Doom and Gloom
Friday, October 4th, 2024
World Events and Politics — Death Toll Mounts on Both Sides In the Middle East
Times of Israel
Israeli forces reportedly killed approximately 15 members of Hizbullah, an Iranian-backed militia, in Bint Jbeil, a town located in southern Lebanon, as stated by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Earlier, the IDF conducted airstrikes in central Beirut, targeting a medical center associated with the Islamic Health Organization, resulting in nine fatalities according to Lebanon's health ministry. Additionally, Palestinian officials reported that Israeli airstrikes in the West Bank led to at least 14 deaths in the Tulkarem refugee camp.
Science and Technology - Why Hurricane Helene Caught So Many Residents Off Guard
The Atlantic
Western North Carolina, located far from coastal areas, has recently experienced devastating flooding following Hurricane Helene, which resulted in at least 200 deaths and significant destruction. Many residents, unfamiliar with such severe flooding, lack flood insurance, which is not typically included in standard homeowner policies and is not mandatory unless in high-risk areas. This leaves them facing substantial out-of-pocket expenses for repairs and temporary housing. The average annual cost of flood insurance in North Carolina is around $920, but many homeowners find it prohibitively expensive, especially lower-income families who are less likely to afford coverage. Furthermore, FEMA's flood maps often underestimate risk due to outdated data and do not account for heavy rainfall events like those caused by Helene. As recovery efforts begin, those without insurance will have to rely on limited federal aid and loans, while the National Flood Insurance Program struggles with funding amid ongoing hurricane season challenges.
Business and Finance - Oil Price Recovers Amidst Tension In the Middle East
Oil prices experienced their largest single-day increase in nearly a year, rising over 5%, amid discussions by President Joe Biden regarding potential U.S. support for an Israeli strike on Iran's oil facilities, although he emphasized that "nothing [is] going to happen today." In contrast, Libya announced the resumption of oil production after a two-month halt due to political disputes, which is expected to stabilize global oil markets by reintroducing hundreds of thousands of barrels per day. This return of supply comes at a time when crude prices had recently surged to around $75 a barrel due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Health and Wellness - Late Night Meals, Think Again
Delish
Research indicates that late-night eating may negatively impact health, particularly concerning weight management and metabolic processes. Consuming meals late in the evening is associated with increased hunger and decreased levels of leptin, a hormone that signals fullness, which can lead to overeating and weight gain over time. Additionally, studies suggest that late-night meals may disrupt the body's ability to burn calories efficiently, as metabolism tends to slow down during the night. This can contribute to a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Furthermore, late-night eating is often linked to poorer food choices, as individuals may opt for quick, unhealthy snacks rather than balanced meals. While some small, nutrient-dense snacks may be acceptable, it is generally advisable to limit food intake close to bedtime to promote better health outcomes.
Baking - Soft Pumpkin Cookies
These soft pumpkin cookies are thick and cake-like, packed with a rich pumpkin spice flavor. The maple cream cheese icing adds a delightful touch, although the cookies are equally delightful on their own. They're quick and easy to make, and the best part is that there's no need to chill the cookie dough! I recommend blotting the pumpkin puree to remove any excess moisture and using a cookie scoop for perfect portions.
Song Recommendation - The One That Got Away by Katy Perry
Quote of the Day
“I suppose it is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail.” - Abraham Maslow
Abraham Maslow (1908-1970) was an influential American psychologist and philosopher, best known for developing the Hierarchy of Needs, which outlines a progression of human needs from basic physiological requirements to self-actualization. He played a pivotal role in founding humanistic psychology, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and the positive qualities of individuals, contrasting with the dominant behaviorist and psychoanalytic approaches of his time. Maslow's work, particularly in his books Motivation and Personality and Toward a Psychology of Being, has had a lasting impact on psychology, education, and personal development.
Thank you for reading the Americano. Enjoy your weekend.