The World Spins Fine On Her Own

Welcome back to another riveting episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined" with your favorite radio duo, Robin and The Giant! Today, we're diving deep into the rich history of one of Florida's most iconic landmarks – the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables. But hold onto your swim caps, because we're also unraveling the fascinating tales of Florida's limestone legacy and the remnants of strip mining that dot the landscape. Join us as we take a refreshing plunge into the crystalline waters of the Venetian Pool, tracing its origins back to the early 1900s when it emerged from a limestone quarry. Discover the captivating story of how this former quarry evolved into a breathtaking oasis, complete with picturesque caves and lush landscaping, earning its rightful place on the National Register of Historic Places. As we explore the depths of the Venetian Pool, we'll also uncover the parallel narrative of Florida's mining history. From the bustling boomtown of Dunnellon to the limestone quarries of Ocala, we'll paint a vivid picture of the laborious efforts that shaped the Sunshine State's landscape. Learn how the extraction of phosphate and limestone left behind intriguing limerock pits, serving as enduring monuments to Florida's industrial past. But that's not all – did you know that the Venetian Pool boasts a unique filtration system, relying on natural processes to replenish its waters? We'll delve into the eco-friendly practices that keep this aquatic wonderland pristine and inviting for visitors from near and far. So, grab your snorkel gear and join us on a journey through time and terrain, as we uncover the hidden treasures of the Venetian Pool and Florida's storied past. Tune in to "Florida: Real and Imagined" for a refreshing blend of history, exploration, and a splash of sunshine!

Join Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on another exciting journey through the diverse landscapes and attractions of Florida in our latest episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined." In this installment titled "Florida Day Trips," we delve into a plethora of activities and destinations perfect for both visitors and residents alike, eager to discover the gems of the Sunshine State. From the tranquil beauty of Florida State Parks to the thrill of casinos and the excitement of Spring Training locations, we guide you through a wide array of options to explore Florida's natural wonders and cultural treasures. Dive into the pristine beaches, delve into the depths of museums, and embark on exhilarating hikes along scenic trails. But that's not all—tune in as we uncover the allure of guided tours, whether it's traversing the waterways on airboats, sampling fine wines on winery tours, or immersing oneself in the rich history on church tours. We also share insights into exclusive VIP experiences, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses at iconic attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural enrichment, or thrilling entertainment, this episode is your ultimate guide to crafting unforgettable day trips across the diverse landscapes of Florida. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and join us as we embark on an exploration of the real and imagined wonders of the Sunshine State.

Join radio personalities Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on another exciting journey through the Sunshine State in this episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined." Titled "Bicycling In Florida," Larry and Robin take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they recount their numerous bicycle adventures along Florida's extensive network of trails, which were once old railroad lines transformed through the Rails To Trails program. From the tranquil 50-mile stretch of the Withlacoochee Trail to the scenic 30-mile path of the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail, our hosts vividly reminisce about the breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences encountered along these historic routes. They also delve into the intriguing tales surrounding the Railroad Museum and bike trail in Brooksville, where legends of a ghost from the cowboy era still linger. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Larry and Robin also explore the unexpected bicycle riding opportunities offered amidst the enchantment of Walt Disney World resort, adding a touch of magic to their cycling escapades. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or simply intrigued by Florida's rich history and picturesque landscapes, this fun and informative episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined" is sure to inspire your next outdoor adventure. So hop on your bike and join Larry and Robin as they pedal through the real and imagined wonders of the Sunshine State.

🌊🚣‍♂️ Dive into the lazy, sun-drenched waters of Florida's enchanting rivers with Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on today's episode of "Florida: Real and Imagined"! 🎙️ Join us as we float down memory lane, reminiscing about the golden days of tubing on the Rainbow River in Dunnellon and the Ichetucknee River in Ichetucknee River State Park. 🌈 From the sparkling waters to the gentle currents, we'll share tales from our adventures back in the 1970s and 1980s, painting a picture of timeless fun under the Florida sun. But hold onto your inflatable tubes because things have changed since our tube-tastic days! 🌞 We'll laugh our way through the evolution of tubing culture, from the gear we used (or didn't use!) to the unwritten rules of river etiquette. Whether it's the rise of waterproof gadgets or the shift in river vibes, we'll explore how tubing has transformed over the years. As seasoned river rats, we'll also play the part of wise advisors, offering sage advice to the next generation of tubers. 🎓 From tips on packing the perfect picnic to the importance of respecting nature's playground, we'll help navigate the waters for curious newcomers, sharing our insights on what makes tubing in Central Florida an unforgettable experience. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure as we embark on a journey down memory river, proving that no matter your age, the joy of tubing in Florida's rivers is a timeless delight! 🌟 Don't miss out on this episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the promise of endless aquatic escapades! 🌊🌴

In this captivating episode of "Florida: Real And Imagined," join radio personalities Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane as they delve into the enchanting world of hidden treasures along Florida's coastline. From the swashbuckling days of pirates to the mysteries of sunken ships, the Sunshine State holds countless secrets waiting to be unearthed. Larry and Robin take listeners on a journey through the rich history of Florida's coastal regions, where tales of buried gold and lost treasures abound. With stories dating back to the 1700s, listeners will discover the allure of legendary pirate loot and the intriguing accounts of shipwrecks that still captivate imaginations today. But it's not all myths and legends – the hosts also shed light on the legal aspects of treasure hunting in Florida. From regulations governing salvage operations to the rights of beachcombers, they provide valuable insights into the laws surrounding the search for sunken riches. What sets this episode apart is the insider knowledge shared by Larry and Robin, who reveal specific locations along Florida's coast where treasure hunters and beachcombers have struck gold – quite literally. From hidden coves to remote beaches, they disclose addresses where lucky explorers have unearthed gold coins and other precious artifacts, particularly after powerful storms. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a treasure hunter, or simply intrigued by the mysteries of the sea, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the real and imagined treasures that lie beneath Florida's azure waters and sandy shores. Tune in to "Florida: Real And Imagined" for an unforgettable exploration of the state's coastal wonders.

Step back in time with hosts Robin MacBlane and Larry Whitler as they take you on a nostalgic journey through the enchanting world of 1970s Walt Disney World in today's episode titled "Walt Disney World in the 1970s." Join us as we reminisce about the magic, the wonder, and the excitement that characterized this golden era of the most magical place on earth. In this episode, Robin and Larry fondly recall their favorite aspects of Disney World in the 1970s, from the captivating attractions to the charming resorts, and everything in between. Delve into the memories of yesteryear as they discuss the affordability of tickets, the iconic rides, the delectable cuisine, and the unforgettable experiences that made visiting Disney World in the 1970s a cherished delight. Whether you're a Disney enthusiast or simply longing for a trip down memory lane, join us for a delightful discussion filled with laughter, nostalgia, and cherished memories of Walt Disney World in its most magical decade. Tune in to "Florida: Real and Imagined" for a journey back in time that's sure to reignite your love for the enchanting world of Disney.

Join Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane on another adventure through the wilds of Florida in this special episode of "Florida: Real And Imagined." Today, we're delving into the fascinating world of alligators: the apex predators that have captivated imaginations and sparked legends throughout Florida's rich history. In this episode, we explore the true stories behind Florida's iconic alligators, from their ancient origins to their modern-day habitats. We dive into thrilling alligator encounters, separating fact from fiction as we uncover the myths and folklore that have shrouded these formidable reptiles for generations. Tune in as we share intriguing trivia and little-known facts about alligators, shedding light on their behavior, habitat, and significance in Florida's ecosystem. From the legendary Two Toed Tom festival in Esto, Florida, to the renowned Gatorland theme park, we uncover the unique cultural and recreational aspects surrounding these magnificent creatures. Larry and Robin also share their own memorable run-ins with alligators, offering firsthand accounts that bring the excitement and danger of encountering these prehistoric predators to life. So, grab your sunscreen and join us as we embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of Florida's swamps and marshes, exploring the captivating world of alligators: real and imagined. Whether you're a seasoned Floridian or a curious visitor, this episode promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for one of the Sunshine State's most iconic inhabitants.

Welcome to "Florida: Real and Imagined," the captivating audio podcast hosted by Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane, where we delve deep into the fascinating world of the Sunshine State. Today, we're exploring an extraordinary event that blends excitement with a noble cause: gambling for restoration efforts in the Florida Everglades and the Florida Wildlife Corridor program. Step into the vibrant landscape of Florida, where the allure of the Everglades and the remarkable biodiversity of the Wildlife Corridor come to life. Picture yourself amidst the lush greenery, with the melodies of native birds filling the air and the gentle flow of waterways guiding your journey. Now, imagine adding a dash of thrill to this natural wonderland. Picture a lively casino atmosphere, brimming with anticipation and excitement. But here's the twist: every wager placed isn't just for entertainment—it's for a purpose. Every chip tossed into the game contributes to the preservation and restoration of these invaluable ecosystems. As the roulette wheel spins and the cards are dealt, players from all walks of life come together with a shared mission: to support the conservation efforts that safeguard Florida's precious natural heritage. Each win isn't just a stroke of luck; it's a triumph for the Everglades, the Wildlife Corridor, and the countless species that call them home. Join us as we embark on a journey through the realms of possibility and conservation. Discover how the thrill of gambling intertwines with the spirit of environmental stewardship, creating a unique synergy that benefits both players and the planet. This is more than just a game—it's a chance to make a difference in the real and imagined landscapes of Florida.

The Florida Wildlife Corridor refers to a contiguous network of natural lands and waterways that traverse the length of Florida, connecting various habitats and ecosystems from the Everglades in the south to the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia. The corridor encompasses a wide range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, rivers, prairies, and coastal areas, which provide critical habitat for a diverse array of wildlife species. The primary goal of the Florida Wildlife Corridor initiative is to promote the conservation and restoration of this natural corridor to maintain habitat connectivity for wildlife, facilitate movement and migration of species, and ensure the long-term survival of native flora and fauna. By protecting and restoring key habitats within the corridor, conservationists aim to safeguard biodiversity, enhance ecosystem resilience, and maintain ecosystem services essential for human well-being. The Florida Wildlife Corridor initiative involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including conservation organizations, government agencies, scientists, landowners, and the public. Efforts to conserve and restore the corridor include land acquisition, habitat restoration, conservation easements, wildlife crossings, and public education and outreach initiatives. The corridor concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining connected landscapes to allow wildlife to move freely across different habitats, especially in the face of increasing urbanization, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. By conserving and restoring the Florida Wildlife Corridor, conservationists seek to protect not only individual species but also entire ecosystems and the ecological processes that sustain them.

Wildfire in Texas Panhandle Location: Northeast of Amarillo Size: 850,000 acres burnt Spread: Crossed into Oklahoma Fatalities: 1 reported in Hutchinson County Containment: Only 3% contained as of Wednesday night Additional Info: Several smaller wildfires in northern Panhandle Smokehouse Creek Fire area exceeds Rhode Island's size Damage to structures reported Tribute to Richard Lewis Larry David's statement on Lewis' passing Lewis' impact on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" Jamie Lee Curtis' tribute on Instagram HBO's statement on Lewis' death Controversial Wedding Invitation Couple asks guests to pay for meals: $40 for adults, $20 for children under 12 Blooming of Corpse Flower in San Francisco Amorphophallus titanum blooms at California Academy of Sciences Rarity of bloom: once every 7 to 10 years Description of the flower's pungent smell Plant's endangered status Rescue of Missing Autistic Girl Hillsborough County Sheriff's aviation unit locates missing 5-year-old in swamp near Tampa Thermal imaging aids in locating her Successful reunion with the girl thanks to quick action of deputies Guinness World Record for Largest Tongue Circumference Jenny DuVander breaks record with 5.21-inch tongue circumference Inspired by Guinness World Records entry, DuVander measures her tongue Her son's role in her decision to apply for the title Insurance Claim Denied Over Christmas Tree Photo Kamila Grabska loses $820,000 claim after photo shows her launching a Christmas tree Claim filed after 2017 car accident Allegations of false injury claims Miracle Recovery Story from Grand Rapids Jennifer Flewellen's coma and recovery journey Mother Peggy Means' unwavering support during Flewellen's coma Flewellen's remarkable recovery after five years Means' commitment to her daughter's rehabilitation and scientific discovery

Podcast Show Prep for Wednesday, February 28, 2024   NATIONAL PUBLIC SLEEPING DAY If you're tired on February 28th, it might be because National Public Sleeping Day encourages a mid-day nap right where you are.  It is a day for anyone and everyone to take a nap on a blanket at the beach, at the park, in the movie theater, on a bus, train, or subway or any other public place that may work for you.  However, it may not be a good idea to take that nap at your desk during work!   #PublicSleepingDay Types of Naps There are different types of naps. The Power Nap is approximately 10 to 20 minutes long and can give a boost of energy to get us through the rest of the day. It also doesn't leave us drowsy like some longer naps might and will also allow us to fall asleep at a decent time at night.     Musical talent runs in David Foster and Katharine McPhee's family and it seems like the two artists have an entertainer on their hands.   The music producer and the singer's 3-year-old son, Rennie, has already captivated their followers with his impressive drumming skills. But most recently, the toddler made his onstage debut during his parents' show.   On Feb. 27, McPhee called herself a "proud mom" when she shared a video of Rennie drumming alongside Foster during his show at Kennedy Center in Washington, DC on Sunday, Feb. 25.   "Had a VERY special guest join us on stage for the first time 🥁 #ProudMom   As McPhee is proudly clapping off to the side of the stage, little Rennie, wearing noise-canceling headphones, is rocking out with his mini drum set.   Foster is playing the piano and when the song is over, gets up and claps for his son.   The "American Idol" alum and Foster have been on their "An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee" tour.   The couple has been married since 2019. Rennie is McPhee's only child. Foster is also father to five daughters: Sara, Erin, Amy, Jordan and Allison Foster.     Carmen Electra is a household name — and now it's officially her legal moniker.   A Los Angeles Superior Court judge this week granted the actor's request to legally change her name from her birth name, Tara Leigh Patrick, to her stage name.   Electra has used her famous stage name since she stepped into the spotlight in her breakthrough role as Lani McKenzie in "Baywatch."   On Jan. 9, the TV personality filed a petition to legally change her name to Carmen Electra, according to documents obtained by TODAY.com.     Adele is postponing her upcoming shows for health reasons.   On Feb. 27, the singer announced on her Instagram that she is sick and per doctor's orders has "no choice" but to reschedule dates for her "Weekends With Adele" Las Vegas residency. Adele explained how she hasn't been able to fully recover since the last time she was ill and now it's "taken a toll" on her voice.   "Sadly I have to take a beat and pause my Vegas residency. I was sick at the end of the last leg and all the way through my break. I hadn't quite gotten the chance to get back to full health before shows resumed and now I'm sick again, and unfortunately it's all taken a toll on my voice," she wrote.   Adele continued saying that per doctor's orders she has "no choice but to rest thoroughly." This means that the remaining five weekends of her residency are being postponed to a later date.     Oreo already introduced three new flavors at the start of the new year, but the brand wasn't done dropping cookies.   On Feb. 27, the sandwich cookie company introduced two more additions to its cavalcade of crunchy confections: Dirt Cake and Tiramisu Thins.   Dirt Cake, a nostalgic favorite, is being added to the portfolio for a limited time, while Tiramisu Thins are getting a permanent spot in the lineup. Both will hit grocery store shelves on March 4.   Here are all the details:   Oreo Dirt Cake Oreo Dirt Cake chocolate sandwich cookies are the company's take on the nostalgic mud-pie dessert that reminds people of childhood. On the outside, it features the classic chocolate cookie with gummy worm-inspired sprinkles on top; and on the inside, it's got a layer of brownie-flavored creme atop a layer of chocolate creme with Oreo wafer crumb.   Oreo Thins Tiramisu In this permanent addition to the Oreo brand portfolio, its classic thin cookie is stuffed with a layer of tiramisu-flavored creme filling.   In December, the cookie company introduced Oreo Black & White Cookies, a limited-edition flavor inspired by an iconic New York City bakery staple, as well as two permanent additions: Peanut Butter Cakesters and Gluten-Free Golden. They hit shelves on Jan. 3.       COMMERCIAL BREAK       A 114-year-old woman in Houston, Elizabeth Francis, has become the oldest living person in the United States, LongeviQuest said Friday.   Francis became the oldest person in the U.S., following the death of 116-year-old Edie Ceccarelli of California, who passed away on Feb. 22, according to LongeviQuest. She is the fifth oldest living person in the world, as per Gerontology Research Group.   Born in Louisiana, raised in Texas Francis was born on Jul. 25, 1909 in Louisiana, according to her profile on LongeviQuest. Following her mother's death, she and her five siblings were sent to different homes and Francis ended up in Houston, where she was raised by her aunt and lived since.   She gave birth to her only daughter, Dorothy Williams, in 1928, whom she raised as a single mother, operating a coffee shop at ABC 13 News in Houston to support herself and her daughter. She ran the place for almost 20 years, retiring in 1975. In 1999, she moved in with her daughter.   In July 2023, on her 114th birthday, Francis "had three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren," according to LongeviQuest.   Francis' secret to living a long life Francis credits her longevity to her faith in God, speaking her mind and eating whatever she wants. The supercentenarian only began requiring a wheelchair for mobility when she was almost 108.   "If the Good Lord gave it to you, use it! Speak your mind, don't hold your tongue," Francis told LongeviQuest when asked the secret behind her long life.   On her birthday party in July 2022, Francis told News Centre Maine that she credits her long life to eating whatever she wanted. She also said that she doesn't smoke or drink, except for the occasional glass of wine.   Francis is not the only one in her family to live a long life. Her older Bertha Johnson lived to the age of 106 before passing away in 2011, according to LongeviQuest, making them "one of the oldest sibling pairs".       Drew Barrymore is in a Catch-22 over her 1995 Playboy cover and her 11-year-old daughter Olive's outfit choices, the actor and talk show host shared on Tuesday.   "My daughter wants to wear a crop top. I'll say no and she'll go, 'You were on the cover of Playboy," Barrymore told Christina Aguilera, who she was interviewing in Las Vegas for "The Drew Barrymore Show."   The five-time Grammy award-winning Aguilera, who has a residency at the Venetian in Las Vegas, recently had one of those moments with her daughter, too.   "I knew it was coming the day I wore chaps," she told Barrymore. "My daughter wants to wear a crop top, too. And I am just like, 'Can we just pull it down?'"   Aguilera added that instead of focusing on her 9-year-old daughter Summer Rain's choice of clothing, she tries to communicate that there are "certain people out there (with) good intentions and bad intentions."   As for their risqué pasts, the actor and singer don't have any regrets over their choices, they said, and they don't want their daughters to, either.   "I loved every minute of it," Barrymore said of her Playboy shoot in 1995, when she was 20 years old.   "We were expressing ourselves and how we felt was best for us," Aguilera said. "We didn't do it for someone else."   The two hope to empower their daughters to be comfortable in their skin as they grow older.       1. Julius Caesar introduced the first calendar leap year in 46 B.C.    The Earth takes exactly 365 days, five hours, 48 minutes and 45 seconds to circle the sun. The occasional Feb. 29 ensures we don't lose six hours every year.   2. Leap year babies are called "leapers" or "leaplings."   You'd get a special name, too, if you had to wait four years to celebrate your birthday.   3. Feb. 29 has traditionally been a day on which women were allowed to propose to men.   Sounds hopelessly outdated for the 21st century, but this is the way it has worked in many cultures for centuries!   4. Leap Day is a day when daring skinny dippers leap off of Naked Falls in Stevenson, Washington, and when travelers visit a new continent for the first time.   5. Feb. 29 is not really a legal day.   Many companies don't recognize Leap Day as a "valid day." They make leapers choose   Feb. 28 or March 1 as their birthday instead.   6. Lots of people work for free on Feb. 29.   Most employees who are paid fixed monthly incomes will work for free on Feb. 29 because their wages are likely not calculated to include the extra day.   7. There are two "Leap Year Capitals of the World."   If you want to celebrate this special day in a big way, head to Texas — or New Mexico. Anthony, Texas and Anthony, New Mexico both claim the title "Leap Year Capital," while holding lavish, multi-day celebrations each leap year.         Places To Visit In March     1. Destin, Florida   Destin, FL 32541, USA Location: Destin, FL Why Visit In March: Visiting Destin, Florida in March is just about perfect for Mac and Cheese lovers - the annual NoMi Mac & Cheese Fest warms up tummies in Griffing Park in early March.   Destin is a pretty happening place in March, with several festivals and events going on. Besides the ultimate Mac and Cheese Festival.     6th Annual Mac and Cheese Festival Join us at the 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast on Sunday, March 10th, 2024   By Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast 232 followers Follow Date and time Sunday, March 10 · 12 - 3pm CDT Location Destin Commons   4100 Legendary Drive Destin, FL 32541   Thought macaroni and cheese was just for kids? Think again! Join us at the 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival presented by Cox & Publix Charities on Sunday, March 10th, 2024 at the Destin Commons! This family-friendly event will feature gourmet, chef-inspired twists on the South's favorite comfort food. Local restaurants will compete for the best mac in town. Be there to sample everything for yourself and cast your vote!   All proceeds from this event will go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, which works in our community to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence through its programs focused on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.   Sponsorships for this event are available. To learn how your business can be involved, please contact [email protected].   Tickets:   $50 for VIC (Very Important Cheese tickets)   $30 for adults   $20 for kids (5-16 years old)   V.I.C. (Very Important Cheese) tickets include (1) beverage ticket and a t-shirt.

Jason Momoa's Guinness Partnership Summary: Jason Momoa partners with Guinness for a new commercial, directed by himself. Keywords: Jason Momoa, Guinness, commercial, partnership, actor, film, "Game of Thrones", New Zealand, "Minecraft" movie. Hashtags: #JasonMomoa #Guinness #Commercial #Partnership #GameOfThrones #Minecraft Wendy's Menu Pricing Strategies Summary: Wendy's CEO announces plans for dynamic pricing and digital menu boards. Keywords: Wendy's, pricing strategy, dynamic pricing, digital menu boards, Kirk Tanner, fast food. Hashtags: #Wendys #PricingStrategy #DynamicPricing #DigitalMenu #FastFood Kellogg's CEO's Budget Tip Sparks Backlash Summary: Kellogg's CEO suggests eating cereal for dinner amid rising grocery prices, sparking criticism. Keywords: Kellogg's, CEO, grocery prices, cereal, budget tip, criticism. Hashtags: #Kelloggs #GroceryPrices #Cereal #BudgetTip #Criticism Prince William's Absence from Memorial Service Summary: Prince William pulls out of attending King Constantine's memorial due to personal reasons. Keywords: Prince William, memorial service, King Constantine, personal matter, Kensington Palace. Hashtags: #PrinceWilliam #MemorialService #KingConstantine #KensingtonPalace Monica Lewinsky's Voting Campaign with Reformation Summary: Monica Lewinsky collaborates with Reformation and Vote.org for a voting campaign. Keywords: Monica Lewinsky, Reformation, Vote.org, campaign, democracy, fashion. Hashtags: #MonicaLewinsky #Reformation #VoteOrg #VotingCampaign #Democracy Tooth Fairy Report: Decrease in Tooth Payouts Summary: Delta Dental reports a decrease in tooth fairy payouts, contrary to past trends. Keywords: Tooth Fairy, Delta Dental, payout, decrease, children, tooth. Hashtags: #ToothFairy #DeltaDental #Payout #Children #Teeth Astronomical Discoveries: Moons Around Neptune and Uranus Summary: Astronomers discover new moons around Neptune and Uranus. Keywords: Astronomy, moons, Neptune, Uranus, discovery. Hashtags: #Astronomy #Moons #Neptune #Uranus #Discovery Golfer Joe Dean's Remarkable Comeback Summary: Golfer Joe Dean secures second place in the Kenya Open after recent financial struggles. Keywords: Joe Dean, golf, Kenya Open, comeback, financial struggles. Hashtags: #JoeDean #Golf #KenyaOpen #Comeback #FinancialStruggles

National Margarita Day Celebrate National Margarita Day on Feb. 22 with tempting discounts at many restaurant chains across the country. Enjoy various margarita varieties, including: The El Jefe Skinny Margarita Platinum Hand-Shaken Margarita Raspberry Hibiscus Margarita At Bahama Breeze Island Grille locations, classic margaritas are just $2.22 on Feb. 22! Chili's offers several margarita specials: $5 Tequila Trifecta: Featuring three premium tequilas (el Jimador Silver, 1800 Reposado, and Jose Cuervo Gold), triple sec, and fresh sour. $6 The Straw-Eddy: Made with Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka, Lunazul Blanco Tequila, strawberry puree, and fresh sour. $10 Spice-A-Rita: This new drink features Espolón Reposado Tequila, Grand Marnier, fresh sour, Monin Jalapeño, and Tajín. Use hashtags like #NationalMargaritaDay and #MargaritaSpecials to join the celebration! Loan Discharge Announcement The Biden-Harris Administration is automatically discharging $1.2 billion in loans for nearly 153,000 borrowers eligible for the shortened time to forgiveness benefit under President Biden's Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan. This action comes as 7.5 million borrowers are now enrolled in SAVE, 4.3 million of whom have a $0 monthly payment. #StudentLoanForgiveness #BidenAdministration #EducationRelief Regulating AI in Elections Florida lawmakers are proposing regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) in elections after AI-generated political ads surfaced this election cycle. Concerns about the impact on voter trust and turnout are growing, prompting bipartisan support for disclosure requirements for AI-generated content. #AIEthics #ElectionIntegrity #RegulatingAI Starbucks China's Unique Lunar New Year Beverage Starbucks China introduces a limited-edition beverage called "Abundant Year Savory Latte" or "Lucky Savory Latte," inspired by Dongpo braised pork, a traditional dish during Lunar New Year. This sweet and smoky drink infuses coffee with pork flavors, offering a unique taste experience! #StarbucksChina #LunarNewYear #LimitedEdition Rosa Parks' Featherlite Pancake Recipe Discover an unusual recipe from civil rights icon Rosa Parks: Featherlite Pancakes! Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix in egg, milk, peanut butter, and melted shortening or oil. Cook at 275°F on a griddle. Enjoy this historical culinary gem! #RosaParks #FeatherlitePancakes #HistoricalRecipe Savannah Guthrie's Reflections on Faith Savannah Guthrie shares a touching moment from her daughter's baptism, highlighting her family's "really sweet faith." As an interfaith family, Savannah and her husband, Mike Feldman, guide their children in their faith journeys, aiming to instill values and foster connections with God. #FaithJourney #InterfaithFamily #ParentingReflections Protecting Whales in Washington's Salish Sea The U.S. Coast Guard launches a pilot program to protect whales in Washington state's Salish Sea from boat strikes and noise pollution. The "cetacean desk" collects whale sightings from civilians and mariners, issuing alerts to commercial vessels to reduce the risk of collisions. #WhaleProtection #MarineConservation #SalishSea KFC's Chizza Makes Its U.S. Debut KFC introduces the Chizza nationwide, featuring two fried chicken filets topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy pepperoni. Experience a pizza-inspired twist from KFC, available for a limited time starting Feb. 26! #Chizza #KFCMenu #PizzaInspired Intergenerational Care Village Opens in Northwest England Belong Chester, Northwest England's first intergenerational care village, celebrates its official opening. The innovative facility supports older people to live independently while integrating a day nursery, offering shared experiences between residents and children. #IntergenerationalCare #DementiaSupport #CommunityLiving

President Biden's Oval Office includes a bust and portrait of Abraham Lincoln, whose legacy recently intersected with Biden's own family history. Documents from the National Archive revealed that Lincoln pardoned Biden's great-great-grandfather, Moses J. Robinette, a Union army civilian employee. A fight in 1864 led to Robinette's conviction for attempted murder, but Lincoln's pardon overturned part of his sentence, reducing it to hard labor. Robinette later returned to his family in Maryland, leaving behind a story that has now emerged after 160 years. In India, tragedy struck at the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park when 34-year-old Prahlad Gurjar attempted to take a selfie with a 12-year-old Asiatic Lion named Dungpar. Despite warnings from a zoo employee and the enclosure's safety measures, Gurjar scaled a four-foot wall and a six-foot metal fence. The intoxicated man's actions proved fatal as the lion attacked him, resulting in his death. American Airlines now charges $40 for the first checked bag if not prepaid online, up from $30, and $35 if prepaid. The fee for a second bag increased from $40 to $45. Delta and United charge $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second. These changes are effective immediately. In New Mexico, the trial of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the set of "Rust," starts Wednesday. She faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and evidence tampering related to the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Gutierrez-Reed pleads not guilty, as does actor Alec Baldwin, who is also charged in a separate case. Tragedy struck at a Florida beach as a 7-year-old girl died when a hole she was digging collapsed on her and an 8-year-old boy. The boy survived and is hospitalized in stable condition. A criminal trial in New York involves the alleged unauthorized possession and attempted sale of manuscripts of the Eagles' hit songs, including "Hotel California." The defendants deny the charges. National Margarita Day is celebrated on February 22, tracing the cocktail's history to the 1940s. Ready-to-serve margaritas, like the Astral Margarita, are gaining popularity, with deals available at various establishments. A West Virginia bill could hold librarians and teachers criminally liable if minors access "obscene material." Opponents fear it could lead to book bans, while supporters argue it protects children from explicit content. The Firefly Petunia, a genetically modified flower that glows in the dark, is now available for pre-order. Developed by Light Bio, it emits a soft glow similar to moonlight and aims to spark interest in biotechnology and nature among children.

