Kid News Daily: A Roundup of Global Updates

This edition of Kid News covers a diverse range of topics, from the retirement of a iconic piece of currency to innovative culinary experiments in orbit and the evolving nature of celebrity parenting.

The End of an Era: The Last U.S. Penny

The U.S. Mint in Philadelphia has officially struck the very last one-cent piece. According to CNN, this historic coin will not enter circulation but will instead be auctioned off to the highest bidder. While the penny has been in use since 1793, the Treasury Department notes that it now "costs three times more to make than it's worth." Despite this milestone, the Treasury confirms that the 114 billion pennies currently in circulation will remain "legal tender" and retain their value indefinitely, meaning they won't be disappearing from wallets anytime soon.

Government Shutdown Ends and Travel Shifts

After a grueling "43 long days," the U.S. government shutdown has officially concluded following the passage of a spending bill signed by President Trump. While operations are resuming, the air travel industry is still catching up. Many Americans are opting for more reliable transit; the travel research engine Wanderoo reports that bus and train reservations for the Thanksgiving holiday are up 12 percent, with some peak travel days seeing an increase of up to 30 percent as families avoid gambling on air travel recovery.

Prince George and the "Brick Phone" Rule

Technology access for children remains a hot topic, even within the British Royal Family. Prince William revealed that his 12-year-old son, Prince George, does not currently own a smartphone. When George receives his first device next year as he transitions to a new school for "year nine," it will be a "brick phone"—a device intentionally lacking internet access. Prince William acknowledged the tension surrounding this decision, noting that he believes "kids can access too much stuff they don't need to see online."

Culinary Innovation in Orbit

Astronauts aboard the Chinese space station are celebrating a "culinary first" with the installation of a new hot air oven. Previously, space meals were limited to "prepackaged and freeze-dried" items. The new oven allows for grilling and baking, with the crew successfully testing chicken breasts that came out "sizzling." According to Universe Today, the astronauts followed up the chicken with steak. Beyond the novelty, the oven is an engineering feat; it is designed to "collect grease and ventilate itself," ensuring that cooking does not compromise air quality.

Billie Jean King: A Lifelong Learner

Tennis legend Billie Jean King, winner of 39 Grand Slams and a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, is tackling a new challenge at age 81: finishing her college degree. Having quit Cal State Los Angeles in the 1960s to turn professional, she is now completing her studies remotely. King, a history major, emphasized the value of her pursuit, stating, "I think you really need to understand history. That's how you shape the future."

The "Grumpy Guide" Phenomenon

In a unique twist on museum experiences, the Kunstpalast Museum in Dusseldorf, Germany, has found success with a character known as the "Grumpy Guide." Carl Brandy, performing as Joseph Langelink, leads a 70-minute tour where he frequently "berates visitors" for poor behavior or lack of knowledge. Despite his "bitterness" toward guests and museum curators, the tour has become a "surprise hit." As Brandy explains, people enjoy the "emotional ride," proving that a bad mood can occasionally be the key to a successful performance.