SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " tribute " 1,085 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Sen. King asks education secretary for answers about mental health grant cuts
Maine's independent senator and a group of Democratic colleagues penned a letter to Linda McMahon asking that she distribute $1 billion in youth mental health funding.
Remembering Roger Simon, a political journalist with toughness and wit
Dan Balz pays tribute to “a craftsman of the first order,” who wrote for Chicago newspapers before joining Politico as a columnist. He died Thursday at 78.
Trump to send $500 rebate checks to nearly one million Obamacare enrollees
A day after promising to send $5,000 dividend payments to all Americans, President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he would distribute $500 rebate checks to nearly one million Affordable Care Act enrollees in 30 states.
Jason Brown joins C. Bahn Strategic Partners
Little Rock-based C. Bahn Strategic Partners has hired public relations veteran Jason Brown as a senior advisor for PR strategy, it was announced Thursday (Sept. 10). Brown will contribute strategy...
Jason Brown joins C. Bahn Strategic Partners
Little Rock-based C. Bahn Strategic Partners has hired public relations veteran Jason Brown as a senior advisor for PR strategy, it was announced Thursday (Sept. 10). Brown will contribute strategy...
Healthcare AI’s next test is integration
While advanced AI excels at processing clinical data, healthcare's true test lies in overcoming deeply fragmented administrative workflows.
Viewpoint: Unlocking Europe’s wildfire data
Europe is already investing in the science, technology and infrastructure needed to understand, prevent and fight wildfires. Copernicus provides satellite-based Earth observation and environmental information, while the European Forest Fire Information System provides information on fire danger and forest fires across Europe. Weather and climate systems add forecasts of heat, drought, wind and humidity; historical fire databases show where fires have occurred; and researchers generate increasingly detailed knowledge about fuels, fire behaviour, forecasting, modelling and risk management. Meanwhile, new European research projects are adding digital twins and other tools to this growing ecosystem.However, these data do not necessarily sit together, nor are they necessarily described, structured or governed in ways that allow them to be used together. Much of the information is public, but some is commercially held. Some is sensitive. Some is subject to legal, security or operational restrictions. Even when data can be legally accessed, different systems may use different formats, terminology and rules.Europe therefore faces an unusual paradox: we have vast amounts of relevant information to respond to the wildfire challenge, but not the means to bring it together. For example, a wildfire researcher or emergency service might need to ask whether a particular combination of vegetation, drought, wind and topography has historically been associated with rapid fire spread. The relevant information may exist in several institutions, using different systems and subject to different conditions of access.The challenge is to conduct an authorised analysis that interacts with these sources, combines the results and respects the rules imposed by each data custodian.An important part of the answer can be found in the Fair principles, the idea that data should be findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable. Developed more than a decade ago, these principles have become a central reference point for modern data stewardship, making it easier for people and machines to find data, understand what it means and determine whether it can be reused.Readability by machines is essential, since AI systems will be key to meeting the data challenge. Bring analysis to the dataThe proposition is not to give an AI system unrestricted access to sensitive databases. Quite the opposite. The goal is to make it possible for approved algorithms to go to the data, rather than requiring sensitive data or large datasets to be copied to wherever the analysis happens.Imagine an analysis asking a series of questions of different data stations. At one station it might examine weather and climate data; at another, historical fire records; at another, experimental measurements of fire behaviour. The algorithm does not need to download everything. It can operate within the environment permitted by each data custodian and return only the results that the rules allow to leave.This is sometimes described as data visiting, and related approaches already exist in areas such as federated analysis and federated learning.Sensitive data should therefore not be treated as a free-for-all for machines. This requires appropriate governance at multiple levels. Access needs to be authenticated and authorised. The purpose of an analysis should be defined. The code or model being run should be controlled. Data custodians should be able to specify what can be queried and what results can leave their environment. Activities should be auditable and human oversight should remain where the consequences require it.In other words, the objective is not to trust AI with the data. It is to design systems in which AI never has more access than it needs.As open as possible, as closed as necessaryFair data should also not be confused with open data. Some wildfire data should be openly available. Other information may legitimately need to remain restricted because it concerns critical infrastructure, security, commercial interests, privacy or operational capabilities. The principle should be: as open as possible, as closed as necessary.The important point is that restricted data should not automatically become unusable data. If machines can discover what information exists, understand its meaning, establish where it came from and determine the conditions under which it can be used, authorised analyses can potentially be carried out without the underlying data ever leaving the environment in which it is protected.Restricted data can still be Fair and machine-actionable.This is also an important question of data sovereignty. European institutions should not have to surrender control of their data to a handful of technology platforms in order to benefit from AI. Nor does Europe need to start again by building one giant repository for every piece of wildfire information. The better approach is to connect what already exists.This is the principle behind emerging approaches such as Tryangle, developed through the Leiden Initiative for Fair and Equitable Science. Rather than creating another centralised data warehouse, the approach seeks to provide an interoperable layer through which approved algorithms can visit distributed data sources while respecting the rules of their custodians.In this way, a data station can remain where it is. Its custodians can retain control. Existing databases and applications do not have to be abandoned. What changes is their ability to communicate with other systems through common, machine-readable descriptions, access rules and interoperability mechanisms.But approaches like this need data that meets the Fair principles. Only then can an interoperable ecosystem safely begin to turn fragmented information into collective intelligence.Data infrastructure is wildfire infrastructureThe implications of this approach are entirely practical. Firefighters could gain better intelligence about local and evolving risks. Land managers could test prevention strategies using more comprehensive information about fuels, weather and past fires. Researchers could compare evidence across ecosystems without repeatedly moving huge datasets between institutions. Smaller regions and resource-constrained teams could access analytical capabilities without having to build large data infrastructures themselves.Europe is already investing heavily in satellites, databases, research programmes, forecasting systems and scientific expertise. The question is whether we will connect those investments well enough to turn them into actionable intelligence.That requires policymakers and funders to treat data infrastructure as seriously as physical infrastructure. Data generated or supported through European public funding should be Fair, verifiable and machine actionable by design, wherever legally and ethically possible.Related articlesData Corner: Europe’s burning need for wildfire mitigation researchClimate monitoring must remain a global enterprise, experts sayIn practice, that means funding not only the production of data, but also the infrastructure that makes data usable across systems: metadata, provenance, interoperability, access mechanisms and governance. Where data must remain restricted, we should ensure that it can still be securely discovered, verified and used for authorised analysis.Initiatives such as the European Open Science Cloud offer an existing framework through which these principles can be put into practice. What is needed now is to accelerate implementation and make them a standard part of how Europe funds and builds research and innovation systems.We do not need another generation of disconnected databases. The data is already there. The opportunity is to make it work together, securely, responsibly and quickly enough to help prevent the next fire, rather than simply document the last one.Jean-Claude Burgelman is professor emeritus at the Free University of Brussels (VUB) and editor-in-chief at Frontiers Policy Lab. For more than 20 years he held leading roles in research and innovation policy at the European Commission.
World Alzheimer’s Month: How far has science come?
The following expert commentary can be used by journalists and media organizations in their own publications and news coverage. Please attribute all quotes to David Hunter, MD, associate professor at UTHealth Houston and behavioral neurologist and neuropsychiatrist with UT Physicians. Alzheimer’s disease, named for the German pathologist Dr. Alois Alzheimer, is a progressive brain disorder that affects a person’s memory and ability to carry out daily tasks. The number of Americans
Pleasant Grove and Liberty-Eylau reignite football rivalry
Pleasant Grove is scheduled to host Liberty-Eylau on September 11 at Hawk Stadium, featuring a pregame tribute for the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
Journey tribute band at Blackmon on Saturday
Area residents wanting some high-powered musical entertainment should journey to the Blackmon Amphitheatre for the latest Surry Arts Council Summer Concert Series show.
At 9/11 tribute, Trump adds new claim to his disputed role after attack
There is no evidence backing up President Donald Trump’s claim about firefighters carrying him to safety after the attack. It's part of his evolving — and often disputed — account of his 9/11 actions.
Firefighters battle early morning fire at Richland business
RICHLAND, Wash. - The 7-11 convenience store off Duportail and Wright Avenue in Richland is closed after it was damaged in an early morning fire Wednesday.The call for help came in just before a.m. When firefighters arrived, they saw heavy smoke coming from the building attached to the 7-11 and could see flames inside.Several fire crews responded to the area and a ladder truck was used to attack the fire from above. Richland police also arrived on scene to shut down streets so fire crews could work in the tight space. They also helped with people living close to the fire get out safely.Firefighters were able to get the fire under control but it continued to flare up and crews were finally released from the scene just before 6 a.m. A crew remained on the scene to continue checking the area. Fire investigators are also at the scene.The 7-11 remains closed until further notice after the building was heavily damaged by smoke and water. The building attached to it was destroyed.The cause of the fire has not yet been released. Injuries are also unknown. We are gathering more information at this time.COPYRIGHT 2026 BY APPLE VALLEY NEWS NOW. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
John Malkovich cancels performance in Israel over fabricated quote circulated by promoters
John Malkovich has canceled a planned performance in Israel after promoters circulated a false quote attributed to him.