Presidents Day, Feb. 19, marks a federal holiday, offering government employees a long weekend. It's also a prime time for deals, with appliance stores rolling out discounts on refrigerators and washers. Wondering about Presidents Day's significance and who gets the day off? Get all the details below. When: Presidents Day falls on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, following the Uniform Holiday Bill's enactment in 1968, which shifted the celebration to Mondays for long weekends. Trump's Sneaker Launch: Former President Trump's new "Never Surrender High-Top Sneakers" sold out within hours of their launch at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. Limited to 1,000 pairs, the gold sneakers priced at $399 attracted buyers, with some lucky enough to snag autographed pairs. Truckers' Stand: Truck drivers backing former President Trump reportedly refuse to deliver shipments to New York City following a court's decision against Trump in a civil fraud suit. The move signals solidarity among drivers and opposition to perceived interference in Trump's affairs. Kelce's Support: NFL star Travis Kelce donates $100,000 to aid the Reyes family, victims of a shooting during the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade. Kelce's organization, Eighty-Seven Running, extends financial support to the family, while the girls injured in the incident receive a visit from Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his wife. 'Clustering' Trend: 'Clustering' gains traction on social media, showcasing creative chaos with meaningful items artfully displayed. Avery-Claire Nugent's Instagram account, Girls Who Cluster, leads the trend, inviting users to share their personalized clusters and fostering a community around aesthetic expression. Daytona 500 Star Power: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Pitbull, and DJ Khaled infuse star power into the Daytona 500, despite rain delays. The trio represents South Florida at the event, with Johnson serving as grand marshal and Pitbull scheduled for a performance. Monuments Men and Women: The Monuments Men and Women Foundation sheds light on female members' contributions during and after WWII. Mary Regan Quessenberry, among others, played crucial roles in recovering stolen art, with efforts now recognized in exhibits and publications. Presidents' Fun Facts: Discover lesser-known tidbits about U.S. presidents this Presidents Day, like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson's coincidental deaths on July 4, James Madison's status as the shortest president, and John Quincy Adams's daily skinny-dipping routine. Presidents Day Deals: Score savings on Presidents Day with discounts from Casey's, Chevys Fresh Mex, El Torito, Firehouse Subs, Gatorade, Main Event, and WineExpress. TerraCycle's Environmental Impact: TerraCycle Global Foundation celebrates removing over 2 million pounds of waste from waterways, contributing to cleaner oceans and sustainable practices through innovative solutions like river traps and recycling initiatives. Explore TerraCycle's recycling efforts and support their cause with purchases of beaded bracelets, aiding in plastic waste diversion and environmental conservation.

Title: University of Pennsylvania Offers Bachelor's Degree in Artificial Intelligence: What You Need to Know As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shape the future, educational institutions are adapting. The University of Pennsylvania (Penn) has announced a groundbreaking initiative: the introduction of a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.S.E) degree program focused on AI, slated to commence in the fall of 2024. Penn's move marks a significant milestone as the Ivy League institution becomes the first of its kind to offer an undergraduate degree specializing in AI. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to harness AI's potential ethically and responsibly across various sectors. Key Features of the Program: Comprehensive Curriculum: The B.S.E in Artificial Intelligence will cover essential AI principles, including computing algorithms, machine learning, data analytics, and advanced robotics. Diverse Course Offerings: Students will have the opportunity to explore specialized areas such as "Control For Autonomous Robots," "Natural Language Processing," and "Machine Perception," among others. Focused Concentrations: The program offers concentrations in Robotics, Vision/Language, Machine Learning, Data/Society, and Health/Systems, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. Implications and Outlook: Penn's initiative underscores the growing recognition of AI as a distinct academic discipline with far-reaching implications for society. By offering this degree program, Penn aims to cultivate a new generation of AI leaders committed to leveraging technology for the greater good. Prospective students interested in shaping the future of AI can find more information on the program and application details on Penn's official website.   OpenAI Introduces Sora: A Breakthrough in Text-to-Video Generation OpenAI, a leading research organization in artificial intelligence, has unveiled Sora, a groundbreaking generative video model capable of transforming text descriptions into detailed, high-definition video clips lasting up to one minute. Sora represents a significant advancement in text-to-video generation, a burgeoning research area highlighted as a key trend in 2024. Although OpenAI has not publicly released technical details or demonstrated Sora's functionality, previews of sample videos shared with MIT Technology Review showcase the model's impressive capabilities. Features of Sora: Realistic Animation: Sora produces realistic 3D animations with a focus on lighting, texture, and visual fidelity. Wide Application: The model can bring diverse scenes to life, ranging from whimsical creatures to intricate landscapes, based solely on textual descriptions. Potential Impact: Sora has the potential to revolutionize content creation, virtual storytelling, and multimedia production across various industries. While Sora's official release date remains undisclosed, its development signals a significant leap forward in AI-driven creativity and multimedia generation. Beyoncé's Country Music Ventures: A Radio Station's Change of Heart Beyoncé's foray into country music has sparked controversy and conversation, exemplified by a recent incident involving Oklahoma's KYKC radio station. After initially refusing to play Beyoncé's new country tracks, including "Texas Hold 'Em" and "16 Carriages," the station faced backlash from fans and online communities. A viral campaign led to a change of heart, prompting KYKC to add Beyoncé's songs to its playlist. This incident highlights broader discussions about genre boundaries in music and the evolving landscape of artistic expression. Educational Opportunity Amidst Natural Wonder: Oregon's Decomposing Fin Whale Oregon's Sunset Beach State Park is now home to a rare sight: the carcass of a 46-foot fin whale, which washed ashore entangled in rope. While the circumstances of its death remain unknown, marine biologists see this event as an educational opportunity. The whale's natural decomposition process will provide valuable nutrients to the local ecosystem, supporting scavengers and contributing to ecological balance. Unlike past approaches, which involved explosive disposal, this incident showcases a more informed and environmentally conscious response to natural phenomena. National Archives Incident: Environmental Protesters Target U.S. Constitution In a concerning incident at the National Archives, environmental protesters dumped reddish powder on the display case housing the original U.S. Constitution. Conservationists are working diligently to clean the artifact and assess potential damage. The perpetrators' motivations remain unclear, but the incident underscores the importance of safeguarding historical treasures and protecting public spaces from vandalism and disruption. OnlyFans Controversy Hits Florida Private School A controversy involving an OnlyFans creator and a private Christian school in Florida has led to the expulsion of multiple students. Michelle Cline's promotional decal on her car, advertising her OnlyFans account, sparked outrage among parents and administrators, resulting in disciplinary action against several students. This incident raises questions about the intersection of personal expression, parental responsibility, and school policies in the digital age. Rachel Dolezal's OnlyFans Account Leads to Termination from Arizona School District Rachel Dolezal, known for her controversial racial identity, faces professional repercussions over her involvement with OnlyFans. Her online activities, deemed inconsistent with her role as a school employee, resulted in termination from the Catalina Foothills Unified School District in Arizona. This development highlights the ongoing scrutiny surrounding public figures' online behavior and the potential consequences for professional reputations. Man Sentenced for Attempted Smuggling of Burmese Pythons A New York man has been sentenced for attempting to smuggle three Burmese pythons into the United States. Calvin Bautista's illicit actions, discovered at the Champlain Port of Entry in New York, resulted in probation and a hefty fine. This case sheds light on the dangers of wildlife trafficking and the importance of enforcing regulations to protect endangered species. Conclusion: "Blue Bloods" Nears Conclusion as Stone Age Discovery Unfolds As "Blue Bloods" approaches its final season, viewers anticipate the culmination of the beloved police procedural.   Stone Age Hunting Structure Discovered Off Baltic Coast   Geologists exploring the Baltic Sea off the coast of Rerik, Germany, have stumbled upon a remarkable archaeological find: a Stone Age hunting structure dating back approximately 11,000 years. This structure consists of a row of stones, over half a mile long and situated just 21 meters below the sea's surface. Key Findings: Purposeful Construction: The arrangement of the stones suggests deliberate construction by Stone Age hunter-gatherers, likely to facilitate hunting activities. Reindeer Hunting Theory: Researchers speculate that the structure served as a means to corral and trap reindeer, guiding them towards a bottleneck where hunters could more effectively capture and kill the animals. Comparative Analysis: Similar hunting structures have been discovered in other regions, such as Lake Huron in North America, indicating widespread use of these tactics by ancient societies. This discovery offers valuable insights into prehistoric human behaviors and adaptation strategies in coastal environments. Further research, including luminescence dating and landscape reconstruction, will shed more light on this intriguing archaeological site.

At least one person has been killed in a shooting in Kansas City, Missouri, during the National Football League's (NFL) Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs' victory celebrations. During Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl celebration at Union Station, a shooting left one dead and 21 injured. Authorities are investigating, with three suspects detained. The incident occurred while players were on stage, prompting chaos among the crowd. Among the wounded were 11 children. The slain victim, Lisa Lopez, was a DJ for a local radio station. The House Intelligence Committee disclosed a vague warning about a serious national security threat, possibly related to Russian capabilities in space. A fistfight broke out on a Southwest flight to Hawaii, prompting intervention from other passengers and crew. "Girl dinner" enters Dictionary.com's lexicon, originating from a TikTok trend. Intuitive Machines launched a lunar lander with experiments for NASA, aiming for a touchdown near the moon's south pole. Camilla, once controversial, now plays a prominent role in the royal family, filling in for ill members and earning respect through charity work. Notre Dame's scaffolding removal reveals its new spire, a symbol of its ongoing reconstruction. Authorities seek a stolen 200-year-old painting of George Washington in Colorado. Restaurants offer Lenten deals, including seafood discounts at Long John Silver's and Arby's, and meat-free options at Subway. Red Lobster brings back Lobsterfest with new dishes.

John Travolta's Opposition to Land Rezoning: John Travolta opposes rezoning around Jumbolair due to concerns about increased development. He cites potential safety, environmental, and property value issues in his objection. Valentine's Day Dining Specials: Baked by Melissa: Offers on Valentine's Day gift boxes until Feb. 15. BJ's: Dine-in for a free Pizookie coupon. Burger King: Royal Perks deals until Feb. 17. Carvel: Buy one, get one free sundae. Corner Bakery Cafe: Free sweet with any purchase. Fazoli's: Free cheesecake with any entrée. Firehouse Subs: Free medium sub with purchase of a large sub after 4 p.m. Friendly's: Buy one, get one free medium sundae. Gopuff: Deals on wine until Feb. 14. Grubhub: BOGO deal at Chipotle. Häagen-Dazs Shops: $2 off any regular sized smoothie until Feb. 18. Hat Creek: Free kids meal with $10 purchase until Feb. 16. HTeaO: Buy one, get one free on all tea flavors. Hungry Howie's: 10% off heart-shaped pizza or Cheeser bread. Jack in the Box: BOGO deals and discounts on Ultimate Cheeseburgers. Johnny Rocket's: BOGO deal on shakes until Feb. 18. KFC: BOGO deals on Smash'd Potato Bowls and $20 Taste of KFC Meal. Kolache Factory: Free kolache on Feb. 14. Moe's Southwest Grill: Free Blazin' Birria Taco with any purchase until Feb. 14. P.F. Chang's: Free dumplings for singles. Playa Bowls: BOGO deal on the Bae Bowl. Pokeworks: $2 off cookies until Feb. 14. Pollo Campero: Double rewards for rewards members on Feb. 14. Qdoba: Free entrée with purchase of an entrée and a drink on Feb. 14. Round Table Pizza: $5 off heart-shaped pizza until Feb. 14. Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café: Two-for-one deal on select drinks. Tender Greens: Free dessert with any entrée. The Cheesecake Factory: $10 credit with $50 gift card purchase until Feb. 20. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: BOGO offer on any beverage. Tocaya Modern Mexican: Free churro bites with order on Feb. 14. Twin Peaks: Discounts on drinks for Valentine's Day. John Travolta in Olinda's Carnival: A giant puppet of John Travolta leads a parade during Olinda's Carnival in Brazil. Despite its imperfect resemblance, the puppet has become a beloved tradition. The puppet, created in 1979, symbolizes the city's vibrant Carnival celebrations. Misinformation on Stress and Cancer: Victoria Mather falsely claims stress is a major cause of cancer on LBC Radio. Her statement is challenged by Cancer Research UK, stating no evidence supports this claim. The Rise of Public Granny Panties: High-waisted briefs are now worn publicly, even by celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner. Celebrities embrace granny panties as fashion statements or wear them discreetly beneath clothing. AI Companions and Emotional Attachment: Derek Carrier finds solace in an AI companion app named Joi. Users develop emotional attachments to AI companions, using them for support and companionship. Art and Money Installation in Denver: Xander Phoenix hides 100 papier-mâché hearts made of $1 bills around Denver. Each heart contains a QR code leading to more information about the art installation. Finders can choose to convert the heart back into currency or keep it as a piece of art. Art and Found Day Initiative: Artists distribute their artwork for free within their communities on March 12, 2023. Each piece is labeled with the hashtag #ArtandFoundDay and a note about the artist. Participants share their art drops and finds using the hashtag on social media.

Nor'easter to Hit New England and Mid-Atlantic with Heavy Snow A potent Nor'easter is set to pound New England and the Mid-Atlantic until Tuesday, unleashing heavy snow and causing travel chaos. Forecasters anticipate snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, leading to significant disruptions in areas such as southern New England and southern Pennsylvania. Super Bowl Draws Record-Breaking Viewership The Super Bowl on Sunday captivated a massive audience of 123.4 million viewers, as the Kansas City Chiefs clinched victory against the San Francisco 49ers in an exhilarating overtime showdown. Broadcast across multiple networks and streaming platforms, the game garnered unprecedented attention, fueled by its Las Vegas setting and star-studded appearances. Mecole Hardman Jr. Reflects on Super Bowl Heroics Kansas City Chiefs' Mecole Hardman Jr. recounts his game-winning touchdown catch in the 2024 Super Bowl, expressing disbelief at the moment's magnitude. Despite initially blacking out after the catch, Hardman's heroics contributed to the Chiefs' dramatic comeback victory over the San Francisco 49ers. Dolly Parton Responds to Elle King's Controversial Tribute Dolly Parton extends forgiveness to Elle King following the singer's controversial performance of "Marry Me" at the Grand Ole Opry. Despite King's onstage behavior, Parton acknowledges her talent and personal struggles, urging understanding and moving past the incident. New Jersey Mandates Grief Education in Schools New Jersey introduces mandatory grief instruction in public schools, recognizing the importance of preparing students to cope with loss. With childhood exposure to death common, educators aim to equip adolescents with coping strategies and support networks to navigate grief's complexities. George H.W. Bush's Speedboat Up for Auction Former President George H.W. Bush's iconic speedboat, "Fidelity V," is slated for auction, offering enthusiasts a chance to experience its thrilling legacy. Proceeds from the sale will benefit educational initiatives at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum and The Bush School of Government & Public Service. Galentine's Day Celebrates Female Friendship Galentine's Day emerges as a cherished celebration of platonic love and camaraderie among women, offering an alternative to traditional Valentine's Day festivities. Originating from "Parks and Recreation," this unofficial holiday encourages gatherings and appreciation of female friendships on February 13th. IHOP Offers Free Pancakes for National Pancake Day IHOP commemorates National Pancake Day with complimentary pancakes and a fundraising initiative to combat food insecurity. Customers can enjoy free pancakes while contributing to a charitable cause throughout the day. Kennedy Family Disavows Super Bowl Campaign Ad The Kennedy family disowns a campaign ad featuring Robert Kennedy Jr., expressing dismay over its content and unauthorized use of family images. Despite its costly airing during the Super Bowl, Kennedy apologizes for any distress caused by the advertisement's divisive messaging. Trash Collectors Rescue Woman's Lost Wedding Ring Trash collectors in Greenville demonstrate exceptional dedication by recovering a woman's lost wedding ring from a recycling bin. Their exhaustive search and commitment to public service exemplify community spirit and compassion. Flight Attendant Saves Flamingo Eggs Mid-Flight Alaska Airlines flight attendant Amber May goes above and beyond to safeguard six flamingo eggs during a flight, improvising with warm water-filled gloves to maintain their incubation. Her quick thinking and passengers' generosity ensure the safe transport of the precious cargo, earning heartfelt gratitude from the Woodland Park Zoo.

Kansas City Chiefs Secure Third Super Bowl Win in Five Years In an electrifying comeback, the Kansas City Chiefs clinched their third Super Bowl title in five years, marking a historic victory as the first back-to-back NFL champions in nearly two decades. The Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, rallied from a halftime deficit against the San Francisco 49ers to force overtime. In a thrilling finish at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium, Mahomes orchestrated a game-winning drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to receiver Mecole Hardman. With a final score of 25-22, the Chiefs dashed the 49ers' hopes of redemption from their previous Super Bowl loss. Mahomes, named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player for the third time in his career, showcased his prowess with 34 completions and two touchdowns, solidifying his status as a football legend. Chiefs' Super Bowl Victory Parade Details Revealed Following their Super Bowl triumph, the Kansas City Chiefs announced plans for a celebratory victory parade in downtown Kansas City. Scheduled for Wednesday, February 14th, the parade promises to be a grand affair, reminiscent of last year's event which drew nearly 1 million enthusiastic fans. Mayor Lucas disclosed that festivities will kick off with a parade starting at 6th Street in the River Market, proceeding south on Grand Boulevard through downtown, Power & Light, and the Crossroads. The parade will conclude with a rally at Union Station, allowing fans to revel in the team's success. As anticipation builds for the event, all eyes are on the possibility of a star-studded appearance by Taylor Swift, which could further elevate the excitement surrounding the celebration. Usher's Halftime Show Receives Mixed Reviews Usher's halftime performance at the Super Bowl in Las Vegas garnered praise from fans while drawing mixed reactions from critics. The R&B icon dazzled audiences with a high-energy spectacle featuring elaborate choreography and a medley of his hit songs. Opening with "Caught Up," Usher set the stage for a dynamic showcase of his musical repertoire. Collaborations with Alicia Keys, Jermaine Dupri, Will.I.Am, Lil Jon, and Ludacris added to the star-studded lineup, showcasing the breadth of Usher's influence in the music industry. Despite some technical issues with sound mixing, Usher's undeniable talent and stage presence shone through, reaffirming his status as the King of R&B. Beyoncé Teases New Album Release Beyoncé sent shockwaves through the music world with the announcement of her upcoming album, "Act II," set to release on March 29th. The Grammy-winning artist unveiled two new singles, "Texas Holdem" and "16 Carriages," offering fans a taste of her highly anticipated project. With her signature blend of innovation and artistry, Beyoncé hinted at a departure from her previous album's sound, teasing a more country-inspired direction. The announcement has sparked fervent excitement among her devoted fanbase, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in her musical journey. Hershey Faces Profit Challenges Amid Rising Cocoa Costs Hershey Co. confronts profit concerns amidst surging cocoa prices, fueled by supply chain disruptions and adverse weather conditions in West Africa. The company anticipates flat earnings per share for the year, attributing the stagnation to escalating cocoa and sugar costs. CEO Michele Buck reassured consumers of Hershey's commitment to navigating the challenges, employing strategic pricing adjustments to manage the impact on the confection business. However, heightened inflation fears and cautious consumer spending cast a shadow over the chocolate giant's outlook. As Valentine's Day approaches, Hershey's stock reflects investor apprehension, signaling a bumpy road ahead for the iconic chocolate brand. Bo Jackson Wins $21 Million Verdict in Extortion Case Former professional athlete Bo Jackson emerged victorious in a legal battle against his niece and nephew, securing a $21 million verdict in his favor. The civil case, filed against Thomas Lee Anderson and Erica M. Anderson Ross, alleged attempted extortion through harassment and intimidation. The court's decision, accompanied by a permanent protective order, prohibits the defendants from further contact with Jackson and his family. Jackson's legal team commended his resilience in the face of adversity, sending a strong message against extortion tactics. Mobile, Alabama: Birthplace of Mardi Gras in America While New Orleans often steals the spotlight, historians credit Mobile, Alabama, as the true birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States. Dating back to 1703, Mobile's vibrant celebrations predate those of its Louisiana counterpart, marking the earliest documented modern carnival in America. With a rich tradition of Mystic Societies and elaborate parades, Mobile embodies the essence of American carnival culture. As the countdown to Fat Tuesday begins, revelers flock to Mobile to partake in its storied festivities, steeped in history and tradition. #ChiefsKingdom #SuperBowlChamps #BackToBackChamps #MahomesMagic #SuperBowlOT #KansasCityChiefs #SuperBowl58 #NFLChampions #ChiefsParade #VictoryParade #KansasCityCelebration #SuperBowlParade #ChiefsNation #UnionStationRally #SuperBowlCelebration #UsherHalftimeShow #SuperBowlHalftime #RnBLegend #UsherPerformance #SuperBowlEntertainment #UsherFans #HalftimeSpectacle #BeyonceActII #NewMusicAlert #BeyHive #BeyonceAlbum #ActIISingles #MusicTeaser #Beyonce2024 #HersheyCocoaCrisis #ChocolateIndustry #CocoaPrices #CocoaSupply #ConfectioneryBusiness #HersheyStock #ValentinesChocolate #BoJacksonVictory #ExtortionVerdict #LegalWin #BoJacksonJustice #LegalBattle #BoJacksonCase #FamilyConflict #MardiGrasMobile #MobileMardiGras #MysticSocieties #MardiGrasHistory #AlabamaTradition #CarnivalCulture #FatTuesday #ValentinesDatePoll #PerfectDateSurvey #ValentinesDayIdeas #DateNightPoll #RomanticDate #Valentines2024 #LoveIsInTheAir

A statue honoring the memory of the late Kobe Bryant was unveiled yesterday at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. A tornado ripped through Madison, Wisconsin, yesterday leaving thousands of businesses and residences without electricity. A 4.0 magnitude earthquake was reported off the coast of Florida on Wednesday near Cape Canaveral. King Charles and Prince William have made their first public comments since the monarch's cancer diagnosis was announced. And the winners of the Vesuvius Challenge, which sought to inspire young people to use AI technology to decode burnt scrolls found in a Pompeii library, have collected a $700,000 prize for their efforts.

