby Marhamat, CEO, TakeUp: "AI removes friction. It saves hours, reduces overwhelm, and increases confidence. Once travelers feel like they’re making smarter decisions with less effort, it’s very hard to go back." [2]
• Bobby Marhamat, CEO, TakeUp: "Travelers are comfortable following AI guidance, but they’re still cautious about outdated information, privacy, and generic results that don’t reflect their preferences." [2]
• Bobby Marhamat, CEO, TakeUp: "The winners will be the properties that make it effortless for AI to match them to a traveler’s exact request, then back it up with trusted signals like strong reviews, clear policies, and consistent information across channels." [2]

Key Facts

• Grays Harbor remains identified as Ed Asher: The skeletal remains found in November 2006 on a Taholah beach were identified as Clarence Edwin 'Ed' Asher, a 72-year-old Oregon community leader. The case had been listed in NamUs as UP139985 with no name for years. Grays Harbor County Coroner’s Office and the King County Medical Examiner’s Office partnered with Othram to reopen the investigation using new DNA methods. [1]
• Forensic genealogy finally solves the case: Using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing, Othram built a comprehensive DNA profile and used genetic genealogy to generate leads. In 2025, investigators reopened the case, collected reference DNA from relatives, and confirmed Asher’s identity. [1]
• Asher died presumed drowned in Tillamook Bay: Authorities had declared him legally dead in 2006 after he was believed to have drowned while crabbing in Tillamook Bay on September 5, 2006. He was 72 years old. The new identification connects the remains to his life and ends a decades-long mystery. [1]
• Asher was Fossil mayor and local businessman: Born and raised in Oregon, Asher opened Asher’s Variety Store in 1965, worked as a lineman for the Fossil Telephone Company, and served as mayor until retiring in 1995. [1]
• Helen Asher died in 2018 at 85: Asher’s wife, Helen, died in 2018 at age 85, leaving a large hole in her heart according to her obituary. [2]
• This identification is the 43rd Washington case: The Ed Asher identification marks the 43rd case in Washington state publicly identified using Othram’s technology. [1]

Key Facts

• GOP wins one, loses another in special elections: Republicans carried Alabama District 63 with Norman Crow and 64.5% of the vote to 35.5% for Democrat Judith Taylor, with roughly 95% of ballots counted. In Connecticut District 139, Democrat Larry Pemberton defeated Republican Brandon Sabbag 64.5% to 28.5% as results neared final tallies. The mixed results come in a year when voters still gauge support for the president’s party during a term. [1]
• Pemberton’s CT win makes him the first Native American CT legislator: The Connecticut Democratic Party highlighted Pemberton’s heritage, noting in a Facebook post that Rep-elect Pemberton will be the first Native American to serve in the CT Legislature. The party framed the victory as historic for the state’s representation. Pemberton described the race as a whirlwind and pledged to serve all residents in his district. [1]
• Crow’s Alabama win underscores GOP strength in the district: Crow, a Tuscaloosa City Council member, won with 64.5% versus 35.5% for the Democratic opponent after about 95% of votes were tallied. The result reinforces the GOP in a region historically favorable to Republicans. The outcome for this race was reported with an external verification from the NYT interactive results page. [2]
• Seat vacancies linked to notables: Almond and Ryan: The Alabama seat in District 63 became vacant after Cynthis Almond was appointed president of the Alabama Public Service Commission. In Connecticut, the District 139 seat was vacated by the death of former state representative Kevin Ryan, a Democrat, prompting the special election. [1]
• Elections viewed as a barometer ahead of the November midterms: Analysts and observers treat special-election results as a pulse check on broader political support for the president’s party during a term. The story notes the midterm elections will be held in November, and mentions that White House staff have signaled Trump will be mobilized on the campaign trail ahead of those contests. [1]