John Malkovich cancels performance in Israel over fabricated quote circulated by promoters
John Malkovich has canceled a planned performance in Israel after promoters circulated a false quote attributed to him | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
John Malkovich cancels performance in Israel over fabricated quote circulated by promoters
John Malkovich has canceled a planned performance in Israel after promoters circulated a false quote attributed to him | WBEN
The Cost of Cutting American Science: How Federal Cuts Diminish Public Health Capacity
Among the federal government’s many responsibilities is the work it does to protect public health. Federal agencies monitor our food supply to ensure safety, conduct research to better understand emerging health threats, provide funding for public health programs in communities and work to detect and respond to disease outbreaks. Americans rely on these efforts every day—in a 2024 online survey, 74% of respondents said that “if the federal government issued safety guidance about food you eat regularly,” they would follow it. Changes to Federal Public Health Capacity The Trump administration’s efforts to reshape the federal government have resulted in significant impacts on our nation’s public health capacity over the past 20 months, affecting the response to health concerns such as measles, Ebola and cyclosporiasis. Agencies with core public health, food safety and disease prevention responsibilities experienced large workforce decreases during the first year of the administration. At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for instance, the workforce in February 2026 was 26.7% smaller than in September 2024 before the start of the Trump administration. The Food and Drug Administration saw a similarly steep decline of 21.6%. Agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and Food Safety and Inspection Service also experienced large workforce decreases. (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); Changes can also be seen in crucial public health occupations. The number of federal food inspectors, for example, decreased by more than half between September 2024 and February 2026, going from 1,035 to 473. This is the lowest number of food inspectors employed by the federal government since at least 2005. By February 2026, there were also 33.3% fewer federal public health program specialists, whose work includes advising federal funding recipients on public health activities and analyzing the effectiveness of public health programs. Government’s capacity is diminished as employees with specialized knowledge and experience in protecting the public and responding to health risks depart, leaving agencies less prepared to carry out their public health missions. There also have been vacancies in critical high-level leadership positions at public health agencies, most notably at the CDC, which had a permanent Senate-confirmed director for less than a month between January 2025 and early August 2026. Although the CDC has previously been led by acting directors at the start of an administration, the nearly yearlong gap since the departure of the administration’s first permanent director in August 2025 is without precedent. As of August 2026, the FDA is also currently without a Senate-confirmed commissioner following the previous commissioner’s resignation in May 2026. Additionally, public health agencies are experiencing increased politicization of their leadership ranks. In agencies such as the CDC and Food Safety and Inspection Service, the number of individuals in the Senior Executive Service—the most senior career leaders in government—has declined significantly, while at the same time the number of political appointees has reached record levels. (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); At the CDC, for example, the number of career SES decreased 42.9% between December 2024 and February 2026, while the number of non-Senate confirmed political appointees at the agency was six times larger than the agency’s historical average from 2009 and 2024. Knowledgeable career leaders are integral to the ability of public health agencies to carry out their work with scientific integrity and professional judgment, and rapid leadership turnover and increased politicization threaten agencies’ ability to make evidence-based decisions to protect our health. The upheaval and politicization in public health agencies have also negatively affected employee engagement. Strong employee engagement is crucial to the ability of agencies to carry out their mission and successfully provide essential services to the public. In the 2025 Public Service Viewpoint Survey conducted by the Partnership for Public Service, the Department of Health and Human Services—which encompasses major public health agencies such as the CDC and FDA—had an employee engagement and satisfaction score of 20.4 out of 100, one of the lowest among large agencies. Only 2.8% of HHS employees indicated trust in their political leaders and only 8.7% reported confidence that they could report a suspected violation of law or regulation without retaliation. Employees at HHS also reported that the agency’s ability to provide services to the public had suffered. Nearly half of employees at HHS, 47.5%, said their work unit was worse at delivering quality services compared to its performance in 2024. In addition, 57.8% said their work unit was performing worse at fulfilling stakeholder needs. In addition to the work done within federal agencies, the federal government also distributes significant funding for public health and disease prevention work to state and local governments, nonprofits and small businesses—funding which has been significantly disrupted. At the CDC, for example, there was a 71.9% decrease in the amount of project grant funding issued in fiscal year 2025 compared to fiscal year 2024. The FDA also issued far less funding in fiscal year 2025—a 21.3% decrease from its fiscal year 2024 funding. Changes in federal funding include the ending of grants to community organizations that worked on HIV prevention and the cancellation of funding for research into improvements to patient safety and healthcare quality. These changes go beyond federal agencies to impact the broader public health ecosystem, including the state and local health departments responsible for much of the on-the-ground public health work in their communities. About 80% of the CDC’s domestic funding is directed towards state and local partners—meaning that cuts to CDC funding can ultimately result in cuts to state and local public health capacity. Federal agencies also provide expertise and assistance to state and local health agencies as they deal with particular health challenges, but workforce cuts have resulted in fewer federal employees available to help. The Impact of Changes to Public Health Capacity These changes to federal public health capacity are not abstract concerns. Disrupted programs, reduced funding and lost expertise at public health agencies across all levels of government threaten the public’s physical well-being and safety. In some cases, this has already led to harm. The most immediate impacts of federal cuts were seen in interruptions to ongoing public health programs and crisis responses. In one instance, when CDC grants were canceled during the 2025 Texas measles outbreak—the most severe measles outbreak in 25 years—public health officials in Lubbock, Texas were forced to pause parts of their measles response work supported by the frozen funding. Lubbock’s director of public health further said that a lack of available CDC experts to reach out to for advice “definitely” impacted the department’s response to the measles crisis. Cuts to federal funding also forced Dallas County Health and Human Services to cut staff and cancel 50 community vaccination clinics during the outbreak. Public health work outside of major outbreak responses was also disrupted. For example, in April 2025, the Milwaukee Public Health Department was unexpectedly unable to reach experts on lead poisoning due to firings at the CDC when responding to concerns about lead contamination in Milwaukee public schools. Due to federal workforce cuts, several programs at the CDC, including Alzheimer’s and epilepsy programs, have also become trapped in limbo—existing on paper, but without the staff necessary to operate. More recent crises reveal how federal cuts have weakened the public health infrastructure needed to prevent and respond to dangerous new outbreaks. Internationally, cuts at the U.S. Agency for International Development eliminated funding for disease testing and contact tracing abroad, which delayed detection of and responses to the 2026 Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While international outbreaks may seem far removed, the unchecked spread of disease in any country can quickly pose a danger to economic well-being, security and health around the world. Within the United States, public health cuts inhibited responses to the summer 2026 outbreak of the food-borne parasite cyclospora. At the federal level, cuts to funding for lab equipment and for CDC staff with expertise in parasitic infections—including 9 out of 11 staff members at the lab responsible for identifying parasitic outbreaks in 2025— contributed to the largest reporting delay in outbreak cases at the CDC in 15 years. Conflicting communications from the FDA about the source of the outbreak, which followed cuts to the agency’s communications department, additionally led to confusion among the public about how to best avoid infection. At the same time, cuts to HHS funding and support for local and state public health slowed some health departments’ responses to the crisis. The exact costs of these delays, constraints and confusion in public health responses are difficult to estimate. However, their message is clear: federal cuts have already made containing threats to public health even more of a challenge. Conclusion Protecting public health—from food safety to disease prevention—is one of the federal government’s most important missions. Dramatic and haphazard cuts to federal agencies and funding have already disrupted the public health system, impacting the response to challenges such as measles, lead poisoning and cyclosporiasis. The U.S. public health system needed improvement before these disruptions. Since 2022, federal leadership and coordination in response to public health outbreaks has been on the Government Accountability Office’s High-Risk List of areas in need of attention to improve government effectiveness and efficiency. Recent cuts only compound these concerns. The chaotic dismantling of government and resulting disruptions to crucial functions like public health and disease prevention highlight the need for meaningful reform and concrete policy proposals to reimagine how government can better serve the public and be more effective, responsive and accountable. To learn more about the impact of federal cuts to public health and science more broadly, visit The Cost of Cutting American Science. Learn more For more information on the Partnership for Public Service’s government reform initiative, visit Government for a New Era. View here In line with The Cost of Cutting American Science, federal workforce data in this brief is as of February 2026
The Cost of Cutting American Science: How Federal Cuts Diminish Public Health Capacity
