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The Edition · Friday, 11 September 2026

Scattered Stories Across Entertainment, Business, History

Actor Tim Curry, best known for his portrayal of Pennywise in the 2017 and 2019 It films, died on August 25 at age 80 from coronary artery disease. The loss of a performer whose work spanned horror, musical theatre and television marks a significant moment for fans and the industry alike. Curry’s career, highlighted by roles in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Annie and his own musical projects, continues to influence new productions and audiences worldwide.

Curry’s legacy is being revisited by his niece and brother, Barbara and Andy Muschiettis, who co‑created the HBO prequel series It: Welcome to Derry. They praised his impact beyond horror and noted the series’ renewal for a second season set in 1935, which will explore the Bradley Gang massacre from Stephen King’s novel. The Muschiettis also highlighted the Cosm immersive experience in Los Angeles, a shared‑reality attraction that brings the film to life and plans to expand to other cities. Meanwhile, Instagram has rolled out a new feature that lets users add posts in which they are tagged to their own profile grid. The addition, part of a broader suite of collaboration tools, allows creators to showcase partnerships more prominently and keep audiences engaged through community interaction.

In Singapore, two fitness brands, True Fitness and True Yoga, entered provisional liquidation, leaving customers and employees in shock. The Consumer Association of Singapore reported losses exceeding $600,000 from unused memberships and service packages. Employees were briefed in sudden batches by liquidation representatives and face uncertainty over unpaid wages. The collapse follows a trend of fitness operators struggling with rising rents, intense competition and high startup costs, underscoring the financial volatility within the regional fitness sector.

Archaeologists in eastern Serbia uncovered a luxurious Roman bath complex at Vrelo‑Šarkamen that belonged to Emperor Maximinus Daza. The circular balneum, with a domed ceiling and high windows, and a subterranean furnace and copper boiler, represent an unprecedented architectural approach for a third‑century ruler. The find offers fresh insight into imperial infrastructure and highlights Serbia’s rich Roman heritage. Across the Atlantic, New Yorkers marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with reflections on community strength. Residents and professionals recalled how neighbors, strangers and colleagues formed bonds to navigate grief and devastation, organizing vigils, donating blood and hosting fundraisers for the Red Cross. Everyday gestures of kindness, such as walking each other to subway stations, defined the city’s resilience and underscored a lasting capacity for empathy and mutual support.

The most anticipated sporting event of the week is the confirmed 100 per cent possibility of a bout between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. Negotiations are underway for a December fight that could be hosted in Cardiff, Wembley Stadium or another UK venue, with key promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren involved. The decision will rest with Turki Al‑Sheikh, Netflix and SELA, but the manager’s confidence suggests the match will materialise this year, offering British boxing fans a high‑profile showdown to watch.

Written by the Daily Read Bytes Editorial Team from the day’s reporting, with every story credited and linked below. · 12 stories

Every story from this day

Chronological

World · Upworthy

DIY Starbucks Drinks Made with Dollar Tree Ingredients

A TikTok creator named Taekook, who goes by @taekookie120910, has shown how to replicate Starbucks’ iced pumpkin spice latte using only Dollar Tree items for about $5, compared to the $5.45 to $7.45 price at a store. He mixes pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed creamer, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to create a pumpkin sauce, then blends instant coffee with hot water for the espresso base. The finished drink is topped with milk, ice, whipped cream, and a dusting of pumpkin spice. Taekook has also recreated other Starbucks favorites, such as a Mango Strawberry Lemonade Refresher and a Caramel Ribbon Frappuccino, all at a fraction of the cost. The videos have attracted comments praising the taste and encouraging viewers to try the recipes at home. Taekook argues that higher price does not always mean higher quality, noting that the convenience of store‑ordered drinks often comes with inflated costs. The trend highlights how consumers can save money by making specialty beverages themselves, especially during seasonal promotions like pumpkin spice. The approach has sparked interest in DIY coffee culture and offers a budget-friendly alternative for coffee lovers.

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Cinema · Variety

Muschiettis Reflect on Tim Curry’s Legacy After His Passing

Tim Curry, the actor who famously portrayed Pennywise in the 2017 and 2019 "It" films, died on Aug. 25 from coronary artery disease at age 80. The Muschiettis, his niece Barbara and brother Andy, who co‑created the HBO prequel series "It: Welcome to Derry," expressed gratitude for Curry’s lasting influence. They noted that his work extended beyond horror, citing roles in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," "Annie," and his musical career. The siblings had revitalized the Pennywise myth in 2017, then expanded it with the 2025 series that premiered on HBO Max and is now renewed for a second season set in 1935. Season 2 will focus on the Bradley Gang massacre, an event from Stephen King’s novel, and the Muschiettis are currently casting. They also highlighted the Cosm immersive experience in Los Angeles, which brings the film to life in a shared‑reality setting and plans to expand to other cities. The Muschiettis emphasized the importance of bringing audiences into theaters and praised the opportunity to re‑present Curry’s work. Their comments underscore the enduring legacy of a performer whose work continues to resonate.

