1
00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:06,640
Good morning and a warm welcome to your show, Sunny Mornings in Boston.

2
00:00:06,640 --> 00:00:12,080
We're the daily podcast that gets you started on the right foot and always with a positive

3
00:00:12,080 --> 00:00:13,080
vibe.

4
00:00:13,080 --> 00:00:19,120
I'm your host, Melissa, and it's Saturday, February 3rd.

5
00:00:19,120 --> 00:00:21,280
Welcome to your bonus episode.

6
00:00:21,280 --> 00:00:27,800
Today, we'll recap all the top news for the week with sports, local news, tech and science

7
00:00:27,800 --> 00:00:32,560
news as well as business and entertainment news.

8
00:00:32,560 --> 00:00:36,880
But first, let's check out the weather in the Boston area.

9
00:00:36,880 --> 00:00:42,720
This morning, it's partly cloudy and feels like 20 degrees with 13 mph wind.

10
00:00:42,720 --> 00:00:50,320
Tonight, the sun will set at 5 pm and it will rise again tomorrow at 6.55 am.

11
00:00:50,320 --> 00:00:54,720
It looks like we're in for a day of mostly clouds, then gradually becoming sunny with

12
00:00:54,720 --> 00:00:56,960
a high near 36.

13
00:00:56,960 --> 00:01:00,400
North wind 11 to 13 mph.

14
00:01:00,400 --> 00:01:09,680
Tonight, mostly clear with a low around 24 and north wind around 10 mph.

15
00:01:09,680 --> 00:01:14,880
In talk news, the Himalayan Mountains took 52 million years to form.

16
00:01:14,880 --> 00:01:20,960
Now, a new geological study has unveiled a fascinating process happening beneath them.

17
00:01:20,960 --> 00:01:25,440
The Indian Plate, instrumental in creating this mountain range through its collision

18
00:01:25,440 --> 00:01:29,620
with the Eurasian Plate, is experiencing delamination.

19
00:01:29,620 --> 00:01:35,040
This process involves a complex interaction where the top layer of the Indian Plate scrapes

20
00:01:35,040 --> 00:01:40,600
against the Eurasian Plate, while the bottom layer splits off and subducts into the Earth's

21
00:01:40,600 --> 00:01:41,660
mantle.

22
00:01:41,660 --> 00:01:46,560
This discovery challenges previous beliefs about the Indian Plate's movements.

23
00:01:46,560 --> 00:01:52,000
Some scientists had argued it was moving horizontally, avoiding subduction, while others believed

24
00:01:52,000 --> 00:01:55,240
it was submerging beneath the Eurasian Plate.

25
00:01:55,240 --> 00:02:00,520
The current findings suggest that both processes are occurring simultaneously.

26
00:02:00,520 --> 00:02:06,000
The research team used innovative methods, including helium isotope analysis from springs

27
00:02:06,000 --> 00:02:10,160
and seismic data, to uncover this phenomenon.

28
00:02:10,160 --> 00:02:14,960
In other words that we can all understand, basically, the mountains are breaking away

29
00:02:14,960 --> 00:02:20,240
from each other now, after millions of years of coming together.

30
00:02:20,240 --> 00:02:26,760
Toyota Motor has issued an urgent recall for 50,000 older vehicles in the U.S., specifically

31
00:02:26,760 --> 00:02:36,220
targeting certain 2003 to 2005 models of Corolla, Corolla Matrix, and RAF4.

32
00:02:36,220 --> 00:02:41,600
This critical recall is due to potentially lethal Takata airbag inflators, which could

33
00:02:41,600 --> 00:02:45,760
explode and send metal shrapnel into the vehicle.

34
00:02:45,760 --> 00:02:52,680
Worldwide, Takata airbag issues have caused over 30 deaths, including 26 in the U.S.,

35
00:02:52,680 --> 00:02:54,800
and numerous injuries.

36
00:02:54,800 --> 00:03:00,840
This recall is part of a broader issue, with over 67 million Takata airbags recalled in

37
00:03:00,840 --> 00:03:02,840
the U.S. alone.

38
00:03:02,840 --> 00:03:08,600
Toyota's recall specifically addresses driver's airbags in the RAF4 and front passenger airbags

39
00:03:08,600 --> 00:03:10,440
in other models.

40
00:03:10,440 --> 00:03:16,200
This alert follows similar do-not-drive advisories from other automakers, including Stellantis

41
00:03:16,200 --> 00:03:20,240
and Honda, due to the same Takata airbag concern.

42
00:03:20,240 --> 00:03:27,560
Well, folks, it's almost the end of dry January, and sometimes it extends beyond just one month,

43
00:03:27,560 --> 00:03:31,240
influencing a reevaluation of alcohol use.

44
00:03:31,240 --> 00:03:38,160
A reduction in alcohol consumption, even slightly, has immediate and long-lasting health benefits.

45
00:03:38,160 --> 00:03:43,640
According to scientists from the University of New Mexico, alcohol impacts almost every

46
00:03:43,640 --> 00:03:45,880
organ system.

47
00:03:45,880 --> 00:03:50,920
Reducing alcohol can lead to improved sleep, mood, mental clarity, and energy.