Among the federal government’s many responsibilities is the work it does to protect public health. Federal agencies monitor our food supply to ensure safety, conduct research to better understand emerging health threats, provide funding for public health programs in communities and work to detect and respond to disease outbreaks. Americans rely on these efforts every day—in a 2024 online survey, 74% of respondents said that “if the federal government issued safety guidance about food you eat regularly,” they would follow it. Changes to Federal Public Health Capacity The Trump administration’s efforts to reshape the federal government have resulted in significant impacts on our nation’s public health capacity over the past 20 months, affecting the response to health concerns such as measles, Ebola and cyclosporiasis. Agencies with core public health, food safety and disease prevention responsibilities experienced large workforce decreases during the first year of the administration. At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for instance, the workforce in February 2026 was 26.7% smaller than in September 2024 before the start of the Trump administration. The Food and Drug Administration saw a similarly steep decline of 21.6%. Agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and Food Safety and Inspection Service also experienced large workforce decreases. (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); Changes can also be seen in crucial public health occupations. The number of federal food inspectors, for example, decreased by more than half between September 2024 and February 2026, going from 1,035 to 473. This is the lowest number of food inspectors employed by the federal government since at least 2005. By February 2026, there were also 33.3% fewer federal public health program specialists, whose work includes advising federal funding recipients on public health activities and analyzing the effectiveness of public health programs. Government’s capacity is diminished as employees with specialized knowledge and experience in protecting the public and responding to health risks depart, leaving agencies less prepared to carry out their public health missions. There also have been vacancies in critical high-level leadership positions at public health agencies, most notably at the CDC, which had a permanent Senate-confirmed director for less than a month between January 2025 and early August 2026. Although the CDC has previously been led by acting directors at the start of an administration, the nearly yearlong gap since the departure of the administration’s first permanent director in August 2025 is without precedent. As of August 2026, the FDA is also currently without a Senate-confirmed commissioner following the previous commissioner’s resignation in May 2026. Additionally, public health agencies are experiencing increased politicization of their leadership ranks. In agencies such as the CDC and Food Safety and Inspection Service, the number of individuals in the Senior Executive Service—the most senior career leaders in government—has declined significantly, while at the same time the number of political appointees has reached record levels. (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); At the CDC, for example, the number of career SES decreased 42.9% between December 2024 and February 2026, while the number of non-Senate confirmed political appointees at the agency was six times larger than the agency’s historical average from 2009 and 2024. Knowledgeable career leaders are integral to the ability of public health agencies to carry out their work with scientific integrity and professional judgment, and rapid leadership turnover and increased politicization threaten agencies’ ability to make evidence-based decisions to protect our health. The upheaval and politicization in public health agencies have also negatively affected employee engagement. Strong employee engagement is crucial to the ability of agencies to carry out their mission and successfully provide essential services to the public. In the 2025 Public Service Viewpoint Survey conducted by the Partnership for Public Service, the Department of Health and Human Services—which encompasses major public health agencies such as the CDC and FDA—had an employee engagement and satisfaction score of 20.4 out of 100, one of the lowest among large agencies. Only 2.8% of HHS employees indicated trust in their political leaders and only 8.7% reported confidence that they could report a suspected violation of law or regulation without retaliation. Employees at HHS also reported that the agency’s ability to provide services to the public had suffered. Nearly half of employees at HHS, 47.5%, said their work unit was worse at delivering quality services compared to its performance in 2024. In addition, 57.8% said their work unit was performing worse at fulfilling stakeholder needs. In addition to the work done within federal agencies, the federal government also distributes significant funding for public health and disease prevention work to state and local governments, nonprofits and small businesses—funding which has been significantly disrupted. At the CDC, for example, there was a 71.9% decrease in the amount of project grant funding issued in fiscal year 2025 compared to fiscal year 2024. The FDA also issued far less funding in fiscal year 2025—a 21.3% decrease from its fiscal year 2024 funding. Changes in federal funding include the ending of grants to community organizations that worked on HIV prevention and the cancellation of funding for research into improvements to patient safety and healthcare quality. These changes go beyond federal agencies to impact the broader public health ecosystem, including the state and local health departments responsible for much of the on-the-ground public health work in their communities. About 80% of the CDC’s domestic funding is directed towards state and local partners—meaning that cuts to CDC funding can ultimately result in cuts to state and local public health capacity. Federal agencies also provide expertise and assistance to state and local health agencies as they deal with particular health challenges, but workforce cuts have resulted in fewer federal employees available to help. The Impact of Changes to Public Health Capacity These changes to federal public health capacity are not abstract concerns. Disrupted programs, reduced funding and lost expertise at public health agencies across all levels of government threaten the public’s physical well-being and safety. In some cases, this has already led to harm. The most immediate impacts of federal cuts were seen in interruptions to ongoing public health programs and crisis responses. In one instance, when CDC grants were canceled during the 2025 Texas measles outbreak—the most severe measles outbreak in 25 years—public health officials in Lubbock, Texas were forced to pause parts of their measles response work supported by the frozen funding. Lubbock’s director of public health further said that a lack of available CDC experts to reach out to for advice “definitely” impacted the department’s response to the measles crisis. Cuts to federal funding also forced Dallas County Health and Human Services to cut staff and cancel 50 community vaccination clinics during the outbreak. Public health work outside of major outbreak responses was also disrupted. For example, in April 2025, the Milwaukee Public Health Department was unexpectedly unable to reach experts on lead poisoning due to firings at the CDC when responding to concerns about lead contamination in Milwaukee public schools. Due to federal workforce cuts, several programs at the CDC, including Alzheimer’s and epilepsy programs, have also become trapped in limbo—existing on paper, but without the staff necessary to operate. More recent crises reveal how federal cuts have weakened the public health infrastructure needed to prevent and respond to dangerous new outbreaks. Internationally, cuts at the U.S. Agency for International Development eliminated funding for disease testing and contact tracing abroad, which delayed detection of and responses to the 2026 Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While international outbreaks may seem far removed, the unchecked spread of disease in any country can quickly pose a danger to economic well-being, security and health around the world. Within the United States, public health cuts inhibited responses to the summer 2026 outbreak of the food-borne parasite cyclospora. At the federal level, cuts to funding for lab equipment and for CDC staff with expertise in parasitic infections—including 9 out of 11 staff members at the lab responsible for identifying parasitic outbreaks in 2025— contributed to the largest reporting delay in outbreak cases at the CDC in 15 years. Conflicting communications from the FDA about the source of the outbreak, which followed cuts to the agency’s communications department, additionally led to confusion among the public about how to best avoid infection. At the same time, cuts to HHS funding and support for local and state public health slowed some health departments’ responses to the crisis. The exact costs of these delays, constraints and confusion in public health responses are difficult to estimate. However, their message is clear: federal cuts have already made containing threats to public health even more of a challenge. Conclusion Protecting public health—from food safety to disease prevention—is one of the federal government’s most important missions. Dramatic and haphazard cuts to federal agencies and funding have already disrupted the public health system, impacting the response to challenges such as measles, lead poisoning and cyclosporiasis. The U.S. public health system needed improvement before these disruptions. Since 2022, federal leadership and coordination in response to public health outbreaks has been on the Government Accountability Office’s High-Risk List of areas in need of attention to improve government effectiveness and efficiency. Recent cuts only compound these concerns. The chaotic dismantling of government and resulting disruptions to crucial functions like public health and disease prevention highlight the need for meaningful reform and concrete policy proposals to reimagine how government can better serve the public and be more effective, responsive and accountable. To learn more about the impact of federal cuts to public health and science more broadly, visit The Cost of Cutting American Science. Learn more For more information on the Partnership for Public Service’s government reform initiative, visit Government for a New Era. View here In line with The Cost of Cutting American Science, federal workforce data in this brief is as of February 2026
Dolly Parton remembered in new 28-page tribute comic book
The country music superstar, entrepreneur and philanthropist died Aug. 25
Southern Union names Pike dean of health sciences
CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC OPELIKA — Southern Union State Community College has named Dr. Richard Pike as dean of health sciences. Pike assumed the position Sept. 1 following the retirement of Dean Rhonda Davis. A graduate of Southern Union, Pike earned an associate in science degree and his emergency medical technician certification from the college. He […]
Catch 22: Californians can't afford health insurance but face fines if they drop it
For one Californian, the state subsidy contributed $1 a month to her $600 premium. She considered dropping coverage but faced a $1,600 penalty.
“The View” pays powerful tribute to Barbara Walters in emotional season 30 premiere: ‘This is that show’ she envisioned
Whoopi Goldberg spoke about how each of the six current cohosts fulfills the late Walters’ desire to highlight the perspectives of an eclectic group of women.
