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Amazon is rolling out a new feature in hopes of retaining, or perhaps attracting, new Prime members. The tech giant announced Wednesday that Alexa+, its AI-powered assistant, is now available for free to all Prime members. Last March, Amazon began offering an “early access” preview for the new voice assistant that saw an “inspiring” response, with tens of millions of customers requesting access, according to a statement. The company has revamped its legacy Alexa product to handle more complex interactions—offering examples of how users can engage in “deep conversations” with Alexa+ that may be ongoing over the course of potentially several days, as the technology can remember context, Daniel Rausch, Amazon’s vice president of Alexa and Echo, said in the statement. Homeowners are also pairing Alexa+ with their Ring cameras to identify unusual patterns around their homes, he said. People are engaging in two to three times more conversations with Alexa+ than they were previously, Rausch told CNBC. “Every week in a customer’s journey, engagement goes up, and that is really the sign of a hit product, basically.” USERS AREN’T SOLD ON ALEXA+ Despite Rausch’s cheerful assessment of the product, reviews elsewhere are more tempered. One Redditor posted “Alexa+ is a mess” on an Alexa subreddit four months ago, lamenting several of the technology’s shortcomings, including that it “feels like a huge downgrade from ‘regular’ Alexa.” The post garnered more than 240 responses, with other Redditors sharing similar frustrations. Other Redditors share near-daily complaints about lag times or the quality of responses on that subreddit. One task that Alexa+ may not be programmed to assist with is one that’s been on the mind of many Prime members lately. In the U.S., searches for “how to cancel Amazon Prime” have surged 110% in the past month, reaching the highest level since December 2017, according to Google Trends. AMAZON PRIME FREEBIES Since launching Amazon Prime in 2005, the company has steadily added new features for members—including Alexa, which debuted with the first Echo device in 2014. While still available on such devices, Alexa is now available as an app and at Alexa.com. Full access to Alexa+ is available for free only to Prime members, though the company will allow non-members to test the new Alexa+ chat functionality at Alexa.com for free. Unlimited access to Alexa+ for people who don’t want to pay the $139 annual Prime membership will cost $19.99 per month. AMAZON SELLOFF The Alexa+ news alone wasn’t enough to lift Amazon stock as fears of an AI bubble have fueled a broader selloff for tech stocks in recent days. Shares of Amazon have tumbled nearly 4% during the last five trading sessions. Of course, there are other factors at play—the company announced last week that it is slashing 16,000 jobs and will announce earnings on Thursday after the market closes. View the full article

Aides to king’s brother worked with convicted sex offender on planned agreement with US investment bank in 2013View the full article