48
00:03:50,920 --> 00:03:56,560
Alcohol, while a sedative, disrupts sleep patterns and can lead to weightfulness in the latter

49
00:03:56,560 --> 00:03:58,360
part of the night.

50
00:03:58,360 --> 00:04:03,600
Over time, less alcohol intake can improve overall health, potentially aiding in weight

51
00:04:03,600 --> 00:04:08,160
loss, as alcohol is high in calories but low in nutrients.

52
00:04:08,160 --> 00:04:14,000
It also suppresses the immune system, so reducing intake could boost immune responses.

53
00:04:14,000 --> 00:04:20,400
Additionally, alcohol is a known carcinogen breaking down into acetaldehyde, which damages

54
00:04:20,400 --> 00:04:24,240
DNA and increases cancer risk.

55
00:04:24,240 --> 00:04:31,560
Five years ago, 23andMe was soaring high with a valuation of $6 billion, acclaimed by celebrities

56
00:04:31,560 --> 00:04:33,720
and popular culture.

57
00:04:33,720 --> 00:04:35,840
Today it's a different story.

58
00:04:35,840 --> 00:04:42,360
The company's value has plummeted by 98%, teetering on the edge of NASDAQ delisting.

59
00:04:42,360 --> 00:04:47,420
This decline reflects a significant shift from its early success, where millions use

60
00:04:47,420 --> 00:04:51,560
their DNA testing kits to explore ancestry and health.

61
00:04:51,560 --> 00:04:57,880
However, the company has been unable to sustain profitability, leading to staff cuts and financial

62
00:04:57,880 --> 00:04:58,880
struggles.

63
00:04:58,880 --> 00:05:06,240
CEO, Anne Wujcikki, remains determined, aiming to transform 23andMe into a comprehensive

64
00:05:06,240 --> 00:05:11,120
healthcare enterprise, developing drugs and providing medical care.

65
00:05:11,120 --> 00:05:16,080
Despite these ambitious plans, the journey ahead is fraught with challenges, including

66
00:05:16,080 --> 00:05:21,840
a dire need for fresh capital and overcoming the inherent limitations of their DNA testing

67
00:05:21,840 --> 00:05:23,840
business model.

68
00:05:23,840 --> 00:05:29,040
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists at Stanford University, leading an international

69
00:05:29,040 --> 00:05:35,320
team, have shed light on why autoimmune diseases predominantly affect women.

70
00:05:35,320 --> 00:05:41,680
These diseases, which include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, impact around 80% of women among

71
00:05:41,680 --> 00:05:43,160
their sufferers.

72
00:05:43,160 --> 00:05:49,640
The key lies in a molecule called Zist, unique to women, which plays a crucial role in inactivating

73
00:05:49,640 --> 00:05:53,080
one of the 2X chromosomes in females.

74
00:05:53,080 --> 00:05:59,520
This process, while essential, seems to inadvertently generate molecular complexes linked to autoimmune

75
00:05:59,520 --> 00:06:01,680
diseases.

76
00:06:01,680 --> 00:06:06,920
This finding, detailed in the journal called Cell, could pave the way for earlier detection

77
00:06:06,920 --> 00:06:10,080
and more effective treatments of these conditions.

78
00:06:10,080 --> 00:06:15,540
Although it doesn't fully explain the occurrence of autoimmune diseases in men, it's a significant

79
00:06:15,540 --> 00:06:20,360
step in understanding these complex ailments.

80
00:06:20,360 --> 00:06:22,920
Now let's talk more science.

81
00:06:22,920 --> 00:06:24,880
The moon is shrinking.

82
00:06:24,880 --> 00:06:30,000
Akin to the wrinkling of a raisin, it has been illuminated through a detailed reanalysis

83
00:06:30,000 --> 00:06:34,280
of seismic data from the Apollo missions.

84
00:06:34,280 --> 00:06:38,480
Scientists have focused particularly on the moon's south pole, a region characterized

85
00:06:38,480 --> 00:06:41,200
by its rugged cratered terrain.

86
00:06:41,200 --> 00:06:46,320
This analysis reveals that the moon is not only shrinking, but also experiencing moon

87
00:06:46,320 --> 00:06:50,480
quakes, which differ significantly from earthquakes on Earth.

88
00:06:50,480 --> 00:06:55,880
These quakes, potentially lasting hours, could pose risks to structures on the moon, making

89
00:06:55,880 --> 00:07:01,160
this information vital for future lunar explorations and settlements.

90
00:07:01,160 --> 00:07:06,240
As NASA plans to return humans to the moon with the Artemis missions, understanding these

91
00:07:06,240 --> 00:07:10,280
seismic activities becomes increasingly crucial.

92
00:07:10,280 --> 00:07:15,040
This knowledge will guide the strategic placement of lunar bases and the design of structures

93
00:07:15,040 --> 00:07:19,280
resilient to these unique lunar conditions.

94
00:07:19,280 --> 00:07:25,760
The Xiu Archaeological Site in northern China, unearthed in the 1960s, has provided groundbreaking

95
00:07:25,760 --> 00:07:28,720
insights into human history.

