January 10, 20255 min readTrumps Erroneous Claims about the Los Angeles Fire Response, DebunkedPresident-elect Trump has incorrectly blamed California water management for the destruction from the recent fires in the Los Angeles areaBy Camille von Kaenel & E&E News Firefighters battle the Eaton Fire in strong winds as many homes burn on January 7, 2025 in Pasadena, California. A powerful Santa Ana wind event dramatically raised the danger of wind-driven wildfires. David McNew/Getty ImagesCLIMATEWIRE | As historic fires rip through the Los Angeles area, President-elect Donald Trump is demanding Gov. Gavin Newsom open up the water main and allow beautiful, clean, freshwater to FLOW INTO CALIFORNIA!At first glance, it seems to make sense. Why wouldnt the leader of a state whose northern regions are currently enjoying above-average winter precipitation redirect water south to quench the burning metropolis as its fire hydrants run dry?To start, there isnt some central spigot nestled in the Sierra foothills that Newsom can just use a giant wrench to turn on. Then theres the fact that firefighters were more hamstrung by the raging Santa Ana winds than empty hydrants due to a lack of water from Northern California.On supporting science journalismIf you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.Read on for a detailed explanation from our resident California water expert of the states complex water system and a brief history of Trumps fixation with the issue.Whats up with the water restoration declaration?On Wednesday, Trump posted on Truth Social: Governor Gavin Newscum refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him that would have allowed millions of gallons of water, from excess rain and snow melt from the North, to flow daily into many parts of California, including the areas that are currently burning in a virtually apocalyptic way.Newsoms communications director shot back: There is no such document as the water restoration declaration that is pure fiction.Is it? Not quite. Trump was referring to a real document, even if he used an unknown name for it that left even the most astute California water officials scratching their heads. Karoline Leavitt, the president-elects press secretary, explained the reference by pointing to a five-year-old legal showdown between Newsom and Trump over how to manage the state and federal systems of pumps, reservoirs and canals that move water around California.In short, the two disagree about how much water should be pumped out of the states main rivers, which combine in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, to the much drier farms of the Central Valley and cities of Southern California and how much water should be kept in the ecosystem to keep declining fish populations alive, including the Delta smelt, a frequent Trump target. Their separate plans for the pumps make only marginal differences in actual water deliveries but have taken on a political life of their own.The conflict peaked in 2020, when Trump unveiled the record of decision cementing his version of the rules at a rally in the Central Valley only to be sued by Newsom, citing harm to the environmentThat was the last significant water policy decision made during his first term in which both President Trump and Gov. Newsom took a personal interest, said Tom Birmingham, the former general manager of Westlands Water District, the largest agricultural irrigation district in the country that sided with Trump in that battle.Is there a water main in Northern California?No. Newsom would be hard-pressed, as Trump suggested on Truth Social on Thursday, to immediately go to Northern California and open up the water main, and let the water flow into his dry, starving burning State, instead of having it go out into the Pacific Ocean.However, Southern Californias cities do depend on snowmelt in the Sierra Nevada mountains, home to the world-famous Yosemite National Park, and the Delta pumps for about 30 percent of their water supplies. Another 20 percent comes from the Colorado River, and 50 percent originates from local supplies, like groundwater and recycling.A lot of water in California does flow into the Pacific much of it is reserved for environmental uses, which keeps rivers flowing so theyre fresh enough to provide tap water to cities and keep endangered fish populations alive. Overall, water use in California breaks down roughly to 10 percent for communities, 40 percent for agriculture and 50 percent for the environment, according to the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of Californias analysis of state data.Whats the origin story of Trumps obsession with California water?This isnt the first time Trump has used H2O as a cudgel against Newsom. Hes also threatened to withhold disaster aid unless Newsom goes his way on water, saying at a Southern California campaign stop last year that if the governor doesnt sign those papers, we wont give him money to put out all his fires. (Those papers presumably refer to the aforementioned water restoration declaration).The president-elects interest in the Golden States water dilemma likely dates back to a 2016 tour of the agriculturally rich Central Valley with former Republican Rep. Devin Nunes, who was one of Trumps earliest supporters.Trumps frequent references