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Croatia criticised for ‘unambitious’ changes to 2022 science law
Croatia’s science ministry has been accused of a lack of ambition, and even incompetence, over proposed changes to the country’s 2022 science law. Critics say an opportunity has been missed to fix wider shortcomings in the research and universities system.“This law, like all the previous ones, will not significantly change the current state of science in Croatia,” Vlatko Silobrčić, a member of the Croatian Academy of Sciences, told Science Business. “A small shift here and there will not have a significant impact.”The 2022 law introduced multi-year block grant financing of research, based on results, and changes intended to boost employment and career progression for researchers and lecturers. But implementation of the law has been uneven. “It became apparent that certain of its provisions were subject to different interpretations by higher education institutions and scientific institutes,” the science ministry said in its proposal for change. “This caused legal uncertainty in the system, administrative difficulties in implementation and, in certain cases, unequal treatment of teachers, scientists and students.”Most of the proposed amendments deal with technicalities in hiring and promoting staff, such as extending the committee deadlines from 60 to 90 days, or allowing applicants to cite all of their achievements and not only those since their last appointment.Both the ministry and Croatian media highlighted changes that would raise the retirement age from 65 to 67 years and allow part-time students 15 year rather than 10 years to finish their studies.The change to retirement age has been criticised for reinforcing a weakness in the system. According to Matko Marušić, professor emeritus at the University of Split, this will “allow unproductive teachers to advance and work longer, while hindering and discouraging productive ones.”A longtime campaigner for excellence-based meritocracy, he sees little hope in the new legislation. “I am not optimistic that things will improve,” he told Science Business. “As recent changes to the law in Croatia show, the legal framework is becoming increasingly hypocritical and harmful.”For Marušić, who analyses Croatia's university system in a recently published book, the situation is “unfavourable and constantly deteriorating” due to the criteria used for academic advancement.“The key criterion for advancement should be scientific productivity,” he said. “In Croatia [. . .] scientific criteria are increasingly lowered, and ineffective and absurd criteria such as waiting times for promotion and age limits for remaining in a job are promoted.” He would also like to see better criteria for the quality of teaching at universities. “In practice, teaching is not monitored or evaluated,” he said, estimating that up to a third of teaching simply does not take place. “Under the guise of university autonomy and bad laws, universities and faculties are allowed to earn additional money by increasing enrolment quotas that have nothing to do with the needs of the labour market.” Lack of ambitionDora Kršul, a reporter at Telegram.hr who covers science policy in Croatia, finds the rationale for changes “bizarre.” “The ministry responsible for supervising the uniform application of the law is changing the law because it is being implemented unevenly,” she said. “This primarily speaks to the power relationship in the sphere of science and higher education in Croatia, that is, the question arises as to who actually manages this system.”Rather than raising quality, she continued, the changes appear to be designed to help vocational and applied universities who have not been complying with the law.The Independent Union of Research and Higher Education Employees of Croatia said that the changes were “unambitious” and represent a missed opportunity for more important changes. “We think some of the changes are even negative,” it said in its statement on June 25. One of these is introduction of an “assistant” job title that allows people to be hired only for the duration of a project. Related articles: Elections to top science bodies test Croatia’s gender equality in researchSlovakia revises R&D approach to increase focus on competitivenessLatvia pilots citizen engagement in research grant evaluationsThe union’s president, Tvrtko Smital, who was part of the 15-member working group tasked with drafting the changes, told the local media there was a “worrying lack of ambition” in the process, and “lack of competence” in terms of research experience and understanding the problems in the system.“There is no clear will to deal with the problems,” said Smital, an assistant professor of marine and environmental sciences at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb. “It’s a combination of unambitiousness and incompetence,” he went on, expressing his “deep frustration” with the situation. “There is no strategy, no clear thinking, and money is not being spent optimally.”Croatia’s science ministry has not responded to requests for comment.
Chris Paul fuels return speculation with Jayson Tatum workout video
Chris Paul announced his NBA retirement on Feb. 13. However, fans are speculating that he could play for the Boston Celtics next season. It came after a video of him putting up shots at the Elite Camp on Wednesday with…
Professor, Mentor, Researcher, and Data Pioneer: Celebrating Lynn Blewett’s Retirement
I first met Lynn Blewett as a graduate student at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, where her courses on the U.S. health care system fundamentally shaped how I understand policy and evidence. What struck me most was her ability to translate complex health systems into their human dimensions and to remind us […]
AMC Entertainment (AMC) Is Down 8.7% After Equity Raise To Retire 2027 Notes And Fund Upgrades
In late June 2026, AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. completed a registered direct equity offering of about US$200.03 million and moved to fully redeem US$125.47 million of its 6.125% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2027 at par plus accrued interest. The company plans to use the remaining proceeds to bolster cash reserves and fund growth-oriented upgrades across its theatres as early as this autumn. Next, we’ll explore how using fresh equity capital to retire higher-cost debt and invest in...
