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    Kansas City Shooting Update; Lunar Lander Heading To Moon; 200 Year Old George Washington Painting Stolen

    enFebruary 15, 2024

    About this Episode

    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.

    Recent Episodes from The World Spins Fine On Her Own

    The Florida Wildlife Corridor

    The Florida Wildlife Corridor

    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.

    Texas Wildfires; Woman Wakes From 5 Year Coma; Richard Lewis Dies; and More

    Texas Wildfires; Woman Wakes From 5 Year Coma; Richard Lewis Dies; and More

    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

    Leap Day, Sleep Day, and Mac And Cheese Day

    Leap Day, Sleep Day, and Mac And Cheese Day

    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 cmayes@bgcec.com.

     

    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 Guinness Commercial; Monica Lewinsky's Modeling Gig; New Moon On Uranus; and MORE

    Jason Momoa Guinness Commercial; Monica Lewinsky's Modeling Gig; New Moon On Uranus; and MORE

    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

    Student Loan Forgiveness; Pork Infused Starbucks; Rosa Parks' Featherlite Pancakes; Savannah Guthrie's Faith Based Book; and MORE

    Student Loan Forgiveness; Pork Infused Starbucks; Rosa Parks' Featherlite Pancakes; Savannah Guthrie's Faith Based Book; and MORE

    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

    Abraham Lincoln Pardoned Biden's Great-Great-Grandfather; The Glowing Firefly Petunia: National Margarita Day; and MORE

    Abraham Lincoln Pardoned Biden's Great-Great-Grandfather; The Glowing Firefly Petunia: National Margarita Day; and MORE

    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.

    Daytona 500; Trump's Sneakers; Monuments Men and Women; and MORE

    Daytona 500; Trump's Sneakers; Monuments Men and Women; and MORE

    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.

    OnlyFans Controversy; Beyonce's Country Songs; University Offers Degree in AI; and MORE

    OnlyFans Controversy; Beyonce's Country Songs; University Offers Degree in AI; and MORE

    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.

    Kansas City Shooting Update; Lunar Lander Heading To Moon; 200 Year Old George Washington Painting Stolen

    Kansas City Shooting Update; Lunar Lander Heading To Moon; 200 Year Old George Washington Painting Stolen

    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 Fights Rezoning Proposal for Jumbolair; Crime Map Apps; Art and Found Day; and MORE

    John Travolta Fights Rezoning Proposal for Jumbolair; Crime Map Apps; Art and Found Day; and MORE

    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.