Florida Spring Break Visitors' Guide Special Guide To Florida Spring Breakers   Welcome to Florida!   Welcome to Florida, home of breathtaking beaches, vibrant nightlife, and an abundance of sunshine year-round. Explore the enchanting Everglades, where alligators glide through marshy waters, or indulge in the magic of Disney World, where fairy tales come to life. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Miami, where salsa rhythms and art deco architecture blend seamlessly.   In today's special podcast, we'll tell you about the places to stay, the day trips to explore, the foods to experience, and we'll even throw in some history, some little known factoids, and even some of Florida's mysterious folklore.   Whether you're seeking adventure in the Keys or relaxation on the Gulf Coast, Florida offers something for everyone. So, kick back, soak up the rays, and embrace the laid-back charm of the Sunshine State as we present our special Florida Guide For Spring Break guests!     A Look Back at Spring Breaks of the Past.   You could say that the modern-day week-long Spring Break dates back to the 1960s. The release of the classic road trip film "Where the Boys Are" which tells the story of four very different college girls who drive to Fort Lauderdale in Florida looking for boys, fun, sun and romance.   During the hippy period of the late 60s and early 70s, alcohol and free love took its toll and some beach communities tried to deter spring breakers.   A number of Florida towns make the top 10 most popular Spring Break destinations including Daytona Beach, Panama City Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers and Tampa.   By the time of the 80s, Spring Break started to mature, becoming less about getting drunk and more about concerts and parties, visiting theme parks, taking part in sports and other activities like surfing, scuba diving and parasailing.   Each year more and more students are also looking at charity programs helping people in the developing world.     Before we go any further, here's what your Mom wants you to bring:   ·      Light Clothing: Bring plenty of lightweight and breathable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses, and swimsuits. ·      Sun Protection: Don't forget sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a beach umbrella for shade. ·      Beach Gear: Towels, beach chairs, flip-flops or sandals, and a beach bag to carry your essentials. ·      Waterproof Accessories: Waterproof phone case, waterproof camera, and waterproof pouch for valuables if you plan on spending time in the water. ·      Hydration: Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle and electrolyte drinks, especially if you'll be in the sun for long periods. ·      Entertainment: Bring along a good book, a portable speaker for music, or games like beach volleyball or a frisbee. ·      Snacks: Pack some snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit to keep you energized throughout the day. ·      Casual Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring, as well as a pair of sneakers if you plan on engaging in any outdoor activities. ·      Rain Gear: While it's usually sunny in Florida, it's good to be prepared for sudden showers. Bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho just in case. ·      Evening Attire: If you're planning on going out in the evenings, pack some nicer outfits and shoes for dinners or nights out on the town.       Okay, now aim your GPS:     Panama City Beach   Panama City Beach (known as PCB) with its 27 miles of beautiful white sandy beaches is one of the most popular Spring Break destinations. With free shuttle buses to take you from the hotels to the nightclubs and bars.   It lays claim to being the "Spring Break Capital of the World". Orlando would dispute that as it is now the #1 Florida Spring Break destination.   Panama City Beach has some of the world's largest beach clubs. Places like Harpoon Harry's, Club La Vela (largest club in the United States), Hammerhead Fred's, Latitudes and Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant. The Spinnaker Club has shut its nightclub and is now the Spinnaker Beachside Grill.   It is not over-developed, it is still reasonably priced and regulations were fairly relaxed. However, after some bad incidents in 2015, laws have been tightened and alcohol is no longer allowed on the beach and clubs must stop selling alcohol by 2 a.m. This resulted in a big drop off in student numbers but it still attracts around 2 million students each year.     Daytona Beach   Daytona Beach is still an inexpensive choice and hence an important Spring Break destination. Despite the dramatic rise in popularity of Panama City Beach. The Daytona International Speedway and the Kennedy Space Center are all close by. Orlando and Florida's many theme parks are only a day trip away.   One of Daytona's claims to fame is the 23 miles of beach, most of which you can drive along in your car. A few years ago, a mile-long strip of beach in front of the historic Boardwalk was declared a vehicle-free zone but you can still drive and park on 16 miles of beach, tide permitting.   Being on the Atlantic coast, unlike the Gulf of Mexico, brings the opportunity to go surfing. Like all the Florida destinations, Daytona has its fair share of top-class nightclubs including Baja Beach Club, Club 600 North, Razzles, Ocean Deck and Fat Tuesday.     Orlando   If the beach is not your thing, then Orlando makes a good destination. With Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld all within a few miles of each other.   There are still plenty of opportunities to swim at water parks. There is Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, Aquatica and Volcano Bay, not forgetting Discovery Cove.   For nightclubs you cannot beat Universal's CityWalk for choice. There is also no shortage of great resort hotels with pools, private villas and condominiums.     Miami South Beach   Miami, and in particular South Beach, is an up-and-coming Spring Break destination. With its vibrant culture and amazing nightlife and is popular with the more sophisticated partygoers.   There are not many places that beat Miami when it comes to upmarket restaurants and nightclubs and being further south, the weather is even better.   Fort Lauderdale   Fort Lauderdale has some amazing beaches, boating canals and stunning nature. Its slightly more relaxed vibe is perfect for spring breakers looking for a mix of beach fun and a touch of sophistication.   Other Florida Destinations   Amongst the other Florida top spots is Jacksonville. With its vibrant night scene, laid-back Key West, Hollywood Beach, St Pete Clearwater Beach and Naples.         The Theme Parks:   Walt Disney World   What is the best way to buy Disney World tickets? To answer your question as simply as possible, the best way to purchase tickets in my opinion is as early as possible online via the Walt Disney World Resort website which has always been the most efficient option for us overall.   With more than 120 attractions, 50 entertainment options and 140 dining destinations in our 4 theme parks and 2 water parks, there's plenty of fun for a multi-day stay at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida. Prices below are for a one-day ticket (unless otherwise noted) before tax, for ages 10+.   Prices and Products for All Guests Theme Park Ticket 1 to 10-day standard date-based ticket   Date-based ticket that requires you to choose a start date.   1-day ticket (Ages 10+) from: $109 to $189   Theme Park Ticket   Standard date-based theme park tickets require you to choose a start date at purchase. Receive admission to one theme park per day for each day of your ticket. Choose from 4 amazing theme parks: Magic Kingdom park EPCOT Disney's Hollywood Studios Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park   Park Hopper option: Visit more than one theme park on the same day. The ability to visit a park is subject to the park's capacity limitations.   Water Park and Sports option: Visit one theme park per day, plus enjoy a certain number of visits to a water park or other Walt Disney World fun. A 2-day ticket allows two visits, a 3-day ticket allows 3 visits and a 4-day ticket allows 4 visits. For each visit, you can choose one of the following:   Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park (Currently Unavailable) Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course FootGolf at Disney's Oak Trail Disney's Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course (one round; prior to 4:00 PM) Disney's Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course (one round; prior to 4:00 PM)   Park Hopper Plus option: Visit more than one theme park on the same day, plus enjoy a certain number of visits to a water park or other Walt Disney World fun. A 2-day ticket allows 2 visits, a 3-day ticket allows 3 visits and a 4-day ticket allows 4 visits. The ability to visit a park is subject to the park's capacity limitations.     Universal Studios Orlando     Do you have to buy Universal Studios tickets in advance? Tickets are available online in advance at universalstudioshollywood.com to save vs. Front Gate pricing. While tickets are available at the Front Gate, we do advise visiting our online ticket store before leaving for the park to check if the visit date is shown as "Sold Out."   1-Day One Park Ticket Adults (10+) $119.00     Other Day Trip and Theme Park Ideas   Busch Gardens SeaWorld LegoLand Kennedy Space Center         Hidden Gems:   St. George Island State Park Located in Northwest Florida on the Forgotten Coast, one word perfectly sums up St. George Island State Park: Pristine. Nine miles of white sand beaches, towering sand dunes and untouched, natural beauty make it one the best secluded beaches in the Sunshine State. Mere minutes away from great seafood, park activities include camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking and biking.     Canaveral National Seashore This barrier island promises a sanctuary for both people and wildlife.  Hugged next to the Atlantic Ocean between Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach, Canaveral National Seashore encompasses a 140,000-acre wildlife refuge and long expanses of natural beaches, stretching as far as you can see along sandy dunes. The park offers opportunities for back-country camping, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, surfing, swimming, boating and bird watching.     Caladesi Island State Park The real Florida awaits you at Caladesi, situated north of Clearwater and south of Tarpon Springs. Accessible via the Caladesi Island Ferry, a boat shuttle service that runs daily from Honeymoon Island State Park, Caladesi delivers miles of glistening white sandy beaches surrounded by bluish-green water. You can often spot dolphins off shore, and wooden benches provide a place to relax and enjoy the Gulf beach view. For the perfect end to the day, visit a local seafood favorite, Olde Bay Café. It overlooks St. Joseph Sound with a view of Caladesi Island on Main Street in Dunedin.     Navarre Beach Navarre Beach is a little off of the beaten path- and that's one of the best things about it. Sited east of Pensacola, this quiet destination boasts a generous white-sand beach snuggled against the emerald-hued Gulf of Mexico. It's a serene retreat, renowned for fishing and its pier, 1,545 feet long and 30 feet tall. Stroll out onto it for sweeping views of the beach and the dunes, rolling both directions as far as the eye can see. From atop the pier you'll almost always spot schools of fish. But you might see a stingray too, looking for all the world as if it's flying underwater, or even dolphins, out on a fishing expedition of their own.     Dry Tortugas National Park Accessible only by ferry or seaplane, and sited 70 miles west of Key West across open water, this most-remote national park is a true escape. But you won't miss civilization. Dominated by Fort Jefferson, the largest brick building in the western hemisphere, the Dry Tortugas are something you'd conjure up in a dream. Surrounded by impossibly crystalline, emerald-tinted waters, its beaches are lush with powdery-white sand.   Santa Rosa Beach Famed for its pristine beauty, turquoise waters and glorious, white-sand shores, Santa Rosa Beach invites you to discover local boutiques, browse art galleries and indulge in award-winning cuisine. Located on Northwest Florida's famed Emerald Coast, this laid-back getaway is short on crowds and long on relaxation. You can't beat it for an idyllic combination of upscale amenities and stretches of sand where you'll never struggle to find a place to spread out your beach towel.     Don Pedro Island A three minute ferry ride will whisk you away to Don Pedro Island—and transport you to another world, one that's ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and a peaceful retreat. Just a splash away from Englewood on Florida's southern Gulf Coast, this seven mile long escape promises world-class shelling and birding, epic sunsets, and pristine beaches. The fishing is spectacular, with the area's waters yielding trout, redfish, snook, tarpon and grouper. Accessible only by boat, ferry, or private watercraft, this barrier island encompasses Palm Island Resort, Don Pedro Island State Park, and single family homes. Cars are a rarity, and almost everyone gets around via golf carts, which are available for rental.     Cape San Blas Unspoiled beaches laden with white sand, pet-friendly vacation rentals, and epic outdoor adventures like horseback riding on the beach await visitors to Cape San Blas. Linked to the Florida peninsula by a thread of land, Cape San Blas is sited close to Port St. Joe on Florida's Forgotten Coast. This tranquil getaway is home to the 1,900-acre  T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, named the best beach in America (2002) by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (a.k.a. Dr. Beach).  It's a place to relax and reconnect with nature, nosh on fresh Florida seafood at family-owned eateries, and enjoy fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, and hiking.     Mexico Beach This charming, small coastal town, situated along Florida's panhandle in Bay County, is known for its serene, natural beaches and relaxed vibe. The area's beaches boast sugar-white, pure quartz sand, a rarity that's cool on your bare toes and a treat for the eyes. The water is gin-clear and emerald-colored. Due to its calm waters and abundant marine life, it's an ideal spot for fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Mexico Beach offers a variety of colorful vacation rentals, several beachfront hotels, and two RV parks. The town has local eateries serving fresh seafood and southern cuisine, including the iconic Killer Seafood, as well as shops offering beachwear and souvenirs.         Gasparilla Island State Park Nestled along Florida's southwest coast in Boca Grande—an upscale, hidden gem--Gasparilla Island State Park boasts serene beaches and unspoiled Florida coastal beauty. The park invites you to swim and sunbathe; explore the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and its museum; snorkel or scuba dive in its clear waters; or embark on a treasure hunt for seashells on its uncrowded shores. It's nirvana for anglers, with tarpon and other prized fish favoring the blue waters.               MLB Spring Training   Several Major League Baseball (MLB) teams conduct their spring training in Florida as part of the Grapefruit League. Here are the MLB teams that hold their spring training in Florida:   Atlanta Braves: The Atlanta Braves conduct their spring training at CoolToday Park in North Port, Florida.   Baltimore Orioles: The Baltimore Orioles hold their spring training at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, Florida.   Boston Red Sox: The Boston Red Sox conduct their spring training at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida.   Detroit Tigers: The Detroit Tigers hold their spring training at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida.   Houston Astros: The Houston Astros conduct their spring training at FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, Florida.   Miami Marlins: The Miami Marlins hold their spring training at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Florida.   Minnesota Twins: The Minnesota Twins conduct their spring training at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Florida.   New York Mets: The New York Mets hold their spring training at Clover Park in Port St. Lucie, Florida.   New York Yankees: The New York Yankees conduct their spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida.   Philadelphia Phillies: The Philadelphia Phillies hold their spring training at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Florida.   Pittsburgh Pirates: The Pittsburgh Pirates conduct their spring training at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida.   St. Louis Cardinals: The St. Louis Cardinals hold their spring training at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Florida.         What is the history of auto racing in Florida?   The history of auto racing in Florida dates back to the early 20th century, with the state playing a significant role in the development of the sport in the United States. Here's an overview of key milestones and events in the history of auto racing in Florida:   Daytona Beach and the Birth of Speed: Daytona Beach is often considered the birthplace of stock car racing. In the early 1900s, the hard-packed sand of Daytona Beach provided an ideal setting for land speed record attempts. Racing enthusiasts and daredevils flocked to the beach to test the limits of their vehicles and compete for speed records. This era laid the foundation for the Daytona Beach Road Course, a legendary racing circuit that hosted events from the 1930s to the 1950s.   Daytona International Speedway: In 1959, the iconic Daytona International Speedway opened its doors, ushering in a new era of professional racing in Florida. The inaugural race at the speedway was the first Daytona 500, now one of the most prestigious events in NASCAR. Daytona International Speedway quickly became a cornerstone of the NASCAR circuit, hosting major races like the Daytona 500, the Coke Zero Sugar 400, and the Rolex 24 at Daytona.   Sebring International Raceway: Located in central Florida, Sebring International Raceway is one of the oldest continuously operating race tracks in the United States. The track was originally built on a World War II airbase and hosted its first race, the Sebring 12 Hours, in 1952. The Sebring 12 Hours has since become one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world, attracting top drivers and teams from around the globe.   Homestead-Miami Speedway: Homestead-Miami Speedway, located south of Miami, opened in 1995 and has become a prominent venue for auto racing in Florida. The speedway hosts NASCAR, IndyCar, and IMSA races, including the NASCAR Cup Series finale, which determines the series champion.   Street Racing and Drag Strips: In addition to professional racing venues, Florida has a vibrant street racing scene and numerous drag strips where enthusiasts gather to test their cars and compete in organized events. From grassroots racing on local streets to sanctioned drag racing competitions at dedicated facilities, the state offers a variety of opportunities for auto racing enthusiasts of all levels.   Role in Motorsports Culture: Florida's role in auto racing extends beyond its race tracks and events. The state has a thriving motorsports culture, with numerous racing teams, automotive museums, and enthusiast clubs dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the sport. Additionally, Florida hosts events like car shows, swap meets, and vintage races that celebrate the rich history of auto racing in the state.   Overall, Florida has played a significant role in the evolution of auto racing in the United States, with its iconic venues, historic events, and passionate fan base contributing to the sport's enduring popularity in the Sunshine State and beyond.           What are Florida's professional sports teams?   Florida is home to several professional sports teams across a variety of leagues. Here's an overview of some of the major professional sports teams in Florida:   National Football League (NFL):   Miami Dolphins: Based in Miami Gardens, the Dolphins are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NFL. They play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium.   Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jacksonville Jaguars are based in Jacksonville, Florida, and are members of the NFL's American Football Conference (AFC) South division. The team was founded in 1995 and has been playing its home games at TIAA Bank Field since then.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are based in Tampa, Florida, and are members of the NFL's National Football Conference (NFC) South division. The team was established in 1976 and plays its home games at Raymond James Stadium.     Major League Baseball (MLB):   Miami Marlins: Also based in Miami, the Marlins have won two World Series championships (in 1997 and 2003). They play their home games at loanDepot park.   National Basketball Association (NBA):   Miami Heat: The Heat, based in Miami, have won three NBA championships (in 2006, 2012, and 2013). They play their home games at FTX Arena.   National Hockey League (NHL):   Florida Panthers: Based in Sunrise, the Panthers are one of the southernmost teams in the NHL. They play their home games at FLA Live Arena.   Major League Soccer (MLS):   Inter Miami CF: Inter Miami is a relatively new MLS franchise based in Fort Lauderdale. The team began play in 2020 and plays its home games at DRV PNK Stadium.   National Women's Soccer League (NWSL):   Orlando Pride: The Orlando Pride is a professional women's soccer team based in Orlando. They play their home games at Exploria Stadium.   United Soccer League (USL Championship):   Tampa Bay Rowdies: The Rowdies are a professional soccer team based in St. Petersburg. They compete in the USL Championship and play their home games at Al Lang Stadium.   Arena Football League (AFL):   Orlando Predators: The Predators are an arena football team based in Orlando. They have a storied history in the Arena Football League, although the league has experienced various changes in recent years.   Minor League Baseball (MiLB):   Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp: The Jumbo Shrimp are a minor league baseball team based in Jacksonville, competing in the Triple-A Southeast league.   Pensacola Blue Wahoos: The Blue Wahoos are a minor league baseball team based in Pensacola, competing in the Double-A South league.   Tampa Tarpons: The Tarpons are a minor league baseball team based in Tampa, competing in the Low-A Southeast league.   National Women's Soccer League (NWSL):   Tampa Bay Rowdies Women: The Rowdies Women are a professional women's soccer team based in St. Petersburg, affiliated with the men's Tampa Bay Rowdies team.   United Soccer League (USL Championship):   Fort Lauderdale CF: Fort Lauderdale CF is a professional soccer team based in Fort Lauderdale, serving as the reserve team for Inter Miami CF.   Miami FC: Miami FC is a professional soccer team based in Miami, competing in the USL Championship.   Women's Premier Soccer League (WPSL):   South Florida Surf: The South Florida Surf is a women's soccer team based in Miami, competing in the Women's Premier Soccer League.   National Lacrosse League (NLL):   Florida Launch: The Launch was a professional lacrosse team based in Fort Lauderdale that competed in the National Lacrosse League until 2019.   World TeamTennis (WTT):   Orlando Storm: The Orlando Storm is a professional tennis team based in Orlando, competing in World TeamTennis. COMMERCIAL BREAK Folklore and Legends Florida, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, has a variety of folklore stories passed down through generations. Here are a few:   The Skunk Ape: Similar to Bigfoot, the Skunk Ape is a legendary creature said to inhabit the swamps of Florida. Described as a large, ape-like creature with a foul odor, sightings of the Skunk Ape have been reported for decades.   The Fountain of Youth: The legend of the Fountain of Youth is closely associated with the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, who is said to have searched for it in Florida in the 16th century. According to folklore, drinking from the Fountain of Youth would grant eternal youth and vitality.   The Devil's Tree: Located in Oak Hammock Park in Port St. Lucie, the Devil's Tree is said to be cursed. Legend has it that it was used for lynchings during the Jim Crow era, and the souls of those who died there are said to haunt the area.   The Ghost of Julia Tuttle: Julia Tuttle, known as the "Mother of Miami," is said to haunt the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. According to legend, her ghost can be seen wandering the halls of the hotel, which was once her mansion.   The Legend of Osceola's Curse: Osceola, a famous Seminole leader, is said to have placed a curse on the state of Florida during his capture by the U.S. Army in the 19th century. The curse is believed to bring misfortune to anyone who disturbs his burial site.   The Swamp Witch of Okefenokee: This legend tells of a witch who resides in the Okefenokee Swamp, which spans parts of Florida and Georgia. She is said to lure travelers into the swamp with promises of treasure, only to trap them forever in its murky depths.   The Legend of the Bermuda Triangle: Florida's coastline is part of the infamous Bermuda Triangle, an area known for the mysterious disappearance of ships and aircraft. According to folklore, the Bermuda Triangle is cursed or haunted, with numerous unexplained phenomena occurring within its bounds.   The Ghost Bride of St. Augustine: The St. Augustine Lighthouse, located in the oldest city in the United States, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young woman who died tragically. Legend has it that she is the ghost of a bride who fell to her death while climbing the lighthouse stairs on her wedding day.   The Legend of Gasparilla: Gasparilla is a legendary pirate who is said to have roamed the waters of Florida's Gulf Coast during the 18th century. Every year, the city of Tampa hosts the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, a celebration of the pirate's legacy with parades, parties, and other events.   The Haunted Bridge of Gold Head Branch State Park: Gold Head Branch State Park is home to a haunted bridge known as "Ghost Bridge." According to legend, the bridge is haunted by the ghost of a woman who died there under mysterious circumstances. Visitors report hearing strange noises and seeing apparitions near the bridge at night.   The Legend of the Coral Castle: Coral Castle, located in Homestead, Florida, is a mysterious structure built entirely of coral rock by a Latvian immigrant named Edward Leedskalnin. Legend has it that Leedskalnin possessed supernatural powers and used them to single-handedly construct the castle as a tribute to his lost love.   The Devil's Millhopper: The Devil's Millhopper is a geological formation near Gainesville, Florida, characterized by a large sinkhole with steep walls. According to folklore, the sinkhole is bottomless and serves as a portal to the underworld, leading to stories of strange creatures and mysterious disappearances in the area.   The Ghosts of Fort Jefferson: Fort Jefferson, located in Dry Tortugas National Park off the coast of Key West, is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of soldiers and prisoners who died there during the Civil War. Visitors and park rangers have reported eerie encounters and unexplained phenomena within the fort's walls.   The Legend of the Ghost Panther: In the dense forests of the Florida Everglades, there are tales of a mysterious black panther that is said to be the ghost of a Seminole warrior. According to legend, the ghost panther protects the land and its inhabitants, but those who encounter it should proceed with caution.   The Legend of Bloody Bucket Road: Near Sarasota, there is a stretch of road known as Bloody Bucket Road, which is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a murdered woman who carries a blood-filled bucket. Legend has it that her spirit appears to travelers late at night, seeking vengeance for her untimely death.   The Legend of the Devil's Chair: Located in a cemetery in Cassadaga, Florida, the Devil's Chair is a stone chair rumored to be cursed. According to legend, if you sit in the chair at midnight and make a pact with the devil, he will come to claim your soul. Many brave or foolish individuals have tested this legend with varying results.   The Legend of the Skunk Ape Bridge: In the Florida Everglades, there is a bridge known as the "Skunk Ape Bridge," named after the legendary creature said to inhabit the area. According to folklore, the Skunk Ape is known to cross the bridge at night, and sightings of the creature have been reported by locals and travelers alike.   The Ghost Lights of the Everglades: In the remote areas of the Florida Everglades, there have been reports of mysterious ghost lights known as "spook lights" or "will-o'-the-wisps." These eerie lights are said to flicker and dance in the darkness, leading travelers astray or marking the presence of spirits.   The Legend of Mayaca: Mayaca is a mythical creature from Seminole folklore, described as a monstrous serpent-like creature with glowing red eyes. According to legend, Mayaca lurks in the dark waters of Florida's lakes and rivers, emerging to terrorize unsuspecting travelers and fishermen.   The Legend of the Ocala National Forest: The Ocala National Forest is known for its dense woods and mysterious atmosphere, which has inspired various legends and ghost stories. Tales of haunted campsites, phantom hitchhikers, and strange creatures roaming the forest have been passed down through generations, adding to its mystique.   The Legend of the Haunted Mansion in Homestead: Homestead is home to a mansion with a dark history and rumored hauntings. According to legend, the mansion was the site of tragic events, including murders and suicides, and is now haunted by the restless spirits of its former inhabitants.   Pirates and Buried Treasure: Florida's long coastline and history of maritime exploration have given rise to numerous legends of pirates and buried treasure. Stories of legendary pirates like José Gaspar, also known as Gasparilla, who supposedly terrorized the Gulf Coast, have become woven into the state's folklore. Tales of buried treasure, hidden on remote islands or buried along the coast, continue to captivate imaginations and inspire treasure hunters.         Florida Factoids:   Nature and Wildlife:   Manatee Magic: Did you know Florida is the only state where manatees give birth in warm-water springs? You can even witness this at some state parks during specific seasons.   Tiny Treasures: The Keys aren't just for coral reefs. Look closely, and you might spot the endangered Key deer, the smallest deer species in North America.   Strange but True: Florida has the only population of free-roaming wild monkeys in the continental US. These are rhesus macaques, descendants of research animals released decades ago.   Quirky History and Culture:   Underwater City: Off the coast of Miami lies the lost city of Atlantis...well, sort of. This is actually a prehistoric coral reef formation, but scuba divers can explore its "streets" and "buildings."   Smallest Post Office: Buchanan, Florida, boasts the country's smallest post office, housed in a tiny tool shed since 1932.   Fountain of Youth (Maybe): Legends of Ponce de Leon searching for the Fountain of Youth in Florida may not be entirely fictional. Indigenous cultures already had stories of rejuvenating waters in parts of the state.       Food and Fun:   Florida is famous for its diverse culinary scene, influenced by its vibrant cultural heritage and abundant local produce. Some iconic foods and dishes associated with Florida include:   Key Lime Pie: A tangy and refreshing dessert made with Key lime juice, egg yolks, and condensed milk, topped with whipped cream or meringue. It's named after the Florida Keys.   Cuban Sandwich: A delicious sandwich made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami, pressed between Cuban bread. It's a staple in Florida, particularly in the Cuban communities of Miami and Tampa.   Stone Crab Claws: Florida is known for its succulent stone crab claws, typically served chilled with a side of mustard sauce. Stone crab season runs from October to May.   Florida Oranges: Florida is one of the largest producers of oranges in the United States. Fresh-squeezed orange juice, oranges, and orange-based desserts are popular throughout the state.   Gator Tail: Alligator meat is a unique delicacy in Florida, often served fried or grilled. It's tender and has a flavor reminiscent of chicken or fish.   Floribbean Cuisine: A fusion of Florida and Caribbean flavors, incorporating ingredients like seafood, tropical fruits, and spices. Dishes may include conch fritters, jerk chicken, and mango salsa.   Floridian Seafood: With its extensive coastline, Florida offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including grouper, snapper, shrimp, oysters, and mahi-mahi, which are featured in many dishes across the state.   Key West Pink Shrimp: These sweet and succulent shrimp are harvested in the waters surrounding Key West and are popular in a variety of dishes, from shrimp cocktails to seafood pasta.   Everglades Frog Legs: Frog legs harvested from the Everglades are a delicacy in some parts of Florida, often prepared fried or grilled.   Cuban and Latin Cuisine: Due to its large Hispanic population, Florida boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Latin American dishes, such as empanadas, plantains, and black beans and rice.   Space Coast Treats: Did you know astronaut ice cream was invented in Florida for the Apollo missions? You can try the original flavors at Kennedy Space Center.   Unique Festivals: From the quirky Conch Fritter Festival in Key West to the quirky World's Safest Manatee Zone Festival in Crystal River, Florida celebrates the unusual with gusto.       Who's Who of Florida   Many celebrities have homes in Florida, drawn to its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Some notable celebrities who have called Florida home at various points include:   Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen: The power couple owns a mansion in the Miami area.   Shaquille O'Neal: The retired NBA superstar has a home in Florida, particularly in the Orlando area.   Gloria Estefan: The Grammy-winning singer and her husband own homes in Miami and Miami Beach.   Pitbull (Armando Christian Pérez): The rapper and singer is a Miami native and continues to have strong ties to the city.   Jimmy Buffett: The musician and businessman resides in Palm Beach, Florida.   Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union: The former Miami Heat basketball star and his actress wife have a home in Miami.   Ricky Martin: The singer owns a mansion in Miami.   John Cena: The wrestler and actor has a home in the Tampa Bay area.   Billy Joel: The legendary musician owns a home in Manalapan, Florida.   Olivia Newton-John: The actress and singer has a residence in Jupiter Inlet Colony, Florida.   Don Shula: The late NFL coach and Hall of Famer lived in Miami Lakes, Florida.   Michael Jordan: The basketball icon owns a mansion in Jupiter, Florida.   Tiger Woods: The golf legend resides in Jupiter Island, Florida.   Vanilla Ice (Rob Van Winkle): The rapper turned home renovation expert lives in Wellington, Florida.   Gloria Vanderbilt: The late fashion designer and heiress had a home in Fisher Island, Florida.   Burt Reynolds (until his passing in 2018): The iconic actor lived in Tequesta, Florida.   Lenny Kravitz: The musician and actor owns a home in Miami Beach, Florida.   David Cassidy (until his passing in 2017): The former teen idol lived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.   David Beckham and Victoria Beckham: The soccer star and fashion designer have a home in Miami.   Julia Roberts: The Oscar-winning actress has owned property in the Miami area.   Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner: The former White House advisors reportedly purchased a lot on Indian Creek Island, known as the "Billionaire Bunker," in Miami.   Rihanna: The singer-songwriter has been known to spend time in Miami and has reportedly owned property in the area.   Steven Spielberg: The acclaimed filmmaker reportedly owns a mansion in Naples, Florida.   Timbaland (Timothy Mosley): The Grammy-winning music producer has a home in Miami.   Terry Crews: The actor and former NFL player has a home in Southwest Ranches, Florida.   Rick Ross: The rapper owns a massive estate in Fayetteville, Georgia, but also has a home in Davie, Florida.   Michael Bloomberg: The billionaire businessman and former mayor of New York City reportedly owns property in Palm Beach, Florida.   Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez: The power couple have been known to spend time in Miami and have been reported to own property in the area.   Celine Dion: The Grammy-winning singer owned an extravagant mansion in Jupiter Island, Florida.   Ryan Phillippe: The actor has a home in Miami Beach, Florida.   Bob Dylan: The legendary musician reportedly owns property in Delray Beach, Florida.   Sylvester Stallone: The actor and filmmaker has owned homes in Miami and the Palm Beach area.   Simon Cowell: The music mogul and television personality owns property in Miami Beach, Florida.   Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello: The Hollywood couple have a home in Miami, Florida.   Jon Bon Jovi: The rock star reportedly owns a mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.   David Guetta: The DJ and music producer owns a waterfront home in Miami Beach, Florida.   John Travolta is another notable celebrity who has called Florida home. He has owned property and lived in various locations within the state over the years. Travolta is particularly associated with the Ocala area in Central Florida, where he has a large estate and private runway for his aircraft. Additionally, he has been known to frequent other parts of Florida, including the Miami area. Travolta's love for aviation and his involvement in the aviation community have also been factors in his choice of residence in Florida, where he can easily access his aircraft and pursue his passion for flying.   Bobby Goldsboro, the singer-songwriter and musician best known for his hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s, does have a connection to Florida. He has spent a significant portion of his career and personal life in the state. Goldsboro owned a beautiful waterfront home in the Sarasota area of Florida, where he lived for many years. Additionally, he has been actively involved in the Florida music scene and has performed at various venues throughout the state. While he may not be as high-profile as some other celebrities, Goldsboro's ties to Florida have been an important part of his life and career.     Gone but not forgotten:   Several famous individuals are buried in Florida. Here are a few notable examples:   Walt Disney: The creator of Mickey Mouse and founder of The Walt Disney Company, Walt Disney, is buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California. However, his brother, Roy O. Disney, is buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Tumwater, Washington County, Florida.   Henry Flagler: Henry Flagler, an American industrialist and a key figure in the development of Florida as a vacation destination, is buried in the Flagler family mausoleum at Memorial Presbyterian Church in St. Augustine, Florida.   Marjory Stoneman Douglas: Marjory Stoneman Douglas was an American journalist, author, and environmentalist known for her advocacy for the preservation of the Florida Everglades. She is buried at the Woodlawn Park Cemetery in Miami, Florida.   Zora Neale Hurston: Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American author, anthropologist, and filmmaker, best known for her novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God." She is buried at the Garden of Heavenly Rest in Fort Pierce, Florida.   Jackie Gleason: Jackie Gleason, a legendary comedian and actor best known for his role as Ralph Kramden in the television series "The Honeymooners," is buried at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery in Miami, Florida.   Bob Ross, the beloved painter and host of the television show "The Joy of Painting," is buried in Woodlawn Memorial Park in Gotha, Florida. His grave site has become a place of pilgrimage for fans who wish to pay their respects to the iconic artist. Ross's tranquil demeanor and distinctive painting style continue to captivate audiences long after his passing.         Movies!     Florida has been a popular filming location for many movies due to its diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, and unique urban environments. Some notable movies filmed in Florida include:   "Scarface" (1983) - Portions of this iconic crime film were shot in Miami, Florida.   "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" (1994) - This comedy starring Jim Carrey was filmed in various locations around Miami and Fort Lauderdale.   "Edward Scissorhands" (1990) - Directed by Tim Burton, this fantasy film was partly shot in the town of Lutz, Florida.   "Miami Vice" (2006) - While not a movie but a film adaptation of the popular TV series, it was primarily filmed in Miami and other locations in Florida.   "The Truman Show" (1998) - Although set in the fictional town of Seahaven Island, this movie was filmed in Seaside, a real community in the Florida Panhandle.   "Moonlight" (2016) - This Academy Award-winning drama was primarily filmed in Miami, Florida, capturing the city's unique atmosphere and culture.   "The Waterboy" (1998) - Adam Sandler's comedy film was shot in various locations in Florida, including Orlando and Deland.   "Pain & Gain" (2013) - Directed by Michael Bay, this action-comedy starring Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne Johnson was filmed in Miami and other parts of South Florida.   "Cocoon" (1985) - Portions of this sci-fi film were shot in St. Petersburg, Florida. "2 Fast 2 Furious" (2003) - Part of the "Fast & Furious" franchise, this action film was primarily filmed in Miami and the surrounding areas.   "The Punisher" (2004) - This comic book adaptation starring Thomas Jane was filmed in Tampa, Florida, and the surrounding region.   "Marley & Me" (2008) - This heartwarming comedy-drama, starring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson, was filmed in various locations around South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale and Miami.   "Spring Breakers" (2012) - This drama film, starring James Franco, Vanessa Hudgens, and Selena Gomez, was primarily filmed in St. Petersburg and Sarasota, Florida.   "Dolphin Tale" (2011) - Based on a true story, this family-friendly film was shot in Clearwater, Florida, and features the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.   "Goldfinger" (1964) - Part of the James Bond franchise, portions of this classic spy film were shot at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel.   "Out of Sight" (1998) - Directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez, this crime comedy was filmed in various locations around Miami and Palm Beach, Florida.   "The Birdcage" (1996) - This comedy film, starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane, was filmed in and around Miami's South Beach neighborhood.   "Bad Boys II" (2003) - The sequel to "Bad Boys," this action film starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence was primarily filmed in Miami and Miami Beach.   "The Florida Project" (2017) - This acclaimed drama, focusing on a group of children living in poverty near Disney World, was filmed in Kissimmee and Orlando, Florida.   "Creature From The Black Lagoon" (1954) - This classic horror film was primarily shot in Wakulla Springs, Florida. The springs provided the setting for the mysterious Black Lagoon where the creature resides.   "Jeepers Creepers" (2001) - While the film is set in rural areas, it was actually filmed in various locations in Florida, primarily in the counties of Marion and Alachua. The film's setting is reminiscent of the rural landscapes found in parts of Florida.   "Doc Hollywood" (1991) - This comedy-drama starring Michael J. Fox was filmed in various locations around Florida, including Micanopy, Orlando, and Mount Dora. The film captures the small-town charm and Southern hospitality of rural Florida.

