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Steve Przybilla
Plante Moran Living Forward (PMLF), the senior living development advisory division of commercial real estate firm Plante Moran Realpoint, is pleased to announce that Steve Przybilla has been promoted to partner.
Group of 11 athletes challenge new NCAA eligibility rules in suit
Eleven Division I athletes -- all who depleted their eligibility in the 2025-26 season, have filed a federal class action lawsuit alleging that the NCAA's new eligibility rules adversely affected their ability to extend their college careers.
Could tomatoes protect brain cells? Scientists uncover an unexpected clue in a familiar kitchen staple
Envision a world where an ordinary part of your daily diet acts as a robust protector against one of humanity's most devastating neurological diseases. The search for effective treatments for conditions ...
The RenCen redevelopment has cleared a major hurdle. Now it faces a gauntlet.
While the state Legislature has signed off on an expansion to a key public incentive for large-scale development and redevelopment projects, the vision for the Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit has a myriad of hurdles to clear before the first crews show up to start deconstructing part of it.
Iraola to speak to media shortly
Iraola was at the AXA Training Centre last week and met a number of players, but with the bulk of Liverpool's first team set to return to Merseyside this week, there's certainly a feeling that business is now really getting started. There are still 41 days before the Reds start their Premier League campaign, away at Newcastle, but Iraola will know of the importance of this first news conference in terms of outlining his vision and giving the fanbase something to look forward to, after a torrid 2025-26 campaign that resulted in the sacking of Arne Slot. The past two men to take the job won Liverpool the Premier League and the club's hierarchy firmly believes Iraola is capable of doing that long term.
Who are the top 25 college football coaches? Curt Cignetti moves past Kirby Smart
There are outstanding college football coaches across all levels of the Bowl Subdivision. Who are the best? We put together our list of the top 25.
'Black in Business' shares 5 Knoxville journeys from vision to venture
The award-winning "Black in Business" series from Knox News is back in 2026 with five profiles of local entrepreneurs and their journeys to success.
Oxford Brain Diagnostics Advances Vision for Measuring Brain Health and Neurodegenerative Disease with Five New Studies at AAIC 2026
New findings demonstrate the potential of OBD's MRI-based Cortical Disarray Measurement (CDM®) technology to support patient identification, disease characterization, treatment monitoring, and therapeutic development across Alzheimer's disease OXFORD, United Kingdom, July 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Oxford Brain Diagnostics (OBD), a leader in MRI-based measurement of brain health and neurodegenerative disease, today announced the presentation of five new studies at the Alzheimer's Association I
Vision for a Wild Coast at Point Conception
“Vision for a Wild Coast at Point Conception: Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve” explores conservation, restoration, science, and stewardship at
Cavs Coach Gives Promising Update On Signing LeBron James
The LeBron James free agency chase has fans wondering where his next destination will be, but the Cleveland Cavaliers have a lot of reasons to be confident. Head coach Kenny Atkinson did a talking spot on television during one of the Summer League games and answered questions about the Cavaliers offseason. James obviously came up […] The post Cavs Coach Gives Promising Update On Signing LeBron James appeared first on HEAVY.
‘Daredevil’ star Wai Ching Ho dies at 82
The film and television veteran was also known for her roles in “Hustlers,” “Iron Fist,” “Turning Red,” and “Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens.”
Lindsey Graham remembered for a vision of American foreign policy that’s fading in Washington
Graham was a rare bridge between President Donald Trump’s “America First” foreign policy and the traditional Washington consensus prioritizing alliances with Europe and Israel, one falling out of favor with many in both political parties.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 and 2 Support Crossplay Between PS4 and PS5, Activision Confirms
Activision has clarified that its recently released Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 and 2 ports do in fact support crossplay between PS4 and PS5, following confusion from players online.
AMC Entertainment (AMC) to Sell 95.25 Million Shares to Institutional Investors For $200 Million
External financing arrangements during recent weeks, along with analyst revisions to the stock’s target price, have led to optimism around AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc. (NYSE:AMC), which is one of the 15 best NYSE penny stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On June 24, AMC Entertainment (AMC) entered into an agreement with some institutional investors […]
UFC 329 Post-Fight Press Conference
Following tonight's UFC 329: McGregor vs. Holloway 2 fights at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the winners will answer questions from the media during the post-fight press conference. The fight card featured the return of former two-division champion Conor McGregor in the main event in a ...
