SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " close " 5,275 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Former Jack Daniel’s Cooperage closes in Alabama
Alabama Cooperage, previously known as Jack Daniel's Cooperage, will close in September, resulting in 71 job losses.
Samsung lost the latest global foldable battle, and it wasn't even close
The last quarterly foldable smartphone market report before the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 are released sees Huawei earn a blowout win over Samsung.
Gossip: Hull close to signing Bailey and Targett
Hull City are in talks with Aston Villa over a deal for 28-year-old Jamaica winger Leon Bailey. Athletic - subscription required) The Tigers are closing in on the signing of 30-year-old former Newcastle left-back Matt Targett, who is a free agent after leaving the club this summer. (Mail)
Spain's 'victory for football' over 'embarrassing' Argentina
Describing a result as a 'victory for football' might seem like a trite cliché – but the 2026 World Cup final feels closer to giving that aphorism truth than any other game.
Bangor businesses hope World Cup excitement scores big with local fans
As the world’s biggest soccer tournament comes to a close with its championship match, Bangor businesses are hoping the global excitement translates into packed dining rooms and a busy Sunday afternoo...
Tal Bagels, Popular UWS Bagel Spot, Closed by the Health Department
The Health Department closure sign on the front of Tal Bagels on the Upper West Side. Photo by Nate Jones.
MLB insider unveils update on Phillies' trade deadline demands
As reported by a senior MLB insider, the Phillies are looking to fill two holes in their roster before the deadline closes.
Telemundo adds UEFA Champions League rights in multiyear deal
With a record-breaking World Cup drawing to a close on Sunday, Telemundo is announcing its next step in soccer broadcasting. The NBCUniversal-owned network announced on Sunday that it has secured exclusive U.S. Spanish-language broadcast rights for all UEFA men’s club competitions, including Champions League, for three years beginning with the 2027-28 season. Currently, U.S. Spanish-language…
Plants that make real dairy protein? Scientists discover an unexpected shortcut
What if the plants growing in a field could one day produce the same proteins that give milk its nutrition, texture and cheese-making properties? A new study brings that possibility a step closer by revealing ...
Garmin CIRQA to launch at a significantly lower price than expected, according to Garmin’s official database
The price of the Garmin CIRQA has been announced. According to more or less official sources, it will be significantly cheaper than initially reported. Nevertheless, the price that has now been disclosed is, of course, not to be equated with the street price.
Scientists told them, 'No, it's too dangerous,' but they did it anyway: Inside Japan's super-close asteroid flyby
A last-minute proposal saw Hayabusa2 whizz within just 800 meters of a near-Earth asteroid.
What the regionality of Marx’s Republican primary win reveals about Colorado conservatives
Running for governor of Colorado, controversial outsider Victor Marx, 61, a self-proclaimed exorcist and a friendly ally to the late Charlie Kirk, pulled out a 39.9% Republican primary victory. State Sen. and Republican establishment candidate Barbara Kirkmeyer came in a close second with around 39.4% of the vote. Meanwhile, Scott Bottoms, a state legislator and […]
Caitlin Clark picks up sixth technical foul this season
INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark was assessed a technical foul in the first quarter of Saturday’s game against the New York Liberty. Clark now has six technical fouls on the season, and if she reaches eight, she’ll receive a WNBA-mandated one-game suspension. Clark picked up a technical foul after she was leveled on a screen by Liberty center Jonquel Jones. The play was a no-call, but Clark took exception to the physicality and yelled at the closest official. Liberty star Breanna
Ricky Pearsall workout video raises health questions close to 49ers camp
In what's supposed to be a make-or-break year for 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, there is already some cause for concern for the third-year wide receiver.
"During the training sequence, we make a false promise": IO Interactive on the ensemble James Bond game that 007 First Light never was
But almost was!
Too Much Happiness Sent A Woman To The Emergency Room In an Incredibly Rare Case
Ever heard of happy heart syndrome?
Orange County restaurants shut down by health inspectors (July 9-16)
There were 11 restaurants and food establishments ordered closed by Orange County inspectors from July 9 to July 16.
Multiple Hyde Park, Mount Lookout businesses closed amid flooding cleanup from heavy rain
Multiple businesses, especially in Hyde Park and Mount Lookout, are closed after massive flooding from heavy downpours Friday.
Food Bank's Health Partnership Model Draws National Praise
A new national report shows how FARSB's FoodRx program is helping Inland Empire neighbors eat better and stay healthier close to home.
Walking is one of the best exercises for heart health — why trainers say strength training matters too
Heart health is closely tied to everyday energy and resilience. A trainer explains what actually makes the biggest difference — and where most people get it wrong.