Team building is vital for nurturing a cohesive work environment. Engaging in structured activities can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and boost productivity. Effective experiences range from outdoor scavenger hunts to immersive escape rooms, each designed to promote collaboration. Cooking classes encourage teamwork in a relaxed setting, whereas virtual activities cater to remote employees. Charity events not just unite teams but additionally give back to the community. Let’s explore these options to see how they can benefit your workplace. Key Takeaways Outdoor scavenger hunts enhance teamwork and problem-solving skills while promoting physical activity and creativity among participants. Escape rooms immerse teams in themed challenges, fostering effective communication and improving group dynamics through collaborative puzzle-solving. Cooking classes encourage collaboration and adaptability in a fun environment, culminating in a shared meal that strengthens social bonds. Virtual team building activities, such as online trivia and meditation sessions, help remote employees connect and maintain collaboration in a flexible format. Charity and volunteering events boost team cohesion and morale while positively impacting the community, enhancing employee satisfaction and company reputation. Outdoor Scavenger Hunts Outdoor scavenger hunts are an effective way to promote teamwork and collaboration among participants, as they require individuals to work together to solve clues and devise strategies. These activities facilitate communication skills and improve team cohesion, making them ideal team building experience examples for work. Scavenger hunts can accommodate various group sizes, allowing you to tailor them to your team’s dynamics. They often involve physical activity, providing a revitalizing change of scenery that can boost creativity and morale. Customizing hunts with company-related themes strengthens team bonds and reinforces your organization’s culture. Moreover, studies indicate that outdoor activities like scavenger hunts improve problem-solving abilities and critical thinking, as teams navigate real-world challenges. When considering team building experience examples for job applications, mentioning participation in scavenger hunts highlights your collaborative skills and adaptability. Escape Rooms Escape rooms provide a unique opportunity for team building by immersing participants in themed environments where they must work together to solve puzzles and riddles under time constraints, usually between 60 to 90 minutes. These activities cultivate teamwork by requiring you and your colleagues to communicate effectively, share ideas, and combine your unique skills to escape successfully. Research indicates that engaging in escape room challenges can greatly improve problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and group dynamics among team members. Escape rooms accommodate various group sizes, making them suitable for teams ranging from 6 to 12 participants, promoting inclusivity and collaboration. Moreover, many escape room experiences can be customized to align with your company’s values or team goals, increasing their effectiveness as a team-building tool. Cooking Classes Cooking classes offer an engaging way for teams to strengthen their collaboration skills as they explore the culinary arts. In these classes, team members are assigned shared responsibilities, allowing them to work together on meal preparation. This setup improves communication in a fun environment, making it easier to interact and bond. Participants also learn new culinary techniques and recipes, promoting creativity and adaptability—skills that are essential in any collaborative setting. Classes often conclude with a shared meal, providing a rewarding experience that encourages social bonding and strengthens team relationships beyond the workplace. Cooking together helps break down barriers and eases tensions, which is beneficial for both new and established teams. The hands-on nature of cooking allows for immediate feedback, leading to improved problem-solving skills and a sense of accomplishment among team members. Virtual Team Building Activities As teams adapt to a remote work environment, finding ways to promote collaboration and connection becomes increasingly important. Virtual team building activities engage remote employees, helping them bond and collaborate in spite of physical distances. Popular options include online trivia games, which encourage teamwork and knowledge sharing among team members. These games can spark friendly competition as they reinforce group dynamics. Additionally, virtual coffee dates provide employees a chance to connect one-on-one in a relaxed setting, addressing feelings of isolation common in remote work. Another effective option is virtual meditation sessions, which help reduce stress and improve focus, contributing to a positive work culture. These activities can be easily scheduled and integrated into regular work routines, offering flexibility for diverse remote work arrangements. Charity and Volunteering Events Engaging in charity and volunteering events not just benefits the community but similarly serves as an effective way to strengthen team dynamics within your organization. By participating in these activities, you improve collaboration and communication skills among employees, leading to a more cohesive team. Studies indicate that team cohesion can increase by 20% after engaging in community service. Here are three key benefits of charity and volunteering events: Improved Morale: Employees often experience increased job satisfaction and a sense of purpose, contributing to a more positive work environment. Skill Development: Unique challenges in volunteering require problem-solving and adaptability, nurturing resilience and innovative thinking within teams. Elevated Reputation: Starbucks that actively engage in community service can boost their brand image, as 70% of consumers prefer businesses that support local initiatives. These experiences not only enrich your team but similarly create a meaningful impact on society. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Examples of Team Building Experience in the Workplace? In the workplace, team building experiences can take various forms. Scavenger hunts encourage collaboration as you solve clues together, whereas escape rooms challenge critical thinking under pressure. Cooking classes promote communication and creativity as you prepare meals as a team. Outdoor adventure challenges, like ropes courses, improve trust and communication. Moreover, virtual activities, such as online trivia games, keep remote teams engaged, promoting camaraderie in spite of physical distance and nurturing a sense of connection. Can You Give Me an Example of Teamwork Experience? One example of teamwork experience is when you and your colleagues participated in a collaborative project. You divided tasks according to each person’s strengths, which streamlined the workflow. Regular communication helped address challenges, and you all met deadlines effectively. This approach not just improved the quality of the final product but likewise resulted in positive feedback from stakeholders. As a result, your team felt a sense of accomplishment and built stronger working relationships. How Would You Describe Team Building Experience? Team building experience involves structured activities intended to improve collaboration and communication among team members. These experiences can range from simple tasks, like icebreakers, to complex challenges that require problem-solving and teamwork. They cultivate a sense of trust and camaraderie, leading to improved employee satisfaction and retention. Can You Describe Your Best Experience of Working in a Team Example? Your best experience of working in a team might involve a collaborative project where everyone contributed their unique skills. You likely faced challenges together, helping to identify strengths and weaknesses within the group. Clear communication would’ve been crucial, enabling you to solve problems efficiently. Furthermore, celebrating milestones as a team could’ve promoted a sense of unity, reinforcing relationships and ensuring everyone felt valued. Conclusion Incorporating effective team-building experiences into your workplace can greatly improve collaboration, communication, and overall productivity. Activities like outdoor scavenger hunts, escape rooms, cooking classes, virtual engagements, and charity events provide diverse opportunities for team members to bond. These experiences not just improve interpersonal relationships but additionally promote a sense of unity and shared purpose. By investing in these activities, you can cultivate a more cohesive team that thrives in achieving organizational goals and adapting to challenges. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Effective Team Building Experience Examples for Work" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Team building is vital for nurturing a cohesive work environment. Engaging in structured activities can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and boost productivity. Effective experiences range from outdoor scavenger hunts to immersive escape rooms, each designed to promote collaboration. Cooking classes encourage teamwork in a relaxed setting, whereas virtual activities cater to remote employees. Charity events not just unite teams but additionally give back to the community. Let’s explore these options to see how they can benefit your workplace. Key Takeaways Outdoor scavenger hunts enhance teamwork and problem-solving skills while promoting physical activity and creativity among participants. Escape rooms immerse teams in themed challenges, fostering effective communication and improving group dynamics through collaborative puzzle-solving. Cooking classes encourage collaboration and adaptability in a fun environment, culminating in a shared meal that strengthens social bonds. Virtual team building activities, such as online trivia and meditation sessions, help remote employees connect and maintain collaboration in a flexible format. Charity and volunteering events boost team cohesion and morale while positively impacting the community, enhancing employee satisfaction and company reputation. Outdoor Scavenger Hunts Outdoor scavenger hunts are an effective way to promote teamwork and collaboration among participants, as they require individuals to work together to solve clues and devise strategies. These activities facilitate communication skills and improve team cohesion, making them ideal team building experience examples for work. Scavenger hunts can accommodate various group sizes, allowing you to tailor them to your team’s dynamics. They often involve physical activity, providing a revitalizing change of scenery that can boost creativity and morale. Customizing hunts with company-related themes strengthens team bonds and reinforces your organization’s culture. Moreover, studies indicate that outdoor activities like scavenger hunts improve problem-solving abilities and critical thinking, as teams navigate real-world challenges. When considering team building experience examples for job applications, mentioning participation in scavenger hunts highlights your collaborative skills and adaptability. Escape Rooms Escape rooms provide a unique opportunity for team building by immersing participants in themed environments where they must work together to solve puzzles and riddles under time constraints, usually between 60 to 90 minutes. These activities cultivate teamwork by requiring you and your colleagues to communicate effectively, share ideas, and combine your unique skills to escape successfully. Research indicates that engaging in escape room challenges can greatly improve problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and group dynamics among team members. Escape rooms accommodate various group sizes, making them suitable for teams ranging from 6 to 12 participants, promoting inclusivity and collaboration. Moreover, many escape room experiences can be customized to align with your company’s values or team goals, increasing their effectiveness as a team-building tool. Cooking Classes Cooking classes offer an engaging way for teams to strengthen their collaboration skills as they explore the culinary arts. In these classes, team members are assigned shared responsibilities, allowing them to work together on meal preparation. This setup improves communication in a fun environment, making it easier to interact and bond. Participants also learn new culinary techniques and recipes, promoting creativity and adaptability—skills that are essential in any collaborative setting. Classes often conclude with a shared meal, providing a rewarding experience that encourages social bonding and strengthens team relationships beyond the workplace. Cooking together helps break down barriers and eases tensions, which is beneficial for both new and established teams. The hands-on nature of cooking allows for immediate feedback, leading to improved problem-solving skills and a sense of accomplishment among team members. Virtual Team Building Activities As teams adapt to a remote work environment, finding ways to promote collaboration and connection becomes increasingly important. Virtual team building activities engage remote employees, helping them bond and collaborate in spite of physical distances. Popular options include online trivia games, which encourage teamwork and knowledge sharing among team members. These games can spark friendly competition as they reinforce group dynamics. Additionally, virtual coffee dates provide employees a chance to connect one-on-one in a relaxed setting, addressing feelings of isolation common in remote work. Another effective option is virtual meditation sessions, which help reduce stress and improve focus, contributing to a positive work culture. These activities can be easily scheduled and integrated into regular work routines, offering flexibility for diverse remote work arrangements. Charity and Volunteering Events Engaging in charity and volunteering events not just benefits the community but similarly serves as an effective way to strengthen team dynamics within your organization. By participating in these activities, you improve collaboration and communication skills among employees, leading to a more cohesive team. Studies indicate that team cohesion can increase by 20% after engaging in community service. Here are three key benefits of charity and volunteering events: Improved Morale: Employees often experience increased job satisfaction and a sense of purpose, contributing to a more positive work environment. Skill Development: Unique challenges in volunteering require problem-solving and adaptability, nurturing resilience and innovative thinking within teams. Elevated Reputation: Starbucks that actively engage in community service can boost their brand image, as 70% of consumers prefer businesses that support local initiatives. These experiences not only enrich your team but similarly create a meaningful impact on society. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Examples of Team Building Experience in the Workplace? In the workplace, team building experiences can take various forms. Scavenger hunts encourage collaboration as you solve clues together, whereas escape rooms challenge critical thinking under pressure. Cooking classes promote communication and creativity as you prepare meals as a team. Outdoor adventure challenges, like ropes courses, improve trust and communication. Moreover, virtual activities, such as online trivia games, keep remote teams engaged, promoting camaraderie in spite of physical distance and nurturing a sense of connection. Can You Give Me an Example of Teamwork Experience? One example of teamwork experience is when you and your colleagues participated in a collaborative project. You divided tasks according to each person’s strengths, which streamlined the workflow. Regular communication helped address challenges, and you all met deadlines effectively. This approach not just improved the quality of the final product but likewise resulted in positive feedback from stakeholders. As a result, your team felt a sense of accomplishment and built stronger working relationships. How Would You Describe Team Building Experience? Team building experience involves structured activities intended to improve collaboration and communication among team members. These experiences can range from simple tasks, like icebreakers, to complex challenges that require problem-solving and teamwork. They cultivate a sense of trust and camaraderie, leading to improved employee satisfaction and retention. Can You Describe Your Best Experience of Working in a Team Example? Your best experience of working in a team might involve a collaborative project where everyone contributed their unique skills. You likely faced challenges together, helping to identify strengths and weaknesses within the group. Clear communication would’ve been crucial, enabling you to solve problems efficiently. Furthermore, celebrating milestones as a team could’ve promoted a sense of unity, reinforcing relationships and ensuring everyone felt valued. Conclusion Incorporating effective team-building experiences into your workplace can greatly improve collaboration, communication, and overall productivity. Activities like outdoor scavenger hunts, escape rooms, cooking classes, virtual engagements, and charity events provide diverse opportunities for team members to bond. These experiences not just improve interpersonal relationships but additionally promote a sense of unity and shared purpose. By investing in these activities, you can cultivate a more cohesive team that thrives in achieving organizational goals and adapting to challenges. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Effective Team Building Experience Examples for Work" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In an era where the cost of living spirals upward, American consumers are reassessing their relationship with personal vehicle ownership. With rising insurance rates, escalating gas prices, and hefty monthly car payments averaging $748, the allure of driving one’s own car is fading. Lyft’s recent analysis highlights the financial weight of owning a car compared to ridesharing services, a shift that holds significant implications for small business owners. Lyft’s insights bring forth a staggering reality: the average yearly cost of car ownership can range between $11,008.80 and $20,200.80. This encompasses not only the glassy monthly payments but also hidden costs like maintenance, repairs, parking fees, and depreciation—expenses that many small business owners may overlook when evaluating their transportation needs. For entrepreneurs who frequently travel for client meetings, networking events, or supply runs, the financial burden becomes all too real. Lyft’s research breaks down monthly costs associated with car ownership, which can vary significantly based on location. For instance, parking alone can set city dwellers back anywhere from $20 to over $570 monthly. These figures underscore a key benefit: rideshare services can offer a more predictable and potentially lower-cost alternative. Utilizing rideshare options can lead to substantial savings. Lyft suggests several user scenarios. Daily commuters, for example, may spend around $1,040 per month on ridesharing, while hybrid users who mix rideshare with public transit may pay about $640 monthly. Weekend users, relying solely on rideshare for leisure activities, can find their costs as low as $480 monthly. This shift towards ridesharing is not simply a financial play. It opens the door to several hidden benefits that small business owners should consider. Rideshare services significantly reduce the time spent on maintenance and repairs, allowing entrepreneurs to dedicate that time to their business activities. Moreover, ensuring the ability to work or relax during transit can be a game-changer; imagine catching up on emails or unwinding with a podcast instead of grappling with traffic or searching for parking. As small businesses often operate on tight budgets, the ability to reduce or eliminate car ownership could free up capital. Funds saved could be redirected into critical areas, like marketing, hiring, or investing in new technology. Additionally, by embracing rideshare, business owners can enjoy a level of flexibility that traditional car ownership doesn’t offer. Planning a last-minute trip to an airport or attending an evening client gathering becomes far easier without the worries of parking or designated drivers. However, transitions are rarely smooth, and small business owners should also prepare for challenges. Rideshare options might not cover every transportation need, especially in areas where service availability is patchy. Furthermore, the cost of multiple rides can add up quickly if not managed effectively. To navigate this change, Lyft offers various programs to help maximize rideshare budgets. For regular commuters, the Price Lock feature ensures predictable costs for trips. Additionally, Lyft Pink, which provides discounts on rides and bike rentals, could be worth considering for frequent users. Adopting rideshare also necessitates a cultural shift; business owners may need to encourage their employees to modify commuting habits. They might consider introducing programs that subsidize rideshare costs or incentivize a break from car dependency in favor of sustainability. For small business owners examining their transportation options, the implications of Lyft’s findings are clear. Ridesharing could represent not just a financial boon, but also a strategic advantage in a competitive environment. As Lyft aptly concludes, “Making the switch could help fund your retirement, pay off student loans, or finally allow you to take that dream vacation.” For those keen to run their numbers and explore alternatives, access more information at Lyft’s original post: Lyft. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Rideshare Revolution: Lyft Offers Cost-Effective Alternative to Car Ownership" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In an era where the cost of living spirals upward, American consumers are reassessing their relationship with personal vehicle ownership. With rising insurance rates, escalating gas prices, and hefty monthly car payments averaging $748, the allure of driving one’s own car is fading. Lyft’s recent analysis highlights the financial weight of owning a car compared to ridesharing services, a shift that holds significant implications for small business owners. Lyft’s insights bring forth a staggering reality: the average yearly cost of car ownership can range between $11,008.80 and $20,200.80. This encompasses not only the glassy monthly payments but also hidden costs like maintenance, repairs, parking fees, and depreciation—expenses that many small business owners may overlook when evaluating their transportation needs. For entrepreneurs who frequently travel for client meetings, networking events, or supply runs, the financial burden becomes all too real. Lyft’s research breaks down monthly costs associated with car ownership, which can vary significantly based on location. For instance, parking alone can set city dwellers back anywhere from $20 to over $570 monthly. These figures underscore a key benefit: rideshare services can offer a more predictable and potentially lower-cost alternative. Utilizing rideshare options can lead to substantial savings. Lyft suggests several user scenarios. Daily commuters, for example, may spend around $1,040 per month on ridesharing, while hybrid users who mix rideshare with public transit may pay about $640 monthly. Weekend users, relying solely on rideshare for leisure activities, can find their costs as low as $480 monthly. This shift towards ridesharing is not simply a financial play. It opens the door to several hidden benefits that small business owners should consider. Rideshare services significantly reduce the time spent on maintenance and repairs, allowing entrepreneurs to dedicate that time to their business activities. Moreover, ensuring the ability to work or relax during transit can be a game-changer; imagine catching up on emails or unwinding with a podcast instead of grappling with traffic or searching for parking. As small businesses often operate on tight budgets, the ability to reduce or eliminate car ownership could free up capital. Funds saved could be redirected into critical areas, like marketing, hiring, or investing in new technology. Additionally, by embracing rideshare, business owners can enjoy a level of flexibility that traditional car ownership doesn’t offer. Planning a last-minute trip to an airport or attending an evening client gathering becomes far easier without the worries of parking or designated drivers. However, transitions are rarely smooth, and small business owners should also prepare for challenges. Rideshare options might not cover every transportation need, especially in areas where service availability is patchy. Furthermore, the cost of multiple rides can add up quickly if not managed effectively. To navigate this change, Lyft offers various programs to help maximize rideshare budgets. For regular commuters, the Price Lock feature ensures predictable costs for trips. Additionally, Lyft Pink, which provides discounts on rides and bike rentals, could be worth considering for frequent users. Adopting rideshare also necessitates a cultural shift; business owners may need to encourage their employees to modify commuting habits. They might consider introducing programs that subsidize rideshare costs or incentivize a break from car dependency in favor of sustainability. For small business owners examining their transportation options, the implications of Lyft’s findings are clear. Ridesharing could represent not just a financial boon, but also a strategic advantage in a competitive environment. As Lyft aptly concludes, “Making the switch could help fund your retirement, pay off student loans, or finally allow you to take that dream vacation.” For those keen to run their numbers and explore alternatives, access more information at Lyft’s original post: Lyft. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Rideshare Revolution: Lyft Offers Cost-Effective Alternative to Car Ownership" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Reform UK leader claims former trade commissioner may have misused his position for personal gainView the full article

