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MUFG Chases Global Peers for Cash in $1.3 Trillion Bank Business
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc. is trying to boost its transaction banking business by hiring more people and expanding domestic money transfer services in Asia, as it plays catch-up with global peers, according to a senior executive.
Pee changes how some mushrooms ‘talk’
Fungi communication networks are complicated, but urine may help translate their conversations.
Pink slip to ESPN empire: Bill Rasmussen transformed sports viewership
Bill Rasmussen did more than launch a cable network. He helped create the modern sports culture Arizonans now live inside.
Florida Communities Certification Association launches to improve condo transparency, safety, cost
Consider it the 'CarFax of condos.'
NCAA imposes steep penalties for 'ghost' transfers, but many already doubt they will stick
The NCAA approved sweeping penalties Wednesday for programs that sign players outside the transfer portal window. Coaches and attorneys across the sport aren't convinced the rules will hold
Patients face higher costs as White River Health goes out of network with UnitedHealthcare
Starting April 1, patients with UnitedHealthcare commercial and Medicare Advantage plans are out of network at White River Health.
Ohio State's Ryan Day explains Buckeyes' massive offseason transfer overhaul: 'Adapt or die'
The Buckeyes coach compared the current college football landscape to that of the dinosaurs
DI Cabinet adopts new rules to address ‘ghost transfers’ for all sports
On Wednesday, the Division I Cabinet adopted a proposal that penalizes programs that sign a transfer student-athlete, add a transfer student-athlete to a roster, or allow a transfer student-athlete to participate in athletically related activities before the student-athlete is entered into the NCAA Transfer Portal.
The Strange, Shaky Alliance Taking on Trump and His Big Tech Friends
A billionaire-backed movement from Silicon Valley and populists like Bernie Sanders are eager to stop an AI disaster — but can they overcome their mutual distrust and work together?
McCormick to acquire Unilever’s food business in $44.8B deal
McCormick is acquiring Unilever’s food business in a $44.8 billion merger, marking the second-largest food transaction in history.
Alumni Spotlight: Bonny Dahm’s Role in Transforming Healthcare Policy Into Action | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Bonny Dahm, MHS ’08, puts her Bloomberg School training to use by leading strategic initiatives at the intersection of policy, operations, and growth.
A 200-year-old light trick just transformed quantum encryption
Scientists have unveiled a new approach to ultra-secure communication that could make quantum encryption simpler and more efficient than ever before. By harnessing a 19th-century optics phenomenon called the Talbot effect, researchers developed a system that sends information using multiple states of single photons instead of just two, dramatically boosting data capacity. Even more impressive, the setup works with standard components and requires only a single detector, reducing cost and complexity.
Golden Entertainment shareholders approve taking casino operator private
Golden Entertainment announced that at its special meeting Tuesday shareholders approved the adoption of its previously announced master transaction agreement with casino operator CEO and Board Cha...
Braiding hair? That’ll require 500 training hours and a permit.
Louisiana’s licensing rules are strangling businesses for no good reason.
Steele: Science is breaking the ‘great chain of being’
I’ve been thinking about about “the great chain of being” while trying to figure out the true impetus for the ferocious anti-transgender efforts of this current administration.
Golden Entertainment Shareholders Approve Master Transaction Agreement With Blake Sartini and VICI Properties
Golden Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: GDEN) (“Golden Entertainment” or the “Company”) announced that at its Special Meeting of Shareholders held on March 31, 2...
Golden Entertainment Shareholders Approve Master Transaction Agreement With Blake Sartini and VICI Properties
LAS VEGAS, April 01, 2026--Golden Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: GDEN) ("Golden Entertainment" or the "Company") announced that at its Special Meeting of Shareholders held on March 31, 2026, its shareholders approved the adoption of its previously announced definitive master transaction agreement (the "MTA") and the transactions contemplated thereby or therein, with Blake L. Sartini and affiliates ("Blake Sartini") and VICI Properties Inc. (NYSE: VICI) ("VICI").
L.A. festival helps the trans community heal through comedy
At The Joy Who Lived festival, trans comedians and actors can shine under spotlights created by and for trans creatives.
Poll shows Carlos Giménez’s lead narrowing in CD 28 amid economic, policy headwinds
A potential new entrant to the race could capitalize on independent voters breaking toward Democrats, pollsters found.