Ross Street Live: Bands, food trucks, cornhole and ping pong coming to downtown Santa Rosa block
Starting Aug. 14 through Oct. 31, Ross Street will be closed to traffic for live music and local food, to test a larger effort to improve the downtown area’s walkable options and vibrancy.
These 16 Democrats Voted to Stop Israel Aid. AIPAC Took Action.
After 103 Democrats voted to eliminate aid to Israel, the lobbying group closed off online donations for more than a dozen Democratic lawmakers it had endorsed.
Colts training camp battle early preview: Kicker
This is arguably the closest and most interesting Colts training camp positional battle.
Surf's up for The Intoxicators! with Music Under the Oaks concert
Brian Crum and The Intoxicators! will close out this year’s “Levitt AMP Tallahassee: Music Under the Oaks” series in Lewis Park on Thursday, July 23.
The Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner closed Small Business Bank in Lenexa on Friday
The Small Business Bank in Lenexa was closed Friday by the Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner after "ongoing operating losses resulted in the bank’s capital becoming critically undercapitalized under federal and state law."
New liquor liability insurance program promises affordable coverage for at-risk businesses
Hundreds of businesses have closed, citing struggles with skyrocketing insurance policies needed to sell alcohol under state mandates. A partnership is working to secure those small businesses in South Carolina's future.
Leon Black walked out of an Epstein House committee interview. Here’s what we know
Billionaire investor Leon Black, who for years paid Jeffrey Epstein for tax and financial advice, is facing scrutiny over his relationship with the late convicted sex offender after walking out of a closed-door interview with House investigators last month.
Private equity-backed chain Big Brand says it is acquiring Belle Tire
The deal for the Southfield-based Belle Tire is expected to close later this quarter.
Downtown Wilmington bar closes doors after 4 years in business
WILMINGTON — In operation since 2022, a bar in the heart of downtown Wilmington closed shop Sunday, as the owners cited challenges with managing a business two hours away from their other North…
Wegovy, weight loss and cardiovascular health: A closer look at how semaglutide protects the heart
When patients take semaglutide, the dose appears to offer more cardiovascular benefits than weight loss.
West Hollywood Flooding Forces Road Closures Around Sunset Strip
A 110-year-old pipe rupture sent thousands of gallons of water into the street Thursday, shut down major roads, and forced Dialog Cafe and other local businesses to close.
San Bernardino County restaurants shut down by health inspectors, July 8-16
Four facilities were ordered to close.
Zoo Boise to temporarily close Africa section for giraffe health exam
According to a recent news release, Zoo Boise is taking a proactive approach to giraffe care, particularly for Jabari, the zoo's 16-year-old aging male giraffe,
Addressing air quality health concerns: how you can protect yourself
NYC Sleep Physician & Pulmonologist Dr. Saema Tahir sits down with Eyewitness News.
'Shared cosmic experience': 'Potentially hazardous' asteroid Apophis could be visible to 90% of Earth's population during ultraclose 2029 flyby, new maps reveal
Researchers predict that up to 7.6 billion people will be able to see the potentially hazardous asteroid Apophis fly past Earth on April 13, 2029. The skyscraper-size space rock will come closer than some satellites, making it clearly visible to the naked eye.
Siri AI vs. Old Siri on Apple Watch: It Wasn't Even Close
The WatchOS 27 public beta is here, and Apple's revamped assistant finally does what Siri should have been doing all along.
Abbott discloses cyberattack on cancer diagnostics business
The cyberattack follows Abbott’s recent $21 billion purchase of Exact Sciences. Abbott did not disclose what kind of information was accessed.
Amazon nears deal for vertical warehouse next to Goose Island
It's a move that would bolster the online retail giant's local network of distribution centers with a big new hub close to downtown.
Hospital that delivers a third of D.C. babies to close a postpartum unit
MedStar Washington Hospital Center cites financial pressure and declining birth rates. But health advocates are alarmed.
In heated Minnesota Senate primary, barrage of political ads is omen of more to come this fall
In a closely contested battle for DFLers in the U.S. Senate primary, candidates and their backers are spending big on advertising. They’re bringing their case to every available screen they can find.
ArcBest announces organizational changes, 2% workforce reduction
Fort Smith-based ArcBest on Thursday (July 16) announced organizational changes and a new brand structure, with an estimated 280 job cuts resulting from the changes. The company did not disclose...
