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Sydney Sweeney on “MAGA Barbie” Nickname: “I’ve Never Been Here to Talk About Politics”
"I’ve always been here to make art, so this is just not a conversation I want to be at the forefront of," the 'Christy' star said in conversation with Cosmopolitan.
How PFAS harm our health — and why they’re everywhere
What do non-stick pans, firefighting foam and many of our couches, carpets and cosmetics have in common? They’re all made with PFAS. The so-called forever chemicals helped spur innovation, but they’re also insidious to human health. Horizons moderator William Brangham explores these chemicals and how we can protect ourselves with investigative journalist Mariah Blake and scientist Laurel Schaider.
How PFAS harm our health — and why they're everywhere
What do non-stick pans, firefighting foam and many of our couches, carpets and cosmetics have in common? They’re all made with PFAS. The so-called forever chemicals helped spur innovation, but they’re also insidious to human health. Horizons moderator William Brangham explores these chemicals and how we can protect ourselves with investigative journalist Mariah Blake and scientist Laurel Schaider.
‘It’s a substantial amount’: BCBS faces criticism over $800 refund delay for Oakland County couple
An Oakland County couple said they were over $800 out because Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan wouldn’t refund their overpayment.
Night owl or early bird: Chronotype can influence your health and muscle strength
Being more active in the morning or afternoon is not just a matter of personal preference. Chronotype, which is each person's biological tendency to function better at certain times of the day, can play ...
The anti-ICE movement isn't just about politics — it's a caregiving social movement
It’s a caregiving social movement based on relatedness and belonging.
Pace(R) Earns Environmental Business Journal Award for Adding Respirable Crystalline Silica Testing
Company awarded Business Achievement Award for New Practice in 2025 MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA / ACCESS Newswire / January 30, 2026 / Pace® Analytical Services, the preferred provider of regulatory testing and analytical laboratory services, and a Division ...
A breakthrough that could make ships nearly unsinkable
Researchers have found a way to make ordinary aluminum tubes float indefinitely, even when submerged for long periods or punched full of holes. By engineering the metal’s surface to repel water, the tubes trap air inside and refuse to sink, even in rough conditions. The technology could eventually be scaled up into floating platforms, ships, or even wave-powered energy systems.
“It was insane to see”: Owner reacts after car crashes into Kansas City, Kansas, business
A car crashed into a Kansas City, Kansas, business Thursday morning, sending debris across the block and leaving the storefront boarded up.
UN criticizes Haiti for lack of progress on a political transition
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. Security Council criticized Haitian authorities Thursday for the lack of progress in achieving a political transition and called for urgent security sector reforms to tackle increasing violence by gangs and criminal groups.
The Observatory and WHO Ukraine reflect on productive partnership and continued collaboration
Why have some health systems coped better than others during the COVID-19 pandemic? Some answers might become clear if we could assess how resilient health systems are in response to crises or shocks, such as the current pandemic and other emergencies, including financial ones, or how well health systems were prepared for such events in the first place. The European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies has just published a new policy brief, “Strengthening health systems resilience”, which includes a framework to help policy-makers understand health system resilience and how to strengthen it. This policy brief highlights the key features of resilience and provides examples of strategies which have been applied in different countries.
Cubs TV voice Jon 'Boog' Sciambi tops sixth annual Chicago sports media power rankings
I ranked the market’s talent exclusively on TV, radio and podcasts based on appeal, quality, longevity and personal preference. Well over 100 people were considered, and the top 20 follow, with last year’s rank in parentheses.
Make an Honest Living in Three New GTA Online Odd Jobs
Join the ranks of the Los Santos Fire Department as a Firefighter, load up delivery vans for Alpha Mail as a Forklift Operator, or deliver the old-fashioned printed version of the Los Santos Meteor with a Paper Route in three new Odd Jobs now available...
AI helps expand medical response capacity for treating Bay Area's homeless
The Future Communities Institute and its partners in the San Francisco Bay plan to use artificial intelligence to act as a force multiplier for street medical teams that help to improve patient outcomes and social referrals for the region's homeless.
Will Republicans break their losing streak on health care reform?
Republicans have repeatedly failed to successfully field an alternative to ObamaCare, but their new “Great Healthcare Plan” released in January offers some promising ideas, such as pric…
John Hancock CEO: We all have a role in driving better health outcomes for Americans
I recently testified before the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee on improving long-term health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Joan Esmie MS ’26 Named PAEA Student Health Policy Fellow
Reflecting Ithaca College’s Commitment to Community-Minded Leadership
Scientists found a way to cool quantum computers using noise
Quantum computers need extreme cold to work, but the very systems that keep them cold also create noise that can destroy fragile quantum information. Scientists in Sweden have now flipped that problem on its head by building a tiny quantum refrigerator that actually uses noise to drive cooling instead of fighting it. By carefully steering heat at unimaginably small scales, the device can act as a refrigerator, heat engine, or energy amplifier inside quantum circuits.