The Lasting Consequences of Bad Climate Science
The retirement of flawed baseline emissions scenarios will initiate changes across energy policy, regulation, and law.
The John Rogers Contrarian Playbook: How Envista, MSG Entertainment, and Smucker Stack Up for Retirement Investors
John Rogers built his fortune hunting unloved stocks that the market abandoned too soon, but three of his favorite contrarian bets look very different when filtered through the lens of retirement income and low volatility.
Empower to Acquire Milliman’s Retirement Administration Business
Empower and Milliman, Inc. today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for Empower to acquire Milliman’s retirement administration business...
Local lawyer known for his 'business acumen' retires after nearly 60 years
The legal profession captured Francis “Jerry” Jahn’s interest from a young age, in part thanks to TV shows such as “Perry Mason” and “The Defenders.”
These Church Members Disagree on Politics. Together They’re Wiping Out Medical Debt.
Trinity Moravian Church, a politically diverse congregation in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has been raising money to retire medical debt in the surrounding community.
'Staying away from the middle will be hardest': Sachin Tendulkar's emotional message to Ben Stokes after retirement
Sachin Tendulkar led heartfelt tributes to Ben Stokes following his retirement from international cricket. Tendulkar lauded Stokes' fearless approach, match-winning ability, and inspirational leadership, calling him one of England's finest all-rounders and captains. Stokes, who bowed out after a Test series loss, expressed contentment with his decision, citing years of physical and mental demands as the primary reason for stepping away.
ERISA’s Important but Limited Role in Health Care Cost Containment
Executive Summary Rising health care costs have brought renewed attention to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) as policymakers and advocates look for new ways to address increasingly expensive employer-sponsored coverage. Leveraging requirements under ERISA appears attractive because other cost-containment efforts have had limited success, making the statute seem like a potential […]
8-year Cowboys team leader retires after 12 NFL seasons
The Cowboys special teams ace has made a name for himself among the club's fans.
T-Mobile retires legacy plans, prompting price hikes and customer backlash
Average plan increase is $4 per month
Central Florida Congressional races attract out-of-district candidates
After long-time U.S. Representative Daniel Webster announced his retirement in April, potential successors quickly filed to run for the open Central Florida seat. But of the eight major-party candidates who
Couple retired to Costa Rica with 2 sons; bought a $1.6 million house
"We fill every day. There's really not a lot of downtime, yet we never feel rushed or pushed or stressed," Andrew Rappaport told BI about life in Costa Rica.
Core special teams player C.J. Goodwin announces retirement
Core special teams player C.J.
England will miss Stokes' winning persona
Former England captain Michael Vaughan reflects on Ben Stokes' shock retirement and how the team can move on from one of their "greatest" players.
Ben Stokes announces retirement
Ben Stokes, the England captain, has stunned the cricket world by announcing his retirement in the middle of one final epic spell of bowling.
These church members disagree on politics. Together they're wiping out medical debt
Trinity Moravian Church, a politically diverse congregation in Winston-Salem, N. C., has been raising money to retire medical debt in the surrounding community.
These church members disagree on politics. Together they're wiping out medical debt
Trinity Moravian Church, a politically diverse congregation in Winston-Salem, N. C., has been raising money to retire medical debt in the surrounding community.
The great FIRE debate: People who made it work say critics miss the point
"I don't live in a van, eat rice and beans, and I've never given up traveling," said one early retiree. "That's not what the movement is about."
South Korea's 'dismal' World Cup ends in group phase
South Korea's turbulent World Cup ended at the group phase on Saturday and could lead to the international retirement of captain Son Heung-min."Son Heung-min's final World Cup ends in heartbreak," a headline said.
You’ve never seen this before: the shocking moment the sound barrier breaks - Futura-Sciences
The XB-1 is a critical stepping stone toward commercial supersonic travel, representing the first civil designed aircraft to break the sound barrier since the Concorde retired. To verify the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance during its supersonic transition, NASA deployed an advanced optical technology called schlieren imaging to make the invisible forces...
Ronaldo, Messi and the question that haunts sporting superstars: When do you stop?