For a show that lasts roughly 13 minutes, the Super Bowl halftime performance has fueled decades of conversation. Sometimes the spark comes from a single moment — as it did when Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction” triggered a broadcast reckoning. Other times, it arrives through imagery and intent, from Jennifer Lopez’s 2020 caged children staging that critiqued U.S. immigration policies to children at the U.S.-Mexico border to Kendrick Lamar’s carefully layered Black storytelling, delivered as Donald The President watched from his seat inside the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The halftime show magnifies everything — fashion choices, choreography, symbolism — and invites interpretation on a scale few artists ever experience. That history forms the backdrop as Bad Bunny prepares to take the halftime stage, a moment that places Latin identity at the center of America’s most-watched television event. The conversation building around his performance extends beyond music, touching on language, culture and how much room one of the world’s biggest stars will have for symbolism and social commentary — including past critiques of The President — within a show long shaped by tight NFL oversight. With that context, here is a look at some of the most talked about halftime moments: Timberlake and Jackson’s “wardrobe malfunction” The most enduring halftime controversy unfolded during the 2004 Super Bowl in Houston, when Jackson performed alongside Timberlake. In the closing seconds of “Rock Your Body,” Timberlake tugged at Jackson’s costume, briefly revealing her right breast, adorned with a decorative shield. Timberlake later described the moment as an unintended “wardrobe malfunction,” a phrase that quickly entered pop-culture shorthand. The reaction was immediate and far-reaching. The incident prompted FCC scrutiny, congressional attention and a reevaluation of live television standards. CBS, which aired the game, was fined $550,000 by the Federal Communications Commission, a penalty later overturned, and broadcasters expanded the use of delays for live events. The professional fallout, however, was uneven. Jackson was disinvited from the Grammy Awards telecast the following week and largely retreated from the public spotlight, while Timberlake’s career continued uninterrupted. Years later, Timberlake said the two had reconciled, but the disparity in their treatment wasn’t forgotten. When the NFL announced Timberlake’s return to the halftime stage in 2018, the decision reignited debate. Critics pointed to what they viewed as a racial and gender double standard, arguing that Jackson, a Black woman, bore the brunt of the consequences while Timberlake, a white man, emerged largely unscathed. Online, hashtags such as #JusticeForJanet resurfaced, reframing the moment through a broader cultural lens. “Formation”: Beyoncé and political symbolism When Beyoncé performed “Formation” in 2016, the halftime show became a moment of cultural declaration. Set in the Bay Area, the performance leaned heavily into Black history and identity. Dancers appeared in Black Panther–inspired attire, raised clenched fists and formed symbolic shapes on the field as Beyoncé delivered lyrics celebrating Black features and pride. The imagery echoed decades of Black activism, from civil rights-era protest to modern calls for social justice. The performance drew widespread acclaim for its clarity and artistry while also sparking criticism from conservative commentators and some law enforcement groups who accused it of promoting anti-police sentiment. With an audience of more than 110 million viewers, the debate quickly moved beyond the stadium. Several moments stood out. Dancers briefly formed an “X,” interpreted by some as a reference to Malcolm X, while raised fists recalled the 1968 Olympic protest by Tommie Smith and John Carlos. The visuals aligned directly with the message of “Formation,” which centers Black identity and self-definition. “Believe in Love”: Coldplay and evolving visibility Coldplay was the halftime show headliner in 2016, bringing out Beyoncé and Bruno Mars for a performance built around themes of unity, inclusion and joy. The set featured a rainbow-colored stage, vibrant dancers and a crowd mosaic that spelled out “Believe in Love.” A pride flag was visible near frontman Chris Martin, and the show’s closing imagery emphasized togetherness. While many viewers praised the message as affirming and timely, some conservative groups criticized the presentation for embracing LGBTQ+ symbolism. The reaction reflected broader cultural conversations around representation and visibility in mainstream entertainment. When Kendrick Lamar’s symbolism becomes the story Last year, Kendrick Lamar treated the halftime stage as a controlled narrative space, using choreography, costuming and staging to explore themes of identity, power and perception. His performance unfolded with cinematic precision, opening as dancers spilled out of a Buick GNX in choreographed fashion before Lamar took command of the field. Dancers dressed in red, white and blue framed the performance, while Samuel L. Jackson appeared as an “Uncle Sam” figure who interrupted the action with pointed commentary, labeling the spectacle “too loud” and urging Lamar to “play the game.” The exchange underscored the tension between expression and expectation that has come to define modern halftime shows. While the performance stayed within league parameters, it still sparked debate among commentators who scrutinized the imagery and tone. The response reinforced how the halftime show, even without overt rule-breaking, can function as visual storytelling that invites interpretation at a scale unmatched in other live events. Other defiant moments on a global stage The NFL has long maintained guardrails around the halftime show, particularly when performances edge toward political commentary. Still, some artists have chosen to test — and at times ignore — those limits. Ahead of Jennifer Lopez’s performance with Shakira in 2020, the NFL raised concerns about a segment widely interpreted as referencing children held in immigration detention facilities. The league asked Lopez to cut a segment featuring children in cages, a critique of U.S. immigration policies. But she refused and moved forward with the imagery, using visual symbolism rather than explicit messaging. The 2022 show featured a hip-hop celebration with a robust lineup of Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, Eminem and Kendrick Lamar. But as Eminem’s performance of “Lose Yourself” concluded, the rapper dramatically took a knee, lowering his head in a gesture widely interpreted as a tribute to Colin Kaepernick, whose decision to kneel during the national anthem in 2016 to protest police brutality sparked a nationwide cultural reckoning. Kaepernick’s protest was later echoed by other players, and he would soon find himself out of the league. Reports ahead of the game suggested the NFL had discouraged the gesture, though the league disputed that account. “We watched all elements of the show during multiple rehearsals this week and were aware that Eminem was going to do that,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said at the time. During Madonna’s halftime set in 2012, M.I.A. flashed a middle finger toward the camera, a split-second gesture that immediately drew regulatory attention and replay-heavy coverage. The action prompted an immediate fine and a legal dispute with the NFL. The sides later reached a settlement, ending a multimillion-dollar case over the incident. —Jonathan Landrum Jr., AP entertainment writer View the full article

A reader writes: My brother (Gen Z/millennial cusp) has been out of work (and stuck living back home with my parents) for a while now, and everyone is understandably frustrated with the situation. A couple times my mom (boomer) and I (millennial) have been one-on-one and she’s brought up the situation, and she’s said that she has told my brother to just “go show up in person to places you’d like to get a job at and try to hand in your resume!” Every single one of my millennial instincts is screaming NO NO NO, this is CLASSIC out-of-touch boomer advice from when we were trying to get jobs during the Great Recession. I told my mom that yeah, that doesn’t really work now since it’s not the 1980s, and since it’s literally the classic example of out-of-touch boomers with the job hunt, my brother is probably going to then ignore every other piece of advice you give him. However, my mom’s response was yes, she knows all of that, but she heard recently (like this year) on the news that going in person to hand in your resume out of the blue is actually a good thing now, since it’ll get your resume directly in front of a human and help you avoid the AI filter bots. And she claimed she has a friend whose daughter got her most recent job this way! Every millennial instinct of mine screams NOPE DISREGARD when I hear this touted as job hunt advice, but I know that the AI filters are so impossible to get past now. Is there actually some merit to it? Has everything I thought I knew about job searching changed in the nine years since I last interviewed? It is still not a thing. First, they’re highly likely to just tell you that you need to apply online … because you do in fact need to apply online. As has been the case for a long time now, most organizations use electronic applicant tracking systems. If your application isn’t in there, it’s not getting considered. Second, with the rise in remote work, a ton of people don’t even work at companies’ main addresses anymore. There may not be anyone involved in hiring for the position even physically there. And even if they’re there, they’re generally going to be very busy and aren’t going to come out and talk to you just because you randomly showed up holding a resume — so anyone you do talk to is incredibly unlikely to have anything to do with hiring for that particular job. Third, it will still annoy the crap out of most people involved in hiring and make you look naive/out of touch at best … and at worst, like you don’t think instructions apply to you. Their instructions are there for a reason. You will always hear stories about how one weird job search gimmick worked for someone, but more often than not they’re a bad idea (and the amount of time your brother would put into going door to door with his resume would be far more effective put into networking, or writing a better cover letter, or other things with a bigger pay-off). The post is showing up in person with a resume actually a thing now? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