96
00:07:28,720 --> 00:07:34,520
Recent studies have determined that Homo sapiens were present at this site around 45,000 years

97
00:07:34,520 --> 00:07:40,040
ago, pushing back the previously understood timeline for human arrival in China by about

98
00:07:40,040 --> 00:07:42,120
5,000 years.

99
00:07:42,120 --> 00:07:49,200
The site was rich with over 15,000 stone artifacts, animal bones, and a notable human skull fragment.

100
00:07:49,200 --> 00:07:54,960
Modern dating methods have confirmed the age of these artifacts, indicating a much earlier

101
00:07:54,960 --> 00:07:58,840
human presence in the region than previously thought.

102
00:07:58,840 --> 00:08:04,720
This finding suggests that early humans might have migrated to China via the northern route,

103
00:08:04,720 --> 00:08:09,200
possibly through areas now known as Siberia and Mongolia.

104
00:08:09,200 --> 00:08:14,680
The discovery not only highlights a significant advancement in human migration timelines,

105
00:08:14,680 --> 00:08:20,360
but also suggests complex interactions with other hominin species, like Neanderthals,

106
00:08:20,360 --> 00:08:25,320
and points to the existence of extensive trade networks, as evidenced by the presence of

107
00:08:25,320 --> 00:08:28,980
materials like obsidian from distant sources.

108
00:08:28,980 --> 00:08:35,480
This reshapes our understanding of early human migration and interaction in East Asia.

109
00:08:35,480 --> 00:08:39,640
Archaeologists recently made a groundbreaking discovery in central Europe, uncovering a

110
00:08:39,640 --> 00:08:43,940
Bronze Age civilization previously unknown.

111
00:08:43,940 --> 00:08:50,400
This complex network of over 100 sites, connected by a vast societal landscape, was revealed

112
00:08:50,400 --> 00:08:52,760
through satellite imagery.

113
00:08:52,760 --> 00:08:57,400
These findings, including some of the largest structures of that era, have significantly

114
00:08:57,400 --> 00:09:00,960
altered our understanding of Bronze Age societies.

115
00:09:00,960 --> 00:09:06,760
Notably, this civilization, centered around the Carpathian Basin and the Tissa River,

116
00:09:06,760 --> 00:09:11,120
featured large megaforts enclosed by extensive ditches.

117
00:09:11,120 --> 00:09:18,400
Some surveys and excavations suggest these sites thrived between 1600 and 1450 BC, before

118
00:09:18,400 --> 00:09:21,120
being abandoned around 1200.

119
00:09:21,120 --> 00:09:27,400
This discovery challenges existing theories about European prehistory, suggesting a cohesive,

120
00:09:27,400 --> 00:09:31,280
advanced society rather than competing chiefdoms.

121
00:09:31,280 --> 00:09:36,300
It also sheds light on the region's role in the broader European context during a pivotal

122
00:09:36,300 --> 00:09:38,440
historical period.

123
00:09:38,440 --> 00:09:43,880
New research contradicts the long-held belief that insects are attracted to light.

124
00:09:43,880 --> 00:09:48,840
Instead, artificial lights disrupt their natural navigation.

125
00:09:48,840 --> 00:09:54,760
Insects usually use light as a cue for orientation, with the sky being the brightest source.

126
00:09:54,760 --> 00:09:57,760
Artificial lights, however, cause confusion.

127
00:09:57,760 --> 00:10:02,660
Researchers from Imperial College London and other institutions observed this phenomenon

128
00:10:02,660 --> 00:10:06,880
through motion capture techniques and high-resolution cameras.

129
00:10:06,880 --> 00:10:13,360
They found that insects, like dragonflies, just circle lights, or even crash, when disoriented

130
00:10:13,360 --> 00:10:15,960
by upward-facing lights.

131
00:10:15,960 --> 00:10:20,920
The study, published in Nature Communications, highlights how artificial lighting alters

132
00:10:20,920 --> 00:10:26,400
insect behavior, a shift from the traditional view of simple attraction to light, met as

133
00:10:26,400 --> 00:10:33,480
reality labs responsible for virtual and augmented reality technology, recorded a substantial

134
00:10:33,480 --> 00:10:39,360
operating loss of $4.65 billion in the fourth quarter.

135
00:10:39,360 --> 00:10:45,840
Despite generating over $1 billion in sales, this marks the unit's largest quarterly loss,

136
00:10:45,840 --> 00:10:51,600
contributing to a total loss of over $42 billion since 2020.

137
00:10:51,600 --> 00:10:56,920
This heavy investment in the metaverse faces new competition as Apple launches its Vision

138
00:10:56,920 --> 00:10:57,920
Pro headset.

139
00:10:57,920 --> 00:11:06,480
Meanwhile, the VR and air market experienced a 40% decline in sales in 2023.

140
00:11:06,480 --> 00:11:12,200
That is pushed into the metaverse, with products like the Quest 3 VR headset, is part of a

141
00:11:12,200 --> 00:11:22,200
broader strategy to pioneer what Mark Zuckerberg calls the next frontier after the mobile internet.

142
00:11:22,200 --> 00:11:27,620
This week in the markets, it's set to be eventful, with several key happenings.