Some football titans are having their last dance at a World Cup
Private Equity Firms Are Snapping up Portugal’s Family Businesses
As a generation of entrepreneurs hits retirement age, they’re preparing to sell up to overseas investors.
Health Care Plan Premiums Approved for 2027
The State Teachers Retirement Board set premiums for the STRS Ohio Health Care Program for calendar year 2027.
Latest injury has 4-time Cy Young winner thinking retirement
Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander was expected to come off the injured list and start the June 21 game against the White Sox. It would have been his first game since March. But after working his way through a hip injury that landed him on the IL, the 43-year-old Verlander suffered a ...
AMC Entertainment Crashes 23% Upon Sell of 95.25 Million Shares to Raise $200 Million In Capital
AMC Entertainment stock moves after announcing a 95.25M share offering to raise $200M, primarily to retire its remaining 2027 debt maturity ahead of schedule.
Dean Simon Sheather to retire after transformative tenure at UK Gatton College of Business and Economics
After more than three decades in higher education — and nearly eight years of transformative leadership at the University of Kentucky — Simon Sheather, Ph.D., will retire as dean of the Gatton College of Business and Economics, effective June 26.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 redesign leaked in high quality official press renders
One of the most well-known leakers came out of his retirement just to show us the partially adapted design of the Galaxy Watch Ultra successor in form of high-quality official render images. The ultimate Samsung smartwatch definitely adopts elements of the Galaxy Watch Classic8, some specs have also been confirmed.
Senate NDAA adds protections for ‘political speech’ by military retirees amid Hegseth-Kelly battle
The Senate’s defense authorization bill includes language that would better protect retired service members who speak out against the government in the midst of a battle between Sen. Mark Kelly (D-…
Dennis Herrera, fixture of SF politics, to retire
The former six-term city attorney and current head of the Public Utilities Commission will leave office in December.
How billionaire John Morgan starts every day reviewing numbers in bed
Billionaire entrepreneur John Morgan shares why his hobby is "hunting money," why he never eats lunch alone, and why he'll never retire.
Move over, Paul Dano: Quentin Tarantino will star in new film
Quentin Tarantino continues delaying his plan to retire from directing, opting instead to step in front of the camera for 'Tangled Up in Blue.' He will star alongside Kylie Minogue, Allison Williams, Jason Isaacs, Sofia Boutella, and Wu-Tang Clan rapper RZA.
Open Door Health Services Appoints Dr. Amelia Clark as Next Chief Executive Officer
By Carolyn Frost— MUNCIE, IN—After an extensive national search, the Board of Directors at Open Door Health Services is pleased to announce Amelia E. Clark, DrPH, as its new chief executive officer and president. Dr. Clark will begin on July 6, succeeding Bryan Ayars, who will retire in mid-July
T. ROWE PRICE ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC ENHANCEMENTS TO U.S. INSTITUTIONAL BUSINESS
/PRNewswire/ -- T. Rowe Price, a global asset management firm and a leader in retirement, announced a series of strategic enhancements to its institutional...
Iran MOU signals ‘major shift’ from military to economic, political objectives for Trump: Retired general
Ret. Gen. Jack Keane on Sunday said the US-Iran memorandum of understanding signals a “major shift” in the Trump administration’s approach to foreign policy ideals in the Middle East. “It’s a…
State Sen. Michelle Kidani retires, citing health issues
“My commitment to Hawaiʻi and to the people I have had the privilege to serve will remain unchanged.”
5 Small Business Ideas for Retirees Who Don’t Want to Sit Still
Bored in retirement? Turn your decades of experience into a rewarding—and profitable—small business.
Dodgers on Deck: Saturday, June 20 vs. Orioles
The Dodgers turn to their ace on Saturday night against the Baltimore Orioles, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto coming off two gems in a row. Yamamoto retired his final 22 batters faced to beat the Angels on June 6 at Dodger Stadium, then retired his first 23 in a row against the White Sox in Chicago, taking […]
George Lucas comes out of retirement for voice role in upcoming Hollywood blockbuster
George Lucas is coming out of retirement to provide a voice role in the first Hollywood blockbuster to directly involve him in over a decade —and it's not a 'Star Wars' or 'Indiana Jones' project.
Hall of fame entertainment writer, journalist Gene Triplett dies at 77
Gene Triplett, a celebrated Oklahoma journalist and retired entertainment editor for The Oklahoman, has died at age 77.
ABC7 Sports Overtime with Dionne Miller: June 19, 2026
On the latest ABC7 Sports Overtime, Dionne Miller discussed the Bulls hiring head coach Tiago Splitter as they look to the NBA Draft, the latest with Chicago's baseball teams, and Blackhawks great Jonathan Toews' retirement.