Who Said What

• Connecticut Democratic Party, Democratic Party of Connecticut: "Congratulations to Larry Pemberton on his historic, massive win tonight! A member of the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation, Rep-elect Pemberton will be the first Native American to serve in the CT Legislature." [1]
• Larry Pemberton, Democratic candidate for CT State House District 139: "This election has been a whirlwind." He added: "I hope to be a voice for everyone in our district, whether you supported me or not." [1]
• Norman Crow, Republican candidate for Alabama State House District 63: "It’s a very humbling thing. I’m very excited. I’m very grateful that the residents of district 63 have elected me as their representative and House District 63 and I’m looking forward to going to work for them." [1]

Key Facts

• Britain-made As Ever bookmark signals support: Meghan's leather bookmark, promoted in her As Ever line, was produced by Sbri, a small UK-based female-owned workshop. The bookmark carries the message Fell asleep here in Meghan's calligraphy and is priced at $18. It is shipped to the United States after production in Britain, and the store does not currently ship internationally. The item sold out within minutes after promotion in Meghan's newsletter. [1]
• Possible Meghan-Harry UK visit tied to Invictus Games: British media has reported a plan for Meghan and Prince Harry to visit the UK this summer to promote the Invictus Games, set for Birmingham in 2027. If it proceeds, it would be Meghan's first trip to Britain since September 2022, the year Queen Elizabeth II died. The move aligns with Harry's efforts to reinforce his relationship with his country. [1]
• Meghan's popularity in Britain noted as historically high: The article notes Meghan was very popular as a working royal with an approval rating politicians would envy, but that standing sagged after she left the U.K. and criticized the monarchy in a high-profile interview. [1]
• Security review underway could restore police protection: A Home Office threat assessment is underway to decide whether Meghan, Harry, and their children would receive police protection during a potential UK visit. A favorable outcome could pave the way for longer stays in Britain. [3][4]
• UK business ties highlighted and fashion influence: The As Ever newsletter emphasizes the bookmark's British production and the collaboration with Sbri, reflecting Meghan's pattern of spotlighting UK-based producers and female-owned businesses as part of her fashion influence. [1]

Who Said What

• Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex: "Times where I know there is a global spotlight, and attention will be given to each detail of what I may or may not be wearing, then I support designers that I have really great friendships with, and smaller, up-and-coming brands that haven't gotten the attention that they should be getting. That's one of the most powerful things that I'm able to do, and that's simply wearing, like, an earring." [1]
• Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex: The newsletter notes that the Fell Asleep Here Leather Bookmark was made in collaboration with Sbri, a small UK-based female-owned workshop specializing in handcrafted, made-to-order keepsakes. [1]

Key Facts

• Doctor outlines eight habits to dodge the flu: As flu season intensifies, a WellNow Urgent Care physician promotes eight simple habits to lower infection risk. The guidance is framed against CDC data showing millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations this season. The emphasis is on consistency and accessibility rather than complexity, aiming to empower people to improve their health with everyday choices. [1]
• Wash Your Hands Often: Biernbaum emphasizes frequent and proper hand washing, especially before eating and after using the restroom. The habit is highlighted as a foundational defense against spread. The guidance reinforces this as a core step in staying flu-free this season. [2]
• Carry sanitizer and wipes for surfaces: The doctor urges keeping hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes handy for high-touch surfaces such as gas pumps, doorknobs, remotes, and phones. This complements regular hand washing to reduce germ exposure in daily life. The advice targets common environments where pathogens linger. [2]
• Stay home when you’re sick: Staying home when unwell is advised to prevent spreading germs and to allow the body to rest and recover. The guidance notes the role of self-care in protecting others in workplaces and public spaces during peak flu activity. This is presented as part of a broader set of steps to reduce transmission. [1]
• Stay up to date with vaccines: The doctor calls vaccination the best defense against serious illness and hospitalization, noting that many adults remain under-vaccinated. The article also notes that a substantial share of adults did not get a flu shot last season according to the CDC. [1]
• Prioritize immune health: sleep, diet, exercise: Biernbaum highlights sleep as a key factor in immune health and advises a vitamin-rich diet and regular exercise. External research linked in the article shows poor sleep can weaken immunity, underscoring why rest matters for reducing flu risk. [3][1]