Hamilton County, East Ridge move to form sports authority for regional youth facility
Hamilton County and the city of East Ridge are moving closer to developing a regional indoor youth sports facility by creating a joint Sports Authority, a step
Seaport Entertainment Group Announces Second Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Dates
NEW YORK, July 16, 2026--Seaport Entertainment Group Inc. (NYSE: SEG) ("Seaport Entertainment Group" or the "Company") today announced it will release its second quarter financial results on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 after the market closes. The Company will host a conference call and audio webcast to discuss the results on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET.
LSU students build AI solutions to help Baton Rouge businesses work smarter
LSU students showcased practical artificial intelligence solutions for four Baton Rouge organizations during the Spring 2026 LSU AI Showcase, the culminating event for a selective capstone course that partners technically advanced students with industry sponsors to solve real-world business challenges. Throughout the semester, student teams worked closely with representatives from MMR Group, Baton Rouge Community […]
Amid political division, Alaska lawmakers close in on final compromise gasline bill
Legislative leaders say they will introduce a final compromise tax bill for the proposed AKLNG gasline on Thursday, which is then scheduled to be taken up for a vote by the full House and Senate.
As fires burn, Boundary Waters businesses confront lost peak season
After days spent evacuating campers from the Boundary Waters as wildfires spread, outfitters and tourism businesses are beginning to consider the financial fallout. With the wilderness closed during the height of the summer season, many are facing mounting cancellations and an uncertain future.
IKEA closes more plan and order point locations amid business shift
The retailer's closures span Charlotte, Austin, Memphis and Southlake as it reshapes how Americans shop for furniture.
This Week in Sports Trivia: July 16, 2026
How closely were you following the sports news this week? Find out and test your knowledge by taking The Athletic's weekly quiz.
Dauphin Street Vault brings high-flying sport to Mobile’s entertainment scene
The annual pole-vaulting event gives fans an up-close look at the sport in a unique setting.
Yankees news: Bombers close to securing $3B financing deal
Yanks close to securing $3 billion financing deal, new draftees make Yankees’ top 10 list, Chapman finally moves on
NJ business temporarily closes after copper theft spoils thousands in food
Johnny "Gabagool" Aubry said the thieves stole the copper piping that supplies cold air to the walk-in refrigerator and deli case.
Some Chicago restaurants forced to close after failed health inspections
Springfield June business openings, closings
Multiple new businesses opened in June around the capital city, while some others closed their doors for the final time.
Uber Announces Acquisition Offer for Delivery Hero
Cash consideration of €41.50 per share offered to all Delivery Hero shareholders, representing an Equity Value of $14.8 billion, or $13.7 billion adjusted for Uber’s prior stake purchases The transaction is expected to be accretive to Non-GAAP EPS upon close; high-single-digit percentage accretion by year three Delivery Hero has separately agreed to sell part of its business covering 14 markets to SSW Partners Management Board and Supervisory Board of Delivery Hero unanimously welcome and support the Takeover Offer and intend to recommend Delivery Hero shareholders to tender into the offer, subject to their review of the Offer Document Prosus has irrevocably committed to tender their shares, which would bring Uber’s total economic interest to ~53% Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: UBER) has entered into a business combination agreement with Delivery Hero, extending the world’s largest mobility and delivery platform to a total of 99 markets, with combined pro-forma Gross Bookings of $236
ZeniMax Online Studios leadership to exit as part of Xbox cuts
There are major changes happening atop Maryland-based ZeniMax Online Studios, developer of the Elder Scrolls Online, Game File has learned. Joe Burba, a 14-year veteran of the studio who was appointed to run it last July, is departing, along with ESO executive producer Susan Kath, studio game director Rich Lambert and production director Ala Diaz. Their roles were listed among hundreds of others cut last week from the Maryland offices of ZeniMax, in a WARN letter sent to the state by ZeniMax and obtained today by Game File. Tonight, BUrbam Kath, Lambert and Diaz notified Zenimax Online Studios workers of plans to “transition” to a new leadership team consisting of promoted ZOS veterans. That transition will occur “over the next few months,” they told workers, according to a copy of the notice reviewed by Game File. “We will remain in place during the transition period to help ensure a smooth handoff.” Last week, Microsoft