143
00:11:27,620 --> 00:11:31,960
The Federal Reserve's first meeting of the year is anticipated, where interest rates

144
00:11:31,960 --> 00:11:34,920
are expected to remain unchanged.

145
00:11:34,920 --> 00:11:39,280
Investors will be looking for any signs from the Fed about future rate cuts.

146
00:11:39,280 --> 00:11:44,520
The U.S. jobs report for January will also be released, showing whether the economy added

147
00:11:44,520 --> 00:11:49,280
the expected 177,000 new jobs.

148
00:11:49,280 --> 00:11:54,160
This report could indicate how the Fed's previous rate increases are impacting the

149
00:11:54,160 --> 00:11:55,320
economy.

150
00:11:55,320 --> 00:12:02,040
In tech, major companies like Alphabet, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and Meta are scheduled to report

151
00:12:02,040 --> 00:12:06,840
their earnings, which could significantly influence the market's direction.

152
00:12:06,840 --> 00:12:11,920
The Bank of England will also have its first policy meeting of the year, with expectations

153
00:12:11,920 --> 00:12:13,960
to keep interest rates steady.

154
00:12:13,960 --> 00:12:19,800
Finally, China's PMI data will offer insights into the state of the world's second-largest

155
00:12:19,800 --> 00:12:25,880
economy, which is facing several challenges, including a housing downturn and deflationary

156
00:12:25,880 --> 00:12:26,880
risks.

157
00:12:26,880 --> 00:12:32,920
The startup investment scene faced a significant downturn in 2023, marking the lowest level

158
00:12:32,920 --> 00:12:35,320
of funding in four years.

159
00:12:35,320 --> 00:12:41,000
This decline, particularly pronounced in the tech sector, was largely due to rising interest

160
00:12:41,000 --> 00:12:42,000
rates.

161
00:12:42,000 --> 00:12:47,140
High-growth companies, once booming with investments, saw a stark reduction in funding, dropping

162
00:12:47,140 --> 00:12:54,340
to $167 billion from over $300 billion in 2021.

163
00:12:54,340 --> 00:13:00,640
Major venture capital firms, hit by the economic shift, drastically scaled back their deals.

164
00:13:00,640 --> 00:13:06,160
Despite these challenges, one sector shone brightly, Generative AI.

165
00:13:06,160 --> 00:13:11,920
Investment in this area surged, with significant funds flowing into leading startups like OpenAI.

166
00:13:11,920 --> 00:13:18,080
However, the future looks cautiously optimistic. Expected interest rate cuts by the Federal

167
00:13:18,080 --> 00:13:25,160
Reserve could renew investor interest in startups, possibly revitalizing the IPO market.

168
00:13:25,160 --> 00:13:27,560
But the landscape has changed.

169
00:13:27,560 --> 00:13:32,120
Startups now face heightened pressure to cut costs and strive for profitability in this

170
00:13:32,120 --> 00:13:35,920
new, more fiscally conservative era.

171
00:13:35,920 --> 00:13:41,880
Alphabet and Microsoft exceeded earnings expectations, yet their stocks fell in extended trading.

172
00:13:41,880 --> 00:13:51,880
Alphabet's revenue grew 13% to $86 billion, while Microsoft's increased 18% to $62 billion.

173
00:13:51,880 --> 00:13:58,240
Despite surpassing cloud business forecasts, Alphabet's ad revenue slightly missed targets.

174
00:13:58,240 --> 00:14:02,800
Investors' high expectations, fueled by the company's strong AI developments and

175
00:14:02,800 --> 00:14:07,800
cost-cutting, including job cuts, led to disappointment.

176
00:14:07,800 --> 00:14:12,680
Just note unrealistic market expectations for advertising growth.

177
00:14:12,680 --> 00:14:17,620
Looking ahead, Microsoft forecasts a modest next quarter, with the market now focusing

178
00:14:17,620 --> 00:14:23,080
on upcoming reports from Amazon, Apple, and Meta.

179
00:14:23,080 --> 00:14:30,120
The 2025 Toyota Camry, launching in 2024, introduces a bold change as it transitions

180
00:14:30,120 --> 00:14:33,120
exclusively to hybrid models.

181
00:14:33,120 --> 00:14:39,880
This ninth-generation midsize sedan features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine paired

182
00:14:39,880 --> 00:14:41,640
with electric motors.

183
00:14:41,640 --> 00:14:48,680
It offers a choice between front-wheel drive with 225 horsepower and all-wheel drive, which

184
00:14:48,680 --> 00:14:52,880
increases power to 232 horsepower.

185
00:14:52,880 --> 00:14:58,400
The Camry's design borrows elements from the Toyota Crown, featuring new front headlights,

186
00:14:58,400 --> 00:15:03,760
a refreshed cabin with a steering wheel and console design similar to the Crown, and an

187
00:15:03,760 --> 00:15:06,400
updated infotainment system.

188
00:15:06,400 --> 00:15:11,360
It comes in four trims, each offering unique features and styling.

189
00:15:11,360 --> 00:15:16,680
Pricing details are pending, but the current hybrid model ranges from around $30,000 to

190
00:15:16,680 --> 00:15:18,800
just over $35,000.

191
00:15:18,800 --> 00:15:24,800
U.S. stocks rallied today, recovering from the year's worst selloff.