to the fight show the California water issue has a very special place in his heart, in his head, said Johnny Amaral, the chief operating officer for the Friant Water Authority, which serves Central Valley farmers, and Nunes former chief of staff.He talks frequently about the visit he made to the Central Valley in 2016 before the election where Devin was taking him around and showing him farmland, Amaral added. It warms our heart a little bit that he still talks about a 30-minute or hour drive around the east side.Nunes was trying to impress upon Trump that farmers in the Central Valley, a region that trends conservative, need more water from the state and federal water pumps in the north. He was clearly persuasive.But hows this related to the LA fires?Its not. Much of Southern California is in a drought right now, according to federal statistics, because of a dry start to Californias typically wet winter. But its not hugely lacking in imported water from Northern California, which, in contrast, has had relatively average precipitation so far. Levels at reservoirs across the state, including Southern Californias largest reservoir, Diamond Valley Lake, are currently at or above historic levels.LAs fire hydrants ran dry Tuesday night because there was tremendous demand, Janisse Quiones, chief executive and chief engineer of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, said Wednesday. Water pressure fell as a result: Supplies at the citys three million-gallon water tanks that feed Pacific Palisades tapped out by 3 a.m. after firefighters started battling the blaze Tuesday, and backup water had to be trucked into the area.How are Democratic leaders responding?At a White House briefing Thursday, President Joe Biden offered an explanation for dry hydrants. He said power was cut to local water pumps to avoid utility lines causing more conflagrations. Fire officials are now bringing in generators for the pumps, Biden said.On CNN on Wednesday night, Newsom accused Trump of playing politics and trying to divide the country over the tragic fires. Also on Wednesday, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass blamed the water shortages on the unprecedented scope of the disaster, which is slated to be the costliest in U.S. history.Debra Kahn and Julia Marsh contributed to this report.Reprinted from E&E News with permission from POLITICO, LLC. Copyright 2025. E&E News provides essential news for energy and environment professionals.

Switch 2 reportedly getting Halo and another big Xbox game, with Microsoft set to be a "very big supporter"FF7 Remake, Rebirth said to be coming too.Image credit: Microsoft News by Matt Wales News Reporter Published on Jan. 10, 2025 While the gaming world waits for Nintendo to finally reveal Switch 2, the rumours continue to swirl. And a reliable leaker has now claimed Microsoft will be a "very big supporter" of the console, bringing two major Xbox series to Switch 2 this year, including Halo.That's according to podcaster NateTheHate (thanks VGC), who notably broke the news Microsoft was planning to make some of its first-party titles multiplatform early last year. That, of course, proved to be true; Sea of Thieves, Hi-Fi Rush, Grounded, and Pentiment are now available on PS5, with the latter two also on Switch.NateTheHate now reports Microsoft's multiplatform strategy will expand to Switch 2, and that the company will be a "very big supporter", releasing two Xbox titles on the platform - Flight Simulator and Halo: The Masterchief Collection - in 2025. It's also claimed both will launch for PS5, joining the other Xbox first-party games - namely Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Doom: The Dark Ages, and The Outer Worlds 2 - already confirmed for Sony's machine.Everything we learned this week about Switch 2.Watch on YouTubeNateTheHate adds Microsoft will additionally be "porting and patching [its] current Switch line-up" for Switch 2, introducing the likes of 4K support, and that he "wouldn't be surprised if Sea of Thieves, maybe Hi-fi Rush, also find their way over." Last year, it was claimed Hi-Fi Rush would skip the current version of Switch in favour of Switch 2, although that was before Microsoft's closure of developer Tango Gameworks and its subsquent purchase by Krafton.As for other, non-Microsoft Switch 2 releases, NateTheHate says Square Enix is bringing Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth to Nintendo's machine as well as Xbox Series X/S, with Remake reportedly arriving this year and Rebirth in 2026. That's not especially surprising to hear, of course, given Square Enix last year confirmed it was "aggressively pursuing" a new multiplatform strategy amid reports that Rebirth underperformed on PlayStation 5.Obviously, before all this can happen, Nintendo needs to formally unveil Switch 2 - although by the time it finally does so, there might not be a whole lot left we don't already know. Numerous Switch 2 reports and leaks have surfaced in recent weeks, purportedly showing off everything from the machine's form factor to its logo. And while Nintendo did briefly break its silence earlier today amid the swirl of reports, all we know for certain is that Switch 2 will be officially unveiled before 31st March, when the company's current financial year comes to a close.