laid off of 1,600 workers across its vast gaming teams in locations around the U.S. and abroad. Just who has been impacted and how hard various studios have been hit has been emerging day by day. Game File reported last week that Microsoft/ZeniMax notified officials in Maryland that 379 gaming jobs were being cut across the state. They tallied cuts in two locations: one for ZeniMax Media Inc. (covering Elder Scrolls/Starfield/Fallout-maker Bethesda Game Studios and central Bethesda game publishing) and one for ZeniMax Online Studios (Elder Scrolls Online). More than 200 jobs were cut at the latter. Last week’s totals did not reveal job titles, nor did Microsoft announce any leadership changes in the ZeniMax group. That has now happened. Earlier today, Game File obtained from Maryland officials a breakdown of the 379 impacted roles, which, extraordinarily, included “studio head.” Microsoft later confirmed to Game File which studio head that referred to: ZeniMax Online Studios’. Microsoft has since has notified studio employees and internally announced new leadership. ZOS will now be run by Josh Henderson, previously head of business operations at the studio, and Nick Giacomini, who was promoted to game director for ESO last August. Game File is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my journalism, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe Last week’s news of 200+ cuts at ZeniMax Online Studios generated public sympathy for those workers and questions about the long-term viability of the Elder Scrolls Online. ESO is a massively multiplayer online game that inherently persists on the strength of new content being developed for it. Earlier today, fans and workers in Maryland protested the cuts at the ZeniMax teams in a rally organized by the Communication Workers of America, the union that represents many of the impacted employees. Regarding concerns around the game, a community manager stated on Saturday: “The plan is still to deliver great content, and we will hopefully have an update soon.” In their note to the studio today, the outgoing leaders of ZeniMax Online Studios predicted “growth” for the game: We have tremendous confidence in Josh and Nick, the future of this studio, and the continued growth of ESO. With exciting experiences still ahead for our players as we wrap up work for Update 51 and beyond, we believe that your passion, creativity, and commitment to each other and the community will continue serving as the heartbeat of ESO. The list of jobs cut in the ZeniMax WARN notice in Maryland includes several very senior roles, including: Studio Head Studio Operations Director Studio Game Director Studio Audio Director Studio Art Manager Vice President and Controller VP, Global Sales & Business Development While some of those job descriptions match the exiting ZOS leadership team, Game File couldn’t verify if all were from that studio. The full list of cut roles shared by Maryland officials also covers workers at Bethesda Game Studios and its central publishing office. The following is an excerpt: The list of 379 eliminated ZeniMax jobs in Maryland also includes: four animators three bilingual CS (community service) leads for Chinese, Italian, and Japanese a creative director for the Elder Scrolls Online Player Life Cycle two food service workers seven producers more than 60 senior QA testers. and many others The WARN notice states that almost all of the 379 workers were notified of their layoff on July 6. In fine print, it states: “Approximately 9 employees were notified of the elimination of their position prior to July 6, 2026.” A 2021 mega-merger scaled back Microsoft announced in 2020 that it intended to buy ZeniMax and its network of game studios in 2020, and closed the $7.5 billion deal in March 2021. The purchase, which preceded Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, added several award-winning studios to Microsoft’s portfolio, including Bethesda (Elder Scrolls, Fallout), Arkane (Dishonored), and id Software (Doom). The studios’ output since then included a 2024 Game of the Year contented from MachineGames in the form of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle along with Starfield from Bethesda and the poorly-received Redfall from Arkane Austin. In recent years, a Microsoft repeatedly in cutback mode closed ZeniMax’s Tango Gameworks (which was reconstituted by Krafton) and closed Arkane Austin. The Xbox cuts last week have hit the ZeniMax group hard, with 158 jobs eliminated in Texas, many of them at id, and 379 from the ZeniMax teams in Maryland. Xbox also said last week that it would be entering a consultation process around Arkane Lyon, a process expected to end in a sale, shutdown or other form of divestment. The Lyon team has been working on a game tied to Marvel’s Blade vampire-hunting super-hero.
Health officials urge caution as cyclosporiasis cases rise, shoppers turn to local farmers
Growing concerns over a parasitic intestinal illness have prompted some customers at a local farmers markets to take a closer look at how their produce is grown.
