If you're tired of censorship and dystopian threats against civil liberties, subscribe to Reclaim The Net. The UK government is moving towards making the much-criticized Online Safety Act (OSA) even more contentious, this time by trying to use it to outright enforce online censorship of “misinformation” – even though the law has no provision that explicitly imposes a legal duty of that kind on social platforms. Nevertheless, Secretary of State for the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle appears to be the one hard at work to make this “mission creep” happen by expanding the act’s scope to punish those platforms considered as not removing “misinformation” – the way the authorities define that. In a post on the UK government site, Kyle spoke about OSA allowing for the government to come up with a Statement of Strategic Priorities (SSP) – really, just reinforcing the argument that the law is seriously flawed. And so, this is where a draft to make OSA “tougher” – as civil rights group Big Brother Watch Director Silkie Carlo warned in a post – comes in. Carlo noted that at this time, while OSA isn’t even fully enforced, the government is coming up with “priorities.” It all comes down to first pushing a bad piece of legislation, that due to its nature, leaves room for getting even worse (in this case, expanded). Writes Peter Kyle: “A particular area of focus for the government is the vast amount of misinformation and disinformation that can be encountered by users online.” Kyle justifies the obvious rush to add more stringent rules to OSA – moving to require platforms to have “robust” tools to counter “dis/misinformation.” This government official says this new, and no doubt incoming interpretation of OSA is necessary at a time when the allegedly growing presence of disinformation “poses a unique threat to our democratic processes and to societal cohesion in the UK.” The UK government must be confident that it will be able to add this to what OSA currently requires of platforms – and that is, “safety by design, age assurance” – and, the one thing that can be linked to “misinformation” which is the offense of “false communications.” But it specifically cites “non-trivial” psychological or physical harm as the threshold and even so, applies to a person posting that communication, without actually legally binding platforms to censor content. And yet, the new government OSA priorities, as cited in the draft changes, state that, “a particular area of focus for the government is the vast amount of misinformation and disinformation that can be encountered by users online.” The document continues: “Platforms should have robust policies and tools in place to minimize this content where it relates to their duties under the Act.” If you're tired of censorship and dystopian threats against civil liberties, subscribe to Reclaim The Net. The post UK’s “Online Safety Act” Under Fire as Officials Push for New Powers to Police “Misinformation” appeared first on Reclaim The Net.