IDF accepts Gaza Health Ministry estimate of over 70,000 Palestinians killed in the war
Although Many International Experts Have Accepted the Health Ministry's Data as Reliable, and Even Conservative Relative to the True Death Toll, Israel Had Refused to Accept the Health Ministry's Count Until Noiw
AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. Announces Agreement With Its Lenders to Provide Additional Debt Refinancing Flexibility and Previews Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Preliminary Results
LEAWOOD, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AMC) (the “Company,” or “AMC”), today announced that it has…...
ASNC says PET is now the preferred nuclear imaging test for CAD
Which imaging modality is better for evaluating heart patients, PET or SPECT? After years of discussions and debates, the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology is now ready to point to PET as the No. 1 choice. “There are no clinical scenarios or patient subgroups where cardiac PET with myocardial blood flow should be excluded," the group wrote.
‘Trust, love, commitment’: Esteemed business leaders and former Notre Dame football student-athletes reflect on how to be champions of hope at Walk the Walk Week event
On Monday (Jan. 26), two distinguished business leaders and former Notre Dame football student-athletes — Tracy Graham ’95 and Byron Spruell...
Disney Entertainment Television Unveils 2026 Directing & Writing Program Participants
EXCLUSIVE: Disney Entertainment Television has chosen its participants for the 2025-26 Directing and Writing Programs, talent development initiatives which connect emerging writers and directors with opportunities across DET’s scripted and unscripted television slate. “This year’s cohorts reflect the bold, original voices that will help shape the next era of television,” said Tim McNeal, senior vice …
Exclusive: Bertelsmann launches $200M health tech fund
The fund launch reflects growing international investor interest in digital health.
Maduro was an 'impediment to progress' and refused deal, Rubio says
Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the comments at a Jan. 28 Senate hearing on Venezuela.
Former utility commissioner Tim Echols reflects on Georgia's new power politics
This coverage is made possible through a partnership between WABE and Grist, a nonprofit environmental media organization. The Georgia Public Service Commission has entered a new era. After nearly two […]
AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D Review - The Best Just Got Better
The AMD Ryzen 9850X3D builds on the already excellent 9800X3D without trying to shake up the market. Instead, it focuses on refining what already works. AMD delivers modest improvements with smarter tuning, and the same cache magic that gamers love. Thanks to a reasonable price increase, this processor will be a no-brainer pick for future high-end gaming rigs.
Nervous Allies and Fox News: How Trump Realized He Had a Big Problem in Minneapolis
President Trump often blusters his way through a crisis, refusing to back down. Minneapolis tested the limits of that strategy.
Firefighters respond to business fire in West Jordan
In and out of the buildling.Fans and a hose going into the building.Several firefighters and engines responded to the scene.Rocky Mountain Power responded
FreshBooks 2025 Ontario Small Business Snapshot: Owners More Reserved Than U.S. Peers, but Most Say Their Businesses Are Stable
Ontario survey data shows lower optimism and higher interest-rate sensitivity than U.S. counterparts, while operating conditions stay steady for most businessesTORONTO, Jan. 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ontario small business owners are entering 2026 with a more reserved outlook than their U.S. counterparts, reflected in lower economic optimism, softer financial sentiment, and greater sensitivity to interest rates, according to a new Ontario snapshot from FreshBooks’ 2025 State of Small Business
Companies rush to refinance amid increased policy uncertainty
The activity may be a signal of corporate borrowers losing confidence.
Night Owls Have Worse Heart Health, Study Finds
By Dennis Thompson HealthDay ReporterWEDNESDAY, Jan. 28, 2026 (HealthDay News) — Do you prefer to stay up late, living it up through the night while everyone else is snoozing away? You might be doing your heart health a disservice, a new study says. Middle-aged and older night owls appear to have ...
ZZ Top frontman to play solo, 3 plays to open, other things to do
Onstage events include plays and concerts, or if you prefer on-screen entertainment, there's a horror movie marathon. See what else is coming up!