How FIRE and a move abroad gave parents more time with kids
Brendan Pon was on what he calls the "default path" in Canada: Get a job, build a family, and retire. He used FIRE to create a new journey.
Ron Howard and Brian Grazer on 'Grinch' Sequel, YouTube Filmmakers
The Imagine Entertainment partners sat down with THR editor-in-chief Maer Roshan for a keynote conversation at the UCLA Entertainment Symposium, where they also touched on AI fears and their (lack of) retirement plans.
Small Business Owners Face an ‘Incredible Challenge’ to Stay Open: 'It's Been a Nightmare'
Bruce Jovaag, owner of home remodeling company Norse Construction, says he is ready to retire.
In politics: Hoyer votes a Hoyer-free ballot, Percy convicted, Schmoke steps down
Rep. Steny Hoyer votes for a congressional candidate not named Steny Hoyer, one-time Annapolis lobbyist Davion Percy convicted in federal court, and Kurt Schmoke sets a retirement date from the University of Baltimore, in political notes.
Retirements, economic pressures, staffing challenges driving exodus of businesses
Rochester business owners are increasingly looking to sell, broker Stuart Levy says, citing shrinking margins, higher costs and staffing woes. BizBuySell lists 84 active Q1 listings, led by service firms.
Memories of Catamount sports glory days lead to $100K gift to WCU ath
Memories of attending Western Carolina University during the glory days of Catamount sports inspired a retired furniture corporation executive and his wife, already longtime supporters of the institut
He fled Iran for the American dream, became a millionaire, and could have retired—instead, he built the health tech that saved his father from cancer
Health tech millionaire escaped Iran with nothing—now he skips lunch, spends $500 a month on carrot juice, and bought his whole team Rolexes.
Dems pick potential successor to DC's congressional delegate after decades-long incumbency
An at-large D.C. council member won the Democratic primary Tuesday for the district's non-voting House seat after Eleanor Holmes Norton's retirement.
Live results: Oklahoma midterm primaries
A combination of term-limits, retirements, aspirations for higher office and one high-profile presidential appointment have triggered a wave of open seats in Oklahoma’s state primary on Tuesday.
Mitch McConnell hospitalized. What we know about his health
Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced earlier this year that he is planning to retire at the end of his term.
Justin Gaethje addresses retirement decision after Ilia Topuria upset
Justin Gaethje scored a massive upset against Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, becoming the undisputed UFC Lightweight Champion.
Xbox Game Studios boss Craig Duncan steps down
The head of Xbox Game Studios Craig Duncan has stepped down after more than 18 months in the role. Duncan replaced former Studios boss Alan Hartman in November 2024, and oversaw Halo Studios, The Coalition, Flight Sim, Turn 10, Playground Games, Rare, Obsidian, Ninja Theory, Compulsion Games, The Initiative, Double Fine, InXile, Undead Labs, World’s Edge and XGS Publishing. He departs the organization this week. His studios will report to Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty until a replacement is found. Duncan has been part of the Xbox organization since 2011 and is best known for running highly regarded UK developer Rare for nearly 14 years. He oversaw the developer’s Kinect and Sea of Thieves eras. Prior to that, he held various senior roles at Codemasters, Midway and Sumo Digital, and worked cross titles such as Sonic and Sega All-Stars Racing, Wheelman and Colin McRae. He's also VP of the charity SpecialEffect. Subscribe Meanwhile, Xbox Game Studios chief of staff Louise O’Connor will also be leaving the company. O’Connor joined Rare in 1999 beginning as an animator on cult favourite N64 game Conker’s Bad Fur Day. She’s worked in numerous art and production roles at the UK studio, and even won an AIAS award for voicing the character Leafos in Viva Piñata. She left Rare following the cancellation of Everwild in 2025, before becoming chief of staff in September that year. In an email to staff, Duncan wrote: “When I stepped into the role of leading XGS 20 months ago, my purpose was to serve our studios, our teams, and the people making our games. Together, we set out to deliver high-quality games, strengthen the cultural fabric across our studios, and help shape the future of the business. I’m proud to say we delivered many flawless launches that drove business success for the company.” On O’Connor, he added: “Louise has been a thoughtful, creative, and trusted partner who has consistently championed the craft and supported our studios with clarity and care. I’m grateful for everything she’s brought to XGS, and I’m sure she’ll be successful in whatever comes next for her.”