Backyard spaces are where some of lifes best moments unfoldfrom morning coffee rituals to dinner parties that stretch into the nightand the best Amazon outdoor furniture will help you experience all of this and then some.Whether you're transforming a compact balcony into a cozy retreat or converting a sprawling deck into a stylish entertaining hub, the right patio furniture sets the tone. Fortunately, Amazon offers a wealth of options that combine style, functionality, and convenienceall delivered right to your door. While finding pieces that are stylish, comfortable, and weather-proof can feel like a treasure hunt among Amazon's vast library of wicker and wood, weve done the digging for you. What makes these choices shine isnt just their aesthetics or practicalityits the enthusiastic endorsements of real-life users whove road-tested them in backyards, balconies, and porches across the country.From plush sectional sofas to dining sets that encourage alfresco feasts, these picks promise to elevate your outdoor living experience. For more on how we selected these, pop down to read more on the curation process.Our Top Picks for the Best Amazon Outdoor Furniture:Best Rocking Chairs on Amazon: Devoko Three Piece Rocking Bistro Set, $130Best Adirondack Chair on Amazon: Polywood Modern Adirondack ChairBest Loungers on Amazon: Best Choice Acacia Wood Chaise Lounge ChairBest Dining Chairs on Amazon: Best Choice Stackable Outdoor Wicker Dining ChairsBest Wicker Furniture Set on Amazon: Christopher Knight Home Burchett Outdoor Four Piece Chat SetBest Bistro Set on Amazon: Christopher Knight Home Colmar Outdoor Iron Bistro SetBest Sofa Patio Furniture Set on Amazon: Christopher Knight Home Caroline Outdoor Acacia Sofa SetBest Patio Dining Table on Amazon: Walker Edison Maui Modern Acacia Wood Patio Dining TableBest Patio Umbrella on Amazon: Funsite Store 7.5 Foot Patio Umbrella with FringeBest Adirondack Chair on Amazon: Polywood Modern Adirondack ChairPolywood Modern Adirondack ChairSpecsDimensions: 32" long x 29.25" wide x 34" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: OneFive-star reviews: 800When it comes to Adirondack chairs, this Polywood one takes the timeless, easy-lounging silhouette and gives it a sleek, contemporary twist. Crafted from genuine lumbera recycled plastic material thats weather-proof and virtually maintenance-freethis chair is built to withstand anything Mother Nature throws its way. Rain, snow, or blazing sun? No problem. Shoppers love the wide armrests, which double as a perfect perch for drinks or books, and the fact that they come in a variety of vibrant, fade-resistant colors to match any outdoor aesthetic.Best Loungers on Amazon: Best Choice Acacia Wood Chaise Lounge ChairBest Choice Products Acacia Wood Chaise Lounge ChairSpecsDimensions: 79" long x 26" wide x 22.538" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: OneFive-star reviews: 700+For those who take lounging seriously, this lounger is a no-brainer. What makes it a standout is its adjustability. With four reclining positions, it caters to whatever mood strikeswhether youre soaking up the sun or sneaking in an afternoon nap. Another big win? Portability. The lightweight frame and built-in wheels make moving these loungers a breeze, whether youre chasing the shade or setting up by the pool. We also love the pull-out side table, which is a perfect companion for everything from bevvies to books.Best Rocking Chairs on Amazon: Devoko Three Piece Rocking Bistro SetDevoko 3-Piece Rocking Bistro SetSpecsDimensions: Rocking Chair: 28.5" long x 23" wide x 36" tall; Table: 17" long x 17" wide x 19" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: ThreeFive-star reviews: 4,000+If youre dreaming of a porch moment straight out of a Southern novel but also want something modern, the Devoko Three Piece Rocking Bistro Set delivers in spades. This stylish duo of rocking chairs, paired with a compact glass-top table, is an Amazon crowd-pleaser for its blend of comfort, durability, and charm. The cushions on these rockers are fade-resistant, water-resistant, and easy to clean, making this set as practical as it is stylish. Assembly is straightforward (a rarity in the world of outdoor furniture), and the sturdy steel frame earns high marks for stability, even with regular use. One recurring highlight in reviews? The value. Customers are impressed that this set offers comfort and durability at a price point that wont make you wince.Best Dining Chairs on Amazon: Best Choice Stackable Outdoor Wicker Dining ChairsBest Choice Products Stackable Outdoor Wicker Dining Chairs (Set of 2)SpecsDimensions: 24" long x 22.5" wide x 33" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: TwoFive-star reviews: 300+Whether youre hosting a garden party or a casual barbecue, these chairs add a touch of effortless style to any table setting. Crafted with a rust-resistant steel frame and