Cornwall health initiative 'reduces pressure and saves money'
A charity says the project is "transformational" for people going through difficult times.
Could probiotics, dietary changes help protect brain health as we age?
A new review looks at how probiotics, prebiotics, dietary changes, and fecal microbiota transplants can help support gut health and preserve brain function as people age.
Serie A winger linked with Liverpool as Salah replacement
Juventus Transfer Plans: Premier League Pressure Mounts as Champions League Stakes RiseChampions League Race Shapes Juventus FutureJuventus stand at a familiar crossroads, one shaped as much by financ...
Apple's 50-year transformation into a cultural and technology powerhouse
A scrawny hippie and a nerdy engineer who became prank-playing friends vowed to change the world when they founded a Silicon Valley startup on April Fools’ Day 50 years ago and then — no joke — pulled it off.
Historic Rock Island Bridge opens in Kansas City as new entertainment district over Kansas River.
After almost a decade of planning and work, the Rock Island Bridge opens to the public at 11 a.m. Wednesday, transforming a 1905 railroad bridge into an entertainment district over the Kansas River.
Trump receives warm reception at the Kennedy Center after transforming the arts institution
President Donald Trump finally got the Kennedy Center reception he’s always wanted.
A WNC ground station is back in business for NASA's Artemis II
A Transylvania County science research and education center with roots in the Space Race is getting back to its original mission, helping NASA track astronauts as they head to the moon for the first time in more than 50 years.
A WNC ground station is back in business for NASA's Artemis II
A Transylvania County science research and education center with roots in the Space Race is getting back to its original mission, helping NASA track astronauts as they head to the moon for the first time in more than 50 years.
Trans athletes find space in Brooklyn sports leagues
All programs are inclusive, though the center says some ensure trans people are centered.
Morrisey approves new rule for WV high school students transferring for sports
Rules for certain high school students transferring for athletics are changing in West Virginia following the recent legislative session.
Health officials stress safety measures after Helena measles exposure at local hospital
With five measles cases recently identified, Lewis and Clark County health experts encouraged caution to prevent further transmission.
HHS Is Exiling Top Officials to the Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service needs more clinical workers. The federal health officials being transferred to the agency don’t fit that bill.
Pete Golding responds to Dabo Swinney's tampering claims tied to transfer LB Luke Ferrelli's recruitment
Golding offered his most direct response yet to Swinney's tampering allegations
Business leaders back Hochul’s car insurance reforms
A coalition of business leaders from New York’s farming, retail, and transportation sectors rallied at the State Capitol to support Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposals to lower car insura…
Apple Releases New Firmware for AirPods Max 2
Just ahead of the launch of the AirPods Max 2, Apple has released new firmware for the headphones. The updated firmware is version number 8E251. The AirPods Max 2 include the H2 chip, an upgrade over the H1. The H2 brings several new features like Live Translation, Adaptive Audio, Loud Sound Reduction, Voice Isolation, and more. The new firmware likely optimizes some of these new features. Customers who buy the AirPods Max 2 can follow Apple's steps to get the new firmware.
SGMC Health Launches Prehospital Blood Transfusion Program, Advancing Trauma Care in South Georgia
SGMC Health has launched a prehospital blood transfusion program, marking a significant advancement in trauma care for South Georgia.
Nebraska DHHS seeking rural health experts to join federal program advisory group
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is creating an advisory board for the Rural Health Transformation Program. Though the program’s budget has been set, board members across six regions will assess how prepared hospitals and clinics in their region are to implement program initiatives.
Takeaways from the Supreme Court decision on Colorado law banning ‘conversion therapy’ for trans and gay minors
The Supreme Court on Tuesday endorsed a religious counselor’s challenge to Colorado’s ban on “conversion therapy” for gay and transgender minors, saying it likely violates the First Amendment, handing the LGBTQ community another setback in a decision that will reverberate in nearly half the country.
Transgender sports participation initiative challenged
Challengers say if the errors are corrected, the petitioners would fall below the 67,682 signatures need to qualify for the November ballot.
How to Change Your Gmail Address
You’ve probably had the same Gmail address for years. Now, it's easy to make a name change without worrying about the transition.