Xbox Game Studios boss Craig Duncan steps down
The head of Xbox Game Studios Craig Duncan has stepped down after more than 18 months in the role. Duncan replaced former Studios boss Alan Hartman in November 2024, and oversaw Halo Studios, The Coalition, Flight Sim, Turn 10, Playground Games, Rare, Obsidian, Ninja Theory, Compulsion Games, The Initiative, Double Fine, InXile, Undead Labs, World’s Edge and XGS Publishing. He departs the organization this week. His studios will report to Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty until a replacement is found. Duncan has been part of the Xbox organization since 2011 and is best known for running highly regarded UK developer Rare for nearly 14 years. He oversaw the developer’s Kinect and Sea of Thieves eras. Prior to that, he held various senior roles at Codemasters, Midway and Sumo Digital, and worked cross titles such as Sonic and Sega All-Stars Racing, Wheelman and Colin McRae. He's also VP of the charity SpecialEffect. Subscribe Meanwhile, Xbox Game Studios chief of staff Louise O’Connor will also be leaving the company. O’Connor joined Rare in 1999 beginning as an animator on cult favourite N64 game Conker’s Bad Fur Day. She’s worked in numerous art and production roles at the UK studio, and even won an AIAS award for voicing the character Leafos in Viva Piñata. She left Rare following the cancellation of Everwild in 2025, before becoming chief of staff in September that year. In an email to staff, Duncan wrote: “When I stepped into the role of leading XGS 20 months ago, my purpose was to serve our studios, our teams, and the people making our games. Together, we set out to deliver high-quality games, strengthen the cultural fabric across our studios, and help shape the future of the business. I’m proud to say we delivered many flawless launches that drove business success for the company.” On O’Connor, he added: “Louise has been a thoughtful, creative, and trusted partner who has consistently championed the craft and supported our studios with clarity and care. I’m grateful for everything she’s brought to XGS, and I’m sure she’ll be successful in whatever comes next for her.”
Edward Jones Expands Workplace Retirement Solutions for Business Owners and Their Employees
With new products, investments and product partners, Edward Jones is helping business owners support employees while preparing for their own financial futures....
Edward Jones Expands Workplace Retirement Solutions for Business Owners and Their Employees
Edward Jones today announced a significant expansion of its workplace retirement plan capabilities, adding new product partners and solutions designed to help business owners and their employees improve long-term financial fulfillment.
How Should Sport Identify Its Future Leaders?
Today’s guest column is from professors John Cairney and Rick Burton. Let’s admit it, the sports industry loves a familiar script. A Hall of Fame player retires and becomes an owner. A championship-winning coach moves into the front office. A celebrated team executive becomes league commissioner. A former elite athlete transitions into a leadership role managing or running …
As more US business owners retire many are selling up to their staff
Some six million bosses of American firms will be entering retirement between now and 2035.
Business People: Belinda Jensen to be brand ambassador for Kowalski’s
RETAIL Kowalski’s, a Shoreview-based metrowide grocery store chain, announced Belinda Jensen as brand ambassador. Jensen retired this year as chief meteorologist for Twin Cities NBC affiliate KARE 11-TV. EDUCATION The…
Retiree saved $16K, sold condo without a real estate agent
A retiree sold her condo using an AI platform, challenging traditional real estate norms. She's never liked paying commission fees.
Manuel Neuer fit to join Germany in first World Cup match
Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is set to play in Germany's first match in this year's World Cup. He had retired from the national team in August 2024.
Opinion | Dennison: I’ll fight for responsible spending, reducing unnecessary regulations and help small business and more if elected
Like many Coloradans, I’ve grown increasingly frustrated watching Washington become more focused on partisan gamesmanship than solving real problems. Families, workers, retirees and small business owners across Colorado are facing challenges that politicians love to...
I'm a Gen Zer who thought mahjong was for retirees
After learning how to play, I understand why people spend hours around a mahjong table without getting bored.
Changes to the NC State Health Plan will make retirees pay more. Here’s what it means for you
Retirees on the state’s Medicare Advantage plans will pay more for hospital stays, specialist visits and some drugs next year.
Arson convictions are getting thrown out. Experts blame 'junk science'
At least eight Michiganians convicted of arson have been exonerated since 2012. Some say it reflects agencies using debunked investigative techniques.
Beloved ABC New York anchor Bill Ritter set to announce retirement due to health issue: sources
3 reasons Aaron Donald wouldn’t return to the NFL
Some of the many reasons Aaron Donald will stay retired.
Frank Ragnow has closed the door on an NFL return
Frank Ragnow said Friday that he didn't want to retire.