Investment and Statecraft: The International Politics of Sovereign Wealth Funds - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
In 1953, Kuwait established the world’s first sovereign wealth fund to invest the country’s oil revenues and generate returns that would reduce its reliance on a single resource. Since then, over 100 separate funds have been created to preserve national wealth and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Today, they manage over $10 trillion in global assets. In this discussion with GJIA, political economist Kathryn Lavelle explains the increasingly novel dynamics that surround fund behavior and what the world can come to expect from their growing presence in international financial markets. GJIA: When it comes to the roles sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) play in global markets and politics, what would you say makes them unique? Kathryn Lavelle: Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) operate on behalf of governments as investors. That in itself is a strange relationship. Within them, a core contest takes place between the state’s interests (or sovereign) part of the dynamic, and the money interests (or wealth) part of it, and these two aspects are frequently in contradiction, serving fundamentally different goals. SWFs are also quite fascinating because when you talk to the people who manage these funds, they have an interest in convincing you that the decisions are made almost exclusively on a financial basis—they really will go to great lengths to differentiate their government owners and those who make the management decisions. At the same time, these people ultimately answer to someone in power. Therefore, for most SWFs, it remains deeply unclear who is actually making the investment decisions and for what purposes. Of course, it is not always clear how other vehicles, such as hedge funds and private equity make the decisions they do, but I think what a lot of people find particularly disconcerting about SWFs is that they seem to act on behalf of people who have a different identity from their own. People who could be trying to manipulate politics and markets in a way that would have a long-term effect on their own populations. Regular investors come and go at will, and they only share an interest in profit as far as most of us understand. However, SWFs have that extra “sovereign” part right behind them that obscures their true interest. GJIA: These funds can be found in countries all across the globe, in both authoritarian states and democracies. Would you say SWFs differ in their goals and structures between regime-type? KL: It is not necessarily regime type that makes the goals and structures of SWFs different. It has to do with their economies. Let’s look at a country like China. There’s going to be a debate about exactly how to characterize the regime, but it is a country with many different kinds of sovereign wealth funds, and a particularly opaque state connection to each. At one time, some of the state-owned Chinese oil companies created specialized investment vehicles listed outside Chinese markets that excluded parts of the firms that were more associated with human rights violations. At the same time, the China Investment Corporation (CIC)—China’s largest SWF—draws a lot of concern, not necessarily because of its investment activities, but because of the dynamics of global politics. So, I wouldn’t really tie differences to regime types themselves in a wholesale way, but rather to how such funds are perceived and how they are structured. Saudi Arabia’s SWF is getting all kinds of attention for its involvement in Hollywood, and this takes me right back to when I was a student in the 1980s, when people were concerned about Japanese investment entities buying assets in Hollywood. They aren’t quite the same in financial terms, but it’s the same kind of concern about foreign investment that drives people to be suspicious, and the whole idea that “foreigners are influencing Hollywood.” This holds true across industries, and it reflects where politics are in places like the United States right now. One metric we can try to look at is transparency, where all the funds will tell you, “we are transparent.” The problem you’ll keep running into with this approach is how you value things. When trying to do comparative studies of equity markets, you’ll find that every country doesn’t use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles like we do in the United States. A fund may appear opaque politically and not want people to show what they’re invested in or what their intent with that investment is, but they could also just not be able to report it because of the way it was purchased, or the kinds of shares they purchased. There are some assets out there that really are difficult to put a monetary value on. GJIA: To what extent do domestic politics shape SWF behavior in both the investing “home” country and the recipient “host” country? KL: This depends on the type of fund present and also on the extent to which voters’ political views are able to influence the fund. For example, in a democratic home state like Norway, the SWF doesn’t invest in nuclear weapons or tobacco because of social concerns, but there is a continuing debate over whether it should invest in oil, even though that’s where most of the money comes from. The degree to which Norway will continue to make those investments, and whether they contradict the government’s overall climate goals, is an open question in Norwegian politics. Because of the way the fund’s governance is structured, it may not be easy to resolve. On the other hand, some people consider pension funds, like the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) in Ohio, to be quasi-SWF. They have a very strict separation between the people who make up the management division and the fund owners. No teacher or professor would want to invest in things that may harm the future of their students. At the same time, a fund manager might see an opportunity in a diversified multinational corporation that offers a good return, despite it deriving part of its revenue from e-cigarettes. These contests are very apparent. Domestic politics can work in host countries too. A good example is Singapore’s SWF, Temasek, investing in Thailand’s telecommunications sector. If you study political economy, you already know that countries everywhere are uncomfortable with foreign ownership of their telecom sectors because a foreign entity could monitor or manipulate our communications with each other. In the case of Temasek, there was significant pushback from Thai citizens surrounding the deal, which went on to influence national political sentiment toward Singapore as a whole, underscoring the risks some SWFs may face with their investment choices. In this case, fund behavior led to the dissolution of the entire Thai government in 2006 and a subsequent coup d’état. GJIA: To address some of this unease, the Santiago Principles were established in 2009 to ostensibly promote trust and transparency. From