Unique nonprofit serving single moms selects new leader
SPARKHOPE AUTOMOTIVE Denver News: Jason Spears has been named chief executive officer of SparkHope Automotive. While its name might lead one to believe it is a car dealership, SparkHope Automotive, formerly Hands of the Carpenter, is a faith-based nonprofit serving employed single mothers by addressing a critical and often overlooked barrier to stability: reliable transportation. “Jason’s leadership and heart for community perfectly align […]
Gov. Morrisey signs bill allowing more flexible high school sports transfer rule
Transfer restrictions will remain in place for juniors and seniors under the new rule.
Cunard Unveils 2026 Entertainment for Queen Mary 2
Cunard announced its most comprehensive entertainment program yet for Queen Mary 2’s 2026 transatlantic crossings
2025-26 CBS Sports All-Transfer team: College basketball's best and most talented players at new schools
The CBS Sports experts select the top players who came out of the transfer portal
Airbnb Externship Shows 3L Isabel Samayoa How Legal Strategy Drives Business Growth - UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings)
An externship at Airbnb provided 3L Isabel Samayoa exposure to areas such as contracts, licensing, risk management, and growth strategy, helping her develop the skills and experience to thrive in her future career as a corporate transactions attorney. 3L student Isabel Samayoa reflects on her work with Airbnb’s in-house legal team through UC Law SF’s Corporate Counsel Externship Program. Supported Airbnb’s legal team on commercial contracts, open-source licensing, external partnerships, product counseling, and legal research. Observed how legal advice aligns with business strategy and risk management. Gained exposure to strategic decision-making while preparing for a career in corporate transactions. Q: What did you do in this corporate externship? A: I supported the Airbnb legal team across several functions, including commercial contracts, open-source licensing matters, strategic external partnerships, legal research, real estate matters, internal AI integration, and product counseling. I also gained exposure to corporate structure counseling, litigation, patent counseling, and the company’s broader business strategy. Q: What did you take away from this experience? A: One of the most valuable parts of this experience was learning how a business actually operates. I had never worked on such a large team in the private sector, so I had little exposure to how companies run internally. I learned how lawyers can provide valuable advice to support business goals, seeing how leadership evaluates risk and develops growth strategies. Understanding those priorities allows me to calibrate my legal advice to clients, balancing the client’s goals against the level of risk they are willing to take. Q: How does this experience support your career goals? A: Exploring the anatomy of a successful company was incredibly valuable because I plan to pursue a career as a corporate transactions lawyer. Being in the room with the teams discussing important decisions allowed me to see firsthand the factors that contribute to that success and how lawyers help guide those decisions. Q: Would you recommend UC Law SF and this externship? Why? A: I would absolutely recommend this opportunity. While the team worked on high-stakes matters at a highly successful company, they still created an environment where I felt welcomed. They trusted me with meaningful work and supported me every step of the way. This helped me build confidence in my analytical abilities. Q: What’s your favorite UC Law SF memory so far? A: Some of my favorite UC Law SF memories, aside from my time at Airbnb, involve mentorship. I have benefited from mentorship and have also had the chance to mentor other law students. Watching the students I mentored go on to mentor others has been particularly rewarding. I think mentorship is integral to the legal profession, and it has been inspiring to see that culture thrive at UC Law SF and continue beyond the classroom. The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the College’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.
Landsat Reveals Reservoir Changes and Bathymetry
In two recent studies, researchers used Landsat data to fill key gaps in our knowledge of reservoir structure and dynamics.
Supreme Court backs challenge to ‘conversion therapy’ ban
The Supreme Court endorsed a religious counselor’s challenge to Colorado’s ban on “conversion therapy” for gay and transgender minors, another legal setback for the LGBTQ community that will reverberate in nearly half the country. Follow for live updates.
Texas Health announces leadership transition
CEO Barclay Berdan will retire this fall. Texas Health Resources promoted Winjie Miao to president, setting up a historic first for the system.
Qualified Health Raises $125M Series B to Meet Growing Demand for Enterprise AI Transformation Across Health Systems
Leading health systems including Mercy, Emory Healthcare, University of Rochester Medicine, Jefferson Health, and the University of Texas System are partnering with Qualified Health to deploy and scale AI safely across the enterprise. Palo Alto, California – March 25, 2026 — Qualified Health, a public benefit corporation providing a secure enterprise AI platform built for health […]
Opendoor acquires Doma's closing and escrow business in bid to lower mortgage refinance costs
Doma's technology has been used in a Fannie Mae pilot program designed to reduce title insurance costs on eligible refinance transactions.