When you’re immersing yourself in video creation and editing, having the right tools is vital for achieving high-quality results. You need a reliable camera to capture clear visuals, along with an external microphone to improve audio quality. Effective lighting solutions will enhance your footage’s overall look, whereas tripods and gimbals guarantee stability. Plus, choosing the right editing software is key for post-production. Let’s explore these important tools to boost your video projects. Key Takeaways A high-quality camera, like a mirrorless or DSLR model, is essential for capturing professional-grade video footage. External microphones significantly enhance audio quality, making them crucial for engaging video content. Implementing a three-point lighting setup ensures effective illumination and enhances viewer perception of your videos. Reliable video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve, is vital for refining and enhancing your footage. Ergonomic editing chairs and multiple monitor setups improve comfort and productivity during long editing sessions. Reliable Camera for Capturing Visuals When you’re looking to capture high-quality visuals, choosing the right camera is crucial, especially since technology has advanced considerably in recent years. Smartphones can shoot videos at resolutions up to 4K, but for serious work, a reliable camera like a mirrorless or DSLR model is often better. These options excel in low-light conditions and offer interchangeable lenses, giving you creative flexibility. Recommended models include the Panasonic Lumix GH6 for advanced features, the compact Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III, and the Sony ZV-1F, designed for vlogging. Make sure your camera records at least 1080p to meet professional standards. You can always use a video body editor online free or free video recording and editing software to improve your footage. External Microphone for Superior Audio Quality Capturing high-quality visuals is only part of the equation in video production; superior audio quality is equally important for creating engaging content. External microphones greatly improve audio quality, as built-in mics often capture poor sound, negatively impacting viewer experience. You’ll find two main types of external microphones: dynamic microphones, which excel with high-volume sources, and condenser microphones, better suited for nuanced audio in quieter settings. Popular options include the Rode VideoMic Pro, known for its directional audio capture, and the compact Sennheiser MKE 400, which delivers excellent sound quality. When choosing an external microphone, consider features like transducer type, polar pattern, and compatibility with your gear to guarantee peak performance in your video content creation. Effective Lighting Solutions Effective lighting solutions play a vital role in video production, influencing how your content is perceived by viewers. Quality lighting greatly improves your videos, so at least one dedicated light aimed directly at your subject is fundamental for professional results. A three-point lighting setup, consisting of a key light, fill light, and back light, is recommended for ideal illumination and depth. Utilizing LED lights, like the GVM RGB LED Studio Kit or Godox SL-60, allows you to adjust brightness and color temperature, making them versatile for various environments. When selecting lighting equipment, consider options like softboxes or diffusers to soften harsh shadows, resulting in a more flattering look. Proper lighting not only enhances visual quality but also reduces post-production time. Tripods and Gimbals for Stability Achieving stable footage is vital for any video project, as it directly impacts the viewer’s experience. To guarantee video stability, using tripods and gimbals is important. Tripods are fundamental tools for stabilizing cameras or smartphones, preventing shakiness and delivering smooth footage. They come in various types, including extendable, compact, phone, and flexible models, allowing you to choose based on your filming needs. Lightweight options like the Peak Design Travel Tripod and Manfrotto MT190X3 are particularly popular for their portability. Gimbals, conversely, are advanced devices that greatly reduce camera shake. Models like the Zhiyun Crane M3 and DJI Osmo Mobile 4 provide improved stability and control, making them ideal for both moving and stationary shots. Video Editing Software Options In regard to video editing, selecting the right software can greatly influence your project’s outcome. For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is the industry standard, offering advanced features for collaboration and color correction. If you’re an enthusiast, consider CyberLink PowerDirector, which provides a user-friendly experience and multicam editing. Apple users can turn to iMovie, designed for beginners with tools like chroma-keying. For those looking for free video editing for TikTok, DaVinci Resolve presents a robust option with a generous free version known for its effects and fast rendering. Finally, Wondershare Filmora is perfect for amateurs seeking strong yet straightforward techniques on how to create a video without getting overwhelmed. Choose the software that best fits your needs and skill level. Planning and Organization Tools When you’re planning a video, using project management software can really streamline your process and improve communication within your team. Storyboarding applications help you visualize your scenes and sequences, making it easier to outline your shots before you start filming. Project Management Software Project management software plays a crucial role in organizing video production workflows, as it allows teams to collaborate effectively on tasks, deadlines, and asset management. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Monday.com provide visual task boards, timelines, and calendar views to help you track progress and improve accountability among team members. Many of these platforms integrate with cloud storage services, making it easy to share video files and project documents directly within the software. Features such as Gantt charts and Kanban boards aid in visualizing project timelines, allowing you to manage resources and prioritize tasks efficiently. Storyboarding Applications Storyboarding applications play a vital role in the video production process by allowing creators to visualize scenes and sequences before filming begins. These tools facilitate a structured approach, enhancing storytelling clarity and organization. Many storyboarding applications offer customizable templates and drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy for you to arrange shots and plan transitions effectively. Applications like Storyboarder and Canva provide intuitive interfaces for both beginners and experienced creators, enabling quick adjustments and collaboration. Some of these tools integrate seamlessly with video editing software, improving overall workflow efficiency. Storage Solutions: Hard Drives and Cloud To effectively manage large video files, it’s vital to take into account the right storage solutions, as internal drives often struggle to keep up with the demands of video editing. Consider these options for your video projects: External Hard Drives: These provide ample space for your large video files, ensuring your internal drive remains free. Solid State Drives (SSDs): SSDs offer faster and more reliable performance than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), making them ideal for editing tasks. Standard Configuration: A typical setup includes a 512GB SSD for software and a 1TB HDD for larger files. Cloud Storage: Services like Google Drive and Dropbox enable easy collaboration and file access from anywhere. Choosing the right storage solutions is vital for efficient video editing. Monitors for Video Editing When choosing a monitor for video editing, you’ll want to focus on resolution and color accuracy, as these factors greatly impact your editing experience. A minimum of Full HD resolution is crucial, but a 4K monitor is often preferable for high-resolution projects, ensuring crisp visuals. Furthermore, consider the size and panel technology options, as a larger screen with the right panel can provide better color representation and improve your overall workflow. Resolution and Color Accuracy In video editing, having the right monitor is fundamental for achieving accurate color representation and resolution. Here are key features to take into account for ideal resolution and color accuracy: Minimum Full HD (1920×1080) – This is vital for standard editing, but opt for 4K displays for high-resolution footage to capture finer details. Wide Color Gamut – Monitors covering DCI-P3 allow you to see a broader range of colors, enhancing your editing precision. Monitor Calibration – Regular calibration guarantees colors and contrasts are represented accurately, preventing misleading edits. IPS Panels – These provide superior color reproduction and wider viewing angles compared to TN panels, enhancing your overall editing experience. Size and Screen Real Estate Having the right monitor size can markedly improve your video editing workflow, allowing you to manage multiple elements on screen without feeling cramped. For effective video editing, a minimum Full HD (1920×1080) resolution monitor is vital, but opting for 4K is preferable for precise editing and color grading. A monitor that covers a wide color gamut, particularly DCI-P3, improves color accuracy, significant when using video editing software. If you’re a video editor online, consider multiple monitor setups for increased screen real estate, enabling you to display timelines, preview windows, and tools simultaneously. Furthermore, choose a monitor for video editing with adjustable height and tilt features to promote ergonomic comfort during long sessions, reducing strain and boosting productivity. Panel Technology Options Choosing the right panel technology is crucial for video editing, as it directly impacts color accuracy and viewing experience. As a video editor, you’ll want to prioritize these features: Resolution: Aim for at least Full HD (1920×1080), but 4K is preferred for high-resolution footage. Color Gamut: Select monitors covering DCI-P3 color space for accurate color representation. Refresh Rate: Consider a standard 60Hz, though higher rates improve smooth playback for dynamic content. IPS Technology: Opt for monitors with IPS technology for superior color accuracy and wider viewing angles. Investing in the right monitor not only complements your video editing software but also improves your overall workflow, especially with dual-monitor setups for increased screen real estate. Accessories: Keyboards and Headphones When you’re plunging into video creation and editing, the right accessories, particularly keyboards and headphones, can greatly improve your workflow and audio quality. Specialized editing keyboards, like the LogicKeyboard Astra, feature color-coded keys customized for software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, which boosts efficiency and reduces the learning curve. Meanwhile, investing in high-quality headphones, like the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, is vital for accurate audio monitoring during editing. These headphones provide comfort for extended sessions and help you detect subtle audio issues. Furthermore, lower impedance models, such as the Sony MDR-7506, offer convenience for on-the-go editing. Quality studio headphones guarantee precise adjustments, which are fundamental for producing professional-grade videos. Editing Chair for Comfort and Productivity When you’re editing videos for long stretches, the right chair can make all the difference in your comfort and productivity. An ergonomic design with adjustable height features helps support your posture, reducing strain on your back and neck. Ergonomic Design Benefits An ergonomic editing chair not just supports your posture but also improves your overall productivity during long editing sessions. By investing in one, you can experience several benefits that elevate your work experience: Proper Posture: The design encourages alignment, reducing the risk of back pain. Adjustable Lumbar Support: Tailors to your body, promoting comfort and alignment. Improved Circulation: Enhanced blood flow helps reduce fatigue, keeping you energized. Dynamic Movement: Allows you to shift positions easily, minimizing repetitive strain injuries. With an ergonomic editing chair, you can maintain focus and efficiency, ultimately leading to a more productive and enjoyable video editing experience. Prioritizing comfort is crucial for your long-term health and productivity. Adjustable Height Features Adjustable height features in editing chairs play a significant role in enhancing comfort and productivity during long video editing sessions. Choosing adjustable height editing chairs allows you to customize your seating position, which is crucial for maintaining an ergonomic posture. An ergonomic chair, like the Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair, offers lumbar support and a high back to reduce fatigue. Furthermore, the HAG Capisco Adjustable Standing Desk Chair promotes both sitting and standing, encouraging movement as you work. Research shows that using an adjustable chair can lower the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, common for those at desks for extended periods. Frequently Asked Questions What Tool Is Best for Video Editing? Choosing the best tool for video editing depends on your needs. For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro offers advanced features but requires a subscription. If you’re an enthusiast, CyberLink PowerDirector provides a user-friendly interface and fast rendering. For Apple users, iMovie simplifies editing with strong functions. DaVinci Resolve is great for both pros and amateurs owing to its free version and advanced color correction. Beginners might prefer Wondershare Filmora for its ease of use and extensive effects. What Equipment Is Required for Video Editing? For effective video editing, you need a robust computer, ideally with at least 16GB of RAM and a strong graphics card for handling high-resolution footage. A reliable storage setup, combining a 512GB SSD for speed and a 1TB HDD for capacity, is crucial. Furthermore, high-resolution monitors help you see color accuracy, whereas quality audio equipment guarantees you monitor sound effectively. Finally, proper lighting equipment can greatly improve the overall video quality you produce. What Are 321 Rules of Video Editing? The 321 rule of video editing emphasizes data safety. You should keep three copies of your original video file, store them in two different formats, and maintain one copy off-site. This approach minimizes the risks of data loss from corruption, accidental deletion, or hardware failure. What Are the 5 Stages of Video Editing? The five stages of video editing are crucial for creating a polished final product. First, you import footage into the editing software. Next, during the rough cut, you arrange clips into a preliminary sequence. The fine cut follows, where you trim sections and guarantee smooth shifts. Then, you perform color grading to improve visual aesthetics. Finally, you export the project to render it into a specific format for distribution, meeting platform requirements. Conclusion In summary, equipping yourself with the right tools is important for effective video creation and editing. From reliable cameras and external microphones to adequate lighting and stabilizing equipment, each element plays a key role in enhancing your final product. Investing in quality editing software, proper storage solutions, and ergonomic accessories further streamlines your workflow. By prioritizing these fundamentals, you can greatly improve both the quality of your videos and your overall editing experience. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Essential Tools for Video Creation and Editing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re immersing yourself in video creation and editing, having the right tools is vital for achieving high-quality results. You need a reliable camera to capture clear visuals, along with an external microphone to improve audio quality. Effective lighting solutions will enhance your footage’s overall look, whereas tripods and gimbals guarantee stability. Plus, choosing the right editing software is key for post-production. Let’s explore these important tools to boost your video projects. Key Takeaways A high-quality camera, like a mirrorless or DSLR model, is essential for capturing professional-grade video footage. External microphones significantly enhance audio quality, making them crucial for engaging video content. Implementing a three-point lighting setup ensures effective illumination and enhances viewer perception of your videos. Reliable video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve, is vital for refining and enhancing your footage. Ergonomic editing chairs and multiple monitor setups improve comfort and productivity during long editing sessions. Reliable Camera for Capturing Visuals When you’re looking to capture high-quality visuals, choosing the right camera is crucial, especially since technology has advanced considerably in recent years. Smartphones can shoot videos at resolutions up to 4K, but for serious work, a reliable camera like a mirrorless or DSLR model is often better. These options excel in low-light conditions and offer interchangeable lenses, giving you creative flexibility. Recommended models include the Panasonic Lumix GH6 for advanced features, the compact Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III, and the Sony ZV-1F, designed for vlogging. Make sure your camera records at least 1080p to meet professional standards. You can always use a video body editor online free or free video recording and editing software to improve your footage. External Microphone for Superior Audio Quality Capturing high-quality visuals is only part of the equation in video production; superior audio quality is equally important for creating engaging content. External microphones greatly improve audio quality, as built-in mics often capture poor sound, negatively impacting viewer experience. You’ll find two main types of external microphones: dynamic microphones, which excel with high-volume sources, and condenser microphones, better suited for nuanced audio in quieter settings. Popular options include the Rode VideoMic Pro, known for its directional audio capture, and the compact Sennheiser MKE 400, which delivers excellent sound quality. When choosing an external microphone, consider features like transducer type, polar pattern, and compatibility with your gear to guarantee peak performance in your video content creation. Effective Lighting Solutions Effective lighting solutions play a vital role in video production, influencing how your content is perceived by viewers. Quality lighting greatly improves your videos, so at least one dedicated light aimed directly at your subject is fundamental for professional results. A three-point lighting setup, consisting of a key light, fill light, and back light, is recommended for ideal illumination and depth. Utilizing LED lights, like the GVM RGB LED Studio Kit or Godox SL-60, allows you to adjust brightness and color temperature, making them versatile for various environments. When selecting lighting equipment, consider options like softboxes or diffusers to soften harsh shadows, resulting in a more flattering look. Proper lighting not only enhances visual quality but also reduces post-production time. Tripods and Gimbals for Stability Achieving stable footage is vital for any video project, as it directly impacts the viewer’s experience. To guarantee video stability, using tripods and gimbals is important. Tripods are fundamental tools for stabilizing cameras or smartphones, preventing shakiness and delivering smooth footage. They come in various types, including extendable, compact, phone, and flexible models, allowing you to choose based on your filming needs. Lightweight options like the Peak Design Travel Tripod and Manfrotto MT190X3 are particularly popular for their portability. Gimbals, conversely, are advanced devices that greatly reduce camera shake. Models like the Zhiyun Crane M3 and DJI Osmo Mobile 4 provide improved stability and control, making them ideal for both moving and stationary shots. Video Editing Software Options In regard to video editing, selecting the right software can greatly influence your project’s outcome. For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is the industry standard, offering advanced features for collaboration and color correction. If you’re an enthusiast, consider CyberLink PowerDirector, which provides a user-friendly experience and multicam editing. Apple users can turn to iMovie, designed for beginners with tools like chroma-keying. For those looking for free video editing for TikTok, DaVinci Resolve presents a robust option with a generous free version known for its effects and fast rendering. Finally, Wondershare Filmora is perfect for amateurs seeking strong yet straightforward techniques on how to create a video without getting overwhelmed. Choose the software that best fits your needs and skill level. Planning and Organization Tools When you’re planning a video, using project management software can really streamline your process and improve communication within your team. Storyboarding applications help you visualize your scenes and sequences, making it easier to outline your shots before you start filming. Project Management Software Project management software plays a crucial role in organizing video production workflows, as it allows teams to collaborate effectively on tasks, deadlines, and asset management. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Monday.com provide visual task boards, timelines, and calendar views to help you track progress and improve accountability among team members. Many of these platforms integrate with cloud storage services, making it easy to share video files and project documents directly within the software. Features such as Gantt charts and Kanban boards aid in visualizing project timelines, allowing you to manage resources and prioritize tasks efficiently. Storyboarding Applications Storyboarding applications play a vital role in the video production process by allowing creators to visualize scenes and sequences before filming begins. These tools facilitate a structured approach, enhancing storytelling clarity and organization. Many storyboarding applications offer customizable templates and drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy for you to arrange shots and plan transitions effectively. Applications like Storyboarder and Canva provide intuitive interfaces for both beginners and experienced creators, enabling quick adjustments and collaboration. Some of these tools integrate seamlessly with video editing software, improving overall workflow efficiency. Storage Solutions: Hard Drives and Cloud To effectively manage large video files, it’s vital to take into account the right storage solutions, as internal drives often struggle to keep up with the demands of video editing. Consider these options for your video projects: External Hard Drives: These provide ample space for your large video files, ensuring your internal drive remains free. Solid State Drives (SSDs): SSDs offer faster and more reliable performance than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), making them ideal for editing tasks. Standard Configuration: A typical setup includes a 512GB SSD for software and a 1TB HDD for larger files. Cloud Storage: Services like Google Drive and Dropbox enable easy collaboration and file access from anywhere. Choosing the right storage solutions is vital for efficient video editing. Monitors for Video Editing When choosing a monitor for video editing, you’ll want to focus on resolution and color accuracy, as these factors greatly impact your editing experience. A minimum of Full HD resolution is crucial, but a 4K monitor is often preferable for high-resolution projects, ensuring crisp visuals. Furthermore, consider the size and panel technology options, as a larger screen with the right panel can provide better color representation and improve your overall workflow. Resolution and Color Accuracy In video editing, having the right monitor is fundamental for achieving accurate color representation and resolution. Here are key features to take into account for ideal resolution and color accuracy: Minimum Full HD (1920×1080) – This is vital for standard editing, but opt for 4K displays for high-resolution footage to capture finer details. Wide Color Gamut – Monitors covering DCI-P3 allow you to see a broader range of colors, enhancing your editing precision. Monitor Calibration – Regular calibration guarantees colors and contrasts are represented accurately, preventing misleading edits. IPS Panels – These provide superior color reproduction and wider viewing angles compared to TN panels, enhancing your overall editing experience. Size and Screen Real Estate Having the right monitor size can markedly improve your video editing workflow, allowing you to manage multiple elements on screen without feeling cramped. For effective video editing, a minimum Full HD (1920×1080) resolution monitor is vital, but opting for 4K is preferable for precise editing and color grading. A monitor that covers a wide color gamut, particularly DCI-P3, improves color accuracy, significant when using video editing software. If you’re a video editor online, consider multiple monitor setups for increased screen real estate, enabling you to display timelines, preview windows, and tools simultaneously. Furthermore, choose a monitor for video editing with adjustable height and tilt features to promote ergonomic comfort during long sessions, reducing strain and boosting productivity. Panel Technology Options Choosing the right panel technology is crucial for video editing, as it directly impacts color accuracy and viewing experience. As a video editor, you’ll want to prioritize these features: Resolution: Aim for at least Full HD (1920×1080), but 4K is preferred for high-resolution footage. Color Gamut: Select monitors covering DCI-P3 color space for accurate color representation. Refresh Rate: Consider a standard 60Hz, though higher rates improve smooth playback for dynamic content. IPS Technology: Opt for monitors with IPS technology for superior color accuracy and wider viewing angles. Investing in the right monitor not only complements your video editing software but also improves your overall workflow, especially with dual-monitor setups for increased screen real estate. Accessories: Keyboards and Headphones When you’re plunging into video creation and editing, the right accessories, particularly keyboards and headphones, can greatly improve your workflow and audio quality. Specialized editing keyboards, like the LogicKeyboard Astra, feature color-coded keys customized for software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, which boosts efficiency and reduces the learning curve. Meanwhile, investing in high-quality headphones, like the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, is vital for accurate audio monitoring during editing. These headphones provide comfort for extended sessions and help you detect subtle audio issues. Furthermore, lower impedance models, such as the Sony MDR-7506, offer convenience for on-the-go editing. Quality studio headphones guarantee precise adjustments, which are fundamental for producing professional-grade videos. Editing Chair for Comfort and Productivity When you’re editing videos for long stretches, the right chair can make all the difference in your comfort and productivity. An ergonomic design with adjustable height features helps support your posture, reducing strain on your back and neck. Ergonomic Design Benefits An ergonomic editing chair not just supports your posture but also improves your overall productivity during long editing sessions. By investing in one, you can experience several benefits that elevate your work experience: Proper Posture: The design encourages alignment, reducing the risk of back pain. Adjustable Lumbar Support: Tailors to your body, promoting comfort and alignment. Improved Circulation: Enhanced blood flow helps reduce fatigue, keeping you energized. Dynamic Movement: Allows you to shift positions easily, minimizing repetitive strain injuries. With an ergonomic editing chair, you can maintain focus and efficiency, ultimately leading to a more productive and enjoyable video editing experience. Prioritizing comfort is crucial for your long-term health and productivity. Adjustable Height Features Adjustable height features in editing chairs play a significant role in enhancing comfort and productivity during long video editing sessions. Choosing adjustable height editing chairs allows you to customize your seating position, which is crucial for maintaining an ergonomic posture. An ergonomic chair, like the Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair, offers lumbar support and a high back to reduce fatigue. Furthermore, the HAG Capisco Adjustable Standing Desk Chair promotes both sitting and standing, encouraging movement as you work. Research shows that using an adjustable chair can lower the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, common for those at desks for extended periods. Frequently Asked Questions What Tool Is Best for Video Editing? Choosing the best tool for video editing depends on your needs. For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro offers advanced features but requires a subscription. If you’re an enthusiast, CyberLink PowerDirector provides a user-friendly interface and fast rendering. For Apple users, iMovie simplifies editing with strong functions. DaVinci Resolve is great for both pros and amateurs owing to its free version and advanced color correction. Beginners might prefer Wondershare Filmora for its ease of use and extensive effects. What Equipment Is Required for Video Editing? For effective video editing, you need a robust computer, ideally with at least 16GB of RAM and a strong graphics card for handling high-resolution footage. A reliable storage setup, combining a 512GB SSD for speed and a 1TB HDD for capacity, is crucial. Furthermore, high-resolution monitors help you see color accuracy, whereas quality audio equipment guarantees you monitor sound effectively. Finally, proper lighting equipment can greatly improve the overall video quality you produce. What Are 321 Rules of Video Editing? The 321 rule of video editing emphasizes data safety. You should keep three copies of your original video file, store them in two different formats, and maintain one copy off-site. This approach minimizes the risks of data loss from corruption, accidental deletion, or hardware failure. What Are the 5 Stages of Video Editing? The five stages of video editing are crucial for creating a polished final product. First, you import footage into the editing software. Next, during the rough cut, you arrange clips into a preliminary sequence. The fine cut follows, where you trim sections and guarantee smooth shifts. Then, you perform color grading to improve visual aesthetics. Finally, you export the project to render it into a specific format for distribution, meeting platform requirements. Conclusion In summary, equipping yourself with the right tools is important for effective video creation and editing. From reliable cameras and external microphones to adequate lighting and stabilizing equipment, each element plays a key role in enhancing your final product. Investing in quality editing software, proper storage solutions, and ergonomic accessories further streamlines your workflow. By prioritizing these fundamentals, you can greatly improve both the quality of your videos and your overall editing experience. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Essential Tools for Video Creation and Editing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Starting with 2024's Galaxy S24 series, Samsung started promising seven years of software support for its new phones, following a precedent Google set with the Pixel 8. It was a surprisingly user-friendly and even environmentally conscious move, letting buyers more easily keep their phones for longer while also reducing e-waste generated from constant upgrades. Unfortunately, it didn't apply to previous models, and now we're starting to see the consequences of that. In Samsung's February 2026 security updates (first spotted by SamMobile), the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra are nowhere to be seen, indicating that they've reached their end of support. The only phone from this line still listed was the S21 FE 5G, which makes sense, since it was released a year after the rest of the S21 line. That means these phones will no longer get regular monthly or quarterly security updates, although if a critical vulnerability pops up, Samsung might still issue an emergency fix. None of this should be surprising, but it can still be confusing if you're an S21 owner. To be fair to Samsung, the company only ever pledged five years of support for the S21 series on release, and only four years of Android updates. But as far as hardware goes, your phone is probably still running just fine. The Snapdragon 888 chip powering the S21 series is snappy enough for casual use, even if it can be a bit power hungry. Do you really need to replace it, especially so soon after launch? Can you keep using the Galaxy S21 series?As far as browsing the internet, watching videos, and scrolling social media apps goes, your Galaxy S21 phone should still hold up well. Gaming and other more demanding tasks might suffer, but there shouldn't be anything physically wrong with your phone aside from aging. The problem comes when you start to consider safety. Regular security updates help patch holes hackers can use to get into your data or accounts. And these days, hackers have gotten pretty smart. While you might know to avoid sketchy websites or high-risk apps, there are exploits hackers can use now that don't need any interaction from you. Sometimes, all it takes is having a Bluetooth radio in your device, or for the hacker to know your phone number. Getting hit by one of these hacks might be rare, but it's not a good idea to leave yourself open to the possibility if you can avoid it. It's like driving in a car without a seatbelt—you probably won't get in a crash, but you'll wish you had one if you do. Upgrading to a phone getting official security updates from the manufacturer is the best way to ensure your handset has the most up-to-date safety, but if you can't, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself. Install Google Play System Updates to enhance security on an unsupported phoneGetting over-the-air updates directly from your phone's manufacturer is the best way to stay safe while using your phone, but they're not the only way to get security updates. Starting with Android 10, which the Galaxy S21 series does fall under, Google's Project Mainline began delivering partial security updates via Google Play System Updates. These won't close all vulnerabilities, but they do allow Google to patch holes in media codecs and components, permissions, and a few other features hackers like to exploit, even on devices that no longer get official manufacturer support. "With Project Mainline, we can deliver faster security fixes for critical security bugs," the company said in a blog post. "For example, by modularizing media components, which accounts for nearly 40% of recently patched vulnerabilities." Project Mainline can't fix everything, especially problems related to your specific device, but if you do find that your phone is out of date, it's worth ensuring your Google Play System Updates are updated to the most recent version until you can find a new one. How to check this will differ from device to device, but you'll generally find these updates under Settings > System > Software updates. Here, you'll see a date showing which Google Play system update your phone is running. These should normally update manually every month, but if the date looks a little old, you can simply tap it to search for a fresh update and download it. When you should upgrade your Samsung phoneIdeally, you should take the end of software support as a sign to upgrade to a new phone, even if it appears to be working fine. But I get any hesitation you might be feeling. I'm still on Windows 10, which is facing its own security update issues, even though my device still works perfectly for everything I want from it. I'm glad to see companies catching on with extended security updates, so hopefully this will become less of an issue in the future. Tech timelines move fast, but a five-year upgrade cycle feels a lot more wasteful than even a seven-year one. For now, though, keep in mind that any Samsung phone released before 2024 is going to face an end-of-life sooner than you might think, so it's time to start planning for it accordingly. The company might have moved on to seven years of updates now, but that promise doesn't apply retroactively. So Galaxy S22 owners, it's time to start thinking about what you'll do with your own devices next year. View the full article