your perspective, have these mechanisms actually changed fund behavior? KL: In international relations theory, we always like to have a clear set of norms and best practices—the orientation we want the proverbial ship to be going in. In that regard, the Santiago Principles at least got the discussion going about which direction SWFs should take at a time when people were very skittish about the growing size of these funds. Nobody wanted them to be out there and potentially destabilizing economies, so talks about disclosure, conditions for withdrawal, and the independence of managers were helpful when initiated. The biggest stumbling block was that there wasn’t exactly a good way to measure compliance with the Principles, let alone how to hold funds to them. If you read the Principles, they’re overall quite vague. In general, a fund doesn’t want to reveal how and why they make certain investment decisions because that information is proprietary—a fund makes money off of how and why it makes decisions—so how do you reconcile that with loosely-defined ideas of openness? Some decisions might have a political purpose. The bottom line is that trying to figure out and assign a score to compliance is not easy, and it is therefore the reason why the Santiago Principles never really got off the ground to the point where they could truly direct fund behavior. GJIA: Many emerging markets are looking to build their own SWFs from mineral and oil revenues. Historically, have funds shaped development trajectories in these countries? KL: I think the big story in international emerging markets investment is that the investment is increasingly no longer unidirectional. In the past multinational corporations of primarily Western background were the main form of foreign direct investment in a country. That has changed dramatically, to the point where you have companies from so-called “developing countries” taking over companies in the United States. Therefore, the landscape of international investment has changed, and I think SWFs are certainly a possibility to be the next step in the game. Historically, you didn’t need an entire financial vehicle to reinvest commodity revenues in your country, but as emerging markets get more financially sophisticated, their capacity to operate such funds has increased. SWFs would allow treasuries to move from relying on holding foreign exchange assets like cash or government bonds to having broader financial markets and targeted growth areas, while easing pressure on welfare expenditures. GJIA: With their increasing financial weight, do you see the presence of SWFs being a factor in the political choices leaders will have to make with regard to domestic and foreign policy? KL: It will depend on just how big the funds get. One of the reasons people are already apprehensive is because of their scale, and if certain SWFs in certain countries achieve a large-enough size, the presence will absolutely be cause for concern. The other factor political leaders will have to consider are their objectives. It’s not always clear how to define a SWF, or even where its activity is concentrated, but it is certainly a worry from the perspective of national security of opaque external investment. More than that, I think one of the most interesting questions going forward is whether the United States, the home to the world’s largest financial markets, will develop its own fund, for which the Trump administration announced a plan. There have also been several proposals in Congress. Were it to come into being, it would have tremendous weight. At the same time, one of the hallmarks of U.S. capitalism is a lack of government ownership of shares, so it would not be clear how such a fund would be received in domestic politics, or which direction it would take. Given how politically fragmented the country is, a Democratic administration would likely be concerned about different sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, and want investment there, rather than a Republican administration, which might prefer defense industries. No investment vehicle could thrive under conditions of such instability. Moreover, it remains unclear where the money to fund a theoretical U.S. SWF would come from. It would be a fundamentally different entity depending on whether it is financed with debt, economic surplus, commodities, or the sale of state companies, as in the case of Singapore. If it is debt, or government borrowing of some form, then the fund would have to outperform whatever the cost of that debt is, which is not an easy thing to do. I think our political leaders have enough on their plate. Our system has worked well keeping political and investment functions generally separate. We have seen different forms of business rise and fall, and even the perception of different countries, all of which funds are tied to. Unless a major SWF either starts—like in the case of the United States—or collapses—an issue that concerns the Saudis, I don’t see any political tsunamis on the horizon. . . . Kathryn Lavelle is the Ellen and Dixon Long Professor of World Affairs at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Her research explores the exchange between domestic and international and political institutions with a particular emphasis on political economy and multilateralism. Dr. Lavelle’s first book, The Politics of Equity Finance in Emerging Markets, explored the political circumstances that surround large issues of stock in the developing world. After being granted tenure at Case Western, she was awarded an American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship and named the William A. Steiger fellow, a designation given to the most promising political scientist in her class of fellows. While in Washington during 2006-2007, she worked on the staff of the House Committee on Financial Services on issues related to domestic and international monetary policy. Dr. Lavelle holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University; an M.A. in government and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia; and a bachelor’s degree in international economics from Georgetown University. She is a permanent member of the New York Council on Foreign Relations. This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity and length. Interview conducted by Sid Mehrotra. Image Credit: Jason Leung, Unsplash Content Licenses, via Unsplash
Trump’s Choice to Be Alabama’s Next Senator Finds an Odd Political Target: the Modern Gas Can
ENTERPRISE, Ala.—U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, a longtime political figure in this rural Alabama community, has his priorities. Among them? A reform effort aimed at the modern gas can. A congressman since 2021, the Republican may be headed toward one of the most powerful positions in Yellowhammer State politics, a seat in the U.S. Senate, given […]
IndyCar rookie ready for teammate to 'fight with well,' but comfortable in himself
Dennis Hauger, the 2025 Indy NXT champ, has moved to the IndyCar series after just one season in the developmental series.