Scientists turn MXene into tiny nanoscrolls that supercharge batteries and sensors
Scientists have transformed a groundbreaking 2D nanomaterial called MXene into an even more powerful 1D form—tiny scroll-like tubes that are incredibly thin yet highly conductive. By rolling flat sheets into hollow nanoscrolls, they’ve created structures that act like fast “highways” for ions, boosting performance in batteries, sensors, and wearable electronics.
Swope telescope: five decades of observing and reinvention
Astronomer Nidia Morrell looks back on more than 20 years of observing at the Las Campanas Observatory—an era marked by the transition from manual methods to digital systems—and reflects on the enduring relevance of a telescope that remains central to modern astronomy.
What Transgender Day of Visibility Means in Health Care
OUR STATEMENT Today, March 31, is Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV), a time to uplift the tenacity of the transgender community. TDoV is also a time to acknowledge the harm and discrimination trans people are subject to, especially in health care settings. Chicago-based uro-gynecologist and provider of gender-affirming care, Dr. Emile Redwood reflects on the…
Alaska Airlines unveils its first-ever International Business Class Suites experience, setting a new standard for long-haul travel
Debuting this spring, the airline’s new long-haul Business Class marks a major step in Alaska’s transformation into the West Coast’s global carrier.
BrightSpring Health Services Completes Sale of ResCare Community Living to Sevita
LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 31, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BrightSpring Health Services, Inc. (“BrightSpring” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BTSG), a leading provider of home and community-based pharmacy and health services for complex populations, today announced the completed sale of ResCare Community Living to Sevita, a leading provider of home and community-based specialty health care. The transaction reflects a shared commitment to continuity of care, operational stability, and long-term opportunity f
Meet the 2026 Best Cannabis Companies to Work For
For the seventh consecutive year, Cannabis Business Times presents the 'Best Cannabis Companies to Work For' rankings, which recognizes companies that go above and beyond to prioritize employees and create great places to work.
A Global Business Leader Shares His Philosophy For Fulfillment Beyond Material Achievement In New Book
“Be Your Own Sultan: The Transformative Power of Redefining Wealth” by Sultan Sobhi Batterjee is released with Forbes Books.
Sky Sports drop major Liverpool transfer update & fans eyes will widen at crucial Yan Diomande detail
RB Leipzig don’t consider Yan Diomande ‘unsellable’, but there’s still an acknowledgement that a sale will be tough to agree.Philipp Hinze reports that the German outfit want to adjust the win...
McCormick buys Unilever food business in $45B deal
The transaction creates a global spice and condiments giant with a portfolio that includes Hellman's mayonnaise and Frank's Red Hot.
I pivoted from software engineering to welding after layoff; happier
A former software engineer in Oklahoma transitioned to welding after a tech industry layoff, finding stability and job satisfaction in her new career.
The Bull Case For PENN Entertainment (PENN) Could Change Following Aurora Casino Relocation And Expansion
PENN Entertainment has opened the new US$360 million land-based Hollywood Casino Aurora across from Chicago Premium Outlets, nearly doubling its local workforce to about 700 people and preparing to transfer operations from its older riverboat site pending final regulatory approvals and funding support from Gaming and Leisure Properties and the City of Aurora. This expansion deepens PENN’s presence in the competitive Chicagoland casino corridor while highlighting its asset-light funding model...
Health care workers overwhelmingly ratify Kaiser Permanente contract
More than 4,500 Kaiser Permanente health care workers in Oregon and southwest Washington have approved a new labor contract.
Meet Lankenau Medical Center's new president, who hopes to inspire other women in health care
Cardinal Health recognized by industry peers for leadership in supplier transparency and resiliency
Recognition from Healthcare Industry Resilience Collaborative (HIRC) based on healthcare providers’ nominations. Our Global Medical Products and Distribution (GMPD) business was presented with...
DeSantis clears renaming of Florida airport after Trump for takeoff
Travelers in South Florida might soon find themselves transiting through Trump International Airport.
Cardi B and Steph Curry earn Webby Award nominations, along with Sydney Sweeney's bathwater
This year’s Webby Award nominations highlight the internet’s wildest hits, from celebrity campaigns to strange viral products.
