Extreme Weather, AI Reckoning, and a Breakout Hit: A Week in Review

This week's news cycle has been marked by a mix of challenges and surprises. Retailers are facing the daunting task of preparing for extreme weather, while companies that replaced entry-level workers with AI are now paying the price. In the world of technology, OpenAI has released a new model that's taking the coding world by storm. And in the realm of entertainment, a new TV series is breaking records and sparking conversations. For retailers, extreme weather is a harsh reality that can have devastating consequences. A recent guide highlighted the importance of preparedness, emphasizing that "when the grid goes down, you stay up." This means having a plan in place to ensure business continuity, even in the face of severe weather conditions. By investing in backup power sources, implementing emergency protocols, and training staff, retailers can minimize losses and keep their customers safe. Meanwhile, companies that replaced entry-level workers with AI are now facing the unintended consequences of their decisions. Recent graduates are struggling to find employment, and companies are realizing that AI is not a replacement for human workers. As one article noted, "Recent graduates are clearly not okay—but neither are the companies that decided they could do without them." This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of considering the human impact of technological advancements. In the world of technology, OpenAI has released GPT-5.3-Codex, a new model that's taking the coding world by storm. This model combines the coding performance of GPT-5.2-Codex with the reasoning and professional-knowledge capabilities of GPT-5.2, operating 25% faster than its predecessor. According to OpenAI, GPT-5.3-Codex has already reached over 1 million developers and is capable of handling long-running tasks that involve research, tool use, and complex execution and planning. In the realm of entertainment, HBO Max's _Heated Rivalry_ is breaking records and sparking conversations. This gay hockey romance TV series, based on the _Game Changers_ book series by Rachel Reid, has quickly become one of the most talked-about streaming TV shows in the US. With almost no promotion, it grew from 30 million to 324 million streaming minutes in just six episodes, according to Luminate. Its massive fan base is devoted, and the show's popularity has spread rapidly. Finally, a recent online feud between Kevin O'Leary and Mark Ruffalo has made headlines. The feud revolves around Billie Eilish's Grammy acceptance speech, with O'Leary slamming the artist and Ruffalo telling him to "STFU." This exchange highlights the ongoing debate about the role of celebrities in social and environmental activism. As we navigate the complexities of our rapidly changing world, it's clear that there are many challenges and opportunities on the horizon. From extreme weather to AI and entertainment, this week's news highlights the importance of preparedness, human connection, and innovation.