AZ's R&D chief Barr touts internal 'science success story' after IL-33 antibody's stellar showing in COPD
With a detailed data drop that AstraZeneca’s R&D chief described as an internal “science success story,” the British Big Pharma has secured an FDA priority review for what it believes could become a flagship biologic in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In detailed results from the late-stage Oberon and Titania trials—first teased in March and detailed in full at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Barcelona this week—the drugmaker laid out the extent of its IL-33 inhibitor’s potential to reduce moderate and severe exacerbations in a wide range of COPD patients still struggling with those “lung attacks,” as AstraZeneca’s Sharon Barr, Ph.D., called them, despite using standard-care inhaled therapy. In the headline results, a 300 mg dose of tozorakimab given once every four weeks curbed those moderate and severe exacerbations in the studies’ primary population of former smokers by 29% in the Oberon study and 34% in Titania. In the overall population of both current and former smokers, these reductions were 30% and 29%, respectively, versus placebo and inhaled standard of care. The benefits also extended to clinically meaningful exacerbation reductions in all prespecified patient subgroups and specifically turned up promising signals in patients across a range of blood eosinophil counts, with Barr telling Fierce that “it’s the details that make this even more exciting than the high-level results that we’ve already shared.” In fact, during AZ’s tozorakimab poster presentation at the ERS 2026 Congress this past weekend, attendees were so enamored by the data that event organizers had to encourage people to clear the room and look at the other presentations on offer, Barr said in an interview. “I think it really speaks to the fact that there is a lot of buzz around these data because the entire respiratory community has been so desperate for new therapies for these patients,” she explained. The respiratory disease continues to represent a “staggering unmet medical need,” Barr said, highlighting the COPD exacerbations that the Oberon and Titania studies homed in on, which she added carry a greater mortality risk than a heart attack. “When a patient has a severe exacerbation, only about half of them are still alive within three and a half years,” she pointed out. As for tozorakimab specifically, Barr christened the molecule “an AstraZeneca science success story,” harkening several years back to the point at which researchers began to explore IL-33 as a driver of respiratory disease, and COPD in particular. At the same time, “there was still so much that wasn’t understood,” she admitted, highlighting the insight that IL-33 signals through both ST2 and EGFR through the RAGE pathway, a discovery Barr attributed to AstraZeneca's own scientists. Understanding the need to tackle both pathways in COPD—and aware of competitor candidates in the hopper, including one that bound ST2—the company ultimately had to make some “courageous decisions,” Barr said. These included taking a prior COPD molecule offline and going back to the drawing board to reinvent its potential IL-33 label “to make sure that we had a molecule that could block signaling through both arms of the pathway, through both the reduced form and the oxidized form, knowing that we wouldn’t be first, but striving to be best.” “When we put [tozorakimab] into the clinic, we firmly believed that we had a differentiated molecule, and we saw the other molecules blocking just ST2 or partially blocking IL-33, unable to deliver two positive pivotal studies in COPD,” Barr explained. “We kept marching forward because we believed our molecule was differentiated, and now I think we have the clinical validation that supports that.” Ultimately, AstraZeneca finds itself on much better footing these days when it comes to potential biologic rivals to tozorakimab in COPD. Sanofi and Regeneron’s Dupixent, for instance, is approved to treat COPD exacerbations in patients with high eosinophil counts, but not low ones. Meanwhile, the future has become cloudier for other next-gen IL-33 candidates from Sanofi and Regeneron, as well as Roche, which have suffered trial flops in recent years. One other potential ingredient for AstraZeneca’s success in its duo of studies was that the company was “ambitious in the trial design, willing to look at an all-comers population,” Barr said, “and willing to enroll the most severe patients.” Prior studies for would-be biologics rivals in COPD “avoided enrolling” those patients, she pointed out. She also highlighted the Big Pharma’s painstaking design of exacerbations in its trial, which “gave us a very rigorous readout,” and pointed to “the extra effort and investment” the company put in to understand the effect of mucus plugs in patients. Barr described mucus production as a “key feature in disease diversity,” noting that mucus plugs—obstructing clumps of mucus that block patients’ airways—are associated with worse outcomes in COPD. In its data announcement, AstraZeneca noted that an integrated analysis of Oberon and Titania found tozorakimab “demonstrated a reduction in patients’ mucus plug score,” with the pharma claiming its biologic is the first to deliver such results in a broad COPD population. “So being able to reduce those mucus plugs, we expect, is an important part of driving benefit for patients who are living with COPD,” Barr said. Again touching on the breadth of the study populations, Barr added that tozorakimab “worked across all eosinophil levels in both current and former smokers across all levels of lung function,” which she suggested “really simplifies decision-making for clinicians, and it allows them to offer therapy to the broadest possible patient population.” In the highest patient eosinophil count group, tozorakimab helped chart a 43% reduction in exacerbation risk, which Barr stressed were “unprecedented data.” In the mid-level group, AZ’s drug delivered a 23% reduction and, in the lowest group, a 34% reduction in eosinophils, which Barr said suggests efficacy “in all patient subgroups.” As for AZ’s recent guidance upgrade on the medicine’s sales opportunity, the lift from a $3 billion to $5 billion range to $5 billion plus was informed by multiple factors, Barr said, including the fact that “in 2024, there were multiple competitors, and there aren’t anymore.” Additionally, “we know that this is a massive unmet medical need, and this is a really incredible set of data that we think will be very convincing to the clinical community,” Barr said. Looking ahead to a potential evolution of the COPD treatment landscape, Barr noted that most patients start treatment in the community with an option like a triple therapy, and for them, having an option like AstraZeneca’s inhaler Breztri will remain a “really important part” of that journey. But of the patients uncontrolled on triple therapy, which Barr described as “about half of them today,” just a “small fraction” are currently eligible for biologic therapy, which she emphasized AstraZeneca is working to change. Understanding that COPD is not a “one-size-fits-all” disease, AstraZeneca is also looking at its antibody drug Tezspire for patients with T2-driven disease, and the company continues to think about new mechanisms for tackling COPD through both systemic and inhaled drugs, Barr said.
Navy Medicine Advances Operational Health IT for Distributed Maritime Operations
CHESAPEAKE —Navy Medicine leaders, Fleet representatives, and operational health IT experts convened to accelerate the fielding of medical information capabilities designed to support patient movement, medical logistics and force readiness
Port of Grandview works to attract new businesses with active marketing and land development
The BriefThe Port of Grandview is actively marketing the community to attract new business development, with efforts including attendance at trade shows and conventions like Food Northwest in Portland.The Port reports strong demand for business property, with several prospective clients currently seeking space to build in Grandview.The Port recently acquired 45 acres for its new Woodworth Road Business Park, with planning underway to support the community's continued growth.GRANDVIEW — The Port of Grandview is capitalizing on strong interest in the community by actively marketing Grandview to businesses seeking locations for expansion and growth. The Port's efforts are paying off, with increased development activity and growing demand for available business property.Grandview's appeal stems from multiple factors. The community's available land and central location between the Tri-Cities and Yakima make it an attractive option for businesses looking to establish or expand operations. The Port has recognized these advantages and is taking a proactive approach to market the community directly to potential clients.Port Executive Director Randy Tucker says the Port has been actively attending trade shows and conventions to promote Grandview as a business destination. These events, including Food Northwest in Portland, provide opportunities to connect with companies actively seeking new locations."Say, hey, locate your business here and bring your customers here. And it's worked out pretty good for us," Tucker said.The Port's marketing strategy is generating results. The Port reports strong demand for business property, with several prospective clients currently looking for space to build in Grandview. This interest reflects the effectiveness of the Port's outreach efforts and the community's appeal to businesses in various industries.To support this growth, the Port recently acquired 45 acres for its new Woodworth Road Business Park. Planning is underway to determine how the property can best support Grandview's continued development and attract additional businesses to the area.The combination of available land, strategic location, and active marketing positions Grandview as an increasingly attractive option for businesses seeking to relocate or expand. As the Port continues its efforts to promote the community, Grandview appears poised for continued economic growth and development. News Three Queens Fire approaching 10,000 acres, now 11% contained Robert Desaulniers, Josh Culbreth News Two injured after rear-end crash leads to rollover near Grandview Robert Desaulniers News Grandview High School temporarily enters secure and teach for possible altercation between students Robert Desaulniers News Port of Grandview pursues economic growth with new business park development William Albert, Apple Valley News Now News Driver dies in fiery crash in Columbia Park Friday Erin Wencl COPYRIGHT 2026 BY APPLE VALLEY NEWS NOW. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
John Williams, 94, Surprises Hollywood Bowl Crowd by Conducting ‘Imperial March’
John Williams surprised the Hollywood Bowl crowd by conducting the “Imperial March” from ‘Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back’ during a tribute concert celebrating his film music legacy.
An eternal chapter closed: Reflecting on Lionel Messi’s Argentina retirement
A tribute to the GOAT as he says goodbye to Argentina and international football loses its biggest star.
Manta to Distribute Manga from KADOKAWA and Square Enix Globally
SEOUL, South Korea--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sep 7, 2026--
Science says ancient roman concrete could repair its own cracks: The secret was hidden in tiny white chunk
Modern concrete can become vulnerable when cracks allow water and chemicals to seep into its interior. Ancient Roman concrete, by contrast, appears to have contained a reserve of reactive, calcium-rich material that could contribute to its long-term durability.