USF Health tests $42 at-home glaucoma screening technology
Doctors say the tool is designed to help patients monitor vision and seek care sooner.
Microsoft defends Asha Sharma, says she is an American CEO and Xbox layoff had nothing to do with H-1B
As Asha Sharm, the CEO of Xbox, came under vicious trolling after the gaming division of Microsoft announced the elimination of 3,200 positions, Microsoft came to her rescue and clarified that it had nothing to do with replacing Americans with foreign workers. Frank X Shaw, the lead for the communications for Microsoft, also addressed the 'Indian-origin' angle of the immigration debate and called Asha an American born, educated CEO from Wisconsin.
Two Unfathomable Stats from Giants' Latest Meltdown
Late-inning meltdowns and a high blown save rate have pushed the San Francisco Giants to the brink of the division cellar as the bullpen squanders yet another late lead.
Milwaukee Bucks returning to full-season over-the-air television
It’s a new era for the Milwaukee Bucks, on and off the court. The NBA franchise announced Friday it will return to full-season over-the-air television for the first time in 31 years, with games airing locally on MY24 and statewide affiliates in partnership with Rincon Broadcasting Group. It’s a homecoming of sorts, as MY24 was…
Legendary Television City may be be sold in further blow to Hollywood
Legendary Television City may be be sold in further blow to Hollywood
Bucs Fare Better in New NFL Power Rankings
Bolstered by fresh talent and a weak division, Tampa Bay aims for a resurgence, yet looming locker room tensions and a coaching hot seat threaten its stability.
How Maine's Democratic meltdown could shape the Senate midterms
Collapse of Democrats' Maine Senate campaign highlights divisions within the party.
Gov. Polis outlines vision for Colorado’s higher ed, workforce development
Gov. Jared Polis spoke with the Colorado Commission for Higher Education on Friday about his vision for the future of the state’s higher education and workforce training programs, telling the commission that the state needs to do a better job of helping students gain the skills and knowledge they need for successful careers. “Colorado is […]
Zarb School of Business Remembers Douglas L. Maine, MBA, '73, Chair of the Dean's Advisory Board
The Hofstra University community mourns the passing of Douglas L. Maine, MBA, '73, a distinguished business executive, visionary, philanthropist, and steadfast advocate for the Frank G. Zarb School of Business. Maine, who chaired the Zarb School's Dean's Advisory Board, leaves an extraordinary legac
Asha Sharma, the outsider handed the Xbox controls
Elevated to fix Microsoft’s struggling gaming division, she is making tough decisions about its future
From Vision to Joint Health: A Full-Body Guide to Staying Well
When you think of wellness, what comes to mind? Is it eating healthy? Exercising regularly? Or going to the doctor when you’re feeling under the weather? Wellness can mean many different things depending on who you ask, but to the healthcare providers at The Baton Rouge Clinic and Affinity Health Group, true wellness comes from […]
Random: The Internet Is Going Crazy For This Early 2000s Activision Surfing Game
The people yearn for Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer
Bucs Ranked Very Low in Offseason Power Rankings
Haunted by a historic late-season collapse and the departure of franchise icons, Tampa Bay faces skepticism as critics question if this roster can still dominate the division.
Virginia cannabis budget language triggers legal confusion, political fallout
Virginia’s decision to revive legal cannabis sales through the state budget instead of standalone legislation has triggered several days of confusion over the commonwealth’s marijuana laws, with lawmakers, local prosecutors, Virginia State Police and legislative officials offering differing interpretations of when key provisions take effect. Much of the confusion focused on two issues: whether Virginia’s long-delayed retail cannabis market had accidentally been moved up by a year and whether existing criminal penalties for marijuana possession and distribution involving people younger than 21 were still enforceable.
