Bits: Instagram Quickly Passes 1 Million Users

Flood risk can be estimated in waterways without streamgages, but not as accurately. Flooding is one of the deadliest and costliest natural disasters in the U. S., causing billions of dollars in damage each year. In 2024 alone, floods destroyed homes in over a dozen states and claimed more than 165 lives.

It’s not yet clear what a second Trump administration could mean for workers’ rights. But across many states, workers can expect to see a number of benefits next year, including raises and expanded sick leave. The new year—and the return of the Trump administration to the White House—could bring all kinds of changes to the workplace.

Successful community-centered, public-private partnerships (CP3s) rely on the active involvement of a diverse range of partners. Cities tackle a vast array of responsibilities—from building transit networks to running schools—and sometimes they can use a little help. That’s why local governments have long teamed up with businesses in so-called public-private partnerships. Historically, these arrangements have helped cities fund big infrastructure projects such as bridges and hospitals.

While the Christmas card may have seemed like an entirely new invention to Victorian senders and receivers, the first Christmas card’s design was actually influenced by other, older British holiday traditions. It’s a common seasonal refrain: “Christmas just isn’t like it used to be.”

Arrests and seizures connected to 3D-printed guns are escalating quickly. Police investigating the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on Dec. 4, 2024, have announced that the suspected assailant had used a 3D-printed gun. Several high-profile crimes in recent years have involved this kind of homemade, or partially homemade, weapon.

There’s no shortage of choices for the best Xbox Series X games in 2024, so narrowing things down to just 10 wasn’t easy. Microsoft’s latest home console generation may be lagging behind in sales compared to the PS5, however, there is still a wealth of franchises and console exclusives worth playing on the platform.  Whether that means running around in the chunky boots of John-117, the Master Chief, going for a personal best lap time in Forza Motorsport, or taking on the world in the latest online shooter, you’ll find only the best games for Xbox Series X listed below. Best Xbox Series X games in 2024 10.