Prof Elizabeth Streicher unravels the science behind drug-resistant TB
Prof Elizabeth Streicher of the Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics delivered her inaugural lecture on Tuesday 1 September 2026. Her research focuses on the transmission and spread of Tuberculosis (TB). Knowing where TB transmission is happening can help to stop it from spreading. Prof Elizabeth Streicher of the Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences delivered her inaugural lecture on Tuesday 1 September 2026. The title of her lecture was Decoding tuberculosis: the evolution of technology, epidemiology and the Mycobacterium tuberculosis genome. Streicher explained to Corporate Communication and Marketing how molecular epidemiology (using genetic information to track how and why diseases spread through populations) has improved our understanding of where drug-resistant TB comes from, how it spreads and how drug resistance evolves within and between populations. Tell us more about your research and why you became interested in this specific field. Overall, our research group studies the genome (complete set of DNA instructions found in a cell) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB) disease. Various regions of the genome are interrogated to study different aspects of the disease. My main focus has been on the epidemiology of tuberculosis – how the bacteria’s genome changes over time and what this tells us about the transmission and spread of the disease. How would you describe the relevance of your work? If we understand how the bacteria that cause TB change and spread, it can assist in combating TB globally. How has molecular epidemiology helped improve our understanding of drug-resistant TB? Molecular epidemiology was very important in drug-resistant TB as it was originally believed that bacteria that become resistant to antibiotics would be less fit and not be able to transmit. But it was shown that they can transmit, and therefore have to be monitored to identify hotspots of transmission and outbreaks, etc. Can you tell us briefly about the spoligotyping technique and its advantages for studying drug-resistant TB? Spoligotyping (a molecular technique used to identify and track specific strains of TB bacteria) does not detect drug resistance, but since the technique is relatively quick to do, it can be very useful in real-time situations, e.g. to monitor outbreaks of drug resistance. Why are interrupting transmission chains and identifying genomic hotspots important for controlling the spread of TB? Knowing where TB transmission is happening can assist in allocating resources to those areas to stop future transmission and spread of TB. Higher education can be challenging. What keeps you motivated when things get tough? Students – how they are so passionate and dedicated to learning and contributing to research and society as a whole. What aspects of your work do you enjoy the most? Again, the students and colleagues! But also the fact that it is continuously changing and thereby we are learning and expanding our knowledge. In the end, I know that we contribute to a better society in our small way. Tell us something exciting about yourself that people would not expect. Even though I love hiking (day and multi-day hikes) and being outside, I really do not like camping! How do you spend your free time? I love hiking (wellbeing in nature) and like to watch most sports. ©Higher Education Media Services. Subscribe
Phnom Penh recognised with WHO Healthy Cities Award for safer, healthier urban mobility
Phnom Penh City Hall has been awarded the World Health Organization (WHO) Healthy Cities Recognition Awards 2026 in the Safe, Active and Health-enabling Transport category, recognising its commitment to improving road safety and creating healthier urban mobility for residents. The award was presented during the 11th Global Conference of the Alliance for Healthy Cities held in Sydney, Australia, from 1-3 September 2026. Phnom Penh was recognised for the project “Safe, Active and Health-enabling Transport: Advancing Health and Reducing Inequities in Urban Mobility”, supported through the Partnership for Healthy Cities. The initiative has focused on creating safer and more accessible environments for vulnerable road users, particularly around schools. The project combines road safety data, infrastructure improvements, 30 km/h speed management, enforcement, education and community engagement to address risks around high-risk schools. Improvements have included the installation of traffic signs and road markings, smart speed limit signs, safety camera systems and strengthened monitoring in school zones. At the two intervention schools, infrastructure conditions improved from 1.0-star rating to 4.2 and 3.5 stars using the Star Rating for Schools tool. The project also contributed to lower vehicle speeds, provided road safety training for 500 students and achieved a reported 58% reduction in self-reported crashes. iRAP was proud to serve as the technical advisor to the project, supporting evidence-based approaches to infrastructure safety and helping to guide interventions that protect people walking, cycling and travelling to and from school. The WHO recognition is particularly significant given the strong level of regional participation. More than 150 cities from across the Asia-Pacific region applied for the awards, with only eight cities ultimately selected for recognition. The award demonstrates how targeted investment in safer roads and sustainable transport can contribute to healthier, more equitable cities while supporting broader goals for urban development and quality of life. iRAP congratulates the Phnom Penh City Hall and all project partners on this important achievement and looks forward to continuing to support initiatives that deliver safer roads and safer journeys for everyone. Read original article hereRead more on the project here
The science behind the beauty business
Some of Europe’s industrial champions may be in retreat, but its cosmetics sector remains a global leader, buoyed by healthy demand, recognised brands and a reputation for innovation."The fact is, the science in cosmetics is better here in Europe than anywhere else in the world,” says Pierre Morvan, CEO of Technature, a private label cosmetics manufacturer located near Brest in France’s northwestern Brittany region. “You have to have good science in order to make the difference, and that is why we invest so much in research and innovation.”Across Europe, the beauty and skincare products sector supports an estimated 3.6 million jobs, including 265,000 employed directly in the industry, according to the Cosmetics Europe trade group.. Cosmetics production contributes an estimated €11 billion to the EU economy, and generated €30 billion in export revenue last year, a €400 million rise from 2024.Technature itself has a global footprint, supplying products for 1,500 brands in 65 countries. Its range of skin gels, facial masks, nail treatments and other products include natural ingredients and extracts derived from plants, such as seaweed, that are developed and refined through science-based analysis and testing.While industry projections point to sustained growth for the foreseeable future, driven by emerging economies and wider availability of exclusive brands that were once chiefly sold by high street retailers, the sector is not immune to the impact of geopolitics and trade wars. The Trump Administration’s tariff threats have dented cosmetics exports to the EU industry's largest overseas market. After the European Parliament approved the EU-US Turnberry Agreement in June, setting a 15% levy on many EU goods, the French Federation of Beauty Companies warned that “exports are falling sharply” and urged the EU to negotiate an opt-out for cosmetics.Technature’s CEO flags South Korea as an emerging competitor, partly due to its assertive marketing efforts. “I would have to say I am a little bit scared,” Morvan says, regarding the growth potential of the South Korean cosmetics industry. “This is why science and innovation are so important if Europe is to remain the leader.”With a workforce of 200, including biologists, chemists and other scientists, around 15% of Technature’s staff work in three research and development (R&D) labs. A similar number work in four quality control and assurance facilities, where science plays a crucial in ensuring product safety in a sector that is subject to the European Cosmetics Regulation.Educational exchange between industry and academiaIn recognition of Technature’s research and innovation, Morvan was selected as one of Brest’s ambassadors to Science Comes to Town (SCTT), a European initiative to strengthen communications and understanding between science and society. Brest is one of three coastal cities in the EU-funded programme, alongside Split (in Croatia) and Kiel (in Germany). From 7-11 September, Brest will host the EU TalentOn contest featuring 100 early-career researchers from across Europe.Morvan appreciates the value of engagement with educational and scientific institutions as well as the home community. For instance, Technature collaborates closely with university partners to enhance its in-house R&D. In addition, it invites students to its labs and sends its own researchers to local institutions. "We absolutely want the students to know what the industry is all about,” Morvan says, noting that seeing science in action can help young people “understand that they can do something real with science, to create something with what they are learning.” He says another important benefit: encouraging new generations of young people to consider a career in cosmetics.Community involvement also raises awareness about Technature and the skincare industry as a whole. “The public gains recognition of the innovative company that we are, and this is important for getting new customers,” Morvan says. One of its recent innovations — tiny, colourful cosmetic pearls that release skin moisturisers on application — was showcased at this year’s VivaTech event in Paris.Morvan holds a master's degree from the Brest Business School and studied animal production and biology in Brest at the University of Western Brittany (UBO), an SCTT partner, and at the University of Tours. He got his start in business in 2002, initially working on using seaweed as a raw material in the food industry before transitioning to cosmetics. Morvan has always been interested in connecting science and business, reflecting one the goals of SCTT to enhance public-private collaboration.The invitation to participate in SCTT was unexpected. “It was a surprise to get a call from the city of Brest saying that they wanted me on this programme,” Morvan recalls, adding that officials were drawn by his company’s R&D. “It's not only theory and science fundamentals. Our science is something that is applicable to the global market — and important for the community.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Ice cores, krill and ship-based science the focus for Australian Antarctic Program, conference told – Australian Antarctic Program (News 2026)
The Australian Antarctic Division will coordinate four strategic science campaigns over the next three years and contribute to an international collaborative research program called Antarctica InSync, a leading Antarctic research conference has heard.