Florida Bank Hostage Situation Ends in Fatal Shooting A deputy in Fort Myers, Florida, fatally shot 36-year-old Sterling Ramon Alavache after he took hostages and claimed to have a bomb at a Bank of America branch. Despite deployment of SWAT teams and negotiation attempts, the situation escalated when Alavache threatened a hostage with a knife, prompting the deputy's action. No injuries were reported among hostages or deputies. Investigation underway. Nikki Haley Loses Nevada Primary to "None of These Candidates" Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley suffered a significant setback in Nevada's primary, trailing behind ballots marked "none of these candidates." With Donald Trump absent from the ballot, Joe Biden secured an easy win in the Democratic primary. Haley's refusal to drop out infuriated Trump supporters, leading to her defeat. Historic Minnesota Resort Destroyed in Fire Lutsen Lodge, Minnesota's oldest resort, was devastated by a fire, marking its third such incident in history. Authorities were alerted by staff before the building was engulfed in flames. Fortunately, no guests were present, and all staff evacuated safely. Investigation ongoing. Google Bard Chatbot Renamed Gemini Google's AI chatbot, formerly Bard, will now be known as Gemini worldwide. Leaks suggest potential upgrades, including a dedicated app and a more powerful version called Gemini Ultra. Details remain unconfirmed but widely anticipated. U.S. Census Bureau Halts Controversial Disability Count Proposal The U.S. Census Bureau suspended plans to change how it counts people with disabilities following public backlash. Critics argued the proposed method could underestimate disability rates by nearly 40%, impacting access to essential services. The bureau will retain current disability questions for 2025, prioritizing stakeholder feedback. Security Measures Tighten for Super Bowl in Las Vegas Security officials in Las Vegas are ramping up preparations for the Super Bowl amid concerns over counterfeit goods, human trafficking, and illegal drones. Measures include increased surveillance, crackdowns on counterfeit merchandise, and a "no drone zone" around Allegiant Stadium. Grateful Dead Break Billboard Record The Grateful Dead surpassed Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra for the most Top 40 albums on the Billboard 200 chart. Despite disbanding in 1995, the band's archival releases have propelled them to this historic achievement. Paris Votes to Triple Parking Fees for SUVs Parisians voted to triple parking fees for large SUVs in a bid to reduce congestion and pollution. The measure aims to promote greener transportation options and improve pedestrian safety. Spotify Renews Deal with Joe Rogan Spotify renewed its partnership with podcast host Joe Rogan, making his show available on competing platforms alongside Spotify. While financial details remain undisclosed, reports suggest the deal could be worth up to $250 million. Tomato Juice Shows Promise in Fighting Bacterial Infections Research from Cornell University highlights the antimicrobial properties of tomato juice against bacteria like Salmonella Typhi. The study identifies specific peptides in tomatoes effective in combating pathogens, potentially promoting the consumption of tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables for health benefits.

The powerful storm that has been battering California since Sunday will continue Tuesday and will continue to bring heavy rain, mudslides and flooding to the state.   King Charles III has been diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer, Buckingham Palace said Monday.   Spotify now boasts 236 million Premium subscribers, a 4 percent increase over last quarter, while its total number of monthly active users rose 5 percent to 602 million.   Pizza Hut has launched Goodbye Pies, a new Valentine's Day offering that gives customers the chance to "ditch that awkward break-up conversation and send a pizza instead."   A new TV special is coming that tells the origin story of the first Black "Peanuts" character, Franklin, introduced to us more than 50 years ago with "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving."

The 2024 Grammy Awards were last night and a star-studded line-up of recipients and performers made this a must-watch event for music lovers.   In addition to today's music superstars, names from yesteryear were present at the Grammy Awards like Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, and Billy Joel.   Carl Weathers, the versatile actor who is best remembered as Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" franchise, has died. He was 76.   Petitions to make the Monday after Superbowl a National Holiday are being presented to Congress.   And scientists have revealed that the return of sea otters to their former habitat in a Central California estuary has slowed erosion of the area's marsh banks by up to 90%.

It's Groundhog Day and Gobbler's Knob is the place to be as fans gather to witness Phil's weather prediction. The roots of this holiday trace back to European agricultural traditions. It marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and spring equinox. But it seems Phil's weather forecasting skills are up for debate. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club claims Phil is 100% accurate, but the National Centers for Environmental Information's 2017 analysis showed he's only right 40% of the time. And who could forget PETA's suggestion to replace Phil with a coin toss for his well-being? But considering Phil's handler interprets "Groundhogese" with an ancient wood cane, it's a quirky tradition. Maybe human error plays a role in the predictions. Speaking of quirks, did you know Phil is practically immortal? He drinks an elixir annually, but sadly, his wife, Phyliss, doesn't get to share in the immortality. #KeepPhilAndPhylissTogether Southern California is bracing for a powerful atmospheric river storm. Up to 10 inches of rain is expected in the next 6 days, posing threats of flash flooding and landslides. It's crucial for residents to prepare. The National Weather Service warns of significant flood impacts, and computer models predict substantial rainfall and snow. Sunday's storm is the second atmospheric river event this week. It's a serious situation. Darius Rucker, the country singer and Hootie & the Blowfish frontman, found himself in legal trouble in Tennessee. He faced misdemeanor charges and was released on bond. It's unclear what led to his arrest, but he's scheduled to perform in Nashville soon. Let's lighten the mood with a sweet trend on TikTok - burn-away cakes! Bakers set their cakes ablaze, revealing hidden images beneath. #burnawaycake has over 180 million views! Even Ellen DeGeneres joined the trend with a burn-away birthday cake. Shifting gears to a heartwarming story, meet Erica Hart, the pet detective using a thermal imaging drone. She's helped reunite 330 lost dogs with their owners for free. RErica's dedication is inspiring, and the joy of reuniting owners with their pets is her ultimate reward. Lastly, let's talk about NASA's retired space shuttle Endeavour. It's being displayed in a unique way, as if ready to blast off, at the California Science Center. Quite a sight! It's a massive project that'll take up to two years to complete. The orbiter is a symbol of humanity's exploration of the cosmos.

Chita Rivera, who appeared in more than 20 Broadway musicals over six decades, has died. She was 91.   The Clydesdales will take center stage again with a new Super Bowl commercial.   UPS announced Tuesday that it will cut 12,000 jobs as part of a bid to save $1 billion in costs.   Thigh gaps are back and resurfacing on the popular social media site TikTok under a new name "legging legs."   And "The Social Network" co-stars Dakota Johnson and Justin Timberlake reunited on "Saturday Night Live" along with a surprise appearance from Jimmy Fallon.   All of this and more on The World Spins Fine On Her Own for Wednesday, January 31, 2024.

A pilot and explorer believes he has located the final resting place of Amelia Earhart's plane that vanished in 1937.  Burger King rolled out a brand-new version of its famed Whopper yesterday with the introduction of the Candied Bacon Whopper. The thief who stole a pair of Dorothy's Ruby Slippers in 2005 has been found guilty but won't go to prison because he is in hospice care. SpaceX will launch a rocket today from Florida as part of Northrop Grumman's 20th NASA Commercial Resupply Services mission bringing supplies to the Space Station. One of Scotland's last master kilt tailors is offering an online course to keep the artform alive. All of that and more on The World Spins Fine On Her Own for Tuesday, January 30, 2024.

The matchup for the 2024 Super Bowl is set, with the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs taking on the San Francisco 49ers.  The Super Bowl is set for Feb. 11 in Las Vegas. On Feb. 10. The Kansas City Chief's biggest fan, Taylor Swift, will be performing in Tokyo. Will she make it to the game?  Climate activists threw soup at the Mona Lisa in the Louvre to protest what they say is apathy to world hunger. The tallest building in the USA is being planned for Oklahoma City. And the fountain of youth might be real, and it might have been hiding in our own bodies all along. All of this and more on The World Spins Fine On Her Own for Monday, January 29, 2024.

Florida's Route A1A, which runs along the east coast of the state from Georgia to Key West, to be renamed the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.  Plastic consumption in New Jersey tripled despite the state's 2022 plastic ban meant to and address the "problem of plastic pollution," according to a study from a business-research firm.  Dermatologists are urging parents not to buy adult anti-aging skincare products for young children as they copy their favorite influencers.  Nonconsensual sexually explicit deepfakes of Taylor Swift went viral on X on Wednesday, amassing over 27 million views before the account that posted the images was suspended.   And Gwen Stefani will perform live from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for the fourth annual TikTok Tailgate before the Superbowl on Feb. 11. 

A preliminary 4.2-magnitude earthquake rattled San Bernardino Wednesday evening, the United States Geological Survey reported.   The temblor struck at 7:43 p.m. about 1.864 miles southwest of San Bernardino. No injuries or structural damage were immediately reported.   "It was close to the surface but also in a populated region, so San Bernardino County has plenty of people so they're going to feel it, definitely," said Dr. Allen Husker of CalTech's Seismological Laboratory.   Residents outside the epicenter reported feeling the jolt, in areas including Burbank, Santa Fe Springs, Chino, Fontana and more.     Melanie, the singer who performed at Woodstock in 1969 and had major pop hits with "Brand New Key" and "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)" in the early '70s, died Tuesday at age 76. News of the death came from her publicity firm, Glass Onyon PR.   No information on the cause of death was immediately given. But Melanie — full name Melanie Safka — had been in the studio earlier this month working on a new record of cover songs, "Second Hand Smoke," for the Cleopatra label; it would have been her 32nd album, the label said.   Her three children, Leilah, Jeordie, and Beau Jarred, posted a message on Facebook, writing: "We are heartbroken, but want to thank each and every one of you for the affection you have for our Mother, and to tell you that she loved all of you so much! She was one of the most talented, strong and passionate women of the era and every word she wrote, every note she sang reflected that. Our world is much dimmer, the colors of a dreary, rainy Tennessee pale with her absence today, but we know that she is still here, smiling down on all of us, on all of you, from the stars."     This year's Oscar nominees have been unveiled.   Oppenheimer led the race with a whopping 13 nominations, followed by the Emma Stone-starring Poor Things, which earned 11. Killers of the Flower Moon meanwhile received 10 nominations, and last year's biggest hit Barbie scored eight. American Fiction, starring Jeffrey Wright, netted five nominations.    Biggest Snubs of 2024 Oscar Nominations: Leonardo DiCaprio, Fantasia Barrino, Saltburn and More The 96th annual Academy Awards will be held Sunday, March 10, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will air live on ABC. The show will be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, his fourth time in the gig.   At last year's ceremony, Everything Everywhere All at Once swept with seven wins, including Best Picture.     Former President Donald Trump has begun his bid for a third Republican nomination with wins in Iowa and New Hampshire, bringing him closer to a rematch with President Biden. But Nikki Haley, Trump's lone remaining challenger, has vowed to stay in the race through at least the South Carolina GOP primary on Feb. 24.   Up next is Nevada, which is holding both a Republican primary (on Feb. 6) and caucus (Feb. 8). After that, South Carolina and Michigan will hold GOP primaries, followed by Super Tuesday —when more than a third of all GOP delegates will be up for grabs — in early March.   Before you know it, it will be summer, when both parties hold their conventions. And after the presidential debates — which are still on the schedule despite Trump's unwillingness to participate in the GOP debates — it will be Election Day.   Here are just some of the key dates in the 2024 political calendar, a few of which are subject to change.   2024 election calendar • Jan. 15: Iowa GOP caucuses   Trump scored a decisive victory, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis edged out former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley for second place. Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy finished a distant fourth, suspended his campaign and endorsed Trump.   • Jan. 23: New Hampshire primary   Trump defeated Haley, his lone remaining challenger in the GOP race after DeSantis dropped out two days before the primary. But Haley vowed to stay in the race through at least the South Carolina Republican primary. Biden won in New Hampshire despite not being on the ballot due to a rift between the Granite State and the Democratic National Committee, which decided to make the South Carolina Democratic primary on Feb. 3 its first formal contest.   • Feb. 3: South Carolina Democratic primary   • Feb. 6, Feb. 8: Nevada primary and caucuses   • Feb. 13: Long Island special election   Voters in New York's Third Congressional District will pick a successor to George Santos, who was expelled from Congress in December following a scathing House Ethics Committee report that concluded he "blatantly stole from his campaign." The candidates are former Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzi, who won the seat in 2022 before leaving to run for governor, and Republican Mazi Melesa Pilip.   • Feb. 24: South Carolina Republican primary   • Feb. 27: Michigan primary   • March 4: Trump's Jan. 6 trial   As of now, March 4 is the trial start date for the federal election interference case against Trump. The former president's lawyers have sought to delay the trial until after the election.   • March 5: Super Tuesday   More than a third of all GOP delegates will be up for grabs on Super Tuesday, as 15 states — Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia — and one territory (American Samoa) hold their primaries or caucuses. Trump is not on the ballot in Colorado or Maine, where election officials declared him ineligible because of his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. Trump is appealing, and the cases could wind up in the Supreme Court.     Conventions A massive display on the jumbotron at the United Center in Chicago promoting it as the site of the 2024 Democratic National Convention. • July 15-18: Republican National Convention   The event will be held in Milwaukee, which hosted the 2020 Democratic National Convention during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.   • Aug. 19-22: Democratic National Convention   The event will be held in Chicago, which has hosted 11 previous Democratic conventions — most recently in 1996, when Bill Clinton and Al Gore were nominated for reelection. It was also the site of the disastrous 1968 Democratic convention, which was held in the wake of the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy and marred by massive antiwar protests that turned violent.   Debates • Sept. 16: 1st presidential debate   The Commission on Presidential Debates has scheduled three presidential debates, the first on Sept. 16 at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, as well as a vice presidential debate in late September.   • Sept. 25: Vice presidential debate   The lone sanctioned vice presidential debate will take place at Lafayette College in Easton, Pa., on Sept. 25.   • Oct. 1: 2nd presidential debate   The second presidential debate will take place at Virginia State University in Petersburg, Va., on Oct. 1.   • Oct. 9: 3rd presidential debate   The third and final presidential debate will take place at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City on Oct. 9, less than a month from Election Day.   • Nov. 5: Election Day   • Dec. 17: Deadline for electors to cast their votes     COMMERCIAL BREAK       Meet the Co-op delivery robots, used by the supermarket giant to bring items across a growing number of areas in the UK.   What are the Co-op robots? The robots used by the Co-op were developed by Starship Technologies, an Estonian tech company with headquarters in San Francisco that specializes in autonomous delivery vehicles.   How do they work? The robots are powered by batteries and travel at the same speed as pedestrians. The Co-op says the robots use "a combination of sensors, artificial intelligence and machine learning to travel on pavements and navigate around any obstacles".   They have "computer vision-based navigation" which helps them "map their environment to the nearest inch", the supermarket says. The idea is that the robots are kinder to the environment and reduce traffic congestion.     But there's strong evidence that most of the money spent on carbon offsets doesn't really do anything to help the climate.   One investigation from The Guardian last year found that as much as 90% of rain forest protection credits, which claim to spare carbon-reducing trees from logging, are effectively worthless because the areas they purport to have saved weren't actually at risk of being cut down. Several other inquiries have come to a similar conclusion that, for all the money and hype, carbon offsets don't actually offset much at all.   Why there's debate In light of these findings, many environmentalists argue that the whole practice of carbon offsetting needs to end. In their eyes, the entire system amounts to little more than "greenwashing" that allows people and companies to deflect criticism for their climate-warming actions while they avoid doing the work that will actually make a difference — cutting the emissions they produce in the first place.   Others argue that, even if every dollar somehow went to legitimate offset projects, it's still a dangerous mistake to tell ourselves that we solve climate change by planting trees or siphoning methane from landfills, rather than doing the hard work of rebuilding the world economy around green energy.   But optimists say carbon offsets really can make a big difference if a better system is put in place to ensure that the money goes to high-quality projects. The biggest advocates argue that we have no choice but to make carbon offsets work because, even in the most optimistic future scenarios, we'll still need ways to pull carbon out of the air to counter emissions from industries that can't realistically go green, like airlines.   What's next Skepticism about the effectiveness of offset projects has hurt the value of carbon credits in recent years, but most forecasters still expect the carbon market to grow dramatically over the next few decades. One recent estimate predicted that as much as $250 billion a year could be spent on carbon offsets by 2050.       An innocent Texas man was arrested, jailed for nearly two weeks and sexually assaulted just before his release, all because facial recognition software mistakenly identified him as the suspect of a store robbery, a new lawsuit alleges.   When two men robbed a Sunglass Hut in Houston on Jan. 22, 2022, 61-year-old Harvey Murphy Jr. was in a jail cell 2,000 miles away in Sacramento, California, according to the lawsuit obtained by USA TODAY on Wednesday.   Using low-quality surveillance footage of the robbery, artificial intelligence software at the Sunglass Hut falsely identified Murphy as a suspect, which led to a warrant for his arrest, according to the lawsuit filed last week in Harris County District Courts in Houston.   Later when Murphy returned to his home state of Texas, he was arrested, and a witness to the robbery identified him as a suspect. Murphy was held in jail for nearly two weeks until officials realized his alibi proved it was physically impossible for him to be responsible for the robbery.   But in the hours just before his release from jail, "he goes into the bathroom, where he gets followed by three men, beaten, sexually assaulted and raped," Murphy's attorney, Daniel Dutko, told USA TODAY on Wednesday.   Murphy was later released from jail and the charges against him were immediately dismissed.   Murphy is seeking $10 million from New York-based Macy's and French eyewear company EssilorLuxottica, which owns Sunglass Hut.   Murphy was on probation for a history of non-violent burglaries in the 1980s and '90s, according to Dutko. He was pulled over, arrested and taken to jail in California for failing to report his whereabouts, an obligation under his probation.   If it wasn't for Murphy being in jail the day of the Texas robbery, then he would not have the rock solid alibi that proved his innocence, Dutko said. He added that Murphy said if he had "just been at home watching TV and not had an alibi, (he) would be in prison right now."       No one alive today will see it again—the convergence of two cicada broods that will practically shake the Midwest with their chirping.   The appearance of cicadas en mass is one of the most amazing natural phenomena of the insect world, and we Americans are uniquely positioned to witness it. But this spring, the synchronized emergence of Brood 13 and Brood 19 will fill the air from Iowa to Virginia with over a trillion bugs, an event not seen since Thomas Jefferson's day.   1803 was the last time that this convergence occurred, and it involves the periodic cicadas of the 13-year brood and the 17-year brood,   It's not true that the cicadas are born this way. They actually live their whole lives underground and then burrow up to the surface as part of a mass breeding and egg-laying frenzy.   Entomologists estimate that the two broods together will number more than 1 trillion bugs, enough to go to the moon and back, head-to-tail, 33 times.   The two broods will overlap in Iowa and Illinois, and the 17-year cicadas, confusingly called Brood 19 (XIX), will extend into Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, with a few also popping up in Louisiana.   The next time that these two will emerge together will be 2245.   Smithsonian Magazine provides this interesting tidbit that the decibel level of so many cicadas mating can reach the same as a motorcycle or chainsaw passing by your house.   They will emerge this spring, and shuffle off their mortal coils in July, during which time they will not sting, bite, envenom, or pass disease onto any human. Their emergence will aerate the soils of woodland, and their bodies will provide such a smorgasbord for wildlife, that even herbivorous animals like deer will begin to eagerly throw back the tasty morsels.