April 2 Vallejo/Vacavile Arts-Entertainment Source: Activities
April 2: Familiar Strangers, 6:30 p.m., Empress Marquee Club, 324 Virginia St., Vallejo. April 4: Bunny Breakfast, 8:30 a.m., McBride Community Center, 91 Town Square Plaza, Vacaville. Learn more online…
Tala Health Launches With $100M to Transform Patient Care Through AI Collaboration
Based in San Francisco, the company is developing a platform that integrates AI copilots throughout the entire patient experience, from initial intake and diagnosis to follow-up and long-term management.
Lextran launches new $1 LexRide seasonal bus route connecting Lexington entertainment spots
A night out in Lexington is getting easier with the launch of LexRide, a new seasonal downtown circulator from Lextran that connects popular entertainment districts for $1 each way.
Music therapy brightens chemo visits for 3-year-old at Corewell Health in Royal Oak
Three-year-old Carson Jamo, diagnosed with leukemia in June 2025, regularly visits Corewell Health in Royal Oak for chemotherapy, where music therapist Brandon Banas helps transform challenging appointments into positive experiences.
Trump administration sues Minnesota for allowing trans athletes in girls’ sports
Justice department claims the state is violating Title IX – the federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination
Exclusive | Unilever Nears Deal to Create $60 Billion Food Giant With McCormick
Hellmann’s mayonnaise-maker’s board met Monday afternoon to review details of the transaction.
Trump Admin. Sues Minnesota Over Transgender Athletes in Girls' Sports
It's the third state the Trump administration has sued over transgender participation in athletics.
Mexico 2026: A World Cup as an Exercise in Sports Diplomacy
By hosting its third FIFA World Cup in 2026, Mexico is leveraging its industrial capacity and trilateral cooperation to transform the world’s largest sporting event into a landmark exercise in sports diplomacy.
Trump administration sues Minnesota over transgender athlete participation in girls' sports
The 45-page lawsuit is a key step toward yanking the state’s federal funding after the administration advanced its investigation in January.
'Dangerous': DOJ sues Minnesota over transgender students in girls' sports
The DOJ sued the state of Minnesota over transgender students competing in girls' sports, citing Title IX violations and risks to female athletes.
The Insight Series: AI & Digital Health
“The Insight Series: AI & Digital Health” features industry experts answering key questions to help inform policymakers and the public about how AI is shaping the future of care delivery. Our latest edition features Julia Strandberg, Executive Vice President, Chief Business Leader, Connected Care at Philips.
Lawsuit claims Maine transgender sports referendum signatures are not valid
The lawsuit was filed by Jane Gilbert, Mark Sayre and Kaitlin Webber in Cumberland County Superior Court on Friday.
April’s Trading Post Positively Sprouts with Garden Delights
April’s Trading post arrives in full bloom, heralding in the rejuvenation of sun-dappled days and tending the garden. Take part in a variety of activities to earn this month’s reward— get the Ensemble: Forest Dweller's Butterfly Attire transmog set.
Trump administration sues Minnesota over transgender athletes in girls sports
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Trump administration sued Minnesota and its school athletics governing body on Monday, carrying out a threat to punish the state for allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls sports.
The science behind Easter candy cravings — and when it becomes too much
Americans love Easter candy, spending more than $5 billion on it in 2024, with chocolate bunnies and eggs among the most popular treats, according to the National Confectioners Association. While having a candy or two on a holiday isn’t a problem, consistently eating too much sugar can have significant negative effects. According to Brenda Davy, a professor in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise at Virginia Tech and a registered dietitian, added sugar consumption is
Democrats Examine Elon Musk’s Role in Suspension of Business Disclosure Law
Lawmakers have asked the Treasury Department for information on how Mr. Musk may have influenced the decision to end enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act.
Science in the age of AI
The transformative potential of new tools was the emphasis of Virginia Tech's Leaders+ discussion in Alexandria with OpenAI Vice President for Science Kevin Weil. The event was attended by more than 150 researchers, graduate students, and other members of the scientific and industry communities.
Google Pixel rolls out ‘Transit mode’ and real-time At a Glance commute
Google is now rolling out Pixel Transit mode to “turn on helpful settings while you’re on the train” and commute updates in At a Glance.