Phillies, Nemours Children’s Health honor young cancer warriors for Childhood Cancer Awareness Day
The Phillies and Nemours Children’s Health will host their 10th annual Childhood Cancer Awareness Day on Sunday, September 6, at Citizens Bank Park, featuring heartwarming moments and once-in-a-lifetime experiences for children and families affected by cancer before and during the game against the Atlanta Braves. The on-field tribute will begin
What’s open on Labor Day? Most retailers. Closed? Government, banks and the stock market.
The origins of Labor Day date back to the late 19th century, when activists first sought to establish a day that would pay tribute to workers.
Marcus Rashford celebrates Man United return with special tribute
1Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has hinted at his stance on wearing the No. 9 shirt at Old Trafford. The English forward was handed the iconic shirt this summer after returning from his tem...
Cecile Azarcon honored with new tribute song
Cheska CK with Cecile Azarcon Photo from Facebook/@BaleKuCafe ‘The Songs Came Home’ celebrates the veteran songwriter behind enduring OPM favorites Veteran Filipino songwriter Cecile Azarcon-Inocentes is the subject of a new tribute song honoring a career that has produced some of Original Pilipino Music’s enduring compositions. “The Songs Came Home,” released by TrueStoriesSung Creative Studio, features…
C.D.C. Says No Deaths This Year Attributed to Measles
The agency’s weekly update escalates a political fight after Pennsylvania said two deaths had been caused by the virus.
Looking for more Dolly? Check out these movie screenings
Regal Cinemas is showing two of Dolly Parton’s hit movies for six days of special screenings — with all proceeds going to the star’s book gifting program.
Lending a trusted ear to farmer mental health struggles
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and that’s especially important in rural areas, where suicide rates are roughly 1.5 times higher than urban areas. A lack of rural mental health care options and a negative stigma against discussing mental health have contributed heavily to this issue. Fortunately, a new project in the Midwest is aiming […]
The Deloreans bring ’80s music to Boykin Center
The Deloreans, an ’80s tribute band, open Wilson Arts’ Boykin Series 29 on Sept. 11 at the Edna Boykin Cultural Center.
Terri Irwin recalls final days, ‘long and sweet goodbye’ with husband Steve Irwin 20 years after his death
Terri Irwin recalled her final days with late husband Steve Irwin in an emotional tribute, 20 years after his death on Sept. 4, 2006.
Q&A: How do statisticians contribute to research and policy on gun violence?
In this Q&A, Penn State researchers spoke about why they compiled a book about the latest gun violence research and how statisticians and data scientists can contribute their expertise in working with incomplete or biased data and advancing new analytical methods in this field.
Midterm mail ballots start to go to voters
North Carolina on Friday is scheduled to become the first state to widely distribute mail ballots for this year’s elections
Midterm mail ballots start to go to voters
North Carolina on Friday is scheduled to become the first state to widely distribute mail ballots for this year’s elections
Midterm mail ballots start to go to voters
North Carolina on Friday is scheduled to become the first state to widely distribute mail ballots for this year’s elections
Sony's PlayStation disc plant is losing 10 percent of its volume in 2028, not 90
Sony’s PlayStation disc plant is losing 10 percent of its volume in 2028, not 90 Sony won’t license disc pressing to anyone else, Microsoft does, and a former PlayStation boss thinks that’s the whole problem. When Sony DADC chief Dietmar Tanzer spoke with an Austrian broadcaster in July about PlayStation disc production at the Thalgau plant, a number of press outlets misunderstood the report, writing that production would fall to a tenth of current levels. It won’t. Sony DADC confirmed to Game this week that the figure is a 10 percent decline, not a decline to 10 percent. “To clarify and avoid any misleading information: in that statement Dietmar anticipated an overall product volume decline by 10 percent, not a decline down to 10 percent,” a spokesperson with Sony DADC told Game. That figure covers 2028. Tanzer didn’t put a number on the years after, and the spokesperson declined to comment further. What we do know is that on July 1, PlayStation announced that physical game disc production for all new games releasing on PlayStation consoles will be discontinued starting January 2028 and that the transition has no impact on games that have already released in disc format or will be releasing in disc format prior to that month. “So, there will be reorders going to the market after January 2028,” the Sony DADC spokesperson said. “For details around that I would ask you to liaise with the PR team from PlayStation, as we can’t speak or comment on their behalf.” PlayStation officials did not respond to questions about reorders or other disc-related matters. But I did recently speak with Shawn Layden, Game Industry Strategic Advisor and former chairman of SIE Worldwide Studios, who called a future without physical PlayStation discs “depressing, but solvable.” then added, “I think.” The chief hurdle to third-party manufacturing of collector’s editions or any other version of a PlayStation game disc is that Sony owns the proprietary process to press those discs, Layden said. “And unless they decide or determine a way to license that to some of these bespoke disc manufacturers, there’s no way to make it happen,” he said. Layden was careful to add that he understands the concept but doesn’t have “line of sight on the particulars.” “Depressing but solvable, I think.” — Shawn Layden Microsoft already licenses replication to outside plants. Xbox discs are pressed by manufacturers Microsoft certifies as Authorized Replicators, a term defined in its publisher agreements, with the approved list set at the company’s sole discretion and Microsoft retaining the right to halt manufacture. The structure is still in place today: publishers select an Authorized Replicator in Partner Center and submit a bill of materials created with a Microsoft representative. Sony, by contrast, presses PlayStation discs through Sony DADC, its own manufacturing subsidiary. No one I spoke with said they were in discussions with Sony about doing that, and PlayStation hasn’t responded to questions about whether it would be open to a licensing deal. There is an obvious reason Sony might not want to. Niko Partners analyst Daniel Ahmad pointed it out on the day of the announcement: it’s a platform-led decision, he wrote, designed to cut costs, eliminate the resale market, and drive all revenue through the PlayStation Store. The math is not subtle. On a $70 third-party game sold through the PlayStation Store, Sony keeps $21. Sold at retail, Ahmad says, it earns about half that. Licensing disc replication to an outside manufacturer might not be worth it. And even if it were, it seems unlikely that such a deal would come from boutique companies like iam8bit, which sells collector’s editions of video games. “We would absolutely love to find a way forward to continue making physical PlayStation games,” said Jon Gibson, co-owner and co-creative director of the company. “We are big believers in giving humans the option to truly own media. If we can play a role in helping make that a reality for the future of PlayStation games, count iam8bit in!” If it were to happen, it would most likely be with a company like Conectiv Supply Chain Solutions, a Memphis-based manufacturer of optical discs and vinyl records that also runs third-party logistics, fulfillment and distribution for packaged media. The company, which was formed in 2025 when Los Angeles private equity firm Variant Equity Advisors purchased Vantiva’s Supply Chain Solutions division, traces its lineage back to Technicolor. When it sold the division, Vantiva described the business as having served video game creators for more than 25 years. Conectiv is also buying, not shrinking. Last month it acquired SDS, the distributor for Universal and Warner Bros. home entertainment, consolidating those studios’ packaged-media pipeline from pressing plant to retail shelf. I reached out to Conectiv and its CEO, but haven’t heard back. Layden pointed to music and books in our discussion about the ongoing value of physical media. “No one ever saw the comeback of cassette tape,” he said. “And vinyl didn’t so much come back. The flame went down, the fire’s dying, but the ember was always there, and it just kind of came back. Much like the book business. We thought we’d all be on Kindles right now. “I believe that physical media is crucial and important. One of the things that makes us gamers, one of the core game mechanics, going back to the beginning of time, is collecting stuff. “Did you get all the diamonds in Crash Bandicoot? Did you get all the stars in Mario? And we like to collect our games. And we have a game shelf. And we put all our boxes up there. And if you’re super hardcore, when you buy a game, you buy two copies, right? One stays in the shrink wrap, and you play the other one. What happens to that important cultural part of the gaming world? You know, we buy the steelbook and the three-disc Final Fantasy set and the figurine and, you know, you can’t download any of that. “What happens to that?” And Layden believes it shouldn’t have been a revenue question for PlayStation. “This was a core thing to the experience of our most devoted fans,” he said. “Yeah, it’s fan service. Why would we take that away? Well, we can’t afford to. It’s already 120 bucks, you know, limited edition special purchase onyx box version of whatever, and those sell at a higher rate than the box selling at $69.99 does. So yeah, the market has said they will continue to buy them. You’re just saying you just don’t want to make them anymore.” Layden said he was recently talking with someone about these sorts of business decisions and how they’re made. Too often, he said, it’s all about the financials and nothing else. “OK, we can do this and save this much money, or we can invest this to look at that outcome, or we can do this and have this happen over there, or move this team to Sri Lanka,” he said. “But each one of those, someone also has to have a ledger there saying, ‘OK, what is the brand impact from that move?’ “Iif you can’t resell it, do you really own it?” — Shawn Layden “If we do that, dollars and cents work out. I get it. That’s just math. But what’s the brand impact? Are people going to say, ‘Good move, you guys?’ Or are they going to say, ‘We hate you guys. Quit doing that.’ And sometimes they say, ‘We hate you.’ Then you take a note and say, OK, how much of that can we live with? How much ‘we hate you’ is OK. And when does it go over the line? “I see a lot of companies making decisions which, objectively speaking, I don’t know what the dollar end of that was for you, Mr. Company, but your brand value just dropped 30 percent. So I hope it was worth it.” Of course, shifting to a digital-only model for games raises other issues beyond simply wanting to collect. The biggest is ownership. Layden pointed out that once you go to a streaming-only or download-only model, it’s just a digital footprint on a hard drive. “What does ownership mean anymore?” he said. “It’s a genuine question. Well, in fact, it’s not even a question anymore. It’s like you are shifting the model from ownership to accessibility. “And what’s always been true, which people forget, is you’ve never been able to sell your iTunes library. And you can’t sell your PlayStation download library. So if you can’t resell it, do you really own it?” The touching tribute found in the credits for Star Wars Zero Company. Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy Interview and Hands-On with a Minoan Masterpiece Star Wars Zero Company hands-on: Attack Astromechs, permadeath, and delightfully fatal Rube Goldberg tactics Control Resonant opens up as you get stronger — and as characters start trusting you
Scientists Expose Unexpected Driver of the May 2024 Superstorm
Even though the solar wind was unusually dense during the May 2024 superstorm, ions from the solar wind contributed very little to the ring current, marking the first time both were observed simultaneously during a storm of this magnitude.