An ousted energy regulator reflects on Georgia’s new power politics
Former utility commissioner Tim Echols talks climate change, the Republican party, and how the state will deal with rising power demand.
When Pittsburgh sports fans look at Baltimore, we see our reflection
I grew up in Western Pennsylvania, specifically Beaver County, where most young boys dream of becoming star athletes. But now I find myself residing in...
Starmer Attack on Reform Candidate Shows His Future on Ballot
Keir Starmer stepped up his attacks on Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party ahead of a special election that could decide the prime minister’s political future.
‘AI is the future’: UK launches state’s 1st Bachelor of Science in AI
From smartphones to self-driving cars, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how the world works — and now, Kentucky students can be trained at the forefront of that transformation. The Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering at the University of Kentucky has launched the Commonwealth’s first Bachelor of Science in AI. The undergraduate degree program, housed in the Department of Computer Science, will welcome its first class in Fall 2026.
The Children’s Trust announces “significant expansion” of its investment in student health
The Children’s Trust, established by voter referendum to improve the lives of families and children in Miami-Dade County, announced earlier this month that it will expand its HealthConnect in Our Schools initiative.
Middletown business damaged after snow pushed by plow breaks window
A Connecticut spa is dealing with tens of thousands of dollars in damage after snow shattered its front window during this week’s storm. Middletown Police said the damage happened when snow pushed by a plow hit the storefront. The owners of The Bare Collection by Bareskin Beauty Bar said they woke up to find their window shattered and snow pouring…
Senate Dems demand immigration enforcement reforms before funding DHS : The NPR Politics Podcast
Congress may be headed toward a partial government shutdown. After a federal immigration officer fatally shot Alex Pretti last weekend in Minneapolis, Senate Democrats say they won’t vote to fund the Department of Homeland Security without changes to how the federal government enforces immigration laws. We discuss what Democrats want, what Republicans are offering, and the political risks of another government shutdown. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
'We've Lost Dale Earnhardt': FOX Sports Documentary Reflects on 25th Anniversary
FOX Sports and NASCAR Studios announced the upcoming release of "We've Lost Dale Earnhardt: 25 Years Later," airing on Feb. 12.
Entertainment lawyer Dina LaPolt on fame, sobriety and her new memoir
New Paltz native Dina LaPolt reflects on growing up gay in a small town, conquering addiction and building a top-tier firm in a new memoir.
Cole Palmer transfer news: Chelsea view England international as 'untouchable' amid reported links to Man Utd
Cole Palmer is contracted at Chelsea until 2033; recent reports have suggested the England international was feeling unsettled in London and was open to a move to Manchester United; Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet has expressed a preference for joining Chelsea
Fight over US healthcare subsides stuck on familiar snag: abortion
Republicans refuse to move forward without further restrictions on abortion coverage – Democrats say that’s a non-starter
Japan Business Lobby Warns of Tariff Impact as Wage Talks Start
The head of Japan’s biggest business lobby warned that the impact of US tariffs on the nation’s industry needs to be carefully monitored, in comments signaling caution as formal wage negotiations between employers and labor unions get underway.
MIRA head Liz Sweet looks to business community for immigrant support
The executive director of the Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition assembled about 100 people at Winthrop Center to discuss the role that immigrants play in the state’s workforce.
How Americans could get a $1,000 boost this tax season
The filing season for 2025 tax returns is officially open and American taxpayers are expected to see larger tax refunds after filing due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Building an evidence base for the business case for apprenticeships
This report presents a framework for iterative learning: pilot program designs, gather data, refine approaches, and build better tools.
HHS, Education Refer Minnesota to DOJ for Allowing Males in Girls’ Sports
HHS notified the Minnesota Department of Education that they are referring their cases against MDE and MSHSL to DOJ.
Trump strikes a positive tone on Tim Walz after phone call with the Minnesota governor
Trump's post marks a noticeable shift in the way he’s referred to Walz, whom he's repeatedly criticized for not cooperating with his administration.