Thanksgiving is almost here, and you’re probably feeling the crunch? Don’t worry, we can help still you complete your pending holiday preparations!  Whether you’re setting the scene, adding festive decor, or preparing a meal, these simple tips will help you stay organized and enjoy a memorable holiday with loved ones. Set the Stage with Simple Decor Transforming your space for Thanksgiving doesn’t require an overly elaborate setup. With a few well-placed touches, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that celebrates the season. 1. Go for Warm Colors Bring the beauty of fall indoors with amber, pumpkin orange, and deep red accents. Gather a few mini pumpkins, some colorful leaves, and eucalyptus sprigs for an organic centerpiece. It’s low-effort but high-impact because it came straight from nature! And if you need even more ideas, Martha Stewart’s Thanksgiving table inspiration has many easy yet charming DIY options. 2. Light it Up with Candles Soft candlelight instantly adds warmth to any setting. If your meal features rich aromas, use unscented candles, or go for lightly scented ones, such as vanilla or cinnamon. Place the candles on mantels, tables, or window sills for a subtle but elegant glow. 3. Create a Self-Serve Drink Station Set up a drink station with wine, cider, or mulled punch. Not only will this keep guests happy and hydrated, but it also frees you up for other hosting duties. Pro tip: Add a DIY recipe card for a special cocktail to make it festive and interactive! You might even consider adding a little DIY cocktail recipe card, like this Food Network mulled wine recipe, to add even more fun to the festivities. Quick and Delicious Menu Preps Thanksgiving meals can feel overwhelming, but with a few shortcuts, you’ll have a delicious spread ready in no time. 1. Streamline Your Side Dishes Choose crowd-pleasing dishes that are low-stress to prepare. Classics like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce can be easily made ahead of time. 2. Try This Flavorful Turkey Hack Pressed for time? Brining your turkey, even with a simple dry rub, can do wonders for flavor. Slip butter and fresh herbs under the turkey’s skin for added moisture and to create a golden finish. Guests will rave about your turkey, and they won’t have to know how easy it was to prepare! 3. Include a Fun Dessert Bar Instead of one big dessert, opt for a dessert bar featuring mini treats like pecan tartlets, pumpkin cupcakes, or apple crisps. Let your guests indulge in this fun, festive indulgence without feeling too guilty with the calories! Manage the Big Day’s Flow Thanksgiving should be about connections, not chaos. A little planning can make the day flow like sweet tea on a summer afternoon. 1. Start Early with a Game Plan Plan your cooking times and jot down a checklist of must-do tasks. Knowing when to pop the turkey in or heat the rolls will keep you calm and on track. 2. Delegate Small Tasks to Guests Let your guests help! Assign small jobs like setting the table, arranging the drink station, or welcoming other visitors. Many hands make light work—they also  add to the festive spirit. 3. Take Mini-Breaks to Catch Your Breath Yes, you’re hosting, but don’t forget to take a moment for yourself. Sip tea, step outside, or just pause for a few deep breaths. These mini-breaks will keep you refreshed and ready to enjoy the rest of the day. Fun and Festive Touches It’s the little things that turn Thanksgiving into a celebration filled with heartwarming memories. 1. Add a Thankful Jar Place a “Thankful Jar” by the door with small slips of paper and pens to encourage reflection. Invite guests to jot down something they’re thankful for before dinner. These heartfelt notes can then be shared during the meal for a memorable and heartwarming moment. 2. Offer a Toast to Thankfulness Before diving into the meal, encourage each guest to share something they’re grateful for. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to honor the spirit of Thanksgiving and bring warmth to the gathering. 3. Set Out Cozy Comforts for Guests Make everyone feel at home by setting out soft blankets, extra pillows, and gentle background music. These thoughtful touches add to the relaxed, cozy atmosphere and make your guests feel like family. Final Touches for a Flawless Evening Elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with a few thoughtful, last-minute touches. These simple adjustments will create a welcoming atmosphere and help the evening flow smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying time with loved ones. 1. Check the Lighting and Music Nothing sets the mood quite like the right lighting and soft tunes in the background. For this reason, dim the lights, light your candles, and put on a festive and calming playlist. Consider a Thanksgiving playlist from Spotify or Apple Music for an easy way to enhance the atmosphere. 2. Plan for a Quick Cleanup To make cleanup easier, designate a spot for used dishes and silverware. A smaller effort here gives you more time to relax with your guests, making it simple to end the evening on a peaceful note. Thanksgiving Prep: Remember, It’s About Connection Remember, Thanksgiving isn’t about pulling off a perfect holiday. It’s about sharing food, laughter, and love with the people who matter most. So embrace the imperfections, savor each moment, and celebrate the joys of being together. Happy Thanksgiving! Frequently Asked Questions about Thanksgiving Prep and Hosting How can I create the right atmosphere for Thanksgiving? Use mini pumpkins, colorful leaves, and sprigs of eucalyptus for a natural, rustic look. What’s the best way to encourage guests to relax and feel at home? Dim the electric lights, use candles, and add soft background music for an inviting vibe. How do I keep the Thanksgiving meal flowing smoothly? Having a game plan for cooking times and setting up a buffet or family-style serving station can help. Additionally, delegating tasks like setting the table or greeting guests will help you stay on track. How can I make cleanup easier after Thanksgiving dinner? Designate a specific area for used dishes and silverware. This will organize and streamline cleanup, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. How do I involve guests in Thanksgiving traditions? Activities like a Thankful Jar or a pre-dinner toast where everyone shares what they’re grateful for are simple yet meaningful ways to engage guests and celebrate the holiday’s spirit. What’s a quick way to set the mood as guests arrive? Preparing for your guests with lit candles, soft lighting, and a festive playlist creates an inviting atmosphere from the moment they arrive. How do I manage hosting tasks without getting overwhelmed? Create a simple checklist for key tasks, and remember to take small breaks if you start to feel rushed. Stepping outside for a quick breath or enjoying a cup of tea can help you reset. Should I prep side dishes ahead of time? Yes, prepping side dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or green beans in advance can save time on the big day. This allows you to focus on the major details and enjoy the holiday more. How can I make sure guests feel included in the holiday? Encouraging guests to share what they’re thankful for or inviting them to participate in setting the table or decorating the house can make them feel more connected to the celebration. What’s the best way to handle last-minute details? Prioritize tasks with the biggest impact, like adjusting lighting and setting up a cleanup area. You’ll be ready for an enjoyable evening by focusing on simple yet effective touches.

MSNBC Determined to Go Out in a Flaming Bag of Dog Poopie

The Atlantic: Trump Assembling Most Anti-Semitic Cabinet in Decades

Let's hope their discerning eye doesn't ruffle any feathers in the art community.

Before the latest discovery, just 20 oarfish have been found in California since 1901.

“Runaway ice loss causing rapid and catastrophic sea-level rise is possible within our lifetimes," the statement warns.

Hard though it is to believe now, tobacco smoking was once considered healthy.