Who Said What

• Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer, WellNow Urgent Care: "Frequent and proper hand washing is key, especially before eating and after using the restroom." [2]
• Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer, WellNow Urgent Care: "Stay home if you’re not feeling well to prevent spreading germs to other people and to give your body a chance to rest and recover." [1]
• Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer, WellNow Urgent Care: "Staying up to date with vaccines is the best way to prevent serious illness and hospitalization." [1]
• Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer, WellNow Urgent Care: "Aim for eight to 10 glasses a day to help flush toxins from your system and prevent dehydration." [1]

Key Facts

• EPA disapproves Colorado SIP over plant consent: The EPA announced it would disapprove Colorado's revised 2022 Regional Haze SIP because it relies on closing coal plants without consent from all facilities and does not meet Clean Air Act requirements. The decision blocks the planned pollution controls intended to improve visibility in national parks and other protected areas. Officials emphasized the state's approach is not aligned with the law and that a revised plan is needed. [1]
• EPA cannot approve the SIP yet; invites revision talks: The agency said it cannot approve Colorado’s SIP revision but left open channels of communication, expressing willingness to work with Colorado to develop a revised SIP. It reaffirmed a commitment to protecting human health and the environment and to clean air for Americans, while applying the law to guide its decisions. [1]
• Forced plant closures not required for haze goals: The update states that shuttering power plants is not necessary to meet Regional Haze requirements and that setting deadlines for plants wishing to stay open would misapply the Clean Air Act. The EPA cited concerns about the balance between regulatory goals and costs to energy supply. [1]
• Nonconsensual Nixon Unit 1 shutdown raises takings concern: The EPA said Colorado did not properly evaluate whether closing Nixon Unit 1 without consent would amount to taking private property without compensation. This issue was highlighted as part of the broader concerns with the state's plan. [1]
• Grid reliability warned if coal plants shut down: The update emphasized potential disruptions to the electricity grid if any coal-fired plants are closed under Colorado’s plan, underscoring worries about reliable and affordable energy for Colorado families. [1]
• Officials and scholars respond to the plan: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended baseload energy and pledged to work with Colorado to revise the SIP to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act. Economists and legal scholars weighed in, arguing for a full accounting of benefits and costs in major regulations. [1]

Who Said What

• Lee Zeldin, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency: "Reliable baseload energy sources are essential to Powering the Great American Comeback and ensuring families have cost-effective energy. The Trump EPA has repeatedly demonstrated that we can achieve our statutory obligations, support baseload power, and improve visibility within our national parks. This is what the American people voted for. EPA is ready and willing to work full-heartedly with Colorado to revise its SIP, ensuring full compliance with the Clean Air Act as written." [1]
• Nick Muller, Professor of economics, engineering, and public policy at Carnegie Mellon University: "In recent research my co-authors and I have shown that continued reliance on coal for power generation is a net negative when counting the positive impacts on related jobs (mining and employment in power plants, for example) and adverse effects of burning coal on air quality and climate." [1]
• Nick Muller, Professor of economics, engineering, and public policy at Carnegie Mellon University: "The decision by the USEPA to no longer count the benefits of reduced mortality risk from environmental policy flies in the face of decades worth of scientific evidence and common sense…Whether relying on evidence from the labor market, on scientifically designed and administered surveys, or in consumers’ everyday decisions, it is clear that people value safety. To simply argue that such benefits from mortality risk reductions that accrue from sound environmental policies do not count, as the EPA has done, is an arbitrary and baseless decision." [1]
• Jonathan Wiener, Professor of law, environmental policy and public policy at Duke University: "It is essential for EPA and other federal agencies to assess all the important impacts of major regulations, both benefits and costs. That’s required by decades of bipartisan presidential executive orders and by leading court decisions, and it’s just good government. Not doing so can lead to arbitrary decisions that violate the law and that harm society—especially if only some impacts are counted and others are left out." [1]