Braverman’s predictable defection is Farage’s biggest political gamble yet
Twice-sacked former home secretary is ‘not a team player’ and may limit attempts to expand Reform’s appeal
In downtown Wilmington, Live Oak shutting down inclusive small business center
Live Oak Bank is turning Channel off. Described by Live Oak as an inclusive small business center, Channel opened in November 2021 to serve as a free resource for small business owners, helping numerous minority-owned and other small businesses from its headquarters downtown at 106 Market St. "After careful consideration, we’ve decided to bring Channel ... to a close at the end of this month. Live Oak determined that the needs of Wilmington’s small business community have evolved. Since Channel opened, the local small business ecosystem has grown significantly, with many strong organizations now offering education, technical assistance and community programming for entrepreneurs," stated Claire Parker, managing director of corporate communications for Live Oak Bank, in an email Monday. "With those resources firmly in place, Live Oak is refocusing on what we do best – providing banking and financing solutions that help small businesses grow and thrive." Channel's demise also resulted in the elimination of two positions – those of Channel's director, Chakema Clinton-Quintana, and Atiba Johnson, the certified professional business advisor (CPBA) at Channel. On Monday, Clinton-Quintana, who was elected to the Wilmington City Council in November, said of her immediate plans after Channel: "I will continue my work serving the public while I look for other full-time opportunities." She said Channel "served over 1,000 small business owners in the greater Wilmington area, as well as some of the surrounding areas, such as Brunswick and Pender. A lot of folks had reached out to us needing those resources because they were free, and we were able to assist them in that capacity." Johnson said he will be devoting his time to the Wilmington Minority Chamber of Commerce, which is not affiliated with the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. The minority chamber is celebrating its launch from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Wilmington Sportsman Club, 1111 Castle St., Wilmington. Johnson, the founder and executive director of the new chamber, said about 50 businesses are on board to join the Wilmington Minority Chamber of Commerce. According to a news release, the new chamber "was established to foster growth, networking, and advocacy for underrepresented business owners. By providing essential resources and community engagement, the chamber aims to build a more inclusive and prosperous local economy." Johnson said the creation of the new chamber is in response to "lapses in funding, education, advocacy for minority businesses...Some of the things that are going on now just don't reach all the way down to those businesses." For Lynne Jones, owner of LJ Design Studio LLC, the loss of Channel also means a reduction in income. She had contracted with Channel to run the center's social media and to provide some marketing for small business owners. "It's pretty disappointing to hear that it is closing...it was a place to connect with other small business owners and collaborate. It was like a family for those of us who were there. If you had issues or things that you needed to talk through concerning your business, there was always someone there that you could sit down with and talk things through, recalibrate, and they set you off on your way to make that pivot and move in a different direction," Jones said Monday. She said she worked with many Channel participants creating their websites and will miss seeing the joy on their faces when those websites were up and running. Dawn McDowell, owner of Creatively Covered Co. LLC, credits Channel with helping her business grow and regrow after her social media pages were hacked and shut down in 2023. "Channel was a great resource for small businesses, for women-owned businesses, for minority-owned businesses; they provided a lot of assistance, especially when you needed it," McDowell said. "If it wasn't for Channel, I don't know if I'd be where I am now, in my business, and regrowing my business and even finding out about some of the certifications and things that were out there for small businesses that I just didn't know about ... because there was no one really sharing that information for small businesses, for minority- and women-owned businesses in particular." Parker said shutting down Channel was not part of an overall cost-cutting plan. She stated in the email, "Live Oak’s commitment to Wilmington remains strong. We are continuing to support entrepreneurs by focusing our efforts where we deliver the greatest value – through specialized banking and financing solutions aligned with our mission to be America’s small business bank." As for Channel's downtown office, Live Oak had leased the 5,000-square-foot space above Seabird restaurant in 2021. The bank’s lease for the office is up in March, Parker said.
Trump on closing his eyes during Cabinet meetings: ‘Boring as hell’
President Trump said he’s closed his eyes during Cabinet meetings because they are “boring as hell” but noted this isn’t a reflection of his health. “It’s boring as hell, I’m going around a room, …
These 3 Policy Moves Are Likely To Change Health Care for Older People
By Paula Span | KFF Health News Month after month, Patricia Hunter and other members of the Nursing Home Reform Coalition logged onto video calls with congressional representatives, seeking support for a proposed federal rule setting minimum staff levels for nursing homes. Finally, after decades of ...
American Axle changes name ahead of Dowlais acquisition
Dauch Corp. is the new name and references the late automotive executive Richard Dauch, who founded American Axle as a spinoff of General Motors Co.
Inclusive Health Data Hub
The Inclusive Health Data Hub brings together key health data that reflects Special Olympics Health work and impact from the past 30 years. This page was created to make Special Olympics Health data easier to find, understand, share, and use over time.
Roy Cooper is at the Forefront of Democrats’ Longshot Bid to Flip the Senate. But What Do Voters Think of Him at Home?