Chico City Council approves entertainment zones for downtown and Meriam Park
CHICO, Calif. - Chico City Council voted 6 to 0 to approve an ordinance creating entertainment zones in downtown Chico and Meriam Park.The ordinance, taking effect September 18, 2026, will allow customers to carry approved alcoholic beverages and walk around outside within those designated areas."I feel like the downtown could use all the help it could get right now," said Celeste Cramer, general manager of Downtown Chico Business Association. "In the other areas where they have been doing the entertainment zones and throughout California, it has increased their sales. They haven't seen an increase in violence, or tickets, or anything like that. It's a good thing to try out."Numerous other cities around California such as Redding, Sacramento and San Francisco have put their own entertainment zones into effect and have had success.Action News Now stopped by both designated locations and spoke with organizers and bar owners."I'm super excited, I think this is an opportunity for us," said Scott Baldwin, owner of Argus. "We can get a booth at the farmers market. You can order a cocktail from that booth and then we'll have it ready for you at the door as you walk through. Think of it as a picnic situation. You can grab some tacos, you can get a Kentucky Buck. You can sit down anywhere in the entertainment zone and enjoy Argus outside of Argus."Chico's Chamber of Commerce hosted community stakeholder meetings and community engagement sessions to tailor the ordinance to the city's needs as a university town and rural area.The ordinance will allow people 21 and older to walk around with open containers of alcohol within the entertainment zones as long as they have a wristband, stamp or another visible marker showing they're allowed to do so."To us it's more than an ordinance," said Jen Rothenwander, marketing manager at Meriam Park. "It's an opportunity to invest back into the community, and to continue to do what Chico does well – which is to create the spaces for people to stick around and gather, and shop and spend."The Meriam Park entertainment zone will be enclosed by Springfield Drive, Alcott Avenue, Notre Dame Boulevard and E. 20th Street.The Downtown Chico entertainment zone will span mostly from Highway 32 to Lost Park.Chico Chief of Police Billy Aldridge spoke with Redding Police and was informed they had zero problems with their entertainment zone.Chief Aldridge endorses the ordinance in Chico. freestar.config.enabled_slots.push({ placementName: "actionnewsnow-com_blox_yup-rectangle-one", slotId: "actionnewsnow-com_blox_yup-rectangle-one", targeting: { "pos": "yup-rectangle-one" } });
Drained Reflecting Pool reveals liner is now closer to gray
The new liner appears grayer than when the pool was repainted and refilled with water in early June
Water main break triggers boil water notice, forces business closures in Sumner County town
A boil water notice issued Wednesday by the city of Westmoreland is forcing businesses to close and residents to scramble as officials work to restore safe water service.
Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7 rolling out for Pixel
Following last release two weeks ago, Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7 is rolling out today for Pixel devices. Android 17...
90-year-old Boise business acquired by Minnesota firm
A Minnesota company has acquired a 90-year-old Boise business. Loffler Companies of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, purchased Fisher’s Technologies of Garden City, the companies announced. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Fisher’s Office Equipment first opened in Downtown Boise with an office on 9th St., later moving to the Union Block building on Idaho […]
The States Try to Topple WarnerMount…Thus Begins the Local Antitrust Era
(Welcome to the “Most Important Story of the Week”, my bi-weekly strategy column analyzing the most important (but often not buzziest) news story of the last two weeks. I’m the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a former streaming executive who now analyzes business strategy in the entertainment industry. Please subscribe.) Well, it looks like it’s time for another strategy column. Can I finally avoid writing about M&A? No, it seems I cannot. Admittedly, I’m a week early with this column, since I usually put it out every other week. But this news couldn’t wait. This will make three “Most Important Stories” in a row with a merger or acquisition as its centerpiece. First, Roku-Fox (an acquisition), then Comcast-NBCUniversal (a divestment!), and now the State AGs and the WGA’s lawsuits against Paramount’s pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery (antitrust). M&A is usually the “most important” topic any given week, simply because a giant company merging or breaking up (or preventing those outcomes) can have the biggest impact on the streaming board. If you think about these companies as players in a game, changing the number of players is one of the biggest changes you can make. I shouldn’t really complain, either, since this lawsuit is very good news for customers and suppliers (econ speak for talent, workers and indie studios in Hollywood). So let me answer some questions about this potential trial, along with (shudder) making some heavily caveated predictions. I’ll also look at whether Hollywood must consolidate, whether or not the states can win, trouble at X-Box, Netflix’s YouTube binge, and more. Plus, I have five images that visualize this merger and the harm, including three brand new data looks you’ve never seen