192
00:15:24,800 --> 00:15:28,320
The S&P 500 climbed 1.2%.

193
00:15:28,320 --> 00:15:31,280
The Dow Jones rose nearly 1%.

194
00:15:31,280 --> 00:15:35,280
And the Nasdaq led with a 1.3% gain.

195
00:15:35,280 --> 00:15:40,160
This rebound comes as investors adjust to the Federal Reserve's rate plans and anticipate

196
00:15:40,160 --> 00:15:42,440
major tech earnings.

197
00:15:42,440 --> 00:15:47,400
Fed Chair Jerome Powell's recent comments suggest rate cuts are unlikely at the Fed's

198
00:15:47,400 --> 00:15:52,120
next meeting, shifting expectations to May.

199
00:15:52,120 --> 00:15:57,720
Tech giants Apple, Amazon, and Meta are poised to release earnings following Microsoft and

200
00:15:57,720 --> 00:16:01,440
Alphabite's results that didn't meet investor expectations.

201
00:16:01,440 --> 00:16:06,840
Additionally, the job market's state will be revealed in the upcoming Non-Farm Payrolls

202
00:16:06,840 --> 00:16:17,960
Report, adding another dimension to this week's financial narrative.

203
00:16:17,960 --> 00:16:19,920
Now on to sports.

204
00:16:19,920 --> 00:16:26,000
Jim Harbaugh has been signed by the Los Angeles Chargers as their head coach on a five-year,

205
00:16:26,000 --> 00:16:28,800
$80 million contract.

206
00:16:28,800 --> 00:16:34,040
This fall is the Chargers' underwhelming 5-and-12 season and the dismissal of Brandon

207
00:16:34,040 --> 00:16:35,040
Staley.

208
00:16:35,040 --> 00:16:40,760
Harbaugh, with a notable coaching record including a national championship at Michigan, is expected

209
00:16:40,760 --> 00:16:44,440
to bring stability and experience to the team.

210
00:16:44,440 --> 00:16:49,560
His arrival is particularly significant for quarterback Justin Herbert, as the Chargers

211
00:16:49,560 --> 00:16:54,960
aim to strengthen their presence in the Los Angeles market.

212
00:16:54,960 --> 00:17:01,360
Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback, is poised to redefine the role of sports announcers.

213
00:17:01,360 --> 00:17:07,880
His signing by Fox, initially met with skepticism, is now confirmed, with Brady set to call games

214
00:17:07,880 --> 00:17:12,840
this fall and possibly even next year's Super Bowl.

215
00:17:12,840 --> 00:17:18,180
This move is part of Fox's strategy to innovate in talent development, exemplified by their

216
00:17:18,180 --> 00:17:23,520
willingness to let go of announcer Greg Olson in favor of Brady.

217
00:17:23,520 --> 00:17:29,080
Fox's ambitious approach combines nurturing internal talent, like Olson, while investing

218
00:17:29,080 --> 00:17:32,320
heavily in superstars like Brady.

219
00:17:32,320 --> 00:17:37,600
Brady's transition from football to the broadcast booth marks a significant shift in sports

220
00:17:37,600 --> 00:17:46,480
television, mirroring past transitions of sports icons like Joe Montana and Frank Gifford.

221
00:17:46,480 --> 00:17:52,720
The 2024 Annagel All-Star Game is hosted by the Toronto Maple Leafs this year, marking

222
00:17:52,720 --> 00:17:56,120
their first hosting since 2000.

223
00:17:56,120 --> 00:18:00,800
This event features a return to traditional skills competitions, contrasting the creative

224
00:18:00,800 --> 00:18:03,960
editions in previous years.

225
00:18:03,960 --> 00:18:09,800
Competitions include shooting, skating, passing, breakaways, and stick handling.

226
00:18:09,800 --> 00:18:14,800
There is also a three-on-three tournament, which reintroduces the team selection by captains,

227
00:18:14,800 --> 00:18:18,480
a practice last seen in 2015.

228
00:18:18,480 --> 00:18:24,840
Viewers can catch the draft on ESPN2, the skills competition on ESPN, and the All-Star

229
00:18:24,840 --> 00:18:26,800
Game on ABC.

230
00:18:26,800 --> 00:18:32,840
For live streaming, ESPN Plus is the go-to.

231
00:18:32,840 --> 00:18:36,520
Moving on to a more local vibe.

232
00:18:36,520 --> 00:18:42,460
In our community spotlight on health and wellness, we are working with a national Pilates studio

233
00:18:42,460 --> 00:18:46,640
to bring you some free classes, so listen up.

234
00:18:46,640 --> 00:18:51,720
Check out Club Pilates with several locations in the San Diego area.

235
00:18:51,720 --> 00:18:57,840
Pilates presents a comprehensive wellness approach, cultivating strength, reducing tension,

236
00:18:57,840 --> 00:19:00,800
and elevating mental well-being.

237
00:19:00,800 --> 00:19:04,640
Scientific research affirms its benefits.

238
00:19:04,640 --> 00:19:10,920
So now you can check out Club Pilates for a free class, with locations in Encinitas,

239
00:19:10,920 --> 00:19:16,200
Solana Beach, Oceanside, La Jolla, and more.