Florida Polytechnic University nabs top rankings for computer and data science programs
'We emphasize strong technical foundations alongside real-world problem-solving, ensuring our graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully.'
NVIDIA PAIR Turns Your Idle Home PCs Into A Local AI Cluster, Killing $1,200-Per-Month Cloud API Bills
NVIDIA has introduced PAIR, a new way to combine and distribute AI inference across your home devices without any hardware installation.
EmBe announces EMBES nominees
Seventy-two women, men and businesses have been nominated for The EMBES -- A Tribute to Women.
Final Fantasy Resonance Is an HD-2D Turn-Based RPG That Brings in Heroes From Final Fantasy's Past
Final Fantasy Resonance feels like it’s walking a tightrope between being a loving tribute to Final Fantasies past while also taking the series into a cool new direction and telling its own story. Is it going to pull it off? We’ll have to wait and see, but I was very impressed by the hour I spent playing it. From the gorgeous HD-2D aesthetic to the awesome soundtrack and a battle system that can hold its own, Resonance looks like it’s doing all the right stuff.
Gloria Steinem's touching tribute to doctor who made her abortion possible
Though much of her writing was personal, among Gloria Steinem's most moving work was a dedication to the doctor who helped her obtain an abortion.
Messi to get mid-game tribute by soccer teams across Argentina after international retirement
Soccer teams across Argentina will pay tribute to Lionel Messi with a mid-game minute of applause during their next match following his decision to retire from international duty. Referees will pause play at the 10-minute mark of every match in the upcoming round of the Clausura tournament, as well as in other men's and women's leagues in Argentina, in appreciation of Messi’s career with the national team, the Argentine Football Association said late Wednesday. The 39-year-old Messi, who wore the No. 10 jersey for Argentina, announced on Monday he will no longer play for the national team after 21 years of service.
Kennedy asked to remove Pennsylvania measles death from CDC tally, sources say
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. asked his new CDC director to remove a reference to two Pennsylvania deaths from the agency’s online measles tally after he questioned whether the disease contributed to the fatalities, three sources familiar with the situation said.
Argentine league to pause games to honour Messi
The Argentine football league will pay tribute to Lionel Messi's international career by pausing all their domestic matches in the 10th minute this weekend.
Dollywood to honor Dolly Parton with new memorial features and tribute character
Parton died last week at the age of 80
Dollywood to honor Dolly Parton with new memorial features and tribute character
Parton died last week at the age of 80
Notre Dame reveals tribute to Lou Holtz for 2026 season
A helmet honor connects the current roster to the last coach who delivered a Notre Dame national title.
W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship announces 2025–2026 Teaching, Research, and Service Award nominees
Each semester, Fort Hays State University’s W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship (RCOBE) recognizes outstanding faculty and staff members by nominating individuals who demonstrate excellence in teaching, research, and service. These nominations reflect the college's commitment to recognizing the many ways faculty and staff contribute to student success, academic excellence, and the university's broader mission.
Academy of Natural Sciences is shutting down its museum after nearly 200 years
Declining attendance contributed to the decision, officials say. Stewardship of the collections will continue.
Naomi Osaka honors Allen Iverson with US Open outfit
Naomi Osaka went all-out in paying tribute to basketball great Allen Iverson with her look at the US Open tennis tournament.
Phillies and Nemours Children’s Health Honor Young Cancer Warriors at Childhood Cancer Awareness Day on Sunday, September 6
The Phillies and Nemours Children’s Health will host their 10th annual Childhood Cancer Awareness Day on Sunday, September 6, at Citizens Bank Park, featuring heartwarming moments and once-in-a-lifetime experiences for children and families affected by cancer before and during the game against the Atlanta Braves. The on-field tribute will begin
Hands-On: The M.A.D.Editions M.A.D.3 Vincent Calabrese
The third entry in the MB&F spinoff pays tribute to a legendary watchmaker.
The best new science-fiction books of September 2026 include a tribute to Ursula K. Le Guin and a new Brandon Sanderson
From China Miéville to Brandon Sanderson via a tribute to Ursula K. Le Guin, there are some really huge names with new sci-fi novels out this month - as well as a new Doctor Who tale, says Alison Flood
Scott's Addition's newest pizza parlor, Pizzeria Delores, opens for business
After leasing the former ice cream shop last fall, Max Sayer and Jacky Welch set out renovate the space to pay tribute to pizzerias of the 1980s with wood-paneled walls and vintage Schlitz Beer chandeliers hanging over booths.
AMC Entertainment Creates Leawood Films with the Aim of Having More Movies Distributed to the Big Screen
AMC Entertainment has announced the creation of Leawood Films, a new film distribution company headquartered both in Los Angeles and AMC Theatres home base of Leawood, Kansas. It will focus on bringing additional movies to theatrical audiences in the U.S. and across the globe, leveraging its marketing ability and the prominence of its exhibition network, […]
What does the Lindsay Clancy trial tell us about treating maternal mental health?
Lindsay Clancy is currently on trial for killing her three children.Prosecutors say the murders were intentional, but her defense team says she was suffering from severe postpartum psychosis -- a condition that does not have a distinct diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.That's the handbook used to identify mental health conditions, so patients often have a hard time getting proper care.The case has put a spotlight on maternal mental health and how its treated by the public and healthcare professionals. What does it reveal?WBUR’s Deborah Becker contributed reporting to this episode.It was produced by Megan Lim and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Éowyn Fain, Hannah Gluvna and Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams.It was edited by Justine Kenin and Tinbete Ermyas.Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
AMC Entertainment Creates "Leawood Films" With the Aim of Having More Movies Distributed on to the Big Screen
LEAWOOD, Kan., August 31, 2026--AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AMC), the largest theatrical exhibitor in the United States and in the world, today announced the creation of Leawood Films, a new film distribution company headquartered both in Los Angeles and AMC Theatres home base of Leawood, Kansas. It will focus on bringing additional movies to theatrical audiences in the U.S. and across the globe, leveraging its acclaimed marketing ability and the prominence of its exhibition network,
AMC Entertainment Creates “Leawood Films” With the Aim of Having More Movies Distributed on to the Big Screen
New distribution venture will focus solely on films fully financed by their filmmakers, or already completed films, leveraging AMC's…...
Xbox CEO Reacts To The Irony Of Rising Console Prices Being An Issue That Microsoft Itself Contributed To
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma believes it is "wonderful" that GPUs have use beyond gaming.
Is Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) Undervalued Following Its 2027 Ride And Halloween Plans?
Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) has put fresh attention on its stock after outlining a packed slate of 2027 capital projects and Halloween events, along with continued spending at parks like Carowinds and Carolina Harbor. Against this backdrop of new rides and expanded Halloween events, Six Flags Entertainment’s share price has been weak in recent months. The 30 day share price return is down 6.41% and the 90 day share price return is down 21.64%. This has contributed to a 1 year total...
Dolly Parton fans treated with tribute movie
The Redford Theatre featured a showing of Steel Magnolias in honor of the late singer
How to Watch the CBS Special ‘Remembering Dolly: A Rhinestone Life’
The Entertainment Tonight special airs on CBS, with new tributes to Dolly Parton and archival interviews
Fleetwood Mac tribute band to rock The Grand
Crystal Vision will bring its Fleetwood Mac tribute concert to The Grand in Ellsworth on Friday, Sept. 11, from 7-9 p.m.
