A group of Mizzou IT students developed a video game integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance replayability and immersion. Led by students Brian Bluhm, Ben Dargue, Kenneth Jackson, Daniel Kim, and Aaron Trebus, the project focused on creating dynamic gameplay through AI-driven interactions. Their game features an interrogation scenario where AI adjusts responses based on player actions, ensuring unique experiences in each session. This innovation not only addresses predictability issues in gaming but also explores potential applications in training tools for fields like law enforcement and psychology. Despite challenges, the team successfully combined their skills in AI integration, asset building, and coding, showcasing the potential of AI in interactive media.

Good Morning America (GMA) unveils its 2025 summer concert series lineup, kicking off on June 12 with New Kids on the Block performing in GMA’s Times Square studio for the last time. The series continues with BIA and G-Eazy performing outdoors in Indianapolis on July 18, followed by Colombian singer Manuel Turizo inaugurating GMA's new downtown Manhattan studio on August 1. Punk-rock band Good Charlotte and Icelandic artist Laufey will perform at the new venue on August 8 and 15, respectively. Legendary performer Gloria Estefan takes the stage on August 22, joined later by Dierks Bentley and Teyana Taylor. This marks an exciting chapter for GMA as it transitions to a state-of-the-art studio, continuing its tradition of hosting top artists live during morning broadcasts.

Danielle Stradling, a preschool teacher and avid baker, has established the first Cake 4 Kids chapter in Huntsville, Alabama. This nonprofit provides custom birthday cakes to children in need, including those in foster care or homeless shelters. Inspired by her own experiences as a foster parent in Arizona, Stradling aims to recreate community involvement in Huntsville. Since its launch in May 2024, the chapter has engaged around 60 volunteers and delivered nearly 100 cakes. By allowing children to choose flavors and designs, Cake 4 Kids emphasizes individuality and community care, ensuring each child feels valued and loved on their special day. Volunteers and partner organizations collaborate to make these personalized cakes possible.

As festival season approaches, proper preparation is essential for a comfortable experience. Beyond the basics like tents and SPF, consider adding luxuries such as air beds, favorite pillows, and Hunter wellington boots. For beauty essentials, items like Garnier's micellar water simplify skincare routines, while cordless hair tools from BaByliss can refresh tired hair. Charlotte Tilbury’s setting spray ensures long-lasting makeup, even in challenging conditions. CeraVe’s moisturizer with SPF50 protects skin without extra steps, and Living Proof’s dry shampoo cleanses hair effectively. Affordable body sunscreens like Hawaiian Tropic keep skin hydrated, while Pampers baby wipes offer quick freshness. Ultrasun lip balm shields lips from UV damage. These products ensure you're ready for any festival adventure, even without glamping amenities.

Remedy Entertainment has unveiled the launch trailer for FBC: Firebreak, a three-player cooperative multiplayer FPS set in the Control universe, ahead of its June 17 release. This session-based PvE game features replayable missions called Jobs, each with unique challenges and objectives requiring teamwork. Post-launch content, including new Jobs, will be free, while cosmetic items can be purchased without impacting gameplay. FBC: Firebreak will launch on PC (Steam/Epic Games Store), Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 for $39.99 USD, as well as via subscription services like Game Pass and PlayStation Plus. A Deluxe Edition offering exclusive cosmetics and voice packs will also be available.

The KIDS COUNT report evaluates child well-being across the U.S., focusing on economic, educational, health, and community factors. Georgia ranks 32nd nationally, reflecting areas of concern and progress. Notably, there has been a rise in 4th graders lacking sufficient reading skills (from 68% to 70%) and 8th graders insufficient in math (69% to 76%). However, positive trends include increased timely high school graduations and reduced child poverty rates. New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts lead in child well-being, while Mississippi, Louisiana, and New Mexico rank lowest. This report highlights critical issues and advancements impacting children's futures nationwide.

The article highlights the rise of minimalist skincare in India, emphasizing fewer yet high-quality ingredients tailored for Indian skin types and climates. Five homegrown brands are spotlighted for their science-backed, sustainable, and simple approaches. Ilana Organics offers plant-based, multi-purpose products free from greenwashing. Dr. Sheth’s addresses melanin-dense skin concerns with formulations like Centella & Niacinamide Sunscreen. Chemist at Play focuses on ceramides and clear labeling for effective basics. D’You presents Hustle, a serum combining 11+ actives for synergistic benefits. Lastly, Aminu merges cosmeceutical tech with Ayurveda, exemplified by its Copper Peptide Serum. These brands represent a shift towards efficient, uncomplicated skincare solutions.

The "STEM into Summer" event, organized by Hope for Youth (HYPE) in collaboration with Walmart, took place at Westside Park in Atlanta. This initiative aimed to engage underserved elementary school students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through interactive activities, such as making ice cream, to demonstrate real-world applications of science. Founded to inspire girls from underrepresented communities to pursue STEM careers, HYPE also provides mentorship opportunities. By partnering with Walmart, the event successfully reached a broader audience of young learners, promoting accessible and enjoyable STEM education.

Tether, a leading digital asset company, has partnered with Shiga Digital, a pan-African platform offering blockchain-based financial solutions. This collaboration aims to address financial barriers for African businesses by enhancing cross-border payments and global liquidity through USD₮-powered infrastructure. It supports treasury and FX management for industries like oil and gas and enables independent contractors to access foreign currencies easily. By leveraging stablecoins and blockchain technology, Shiga Digital democratizes finance, bringing underserved populations into the global economy. The partnership aligns with Africa's growing interest in digital assets and regulatory developments, promoting economic resilience and participation in the global market. Both companies envision a decentralized financial future where stablecoins play a crucial role in everyday transactions.

Morgan Stanley has downgraded McDonald’s stock to 'equal weight' from 'overweight,' citing structural pressures affecting the fast food sector. Analyst Brian Harbour notes that while McDonald’s is a top-quality business, it isn't immune to challenges such as economic policy uncertainty impacting lower-income consumers and evolving health and wellness trends. Despite outperforming peers, McDonald’s potential growth may slow. The stock has risen 6% year-to-date but faces balanced risk/reward dynamics. With a trimmed price target of $324, implying 5% upside, McDonald’s valuation remains reasonable, though de-rating risks exist. Following the downgrade, shares dipped slightly, yet most analysts remain bullish, with 22 of 38 recommending a buy or strong buy.

The U.S. real estate market is transitioning towards a buyer's market, according to industry experts. Home listing prices have reached an all-time high, with the total value of U.S. homes increasing by 20.3% year-over-year to $698 billion, as reported by Redfin. This shift is driven by growing inventory, slowing demand, and rising home-sale prices. With more sellers than buyers, homes are staying on the market longer, prompting the need for price reductions. Redfin’s chief economist, Daryl Fairweather, notes that high mortgage rates, insurance costs, and property taxes deter buyers. Meanwhile, increased inventory offers better rental options and negotiation opportunities for buyers. Sellers must adapt by pricing realistically and strategically targeting buyers, while those who adjust will still secure reasonable values for their homes.

This article explores the nuances of whether to bring food to a cookout. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the host's expectations and the event's setup. When the host requests contributions, bringing a dish is encouraged, especially in potluck-style gatherings or if you have dietary restrictions. However, if the host has everything covered or you're unfamiliar with them, showing up empty-handed is perfectly acceptable and often more considerate. Bringing unsolicited food can overshadow the host or disrupt their plans. Instead, guests should focus on being thoughtful, possibly offering a small gift or assistance. Ultimately, being aware of the situation ensures you respect the host's efforts while maintaining good manners.