all-weather faux wicker, this patio chair set is built to thrive outdoors, rain or shine. Theyre also stackable, so they can be tucked away easily when theyre not in use. Shoppers call out the supportive backrests and generously wide seats too.Best Wicker Furniture Set on Amazon: Christopher Knight Home Burchett Outdoor SetChristopher Knight Home Burchett Outdoor 4-Piece Chat SetSpecsDimensions: Chair: 27.5" long x 29.5" wide x 35.4" tall; Loveseat: 52" long x 29" wide x 35.4" tall; Coffee Table: 42" long x 22" wide x 12" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: FourFive-star reviews: 70+With its inviting aesthetic and practical design, this setincluding a loveseat, two chairs, and a matching coffee tablecreates a laid-back vibe thats perfect for everything from morning coffee to evening cocktails. Reviewers rave about the thick cushions, which provide sink-in comfort while staying resilient against wear and tear. The neutral tones of the set make it easy to pair with a variety of outdoor decor styles, from boho to coastal to modern.Best Bistro Set on Amazon: Christopher Knight Home Colmar Outdoor Iron Bistro SetChristopher Knight Home Colmar Outdoor Iron Bistro SetSpecsDimensions: Chair: 21.25" long x 20.5" wide x 29.5" tall; Table: 24" long x 24" wide x 29.25" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: ThreeFive-star reviews: 90+This table set transforms even the tiniest balcony or garden corner into a charming European caf. The two lightweight chairs and petite round table are perfectly sized for intimate morning coffee dates or a quiet glass of wine at sunset, plus offer back support and arm rests. Reviewers say assembly is quick and easya major plus for those who value style without the fuss. They also noted how effortlessly this set blends into any outdoor aesthetic, whether paired with colorful cushions or left bare for a minimalist look.Best Sofa Patio Furniture Set on Amazon: Christopher Knight Home Caroline Outdoor Acacia Sofa SetChristopher Knight Home Carolina Outdoor Acacia Sofa SetSpecsDimensions: Sofa: 55" long x 24" wide x 33" tall; Chair: 23" long x 25" wide x 34" tall; Table: 39" long x 23" wide x 17.5" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: FourFive-star reviews: 300+As you can tell from how many times its featured here, Christopher Knight Home has a knack for gorgeous, budget-friendly designs. And this four-piece setcomplete with a loveseat, two armchairs, and a coffee tabledelivers that Goldilocks balance of relaxed elegance and durability. The plush cushions invite you to sink in and stay a while. And lets not overlook the coffee table, a stylish and functional centerpiece thatll happily hold everything from cocktails to snacks.Best Outdoor Sectional Set on Amazon: Lausaint Home Sectional SofaLausaint Home 6-Piece Outdoor Sectional SofaSpecsAssembly required?: YesPieces: Six or eightFive-star reviews: 100+For those who love to entertainor just stretch out luxuriously under the sunthis Rattaner set is the ultimate centerpiece for your outdoor living space. The comfy, modular sectional sofa can be arranged in multiple configurations and you can easily adapt the pieces to suit any gathering. Shoppers rave about the thick, high-density cushions to the sofa, which are not only comfortable but also waterproof and easy to cleana game-changer for keeping your set fresh from season to season.Best Patio Dining Table on Amazon: Walker Edison Maui Modern Acacia Wood Patio Dining TableWalker Edison Acacia Wood Patio Dining TableSpecsDimensions: 79" long x 35" wide x 30" tallAssembly required?: YesPieces: OneFive-star reviews: 200+Crafted from solid acacia wood, known for its natural beauty and weather-resistant properties, this outdoor dining table is both durable and stylish. Its warm, natural finish would pair beautifully with a variety of chair styles and outdoor decor. The real star here, however, is its extendable feature: The built-in butterfly leaf allows the table to expand with ease, comfortably seating up to eight guests when fully extended. Amazon shoppers noted how sturdy and durable this table is (though they also said it was a bit of a challenge to assemble and does require a little TLC, like regular wood oiling).Best Patio Umbrella on Amazon: Funsite Store 7.5 Foot Patio Umbrella with FringeFunsite Patio Beach Umbrella with FringeSpecsDimensions: 78" tall and a 96" diameterAssembly required?: YesPieces: OneFive-star reviews:This cheerful, blue-and-white striped patio umbrella with a macrame-like fringe is both decorative and protective. It has a push-button tilt design, allowing you to stay tucked in the shade all day, and the polyester fabric is UPF 50+. Stick it in your poolside patio table or toss it in the car (it comes with a carrying bag and weighs about six pounds) to bring along on a beach day.How We Chose These Patio Furniture PiecesSelecting the best outdoor furniture on Amazon