In this episode we focus on young people. We will share some familiar names, familiar inventions, familiar accomplishments, and perhaps a few that are not familiar at all. The common denominator? They are all from children, teens, and young adults. Below is a synopsis of the content of today's program: Kids' contributions to our world: Anne Frank's timeless diary sheds light on the horrors of war. Samantha Smith eased Cold War tensions with a letter at 10, becoming "America's Youngest Ambassador." Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel laureate at 17, advocates for women's education after surviving a Taliban attack. Iqbal Masih, escaped child slavery at 10, led a movement against it, and left a lasting legacy. Claudette Colvin, at 15, refused to give up her bus seat, contributing to the Civil Rights Movement. Snuggle Sacks: Founded by siblings aged 8, 10, and 12 in 2015, it provides essentials to the homeless, growing from 50 to 800-1,200 sacks monthly. Young inventors and their creations: Frank Epperson (11): Popsicle in 1905. George Nissen (16): Trampoline in 1930. Louis Braille (12): Braille in 1924. Albert Sadacca: Christmas Lights in 1925. Chester Greenwood (15): Earmuffs in 1873. Joseph-Armand Bombardier (15): Snowmobile in 1922. Ben Franklin (11): Swim Flippers in the early 1700s. Abbey Fleck (8): Makin' Bacon in 1993. KK Gregory (10): Wristies in 1994. Kelly Reinhart (child): T-Pak in 1998. Young Achievers in Various Fields: Kelvin Doe: Sierra Leone inventor, powering houses and building a community radio station at 13. Marley Dias: Activist behind #1000BlackGirlBooks, promoting diverse stories. Greta Thunberg (16): Environmental activist, organizing Fridays for Future. Emma González: Survived a school shooting, co-founded Never Again MSD for gun control. Nick Dunlap (20): Amateur golfer, winning the American Express Tournament with a score of -29. Hemesh Chadalavada (12): Invented the Alpha Monitor for Alzheimer's patients, winning awards and grants. Aarrav Anil (schoolboy): Invented a mechanically stabilized spoon for Parkinson's patients, focusing on affordability. Allyson Reneau: Helped evacuate Afghanistan's all-girl robotics team from the Taliban, showcasing resilience and determination. Philo T. Farnsworth (15): Created diagrams for electronic television in 1921, leading to the first image transmission in 1927. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster (both 17): Created Superman in 1933, with the character debuting in comics in 1938.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has made a significant decision. He's dropped out of the presidential race and is now throwing his support behind former President Donald Trump. According to reports, Governor DeSantis had a final conversation with his closest advisers at the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee. After a private discussion with his wife, Casey, they decided to suspend the campaign. Representative Chip Roy from Texas played a role in these discussions and supported DeSantis' decision. Now, shifting gears to sports, there's a bet payoff between mayors. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas will be receiving a platter of Buffalo Chicken Wings from Buffalo, NY, Mayor Byron W. Brown after the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Buffalo Bills in a close game. In the NFC Championship game, the top-seeded San Francisco 49ers will host the Detroit Lions. Meanwhile, in the AFC Championship, the Baltimore Ravens, the best team in the league this season, will face the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. Both championship games will be held on Sunday, January 28, 2024, with the Ravens taking on the Chiefs at 3 PM ET, followed by the 49ers hosting the Lions at 6:30 PM ET. TikTok is buzzing with a new aesthetic called 'mob wife winter.' It's all about bold, unapologetic looks inspired by infamous mob wives from entertainment. Users are embracing messy hair, big furs, and an attitude that screams confidence. Now, let's talk about an unconventional approach to dealing with shoplifters. A shopkeeper in Birmingham, UK, has been exposing suspected shoplifters on social media. Danny Khan posts CCTV footage on TikTok and Instagram, and some individuals have even apologized and paid for what they owe to have the videos taken down. In legal news, there's a case before the Supreme Court that might not be making big headlines, but it could have significant implications. It revolves around the "Chevron doctrine," a legal precedent that allows government agencies to set policies on various issues. The court's conservative justices seem inclined to limit or eliminate this doctrine. It's a case that could reshape how the government operates, and we'll be keeping an eye on it. Lastly, let's talk about a heartwarming conservation effort in the Galápagos Islands. The Galápagos Conservancy successfully airlifted 136 juvenile tortoises to their natural habitat on Isabela Island, marking a crucial milestone in their conservation mission.

Meteorologists are warning that over 115 million residents from Iowa to New Jersey should prepare a winter storm on Friday.   The storm is forecast to bring 1-3 inches of snow to the Midwest and Northeast, with some areas receiving 3-6 inches or more by Friday evening, AccuWeather said.   Snow is expected to impact travel Friday on Interstate 80, in addition to snarling traffic on local roads and state highways from the Midwest to the Northeast, according to AccuWeather.   Meteorologists said to expect de-icing operations at airports, including major hubs such as Chicago, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, New York City, and Boston. Flight cancellations could also increase due to delayed crews and displaced planes towards the end of the week and beginning of the weekend.       Why Biden isn't on the NH primary ballot — and other things you should know ahead of the state's presidential primaries next week   The 2024 presidential primary season continues next week in New Hampshire, where primary voters will cast their ballots on Jan. 23.   The election comes just eight days after the Iowa Republican party held in-person caucuses, in which former president Donald Trump claimed a major victory over Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley, who came in second and third, respectively.   While Iowa is first in the nation to hold caucuses — which are different from primaries — the Granite State has prided itself for over a century on holding the first official presidential primary. However, primary day in New Hampshire will look a little different this year — starting with the fact that President Biden's name will not appear on the Democratic party ballot.   What happens on primary day? New Hampshire will hold two simultaneous elections on Tuesday, Jan. 23: one for the Republican party and the other for the Democratic party.   As in every other presidential primary, New Hampshire Republicans will cast their ballots, selecting who they want to choose as the GOP's nominee for president. There are 22 GOP delegates for the 2024 Republican National Convention up for grabs in the state.   New Hampshire uses a proportional method to allocate delegates to different candidates based on the statewide vote. As long as the candidate receives at least 10% of the statewide vote, they receive delegates. If there are leftover delegates, they are awarded to the candidate that got the most votes in the primary.   There will also be a Democratic primary on Jan. 23 in New Hampshire, but it will be unsanctioned by the Democratic National Committee.   What's going on with the Democratic primary? And why won't Biden's name appear on the ballot? In an effort to make the primary process more diverse, President Biden urged the DNC to hold the first official Democratic primary of 2024 in South Carolina. (It also doesn't hurt that Biden won South Carolina's primary in 2020, while coming in fifth in New Hampshire).   As a result, South Carolina scheduled its Democratic primary for Feb. 3, and the DNC instructed New Hampshire to hold its primary on Feb. 6, the same day as Nevada's.   But New Hampshire state law says it has to hold its primary one week before any other similar contest. The state's GOP-led legislature refused to break with tradition to change that law. So, New Hampshire decided to go ahead with an unsanctioned Democratic primary on Jan. 23, while threatening the DNC with legal action.   Biden is prohibited by DNC rules from competing in the New Hampshire primary, which is why his name won't appear on the ballot, though there are efforts independent of his campaign to get the president's name added as a write-in.   Because New Hampshire is going against DNC rules, none of the state's 33 delegates will be awarded based on the results of the primary. This means that whichever Democrat wins the primary won't actually advance toward the presidential nomination.   To get on a primary ballot in New Hampshire, candidates are required only to fill out a form and pay $1,000. This means voters will have their pick of a long list of candidates, including characters like perennial Libertarian candidate Vermin Supreme, best known for wearing a boot on his head.   Republican voters will select from among 25 candidates, including Trump, DeSantis and Haley. GOP candidates who have since dropped out of the race — such as entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson — will also appear on the Republican ballot, but they cannot be awarded delegates.   And while Democrats will not be able to vote for Biden, they'll get to choose from a list of 21 other candidates, including self-help author Marianne Williamson and Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips.       Florida lawmakers have voted to move forward with a bill that would effectively ban Pride flags from government buildings and schools.   HB 901 says that "a governmental entity may not erect or display a flag that represent a political viewpoint, including, but not limited to a politically partisan, racial, sexual orientation and gender, or political ideology viewpoint."   The proposal, introduced by Florida state Republicans Rep. David Borrero of Sweetwater and Rep. Randy Fine of Brevard County, was approved Wednesday in a 9-5 vote along party lines in the Republican-led House's subcommittee on constitutional rights, rule of law and government operations. It's now in the State Affairs Committee.   The bill's supporters say the bill doesn't affect flags being flown at homes and other private places, and is intended to counter "indoctrination," especially in schools.   Rep. Fine said, "I don't want the 'Trump for president' flag flying in this room," he said, according to the News Service. "They're not appropriate in this room, they're not appropriate in our schools, they're not appropriate in our government buildings."   The bill has drawn opposition from the LGBTQ community, who point to other anti-LGBTQ laws passed by the Legislature, according to reporting by the News Service of Florida. They argue that it amounts to intolerance.   St. Petersburg Democratic Rep. Lindsay Cross said: "I think we should be fostering communities of inclusion, and I think this bill is moving us backwards and not forwards.     Veteran department-store chain Macy's is laying off about 3.5% of its workforce, or roughly 2,350 employees, and closing five stores as it continues to shrink its massive retail business for the online-shopping era.   The Wall Street Journal first reported the news.   Retailers often lay off employees and announce store closures after the holidays, especially if they had a sluggish sales season.   However, Americans spent at a faster clip in December from the month prior, the Commerce Department said this week.   The company opened its first Macy's in 1858 and now operates about 500 Macy's branded stores, as well as 55 of the more upscale Bloomingdale's chain.   Macy's is emblematic of the holiday season, sponsoring both the Thanksgiving Day Parade In New York City that traditionally kicks it off and as the setting for, and employer of, Santa Claus in the 1947 classic film "Miracle on 34th Street."   But it has struggled against rising competition and a migration of shoppers away from department stores.   A group of investors in December reportedly proposed to take Macy's private at a vulnerable moment for the famed company. Macy's has not commented on the activist attempt.   Macy's has attempted numerous strategies in recent years to revitalize business, such as new brands and smaller stores, but the moves have not altered its long-term trajectory.   Macy's stock price has dropped 75% from a peak of $73 a share in 2015. Since then, it has closed nearly 300 stores — almost one third of its stores — and operates about 700 across its brands.       COMMERCIAL BREAK     National Popcorn Day is this Friday, Jan. 19, and both popcorn brands and movie theaters alike are rolling out plenty of deals to celebrate the tasty occasion. Ready to take in all the buttery goodness? Here are several deals that will leave you positively popping with joy.   AMC Theatres For one day only (Jan. 19), AMC Theatres guests who buy a movie ticket can get unlimited refills on any size popcorn. The offer is valid all day long, and AMC is also selling a limited-edition crossbody popcorn bag from Loungefly.   Regal Cinemas Regal Cinemas is offering Regal Crown Club members a free small popcorn (excluding gourmet popcorn) when they buy a ticket on Jan. 19. Customers with a Regal Refillable can also get one free popcorn refill.   The Popcorn Factory You can save 30% off sitewide at The Popcorn Factory on Jan 18 and 19 using the code POP30.     LOS ANGELES - Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, shared a picture on Instagram of what appeared to be metallic dentures. The titanium implants were worth a whopping $850,000, the Daily Mail reports.   In a second picture, West compared his new mouthpiece to the character Jaws from the James Bond movies "The Spy Who Loved Me" and "Moonraker," who had metal teeth.   According to the Daily Mail, West's teeth were completely removed and replaced with custom titanium dentures by Beverly Hills-based dentist-to-the stars Dr. Thomas Connelly, and cosmetic dental technician Naoki Hayashi.   Shortly after West shared his news with his 18.7 million followers, Dr. Connelly reposted West's story to his own page. Dr. Connelly, however, denied the report West's natural teeth were removed.   "He did not have his teeth removed. He still has a full dentition," he told Complex.   "The technical term is fixed prosthodontics. They are fixed and permanent. This goes way beyond veneers or grills. It's quite unlike anything that has been done before," a person close to Ye told The Washington Post. "It's experimental dentistry to say the least."   The prosthodontics were designed by Ye and a team of dentists and cosmetic surgeons, the Post reported.     Reba McEntire, Post Malone and Andra Day will be warming up the Super Bowl audience for Usher's headlining performance.   The NFL named the country singer, Malone and Day as this year's Super Bowl pregame entertainment on Jan. 18.   McEntire will perform the national anthem, Malone will sing "America The Beautiful" and Day will perform "Lift Every Voice and Sing," known as the Black national anthem.   They will each be accompanied by American Sign Language performers in Daniel Durant of "CODA," model Anjel Pinero and actor Shaheem Sanchez, respectively.   Usher was announced as the halftime performer in September. It will mark his first time with the lead gig, though he did perform at the Super Bowl in 2011 when the Black Eyed Peas headlined.   The game will be played in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium on Feb. 11 between two yet-to-be-decided NFL playoff teams. CBS will broadcast the game.   McEntire said on X that performing on football's biggest stage is "historic."   "I'm honored to be part of something as big and historic as the Super Bowl coming to Las Vegas for the first time!" the country legend wrote.   Day thanked God for the opportunity.   "Peace & Blessings!!! Performing the Anthem at the Super Bowl yall! Grateful! Thank You God," the singer and actor said on X. "See you on February 11th."       Green Day was joined Tuesday by Jimmy Fallon in the subways of New York City to film a segment for "The Tonight Show" in which the band performed a surprise gig in front of commuters.   Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tré Cool didn't show up sporting spiky hair while clad in leather clothes and signature black eyeliner. Instead, the band was initially disguised along with Fallon as run-of-the-mill subway buskers rocking out for spare change.   As the crowd began to swell – perhaps sensing something was afoot when they noticed beefed up security and plenty of cameras to boot – the performers ripped away their unkempt wigs and fake facial hair to reveal their true identities.   The raucous set also had "Tonight Show" host Fallon jamming alongside the band, tambourine in hand.   Though "the Tonight Show" has not yet announced when the segment will air, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers are gearing up for a tour later this summer alongside Smashing Pumpkins and other acts. The Saviors Tour begins May 30 in Europe before the U.S. leg kicks off July 29 in Washington, D.C.   The new music – the album drops Friday – isn't all the band will be celebrating during the upcoming tour. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the release of Green Day's major-label debut, "Dookie," and the 20th anniversary of "American Idiot."   In an interview with USA TODAY, the band members said they plan to perform both albums in their entirety during the The Saviors Tour, as well as new material and plenty of fan-favorites.    

Today, we have a delicious episode lined up for our listeners. We recently had a unique dining experience at Amrit Palace Indian Cuisine in Ocala.  Now, our listeners might be wondering, what's so special about Amrit Palace? Well, it goes beyond the delightful flavors of Indian cuisine. We learned that "Amrit" means Nectar of God. How profound is that? And let me tell you about our culinary journey. We started with some refreshing beverages—a Taj Mahal Beer for $9.95 and a Mint Cucumber Soda for $5.95. And the array of chutneys we tried—Mango, Rayta, Mint, and Hot Pickle—all priced at $2.95 each. Each one brought a burst of flavor to the table. Now, onto the main course, we savored the Dal Soup, a Yellow Split Pea delight with Ginger and Garlic, priced at $4.95. And who can forget the Garlic Cheese Naan, a delectable combination of Garlic, Mozzarella, and Flatbread, for $7.95. And the Variety Tray at $14.95—Vegetable/Meat Samosa, Aloo Pakora, Chicken Pakora, Cheese Pakora, Bhujia, and Papadam—all in one platter. And for those looking for a feast, the Variety Platter at $28.95 allows you to choose two from Vegetable Curry, Chicken Curry, Lamb Curry, or Chicken Tandoori. It includes Soup, Variety Tray, Pillaw Rice, and Naan. It was indeed a feast fit for royalty. And speaking of royalty, we learned that Satnam and Niranjan Singh, the owners of Amrit Palace, are dedicated to ensuring every guest has a memorable dining experience. Satnam, who has been the chef for many years, follows in his father's footsteps, using traditional recipes to create authentic Indian cuisine. And the personal touch they add by interacting with the guests is just heartwarming. And did you know, on their website, amritpalace.com, you can find photos of Satnam's early days in Miami, including one with the actor Philip Michael Thomas from "Miami Vice." It's clear that Satnam pours his heart into every dish, ensuring it's prepared and presented just right. Before we move on to our next segment, let's give a shoutout to David Moore, the author of the article about Amrit Palace in Ocala Magazine. Now, listeners, if you're in Ocala or planning a visit, make sure to experience the culinary magic at Amrit Palace Indian Cuisine. Now, let's shift our focus to the weather. It seems like there's another surge of bitterly cold temperatures and wind chills making their way south. According to the National Weather Service, the Southern Plains and Gulf Coast can expect a brief break from the cold, with temperatures returning to the 60s and 70s. However, this respite will be short-lived as another frigid arctic airmass is set to spread across the eastern half of the U.S. The latest wave might not be as severe as the previous one, but windy conditions will make it feel even colder. So, listeners, stay bundled up and be prepared for chilly days ahead. And for those in the Washington, D.C. area, where businesses, offices, and schools faced closures due to the deep freeze, there's hope for a "dramatic" January thaw around the corner. It's always good to have some positive news about the weather. And speaking of positive news, let's move on to our next segment. Now, let's talk about an interesting development in the world of cinema. Pauly Shore is getting ready to sweat to the oldies by playing fitness icon Richard Simmons in a new biopic. The film, currently in development at Warner Bros. subsidiary The Wolper Organization, promises to bring a unique perspective on Simmons' life. However, it seems like Simmons himself has disavowed the project, stating on social media that he never gave permission for the movie. It's not every day you see a fitness icon portrayed by a comedian, Larry. But we'll keep our eyes peeled for updates on this intriguing biopic. Now, let's delve into a heartfelt essay by Jane Seymour about putting oneself first and the evolving nature of intimacy as we age. Jane Seymour, at 72, opens up about her realization that after being coupled up for more than five decades, she needed to be intentionally single and focus on what's most important to her. She shares how her sex life has only gotten better with age. Seymour emphasizes the importance of emotional intimacy and shared experiences in building a passionate connection. Seymour encourages everyone that their sex life doesn't need to end at 60, highlighting the significance of understanding oneself and finding what brings joy. It's a reminder that life's journey continues to unfold, bringing new chapters and experiences. And with that, we come to the end of another episode of "The World Spins Fine On Her Own." Thank you for joining us. Remember, life is a journey, and we're here to explore it with you.  

NYC Snowfall, Eagles' Jason Kelce Retirement, Elton John Achieves EGOT, Conspiracy Theories on "Disease X," Kraft's New Cheese Flavors, Coachella 2024 Reunion, Princess Poppy's Emmys Look, New Dinosaur Species, Florida's Record Visitors, and Economic Impact. The streak is over! New York City saw its first measurable snowfall in nearly two years, breaking a record stretch of over 700 days without significant accumulation. According to the National Weather Service, 1.4 inches of snow fell in Central Park. The last time New York experienced measurable snowfall was on February 13, 2022. It's a significant change from last year's mild winter, which brought just 2.3 inches – the smallest annual total ever. In sports news, Eagles Center Jason Kelce, a hero on the Philadelphia sports scene and a Super Bowl champion, has informed teammates that he intends to retire after 13 NFL seasons. Kelce's decision adds a new chapter to his remarkable career. Coach Nick Sirianni once sent him a keg of beer to entice his return in 2022. Stay tuned for more details as Kelce is expected to explain his decision on the next episode of the "New Heights" podcast. Achieving EGOT status is a rare feat, and British singer-pianist Elton John has joined the elite group. Winning an Emmy Award for best variety special, he now holds an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. Elton John expressed being "incredibly humbled" and thanked his fans worldwide for their unwavering support. This adds another milestone to his legendary career, making him the 19th person to reach EGOT status. Hollywood icon Jamie Lee Curtis, known for her roles in horror films, is also a prolific children's book author. She's promoting her 13th children's book, "Just One More Sleep," reminding children about the virtue of patience. Curtis, with her 46-year acting career, continues to make a mark in the literary world. "Just One More Sleep" features illustrations by her longtime collaborator Laura Cornell. Conspiracy theories are circulating online as world leaders prepare to discuss readiness for a hypothetical virus known as "Disease X" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The World Health Organization emphasizes that "Disease X" is not a real disease yet, but a placeholder for an unknown virus that could pose a significant threat. Stay informed as the discussions unfold. Your grilled cheese sandwiches are about to get a flavor upgrade! Kraft has announced three new Kraft Singles flavors after nearly a decade: Jalapeño, Garlic & Herb, and Caramelized Onion. These new additions bring a whole new dimension of flavor to the Kraft Singles repertoire. Jalapeño for a spicy kick, Caramelized Onion for a savory touch, and Garlic & Herb for a burst of aromatic goodness. Available this month at retailers nationwide. Exciting news for music lovers! Coachella 2024 is in for a major reunion. Lana Del Rey headlines the first night, followed by Tyler, The Creator, and Doja Cat. But the note at the bottom of the poster has fans speculating about a surprise appearance by No Doubt. Gwen Stefani recently reunited with her former bandmates, sparking rumors of a possible performance. We'll keep you updated on any announcements. The 75th Primetime Emmy Awards featured a mysterious celebrity walking the red carpet in green from head to toe – Princess Poppy from Season 15 of "RuPaul's Drag Race." Princess Poppy confirmed her identity, explaining that her goblin-like look was a deliberate move to challenge traditional fashion norms at award shows. Social media can't get enough of this iconic moment. A newly discovered dinosaur species, Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, may be the closest relative of Tyrannosaurus rex. The giant carnivore lived in North America around five million years before T. rex. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of the iconic T. rex and its potential experimentation with a huge body size. Paleontologists are excited about the insights gained from this newfound species. Florida continues to attract visitors, setting records for the number of visitors in the third quarter of 2023. With 35.1 million visitors, including domestic, overseas, and Canadian visitors, Florida remains a top tourist destination. Travel spending in Florida is up 11.3 percent compared to Q3 2019, outpacing the U.S. average. From beaches to theme parks, Florida's diverse attractions contribute significantly to its economy. That's a wrap for today's episode of "The World Spins Fine On Her Own." Join us again for more news, updates, and intriguing stories. Remember to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Stay informed, stay curious, and embrace the ever-spinning world.  

