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Voxblock is a device that lets children listen to stories without screens1 Voxblock is a new product that aims to promote literacy and imagination among children by allowing them to listen to audiobooks without any screens. Voxblock is a connection-less audio player that works with special cards that contain stories. Children can insert the cards into the device and enjoy listening to stories in different genres and languages. Voxblock was created by Rebecca Lundgren, an Edinburgh mum who was inspired by her daughter’s love for her old cassette tapes. She wanted to create a modern and convenient alternative to cassettes…

Outrage culture is the phenomenon of reacting emotionally to provocative headlines or soundbites that demand our anger. It is a common tactic used by media outlets and politicians to attract attention, rally supporters and deflect from real issues. But outrage culture has a cost: it drains our mental wellbeing and bandwidth, and prevents us from engaging in constructive discussions. In this article, I will share my personal journey of disengaging from outrage culture and how you can do the same. I will also suggest some ways to improve the quality of public debates and journalism in our society. Outrage culture…

The leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Douglas Ross, has said that some SNP MSPs have approached him to cooperate on opposing the Scottish Government led by Humza Yousaf. He claimed that there was growing frustration within the SNP over the direction of the party and the coalition with the Scottish Greens. Why are some SNP MSPs unhappy? According to Ross, some SNP MSPs have expressed concerns about the policies and priorities of the Scottish Government, especially on issues affecting the Highlands and islands. He cited the example of former finance secretary Kate Forbes, who criticised Holyrood for ignoring the needs…

Labour leader announces U-turn after public backlash The leader of North Lanarkshire Council, Councillor Jim Logue, has announced that the previous decision to close 39 sports and leisure facilities across the region has been rescinded. The move comes after a huge outcry from the public, sports clubs, community groups and some Labour councillors who opposed the plan. Logue said that the council had taken the decision to protect these “important community assets”, despite the lack of support from the Scottish Government. He blamed the SNP for the council’s “dire” financial situation and accused them of failing to properly resource local…

Ross praises Forbes and hints at SNP dissent Douglas Ross, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, has made some surprising remarks about Kate Forbes, the SNP finance minister, at the Tory party conference in Manchester. He praised Forbes for raising “serious concerns” about the SNP leadership and the direction of the Scottish Government. He also suggested that some SNP backbenchers have spoken to him about ways to hold the government accountable. Ross did not name any of the MSPs who allegedly contacted him, but he singled out Forbes as an example of a competent and critical SNP member. He said:…

The Grant County Senior Program is dedicated to providing seniors and disabled persons with the resources they need to meet their daily survival needs. On April 19, 2023, the community celebrated the success of these programs and their impact on the lives of local seniors. Establishing Linkages Within The Community The Grant County Senior Program has established linkages within the community in order for seniors and disabled persons to access necessary services. These linkages provide a wide range of support services such as information, education, recreation, and meals. The program also provides a venue for many activities that are designed…

Blink-182's Latin American tour was postponed last month due to an injury sustained by drummer Travis Barker during rehearsal. He smashed his ring finger, which led to emergency surgery and a delay in the band's upcoming tour with singer and guitarist Tom DeLonge. However, Barker has now offered an update on his recovery and says he's "recovering really, really well." He had his cast removed a week after the surgery and has been in physical therapy to speed up his healing process. Barker also revealed that he recorded the last three songs on the album with a broken finger. Tour…