is no small task. We began by identifying key categories that reflect the diverse needs of outdoor spaces, from cozy balconies to sprawling backyards. Then we scoured Amazons vast offerings, narrowing our focus to bestsellers and highly rated items with a strong track record of customer satisfaction.To ensure our picks met the highest standards, we delved deep into reviews, prioritizing products praised for durability, comfort, and design. Real customer insights played a significant role, as they provided valuable feedback on how these items perform in day-to-day useeverything from ease of assembly to weather resistance. We also considered factors like material quality, versatility, and style, ensuring each piece offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

In the midst of the wildfires raging through Los Angeles area, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have opened their Southern California dwelling to loved ones who have been forced to evacuate, People reports. The couples Montecito pad is about 90 miles north of LA and outside of current evacuation zones. As of publication time, more than 9,000 buildings and 36,000 acres have been ravaged by the flames. More than 180,000 people are under evacuation orders. At least 10 have died.On Thursday, the couple shared a statement about the disaster via their official website, sussex.com. The message includes a list of resources for aiding the affected community. If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do, it reads. And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating. The American Red Cross, the LA Fire Department Foundation, Animal Wellness Foundation, and more organizations are named among the entities readers can support.Join NowNew Year's Sale: Become an AD PRO member for only $20 $12 per monthArrowAccording to People, the Duke and Duchesss Archewell Foundation is also looking for volunteer opportunities to assist with mental health recovery for those needing immediate help and will facilitate long-term recovery efforts. Details of that endeavor are unclear at this time, but donations to the foundation are also going towards relief efforts, the outlet reports. The pair has reportedly donated essential supplies and is working with Archewell Foundation partner chef Jos Andrs World Central Kitchen, which is currently organizing to provide meals to those affected by the fires.Shop Open DoorAs chef Joshua Weissman welcomes AD into his Austin home in the latest episode of Open Door, he jokes that he doesnt actually live in a kitchen.Markle and Prince Harry live in a $14.7 million mansion in the celebrity-favored SoCal enclave. The nearly 19,000-square-foot Mediterranean-style manse has nine bedrooms and 16 bathrooms.

SubscribeJoin the newsletter to get the latest updates.Meta deleted nonbinary and trans themes for its Messenger app this week, around the same time that the company announced it would change its rules to allow users to declare that LGBTQ+ people are mentally ill, 404 Media has learned.Metas Messenger app allows users to change the color scheme and design of their chat windows with different themes. For example, there is currently a Squid Game theme, a Minecraft theme, a Basketball theme, and a Love theme, among many others.These themes regularly change, but for the last few years they have featured a trans theme and a nonbinary theme, which had color schemes that matched the trans pride flag and the non-binary pride flag. Meta did not respond to a request for comment about why the company removed these themes, but the change comes right as Mark Zuckerbergs company is publicly and loudly shifting rightward to more closely align itself with the views of the incoming Donald Trump administration. 404 Media reported Thursday that many employees are protesting the anti LGBTQ+ changes and that its total chaos internally at Meta right now because of the changes.Do you work at Meta? I would love to hear from you. Using a non-work device, you can message me securely on Signal at +1 202 505 1702. The trans theme was announced for Pride Month in June 2021, and the nonbinary theme was announced in June 2022 in blog posts that highlighted Metas apparent support for trans and nonbinary people. Both of these posts are no longer online. Other blogs about updates to Messenger have been moved over from the old website they were originally published on to new URLs on the Meta newsroom, but these two blog posts have not.This June and beyond, we want people to #ConnectWithPride because when we show up as the most authentic version of ourselves, we can truly connect with people, the post announcing the trans theme originally said. Starting today, in support of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, Messenger is launching new expression features and celebrating the artists and creators who not only developed them, but inspire us each and every day.