A pilot and three other passengers were identified by authorities Monday as those killed in a hot air balloon crash in the Arizona desert over the weekend. Eloy Police Department Chief Byron Gwaltney said eight skydivers survived the tragedy in "an empty field in a desert area" of Eloy, a city in Pinal County about 65 miles southeast of Phoenix and 55 miles northeast of Tucson, Arizona. Shortly after the skydivers completed a jump from the balloon, Gwaltney said, "something catastrophic occurred with the balloon, causing it to crash to the ground." At a news conference, Eloy Mayor Micah Powell reported the balloon had been carrying 13 adults − its operator, four passengers and the eight skydivers. Three passengers and the pilot died, while another passenger was critically injured. The impact, Powell said, took place in "the world's largest drop zone" for skydivers. Eloy police identified the pilot of the hot air balloon as Cornelius Van Der Walt, 37, a resident of Eloy who was originally from South Africa. The three passengers who died were identified as Chayton Wiescholek, 28, of Union City, Michigan; Kaitlynn Bartrom, 28, of Andrews, Indiana; and Atahan Kiliccote, 24, of Cupertino, California. The woman who was critically injured was identified by police as a 23-year-old from Scottsdale, Arizona. "We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives in this tragic incident," the Eloy Police Department said in a statement. The cause of the crash was not immediately known Monday. "But eyewitnesses stated that in the last several seconds of the impact that the material of the hot air balloon was just straight up and down and the impact was fairly large," Powell said. Five people were inside the gondola when it crashed, officials said, and one died at the scene. Three passengers were taken to a hospital where they later died, Powell said. Another passenger was taken to a trauma center and was in critical condition Sunday, Powell said.   The cast of the hit 1980s sitcom "Cheers" reunited on stage at the Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Jan. 15 to present the awards for outstanding directing in a comedy series and writing for a comedy series. Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, Kelsey Grammer, John Ratzenberger and George Wendt all appeared in a recreated Bull & Finch Pub bit on stage at the 75th annual award show. The reunion was missing a few names — Shelley Long and Woody Harrelson come to mind — as well as the late Kirstie Alley. Alley died in 2022 at the age of 71. "Cheers" ran for 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993 on NBC. (Talking point idea: Binge watching old series is only recently possible. It is the same as re-listening to old albums)   Why is it called "The Emmy"? The name Emmy derives from Immy, a nickname for image orthicon, a camera tube used in television. The Emmy Award statuette consists of a winged woman, representing art, holding aloft an electron, representing science. The Emmy Awards are made by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The 75th Emmys have officially concluded. But for a recap of the winners, check below (with red carpet highlights here). Originally slated to air in September 2023, the Emmys were moved to 2024 to accommodate the actors and writers' strikes, which unfolded simultaneously last year. Some of the awards were handed out during the Creative Arts Emmy Awards earlier this month, with winners reflected below.   Outstanding Drama Series "Andor"   "Better Call Saul"   "The Crown"   "House of the Dragon"   "The Last of Us"   WINNER: "Succession"   "The White Lotus"   "Yellowjackets"   Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series Jeff Bridges, "The Old Man"   Brian Cox, "Succession"   WINNER: Kieran Culkin, "Succession"   Bob Odenkirk, "Better Call Saul"   Pedro Pascal, "The Last of Us"   Jeremy Strong, "Succession"   Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series Sharon Horgan, "Bad Sisters"   Melanie Lynskey, "Yellowjackets"   Elisabeth Moss, "The Handmaid's Tale"   Bella Ramsey, "The Last of Us"   Keri Russell, "The Diplomat"   WINNER: Sarah Snook, "Succession"   Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series F. Murray Abraham, "The White Lotus"   Nicholas Braun, "Succession"   Michael Imperioli, "The White Lotus"   Theo James, "The White Lotus"   WINNER: Matthew Macfadyen, "Succession"   Alan Ruck, "Succession"   Will Sharpe, "The White Lotus"   Alexander Skarsgård, "Succession"   Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series WINNER: Jennifer Coolidge, "The White Lotus"   Elizabeth Debicki, "The Crown"   Meghann Fahy, "The White Lotus"   Sabrina Impacciatore, "The White Lotus"   Aubrey Plaza, "The White Lotus"   Rhea Seehorn, "Better Call Saul"   J. Smith-Cameron, "Succession"   Simona Tabasco, "The White Lotus"   Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series Murray Bartlett, "The Last of Us"   James Cromwell, "Succession"   Lamar Johnson, "The Last of Us"   Arian Moayed, "Succession"   WINNER: Nick Offerman, "The Last of Us"   Keivonn Montreal Woodard, "The Last of Us"   Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series Hiam Abbass, "Succession"   Cherry Jones, "Succession"   Melanie Lynskey, "The Last of Us"   WINNER: Storm Reid, "The Last of Us"   Anna Torv, "The Last of Us"   Harriet Walter, "Succession"   Outstanding Comedy Series "Abbott Elementary"   "Barry"   WINNER: "The Bear"   "Jury Duty"   "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel"   "Only Murders in the Building"   "Ted Lasso"   "Wednesday"   Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series Bill Hader, "Barry"   Jason Segel, "Shrinking"   Martin Short, "Only Murders in the Building"   Jason Sudeikis, "Ted Lasso"   WINNER: Jeremy Allen White, "The Bear"   Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series Christina Applegate, "Dead to Me"   Rachel Brosnahan, "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel"   WINNER: Quinta Brunson, "Abbott Elementary"   Natasha Lyonne, "Poker Face"   Jenna Ortega, "Wednesday"   Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series Anthony Carrigan, "Barry"   Phil Dunster, "Ted Lasso"   Brett Goldstein, "Ted Lasso"   James Marsden, "Jury Duty"   WINNER: Ebon Moss-Bachrach, "The Bear"   Tyler James Williams, "Abbott Elementary"   Henry Winkler, "Barry"   Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series Alex Borstein, "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel"   Ayo Edebiri, "The Bear"   Janelle James, "Abbott Elementary"   Sheryl Lee Ralph, "Abbott Elementary"   Juno Temple, "Ted Lasso"   Hannah Waddingham, "Ted Lasso"   Jessica Williams, "Shrinking"   Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series Jon Bernthal, "The Bear"   Luke Kirby, "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel"   Nathan Lane, "Only Murders In The Building"   Pedro Pascal, "Saturday Night Live"   Oliver Platt, "The Bear"   WINNER: Sam Richardson, "Ted Lasso"   Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series Becky Ann Baker, "Ted Lasso"   Quinta Brunson, "Saturday Night Live"   Taraji P. Henson, "Abbott Elementary"   WINNER: Judith Light, "Poker Face"   Sarah Niles, "Ted Lasso"   Harriet Walter, "Ted Lasso"   Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series WINNER: "Beef"   "Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story"   "Daisy Jones and the Six"   "Fleishman Is in Trouble"   "Obi-Wan Kenobi"   Outstanding Television Movie "Dolly Parton's Mountain Magic Christmas"   "Fire Island"   "Hocus Pocus 2"   "Prey"   WINNER: "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story"   Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Taron Egerton, "Black Bird"   Kumail Nanjiani, "Welcome to Chippendales"   Evan Peters, "Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story"   Daniel Radcliffe, "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story"   Michael Shannon, "George & Tammy"   WINNER: Steven Yeun, "Beef"   Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Lizzy Caplan, "Fleishman Is In Trouble"   Jessica Chastain, "George & Tammy"   Dominique Fishback, "Swarm"   Riley Keough, "Daisy Jones and the Six"   WINNER: Ali Wong, "Beef"   Kathryn Hahn, "Tiny Beautiful Things"   Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Jesse Plemons, "Love & Death"   Joseph Lee, "Beef"   Murray Bartlett, "Welcome to Chippendales"   WINNER: Paul Walter Hauser, "Black Bird"   Ray Liotta, "Black Bird"   Richard Jenkins, "Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story"   Young Mazino, "Beef"   Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Annaleigh Ashford, "Welcome to Chippendales"   Camila Morrone, "Daisy Jones & The Six"   Claire Danes, "Fleishman Is In Trouble"   Juliette Lewis, "Welcome to Chippendales"   Maria Bello, "Beef"   Merritt Wever, "Tiny Beautiful Things"   Niecy Nash-Betts, "Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story"   Outstanding Animated Program "Bob's Burgers"   "Entergalactic"   "Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal"   "Rick and Morty"   WINNER: "The Simpsons"   Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance Julie Andrews, "Queen Charlotte"   Alex Borstein, "Family Guy"   Mel Brooks, "History of the World, Part II"   WINNER: Maya Rudolph, "Big Mouth"   Wanda Sykes, "Crank Yankers"   Ali Wong, "Tuca & Bertie"   Outstanding Narrator Mahershala Ali, "Chimp Empire"   Angela Bassett, "Good Night Oppy"   Morgan Freeman, "Our Universe"   WINNER: Barack Obama, "Working: What We Do Today"   Pedro Pascal, "Patagonia: Life on the Edge of the World"   Outstanding Talk Series WINNER: "The Daily Show with Trevor Noah"   "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"   "Late Night with Seth Meyers"   "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert"   "The Problem with Jon Stewart"   Outstanding Variety Special (Live) "The Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show Starring Rihanna"   "Chris Rock: Selective Outrage"   WINNER: "Elton John Live: Farewell from Dodgers Stadium"   The Oscars   The Tonys   Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded) WINNER: "Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter"   "John Mulaney: Baby J"   "Lizzo: Live in Concert"   "Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music & Laughter"   "Trevor Noah: I Wish You Would"   "Wanda Sykes: I'm an Entertainer"   Outstanding Reality Competition Program "The Amazing Race"   WINNER: "RuPaul's Drag Race"   "Survivor"   "Top Chef"   "The Voice"   Outstanding Structured Reality Program "Antiques Roadshow"   "Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives"   "Love Is Blind"   WINNER: "Queer Eye"   "Shark Tank"   Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program "Indian Matchmaking"   "RuPaul's Drag Race: Untucked"   "Selling Sunset"   "Vanderpump Rules"   WINNER: "Welcome To Wrexham"   Outstanding Game Show "Family Feud"   WINNER: "Jeopardy!"   "The Price Is Right"   "That's My Jam"   "Wheel Of Fortune"   Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program Bobby Berk, Karamo Brown, Tan France, Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness, "Queer Eye"   Nicole Byer, "Nailed It"   Padma Lakshmi, "Top Chef"   Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, "Baking It"   WINNER: RuPaul, "RuPaul's Drag Race"   Outstanding Host for a Game show Mayim Bialik, "Jeopardy!"   Steve Harvey, "Family Feud"   Ken Jennings, "Jeopardy!"   WINNER: Keke Palmer, "Password"   Pat Sajak, "Wheel of Fortune"   Outstanding Scripted Variety Series "A Black Lady Sketch Show"   WINNER: "Last Week Tonight With John Oliver"   "Saturday Night Live"   Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special "Being Mary Tyler Moore"   "Judy Blume Forever"   "My Transparent Life"   "Pamela, A Love Story"   WINNER: "Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie"   Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series "Dear Mama"   "100 Foot Wave"   "Secrets of the Elephants"   WINNER: "The 1619 Project"   "The U.S. and the Holocaust"     A star-struck Green Bay Packers fan couldn't believe her eyes when quarterback Jordan Love stepped over to help free her car after it got stuck in snow.   Lucy Kurowski, 20, shared a picture of herself and the NFL star on Instagram on Friday, days before Love led his team to a 48-32 win over the Dallas Cowboys in the playoff wildcard round Sunday.   She told Fox affiliate WLUK of Green Bay that she was leaving a hair appointment Friday in the Green Bay suburb of De Pere when she realized her car was stuck.   "He gets out of his car and he's like, 'Are you OK?'" Kurowski said. "And I was like, 'Are you Jordan Love?!' I was fangirling," she said. "I couldn't even believe it. It didn't feel real. I was in a state of shock."   The pair weren't able to free the car, but Kurowski was still won over by Love's kindness.   Kurowski's aunt shared the selfie the pair took on X, where it has received 30,000 likes. "What can't he do?" she asked.   Love, 25, a product of Utah State University, threw for three touchdowns in Sunday's game, marking his postseason debut with a victory that went against many predictions given the Cowboys' unbeaten 16-game home streak.   Love has thrown for 4,159 yards this season, putting him seventh in the NFL passing charts, with a completion rate of 64.2.     Tiny nanorobots that can self-propel within the body can reduce the size of bladder tumours by 90%, a study has shown.   Such nanorobots can deliver radioactive iodine directly to tumours inside the body, using urea (waste) as 'fuel'.   The research, which was conducted using mice, provides hope to patients with a bladder tumour, which has one of the highest incidence rates in the world and ranks as the fourth most common tumour in men.   Samuel Sanchez, ICREA research professor at Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia in Spain and leader of the study, said: "With a single dose, we observed a 90% decrease in tumour volume. This is significantly more efficient given that patients with this type of tumour typically have six to 14 hospital appointments with current treatments.   "Such a treatment approach would enhance efficiency, reducing the length of hospitalisation and treatment costs."   How do the nanorobots work? The tiny nanomachines consist of a porous sphere made of silica.   Their surfaces carry various chemical components with specific functions. Among them is the enzyme urease, a protein that reacts with urea found in urine, enabling the nanoparticle to propel itself.   Another crucial component is radioactive iodine, a radioisotope commonly used for the localised treatment of tumours. The robots 'swim' through the bladder until they encounter either the wall of the bladder or a tumour.   Why can they help kill tumours? The scientists concluded that the nanorobots collide with the edge of the bladder as if it were a wall. In the tumour, which is spongier, they penetrate the tumour and accumulate inside.   The highly mobile nanobots swim everywhere until they encounter tumours. The next step, which is already underway, is to determine whether these tumours recur after treatment.     COMMERCIAL BREAK       Dead' Man Jolted Back to Life by the Intolerable Bumps of India's Potholes   They breed anger and derision; they cause annoyance, discomfort, and even expensive repairs, but India's famous potholes actually saved a life on Friday.   The 'late' Darshan Singh Brar was being transported to the Indian version of a wake after his untimely death from a chest infection at the age of 80.   Family, relatives, and friends had already gathered for a banquet and cremation, when the ambulance he was being carried in received a nasty jolt from a pothole on the roads in Nising, in far-Northern India's Haryana state.   It was then that Mr. Brar's grandson who was onboard the ambulance at the time noticed his hand moving. Checking his pulse and finding—to his great shock—there was one, he notified the driver to immediately turn toward the nearest hospital.   He was declared alive and savable and was referred to the Rawal Hospital in the city of Karnal.   "It is a miracle. Now we are hoping that my grandfather recovers soon," said Balwan Singh, another of Mr. Brar's grandsons. "Everyone who had gathered to mourn his death congratulated us, and we requested them to have the food we had arranged. It is God's grace that he is now breathing and we are hoping he will get better."   A valued and respected member of his local community in Nising, NDTV news reports that "an entire colony" was named in his honor.   He had been feeling very ill and was taken to the hospital in Nising and put on a ventilator. After four days, his heartbeat stopped. He was taken off the ventilator and declared dead.   Doctors at Rawal Hospital said that the grandfather is breathing without the aid of a ventilator and his heartbeat has normalized. They can't say for certain why the other hospital declared him dead, but speculated it may have been a technical error.     Dubbed the 'Millennium Camera,' a device dreamed up by an experimental philosopher in Arizona aims to capture a one thousand year-exposure of Tuscon.   Along with some colleagues, Jonathon Keats, a research associate at the University of Arizona College of Fine Arts, installed the camera next to a bench in Starr Pass with the aim of encouraging people to imagine a thousand years into the future.   Any photographer who has turned their camera off auto shoot mode will know that if you let in even just 10 minutes of light, much less 1,000 years, you'll have a blank white image.   Keats has planned for that, and chose to use a pinhole camera equipped with rare materials.   Through a pin-sized hole in a thin sheet of 24-karat gold, light will slip into a small copper cylinder mounted atop a steel pole. Over ten centuries, sunlight reflected from Tucson's landscape will slowly fade a light-sensitive surface coated in many thin layers of rose madder, an oil paint pigment.     Football Superstitions     1. Patrick Mahomes: Same Underwear Every Game   Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has a peculiar ritual that might raise a few eyebrows. He wears the same pair of underwear for every game.   2. Josh Allen: Pre-Game Vomit   Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has a strange pre-game ritual: he vomits before every game.   3. John Henderson: Face Slap   Former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle John Henderson had one of the most intense pregame rituals. He would have a member of the training staff slap him in the face before each game.   4. Tom Brady: Mantras and Stones   Arguably the greatest quarterback of all time, Tom Brady has a few superstitions of his own. One of them involves using mantras and special stones for good luck.   5. Brian Urlacher: Eating Cookies   Former Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher had a sweet pregame ritual. He would eat two chocolate chip cookies before every game.   6. Dallas Cowboys' Offensive Linemen: Running a Route Tree   A couple of Dallas Cowboys' offensive linemen have a unique pregame ritual. They run a route tree, a series of different pass routes, before each game.   7. Super Bowl Superstitions   While not tied to a specific player, the Super Bowl is rife with superstitions. From avoiding certain colors to eating specific foods, players and fans alike partake in various rituals to ward off bad luck.   8. NFL Fans' Pre game Rituals   According to a survey by OnePoll, 65% of NFL fans practice a pregame ritual they believe brings their teams good luck. While these superstitions may not directly affect the outcome, they're an integral part of the game-day experience. These can include the following.   • Wearing Specific Clothing or Accessories: Many fans wear the same jersey, hat, or other team-specific clothing item for every game, especially if the item has been 'lucky' in the past. • Tailgating: A popular ritual is to gather in the parking lot of the stadium hours before the game, grilling food and sharing drinks with fellow fans. • Superstitious Seating: Some fans insist on sitting in the same spot on their couch or at the bar for every game. • Team Chants: Fans often participate in chants or songs specific to their team prior to the game starting. • Touching Team Memorabilia: Fans may have a special piece of team memorabilia that they touch for good luck before the start of each game. • Game Time Food: Certain fans eat the same meal or snack during every game, believing the food brings good luck. • Avoiding Certain Colors: Fans often avoid wearing the opposing team's colors on game day. • Predicting the Game's Outcome: Some fans make a point of predicting the score or outcome before the game starts.   9. Jake Elliott's Pregame Ritual   Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliott might not be the most superstitious player in the NFL, but he has a pregame ritual of his own. The specifics are a closely guarded secret, but it's clear that whatever he's doing, it's working.   10. Superstitions from the Miami Dolphins Documentary "Ace Ventura Pet Detective"   In the 1994 totally real, actually happened (take my word for it), hilarious comedic documentary film "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective," (starring Jim Carrey) a number of Miami Dolphins superstitions are humorously depicted. These include   • Dan Marino's Isotoner Gloves: In the film, it's implied that Dan Marino always wears a pair of Isotoner gloves, given to him as a promotional deal. The gloves are seen as a good luck charm. • The Missing Dolphin Mascot: The team's dolphin mascot, Snowflake, is kidnapped, creating a superstitious belief that the team can't win without their lucky mascot. • The "Laces Out" Rule: In the film, there is a superstition about how the football should be held for a kicker. It must be laced out, and when it's not, it leads to disastrous consequences in a game. • The Curse of Ray Finkle: Former Miami Dolphins player Ray Finkle is portrayed as a disgraced player who, after a missed kick in the Super Bowl, is believed to have cursed the team. • The Sacred Ring: The championship rings are seen as symbols of the team's glory days and are treated with reverence by the characters in the movie. • A player Hasn't washed his jock strap: "Because he thinks flies are luck"       7 Hilarious Football Fan Superstitions Shared by Redditors   Fiery Ritual Some fans unquestionably take their rituals to the extreme. During Vince Young's playing days, a Redditor mentioned that they used to perform a rather unconventional practice of burning a photo of the player. They would attach a picture of his face to a Barbie doll and place it on the grill as part of their ritual.   Sound Of Silence This particular approach might come across as a bit harsh, yet it seems to show results for this person. Apparently, ignoring their wife and kid during the game is their strategy. "I know it's weird and the results haven't been great, but I'm not going to risk it," they wrote. Priorities, dude!   Quantum Football Mechanics Some say that dissecting your superstitions like a science can work wonders. A Reddit user shared their approach, saying that if, for some reason, they tune into the game late and the Ravens are in the lead, they turn the game off. "Watching will only swing the game in the opposite direction. It's like the Heisenberg Principle of quantum football mechanics. Intense observation will only change the outcome," they humorously explained. That's dedication!   Designated Sweet Spot Having a lucky seat or a designated sweet spot to park yourself during every football game is a ritual many fans swear by. According to one person, during game days, they make a point to occupy the exact same barstool. They mentioned, "Everyone has assigned seats at the bar."   Goodbye Hygiene Some hardcore football fans throw hygiene to the wind. A Reddit user opened up about their peculiar belief. If they don't shower right before the game, they're convinced the Eagles will end up on the losing side. They added, "Sometimes if we had a crappy first half, I'll take another shower, for a fresh start."   Habitual Counting Luck can take some interesting forms, like the practice of counting things a specific number of times. A person mentioned that on game days, they apply three strokes of deodorant per armpit in support of Russell Wilson. Some people are all about the idea that stuff tends to go down in threes.     1. Baby Clothing in a Family Divided and Packer Jerseys of Fans in Mexico   When the family bought their toddler daughter a Packers shirt before one of the longest winning streaks in NFL history started, the shirt became a weekly aspect of her garb.   When said tiny person decided (or was it a conspiracy orchestrated as a game-day scratch by the Giants' fan father?) not to wear the Packers shirt, everything in the Packers cosmological balance went.     2. Sticking With the Clothing Theme   A Packers fan in Mexico reports him and his wife were given Packers jerseys as a gift. The idea was both members of the matrimony had to wear the jerseys on game day in solidarity. The husband explains, "On days when she didn't want to wear it and we argued, the Packers started slow.   3. Living Room Tableau: The Staging for Victory One of my own superstitions is starting the game sitting on the eastern-most part of the couch.   This spot has the best view of the flat-screen glory and a winning cushion (clearly says so on the label, by stating "do not remove!").   When cheddar hits the fan and the Packers need a boost, I move to the other side (heading west if you're doing football GPS, geo-cache scoring at home), believing an imbalance of football gravity has its axis at the center of my living room.   The percentage of time this superstition aids the Packers is debatable depending on the beverage consumed during games, but multiple occasions in this current season the results of "tilting the pinball machine of NFL plight," as I like to call it, resulted in a Charlie Peprah interception.   This is the stuff of champions and Yoda-like wisdom, my fellow Packer fans.     4. "They Play Well When I Leave the Room... Bad When I'm There"   For years, my father has found there are certain losses where he feels they are playing bad when he's watching, but for a break or when returning from a halftime walk, the Packers are hot again.   Once aware the football spirits are watching, he tries to out-duel the jinx. Sneaking in when others cheer or trying a few distractions to pull away from the action, only to rush back when the announcers' voices seem to rise in excitement.     5. Refrigerator Blunder   Upon waking up before the epic Jan. 10, 2010 playoff loss to the Arizona Cardinals (Good Guys 45, Cards 51), a Madison, WI woman was hungry for a brunch snack. When she wanted to add cheese to her omelet she reacted in horror: The cheese, born and made in Wisconsin, had expired as of Jan. 9, 2010.  Would eating it be sacrilege?     6. Radiowaves Versus TV Broadcast   Since the rate of oscillation of a radio broadcast is between 3 kHz and 300 GHz, if many in Packer nation switch to the radio broadcast, who knows what sort of electricity we can bring to the team!   Packers fans know more about physics and the electricity of a football game than any other fanbase.  Why do I say this? Because some have the wild superstition that if the game isn't going well, and they're only listening to television analysis, that the great Packer radio announcers can bring them back.   So they switch to the radio while watching TV (despite the new delay caused by HD broadcasts) and boom, the Pack is back!     7. "Too Much Talking, Too Little Football"   Many Packer fans I've spoken with say they don't like to watch the big games at a bar because they can't get "into the zone" for the game (too many distractions) as much as in their living room.   One Packer fan from Milwaukee, WI reported to me that she tells her fellow girlfriends at the gathering to "be quiet" during the plays. Talking is only encouraged during commercials for this strict Packer fan who also believes the good karma of victories come from diligent observation and analysis, not chit-chat.     8. What Is the Winning Percentage When the Bikini Girls Are in the House?   Of all the bad-ass hunters in Wisconsin and tough-guy jobs people take in the tundra, how many can make it through a game in December or January without a jacket let alone without a real shirt?   The bikini girls come to many Packer contests and have weathered the storm through pleasant September all the way through late season's below freezing average temps and snow.     9. Leaving the Game at All Is Taboo   Come to any city or town in Wisconsin and you'll notice during the Packers games, nobody is in the stores, walking on the streets and traffic in Milwaukee seems to have stopped. Aside from a rare halftime run for munchies or adult beverages, Packers fans take their fandom seriously.   Similarly, you don't want to admit to your friends that you took a walk with your dogs during the second half of the Giants playoff game for fear of being ostracized from the community.  