The former North Carolina governor may not be the future of the Democratic party, but he might just help Democrats flip a critical seat.
Books that shaped a universe: Reiff reflects on science, curiosity and imagination
For more than five decades, Patricia Reiff has explored the forces that shape Earth’s place in space. But when the Rice professor of physics and astronomy took the stage Jan. 15 for Friends of Fondren Library’s Books That Shaped My World series, her focus shifted from spacecraft and data to the books and people that have influenced how she thinks, teaches and lives.
A Call to Action: Safeguarding SRHR in the UN80 Reform
As the UN advances discussions on UN80 reform, a proposal endorsed by 525 organizations outlines measures to safeguard sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) within any future UN configuration, reaffirming SRHR as central to gender equality, health, and sustainable development.
How The New Price Target Is Shaping The Golden Entertainment (GDEN) Investment Story
Why the Golden Entertainment Price Target Just Changed Golden Entertainment just received a fresh price target update, but the commentary behind that shift has not been clearly outlined with specific figures. For now, it may be useful to focus on how the new target reflects changing expectations about the stock's risk and opportunity profile rather than any single headline metric. Stay tuned to see how you can keep on top of future price target changes and the evolving story behind this...
Why federal tax refunds may be bigger than usual
Tax-filing season has officially begun and will run though April 15.
Trump tries to reset -- again -- on affordability
The push comes after weeks of freewheeling speeches and international controversy that reflected Trump’s tendency to derail his own message.
'The Moment' Doesn’t Take Charli XCX Too Seriously, & Neither Should We
Charli XCX's 'The Moment' premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. We talked to the cast about how real Charli XCX is being in the mockumentary, and give our thoughts on the film.
Editorial: Another Important Week For Sunderland
It’s time to refocus, and with players coming and going at Sunderland this week, will we be sat here this time next week in a stronger position?
Rams’ Matthew Stafford reflects on season amid uncertain future
Matthew Stafford did not have too many words when asked about his performance for the Rams this year and whether he would return.
Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) Valuation After US$1b Debt Refinancing And Extended Maturities
Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) recently completed a private offering of US$1b in 8.625% senior notes due 2032, using the proceeds to redeem its existing 2027 notes and to extend its debt maturity profile. See our latest analysis for Six Flags Entertainment. The refinancing news comes after a sharp 30 day share price return of 16.25% that partly offsets a 90 day share price return decline of 33.35%. However, the 1 year total shareholder return decline of 61.75% shows that longer term investors...
NFL ref defends ruling on controversial Jarrett Stidham fumble
NFL referee Alex Kemp explained his ruling on Jarrett Stidham's pass that was deemed a fumble.
Killing Prompts Only a Defiant Response From Trump
Even as the second death of a protester in Minnesota brought demands for accountability, the president, insulated from dissenting voices, stuck to his pattern of reflexively blaming opponents.
Mobile home, trailer repair business burn on Tyler loop
Tyler firefighters responded to a commercial fire Sunday, with at least one building engulfed upon arrival.
Republicans Struggle to Respond to Shooting, Reflecting Political Peril
The killing of a 37-year-old man by a federal agent exposed fresh cracks in G.O.P. unity, with some expressing alarm while others stayed silent or backed the Trump administration.
Trump claims secret ‘discombobulator’ weapon was used to help capture Maduro
President Donald Trump said the US used a weapon he referred to as a “discombobulator” to capture then-Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro this month, but a senior US official said he’s likely conflating tools used by the US military.
This ‘Game Changer’ Pillow For Sleep Apnea Is On Sale Right Now
Many reviewers say it's also helpful for post-surgery recovery, acid reflux, heartburn and GERD.
Scientists twist tiny crystals to control electricity
Researchers have developed a technique that allows them to carve complex three dimensional nanodevices directly from single crystals. To demonstrate its power, they sculpted microscopic helices from a magnetic material and found that the structures behave like switchable diodes. Electric current prefers one direction, but the effect can be flipped by changing the magnetization or the twist of the helix. The findings show that geometry itself can be used as a tool for electronic design.
What we learned from a week in Davos
In this Sunday edition of Business Insider Today, we're reflecting on BI's week at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
DUE DATE EXTENDED: Draft 2026 Delta Science Plan
From the Delta Science Program: The Delta Stewardship Council’s Delta Science Program is developing the third iteration of the Delta Science Plan, which outlines the vision, principles, and approaches that guide science in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Updated approximately every five years, the plan incorporates new concepts and actions that reflect current science and management needs and is developed collaboratively and transparently. The draft 2026 Delta Science Plan is available for public review! All members of the Delta science community […]
Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy highlights franchise’s refusal to evolve
The Steelers are a franchise stuck in the past.