240
00:19:16,200 --> 00:19:20,320
Just be sure to tell them Sunny Morning sent you by.

241
00:19:20,320 --> 00:19:24,480
And now, back to the show.

242
00:19:24,480 --> 00:19:26,600
Now in local news.

243
00:19:26,600 --> 00:19:34,040
Boston's Downtown Crossing welcomes the WNDR Museum, an immersive art and technology experience,

244
00:19:34,040 --> 00:19:36,240
opening on February 1.

245
00:19:36,240 --> 00:19:41,880
Breaking the traditional museum norms, it encourages visitors to interact with the artworks.

246
00:19:41,880 --> 00:19:49,000
The 17,000-square-foot space features over 20 exhibits, including Yayoi Kusama's Let's

247
00:19:49,000 --> 00:19:52,320
Survive Forever Infinity Room.

248
00:19:52,320 --> 00:19:57,080
Designed to redefine the art experience, the museum includes dynamic installations like

249
00:19:57,080 --> 00:20:05,420
the responsive Light Floor by Bright Logic and the Wisdom Project by WNDR Studios.

250
00:20:05,420 --> 00:20:11,180
Located at 500 Washington Street, tickets start at $32, with discounts for children

251
00:20:11,180 --> 00:20:14,040
and military members.

252
00:20:14,040 --> 00:20:20,040
Provincetown, Massachusetts, recently joined six other communities in moving towards decriminalizing

253
00:20:20,040 --> 00:20:23,000
psychedelic plants in fungi.

254
00:20:23,000 --> 00:20:28,080
The Select Board voted for a resolution that instructs police to de-prioritize psilocybin

255
00:20:28,080 --> 00:20:32,240
cases and calls for statewide decriminalization.

256
00:20:32,240 --> 00:20:39,400
This decision aligns Provincetown with Somerville, Cambridge, Northampton, Eastampton, Salem,

257
00:20:39,400 --> 00:20:40,400
and Worcester.

258
00:20:40,400 --> 00:20:43,120
However, similar measures have been adopted.

259
00:20:43,120 --> 00:20:49,120
Advocacy group Bay Staters for Natural Medicine played a significant role in these developments.

260
00:20:49,120 --> 00:20:54,360
The push for decriminalization is backed by claims of medical benefits, such as treating

261
00:20:54,360 --> 00:20:56,920
addiction and mental health issues.

262
00:20:56,920 --> 00:21:02,120
Provincetown's decision, however, does not permit commercial sales, but supports medical

263
00:21:02,120 --> 00:21:04,040
use of psychedelics.

264
00:21:04,040 --> 00:21:10,240
Downtown Boston's latest public art installation, featuring two massive inflatable clown heads,

265
00:21:10,240 --> 00:21:13,800
has sparked a mix of intrigue and unease.

266
00:21:13,800 --> 00:21:19,440
Part of the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District's winter-active walkable art experience,

267
00:21:19,440 --> 00:21:23,760
these clowns are wedged between buildings in Harlem Place Alley.

268
00:21:23,760 --> 00:21:28,560
Created by artist Max Stryker, the clowns are designed to appear shocked and alarmed,

269
00:21:28,560 --> 00:21:31,440
drawing varied reactions from the public.

270
00:21:31,440 --> 00:21:37,280
Some find the installation creepy, with comparisons to the work of Junji Ito, a Japanese horror

271
00:21:37,280 --> 00:21:38,920
manga artist.

272
00:21:38,920 --> 00:21:43,560
Despite some criticisms, the exhibit has garnered attention and engagement.

273
00:21:43,560 --> 00:21:49,780
The clowns are one of 16 exhibits, and will be on display until April 14, a week before

274
00:21:49,780 --> 00:21:51,840
the Boston Marathon.

275
00:21:51,840 --> 00:21:57,600
This exhibition, featuring eight artists and design teams from Canada, England, and the

276
00:21:57,600 --> 00:22:03,920
U.S., aims to animate and illuminate Boston's streets, adding to the city's vibrant cultural

277
00:22:03,920 --> 00:22:05,320
scene.

278
00:22:05,320 --> 00:22:10,280
In the latest entertainment news, Curb Your Enthusiasm is set to air its final season

279
00:22:10,280 --> 00:22:12,720
on February 4.

280
00:22:12,720 --> 00:22:18,280
Following this, Larry David will perform in Boston at Fenway's MGM Music Hall on April

281
00:22:18,280 --> 00:22:19,380
1.

282
00:22:19,380 --> 00:22:24,680
This is part of a limited tour with his first show in March in Washington, D.C.

283
00:22:24,680 --> 00:22:31,200
The event, titled A Conversation with Larry David, will feature David discussing his career,

284
00:22:31,200 --> 00:22:35,280
including Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

285
00:22:35,280 --> 00:22:41,480
David humorously noted recent plastic surgery, joking it may affect his expressions.

286
00:22:41,480 --> 00:22:47,040
Tickets for the Boston show are available from January 31, for presale, and February

287
00:22:47,040 --> 00:22:50,120
2, for the general public.