The The President administration is reducing the number of immigration officers in Minnesota but will continue its enforcement operation that has sparked weeks of tensions and deadly confrontations, border czar Tom Homan said Wednesday. About 700 federal officers—roughly a quarter of the total deployed to Minnesota—will be withdrawn immediately after state and local officials agreed over the past week to cooperate by turning over arrested immigrants, Homan said. But he did not provide a timeline for when the administration might end the operation that has become a flashpoint in the debate over President Donald The President’s mass deportation efforts since the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials have said the surge in Minnesota that ramped up dramatically in early January is its “largest immigration operation ever.” Masked, heavily armed officers have been met by resistance from residents who are upset with their aggressive tactics. A widespread pullout, Homan said, will only occur after protesters stop interfering with federal agents carrying out arrests and setting up roadblocks to impede the operations. About 2,000 officers will remain in the state after this week’s drawdown, he said. “Given this increase in unprecedented collaboration, and as a result of the need for less public safety officers to do this work and a safer environment, I am announcing, effective immediately, we’ll draw down 700 people effective today — 700 law enforcement personnel,” Homan said during a news conference. He didn’t say which jurisdictions have been cooperating with the Department of Homeland Security. The President administration pushed for cooperation in Minnesota The President’s border czar took over the Minnesota operation in late January after the second fatal shooting by federal officers and amid growing political backlash and questions about how the operation was being run. Homan said right away that federal officials could reduce the number of agents in Minnesota, but only if more state and local officials cooperate. He pushed for jails to alert ICE to inmates who could be deported, saying transferring such inmates to ICE is safer because it means fewer officers have to be out looking for people in the country illegally. The The President administration has long complained that places known as sanctuary jurisdictions—a term generally applied to local governments that limit law enforcement cooperation with DHS—hinder the arrest of criminal immigrants. Minnesota officials say its state prisons and nearly all of the county sheriffs already cooperate with immigration authorities. But the county jails that serve Minneapolis and St. Paul and take in the most inmates had not previously met ICE’s idea of full cooperation, although they both hand over inmates to federal authorities if an arrest warrant has been signed by a judge. It wasn’t immediately clear after Homan’s remarks whether those jails have since changed their policies. Border czar calls Minnesota operation a success Homan said he thinks the ICE operation in Minnesota has been a success, checking off a list of people wanted for violent crimes who were taken off the streets. “I think it’s very effective as far as public safety goes,” he said Wednesday. “Was it a perfect operation? No.” He also made clear that pulling a chunk of federal officers out of Minnesota isn’t a sign that the administration is backing down. “We are not surrendering the president’s mission on a mass deportation operation,” Homan said. “You’re not going to stop ICE. You’re not going to stop Border Patrol,” Homan said about the ongoing protests. “The only thing you’re doing is irritating your community” —Steve Karnowski, Associated Press Associated Press reporters Corey Williams and John Seewer contributed to this report. View the full article