HHSC Names New Chief Counsel, Texas Medicaid Director | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC names key leadership appointments to lead the agency’s Chief Counsel Division, and guide Texas Medicaid and CHIP Services.
SLED charges business owner with forgery after alleged fake bond
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has arrested a man after he allegedly submitted a fake performance and payment bond to land a construction job.
Disney Entertainment Television Announces Panels, "Percy Jackson" Offsite, Hulu Animayhem, More
It’s the moment (at least some of us) have been waiting for. As revealed by Deadline this morning, Disney Entertainment Television is heading back to San Diego Comic-Con with a panel and activation schedule that includes Percy Jackson, Futurama, King of the Hill, and more. Up first, they’re bringing back Percy Jackson and the Olympians for another mythological adventure that begins […]
Resuscitated human retinas respond to light 10 hours after death
Perfusing donor human retinas with blood and oxygen meant they continued to respond to light for up to 10 hours after death, marking a significant step towards eye transplants that restore vision
Disney Entertainment Television Sets Comic-Con 2026 Panels, Activities
Disney Entertainment Television will have 'Percy Jackson,' 'American Horror Story' and Animayhem activations with returning shows at panels.
Bonnie Tyler, 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' singer, has died at 75
Tyler earned three Grammy nominations and represented Britain at Eurovision in 2013
Bonnie Tyler dies: 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' singer was 75
Bonnie Tyler, the husky-voiced powerhouse vocalist who delivered memorable and dramatic pop-rock songs including 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' in the 1980s, has died.
A vitamin A discovery is changing what scientists know about vision
A surprising discovery is reshaping scientists' understanding of how humans develop sharp central vision before birth. Instead of blue cone cells migrating away from the retina's center, the study found they transform into red and green cones under the influence of vitamin A-related signals and thyroid hormones. The findings could improve lab-grown retinal tissue and lay the groundwork for future cell therapies to restore vision lost to age-related eye diseases.
Panthers Should Consider Aggressive Trade With Division Rival
The Carolina Panthers should consider pursuing an aggressive trade with an NFC South rival.
Arkansas, Michigan State Headline 2026 CBS Sports Thanksgiving Classic
The CBS Sports Thanksgiving Classic returns to the menu this November as Arkansas and Michigan State square off on Thanksgiving Day at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. The game will be broadcast nationally on The CBS Television Network and available to stream live on Paramount+ at 4:30 PM ET.
Why “Heated Rivalry” isn’t nominated for Emmys
The Emmys rule that impacts “foreign television productions.”
Primetime Emmy Awards 2026: See the full list of nominees
(CNN) — The time has come to shower praise on the best and brightest on television.
50 Cent Shares Vision for Shreveport Entertainment Hub
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson outlined his growing vision for Shreveport's entertainment industry during a fireside chat at the Convention Center
From dinosaur trips to Vegas attractions: How one father built a family entertainment business
The entertainment entrepreneur behind Dinosaur Outpost is expanding his family-friendly vision with the acquisition and rebranding of Velocity Vegas.
Report: Cheaper Apple Vision Pro Display Work Winds Down at Samsung
Apple has suspended development of the display for a cheaper, lighter version of the Vision Pro that it originally planned to launch in the next few years, according to The Elec. The Korean outlet says Apple supplier Samsung Display is set to internally wind down the panel project – known in the industry as "G-VR" – with development set to be formally terminated by September.
Teton Science School, Indian Springs Ranch to get county funding to design tunnel
Teton County commissioners reserved $65,000 in their budget to take early steps to ease harrowing left turns out of the Teton Science School and gated Indian Springs Ranch subdivision on to Highway 22.
O2 Strengthens Its TV Entertainment Offering with the Addition of Disney+
O2 Strengthens Its TV Entertainment Offering with the Addition of Disney+
Here's what Microsoft offers in severance in latest layoff plan
Microsoft plans to lay off 4,800 staff, impacting sales and Xbox divisions. It's offering severance up to 39 weeks for most laid-off US employees.
Maine Democrats jockey to replace Graham Platner as he faces pressure to drop out
As of Tuesday morning, Platner remained undecided about whether to drop out of the race and wants to see a replacement nominee who shares his vision, according to a source.