In what we learned shortly thereafter was a selfish ploy to save their own behinds from possible scrutiny by a second Trump administration come January 20, the visit to Mar-a-Lago by MSNBC’s Morning Joe co-hosts and married couple Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski to see President-Elect Trump has contributed to the Swamp insider-y show’s ratings cratering like it was hit by one of those Mother of All Bombs (MOAB). Mediaite editor and NewsNation media analyst Colby Hall explained that Monday’s show in which they disclosed the meeting actually lost ratings by the hour. Citing Nielsen Media Research numbers, he showed their starting audience in the 6:00 a.m. Eastern hour of 839,000 viewers dropped to 694,000 in the second hour, 775,000 for the third, and 770,000 for the fourth. Nielsen numbers for Tuesday and Wednesday’s shows revealed an even further erosion as the corporate liberals, D.C. insiders, and other Resistance types abandoned Morning Joe. Tuesday’s Nielsen ratings showed just 680,000 total viewers for the four-hour show with 76,000 from ages 25 to 54, a remarkably small number for a network that size. Wednesday told an even more grim picture, despite the litany of political stories surrounding the Trump transition, multiple foreign crises, and lameduck happenings on Capitol Hill.  In total viewers, MSNBC’s Morning Joe drew only averaged 647,000 total viewers, down 43 percent from their ratings in the previous quarter (July, August, and September). Younger viewers were only pegged at 51,000, a 60 percent drop in the same time frame. The Fox News Channel, meanwhile, continued to cruise. Since the election, total FNC viewership is up 41 percent compared to all days prior in 2024. Speaking of overall ratings, MSNBC writ large has been hemorrhaging viewers since the election to the tune of 43 percent overall and a staggering 60 percent in ages 25 to 54. Add in Comcast making official on Wednesday morning that it’s spinning off MSNBC and six other cable networks and potential financial ramifications (e.g. cutbacks in the form of layoffs) and it’s not the best time to be a liberal journalist at MSNBC.

Journalism Professor Jason Johnson joined MSNBC’s Ari Melber on Thursday’s episode of The Beat to react to President-elect Donald Trump nominating former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to head the Justice Department after former Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew from the process amid a series of sex scandals. Johnson fretted that Bondi will be “worse than” Gaetz because “she knows what she’s doing” and is therefore “dangerous and effective.” Given that Bondi was also one of Trump’s lawyers during his first impeachment trial and he has also nominated his criminal defense lawyers for other top DOJ positions, Melber declared, “So, if this were the team and they have to go through vetting and confirmation, but if this were the team, this would be two of the most politically defensive lawyers of the personal capacity of an incoming president we've ever seen running DOJ at the same time.”     Johnson regrettably concurred, “Ari, I completely agree, and quite frankly, my thought is that after Gaetz dropped out it would be essentially from Trump's legal team. It would be like a Jay Sekulow or somebody like that. I assumed that’s where he would get these people from. Unlike William Barr, even going back to when we were all kids and, like, Janet Reno, right, occasionally attorney generals try to behave like they are not the personal lawyer of the president of the United States. That is completely out the window.” He added that Bondi “is exactly what I was saying in the last segment that we should fear because she’s competent. We may not agree with her ideologically, but she actually knows how to do this job. So, if anyone on the Democratic side or anyone who cared about liberty or justice was thinking, ‘Well, maybe Matt Gaetz will screw this up and that will give us some time.’” Johnson concluded by reiterating, “No, Pam Bondi knows what she is doing, she knows what she’s doing about immigration. Remember, Florida is one of those states that’s been very aggressive about migrants and deportation and moving people to different states and everything else like that. Florida has enacted all sorts of rules and laws to curtail students and what they can do on campuses and finding legal justifications for manipulating education money. She is a dangerous and effective pick, and that's frankly worse than what we would have got with Matt Gaetz even with the deplorable moral background that he has.” Johnson’s comments are troublesome for two reasons. First, the journalism professor sounds like a liberal activist, which makes one wonder what kind of classes he is teaching. Second, the media can’t have it both ways: are Trump’s cabinet picks bad because they have no experience running large bureaucratic agencies or are they bad because they do and that makes them dangerously competent? Here is a transcript for the November 21 show: MSNBC The Beat With Ari Melber 11/21/2024 6:44 PM ET ARI MELBER: So, if this were the team and they have to go through vetting and confirmation, but if this were the team, this would be two of the most politically defensive lawyers of the personal capacity of an incoming president we've ever seen running DOJ at the same time. JASON JOHNSON: Ari, I completely agree, and quite frankly, my thought is that after Gaetz dropped out it would be essentially from Trump's legal team. It would be like a Jay Sekulow or somebody like that. I assumed that’s where he would get these people from. Unlike William Barr, even going back to when we were all kids and, like, Janet Reno, right, occasionally attorney generals try to behave like they are not the personal lawyer of the president of the United States. That is completely out the window.  Pam Bondi is exactly what I was saying in the last segment that we should fear because she’s competent. We may not agree with her ideologically, but she actually knows how to do this job. So, if anyone on the Democratic side or anyone who cared about liberty or justice was thinking, “Well, maybe Matt Gaetz will screw this up and that will give us some time.” No, Pam Bondi knows what she is doing, she knows what she’s doing about immigration. Remember, Florida is one of those states that’s been very aggressive about migrants and deportation and moving people to different states and everything else like that. Florida has enacted all sorts of rules and laws to curtail students and what they can do on campuses and finding legal justifications for manipulating education money. She is a dangerous and effective pick, and that's frankly worse than what we would have got with Matt Gaetz even with the deplorable moral background that he has.