288
00:22:50,120 --> 00:22:56,840
John Henry, the billionaire owner of Fenway Sports Group, has expanded his sports empire.

289
00:22:56,840 --> 00:23:04,120
His consortium, Strategic Sports Group, inked a $3 billion partnership with the PGA Tour.

290
00:23:04,120 --> 00:23:10,560
This deal grants them a minority share in PGA Tour enterprises, offering almost 200

291
00:23:10,560 --> 00:23:16,040
pro golfers, equity worth over $1.5 billion.

292
00:23:16,040 --> 00:23:21,960
The PGA Tour, known for its rivalry with Live Golf, has moved towards collaboration, ending

293
00:23:21,960 --> 00:23:23,400
pending litigation.

294
00:23:23,400 --> 00:23:31,080
Henry's net worth is estimated at $5.1 billion, and his portfolio includes the Boston Red

295
00:23:31,080 --> 00:23:36,640
Sox, Liverpool Football Club, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and more.

296
00:23:36,640 --> 00:23:40,120
Maybe it's about time to find some new owners for the Sox.

297
00:23:40,120 --> 00:23:45,160
There isn't a single sports fan in Boston who likes John Henry, and frankly it's just

298
00:23:45,160 --> 00:23:46,920
time for him to go.

299
00:23:46,920 --> 00:23:52,600
I'm sure Pittsburgh will welcome him with open arms.

300
00:23:52,600 --> 00:23:59,360
And in entertainment news, Amazon and GM Studio is developing a film about Heather Raslakin

301
00:23:59,360 --> 00:24:06,520
Morgan and her husband Ilya Lichtenstein, charged in 2022 with a $4 billion Bitfinex

302
00:24:06,520 --> 00:24:09,240
Bitcoin heist and money laundering.

303
00:24:09,240 --> 00:24:15,720
Directed by Hannah Marks and co-produced by Lily Reinhart, the film is inspired by a 2022

304
00:24:15,720 --> 00:24:17,800
New York Times article.

305
00:24:17,800 --> 00:24:24,800
The story follows the couple's 2016 hack of Bitfinex, leading to their arrest in 2022.

306
00:24:24,800 --> 00:24:29,280
Before her arrest, Morgan was an aspiring rapper and Ford's contributor.

307
00:24:29,280 --> 00:24:35,600
They admitted to stealing 120,000 Bitcoin and agreed to forfeit their gains, facing

308
00:24:35,600 --> 00:24:38,280
up to 20 years in prison.

309
00:24:38,280 --> 00:24:45,440
The Justice Department recovered another $475 million dollars related to the heist in August

310
00:24:45,440 --> 00:24:47,480
2023.

311
00:24:47,480 --> 00:24:54,200
Since her arrest, Morgan has distanced herself from the crypto and NFT space, with her NFTs

312
00:24:54,200 --> 00:24:56,320
disappearing from open sea.

313
00:24:56,320 --> 00:25:00,920
The film's release date and further details are yet to be announced.

314
00:25:00,920 --> 00:25:06,880
Christopher Nolan, renowned for his direction in Oppenheimer, hosted a Q&A with Nathan Fielder

315
00:25:06,880 --> 00:25:12,760
and Benny Safdie, delving into their new satirical comedy series The Curse.

316
00:25:12,760 --> 00:25:19,500
Airing on Showtime and Paramount+, this groundbreaking show captivated Nolan, who compared its originality

317
00:25:19,500 --> 00:25:23,000
to iconic series like Twin Peaks.

318
00:25:23,000 --> 00:25:29,040
The plot centers around Fielder and Emma Stone, portraying a married couple running an HGTB

319
00:25:29,040 --> 00:25:32,440
show called Flip philanthropy.

320
00:25:32,440 --> 00:25:37,280
Their story takes a dark turn with the emergence of a curse that challenges their relationship

321
00:25:37,280 --> 00:25:39,440
and attempts to have a child.

322
00:25:39,440 --> 00:25:45,680
Benny Safdie, who co-created the series, also stars as a TV producer.

323
00:25:45,680 --> 00:25:51,640
Nolan's admiration extended to Fielder's HBO series The Rehearsal and the Safdie Brothers

324
00:25:51,640 --> 00:25:53,200
filmography.

325
00:25:53,200 --> 00:25:58,920
Alice and Herman of Variety praised The Curse for its effective mood setting and exploration

326
00:25:58,920 --> 00:26:04,620
of exploitation at multiple levels, leaving viewers to decide whether it's a must-watch

327
00:26:04,620 --> 00:26:06,200
or a pass.

328
00:26:06,200 --> 00:26:09,160
I haven't made up my mind on this one yet.

329
00:26:09,160 --> 00:26:15,880
By Richie's latest film, the Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare presents a unique twist

330
00:26:15,880 --> 00:26:18,680
on World War II storytelling.

331
00:26:18,680 --> 00:26:23,920
Set against the war's backdrop, it follows surgeon Gus March Phillips, played by Henry

332
00:26:23,920 --> 00:26:29,160
Cavill, who is recruited into Britain's Special Operations Executive.

333
00:26:29,160 --> 00:26:34,780
The Special Operations Executive focuses on irregular warfare, and March Phillips, known

334
00:26:34,780 --> 00:26:39,480
for his rule-breaking approach, is chosen to lead a risky mission.