Government consulting on softening the impact of new laws on employersView the full article

Rio wants to hold both CEO and chair roles in combined company while Glencore holds out for premiumView the full article

Shaw, which was part of last year's standstill agreement with Third Point, said it will support shareholder-driven change on Costar's board. View the full article

Built-in lyrics are one of my favorite features of modern music streaming services. Back in ancient times, I had to google the lyrics to the songs I was listening to—which was fine if I was near a computer, but impossible when I was on the go with my iPod. This is probably why there are so many songs I think I know the words to, only to discover, once I read the actual lyrics, that I am sorely mistaken. Built-in lyrics are thus a feature that is equal parts useful and humbling. As it happens, Spotify's existing lyrics features are getting some upgrades to kick off February. The company announced three key updates on Wednesday—two that impact free users, and one exclusive to Premium subscribers. Spotify might not offer Apple Music's dynamic lyrics, but these updates should still be welcomed by anyone who likes reading along to their music. Spotify now supports offline lyricsThe biggest announcement of the day—in my opinion, anyway—is offline support for lyrics. This is always something that frustrates me whenever I'm using my phone without cellular service. Say I download some albums to listen to on a flight: When I try to listen to them in airplane mode, lyrics are unavailable. Being able to download the lyrics when you grab a song or album is a small but actually meaningful upgrade. Unfortunately, offline lyrics are not available free of charge: At this time, the feature is only available to Premium subscribers, which makes sense, given that free users can't download music for offline listening anyway—only podcasts. Lyrics are moving to a new location in the Spotify appTraditionally, lyrics have appeared at the bottom of the player window in the Spotify app. To view them, you need to scroll down, then tap on the lyrics window to fully expand it. It seems Spotify wasn't content with this UI. The company says that in its testing, it finds that placing the lyrics directly below the album art, rather than below the player, makes them easier to interact with. And so that's where the lyrics are moving. The company calls these "lyrics previews," as you see just a snippet of the lyrics at one time. This change is rolling out to both free and Premium users on iOS and Android. If you'd rather not see the lyrics at all, you can tap the three-dot menu and choose "Lyrics Off." Spotify is adamant that this new placement won't change lyric sharing. You'll still be able to send specific lyrics to friends and social media platforms. You'll just need to do so from the new lyrics window. Spotify now support lyrics translations worldwideSpotify's lyrics translation feature makes it easy to figure out what artists are singing about when you don't speak their particular language. When you listen to a song that doesn't match your device's system language, you'll find a translate button in the lyrics window. Tap that, and Spotify will include translations beneath each line of the song, so you can follow along. According to Spotify, this feature was available in more than 25 markets as of the end of last year, but now, the company is rolling out the feature worldwide. View the full article