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Does it come in black..?Leaks and rumours regarding the upcoming 'Switch 2' have seemingly exploded since the beginning of 2025, with accessory maker Genki in particular causing a stir with its recent exhibit at CES 2025. Not only that, but photos shared via Reddit seem to showcase a genuine Joy-Con from the Switch successor, hinting at a new feature in the form of an optical sensor.Naturally, fans are going wild with speculation, and many have taken it upon themselves to produce renders of the Switch 2 that they claim may be accurate representations of the final machine based on the miriad of leaks.Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Large corporations arent known for taking risks. This is as true in the world of consumer hardware as anywhere. Annual updates are largely incremental, with small changes to things like screen resolution or image quality.Its a phenomenon that Lenovo is more than happy to buck when it showcases the latest updates to its PC line every year. The offerings are generally some combination of product and concepts, the latter of which may well never see the light of day, but they serve as a consistent reminder than its still possible for PC makers to think outside the box.CES 2025 marked the rollable laptops transition from concept to product. The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 will arrive later this year, for the low, low price of $3,500. The products centerpiece is a display that mechanically expands as large as 16.7 inches. Its not an instant transformation in fact, the actual unrolling process is subtle. But youll only have to wait around 10 seconds for it to get from point A to point B.The easiest answer to the why of the product is because its neat. More pragmatically, however, is the ability to port around a significantly larger screen in a relatively small form factor. From that standpoint, its similar in principle to foldable phones.Image Credits:Brian HeaterA few other products showcased at CES are still firmly in the concept phase but warrant mention here. First is a large-screen desktop, which uses onboard motion tracking to follow the user around. It adjusts height or moves to the left or right. Its essentially the desktop version of the moving Auto Twist AI PC the company showed off in September.Notably, the case and base of the system were constructed out of a combination of bamboo and corn, in a bid to move toward more sustainable hardware manufacturing. The system was on display with a wireless keyboard that exclusively charges using the monitors ambient light. LIVE4 seconds agoFrom the Storyline: Live Updates CES 2025: The final reveals and analysis as the event nears its endCES 2025, the annual consumer tech conference held in Las Vegas, is upon us and this is where youTopics

In the wake of Metas decision to remove its third-party fact-checking system and loosen content moderation policies, Google searches on how to delete Facebook, Instagram, and Threads have been on the rise.People who are angry with the decision accuse Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg of cozying up to the incoming Trump administration at the expense of making the companys social media platforms into more of a hotbed for misinformation and polarizing speech. Zuckerbergs remarks that the companys third-party fact checkers were too politically biased for his vision of free expression probably didnt help matters.So if you, like countless others, have had it with Metas algorithms whipping you into a frenzy over [insert cultural or political issue here], and are tired of the company slurping up your data to train its AI or target advertising, then read on.Image Credits:MetaIf youre really set on deleting (and not just deactivating) your Facebook account, you should download your personal information from the Facebook archives, which include photos, active sessions, chat history, IP addresses, facial recognition data, and which ads you clicked on.Note that these instructions require a computer and a web browser, not a mobile phone. Heres what to do:Click the down arrow under your profile picture in the upper-right corner.Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.Scroll down on the left-hand column till you get to Your information, and click Download your information.You will be prompted to visit the Accounts Center. Click Continue.When the pop up appears, click Download or transfer information.You can choose information from which accounts, including your Facebook, Instagram, and Meta Horizon accounts, to download. Click Next.Choose how much information you want to download, and click Next. Note from FB: If you select Specific types of information, you will be able to choose which kinds of information you want to download, including data logs.Decide if you want to download your info to a device or directly transfer your info to a destination and click Next.If you select Transfer to destination you can choose the destination and schedule future transfers. Once you make your selection, click Start transfer and enter your Facebook profile password.If you select Download to device, choose your file options. There will be a list that lets you create a date range, and you can download in HTML or JSON, and choose between high, medium, or low media quality.Click Submit request.How to delete your Facebook accountImage Credits:MetaNote: If you do delete your account, you cannot regain access to it. Facebook delays deletion for a few days after its requested, and will cancel your deletion request if you log back into Facebook during this time.Also worth noting, some information like messaging history isnt stored in your account, so your friends might still have access to messages you sent after your account is deleted.With that in mind, heres how to do it:Click your profile picture in the top right corner.Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.Click Accounts Center at the top left of the screen.Click Personal details, under Account Settings.Click Account ownership and control.Click Deactivation or deletion.Choose the account or profile you want to deactivate.Select Deactivate account.Click Continue and follow instructions to confirm.There are two ways to find the webpage where youll download your Instagram information you go through the Accounts Center or your Instagram Settings. For the former, navigate to Your information and permissions to find Download your information. To get to Instagram Settings, click on the three parallel lines on the bottom left of your screen, then click Your activityEither of those steps will take you to the Download your information page. Youll need to click the profiles you want to download your information from and choose if you want to download it to a device or directly transfer the information to another destination.If you select Download to device, youll have to pick a date range, notification email, format of your download request, and quality of photos, videos, and other media the same as with downloading your Facebook info. Then click Create files.Once youve made the request, itll appear as In progress under the Current Activity tab in the Download your information tool. Instagram will notify you by email and on the app when its ready to go, and youll have four days to download the information.How to delete your Instagram accountDownloaded your info? Now youre ready to permanently delete.Heres how to do it on the webpage:Go directly to Accounts ownership and control settings in the Accounts Center.Click Deactivation or deletion.Click the account you want to delete.Click Delete account, then click Continue.Once your account is deleted, you can sign back up with the same username if its still available, if you have a change of heart.How to delete your Threads accountNote: If you delete the Instagram account associated with your Threads profile, that will also delete your Threads profile.But to delete only Threads, youll need to go to the Threads.net webpage on a computer, and follow these steps:Click the two parallel lines in the bottom left of the page, then click Settings.Click Account at the top, then Deactivate or delete profile.Click Delete profile.Follow whatever prompts show up, then click Delete Threads profile.Itll take 30 days for the deletion request to go through. And if you want to sign back up with the same Instagram profile, youll have to wait 90 days.