before. Subscribe Most Important Story of the Week - Can The States and the WGA Stop Hollywood’s Consolidation (Crisis)? If every other newsletter and news outlet is writing about the same story, I try to avoid writing about it as well, but I can’t ignore a story this consequential. The story of the last year was the fate of Warner Bros. Discovery, and this development potentially extends that saga into 2027. As I tried to figure out my angle, I realized, like my last column, I’m again faced with a series of questions. These questions, though, are much more forward-looking. Will the states win? Will the WGA win? If so, what happens to Warner Bros. Discovery? Either way, will this chill the market for future mergers? So you know what that means: predictions. About the future, no less, the hardest thing to predict.1 Just remember: nothing here comes with a guarantee. And the more confident someone is in their predictions, the less you should trust them. This situation is incredibly fluid, nuanced, uncertain and tenuous. So let’s try to explain what may happen. Question: Why File this Lawsuit? I’ll admit, a few months back, I was fairly pessimistic about the fate of this lawsuit. Rumors had started bubbling up that the state Attorneys General (in particular California) wanted to settle with either some minor divestments (usually CNN) or behavioral remedies. And that tracked for me: the states usually settle lawsuits, like the recent John Deere right-to-repair suit. Yet, they plan to fight this. (As they did the LiveNation-Ticketmaster monopolization trial and the Nexstar-Tegna merger.) Honestly, that also makes a ton of sense. Frankly, this move is just good politics for these State AGs. Most are still running for higher and higher office in blue states—some folks have emphasized that only Democratic AGs joined this suit, but given the Ellison/Trump ties, and fears of retribution, that tracks—and a high profile case like this will help them move up the electoral ladder, especially since Paramount and its leadership (the Ellisons, father and heir) have sided with the other side of the political aisle. That makes them unsympathetic to Democratic voters and Hollywood workers in particular. Why did this lawsuit happen? In addition to the very real concerns about industry consolidation, this is why. That said, I don’t think we would have seen this lawsuit for Netflix and Warner Bros., simply because they’re more sympathetic and aligned with Democrats. But those consolidation concerns are real. The “town”—meaning Hollywood and such—really is seeing the damage of mergers on this industry. That’s why the WGA also filed its own lawsuit in defense of workers as well. (Wildcard: What about Europe? Will they try to stop the deal, too? There have been some rumors out of the UK they may try to fight the deal, and UK enforcers just stopped a Getty Images-Shutterstock tie up, so there is precedence. This argument could go either way, though. On one hand, the EU doesn’t need to step in, cause they states are handling it. On the other hand, this could make the EU’s case easier. Just imagine if both sides coordinated. I’ll simply say, “We’ll see!”) Question: Will The State AGs or the WGA Win? Can the state AGs play David to Paramount-Skydance’s Goliath here? That’s really the whole thing, isn’t it? If you know this result, you could make a lot of money. When things are uncertain, it’s tempting to shrug and say, “Eh” meaning it’s a 50/50 proposition. I wouldn’t, though. When in doubt, you should expect that the merging parties succeed. AT&T did successfully buy Warner Bros., after all, and Disney bought Fox without any challenges. Many judges are extremely sympathetic to mergers, and I’d bet the state AGs get a judge who will allow the merger. (Even Obama-appointed judges often allow mergers.) As I understand it, we’ll see two main attacks. First, theatrical films. The AGs are arguing that, when it comes to share of box office and the number of both “wide releases” and blockbuster (or “tentpole”) films, the merging parties will have over 27% market share. Now, the Supreme Court once ruled from on high that any merger that exceeds 30% is presumptively illegal, but that’s guidance, not an ironclad bar. Still, the states will have to argue that this is close to having too much power, and with that power, this will likely further worsen the theater/studio splits in particular. Indeed, as Matthew Stoller pointed out, “just five studios are responsible for 95% of all blockbusters; if this merger goes through, then Paramount and Disney will control 60% of that.” So yes, movie studios will be very concentrated after this merger. Want me to visualize some of that? Well, here’s the share of films that grossed over $200 million at the domestic box office since 2022. (Note: this isn’t all films released in over 3,000 screens, but it is a good look at market power.) First, here are the 43 films by studio: Notice all the blue (Disney), orange (Universal), and purple (Warner Bros)? Yeah, those studios are powerful, and this combines Paramount with one of them. Here’s the look by studio and share of the films that grossed over $200 million: Now, if you look at that and also think, “Huh, should we break up Disney?” I’m with you. I’ve seen some folks poo-poo this idea that this is a real category, but it is! For an upcoming article, I’ve been pulling data on the share of top 100 films at the box office as a share of total box office, and it’s massive. Here’s the chart: (This analysis looks at The-Number’s top 100 films and total domestic box office each year.) To be clear, tentpoles make up 80.7% of the box office