As the seasons change, it’s essential to reassess our home heating practices. For decades, the French government has championed an indoor temperature of 66.2 °F, a guideline established during the oil crisis of the 1970s to promote energy conservation. However, with advancements in home insulation and evolving comfort expectations, this standard is now under scrutiny.

The origin of the 66.2 °F recommendation can be traced back to a time of global resource scarcity, where saving energy was paramount. Today, homes are significantly better insulated, leading experts like Nick Barber and Brad Roberson to question whether this temperature still meets the needs of modern living. They argue that this outdated standard often leaves residents feeling uncomfortably cool in their well-insulated homes, as building materials and lifestyle expectations have dramatically shifted over the years.

In a heartwarming turn of events, Skai Jackson, the beloved former Disney Channel star, has officially stepped into motherhood. The actress, known for her role in the hit series “Jessie,” announced the arrival of her first child through a heartfelt post on Instagram. The announcement came with an adorable photo of her newborn, wrapped snugly in a flannel onesie and resting comfortably on her lap, their tiny hands intertwined.

The baby, whom Jackson has named Kasai, has already captured the hearts of her fans. While Jackson did not disclose the gender of her child, many of her friends and followers in the comments have affectionately referred to Kasai as a “he,” suggesting that the new mom has welcomed a baby boy.

CBS has recently introduced its latest drama series, Watson, which aims to provide a fresh take on the beloved character originally created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. However, the show appears to be struggling to find its footing, presenting viewers with a mix of familiar tropes and a somewhat scattered narrative. Set against the backdrop of Pittsburgh, Watson stars Morris Chestnut as John Watson, who steps into the spotlight following the death of his mentor and friend, Sherlock Holmes.

As technology continues to evolve, so does the gaming landscape. Co-op gaming, in particular, has emerged as a beloved genre, allowing players to join forces, tackle challenges, and create unforgettable memories together. The year 2025 is shaping up to be a monumental year for cooperative gaming experiences, with a plethora of exciting titles on the horizon.

The charm of co-op gaming lies in its ability to foster collaboration and camaraderie. Whether you’re teaming up with friends to solve intricate puzzles, battling formidable foes, or simply engaging in light-hearted antics, the shared experience enhances the enjoyment of gaming. The upcoming year promises to deliver a rich array of games that cater to these collaborative instincts.

Stardew Valley has solidified its place as one of the most beloved indie games of all time, thanks to the relentless passion and creativity of its creator, Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone. After over a decade of dedicated development, questions loom about the future of this charming farming and lifestyle simulation game, especially with Barone’s attention now shifting towards new projects. However, fans of Stardew Valley can take heart: the door is still ajar for future updates and enhancements.

As Hollywood gears up for one of its most prestigious nights, the Academy Awards, the atmosphere is charged with both excitement and sensitivity, especially following the recent catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles. Hosting this year’s Oscars is none other than Conan O’Brien, a seasoned comedian and podcaster who himself experienced the impact of these devastating fires firsthand.

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, O’Brien reflected on the challenges of hosting the Oscars during such a tumultuous time. “It’s not the easiest assignment I’ve ever had but I’m embracing it,” he stated. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he emphasized the need for humility and sensitivity: “This is a moment for all of us to step back and say, ‘Be humble.’”

As the Kentucky Wildcats navigate the tumultuous waters of college basketball recruiting, head coach Mark Pope has made a significant impact since his appointment in April. With a track record that has been nothing short of impressive, Pope has managed to build a solid foundation for the program, marked by strategic staff hires, a strong initial roster, and a commendable early signing period. However, the recent commitment of top prospect Caleb Wilson to North Carolina has raised questions about the future of Kentucky basketball and Pope’s recruiting strategy.

In an ideal world, enjoying a handful of fresh berries would be a carefree experience, enhancing smoothies and yogurts with their vibrant flavors and health benefits. However, the reality is that these delicious fruits can sometimes carry the risk of contamination from foodborne illnesses. This concern has prompted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to announce a new strategy aimed at reducing the risk of viruses in berries, particularly norovirus and hepatitis A.

In a world increasingly dominated by technology, understanding the principles that underpin the devices and systems we rely on is more important than ever. From the cars we drive to the smartphones we use, physics is the foundation of modern engineering. While you don’t need to be a physicist to navigate daily life, a basic grasp of key concepts can enrich your understanding of the world around you. Notably, science fiction writer Robert Heinlein encapsulated this idea perfectly in his work, Time Enough for Love, where he argued that a well-rounded human should possess a diverse skill set, from changing a diaper to designing a building.

The retail sector in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by an alarming rise in store closures. According to Coresight Research, 2024 saw the highest number of closures since the pandemic, with major retailers like Party City and Macy’s shuttering a staggering 7,325 stores. This trend shows no signs of abating, as 2025 has already witnessed 1,925 announced closures by January 10 alone.

The closures reflect a stark dichotomy within the retail landscape. While some industry giants like Amazon, Costco, and Walmart continue to thrive, capturing a larger share of consumer spending, many smaller chains and specialty retailers are struggling to stay afloat. The data indicates that consumer spending remains robust, with holiday sales rising 4% year-over-year to $994.1 billion during the last quarter of 2024. However, a significant portion of this spending is being funneled toward a select few retailers, leaving others to grapple with declining sales and increased competition.