The much-anticipated sequel to Ridley Scotts iconic Gladiator, Gladiator II promised to transport audiences back to the grandeur of ancient Rome, balancing epic scale with emotional storytelling via superb VFX. At the heart of this ambitious endeavor is the visual effects team, led by Mark Bakowski, Overall VFX Supervisor from Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). With a legacy of crafting unforgettable cinematic worlds, ILM took on the monumental task of recreating the visceral authenticity and historical depth that made the original film so beloved. ILM was aided by Framestore, who was also a major contributor. Framestore delivered 136 carefully crafted shots, including the armoured rhino,12 bloodthirsty baboons and a hauntingly stylized River Styx environment.The wildfires have torn through the Los Angeles area this week, and our hearts go out to everyone affected; the devastation has been horrendous. It has also led to numerous closures, cancellations and postponements including the Oscar Bakeoff nominations. The traditional VFX bakeoff was originally scheduled for Jan. 11th, but the event will now be done virtually. Additionally, the announcement of nominees for the 97th Academy Awards has been delayed 2 days until Jan. 19, with nominations voting extended to Jan. 14. As part of our week of Bakeoff coverage, we spoke to Mark Bakowski in fire-ravaged LA, prior to him flying back to northern California.RidleygramsRidleygrams are Ridley Scotts iconic hand-drawn storyboards, which he uses as a creative tool to visualize and communicate his vision for a film. These sketches are a hallmark of Scotts filmmaking process, reflecting his background in art and design. While not overly detailed, Ridleygrams capture the mood, composition, and framing of key scenes, offering a dynamic and impressionistic blueprint for the film.Ridleygrams from Ridleys Instagram accountAs any VFX supervisor will testify, one of the most distinctive aspects of working with Scott is his use of Ridleygrams. Ridleys sense of perspective and composition is incredible, said Bakowski. I actually just got a book from him about a week ago- a leather-bound book of all his Ridleygrams from the movie, they beautifully track his vision from concept to the final shots. Scotts approach is often spontaneous, drawing inspiration from the environment. Whats amazing is how spontaneous his creativity can be, he explains. Hell spot something on the way to Setmist on the hills in Malta, for exampleand doodle on top of that to say, This is our Rome shot. His Ridleygrams arent just planning tools; they are an extension of how he thinks visually.Scott often sketches these directly on set or during pre-production to guide the crew, especially the cinematographer, production designers, and VFX crew, to ensure everyone clearly understands his creative intent. Their simplicity and immediacy make them a practical and flexible tool for collaboration, helping bridge the gap between abstract concepts and tangible cinematic execution.Ridleys sketches naturally convey depth and perspective, and the director is deeply focused on layering contrast and composition in his imagery. Hell dress a scene with incredible attention to detaileven down to positioning stunt performers based on their look, and who has the most character.That depth-building extends through his multi-camera setups. Our job is to translate his vision into something that feels both epic and authentic, ensuring that every layer of the frame contributes to the illusion of a lived-in world.(Sidenote: There is an upcoming art & making of Gladiator II from @abramsbooks featuring Ridleygrams, to be published in March 2025.)Numidia AttackSet 16 years after the death of Marcus Aurelius, Ridley Scotts Gladiator II begins with an unforgettable naval assault on the city of Numidia. This sequence perfectly encapsulates the ambitious visual effects approach of the film. Shot in the arid desert of Morocco, the scene utilized the Jerusalem set from Scotts Kingdom of Heaven, repurposed and adapted to evoke the grandeur of Numidia. To create the illusion of a Roman fleet engaging in battle, two 150-foot-long practical ships were mounted on transporter rigs by the Special Effects (SFX) team, allowing for dynamic on-set movements. These ships were later completed digitally, with the surrounding ocean and dramatic skies crafted entirely in post-production. Smoke, fire, explosions, and a hail of arrows added layers of intensity, while Ridley Scotts ability to art direct the ocean ensured the sequence met his exacting vision.Final shot combining dry for wet, sky replacement and built on vast practical setsThe