For Martin Luther King Jr. Day, here's a look at the quotes that scholars and historians associated with him enough to suggest they be included on his monument, which is maintained by the National Park Service, along with some context.   The 15 quotes include:   1.    "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope." This quote comes directly from King's "I Have A Dream" speech in Washington on August 28, 1963.  2.    "We shall overcome because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." 3.    "Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." 4.    "I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant." 5.    "Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in." 6.    "I oppose the war in Vietnam because I love America. I speak out against it not in anger but with anxiety and sorrow in my heart, and above all with a passionate desire to see our beloved country stand as a moral example of the world." 7.    "If we are to have peace on earth, our loyalties must become ecumenical rather than sectional. Our loyalties must transcend our race, our tribe, our class, and our nation; and this means we must develop a world perspective." 8.    "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly." 9.    "I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture for their minds, and dignity, equality, and freedom for their spirits." 10.    "It is not enough to say 'We must not wage war.' It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it. We must concentrate not merely on the negative expulsion of war, but the positive affirmation of peace." 11.    "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." 12.    "Every nation must now develop an overriding loyalty to mankind as a whole in order to preserve the best in their individual societies." 13.    "We are determined here in Montgomery to work and fight until justice runs 'down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream.'" 14.    "We must come to see that the end we seek is a society at peace with itself, a society that can live with its conscience." 15.    "True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice."   COMMERCIAL BREAK A Vermont state trooper plunged into a frigid pond and pulled out an 8-year-old girl who had fallen through the ice while playing with siblings. The child survived and fully recovered after a brief hospital stay.   The girl and her younger sister fell through the thin ice on the pond on private property in the town of Cambridge on Dec. 17, state police said in a news release Friday. The 80-year-old homeowner was able to pull the younger girl to shore but couldn't reach the older girl, so called 911, officials said.   Trooper Michelle Archer was nearby and arrived less than five minutes later, police said. She pulled a rope and flotation device from her cruiser, ran to the pond and swam to the girl, according to body camera video released by state police. She swam back to shore with the girl, and a second trooper who arrived as she was bringing her out of the water carried the child to a waiting ambulance.   The girl was taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington for treatment of injuries that at first were thought to be life-threatening, police said. She has made a complete recovery and returned home.   Vermont State Police leadership have commended Troopers Archer and Keith Cote and the homeowner "for their selfless, heroic conduct, and all three have been recommended to receive the agency's Lifesaving Award," state police said.         NEW YORK — Joyce Randolph, a veteran stage and television actress whose role as the savvy Trixie Norton on The Honeymooners provided the perfect foil to her dimwitted TV husband, has died. She was 99.   Randolph died of natural causes Saturday night at her home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, her son Randolph Charles told The Associated Press Sunday.   She was the last surviving main character of the beloved comedy from television's golden age of the 1950s.     A professional ice hockey team in Pennsylvania broke a franchise record last week, not for goals scored, but for the number of teddy bears tossed onto the ice by fans to help local kids.   The plush pandemonium broke out in the second period as the Hershey Bears scored a goal to trigger the annual Teddy Bear Toss that collects toys for charity—while the announcer screamed, "Let the sweet cuddly mayhem commence!"   The exuberant downpour of plushies began 4 minutes into the second period at the Giant Center last week, with 74,599 stuffed toys raining down.   "You see it on video, but when you're actually part of it, it was amazing. Just an incredible sight," said Bears coach Todd Nelson.   "First, you're celebrating the goal, and then you start getting pelted with bears," said new Hershey player Chase Priskie, experiencing the event for the first time. "It's just a phenomenal atmosphere when tens of thousands of bears start raining down on you."   The event surpassed the club's previous record of 67,309 teddies collected last year for donation to more than 35 local charities as part of the club's Hershey Bears Cares program.   Since its inception in 2001, the tradition has collected nearly a half million cuddly creatures for children in need.   The Sweigart Family Foundation also donated $55,000 to Children's Miracle Network in Hershey to recognize the efforts of local fans this year.   Based in the town of Hershey, The Bears would go on to a 3-2 overtime victory over the Lehigh Valley Phantoms—after a 40 minute delay to cart off all the toys—improving their AHL-best record to 29-7-0- this season.         NFL playoff schedule: Divisional round dates, times, TV info   Saturday, Jan. 20 Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens/Kansas City Chiefs, 4:30 p.m. ET (ESPN/ABC, ESPN+, ESPN Deportes)   Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers, 8 p.m. ET (FOX, FOX Deportes)   Sunday, Jan. 21 Philadelphia Eagles/Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions, 3 p.m. ET (NBC, Peacock, Universo)   Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills or Pittsburgh at Baltimore, 6:30 p.m. ET (CBS, Paramount+)   NFL playoff schedule: Conference championship games Sunday, Jan. 28 AFC championship, TBD, CBS   NFC championship, TBD, Fox     Super Bowl 58 date, time Sunday, Feb. 11 AFC champion vs. NFC champion, 6:30 p.m. ET, CBS   NFL playoff schedule, scores: Wild-card round   Saturday, Jan. 13 Houston Texans 45, Cleveland Browns 14   Kansas City Chiefs 26, Miami Dolphins 7   Sunday, Jan. 14 Green Bay Packers 48, Dallas Cowboys 32   Detroit Lions 24, Los Angeles Rams 23   Monday, Jan. 15 Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills, 4:30 p.m. ET, CBS   Philadelphia Eagles at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 8 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN

Headline: Winter Storm Gerri Sparks Blizzard Warnings Across Midwest and Great Lakes Winter Storm Gerri is causing havoc across the Midwest and Great Lakes, triggering blizzard warnings in multiple states. The combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds is creating dangerous travel conditions. The National Weather Service in Des Moines, Iowa, issued a rare blizzard warning, emphasizing the magnitude of the storm. Blizzard and winter storm warnings cover millions in eastern South Dakota, Iowa, northeast Nebraska, northwest Illinois, northern Wisconsin, and northern Michigan. Cities like Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Des Moines, Iowa, and Green Bay, Wisconsin, are included, with a strong advisory to avoid travel. The storm's progression is marked by increasing snow and winds from Nebraska to the western Great Lakes. The forecast indicates further intensification, with snow spreading from eastern Nebraska to Michigan on Friday and Friday night. Travel is strongly discouraged in these areas due to poor visibility and hazardous conditions. As Gerri strengthens, strong winds will persist in the Midwest on Friday and into Saturday, causing reduced visibility and potential near-whiteout conditions. The Northeast will also experience strong winds from Friday night into Sunday. The aftermath of Gerri will linger, with snow showers in the Great Lakes and upper Midwest on Saturday. Additionally, the Northeast faces the risk of heavy rainfall, leading to possible flooding, especially in areas with saturated ground from previous storms. Stay informed and stay safe as Winter Storm Gerri continues its impact across the region. Headline: Michael Strahan's Daughter Diagnosed with Brain Tumor: A Family's Brave Journey In a heartfelt announcement on "Good Morning America," Michael Strahan and his 19-year-old daughter Isabella revealed her diagnosis of a brain tumor. The journey began with symptoms during Isabella's freshman year at the University of Southern California, including headaches and nausea, eventually leading to a diagnosis of medulloblastoma, a rare brain cancer. Isabella underwent emergency surgery on October 27, followed by a month of rehabilitation. Despite the challenges, she completed proton therapy, marking a significant milestone in her treatment. The family shared their optimism and determination, emphasizing that every day brings them closer to recovery. Isabella's upcoming chemotherapy at Duke Children's Hospital and Health Center in Durham, North Carolina, will be the next step in her healing process. Throughout the journey, she aims to inspire others through a newly launched YouTube channel documenting her battle with cancer. Michael Strahan, who took a hiatus from his professional commitments during this challenging period, expressed gratitude for the support received and emphasized the importance of hope in facing adversity. Headline: Jelly Roll Advocates for Anti-Fentanyl Legislation in Senate Testimony Grammy-nominated singer Jason DeFord, popularly known as Jelly Roll, testified before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, urging lawmakers to pass anti-fentanyl legislation. DeFord shared his personal experience with substance abuse and highlighted the devastating impact of fentanyl-related deaths. During his emotional testimony, Jelly Roll acknowledged his past role in contributing to the problem and emphasized the urgent need for legislation to combat the lethal combination of various drugs with fentanyl. He stressed the importance of preventing further loss of lives and expressed his commitment to being part of the solution. The Fentanyl Eradication and Narcotics Deterrence (FEND) Off Fentanyl Act, proposed by Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), aims to address the fentanyl crisis. Jelly Roll's powerful testimony adds a personal perspective to the critical discussions surrounding this legislation. Headline: David Bowie's "Under Pressure" Resurfaces on Billboard Charts More than half a decade after David Bowie's passing, his iconic collaboration with Queen, "Under Pressure," returns to two Billboard charts. The timeless track re-enters the Hard Rock Digital Song Sales chart, securing the 10th spot. The resurgence of "Under Pressure" brings back the magic of Bowie and Queen, captivating the hearts and ears of fans. Despite the years that have passed, the song's popularity remains evident, finding a place on the charts and rekindling the appreciation for these legendary artists. Headline: Dog's Keen Sense Saves Neighborhood from Potential Disaster Kobe, a 4-year-old husky, detected a disastrous gas leak in a Philadelphia neighborhood, potentially preventing a catastrophic event. Kobe's persistent digging in a specific area of the yard caught the attention of his owner, Chanell Bell. Trusting Kobe's unusual behavior, Bell used a gas detection device, which immediately registered a significant amount of gas. Authorities were alerted in time, and it was revealed that if Kobe hadn't detected the leak, the consequences could have been fatal. Kobe's keen sense and Bell's quick response showcase the incredible bond between humans and their furry companions, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to unusual pet behavior. Headline: McDonald's Brings Back Double Big Mac for a Limited Time McDonald's announces the return of the Double Big Mac, a menu item featuring four 100% all-beef patties. After a four-year hiatus, the Double Big Mac is making a comeback, offering fans a meatier version of the classic Big Mac. Available at participating McDonald's restaurants nationwide starting January 24, the Double Big Mac promises a hearty experience with its four burger patties, pickles, shredded lettuce, finely chopped onions, American cheese, and Big Mac sauce, all sandwiched between a sesame seed bun. Grab this limited-time indulgence and savor the extra meaty goodness. Headline: "Friends" Scripts Found in Trash 25 Years Ago Head to Auction Two original scripts from the "Friends" series, specifically parts one and two of "The One With Ross's Wedding," are set to go on auction. Discovered in a London trash can 25 years ago, these scripts were meant to be destroyed after filming to prevent plot leaks. Retrieved by a former staff member at the TV studio, the scripts remained hidden for years until rediscovered. Now, they will be available for bidding, offering "Friends" enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of television history. As fans reminisce about the beloved show, the auction of these scripts adds a unique chapter to the "Friends" legacy. Place your bids and relive the iconic moments from this classic sitcom.

A vast storm system battered the Southern United States on Tuesday, unleashing potent thunderstorms and tornadoes that caused severe damage in Florida. Roofs were torn off homes, campers were flipped over, and furniture was tossed around by the powerful winds. Simultaneously, another storm brought cities across the Midwest to a standstill, blanketing them with over half a foot of snow, leading to highway closures and stranding people.   The storm claimed at least four lives in the South, where 55 mph winds, hail, and radar-confirmed tornadoes swept through the Florida Panhandle, Alabama, and Georgia. A tragic incident occurred in Cottonwood, Alabama, as an 81-year-old woman lost her life when her mobile home was thrown from its foundation by a suspected tornado. In Clayton County, south of Atlanta, heavy rain resulted in a fatality when a tree fell on a car on a state highway in Jonesboro.   North Carolina faced the impact of a suspected tornado in Claremont, resulting in one death and two critical injuries in a mobile home park. Downed power lines in Rocky Mount shut down both directions of I-95, a major highway. Flood watches and warnings were in effect for 84 million people along the East Coast, with power outages affecting hundreds of thousands in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, and North Carolina.   While storm-related injuries were reported in Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed at least four tornado touchdowns in the Panhandle. An executive order declaring a state of emergency was issued for 49 counties in North Florida. In Panama City Beach, parts of roofs were blown away, furniture and debris scattered, and some houses were visibly damaged.   Florida's Division of Emergency Management reported a house in the Panama City area listing at an angle of 20-25 degrees. Police urged residents to stay indoors in Panama City as they assessed storm damage, including downed power lines and trees.   Busch Gardens Tampa Bay closed early due to the weather, and heavy rain in Georgia temporarily halted air traffic at Atlanta's airport. Flash flooding occurred, causing lane closures on Atlanta freeways. Over 80 public school systems in Georgia canceled classes, while North Carolina's Governor declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm.   In the Midwest, a snowstorm brought up to 12 inches of snow from southeastern Colorado to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Several states, including Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois, were affected. Tragically, poor road conditions contributed to fatal accidents in Wisconsin and Michigan. Interstate closures, whiteout conditions, and winter storm warnings were issued in various areas, disrupting travel and posing significant hazards.     Amalija Knavs, the mother of former first lady Melania Trump, has died, Melania Trump said on social media Tuesday evening. Knavs was 78.   "It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Amalija. Amalija Knavs was a strong woman who always carried herself with grace, warmth, and dignity," Melania Trump posted to her X account, the platform formerly known as Twitter.   "She was entirely devoted to her husband, daughters, grandson, and son-in-law. We will miss her beyond measure and continue to honor and love her legacy," she added.   Melania Trump did not announce a cause of death.     Ring, the company that makes the surveillance door bells, ran a contest in October that asked for video, from Ring devices, that showed actual evidence of extraterrestrial life. The winner would get a million dollars.   But, the company also encouraged Ring users to submit funny and even staged videos that fit the "alien encounter" theme. Winners from that category would receive a $500 Amazon gift card.   The contest ended on November 3rd and, so far, no winners have been announced.   Ring released some of the submission clips for their "Out of this World" competition that are just like the name suggests.   One features toy green aliens holding a sign at the front door that reads "Been Trying To Reach You About Your Car's Extended Warranty."   "I forgot my pants on my spaceship," another alien says while hanging on a string in front of the Ring camera in a separate submission.   One submission features a skit where a human-sized alien approaches someone holding a bowl of candy on their porch. The alien uses telekinesis to knock out the human before dumping out all of the candy, wearing the bowl as a hat and walking away with extraterrestrial flair.      COMMERCIAL BREAK       A DoorDash driver on the way to deliver Chick-fil-A to a Florida customer was instead pulled over and arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. But the police didn't let the food go to waste, instead delivering it to the customer themselves.   The Nassau County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a possible drunk driver in the parking lot of a local Chick-fil-A restaurant, "striking cones and almost hitting multiple vehicles in the drive-thru" just outside of Jacksonville, the agency said Friday.   While the driver, later identified as 57-year-old John Kaminski, had left the parking lot by then, he was stopped shortly afterward, the agency said.   "Our deputy asked that Kaminski get out of his vehicle and observed him slurring his speech and stumbling while walking," said the sheriff's office in a statement on Facebook.   The driver was then instructed to perform field sobriety tests, which police say he couldn't complete. Kaminski was arrested on suspicion of DUI and taken to the Nassau County Detention facility.   An additional charge of possessing a controlled substance was also added after authorities say they found prescription drugs – Alprazolam and Hydrocodone – in unapproved containers in Kaminski's car.   Later, sheriff's deputy Dale Hutcherson took the Chick-fil-A bag from Kaminski's car and delivered it to the person who had ordered it "just in time for breakfast," said the sheriff's office.     The Miami Marlins are hiring Rachel Balkovec to become their new director of player development, according to multiple reports.   The newest member of the Marlins' front office is no stranger to blazing new trails for women in a male-dominated industry.   After graduating from LSU with a master's degree in kinesiology, Balkovec took a temporary job as the strength and conditioning coordinator for the Johnson City Cardinals – the St. Louis Cardinals' Rookie league affiliate. Two years later, that role became full-time, and she was the first woman in baseball to hold the position.   In 2019, the New York Yankees hired Balkovec as a Minor League hitting coach after she had spent time working for Driveline Baseball on a fellowship. She became the first woman in baseball to hold a hitting coach position.   Balkovec most recently served as the manager for the Tampa Tarpons, the Yankees' Class A affiliate in Minor League Baseball. When she took that job in 2022, she was the first woman to be a full-time manager for a Major League-affiliated team.   Balkovec coached the Tarpons to a 64-62 record as their manager from 2022-23.     A mom from Oklahoma took to TikTok to complain about loud kids in an upscale restaurant she was dining at, and caused quite the stir on the social media app.   "Don't take your (expletive) kids to nice restaurants," said Kelsey Davis, a wife and mother of five, in the viral video. "Because there's some married couples who pay to get rid of their kids for the evening to go have a nice dinner."   The video, which was posted on Dec. 30, has over 60,000 views. In it, she says the four kids, who she told Today.com ranged from 9 to 12 years old, played games on their tablet so loud that she couldn't hear the music in the restaurant.   "Our meal was over $140 with tip," she says in the TikTok. "And I had to listen to screaming (expletive) kids."   Her and her husband went to Nola's, a Cajun restaurant in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They hired a babysitter to enjoy the night kid-free, but their plans were foiled by the children described in the video.   "People, leave your kids at home, get a babysitter, don't take them," she says as her and her husband are in the car leaving the restaurant. "Because I want a good night with my husband and I just feel exhausted from that date night. So, thanks for that."   David told the outlet she was excited to finally get a table at Nola's after wanting to eat there for years.         Can a mouth mint taste great and be less filling? Miller Lite is betting so with its new Beer Mints.   Billed by the longtime light beer brand as having "the same great taste as Miller Lite, only without the beer," the new Beer Mints ($5 for a tin of 40 mints) go on sale online at millerlitebeermints.com on Jan. 12, while supplies last. A second Beer Mint drop is planned for Jan. 19, in a press release.   Beer Mints, which do not have any alcohol, are being marketed as support for those undertaking Dry January, in which folks abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages for the month.   What do the Miller Lite Beer Mints taste like? When you pop a Beer Mint into your mouth, you will get "the freshness of mint," but when you chew the mint, "the subtle, yet great taste of Miller Lite" emerges, according to Miller Lite. The mint "leaves consumers' breath feeling fresh and their taste buds hoppy."

South Korea's New Law Targets Dog Meat Industry - Ending by 2027 South Korea has recently enacted groundbreaking legislation with the aim of eliminating the consumption of dog meat by 2027. This new law, a historic move to end the centuries-old practice of consuming dog meat, bans the raising, slaughtering, distribution, and sale of dogs for consumption. Violators of this law could face imprisonment, with three years for those butchering dogs and a maximum of two years for those involved in raising or selling dog meat. Although the consumption of dog meat itself will not be illegal, the comprehensive ban is a significant step towards transforming societal attitudes. The legislation, set to take effect in three years, provides a transition period for dog farmers and restaurant owners to find alternative sources of employment. They are required to submit plans for phasing out their businesses to local authorities. While the government promises full support for those affected by the closure of dog meat-related businesses, details of compensation remain to be finalized. According to government statistics, South Korea had approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms in 2023. The decline in popularity of dog meat, especially among younger generations, reflects a shifting cultural perspective. Flight Disruptions Continue After FAA Grounds Boeing 737 Max 9 Aircraft Alaska Airlines and United Airlines are grappling with widespread flight cancellations following the Federal Aviation Administration's decision to ground all Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft. As of 9:55 a.m. ET, 220 United flights and 140 Alaska Airlines flights, constituting 20% of the carrier's routes, have been affected. The cancellations are concentrated at major hubs, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Newark-Liberty International Airport, Denver International Airport, and Chicago-O'Hare International Airport. Alaska Airlines, acknowledging the significant impact on operations, states that cancellations will persist through the first half of the week. Affected passengers will be rerouted to their destinations. The FAA's grounding order followed an incident where a panel blew out of an Alaska plane's fuselage, prompting an emergency landing. The National Transportation Safety Board continues to investigate potential issues with other Max 9 aircraft. Gillian Anderson's Bold Fashion Statement at the Golden Globes Gillian Anderson, renowned for her role in "Sex Education," made a striking fashion statement at the Golden Globes with a gown celebrating female anatomy. The strapless gown, designed by Gabriela Hearst, appeared solid cream from a distance but featured white vulva outlines on the skirt. Anderson confirmed the intentional design, explaining that it aligns with her brand, G Spot, an alternative wellness venture. The gown required extensive embroidery, taking 3 1/2 hours per vulva. Anderson emphasized her commitment to promoting the concept of the "yoni," a Sanskrit term representing the womb or vagina. The gown, adorned with glittering Chopard jewels, showcased her dedication to embracing and prioritizing pleasure. Heartwarming Act of Kindness Captured on Ring Camera A heartwarming interaction between an Englishwoman, Georgia Girelli, and a stranger who returned her lost purse was captured on a Ring camera. Unable to open the door to thank the kind individual, Girelli engaged in a short chat through the doorbell camera. The stranger, a likely firefighter from the Merseyside area, declined any reward and encouraged Girelli to "pay it forward." The video captures a beautiful exchange and serves as a poignant reminder of the power of kindness. Insulin Prices Drop After U.S. Legislation The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, passed by the U.S. Congress and the Biden White House, has led to a significant drop in the prices of insulin. The three major pharmaceutical companies dominating the insulin market, Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, and Sanofi, have lowered the cost of their name-brand insulin products. This move follows the reform bill's cap on monthly insulin costs at $35 for all Medicare patients. The 2021 American Rescue Plan Act also compelled pharmaceutical companies to provide rebates to state Medicaid programs if drug costs exceeded inflation rates. Insulin, vital for millions with diabetes, saw a tripling in prices between 2002 and 2013. The recent legislation aims to alleviate the financial burden on patients and enhance accessibility to this essential medication. AI Resurrects the Dead in Digital Avatars AI-driven startups are leveraging technology to create digital avatars of deceased individuals, offering a means of interactive communication for the living. These systems use AI to mimic language, voice, and movements, compiling digital avatars from photos, messages, and recordings. The level of realism varies based on the data provided, with some companies producing "high fidelity" versions using extensive video interviews conducted while the person was alive. This emerging technology raises ethical questions but provides a unique way for people to engage with memories of their loved ones. Online Education for Unconventional Careers: Stripper and OnlyFans Academies In the ever-evolving landscape of online education, unconventional career paths like stripping and content creation on platforms like OnlyFans are gaining attention. Exotic Dancer University, found at StripperEdu.com, offers virtual lessons, including "Baby Stripper 101," priced at $55. The course covers club lingo, audition preparation, and dance etiquette, catering to those interested in or already engaged in stripping. The OnlyFans Academy, also priced at $55, provides insights into monetizing social media presence. It includes social media hacks, posting schedules, and foot model pose guides. As unconventional careers gain prominence, these academies offer guidance to individuals navigating the unique challenges and opportunities in these industries. The Reverse Coloring Book: A Mindful Twist on Creativity "The Reverse Coloring Book" introduces a unique concept in creativity and mindfulness. Created by artist Kendra Norton, the book invites individuals to add lines to unfinished watercolor art, providing a visual guide for creative exploration. The book includes 50 original works of art printed on sturdy, perforated paper, allowing for easy tearing and framing. This innovative approach to coloring promotes artistic self-confidence and a calming, stress-free experience. As a soothing cult-favorite activity book, "The Reverse Coloring Book" has garnered praise for its ability to inspire creativity and provide a unique artistic outlet.

Severe weather, including potential tornadoes, flooding, and gusty winds, is expected in the South early this week due to a powerful storm. This severe weather episode precedes Winter Storm Finn. The Gulf Coast and Southeast may experience severe weather on Monday and Tuesday, with increasing moisture from the Gulf of Mexico ahead of a strong low-pressure system. Coastal Texas to southern parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle, including cities like Houston, New Orleans, and Mobile, are at risk. Damaging winds and tornadoes are possible, with a heightened risk of strong tornadoes on Monday night and early Tuesday in southeast Louisiana, southern Mississippi, southwest Alabama, and the western Florida Panhandle. In sports news, the Chicago Bears closed the 2023 season with a 17-9 loss to the Green Bay Packers. This placed the Bears in fourth place in the NFC North with a 7-10 record. The Packers secured a wild-card berth in the NFC playoffs with a win against the Bears, following victories by the Buccaneers and Saints in Sunday's early games. The 2024 Golden Globes made history as Lily Gladstone won Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama for "Killers of the Flower Moon." Gladstone delivered her acceptance speech in the Blackfeet language before expressing gratitude to Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Robert De Niro for their contribution to Native representation in the industry. Other notable Golden Globes winners include "Oppenheimer," "Barbie," "Poor Things," and "Anatomy of a Fall." Ricky Gervais won for Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television. The ceremony marked the first Golden Globes since the Hollywood Foreign Press Association's replacement, and new, diverse voters selected the nominees and winners. In a heartwarming incident in Birmingham, England, Liam Stych, a hero dad, saved a woman and her three-year-old daughter from a flooded river. Stych risked his life, using ratchet straps to secure the car and rescue the occupants, earning praise from West Midlands Police. Two unmarried brothers, Roman and Maz Piekarski, are seeking an heir for their world-record cuckoo clock collection. The brothers, with no children, hope to find someone to take over their 750-clock collection displayed in the 'Cuckooland' museum. A new rocket, the Vulcan Centaur, carried the Peregrine lunar lander into space. Developed by Astrobotic Technology, Peregrine is the first commercial lander that could touch down on the moon. The launch, the first lunar landing mission from the United States since 1972, is expected to reach the moon on February 23. The mission carries various payloads, including NASA science experiments and objects from different customers, sparking controversy over the inclusion of human remains on the moon. In entertainment, the 2024 Golden Globe Awards featured a "Suits" reunion with stars Gabriel Macht, Patrick J. Adams, Gina Torres, and Sarah Rafferty presenting the award for Best Television Series (Drama). The ceremony also saw awards for standout films and television series, with "Succession" and "The Bear" among the winners. This news segment concludes with a commercial break before highlighting a heartwarming story of a father's heroic rescue in Birmingham and the unique opportunity for someone to inherit a massive cuckoo clock collection.