Key Facts

• Arizona weighs derestricted speed zones under RAPID Act: The Arizona House is considering HB 2059, the RAPID Act, which would let the Arizona Department of Transportation designate certain rural interstates as derestricted. Non-commercial vehicles could travel without a daytime speed limit on eligible stretches, while nighttime speeds would be capped at 80 mph. The plan envisions a one-year pilot on a segment of Interstate 8 south of Phoenix, with safety audits and public education as safeguards. If enacted, Arizona would be the first state to experiment with this approach. [1]
• Daylight derestriction defined by sunrise to sunset: Under the bill, there would be no maximum speed for non-commercial vehicles from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. Nighttime speed limits on these zones would be set at 80 mph. The zones would be restricted away from urban areas and high-accident corridors, with penalties for misuse designed to deter reckless driving. [1]
• Montana precedent cited as safety reference: The sponsor cites a Montana precedent where a period without a daytime limit coincided with higher speeds but fewer accidents, suggesting safety can be maintained through better driver behavior and enforcement. The article notes a Montana Legislative Audit Division review backing the idea that outcomes depend on multiple factors beyond posted limits. [1]
• Kupper frames policy as road-appropriate and safe: Kupper argues that a wide-open rural interstate requires different rules than crowded city freeways, and that the RAPID Act would let speeds rise where safe while preserving penalties for reckless driving. He emphasizes reflecting real driving practices rather than clinging to outdated limits. [1]
• Pilot design includes safety and education safeguards: If passed, the initial unrestricted zone would be a one-year pilot on I-8 south of Phoenix. Officials would conduct annual safety audits, coordinate enforcement with public safety, and run a public education campaign on lane discipline and passing rules. [1]

Who Said What

• Nick Kupper, Arizona state Representative; sponsor of the RAPID Act: Most drivers can tell the difference between a crowded city freeway and a wide-open stretch of rural interstate. The RAPID Act accounts for that difference. It will let us raise speeds where it’s safe, keep tough penalties for reckless driving, and update our laws to reflect how people actually use these roads. [1]
• Nick Kupper, Arizona state Representative; sponsor of the RAPID Act: Montana showed that you can modernize speed laws without sacrificing safety. When rules are clear and focused on driver behavior, states can let safe highways operate as they were designed to operate. Arizona should benefit from those lessons instead of sticking with limits that don’t reflect reality. [1]

Key Facts

• Cheryl Hines releases memoir Unscripted about her life: Hines promotes Unscripted as a memoir that traces her unexpected move from an acting career into the political orbit surrounding her husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. She says the book's title reflects events she could not have scripted, including personal and political turns that surprised her. The account frames the rest of the interview as scenes from that transition. [1]
• Audition with Larry David launched her Hollywood career: Hines says she won a slot to improvise with Larry David for an HBO special after auditioning as an unknown actress, and that connection opened doors in Hollywood. She presents that early career moment as the hinge that later led to encounters with environmental activists and her future husband. The anecdote links her entertainment beginnings to the relationships that moved her toward politics. [1]
• Met Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on a ski lift; he gave her his hat: Hines recounts meeting RFK Jr. at a Waterkeeper Alliance event when he handed her his hat on a ski lift, an encounter that began their relationship. She describes Kennedy as initially an environmental attorney who ran as a Democrat, became an independent, and eventually joined the Trump administration—a political arc she says helps explain the memoir's unexpected storyline. That personal origin sets up her later commentary about politics and relationships. [1]
• Says she lost friends over her husband's political evolution: Hines acknowledges that longtime friendships frayed as her husband's politics changed, telling the interviewer she 'lost touch with some acquaintances' and that a few friends 'couldn’t' remain close because of politics. She links those losses to broader polarization and uses them to explain why her book recounts both personal cost and surprise at who stayed in her life. The admissions provide context for her later observations about partisan behavior. [1]
• Claims the left has been meaner to her than the right: Hines says she has not seen people on the right engage in 'mean' name-calling toward her, asserting instead that 'only' people on the left have behaved that way. She repeats that contrast as a central personal conclusion from her time navigating Hollywood and politics, framing it as a reason some relationships ended and as a lens on current partisan dynamics. The remark recurs in the interview and anchors debates about how public figures experience political backlash. [1]
• From inside, she praises Trump as a 'change maker' and leader: Speaking about the Trump administration, Hines calls President Trump 'a change maker' and 'a strong leader,' and says she senses staffers genuinely want to improve the country. She adds that she had expected more self-interest but did not 'get that feeling' in the administration, using her personal impressions to defend its motives and work ethic. That appraisal completes the arc from her Hollywood start to her current political perspective. [1]

