| Good Morning: We’re at the stranded assets part of the cable television business. Comcast has decided to spin off its cable networks (though not NBC). Networks include MSNBC, CNBC, USA, Oxygen, E!, Syfy and Golf Channel. It’s the clearest sign yet that the cable TV model is dying before our eyes. Comcast, which itself is bleeding subscribers as customers cut the cord and flee to streaming, figures the cable networks are a drag they can no longer carry. Non-profit arts institutions may be ailing, but nothing is as brutal as the for-profit media business. Here’s the story about the spin-offs. And here are more highlights from today’s haul. Your faithful AJ correspondent has been in the dark the past 24 hours after a bomb cyclone smacked the Pacific Northwest around pretty good. Another threatens later this week. African Musicians Express Concerns Over AI’s Impact on Music Ownership Musicians from Africa are voicing worries about the use of artificial intelligence in music creation, particularly regarding ownership rights and cultural appropriation. They question how original creators will be credited when AI utilizes music from countries like Ghana or Nigeria. – BBC Bay Area Museums Face Financial Struggles Amidst Declining Attendance Several nonprofit arts and cultural institutions in the San Francisco Bay Area are experiencing significant revenue declines. Attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels, and fundraising challenges persist, raising concerns about their sustainability. – San Francisco Chronicle (MSN) Shen Yun Investigated Over Alleged Labor Violations Involving Underage Performers New York State is investigating the performing arts company Shen Yun for allegedly using underage student performers in extensive work schedules with minimal pay. The case highlights issues of labor rights and exploitation within the arts industry. – The New York Times Debating AI’s Role in Language and Creativity An article examines the limitations of large language models (LLMs), arguing that while AI can process information and perform tasks, it lacks the lived experience fundamental to genuine language use and creative expression. This raises questions about the role of AI in the arts. – The Dial Censorship Concerns as High School Play is Canceled Over Mature Content A Northern California school district canceled a high school production of Dog Sees God, a play that addresses themes like bullying, gun violence, and homophobia. The cancellation has sparked debates over artistic freedom and censorship in educational settings. – San Francisco Chronicle (MSN) Skip down to see all the stories we collected in the past day, grouped by genre. If you know anyone who you think would enjoy the AJ newsletter, forward this email to them or send them to this link to sign up. See you tomorrow. Doug
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