Opinion | Dennison: I’ll fight for responsible spending, reducing unnecessary regulations and help small business and more if elected
Like many Coloradans, I’ve grown increasingly frustrated watching Washington become more focused on partisan gamesmanship than solving real problems. Families, workers, retirees and small business owners across Colorado are facing challenges that politicians love to...
Opinion | Dennison: I’ll fight for responsible spending, reducing unnecessary regulations and help small business and more if elected
Like many Coloradans, I’ve grown increasingly frustrated watching Washington become more focused on partisan gamesmanship than solving real problems. Families, workers, retirees and small business owners across Colorado are facing challenges that politicians love to...
Rhode Island Health and Human Services Secretary Richard Charest to no longer retire
Rhode Island Health and Human Services Secretary Richard Charest will not be retiring.
Social Security is Facing a Political Crisis
On Tuesday the Social Security Trustees released their latest report on the system’s finances. The numbers didn’t change much: Unless something is done, the Old Age Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) program, Social Security’s official name, will be unable to pay full benefits starting in either 2032 or 2034, depending on some technical issues. That’s not far away: If the Trustees are right, the prospect of a Social Security crisis will loom over the next presidential administration. It’s important to understand, however, the nature of the looming crisis. It won’t be an economic crisis. It won’t even be a serious fiscal crisis. Whatever you may have heard, Social Security isn’t in danger of going bankrupt. What we’re facing, instead, is potential political crisis. Congress and the White House could easily take action to sustain America’s retirement system. But given the current state of our politics, there’s no guarantee that they will. There is a widespread misunderstanding of how Social Security works. While Social Security was designed to look like a pension fund, it isn’t. A pension fund pays benefits out of a stock of assets it has accumulated over time. In contrast, Social Security operates as a government transfer program, like food stamps or Medicaid. Now, unlike food stamps — but like the highway trust fund — Social Security is on paper supported by a dedicated tax, the payroll tax, that is assigned to that program. But I say “on paper” because from an economic point of view assigning the payroll tax to Social Security is just an accounting convention. What matters for the U.S. economy is the overall balance between government spending and government revenue, not the difference between one type of spending and one source of revenue. So there’s no inherent economic significance to the fact that by 2034 payroll tax receipts will be insufficient to cover promised benefits. There is, however, a legislative issue. As long as the Social Security Administration can pay benefits out of payroll taxes and its cash reserve, there’s no need for Congress to vote each year to authorize benefits — they just keep going out until further notice. However, once those resources become insufficient, benefits will fall —by 17 percent according to the Trustees — unless Congress passes new legislation that “tops up” Social Security’s finances. Yet the current administration and Republican party are such extremists that there is a real risk that Social Security will be held hostage on behalf of their goals. If this should come to pass, the hostage-takers will claim that shoring up Social Security is unaffordable. Right on cue, Mike Johnson, the Trump-sycophant Speaker of the House, declared on Monday that “entitlement programs” like Social Security “have to be adjusted and fixed,” and that Republicans will introduce a plan to that effect next year. But this is a ploy, because while the cost of maintaining Social Security benefits at their promised level isn’t trivial, it is in fact affordable. According to the Trustees’ report, the actuarial balance of OASDI up through 2050 — the amount of additional funds it would need to keep paying full benefits for the next 25 years — is 1.06 percent of GDP. To put that number in perspective, the Trump administration proposes increasing military spending next year by $420 billion, equivalent to about 1.4 percent of GDP – without any discussion of whether that’s affordable Yet how did we get to the point where Social Security will need to be topped up? The main answer is that we have an aging population, with a growing ratio of retirees collecting benefits to workers paying into the system: Trump’s anti-immigration policies are making this problem worse. According to the Trustees’ report, lower immigration will deepen Social Security’s financial hole because many immigrants are working-age adults who will pay into the system for decades before they collect benefits. In fact, this problem may be much bigger than the report acknowledges: The report’s baseline assumption is that we’ll have net immigration of almost 1.2 million people a year, and even the pessimistic case assumes 750,000 a year. Meanwhile actual net immigration has already been cut far below that — and may now be negative. Moreover, Social Security is being financially damaged by growing income inequality in America. Payroll taxes are levied only on wages up to $184,500, and they don’t touch capital income. With the distribution of income increasingly shifting from labor to capital, as well as becoming more unequal among wage-earners, revenue from the Social Security payroll tax has been falling as a share of national income. From 1990 to 2024, it fell from 5.02 percent of gross domestic income to 4.46 percent. Which brings me to the question that, these days, we ask about everything: How might Social Security be affected by the advent of AI? A short answer: If, as many of us fear, AI accelerates rising income inequality, it will further reduce the payroll tax receipts that currently pay for Social Security and further endanger its finances. On the other hand, if AI, as its advocates promise, leads to faster economic growth, it will increase the potential tax base that could and should be used to support Social Security and other social insurance programs. But to take advantage of that larger base, we’ll have to get serious about taxing wealth and capital income. Is Social Security in trouble? Yes, but only because of the way its financing is currently structured — a structure that no longer works well because our society and economy have become so unequal. Moreover, Trump’s immigration policies are further endangering its already deteriorating financial condition. So don’t believe Republicans’ gaslighting that it will be necessary to cut Social Security benefits. All that is necessary to preserve Social Security is political will to raise taxes on the wealthy and a sensible immigration policy. MUSICAL CODA Actually 67 under current law.