NASA’s New Horizons Spacecraft Wakes from Hibernation in Good Health
Following its longest hibernation period ever of nearly a year, NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft has emerged in good health and is ready to begin transmitting
NASA’s New Horizons Spacecraft Wakes from Hibernation in Good Health
Following its longest hibernation period ever of nearly a year, NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft has emerged in good health and is ready to begin transmitting
IOC provisionally lifts ban on Russian Olympic Committee, athletes to return to international competitions
The International Olympic Committee provisionally lifted its ban on the Russian Olympic Committee on Tuesday, paving the way for a return to international competitions including the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger signs Virginia budget into law
Spanberger signed a budget on June 29 that includes provisions on funding education, housing, and healthcare.
Fed's Williams tells Fox Business he's more sanguine on inflation due to energy price retreat
Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams said in a television interview on Tuesday he has grown a little less worried about the state of price pressures in the economy.
The Pac-12’s return begins without a media day
As the college football season approaches, every FBS conference is getting set for its media days — except for the Pac-12. Media days see conferences invite members of the press to ask questions and take photographs to build excitement for the upcoming season. Many media days will receive live television coverage. The Big 12, ACC…
Envisioning Federal Scientific Integrity as a Tool to Protect Democracy and Fight Corruption
How can we preserve scientific integrity policies in the next administration when they've proven to be subject to political whims?
Oracle Named a Visionary in 2026 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Analytics and Business Intelligence Platforms
Oracle Named a Visionary in 2026 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Analytics and Business Intelligence Platforms. In our view, this reflects the progress we are making as analytics and AI become more connected.
Health insurers’ AI vision
Health insurers are increasingly embracing artificial intelligence as part of their business models, bullish on the technology’s potential to revolutionize care and drive down costs.
Lawmakers end multi-million-dollar hospital tax “loophole”
By Michelle Crouch Co-published with The Charlotte Ledger A little-noticed provision in the state budget that was approved last week aims to shut down a tax strategy used by at least one hospital system to exceed the state’s sales tax refund cap. The change would require nonprofit and public hospital systems to file a single […]
UFC champion predicts quick KO in UFC 329 main event
Former two-division champion Conor McGregor plans to put on a 'masterpiece' performance in his UFC 329 return on Saturday. "The Notorious" takes on former featherweight champion and BMF titleholder Max Holloway in a rematch in the fight card's main event. It's been five years since the 37 year-old ...
Montel Williams says there are ‘a lot of misconceptions’ about his ex Kamala Harris
Former television host Montel Williams, who dated Kamala Harris in 2001, says there are ‘a lot of misconceptions’ about his famous ex. Then an attorney for the city of San Francisco, she would go on to become U.S. senator, vice president, and candidate for president.
Pittsburgh Entertainment Location Institutes Chaperone Policy
Adult supervision for minors will now be required at this popular Pittsburgh summer attraction.. Get the details here.
What to stream: Rolling Stones, ‘Little House on the Prairie’ and ‘Backrooms’
The latest Rolling Stones album and the streaming debut of the hit movie "Backrooms" are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. New movies to stream The box-office sensation "Backrooms" is making...
Brewers Can't Let Cardinals Gain Ground
The Milwaukee Brewers must ignite their stagnant bats to stifle a surging St. Louis Cardinals offense and protect their narrow divisional lead during a series at Busch Stadium.
UND health professions addition in design phase as leaders envision the future of healthcare education
Dean Marjorie Jenkins of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences said the building will be a game changer not only for UND, but the state.
MannyPay Global Launches U.S. Merchant Processing Division to Help Small Businesses Lower Payment Costs and Accelerate Growth
Backed by global icon Manny Pacquiao, the company introduces a merchant-first payments platform — spanning card processing, integrated commerce te...
Xbox cuts 3,200 jobs as gaming business struggles
As Microsoft continues to invest majorly into AI, it's gaming division, Xbox, is making major cuts to its workforce and selling several of its studios.