If you tried talking to ChatGPT this morning, you might have found it unresponsive—something unusual for the bot that always has something say. It's not your internet connection, and it isn't your OpenAI account: ChatGPT is down. According to Downdetector, owned by Lifehacker parent company Ziff Davis, users started reporting issues with ChatGPT at 11:56 a.m. ET. Those reports ballooned by 12:11 p.m., as the total number of incidents as of this article currently sits above 7,000. If you're an avid ChatGPT user, you might have also had issues with the bot yesterday: Downdetector shows over 25,000 reports of down time starting at 2:56 p.m. Tuesday and resolving around 4:11 p.m. the same day. As with all outages, OpenAI will likely figure out a patch for the issue soon enough. But these outages are becoming more common. There was the Verizon outage, of course, but other services like TikTok have also experienced intermittent periods of downtime. View the full article

Banking committee chair Tim Scott pushes back against probe into US central bank chiefView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Amazon Echo Dot line has long been a good choice if you're seeking compact, budget-friendly way to enter the Alexa smart home ecosystem, combining decent sound quality with versatile smart home capabilities. And right now, the newest Amazon Echo Dot Max, released late last year, and offering improved audio and connectivity features, is on sale for $79.99 (originally $99.99) in every color. Amazon Echo Dot Max $79.99 at Amazon $99.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Get Deal $79.99 at Amazon $99.99 Save $20.00 This speaker earned an Editors’ Choice Award from PCMag, which noted it delivers “fairly strong low-end frequencies considering its puny size.” At 6.1 x 5.6 x 5.8 inches, it’s more compact than the previous Echo, with a new look that might remind you of the Death Star—it's a sphere with a large, flattened volume plate that makes the buttons more visible and a light ring that shines towards where you’re speaking and displays the volume level as a white arc. (One downside: The smaller size means a smaller woofer than its predecessor, though PCMag said the bass is still “reasonably deep.”) One of the Dot Max’s main draws its usefulness as a voice assistant. It has Amazon Alexa built-in, and Amazon Prime members can get a free upgrade to the Alexa+ AI assistant (normally $20/month). The Amazon Echo Dot Max supports Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E, serves as a hub for smart home devices like Zigbee, Thread, and Matter, and includes Wi-Fi radar, ultrasonic, temperature, and ambient light sensors that detect your presence in the room. While the Echo Dot Max is a good choice at this discount, if you mostly plan to use it for listening to music, the latest Echo Dot (currently $50) may suffice. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $139.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Graphite) — $149.99 (List Price $219.99) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.99 (List Price $349.00) Blink Mini 2 1080p Security Camera (White) — $23.99 (List Price $39.99) Ring Outdoor Cam Pro Plug-In With Outdoor Cam Plus Battery (White) — $189.99 (List Price $259.99) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

A reader writes: Our company works in a building that houses multiple businesses. We share reception and security. Recently, there was a terrible incident where the ex-boyfriend of one of my employees, Sarah, got into the building by booking a job interview with a different company. He then made a beeline for our office instead, and made a huge scene shouting at Sarah, and even tried to hit her in front of all of us. Thankfully, security tackled him before he could hurt anyone, and he’s been arrested. We had a security meeting with reception and the other business managers in the building and have agreed to a shared appointment calendar and other precautions to prevent this from happening in the future. I’ve done my best to support Sarah with what she needs to feel safe here, and she seems to be doing well. The problem is Fred, the other manager in my office. About a week after this incident, I was giving him an update on the steps we were taking in case this man is released and causes further problems. Fred was clearly annoyed and asked me why I didn’t just “solve” the problem by firing Sarah. He went on to claim that Sarah was being unprofessional by “allowing her personal life in the office” and that we were going to a lot of trouble for “just one employee.” This is not the first time he’s said something insensitive about our employees, but this was by far the most egregious comment. I told him that Sarah had done nothing wrong, and that it was our job to provide a safe work environment. He rolled his eyes and visibly tuned out for the rest of the meeting. He hasn’t said anything else since that meeting. But I find it increasingly hard to work with him. I’ve been defaulting to email to communicate with him, even though his office is right next to mine, because I feel gross being in the same room with him. I especially feel icky when I see him chatting in a friendly way to Sarah, knowing what he thinks about the situation. It’s bad enough that I briefly considered looking for a new job, but that would mean Fred would temporarily be in charge of my reports. I’m worried he would actually fire Sarah if he could. How do I address this? I don’t feel like it would be appropriate for me to pull him aside and tell him what I think of his reaction, but I also feel like I’m dropping the ball by not the challenging what he said more directly. Is simply avoiding him as much as possible the most I can do here? I answer this question over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. The post my coworker wants to fire a domestic violence survivor appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Jeffrey Epstein’s network of money and influence often intersected with scientific and academic communities. The disgraced financier spent years cultivating relationships with researchers at elite universities, frequently dangling the promise of funding. Some of the work he supported has had, and may still have, direct and indirect impacts on Silicon Valley’s most powerful technologies. Epstein was first convicted in 2008 on charges of soliciting a minor for prostitution, yet he continued to maintain a web of relationships across the worlds of technology and academia until he was indicted on federal sex-trafficking charges in 2019. The Department of Justice’s latest release of the “Epstein files” includes emails that reveal new names and details about those connections that had not previously been made public. Joscha Bach One striking example is Epstein’s patronage of German AI scientist and executive Joscha Bach. Known in academic and AI circles for his work on cognitive architectures, computational models that aim to replicate aspects of human cognition, Bach received extensive financial support from Epstein while completing postdoctoral work at MIT. According to emails reviewed by SFGate, Epstein covered Bach’s rent, flights, medical bills, and even private school tuition for his children in Menlo Park between 2013 and 2019. Bach is now the executive director of the California Institute for Machine Consciousness, a small, independent research organization focused on whether machines could ever become conscious. According to SFGate, Epstein met Bach through other AI and psychology researchers and began financing his work at the MIT Media Lab and the Harvard Program for Evolutionary Dynamics in 2013. The files show no indication of sexual impropriety on Bach’s part, and he has never been accused of such conduct. Bach told SFGate that MIT approved the funding and said many prominent scientists maintained relationships with Epstein. He added, “The prevailing view was that Epstein, having served his sentence, was complying with the law.” Antonio Damasio Epstein also corresponded with Antonio Damasio, the director of USC’s Brain and Creativity Institute. In 2013, Damasio asked Epstein to fund a new line of robotics and neuroscience research. Damasio, the Dornsife Chair in Neuroscience, and another USC researcher hoped to study the origins of emotion in the brain, and sought a nontraditional funding source so they could retain greater control over the direction of the work. Damasio presented the proposal to Epstein in February 2013 at Epstein’s New York City home, but Epstein ultimately declined to fund the research. Damasio told Annenberg Media that he did not know Epstein was a convicted sex offender at the time, and said he would never have contacted him had he known. “I was looking for a prestigious philanthropist, not a criminal,” Damasio said. Damasio’s primary field is neurobiology, though he also teaches psychology and philosophy, with a focus on the neural systems that underlie emotion, decision-making, memory, language, and consciousness. He is best known for an influential theory arguing that emotions and their biological foundations, not just reason, play a central role in decision-making, even when the decision-maker is not consciously aware of it. He also theorized that emotions provide the scaffolding for social cognition, shaping how people process, store, and apply information about others and social situations. Damasio argues that current AI models that power robots lack a sense of biological “vulnerability” that drives survival instincts and intelligence in living organisms. He theorises that training a robot to be “concerned” about its own preservation might help the robot solve problems more creatively. David Gelernter The DOJ document release also revealed that Epstein corresponded between 2009 and 2015 with Yale computer science professor David Gelernter, an early pioneer of concepts now associated with digital twins and metaverse-style overlays, which he calls “computed worlds.” Gelernter is the author of the book Mirror Worlds, which outlines much of that research. In 2001, Gelernter helped found a company called Mirror Worlds Software based on those ideas, but the venture failed to gain traction and shut down in 2004. In his correspondence with Epstein, Gelernter sought business advice rather than research funding, according to the New Haven Register. The files also revealed no evidence of wrongdoing by Gelernter. He has said he did not know Epstein was a convicted sex offender and was never aware of Epstein’s sex-trafficking operation. In 1993, Gelernter was severely injured by a mail bomb sent by the “Unabomber,” Ted Kaczynski, which destroyed four of his fingers and permanently damaged one of his eyes. He is also known for controversial views, including claims that liberal academia has a destructive influence on American society, that women, especially mothers, should not work outside the home, and for rejecting the scientific consensus that humans are driving climate change. Marvin Minsky The most direct link between Epstein and the AI world ran through MIT professor and pioneer Marvin Minsky, who died in 2016. Minsky helped establish artificial intelligence as a formal research discipline in the 1950s and later co-founded the field at MIT with John McCarthy, training generations of AI scientists. Epstein donated $100,000 to MIT to support Minsky’s research in 2002, before Epstein’s first criminal conviction. That gift was the first in a series of donations to MIT’s Media Lab that ultimately totaled $850,000 between 2002 and 2017. Minsky died in 2016. In 2019, court documents from a deposition by victim Virginia Giuffre were unsealed, revealing her allegation that Ghislaine Maxwell directed her to have sex with Minsky during a visit to Epstein’s compound. Minsky’s wife said the allegation was impossible because she was with him the entire time they were on the island. Minsky never faced charges, but the revelations placed his name at the center of a reckoning at MIT’s Media Lab over the influence of Epstein’s money on the lab’s work. A gray zone In many ways, Jeffrey Epstein operated in a gray zone created by shifting funding models for AI research. Long before the current AI boom, private industry had already overtaken the federal government as the primary backer of foundational AI work. In recent years, government funding has become increasingly tied to defense and intelligence priorities, leaving researchers in less immediately applicable fields with few viable grant options. At the same time, AI research has grown extraordinarily expensive, requiring elite talent and vast computing resources. As a result, universities and academic labs have become far more dependent on private philanthropy to sustain their work. Funding from wealthy donors often comes with fewer restrictions. It can arrive faster, offer greater flexibility, and require less public disclosure than government grants. This likely explains part of Epstein’s appeal to researchers. But the arrangement cuts both ways. Such donations also require little transparency from the donor, meaning beneficiaries may know very little about the source of their funding. Epstein’s case is extreme, but it highlights a broader risk: when public research funding is scarce and the costs of advanced AI are high, private money becomes more attractive, along with the ethical and reputational dangers it can carry. And the problem is not easing. Microsoft chief scientist Eric Horvitz warned that U.S. cuts to National Science Foundation research grants during the The President administration could undermine the country’s AI leadership, the Financial Times reported, noting that more than 1,600 NSF grants worth nearly $1 billion have been scrapped since 2025. View the full article