“Zombie” Cells Reveal a Surprising New Driver of Chronic Inflammation
Dysfunctional mitochondria may drive age-related inflammation by helping switch on inflammatory genes, and blocking SLC25A1 reduced that activity. As people age, senescent cells accumulate in the body. These so-called “zombie” cells have stopped dividing but remain metabolically active, releasing inflammatory molecules that can contribute to persistent inflammation associated with frailty, cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegeneration, and
L.A. Phil Offers $10 Hollywood Bowl Tickets for Medi-Cal, EBT Users
Starting in 2027, the L.A. Phil says it will offer $10 Hollywood Bowl tickets to Medi-Cal and EBT cardholders in an effort to make concerts more accessible.
From Dolly Parton Tributes to New Opry Members: This Week in Nashville Entertainment
Discover the latest in Nashville entertainment news, including tributes to Dolly Parton and new Opry members this week.
Liza Minnelli pays tribute to friend Dolly Parton
Liza Minnelli mourned the loss of her longtime friend Dolly Parton on Friday. Parton died at the age of 80 on Aug. 25.
Lil Nas X announces his mom has died in heartbreaking tribute
Lil Nas X has revealed that his mother has died.
How an MIT graduate student helped a team of young scientists test their experiment at CERN
MIT physics graduate student Manu Srivastava helped six high school students in India develop an experiment that could contribute to one of the world’s largest neutrino experiments at CERN.
Garth Brooks’ daughter’s ‘greatest fear’ is people mourning her dad when he dies like they do Dolly Parton
Garth Brooks’ daughter Allie Colleen paid tribute to Dolly Parton on Instagram, saying that her ‘greatest fear’ was people mourning her dad when he dies, like fans are mourning Parton, who died on Aug. 25.
Navy Medicine Advances Operational Health IT for Distributed Maritime Operations
CHESAPEAKE, Va. —Navy Medicine leaders, Fleet representatives, and operational health IT experts convened to accelerate the fielding of medical information capabilities designed to support patient movement, medical logistics and force readiness across distributed maritime operations, August 24-28. Hosted by The Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) in Chesapeake, Virginia, the five-day Operational Health Information Technology Fielding Summit served to build upon work that began in 2024 and 2025, to refine Joint Operational Medicine Information Systems (JOMIS) software delivery, implementation, and training.
Trump officials cast doubt on Pennsylvania measles death claims
Top Trump administration health officials are openly questioning the circumstances of two deaths that Pennsylvania officials attributed to measles. “We don’t know exactly what happened in P…
Dolly’s generosity to Vanderbilt Health highlighted; reading test results before your doctor has a chance; staying healthy this fall; plus other stories with Vanderbilt Health sources
Dolly Parton’s generosity to Vanderbilt Health was mentioned in many of her obituaries. A sampling: The New York Times, the BBC, NPR, NBC News, The Guardian, and Scripps News. Vanderbilt Health News posted a tribute to her, as well, and Mark Denison, MD, Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics and former director of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, spoke to NewsNation for a story about her impact on his research. Everyday Health interviewed Trent Rosenbloom, MD, MPH, Professor of Biomedical Informatics, for a story about a new JAMA study that found two-thirds of patients read test results before connecting with a doctor. Comprehension of test results varied: 6.6 percent said they had a poor understanding, 26.8 percent understood the results fairly well, 31.7 percent understood them well, and 34.9 percent understood the results very well. William Schaffner, MD, Professor of Preventive Medicine, was quoted by several news outlets about public health issues, including: Healthline (cyclosporiasis cases now in 47 states); “The Naked Scientists” podcast (salmonella outbreak sickens hundreds); Medscape (the lighter-than-usual just-completed Australian flu season); and People (how to stay healthy this fall). Scripps News interviewed Jessica Young, MD, Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, about Vanderbilt researchers launching a study to determine if GLP-1 drugs can help people with opioid use disorder. WSMV Channel 4 News reporter Diana Rocco interviewed Kashish Goel, MBBS, Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of Transcatheter Heart Valve Interventions, for a story about patient Dixie Watt and her minimally invasive valve replacement with the M3 device, the first Food and Drug Administration-approved transseptal transcatheter mitral valve replacement. Fogarty International Center writer/editor Susan Scutti interviewed John Koethe, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, for a profile article for their newsletter, Global Health Matters. The article presents him as an example of a Fogarty Fellow success story and focus on his past and present research, including the HIV/AIDS research he conducted for his Fogarty project at the Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Zambia in 2008 and 2009.
Scott Pilgrim EX DLC ‘Back in the Band’ now available alongside ‘Coin-Op Chaos’ update
Tribute Games has released retro-style side-scrolling adventure brawler Scott Pilgrim EX downloadable content “Back in the Band” for $3.99, alongside the free update “Coin-Op Chao…
Entertainment this Week: 40z to Freedom, Corburn Station, and more
Friday, August 28 Community Yoga Class – 4:15-5:15 p.m., Tahoe Forest Wellness, 10833 Donner Pass Rd. Suite 101 & 102. Join Rachel for an all-levels practice to build a deeper connection with yourself and your...
AI's memory crunch is coming for Android apps
Google is setting new memory-use limits for Android apps as AI data centers contribute to hardware shortages that could leave lower-cost phones with less memory.
Vin Diesel divides fans with cover of Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You’ after her death
First, there was Whitney Houston. Now, there’s Vin Diesel, whose tribute cover of ‘I Will Always Love You’ divided fans in the wake of Dolly Parton’s death.
Cowboys news: Brian Schottenheimer reveals underrated Caleb Downs trait
Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs has a big opportunity to turn heads in his rookie season, as he looks to prove that he can be a difference-maker at the next level after a standout career at Ohio State. Downs has the pedigree to command attention , and his maiden stint will offer an early glimpse of his versatility and athleticism, two attributes […] The post Cowboys news: Brian Schottenheimer reveals underrated Caleb Downs trait appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Watch Harry Styles pay tribute to Dolly Parton, leading a sing-along of ‘I Will Always Love You’ in New York show
The country music icon died Aug. 25, the day before Styles began his Madison Square Garden residency.
WHO appoints 21 leading scientists to Science Council to help shape future health breakthroughs
The WHO Science Council is an advisory body established by the WHO Director-General to provide independent advice on high-priority scientific issues, emerging technologies, and advances in science and innovation that may affect global health. The renewed Science Council comprises 21 members serving in their personal capacities. The Council advises WHO on scientific opportunities and challenges, supports strategic foresight, and contributes to strengthening trust in science and evidence-informed decision-making.
WHO appoints 21 leading scientists to Science Council to help shape future health breakthroughs
The WHO Science Council is an advisory body established by the WHO Director-General to provide independent advice on high-priority scientific issues, emerging technologies, and advances in science and innovation that may affect global health. The renewed Science Council comprises 21 members serving in their personal capacities. The Council advises WHO on scientific opportunities and challenges, supports strategic foresight, and contributes to strengthening trust in science and evidence-informed decision-making.
Seton Hall Faculty Advance Research, Explore AI in Health Professions
Seton Hall’s School of Health and Medical Sciences faculty presented research and contributed to national professional initiatives across their disciplines during spring semester and summer 2026.
Dolly Parton’s death prompts worldwide tributes
Parton died Tuesday at age 80 after what her representatives described as a brief battle with cancer
Dolly Parton’s death prompts worldwide tributes
Parton died Tuesday at age 80 after what her representatives described as a brief battle with cancer
Ricky Schroder posts transphobic, anti-vax tribute to Dolly Parton, stars react: ‘Oh shut up!’
Celebrities slammed Ricky Schroder’s transphobic, anti-vaccine tribute to Dolly Parton after her death: ‘Oh shut up,’ Boy George wrote, while Katie Couric simply replied, ‘Ick.’
El-Sayed's tribute to Dolly Parton after her death sparks internet fury as critics cry foul: 'Gimme a break'
Abdul El-Sayed's Dolly Parton tribute on X was ratioed after critics accused the Michigan Senate candidate of exploiting her death for political gain.
Dolly Parton dead at 80: Taylor Swift, Jane Fonda and Grand Ole Opry lead tributes after country legend dies from cancer
The passing of the country music legend and philanthropist has sparked a wave of tributes from the world of music, politics, film and beyond.
Taylor Swift calls Dolly Parton ‘true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person’ after country legend’s death
Taylor Swift called Dolly Parton ‘true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person’ in tribute following the country legend’s death.
Sabrina Carpenter pays tribute to Dolly Parton after cleaning up lyrics for their collab
Sabrina Carpenter shared a tribute to Dolly Parton after the ‘Jolene’ singer’s death at 80. The two musicians collaborated on a remix of Carpenter’s ‘Please Please Please’ after Parton requested a lyric change.