335
00:26:39,480 --> 00:26:44,360
The movie's trailer reveals his assembled team of unconventional fighters, played by

336
00:26:44,360 --> 00:26:52,280
Isa Gonzalez, Babs Olusemukhan, Alan Ripson, Henry Golding, and Alex Pettyfer.

337
00:26:52,280 --> 00:26:57,640
These characters bring a blend of madness and skill to their task of creatively combating

338
00:26:57,640 --> 00:26:58,840
Nazis.

339
00:26:58,840 --> 00:27:03,480
The film, with its action-packed and whimsical approach, is set to be released in theaters

340
00:27:03,480 --> 00:27:08,560
on April 19, promising a fresh take on the genre.

341
00:27:08,560 --> 00:27:13,200
As promised, here are five funny movies on Netflix to help get you through some of the

342
00:27:13,200 --> 00:27:15,240
glum weather.

343
00:27:15,240 --> 00:27:20,640
First on the list, Eurovision Song Contest, The Story of Fire Saga.

344
00:27:20,640 --> 00:27:26,580
In this comedic reunion, Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams play Icelandic friends, dreaming

345
00:27:26,580 --> 00:27:29,320
of Eurovision victory.

346
00:27:29,320 --> 00:27:35,140
Directed by David Dobkin of Wedding Crashers, they form Fire Saga, a singing duo, hitting

347
00:27:35,140 --> 00:27:39,220
Eurovision with their song, Ya Ya Ding Dong.

348
00:27:39,220 --> 00:27:41,640
You have me at Will Ferrell.

349
00:27:41,640 --> 00:27:45,600
Next up, Glass Onion, a Knives Out mystery.

350
00:27:45,600 --> 00:27:51,840
Rian Johnson's sequel to Knives Out brings back Daniel Craig as Detective Benoit Blank.

351
00:27:51,840 --> 00:27:57,040
In a twisty tale, Blank investigates a murder on a tech billionaire's island.

352
00:27:57,040 --> 00:28:02,420
The star-studded cast includes Edward Norton and Janelle Mona, blending mystery with a

353
00:28:02,420 --> 00:28:04,040
dash of humor.

354
00:28:04,040 --> 00:28:06,760
Also, I care a lot.

355
00:28:06,760 --> 00:28:13,440
Rosamund Pike stars as Marla, a con woman targeting the elderly in this J. Blakeson

356
00:28:13,440 --> 00:28:14,440
comedy.

357
00:28:14,440 --> 00:28:20,040
Her scheme unravels when targeting a crime lord's mother, leading to suspense and danger.

358
00:28:20,040 --> 00:28:25,560
Pike's award-winning role is supported by Peter Dinklage and Isa Gonzalez.

359
00:28:25,560 --> 00:28:29,720
If you miss Adam McKay movies, check out Don't Look Up.

360
00:28:29,720 --> 00:28:36,300
It's a satirical, dark comedy, featuring a star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio

361
00:28:36,300 --> 00:28:40,800
and Jennifer Lawrence, as they tackle global warming.

362
00:28:40,800 --> 00:28:45,660
It centers on astronomers trying to warn about an Earth-threatening comet, blending humor

363
00:28:45,660 --> 00:28:48,200
with a thought-provoking message.

364
00:28:48,200 --> 00:28:51,660
Or you can take a shot at Spencer Confidential.

365
00:28:51,660 --> 00:28:56,480
Mark Wahlberg teams up with director Peter Berg in this action-packed film.

366
00:28:56,480 --> 00:29:04,080
Spencer, a former Boston cop and now a private investigator, gets entangled in a murder conspiracy.

367
00:29:04,080 --> 00:29:09,560
The film, inspired by Robert B. Parker's novels, features intense action and a memorable

368
00:29:09,560 --> 00:29:12,400
prison brawl scene.

369
00:29:12,400 --> 00:29:16,920
Disney is set to enforce a ban on password sharing for its streaming services.

370
00:29:16,920 --> 00:29:21,920
Disney+, Woolo, and ESPN+.

371
00:29:21,920 --> 00:29:27,080
This move, announced in an email to Woolo's subscribers, will start on March 14th.

372
00:29:27,080 --> 00:29:31,400
Violations could lead to account limitations or termination.

373
00:29:31,400 --> 00:29:37,100
This follows Netflix's successful crackdown on password sharing, which significantly increased

374
00:29:37,100 --> 00:29:39,280
its subscriber count.

375
00:29:39,280 --> 00:29:48,000
Disney, CEO Bob Iger, had previously indicated tackling password sharing as a 2024 priority.

376
00:29:48,000 --> 00:29:52,880
Further details are expected in Disney's fiscal first-quarter earnings call on February

377
00:29:52,880 --> 00:29:54,080
7th.

378
00:29:54,080 --> 00:29:57,440
Sorry for the lame news.

379
00:29:57,440 --> 00:29:59,480
And that's a wrap for this morning.

380
00:29:59,480 --> 00:30:02,520
Remember to stay tuned tomorrow for more news and updates.

381
00:30:02,520 --> 00:30:29,960
Have an amazing day, my good friends.