The Washington Post informed its team on Wednesday morning that it was starting a round of mass layoffs, according to multiple media reports and a memo seen by Fast Company. Multiple sections are being shut down completely, while others are being shrunk significantly. The paper’s executive editor, Matt Murray, announced the cuts to the newsroom employees, saying that all sections would be impacted by the layoffs. He said the Post would be making a “strategic reset,” and is also cutting staff on the business side. The New York Times reported that approximately 30% of the Post’s employees are being laid off, including more than 300 of the around 800 journalists. News of the layoffs attracted a harsh rebuke from people in the media, including the Post‘s own former editor, who criticized the paper’s owner, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. “This ranks among the darkest days in the history of one of the world’s greatest news organizations,” Marty Baron, executive editor of the Post from 2013 to 2021, said in a statement. “The Washington Post’s ambitions will be sharply diminished, its talented and brave staff will be further depleted, and the public will be denied the ground-level, fact-based reporting in our communities and around the world that is needed more than ever.” Reached for comment, a Washington Post spokesperson sent the following statement: “The Washington Post is taking a number of difficult but decisive actions today for our future, in what amounts to a significant restructuring across the company. These steps are designed to strengthen our footing and sharpen our focus on delivering the distinctive journalism that sets The Post apart and, most importantly, engages our customers.” Sports and other sections said to be gutted The sports section will reportedly be eliminated entirely, meaning that Washington’s paper of record will not provide day-to-day coverage for any of the city’s professional or college sports teams. Murray noted that some of the sports reporters will be moved to the features department to cover “the culture of sports.” This comes in the wake of controversy surrounding the Post’s plans for the Winter Olympics, which start this week. The Times reported on January 24 that the paper axed its plans to send a delegation to the Italy games just two weeks before the opening ceremony, but quickly reversed that decision, sending a team of four after the report came out. The Olympics aren’t the only major event looming on the sports calendar, as Super Bowl LX will be played in San Francisco this weekend, NCAA March Madness is just about a month away, and the FIFA World Cup, hosted in North America this year, kicks off in June. Meanwhile, the Post is reportedly cutting down its Metro desk, which covers Washington, D.C., and its surroundings, from over 40 journalists to well below half of that. The Post is drastically reducing its international coverage as well, although some international bureaus will stay operational Additionally, the paper is reportedly closing the books section and ending its daily Post Reports podcast. Weeks of speculation regarding the paper’s future The announcement comes after weeks of speculation within the newsroom. The Washington Post Guild made a statement last week, directly attacking Bezos, whose holding company, Nash Holdings, bought the paper for $250 million in 2013 and has owned it ever since. During Donald The President’s first term as president, the Post adopted the slogan “Democracy Dies in Darkness” and experienced a period of growth thanks to its aggressive coverage of the administration. In 2023, Bezos hired Will Lewis as publisher of the Post, and these layoffs are just the latest in a line of changes made since then. Notably, the paper did not endorse a candidate in the 2024 presidential election for the first time in 36 years. In response to the layoffs, the Washington Post Guild released another statement: “These layoffs are not inevitable,” its first paragraph reads. “A newsroom cannot be hollowed out without consequences for its credibility, its reach and its future.” This story has been updated with the Post‘s response to our inquiry. View the full article

In a significant move poised to reshape the future of the accounting profession, Intuit has launched its innovative Career Pipeline Program, aiming to empower one million aspiring accountants over the next five years. This initiative responds not only to the growing demand for skilled professionals but also to the urgent challenges posed by automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry. As businesses increasingly rely on digital solutions, accountants remain indispensable to organizational success. Intuit, the developer behind popular financial tools such as QuickBooks and TurboTax, understands the vital role that accounting professionals play in steering businesses towards prosperity. The company’s commitment to training the next generation comes amidst a stark talent shortage and misconceptions surrounding the profession, particularly among Gen Z, where 65% lack guidance on career paths in accounting. Simon Williams, Vice President of the Accountant Segment at Intuit, emphasized the need for this initiative. “The accounting community is an integral part of driving business success,” he noted. “Our commitment to upskill one million students is rooted in listening to our accounting partners, understanding the important role they play as advisors, and building a pipeline that helps their firms and their clients thrive.” The Career Pipeline Program aims to bridge the gap between current skills and what employers are seeking in the future. The curriculum will provide students with immersive learning experiences, mentorship opportunities, and industry-recognized certifications that modern firms value. According to analysts, equipping young professionals with digital and advisory skills that align with AI’s capabilities is not just beneficial—it’s essential for their career trajectories. To launch the program, Intuit will host the Career Lab: Skills for the New Era of Accounting, a virtual event scheduled for February 3 and 4, 2026. This event will gather industry experts to discuss trends, including AI’s impact on fintech and Client Advisory Services (CAS). It also aims to enlighten participants about the essential skills accounting firms need today. Participants will gain access to resources enabling them to obtain the ProAdvisor QuickBooks Certification, which is rapidly becoming a gold standard for recruitment in the accounting field. “At Intuit, we believe financial futures are strengthened when AI and human intelligence work together to expand opportunity and transform lives,” said Dave Zasada, Vice President of Education and Corporate Responsibility at Intuit. “By providing free, employer-recognized certifications and access to curriculum and resources that enhance the skills of young professionals, we’re building a robust CAS expert pipeline.” While the initiative provides a considerable opportunity for those entering the accounting profession, small business owners should be aware of potential challenges. With an influx of newly trained accountants entering the workforce, firms will need to differentiate themselves to attract these emerging talents. Moreover, as young professionals adapt to the evolving landscape, small business owners must ensure they provide meaningful roles that leverage these new skills, especially in navigating AI technology and its implications on service delivery. Furthermore, embracing AI tools may require established firms to adjust their traditional workflows. As automation continues to revolutionize jobs, ensuring a balance between human insight and technology will prove crucial. As businesses look to capitalize on these developments, they may need to invest in additional training to enable existing staff to work alongside new AI capabilities efficiently. The Career Pipeline Program aligns well with the growing emphasis on continuous learning within professional services. Small business owners stand to benefit significantly from this influx of well-prepared young accountants who not only possess updated skills but also bring fresh perspectives to traditional practices. As this initiative unfolds, small businesses are encouraged to engage with new talent by providing internships, mentorships, and opportunities for recent graduates. This proactive approach can help integrate the next generation of accountants into the workforce while fostering a more collaborative environment where innovation thrives. For more information about the Career Lab and the free certification resources available, visit Intuit’s dedicated webpage. To explore how Intuit aids accountants with its AI-native solutions, check out their Accountant Suite. The Career Pipeline Program represents a strategic effort by Intuit to ensure the accounting profession remains robust, relevant, and ready for the challenges of a digital future. With the right resources and guidance, small business owners can harness these changes to build stronger, more effective financial practices. The original press release can be found here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Intuit Aims to Upskill One Million Future Accountants in Five Years" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In a significant move poised to reshape the future of the accounting profession, Intuit has launched its innovative Career Pipeline Program, aiming to empower one million aspiring accountants over the next five years. This initiative responds not only to the growing demand for skilled professionals but also to the urgent challenges posed by automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry. As businesses increasingly rely on digital solutions, accountants remain indispensable to organizational success. Intuit, the developer behind popular financial tools such as QuickBooks and TurboTax, understands the vital role that accounting professionals play in steering businesses towards prosperity. The company’s commitment to training the next generation comes amidst a stark talent shortage and misconceptions surrounding the profession, particularly among Gen Z, where 65% lack guidance on career paths in accounting. Simon Williams, Vice President of the Accountant Segment at Intuit, emphasized the need for this initiative. “The accounting community is an integral part of driving business success,” he noted. “Our commitment to upskill one million students is rooted in listening to our accounting partners, understanding the important role they play as advisors, and building a pipeline that helps their firms and their clients thrive.” The Career Pipeline Program aims to bridge the gap between current skills and what employers are seeking in the future. The curriculum will provide students with immersive learning experiences, mentorship opportunities, and industry-recognized certifications that modern firms value. According to analysts, equipping young professionals with digital and advisory skills that align with AI’s capabilities is not just beneficial—it’s essential for their career trajectories. To launch the program, Intuit will host the Career Lab: Skills for the New Era of Accounting, a virtual event scheduled for February 3 and 4, 2026. This event will gather industry experts to discuss trends, including AI’s impact on fintech and Client Advisory Services (CAS). It also aims to enlighten participants about the essential skills accounting firms need today. Participants will gain access to resources enabling them to obtain the ProAdvisor QuickBooks Certification, which is rapidly becoming a gold standard for recruitment in the accounting field. “At Intuit, we believe financial futures are strengthened when AI and human intelligence work together to expand opportunity and transform lives,” said Dave Zasada, Vice President of Education and Corporate Responsibility at Intuit. “By providing free, employer-recognized certifications and access to curriculum and resources that enhance the skills of young professionals, we’re building a robust CAS expert pipeline.” While the initiative provides a considerable opportunity for those entering the accounting profession, small business owners should be aware of potential challenges. With an influx of newly trained accountants entering the workforce, firms will need to differentiate themselves to attract these emerging talents. Moreover, as young professionals adapt to the evolving landscape, small business owners must ensure they provide meaningful roles that leverage these new skills, especially in navigating AI technology and its implications on service delivery. Furthermore, embracing AI tools may require established firms to adjust their traditional workflows. As automation continues to revolutionize jobs, ensuring a balance between human insight and technology will prove crucial. As businesses look to capitalize on these developments, they may need to invest in additional training to enable existing staff to work alongside new AI capabilities efficiently. The Career Pipeline Program aligns well with the growing emphasis on continuous learning within professional services. Small business owners stand to benefit significantly from this influx of well-prepared young accountants who not only possess updated skills but also bring fresh perspectives to traditional practices. As this initiative unfolds, small businesses are encouraged to engage with new talent by providing internships, mentorships, and opportunities for recent graduates. This proactive approach can help integrate the next generation of accountants into the workforce while fostering a more collaborative environment where innovation thrives. For more information about the Career Lab and the free certification resources available, visit Intuit’s dedicated webpage. To explore how Intuit aids accountants with its AI-native solutions, check out their Accountant Suite. The Career Pipeline Program represents a strategic effort by Intuit to ensure the accounting profession remains robust, relevant, and ready for the challenges of a digital future. With the right resources and guidance, small business owners can harness these changes to build stronger, more effective financial practices. The original press release can be found here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Intuit Aims to Upskill One Million Future Accountants in Five Years" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article