battle culminates in a striking scene where Lucius, the films hero, finds himself at the mythical River Styx. This sequence by Framestore, combined practical and digital elements seamlessly. A small beach set was constructed on a soundstage, complemented by digital environment extensions, including a mesmerizing liquid-metal mercury simulation for the rivers supernatural qualities. When Lucius awakens on a practical beach shot in Numidia, the wider and reverse angles relied on footage captured in Malta. These disparate locations were unified in post with digital dressing and seamless transitions between the varied environments.ColosseumRome itself became a character in the film, its monumental architecture and vibrant streets brought to life through a combination of practical sets and digital augmentation. The lower sections of the Roman sets were built practically in Malta, while expansive vistas and upper architectural elements were added digitally by ILM. Despite the grandeur of the Roman scenes, extras on set never exceeded 500, necessitating extensive VFX crowd work. The Colosseum, a centerpiece of the original Gladiator, was revisited multiple times throughout the 1,130 visual effects shots in the new film, blending practical builds with complex digital enhancements to recreate its epic majesty. Ridley doesnt like to overcommit to a plan too far in advance, Bakowski explained. He thrives on flexibilityshooting with multiple cameras and finding the moment as it happens. For us, it meant being ready to pivot at any time. A prime example of this adaptability came during the sequence depicting a naval battle in the Coliseum. Initially planned as a mix of wet and dry shooting, the sequence was disrupted by the actors strike, leaving the team to complete it entirely dry on set. By working closely with the stunts team and leveraging post-production VFX, ILM seamlessly transformed the footage into a believable, high-stakes naval battle.As a result, this battle became one of the most technically demanding sequences in the Colosseum. Shot predominantly on dry land, it required extensive CG water, mast and sail extensions, and integration of long, uninterrupted takes captured from up to 12 cameras. The productions limited use of blue screens presented unique challenges, requiring heroic feats of paint, rotoscoping, and tracking to integrate the live-action footage with CG elements seamlessly. This approach had both advantages and drawbacksoffering more natural on-set lighting and interaction but demanding a Herculean effort from the paint and roto team.Ridley Scott has a natural sense of perspective and depth, comments Bakowski. He understands the depth of a scene. He often jokingly talks about how he invented smoke in movies in terms of depth layering and so on. As the Director loves to build contrast and composition in the way he constructs his images, he will individually dress to camera each of his multiple cameras when shooting. Often hell shoot with eight cameras as a regular thing, maybe 10, or 12. He will dress each camera by the foreground .. saying Okay, I want that stunt man whos got the bigger muscles, that guy has got the nice big nose, hes got character, et cetera, and hell build his scene back, in depth, into the frame. CreaturesIn addition to large-scale environments, the film also featured an array of CG creatures, from sharks and tigers to birds, horses, and even a rhino. One of the standout achievements was the creation of a full-sized white rhino rig, mounted on wheels and radio-controlled for practical interaction and lighting reference. VFX artists then replaced the rig with a fully digital rhino, whose detailed musculature, thick layers of fat, and sliding skin conveyed a sense of weight and momentum. Similarly, Ridley Scotts fascination with a nature documentary featuring a baboon with alopecia inspired the creation of a unique, digitally crafted baboon that became a pivotal character in the story.Final Army ConfrontationThe films climactic finale, set on the outskirts of Rome, showcased the VFX teams ability to unify diverse elements. Split between locations in Malta and the UK, the sequence involved digital extensions to blend the two settings, the addition of armies on both sides of the conflict, and a dramatic horse crash that required intricate CG work. As the culmination of the films 1,130 VFX shots, the finale exemplified the marriage of practical and digital techniques that defined Gladiator II. Through the collaboration of Ridley Scott, Mark Bakowski, and the VFX teams, the film not only honored the legacy of its predecessor but also elevated the art of visual effects in historical epics.