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USA · Good Good Good

Kansas Inmates Donate Over $4,000 for School Lunches

Incarcerated individuals at Norton Correctional Facility in Kansas contributed thousands of dollars from their own funds to help eliminate local student lunch debt. Working alongside the nonprofit organisation Reaching Out from Within, the residents organized a facility fundraiser after discovering that nearby public schools faced roughly $6,000 in outstanding meal balances. Participating inmates raised $3,810, while staff from the Kansas Department of Corrections gave an extra $457 to bring the final contribution to $4,267. On August 3, nearly 30 participants presented the donation directly to Corey Roy, superintendent of Norton County Unified School District 211. The financial gift successfully eliminated approximately 71 percent of the district's unpaid student lunch balances. Roy noted that several inmates shared memories of growing up food-insecure, explaining that their childhood struggles with hunger had severely disrupted their own schooling. Unlike districts that restrict meal quality or single out indebted pupils, USD 211 maintains hot meals for all children regardless of negative balances. Nationwide, school meal deficits have expanded significantly, reaching an estimated $271.6 million across elementary and secondary levels in 2025. Roy commended the donors for showing meaningful solidarity with local youths they had never met.

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AI · Optimist Daily

NYC Bans AI for Half a Million Students

The Optimist Daily podcast highlighted that New York City has enacted the nation’s widest ban on artificial intelligence for more than 500,000 students. The ban, announced by city officials, prohibits the use of AI‑driven tools in K‑12 classrooms across the boroughs. The episode also spotlighted a new at‑home urine test that identifies bladder cancer in 92% of cases, according to a trial of nearly 1,000 patients in England and Scotland. Researchers at the University of Birmingham developed the test, which scans for over 450 mutations linked to the disease. In addition, scientists in Spain have created light‑activated eye drops that restore vision in animal models by mimicking lost photoreceptors. The show noted that these drops could offer a non‑surgical alternative to gene therapy or implants. Another solution discussed was the unintended impact of steel wind‑turbine foundations on marine life around Long Island. Listeners were also invited to nominate young changemakers for an upcoming series focused on people aged 30 and under.

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Business · CNA

Singapore fitness brands enter sudden provisional liquidation

True Fitness and True Yoga have entered provisional liquidation, leaving customers and employees in a state of shock. The Consumer Association of Singapore reports that losses exceeding $600,000 have been lodged by members regarding unused memberships and service packages. Many clients discovered the closure through mobile apps or shuttered storefronts, with some having recently purchased new training sessions. Employees were reportedly briefed in sudden batches by liquidation representatives rather than company management. Staff members expressed frustration over the lack of human resources support and the uncertainty regarding their unpaid wages. While employees have been advised to file claims with the liquidator, they have been warned that there are no guarantees of full reimbursement. The closure follows a trend of fitness operators struggling with rising rents, intense market competition, and high startup costs. Industry experts note that the difficulty of retaining clients in a saturated market often leads to cash flow instability. This collapse follows similar recent liquidations of other local gym brands, highlighting the financial volatility within the regional fitness sector.

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World · Good News Network

Roman Emperor’s Bath Complex Unearthed in Serbia

The discovery of a luxurious Roman bath complex at Vrelo‑Šarkamen in eastern Serbia has shed new light on Emperor Maximinus Daza’s reign. The site, excavated for decades, revealed a circular balneum with a domed ceiling, high windows, and a sauna, a design unlike the typical lateral layouts of Roman baths. Archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology identified the complex as belonging to Daza, who briefly ruled as a junior emperor before his death in a civil war. The bath’s subterranean levels housed a furnace and a large copper boiler that would have supplied hot water to the pools, although the boiler itself was missing. The discovery also uncovered a monumental stone tower in the southwest corner, previously known only from surface evidence. Researchers noted that the complex’s circular layout and domed roof were unprecedented in the Roman Empire, indicating a unique architectural approach for a ruler of Daza’s stature. The find provides fresh insight into the imperial infrastructure of the late third‑century Roman Empire and highlights Serbia’s rich Roman heritage. Further excavation is expected to reveal more details about the complex and its role in the broader network of Roman baths across the empire. The discovery underscores the ongoing importance of archaeological work in uncovering the everyday life of ancient emperors.

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Wildlife · Sunny Skyz

Christian Bale opens California foster care village

Actor Christian Bale, alongside Dr Eric Esrailian and local leaders, has officially opened a new foster care village in Palmdale, California. The project, known as Together California, represents the culmination of an 18-year vision to improve the lives of children in the foster system. The $22 million development consists of 12 fully furnished homes arranged in six duplexes. Each unit is specifically designed to house sibling groups of up to six children, ensuring that brothers and sisters are not separated during their placement. To maintain a stable environment, every home will be staffed by a full-time, professionally trained foster parent. Beyond housing, the village is built to resemble a residential neighborhood rather than an institution. The site includes a community center, recreational areas, and a central garden for children to play and learn. This infrastructure aims to provide a sense of normalcy and community for vulnerable youth.