Gmail’s spam filter and automatic sorting are broken
Gmail’s spam filter is broken, leading to inboxes flooded with promotional emails and warnings to “be careful.”
Massive spending bill fills $3B hole to support World Trade Center...
Lenovo’s 13-inch ‘Sapphire’ Chromebook tablet just checked another box on my high-end wish list
As we approach the actual release of ‘Sapphire’ - the highly anticipated, Lenovo-built Chromebook tablet with some decidedly Google-y features - this device just keeps getting better. Over the past...
Arts and entertainment calendar
Events coming up in the Greenville area offer music, arts, theater and family fun. Here is a sampling. In the listing below, today refers to Jan. 24. Due to the
Student-loan borrowers facing new debt relief, forgiveness whiplash
Trump gave defaulted student-loan borrowers a major break on wage garnishment and tax refund seizure. Still, thousands are waiting for debt relief.
'Love Boat' star Ted Lange says famous guest star refused to shake his hand: 'Who does that to anybody?'
Bad first impressions last a lifetime — just ask 'The Love Boat' star Ted Lange, who has never forgotten a famous guest star on the show who refused to shake his hand.
Trent Alexander-Arnold set to stay at Real Madrid despite exit talk
Saturdays other top stories include: Arsenal plotting a move for Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez and Everton fear that Jack Grealish may miss the rest of the season due to injury
Amazon employees share memes as layoffs loom, sparking pizza humor
Amazon employees respond to expected layoffs and corporate job cuts by posting memes referencing founder Jeff Bezos' two-pizza rule.
Are Republicans Growing a Little Uneasy About the ICE Raids?
Polls, careful remarks from JD Vance and chats with voters all point to some wariness.
Google Photos can now turn you into a meme
Me Meme uses generative AI to combine a reference photo with templates.
Las Vegas: From desert town to iconic entertainment hub
As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, historian Mark Hall-Patton reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped Las Vegas into the iconic city it is toda
CT health plan subsidies set to be available beginning Feb. 1
Access Health CT said it will launch an enrollment period Feb. 1 for eligible customers to enroll in coverage with the new state subsidy.
Nigel Farage’s trip to Davos hosted and paid for by family trust of billionaire
Trust says Reform UK leader was invited to World Economic Forum by London-based venture capitalist as an honorary adviser
Vaccine Panel Chair Says Polio and Other Shots Should Be Optional, Rejecting Decades of Science
Dr. Kirk Milhoan, a pediatric cardiologist who leads the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, said a person’s right to refuse a vaccine outweighed concerns about illness or death from infectious diseases.
Is Caesars Entertainment (CZR) Pricing Reflect Its Value After Prolonged Share Price Weakness
If you are wondering whether Caesars Entertainment's share price reflects its underlying value or potential, this article walks through what the current valuation really suggests. The stock closed at US$23.61, with returns of a 6.9% decline over 7 days, a 3.4% decline over 30 days, roughly flat at 0.2% year to date, plus a 30.9% decline over 1 year and 55.1% and 68.0% declines over 3 and 5 years respectively, which can change how investors view both risk and opportunity. Recent news around...
‘We have a clear agenda’: the teenager who broke news of Tory MP’s defection to Reform
Charlie Simpson, 15, is part of new generation of self-styled rightwing ‘independent journalists’ and ‘has sources in the [Reform] party’
CVS Health (CVS) Valuation Check As Regulatory Scrutiny And Legal Outcomes Draw Investor Focus
Regulatory and legal scrutiny is back in focus for CVS Health (CVS), as a U.S. House Judiciary Committee probe into its pharmacy benefit manager practices unfolds, while a separate class action over prescription drug pricing has been dismissed. See our latest analysis for CVS Health. For context, CVS Health shares now trade at US$82.68, with a 30 day share price return of 5.95% and a year to date share price return of 3.18%, while the 1 year total shareholder return of 59.48% reflects how...
Whole Hog Politics: Democrats find ‘reform’ a better rejoinder than ‘democracy’
[Watch Whole Hog Politics live: Join our live online audience on Jan. 30 and ask your questions to Chris Stirewalt and host Bill Sammon. Click here to join u…
NFL: Last Super Bowl appearance of conference champ teams
The last Super Bowl appearance of each conference champion offers a snapshot of how recently these franchises have competed on the NFL’s biggest stage. Whether ending in a championship or a narrow defeat, each appearance reflects a defining moment in…
US officially leaves World Health Organization
Trump ordered the withdrawal a year ago, accusing the UN agency of failing to adopt reforms and mishandling the pandemic.