Netflix has acquired the rights to produce new episodes of *Sesame Street*, rescuing the long-running children’s show after Warner Bros. Discovery declined to renew its contract. This unique partnership with Sesame Workshop will see new episodes debut simultaneously on PBS and Netflix, ensuring continued free access for US viewers while expanding the show’s global reach. The deal underscores Netflix’s commitment to family-friendly programming and the show’s Season 56 will feature a new format, including animated segments, released in three batches on the platform. This collaboration preserves *Sesame Street*’s legacy and expands its educational impact on future generations.
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The CDC’s airport screening program has detected the COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 variant in travelers from multiple countries, with cases also reported in several US states. This variant, currently dominant in China and rising in parts of Asia, has prompted increased COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in some regions, although evidence of increased severity is lacking. Preliminary data suggests NB.1.8.1 may be more transmissible. The FDA’s vaccine advisory committee discussed updating COVID-19 vaccines for the fall and winter, considering that a new vaccine targeting the LP.8.1 variant could offer broader protection, including against NB.1.8.1.
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Speaker Emerita Pelosi vehemently opposed the Republican bill proposing $700 billion in Medicaid cuts, denouncing it as a harmful measure targeting vulnerable populations. This legislation, she argued, would deprive millions of healthcare access to fund tax cuts for the wealthy and increase the national debt. Pelosi characterized the bill as a “Reverse Robin Hood” scheme inflicting devastating consequences on communities nationwide. Her full remarks are available for review.
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The Supreme Court’s decision to curtail the independence of federal agencies fundamentally alters the balance of power, granting the executive branch significantly more control. This empowers President Trump to prioritize political aims over expertise and reasoned policy, creating long-term damage to the stability and effectiveness of government institutions. Simultaneously, various legal battles are unfolding, with some courts blocking Trump administration actions like mass layoffs and the silencing of Voice of America, while others permit them to continue. The ongoing challenges to the administration’s actions highlight the deep political divisions and the increasingly fraught relationship between the branches of government.
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On April 18th, the City of Abilene suffered a ransomware attack by the Russian group Qilin, resulting in the theft of 477 gigabytes of data and the shutdown of multiple city departments. Qilin demands a ransom by May 27th, threatening data release on the dark web if payment isn’t made; however, paying ransoms is not recommended due to the high costs of recovery and no guarantee of compliance. Cybersecurity expert Sai Huda advises Abilene residents to strengthen their personal security measures, and the city is working with professionals to fully eliminate the malware and prevent future attacks. The city confirms its decision to not pay the ransom and apologizes for service disruptions.
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On May 23, Finnish authorities reported a suspected airspace violation by two Russian military aircraft, prompting an ongoing investigation. This incident follows a pattern of Russian military provocations near NATO’s eastern flank, including a recent Polish interception of a Russian bomber. The suspected violation is particularly concerning given Russia’s anticipated military buildup near the Finnish border post-Ukraine conflict. Finland’s NATO membership strengthens its security posture against these threats, although the risk of further Russian aggression remains. The Finnish Defense Ministry is actively investigating and will release further details as they become available.
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A federal judge has completely blocked President Trump’s executive order targeting Jenner & Block LLP, deeming it unconstitutional. The order, which sought to punish the firm for its legal representation of political opponents and its involvement in investigations of the president, was found to violate the First Amendment by retaliating against the firm for its legal work. The judge further stated that the order undermined the separation of powers by attempting to chill legal representation critical of the executive branch. The White House plans to appeal, but faces further legal challenges.
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A joint international operation involving law enforcement from seven countries has dismantled a major Russian-based malware operation. International arrest warrants were issued for 20 suspects, primarily based in Russia, while the US unsealed indictments against 16 others involved in Qakbot and Danabot malware operations. Key figures such as Rustam Gallyamov and Vitalii Kovalev, allegedly responsible for significant ransomware attacks including Conti, are among those targeted. Although extradition is unlikely, the identification of these individuals and disruption of their operations represent a major blow to cybercrime.
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Despite Elon Musk’s announced reduction in his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) involvement, his influence remains substantial. At least 46 of DOGE’s 110 personnel have direct financial or professional ties to Musk, many holding key positions and exhibiting unwavering loyalty. This deep network of connections, coupled with Musk’s extensive influence within the Trump administration, renders his purported withdrawal largely symbolic. Ultimately, Musk’s continued sway over DOGE officials, stemming from both financial dependence and fear of retaliation, ensures his policies will continue to shape government action.
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Economists are predicting that Canada is already experiencing the early stages of a recession. This downturn is being attributed to a number of factors, with the ongoing trade war with the United States playing a significant role. The projected economic contraction for the second and third quarters indicates a technical recession, a situation defined by two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth.
Unemployment is rising in Canada concurrently with this predicted contraction. This is a key indicator of a slowing economy, as businesses reduce their workforce in response to decreased demand and profitability. A rise in unemployment often translates to decreased consumer spending, further exacerbating the economic slowdown.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood