Benin: Tapping the potential of luxury tourism [Business Africa]

Travel

In this Business Africa episode, you’ll get to meet the head of Benin’s first 5-star hotel. Also on the program, funding cultural and creative industry and we’ll look at how Morocco built an investor-friendly climate.
The global luxury tourism market was worth around $1.2 trillion in 2021. Benin is looking to position itself in this niche.
Morocco has centred its economic strategy around the development and the diversification of investment flows

Finally, more and more African financial institutions are seeking to address the financing gap in the creative industries.
The luxury tourism sector hasn’t reached its full potential in Africa. Citing market studies in the global sector of luxury travel, consulting firm Deloite projected a compound annual growth rate of 7.6% until 2030.

Additional sources • UNESCO

Why do we need quantum computers and what will they be used for?” target=”_self” data-before-rewrite-localise=”/technology/computing/quantum-computers-are-here-but-why-do-we-need-them-and-what-will-they-be-used-for

Technology

Technology companies are pouring billions of dollars into quantum computing, despite the technology still being years away from practical applications. So what will future quantum computers be used for — and why are so many experts convinced they will be game-changing?Building a computer that harnesses the unusual properties of quantum mechanics is an idea that has been in contention since the 1980s. But in the last couple of decades, scientists have made significant strides in building large-scale devices. Now, a host of tech giants from Google to IBM as well as several well-funded startups have invested significant sums into the technology — and they have created several individual machines and quantum processing units (QPUs).In theory, quantum computers could solve problems that are beyond even the most powerful classical computer. However, there’s broad consensus that such devices will need to become much larger and more reliable before that can happen. Once they do, however, there is hope that the technology will crack a host of currently unsolvable challenges in chemistry, physics, materials science and even machine learning.”It’s not just like a fast classical computer, this is a completely different paradigm,” Norbert Lütkenhaus, executive director of the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo in Canada told Live Science. “Quantum computers can solve some tasks efficiently that classical computers simply cannot do.”The current state-of-the-art The most fundamental building block of a quantum computer is the qubit — a unit of quantum information that is comparable to a bit in a classical computer, but with the uncanny ability to represent a complex combination of both 0 and 1 simultaneously. Qubits can be implemented on a wide range of different hardware, including superconducting circuits, trapped ions or even photons (light particles).Today’s largest quantum computers have just crossed the 1,000 qubit mark, but most feature just a few tens or hundreds of qubits. They are far more error-prone than classical computing components due to the extreme sensitivity of quantum states to external noise, which includes temperature changes or stray electromagnetic fields. That means that it’s currently difficult to run large quantum programs for long enough to solve practical problems.Related: Radical quantum computing theory could lead to more powerful machines than previously imaginedSign up for the Live Science daily newsletter nowGet the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.That doesn’t mean today’s quantum computers are useless, though, said William Oliver, director of the Center for Quantum Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. “What quantum computers are used for today is basically to learn how to make quantum computers bigger, and also to learn how to use quantum computers,” he said in an interview with Live Science.Building ever larger processors provides crucial insight into how to engineer larger, more reliable quantum machines and provides a platform to develop and test novel quantum algorithms. They also let researchers test quantum error-correction schemes, which will be crucial for achieving the technology’s full promise. These typically involve spreading quantum information over multiple physical qubits to create a single “logical qubit,” which is far more resilient.Lütkenhaus said that recent breakthroughs in this area suggest fault-tolerant quantum computing might not be so far off. Several companies including QuEra, Quantinuum and Google have recently demonstrated the ability to generate logical qubits reliably. Scaling up to the thousands, if not millions, of qubits that we need to solve practical problems will take time and a lot of engineering effort, says Lütkenhaus. But once that’s been achieved, a host of exciting applications will come into view. Where quantum could be a game changer The secret to quantum computing’s power lies in a quantum phenomenon known as superposition, said Oliver. This allows a quantum system to occupy multiple states simultaneously until it is measured. In a quantum computer, this makes it possible to place the underlying qubits into a superposition representing all potential solutions to a problem.”As we run the algorithm, the answers that are incorrect are suppressed and the answers that are correct are enhanced,” said Oliver. “And so by the end of the calculation, the only surviving answer is the one that we’re looking for.”This makes it possible to tackle problems too vast to work through sequentially, as a classical computer would have to, Oliver added. And in certain domains, quantum computers could carry out calculations exponentially faster than their classical cousins as the size of the problem grows.One of the most obvious applications lies in simulating physical systems, said Oliver, because the world itself is governed by the principles of quantum mechanics. The same strange phenomena that make quantum computers so powerful also make simulating many quantum systems on a classical computer intractable at useful scales. But because they operate on the same principles, quantum computers should be able to model the behavior of a wide range of quantum systems efficiently.This could have a profound impact on areas like chemistry and materials science where quantum effects play a major role, and could lead to breakthroughs in everything from battery technology to superconductors, catalysts and even pharmaceuticals.Quantum computers also have some less savory uses. Given enough qubits, an algorithm invented by mathematician Peter Shor in 1994 could crack the encryption that underpins much of today’s internet. Fortunately, researchers have devised new encryption schemes that sidestep this risk, and earlier this year the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released new “post-quantum” encryption standards that are already being implemented.Emerging possibilities of quantum computing Other applications for quantum computers are, at present, somewhat speculative, said Oliver.There are hopes the technology could prove useful for optimization, which involves searching for the best solution to a problem with many possible solutions. Lots of practical challenges can be boiled down to optimization processes, from easing traffic flows through a city to finding the best delivery routes for a logistics company. Building the best portfolio of stocks for a specific financial goal could also be a possible application.So far, though, most quantum optimization algorithms offer less than exponential speed-ups. Because quantum hardware operates much slower than current transistor-based electronics, these modest algorithmic speed advantages can quickly disappear when implemented on a real-world device.At the same time, progress in quantum algorithms has spurred innovations in classical computing. “As quantum algorithm designers come up with different optimization schemes, our colleagues in computer science advance their algorithms and this advantage that we seem to have ends up evaporating,” added Oliver.Other areas of active research with less clear long-term potential include using quantum computers to search large databases or conduct machine learning, which involves analyzing large amounts of data to discover useful patterns. Speed-ups here are also less than exponential and there is the added problem of translating large amounts of classical data into quantum states that the algorithm can operate on — a slow process that can quickly eat into any computational advantage.But it is still early days, and there is plenty of scope for algorithmic breakthroughs, said Oliver. The field is still in the process of discovering and developing the building blocks of quantum algorithms — smaller mathematical procedures known as “primitives” that can be combined to solve more complex problems.”We need to understand how to build quantum algorithms, identify and leverage these program elements, find new ones if they exist, and understand how to put them together to make new algorithms,” says Oliver.This should guide the future development of the field, added Lütkenhaus, and is something companies should bear in mind when making investment decisions. “As we push the field forward, don’t focus too early on very specific problems,” he said. “We still need to solve many more generic problems and then this can branch off into many applications.”

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Full Movie Download

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

The excitement for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is at an all-time high, as fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa series with its signature blend of humor, horror, and suspense. But before you search for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 full movie download or 1080p quality Bhool Bhulaiyaa movie download, it’s important to understand the best ways to watch it safely, legally, and in the best possible quality. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the viewing options for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and why it’s crucial to choose official platforms for your entertainment.Why Watch Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Only on Official Platforms?With the rise of online content consumption, many viewers turn to the internet for quick access to newly released films. However, unauthorized downloading or streaming can lead to various issues, including exposure to malware and viruses, a compromised viewing experience, and even legal consequences. Here’s why you should avoid unauthorized downloads:High Quality: Official platforms offer Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 in top-notch quality, with options for 1080p or even 4K streaming that pirated sites rarely provide.Ad-Free Experience: Authorized streaming sites ensure a smooth and ad-free viewing experience, unlike illegal sites where pop-ups and ads often interrupt the movie.Support for the Industry: By watching the movie on legal platforms, you contribute to the revenue of the cast, crew, and everyone involved in the making of the film.Official Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Trailer- Click HereOfficial Platforms to Watch Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 OnlineInstead of searching for free downloads, consider the following official platforms where you can enjoy Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 safely and legally once it becomes available.Streaming Platforms: Platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+ Hotstar often acquire streaming rights for popular Bollywood releases. These services provide the movie in various quality options, including HD and 1080p.Pay-Per-View Options: Some platforms like YouTube Movies or Google Play Movies offer pay-per-view rentals, allowing you to watch Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 without needing a subscription.Official OTT Release: Following its theatrical run, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 will likely have an official OTT release. Keep an eye on announcements from major OTT platforms for its online premiere.Quality Matters: Choosing 1080p or 4K for a Better ExperienceFor a movie as visually engaging as Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, watching in HD is essential. Official platforms provide 1080p or even 4K quality, ensuring a clear and immersive experience with crisp visuals and balanced audio quality. Avoid low-quality or cam-rip versions that compromise your viewing experience.How to Avoid Illegal Download Sites and Their RisksIt’s tempting to search for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 full movie download or similar terms, but illegal sites are often accompanied by numerous risks:Malware and Viruses: Unofficial websites are hotspots for malware, which can harm your device and compromise your personal data.Low-Quality Viewing: Most pirated copies are recorded on mobile devices or have poor video and sound quality, taking away from the cinematic experience.Legal Ramifications: Downloading from unauthorized sites can have legal consequences. Major film studios and production houses are increasingly vigilant about protecting their intellectual property.The Appeal of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3: What Makes It Worth Watching?Directed by Anees Bazmee, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is a blend of horror, humor, and suspense that follows the successful formula of its predecessors. With an intriguing storyline, charismatic performances, and a mix of thrills and laughs, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 offers something for everyone. Fans of Kartik Aaryan and the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise will appreciate how the film expands the story while maintaining the essence that made the first two films successful.Tips for Watching Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 on Official PlatformsOnce you’ve chosen your preferred streaming service, here are some tips to enhance your viewing experience:Check for the Best Quality: Adjust the quality settings to 1080p or higher if your internet connection allows. Many platforms automatically adjust quality based on bandwidth, so a stable connection is key.Use Headphones for Audio: Given the horror elements of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, using headphones can add to the thrill and make you feel more immersed.Watch with Friends or Family: This horror-comedy is a fun movie to watch with others. Gather friends and family for a movie night to enjoy the scares and laughs together.Final ThoughtsWatching Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 through official streaming platforms is the best way to enjoy the movie in high quality, while supporting the creators and avoiding unnecessary risks. Instead of searching for Bhool Bhulaiyaa movie download, be patient and wait for the film’s official release online. Not only does this provide you with an optimal viewing experience, but it also contributes to a safer and more ethical entertainment environment.So, mark your calendars for the movie’s OTT release, or head to theaters to enjoy Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 on the big screen. Enjoy every thrilling moment of the movie in HD or 1080p, and let the magic of Bollywood unfold in the best way possible.Some Related Searches: Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 movie download, Bhool Bhulaiyaa full movie download HD, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 download 1080p, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 movie online free, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 official download, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 HD streaming, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 release date OTT, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 cast and crew, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 watch online, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 trailer, Kartik Aaryan Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Bhool Bhulaiyaa movie franchise, Bollywood horror comedy movies, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 plot summary, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 box office

Florida again leads U.S. in book bans, new report finds

Arts & Culture, Books

The Sunshine State led the nation in school book bans for the 2023-24 academic year, according to a new report released Friday. There were 4,561 instances of book banning in Florida public school districts last school year — accounting for about 45% of all book bans nationally, according to the report by PEN America, a free speech group.The report blamed a 2023 Florida law (HB 1069) for the bans. The law expanded the Parental Rights in Education law, which was dubbed “don’t say gay” by critics and put any book that included “sexual conduct” under scrutiny. Orange County Public Schools removed nearly 700 books from classrooms in 2023 for fear they violated the law. Educators across the state removed titles they worried would no longer pass state muster, from classics by Ernest Hemingway to the picture book “No, David!”PEN America found Florida led the nation in book bans the previous school year, too. Last school year, there were more than 10,000 instances of book bans across the country, and 4,200 unique titles banned this year, it found.The Florida Department of Education did not respond to a request for comment on the report. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has called book banning a “big hoax”, but conceded that few “bad actors” had made removing books a political issue.Stephana Ferrell, a Orange mother who helped found the Florida Freedom to Read Project, said the actual number of books removed from Florida schools is likely much higher than PEN America’s count, as some teachers and administrators quietly removed books they worried violated the state law, self-censoring even if no one objected to the titles.“HB 1069 really paved an easy path for censorship,” Ferrell said. “The idea of what should be available for our children, it’s being trampled on and being ignored and being dismissed, especially when the state says, ‘No, that’s not happening’,” she said. “Gaslighting gets used a lot, but I mean, come on.”Materials removed from schools disproportionately describe race and racism, LGBTQ+ people and characters, people and characters of color, and books with sex-related content, the report noted. The removed books often included depictions of substance abuse, grief and mental health, it added.Book bans in Florida cost districts between $34,000 and $135,000 per year, according to the report.The organization defines a book ban as, “any action taken against a book based on its content and as a result of parent or community challenges, administrative decisions, or in response to direct or threatened action by lawmakers or other governmental officials, that leads to a previously accessible book being either completely removed from availability to students, or where access to a book is restricted or diminished.”

Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas Continues in November 2024 With 17 New  Movies — See the Month’s Full Schedule  

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

Holiday magic is in the air at Hallmark Channel. The network’s annual Countdown to Christmas celebration continues in November 2024 with 17-all new movies featuring stars such as Erin Krakow, The Office’s Angela Kinsey, Tyler Hynes, and more. Keep reading for our rundown of the Hallmark movie schedule for November 2024. 

All movies air at 8 p.m. ET unless otherwise noted. 

‘A Carol for Two’ 

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A singer named Violette (Gina Claire Mason) takes a job as a singing waitress in New York. Things get complicated when her duet partner (Jordan Litz) sets her up with his cousin but then starts developing feelings for Violette as well. 

A Carol for Two airs Friday, Nov. 1. 

‘Our Holiday Story’ 

‘Our Holiday Story’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Paulina Stevens

Married couple Dave (Warren Christie) and Nell (Nikki DeLoach) share the heartwarming story of how their romance began when they meet their daughter’s (Sydney Scotia) boyfriend (Gavin Langelo) for the first time. 

Our Holiday Story airs Saturday, Nov. 2.

‘Holiday Mismatch’

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Uptight retiree Barb (Beth Broderick) clashes with free-spirited Kath (Caroline Rhea) when she joins a holiday committee. But when the two women realize their children have started dating, they find they’re both in agreement about their desire to break up the happy couple. 

Holiday Mismatch airs Sunday, Nov. 3. 

‘Trivia at St. Nick’s’

Local residents of a Vermont college town are looking forward to their annual Christmas Bar Trivia Tournament. But astronomy professor Celeste (Tammin Sursok) is forced to adapt when her original partner drops out and she has to team up with football coach Max (Brant Daugherty). 

Trivia at St. Nick’s airs Friday, Nov. 8.

‘Santa Tell Me’ 

‘Santa Tell Me’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Craig Minielly

When Calls the Heart stars Erin Krakow and Daniel Lissing reunite in Santa Tell Me, which follows a design show host who finds a letter from Santa promising her that she’ll meet her true love – a man named Nick – by Christmas Eve. 

Santa Tell Me airs Saturday, Nov. 9.

‘’Tis the Season to Be Irish’

House flipper Rose (Fiona Gubelmann) plans to renovate an Irish cottage. But her plans change when she meets Sean (Eoin Macken), a local realtor who is determined to preserve his town’s heritage. 

‘Tis the Season to Be Irish airs Sunday, Nov. 10.  

‘Christmas With the Singhs’ 

‘Christmas With the Singhs’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Syd Wong

Asha (Anuja Joshi) and Jake (Virgin River’s Benjamin Hollingsworth) are newly engaged and planning to spend their first Christmas together. But their relationship is tested when their families’ cultural and holiday traditions clash. 

Christmas With the Singhs airs Friday, Nov. 15. 

‘Jingle Bell Run’ 

‘Jingle Bell Run’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Avery (Ashley Williams), a bookworm, and pairs up with retired hockey star Wes (Andrew Walker) to compete in a holiday race across America. 

Jingle Bell Run airs Saturday, Nov. 16. 

‘Confessions of a Christmas Letter’

Angela Kinsey stars as a quirky family matriarch named Settie Rose who hire novelist Juan (Alec Santos) to help her craft the perfect letter for her town’s annual holiday letter-writing contest. Soon, a rumor starts that Juan is engaged to Settie’s daughter Lily (Lillian Doucet-Roche). Confessions of a Christmas Letter also features a cameo by Kinsey’s The Office co-star Brian Baumgartner. 

Confessions of a Christmas Letter airs Sunday, Nov. 17. 

‘Christmas on Call’

‘Christmas on Call’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Steve Ackerman

First responders in Philadelphia, including ER doc Hannah (Sara Canning) and EMT Wes Sullivan (Ser’Darius Blain), juggle work and personal issues during the holiday season. Christmas on Call also features a cameo appearance from Jason and Travis Kelce’s mom Donna Kelce. 

Christmas on Call airs Friday, Nov. 22.

‘Three Wiser Men and a Boy’

‘Three Wiser Men and a Baby’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Ricardo Hubbs

Hallmark’s follow-up to 2022’s Three Wise Men and Baby reunites Tyler Hynes, Andrew Walker, and Paul Campbell as the Brenner brothers, who are putting on a holiday pageant for their son and nephew Thomas (Miles Marthaller). At the same time, they must also navigate their mom Barbara’s (Margaret Colin) new romance. 

Three Wiser Men and a Boy airs Saturday, Nov. 23.

‘To Have and To Holiday’ 

‘To Have and To Holiday’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Michael Tompkins

After a whirlwind romance, Celeste (Madeleine Arthur) and Jason (Robert Bazzochhi) get engaged. They want her pastor father (Eric Close) to officiate the wedding, but before they say “I do,” he puts them through a festive bootcamp of Christmas-themed challenges. 

To Have and To Holiday airs Sunday, Nov. 24. 

‘Debbie Macomber’s Joyful Mrs. Miracle’

‘Debbie Macomber’s Joyful Mrs. Miracle’ | ©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Posing as an estate planner, Mrs. Miracle (Rachel Boston) uses Christmas magic to reunite three siblings as they struggle to decide who will inherit the family’s real estate empire after their grandmother dies. 

Debbie Macomber’s Joyful Mrs. Miracle airs Thursday, Nov. 28. 

‘A ‘90’s Christmas’ 

On Christmas Eve, a workaholic lawyer named Lucy (Eva Bourne) is transported back to 1999. As she relives the holiday with her mom, sister, best friend, and high school crush, Lucy gets a second chance to understand where her relationships went wrong.  

A ‘90’s Christmas airs Friday, Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. ET. 

‘Deck the Walls’ 

An interior designer named Rose (Ashley Greene) reluctantly agrees to help her brother Sal (Danny Pellegrino) with his Christmas Charity House Flip. When she returns to her hometown, she must confront the ghosts of her past as well as her brother’s best friend Brysen (Wes Brown), the bane of her youth.  

Deck the Walls airs Friday, Nov. 29. 

‘Believe in Christmas’ 

Real-life couple Meghan Ory (of Chesapeake Shores) and John Reardon co-star in their first Hallmark movie together in 2024. She plays Beatrice, who joins her friend on an enchanting trip to Christmasland, where she meets a charming stranger named Ethan (Reardon).  

Believe in Christmas airs Saturday, Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. ET. 

‘Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story’ 

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Hunter King plays Alana, a Kansas City Chiefs superfan who is trying to win the team’s fan of the year award as a Christmas gift for her family. As she fights to take home the big prize, she falls for Derrick (Tyler Hynes), the team’s director of fan engagement. Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story features another cameo by Donna Kelce, as well as appearances by Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and players Trey Smith, Mecole Hardman Jr., Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and George Karlaftis. 

Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story airs Saturday, Nov. 30. 

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One Of Stephen King’s Non-Horror Books Takes Place Near His Most Haunted Location

Arts & Culture, Books

Warner Bros.

Stephen King is known for his works of horror, but every now and then, he strays outside of his established genre. His anthology book “Different Seasons” forgoes the supernatural for more grounded stories like “The Body” (adapted to the screen as “Stand By Me”) and “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption” (which, of course, became the film “The Shawshank Redemption”). One of King’s more recent non-horror books was “Billy Summers,” a drama-thriller published in 2021. At times, “Billy Summers” reads as if King binged a bunch of episodes of the great HBO series “Barry” and said, “Let me try that, but without the jokes.”

The story follows a Marine sniper-turned-hitman, the titular Billy Summers, who is ready to get out of the “killing people” business. He agrees to take one last job, and this job requires some prep work, including creating a cover story. The cover story Billy concocts has him posing as a writer penning a book, and to help sell the illusion, he starts writing for real. And wouldn’t ya know it? Billy ends up having a knack for the printed word, and finds the act of writing to be therapeutic (you can see the “Barry” connections here, right? “Barry” was about a hitman who poses as an actor and discovers he has the acting bug; “Billy Summers” is about a hitman who poses as a writer and discovers he enjoys it, etc.). 

Billy eventually finds out he’s being set up by the mobster who hired him and he has to go into hiding. While in hiding, Billy befriends Alice, a young woman who was the victim of sexual assault. The two form a close bond and end up going on the run to Colorado, where they shack up with one of Billy’s only friends, a guy named Bucky. It’s during the Colorado section of the book that King decides to have a little fun and drop an Easter egg reference or two to one of his most famous horror novels.

Billy Summers goes to the Overlook Hotel

Warner Bros.

Stephen King published “The Shining” in 1977 and it went on to become one of his most beloved books (I ranked it at number 2 on my list of the best Stephen King books). The story follows a family that moves into an empty hotel during the winter off-season — but the hotel, the Overlook, turns out to be not so empty after all. It’s a haunted place. King’s book was famously adapted to the screen by Stanley Kubrick in 1980, although it’s most people know by now that the book and the movie are much different (and King has spent years talking about how much he hates all those changes). For instance: if you’ve only seen the movie, you may be surprised to know that at the end of the book, the Overlook blows up (Kubrick’s film leaves it standing). 

King returned to the world of “The Shining” with his sequel book “Doctor Sleep,” published in 2013. Then he decided to briefly return to it again with “Billy Summers.” While Billy and Alice are spending time in Colorado, Bucky tells them about the Overlook. At one point, Bucky and Alice go to a spot that looks out at where the Overlook once stood. Bucky comments that the Overlook burned down years ago, and that it was rumored to be haunted. Later, Alice comments that she had a vision of the Overlook, to which Bucky replies: “You’re not the only person who’s seen that. I’m not a superstitious man, but I wouldn’t go anywhere near where the Overlook Hotel used to stand. Bad stuff happened there.” 

Cue the ominous music. 

The haunted hedge animals from The Shining make a cameo appearance in Billy Summers

ABC

But wait, there’s more! Later in the story, Billy goes to a house near where the Overlook once stood to work on his book. On one of the walls inside the house is a painting of topiary hedge animals. At one point, Billy looks up and swears that the animals in the painting have moved places. “The hedge dog is on the right, the hedge rabbits on the left. Weren’t they the other way around before?” King writes.

The moving hedge animals are another reference to King’s “The Shining” novel. In the book, the topiary animals coming to life is just one of several inexplicable supernatural occurrences that take place at the Overlook. When Kubrick adapted the book to the screen, he got rid of the hedge animals and replaced them with a hedge maze instead. However, the animals did finally make an on-screen appearance in Mick Garris’ 1997 miniseries adaptation of “The Shining,” a much more book-accurate take on the material which King wrote the screenplay for himself. 
All in all, the “Shining” references in “Billy Summers” don’t amount to much. Truth be told, they’re slightly distracting, as they take you out of the more grounded, non-supernatural overall story King is telling. Still, if you’re a King fan, it’s a fun little reminder that while the Overlook Hotel may be long gone, it’s not forgotten. As for “Billy Summers,” a limited series adaptation of the book was first announced in 2022. Then in 2023, it was revealed plans had changed and the adaptation was now going to be a feature film. We haven’t heard anything about the project since then, though, but I imagine that it’ll head to the screen at some point. Whether or not the film keeps “The Shining” references is another question. 

Int’l guests discuss AI, climate change at World Science and Technology Development Forum in Beijing, contributing scientific solutions for global sustainable dev’t

Science and Health

World Science and Technology Development ForumArtificial intelligence (AI), climate change, smart manufacturing… The major concerns of the current international science and technology community were extensively discussed during the three-day World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF) held from Tuesday to Thursday in Beijing.  With the theme “Science and Technology for the Future,” the forum attracted more than 350 scientists from 33 countries and regions, including Nobel Prize laureates, officials, and representatives from the United Nations and other international organizations, to exchange insights on solutions for global sustainable development.The forum was initiated by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) in 2019. That year, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the inaugural forum, expressing his hope that the forum would evolve into a platform that facilitates consensus-building, idea exchanges, and deepened cooperation among global scientists, educators and entrepreneurs, contributing to global development.Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Wednesday met with a group of foreign scientists attending this year’s forum. Ding said that China will steadfastly advocate and practice open, fair, just and non-discriminatory international cooperation in the field of science and technology.Deepened international exchange and cooperation, and the promotion of sustainable development through sci-tech innovation are urgently needed to address important global issues, and to meet the expectations of the global sci-tech community and people in all countries, Ding said.”The more complex the international environment is, the more open China will be,” Ding said.”Over the last five years, the forum has actively built a platform for civil technological exchanges and continuously helped expand international technological cooperation. This platform not only embodies the world’s shared vision for technological progress, but also carries the global common dream for the diversity of global civilizations and the sustainable development of humanity,” President of CAST Wan Gang, who is also the chairman of WSTDF 2024, said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the forum on Tuesday. Looking into the future, we hope that everyone will continue to share insights and wisdom in the spirit of “working together for a common goal,” with a philosophy of win-win cooperation and open and inclusive mindset, contributing technological strength and solutions for global sustainable development, and jointly promoting the construction of a community of shared future for mankind, Wan noted.Executive Vice Chairman of WSTDF 2024 and Executive President of CAST He Junke hosted the opening ceremony.Foreign scientists visit an exhibition during the opening ceremony of the WSTDF 2o24 on October 22, 2024. Photo: Chen Tao/GTInnovative governance for AIAI governance was one of the two major topics of global attendees at this year’s forum.On the first day of the forum, a thematic session on “AI Governance Innovation: Building an International Trust Foundation for Cultivating the Ecology of Science and Technology Governance” was held to share the latest technological trends, industrial applications, and scenario expansions. The session also focused on technology governance, enhancing consensus and mutual trust, and promoting the formation of a collaborative effort for global AI governance.The session coincided with newly heightened global attention on the regulation and ethical use of AI, reflecting the deep contemplation of various countries, regions, and international organizations on the balance between technological innovation and security. In his speech, Wan urged the international science and technology community to prioritize research on AI-driven science. He emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to foster high-quality development and called for collaborative efforts to enhance the convergence and coordination of relevant laws, regulations, standards, and norms.”Innovation drives development. The world is currently experiencing an unprecedented period of technological innovation. In particular, AI technologies, represented by large models, are advancing rapidly and leading a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation. The WSTDF brings together experts and scholars from the fields of science, industry, and education to exchange ideas and build consensus. This is of great significance for promoting cooperation and sharing, as well as jointly advancing innovative development,” Wang Haifeng, chief technology officer of Baidu and head of the National Engineering Research Center of Deep Learning Technology and Application, told the Global Times. The recent announcement of the 2024 Nobel Prizes marked a historical moment, as both awards in Physics and Chemistry were awarded to achievements related to AI, heralding the dawn of an AI-driven era in scientific discovery.As AI continues to engage with and empower various industries, its intersection and integration with an increasing number of disciplines are poised to bring about transformative changes in scientific research paradigms. I believe that future Nobel Prizes will increasingly recognize contributions related to AI. This prestigious acknowledgment will draw greater attention and resources to the field, further accelerating the rapid advancement of AI technology. Ultimately, this progress will yield more sophisticated technologies that enhance human life and promote societal advancement, Wang noted. Executive Vice President of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations Ashok Kumar Basa echoed Wang while emphasizing security management over AI technologies. “The benefits of AI are innumerable. AI can drastically transform lifestyles. The life will be much easier. But what I am rather emphasizing is, when we are excited about the help from AI, let us not forget the danger it can pose with the example of a nuclear bomb. That’s a word of caution,” Basa told the Global Times. A foreign scientist (center) plays a Luban lock, a traditional Chinese folk educational toy, during the opening ceremony of the WSTDF 2024 on October 22, 2024. Photo: Chen Tao/GTInterdisciplinary cooperation for climate changeJiao Nianzhi, an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and chief scientist at the Global Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions (Global ONCE), introduced the indispensable role of oceans in regulating the Earth’s climate, and the Global ONCE program’s aim and prospects during a thematic session on Interdisciplinary Science-Based Solutions Towards Sustainable Development on Wednesday.Covering 71 percent of the Earth’s surface and possessing a carbon reservoir nearly 50 times larger than the atmospheric carbon reservoir, oceans are crucial in mitigating global warming through carbon absorption and heat regulation. However, intensified human activities are putting unprecedented pressure on marine ecosystems, leading to issues such as ocean acidification and biodiversity loss, which directly affect the ocean’s carbon absorption capacity. Therefore, protecting and restoring the ocean’s negative emission capacity has become a critical direction in addressing climate change, according to Jiao. Against this backdrop, the interdisciplinary integration of marine disciplines with others has become an inevitable trend. Cross-disciplinary research among marine science, environmental science, ecology, economics, engineering, and other fields can not only broaden and deepen our understanding of marine negative emission mechanisms, but also drive technological innovation, leading to more efficient and sustainable carbon reduction and carbon sequestration solutions. This interdisciplinary collaboration mode can not only foster the creation of new productive forces but also provide new ideas for global sustainable development.Empowered by the idea of “interdisciplinary integration to create new productive forces,” the Global ONCE program aims to gather the wisdom of top scientists and engineers worldwide, leveraging the advantages of interdisciplinary integration to deeply explore the processes and mechanisms of ocean negative emissions and develop a comprehensive ocean negative emission solution based on Chinese practices, while aiming for global promotion. This solution will cover various aspects such as pollution reduction, carbon reduction, carbon sequestration, actively promoting the establishment and implementation of international standards, achieving international consensus, and striving for an international voice, seeking synergistic effects to provide powerful scientific and technological support for a global response to climate change, according to Jiao.The Global ONCE program, launched by Jiao, is part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-30). Addressing climate change and achieving global sustainable development are long-term and arduous tasks. The Global ONCE is not only a scientific exploration process, but also carries the expectations and responsibilities of all sectors of society for the protection of the shared future for mankind. I believe that through joint efforts, we will overcome many difficulties and jointly create a better, harmonious, and sustainable future, Jiao stressed. International coordination for shared tomorrowSince its establishment in 2019, the WSTDF has continuously played a positive role in promoting international technological exchanges and enhancing technological innovation capabilities.In recent years, the unstable trade environment and escalating political tensions within the international community have hindered prospects for international technological cooperation. In this context, countries around the world must enhance open collaboration in science and technology. With its timing, the WSTDF 2024 is playing an active role in global governance, fostering international technological exchange and cooperation, and collectively addressing both opportunities and challenges. It offers valuable insights into current trends in technological development and exemplifies China’s commitment to an innovation-driven development strategy, as well as its vision of building a community of shared future for mankind, guests told the Global Times.Director of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Regional Office for East Asia Shahbaz Khan deemed that this year’s WSTDF could help promote science and technology for sustainable development, especially for the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-33) proclamation the UN announced in August, while also promoting shared prosperity and people-to-people exchanges around the world.As a leading country in science and technology, China has engaged in extensive exchanges and cooperation with numerous countries and international organizations, striving to ensure that technology benefits all of humanity and demonstrating an open and inclusive attitude along with a determination to tackle global challenges together. These efforts help provide what is absolutely necessary to build a base for developing countries in the Global South to progress to the next level of development. UNESCO is very proud to partner with China, Khan told the Global Times. The forum will further enhance the international community’s consensus on technological cooperation and promote the in-depth sustainable development of international technological cooperation. At this stage, it is especially important to help the international scientific and technological community better understand China’s concept of international scientific and technological cooperation. A China-hosted event like the WSTDF will further promote China’s “three global initiatives” and the concept of building a community of shared future for mankind, thereby forming a better atmosphere for international scientific and technological collaboration, Liang Huaixin, an expert in international relations from the University of International Business and Economics, told the Global Times.‘Science and technology for the future’ 

Int’l guests discuss AI, climate change at World Science and Technology Development Forum in Beijing, contributing scientific solutions for global sustainable dev’t

Science and Health

World Science and Technology Development ForumArtificial intelligence (AI), climate change, smart manufacturing… The major concerns of the current international science and technology community were extensively discussed during the three-day World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF) held from Tuesday to Thursday in Beijing.  With the theme “Science and Technology for the Future,” the forum attracted more than 350 scientists from 33 countries and regions, including Nobel Prize laureates, officials, and representatives from the United Nations and other international organizations, to exchange insights on solutions for global sustainable development.The forum was initiated by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) in 2019. That year, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the inaugural forum, expressing his hope that the forum would evolve into a platform that facilitates consensus-building, idea exchanges, and deepened cooperation among global scientists, educators and entrepreneurs, contributing to global development.Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Wednesday met with a group of foreign scientists attending this year’s forum. Ding said that China will steadfastly advocate and practice open, fair, just and non-discriminatory international cooperation in the field of science and technology.Deepened international exchange and cooperation, and the promotion of sustainable development through sci-tech innovation are urgently needed to address important global issues, and to meet the expectations of the global sci-tech community and people in all countries, Ding said.”The more complex the international environment is, the more open China will be,” Ding said.”Over the last five years, the forum has actively built a platform for civil technological exchanges and continuously helped expand international technological cooperation. This platform not only embodies the world’s shared vision for technological progress, but also carries the global common dream for the diversity of global civilizations and the sustainable development of humanity,” President of CAST Wan Gang, who is also the chairman of WSTDF 2024, said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the forum on Tuesday. Looking into the future, we hope that everyone will continue to share insights and wisdom in the spirit of “working together for a common goal,” with a philosophy of win-win cooperation and open and inclusive mindset, contributing technological strength and solutions for global sustainable development, and jointly promoting the construction of a community of shared future for mankind, Wan noted.Executive Vice Chairman of WSTDF 2024 and Executive President of CAST He Junke hosted the opening ceremony.Foreign scientists visit an exhibition during the opening ceremony of the WSTDF 2o24 on October 22, 2024. Photo: Chen Tao/GTInnovative governance for AIAI governance was one of the two major topics of global attendees at this year’s forum.On the first day of the forum, a thematic session on “AI Governance Innovation: Building an International Trust Foundation for Cultivating the Ecology of Science and Technology Governance” was held to share the latest technological trends, industrial applications, and scenario expansions. The session also focused on technology governance, enhancing consensus and mutual trust, and promoting the formation of a collaborative effort for global AI governance.The session coincided with newly heightened global attention on the regulation and ethical use of AI, reflecting the deep contemplation of various countries, regions, and international organizations on the balance between technological innovation and security. In his speech, Wan urged the international science and technology community to prioritize research on AI-driven science. He emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to foster high-quality development and called for collaborative efforts to enhance the convergence and coordination of relevant laws, regulations, standards, and norms.”Innovation drives development. The world is currently experiencing an unprecedented period of technological innovation. In particular, AI technologies, represented by large models, are advancing rapidly and leading a new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation. The WSTDF brings together experts and scholars from the fields of science, industry, and education to exchange ideas and build consensus. This is of great significance for promoting cooperation and sharing, as well as jointly advancing innovative development,” Wang Haifeng, chief technology officer of Baidu and head of the National Engineering Research Center of Deep Learning Technology and Application, told the Global Times. The recent announcement of the 2024 Nobel Prizes marked a historical moment, as both awards in Physics and Chemistry were awarded to achievements related to AI, heralding the dawn of an AI-driven era in scientific discovery.As AI continues to engage with and empower various industries, its intersection and integration with an increasing number of disciplines are poised to bring about transformative changes in scientific research paradigms. I believe that future Nobel Prizes will increasingly recognize contributions related to AI. This prestigious acknowledgment will draw greater attention and resources to the field, further accelerating the rapid advancement of AI technology. Ultimately, this progress will yield more sophisticated technologies that enhance human life and promote societal advancement, Wang noted. Executive Vice President of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations Ashok Kumar Basa echoed Wang while emphasizing security management over AI technologies. “The benefits of AI are innumerable. AI can drastically transform lifestyles. The life will be much easier. But what I am rather emphasizing is, when we are excited about the help from AI, let us not forget the danger it can pose with the example of a nuclear bomb. That’s a word of caution,” Basa told the Global Times. A foreign scientist (center) plays a Luban lock, a traditional Chinese folk educational toy, during the opening ceremony of the WSTDF 2024 on October 22, 2024. Photo: Chen Tao/GTInterdisciplinary cooperation for climate changeJiao Nianzhi, an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and chief scientist at the Global Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions (Global ONCE), introduced the indispensable role of oceans in regulating the Earth’s climate, and the Global ONCE program’s aim and prospects during a thematic session on Interdisciplinary Science-Based Solutions Towards Sustainable Development on Wednesday.Covering 71 percent of the Earth’s surface and possessing a carbon reservoir nearly 50 times larger than the atmospheric carbon reservoir, oceans are crucial in mitigating global warming through carbon absorption and heat regulation. However, intensified human activities are putting unprecedented pressure on marine ecosystems, leading to issues such as ocean acidification and biodiversity loss, which directly affect the ocean’s carbon absorption capacity. Therefore, protecting and restoring the ocean’s negative emission capacity has become a critical direction in addressing climate change, according to Jiao. Against this backdrop, the interdisciplinary integration of marine disciplines with others has become an inevitable trend. Cross-disciplinary research among marine science, environmental science, ecology, economics, engineering, and other fields can not only broaden and deepen our understanding of marine negative emission mechanisms, but also drive technological innovation, leading to more efficient and sustainable carbon reduction and carbon sequestration solutions. This interdisciplinary collaboration mode can not only foster the creation of new productive forces but also provide new ideas for global sustainable development.Empowered by the idea of “interdisciplinary integration to create new productive forces,” the Global ONCE program aims to gather the wisdom of top scientists and engineers worldwide, leveraging the advantages of interdisciplinary integration to deeply explore the processes and mechanisms of ocean negative emissions and develop a comprehensive ocean negative emission solution based on Chinese practices, while aiming for global promotion. This solution will cover various aspects such as pollution reduction, carbon reduction, carbon sequestration, actively promoting the establishment and implementation of international standards, achieving international consensus, and striving for an international voice, seeking synergistic effects to provide powerful scientific and technological support for a global response to climate change, according to Jiao.The Global ONCE program, launched by Jiao, is part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-30). Addressing climate change and achieving global sustainable development are long-term and arduous tasks. The Global ONCE is not only a scientific exploration process, but also carries the expectations and responsibilities of all sectors of society for the protection of the shared future for mankind. I believe that through joint efforts, we will overcome many difficulties and jointly create a better, harmonious, and sustainable future, Jiao stressed. International coordination for shared tomorrowSince its establishment in 2019, the WSTDF has continuously played a positive role in promoting international technological exchanges and enhancing technological innovation capabilities.In recent years, the unstable trade environment and escalating political tensions within the international community have hindered prospects for international technological cooperation. In this context, countries around the world must enhance open collaboration in science and technology. With its timing, the WSTDF 2024 is playing an active role in global governance, fostering international technological exchange and cooperation, and collectively addressing both opportunities and challenges. It offers valuable insights into current trends in technological development and exemplifies China’s commitment to an innovation-driven development strategy, as well as its vision of building a community of shared future for mankind, guests told the Global Times.Director of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Regional Office for East Asia Shahbaz Khan deemed that this year’s WSTDF could help promote science and technology for sustainable development, especially for the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-33) proclamation the UN announced in August, while also promoting shared prosperity and people-to-people exchanges around the world.As a leading country in science and technology, China has engaged in extensive exchanges and cooperation with numerous countries and international organizations, striving to ensure that technology benefits all of humanity and demonstrating an open and inclusive attitude along with a determination to tackle global challenges together. These efforts help provide what is absolutely necessary to build a base for developing countries in the Global South to progress to the next level of development. UNESCO is very proud to partner with China, Khan told the Global Times. The forum will further enhance the international community’s consensus on technological cooperation and promote the in-depth sustainable development of international technological cooperation. At this stage, it is especially important to help the international scientific and technological community better understand China’s concept of international scientific and technological cooperation. A China-hosted event like the WSTDF will further promote China’s “three global initiatives” and the concept of building a community of shared future for mankind, thereby forming a better atmosphere for international scientific and technological collaboration, Liang Huaixin, an expert in international relations from the University of International Business and Economics, told the Global Times.‘Science and technology for the future’