Feds will abruptly dismantle system monitoring climate change, oceans
Critics say the move to retire the $360 million system doesn't make sense. The National Science Foundation cites new scientific priorities.
Browns Pro Bowler shades Johnny Manziel during his retirement announcement
The Cleveland Browns drafted former Texas A&M star quarterback Johnny Manziel in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Richard Freeman, Jr., New Orleans business and civic leader, dies at 88
Richard West Freeman, Jr., a civic leader and business executive who ran Louisiana Coca-Cola Bottling Co. and in retirement became a successful horse breeder, died Wednesday at Lambeth House in
Diane LaFollette retires as CEO of Mid-America Science Museum
HOT SPRINGS -- After 13 years at the helm of Mid-America Science Museum, Diane LaFollette has announced her retirement.
Social Security retirement trust fund will run dry in 2032 unless Congress acts
Tens of millions of retirees and other Americans could see smaller monthly Social Security checks in six years if lawmakers don’t act to shore up the program’s finances, according to an annual report released Tuesday by Social Security’s trustees.
From Classroom to Racetrack: How Charlie Baur is Building a Motorsports Career in a Business Discipline
Charlie Baur can trace his racing story back to a Christmas morning in Michigan — the kind that starts with snow on the ground and ends with a throttle in a kid’s hands. “I remember being 3 years old and then for Christmas that year, my parents had gotten me a 120 cc snowmobile,” Baur said. Long before sprint cars, he was a Michigan kid on snowmobiles, dirt bikes, four-wheelers and jet skis — and a regular at car shows and races with his family. Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur That early exposure became a calling. At 12, he sat in a sprint car for the first time and knew he’d found the next chapter. He started in quarter midgets, moved to go-karts, and the day before he turned 16 — one day shy of the minimum age required by track insurance — he made his first sprint car start after convincing officials to let him race. Five years later, Baur is still pushing forward, now racing sprint cars on both pavement and dirt while pursuing an automotive business education at Northwood University — with a clear-eyed understanding that motorsports encompasses more than what happens under the lights on Saturday night. “It’s a business,” said Charlie, a 20-year-old who calls Fenton, Michigan, home when he’s not at a racetrack or at Northwood’s residential campus in Midland, Michigan. Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur Racing is the product — but preparation is the job To the average fan, race day begins around dinner time. For a team, race day can be a 12-hour shift — plus the work that came before it. And Baur’s racing operation is a family affair. “The team is my parents and myself,” he said, explaining they own the cars, maintain equipment and manage the business side — from sponsor relations to budgeting. On race weekends, the core group includes Baur and his parents (Eric and Stefanie), plus a couple of additional hands (Alex Photiou and Robert Flannigan) who help with the intensity and pace of trackside work. That structure has shaped how he thinks about efficiency and professionalism. “We’ve always kind of had the mentality of we’re never working on the car for maintenance at the track,” he said. “Our goal is to do as little work as possible to the car because it should be ready when that car rolls out of the trailer to go racing.” That mindset shows up in routines: bolt checks, tire procedures, safety equipment and a repeatable process designed to limit errors. “Once I fire the car up and put my helmet on, that’s when it’s go time,” he said. “You can plan as much as possible for how the race is going to play out, but until you take the green flag … you don’t know how it’s going to go.” Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur First-generation driver, student of the game In racing, “first-generation” matters — and Baur wears that label with pride. “A lot of the drivers are third or fourth generation,” he said. “My family has never been in motorsports. So for me, we’ve always looked at it as we’re new to it and we want to be as different as possible. From a marketing standpoint, it helps us stand out.” It also pushes him to seek out mentors — especially veteran drivers who have seen every scenario, solved every problem and won in multiple eras. Baur credits accomplished driver Jason Blonde, a 10-time champion, for becoming his driver coach and helping him develop as a competitor. “To me, learning from Jason helps me because he has had lots of success and knows what to do,” Baur said. “You have to humble yourself and say, ‘I don’t know what to do; can you help me out?’” That willingness to learn extends off the track, too. Baur says one of his biggest challenges is not a mechanical limitation, but credibility. “It’s my age,” he said. “Some people won’t take me seriously because I’m so young. Even though … I do know what we’re talking about and have a general idea.” His answer has been to out-prepare, out-communicate and treat the operation like a real enterprise — because it is. Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur Northwood’s role: Turning passion into a plan Baur is majoring in automotive aftermarket management and pursuing an accelerated path that pairs undergraduate study with graduate work. He’s also exploring how to align his studies with motorsports-focused coursework as Northwood advances related programs and pathways. He sees the value clearly: motorsports needs business-literate professionals who understand budgets, sponsorship, marketing, operations and long-term strategy — and who can translate between the language of the shop and the language of the boardroom. That’s why his Northwood experience isn’t limited to the classroom. He has been involved with the Northwood University International Auto Show and serves as motorsports chair — a leadership role that demands outreach, contracts, coordination and a steady professional demeanor. “There’s so much outside work that makes the auto show successful that people don’t realize,” he said. “And it is truly student led.” He’s also participated in industry experiences through Northwood at major events such as AAPEX, SEMA and PRI, along with other automotive networking events — opportunities he describes as a fast track to understanding how business really gets done. “You learn a lot in the classroom,” he said. “But if you learn it and you can’t apply it to the real world, it loses its value. Or if you learn it and can apply it, but you don’t know anyone, it is still of no value.” In his words, Northwood helps him win because it “gives me the tools to succeed” — including flexibility and faculty support as he balances travel and racing commitments with academics. Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur Racing as an ecosystem — and a talent gap waiting to be filled Baur is blunt about what he sees across the motorsports world: a deep bench of experienced professionals, and not enough young talent entering the pipeline. “I go to car shows, I go to these different events, and typically … the average age is between 45 to 55,” he said. “There’s not a lot of young people going into the motorsports world.” That reality reinforces Northwood’s communications focus: positioning motorsports not as a narrow lane, but as a wide ecosystem of business careers — sponsorship, logistics, data, media, leadership, hospitality and innovation — with real demand for prepared graduates. It also shapes how Baur talks to younger students who love racing but aren’t sure what their future looks like. “If you have a passion for motorsports, there’s gonna be a spot for you somewhere,” he said, emphasizing that driving is only one of many career paths — and that local tracks and hands-on experience are often the best first step. But if someone is interested in driving as a career path, it will take a team to make that happen. Baur’s team includes Stahl’s Motors and Music Experience, Rhino Racing, Randy Wise Buick GMC Chevrolet, Western Michigan Fleet Parts, Mother’s Polish, Schaeffer’s Oil, Hepfner Racing Products, Ameriguard Storage Centers, Justice Brothers, Race 1 Wraps, TBM Brakes, Behind Your Design, CharlieBaur.com and Northwood University. “There are so many people who invest not only in myself but in my race team and who believe in us to succeed,” he added. Pictured: Charlie Bauer’s sprint race car. Looking ahead: A headline worth chasing Ask Baur to imagine 2035, and he’ll give you two answers — one dream, one blueprint. “In a perfect world,” he said, “winning the Indy 500.” Realistically, he wants to build a life where business ownership and racing reinforce each other and where he can pay forward the help he has received by mentoring younger drivers, especially those trying to break into motorsports without a family legacy. “When I retire from full-time racing, I want to be able to provide the same opportunities that were presented to myself to the next generation of drivers,” Baur said. “I know how difficult it is to get your foot in the door.” For now, the focus is simple: keep building the operation, keep learning the business, and keep showing up prepared — because in sprint car racing, as in life, process matters. And once the helmet goes on? “It’s go time,” Baur said. Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur Learn more Students interested in motorsports careers — whether in competition, team operations, marketing, finance, sponsorship, data, or management — can explore opportunities through Northwood University’s Center for Automotive and Mobility Studies. For Charlie Baur’s latest motorsports adventures, follow Charlie_Baur and Charlie Baur Racing on social media. To learn more about Northwood’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Automotive and Mobility Studies and motorsports management concentration, visit www.northwood.edu/programs/automotive-mobility-studies/. Photo courtesy of Charlie Baur Pictured: Charlie Baur at Butler Motor Speedway on May 31, 2026. Share this page
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