Disney Legend Glynis Johns Passes Away at 100 Glynis Johns, renowned Disney Legend, known for her iconic role as Winifred Banks in Mary Poppins, passed away at 100 in Los Angeles from natural causes. Walt Disney personally selected her for the role, captivated by her sparkling screen persona. Dog's Expensive Snack Leads to Delicate Cash Recovery Mission A Pittsburgh couple's dog consumed nearly $4,000 in cash, requiring a meticulous recovery process. Over three days, the couple retrieved $3,500 by sifting through the dog's excretions and piecing together the bills. They plan to approach the bank with the recovered money. Negligence Lawsuit Against Dunkin' for Exploding Toilet Paul Kerouac files a negligence lawsuit against Dunkin', claiming severe and long-term injuries resulting from an exploding toilet at a Winter Park, Florida location. Bikini Trends 2024: Embrace Colors and Bold Patterns Explore the latest bikini trends for 2024, featuring playful colors, bold patterns, and diverse silhouettes. Upgrade your summer wardrobe with vibrant shades, tropical prints, and stylish cuts. Tourism Trends for 2024: From Astro Tourism to Coolcationing Explore emerging tourism trends for 2024, including astro tourism, eco diving, home swapping, train stations as food destinations, sports tourism, coolcationing, gig tripping, peak season avoidance, private group travel, AI travel assistance, skip-gen travel, glamorous train travel, and plan-free travel.

Show Prep for "The World Spins Fine On Her Own" with hosts Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane: Thursday, January 4, 2024 Weather Update: Cross-Country Storm Threatens Northeast Snow A coast-to-coast storm is forecasted to end a nearly two-year snow drought in certain Northeast regions. The storm, sweeping through the Great Basin and Southwest, will bring rain, wind, and substantial snowfall to higher elevation states like Nevada, Utah, and northern Arizona. Potential impacts on the I-95 corridor along the East Coast may lead to a messy situation. Detailed breakdown by day: Wednesday: Storm moves inland, rain and snow spread through the Great Basin and Southwest. Thursday: Heavy snow in the Southern Rocky Mountains, showers and storms in western Texas. Friday: Storm heads East, drawing up moisture from the Gulf, potential for heavy rain along the Gulf coast. Saturday: Storm moves towards the mid-Atlantic coast, with a possible expansion of snow into the Northeast by evening. Sunday: Interior Northeast could face heavy snow, with snow, sleet, and rain likely along the I-95 corridor. Cities along I-95, including New York City, Baltimore, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia, may see the end of their two-year snow streaks. Fire at Tyreek Hill's Home in South Florida Firefighters battled a massive fire at the South Florida home of Miami Dolphins star Tyreek Hill. The fire, limited to the attic and roof, caused smoke damage throughout the house. No injuries reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Hero Dog Alerts Owners to Fire in Arlington, Washington In Arlington, Washington, a hero dog named Lucy alerted her owners to a fire in their neighbor's house at 3:00 a.m. Lucy's loud, screaming-type bark was different from her usual barking, prompting the owners to investigate and call 911. Firefighters arrived in time to contain and extinguish the blaze, preventing it from spreading to the nearby home. Stanley's Exclusive Tumbler Collaboration with Starbucks Causes Chaos Stanley's collaboration with Starbucks on an exclusive "Winter Pink" tumbler, sold only at Target, leads to chaos in stores. Long lines, overnight campouts, and mayhem reported as enthusiasts rush to get the limited-edition tumbler. Reselling online for $159 after the initial release for $49.95. Starbucks Embraces Sustainability in 2024 Starbucks announces that customers can bring their own reusable cups for mobile and drive-thru orders starting January 3. Clean, reusable cups accepted at company-operated stores and select licensed stores in the U.S. and Canada for in-store, mobile, and drive-thru orders. Starbucks aims to reduce waste and give customers more options for sustainable choices. Darts Prodigy: 16-Year-Old Luke Littler Makes History Darts world has a new star in 16-year-old Luke Littler, who made history by reaching the world championship final. Although he lost the final, Littler is the youngest player to win any match at the world championships. 13-Year-Old Beats Original Nintendo Tetris, Reaches "Kill Screen" Willis Gibson, a 13-year-old from Oklahoma, becomes the first person to beat the original Nintendo version of Tetris. Reaches level 157, encountering the game's notorious "kill screen," typically reached only by artificial intelligence. Alanis Morissette Discovers Jewish Ancestry on PBS' Finding Your Roots Alanis Morissette learns on PBS' Finding Your Roots that her maternal grandfather escaped the Holocaust in Hungary. Morissette reflects on her Jewish heritage, discovered in her late 20s, and her parents' decision to protect their children from antisemitism. Japan's Upcoming Moon Landing with Smart Lander (SLIM) JAXA's Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) set to land on the Lunar surface on January 19. Mission aims to research pinpoint landing technology for future lunar probes. If successful, Japan will become the fifth nation to land on the Moon. Year of the Wood Dragon in Chinese Zodiac The Lunar New Year on February 10 marks the Year of the Wood Dragon. Dragons of wood may amplify introverted tendencies but are expected to be rewarded for vision, risk-taking, and innovation. Astrologers predict a year of growth, progress, and abundance, fostering opportunities for long-term development.

Earthquake Shakes Roosevelt Island and Queens Reports confirm a 1.7 magnitude earthquake rattled Roosevelt Island and Queens, causing power outages and small explosions. The United States Geological Survey identified the quake near Astoria, Queens, at 5:45 a.m. No injuries or damage were reported in New York City. The incident affected buildings on Roosevelt Island, with power outages at 2 and 4 River Road. Emergency responders found no structural damage, and Con Edison is actively investigating. Unusual Earthquake Activity in NYC Rare but not unprecedented, this earthquake follows a 2.2 magnitude event in May 2023 and marks the latest seismic activity since June 2019. The USGS highlights the infrequency of earthquakes in the region, with the last notable series occurring in December 2004. Jack Black Joins Cast of "Minecraft" Movie In entertainment news, Jack Black is set to star in the live-action adaptation of the immensely popular video game, "Minecraft." Co-starring with Jason Momoa and Emma Myers, the film, directed by Jared Hess, is scheduled to begin production in New Zealand soon and will hit theaters on April 4, 2025. While the movie's plot remains undisclosed, the anticipation builds for this Warner Bros. and Legendary-backed project. Tragedy at Salt Lake City International Airport A disturbing incident unfolded at Salt Lake City International Airport, where a 30-year-old man, identified as Kyler Efinger, was found dead inside an airplane engine. Efinger breached an emergency exit and was discovered unconscious within the engine's covering. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries. The Delta flight to San Francisco was canceled, and passengers were rebooked on alternative flights. Mickey Mouse Enters Public Domain, Inspiring Horror Films As of January 1, the iconic black-and-white version of Mickey Mouse from "Steamboat Willie" is in the public domain. Filmmakers are already exploring this newfound freedom, with horror movies like "Mickey's Mouse Trap" and an untitled horror-comedy in the works. These projects, directed by Jamie Bailey and Steven LaMorte, promise a dark twist on the beloved character, signaling a unique era for Mickey Mouse-inspired entertainment. Discovering a Diamond at Crater of Diamonds State Park A visitor to Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas struck literal gold, finding a 4.87-carat diamond—the largest colorless diamond in the park in a decade. Jerry Evans stumbled upon the gem within ten minutes of entering the park and later had it identified by the Gemological Institute of America. This discovery adds to the 125 carats of diamonds registered at the park this year, reaffirming the park's status as a diamond hotspot. Superstitions and Omens from Around the World Explore fascinating superstitions and omens, from the belief in the "Doomsday Fish" as a harbinger of earthquakes to the significance of tingling ears. Uncover unique customs like not singing victory chants at the University of Alabama until certain, making wishes as two Volkswagen Beetles cross paths, and the superstition surrounding a cow's upright tail signaling an approaching hurricane. These intriguing beliefs offer a glimpse into diverse cultural traditions and peculiar rituals.

In this episode of 'The World Spins Fine On Her Own' podcast, hosts Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane dive into a world in crisis. From the devastating Japan earthquake that claimed 48 lives to the shocking Hollywood brawl involving actor Ian Ziering, the hosts provide insights into the global events shaping our reality. Explore the heroic rescue efforts in Japan's Noto peninsula and the alarming rise of street hooliganism. Plus, get the inside scoop on the viral TikTok trend surrounding Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise. Join Larry and Robin as they navigate through the latest international news, offering humor and perspective in the face of challenging times.   Show Prep for Tuesday, January 2, 2024   WAJIMA, Japan, Jan 2 (Reuters) - At least 48 people were killed after a powerful earthquake hit Japan on New Year's Day, with rescue teams struggling on Tuesday to reach isolated areas where buildings had been toppled, roads wrecked and power cut to tens of thousands of homes.   The quake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 struck on Monday afternoon, prompting people in coastal areas to flee to higher ground as tsunami waves hit Japan's western seaboard, sweeping cars and houses into the water.   A 3,000-strong rescue crew of army personnel, firefighters and police officers have been sent to the quake site on the Noto peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture.   Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, during an emergency meeting on Tuesday, that rescuers were finding it very difficult to access the northern tip of the Noto peninsula where helicopter surveys had discovered many fires and widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure. There are around 120 cases of people awaiting rescue, his government spokesperson said.   Many rail services and flights into the area have been suspended. More than 500 people were stranded at Noto's airport which has closed due to cracks in its runway and access road and damage to its terminal building.   In Suzu, a coastal town of just over 5,000 households near the quake's epicentre, up to 1,000 houses may have been destroyed, according to its mayor Masuhiro Izumiya.         CNN  — A Japan Airlines plane carrying hundreds of passengers burst into flames on landing at Tokyo's Haneda airport on Tuesday after it was in collision with another aircraft involved in earthquake relief efforts.   JAL flight 516 ignited after flying into Haneda from the northern Japanese city of Sapporo at 5:47 p.m. local time (3:47 a.m. ET)   All crew members and passengers, including eight children under the age of two, were safely evacuated from the passenger plane, according to the airline. One person on the Coast Guard plane escaped, but five are unaccounted for.     JAL is investigating the details and cause of the plane fire, a representative for the airline told CNN.   Footage showed the passenger jet moving and then igniting with a large fireball. The plane was then seen at a standstill with people using emergency slides to flee the inferno as firefighters tried to battle the growing flames.   The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) confirms to CNN that one of its aircraft, likely a fixed-wing MA722, collided with commercial flight 516 on the runway.   A JCG spokesman told CNN that the JCG aircraft was headed from Haneda airport to a JCG airbase in Niigata prefecture to help with relief efforts following a 7.5-magnitude earthquake on Monday.       South Korea's opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has been stabbed in the neck during a visit to the city of Busan.   Mr Lee, who narrowly lost the 2022 presidential election, sustained a 1cm laceration on the left side of his neck, reports said.   He was airlifted to hospital. Doctors say the wound is not life-threatening.   The 66-year-old man who attacked him said he had intended to kill Mr Lee, Yonhap news agency reported. The motive for the attack is unclear.   Mr Lee, who leads the Democratic Party of Korea, was addressing reporters at a news conference during a visit to a construction site in the port of Busan on Tuesday morning when the stabbing happened.   The attacker reportedly approached him to ask for an autograph, before suddenly lunging forward to stab him. The weapon was an 18cm (7in) knife which the attacker said he bought online, police said at a media briefing. The attacker was immediately overpowered and arrested.         A magnitude 4.1 earthquake off the Los Angeles County coast brought weak shaking throughout Southern California on Monday.   The temblor, which occurred at 8:27 a.m., was felt throughout Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties, according to earthquake sensing instruments and residents reporting what shaking they felt to the U.S. Geological Survey's Did You Feel It? website.   Firefighters said the earthquake was "felt by several in Pasadena" as the Rose Parade was underway, "but no injuries or damage reported."   The weak shaking felt across the region is defined by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale as being felt noticeably by people indoors and rocking standing motor vehicles slightly.   The earthquake epicenter was about 10 miles southwest of San Pedro, 11 miles southeast of Rancho Palos Verdes, 16 miles southwest of downtown Long Beach, and 16 miles northwest of Avalon on Santa Catalina Island.       Hundreds of sealed court filings pertaining to the late sex-offender Jeffrey Epstein are set to be made public this week, and several prominent names -- including Britain's Prince Andrew and former President Bill Clinton -- are expected to appear in the documents.   U.S. District Judge Loretta Preska ruled earlier this month there was no legal justification for continuing to conceal the ex-president's name and more than 150 names other "John and Jane Does" mentioned in the records. Preska ordered the unsealing to begin after Jan. 1.   The documents stem from a 2015 civil lawsuit centered on allegations that Epstein's one-time paramour, Ghislaine Maxwell, facilitated the sexual abuse of Virginia Giuffre, an alleged trafficking victim. Giuffre also accused Epstein and Maxwell of directing her to have sex with Prince Andrew and several other prominent men. Prince Andrew denied the allegations and claimed he could not recall ever meeting Giuffre. He later settled a lawsuit she filed against him.       An early Walt Disney movie featuring the first appearance of Mickey Mouse is among the copyrighted works from 1928 moving into the public domain on Jan. 1, 2024.   But the cartoon creature who stars in the animated short 'Steamboat Willie' isn't a lot like the Mickey we know today.   That means people can creatively reuse only the Mickey Mouse from 'Steamboat Willie.' Not the Mickey Mouse in the 1940 movie 'Fantasia'. Nor the one on 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,' a kids' show that aired on the Disney Channel for a decade starting in 2006.   New versions of Mickey Mouse remain under copyright. Copyright applies to creative characters, movies, books, plays, songs and more. And as it happens, Mickey Mouse is also trademarked.   "Trademark law is entirely about protecting brands, logos and names — like Mickey Mouse as a logo, or the name Mickey Mouse," McLeod says.   "And of course, trademark law has no end," adds Harvard Law School professor Ruth Okediji. Disney and other corporations, she says, use trademarks to extend control over intellectual property." As long as the mark remains distinctive in the supply of goods and services, the owner of the trademark gets to protect that trademark."           A new college football tradition was born in the fires of a giant toaster on the night of Dec. 28: the eating of the Pop-Tarts Bowl mascot.   The hilarious celebration involved the victorious Kansas State players joyously chowing down on Strawberry, billed as college football's first edible mascot, after their 28-19 victory over North Carolina State at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.   Following the win by the Wildcats, the costumed mascot stood atop a giant toaster on the field and waved goodbye to the crowd while holding a sign saying "Dreams really do come true."   The Pop-Tart mascot fulfilled its destiny when it slid down inside the toaster and then a giant, edible version of a frosted strawberry Pop-Tart came sliding down a ramp at the bottom of the toaster.   Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson and head coach Chris Klieman grabbed the first hunks of the pastry before all the players joined them to munch in celebration.   "A mascot was executed and eaten in celebration; long live the @PopTartsBowl," the Reddit college football account posted on X. "This is the greatest sport in the world."         What is the 9-month cruise all over TikTok? Everything to know   On Dec. 10, Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise kicked off its round-the-world tour. TikTok's obsession with the voyage and its partakers quickly followed suit. The hashtag #RoyalCaribbeanUltimateWorldCruise has already accumulated 8.3 million views on the platform, and with the cruise liner ending its voyage on Sept. 10, 2024, that number has plenty of time to continue to climb.   What is the 9-month cruise all over TikTok? Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise is a 274-night trip that began on Dec. 10, 2023, when it left from Miami and is expected to come to an end in the same place on Sept. 10, 2024.   Passengers are currently staying on Serenade of the Seas, a ship that had its maiden voyage in 2003.   Serenade of the Seas will tour the world in four segments: the Americas, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Mediterranean and "Europe and beyond."   Ticket rates are based on a range of 1,073 staterooms and the full 274-night trip ran from $53,999 per person to $117,599 per person. Tickets for different legs of the trip are still available to book.   While the exact number of current passengers on Serenade of the Seas, which can hold up to 2,476 guests, is unknown, recent footage from traveler @brooklynschwetje shows a cruise meeting when it was revealed 1,093 membership passengers were on board.       Ian Ziering is closing out his year with a violent and surreal street brawl in the middle of Hollywood Blvd.   The Beverly Hills, 90210 actor got into a full-on brawl with a number of people while driving down the busy street, leading to the actor getting pummeled and eventually fleeing from the large group of bikers.   In footage obtained by TMZ, around a dozen men and women on mini-bikes appeared to be driving down the street, weaving in and out of traffic.   For reasons that are currently unclear, the Sharknado actor exited his vehicle and got into an altercation with one of the bikers, striking them. Soon, the other bikers came to his aid, and began attacking Ziering. The actor revealed that his daughter was with him during the incident. Ian Ziering is addressing a scary situation. One day after the 59-year-old actor was attacked during in a street brawl with bikers, he took to Instagram to explain what happened and reveal how he's doing now. "Yesterday, I experienced an alarming incident involving a group of individuals on mini bikes," he began. "While stuck in traffic, my car was approached aggressively by one of these riders leading to an unsettling confrontation. In an attempt to assess any damage I exited my car. This action, unfortunately, escalated into a physical altercation, which I navigated to protect myself." Ziering who's dad to Mia, 12, and Penna, 10, noted that while he's "relieved to report that my daughter and I are both completely unscathed," the incident left him "deeply concerned about the growing boldness of such groups who disrupt public safety and peace." "This situation highlights a larger issue of hooliganism on our streets and the need for effective law enforcement responses to such behavior," he wrote. "As a citizen and a parent, I find it unacceptable that groups can freely engage in this kind of behavior, causing fear and chaos, while the response from authorities seems insufficient."     5th Precinct officers of the NYPD had no intention of waiting for firefighters to come to the 6-story apartment building in flames right across from their station door.   Officers Willian Finan and William Dottavio along with two other colleagues charged in after residents fleeing the fire said there were elderly people trapped inside.   Released body cam footage worn by Dottavio shows Officer Finan exiting the building with a 99-year-old woman over his shoulder, before Dottavio charges up 5 flights of stairs to find the fourth member of the rescue team, Detective Rodney Rosado, coming out with another elderly woman.   Between the four men, they were able to rescue the 99-year-old, two elderly men aged 96 and 91, as well as a fourth woman whose age was not disclosed—all just 5 days before Christmas.

Discover the Top Events of 2023 in Our Year-in-Review Podcast Tune in as we revisit major events that shaped 2023. From the suspected Chinese spy balloon incident over Alaska to the shocking disappearance of a tourist submersible exploring the Titanic shipwreck, our podcast delves into the most captivating stories of the year. Join us for an in-depth look at international affairs, sports highlights, and pop culture moments, including Prince Harry's jaw-dropping revelations in his memoir "Spare," high-profile music tours featuring Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, and the surprising partnerships in the world of celebrity relationships. Learn about the most-Googled topics in 2023, from the top films and TV shows to the controversial country hit "Try That in a Small Town." We'll also explore the unexpected rise of McDonald's Grimace Shake and the intriguing "speed bump position" that took the internet by storm. Don't miss our fast facts segment, providing a quick recap of key events throughout the year, including notable births, retirements, and unfortunate losses. Join us as we reflect on the highs and lows of 2023 in this engaging and informative podcast episode. Listen now to stay informed and entertained with our comprehensive Year-in-Review podcast for Friday, December 29, 2023.

"Smothers Brothers' Comedy Legacy, Cher's Legal Move, and Heroic Uber Driver: This Week's Podcast Highlights" Description: In this week's podcast episode, we delve into the iconic legacy of Tom Smothers, the witty half of the famed Smothers Brothers comedy duo, who used their platform to challenge authority in the 1960s. Discover how they faced off against racism, the Vietnam War, and television censors, leading to the infamous cancellation of "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour." We also discuss Cher's recent legal move as she files for conservatorship over her son Elijah Blue Allman, addressing his alleged substance abuse issues and the need to protect his financial resources. Plus, get updates on the latest news, including a bizarre incident at a Tesla factory, Pizza Hut layoffs in California, and heartwarming stories like the man who rediscovers his late mother's mince pies every Christmas. Tune in for all this and more on our latest episode, featuring a roundup of the weirdest news stories from 2023, including unexpected flamingo sightings post-Hurricane Idalia and the controversial revelation of alleged real-life alien corpses. Don't miss the meatball made from woolly mammoth DNA and the "human-bear" drama that captivated the world. Join us for a mix of humor, heart, and the downright peculiar in this week's podcast!

Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, Korea 1. The 4th Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, Korea The upcoming 4th Winter Youth Olympic Games are set to captivate audiences in the province of Gangwon, Republic of Korea, from January 19th to February 1st. Building on the success of hosting the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, Gangwon aims to create a lasting legacy by engaging young people through pre-event, during, and post-event activities. The vision for Gangwon 2024 is to foster peaceful coexistence and unity through sports, driving positive change in the realms of sport, culture, and education. Leveraging facilities from PyeongChang 2018 ensures a cost-efficient and sustainable Youth Olympic Games, offering participating athletes the chance to compete at renowned venues. 2. The Youth Olympic Games Origin and Objective Initiated by former IOC President Jacques Rogge, the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) were unanimously approved in Guatemala City in July 2007. These games aim to inspire global youth to participate in sports, promote Olympic values, and disseminate the ideals of Olympism—a philosophy emphasizing the balanced development of body, will, and mind, integrating sport with culture and education. 3. Olympic Sports at Gangwon 2024 The Youth Olympic Games will feature 15 Olympic sports, including Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Figure Skating, Ice Hockey, Snowboarding, and more. Athletes aged 15 to 18 (as of December 31 in the YOG year) will compete, with specific age groups determined by each sport's International Federation in collaboration with the IOC. 4. Medal Design Competition Winner The winner of the Medal Design Competition for Gangwon 2024 is Dante Akira Uwai from Brazil, aged 27. His winning design, titled "A Sparkling Future," embodies the theme of growth and unity. The design uses geometric shapes to represent growth, with polished finishes symbolizing the desire for positive change in the world. 5. Theme Song: "We Go High" The official theme song for Gangwon 2024, titled "We Go High," intends to express the growth and joy experienced by young participants. The lyrics encourage young athletes to believe in themselves, strive for their goals, and contribute to creating a peaceful future. 6. Beyond Sports: Let's Play Winter Festival In addition to sporting competitions, Gangwon 2024 will host the Let's Play Winter festival, providing off-field activities for athletes and fans. Festival sites across the region will offer winter sports engagement, cultural performances, skate nights with renowned Korean DJs, and various sports activities, ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience with free tickets for all events except the Opening Ceremony. 7. 30 Things To Know About Gangwon 2024 Here are 10 highlights: Gangwon 2024 Dates: January 19 to February 1, 2024. Opening Ceremony: Simultaneously at Gangneung Oval and PyeongChang Dome, featuring K-pop stars. Schedule: Download the games' schedule at https://olympics.com/en/gangwon-2024/schedule. Disciplines: 15 disciplines across seven sports with gender equality. New Events: Introduction of new events, including a mixed team Nordic combined competition. Venues: Outdoor and indoor events across Alpensia Sports Park, Gangneung Olympic Park, Welli Hilli Ski Resort, and Jeongseon High 1 Ski Resort. Ticketing Information: Free tickets for all events except the Opening Ceremony, emphasizing inclusivity. Legacy: Leveraging pre-existing venues and green transport infrastructure from PyeongChang 2018. Moongcho the Mascot: Represents unity, born of a snowball fight between PyeongChang 2018 mascots. Star Ambassadors: Sporting and cultural icons, including Yun Sung-bin, Choi Min-jeong, and Yuna Kim, spreading Olympic values.

1. Disney Gift Card Mishap: Elderly Couple's $10,000 Disney+ Blunder An elderly couple intending to purchase $10,000 in Walt Disney park gift cards for a family vacation mistakenly bought Disney+ streaming service gift cards. The mix-up was discovered when attempting to book a trip, but Disney rectified the situation by converting the streaming cards into park gift cards. 2. Track Santa's Journey on Christmas Eve Discover ways to follow Santa's Christmas Eve journey: NORAD Tracks Santa: Follow on the NORAD Tracks Santa website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or ask Alexa. NORAD's tracking app is also available. Google Santa Tracker: Visit the Google Santa Tracker website or download the app to monitor Santa's travels. Nintendo Switch: Use your Nintendo Switch to find Santa's destination and speed. Various Santa Tracker Apps: Explore apps like Santa Tracker, Santa Tracker and Status Check, and Speak to Santa on Google Play or the App Store. 3. Ursid Meteor Shower: A Celestial Show for Christmas Learn about the Ursid meteor shower, set to peak between December 22 and 23. Find out how to watch it, when it occurs, and the science behind shooting stars. Tags: Ursid meteor shower, celestial event, shooting stars, December 2023, astronomy, winter solstice 4. Christmas Bonus Insights Explore key findings on Christmas bonuses: Over 80% of respondents believe year-end bonuses boost morale. Most think a week's pay is an adequate Christmas bonus. 71% of bonuses are in cash or one-time paycheck bumps. Some companies give bonuses exceeding $1,000. 42% offer less than $100 in Christmas bonuses. Insufficient revenue is a common reason for not providing bonuses. 51% of companies plan to give a Christmas bonus in 2023. Tags: Christmas bonuses, employee morale, year-end bonus, cash bonus, holiday rewards, company culture, financial planning, Christmas 2023 5. Surprising Christmas Bonus Stories: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly Discover heartwarming and unusual Christmas bonus stories, ranging from generous cash rewards to quirky and less appreciated gifts. Tags: Christmas bonus stories, employee rewards, holiday surprises, workplace culture, bonus traditions 6. 'Twas the Night Before Christmas: History and Fun Facts Explore the history and fun facts about the famous poem 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, including trivia questions and answers. Tags: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, history, Christmas poem, Clement Clarke Moore, holiday traditions 7. Did You Know? Christmas Edition Uncover interesting Christmas facts, including the origin of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, a unique World War II escape aid, mistletoe's less-than-sweet origin, Santa's Canadian postal code, and the influence of Prince Albert on Christmas tree traditions. Tags: Christmas facts, Rudolph, World War II, mistletoe, Santa's postal code, Prince Albert, holiday trivia 8. Christmas Blessing by Ray Pritchard End your show prep with a heartwarming Christmas blessing by Ray Pritchard, invoking the spirit of Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds, magi, and the Christ child. Tags: Christmas blessing, Ray Pritchard, holiday wishes, Christmas spirit, blessings, Christmas traditions