Who Said What

• Cheryl Hines, Actress and author: "I haven't seen them [the right] be mean or name calling... Only from the left.", this signals why she says longtime friendships dissolved and frames her view of partisan behavior as a personal grievance that shaped her memoir's narrative. [1]
• Cheryl Hines, Actress and author: "He's a change maker. And he's a strong leader," she says, explaining her favorable impression of President Trump and why she believes people in the administration genuinely are working to improve the country. [1]

Key Facts

• Montgomery discusses Dead Man’s Wire and life after Stranger Things: The Newsweek piece centers on Montgomery's discussion of his project Dead Man’s Wire and how he views his career after Stranger Things. [1]
• Author H. Alan Scott profiles Montgomery: H. Alan Scott is the author of the piece, framing the interview around Montgomery’s experiences in the industry and his creative direction. [1]
• Published December 24, 2025: Newsweek published the article on December 24, 2025, with an update noted later that day. [1]
• Article appears on Newsweek: The feature is published in Newsweek’s entertainment section, focusing on Montgomery’s career and projects. [1]
• Post-Stranger Things career is a central theme: The piece ties Montgomery’s rise to fame from Stranger Things to his current work, highlighting his ongoing projects and choices. [1]
• Dead Man’s Wire is a central focus of the interview: Montgomery’s involvement with Dead Man’s Wire is a focal point of the discussion alongside reflections on his broader career. [1]

Key Facts

• Weekend catch-up sleep linked to lower depressive symptoms: A study by researchers at the University of Oregon and SUNY Upstate Medical University followed 16- to 24-year-olds and found that those who caught up on lost sleep during weekends showed a significantly lower risk of depressive symptoms. Those who slept more on weekends were 41 percent less likely to report depressive symptoms than peers who did not catch up. The weekend catch-up sleep was calculated as the difference between weekend and weekday sleep and related to participants' emotional wellbeing. [1]
• Teens' weekend sleep may be protective when weekday sleep is insufficient: University of Oregon paper author Melynda Casement said it is normal for teens to be night owls, and letting them catch up on sleep on weekends if they cannot get enough sleep during the week may be somewhat protective against depression. The authors frame weekend catch-up sleep as a potential mental health buffer when schedules fall short. [1]
• Weekend catch-up sleep measured by difference in sleep patterns: Participants reported their usual bedtimes and wake times on both weekdays and weekends, enabling calculation of weekend catch-up sleep. They also assessed emotional wellbeing by asking about daily feelings of sadness or depression, with those reporting persistent symptoms categorized as depressed. The analysis linked weekend catch-up sleep to depressive symptoms. [1]
• Circadian shifts underlie teen sleep patterns: Biology explains the late sleep tendency: during puberty, circadian rhythms shift later, making it harder for teens to fall asleep early. Casement explained that teens become night owls and that sleep onset delays extend through adolescence, with a shift toward morning tendencies after about age 18 to 20. [1]
• Ideal eight-to-ten hours per night, but schedules are often unrealistic: The researchers say eight to ten hours of nightly sleep is ideal, but many teens juggle school, homework, extracurriculars, social life and jobs, making consistent schedules difficult. The study notes that weekend sleep-ins may offer a meaningful mental health benefit when weekday schedules fall short. [1]

Who Said What

• Melynda Casement, paper author and University of Oregon psychologist: "It’s normal for teens to be night owls, so let them catch up on sleep on weekends if they can’t get enough sleep during the week because that’s likely to be somewhat protective." This underscores the potential mental health benefit of weekend sleep across late adolescence. [1]
• Melynda Casement, paper author and University of Oregon psychologist: "Instead of being a morning lark you’re going to become more of a night owl." This biological explanation clarifies why adolescents often rely on weekend sleep to recover. [1]
• Melynda Casement, paper author and University of Oregon psychologist: "Depression is one of the leading causes of disability among people aged 16 to 24," Casement noted. This underscores why studying this age group matters for interventions. [1]