Yagody: transforming Ukrainian tradition with song
Ukrainian vocal group Yagody uses their unique blend of traditional folk and modern electronica to construct an emotionally resonant and powerful sonic landscape. The band will perform at CSPS Hall Thursday, April 2.
Trans sports referendum signatures are not valid, legal challenge argues
The lawsuit was filed last week in Cumberland County Superior Court.
How Baton Rouge businesses are reacting to surging gasoline prices
A sharp rise in gas prices this month driven largely by global geopolitical tensions has quickly increased the cost of doing business for companies that rely on transportation. But for now, many B… Already an INSIDER? Sign in. Already an INSIDER? Sign in
Gamehost Enters into Definitive Agreement to Be Acquired by Pure Casino Entertainment for $13.65 per Share
Red Deer, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - March 30, 2026) - Gamehost Inc. (TSX: GH) ("Gamehost" or the "Corporation") and Pure Casino Entertainment Limited Partnership ("Pure") announced that they have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement (the "Arrangement Agreement") pursuant to which Pure will, indirectly through a subsidiary, acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Gamehost (the "Gamehost Shares") for $13.65 in cash per share (the "Transaction"). Pure operates casinos
Princeton’s Science Outreach enters a new phase under the Program in Teacher Preparation
Princeton’s Science Outreach initiative recently began a new chapter after transitioning to the Program in Teacher Preparation (Teacher Prep), part of the Office of the Dean of the College. The move represents a strategic collaboration designed to enhance STEM education for K-12 students, support educators and strengthen the impact of both programs
Why mentorship is vital for the future of physics
Honor Powrie explains why giving back through mentorship is so valuable
Why GM thinks OnStar, Super Cruise subscriptions will soon ‘fundamentally transform’ its business
GM sees an "exponential opportunity" to grow its high-margin subscription business, CFO Paul Jacobson said, pointing to strong year-over-year revenue growth.
One of March's best Pixel features is finally reaching more users
Transit mode and commute notifications are finally rolling out widely.
Photo of ram’s horn squid shell
The intricate ram’s horn squid shell is only about the size of a fingernail. Compared to other cephalopod species, the shell structure has not degraded over time. As part of this study, researchers used transcriptomics which revealed genes supporting biomineralization and regeneration of the shell.
CHL’s ‘Full Plate Living’ series helps transform eating habits, improve health
The Center for Healthy Living (CHL) has added a new lifestyle program called “Full Plate Living” to its 2026 schedule. Created by the nonprofit Ardmore Institute of Health…
Do good neighbors make good economies? Minnesota could be a test case
Economic studies strongly suggest that higher levels of trust can lead to increased commerce, promote financial innovation and even foster economic growth. Will the neighborly care and civic engagement in Minnesota during the Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge translate into economic resilience?
Killing off the Regional Transportation District
This column is appearing the same day state Sen. Matt Ball (D) of Denver and his legislative co-sponsors unveil legislation implementing many of the recommendations advanced by last summer’s RTD Accountability Committee. Although it isn’t readily apparent, they have allowed themselves to be enlisted in a plot that will likely lead to the bankruptcy and […]
Myanmar Politics
In this photo provided by Myanmar Military True News Information Team, Myanmar military leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, center, inspects the guard of honor during a ceremony to transfer
BUSINESS BRIEFS: BTG’s Playhouse Project receives $500,000; Berkshire HorseWorks receives $18,500; BCC Assistant Professor receives $5,000; Berkshire County Arc receives $80,000; NBT Bank donates $29,000; Egremont Water Commission receives $33,225; MountainOne distributes $363,200
“Like so many people in the Berkshires, I have deep personal memories of the Stockbridge Playhouse and the transformative experiences it made possible,” said Gilson Family Foundation board member Mary Gilson Spina. “Supporting its restoration is about honoring that legacy while ensuring future generations have the same opportunity to experience the magic of live theatre in this remarkable space.”
Mercer Island businesses hoping for boost after Crosslake light rail connection launches
The Crosslake connection is now running, and businesses near the new stations are watching closely to see whether the added access translates into more sales.
Surf camp in Bali attracts global adventurers seeking community
What a week of surfing Bali's blue waves showed five strangers about taking risks in the water and in life.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.