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Sports & Health · Sky Sports

Cardiff Could Host Fury‑Joshua Showdown

Tyson Fury’s manager, Spencer Brown, has confirmed that a fight with Anthony Joshua is "100 per cent happening", with negotiations still underway. The bout, long awaited by British boxing fans, could take place in December and would be hosted at one of three UK venues, including Cardiff and Wembley Stadium. Brown told Sky Sports that Fury has been on board from the start and is willing to fight at any location. He added that the negotiations involve key promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren, and that the final decision will rest with Turki Al‑Sheikh, Netflix and SELA. The Welsh Rugby Union expressed enthusiasm for hosting the event, citing the stadium’s close‑roof design and city‑centre location. While the fight’s date remains unconfirmed, the manager’s confidence suggests the match will materialise this year. The potential venue switch has kept the fight alive after earlier stalling over location disputes. Fans can expect a high‑profile British boxing bonanza if the negotiations conclude successfully.

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Football · Football Italia

Capello: Como talent Diao outshines Leao, but I don’t get Fabregas

Former AC Milan manager Fabio Capello praised Como 1907 striker Assane Diao as technically superior to Rafael Leao, saying Diao’s performances were "better on a technical level". Capello made the comparison after watching Como’s 4‑1 win over RB Leipzig in the first round of the Champions League, a result that made the club the only Serie A side to secure a victory in that stage. While admiring Diao, the ex‑coach admitted he did not understand the midfield "circle" ritual that Como manager Cesc Fabregas performs after every match, describing it as a "show" rather than a tactical gesture. Capello described Como as "a joy to watch", noting their attacking style, collective effort and constant pressing, and said they are the team he enjoys watching most. The comments came as Como prepare to face Parma in their next Serie A fixture, following a Champions League win that left Inter, Real Madrid and Roma with two defeats and one draw. Capello’s remarks highlight the growing competitiveness of Como in Europe and the differing philosophies of their manager compared to traditional Italian coaching styles.

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World · Reasons to be Cheerful

New Yorkers reflect on community strength after 9/11

Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, residents and professionals in New York City are reflecting on the profound sense of solidarity that emerged during the city's darkest period. Personal accounts describe how neighbors, strangers, and colleagues formed deep bonds to navigate the collective grief and devastation. Individuals shared memories of organizing vigils, donating blood, and hosting fundraisers for the Red Cross. In Lower Manhattan, workers and community members found solace in shared meals and intentional gatherings, such as those held at the Eldridge Street synagogue. These small acts of fellowship helped provide a sense of purpose and stability amidst the chaos. Beyond large-scale organized efforts, the community relied on quiet, everyday gestures of kindness to persevere. From colleagues walking each other to subway stations to neighbors checking in on one another, these connections defined the city's resilience. The collective experience highlighted a lasting human capacity for empathy and mutual support in the wake of catastrophe.

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Tech · techjuice.pk

Instagram Adds Tagged Posts to Profile Grids

Instagram has introduced a new feature that lets users add posts in which they are tagged to their own profile grid. The option appears as an “Add to grid” button when a tagged post is opened, and the added photo shows a small tag icon in the top‑right corner of its thumbnail. By placing tagged content on their main feed, creators can showcase collaborations and brand partnerships more prominently, reinforcing Instagram’s community‑centric strategy. The move follows a series of profile‑customisation updates, including a June 2026 drag‑and‑drop reordering feature that replaced the former reverse‑chronological order. Instagram head Adam Mosseri described the reordering launch as “finally” a relief for users pressured to post. The platform has also rolled out other collaboration tools such as post collaborators, collaborative Stories and a remix function, though an AI‑powered remix option was later removed. With Reels now accounting for roughly half of user time, Instagram is prioritising features that encourage interaction rather than purely video consumption. The tagged‑post addition is a small tweak that supports the broader goal of keeping users engaged through community interaction.

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Sports & Health · sportsnet.ca

Mariners Edge Rangers 4-3 in Late Rally

The Seattle Mariners defeated the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Thursday, with a decisive three‑run homer in the seventh inning. Julio Rodríguez’s go‑ahead shot off Jakob Junis capped a four‑run rally that turned a 3‑0 lead into a loss for the Rangers. Seattle’s Logan Gilbert struck out 11 in seven innings, becoming the first Mariners pitcher since James Paxton in 2018 to post back‑to‑back double‑digit strikeout games. New York Mets ace Jacob de Grom retired the first 15 Rangers batters and finished with 12 strikeouts, his highest total since 2022, but left with a 3‑0 lead that was erased. The loss drops the Rangers to two games behind the AL West leader Houston and two games back from the last wild‑card spot held by Cleveland. Seattle now trails the wild‑card race by five games, while the Toronto Blue Jays sit one game behind Cleveland. The Rangers will open a three‑game series against Arizona on Friday, while the Mariners face the Oakland Athletics.

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