‘Our business today is not healthy’: 1,600 Xbox employees among the 4,800 laid off by Microsoft as it looks to ‘reset’ gaming division
A third of Microsoft's global layoffs were Xbox employee as the company reduced its workforce by 2.1% globally.
YouTuber Builds 25-Foot Rideable RC Battleship for $400, and It Shoots Fireworks
When most gearheads and DIYers get the itch to hit the water, they look into buying a used jet ski, a small john boat, or maybe a kayak. But YouTube creator Julius Perdana had a slightly different vision. He wanted…
Microsoft to cut 3,200 jobs amid Xbox restructuring. 'Our business ... is not healthy.'
Microsoft is cutting 4,800 jobs, including 3,200 in its Xbox division.
Nielsen eyes further methodology changes ahead of football season
It appears as if Nielsen is preparing to find yet another way to keep sports viewership trending upward ahead of the upcoming football season. The audience-measurement firm, whose data is treated as the gold standard within the television business and is the currency by which networks sell advertising to media buyers, plans to formally roll…
Nintendo has detailed rollout plans for Switch 2 product revisions in Europe with replaceable batteries, and Switch 1 consoles are being discontinued
Nintendo has detailed the rollout plans for Switch 2 revisions with replaceable batteries in Europe and announced Switch 1 will stop production in 2027.
Switch 2 Hardware Revision With Replaceable Battery Coming Later This Year In Europe
Battery capacity and weight also set to change
Nintendo officially announces revisions for Switch 2 and more in Europe in light of new battery regulations
Today, Nintendo officially announced plans for revisions of several of its products, led by Switch 2. Changes will begin to take place starting in the summer. Products will be updated only to support user-replaceable batteries. Outside of that, everything will be staying the same. Note that if you already have one of these products, there’s nothing that you need to...
Democrats invoke ‘big, beautiful bill’ far more than Republicans as midterms near
Republicans continue to tout some provisions of the law, including tax cuts, but its overall unpopularity has provided Democrats ammunition for the midterms.
Meet the founder betting Africa's next entertainment giant will be built on ownership, not just storytelling
The worlds biggest entertainment companies arent valuable because they make great films or television
UK's ITV to sell media and entertainment unit to Comcast's Sky for $2.1 billion
British broadcaster ITV said on Monday it had agreed to sell its media and entertainment division to Comcast's Sky for £1.6 billion ($2.13 billion).
Halon Entertainment completes management buyout
The company, which works across film, television, games, immersive entertainment and advertising, said the move follows a joint decision by Halon and NEP Group that independence would allow the business to focus entirely on its clients, employees and long-term growth.
America has been deeply divided before. Here’s why today’s divisions are different
At 250 years, America’s fault lines are showing. Partisan and regional divisions rival the most intense internal conflicts it has faced since the Civil War.
America at 250: July 4th marked by celebration and political division
From SoCal beach parades to sweltering East Coast crowds, see how Americans balanced patriotism, World Cup fever and political division on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Wall Street Pessimism Has Made Universal Health Services (UHS) Stock A Top Extreme Value Stock To Buy Now
Universal Health Services, Inc. (NYSE:UHS) is one of the Top 10 Extreme Value Stocks To Buy Now. On June 22, TD Cowen lowered the firm’s price target on Universal Health Services, Inc. (NYSE:UHS) from $230 to $197 and kept a Buy rating on the stock. The downward price target revision still reflects a 24% upside […]
Celebrations for America’s 250th begin amid heat and political division
Despite sweltering heat, heavy security and brewing protests, thousands were expected to descend on the nation’s capital for the historic anniversary.
As Trump commands 250th stage, Democrats offer their vision of patriotism
They want to show opposition to Trump without looking like they’re unwilling to celebrate the United States.
Steelers receive second-lowest NFL offseason grade in AFC North
The NFL has handed out 2026 offseason grades, and the Pittsburgh Steelers received the second-lowest mark in the AFC North division.
Who Are the Best Fantasy Snags of the AFC East?