each year, so I do think it’s a genuine market. (To be clear, films grossing over $50 million make up 80% of the domestic box office, and films grossing over $100 million make up 64.1%.) I mean, the top 100 films at the box office make up 95% of each year’s grosses. Worse, the combined studios will likely cut output to flex that market power. Everyone can just look at what happened to Disney and Fox to see the precedent. (With fewer films, the remaining theaters have to give more for those few films that remain.) Here’s an image I’ve used a lot, the share of wide-release films from Disney and Fox over time: The AGs will also argue that this consolidation will also impact the cable industry. In this case, the consolidation is actually worse, but that environment is…complicated. Paramount will argue that the cable industry is shrinking. That said, predictions that cable will “go to zero” also don’t look very well supported by the data, as the declines are shrinking, meaning “cable” or “vMVPDs” will likely stabilize at some point. Can the state Attorneys General win on those two main arguments? I honestly don’t know. Again, I’d bet no, since history in general supports that, but it depends on the judge/jury and how they interpret the arguments. Notably, Paramount won’t face accusations about monopoly power in other areas, like streaming, news, sports rights, or vertical integration. I tend to disagree with leaving out sports rights, but I also see the appeal for a simpler case. The states also aren’t really pushing novel theories about labor harm either, which should help. (By the way, Sean McNulty at The Ankler wrote a great run through of potential options, and Capitol Forum also wrote a great paper on theatrical consolidation. Both these pieces predated the lawsuit. Matthew Stoller is also out with his analysis of the pros and cons of the case too.) In some ways, the WGA’s case is even stronger. Quoting Sean McNulty’s summary: “The WGA is citing WARNAMOUNT as crossing a 30% market share in multiple sectors, a number that the Supreme Court has precedent for deeming “presumptively anticompetitive” in a market. According to the WGA numbers, WARNAMOUNT would have represented: - 35% of film writing jobs between 2021 and 2024 - 36% of TV writing projects between 2022 and 2025 - 38% of overall deals between 2021 and 2024” Notably, antitrust enforcers did win recently in the Penguin-Simon & Schuster merger by focusing on labor impact, so don’t count this thinking out. (Wildcard: Will the states try to get a jury trial? Most likely no, they’ll let a judge handle it. If I’m them, though, I’d try to put this in front of a jury. Juries tend to understand monopoly power in a more realistic way than judges faced with legions of economists.) Question: What if They Win? What if They Lose?
Major water main break closes local road, impacts nearby businesses
It happened on Grandin Road, forcing a closure just east of State Route 48.
For years NC lawmakers got undisclosed free Charlotte speedway passes. That's about to change
See more images of unidentifiable Tom Cruise as his ‘Digger’ character
Tom Cruise graced the cover of TIME Magazine (kind of) to share a closer look at his radical transformation in ‘Digger.’
Health department temporarily closes Henry’s Restaurant in downtown Fort Wayne
The Allen County Department of Health has temporarily ordered Henry’s Restaurant to close following a recent inspection.
Wildfire smoke and bad air quality threatens sports: Yankees, Blue Jays, World Cup Final, Phillies-Mets and more games to watch closely
The haze is noticeable in a number of cities.
Former Obama White House attorney says ‘it was a mistake’ to deal with Epstein and she regrets it
Former Obama White House counsel Kathy Ruemmler said she regrets interacting with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and believes now it was a mistake, according to opening remarks she delivered to House committee investigators as part of a closed-door interview.
The Common Cents Act is closer to becoming law. What would it mean for businesses and consumers?
The Duskbloods closed network test set for August 21 to 23
FromSoftware will host a closed network test for player-versus-player-versus-environment-based multiplayer action game The Duskbloods from August 21 to 23, the developer announced (2). Sign-ups wil…
Apple just closed a popular workaround for buying an unlocked iPhone
Apple has closed a workaround that let you buy an unlocked iPhone with carrier financing. Here's what changed, and what it means for you
Timberwolves Make Pitch for LeBron James
Since entering the NBA in 1989, the Minnesota Timberwolves have never won an NBA Championship. But after several years of strong performances in the postseason, the team feels that it's close to finally breaking through, and they are hoping LeBron James joins Minnesota on its quest to end their ...
Rundgren takes the stage at Twin River
Todd Rundgren has been making music for “close to 60 years,” and he’s still going strong.
No beach? No problem. Celebrate Parrot Fest Saturday at Lancaster Liederkranz
To attend one of the closest beaches to Lancaster County, you're going to have to drive for 2 to 3 hours.
Strait of Hormuz remains 'de facto closed', no matter what the US says: Expert
Lars Jensen, CEO of Vespucci Maritime, says the economics and legalities of President Trump's proposed toll on the Strait of Hormuz made his U-turn on this inevitable. He also explains why he believes the Strait remains de fact closed despite U.S. assertions on the contrary, noting that freight rates and insurance premiums have surged on Trump's latest comments.
Daniel Cormier Explains Why Brock Lesnar Fight Didn’t Happen
UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier explained why a fight against Brock Lesnar inside the Octagon never happened.Cormier and Lesnar came close to fighting back in 2019. After Cormier knocked out Stipe Miocic to win the UFC heavyweight title at UFC 226 in July 2018, Lesnar entered the Octagon and challenged Cormier for the heavyweight […] The post Daniel Cormier Explains Why Brock Lesnar Fight Didn’t Happen appeared first on HEAVY.
Google temporarily offers open Pixel Care+ enrollment for Pixel 9 and 10
Google today announced a limited-time Pixel Care+ open enrollment period for existing Pixel 9 and 10 owners.
FTC Reaches Settlement With CVS Health Over Insulin Prices
Shares of CVS Health closed slightly higher Tuesday, about a quarter of a percentage point.
Cattle futures sharply lower ahead of direct business
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live and feeder cattle were sharply lower on technical weakness. August live cattle closed $3.30 lower at $231.42 and October live cattle closed $2.97 lower at $227.65. August feeder cattle closed $5.55 higher at $348.80 and September feeder cattle closed $5.97 lower at $344.85. Direct cash cattle trade was quiet […]
WEC finds probable cause that Elon Musk broke state election bribery law
After voting 5-1 in a closed session on July 9, WEC referred the two complaints to the Brown County District Attorney David Lasee.
Samsung teases what's new and fresh for the Galaxy Watch 9 before Unpacked
The design remains close to the Galaxy Watch 8, and that's not a bad thing.
Microsoft July 2026 Patch Tuesday fixes massive 570 flaws, 3 zero-days
Today is Microsoft's July 2026 Patch Tuesday, and with it comes security updates for a record-breaking 570 flaws, including two zero-day vulnerabilities exploited in attacks and one publicly disclosed.
Brick Pizzeria closes in Franklin; new 'entertainment experience' coming
Brick Pizzeria and Ristorante has closed at Ballpark Commons in Franklin after opening just over three years ago.
Atwater Brewery closing downtown Grand Rapids taproom
Atwater will close its downtown Grand Rapids taproom following the brewery's sale back to founder Mark Rieth.
WA’s only braille library reopens in Seattle
Washington's only braille library reopened for walk-in services, almost a year after the facility in South Lake Union closed due to budget woes.
Stella's Diner in East Lakeview closed for health violations, weeks after sister restaurant The Bagel
Inspectors last week shut down Stella's Diner in Chicago's East Lakeview community after finding a cockroach infestation and other health code violations.
Yankees prospects: Week 16 minor league recap
We’re getting close to a big inflection point of the minor league season.
Mountain Brook passes home business ordinance after more than a year of debate
Mountain Brook passed an ordinance limiting home-based client businesses, giving affected owners a year to comply or close.
LeBron James Rumors: Free Agency Decision Could Be Coming Soon
The LeBron James rumors have run the NBA offseason for more than a week now. The entire league is on hold as the greatest player to ever play the sport makes his decision. The spotlight is on, but for how long? The King appears to be getting closer to making a final decision, and his […] The post LeBron James Rumors: Free Agency Decision Could Be Coming Soon appeared first on Stadium Rant.
11 Actors You Probably Forgot Had Hit Songs
Many actors have tried their hand at music, but only a few have landed genuine hits. From chart-topping singles to unexpected fan favorites, these stars proved they could succeed in more than one corn...
England vs. Argentina Is the Greatest Rivalry in Sports—and It’s Bracing for Its Biggest Game Ever
There are other epic rivalries, from Yankees-Red Sox to Ohio State-Michigan. But nothing comes close to the 64-year-old World Cup feud that is England vs. Argentina.
Weight-loss drugs didn't improve mental health or job prospects
The non-health benefits haven't been studied as closely as the health benefits.
Semaglutide dose may matter more than weight loss for heart health
The study shows semaglutide's cardiovascular benefits are more closely tied to attained dose than weight loss, challenging existing treatment assumptions.
Jesse Watters: Political world 'in shock' after sudden death of Sen Lindsey Graham
Fox News host Jesse Watters takes a closer look at reaction to the passing of longtime Republican South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham at age 71 on 'The Five.'
The policy gaps in behavioral health coverage — and what it’ll take to close them, per 1 exec
Nearly four years after the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline launched, states, payers and county systems still define behavioral health crisis care inconsistently, and Medicare offers limited coverage for community-based crisis stabilization services — leaving safety-net funding, Medicaid, federal block grants, and state and local dollars to carry the cost for nearly 200 million Americans. […]
North Wichita restaurant closes after ICE officers patrol parking lot during business hours
The restaurant parking lot is where a bus stops on a route from Durango, Mexico all the way to Omaha, Nebraska and back. The restaurant’s owners said many customers and