Arguably the most notorious division of the AFC, the East, continues to shine. With the success of the Patriots and Bills, what’s left for the Dolphins and Jets? Perhaps Malik Willis is the missing link, or David Bailey changes New York’s fate. Regardless of speculation, here are the most impactful players of the AFC East […] The post Who Are the Best Fantasy Snags of the AFC East? appeared first on The Lead.
Hakeem Jeffries addresses Democratic Party divisions, says Trump is the bigger issue
On the eve of America's 250th birthday, NPR's Michel Martin asks House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York about the Democratic Party's midterm future.
What Caesars Entertainment (CZR)'s Wabanaki iCasino Expansion and Bearish Zacks Rank Mean For Shareholders
In late June 2026, Caesars Entertainment Inc. announced it had expanded its partnership with three Wabanaki Nations in Maine to cover potential online casino gaming, adding three branded iGaming platforms that integrate with Caesars Rewards and its Universal Digital Wallet, subject to regulatory approvals. At the same time, the company faced sharply weaker analyst sentiment, including a very large downward revision to current-year earnings estimates that pushed it onto the Zacks Rank #5...
As Trump commands 250th stage, Democrats offer their vision of patriotism
Partisanship around the country’s big anniversary has put Democrats in a bind: They want to criticize the president without appearing unpatriotic.
Platner will prioritize public health, which Collins helped to dismantle
A new television ad (paid for by “America First International Assistance”) portrays Sen. Susan Collins as protecting Maine from the Ebola virus by funding millions in scientific research. While the ad may have historical truth concerning her record (the footage appears to be several years old), Sen. Collins is a member of the Republican Senate […]
Political division casts pall over 250th anniversary celebration
Michiganians fretted about political division in the U.S. even as they attended Greenfield Village to celebrate 250 years of the country being together.
Future of Marketing Briefing: Why Bose is building an entertainment company
Bose has a new entertainment division. Its cmo hasn’t used a creative agency in five years. The two things are related.
Upgrade Your Home Entertainment Experience and Save Big 45+ Fourth of July TV Deals
Shop unmissable Independence Day deals from big-name brands including Sony, LG and Samsung, with options starting at just $150.
AMERICA AT 250: COMPETING CELEBRATIONS REFLECT NATIONAL POLARIZATION, SAYS SMU POLITICS EXPERT
DALLAS (SMU) – As the nation marks its 250th anniversary with separate celebrations in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, SMU political scientist Matthew Wilson says the split reflects a deeper reality about modern America: the absence of a shared national narrative. Wilson argues that what should have been a unifying moment of national pride has instead become a symbol of the country's growing political polarization, with rival groups promoting fundamentally different visions of Amer
Amendment 61: A.4 Rapid Response and Novel Research in Earth Science Final Close Date Deferred
A.4 Rapid Response and Novel Research in Earth Science (RRNES) solicits proposals that advance the goals and objectives of NASA's Earth Science Division by
Patient Care Center structure changing for physical medicine and rehabilitation
The changes align with Vanderbilt Health’s strategic vision for growth, including regional expansion and the development of innovative rehabilitation and pain medicine services.
Meet the Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s new entertainment reporter, Brayden Garcia
North Texas has a seen an explosion in film and television production over the last few years, and Brayden is here to report on it for Fort Worth.
Students gain hands-on research skills during ASSURE summer science program
Liberty University’s ASSURE program, an annual six-week summer intensive through the School of Health Sciences’ Department of Biology & Chemistry, concluded last month with its largest participation yet, with 36 students gaining research experience under the supervision of 16 faculty members....
Track & Field Alum Pablo Almaguer Celebrates Induction into RGV Sports Hall of Fame
RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The week of Pablo Almaguer's induction into the Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame for his success as the head girls track & field and cross country coach at Weslaco High School, he was asked if he ever envisioned such an honor coming his way.
City Council Business Meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
The Palm Coast City Council meets regularly to discuss and vote on official City business. These meetings are open to the public, and Palm Coast residents are strongly encouraged to attend. An increase in public engagement helps to build a stronger sense of community, increase valuable discussions, and decrease division.
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.
Stealing one player from every division rival for the Titans
An exercise designed to pluck one player from every division rival for the Tennessee Titans.